| CPC A43B 5/0447 (2013.01) [A43B 5/0439 (2013.01); A43C 11/165 (2013.01); A43C 11/20 (2013.01)] | 23 Claims |

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1. A tightening device for tightening a ski boot, the tightening device comprising:
an elongate panel having a proximal end and a distal end, the elongate panel being positionable about a shell of the ski boot between opposing sides of the shell;
a tensioner that is coupled with the proximal end of the elongate panel, the tensioner comprising a knob;
a tension member that is operably coupled with the tensioner so that a rotation of the knob adjusts a tension of the tension member; and
at least one guide member that is coupled with, or positioned on, the proximal end of the elongate panel adjacent the tensioner;
wherein the proximal end of the elongate panel includes an annular ring that is positioned above the elongate panel to allow a gaiter of the ski boot to be positioned between the elongate panel and the annular ring such that only the tensioner is positioned externally of the gaiter; and
wherein the tension member is coupled with the at least one guide member so that the tension member is routed between the opposing sides of the shell and along a portion of the elongate panel.
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