Patent Publication Number: US-2023158382-A1

Title: Releasably attached grip device for shafts

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present disclosure relates generally to a grip that is structured to be releasably attached to a shaft, such as a cylinder, rod, and/or the like. In some embodiments, the releasably attached grip device of the present invention is structured for shafts relating to sports equipment, such as golf clubs or other similar devices. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Typically, conventional grips are commonly used by individuals in a variety of sports-related activities to provide a comfortable, ergonomic, slide-resistant, and competitively advantageous interface between a shaft and the individual. However, conventional grips are typically specialized to provide a particular feature/function, e.g., to provide a certain cushioning effect. Each type of conventional grip having specific unique features may be better suited to specific types of individuals, playing conditions, or preferred features/functions. The inherent nature of conventional grips typically renders the grip to be permanently coupled to a shaft. Conventional grips, once attached to the shaft, cannot be removed without destroying or damaging the grip. Even if the conventional grips can be separated from the shaft, the removed grip is typically unusable, and the process of removing and installing the grips is laborious and time-consuming as well. Accordingly, conventional grips do not allow for non-destructive customization and interchangeability of grips on a particular sporting equipment shaft. In some instances, in order to obtain a new grip, the entire sporting equipment or its shaft may need to be replaced with another having the desired grip attached to it. 
     There exists a need for improved grips with the capability to be easily interchanged without having to use tools, equipment, excessive force, or destructive removal techniques, while still being able to be robustly coupled to the shaft. The previous discussion of the background to the invention is provided for illustrative purposes only and is not an acknowledgement or admission that any of the material referred to is or was part of the common general knowledge at the priority date of the application. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY 
     The following presents a simplified summary of one or more embodiments of the invention in order to provide a basic understanding of such embodiments. This summary is not an extensive overview of all contemplated embodiments and is not intended to either identify key or critical elements of all embodiments or to delineate the scope of any or all embodiments. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of one or more embodiments in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later. 
     The present invention is generally directed to a releasably attached grip device for a shaft. The releasably attached grip device of the present invention alleviates the above-listed deficiencies and problems in conventional grips, and also provides other advantages. The releasably attached grip device of the present invention is structured for exchanging, interchanging, and customizing grips used on sports equipment. In some non-limiting embodiments, the releasably attached grip device of the present invention takes the form of a flexible body of material that is structured to wrap around the shaft, e.g., a shaft of a piece of sporting equipment such as a golf club. The ends of the flexible body couple with each other after the flexible body is wrapped around the shaft to form a tubular grip body. Here, the flexible body may be enfolded over/around the shaft along the circumference of the shaft. The inner surface of the flexible body comprises a layer of dry adhesive that will releasably attach to the shaft. The outer surface of the flexible body is gripped by a user. The dry adhesive releasably attaches to the shaft in such a way that the removal of the grip from the shaft can be done in a non-destructive manner, wherein the flexible body can simply be unwrapped from the shaft. 
     Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a releasably attached grip device for shafts, and methods of assembling, detaching and reassembling the same. In accordance with some embodiments of the invention, the grip device comprises a flexible body. The flexible body comprises a butt end and an opposite distal end. The flexible body further comprises a first side end and an opposite second side end extending between the butt end and the opposite distal end. The first side end is structured to be positioned proximate the second side end around the shaft to form an enclosed tubular grip body. The enclosed tubular grip body defines an inner surface and an outer surface. The outer surface of the enclosed tubular grip body is structured to be gripped by a user. 
     In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the first side end comprises a first coupling portion; and the second side end comprises a second coupling portion structured to be coupled to the first coupling portion around the shaft to form the enclosed tubular grip body. 
     In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion are coupled via a locking mechanism structured to enclose the grip device. 
     In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the locking mechanism further comprises: a locking projection of the first coupling portion at the first side end; and a locking groove receptor of the second coupling portion at the second side end structured to receive the locking projection therein. The locking groove receptor is structured to be releasably coupled to the locking projection. 
     In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the locking mechanism is structured such that the outer surface of the tubular grip body proximate the first side end is flush with the outer surface of the tubular grip body proximate the second side end, when the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion are coupled via the locking mechanism. 
     In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the locking mechanism is structured to form a protuberance on the outer surface of the tubular grip body at a junction of the first side end and the second side end, when the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion are coupled via the locking mechanism. 
     In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the inner surface of the enclosed tubular grip body comprises a third coupling portion. The third coupling portion is structured to releasably couple the flexible body to the shaft. 
     In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the third coupling portion comprises a dry adhesive component that is structured to releasably couple the flexible body to the shaft two or more times. 
     In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, a method of reassembling a grip device comprises: releasably assembling the grip device around the shaft, wherein the second side end comprises a second coupling portion structured to be coupled to the first coupling portion around the shaft to form the enclosed tubular grip body, wherein assembling the grip device comprises: coupling the third coupling portion at the inner surface of the flexible body to at least a portion of an outer surface of the shaft; and coupling the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion; detaching the first coupling portion from the second coupling portion of the enclosed tubular grip body; detaching the third coupling portion at the inner surface of the flexible body from the shaft; cleaning the grip device; and reassembling the flexible body to the shaft by (i) releasably coupling the first coupling portion with the second coupling portion around the shaft to form the enclosed tubular grip body, and (ii) releasably coupling the third coupling portion at the inner surface of the flexible body to at least a portion of an outer surface of the shaft. 
     In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the grip device further comprises: a cap element provided proximate the butt end of the flexible body, the cap element comprising one or more attachment portions; and wherein the cap element is structured to releasably enclose the butt end of the tubular grip body via the one or more attachment portions. 
     In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the one or more attachment portions of the cap element are structured to be releasably attached to a portion of the butt end of the flexible body when the first side end and the opposite second side end are coupled around the shaft to form the tubular grip body. 
     In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the cap element is structured to stretch circumferentially around the outer surface of the tubular grip body. 
     In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the shaft is a portion of a golf club. 
     In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the flexible body is structured such that a first circumference of the enclosed tubular grip body at the butt end is greater than a second circumference of the enclosed tubular grip body at the distal end. 
     In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the flexible body is structured such that a first thickness of the flexible body at the butt end is greater than a second thickness of the flexible body at the distal end. 
     In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, wherein the flexible body is structured such that a junction of the first side end and the second side end of the enclosed tubular grip body positioned around the shaft extends along a first direction that is non-parallel to an axis of the shaft. 
     In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the third coupling portion at the inner surface comprises a dry adhesive nanofiber layer that is structured to be releasably coupled to the shaft. 
     In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the outer surface of the tubular grip body further comprises a protuberance feature following along the axial direction of the shaft. 
     In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the outer surface of the tubular grip body comprises an embossing pattern structured to provide friction for a user. 
     In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the outer surface of the tubular grip body further comprises channels structured to wick away moisture from a user. 
     In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the grip further comprises a cap element that is structured to be removably coupled to the butt end of the tubular grip body. 
     In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the flexible body further comprises a cap element proximate the butt end, wherein the cap element is structured to be formed into a proximal cover proximate the butt end of the tubular grip body. 
     In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the cap element comprises a hollow cavity structured for receiving a weight component. 
     Embodiments of the present invention are directed to method for assembly of a grip device and a shaft comprising the steps of: positioning an inner surface of a flexible body proximate an outer surface of the shaft, wherein the flexible body comprises: a butt end and an opposite distal end; and a first side end and an opposite second side end extending between the butt end and the opposite distal end, wherein the first side end comprises a first coupling portion and the second side end comprises a second coupling portion structured to be coupled to the first coupling portion; and a third coupling portion provided at the inner surface of the flexible body structured to be releasably coupled to the shaft; and forming the flexible body into an enclosed tubular grip body around the shaft by (i) coupling the third coupling portion at the inner surface of the flexible body to at least a portion of the outer surface of the shaft, and (ii) coupling the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion. 
     In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, coupling the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion further comprises releasably positioning a locking projection of the first side end within a locking groove receptor of the second side end, thereby forming the enclosed tubular grip body. 
     In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the method for assembly of the grip device and the shaft further comprises releasably enclosing the butt end of the tubular grip body and a first end of the shaft with a cap element. 
     In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, a method of reassembling a grip device comprises the steps of: releasably assembling a grip device; disconnecting one or more attachment portions of the cap element of the grip device from the butt end of the grip device; detaching the first coupling portion from the second coupling portion of the enclosed tubular grip body; detaching the third coupling portion at the inner surface of the flexible body from the shaft; cleaning the grip device; and reassembling the flexible body to the shaft by (i) releasably coupling the first coupling portion with the second coupling portion around the shaft to form the enclosed tubular grip body, (ii) releasably coupling the third coupling portion at the inner surface of the flexible body to at least a portion of an outer surface of the shaft, and (iii) releasably enclosing the butt end of the tubular grip body and the first end of the shaft with the cap element. 
     Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a grip assembly comprising: a shaft; a flexible body, wherein the flexible body comprises: a butt end and an opposite distal end; and a first side end and an opposite second side end extending between the butt end and the opposite distal end, wherein the first side end comprises a first coupling portion, wherein the second side end comprises a second coupling portion; and wherein the flexible body is in the form of an enclosed tubular grip body around the shaft with the second coupling portion being coupled to the first coupling portion; wherein the enclosed tubular grip body defines an inner surface and an outer surface; wherein the inner surface of the enclosed tubular grip body comprises a third coupling portion that is releasably coupled to an outer surface of the shaft and wherein the outer surface of the enclosed tubular grip body is structured to be gripped by a user. 
     The features, functions, and advantages that have been discussed may be achieved independently in various embodiments of the present invention or may be combined with yet other embodiments, further details of which can be seen with reference to the following description and drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Having described embodiments of the invention in general terms, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, where: 
         FIG.  1 A  illustrates a lateral view  10 A of a flexible body of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIG.  1 B  illustrates a lateral view  10 B of the flexible body of  FIG.  1 A  formed into a tubular grip, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIG.  1 C  illustrates a cross-sectional view  10 C of the flexible body of  FIG.  1 A , in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIG.  2 A  illustrates a lateral view  20 A of a flexible body of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIG.  2 B  illustrates a lateral view  20 B of the flexible body of  FIG.  2 A  formed into a tubular grip, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIG.  2 C  illustrates a cross-sectional view  20 C of the flexible body of  FIG.  2 A , in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIG.  3 A  illustrates a perspective view  30 A of a grip assembly, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIG.  3 B  illustrates a perspective view  30 B of a grip assembly, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIG.  3 C  illustrates a perspective view  30 C of a grip assembly, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIG.  4 A  illustrates a perspective view  40 A of a tubular grip of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIG.  4 B  illustrates a perspective view  40 B of a tubular grip of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIG.  5 A  illustrates an exploded perspective view  50 A of a tubular grip of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIG.  5 B  illustrates a detail view  50 B of the tubular grip of  FIG.  5 A , in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIG.  6 A  illustrates a perspective view  60 A of a tubular grip of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIG.  6 B  illustrates a perspective view  60 B of another configuration of the tubular grip of  FIG.  6 A , in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIG.  7 A  illustrates a cross-sectional view  70 A of a tubular grip of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIG.  7 B  illustrates a cross-sectional view  70 B of a tubular grip of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIG.  7 C  illustrates a cross-sectional view  70 C of a tubular grip of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIG.  7 D  illustrates a cross-sectional view  70 D of a tubular grip of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIG.  7 E  illustrates a cross-sectional view  70 E of a tubular grip of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIG.  7 F  illustrates a cross-sectional view  70 F of a tubular grip of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIG.  8    illustrates a schematic side sectional view  80  of a tubular grip of a grip device assembled onto a shaft, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIG.  9 A  illustrates a view  90 A of a flexible body of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; and 
         FIG.  9 B  illustrates a cross-sectional view  90 B of the flexible body of  FIG.  9 A , in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION 
     Embodiments of the present invention will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all, embodiments of the invention are shown. Indeed, the invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Like numbers refer to like/analogous elements herein. Where possible, any terms expressed in the singular form herein are meant to also include the plural form and vice versa, unless explicitly stated otherwise. Also, as used herein, the term “a” and/or “an” shall mean “one or more,” even though the phrase “one or more” is also used herein. 
     It should be understood that “coupling” when used herein, refers to joining, assembling, or otherwise attaching. In some embodiments of the invention, “coupling” refers to attaching in a non-destructive manner. The use of the word “coupled” or “coupling is not meant to construe any details pertaining to the level of permanence involved in the joining or attaching manner. In some instances, coupling may be a permanent bonding between a set of objects. In other instances, coupling could refer to any temporary or removable means of attachment such as press-fit joints, threaded members, magnetic attachment, and/or the like. 
     In some embodiments, “releasably couple” may refer to the coupling being structured to be de-coupled, or uncoupled, e.g., in a non-destructive manner. In some embodiments, “releasably couple” may refer to the release of the coupled component in a non-destructive manner. In some embodiments, “releasably couple” means that the components being released will leave behind little to no residue of the coupling material where the component was coupled. 
     In some embodiments, the present invention makes use of non-woven materials specifically developed to releasably couple objects in a manner such that friction between the non-woven material and the objects intending to be coupled is high enough (e.g., above a predetermined threshold) to mimic the effects of dried commercial liquid adhesives. In some instances, this non-woven material is known as a “dry-adhesive”. One such technology of dry adhesive is nanofiber material. In some applications, the nanofiber material may be applied directly to the surfaces requiring adhesion. In other use cases, a release-treated carrier film or sheet material may be used alongside the nanofiber material to aid in transfer. 
     As discussed previously, typically, conventional grips are commonly used by individuals in a variety of sports-related activities to provide a comfortable, ergonomic, slide-resistant, and competitively advantageous interface between a shaft and the individual. However, conventional grips are typically specialized to provide a particular feature/function, e.g., to provide a certain cushioning effect. Each type of conventional grip having specific, unique features may be better suited to specific types of individuals, playing conditions, or preferred features/functions. The inherent nature of conventional grips typically renders the grip to be permanently coupled to a shaft. Moreover, the process of attaching a conventional grip to a shaft is unwieldy and time-intensive. A tape with a solvent is typically used to insert a shaft into a conventional grip, in an axial direction, and the assembly is required to dry for a long period of time. 
     The problems with conventional grips are twofold. First, there is a problem with the interchangeability of grips in the field of sports due to the laborious and time-consuming process of removing and installing the grips. Conventional grips, once attached to the shaft, typically cannot be removed without destroying or damaging the grip. A tape with a solvent is typically used to insert a shaft into a grip and the assembly is required to dry for a long period of time. Removing a grip from a shaft often involves a destructive technique which renders the grip non-reusable. In other words, even if the conventional grips can be separated from the shaft, the removed grip is unusable and the process of removing and installing the grips is laborious and time-consuming as well. Accordingly, conventional grips do not allow for non-destructive customization and interchangeability of grips on a particular sporting equipment shaft. In some instances, in order to obtain a new grip, the entire sporting equipment or its shaft may need to be replaced with another having the desired grip attached to it. In other instances, in order to obtain a new grip, the existing grip must be replaced with a new, distinct grip, which must be installed to the shaft. Second, the process of attaching a conventional grip to a shaft is unwieldy and time-intensive. 
     There exists a need for improved grips with the capability to be interchanged without having to use tools, equipment, excessive force, or destructive removal techniques, while still being able to be robustly coupled to the shaft. The releasably attached grip device of the present invention alleviates the above-listed deficiencies and problems in conventional grips, and also provides other advantages, as detailed below. 
       FIG.  1 A  illustrates a lateral view  10 A of a flexible body  100 , in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.  FIG.  1 B  illustrates a lateral view  10 B of the flexible body  100  of  FIG.  1 A  formed into a tubular grip body  101 , in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.  FIG.  10    illustrates a cross-sectional view  100  of the cross-section C 1 -C 1  of the flexible body  100  of  FIG.  1 A , in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. As illustrated, the flexible body  100  comprises a first surface  102  (e.g., an inner surface  102 ) and an opposite second surface  104  (e.g., an outer surface  104 ), extending between a first side end  122  and an opposite second side end  124 . Moreover, the first surface  102  and the second surface  104 , as well as the first side end  122  and the opposite a second side end  124 , extend between a butt end  132  and an opposite distal end  134 , as illustrated by  FIG.  10   . In some instances, the butt end  132  is typically held closer to the body of the user of the sports equipment. 
     The first side end  122  is structured to be positioned proximate the second side end  124 , e.g., around a shaft (not illustrated), to form an enclosed tubular grip body  101  (also referred to as a tubular grip  101 ), as illustrated in  FIG.  1 B . It is noted that the first surface  102  may form an interior/inner surface of tubular grip  101 , and the second surface  104  may form an exterior/outer surface of the tubular grip body  101 , when the flexible body  100  is formed into tubular grip  101  (illustrated in  FIG.  1 B ). As such, in some non-limiting instances, the first surface  102  may be referred to as an inner surface  102  and the second surface  104  may be referred to as an outer surface  104 . In other words, the enclosed tubular grip body  101  typically defines an inner surface  102  and an outer surface  104 . Moreover, the outer surface  104  of the enclosed tubular grip body  101  is structured to be gripped by a user. 
     The flexible body  100  defines a thickness function “Tb” defined as the perpendicular distance between the first surface  102  and the second surface  104  at a location of the flexible body  100 . It is noted that the thickness of the flexible body  100 , i.e., the value of the thickness function Tb, may vary across a length “L” of the flexible body  100 , or it may remain constant, in various embodiments. Similarly, the thickness of the flexible body  100 , i.e., the value of the thickness function Tb, may vary across a width “W” of the flexible body  100 , or it may remain constant, in various embodiments. As illustrated in  FIG.  10   , in some embodiments, the thickness (Tb) of the flexible body  100  may taper, or otherwise vary across the length L such that a first thickness “Tb 1 ” of the flexible body  100  at the butt end  132  is greater than a second “Tb 2 ” thickness of the flexible body  100  at the distal end  134 . The thickness along any given cross-section of the flexible body  100  may vary from one location to another in order to form a variety of shapes for the tubular grip body  101 , as will be discussed later. 
     Typically, the flexible body  100  is the same component as tubular grip body  101 , but in the unassembled state of flexible body  100  (e.g., in a planar state, a relaxed state, etc.), in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the invention is structured to be applied to sports equipment in portions that are substantially elongate in nature (referred to as shafts), such as portions (e.g., end portions or grip portions) that are substantially cylindrical, substantially conical, substantially tapered, and/or the like, with constant or varying dimensions of cross-section across the length of the elongate portion. As such the natural shape of the flexible body  100  changes to a shape similar to the cylindrical location of the sports equipment when it is applied or wrapped around, thus becoming the tubular grip  101 . That said, the flexible body  100  may be formed into the tubular grip  101  by itself, or without being applied or wrapped around an elongate component. 
     As discussed previously, the outer surface  104  of the enclosed tubular grip body  101  is structured to be gripped by a user. Here, in some embodiments, the outer surface  104  comprises a soft material ideal for use in contact with a human hand or sports glove. In some embodiments, outer surface  104  comprises a polymer material. In some embodiments, outer surface  104  may comprise a foam or gel material. Outer surface  104  is commonly used to provide additional friction to the user of the sports equipment. As such, outer surface  104  may comprise embossing patterns, cutouts, texturing, raised surfaces, or other means to provide additional friction to the end user. Outer surface  104  may also comprise geometric features structured to wick away moisture from the user&#39;s hand(s), such as valleys, grooves, troughs, and the like. 
     The flexible body  100  further comprises a first coupling portion  110  at the first side end  122  and a second coupling portion  108  at the second side end  124 . Typically, the second coupling portion  108  is structured to be coupled to the first coupling portion  110  (e.g., around shaft  190 ) to form the enclosed tubular grip body  101 , as illustrated by  FIG.  1 B . In some embodiments, the first coupling portion  110  and second coupling portion  108  may be formed of the same material as the rest of the flexible body  100 . In some embodiments, the first coupling portion  110  and second coupling portion  108  may be formed of a different material from the rest of the flexible body  100 . In some embodiments, first coupling portion  110  and second coupling portion  108  may be coupled to a tertiary sheet of material coupled between the coupling portions and the rest of the flexible body  100 . In yet additional embodiments, first coupling portion  110  and second coupling portion  108  may be geometric features of either/or inner surface  102  and outer surface  104 , meaning that inner surface  102 , outer surface  104 , first coupling portion  110 , and second coupling portion  108  may be a singular uniform body with no particular distinction between any portion. It is noted that although shaft  190  is not illustrated in  FIGS.  1 A- 1 C , it may be substantially similar in structure and function to the shafts  390 ,  390 ′,  390 ″,  490 ,  490 ′,  590 , and/or  890 , described herein later on. 
     As illustrated, in some embodiments, the first coupling portion  110  and the second coupling portion  108  are structured to be coupled via a locking mechanism  140  such that the flexible body  100  forms the enclosed tubular grip body  101  (e.g., thereby enclosing the shaft). In some embodiments, the locking mechanism  140  further comprises (i) a locking projection  112  of the first coupling portion  110  at the first side end  122 , and (ii) a locking groove receptor  114  of the second coupling portion  108  at the second side end  124  structured to receive the locking projection  112  therein. Here, the locking groove receptor  114  is structured to be releasably coupled to the locking projection  112 . 
       FIG.  1 A  illustrates the first coupling portion  110  comprising the locking projection  112 , in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment of the invention, second coupling portion  108  comprises a locking groove receptor  114 , as illustrated. The locking projection  112  is structured to elastically and temporarily deform locking groove receptor  114  in a manner such that a prong feature of locking projection  112  snaps or clicks or springs into place within locking groove receptor  114  (as illustrated by  FIG.  1 B ), to releasably couple the first side end  122  and the second side end  124  of the flexible body  100 , to thereby form the enclosed tubular grip body  101 . Indeed,  FIG.  1 B  depicts the tubular grip body  101  which has been formed as a result of locking groove receptor  114  and locking projection  112  being coupled together. The coupling is such that force is required to decouple or separate locking groove receptor  114  from locking projection  112 . This amount of force is determined to be higher than that which the interface between locking groove receptor  114  and locking projection  112  would encounter under normal operation of the invention. 
     Moreover, as illustrated by  FIGS.  1 A- 1 C , the inner surface  102  of the flexible body  100  comprises a third coupling portion  126 . Typically, the third coupling portion  126  is structured to releasably couple the flexible body  100  to the shaft  190 , when the enclosed tubular grip body  101  is formed around the shaft. As such, the third coupling portion  102  is provided at all of, or a portion of, the surface area of contact between the flexible body  100  and the shaft of the sports equipment. In some embodiments, the third coupling portion  102  comprises a “dry-adhesive” such as nanofiber material or the like. In some applications, the nanofiber material may be applied or fabricated directly to the surfaces requiring adhesion. In other use-cases, a release-treated carrier film or sheet material may be used alongside the nanofiber material to aid in transfer. Typically, the third coupling portion  126  and/or the dry adhesive component is structured to releasably couple the flexible body  100  to the shaft  190  two or more times. In other words, the third coupling portion  126  and/or the dry adhesive component is structured such that the flexible body  100  may be repeatedly assembled, dissembled, and subsequently reassembled with the shaft, without the third coupling portion  126  losing its ability to couple the flexible body  100  to the shaft, and/or without the dry adhesive losing its adhesion ability. 
     In some embodiments of the invention, the third coupling portion  126  may completely encapsulate the sports equipment and provide releasable coupling to as much surface area as possible. In other embodiments of the invention, third coupling portion  126  may comprise select discrete points of contact between the tubular grip body  101  and the sports equipment. As a non-limiting instance, confining the third coupling portion  126  to certain areas may allow for easier removal of the invention from the sports equipment, or perhaps be more cost effective to manufacture while still performing the intended primary function of third coupling portion  102 . 
     The third coupling portion  126  may define an average thickness “T 2 ”, such that the remaining corresponding portion of the flexible body  100  defines a thickness “T 1 ”, the sum of the thicknesses T 1  and T 2  being the thickness function Tb. As discussed previously, thickness along any given cross section of the flexible body  100  may vary from one location to another in order to form a variety of shapes and contact areas for the sports equipment. As a non-limiting instance, varying the thickness across any given cross section may confine the third coupling portion  102  to certain areas to allow for easier removal of the invention from the sports equipment, or perhaps to be more cost effective to manufacture while still performing the intended primary function of third coupling portion  102 . In some embodiments of the invention, the thickness T 2  may have minimal or negligible thickness in comparison with the thickness T 1 . It shall be understood that thickness T 2  and thickness T 1  combine to achieve overall thickness Tb. As such overall thickness is dependent on individual thicknesses T 1  and T 2  and each may very along the axis of the shaft and/or the circumference of the shaft. The shape and size of the tubular grip body is determined not only based on the geometry of the flexible body  100 , but is also determined based on the geometry of the shaft of the sports equipment in contact. 
       FIG.  2 A  illustrates a lateral view  20 A of a flexible body  200 , in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.  FIG.  2 B  illustrates a lateral view  20 B of the flexible body  200  of  FIG.  2 A  formed into a tubular grip body  201 , in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.  FIG.  2 C  illustrates a cross-sectional view  20 C of the cross-section C 2 -C 2  of the flexible body  200  of  FIG.  2 A , in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. It is noted that the flexible body  200  and its components and features, are substantially similar to that described with respect to the flexible body  100  of  FIGS.  1 A- 1 C . Similar to the flexible body  100  of  FIGS.  1 A- 1 C , the flexible body  200  comprises a first surface  202  (e.g., an inner surface  202 ) and an opposite second surface  204  (e.g., an outer surface  204 ), extending between a first side end  222  and an opposite second side end  224 . Moreover, the first surface  202  and the second surface  204 , as well as the first side end  222  and the opposite a second side end  224 , extend between a butt end  232  and an opposite distal end  234 , as illustrated by  FIG.  2 C . 
     Similar to the flexible body  100  of  FIGS.  1 A- 1 C , the first side end  222  is structured to be positioned proximate the second side end  224 , e.g., around a shaft (not illustrated), to form an enclosed tubular grip body  201  (also referred to as a tubular grip  201 ), as illustrated in  FIG.  2 B . It is noted that the first surface  202  may form an interior/inner surface of tubular grip  201 , and the second surface  204  may form an exterior/outer surface of the tubular grip body  201 , when the flexible body  200  is formed into tubular grip  201  (illustrated in  FIG.  2 B ). As such, in some non-limiting instances, the first surface  202  may be referred to as an inner surface  202  and the second surface  204  may be referred to as an outer surface  204 . In other words, the enclosed tubular grip body  201  typically defines an inner surface  202  and an outer surface  204 . Moreover, the outer surface  204  of the enclosed tubular grip body  201  is structured to be gripped by a user. 
     The flexible body  200  defines a thickness function “Tb” defined as the perpendicular distance between the first surface  202  and the second surface  204  at a location of the flexible body  200 . It is noted that the thickness of the flexible body  200 , i.e., the value of the thickness function Tb, may vary across a length “L” of the flexible body  200 , or it may remain constant, in various embodiments. Similarly, the thickness of the flexible body  200 , i.e., the value of the thickness function Tb, may vary across a width “W” of the flexible body  200 , or it may remain constant, in various embodiments. As illustrated in  FIG.  2 C , in some embodiments, the thickness (Tb) of the flexible body  200  may taper, or otherwise vary across the length L such that a first thickness “Tb 1 ” of the flexible body  200  at the butt end  232  is greater than a second “Tb 2 ” thickness of the flexible body  200  at the distal end  234 . The thickness along any given cross-section of the flexible body  200  may vary from one location to another in order to form a variety of shapes for the tubular grip body  201 , as will be discussed later. 
     Typically, similar to the flexible body  100  of  FIGS.  1 A- 1 C , the flexible body  200  is the same component as tubular grip body  201 , but in the unassembled state of flexible body  200  (e.g., in a planar state, a relaxed state, etc.), in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the invention is structured to be applied to sports equipment in portions that are substantially elongate in nature (referred to as shafts), such as portions (e.g., end portions or grip portions) that are substantially cylindrical, substantially conical, substantially tapered, and/or the like, with constant or varying dimensions of cross-section across the length of the elongate portion. As such the natural shape of the flexible body  200  changes to a shape similar to the cylindrical location of the sports equipment when it is applied or wrapped around, thus becoming the tubular grip  201 . That said, the flexible body  200  may be formed into the tubular grip  201  by itself, or without being applied or wrapped around an elongate component. 
     As discussed previously, the outer surface  204  of the enclosed tubular grip body  201  is structured to be gripped by a user. Here, in some embodiments, the outer surface  204  comprises a soft material ideal for use in contact with a human hand or sports glove. In some embodiments, outer surface  204  comprises a polymer material. In some embodiments, outer surface  204  may comprise a foam or gel material. Outer surface  204  is commonly used to provide additional friction to the user of the sports equipment. As such, outer surface  204  may comprise embossing patterns, cutouts, texturing, raised surfaces, or other means to provide additional friction to the end user. Outer surface  204  may also comprise geometric features structured to wick away moisture from the user&#39;s hand(s), such as valleys, grooves, troughs, and the like. 
     The flexible body  200  further comprises a first coupling portion  210  at the first side end  222  and a second coupling portion  208  at the second side end  224 . Typically, the second coupling portion  208  structured to be coupled to the first coupling portion  210  (e.g., around the shaft  290 ) to form the enclosed tubular grip body  201 , as illustrated by  FIG.  2 B . In some embodiments, the first coupling portion  210  and second coupling portion  208  may be formed of the same material as the rest of the flexible body  200 . In some embodiments, the first coupling portion  210  and second coupling portion  208  may be formed of a different material from the rest of the flexible body  200 . In some embodiments, first coupling portion  210  and second coupling portion  208  may be coupled to a tertiary sheet of material coupled between the coupling portions and the rest of the flexible body  200 . In yet additional embodiments, first coupling portion  210  and second coupling portion  208  may be geometric features of either/or inner surface  202  and outer surface  204 , meaning that inner surface  202 , outer surface  204 , first coupling portion  210 , and second coupling portion  208  may be a singular uniform body with no particular distinction between any portion. It is noted that although shaft  290  is not illustrated in  FIGS.  2 A- 2 C , it may be substantially similar in structure and function to the shafts  390 ,  390 ′,  390 ″,  490 ,  490 ′,  590 , and/or  890 , described herein later on. 
     As illustrated, in some embodiments, the first coupling portion  210  and the second coupling portion  208  are structured to be coupled via a locking mechanism  240  such that the flexible body  200  forms the enclosed tubular grip body  201  (e.g., thereby enclosing the shaft). In some embodiments, the locking mechanism  240  further comprises (i) a locking projection  212  of the first coupling portion  210  at the first side end  222 , and (ii) a locking groove receptor  214  of the second coupling portion  208  at the second side end  224  structured to receive the locking projection  212  therein. Here, the locking groove receptor  214  is structured to be releasably coupled to the locking projection  212 . 
       FIGS.  2 A and  2 B  illustrate the first coupling portion  210  comprising the locking projection  212  and the locking groove receptor  214 , in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. Here, the locking projection  212  comprises a thin body projection such that once the flexible body  200  is formed into a tubular grip body, the locking projection  212  is projected to reach a “V-shaped” receptacle in the thin body projection of locking groove receptor  214 . As such, the locking groove receptor  214  thereafter is positioned on both sides of locking projection  212 . In some embodiments of the invention, locking groove receptor  214  and locking projection  212  comprise materials and configurations conducive to coupling to each other. This may include, but is not limited to, hook and loop strips, dry adhesive, zippers such as those found in food storage bags, and/or the like. Indeed,  FIG.  2 B  depicts the tubular grip body  201  which has been formed as a result of locking groove receptor  214  and locking projection  212  being coupled together. The coupling is such that force is required to decouple or separate locking groove receptor  214  from locking projection  212 . This amount of force is determined to be higher than that which the interface between locking groove receptor  214  and locking projection  212  would encounter under normal operation of the invention. 
     Moreover, as illustrated by  FIGS.  2 A- 2 C , the inner surface  202  of the flexible body  200  comprises a third coupling portion  226 . Typically, the third coupling portion  226  is structured to releasably couple the flexible body  200  to the shaft  290 , when the enclosed tubular grip body  201  is formed around the shaft. As such, the third coupling portion  202  is provided at all of, or a portion of, the surface area of contact between the flexible body  200  and the shaft of the sports equipment. In some embodiments, the third coupling portion  202  comprises a “dry-adhesive” such as nanofiber material or the like. In some applications, the nanofiber material may be applied or fabricated directly to the surfaces requiring adhesion. In other use-cases, a release-treated carrier film or sheet material may be used alongside the nanofiber material to aid in transfer. Typically, the third coupling portion  226  and/or the dry adhesive component is structured to releasably couple the flexible body  200  to the shaft  290  two or more times. In other words, the third coupling portion  226  and/or the dry adhesive component is structured such that the flexible body  200  may be repeatedly assembled, dissembled, and subsequently reassembled with the shaft, without the third coupling portion  226  losing its ability to couple the flexible body  200  to the shaft, and/or without the dry adhesive losing its adhesion ability. 
     In some embodiments of the invention, the third coupling portion  226  may completely encapsulate the sports equipment and provide releasable coupling to as much surface area as possible. In other embodiments of the invention, third coupling portion  226  may comprise select discrete points of contact between the tubular grip body  201  and the sports equipment. As a non-limiting instance, confining the third coupling portion  226  to certain areas may allow for easier removal of the invention from the sports equipment, or perhaps be more cost effective to manufacture while still performing the intended primary function of third coupling portion  202 . 
     The third coupling portion  226  may define an average thickness “T 2 ”, such that the remaining corresponding portion of the flexible body  200  defines a thickness “T 1 ”, the sum of the thicknesses T 1  and T 2  being the thickness function Tb. As discussed previously, thickness along any given cross section of the flexible body  200  may vary from one location to another in order to form a variety of shapes and contact areas for the sports equipment. As a non-limiting instance, varying the thickness across any given cross section may confine the third coupling portion  202  to certain areas to allow for easier removal of the invention from the sports equipment, or perhaps to be more cost effective to manufacture while still performing the intended primary function of third coupling portion  202 . In some embodiments of the invention, the thickness T 2  may have minimal or negligible thickness in comparison with the thickness T 1 . It shall be understood that thickness T 2  and thickness T 1  combine to achieve overall thickness Tb. As such, overall thickness is dependent on individual thicknesses T 1  and T 2  and each may very along the axis of the shaft and/or the circumference of the shaft. The shape and size of the tubular grip body is determined not only based on the geometry of the flexible body  200 , but is also determined based on the geometry of the shaft of the sports equipment in contact. 
       FIGS.  3 A- 3 C  depict perspective views  30 A- 30 C views of non-limiting embodiments of grip assemblies, having a tubular grip body coupled to a shaft (e.g., that of a sports equipment). The flexible bodies, and the tubular grip bodies formed therefrom, are substantially similar to the flexible bodies ( 100 ,  200 ) and enclosed tubular grip bodies ( 101 ,  201 ), described previously. 
       FIG.  3 A  illustrates a perspective view  30 A of a schematic representation of a grip assembly, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. Specifically,  FIG.  3 A  illustrates a flexible body  300  formed into a tubular grip body  301  and releasably coupled to a shaft  390  (e.g., that of a sports equipment). It is noted that the flexible body  300 , and its components and features, are substantially similar to that described with respect to the flexible body  100  of  FIGS.  1 A- 1 C  and flexible body  200  of  FIGS.  2 A- 2 C  described above. Similar to the flexible bodies ( 100 ,  200 ), the flexible body  300  comprises an outer surface  304  extending between a butt end  332  and an opposite distal end  334 , as illustrated by  FIG.  3 A . The butt end  332  may be typically held closer to the body of the user of the sports equipment. As illustrated, the butt end  332  defines an overall width W 1 . The distal end  334  defines an overall width W 3 . Approximately midway between distal end  332  and butt end  334  lies an overall width as defined by width W 2 . As depicted by  FIG.  3 A , one embodiment of the flexible body  300  may render the grip assembly a generally tapered/conical shape, with the width W 1  being longer than width W 2 , and width W 2  being longer than width W 3 . In other words, a first circumference of the enclosed tubular grip body  301  at the butt end  332  is greater than a second circumference of the enclosed tubular grip body  301  at the distal end  334 . In some embodiments, widths W 1 , W 2 , and W 3  may all be wider than the width of shaft  390 . In some embodiments not depicted graphically, widths W 1 , W 2 , and W 3  may all be only equal to or lesser than the width of shaft  390 . 
       FIG.  3 B  illustrates a perspective view  30 B of a schematic representation of a grip assembly, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. Specifically,  FIG.  3 B  illustrates a flexible body  300 ′ formed into a tubular grip body  301 ′ and releasably coupled to a shaft  390 ′ (e.g., that of a sports equipment). It is noted that the flexible body  300 ′, and its components and features, are substantially similar to that described with respect to the flexible body  100  of  FIGS.  1 A- 1 C  and flexible body  200  of  FIGS.  2 A- 2 C  described above. Similar to the similar to the flexible bodies ( 100 ,  200 ), the flexible body  300 ′ comprises an outer surface  304 ′ extending between a butt end  332 ′ and an opposite distal end  334 ′, as illustrated by  FIG.  3 B . The butt end  332 ′ may be typically held closer to the body of the user of the sports equipment. As illustrated, the butt end  332 ′ defines an overall width W 1 ′. The distal end  334 ′ defines an overall width W 3 ′. Approximately midway between distal end  332 ′ and butt end  334 ′ lies an overall width as defined by W 2 ′. As depicted by  FIG.  3 B , one embodiment of the flexible body  300 ′ may render the grip assembly a generally hourglass shape, with the width W 1 ′ being longer than width W 2 ′, and width W 3 ′ being longer than width W 2 ′. In other words, the central width W 2 ′ is lesser than the widths W 1 ′ and W 3 ′ at the ends. In some embodiments, widths W 1 , W 2 ′, and W 3 ′ may all be wider than the width of shaft  390 . In some embodiments not depicted graphically, widths W 1 , W 2 ′, and W 3 ′ may all be only equal to or lesser than the width of shaft  390 . 
       FIG.  3 C  illustrates a perspective view  30 C of a schematic representation of a grip assembly, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. Specifically,  FIG.  3 A  illustrates a flexible body  300 ″ formed into a tubular grip body  301 ″ and releasably coupled to a shaft  390 ″ (e.g., that of a sports equipment). It is noted that the flexible body  300 ″, and its components and features, are substantially similar to that described with respect to the flexible body  100  of  FIGS.  1 A- 1 C  and flexible body  200  of  FIGS.  2 A- 2 C  described above. Similar to the flexible bodies ( 100 ,  200 ), the flexible body  300 ″ comprises an outer surface  304 ″ extending between a butt end  332 ″ and an opposite distal end  334 ″, as illustrated by  FIG.  3 C . The butt end  332 ″ may be typically held closer to the body of the user of the sports equipment. As illustrated, the butt end  332 ″ defines an overall width W 1 ″. The distal end  334 ″ defines an overall width W 3 ″. Approximately midway between distal end  332 ″ and butt end  334 ″ lies an overall width as defined by W 2 ″. As depicted by  FIG.  3 C , one embodiment of the flexible body  300 ″ may render the grip assembly a generally cylindrical shape, with the widths W 1 ″, W 2 ″, and W 3 ″ being approximately equal. In some embodiments, widths W 1 ″, W 2 ″, and W 3 ″ may all be wider than the width of shaft  390 . In some embodiments not depicted graphically, widths W 1 ″, W 2 ″, and W 3 ″ may all be only equal to or lesser than the width of shaft  390 . 
       FIG.  4 A  illustrates a perspective view  40 A of a tubular grip of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. Specifically,  FIG.  4 A  illustrates a flexible body  400  formed into a tubular grip body  401  and releasably coupled to a shaft  490  (e.g., that of a sports equipment). The flexible body  400 , and its components and features, may be substantially similar to that described with respect to the flexible body  100  of  FIGS.  1 A- 1 C . Similar to the flexible body  100  of  FIGS.  1 A- 1 C , the flexible body  400  comprises an outer surface  404 , extending between a butt end  432  and an opposite distal end  434 , as illustrated by  FIG.  4 A . Similar to the flexible body  100  of  FIGS.  1 A- 1 C , a first side end  422  of the flexible body  400  is structured to be positioned proximate a second side end  424 , e.g., around the shaft  490 , to form an enclosed tubular grip body  401 , as illustrated by  FIG.  4 A . A first coupling portion  410  at the first side end  422  and a second coupling portion  408  at the second side end  424  are structured to be coupled (e.g., around the shaft  490 ) to form the enclosed tubular grip body  401 . As illustrated by  FIG.  4 A , in some embodiments, the locking mechanism  440  is structured to form a protuberance  450  on the outer surface  404  of the tubular grip body  401  at a junction of the first side end  422  and the second side end  424 , when the first coupling portion  410  and the second coupling portion  408  are coupled via the locking mechanism  440 . The protuberance  450  is structured to project outwardly from outer surface  404 . In some embodiments, the protuberance  450  extends along the length of outer surface  404  in a direction that is generally parallel to the axis of the shaft  490 . In some embodiments, the protuberance  450  extends along the length of outer surface  404  in a direction that is not parallel to the axis of the shaft  490 . In some configurations, protuberance  450  may be configured as a locating feature to help the user more consistently point shaft  450  in a known direction. This could be accomplished in several orientations and geometries of protuberance  450 . In additional embodiments, protuberance  450  may not be a continuous feature, but rather an intermittent feature designed not only to help the user point shaft  450  in a known direction, but also to help a user place their hand or hands into predetermined locations along the outer surface  450 . 
     In additional embodiments, the protuberance  450  may not be formed by or at the junction of first coupling portion  410  and the second coupling portion  408  coupled via the locking mechanism  440 . In such instances, the protuberance  450  may be provided on the outer surface  404 , separate from the junction of first coupling portion  410  and the second coupling portion  408  coupled via the locking mechanism  440 . 
       FIG.  4 B  illustrates a perspective view  40 B of a tubular grip of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. Specifically,  FIG.  4 B  illustrates a flexible body  400 ′ formed into a tubular grip body  401 ′ and releasably coupled to a shaft  490 ′ (e.g., that of a sports equipment). The flexible body  400 ′ and its components and features, may be substantially similar to that described with respect to the flexible body  100  of  FIGS.  1 A- 1 C . Similar to the flexible body  100  of  FIGS.  1 A- 1 C , the flexible body  400 ′ comprises an outer surface  404 ′, extending between a butt end  432 ′ and an opposite distal end  434 ′, as illustrated by  FIG.  4 B . Similar to the flexible body  100  of  FIGS.  1 A- 1 C , a first side end  422 ′ of the flexible body  400 ′ is structured to be positioned proximate a second side end  424 ′, e.g., around the shaft  490 ′, to form an enclosed tubular grip body  401 ′, as illustrated by  FIG.  4 B . A first coupling portion  410 ′ at the first side end  422 ′ and a second coupling portion  408 ′ at the second side end  424 ′ are structured to be coupled (e.g., around the shaft  490 ′) to form the enclosed tubular grip body  401 ′. As illustrated by  FIG.  4 B , in some embodiments, the locking mechanism  440 ′ is structured such that the outer surface  404 ′ of the tubular grip body  401 ′ proximate the first side end  422  is flush with the outer surface  404 ′ of the tubular grip body  401 ′ proximate the second side end  424 ′, when the first coupling portion  410 ′ and the second coupling portion  408 ′ are coupled via the locking mechanism  440 ′, thereby rendering a smooth outer surface  404 ′, with no discernable protrusions proximate the junction “S” of the first side end  422 ′ and the second side end  424 ′. In some embodiments, the junction S extends along the length of outer surface  404 ′ in a direction that is not parallel to the axis of the shaft  490 ′. In some embodiments, the junction S extends along the length of outer surface  404 ′ in a direction that is parallel to the axis of the shaft  490 ′. 
       FIG.  5 A  illustrates an exploded perspective view  50 A of flexible body  500  formed into a tubular grip body  501  (e.g., for releasably coupling to a shaft  590 ), in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.  FIG.  5 B  illustrates a perspective detail view  50 B of the detail area A-A of the tubular grip of  FIG.  5 A , with the observer being in the opposite direction. 
     The flexible body  500 , and its components and features, may be substantially similar to that described with respect to the flexible body  100  of  FIGS.  1 A- 1 C . Similar to the flexible body  100  of  FIGS.  1 A- 1 C , the flexible body  500  comprises an outer surface  504 , extending between a butt end  532  and an opposite distal end  534 , as illustrated by  FIG.  5 A . Here, the grip device may further comprise a cap element  560  provided proximate the butt end  532  of the flexible body  500 . The cap element  560  comprises one or more attachment portions at a distal end  562  opposite a proximal end  561 , as illustrated. Typically, the cap element  560  is structured to releasably enclose the butt end  532  of the tubular grip body  501  via the one or more attachment portions. Here, the cap element  560  may be structured to stretch circumferentially around the outer surface  504  of the tubular grip body  501 . 
     Moreover, the grip device may further comprise a weight component  564 . Here, the cap element  560  maybe structured to couple to butt end  532 , as well as encapsulate weight component  564  therebetween. In some embodiments, weight component  564  is captured within a tubular grip body  501 . In other embodiments, weight component  564  is captured within cap element  560 . Weight component  564  is structured and sized to introduce a counterbalance to the sports equipment in a way which allows for better performance. The size and characteristics of weight component  564  may vary depending on any given user&#39;s preference, the type of sports equipment, etc., and various weight components  564  may be interchanged as needed. In some embodiments, weight component  564  may not be used at all. 
     As illustrated by  FIG.  5 B , in some embodiments, the cap element  560  comprises a hollow cavity  560   a  which is structured to accept weight component  564  and hold weight component  564  at least partly within the hollow cavity  560   a . In some embodiments, weight component  564  may be sufficiently smaller than hollow cavity  560   a  to allow for adjustment of weight component  564  or swapping of weight component  564  to another variation of weight component  564 . In other embodiments, weight component  564  may be glued or coupled in place to cap element  560  within the hollow cavity  560   a . In yet additional embodiments of the invention, weight component  564  may be releasably coupled to the  560   a  hollow cavity. 
       FIG.  6 A  illustrates a perspective view  60 A of a tubular grip  601  of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.  FIG.  6 B  illustrates a perspective view  60 B of another configuration of the tubular grip  601  of  FIG.  6 A , in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. A flexible body  600  may be formed into a tubular grip body  601  (e.g., for releasably coupling to a shaft), in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. The flexible body  600  and its components and features, may be substantially similar to that described with respect to the flexible body  100  of  FIGS.  1 A- 1 C . As illustrated by  FIG.  6 A , the flexible body  600  comprises an outer surface  604 , extending between a first side end  622  and an opposite second side end  624 . Moreover, the flexible body  600  defines a butt end  632 . The first side end  622  is structured to be positioned proximate the second side end  624 , e.g., around a shaft (not illustrated), to form an enclosed tubular grip body  601  (also referred to as a tubular grip  601 ), as illustrated in  FIG.  6 B . 
     Here, the grip device may further comprise a cap element  660  provided proximate the butt end  632  of the flexible body  600 . Typically, the cap element  660  is structured to releasably enclose the butt end  632  of the tubular grip body  601  via one or more attachment portions. Here, the cap element  660  may be structured to stretch circumferentially around the outer surface  604  of the tubular grip body  601 . 
     In some embodiments, tubular grip body  601  may be permanently or removably coupled to cap element  660  by tether element  660   b . In some embodiments, tether element  660   b  and cap element  660  are the same material as tubular grip body  601  and may be fabricated as a uniform piece. In other embodiments, they may comprise different materials, and tether element  660   b  may be a separable body such as a wire, clasp, latching mechanism, or the like. In some embodiments, a weight component may be coupled to cap element  660  or butt end  632  (similar to the weight component  564  described previously). The butt end  632  may comprise one or more attachment features structured to interact with one or more corresponding attachment features on cap element  660  to secure cap element  660  for use. In some embodiments, cap element  660  and butt end  632  do not comprise attachment features, but instead, the cap element  660  is structured to stretchably couple with the outer surface of the tubular grip body  601 . 
       FIGS.  7 A- 7 F  illustrate cross-sectional views  70 A- 70 F of tubular grips of grip devices, in accordance with various embodiments. Some users of sports equipment prefer various shapes of tubular grip bodies. In some circumstances, a user&#39;s hand may be uniquely sized and their performance and capabilities while using the sports equipment may be improved when using tubular grip bodies which are of a certain shape. The tubular grips, and their components and features, may be substantially similar to those described previously. 
       FIG.  7 A  illustrates a cross-sectional view  70 A of a tubular grip of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. As illustrated the tubular grip  701   a  comprises an outer surface  704   a  and an inner surface  702   a , with the outer surface  704   a  defining a substantially circular cross-section. 
       FIG.  7 B  illustrates a cross-sectional view  70 B of a tubular grip of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. As illustrated the tubular grip  701   b  comprises an outer surface  704   b  and an inner surface  702   b , with the outer surface  704   b  defining a substantially oval cross-section. 
       FIG.  7 C  illustrates a cross-sectional view  70 C of a tubular grip of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. As illustrated the tubular grip  701   c  comprises an outer surface  704   c  and an inner surface  702   c , with the outer surface  704   c  defining a substantially “U” shaped cross-section. Here, the cross-section may take the form of a square with two rounded corners. 
       FIG.  7 D  illustrates a cross-sectional view  70 D of a tubular grip of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. As illustrated the tubular grip  701   d  comprises an outer surface  704   d  and an inner surface  702   d , with the outer surface  704   d  defining a substantially 5-sided polygonal shaped cross-section. 
       FIG.  7 E  illustrates a cross-sectional view  70 E of a tubular grip of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. As illustrated the tubular grip  701   e  comprises an outer surface  704   e  and an inner surface  702   e , with the outer surface  704   e  defining a substantially 5-sided polygonal cross-section. 
       FIG.  7 F  illustrates a cross-sectional view  70 F of a tubular grip of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. As illustrated the tubular grip  701   f  comprises an outer surface  704   f  and an inner surface  702   f , with the outer surface  704   f  defining a substantially quadrilateral cross-section, or specifically, a trapezium shaped cross-section. It shall be understood that the front views illustrated are non-limiting, and that the shapes described may not be constant along the axis of the shaft. For example, in some embodiments, a front view may show a circular shape, whereas a cross section along the length of the embodiment may show a square, and the like. 
       FIG.  8    illustrates a schematic side sectional view of a tubular grip of a grip device assembled onto a shaft, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.  FIG.  8    depicts a side view  80  of a flexible body  800  formed into the tubular grip body  801  coupled with shaft  890 . The tubular grip  801 , and its components and features, may be substantially similar to those described previously. As illustrated by  FIG.  8   , the tubular grip body  801  comprises an outer surface  804 , extending between a first side end  822  and an opposite second side end  824  (not illustrated). Moreover, the tubular grip body  801  comprises a butt end  832  and an opposite distal end  834 . The first side end  822  is structured to be positioned proximate the second side end  824 , e.g., around the shaft  890 , to form an enclosed tubular grip body  801  (also referred to as a tubular grip  801 ), as illustrated in  FIG.  8   . 
     In some embodiments, as illustrated, a junction/seam “J” of the first side end  822  and the second side end  824  of the enclosed tubular grip body  801  positioned around the shaft  890  extends along a first direction “O 2 ” that is non-parallel to an axis O 1  of the shaft  890 . As illustrated, the first direction O 2  of the junction J and the axis O 1  of the shaft  890  form an angle “θ” therebetween. The angle θ may occur between the range of about 0.5 degrees to about 5 degrees, about 0.5 degrees to about 10 degrees, about 0.5 degrees to about 15 degrees, about 0.5 degrees to about 20 degrees, about 0.5 degrees to about 30 degrees, about 0.5 degrees to about 45 degrees, and/or any suitable range. 
       FIG.  9 A  illustrates a view  90 A of a flexible body  900  of a grip device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention, while  FIG.  9 B  illustrates a cross-sectional view  90 B of section B-B of the flexible body of  FIG.  9 A .  FIG.  9    depicts a non-limiting example of a top  90 A and cross-sectional view  90 B in accordance with one embodiment of the invention, wherein flexible body  900  is not yet applied to a shaft. It is noted that the flexible body  900 , and its components and features, are substantially similar to that described previously. As illustrated, by  FIGS.  9 A and  9 B , the flexible body  900  comprises a first surface  902  (e.g., an inner surface  902 ) and an opposite second surface  904  (e.g., an outer surface  904 ), extending between a first side end  922  and an opposite second side end  924 . Moreover, the first surface  902  and the second surface  904 , as well as the first side end  922  and the opposite second side end  924  extend between a butt end  932  and an opposite distal end  934 .  FIG.  9 A  illustrates the flexible body  900  when it lays approximately flat. In one embodiment described herein, the flexible body  900  is defined by a width W 1  proximate the butt end  932  and width W 2  proximate the distal end  934 . The flexible body  900  may be a trapezium shaped, with the width W 1  being greater than the width W 2 . As shown in cross-section B-B, Tb 1  and Tb 2  are different wherein Tb 2  is larger than Tb 1 . In some embodiments disclosed herein, Tb 2  may be smaller than Tb 1 . In other embodiments of the invention Tb 2  may be the same as Tb 1 . 
     A method for assembly of a grip device and a shaft (e.g., a shaft such as  390 ,  490 ,  590 ,  890 ) will now be described, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. First, an inner surface (e.g.,  102 ,  202 , and/or the like) of a flexible body (e.g., a flexible body  100 ,  200 ,  300 ,  400 ,  500 ,  600 ,  700 ,  800 , and/or  900 ) is positioned proximate an outer surface of the shaft e.g., a shaft such as  390 ,  490 ,  590 ,  890 ). Next, the flexible body (e.g., a flexible body  100 ,  200 ,  300 ,  400 ,  500 ,  600 ,  700 ,  800 , and/or  900 ) is formed into an enclosed tubular grip body (e.g.,  101 ,  201 ,  301 ,  401 ,  501 ,  601 ,  701 ,  801 , and/or  901 ) around the shaft (e.g., a shaft such as  390 ,  490 ,  590 ,  890 ) by (i) coupling the third coupling portion (e.g.,  126 ,  226 , etc.) at the inner surface (e.g.,  102 ,  202 , etc.) of the flexible body  100 - 900  to at least a portion of the outer surface (e.g.,  104 ,  204 , etc.) of the shaft, and (ii) coupling the first coupling portion (e.g.,  110 ,  210 , etc.) and the second coupling portion (e.g.,  108 ,  208 , etc.). Here, in some instances, a locking projection (e.g.,  112 ,  212 , etc.) of the first side end (e.g.,  122 ,  222 , etc.) may be releasably positioned within a locking groove receptor (e.g.,  114 ,  214 , etc.) of the second side end (e.g.,  124 ,  224 , etc.), thereby forming the enclosed tubular grip body. Moreover, the butt end (e.g.,  132 ,  232 , etc.) of the tubular grip body and a first end of the shaft may be releasably enclosed with a cap element (e.g.,  560 ,  660 , etc.). 
     The flexible body (e.g., a flexible body  100 ,  200 ,  300 ,  400 ,  500 ,  600 ,  700 ,  800 , and/or  900 ) is structured such that the flexible body may be repeatedly assembled, dissembled, and subsequently reassembled with the shaft, multiple times (e.g., for 5-10 iterations), without damaging either the shaft or the flexible body. A method of reassembling a grip device is now described. For disassembling an assembled grip device and shaft, first one or more attachment portions of the cap element (e.g.,  560 ,  660 , etc.) of the grip device may be disconnected from the butt end (e.g.,  132 ,  232 , etc.) of the grip device. Next, the first coupling portion (e.g.,  110 ,  210 , etc.) may be detached from the second coupling portion (e.g.,  108 ,  208 , etc.) of the enclosed tubular grip body. Next, the third coupling portion (e.g.,  126 ,  226 , etc.) of the flexible body may be detached from the shaft. The grip device may then be cleaned. Subsequently, the same or another flexible body may be reassembled to the shaft by (i) releasably coupling the first coupling portion (e.g.,  110 ,  210 , etc.) with the second coupling portion (e.g.,  108 ,  208 , etc.) around the shaft to form the enclosed tubular grip body, (ii) releasably coupling the third coupling portion (e.g.,  126 ,  226 , etc.) of the flexible body to at least a portion of an outer surface of the shaft, and (iii) releasably enclosing the butt end (e.g.,  132 ,  232 , etc.) of the tubular grip body and the first end of the shaft with the cap element (e.g.,  560 ,  660 , etc.).