Closure system for children's footwear

Abstract

A closure system for footwear is provided. The footwear has an outsole, an upper defining a tongue opening, and a closure assembly configured to selectively close the tongue opening. The closure assembly includes an elastic connector, a closure panel, and one or more stretchable faux laces. The elastic connector is anchored to the upper or the outsole inside the article of footwear. The closure panel bridges the tongue opening and has first and second ends; the first end is attached to the elastic connector and disposed within the upper and the second end is disposed outside the upper and releasably affixed to the upper. The faux lace is joined to the upper and the closure panel. The elastic connector is disposed within the upper and hidden from view from an exterior of the footwear when worn by a wearer.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0001]The present invention relates to footwear and, more particularly, to a closure system for an article of footwear.[0002]Shoes are often secured to the foot in one of two ways -by tying shoelaces or by hook and loop straps. Shoes with laces have long been known and provide a simple way to tighten and secure a shoe to a wearer's foot. Shoelaces typically take time to adjust to the desirable tightness and then tie, and can be difficult for a wearer to manipulate, especially if the wearer is a child, arthritic, or otherwise unable to bend easily to reach and tie the laces. Children, especially young children, are typically unable to tie their own shoelaces, and tying the small shoelaces of children's shoes may prove challenging for the larger fingers of an adult.[0003]Hook and loop closure systems, such as Velcro® straps, provide quick and easy securement for such shoes. Although hook and loop straps are quick and easy to use, they suffer from a number of...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The stretchable closure system is a new type of shoe closure that combines the benefits of a laced shoe and a Velcro closure system. It includes a hidden elastic connector and hook and loop closure elements, as well as stretchable faux laces. This system allows the shoe to have a flexible and comfortable upper, similar to a traditional laced shoe. It also provides a comfortable interface for the foot and allows for easy stretching without rubbing against the foot. The system can be further enhanced by using aligned trim pieces on the upper and closure panel to give it a traditional laced shoe appearance. Overall, this closure system provides a unique and improved design for shoes that combines function and appearance.

Problems solved by technology

Shoelaces typically take time to adjust to the desirable tightness and then tie, and can be difficult for a wearer to manipulate, especially if the wearer is a child, arthritic, or otherwise unable to bend easily to reach and tie the laces.

Children, especially young children, are typically unable to tie their own shoelaces, and tying the small shoelaces of children's shoes may prove challenging for the larger fingers of an adult.

For example, hook and loop straps may unintentionally detach when a force is exerted by the foot within the shoe that exceeds the bonding force of the hook and loop material.

Further, for many consumers, hook and loop strap fastening systems lack the aesthetic appearance and appeal of shoes with shoelaces.

On the one hand, an overtightened closure can make the shoe uncomfortable for the wearer and the shoe may become more and more uncomfortable over time.

On the other hand, an under-tightened shoe can fit loosely, which may be uncomfortable, may not provide the desired support and could result in the shoe coming off when not desired.

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