Abstract:
A hand-retaining device, such as a hand strap that can be fastened to the hand or a glove, includes a movable loop between the thumb and the index finger portions, which is used for fixing the hand-retaining device to a hook-type mechanism of a pole grip. Such a hand-retaining device is suitable for use with a pole grip of walking canes, ski poles or the like, which are equipped with a grip member and a hook-type mechanism for attaching a hand-retaining device especially in the form of a hand strap or a glove. A locking mechanism is disposed in the area of the hook-type mechanism such that a loop-shaped, annular, or eye-shaped device that is provided on the hand-retaining device and is inserted into the hook-type mechanism from above is fixed in a self-locking manner in the hook-type mechanism.

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD 
       [0001]    The present invention relates to a hand-retaining device, such as for example a glove or a hand strap which can be fastened on the hand, which hand-retaining device has, between the thumb and forefinger, a coupling element for coupling to a pole grip, in particular for walking sticks, trekking poles, downhill ski poles, cross-country ski poles and Nordic walking poles. Such a hand-retaining device is preferably suitable for fastening in a releasable and self-latching manner on a pole grip with a grip body with a hook-like device. 
       PRIOR ART 
       [0002]    A pole grip as is known, for example, from U.S. Pat. No. 5,516,150, has a hook provided on it, and a rigid bow-like device formed from a curved metal element is provided on the associated glove, in the region between the thumb and forefinger. The bow has its long leg introduced into a narrow slot of the hook, and the hook-like device fixes the bow, and thus the glove, on the pole grip. 
         [0003]    Provision is made here for the slot to be widened slightly at the bottom of the hook, which means that, when the bow is moved into the hook, it initially forces the two legs of the hook apart from one another to a slight extent, and that it is only when the bow has been pushed into the widened portion that the legs spring back into the original position. 
         [0004]    Elastic deformation of the hook-like device is thus used in order to fix the bow easily in the hook and to avoid the situation where the bow can easily slide out of the hook. 
         [0005]    One of the problems with such devices is the fact that repeated deformation of such components, which are usually formed from plastic or metal, is undesirable on account of signs of fatigue. 
         [0006]    There is also the particular problem of the elastic deformation behavior of materials being highly dependent on temperature. It is thus also the case that the fixing action which is achieved by the deformation is neither adjustable nor constant for different temperatures. 
         [0007]    This is absolutely unacceptable in the sporting arena in particular, since very large differences in temperature are unavoidable, on the one hand, on account of different weather conditions and, on the other hand, as a result of heating or warming up during use. 
       DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       [0008]    This is where the invention comes in. The object of the invention is thus to provide a hand-retaining device which has improvements over the prior art and is intended for fastening in a releasable and, in particular preferably, self-latching manner on a pole grip with a hook-like device. The concern here in particular is to improve such a hand-retaining device for use in conjunction with a pole grip for walking sticks, trekking poles, downhill ski poles, cross-country ski poles and Nordic walking poles, these having a grip body with a hook-like device for fastening a hand-retaining device in particular in the form of a hand strap or of a glove. This object is achieved in that the hand-retaining device, for example a glove or a hand strap which can be fastened on the hand, has as a coupling element, between the thumb and forefinger, a movable, that is to say inherently flexible, loop which is suitable for fastening the hand-retaining device on a hook-like device of a pole grip. Such a hand-retaining device proves to be successful, in particular, when used in conjunction with pole grips in which displaceable or rotatable latching-in means are arranged in the region of the hook-like device such that a loop-like, ring-like or eyelet-like device, which is inserted or pushed into the hook-like device preferably essentially from above and is provided on the hand-retaining device, is fixed in the hook-like device with self-latching action. 
         [0009]    Rather than, as has usually been deemed absolutely necessary in the prior art, providing a stiff element as the coupling element, in order that this element can be pushed at all over the hook-like device without the aid, for example, of the other hand, the core of the invention thus consists in providing an inherently flexible, that is to say movable, element in the form of a simple loop. This means that the coupling element is considerably less troublesome both during use, when the hand-retaining device is fastened on the pole grip, and when the hand-retaining device is not fastened on the pole grip. Surprisingly, such a movable loop is nevertheless readily capable of absorbing the high forces which occur and, in addition, it allows optimum guidance even when the pole grip is not actively being gripped. The loop here is preferably fastened on the hand-retaining device such that, as a result of its remaining inherent rigidity, it projects between the thumb and forefinger such that it can easily be pushed over the hook-like device. 
         [0010]    Hand-retaining devices which are particularly well suited for being used together with an abovementioned pole grip are therefore those which have a movable loop or eyelet in the V region between the thumb and forefinger. Such a hand-retaining device interacts with a pole grip as described above in the manner of a key and lock or plug and socket. The small loop is particularly comfortable and is not obtrusive, in which case such a glove or such a hand-retaining device is also suitable for biathlon or the like. 
         [0011]    The loop, in particular, is a loop which is made of a flexible material with a sufficient level of inherent rigidity to stabilize it in a position in the space between the thumb and forefinger, which allows it to be introduced straightforwardly over the hook or retaining peg and which, conversely, cannot be felt, or can only barely be felt, during use. Possible examples of loops are those made of a cable or wire, which may be surface-coated. Examples of other elements which are basically also suitable to be used as material for such loops are textile fibers which are encased in a woven-fabric sheath, have limited expansion capability and are stable in relation to tension, or retaining elements which are braided in a cord-like or cable-like manner, using corresponding materials such as for example Aramid, Kevlar, Dyneema, etc. If use is made of such materials for the loop, cords with a thickness of 1-5 mm are most suitable, a thickness of 2-3 mm being preferred. In order to impart a sufficient level of inherent rigidity to the loop, such cords may be provided with stiffening elements, for example a “core” made of monofilament nylon or in-woven fibers consisting of a relatively stiff material, for example nylon or thin metal wires. It has been found that a cable with a thickness in the range of 0.5-2.5 mm, preferably in the range of 1-2 mm, is particularly suitable. 
         [0012]    The, for example, braided or twisted cable can be coated with another material, for example copper or plastic. As an alternative, it is possible to produce the loop from a plastic material, also, for example, in band form, preferably from a fiber-reinforced plastic, for example polyamide, PE, PP or the like being suitable, in which case combined materials with a layered construction are also possible, and in particular preferably reinforcements with fibers for example made of Aramid may be provided. 
         [0013]    The loop preferably projects by between 5-20 mm, in particular by between 5-10 mm, beyond the V region between the forefinger and thumb. In this case, the direction of the loop, to a certain extent, runs essentially along the angle bisector between the thumb and forefinger. 
         [0014]    It is possible for the loop to be adjustable, this adjustability being provided, on the one hand, in order to adjust the length specifically to the user, but also, when the loop is not required, in order to retract the same so that it cannot be felt during use. It is also possible for the loop to be stowed, when not in use, in a small pocket, which is provided for this purpose in the hand-retaining device, likewise in the V region between the forefinger and thumb. This latter possibility is particularly straightforward in design terms and, as far as the inherent rigidity of the loop is concerned, on the one hand, the loop can be accommodated in such a pocket and, on the other hand, if not specifically manipulated, it remains concealed, essentially without any special measures having to be taken in the pocket, during use of the hand-retaining device. 
         [0015]    In order to ensure that the forces which act on the loop are coupled as well as possible to the hand-retaining device, the wire/the cable of the loop can be guided in the direction of the wrist, at least in part, in or on the hand-retaining device. It is also possible to provide a combination with an adjustable device like that described in DE 19751978 C2, the disclosure of which is expressly included in this respect. Instead of the rigid connecting element cited in this document, a flexible loop is simply provided. The loop is considerably less troublesome in particular when the glove is used without the pole. 
         [0016]    The hand-retaining device according to a first embodiment is thus preferably characterized in that the loop comprises an inherently movable cable or bow or a flexible plastic cord with inherent rigidity. It is preferably here for the loop to be fastened in an essentially non-movable manner on the hand-retaining device, but the loop is itself of movable design. 
         [0017]    As has already been mentioned, the hand-retaining device may be a glove, or else a hand strap which has three openings and which can be fastened on the hand in particular preferably with the aid of a touch-and-close fastener, a first opening being provided for the thumb, a second opening being provided for the other fingers or the back of the hand, and a third opening of the hand strap being provided for the wrist. 
         [0018]    In order to allow the loop to be introduced as easily as possible onto the hook-like device, and in order to ensure ideal force transmission, it proves to be advantageous if the projecting part of the loop on the hand-retaining device is arranged essentially in the plane which, when the hand is open and stretched out, is defined by the thumb and forefinger. 
         [0019]    As has already been mentioned, the loop is preferably a loop made of a plastic material, preferably a plastic fiber which is oriented and/or has limited expansion capability, in particular preferably based on polyethylene, in particular preferably oriented polyethylene, e.g. Dyneema®, polyamide, polypropylene, Aramid or a combination of these materials. Preferred combinations are ones in which a core made of, for example, oriented polyethylene fibers is enclosed by braided synthetic fibers in the manner of a braided sleeve. 
         [0020]    A further preferred embodiment of the hand-retaining device according to the invention is characterized in that the length of the loop is adjustable, it being possible, in particular preferably, for the loop to be recessed essentially fully into or on the glove when not in use. As an alternative, it is possible for the hand-retaining device to contain a niche or pocket into which the loop can be inserted when not in use. 
         [0021]    In order to allow the loop to be fastened as well as possible on the hand-retaining device, in particular on the glove, it proves to be advantageous if, at least over a length of 2-15 cm, in particular preferably of at least 5 cm, the non-exposed region of the material of the loop, at both ends, is adhesively bonded, sewn or woven in or on the hand-retaining device, and/or in the form of an intermediate layer of the hand-retaining device, or is fastened in some other way between the outer layers of the hand-retaining device. 
         [0022]    The material of the loop is also fastened on the hand-retaining device, for example, via a band strip, in particular made of woven plastic-based textile material with a width of between 3-30 mm, this band strip being sewn in particular preferably on the outside of the hand-retaining device, or being adhesively bonded or sewn to the glove, and the band strip, further preferably, being arranged in the V between the thumb and forefinger so as to encircle the back of the hand and the palm of the hand. 
         [0023]    A further preferred embodiment is characterized in that a hand strap may be integrated, to a certain extent, in a glove, in which case the hand strap itself with the movable loop can be used without the glove and the glove can be used with the hand strap embedded in it. The hand-retaining device may thus be configured as a glove in which is arranged, in one or more corresponding recesses, a hand strap which preferably has three openings and which can be fastened on the hand, or on/in the glove, in particular preferably with the aid of a touch-and-close fastener, a first opening being provided for the thumb, a second opening being provided for the other fingers or the back of the hand, and a third opening of the hand strap being provided for the wrist. The hand strap, in particular preferably, is arranged in the glove such that it can be adjusted from the outside via a touch-and-close fastener arranged in the region of the back of the hand. The hand strap can advantageously be removed altogether from the glove and can be used without the glove. 
         [0024]    A further preferred embodiment of the hand-retaining device is distinguished in that, in the rest position, the loop is of essentially semi-circular or semi-oval form, in particular preferably with a diameter in the range of 3-10 mm. 
         [0025]    Further preferred embodiments of the hand-retaining device according to the invention are described in the dependent claims. 
         [0026]    As has already been mentioned, such a hand-retaining device can be used, in particular preferably, in conjunction with a pole grip which has a hook-like device into which the loop can be pushed with self-latching action. If use is made here, for latching-in purposes, of a rotatable or displaceable element, there is essentially no material deformation on the hook in the case of a self-latching mechanism for fastening a hand-retaining device on the pole grip; so preferably mechanisms are used in which, when a loop-like, ring-like or eyelet-like device is pushed into a latched-in position, a corresponding latching-in means is either displaced or rotated. It is thus possible correspondingly to provide a specific elastic mounting arrangement for these latching-in means, the arrangement, in particular, being less susceptible to wear, being adjustable, if appropriate, and having a low level of temperature dependence in respect of the forces. The hook-like device is arranged in the top region of the pole grip, e.g. on the hand side, it being the case that the hook-like device comprises a retaining pin or retaining peg which is arranged preferably essentially parallel to the pole axis (although a specific amount of inclination may also be present) and is offset in the direction of the hand side from the grip body to form an introduction slot, the depth of the introduction slot being greater than the width and the thickness of the retaining peg or retaining pin. Offset does not necessarily mean that the retaining peg or retaining pin has to project beyond the contour of the grip body; it is also possible for the retaining peg or retaining pin to be positioned in a recess which is open toward the top and rear and is provided specifically for this purpose in the grip body. It has typically been found that the hook-like device advantageously has a width in the range of 3-15 mm, preferably in the range of 4-10 mm, the hook-like device having an essentially oval or rectangular (possibly with rounded edges) cross section, in particular preferably at least in certain sections perpendicular to the pole axis, in which case preferably the short main axis is directed toward the grip body. The introduction slot typically has a depth in the range of 5-30 mm, preferably in the range of 10-15 mm. It is possible here, for example, to provide a slight convexity in the hook-like device directly opposite the latching-in means. 
         [0027]    The hook-like device may be integrally formed on the grip body. In particular in combination with the mechanism which is described hereinbelow, and in the case of which a recess is provided in the pole grip for accommodating the mechanism, it preferably proves to be expedient to design the hook-like device as a separate component. This is then fastened on the grip body via fastening means, preferably once the mechanism has been inserted into the recess of the grip body. This can be realized, for example, by the hook-like device having, beneath the hook, a fastening plate by means of which the hook-like device can be fastened on the grip body (for example by means of a screw or rivet or via a clip mechanism) from the hand side. 
         [0028]    As has already been explained, the grip body is provided, from the hand side, for example with a recess which accommodates a displaceably mounted element, in particular preferably in the form of an arresting block, on or in which latching-in means are arranged, it being possible for these latching-in means to be formed either integrally with the arresting block or as a separate component, and in the latter case this separate component, for example in the form of a restraining nose, can be connected to the arresting block either in a fixed manner or via a movable mechanism. 
         [0029]    The arresting block is advantageously guided such that it can be displaced parallel to the direction of the recess, but it is also possible to mount it for rotation. The arresting block is braced against the hook-like device, which is arranged in front of the recess, via a spring (this also covering, in general, resiliently elastic elements), in particular preferably via a helical spring. This results in the above-mentioned self-latching mechanism. 
         [0030]    In order that the hand-retaining device can also be separated from the pole grip again, means should be provided in order to push the latching-in means back and release the hand-retaining device from the hook. This is possible, for example, by it being possible for the arresting block to be displaced from the outside, counter to the spring force, via at least one actuating button, the self-latching mechanism being released in the process, in which case, for this purpose, slots are provided laterally, in particular preferably in the grip body in relation to the recess and, via these slots, actuating buttons arranged on both sides are operatively connected to the arresting block, for example by a fixed connection being created between these two elements via a crosspiece or pin. 
         [0031]    It is basically possible for the arresting block to be fitted in a rotatable or displaceable manner on the grip body by a wide variety of different methods. It is thus possible, for example, to design the uppermost region in its entirety, that is to say, as it were, the head region of the pole grip, as the arresting block, in which case, to a certain extent behind the same and fixedly connected to the bottom part of the pole grip, or formed integrally therewith, the hook-like device is provided so as to allow a loop of a hand-retaining device to be fixed between the arresting block and the hook-like device. 
         [0032]    It is possible to provide, in or on the arresting block, at least one activating button by way of which the retaining means arranged in the arresting block, preferably in the form of a pin, can be displaced counter to the spring force, the self-latching mechanism being released in the process. It is also possible for the grip body to be provided from the hand side, and from above, with a recess which accommodates a displaceably and/or rotatably mounted element in the form of an arresting block in which latching-in means are arranged, the arresting block being braced in the downward direction for emergency activation via an axial helical spring which is arranged in a cavity of the pole grip and the stressing of which can be adjusted preferably via an adjusting nut. 
         [0033]    The grip body may be provided, from the top side, with a recess which accommodates a displaceably and/or rotatably mounted element, in particular preferably in the form of an arresting block, on which latching-in means are arranged. If the recess is provided from above, it is then possible, without obstructing assembly or installation, to form the hook-like device, for example, integrally with the grip body, for example in the form of a simple slot or cutout arranged in the grip body on the hand side. The arresting block here can be mounted in a rotatable manner about a horizontal axial element, which is arranged between the hook-like device and grip body preferably essentially parallel to the plane of the slot, and it can be braced against the hook-like device, arranged on the hand side, via a spring, in particular preferably via a helical spring or a leaf spring. The arresting block can then be tilted from the outside, counter to the spring force, via at least one actuating button, the self-latching mechanism being released in the process, in which case, for example, the actuating button is provided essentially on the top side of the pole grip, that is to say the arresting block is exposed, to a certain extent, from above and a part or portion, or a sub-surface, of the arresting block forms the actuating button. 
         [0034]    The latching-in means may be designed in the form of a restraining nose which has a beveled flank toward the top, in particular preferably as seen in the direction of introduction, and which, in the position in which it is braced against the hook-like device, defines, in the downward direction, a region for the loop-like, ring-like or eyelet-like device which is restricted in respect of a preferably adjustable force. It is possible here for this retaining nose to be arranged either on the arresting block or, as it were opposite, on the hook-like device. 
         [0035]    The latching-in means may preferably be designed in the manner of a safety mechanism such that, in the event of loading in the direction of the opening of the hook-like device which goes beyond a normal usage force, emergency release of the loop-like, ring-like or eyelet-like device takes place, this being similar to a mechanism which is also known in respect of ski bindings. This can be realized either via elastic deformation of this nose, or in the region of this nose, or else, and this is the preferred variant because it can be much better controlled and possibly even adjusted, by the restraining nose being mounted in a rotatable manner about a preferably horizontal axial element arranged essentially perpendicularly to the opening direction of the recess. Rotation in the upward direction, to release the region in the upward direction, is only possible here counter to a defined and, as has already been mentioned, preferably adjustable force. The restraining nose may be braced by way of a leg spring, by way of an elastomer spring or by way of a helical spring, or by way of a combination of such resilient elements, into the rotary position in which it closes off the region, this bracing in particular preferably being adjustable, in which case safety activation takes place only under a force of more than 80-250 N. A further analogous embodiment of the pole grip is characterized in that the restraining nose is mounted in a displaceable manner, in which case displacement in the upward direction to release the region is possible counter to a defined and preferably adjustable force, as specified above, and the force is preferably ensured via a spring or a resilient element. 
         [0036]    Moreover, safety activation can also be realized via a yielding action in the region of the hook-like device. For this purpose, the hook-like device may be configured such that it can be displaced or tilted about an axial element, counter to an elastic force, in the direction of the hand side to release the region. As an alternative, or in addition, it is possible to provide a resilient region on the hook-like device on the slot side. This resilient region can be realized, for example, via a leaf spring or an elastic portion (specifically a soft elastic polymer portion or the like). 
     
    
     
       BRIEF EXPLANATION OF THE FIGURES 
         [0037]    The invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to exemplary embodiments, in conjunction with the drawings, in which: 
           [0038]      FIG. 1  shows different views of a pole grip,  a ) illustrating a lateral, partially transparent, view,  b ) illustrating a view from behind (hand side),  c ) illustrating an exploded view from the side,  d ) illustrating a section along line A-A in  FIG. 1   c ),  e ) illustrating an exploded view in a section along line A-A in  FIG. 1   c ),  f ) illustrating a perspective exploded view, and  g ) illustrating an alternative hook-like device with safety-activation element on the hook; 
           [0039]      FIG. 2  shows a hand-retaining device with a loop between the thumb and forefinger; 
           [0040]      FIG. 3   a )- c ) show different exemplary embodiments of hand-retaining devices with loops between the thumb and forefinger; 
           [0041]      FIG. 4  shows different views of a pole grip,  a ) illustrating a lateral view with arresting block inserted,  b ) illustrating a lateral view without an arresting block, and  c ) illustrating an arresting block on its own; 
           [0042]      FIG. 5  shows different variants of a pole grip analogous to  FIG. 4 ,  a ) illustrating a safety-activation means without a separate safety-activation element,  b ) illustrating a safety-activation means with a displaceably mounted safety-activation element,  c ) illustrating a safety-activation means with a rotatably mounted safety-activation element,  d ) illustrating a safety-activation means with a safety-activation element which can be elastically deformed as a whole,  e ) illustrating a safety-activation means in which the safety-activation element is arranged on the inside of the hook-like device, and  f ) illustrating a safety-activation means with a hook-like device which can be tilted as a whole; 
           [0043]      FIG. 6  shows the entire pole grip  1 ,  a ) illustrating a view from the side,  b ) illustrating a view from the rear,  c ) illustrating an axial section along line B-B from  b ), and  d ) illustrating a view of the pole grip from above; 
           [0044]      FIG. 7   a ) shows a view from the side of the arresting block  6  together with the elements fastening this arresting block  6  in the pole grip  1 ,  b ) shows a view from the rear,  c ) shows a section along line A-A in  b ), and  d ), finally, shows a view from above; 
           [0045]      FIG. 8  shows a hand strap with three openings. 
       
    
    
     WAYS OF IMPLEMENTING THE INVENTION 
       [0046]      FIGS. 1   a )- f ) illustrate different views of a pole grip. The pole grip  1  comprises a grip body  3 , which is usually produced from a plastic material by injection molding. As seen from beneath, the grip body  3  has a recess or a cavity  5  into which the pole, which is formed, for example, from an aluminum shaft or a carbon-fiber or glass-fiber shaft, can be pushed and fastened therein. 
         [0047]    At its top end, the pole grip  1  has a recess  4  which is designed from the hand side  43 , as it were, as a blind hole. An arresting block  6  is provided in this recess  4 , which typically has a height in the range of 10-30 mm and a width in the range of 3-20 mm. This arresting block  6  is guided in a displaceable manner in the recess  4 , and is braced in the direction of the opening of the recess  4  via a spring  7 . The spring  7  is a helical spring which is guided, at one end, in the recess, in a stop bore  8  which is configured as a cylindrical blind hole, and, at the other end, on a guide peg  19  on the arresting block  6 . 
         [0048]    The recess  4  additionally has two through-slots  17  which lead laterally out of the grip body  3 . The arresting block  6  for its part, in these regions, has bores in which a respective actuating button  9  can be fastened on each side. The actuating button  9  has in each case a crosspiece  20  directed toward the arresting block  6  and, when the arresting block  6  is pushed in, it is fastened in the arresting block  6  from the outside through the abovementioned lateral slots  17 , for which purpose a screw or fastening pin  21  can be used in each case. This means that the actuating button  9  can be displaced from the outside via manipulations of the actuating buttons, this being such that, in the normal position, the arresting block  6  is located to the maximum possible extent in the direction of the hand side as a result of the force of the spring  7 , this maximum position preferably being determined by the hand-side end of the slot  17 . The arresting block  6  can be pushed into the recess  4 , counter to the force of the spring, from the outside, this releasing the arresting mechanism for the hand-retaining device. 
         [0049]    A hook-like device ensures that the hand-retaining device is actually secured on such a pole grip. This hook-like device comprises a retaining peg  14  which is arranged on the hand side. The retaining peg  14  is offset slightly in the direction of the hand from the actual pole grip, a slot  67  which typically has a depth of at least 10 mm being formed therebetween. 
         [0050]    For easier assembly, the retaining peg  14  is connected to a fastening plate  16  or formed integrally therewith. The fastening plate  16  is located beneath the retaining peg  14  and can be inserted in a recess provided for this purpose in the pole grip  3 , and fastened therein. This modular construction is preferred since it is thus possible for the retaining peg  14 , which is naturally arranged in front of the recess  4 , to be placed in position once the elements which have to be arranged in the recess  4  have been inserted into the recess  4 . 
         [0051]    The arresting block  6 , for its part, likewise has a recess  24 , which is bounded laterally and at the bottom but is open at the top. The safety-activation element  12  is mounted in a movable manner in the recess  24 . For this purpose, the safety-activation element  12  is mounted in the arresting block  6  such that it can be rotated by way of an axial pin  22 . This rotatable mounting, in turn, is counter to a spring force, a leg spring  10  being provided in this case. This leg spring, on the one hand, rests on the base of the recess  24  and, on the other hand, rests on the rear side of the safety-activation element  12 . The spring force thus retains the safety-activation element  12  in its closed position, that is to say in that position in which the restraining nose  11  of the safety-activation element  12 , together with the retaining peg  14 , defines a closed-off region  15 , in which the loop of the hand-retaining device ends up located. It is also possible, instead of the leg spring  10 , to use a helical spring or an elastomer spring or the like, or combinations of such resilient elements, which is then for example in operative connection with the rear wall of the recess  24 . Use of a helical spring may be advantageous, in particular, at low temperatures and, moreover, allows the restraining force of the nose  11  to be adjusted. The safety-activation element  12  may have in the downward direction, as can be seen in  FIGS. 1   c ) and  f ) in particular, a notch, in order that the cable can be arrested to better effect in the region  15 . 
         [0052]    As has already been mentioned, the hand-retaining device has a loop  33 , which is guided over the retaining peg  14 . If the loop  33  is guided over the retaining peg from above and pulled downward, then the entire arresting block  6  is displaced into the recess  4  because, in the case of pressure being exerted from top to bottom, the oblique top flank of the safety-activation element  12  pushes the arresting block  6  rearward, counter to the spring force, and the gap between the retaining peg and grip body is released. Once the loop has reached the region  15 , the entire arresting block springs back again toward the retaining peg  14 , as a result of the spring force of the spring  7 , and the region  15  is closed. The hand-retaining device is thus automatically fastened/latched in on the grip body without any further manipulations being necessary. 
         [0053]    If the loop of the hand-retaining device is to be removed again from the slot between the retaining peg and grip body, then the entire arresting block  6  can be displaced upward, counter to the spring force, via the actuating buttons  9 , in which case the nose  11  releases the region  15 . 
         [0054]    In addition to this means of automatically fastening the hand-retaining device on the grip body, a safety-activation mechanism is provided. For this purpose, the safety-activation element  12  can be opened upward counter to a spring force, this being done with the arresting block pushed all the way up to the retaining peg. If the loop is subjected to a pronounced force in the upward direction (for example in the event of a fall), then the safety-activation element  12  rotates about the axial element  13  such that the region  15  is released and thus the loop, and correspondingly the hand-retaining device, is released from the grip body. 
         [0055]    As is illustrated in  FIG. 1   g ), the safety mechanism may also be provided on the retaining peg. For this purpose, the retaining peg has a recess  41  in which the safety-activation element  12  is mounted such that it can be rotated about an axial element  13 . A spring  7  is again provided, in this case a helical spring, which defines the necessary activating force. In this case, it is possible, for example, to adjust the restoring force of the spring  7  via a screw which can be actuated on the retaining peg from the outside, on the hand side. The screw can be screwed in, for example, to shorten the spring, and the restoring force of the spring is thus increased. 
         [0056]      FIG. 2  shows a hand-retaining device which is configured according to the invention. The hand-retaining device is configured as a glove  25  in  FIG. 2 , and this glove  25  basically has a fastening guide such as that described in DE 19751978 C2. In respect of the details of this fastening guide, which comprises, inter alia, an encircling fastening device (or band strip)  31  as well as adjusting means  32  which may be designed, for example, as a touch-and-close fastener, reference is made to DE 19751978 C2. 
         [0057]    Instead of the hook-like connecting element which is portrayed in DE 19751978, however, a loop  33  is arranged in the V region between the thumb  26  and forefinger  27  in this case. That is, the loop  33  is disposed on a surface of the hand retaining device, between a thumb receiving portion and finger-receiving portion. The loop is produced from cable, for example stainless steel, encased synthetic fibers such as Aramid, Dyneema® or the like with a thickness of 1.5 mm, the cable being a twisted cable which may be provided, if appropriate, with a coating made of plastic or metal or may have a tube of brass positioned around it or has a sheath made of, for example, thermoplastically integrally formed or braided polymer material. 
         [0058]    The loop  33  should be fastened on the hand-retaining device such that the forces which occur during use of the pole are distributed to good effect over the hand. This is ensured in the case of a hand-retaining device according to  FIG. 2 . Alternative options are illustrated in  FIG. 3 . In  FIG. 3   a ), a cable  35  is fixed, in the first instance, at one end at a fastening  36  in the palm of the hand. It is then guided through a guide sleeve  34  to the V between the forefinger and thumb  26 . The actual loop  33  is exposed there, as at portion  65 , and the cable  35  is guided downward, once again, through the guide  34 . Provided at the bottom end of the guide sleeve  34  are a deflecting means  37  and a fastening  38 , at which the cable  35  can be adjusted in a variable manner (cf. arrow). The length of the loop  33  can thus be adjusted in adaptation to the user, and the forces which occur are distributed to good effect over the glove. It is further possible for the cable  35  to be fully retracted, in which case there is no loop projecting outward, as at portion  65 . This is advantageous, in particular, when the glove is not to be used in conjunction with the pole grip. In contrast to other solutions, in which connecting elements have to be removed from the glove, this solution is advantageous because the connecting element, in other words the loop, is concealed in the hand-retaining device rather than having to be removed therefrom. 
         [0059]    Another option is illustrated in  FIG. 3   b ). In this case, the cable  35  is configured as an encircling cable which is adjusted in length at its bottom end, at a button  39 . It is possible to provide a further button  40 , which is arranged further below and via which the cable  35  can be retracted if the loop is to be concealed. 
         [0060]    Finally,  FIG. 3   c ) illustrates an option in which the cable is fixed at the bottom via the means  36 . The loop cannot be adjusted in length here. In order, nevertheless, for it to be possible for the loop to be concealed when not in use, a small pocket is provided in the V region between the thumb and forefinger. When not in use, the loop  33  can be pushed into this pocket  41 , which has an opening at the bottom, and it is thus kept out of the way. 
         [0061]    It is also possible for the hand-retaining device  25  to be in the form of a hand strap which is worn over a glove, or over the bare hands, and has a loop  33 . If a conventional hand strap is used, then the mechanism serves as a safety-activation means; if use is made of a hand strap which is fastened on the hand (usually by the hand strap being guided both over the wrist and between the thumb and forefinger and being fastened, for example, with a touch-and-close fastener), then the use is equivalent to the glove solution like that indicated above. Thus, as with the glove discussed earlier, the loop  33  is disposed on the surface of the hand strap between a thumb receiving portion and a finger receiving portion, as discussed in further detail below. 
         [0062]    A further preferred embodiment is characterized in that a hand strap  68  of the type illustrated in  FIG. 8  may be integrated, to a certain extent, in a glove, in which case the hand strap itself with the movable loop can be used without the glove and the glove can be used with the hand strap embedded in it. The hand-retaining device may thus be configured as a glove in which is arranged, in one or more corresponding recesses  66 , a hand strap  68 . The hand strap, as illustrated in  FIG. 8 , preferably has three openings  69   a ,  69   b  and  69   c  and which can be fastened on the hand, or on/in the glove, in particular preferably with the aid of a touch-and-close fastener. A first opening  69   a  being provided for the thumb, a second opening  69   b  being provided for the other fingers or the back of the hand, and a third opening  69   c  of the hand strap being provided for the wrist. The hand strap, in particular preferably, is arranged in the glove such that it can be adjusted from the outside via a touch-and-close fastener arranged in the region of the back of the hand. The hand strap can advantageously be removed altogether from the glove and can be used without the glove. 
         [0063]    A further exemplary embodiment is illustrated in  FIG. 4 , although this figure illustrates a cross-country ski pole grip or a Nordic walking pole grip rather than a downhill ski pole grip. In this case, rather than being formed separately from the grip body  3 , the hook-like device  14  forms a constituent part of the grip body. The hook-like device is realized by a slot which is provided in the grip body  3 . Correspondingly, the recess  4 , which is provided for accommodating the arresting block  6 , is made from above. In this exemplary embodiment, then, it is additionally the case that the arresting block  6 , rather than being displaceable, is mounted in a rotatable manner, about an axial element  44 . Correspondingly, the actuating button  9  is arranged at the top, and tilting of the arresting block  6  results in the enclosed region  15  being released. In the exemplary embodiment according to  FIG. 4 , for the purpose of bracing the arresting block  6 , a leaf spring  7  is provided in a corresponding recess  46  in the arresting block  6 . A restraining nose  11  is formed integrally on the arresting block  6 , this nose  11  having an undercut in the case of the exemplary embodiment according to  FIG. 4 . Correspondingly, this exemplary embodiment does not have any safety-activation means; rather, when the loop is subjected to pronounced pulling in the upward direction out of the slot, the loop takes a firm hold in the device. 
         [0064]    It should be pointed out that it is also possible for the entire top region of the pole grip  1  to be of a rotatable or displaceable configuration, as long as the possibility of automatic latching-in is provided. There is therefore no need to provide a recess, as is the case in the exemplary embodiment according to  FIG. 4  (but equally also in the exemplary embodiment according to  FIG. 1 ); rather, it is also possible for the entire arresting block  6  to be designed as the uppermost region, or as the head, of the pole grip and for this to be mounted either in a displaceable or rotatable manner. 
         [0065]      FIG. 5  illustrates other exemplary embodiments based on the exemplary embodiment according to  FIG. 4 . 
         [0066]      FIG. 5   a ) illustrates the option of providing the nose  11  with an upwardly directed flank. If, in the case of this exemplary embodiment, the loop is subjected to pronounced pulling in the upward direction out of the slot, then the arresting block  6  will rotate, and this ensures safety activation. 
         [0067]    A more specific safety-activation means is illustrated in  FIG. 5   b ). In this case, the safety-activation element  12  is designed as a displaceable nose which is guided in a bore in the arresting block  6  and is braced against a helical spring  49 . Here, in the case of the loop being subjected to pronounced pulling out of the slot, the entire safety-activation element  12 , on which the nose  11  is integrally formed, is displaced into the arresting block  6  and thus releases the region  15 . 
         [0068]    An alternative safety-activation means is illustrated in  FIG. 5   c ). In this case, the safety-activation element  12  is mounted such that it can be rotated about an axial element  13  and is braced against a spring  49 . Here, when a loop is subjected to pronounced pulling out of the slot, the entire safety-activation element  12 , on which the nose  11  is integrally formed, tilts into the arresting block  6  and releases the region  15  in the process. 
         [0069]    A further alternative is illustrated in  FIG. 5   d ). In this case, the safety-activation element  12  is designed as a leaf-spring-like element, although it may also be an elastomeric element. This element can be moved as a whole, and the region  15  is released by the nose  11 , which is formed by this element, as a result of the entire element  12  being deformed when a loop is subjected to pronounced pulling out of the slot. 
         [0070]    Another approach is used in the exemplary embodiment according to  FIG. 5   e ). In this case, the safety-activation means is provided on the hook-like device  14 . For this purpose, the hook-like device  14  has an internal clearance in which, once again, a leaf-spring-like element  12  is arranged. In the case of a pronounced force being exerted, this element yields in relation to the hook-like device  14  and thus likewise releases the region  15  in the manner of a safety-activation means. 
         [0071]    A further approach is illustrated in  FIG. 5   f ). In this case, the entire hook-like device  14  is mounted such that it can be rotated about an axial element  50 . If a pronounced force emanates from the slot, then the entire hook-like device  14  rotates in the direction of the arrow illustrated and thus releases the region  15 . The rotatable mounting of the hook-like device  14  is likewise ensured, for example, via a helical spring, counter to an adjustable force. 
         [0072]      FIGS. 6 and 7  illustrate a further exemplary embodiment according to the invention.  FIG. 6  illustrates the entire pole grip  1 ,  FIG. 6   a ) illustrating a view from the side, and  FIG. 6   b ) illustrating a view from the rear, that is to say from the hand side (arrow  43  in  FIG. 6   a )).  FIG. 6   c ) illustrates an axial section along line B-B from  FIG. 6   b ), and  FIG. 6   d ) shows a view of the pole grip from above. 
         [0073]    The pole grip  1  for a downhill ski pole, in turn, has a grip body  3  and a cavity  5 , which serves for accommodating the pole shaft (not illustrated). 
         [0074]    In this case, the retaining peg  14  is formed integrally with the grip body  3 , as can be seen from  FIG. 6   c ). It is also possible here, however, for the retaining peg  14  to be in the form of a separate element, in the manner of  FIG. 1   f ) and of the elements  14  and  16  illustrated therein. 
         [0075]    The grip body  3  has a recess  4  which is open at the top and in which an arresting block  6  is arranged. The arresting block  6  is illustrated in detail in  FIG. 7 . 
         [0076]    On the top side, the arresting block  6  has an activating button  61 , which will be described hereinbelow. The ergonomic shaping on the rear side of the top region of the pole grip  1  in this case is likewise formed by the arresting block  6 , since the latter has, to the sides of the hook  14 , two protrusions  59  which, as it were, surround the retaining peg  14  in the top region. 
         [0077]    The retaining peg  14  is thus optimally embedded in the outer contour of the pole grip  1 , as is not perceived as disturbing and it is possible for injuries to be avoided. Nevertheless, an ideal introduction opening remains from above for a cable loop  33 , as illustrated in  FIG. 2 . 
         [0078]    The arresting block  6  contains a pin  57  which is used for the automatic latching in, for example, of a cable loop  33 . The pin  57  is arranged essentially horizontally and parallel to the direction of the arrow  43 . It is mounted in a displaceable manner in the arresting block  6 , in a recess  60  provided specifically for this purpose, the pin  57  being braced against the retaining peg  14  via a helical spring  58 . The pin  57  has a restraining nose  11 , which is preferably beveled from above and is of essentially horizontal design in the downward direction, in which case for example an eyelet or cable loop  33  which is introduced from above displaces the pin  57  in the rearward direction, counter to the stressing of the helical spring  58 , and the cable loop is arrested beneath the pin  57  in the region  15 . 
         [0079]      FIG. 7   a ) shows an overall view from the side of the arresting block  6  together with the elements fastening this arresting block  6  in the pole grip  1 .  FIG. 7   b ) shows a view from the rear, that is to say from the direction of the arrow  43  in  FIG. 6   a ), and  FIG. 7   c ) shows a section along line A-A in  FIG. 7   b ).  FIG. 7   d ), finally, shows a view from above. 
         [0080]    The entire arresting block  6  is retained in the recess  4 , which is open at the top, in the pole grip  1 . For this purpose, the recess  4  has a through-bore to the cavity  5 . A securing pin  54  is attached to the arresting block  6  via an axial element  56 , which projects through this through-bore into the cavity  5 . On the top side, the securing pin  54  has an eye  55 , for fastening the securing pin on the arresting block  6  in a rotatable manner by way of the axial element  56 . At its bottom end, the securing pin  54  is provided with a thread. 
         [0081]    The securing pin  54  or the arresting block  6  fastened thereon is braced in the downward direction, with the aid of a stop element  52  butting against the top of the cavity  5 , by way of a helical spring  51  which, at one end, rests from beneath on a correspondingly provided shoulder on the stop element  52  and, at the other end, rests from above on a washer  64 , which via an adjusting nut  53  which is screwed onto the thread of the securing pin  54  from beneath. 
         [0082]    This design has, inter alia, the following advantages:
       First of all, the arresting block  6 , which is produced as an entire unit, is very straight-forward to assemble or install. It can be pushed into the recess  4  in the pole grip  1  from above, in which case the securing pin  54 , which is provided on the arresting block  6 , is pushed through the through-bore between the recess  4  and the cavity  5 . It is subsequently possible for, in the first instance, the stop element  52 , and then the helical spring  51 , to be pushed over the securing pin  54  in the cavity  5 , from beneath, and, finally, the washer and the adjusting nut  53  can be screwed onto the thread of the securing pin  54 . The resiliently elastic securing force in the downward direction to which the arresting block  6  is subjected via the helical spring  51  can be adjusted by the adjusting nut  53  being screwed upward to a greater or lesser extent or by the installation of different springs with a different spring constant or by virtue of the prestressing being changed by spacers. Finally, a rotary axial element  44  can be pushed in laterally through the bore  45  of the grip body, or through the bore  48  of the arresting block  6 , as a result of which the arresting block  6  is then mounted in the recess  4  such that it can be rotated about the rotary axial element  44 .   Secondly, this design provides for adjustable emergency activation of the entire arresting block  6 . This is because, if the restraining nose  11  is subjected to excessive force from beneath by a cable loop  33  or an eyelet (for example in the event of a fall), then the entire arresting block  6  rotates about the rotary axial element  44 , for example in the counterclockwise direction in  FIG. 6   c ) and in  FIG. 7   c ). This takes place until the region  15  is released and the cable loop  33  or the eyelet is released from the hook. This design then has the advantage, inter alia, that the activating force can be adjusted very straightforwardly by, for example, the pole shaft being removed from the cavity  5  and the adjusting nut  53  being adjusted from beneath, in accordance with requirements, by a corresponding tool. It is also conceivable for the spring to be adjusted via an adjusting device which is incorporated in, or beneath, the grip region and is, for example, in the form of a partially exposed knurled nut, in which case there is no need for the grip to be dismantled in order for the activating force to be changed. The use of a helical spring  51  also ensures this safety activation under a wide range of different temperature conditions and, moreover, the helical spring  51  is concealed to such good effect in the interior of the pole grip  1  that it is possible to avoid soiling, icing-up or the like.       
 
         [0085]    If the eyelet or cable loop pushed over the retaining peg  14  is to be released from the region  15  under normal conditions, then an activating button  61  is provided, for this purpose, on the top side of the arresting block  6 . A rotary axial element  62  is arranged horizontally, and transversely to the direction of the pin  57 , in the arresting block  6 . The element which forms the activating button  61  is mounted within the arresting block  6  such that it can be tilted about this axial element (in the clockwise direction in  FIG. 6   c )). Furthermore, a guide pin  63  is arranged in the pin  57 , likewise horizontally and transversely to the pin  57 . This guide pin  63  is likewise mounted in the element which forms the activating button  61 . 
         [0086]    If the activating button  61 , which is formed integrally with the lateral protrusions  59 , is pushed downward either in the region  61  or at the protrusions  59 , for example by the thumb of the hand which is gripping the pole, then the element which forms the activating button tilts slightly downward as a whole and thus, upon rotation about the rotary axial element  62 , pushes the pin  57  inward via the guide pin  63 , counter to the force of the helical spring  58 , consequently releases the region  15  in the upward direction and thus also releases a loop which has been arrested in this region. 
         [0087]    This design is highly advantageous insofar as the protrusions  59  are ideally positioned for the desired activation, but undesired activation can nevertheless be fully avoided. 
       LIST OF DESIGNATIONS 
       [0000]    
       
         
           
               1  Pole grip 
               3  Grip body 
               4  Recess in  3   
               5  Cavity in  3  for pole shaft 
               6  Arresting block 
               7  Spring 
               8  Stop bore for  7   
               9  Actuating button 
               10  Leg spring 
               11  Restraining nose 
               12  Safety-activation element 
               13  Axial element of  12   
               14  Retaining peg 
               15  Region for fastened loop/eyelet 
               16  Fastening plate 
               17  Slot for guide of  9   
               19  Guide peg for  7   
               20  Crosspiece 
               21  Fastening pin/screw 
               22  Axial pin 
               23  Bore in  6  for  22   
               24  Recess in  6   
               25  Glove 
               26  Thumb 
               27  Forefinger 
               28  Middle finger 
               29  Ring finger 
               30  Little finger 
               31  Encircling fastening device 
               32  Adjusting means for  31   
               33  Cable loop 
               34  Guide sleeve 
               35  Cable 
               36  Fastening for  35   
               37  Deflecting means for  35   
               38  Variable-length fastening for  35   
               39  Button for extended position 
               40  Button for retracted position 
               41  Pocket for  33   
               42  Recess in  14   
               43  Hand side 
               44  Rotary axial element of  6   
               45  Bore in  3  for  44   
               46  Recess for spring 
               47  Guide slot for spring 
               48  Bore in  6  for  44   
               49  Helical spring 
               50  Rotary axial element of  14   
               51  Helical spring 
               52  Stop element 
               53  Adjusting nut 
               54  Securing pin 
               55  Eye of  54   
               56  Axial element 
               57  Pin 
               58  Helical spring 
               59  Lateral protrusions of  6   
               60  Recess in  6  for  57   
               61  Activating button 
               62  Rotary axial element for  61   
               63  Guide pin for  57   
               64  Washer