WEARABLE HARNESS

Abstract

 A wearable harness for towing a trailer or sled whilst cross-country skiing, running or hiking wherein the harness comprises an upper support element and belt element. The upper support element and belt harness are connected by a connecting means which facilitates isolated rotation of the upper body relative to the waist and vice versa, without impeding the user's movement or causing discomfort.

Description

Background art

[0001] Originally conceived as a means of travel, cross-country skiing has evolved into a popular form of exercise in countries where a large amount of snowfall is received over a significant portion of the year. It is a great form of cardiovascular exercise that can be partaken when winter conditions make other recreational activities, such as running or cycling, unfeasible.

[0002] In contrast to alpine (downhill) skiing which relies upon gravity to propel the skier down a slope, and a lift or gondola to transport the skier back up the slope, cross-country skiing requires the skier to use various techniques to propel themselves across the snow, often on a flat or inclined plane.

[0003] The skier is equipped with specialist skis, generally narrower than regular skis, which are designed for use with either a classic or skate technique. Both techniques rely on the user gaining traction from the snow and then propelling themselves forward and gliding. The skier also aides in propulsion by using their upper body to press/pull themselves forwards by means of a pair of ski poles in either an alternating or simultaneous fashion. The sport thus relies upon movement of the upper and lower body to drive the skier forwards.

[0004] When cross-country skiing, it may be necessary for the skier to tow a trailer/sled behind them, for either carrying extra equipment/provisions when trekking across a large distance, or for seating children. A trailer/sled is a preferred transportation vessel for cross-country skiing, as any type of bag/child carrier may be cumbersome and impede the skier's movements, whilst any side to side motions may be uncomfortable for infants.

[0005] When considering the towing of infants, it is of interest to parents if a trailer that can be used for towing of infants behind a bicycle during the summer months, can also be used for towing during cross-country skiing, as this reduces costs compared to purchasing separate trailers for each activity.

[0006] Currently available ski towing kits for infants include the Thule Chariot Cross-Country Skiing Kit, the Croozer Ski Adaptor kit, the Burley ski kit, and the Nordic Cab Pulk-kit Explorer. These outline kits which allow the user to adapt a pre-existing trailer for use with a bicycle, into a trailer which may be used for towing behind a skier.

[0007] Trailers generally comprise a plurality of thin skis, similar to those used by the cross-country skier, which allow the weight to be distributed across a greater surface area, and ensure the trailer slides smoothly across the terrain. The trailers are then attached to the user by means of one or more tow bars, and a harness worn by the skier. This allows the skier to tow the trailer by using their cross-country skiing propulsion technique.

[0008] Some designs include a harness that may be solely worn around the user's waist, whilst other designs also incorporate additional straps which go over the user's shoulders, and allow for the tension received from the towing bars to be split between the waist and upper body. There are however a number of problems with the presently available designs.

[0009] During cross-country skiing, both the arms and legs are used to propel the user forwards, often causing the upper body and lower body to rotate in different directions relative to one another. The upper body may also remain facing straight forwards whilst the lower body rotates one direction and then the other relative to the upper body. In addition, it would be expected that a skier towing a child behind them would be interested in periodically checking the well-being of the infant, as they are positioned out of their field of view during skiing. It is also hard to fully turn wearing a pair of skis and thus it is advantageous if the user can simply rotate their upper body.

[0010] As seen in the Croozer Ski Adaptor kit and the Nordic Cab Pulk-kit Explorer, the over shoulder straps are fixed in place to the belt when worn by the user during towing. This somewhat restricts the mobility of the user such that the upper part of the harness may not act independently of the lower part of the harness. The user cannot thus rotate only their upper body during skiing, or whilst stationary, without the lower part of the harness also rotating to some degree. This is especially a problem when attached to the rigid tow bars and trailer, as rotation of the waist may result in lateral movement of the trailer, or highly restricted movement of the user.

[0011] It is also noted that in the currently available ski towing kits, the harness is designed to be worn as a single piece. Whilst certain pieces may be attachable/detachable, they are designed to be all removed upon the user removing themselves from the harness. This thus requires the user to adjust a variety of tightness straps every time they step into or out of the harness. This is somewhat cumbersome as accessing the trailer itself, as is likely often required when the trailer is transporting a child, requires the user to detach themselves from either the harness or the tow bars.

[0012] The harness' seen in the currently available ski towing kits also have a problem in that the over the shoulder straps are directly attached to the belt. This may allow the strap to slip from the users shoulder and thus fail to distribute the tension evenly across the upper and lower body of the skier. The harness' thus lack any features which would aid in preventing the top part of the shoulder straps slipping sideways off the shoulder.

[0013] It is further noted that the attachment of the towing poles to the belt rely upon small moving pieces such at spring pins of the Croozer Ski Adaptor kit which need to be pushed such that the tow bar may be removed from a housing attached to the belt, or on the carabineer attachment of the Nordic cab ski set. Both attaching mechanisms involve moving pieces which may become stiff or frozen shut, when used in a cold environment which often accompanies snowy terrain. Furthermore, small pieces such as these require a level of dexterity not often afforded a user wearing gloves. It is thus a problem that attachment means which feature small movable parts are not well suited for a cold environment.

[0014] Furthermore it is noted that the above mentioned connection of the tow bars to the belt, is performed at a secured position at the waist of the user. This involves connecting/disconnecting the tow bars very close to the body. As cross-country skiers wear cold weather gear including large coats and gloves, it can be rather difficult for the user to perform the connecting/disconnecting action when this takes place so close to the body. In addition, the lack of isolated rotation of the upper body and waist, means that when disconnecting is performed it is difficult for the user to access this connection point without loosening the shoulder straps of the harness.

[0015] It is additionally noted that this fixed connection at the waist results in any movement from the user being directly transferred to the trailer, but also vice versa. This can be particularly uncomfortable when stopping as the momentum of the travelling trailer will be directly transferred to the waist of the user. There is thus no option for a user who would prefer to have a loose connection between the belt and tow bars, which would allow the trailer to naturally slow before any momentum is transferred to the user.

[0016] It will be noted that the above discussion, and the remaining text, relate to the use of a wearable harness during cross-country skiing and/or with a ski sled. This should not be considered in any way limiting. The wearable harness being disclosed is equally applicable and usable to a whole array of sports and other activities where the wearer desires towing a sled, trailer, cart or any other wheeled or slideable device. Other activities which will benefit from the harness and system of the present disclosure include, but are not limited to: snow walking, Nordic walking, and hiking. Indeed, the harness will provide particular advantages to those activities in which the wearer is also assisted in moving by poles or sticks, and is moving over rough and/or uneven terrain.

[0017] It is thus an object of the present invention to solve one or more of the above outlined problems.

Summary of the invention

[0018] The present invention is a wearable harness, in particular a towing harness for towing a trailer or sled. The harness comprises an upper support element and a belt element. The belt element has connecting points for connecting to a trailer/sled, and the strain of pulling the trailer/sled may be spread across both the upper support element and belt element. The upper support element and belt element are removably connected / connectable by two connecting means. Each connecting means is slidably attached to the upper support element, and also attached to the belt element. The upper support element comprises two connecting straps which attach the front of the upper support element to the back and pass underneath a wearer's arms when worn. The connecting means are slidably connected to the straps such that when worn, rotation of the user's upper body does not require rotation of the belt element, or rotation of the user's waist does not require rotation of the upper body.

[0019] Said harness is found to solve one or more of the above outlined problems.

[0020] Brief description of drawings

Figure 1a

illustrates a harness comprising an upper support element and belt element, attached to tow bars, according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 1b

is a rotated view of the first embodiment as seen in Figure 1a.

Figure 2a

is a rear view of the harness of the first embodiment.

Figure 2b

is a side view of the harness of the first embodiment.

Figure 2c

is an enlarged view of the connection between the upper support element and belt element according to the first embodiment.

Figure 2d

is an alternative view of the harness of the first embodiment.

Figure 3

is a view of the harness according to the first embodiment, including tow bars, and ski attachments for attachment to a trailer.

Figure 4a

is an enlarged illustration of the tow bars attached to the belt element according to the present invention.

Figure 4b

is a side view of that seen in figure 4a.

Figure 5a

is a view of the harness according to the first embodiment, including attached tow bars.

Figure 5b

is an enlarged view of the connecting points between the belt element and the tow bars, and the upper support element and belt element according to the first embodiment.

Figure 6a

is an enlarged view of the connecting points between the belt element and the tow bars according to the present invention.

Figure 6b

is a rotated view of Figure 6a.

Figures 7a-7c

are different views of a threading element and receiving element for attaching the belt element to tow bars, according to the present invention.

Figures 7d-7e

are different views of the threading element and receiving element for attaching the belt element to tow bars, according to the present invention, during threading.

Figure 8a

shows an enlarged view of the connection between the upper support element and belt element according to the second embodiment.

Figure 8b

shows a harness comprising an upper support element and belt element, attached to tow bars, according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 8c

shows an alternate view of the connection between the upper support element and belt element according to the second embodiment.

Figure 8d

shows an alternate view of the harness comprising an upper support element and belt element, attached to tow bars, according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

Figures 9a-9f

are different views of the harness comprising an upper support element and belt element, when attached together, according to the second embodiment.

Detailed description of illustrative embodiments

[0021] Figures 1a - 1b, and 2a-2d, show a harness (10) according to embodiment 1 of the present invention. The harness (10) comprises an upper support element (12) comprising two over the shoulder supports (14) which are designed to extend over the user's shoulders and rest against the user's chest when worn. These supports are connected to a back section (16) which rests against the user's back when worn. Said back section (16) may be padded for increased user comfort. Connecting straps (18) connect the shoulder supports (14) to the back section (16), and extend under the users arms when worn. Said connecting straps (18) are fixed to the back section (16) at one end, and extend through adjustment buckles (20) which are fixed to the shoulder supports (14) at the other end. This allows the user to adjust the length of the strap portion between the adjustment buckles (20) and back section (16), such that they may select a length that is comfortable for their size.

[0022] The harness (10) also comprises a belt element which is worn around a user's waist during use. The belt may have two fastening portions which can be used to secure the belt to the user. The first fastening portion (24) is designed to be positioned in front of the user and comprises a front fastening means (26). This is preferably a snap fit fastening means, with male and female pieces being connected to waist straps (28),at least one of, preferably both, are length adjustable by front adjustment means (30) located where the waist straps (28) are attached to the belt body. The snap fit fastening means is preferably a quick release buckle.

[0023] The second fastening portion (32) is designed to be positioned at the back of the user and features hook and loop fastening means (34) (not visible in figures), wherein the hook and loop fastening means (34) extends laterally such that the length of the belt may be altered by determining the amount of overlap between the hook and loop fastening means (34). The hook and loop fastenings also allow the user to maximize the amount of their waist that is surrounded by the main body (36) of the belt. This can provide the user with the comfiest fit as the main body (36) spreads the strain from the tow bars (50) across a wider surface area.

[0024] With both a first fastening portion (24) and second fastening portion (32), the belt element (22) is thus comprised of two separate belt pieces. Each piece may comprise a main body padded section (36) and a front fastening element and a rear fastening element, both of which are designed to connect with the respective pieces of the second belt piece.

[0025] The inclusion of two size adjustable fastening portions allows a greater range for the size of a user. In addition this ensures that the connecting means (discussed in greater detail later) for connecting the upper support element (12) to the belt element (22), can be positioned underneath the arm correctly, in the most suitable position. Furthermore, the dual fastening also provides greater flexibility in regard to the user disconnecting from at least the belt element (22), and thus provides an additional option for removal for disconnecting from the towing system should it be necessary to do so, for example for safety reasons.

[0026] Each connecting strap (18) of the upper support element (12) extends through a respective connecting means (38). Said connecting means (38) allows the upper support element (12) to be connected to the belt element (22). The connecting straps (18) may move freely through the connecting means (38).

[0027] The connecting means (38) may comprise an opening (40) through which the connecting strap (18) may be thread. This opening (40) allows the connecting strap (18) and connecting means (38) to move relative to each other, such that the strap may move through the connecting means (38), or the connecting means (38) may move along the strap, unencumbered. Said connecting strap (18) and opening (40) allows the belt element (22) and upper support element (12) to be connected to one another, such that a pulling force upon the belt from the tow bars (50), may be shared with the upper support element (12), via tension in the connecting straps (18).

[0028] Said opening (40) may be a slot or other wide, low, opening, such that a strap may be prevented from rotating. This allows the connecting strap (18) to remain flush against the user's upper body and spread the tension across a wider surface area such that the connecting strap (18) does not dig into the user.

[0029] Whilst the term connecting "strap" has been used herein, it would be recognized that said term is intended to cover any flexible piece which may be thread through an opening. Thus the term strap is intended to also encompass any rope, cable, cord or leash, which would be able to slide through a connecting means (38) comprising an opening (40).

[0030] The ability for the connecting straps (18) to move freely through the connecting means (38) provides the advantage that the upper support element (12) can be rotated relative to the belt element (22), i.e. a user can rotate their upper body relative to their waist, without the upper support element (12) pulling the belt element (22) to follow its rotation. This allows free rotation of a user's upper body, for example when the user wishes to turn and face behind them whilst keeping their skis or hips facing forwards, or when rotating their hips during skiing, walking or hiking,whilst their upper body remains facing forward. This ensures the activity is more comfortable for the user, and ensures they can rotate more freely without discomfort or impaired rotation.

[0031] In the first embodiment as mostly clearly shown in figure 2c, the connecting means (38) is formed of a single piece. The upper support element (12) and belt element (22), thus cannot be readily detached from one another without unthreading the connecting straps (18) from the adjustment buckles (20) and connecting means (38). The upper support element (12) and belt element (22) may thus be said to be substantially permanently connected.

[0032] The harness (10) may also comprise a lateral chest support means (42) which extends laterally across a user's chest when worn, connecting the shoulder supports (14) together. The lateral chest support means (42) may comprise two chest straps (44), one connected to each shoulder support, and a snap fit connecting means (46), wherein the male element of the snap fit connecting means (46) is attached to one chest strap and the female element of the snap fit connecting means (46) is attached to the other chest strap. Said male and female elements may also comprise strap adjusters which can be used to alter the length of at least one of the chest straps (44). This allows the user to further ensure the harness (10) is worn comfortably, and also aides in preventing the shoulder supports (14) from slipping laterally across the user's chest. The lateral chest support means (42) thus aides in ensuring the strain from pulling the trailer is spread across the user's chest. The snap fit connecting means (46) also allows the user to quickly put on, and remove, the harness (10). It also ensures that the length of the lateral chest support means (42) does not have to be adjusted every time the user puts the harness (10) on.

[0033] The belt element (22) also comprises connecting points (48), preferably two, for connecting the belt to tow bars (50). Said tow bars (50) are connected to a trailer which may be used to carry a child. Preferably the trailer is attachable to a plurality of trailer skis (52) as seen in figure 3. Said skis may attach to a trailer which comprises a plurality of wheels and is designed to be towed behind a bike. The attachment of said trailer to the skis may involve the removal of the wheels, and the towing poles may use a pre-existing attachment piece of the trailer as a connection point.

[0034] The towing poles, as shown most clearly in figures 3, 4a, 4b, and 5a, may be formed of a single piece or a plurality of pieces which are connected together prior to use. They may be slotted together and held in place by pins which penetrate the pole pieces at the point at which they overlap i.e. where one piece is slotted into the other piece.

[0035] The connecting points (48), as shown most clearly in figures 5b, 6a and 6b, facilitate the connection of the belt element (22) to the tow bars (50). Preferably there are a pair of connecting points (48), one for each tow bar (50). One of the connecting points (48) will be described in detail herein. The connecting point comprises a threading element (54) attached to the belt element (22) by a threading element strap (not pictured). Said strap is attached to an adjustable buckle (not pictured) located close to the first fastening portion (24) of the belt element (22). Said threading element strap may be thread through a guide member (not pictured) which is fixed to the belt element (22) at a position designed to be at the user's side, such that the threading element (54) is held at the user's side when the strap is tightened. The guide member may be a rectangular shape and may be made of metal. The threading element (54) is thus prevented from being tightened closer to the first fastening portion (24) than the at least one guide member. The adjustable buckle allows the user to loosen the threading element strap such that the threading element (54) is not flush against the guide member, but may be held away from the user's body.

[0036] This allows the user to easily loosen the threading element strap by using an adjustable buckle in front of them whilst gripping the threading element (54) which is at their side. This can thus allow the user to hold the threading element (54) in a position, either in front of them or away from their side, where connecting the threading element (54) to the tow bars (50) is easier. The threading element strap can then be tightened by use of the adjustable buckle such that the threading element (54) is flush against the guide member, and positioned against the hip of the user. Alternatively, the user can alter the length of threading element strap between the guide member and threading element (54) such that a looser fit may be chosen. Some users have been known to prefer a looser setting as they find it more comfortable. Furthermore, this system has the added advantage that the wearer can loosen the threading element strap, putting distance between the user and the threading element (54), to allow the user to move freely without affecting or pulling on the tow bars (50). This means that the user could loosen off the threading element strap, effectively disconnecting from the tow bars (50) and thus allowing for free movement to turn around, or move, without pulling on the trailer - whilst still actually still being in the harness (10) and engaged with the trailer.

[0037] This would allow the user to turn around and take photos, or check on the trailer and load, without needing to completely disconnect from the tow bars (50) and trailer.

[0038] Martijn: Another advantage of loosening the fit of the threading element, is that the skier can turn independently of the tow bars and thus the trailer/sled, e.g. for facing the children in a trailer or taking a photo, without needing to disconnect.

[0039] The threading element (54) is designed to be thread through an aperture (56) of a receiving element (58) which is attached to the end of the tow bar (50). Said tow bar receiving element (58) is shaped such that the threading element (54) can pass through the receiving element (58) when oriented in a particular manner (as seen in figures 7d and 7e). The receiving element (58) is also shaped such that when not oriented in this particular manner, the threading element (54) is too large to pass through the aperture (56) (as seen in figures 7a-7c). In other words, the aperture (56), at least at its widest point, is wider than a width of the threading element (54). The threading element (54) and receiving element (58) therein act as a button type fastening, similar as to how a button and buttonhole secure two pieces together.

[0040] The threading element (54) is preferably substantially rectangular in shape. The threading element (54) may comprise two slits. The end of the strap is connected to the threading element (54) by these slits. When oriented to allow the threading member to pass through the aperture (56) of the receiving element (58) the threading element strap is required to be at least partially twisted. The threading element strap is preferably a nylon webbing or similar, that has an elastic property for returning to its original shape after twisting. This characteristic results in the threading element strap returning to its original shape (untwisted) once passed through the aperture (56). This thus ensures the threading element (54) is also rotated such that it is oriented in a manner that allows it to rest flush against the aperture (56). The receiving element (58), and threading element (54) may be roughly similar in size and shape. The threading element may be for example a triglide buckle.

[0041] In other words, the threading element strap has to be twisted for insertion of the threading element (54) through the receiving element (58), and would not naturally pass back through the aperture (56) without being twisted by a user.
This provides a simplistic yet secure connection. It also requires only a few pieces which are easy to grip by hand such that they may be operated by a user with gloves on. In addition the lack of moving parts ensures that hinges or sliding pieces cannot freeze in the cold weather conditions in which the harness (10) is designed to operate.

[0042] The receiving element (58) may be shaped such that the outer edge (60) has a reduced section (62) along one of the sides, i.e. the thickness of said side is reduced in the middle as shown in figures 7a-7e. This reduced section (62) ensures that when the threading element (54) is held against the receiving element (58), the threading element (54) overlaps the outer edge (60) of the receiving element (58), at least at the reduced section (62).

[0043] This allows for a part of the receiving element (58) where the user can access the threading element (54) such that they may apply a force, thus separating it from resting against the receiving element (58). This is useful as it makes the process of disconnecting easier for a user wearing gloves, who may struggle to grip only the threading element (54) when it is held flush against the receiving element (58). The receiving element (58) may be attached to the end of a tow bar (50) by inserting part of the receiving element (58) into the tow bar (50) and fixing it in place, preferably by a screw and nut. This simplistic design results in easy replacement of parts should pieces be lost or broken.

[0044] A second embodiment of the present invention can be seen in figures 8 and 9. The second embodiment can be assumed to, unless outlined as otherwise, comprise the same features as those of the first embodiment.

[0045] The connecting means (38) of the second embodiment, as most clearly seen in figures 8a and 8c, comprises a first connecting piece (64) attached to the belt element (22), and a second connecting piece (66) attached to the upper support element (12). The second connecting piece (66) may comprise the opening (40) through which the connecting threading element strap may freely pass. The first connecting piece (64) may be fixed to the belt element (22) via a small strap or other suitable means for fixing the connecting piece to the belt element (22). Unlike the second connecting piece (66), the first connecting piece (64) may not move along its strap, but may be attached to the end of said strap.

[0046] The first connecting pieces (64) may be positioned at any suitable position around the belt element (22). Said position may be between the side and rear of the belt element (22).

[0047] Said connection may be a male-female connection wherein one of the first connecting piece (64) and second connecting piece (66) comprises a male portion, and the other connecting piece comprises the female portion. The connecting means (38) may thus be a snap fit connecting means, wherein the first and second connecting pieces (64, 66) are securely held together, but may be easily disconnected by the user. Said piece may preferably be a quick release buckle.

[0048] The second embodiment of the present invention thus benefits from the technical advantage of the upper support element (12) being easily disconnectable from the belt element (22). This makes it easier and faster for the user to connect/disconnect from the towing system, whilst allowing the user to keep their selected tightness settings, as loosening of straps is not required. It further means that the user does not have to move straps over their head when connecting or disconnecting, which is somewhat cumbersome, especially in cold weather clothing, or for older users.

[0049] Furthermore the harness (10) is thus increased in flexibility regarding different pieces being swapped out should other pieces become available. For example, the belt element (22) may operate in conjunction with other upper support element (12)s which comprise a first connecting piece (64) on a strap, or the upper support element (12) may be operated in conjunction with other belt elements (22) which comprise a second connecting piece (66). This is especially useful for reducing costs for the consumer should new upper support elements (12) or belt element (22) be released by the manufacturer.

Preferred aspects

[0050] 

Aspect 1.

A wearable harness (10), in particular a towing harness for towing a ski sled or wheeled trailer or the like, comprising:

• an upper support element (12) and a belt element (22), wherein the belt element (22) has connecting points (48) for connecting to a trailer;
• wherein the upper support element (12) and belt element (22) are connected by two connecting means (38);
• wherein the upper support element (12) comprises two connecting straps (18) which extend from a first portion (14) of the upper support element to a second portion (16) of the upper support element (12), and pass underneath a wearer's arms when the wearable harness (10) is worn;
• wherein the connecting means (38) may slide and/or are slidable along the connecting straps (18), such that when worn, rotation of the user's upper body does not cause rotation of the belt element (22).

Aspect 2.

The wearable harness (10) of Aspect 1, wherein the connecting means (38) comprise a slot (40) through which the connecting strap (18) passes slidably.

Aspect 3.

The wearable harness (10) of Aspect 2, wherein the slot (40) facilitates slidable connection of the upper support element (12) and belt element (22).

Aspect 4.

The wearable harness (10) of any of Aspects 1 to 3, wherein each connecting means (38) are formed of a single piece.

Aspect 5.

The wearable harness (10) of any of Aspects 1 to 3, wherein each connecting means (38) is made of a first connecting piece (64) and second connecting piece (66), wherein preferably the first and second connecting pieces (64,68) are removably connected and/or connectable together.

Aspect 6.

The wearable harness (10) of any of Aspects 1 to 4, wherein the upper support element (12) first portion consists of chest straps (14) for resting against a wearer's chest, and the second portion consists of a back piece (16) for resting against the back of wearer, wherein the first and second portion form a single piece and the chest straps (14) extend from the back piece (16) over the shoulders of the wearer.

Aspect 7.

The wearable harness (10) of Aspects 5 or 6, wherein the first connecting piece (64) is fixed to the belt element (22).

Aspect 8.

The wearable harness (10) of any of Aspects 5 to 7, wherein the second connecting piece (66) is slidably attached to the upper support element (12).

Aspect 9.

The wearable harness (10) of any of Aspects 5 to 8, wherein the first and second connecting pieces (64, 66) are female-male connectors.

Aspect 10.

The wearable harness (10) of any of Aspects 1 to 8, wherein the connecting means (38) is a snap fit connecting means.

Aspect 11.

The wearable harness (10) of any of Aspects 5 to 10, wherein the second connecting pieces (66) each comprise an opening (40) through which one of the connecting straps (18) pass such that the second connecting piece (66) is slidably attached to the connecting strap (18).

Aspect 12.

The wearable harness (10) of any of Aspects 1 to 11, wherein the connecting strap (18) is a flat strip of webbing.

Aspect 13.

The wearable harness (10) of any of Aspects 2 to 12, wherein the slot (40) is short and wide, sized such that the connecting strap (18) may pass through.

Aspect 14.

The wearable harness (10) of any of Aspects 2 to 13, wherein the connecting means (38) is a side release buckle.

Aspect 15.

The wearable harness (10) of any of Aspects 2-14, wherein the slot (40) guides the connecting strap (18) and prevents accidental rotation of the connecting strap (18).

Aspect 16.

A wearable harness (10) comprising:

• a belt and two towing bars;
• wherein each towing bar comprises a receiving element consisting of an aperture (56);
• wherein there are two threadable elements each connected to the belt via a respective strap;
• wherein the threadable elements secure the belt to the towing bars upon threading through the apertures (56);
• wherein the length of the straps between the belt and threadable elements are adjustable.

Aspect 17.

The wearable harness (10) of aspect 16, wherein the straps must be at least partly twisted to orient the threadable elements suitable for threading through the apertures (56).

Aspect 18.

The wearable harness (10) of aspect 17, wherein the threadable elements may not pass through the apertures (56) when the straps are untwisted.

Aspect 19.

The wearable harness (10) of any of aspects 16 to 18, wherein the threadable element and receiving element (58) act as a button and buttonhole fastening.

Aspect 20.

The wearable harness (10) of any of aspects 16 to 19, wherein the receiving element (58) comprise a reduced section (62) or indented portion, such that the threading element (54) can be pulled away from the receiving element (58) easily.

List of reference numerals

[0051] 

10

Harness

12

Upper support element

14

Shoulder supports

16

Back section

18

Connecting straps

20

Adjustment buckles

22

Belt element

24

First fastening portion

26

Front fastening means

28

Waist straps

30

Front adjustment means

32

Second fastening portion

34

Hook and loop fastening means

36

Belt main body

38

Connecting means

40

Opening

42

Lateral chest support means

44

Chest straps

46

Snap fit connecting means

48

Connecting points

50

Tow bars

52

Trailer skis

54

Threading element

56

Aperture

58

Receiving element

60

Outer edge

62

Reduced section

64

First connecting piece

66

Second connecting piece

Claims

1. A wearable harness (10), in particular a towing harness for towing a trailer or sled, comprising:

- an upper support element (12) and a belt element (22), wherein the belt element (22) has one, preferably two, or more connecting points (48) for connecting to a trailer or sled;

- wherein the upper support element (12) and belt element (22) are connected by connecting means (38);

- wherein the upper support element (12) comprises connecting straps (18) which extend from a first portion (14) of the upper support element to a second portion (16) of the upper support element (12), and pass underneath a wearer's arms when the wearable harness (10) is worn;

- wherein the connecting means (38) may slide and/or are slidable along the connecting straps (18), such that when worn, rotation of the user's upper body does not cause rotation of the belt element (22).

2. The wearable harness (10) of claim 1, wherein the connecting means (38) comprise a slot (40) through which the connecting strap (18) passes slidably.

3. The wearable harness (10) of claim 2, wherein the slot (40) facilitates slidable connection of the upper support element (12) and belt element (22).

4. The wearable harness (10) of any of claims 1 to 3, wherein each connecting means (38) are formed of a single piece.

5. The wearable harness (10) of any of claims 1 to 3, wherein each connecting means (38) is made of a first connecting piece (64) and second connecting piece (66), wherein preferably the first and second connecting pieces (64,68) are removably connected and/or connectable together.

6. The wearable harness (10) of any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the upper support element (12) first portion consists of chest straps (14) for resting against a wearer's chest, and the second portion consists of a back piece (16) for resting against the back of wearer, wherein the first and second portion form a single piece and the chest straps (14) extend from the back piece (16) over the shoulders of the wearer.

7. The wearable harness (10) of claims 5 or 6, wherein the first connecting piece (64) is fixed to the belt element (22).

8. The wearable harness (10) of any of claims 5 to 7, wherein the second connecting piece (66) is slidably attached to the upper support element (12).

9. The wearable harness (10) of any of claims 5 to 8, wherein the first and second connecting pieces (64, 66) are female-male connectors.

10. The wearable harness (10) of any of claims 1 to 8, wherein the connecting means (38) is a snap fit connecting means.

11. The wearable harness (10) of any of claims 5 to 10, wherein the second connecting pieces (66) each comprise an opening (40) through which one of the connecting straps (18) pass such that the second connecting piece (66) is slidably attached to the connecting strap (18).

12. The wearable harness (10) of any of claims 1 to 11, wherein the connecting strap (18) is a flat strip of webbing.

13. The wearable harness (10) of any of claims 2 to 12, wherein the slot (40) is short and wide, sized such that the connecting strap (18) may pass through.

14. The wearable harness (10) of any of claims 2 to 13, wherein the connecting means (38) is a side release buckle.

15. The wearable harness (10) of any of claims 2-14, wherein the slot (40) guides the connecting strap (18) and prevents accidental rotation of the connecting strap (18).

Drawing