Abstract:
A grip for the handle of a golf club having multiple two layer panels that are wrapped about an underlisting sleeve. The edges of the panels are adhesively sealed together. The grip reduces impact and shock and provides a feeling of tackiness in the manner of a spirally wrapped polyurethane-felt grip while allowing the use of multiple color panels and easy instillation onto a golf club shaft.

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
   1. Field of the Invention 
   This application relates to an improved grip for golf clubs. 
   2. Description of the Related Art 
   Applicant has previously developed resilient grips which successfully reduce impact shock to the muscle and arm joints of the user&#39;s of golf clubs and also provide a feeling of tackiness between a player&#39;s hands and the grip. See, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,797,813 granted to Applicant on Aug. 25, 1998 and U.S. patent Application no. 10/392480 filed by Applicant on Mar. 18, 2003. 
   The earliest of these grips utilize a polyurethane-felt strip which is spirally wrapped around an underlisting sleeve that is slipped onto and adhered to a golf club handle. The sides of the strips are formed with overlapping heat depressed recessed reinforcement edges. While such grips have proven satisfactory in reducing impact shock, their fabrication is labor intensive, particularly since the strip must be wrapped manually about the underlisting sleeve within specific pressure parameters. Additionally, it is difficult to accurately align the adjoining side edges of the strip as such strip is being spirally wrapped about the underlisting sleeve. These wrapped grips can become twisted during the wrapping process, allow for only limited display of decorative designs and allow for only a limited placement of colors. 
   Applicant&#39;s Ser. No. 10/392,480 application seeks to overcome two of the aforementioned disadvantages of existing spirally wrapped grips while providing the same resistance to shock afforded by such grips, as well as providing tackiness. The disadvantages are eliminated by forming a structurally integral grip from a single polyurethane-felt panel having a configuration corresponding to the exterior shape of an underlisting sleeve. While this design removes the twisting problems associated with the wrapping process and offers more area to display decorative designs, it is limited in its ability to accommodate multiple color schemes which are so popular in today&#39;s modern world of golf. 
   SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
   Embodiments of the golf club grip of the present invention overcome the aforementioned disadvantages of the existing spirally wrapped grips and the single panel grips while providing the same resistance to shock afforded by such grips, as well as providing tackiness. Desirably, a structurally integral grip is formed from multiple, initially distinct, two-layer panels. 
   One preferred embodiment is a grip, including a preferably resilient underlisting sleeve, a first panel and a second panel. The first panel and the second panel are wrapped about and adhered to the underlisting sleeve. The underlisting sleeve has an opening at one end sized so that the sleeve is telescopically slippable onto the handle of a golf club. The underlisting sleeve also includes a cap with a downwardly facing circumferential slot and a nipple with an upwardly facing circumferential slot. The first panel includes a polyurethane outside layer bonded to a felt inside layer, a top edge, a bottom edge and two side edges extending between the top edge and the bottom edge, where the inside layer defines an inner surface of the first panel. The second panel includes a polyurethane outside layer bonded to a felt inside layer, a top edge, a bottom edge and two side edges extending between the top edge and the bottom edge, where the outside layer defines an outer surface of the second panel. The first panel of this embodiment defines a skived backside bottom edge having skiving extending from the inside layer to the outside layer so as to form an obtuse angle (α in  FIG. 36A ) with the inner surface of the first panel and the second panel defines a skived frontside top edge having skiving extending from the outside layer to the inside layer so as to form an obtuse angle (β in  FIG. 36A ) with the outer surface of the second panel. The bottom edge of the first panel abuts the top edge of the second panel, so that the bottom edge of the first panel and the top edge of the second panel cooperate to form a substantially horizontal seam. 
   One embodiment is a grip, including a resilient underlisting sleeve, a first panel and a second panel. The first panel and the second panel are wrapped about and adhered to the underlisting sleeve. The underlisting sleeve has an opening at one end sized so that the sleeve is telescopically slippable onto the handle of a golf club. The first panel includes a polymeric outside layer bonded to a fabric inside layer, a top edge, a bottom edge and two side edges extending between the top edge and the bottom edge. The second panel includes a polymeric outside layer bonded to a fabric inside layer, a top edge, a bottom edge and two side edges extending between the top edge and the bottom edge. The first panel of this embodiment defines a skived bottom edge and the second panel defines a skived top edge. The bottom edge of the first panel abuts the top edge of the second panel, so that the bottom edge of the first panel and the top edge of the second panel cooperate to form a substantially horizontal seam. 
   Another embodiment is a grip, including an underlisting sleeve, a first panel and a second panel. The first panel and the second panel are wrapped about and adhered to the underlisting sleeve. The underlisting sleeve has an opening at one end sized so that the sleeve is telescopically slippable onto the handle of a golf club. The first panel includes a polymeric outside layer bonded to a fabric inside layer, a top edge, a bottom edge and two side edges extending between the top edge and the bottom edge. The second panel includes a polymeric outside layer bonded to a fabric inside layer, a top edge, a bottom edge and two side edges extending between the top edge and the bottom edge. The inside layer and the outside layer of the bottom edge of the first panel are skived. The inside layer and the outside layer of the top edge of the second panel are skived. The inside layer of the first panel abuts the inside layer of the second panel and the bottom edge of the first panel is secured to the top edge of the bottom panel. The bottom edge of the first panel and the top edge of the second panel cooperate to form a seam transverse to the longitudinal axis of the sleeve. 
   Yet another embodiment is a grip, including an underlisting sleeve, a first panel and a second panel. The first panel and the second panel are wrapped about and adhered to the underlisting sleeve. The underlisting sleeve has an opening at one end sized so that the sleeve is telescopically slippable onto the handle of a golf club. The first panel includes a polymeric outside layer bonded to a fabric inside layer, a top edge, a bottom edge and two side edges extending between the top edge and the bottom edge. The second panel includes a polymeric outside layer bonded to a fabric inside layer, a top edge, a bottom edge and two side edges extending between the top edge and the bottom edge. The inside layer and the outside layer of the bottom edge of the first panel are skived from the inside layer to the outside layer so as to form an obtuse angle with the inner surface of the first panel. The inside layer and the outside layer of the top edge of the second panel are skived from the outside layer to the inside layer so as to form an obtuse angle with the outer surface of the second panel. The bottom edge of the first panel abuts the top edge of the second panel. The bottom edge of the first panel and the top edge of the second panel cooperate to form a substantially horizontal seam. 
   Yet another embodiment is a method of making a grip for the handle of a golf club, including the following steps: providing an underlisting sleeve that is telescopically slippable onto the handle of a golf club; providing a first panel including a polymeric outside layer bonded to a fabric inside layer, the first panel having a top edge, a bottom edge and two side edges extending between the top edge and the bottom edge; providing a second panel including a polymeric outside layer bonded to a fabric inside layer, the second panel having a top edge, a bottom edge and two side edges extending between the top edge and the bottom edge; skiving the inside layer and the outside layer of the bottom edge of the first panel from the inside layer to the outside layer so as to form an obtuse angle with the inner surface of the first panel; skiving the inside layer and the outside layer of the top edge of the second panel from the outside layer to the inside layer so as to form an obtuse angle with the outer surface of the second panel; abutting the bottom edge of the first panel to the top edge of the second panel; wrapping the first panel about and adhering the first panel to the underlisting sleeve; wrapping the second panel about and adhering the second panel to the underlisting sleeve, whereby, upon completion of the securing step and the wrapping step, the bottom edge of the first panel and the top edge of the second panel cooperate to form a substantially horizontal seam. 
   Another embodiment is a grip, including an underlisting sleeve, a first panel, a second panel and a third panel. The first panel, the second panel and the third panel are wrapped about and adhered to the underlisting sleeve. The underlisting sleeve having a top end and a bottom end and being telescopically slippable onto the handle of a golf club. The first panel includes a polyurethane outside layer bonded to a felt inside layer, the first panel having a top edge, a bottom edge and two side edges extending between the top edge and the bottom edge. The second panel includes a polyurethane outside layer bonded to a felt inside layer, the second panel having a top edge, a bottom edge and two side edges extending between the top edge and the bottom edge. The third panel includes a polyurethane outside layer bonded to a felt inside layer, the third panel having a top edge, a bottom edge and two side edges extending between the top edge and the bottom edge. The top edge of the first panel is positioned adjacent the top end of the sleeve and the bottom edge of the second panel is positioned adjacent the bottom end of the sleeve. The first panel of this embodiment defines a skived backside bottom edge having skiving extending from the inside layer to the outside layer so as to form an obtuse angle (α′ in  FIG. 80A ) with the inner surface of the first panel. The second panel of this embodiment defines a skived frontside top edge having skiving extending from the outside layer to the inside layer so as to form an obtuse angle (β′ in  FIG. 80A ) with the outer surface of the second panel. The third panel of this embodiment defines a skived frontside top edge having skiving extending from the outside layer to the inside layer so as to form an obtuse angle (γ′ in  FIG. 80A ) with the outer surface of the third panel and a skived backside bottom edge having skiving extending from the inside layer to the outside layer so as to form an obtuse angle (δ′ in  FIG. 80A ) with the inner surface of the third panel. The bottom edge of the first panel abuts the top edge of the third panel so that the bottom edge of the first panel and the top edge of the third panel cooperate to form a substantially horizontal seam. The bottom edge of the third panel abuts the top edge of the second panel so that the bottom edge of the third panel and the top edge of the second panel cooperate to form a transverse and, preferably, substantially horizontal seam. 
   The inside layer is preferably a fabric layer, and more preferably a felt layer. The outside layer is preferably a polymer layer, and more preferably a polyurethane layer. In the case of a two-panel grip, the bottom edge of the first panel abuts the top edge of the second panel. These edges are desirably adhered together to define a generally horizontal seam. Two or more panels may be used to create a single, multi-segment, multi-colored panel grip. In grips with three or more panels, the top most and bottom most panels are desirably skived like the two-panel grip. The connecting panels are desirably skived with parallel edges such that their edges abut to define generally horizontal seams extending though the contiguous panel. The side edges of such multi-segment single panels desirably abut one another and are adhered together to define a longitudinal seam extending through the completed grip. A heat formed recessed sealing channel may be formed in the exterior portion of the polyurethane layer at the outer end of the seam to strengthen such seam. Hot polyurethane may be deposited along the seam or within the channel, after such polyurethane has hardened it may be buffed to smoothly blend into the surface of the grip. In another modification, a mold may be utilized to emboss a friction enhancing pattern over the deposited polyurethane to match any friction enhancing pattern pressed into the outside layer of the grip. 
   Embodiments of the present invention may be manufactured at considerably less cost than existing spirally wrapped grips since it eliminates the intensive labor of spirally wrapping a strip around an underlisting sleeve within specific pressure parameters. Additionally, embodiments of the multi-segment single panel grip will not twist either during manufacture or after it is adhered to an underlisting sleeve. My new grip desirably has an appearance similar to conventional molded rubber grips so as to appeal to professional golfers and low-handicap amateurs, and also provides a greater area for the application of decorative designs. Further, embodiments of the present invention can also accommodate multiple color combinations that would not have been possible with the single panel grips, thus appealing to golfers and college programs who wish to display their school colors while playing the sport they love. Embodiments of the present invention are very easy to install. 

   
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     Further objects, features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying figures showing illustrative embodiments of the invention, in which: 
       FIG. 1A  is a front view of a first polyurethane-felt panel member of a multi-segment golf club grip; 
       FIG. 1B  is a front view of a second polyurethane-felt panel member of a multi-segment golf club grip; 
       FIG. 2A  is a vertical cross-sectional view taken along the line  2 A— 2 A of  FIG. 1A ; 
       FIG. 2B  is a vertical cross-sectional view taken along the line  2 B— 2 B of  FIG. 1B ; 
       FIG. 3A  is a horizontal cross-sectional view taken along line  3 A— 3 A of  FIG. 1A ; 
       FIG. 3B  is a horizontal cross-sectional view taken along line  3 B— 3 B of  FIG. 1B ; 
       FIG. 4  shows the bottom edge of the first panel member S 1  of  FIG. 1A  being skived; 
       FIG. 5  shows the top edge of the second panel member S 2  of  FIG. 1B  being skived; 
       FIG. 6A  is a rear view showing adhesive being applied to the skived bottom edge of the first panel member S 1 ; 
       FIG. 6B  is a front view showing adhesive being applied to the skived top edge of the second panel member S 2 ; 
       FIG. 7  is a front view of a multi-segment polyurethane-felt panel member of a golf club grip prior to being press cut to its working shape; 
       FIG. 8  is a vertical cross-sectional view showing the horizontal seam  100  taken along the line designated  8 — 8  in  FIG. 7 ; 
       FIG. 9A  is a front view of the multi-segment polyurethane-felt panel member after being press cut to its final working shape; 
       FIG. 9B  is a side view of the multi-segment polyurethane-felt panel member of a golf club grip after being press cut to its final working shape; 
       FIG. 10  is a horizontal cross-sectional view showing a first mold which may be utilized in forming a multi-segment single panel grip; 
       FIG. 11A  is a vertical cross-sectional view taken along line  11 A— 11 A of  FIG. 10 ; 
       FIG. 11B  is a vertical cross-sectional view of an alternative mold which may be utilized in forming a multi-segment single panel grip from a view corresponding to the view taken along line  11 A— 11 A of  FIG. 10 ; 
       FIG. 12A  is an enlarged view of the encircled area designated  12 A in  FIG. 11B ; 
       FIG. 12B  is an enlarged view of the encircled area designated  12 B in  FIG. 11B ; 
       FIG. 13  is an enlarged view of the encircled area designated  13  in  FIG. 10 ; 
       FIG. 14  is a front view of the multi-segment single panel of  FIG. 9  after it is removed from the mold shown in  FIG. 10 ; 
       FIG. 15  is a front view of the multi-segment single panel of  FIG. 9  after it is removed from another version of the mold shown in  FIG. 10 ; 
       FIG. 16  is a front view of the multi-segment single panel of  FIG. 9  after it is removed from yet another version of the mold shown in  FIG. 10 ; 
       FIG. 17  is a vertical cross-sectional view taken along line  17 — 17  of  FIG. 15 ; 
       FIG. 18  shows the top and bottom edges of the multi-segment single panel being skived; 
       FIG. 19  shows a first side edge of the multi-segment single panel being skived; 
       FIG. 20  shows a second side edge of the multi-segment single panel being skived; 
       FIG. 21  shows the interior surface of the multi-segment single panel after the top, bottom and side edges thereof have been skived in the manner depicted in  FIGS. 18 ,  19 , and  20 ; 
       FIG. 22  is a front view of an underlisting sleeve member of the multi-segment single panel grip of the present invention; 
       FIG. 23  is a vertical cross-sectional taken along the line  23 — 23  of  FIG. 22 ; 
       FIG. 24  is an enlarged view of the encircled area designated  24  in  FIG. 23 ; 
       FIG. 25  is an enlarged view of the encircled area designated  25  in  FIG. 23 ; 
       FIG. 26  is a front view showing adhesive being applied to the exterior of the underlisting sleeve; 
       FIG. 27  is a front view showing adhesive being applied to the interior surface of the multi-segment single panel; 
       FIG. 28  is a front view showing a first step in wrapping and adhering the the multi-segment single panel to an underlisting sleeve; 
       FIG. 29  is a front view showing a second step in wrapping and adhering the multi-segment single panel around an underlisting sleeve; 
       FIG. 30  is a front view showing the multi-segment single panel adhered to an underlisting sleeve; 
       FIG. 31  is a horizontal cross-sectional view of  FIG. 28 ; 
       FIG. 32  is a horizontal cross-sectional view of  FIG. 29 ; 
       FIG. 33  is a horizontal cross-sectional view taken along line  33 — 33  of  FIG. 30 ; 
       FIG. 34  is an enlarged view of the encircled area designated  34  in  FIG. 32 ; 
       FIG. 35  is an enlarged view of the encircled area designated  34  in  FIG. 33 ; 
       FIG. 36  is a vertical cross-sectional view taken along line  36 — 36  of  FIG. 30 ; 
       FIG. 36A  is an enlarged view of the encircled area designated  36 A in  FIG. 36 ; 
       FIG. 37  is a side view showing a heat depressed sealing channel being formed along the top portion of the seam shown in  FIG. 35 ; 
       FIG. 38  is a vertical cross-sectional view taken along line  38 — 38  in  FIG. 37 ; 
       FIG. 39  shows the parts of  FIG. 38  after the sealing channel has been formed; 
       FIG. 40  is an enlarged view of the encircled area designated  40  in  FIG. 39 ; 
       FIG. 41  is a front view of a completed multi-segment single panel grip according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 42  is a vertical cross-sectional view taken along the line designated  42 — 42  of  FIG. 41 ; 
       FIG. 43  is a vertical cross-sectional view taken along the line designated  43 — 43  of  FIG. 41 ; 
       FIG. 44  is a broken front view showing a first step in making a modification of the grip of  FIG. 39 ; 
       FIG. 45  is a broken front view showing a second step in making a modification of the grip of  FIG. 39 ; 
       FIG. 46  is a horizontal cross-sectional view taken along line  46 — 46  of  FIG. 45 ; 
       FIG. 47  is an enlarged view of the encircled area designated  47  in  FIG. 46 ; 
       FIG. 48  is a front view of a multi-segment single panel grip as in  FIG. 30 , ready for modification; 
       FIG. 49  is a broken front view showing a first step in the modification of the grip shown in  FIG. 48 ; 
       FIG. 50  is a broken front view showing a second step in the modification of the grip shown in  FIG. 48 ; 
       FIG. 51  is a front view of the grip made in accordance with  FIGS. 48-50 ; 
       FIG. 52  is a broken front view showing another modification of the grip shown in  FIG. 48 ; 
       FIG. 53  is a horizontal cross-sectional view taken along the line  53 — 53  of  FIG. 52 ; 
       FIG. 54  is an enlarged view of the encircled area designated  54  in  FIG. 53 ; 
       FIG. 55  is a broken front view showing another modification of the grip shown in  FIG. 48 ; 
       FIG. 56  is a horizontal cross-sectional view taken along the line  56 — 56  of  FIG. 55 ; 
       FIG. 57  is an enlarged view of the encircled area designated  57  in  FIG. 56 ; 
       FIG. 58  is a side view of a die utilized in modifying the grips of  FIGS. 52 and 55 ; 
       FIG. 59  is a horizontal cross-sectional view taken along line  59 — 59  in  FIG. 58 ; 
       FIG. 60  is a vertical cross-sectional view taken along line  60 — 60  of  FIG. 58 ; 
       FIG. 61  is an enlarged view of the encircled area designated  61  of  FIG. 58 ; 
       FIG. 62  is a front view of a grip made in accordance with  FIGS. 58-61 ; 
       FIG. 63  is a perspective view of an underlisting sleeve of a putter grip according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 64  is a rear view of the underlisting sleeve of  FIG. 63 ; 
       FIG. 65  is a horizontal cross-sectional view taken along the line  65 — 65  of  FIG. 63 ; 
       FIG. 66  is a vertical cross-sectional view taken along the line  66 — 66  of  FIG. 64 ; 
       FIG. 67  is a vertical cross-sectional view taken along the line  67 — 67  of  FIG. 64 ; 
       FIG. 68A  is a front view of the multi-segment polyurethane-felt panel member of a golf club putter grip according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 68B  is a side view of the multi-segment polyurethane-felt panel member of a golf club putter grip according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 69  is a perspective front view of a completed multi-segment single panel putter grip according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 70  is a rear view of the putter grip of  FIG. 69 ; 
       FIG. 71  is a horizontal sectional view taken along the line  71 — 71  of  FIG. 69 ; 
       FIG. 72A  is a front view of a top polyurethane-felt panel member S 1 ′ of a multi-segment golf club grip; 
       FIG. 72B  is a front view of a middle polyurethane-felt panel member S 2 ′ of a multi-segment golf club grip; 
       FIG. 72C  is a front view of a bottom polyurethane-felt panel member S 3 ′ of a multi-segment golf club grip; 
       FIG. 73A  is vertical cross-sectional view taken along the line  73 A— 73 A of  FIG. 72A ; 
       FIG. 73B  is vertical cross-sectional view taken along the line  73 B— 73 B of  FIG. 72B ; 
       FIG. 73C  is vertical cross-sectional view taken along the line  73 C— 73 C of  FIG. 72C ; 
       FIG. 74A  is a horizontal cross-sectional view taken along line  74 A— 74 A of  FIG. 72A ; 
       FIG. 74B  is a horizontal cross-sectional view taken along line  74 B— 74 B of  FIG. 72B ; 
       FIG. 74C  is a horizontal cross-sectional view taken along line  74 C— 74 C of  FIG. 72C ; 
       FIG. 75  shows the top edge of the middle segment S 3 ′ of  FIG. 72B  being skived; 
       FIG. 76  shows the bottom edge of the middle segment S 3 ′ of  FIG. 72B  being skived; 
       FIG. 77A  is a front view showing adhesive being applied to the skived edge of the panel member; 
       FIG. 77B  is a front view showing adhesive being applied to the skived edge of the panel member; 
       FIG. 77C  is a front view showing adhesive being applied to the skived edge of the panel member; 
       FIG. 78  is a front view of a multi-segment polyurethane-felt panel member of a golf club grip prior to being press cut to its working shape; 
       FIG. 79  is a vertical cross-sectional view taken along the line designated  79 — 79  in  FIG. 78 ; 
       FIG. 80  is a vertical cross-sectional view of a completed grip; 
       FIG. 80A  is an enlarged view of the encircled area designated  80 A of  FIG. 80 ; 
       FIG. 81  is a perspective view of a golf club provided with a multi-segment single panel grip according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 82  is a perspective view showing a putter provided with a multi-segment single panel grip according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
     Throughout the figures, the same reference numerals and characters, unless otherwise stated, are used to denote like features, elements, components or portions of the illustrated embodiments. Moreover, while the subject invention will now be described in detail with reference to the figures, it is done so in connection with the illustrative embodiments. It is intended that changes and modifications can be made to the described embodiments without departing from the true scope and spirit of the subject invention as defined by the appended claims. 
   

   DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
   Referring to the drawings, in  FIG. 81 , a multi-segment single panel grip G embodying the present invention is shown attached to the shaft  55  of a golf club GC. In  FIG. 82 , a multi-segment single panel putter grip PG is shown attached to the shaft  57  of a putter P. Referring now to the remaining drawings, a preferred form of grip G includes a multi-segment single panel S formed of multiple panels of bonded-together layers of polyurethane  60  and a felt  62  which is then wrapped about and adhered to a resilient underlisting sleeve U of conventional construction. Throughout the application, the term top is used to refer to that which is closest to the butt end of the club opposite the club head, i.e. the end closest to the golfer if that golfer were to be swinging or stroking the club. Similarly, the term bottom is used to define the panel or edge furthest from the butt end of the club. 
     FIG. 1A  shows a first two-layer panel S 1  with an outside layer  60   a  and an inside layer  62   a  (FIG.  2 A).  FIG. 1B  shows a second two-layer panel S 2  that will abut against and be bonded to the first panel S 1  to form a multi-segment single panel MP (FIG.  7 ). In particular, the first panel S 1  has a bottom edge  81  that, after processing, will abut against a top edge  82  of the second panel S 2 . It is understood that the panels used to form any particular grip will be constructed generally the same, differing principally in their color and size. 
   The outside layer of the panels in this disclosure is generally referred to as a polyurethane layer. Though polyurethane is the preferred material, other materials could be used and achieve some advantages. In particular, other polymeric compounds can be used to create the outer layer and achieve some advantages. Similarly, the inside layer is generally referred to as felt in this disclosure. Though felt is preferred, it is understood that other fabric layers can be used in alternative embodiments of this invention. Polyurethane and felt are used throughout as a matter of convenience. In another embodiment, the inside layer may comprise a polymer, more preferably ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA). 
   Referring to  FIGS. 1 ,  2  and  3 , the felt layers  62   a ,  62   b  have their outer surfaces bonded to the inner surface of the polyurethane layers  60   a ,  60   b , with such polyurethane layers  60   a ,  60   b  preferably being coagulated to define pores (not shown). Once bonded, the outside layer  60   a  of the first panel S 1  has an outer surface  61   a , while the inside layer  62   a  has an inner surface  63   a . As will be appreciated by those of skill in the art, the outer surface  61   a  of the outside layer  60   a  defines the outer surface of the first panel S 1  and the inner surface of  63   a  of the inside layer  62   a  defines the inner surface of the first panel S 1 . Similarly, the outside layer  60   b  of the second panel S 2  has an outer surface  61   b , while the inside layer  62   b  has an inner surface  63   b . Thus, the outer surface  61   b  of the outside layer  60   b  defines the outer surface of the second panel S 2  and the inner surface  63   b  of the inside layer  62   b  defines the inner surface of the second panel S 2  (FIG.  8 ). The felt layer may be fabricated of wool, polyester, nylon or mixtures thereof. Preferably, a nylon polyester felt will be utilized. The polyurethane layers  60   a ,  60   b  may be formed in a conventional manner by coating one side of a felt strip with a solution of polyurethane (e.g., polyester, polyether) dissolved in dimethyl formamide (DMF), immersing the coated strip in water baths to displace the DMF and cause the urethanes to coagulate, and finally, driving off the water by the application of pressure and heat. The solids content of the polyurethane layer will vary in accordance with the desired hardness of such polyurethane layer. A preferred solids content solution is approximately 28.5-30.5%, with a viscosity range of about 60,000-90,000 cps measured at 25+/−0.5 degrees C. Suitable polyurethane ingredients can be purchased from the following companies:
         Lidye Chemical Co., Ltd.   10F1 Lidye-Commercial Bldg.   22 Nanking W. Road, Taipei   Taiwan, R.O.C.   Lidye Chemical Co., Ltd.   No. 17, Ching Chien 6 th  Road   Guan in Industrial Area, Guan In Shiang   Taoyuan Hsien, Taiwan, R.O.C.   Lidye Resin (Panyu) Co., Ltd.   Xiadao Industrial Park   Liye Road, Dongchong Town   Panyu City, Guangdong Province, PRC       

   Preferably, the thickness of the polyurethane layer will be about 0.3-0.5 millimeters and the thickness of the felt layer about 0.8-1.7 millimeters. The polyurethane layer of the panels provides a cushioned grasping surface for a golfer&#39;s hands on a golf club and also enhances the golfer&#39;s grip by providing increased tackiness between the player&#39;s hand and the grip. In each panel, the felt layer provides strength to the polyurethane layer and serves as a means for attaching the bonded-together polyurethane and felt multi-segment single panel to an underlisting sleeve U. 
   The multiple panels that will form the basis of the multi-segment single panel MP are desirably prepared. Referring now to  FIG. 4 , the first panel S 1  is shown having its bottom edge  81  skived by a single rotating knife  79  downwardly and outwardly from the inside layer  62   a  to the outside layer  60   a , thereby creating skived edge  81 . The first panel S 1  is placed felt or inside layer  62   a  up and a pressure plate  83  is utilized to secure the panel S 1  on a base  84  during the skiving operation. Preferably, the skived edge  81  will have a width of about 4.0-6.0 millimeters. In  FIG. 5 , the second panel S 2  is, shown secured to base  84  felt side  62   b  down while the rotating knife  50  skives its top edge  82  from the outside layer  60   b  to the inside layer  62   b  to form skived edge  82 . 
     FIG. 6A  shows the application of an adhesive  90  by means of a nozzle, brush or the like to the skived edge  81  of the first panel S 1 . Similarly,  FIG. 6B  shows the application of an adhesive  90  by means of a nozzle, brush or the like to the skived top edge  82  of the second segment S 2 . 
   After application of the adhesive  90 , the skived edges  81 ,  82  abut and are pressed together such that the once separate polyurethane-felt panels S 1 , S 2  now form a contiguous multi-segment panel MP with a substantially horizontal seam  100 , as shown in FIG.  7 . 
     FIG. 8  is a horizontal sectional view taken along the line designated  8 — 8  in FIG.  7 . Note the felt—felt bond between the felt layer  62   a  of the first panel S 1  and the felt layer  62   b  of the second panel S 2 . This felt—felt bonding section adds structural integrity to the panel MP. 
   The preferred method is to skive the bottom edge  81  of the first panel S 1  downwardly and outwardly from its inside layer  62   a  to its outside layer  60   a  ( FIG. 4 ) while skiving the top edge  82  of the second panel S 2  in a similar manner (FIG.  5 ), noting that the second panel S 2  is secured outside layer  60   b  facing up towards the pressure plate  83 , where as the first panel S 1  is skived with its inside layer  62   a  facing up towards the pressure plate  83 . Desirably, the outer surface  61   b  of the second panel S 2  and the skived top edge  82  of the second panel S 2  form an included obtuse angle, more preferably an included obtuse angle of over 110 degrees, more preferably an included obtuse angle of roughly 130-160 degrees and, most preferably, an included obtuse angle of roughly 135 degrees. The inner surface  63   a  of the first panel S 1  and the skived bottom edge  81  of the first panel S 1  desirably form a similar included obtuse angle to the angle formed by the outer surface  61   b  of the second panel S 2  and the skived top edge  82  of the second panel S 2 . 
   While there are other ways to practice the invention, this structure is preferred for several reasons. One common tendency of golfers is to stroke downwardly with their thumbs as they prepare to hit the ball. This could place pressure on the horizontal seam. Our preferred configuration allows this downward stroking without encouraging the panels to separate from the underlisting sleeve. That is, the thin uppermost portion of the top edge  82  is protected from rolling downward by the overlapping bottom edge  810   f  the first panel. Significantly, this thin felt uppermost portion of the top edge  82  of the second panel S 2  is glued to the structurally strong felt portion of the bottom edge  81  of the first panel S 1 . The grip G would be much less effective at preventing premature unraveling if it had an exposed thin upward facing edge. The only thin upward facing portion of the edge at the seam  100 , the thin uppermost portion of the top edge  82  of the second panel S 2 , is safely enclosed on the inside of the grip G and securely attached to the underlisting sleeve U. While the outside of the grip G is exposed by definition, the portion of the seam  100  that is exposed is the lowermost portion of the bottom edge  81  of the first panel S 1 . This lowermost portion of the bottom edge  81  is downward facing and thus naturally allows the thumb to roll over it without encouraging premature unraveling. Even if the two panels were somewhat misaligned, so that a portion of the upwardly facing edge of the top edge on the second panel S 2  were exposed, the exposed portion would be almost as thick as the body of the panel and, thus, structurally strong. Importantly, the large obtuse angle formed by the top edge of the second panel and the outer surface of the first panel would tend to guide the user&#39;s thumb outward and downward, away from the thin uppermost portion of the top edge of the second panel S 2 . As such, this preferred configuration discourages unraveling, even in the event of misalignment. 
   Further, it is less distracting for the golfer looking down at the handle when the seam is fluid, another advantageous result of our horizontal seam with the preferred skiving because the outer layer of the top panel flows over the lower panel. Regardless, the skiving is performed such that the polyurethane side  60   a  of the first panel S 1  and the polyurethane side  60   b  of the second panel S 2  are on the same side of the contiguous multi-segment panel MP to form a contiguous polyurethane outside layer  110  (FIG.  7 ). Once each panel has its respective skived edge, the segments are ready to be bonded. 
   Once the panels are joined, the panel MP is press cut in the conventional way to form the shaped panel S found in FIG.  9 A. The same press cut also forms notches N 1 , N 2  in the panel S at the center of the top and bottom edges, respectively. The notches N 1 ; N 2  serve as markings to help center the panel on the underlisting sleeve U. Though there are other methods of centering the panel, these notches are preferred because they reduce cost and do not affect the contours of the finished grip G. By way of example, it is possible to have a raised or scored line running vertically along the underlisting G to indicate the central axis. This line could then correspond to a scored line on the panel grip, thus providing a means for centering the panel on the grip. However, because the lines on both the panel and the underlisting involve adding to or taking away from the respective piece, the lines have the potential of affecting the contours of the grip surface. The notches, on the other hand, reside under the cap and nipple (discussed below) and thus do not affect the contours of the grip. 
     FIG. 9B  shows an edge view of shaped panel S. Note the horizontal seam  100  and dual contiguous layers  110 ,  112  running the length of the panel S. 
   Referring now to  FIGS. 10-17  there is shown a first mold M which is utilized to form a friction enhancing pattern  66  ( FIG. 14 ) on the polyurethane layer  110 . Mold M includes a base plate B and a heated platen  67  formed with a cavity  68 . The platen  67  is provided with depending protrusions  69  that engage the outer surface of the polyurethane layer  110  so as to form the depressed friction enhancing pattern  66 , as seen in FIG.  13 . The heated platen  67  may include depending protrusions  69   a  that would form recessed side edges  70 ,  71  on edges  134 ,  136 , respectively, and recessed top and bottom edges (not shown) on top and bottom edges  130 ,  132  on the polyurethane layer  110 , as shown in  FIGS. 11   b ,  12   a  and  12   b . Alternatively, the preferred embodiment contains no such side oriented protrusions  69   a  such that use of the mold M results only in the friction enhancing pattern  63  on the polyurethane layer  110 , as demonstrated by  FIGS. 11   a  and FIG.  14 . 
   In alternative embodiments, other patterns may be formed on the polyurethane layer  110 . As seen in  FIG. 15 , one alternative design leaves the majority of the outside layer  110  smooth while visual indicia, such as a logo  116  is placed near the bottom end of the panel S. In  FIG. 16 , yet another embodiment of the friction enhancing pattern is shown. The second pattern  118  incorporates visual indicia extending the majority of the length of the panel surrounded by a tread pattern similar to the friction enhancing pattern  66  in FIG.  13 .  FIG. 16  also shows an alternative means for imputing decorative designs or logos on the grip panel S. Stamped visual indicia, such as logo  114 , is ink stamped onto the polyurethane layer  10  using a suitable ink known to those of skill in the art. Preferably, the ink is waterproof and heat resistant and, more preferably, formulated to resist degradation when coming into contact with the lubrication fluid or solvent used to apply the completed grip G (underlisting U with panel S) over the end of a golf club GC shaft  55  ( FIG. 81 ) or a putter P shaft  57  (FIG.  82 ). It is to be understood that these are representative and many other patterns and stamps may be used with this multi-segment single panel grip. 
     FIG. 17  is a cross-sectional view taken along the line designated  17 — 17  in FIG.  14 . It shows the friction enhancing pattern  66  formed on the contiguous polyurethane layer  110 . 
   Referring now to  FIGS. 18-21 , the peripheral edges of the panel S are shown being skived by a pair of rotating knives  120 ,  122  which engage the top and bottom edges  130 , 132  of the panel S (FIG.  18 ), and a single rotating knife  124  ( FIG. 19 ) engaging side edges  134 ,  136 . Knives  120  and  122  form top and bottom skived edges  130 ,  132 , respectively. Knife  124  is shown forming skived edge  134  on one side of the panel S in FIG.  19  and the skived edge  136  in  FIG. 20  after the first side has been skived. A pressure plate  83  is utilized to secure the panels on base  84  during the skiving operation. It will be noted that the skiving on the opposite sides of the panel S are parallel to one another, as seen in FIG.  20 . Preferably, the skiving will have a width of about 4.0-6.0 millimeters. 
     FIG. 21  is a rear view of the panel S after the rotating knives  120 ,  122 ,  124  have skived the edges  130 ,  132 ,  134 ,  136 . 
   Referring now to  FIGS. 22-25  there is shown an underlisting sleeve U formed of a resilient material such as a natural or synthetic rubber or plastic. Sleeve U includes an integral cap  85  at its top end, while the bottom end of the sleeve is formed with an integral nipple  86 . The underside of the cap is formed with a downwardly extending slot  87 . Preferably, the slot  87  wraps circumferentially around the underlisting U. The slot  87  receives the top skived edge  130  of the panel S as described hereinafter. Similarly, the integral nipple  86  of the underlisting U is formed with an upwardly extending slot  88 . The slot  88  is preferably circumferentially wrapped about the underlisting U. Preferably, underlisting sleeve U will be formed with centering notches N 3 , N 4  indicating a middle point for application of the completed grip panel S to the underlisting sleeve U to form complete grip G. 
   Referring now to  FIGS. 26-35  the panel S is shown being applied to an underlisting sleeve U. In  FIG. 26 , the exterior surface of the underlisting sleeve U is shown receiving an adhesive  90  by means of a nozzle, brush or the like. In  FIG. 27 , the inner surface of the contiguous felt layer  112  is shown receiving an adhesive  90  by means of a nozzle, brush or the like. 
     FIG. 28  shows the panel S being wrapped around and adhered to the underlisting sleeve U. During this operation, the notches N 1 , N 2  of the panel S are disposed in alignment notches under notches N 3 , N 4  of the underlisting sleeve U. Also, the top edge  130  of the panel S will be manually inserted within the slot  87  of the underlisting cap  85 , while the bottom edge  132  of the panel S is manually inserted within the slot  88  formed within the nipple  86  by temporarily flexing the peripheral lip  89  outwardly. 
   As indicated in  FIGS. 33 ,  34 , and  35 , the skived side edges  134 ,  136  of the panel S will be adhered together by a suitable adhesive  90  so as to define a vertical seam  91  extending through the panel. Because of the skived side edges  134 ,  136 , the seam  91  extends through the panel S at an angle relative to the depth of the panel S so as to increase the length of such seam as compared to a seam extending parallel to the depth of the panel. Increased length of the seam affords a stronger bond. The seam is particularly strong where it joins the inside layers together, i.e. the felt—felt bond as shown in FIG.  35 . 
   A suitable adhesive  90  has the chemical formula polychloroprene (C 4 H 5 Cl) and Toluene (CH 5 CH 3 ). As the panel S is being wrapped about and adhered to underlisting sleeve U, the sleeve will be temporarily supported on a collapsible mandrel  92  in a conventional manner. 
   In one embodiment, the seam  91  is left alone and the completed grip G- 1  resembles the grip in FIG.  30 .  FIG. 36  shows a cross-sectional view taken along the line designated  36 — 36  ( FIG. 30 ) of the multi-segment single panel S and the underlisting U showing the horizontal seam  100  relative to the length of the grip G- 1 . It will be appreciated by those of skill in the art that various advantages of the invention can be achieved by other types of seams. However, a seam transverse to the longitudinal axis Y of the sleeve U and, therefore, the longitudinal axis of the grip G- 1  is preferred. As used herein, transverse seam is a broad term and includes diagonal seams, zigzag seams and wavy seams. Further, it is desirable that the seam is closer to horizontal than vertical. This view would be substantially the same for all grips G constructed as described above. The use of more panels would result in correspondingly more horizontal seams. 
     FIG. 36A  is an enlarged view of the encircled portion designated  36 A in FIG.  36 . It shows the horizontal seam  100 . Further, it shows how the skived bottom edge of the first panel S 1  is skived from the inside layer  62   a  to the outside layer  60   a  so as to form an obtuse angle α with the inner surface  63   a  of the first panel S 1 . It also shows how the skived top edge of the second panel S 2  is skived from the outside layer  60   b  to the inside layer  62   b  so as to form an obtuse angle β with the outer surface  61   b  of the second panel S 2 . Notably, it is preferred that obtuse angle α and obtuse angle β are equal such that when panel S 1  is joined to panel S 2 , they form a substantially flat single panel S (viewed in cross-section as in FIG.  36 A). 
     FIGS. 42 and 43  show enlarged cross-sectional views along the lines designated  42 — 42  and  43 — 43 , respectively, in FIG.  41 . They demonstrate the final placement of the top and bottom edges  130 ,  132  of the panel S after the panel S has been adhered to the underlisting U. It will be seen that the top edge  130  of the panel S is securely disposed within the cap slot  87 . Similarly, the bottom edge  132  is securely disposed within the nipple slot  88 . The complete grip is then removed from the mandrel  92  and is ready to be slipped onto and adhered to the shaft of a golf club GC in a conventional manner. 
   Referring now to  FIGS. 37-39 , an embodiment is shown after the side edges  134 ,  136  of the panel S have been adhered together.  FIG. 37  shows the underlisting sleeve U supported by mandrel  92  upon a base  93  while a longitudinally extending heated pressure tooth  94  is urged against the polyurethane layer  110  at the outer edge of seam  91 . Such heated tooth forms a small depression  95  in the polyurethane layer  110  aligned with the outer edge of the seam  91  so as to further strengthen such seam. An embodiment of a completed grip G- 2  after the use of the tooth  94  is shown in FIG.  41 . 
     FIGS. 44-47  show another embodiment of a golf club grip G- 3 , similar in all respects to grip G- 2  with the exception that the channel  95  is filled with hot polyurethane  96  by a nozzle, brush or the like (FIG.  44 ). After the polyurethane hardens, it can be buffed by a suitable brush  97  or the like to smoothly blend into the surface of the grip as shown in FIG.  45 . Alternatively, after channel  95  is not buffed after it is filled with hot polyurethane. 
   Referring now to  FIGS. 48-51 , there is shown another embodiment of a grip G- 4 . Grip G- 4  does not use the channel  95 . Rather, seam  91  is coated by a small quantity of hot polyurethane  96  by means of a nozzle, brush or the like, as shown in FIG.  47 . After the polyurethane hardens, it may be buffed by a suitable brush  97  or the like to smoothly blend into the surface of the grip, as indicated in FIG.  51 . Alternatively, the polyurethane is not buffed or blended. 
   Referring to  FIGS. 52-62 , there is shown a modification of the grips of  FIGS. 28-51 . In  FIGS. 52-54 , hot polyurethane  96  is shown being coated over the seam  91  by a nozzle, brush or the like. In  FIGS. 55-57 , hot polyurethane  96  is shown filling the channel  95  by a nozzle, brush or the like.  FIG. 58  shows a mold M- 2  having a heated platen  140  the underside of which is formed with a segment  66   a  of the friction enhancing pattern  66  which is embossed on the surface of the polyurethane layer  110  of the grip. Such heated platen  140  is depressed against the outer surface of the polyurethane layer over the area of the seam  91  while the polyurethane is still hot. With this arrangement, the area of the exterior of the polyurethane layer  110  outwardly of the seam is formed with the friction enhancing segment of  FIG. 59  whereby such segment merges with the friction enhancing pattern  66  molded on the main body of the outer surface of the grip.  FIG. 62  shows such a grip G- 5  with the merged friction enhancing pattern  66  placed over and adhered to a golf club shaft  55 . Alternatively, in a preferred embodiment, the heated platen  140  may be urged against the naked seam  91  to form the friction enhancing pattern without first coating it with hot polyurethane  96 . Pressing the pattern  66  directly to the seam  91  eliminates a step in the production process and therefore reduces the costs of production. 
   Referring now to  FIGS. 63-71 , there is shown a multi-segment single panel putter grip PG for use with a conventional putter. The grip PG includes a resilient underlisting sleeve UP ( FIGS. 63-67 ) which is generally similar to the aforedescribed underlisting U, except that underlisting sleeve UP is not of an annular configuration. Instead, the front surface  98  of the underlisting sleeve UP is of flat configuration in accordance with the design of most putters in general use. It should be understood that underlisting sleeve UP receives a multi-segment single panel SP of polyurethane-felt configuration, similar to the aforedescribed multi-segment single panel S. The side edges of the putter panel SP are generally straight giving the panel SP a somewhat trapezoidal appearance prior to being wrapped around and adhered to the underlisting sleeve UP. 
   Such single panel SP is wrapped about and adhered to the underlisting sleeve in the same manner as described hereinbefore with respect to the multi-segment single panel grips G- 1 -G- 4 , with like parts of the two grips marked with like reference numerals. Similarly, if a tooth  94 ′ is used to create a channel  95 ′, it may be left alone or filled with hot polyurethane  96 ′ and then left raw or buffed with a brush  97 ′ or the like (refer to  FIGS. 37-62  for examples of possible modifications to the grips herein disclosed). In a preferred embodiment, the panel SP is smooth but for a visual indicia such as logo  114 ′ at the bottom end, as shown in FIG.  68 . Because a putter is generally subjected to less forces due to the shortened putting swing as compared to the generally longer swing associated with other clubs, the putter grip PG generally does not require the friction enhancing pattern  66 . However, it is contemplated that such a pattern can be molded into the putter panel SP as hereindescribed above. 
   It should be noted that any number of panels may be bonded together to form a multi-segment single panel grip. Preferably, the number is between 2 and 10, more preferably, between 2 and 5 and, most preferably, between 2 and 3. Referring now to  FIGS. 72-79 , another preferred embodiment is shown using 3 polyurethane-felt panels S 1 ′, S 2 ′ and S 3 ′, respectively. Like parts of the grips are marked with like reference numerals used above, distinguished by a prime symbol. 
     FIGS. 72   a ,  72   b  and  72   c  are front views showing, respectively: the top panel S 1 ′, the bottom panel S 2 ′, and the middle panel S 3 ′. In one embodiment, the top and bottom panels S 1 ′, S 2 ′ are generally of equal size while the middle panel S 3 ′ is shorter. Despite their differing lengths, each of the panels S 1 ′, S 2 ′, S 3 ′ have substantially the same width such that when they are bonded together, they form a single, contiguous panel with side edges large enough to accept a press cut assembly to form a shaped panel S′ whose width substantially corresponds to the circumference of the underlisting sleeve U′. 
     FIGS. 73   a - 74   c  show vertical and horizontal cross-sectional views of the panels in  FIGS. 72   a-c  taken along the designated lines. The panels in this three-panel embodiment and all other embodiments of differing numbers of panels are created as described above in reference to  FIGS. 1-3 . 
   Similar to the two-panel multi-segment single panel MP, the three-panel multi-segment single panel MP′ requires some preparation. Top and bottom panels S 1 ′, S 2 ′ are skived as panels S 1 , S 2  above, resulting in skived edges  81 ′,  82 ′ (FIGS.  77 A and  77 B). See  FIGS. 4 and 5  for the method used to skive panels S 1 ′, S 2 ′.  FIGS. 75 and 76  show the skiving process for the middle panel S 3 ′. Knife  150  is shown skiving the top edge  160  of the middle segment S 3 ′ downwardly and outwardly from the outside layer  60   c ′ to the inside layer  62   c ′ ( FIG. 75 ) and the bottom edge  162  from the inside layer  62   c ′ to the outside layer  60   c ′ after the top edge  160  has been skived (FIG.  76 ). A pressure plate  83 ′ is utilized to secure the panel on base  84 ′ during the skiving operation. It will be noted that the skiving on the opposite ends of the panel S 3 ′ are parallel to one another, as seen in FIG.  76 . Preferably, the skiving will again have a width of about 4.0-6.0 millimeters. 
     FIGS. 77   a-b  are front views showing adhesive  90  being applied to edges  81 ′,  82 ′,  160 ,  162  with a nozzle, brush or the like. 
   After application of the adhesive  90 , the edges  81 ′,  162 ,  160 ,  82 ′ are pressed together such that the once separate polyurethane-felt panels S 1 ′, S 2 ′, S 3 ′ now form a contiguous multi-segment panel MP′ with two substantially horizontal seams  100   a ′,  100   b ′, as shown in FIG.  78 . 
     FIG. 79  is a horizontal sectional view taken along the line designated  79 — 79  in FIG.  78 . Note the felt—felt bonds between the top panel S 1 ′ and the middle panel S 3 ′ and the middle panel S 3 ′ and the bottom panel S 2 ′. These felt—felt bonding sections add structural integrity to the contiguous panel MP′. The panels S 1 ′, S 2 ′, S 3 ′ are bonded together such that their polyurethane layers  60   a ′,  60   b ′,  60   c ′ form a contiguous polyurethane side  110 ′ and their felt layers  62   a ′,  62   b ′,  62   c ′ form a contiguous felt side  112 ′ 
     FIG. 80  shows a cross-sectional view of a completed three-panel multi segment grip G′ showing the two substantially horizontal seams  100   a ′,  100   b ′ relative to the length of the grip G′. 
     FIG. 80A  is an enlarged view of the encircled portion designated  80 A in FIG.  80 . It shows the substantially horizontal seams  100   a ′,  100   b ′. Particularly, it shows abutting seam  100   a  is constructed with the skived backside bottom edge of the first panel S 1 ′ first panel S 1  is skived frontside top edge of the third panel S 3 ′. The skived bottom edge of the first panel S 1  is skived from the inside layer  62   a ′ to the outside layer  60   a ′ so as to form an obtuse angle α′ with the inner surface  63   a ′ of the first panel S 1 ′. The skived top edge of the third panel S 3  is skived from the outside layer  60   c ′ to the inside layer  62   c ′ so as to form an obtuse angle γ′ with the outer surface  61   c ′ of the third panel S 3 ′. Seam  100   b ′ is shown in a similar fashion. The skived bottom edge of the third panel S 3 ′ is skived from the inside layer  62   c  to the outside layer  60   c ′ so as to form an obtuse angle δ′ with the inner surface  63   c ′ of the third panel S 2 ′. The skived top edge of the second panel S 2 ′ is skived from the outside layer  60   b  to the inside layer  62   b ′ so as to form an obtuse angle β′ with the outer surface  61   b ′ of the second panel S 2 ′. Notably, it is preferred that obtuse angle α′ and obtuse angle γ′ are equal such that when panel S 1 ′ is joined to panel S 3 ′, they form a portion of substantially flat single panel S′(viewed in cross-section in FIG.  80 A). Likewise, it is preferred that obtuse angle δ′ and obtuse angle β′ are equal such that when panel S 3 ′ is joined to panel S 2 ′, they too form a portion of substantially flat single panel S′ (also viewed in cross-section in FIG.  80 A). 
   Referring now to  FIG. 81 , there is shown a golf club GC having a handle  55  upon which has been telescopically secured a grip G made in accordance with the disclosure herein contained.  FIG. 82  shows a putter grip PG which is telescopically applied to the handle  57  of a putter P. 
   It should be understood that the outer surface of a grip embodying the present invention may be coated by means of a brush, nozzle, spray or the like with a thin layer of polyurethane (not shown) to protect such surface, add tackiness thereto and increase the durability thereof. 
   A golf club grip of the present invention provides the advantages over the existing wrapped and single panel grips described hereinbefore. Additionally, such grip has the appearance of a molded, one-piece grip familiar to professional and low-handicap golfers. Although some of such golfers are reluctant to use a non-traditional wrapped club, they are willing to play with a structurally integral multi-segment grip of the present invention since such grip affords the shock absorbing and tackiness qualities of a wrapped grip. Further, many individual golfers and high school, college, and professional teams like the camaraderie and unification that can be achieved by putting team colors on their golf grips without sacrificing comfort, durability or tackiness. My present invention allows the application of the multiple colors to golf club and putter grips to allow these teams and individuals to express their spirit and enthusiasm in a way never before possible. 
   Further details of the single panel grip and its applications are described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/392,480, filed on Mar. 18, 2003, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
   It will be understood that the foregoing is only illustrative of the principles of the invention, and that various modifications, alterations, and combinations can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention.