Golf shoe with an outsole having a skeletal frame

Abstract

A golf shoe including an upper for protecting a foot, a midsole coupled to the upper for providing cushioning under a wearer's foot, and an outsole coupled to the midsole for providing structural support. The outsole has a skeletal frame defining a plurality of apertures and a fabric covering the apertures.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]The present disclosure relates generally to golf shoes and, more particularly, to golf shoes having improved outsoles.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]Historically, people first wore shoes to protect their feet. Over the centuries, footwear evolved into many different types that were specific to particular activities. Thus, the protection offered by a cold-weather work boot is highly different from that offered by a running shoe. In addition to protecting the feet, athletic footwear has further developed to offer specific functions dependent on the particular sport. Soccer shoes, for instance, have spikes for traction, whereas cycling shoes have very stiff soles with mounting plates for cleats to engage the pedal.[0003]The game of golf includes long stretches of walking and short moments of swinging a golf club to hit a golf ball. Golf shoes need to provide sufficient stability and support for the golfer. Thus, many golf shoes include a relatively rigid m...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0008]Although some of the above-described shoes have been somewhat effective in providing sufficient rigidity as well as flexibility, there is a need for an improved outsole. The outsole should provide sufficient rigidity without sacrificing flexibility or protection. A person wearing the shoe should be able to walk comfortably and have sufficient support. The shoe should also hold and support the medial and lateral sides of the golfer's foot as they shift their weight when making a shot. There remains a need for a golf shoe that provides a golfer with sufficient traction, comfort, protection and support while also allowing efficient energy transfer when they swing. The outsole is preferably lighter and / or more durable than prior art outsoles.

Problems solved by technology

A rigid shoe will require increased physical effort to bend in order to walk, and can lead to a clunky gait and / or cause blisters and other foot problems.

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