Sole structure for a footwear item

Abstract

A sole structure (200) for an article of footwear (10) includes a forefoot region (12) disposed adjacent to a front end (18), a heel region (16) disposed adjacent to a rear end (20), and a midfoot region (14) disposed intermediate the forefoot region and the heel region. The sole structure (200) also includes a fluid-filled bladder (208) having a first segment (218a) extending along a medial side in the heel region, a second segment (218b) extending along a lateral side in the heel region, and a web region (216) disposed between the first segment (218a) and the second segment (218b). Additionally, the sole structure (200) also includes an outer sole member (230) having an upper portion (232) extending from a first end in the forefoot region to a second end in the heel region. The second end of the outer sole member (230) is received on a first side of the web region (216). The outer sole member (230) also includes a rib (236) extending downwardly from the upper portion (232) and defining a cavity (238).

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of a patent application for an invention named "Sole Structure for Footwear Articles" with an application date of January 29, 2019, an application number of 201980011326.5.

[0002] Cross - reference to related applications

[0003] This application claims the priority of U.S. Non - Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 885,676, filed on January 31, 2018, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical field

[0004] This disclosure generally relates to sole structures for footwear articles, and more particularly, to sole structures incorporating fluid - filled bladders. Background art

[0005] This section provides background information related to the present disclosure, which is not necessarily prior art.

[0006] Footwear articles typically include an upper and a sole structure. The upper can be formed of any suitable material to receive, secure, and support the foot on the sole structure. The upper can cooperate with laces, straps, or other fasteners to adjust the fit of the upper around the foot. The bottom portion of the upper near the bottom surface of the foot is attached to the sole structure.

[0007] The sole structure typically includes a layered arrangement extending between the ground and the upper. One layer of the sole structure includes an outsole, which provides abrasion resistance and traction on the ground. The outsole can be formed of rubber or other materials that impart durability and abrasion resistance as well as enhanced traction with the ground. Another layer of the sole structure includes a midsole disposed between the outsole and the upper. The midsole provides cushioning for the foot and can be partially formed of a polymeric foam material that elastically compresses under an applied load to cushion the foot by attenuating the ground reaction force. Additionally or alternatively, the midsole can incorporate fluid - filled bladders to increase the durability of the sole structure and to provide cushioning for the foot by elastically compressing under an applied load to reduce the ground reaction force. The sole structure can also include an insole or sockliner for enhanced comfort located within a void near the bottom portion of the upper and a midsole lining attached to the upper and disposed between the midsole and the insole or sockliner.

[0008] A midsole incorporating fluid - filled bladders typically includes a bladder formed of two polymeric material barrier layers sealed or bonded together. The fluid - filled bladder is pressurized with a fluid such as air and can incorporate a tensile member within the bladder to maintain the shape of the bladder when elastically compressed under an applied load (such as during movement). Generally, the design of the bladder focuses on balancing support for the foot and cushioning characteristics related to responsiveness, as the bladder elastically compresses under an applied load. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only for the selected configurations and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0010] Figure 1 is a side perspective view of an article of footwear in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure;

[0011] Figure 2 is Figure 1 an exploded view of the article of footwear of , showing the article of footwear having an upper and a sole structure arranged in a layered configuration;

[0012] Figure 3A and 3B is Figure 1 a bottom perspective view of the article of footwear of ;

[0013] Figure 4 is Figure 3B a cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4 of , showing segments of fluid-filled bladders disposed within the heel region of the sole structure and separated from each other by web regions;

[0014] Figure 5 is Figure 3B a cross-sectional view taken along line 5-5 of , showing segments of fluid-filled bladders disposed within the heel region of the sole structure and separated from each other by web regions;

[0015] Figure 6 is Figure 3B a cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6 of , showing components of the sole structure within the forefoot region;

[0016] Figure 7 is Figure 3B a cross-sectional view taken along line 7-7 of , showing components of the sole structure within the midfoot region of the sole structure; and

[0017] Figure 8 is Figure 3B a cross-sectional view taken along line 8-8 of , showing components extending from the front end to the rear end of the sole structure.

[0018] Throughout the drawings, corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] Example configurations will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. The example configurations are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art. Numerous specific details are set forth such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods to provide a thorough understanding of the configurations of this disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the example configurations may be embodied in many different forms without the use of specific details and that these specific details and example configurations should not be construed as limiting the scope of this disclosure.

[0020] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular example configurations only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” may also be intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” and “having” are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of stated features, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. Unless otherwise clearly identified as the order of execution, the method steps, processes, and operations described herein should not be construed as necessarily being performed in the particular order discussed or illustrated. Additional or alternative steps may also be employed.

[0021] When an element or layer is referred to as being “on,” “engaged to,” “connected to,” “attached to,” or “coupled to” another element or layer, it may be directly on, engaged to, connected to, attached to, or coupled to the other element or layer, or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly on,” “directly engaged to,” “directly connected to,” “directly attached to,” or “directly coupled to” another element or layer, intervening elements or layers may not be present. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a like manner (e.g., “between” versus “directly between,” “adjacent” versus “directly adjacent,” etc.). As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0022] The terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections. These elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may only be used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, and / or section from another. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numerical terms do not imply an order or sequence. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer, and / or section discussed below may be referred to as a second element, component, region, layer, and / or section without departing from the teachings of the example configurations.

[0023] Referring to the accompanying drawings, a sole structure for a footwear item is provided. The sole structure includes a forefoot region disposed adjacent to the front end, a heel region disposed adjacent to the rear end, and a midfoot region disposed between the forefoot region and the heel region. The fluid-filled bladder of the sole structure has a first section extending along the medial side in the heel region, a second section extending along the lateral side in the heel region, and a web region disposed between the first section and the second section. The first section, the second section, and the web region define a cavity. The outsole member has a first end in the forefoot region extending to a second end in the heel region and is received on a first side of the web region. The rib extends downwardly from the first end of the upper portion and defines a cavity in the forefoot region of the sole structure. The rib cooperates with the cavity of the fluid-filled bladder to define a recess extending continuously from the forefoot region to the heel region.

[0024] Embodiments of the present disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In some examples, the sole structure includes an insole member extending from a first end disposed within the cavity to a second end received on a second side of the web region opposite the outsole member. Herein, the outsole member may be formed of a first foam polymeric material, while the insole member may be formed of a second polymeric material having a density greater than that of the first foam polymeric material. Each of the fluid-filled bladder, the outsole member, and the insole member may define a portion of the ground contact surface of the sole structure.

[0025] In some embodiments, the rib may be formed along the periphery of the sole structure in the forefoot region and the midfoot region. The rib may have a first width in the midfoot region and a second width in the forefoot region.

[0026] In some examples, the first section may terminate at a first distal end in the midfoot region, the second section may terminate at a second distal end in the midfoot region, and wherein the rib extends continuously from a first terminal opposite the first distal end in the midfoot region to a second terminal opposite the second distal end in the midfoot region.

[0027] In some embodiments, the rib may include a first section extending along the lateral side within the midfoot region and a second section extending along the lateral side within the forefoot region, the width of the second section being greater than the width of the first section.

[0028] In some examples, the fluid-filled bladder may further include a third section fluidly coupling the first section to the second section and extending along an arcuate path around the rear end, and the thickness of the fluid-filled bladder gradually decreases continuously and at a constant rate from the rear end to the first distal end. Herein, the sole structure further includes a heel stabilizer extending along each of the first section, the second section, and the third section and formed of the same material as the fluid-filled bladder.

[0029] In another aspect of the present disclosure, a sole structure for an article of footwear is provided. The sole structure includes a fluid-filled bladder that is disposed in the heel region of the sole structure. The fluid-filled bladder tapers from a first thickness at the rear end of the sole structure to a second thickness in the midfoot region of the sole structure. The outsole member includes an upper portion that extends from a first end in the forefoot region of the sole structure to a second end that is received by the fluid-filled bladder. Ribs extend downwardly from the first end of the upper portion and define a cavity in the forefoot region of the sole structure. The sole structure further includes an insole member having a first end received in the cavity of the outsole member and a second end received by the fluid-filled bladder in the heel region.

[0030] Embodiments of the present disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In some examples, the sole structure includes a heel stabilizer that extends from the fluid-filled bladder and covers the upper portion of the outsole member.

[0031] In some embodiments, the fluid-filled bladder, the outsole member, and the insole member each define a portion of the ground-engaging surface of the sole structure. Optionally, each of the fluid-filled bladder, the outsole member, and the insole member includes one or more traction elements disposed on the ground-engaging surface. The first plurality of traction elements may each include a protrusion extending therefrom, and the second plurality of traction elements includes a plurality of serrations formed therein. In some examples, the one or more traction elements include a first plurality of quadrilateral traction elements along a first segment of the fluid-filled bladder, a first D-shaped traction element disposed at the distal end of the first segment of the fluid-filled bladder, a second plurality of quadrilateral traction elements along the inner side of the rib, a second D-shaped traction element disposed at the terminal end of the rib and opposite the first D-shaped traction element, and at least one of a front traction element and a rear traction element extending from the inner side to the outer side.

[0032] In some embodiments, the outsole member includes a plurality of channels formed in the lower surface of the rib along a direction from the inner side of the sole structure to the outer side of the sole structure.

[0033] In some examples, the first end of the insole member includes a traction element that extends from the forefoot region through the midfoot region and has a plurality of serrations formed therein. In some embodiments, the second end of the insole member includes a convex elevation disposed within the fluid-filled bladder.

[0034] In some embodiments, the outsole member may include sidewalls configured to extend onto the upper of the article of footwear.

[0035] Reference Figures 1 - 8, the footwear item 10 includes an upper 100 and a sole structure 200. The footwear item 10 can be divided into one or more regions. These regions can include a forefoot region 12, a midfoot region 14, and a heel region 16. The forefoot region 12 can be subdivided into a toe portion 12 corresponding to the phalanges of the toes T and a ball portion 12 associated with the metatarsals of the foot B . The midfoot region 14 can correspond to the arch region of the foot, while the heel region 16 can correspond to the rear portion of the foot including the calcaneus. The footwear 10 can also include a front end 18 associated with the foremost point of the forefoot region 12 and a rear end 20 corresponding to the rearmost point of the heel region 16. As Figure 3A shown, the longitudinal axis A of the footwear 10 L extends along the length of the footwear 10 from the front end 18 to the rear end 20 and generally divides the footwear 10 into a lateral side 24 and a medial side 22. Thus, the lateral side 24 and the medial side 22 respectively correspond to opposite sides of the footwear 10 and extend through the regions 12, 14, 16.

[0036] The upper 100 includes an inner surface defining an inner void 102 configured to receive and secure a foot for support on the sole structure 200. The upper 100 can be formed of one or more materials stitched or bonded together to form the inner void 102. Suitable materials for the upper can include, but are not limited to, mesh, fabric, foam, leather, and synthetic leather. The materials can be selected and positioned to impart properties of durability, breathability, abrasion resistance, flexibility, and comfort.

[0037] Referring to Figure 2 and 8 , in some examples, the upper 100 includes a midsole cloth 104 having a bottom surface opposite the sole structure 200 and a top surface of a footbed 106 defining the inner void 102. Stitching or an adhesive can secure the midsole cloth to the upper 100. The contour of the footbed 106 can conform to the contour of the bottom surface (e.g., plantar surface) of the foot. Optionally, the upper 100 can also include additional layers, such as an insole 108 or an insole liner, which can be disposed on the midsole cloth 104 and within the inner void 102 of the upper 100 to receive the plantar surface of the foot to enhance the comfort of the footwear item 10. An ankle opening 114 in the heel region 16 can provide access to the inner void 102. For example, the ankle opening 114 can accommodate the foot to secure the foot within the void 102 and facilitate entry of the foot into and removal from the inner void 102.

[0038] In some examples, one or more fasteners 110 extend along the upper 100 to adjust the fit of the internal void 102 around the foot and accommodate entry into and removal from the foot. The upper 100 may include holes 112, such as eyelets, and / or other engagement features, such as fabric or mesh loops that receive the fasteners 110. The fasteners 110 may include shoelaces, straps, cords, hook-and-loop, or any other suitable type of fastener. The upper 100 may include a tongue 116 that extends between the internal void 102 and the fasteners.

[0039] Reference Figures 1 - 3B and Figures 6 - 8 , the sole structure 200 includes a fluid-filled bladder 208 that defines the perimeter of the sole structure 200 in the heel structure 16. The fluid-filled bladder 208 includes a fluid-filled chamber 210 and a co-molded portion 220 that is connected to the chamber 210 and defines a first portion of the ground-engaging surface 202 of the sole structure 200. The sole structure 200 also includes an outsole member 230 that defines the perimeter of the sole structure 200 in the forefoot region 12 and the midfoot region 14 and an insole member 260 that extends from the forefoot region 12 to the heel region 16, as discussed in more detail below.

[0040] Referring Figure 2 , 4 , 5, and 8, the fluid-filled chamber 210 is formed by a pair of barrier layers 212 that are joined together to define an internal void 213 for receiving a pressurized fluid (e.g., air). The barrier layers 212 include an upper first barrier layer 212a and a lower second barrier layer 212b. The first barrier layer 212a and the second barrier layer 212b define the barrier layers for the chamber 210 by being joined together and bonded at a plurality of discrete locations during a molding or thermoforming process. Thus, the first barrier layer 212a is joined to the second barrier layer 212b to form a seam 214 that extends around the perimeter of the sole structure 200 and a web region 216 that extends between the medial and lateral sides 22, 24 of the sole structure 200. Both the first barrier layer 212a and the second barrier layer 212b may be formed from a sheet of clear thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). In some examples, the barrier layers 212a, 212b may be formed from an opaque polymeric material.

[0041] Although the seam 214 is shown as forming a relatively distinct flange that protrudes outward from the fluid-filled chamber 210, the seam 214 may be a flat seam such that the upper barrier layer 212a and the lower barrier layer 214a are substantially continuous with each other. Moreover, the first barrier layer 212a and the second barrier layer 212b are joined together between the lateral side 24 of the sole structure 200 and the medial side 22 of the sole structure 200 to define a substantially continuous web region 216, as Figure 3A , 3B and 4 show.

[0042] In some embodiments, the first barrier layer 212a and the second barrier layer 212b are formed by respective die portions, each defining various surfaces for forming the recess and compression surfaces corresponding to the locations where the seam 214 and / or the web region 216 are formed when the second barrier layer 212b and the first barrier layer 212a are joined and bonded together. In some embodiments, an adhesive bond connects the first barrier layer 212a and the second barrier layer 212b to form the seam 214 and the web region 216. In other embodiments, the first barrier layer 212a and the second barrier layer 212b are joined by thermal bonding to form the seam 214 and the web region 216. In some examples, one or both of the barrier layers 212a, 212b are heated to a temperature that facilitates shaping and fusing. In some examples, the layers 212a, 212b are heated before being placed between their respective dies. In other examples, the dies can be heated to raise the temperature of the layers 212a, 212b. In some embodiments, the molding process for forming the chamber 210 includes vacuum ports within the die portions to remove air such that the first layer 212a and the second layer 212b are pulled into contact with the respective die portions. In other embodiments, a fluid such as air can be injected into the region between the upper layer 212a and the lower layer 212b such that an increase in pressure causes the layers 212a, 212b to engage the surfaces of their respective die portions.

[0043] Referring Figure 3A and 3B , the fluid-filled chamber 210 includes a plurality of segments 218a - 218c. In some embodiments, the first barrier layer 212a and the second barrier layer 212b cooperate to define the geometry (e.g., thickness, width, and length) of each of the plurality of segments 218a - 218c. For example, the seam 214 and the web region 216 can cooperate to define and extend around each of the segments 218a - 218c to seal the fluid (e.g., air) within the segments 218a - 218c. Thus, each of the segments 218a - 218c is associated with a region of the chamber 210 where the upper layer 212a and the lower layer 212b are not joined together and are thus separated from each other to form respective voids 213.

[0044] In the illustrated example, the chamber 210 includes a series of connected segments 218 disposed within the heel region 16 of the sole structure 200. Additionally or alternatively, the chamber 210 can be located within the forefoot or midfoot regions 12, 14 of the sole structure. The intermediate segment 218a extends along the medial side 22 of the sole structure 200 in the heel region and terminates at a first distal end 219a within the midfoot region 14. Similarly, the lateral segment 218b extends along the lateral side 24 of the sole structure 200 in the heel region 16 and terminates at a second distal end 219b within the midfoot region 14.

[0045] The rear section 218c extends around the rear end 20 of the heel region 16 and is fluidly coupled to the medial section 218a and the lateral section 218b. In the illustrated example, the rear section 218c projects beyond the rear end 20 of the upper 100 such that the upper 100 is offset from the rearmost portion of the rear section 218c toward the front end 18. As shown, the rear section 218c extends along a generally arcuate path to connect the rear end of the medial section 218a to the rear end of the lateral section 218b. Additionally, the rear section 218c is formed continuously with each of the medial section 218a and the lateral section 218b. Accordingly, the chamber 210 may be generally defined as horseshoe-shaped, where the rear section 218c is coupled to the medial section 218a and the lateral section 218b at a respective one of the medial 22 and the lateral 24.

[0046] As Figure 3B shown, the medial section 218a extends along a first longitudinal axis A in a direction from the rear end 20 to the front end 18 S1 while the lateral section 218b extends along a second longitudinal axis A in a direction from the rear end 20 to the front end 18 S2 . Accordingly, the first section 218a and the second section 218b extend from the third section 218c generally in the same direction. The first longitudinal axis A S1 , the second longitudinal axis A S2 and the arcuate path of the rear section 218c may all extend along a common plane.

[0047] The first longitudinal axis A S1 and the second longitudinal axis A S2 may converge with one or both of the longitudinal axis A L of the footwear. Alternatively, the first longitudinal axis A S1 and the second longitudinal axis A S2 may converge with each other in a direction from the third section 218c to the distal ends 219a, 219b. In some examples, the medial section 218a and the lateral section 218b may have different lengths. For example, the lateral section 218b may extend further along the lateral 24 and to the midfoot region 14 compared to the medial section 218a extending along the medial 22 to the midfoot region 14.

[0048] As Figure 4 , 5 and 8 shown, each of the sections 218a - 218c may be tubular and define a generally circular cross-sectional shape. Accordingly, the diameter D C of the sections 218a - 218c corresponds to the thickness T C and the width W C of the chamber 210. The thickness T C of the chamber 210 is defined by the distance between the second barrier layer 212b and the first barrier layer 212a in a direction from the ground engaging surface 202 to the upper 100, while the width W of the bladderC is defined by a distance across the internal void 213 taken perpendicular to the thickness T of the chamber 210. In some examples, the thickness T and width W of the chamber 210 C may be different from each other. C and width W C can be different from each other.

[0049] At least two of the segments 218a - 218c may define different diameters D of the chamber 210 C . For example, one or more of the segments 218a - 218c may have a greater diameter D than one or more of the other segments 218a - 218c C . Additionally, the diameter D of the segments C can taper from one end to the other. As Figure 1 and 2 shown, the diameter D of the chamber 210 C tapers from the rear end 20 to the midfoot region 14 to provide a greater degree of cushioning as the midfoot region 14 of the sole structure 200 rolls to engage the ground, for absorbing the larger ground reaction forces that initially occur and decrease in the heel region 16. More specifically, the chamber 210 continuously tapers at a constant rate from a first diameter D at the rear end 20 (see Figure 8 ) to a second diameter D at the midfoot region 14 (see C1 Figure 4 ). As shown, the first diameter D C2 is defined by the rear segment 218c, and the second diameter D C1 is defined at the distal ends 219a, 219b of the inner segment 218a and the outer segment 218b. In some examples, the second diameter D of the chamber 210 B2 is the same at each of the inner and outer sides 22, 24. However, in some examples, the second diameter D set at the distal end 219a of the inner segment 218a C2 can be different from the diameter of the chamber 210 at the distal end 219b of the outer segment 218b. C2 can be different from the diameter of the chamber 210 at the distal end 219b of the outer segment 218b.

[0050] As Figure 1 and 3A shown, the respective distal ends 219a, 219b of the inner segment 218a and the outer segment 218b are hemispherical, where both the thickness T C and width W C of the chamber 210 decrease along the direction towards the distal ends 219a, 219b. The distal ends 219a, 219b serve as the anchoring points for the respective segments 218a, 218b and for the entire chamber 210 to maintain its shape when a load such as a shear force is applied to it.

[0051] Each of the segments 218a - 218c can be filled with a pressurized fluid (i.e., gas, liquid) to provide cushioning and stability for the foot during use of the footwear 10. In some embodiments, the compressibility of the first portion of the plurality of segments 218a - 218c provides responsive cushioning under an applied load, while the second portion of the segments 218a - 218c can be configured to provide soft cushioning under an applied load. Thus, the segments 218a - 218c of the chamber 210 can cooperate to provide gradient cushioning for the footwear article 10, which varies as the applied load changes (i.e., the greater the load, the more the segments 218a - 218c are compressed, and thus the footwear 10 performs more quickly in response).

[0052] In some embodiments, the segments 218a - 218c are in fluid communication with each other to form a single pressure system for the chamber 210. This single pressure system directs fluid through the segments 218a - 218c under an applied load as the segments 218a - 218c compress or expand to provide cushioning, stability, and support by reducing the ground reaction force, especially during forward movement of the footwear 10. Optionally, one or more of the segments 218a - 218c can be fluidly isolated from the other segments 218a - 218c such that at least one of the segments 218a - 218c can be pressurized differently.

[0053] In other embodiments, instead of or in addition to the pressurized fluid, one or more cushioning materials, such as polymeric foams and / or particulate matter, are enclosed by one or more of the segments 218a - 218c to provide cushioning for the foot. In these embodiments, the cushioning material can provide cushioning characteristics different from those of the segments 218a - 218c filled with pressurized fluid. For example, the cushioning material can be more or less responsive than the pressurized fluid or provide greater shock absorption.

[0054] Continuing to refer Figures 3A - 5 , the segments 218a - 218c cooperate to define a recess 217 within the chamber 210. As shown, the recess 217 is formed between the medial segment 218a and the lateral segment 218b and extends continuously from the posterior segment 218c to an opening between the distal ends 219a, 219b of the chamber 210. In the example shown, a web region 216 is disposed within the recess 217. As Figure 4 , 5As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the web region 216 is vertically centered relative to the thickness of the chamber 210 such that the web region 216 is spaced between the upper and lower surfaces of the chamber 210. Accordingly, the web region 216 divides the cavity 217 into an upper cavity 217a disposed on a first side of the web region 216 facing the upper 100 and a lower cavity 217b disposed on a second, opposite side of the web region 216 facing the ground. As described below, the upper cavity 217a may be configured to receive the outsole member 230, and the lower cavity 217b is configured to receive the second sole member 260. In some examples, there may be no web region 216 within the cavity 217, and the cavity 217 may be uninterrupted from the ground to the upper 100.

[0055] In some embodiments, the overmolded portion 220 extends over a portion of the chamber 210 to provide increased durability and resiliency to the segments 218a - 218c under an applied load. Accordingly, the overmolded portion 220 is formed of a material different from that of the chamber 210 and includes at least one of a different thickness, a different hardness, and a different abrasion resistance from the second barrier layer 212b. In some examples, the overmolded portion 220 may be integrally formed with the second barrier layer 212b of the chamber 210 using an overmolding process. In other examples, the overmolded portion 220 may be formed separately from the second barrier layer 212b of the chamber 210 and may be bonded to the second barrier layer 212b.

[0056] The overmolded portion 220 may extend over each of the segments 218a - 218b of the chamber 210 by attachment to the second barrier layer 212b to provide increased durability and resiliency to the chamber 210, where the separation distance between the second barrier layer 212b and the first barrier layer 212a is greater, or to provide increased thickness in a particular region of the chamber 210. Accordingly, the overmolded portion 220 may include a plurality of segments 222a - 222c corresponding to the segments 218a - 218c of the chamber 210. Accordingly, the overmolded portion 220 may be limited to the region that only attaches to the second barrier layer 212b and that partially defines the segments 218a - 218c, and thus the seam 214 and the web region 216 may be free of the overmolded portion 220. More specifically, the segments 222a - 222b of the overmolded portion 220 may cooperate with the segments 218a - 218c of the chamber 210 to define an opening 224 leading to the lower cavity 217b, which is configured to receive a portion of the insole member 260 therein, as described below.

[0057] In some examples, the overmolded portion 220 includes a thickness T that defines the overmolded portion OA pair of opposing surfaces 226. The surfaces 226 include a recessed inner surface 226a bonded to the second barrier layer 212b and a protruding outer surface 226b that defines a portion of the ground engaging surface 202 of the sole structure 200. Thus, the overmolded portion 220 defines a generally arcuate or crescent cross-section. As Figure 4 and 5 shown, the recessed inner surface 226a and the protruding outer surface 226b may be configured such that the thickness T of the overmolded portion 220 O tapers from a middle portion towards the peripheral edge 228. In some cases, the surfaces 226a, 226b may converge with each other to define the peripheral edge 228 and provide a generally continuous or flush transition between the overmolded portion 220 and the chamber 210. As Figure 4 、 5 and 8 shown, the peripheral edge 228 may abut the seam 214 of the chamber 210 such that the outer surface 226b is generally flush and continuous with the distal end of the seam 214.

[0058] Continuing to refer to Figures 1 - 5 and 8, the fluid-filled bladder 208 may be continuously exposed along the periphery of the heel region 16 from a first distal end 219a to a second distal end 219b. For example, the first barrier layer 212a may be continuously exposed between the upper 100 and the overmolded portion 220 along the periphery of the sole structure 200 such that the transparent first barrier layer 212a is exposed around the periphery of the heel region 16. Similarly, the overmolded portion 220 may be continuously exposed along the periphery of the sole structure from the first distal end 219a to the second distal end 219b.

[0059] The outsole member 230 includes an upper portion 232 having sidewalls 234 and ribs 236 that cooperate with the upper portion 232 to define a cavity 238 for receiving the insole member 260, as described below. The outsole member 230 may be formed of an energy-absorbing material such as polymeric foam. Forming the outsole member 230 of an energy-absorbing material such as polymeric foam enables the outsole member 230 to attenuate the ground reaction forces caused by the movement of the footwear item 10 on the ground during use.

[0060] Refer to Figures 4 - 8, the outsole member 230 includes an upper surface 240 that extends continuously from the front end 18 between the medial side 22 and the lateral side 24 to the rear end 20 and faces the midsole fabric 104 of the shoe upper 100, such that the upper portion 232 substantially defines the contour of the shoe bed 106 of the shoe upper 100. The outsole member 230 further includes a lower surface 242 that is spaced apart from the upper surface 240 and defines a portion of the ground engaging surface 202 of the sole structure 200 in the forefoot region 12 and the midfoot region 14. The intermediate surface 244 of the outsole member 230 is recessed from the lower surface 242 toward the upper surface 240. The peripheral side surface 246 extends around the periphery of the sole structure 230 and connects the upper surface 240 to the lower surface 242. The medial surface 248 is spaced inwardly from the peripheral side surface 246 to define the width W of the rib 236 R , and extends between the lower surface 242 and the intermediate surface 246.

[0061] The upper surface 240, the intermediate surface 242, and the peripheral side surface 246 cooperate to form the upper portion 232 of the outsole member 230. The upper portion 232 extends from a first end adjacent to the front end 18 to a second end adjacent to the rear end 20. As Figure 4 , 5 and shown in 8, the second end of the upper portion 232 can be at least partially received in the upper recess 217a of the chamber 210 on the first side of the web region 216. Thus, the sole structure 200 can include a polymer foam layer of the outsole member 230 disposed between the first barrier layer 212a of the chamber 210 and the shoe upper 100. Thus, the foam layer of the sole structure 200 is an intermediate layer that indirectly attaches the first barrier layer 212a of the chamber 210 to the shoe upper 100 by bonding the first barrier layer 212a of the chamber 210 to the bottom surface of the shoe upper 100 and / or the midsole fabric 104, thereby fixing the sole structure 200 to the shoe upper 100. In addition, the foam layer of the outsole member 230 can also reduce the degree to which the first barrier layer 212a is directly attached to the shoe upper 100, thus increasing the durability of the footwear 10.

[0062] As shown, the upper surface 240 can have a contoured shape. In particular, the upper surface 240 can be convex such that the periphery of the upper surface 240 can extend upward and converge with the peripheral side surface 242 to form a sidewall 234 that extends along the periphery of the sole structure 200. The sidewall 234 can at least partially extend onto the outer surface of the shoe upper 100 such that the outsole member 230 hides the junction between the shoe upper 100 and the midsole fabric 104.

[0063] Refer to Figure 1, the height of the sidewall 234 starting from the lower surface 242 can continuously increase from the front end 18 through the midfoot region 14 to the apex 250, and then continuously decrease from the apex to the rear end 20. The sidewall 234 is generally configured to provide increased lateral reinforcement to the upper 100. Thus, increasing the height of the sidewall 234 near the heel region 16 provides additional support to the upper to minimize lateral movement of the foot within the heel region 16.

[0064] Continuing to refer Figure 6 and 7 , the rib 236 extends downward from the upper portion 232 to the lower surface 242 and forms part of the ground engaging surface 202 within the forefoot region 12 and the midfoot region 14. The distance between the outer peripheral side surface 246 and the inner surface 248 defines the width W of the rib 236 R . As Figure 3B shown, the width W of the rib 236 R can vary along the periphery of the sole structure 200.

[0065] Referring Figure 3B , the rib 236 extends continuously from a first terminal 250a in the midfoot region 14 that is opposite the first distal end 219a of the outer side section 218b of the chamber 210 around the periphery of the forefoot region 12 to a second terminal 250b in the midfoot region 14 that is opposite the second distal end 219b of the outer side section 218b. As shown, each of the first terminal 250a and the second terminal 250b can be defined by an arcuate or concave surface configured to complement or accommodate the hemispherical distal ends 219a, 219b of the bladder 208. Thus, the bladder 208 and the rib 236 cooperate to define a substantially continuous ground engaging surface 202 around the periphery of the sole structure 200.

[0066] The rib 236 includes a plurality of segments 252 that extend along the medial side 22 and the lateral side 24 and converge at the front end 18 of the sole structure 200. The segments 252 of the rib 236 include a first segment 252a that extends along the medial side 22 from a first distal end 238a within the midfoot region 14, a second segment 252b that is connected to the first segment 252a and extends along the medial side 22 between the midfoot region 14 and the front end 18, a third segment 236c that is connected to the second segment 252b and extends along the lateral side 24 from the front end 18 to the midfoot region 14, and a fourth segment 252d that is connected to the third segment 252c and extends along the lateral side 24 within the midfoot region 14 to the second terminal 250b.

[0067] As described above, the width W of the rib 236 R can vary along the periphery of the sole structure 200. For example, one or more of the segments 252a - 252d can have a different width W from one or more of the other segments 252a–252d R。In the illustrated example, each of the first segment 252a, the second segment 252b, and the fourth segment 252d has a substantially similar width W R1 , W R2 , W R4 , while the third segment 252c has a greater width W R3 . Thus, the rib 236 may include a transition portion 254 that connects opposite ends of segments 252 having different thicknesses. For example, in the illustrated example, the rib 236 includes a first transition portion 254a that is disposed between the third segment 252c and the fourth segment 252d along the outer side 22 of the sole structure 200 and within the ball portion 12 B of the forefoot region 12. The rib 236 also includes a second transition portion 254b between the second segment 252b and the fourth segment 252d along the front end 18.

[0068] Continuing to refer to Figure 3B , 6 and 7, the intermediate surface 244 and the medial surface 248 cooperate to define a cavity 238 of the outsole member 230. Thus, the depth of the cavity 238 corresponds to the distance between the lower surface 242 and the intermediate surface 244, and the peripheral contour of the cavity 238 corresponds to the inner contour of the rib 236 defined by the medial surface 248. The cavity 238 extends from a first end within the toe portion 12 T of the forefoot region 12 to an opening disposed in the midfoot region 14 of the sole structure, between the terminals 250a, 250b. Thus, the opening of the cavity 238 of the outsole member 230 may be opposite the opening of the lower recess 217b of the chamber 210 such that the cavity 238 and the lower recess 217b provide a substantially continuous recess for receiving the insole member 260.

[0069] The outsole member 230 may further include one or more channels 256 formed in the lower surface 242 that extend from the peripheral side surface 246 to the medial surface 248 along a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A L of the footwear 10. In the illustrated example, the shape of each channel 256 is substantially semi-cylindrical. The channels 256 may include a first channel 256a disposed on the outer side 22 between the first segment 252a and the second segment 252b. In particular, the first channel 256a may be formed between the forefoot region 12 and the midfoot region 14. A second channel 256b may be formed in the middle portion of the third segment 252c, within the midfoot region, and a third channel 256c may be formed in the middle portion of the fourth segment 252d. In particular, the third channel 256c may be formed at the end of the first transition portion 254a adjacent to the fourth segment 252d and between the toe portion 12 T and the ball portion 12 B of the forefoot region 12.

[0070] Refer toFigure 3B , the insole member 260 includes a first end 262 received within the cavity 238 of the outsole member 230 and a second end 264 received within the recess 217b of the bladder 208. The insole member 260 is formed of a polymeric material different from that of the outsole member 230 to impart the desired characteristics to the sole structure 200. For example, the insole member 260 may be formed of a material having a greater coefficient of friction, greater wear resistance, and greater stiffness compared to the foam polymer material of the outsole member 230. Thus, the insole member 260 can be used as a midsole to control the stiffness or flexibility of the sole structure 200. In some examples, the insole member 260 may be formed of a polymeric foam material. Additionally or alternatively, the insole member 260 may be formed of a non-foam polymeric material such as rubber.

[0071] The first end 262 of the insole member 260 is disposed within the cavity 238 of the outsole member 230 and has an outer profile complementary to the contour of the inner surface 248 of the outsole member. Thus, the outer profile of the first end 262 may include a recess 266 formed along the outer side 24 in the forefoot region 12, which is configured to mate with the relatively wider fourth segment 252d of the rib 236.

[0072] The first end 262 may form a part of the ground engaging surface 202 of the sole structure 200 and includes one of the traction elements 204, 204g extending from the forefoot region 12 to the midfoot region 14, as described in more detail below. The second end 264 of the insole member 260 is received within the recess 217b of the chamber 210 on the second side of the web region 216. The second end 264 is surrounded by the inner segments 218a, 222a, the outer segments 218b, 222b, and the rear segments 218c, 222c of the bladder 208. Thus, the web region 216 may be disposed between the upper portion 232 of the outsole member 230 and the second end 264 of the insole member 260.

[0073] The second end 264 may include a generally convex ridge 268 that forms a part of the ground engaging surface 202. As Figure 4 and 5 shown, the ridge 268 is formed such that the thickness of the insole member 260 increases towards the longitudinal axis A L to provide a region of increased thickness along the center of the sole structure 200. The geometry of the ridge 268 may vary along the length of the sole structure 200 to impart the desired energy absorption characteristics. As Figure 4 and 5As shown, compared to the contour of the ridge 268 within the heel region 16, the contour of the ridge 268 within the midfoot region 14 can be relatively flat, such that the energy absorption rate of the ridge 268 within the midfoot region 14 is relatively constant, while the energy absorption rate within the heel region 16 is progressive. Additionally or alternatively, the ridge 268 can be spaced apart from a portion of the ground engaging surface 202 defined by the bladder 208 such that the ridge 268 engages the ground only under certain conditions, such as during periods of relatively high impact.

[0074] As described above, the overmolded portion 220 of the bladder 208, the outsole member 230, and the insole member 260 cooperate to define the ground engaging surface 202 of the sole structure 200, which includes a plurality of traction elements 204 extending therefrom. The traction elements 204 are configured to engage the ground to provide responsiveness and stability to the sole structure 200 during use.

[0075] The outer surface 226b of the overmolded portion 220 can include a plurality of traction elements 204 formed thereon. For example, each medial segment 222a and lateral segment 222b can include a plurality of quadrilateral traction elements 204a disposed between the rear segment 222c of the overmolded portion 220 and the respective distal ends 223a, 223b. The medial segment 222a and the lateral segment 222b can each further include distal traction elements 204b associated with the respective distal ends 223a, 223b. The distal traction elements 204b are generally D-shaped and have an arcuate side facing the center of the midfoot region 14 and a straight side facing away from the midfoot region 14.

[0076] Similarly, the lower surface 242 of the outsole member 230 includes a plurality of quadrilateral traction elements 204c formed along each of the medial 22 and lateral 24 between respective terminals 250a, 250b and the front end 18. The lower surface 242 further includes a pair of D-shaped traction elements 204d disposed at each terminal 250a, 250b of the rib 236 and opposite the distal traction elements 204b of the bladder 208. Accordingly, the arcuate side of the traction element 204d is opposite the arcuate side of the D-shaped traction element 204b formed on the overmolded portion 220, and the straight side faces the front end 18.

[0077] The ground engaging surface 202 of the sole structure 200 further includes a front traction element 204e formed on the outsole member 230 and a rear traction element 204f formed on the overmolded portion 220 of the bladder 208. As Figure 3A 、 3BAs shown, the front traction element 204e extends from a first end on a second section 252b on the inner side 22 and around the front end 18 to a second end on a fourth section 252d on the outer side 24. Similarly, the rear traction element 204f extends along a rear section 222c of the overmolded portion 220 from a first end adjacent to the inner side 22 to a second end adjacent to the outer side 24.

[0078] As described above, the first end 262 of the insole member 260 may include an inner traction element 204g that extends from a first end in an intermediate portion of the front foot region 12 to a second end in an intermediate portion of the midfoot region 14. As shown, the inner traction element 204 has an outer contour that corresponds to and is offset from the contour of the inner surface 248. In a direction from the inner side 22 to the outer side 24, the second end of the inner traction element 204g is substantially aligned with the terminals 250a, 250b of the rib 236.

[0079] Each traction element 204a - 204g may include ground engaging features 206 formed therein, which are configured to interact with the ground to improve traction between the ground engaging surface 202 and the ground. As shown, the traction elements 204a - 204d formed along the inner side 22 and the outer side 24 may include a single centrally located protrusion 206a extending therefrom, which is configured to provide a desired degree of engagement with the ground. In some examples, the protrusion 206a is a single hemispherical protrusion. Additionally or alternatively, the traction elements 204a - 204d may include multiple protrusions having, for example, a polygonal or cylindrical shape.

[0080] The ground engaging features 206 may further include one or more serrations 206b formed in the traction element 204. For example, each front traction element 204e and rear traction element 204f may include elongated serrations 206b extending from the inner side 22 towards the outer side 24. Similarly, the inner traction element 204g may include multiple parallel serrations 206b evenly spaced along the entire length of the inner traction element 204g, each extending from the inner side 22 to the outer side 24. The serrations 206b of the inner traction element 204g may continuously extend through the entire width of the inner traction element 204g, while the serrations 206b formed in the front and rear traction elements 204e, 204f may be formed within the periphery of the traction elements 204e, 204f.

[0081] The sole structure 200 further includes a heel stabilizer 270 formed of the same clear TPU material as the first barrier layer 212a and extending above the outsole member 230. As shown, the heel stabilizer 270 extends from a first distal end 219a of the chamber 210 around the rear end 20 and to a second distal end 219b of the chamber 210.

[0082] Reference Figure 1, the height of the heel stabilizer 270 increases from the second distal end 219b of the chamber 210 to the apex 272 in the heel region of the outer side 24 and then decreases to the rear end 20. Although not shown, the heel stabilizer 270 is similarly formed along the inner side 22 such that the height of the heel stabilizer 270 cups around the rear end 20 of the upper 100 between the apex 272 on the outer side 24 and the apex (not shown) on the inner side 22. As Figure 4 shown, at a first position along the longitudinal axis A F , the height of the heel stabilizer 270 can be less than the height of the sidewall 234 of the outsole member 230 such that the heel stabilizer 270 extends partially upward along the sidewall 234. However, as Figure 5 shown, at a second position along the longitudinal axis A F adjacent to the apex or at the apex, the height of the heel stabilizer 270 can be greater than the height of the sidewall 234 such that the heel stabilizer 270 extends over the sidewall 234 and attaches to the upper 100.

[0083] During use, the bladder 208, the outsole member 230, and the insole member 260 can cooperate to enhance the functionality and cushioning characteristics provided by a conventional midsole while providing increased stability and support for the foot by dampening the oscillations of the foot that occur in response to ground reaction forces during use of the footwear 10. For example, a load applied to the sole structure 200 during forward motion (such as a walking or running motion) may cause some of the segments 218a - 218c to compress to provide cushioning for the foot by attenuating the ground reaction forces, while other segments 218a - 218c can retain their shape to provide stability and support characteristics, thereby dampening the oscillations of the foot relative to the footwear 10 in response to the initial impact of the ground reaction forces.

[0084] The following clauses provide exemplary constructions of the above-described footwear article.

[0085] Clause 1: A sole structure for a footwear article, the sole structure comprising: a forefoot region disposed adjacent a front end; a heel region disposed adjacent a rear end; a midfoot region disposed intermediate the forefoot region and the heel region; a fluid-filled bladder having a first segment extending along an inner side in the heel region, a second segment extending along an outer side in the heel region, and a web region disposed between the first segment and the second segment, the first segment, the second segment, and the web region defining a cavity; and an outsole member having a first end in the forefoot region extending to a second end in the heel region and housing an upper on a first side of the web region and a rib extending downward from the upper in the forefoot region and defining a cavity in the forefoot region of the sole structure, the cavity cooperating with the cavity of the fluid-filled bladder to define a recess extending continuously from the forefoot region to the heel region.

[0086] Clause 2: The sole structure according to Clause 1 further includes an insole member that extends from a first end disposed within the cavity to a second end received on a second side of the web region opposite the outsole member.

[0087] Clause 3: The sole structure according to Clause 2, wherein the outsole member is formed of a first foam polymeric material and the insole member is formed of a second polymeric material, and the density of the second polymeric material is greater than the density of the first foam polymeric material.

[0088] Clause 4: The sole structure according to Clause 2, wherein each of the fluid-filled bladder, the outsole member, and the insole member defines a portion of the ground contact surface of the sole structure.

[0089] Clause 5: The sole structure according to Clause 1, wherein the ribs are formed along the periphery of the sole structure in the forefoot region and the midfoot region.

[0090] Clause 6: The sole structure according to Clause 1, wherein the ribs have a first width in the midfoot region and a second width in the forefoot region.

[0091] Clause 7: The sole structure according to Clause 1, wherein the first segment terminates at a first distal end in the midfoot region, the second segment terminates at a second distal end in the midfoot region, and wherein the rib extends continuously from a first terminal opposite the first distal end in the midfoot region to a second terminal opposite the second distal end in the midfoot region.

[0092] Clause 8: The sole structure according to Clause 1, wherein the rib includes a first segment that extends along the outer side within the midfoot region and a second segment that extends along the outer side within the forefoot region, and the width of the second segment is greater than the width of the first segment.

[0093] Clause 9: The sole structure according to Clause 1, wherein the fluid-filled bladder further includes a third segment that fluidly couples the first segment to the second segment and extends along an arcuate path around the rear end, and the thickness of the fluid-filled bladder gradually decreases continuously and at a constant rate from the rear end to the first distal end.

[0094] Clause 10: The sole structure according to Clause 9 further includes a heel stabilizer that extends along each of the first segment, the second segment, and the third segment and is formed of the same material as the fluid-filled bladder.

[0095] Clause 11: A sole structure for a footwear item, the sole structure comprising: a fluid-filled bladder disposed in the heel region of the sole structure and tapering from a first thickness at the rear end of the sole structure to a second thickness in the midfoot region of the sole structure; an outsole member including an upper portion extending from a first end in the forefoot region of the sole structure to a second end received by the fluid-filled bladder, and a rib extending downwardly from the first end of the upper portion and defining a cavity in the forefoot region of the sole structure; and an insole member having a first end received in the cavity of the outsole member and a second end received by the fluid-filled bladder in the heel region.

[0096] Clause 12: The sole structure according to clause 11, further comprising a heel stabilizer extending from the fluid-filled bladder and covering the upper portion of the outsole member.

[0097] Clause 13: The sole structure according to clause 11, wherein the fluid-filled bladder, the outsole member, and the insole member each define a portion of the ground-engaging surface of the sole structure.

[0098] Clause 14: The sole structure according to clause 13, wherein each of the fluid-filled bladder, the outsole member, and the insole member includes one or more traction elements disposed on the ground-engaging surface.

[0099] Clause 15: The sole structure according to clause 14, wherein a first plurality of traction elements include protrusions extending therefrom, and a second plurality of traction elements include a plurality of serrations formed therein.

[0100] Clause 16: The sole structure according to clause 14, wherein the one or more traction elements include a first plurality of quadrilateral traction elements along a first segment of the fluid-filled bladder, a first D-shaped traction element disposed at a distal end of the first segment of the fluid-filled bladder, a second plurality of quadrilateral traction elements along the inner side of the rib, a second D-shaped traction element disposed at a terminal end of the rib and opposite the first D-shaped traction element, and at least one of a front traction element and a rear traction element extending from the inner side to the outer side.

[0101] Clause 17: The sole structure according to clause 11, wherein the outsole member includes a plurality of channels formed in a lower surface of the rib along a direction from the inner side to the outer side of the sole structure.

[0102] Clause 18: The sole structure according to clause 11, wherein the first end of the insole member includes a traction element extending from the forefoot region through the midfoot region and having a plurality of serrations formed therein.

[0103] Clause 19: The sole structure according to Clause 11, wherein the second end of the insole member includes a convex-shaped ridge disposed within a fluid-filled bladder.

[0104] Clause 20: The sole structure according to Clause 11, wherein the outsole member includes a sidewall configured to extend onto an upper of a footwear item.

[0105] The foregoing description has been provided for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure. The individual elements or features of a particular configuration are generally not limited to that particular configuration but, where applicable, are interchangeable and can be used in a selected configuration even if not specifically shown or described. Similarly, they can be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the disclosure.

Claims

1. An article of footwear, comprising: an upper; and a sole structure attached to the upper and comprising: a forefoot region disposed adjacent a front end; a heel region disposed adjacent a rear end; a midfoot region disposed between the forefoot region and the heel region; a fluid-filled bladder having a first segment extending along an inner side of the sole structure in the heel region of the sole structure, a second segment extending along an outer side of the sole structure in the heel region, and a web region disposed between the first segment and the second segment, the first segment, the second segment, and the web region defining a cavity; and an outsole member having a rib extending from a first end in the forefoot region of the sole structure to a second end in the heel region and received on an upper side of one side of the web region and extending downwardly from the upper side in the forefoot region and defining a cavity in the forefoot region, the cavity cooperating with the cavity of the fluid-filled bladder to define a recess extending continuously from the forefoot region to the heel region; wherein the outsole member includes a sidewall configured to extend onto the upper of the article of footwear, and a height of the sidewall starting from a lower surface of the outsole member continuously increases from the front end through the midfoot region to a vertex and then continuously decreases from the vertex to the rear end.

2. The article of footwear according to claim 1, wherein, the fluid-filled bladder is disposed in the heel region of the sole structure.

3. The article of footwear according to claim 1, further comprising a heel stabilizer extending from the fluid-filled bladder and covering an upper portion of the outsole member.

4. The article of footwear according to claim 3, wherein, the fluid-filled bladder further includes a third segment fluidly coupling the first segment to the second segment and extending along an arcuate path around the rear end, and the heel stabilizer extends along each of the first segment, the second segment, and the third segment.

5. The article of footwear according to claim 3, wherein, the heel stabilizer is formed of the same material as the fluid-filled bladder.

6. The article of footwear according to claim 3, wherein, the fluid-filled bladder is formed of a pair of barrier layers connected together to define an internal void for receiving a pressurized fluid, the barrier layers including a first barrier layer and a second barrier layer, and the heel stabilizer is formed of the same transparent TPU material as the first barrier layer.

7. An article of footwear, comprising: an upper; a sole structure attached to the upper and comprising: a forefoot region disposed adjacent a front end; a heel region disposed adjacent a rear end; a midfoot region disposed between the forefoot region and the heel region; a fluid-filled bladder having a first segment extending along an inner side of the sole structure in the heel region of the sole structure, a second segment extending along an outer side of the sole structure in the heel region, and a web region disposed between the first segment and the second segment, the first segment, the second segment, and the web region defining a cavity, the fluid-filled bladder further including a third segment fluidly coupling the first segment to the second segment and extending along an arcuate path around the rear end; and An outsole member having a rib extending from a first end in the forefoot region of the sole structure to a second end in the heel region and received in an upper portion on a first side of the web region and extending downwardly from the upper portion within the forefoot region and defining a cavity in the forefoot region, the cavity mating with a recess of a fluid-filled bladder to define a recess extending continuously from the forefoot region to the heel region; and A heel stabilizer extending along each of the first, second, and third segments and formed of the same material as the fluid-filled bladder.

8. The footwear article according to claim 7, wherein, The fluid-filled bladder is formed by a pair of barrier layers joined together to define an internal void for receiving a pressurized fluid, the barrier layers including a first barrier layer and a second barrier layer, and the heel stabilizer is formed of the same transparent TPU material as the first barrier layer.

9. The footwear article according to claim 7, wherein, At the apex of the heel stabilizer, the height of the heel stabilizer is greater than the height of the sidewall of the outsole member such that the heel stabilizer extends over the sidewall and attaches to the upper.

10. The footwear article according to claim 7, wherein, The heel stabilizer extends from the fluid-filled bladder and covers an upper portion of the outsole member.

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