Footwear having a wrapping closure system and / or foot wrapping fastening lacing

Abstract

The article of footwear comprises an upper formed by one or more upper portions, wherein at least one upper portion defines an ankle-containing portion of the upper, and at least one upper portion defines an instep-containing portion of the upper. The foot insertion opening of the upper extends in the following manner: (i) from a first side of the ankle-containing portion of the upper, (ii) around the rear heel or ankle area of ​​the upper, (iii) along a second side of the ankle-containing portion of the upper, (iv) across the instep-containing portion of the upper, and to the first side of the instep-containing portion of the upper. The closure system may include a track and a slide, the slide being movable along the track to change the closure system foot insertion opening between an open configuration and a closed configuration. One or more additional laces, fasteners and / or locks may be provided to engage the upper / footwear with the wearer's foot.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application with the application date of November 8, 2018, application number 201880078806.9, and invention name "Footwear with a wrapping closure system and / or foot wrapping fixing laces".

[0002] Related application data

[0003] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 582,988, filed on November 8, 2017. U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 582,988 is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0004] The present invention relates to the field of footwear. More specifically, aspects of the present invention relate to articles of footwear having a closure system that at least partially encloses a wearer's foot and / or includes a securing strap that at least partially encloses a wearer's foot.

[0005] Terminology / General Information

[0006] First, some general terms and information are provided, which will be helpful in understanding the various parts of this specification and the invention described herein. As mentioned above, the present invention relates to the field of footwear. "Footwear" means any type of clothing for the foot, and the term is not limited to: all types of shoes, boots, sneakers, sandals, flip-flops, flip-flops, slippers, sleep shoes, loafers, sports shoes (such as running shoes, golf shoes, tennis shoes, baseball shoes, football shoes, ski boots, basketball shoes, cross-training shoes, etc.), etc.

[0007] Figure 1 It also provides information that can be used to explain and understand the description and / or aspects of the present invention. More specifically, Figure 1 An illustration of a footwear component 100 is provided, which in this illustrated example forms part of a sole structure of an article of footwear. The same general definitions and terms described below may generally apply to footwear and / or other footwear components or portions thereof, such as uppers, midsole components, outsole components, ground engaging components, etc.

[0008] First, if Figure 1As shown in FIG. 1 , unless otherwise specified or clear from the context, the terms “forward” or “forward direction” as used herein refer to a direction or direction toward a forward-most toe (“FT”) area of ​​the footwear structure or component 100. Unless otherwise specified or clear from the context, the terms “rearward” or “rearward direction” as used herein refer to a direction or direction toward a rearward heel area (“RH”) of the footwear structure or component 100. Unless otherwise specified or clear from the context, the terms “lateral” or “lateral side” as used herein refer to the lateral or “little toe” side of the footwear structure or component 100. Unless otherwise specified or clear from the context, the terms “medial” or “medial side” as used herein refer to the medial or “big toe” side of the footwear structure or component 100.

[0009] Additionally, various exemplary features and aspects of the present invention may be disclosed or explained herein with reference to a “longitudinal” and / or “longitudinal direction” of a footwear component 100 (e.g., a footwear sole structure, a footwear upper, or an entire article of footwear). Figure 1 As shown in FIG, the “longitudinal direction” is determined as the distance from the rear heel position ( Figure 1 RH) extends to the front toe position ( Figure 1 FT). The "longitudinal length" L is the length dimension measured from the rearmost heel position RH to the foremost toe position FT. When component 100 (e.g., in the illustrated example, a sole structure or foot-supporting member, optionally as part of an article of footwear or a foot-receiving device) is positioned on a horizontal support surface S in an unloaded state (e.g., with no weight or forces applied thereto except for the possible weight / forces of the shoe component engaged therewith), the rearmost heel position RH and the foremost toe position FT can be located by determining the rear heel and foretoe tangent points relative to front and rear parallel vertical planes VP. If the foremost and / or rearmost positions of a particular footwear component 100 constitute line segments (rather than tangent points), the foremost toe position and / or rearmost heel position constitute the midpoints of the corresponding line segments. If the forward and / or rearward positions of a particular footwear component 100 constitute two or more separate points or line segments, the forward-most toe position and / or rearward heel position constitutes the midpoint of a line segment connecting the most distantly spaced and separated points and / or the most distantly spaced and separated endpoints of the line segments (regardless of whether the midpoint itself is located on the structure of component 100). If the forward and / or rearward positions constitute one or more regions, the forward-most toe position and / or rearward heel position constitutes the geographic center of the region or combined regions (regardless of whether the geographic center itself is located on the structure of component 100).

[0010] Once the longitudinal direction of the component or structure 100 has been determined, wherein the component 100 is positioned on the horizontal support surface S in an unloaded state, the plane can be positioned perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (e.g., in and out of the Figure 1 The positions of these vertical planes can be determined based on their positions along the longitudinal length L, where the vertical planes intersect the longitudinal direction between the rearmost heel position RH and the forwardmost toe position FT. Figure 1 In this illustrated example, the rearmost heel position RH is considered the origin of the measurement (or "0L position"), and the forwardmost toe position FT is considered the end of the longitudinal length of the component (or "1.0L position"). A plane position can be designated based on its position along the longitudinal length L (between 0L and 1.0L), measured forward from the rearmost heel RH position in this example. Figure 1 The positions of various planes perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (and positioned in the transverse direction) and located along the longitudinal length L at positions 0.25L, 0.4L, 0.5L, 0.55L, 0.6L and 0.8L (measured in the forward direction from the rear heel position RH) are shown. These planes may extend in and out Figure 1 , and similar planes may be positioned at any other desired locations along the longitudinal length L. Although these planes may be parallel to the parallel vertical planes VP used to determine the rearmost heel RH and forwardmost toe FT positions, this is not required. Rather, the orientation of the vertical planes along the longitudinal length L will depend on the orientation of the longitudinal direction, in Figure 1 In the arrangement / orientation shown, the longitudinal direction may be parallel to the horizontal surface S and / or perpendicular to the vertical plane VP in some cases and may not be parallel to the horizontal surface S and / or perpendicular to the vertical plane VP in other cases. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] The following detailed description will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals represent the same or similar elements throughout the various views in which such reference numerals appear.

[0012] Figure 1 Background and definition information is provided to help illustrate and explain certain terms and aspects used to understand the present invention;

[0013] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D Various views of articles of footwear according to at least some examples of this invention are provided, including details of various exterior features of such articles of footwear;

[0014] FIG. 3A to FIG. 3E Various views of articles of footwear according to at least some examples of this invention are provided, including details of various interior and exterior features of such articles of footwear;

[0015] FIG. 4A to FIG. 4G Provides various views of lace locks that may be included in articles of footwear according to at least some examples of this invention; and

[0016] Figure 5A and Figure 5B Various views are provided that illustrate features of laces and articles of footwear according to at least some examples of this invention.

[0017] The reader should understand that the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] In the following description of various examples of footwear structures and components according to various aspects of the present invention, reference will be made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the present invention and in which various exemplary structures and environments in which various aspects of the present invention may be implemented are shown by way of illustration. It should be understood that other structures and environments may be used, and that structural and functional modifications may be made from the specifically described structures and functions without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0019] I. General Overview of Some Exemplary Aspects of the Present Invention

[0020] While potentially useful with any type or style of shoe, aspects of the present invention are particularly beneficial with boots, athletic shoes (including basketball shoes), or other footwear (including footwear having a high-top upper).

[0021] Footwear articles according to at least some examples of the present invention may include an upper formed by one or more upper portions, wherein at least one upper portion defines an ankle-containing portion of the upper, and at least one upper portion (the same upper portion or a different upper portion) defines an instep-containing portion of the upper. The foot insertion opening of the upper (which may include a closure system) may extend partially or continuously in the following manner: (i) from a first side of the ankle-containing portion of the upper, (ii) around the rear heel or ankle area of ​​the upper, (iii) along a second side of the ankle-containing portion of the upper, and (iv) to the instep-containing portion of the upper. In some embodiments, the foot insertion opening may extend across the instep-containing portion of the upper and reach the first side of the instep-containing portion of the upper (e.g., across the central longitudinal axis of the upper at the forefoot portion of the upper). In other embodiments, the foot insertion opening may extend to a position in the forefoot portion of the upper at or near the central longitudinal axis of the upper at the forefoot portion of the upper (e.g., not across the central longitudinal axis of the upper at the forefoot portion of the upper). One or more additional straps (e.g., an ankle strap, one or more internal boot laces, etc.), fasteners, and / or locks may be provided to engage the upper / footwear to the wearer's foot.

[0022] Some aspects of the present invention relate to footwear articles comprising: (a) an upper formed by one or more upper portions that can be joined to a sole structure of the footwear article, wherein at least one upper portion defines an ankle-containing portion of the upper and at least one upper portion (the same upper portion or a different upper portion) defines an instep-containing portion of the upper; and (b) a closure system joined to the upper. Closure systems according to at least some examples of this aspect of the invention may include: (i) a track extending from a first end (e.g., an open end) located at a first side of an ankle containing portion of an upper to a second end (e.g., a closed end) located at an instep containing portion of the upper (e.g., located at the first side of the instep containing portion of the upper, located at the second side of the instep containing portion, located at the lateral side of the footwear article, located at the medial side of the footwear article, located at a forefoot portion of the upper at or on either side of the central longitudinal axis of the upper, etc.), wherein the track extends around a posterior ankle region of the ankle containing portion, along the second side of the ankle containing portion, and to the instep containing portion of the upper (e.g., in some embodiments, across a central portion of the instep containing portion between the first side of the instep containing portion and the second side of the instep containing portion, in some embodiments, across the central longitudinal axis of the upper at the forefoot portion of the upper, or in some embodiments, to a position at or near the central longitudinal axis of the upper at the forefoot portion of the upper); and (ii) a sliding member engaged with the track. The slide can be moved along the track to change the closure system between an open state (foot insertion state or foot removal state) and a closed state (foot fixation state). The track can extend across the central longitudinal axis of the upper at a position forward of the foot insertion opening of the upper, or it can terminate at the forefoot portion of the upper at or near the central longitudinal axis of the upper at the forefoot portion of the upper. The track and slide can constitute a zipper tie, an interlocking pressure track structure, or other closure system that opens and closes along the track using a movable slide.

[0023] In at least some examples of this aspect of the present invention, the ankle strap can be engaged with a slide, and the ankle strap can include and / or can releasably engage a fastener. At least a portion of the fastener can be arranged on the vamp or as a part of the vamp, for example, at the second side of the ankle containing portion of the vamp. When the closure system is in a closed state, the fastener can engage the ankle strap with the vamp to fix the vamp around the wearer's ankle / foot. At least a portion of the fastener can be located between the top of the foot insertion opening of the track and the vamp, it can bridge the track, and / or it can be located below the track. The fastener may include any type of releasable fixing parts, such as one or more of the following items: one or more snaps, one or more buttons, one or more Velcro, one or more buckles, one or more laces or straps, one or more magnets, etc.

[0024] The ankle strap (when present) may extend from a first side of the ankle containing portion (e.g., at the end of the slider track, e.g., on the lateral side of the footwear article), across the front of the wearer's foot / ankle (e.g., across the instep containing portion of the upper), and to a second side of the ankle containing portion (e.g., on the medial side of the footwear article) when the closure system is in the closed state and the fastener for the ankle strap is engaged. At least a portion of the fastener for the ankle strap may be located on the medial side of the footwear upper.

[0025] Various example dimensional features of uppers / footwear articles according to at least some examples of the present invention will now be described. At least some examples of the present invention may include any one or more of the following features:

[0026] (a) at least some portion of the track at the second side (e.g., the medial side) of the ankle containing portion may be located less than 1.5 inches (3.81 cm), and in some examples, less than 1.25 inches (3.18 cm), less than 1 inch (2.54 cm), or even less than 0.75 inches (1.91 cm) from at least some portion of the fastener (e.g., from a portion of the ankle strap fastener that the upper engages) - NOTE Figure 2A and Figure 3B Dimension D1 in;

[0027] (b) When the article of footwear is oriented on a horizontal support surface in an unloaded condition, the rearmost ankle portion of the track may be located less than 2 inches (5.08 cm), and in some examples, less than 1.75 inches (4.45 cm), less than 1.5 inches (3.81 cm), or even less than 1.25 inches (3.18 cm) from at least some portion of the top edge of the upper (e.g., from a rearmost top point and / or rearmost top edge of the upper, from a top point or top edge of a foot insertion opening of the upper at a rearmost heel position RH of the upper, etc.) - NOTE Figure 2D Dimension D3 in;

[0028] (c) the first end of the track (e.g., the open end of the slider track) can be located less than 2 inches (5.08 cm), and in some examples, less than 1.75 inches (4.45 cm), less than 1.5 inches (3.81 cm), or even less than 1.25 inches (3.18 cm) from at least some portion of the top of the foot insertion opening of the upper (e.g., a top point or top edge of the foot insertion opening at a location directly above the first end of the track when the article of footwear is positioned on a horizontal support surface in an unloaded condition) - NOTE Figure 2B and Figure 3ADimension D4 in; and / or

[0029] (d) at least some portion of the track at the second side of the ankle containing portion (e.g., on the medial side of the upper) may be located less than 2.25 inches (5.72 cm), less than 2 inches (5.08 cm), less than 1.75 inches (4.45 cm), less than 1.5 inches (3.81 cm), or even less than 1.25 inches (3.18 cm) from at least some portion of the top of the foot insertion opening of the upper (e.g., from a top point or top edge of the foot insertion opening at a location directly above the track at the second side of the ankle containing portion when the article of footwear is positioned on a horizontal support surface in an unloaded condition) - NOTE Figure 2A and 3B Dimension D2 in.

[0030] Uppers and / or footwear articles according to at least some examples of this invention may include an exterior component and an interior component. In such a configuration, a closure system (e.g., a track) may be engaged with the exterior component, and / or the interior component may include a foot-receiving boot (e.g., for fully or partially containing a wearer's foot within the footwear upper). The interior component may also include at least one lace engaged with the foot-receiving boot, and the footwear article (e.g., upper, sole structure, etc.) may also include a lock that releasably holds the at least one lace in tension around the wearer's foot. As a more specific example, the interior component may include: (a) a first lace section extending from a first side of a heel-receiving area of ​​the foot-receiving boot in front of a foot-receiving opening of the foot-receiving boot to a second side of the foot-receiving boot; and (b) a second lace section extending from a second side of the heel-receiving area of ​​the foot-receiving boot to a first side of the foot-receiving boot in front of the foot-receiving opening of the foot-receiving boot. The first lacing section and the second lacing section (which may be parts of one lacing or two separate lacings) may cross each other, for example, at a location forward of a foot-receiving opening of the foot-receiving boot. In at least some examples of this aspect of the invention, (a) the first lacing section may extend along a first side of a heel-containing area of ​​the foot-receiving boot at a location interior to an exterior portion of the upper, (b) the second lacing section may extend along a second side of the heel-containing area of ​​the foot-receiving boot at a location interior to an exterior portion of the upper, (c) the first lacing section may extend to the exterior of the exterior portion of the upper at a first rear heel area of ​​the upper, and / or (d) the second lacing section may extend to the exterior of the exterior portion of the upper at a first rear heel area of ​​the upper or at a second rear heel area of ​​the upper.

[0031] The lock according to these examples / aspects of the invention can be any type of fastening system for holding one or more laces in a tensioned state, and the lock can be located anywhere on the footwear article. As a more specific example, at least a portion of the lock can be located in a rear heel area of ​​an outer portion of the upper or a rear heel area of ​​the sole structure. The first lace section and / or the second lace section can engage the lock, and the lock will releasably hold the first lace section and / or the second lace section in a tensioned state (e.g., around the wearer's foot). As some even more specific examples, the lock can include: one or more spring-loaded support surfaces that clamp the first lace section and / or the second lace section to hold it / them in place in a tensioned state; a ratchet-type tightening reel for one or more of the lace sections; one or more clamps; one or more clips; one or more retainers; and the like.

[0032] In other example footwear articles according to at least some aspects of the present invention, the footwear article will include at least one lace engaged with an upper and a locking member having at least one portion engaged with at least one of the upper or the sole structure. The locking member, which may have any of the structures and / or features described above, will be constructed and positioned to releasably secure the at least one lace in a tensioned state. The at least one lace may also include: (a) a first lace section extending between overlapping layers of the upper over at least a portion of the length of the upper (e.g., and extending from a first side of a heel-containing area of ​​the upper to a second side of an instep-containing portion of the upper); and (b) a second lace section extending between overlapping layers of the upper over at least a portion of the length of the upper (e.g., and extending from a second side of the heel-containing area of ​​the upper to a first side of an instep-containing portion of the upper). The first lace section may cross the second lace section in front of the foot-receiving opening of the upper. The lock may include one or more portions that engage one or more of the lacing sections, and in some examples, will include structure that engages the first lacing section and the second lacing section. The lock may be located at any location and / or engage with any portion of the footwear structure (e.g., on a side of the upper and / or sole structure, in the instep area of ​​the upper, in the rear heel area of ​​the upper and / or sole structure, etc.).

[0033] Additional examples or aspects of the present invention may include an article of footwear having: (a) an upper (e.g., in at least one embodiment, at least a first upper portion and a second upper portion); and / or (b) a first lacing section that extends along the upper (e.g., between the first upper portion and the second upper portion) and across an instep-containing portion of the upper; and / or (c) a second lacing section that extends along the upper (e.g., between the first upper portion and the second upper portion) and across an instep-containing portion of the upper; (d) a sole structure engaged with the upper; and / or (e) a lock engaged with at least one of the upper, the first lacing section, the second lacing section, or the sole structure (e.g., in the rear heel area of ​​the article of footwear), wherein the lock releasably holds at least one of the first lacing section or the second lacing section in a tensioned state. The first lacing section may extend from the medial side of the footwear article (e.g., from the medial midfoot region or medial forefoot region of the footwear article), across the instep region of the footwear article, around the medial ankle region of the footwear article, and to a rear heel position where it engages the lock. The first lacing section may be secured to the upper (e.g., to the first upper component and / or the second upper component) and / or the sole structure (and / or another footwear component) (e.g., by stitching, adhesive, mechanical connector, etc.) at the medial midfoot and / or medial forefoot region (e.g., where the upper, sole structure, and first lacing portion meet). Additionally or alternatively, the second lacing section may extend from the lateral side of the footwear article (e.g., from the lateral midfoot or lateral forefoot region of the footwear article), across the instep region of the footwear article, around the medial ankle region of the footwear article, and to a rear heel position where it engages the lock. The second lacing section may be secured to the upper (e.g., to the first upper component and / or the second upper component) and / or the sole structure (and / or another footwear component) at the lateral midfoot and / or lateral forefoot region (e.g., where the upper, sole structure, and second lacing portion meet) (e.g., by stitching, adhesive, mechanical connector, etc.). The article of footwear according to this aspect of the invention may have any type of upper, foot insertion opening, and / or closure system, including any upper, foot insertion opening, and / or closure system described above and / or in more detail below.

[0034] Articles of footwear according to additional and / or other aspects of the invention may include:

[0035] (a) a first upper component (formed from one or more parts, such as an outer upper component);

[0036] (b) a second upper component (formed from one or more parts, such as an inner upper component and / or a foot-containing bootie);

[0037] (c) a foot insertion opening (which may include a closure system) defined by a first upper component, wherein the foot insertion opening (and / or the closure system, if present) extends: (i) from a first side of an ankle containing portion of the first upper component, (ii) around a rear heel or ankle region of the first upper component, (iii) along a second side of the ankle containing portion of the first upper component, and (iv) to an instep containing portion of the upper (in some embodiments: (a) the foot insertion opening and / or the closure system may extend across the instep containing portion of the first upper component and to the first side of the instep containing portion of the first upper component, (b) the foot insertion opening and / or the closure system may extend across a central longitudinal axis of the upper at a forefoot portion of the upper; and / or (c) the foot insertion opening and / or the closure system may extend at or near the central longitudinal axis of the upper at the forefoot portion of the upper to the forefoot portion of the upper (e.g., not across the central longitudinal axis of the upper at the forefoot portion of the upper);

[0038] (d) a first lacing section extending between the first upper member and the second upper member and across (e.g., under) an instep-containing portion of the first upper member;

[0039] (e) a second lacing section extending between the first upper member and the second upper member and across (e.g., under) an instep-containing portion of the first upper member;

[0040] (f) a sole structure joined to at least one of the first upper component or the second upper component; and

[0041] (g) a locking member engaged with at least one of the first upper member, the second upper member, the first lacing section, the second lacing section, or the sole structure, such as at a rear heel region of any one or more of these members, wherein the locking member releasably holds at least one of the first lacing section or the second lacing section in tension (e.g., around a wearer's foot).

[0042] A closure system can be provided that extends along the length of the foot insertion opening, the closure system comprising, for example, a track and in some examples a slider that engages the track (e.g., a zipper or other slider-based closure system as described above), wherein movement of the slider along the track changes the closure system between an open state and a closed state (and changes the foot insertion opening). Additionally or alternatively, the closure system (when present) can include one or more of the following: one or more buttons, one or more snaps, one or more Velcro strips, one or more buckles, one or more securing straps, one or more pressure interlocking track structures (e.g., a track that can be opened and closed without a slider, but by hand pressure or other pressure source), one or more straps, one or more magnets, etc., all of which are disposed at one or more locations along the length of the foot insertion opening. As another alternative or possible feature, this type of closure system can be omitted (e.g., and the foot insertion opening can be held closed by an ankle strap (e.g., of the type described above and / or of the type described in more detail below) or other structure).

[0043] The article of footwear according to these examples / aspects of the invention may also include an ankle strap that is disposed as a portion of or engaged with at least one of the first upper component or the second upper component (e.g., an ankle strap that extends across a central longitudinal axis of the article of footwear and / or the upper and / or across the instep of the first upper component and / or the second upper component and includes a portion thereof). The ankle strap (when present) may include and / or engage a fastener that releasably (partially or completely) holds the foot insertion opening (and / or the closure system (when present)) in a closed state.

[0044] In these examples / aspects of the invention, the first lacing section may extend along a first side of the heel inclusion area of ​​the second upper component, and the second lacing section may extend along a second side of the heel inclusion area of ​​the second upper component. In at least some examples of the invention, the first lacing section may extend through the first upper component, for example, at a first rear heel area of ​​the first upper component, and / or the second lacing section may extend through the first upper component, for example, at a first rear heel area of ​​the first upper component or at a second rear heel area of ​​the first upper component. The lacing sections may engage a lock at the rear heel area.

[0045] Although the above description mentions that the "first side" of a footwear article, upper, or other footwear component may be the lateral side, and the "second side" of a footwear article, upper, or other footwear component may be the medial side, at least in some example structures according to various aspects of the present invention, the "first side" may be the medial side, and the "second side" may be the lateral side.

[0046] More specific examples of structures and aspects of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0047] II. Detailed description of footwear and footwear components according to examples of the present invention

[0048] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D A medial side view, a lateral side view, a front view, and a rear view of a footwear article 200 according to at least some examples and aspects of the present invention are provided, respectively. The exemplary footwear article 200 is a high-top boot or a basketball shoe. However, various aspects of the present invention may also be used in shoes for other events and / or other types of uses or activities. The footwear article 200 includes an upper 202 and a sole structure 204 joined to the upper 202. The upper 202 and the sole structure 204 may be joined together in any manner, including in a manner generally known and used in the field of footwear (e.g., by an adhesive or cement, by stitching or sewing, by mechanical connectors, etc.). The upper 202 also defines a foot insertion opening 206 that allows a user's foot to enter an internal foot-receiving chamber of the footwear 200. The foot-receiving chamber may be at least partially defined by the footwear upper 202, at least partially defined by the sole structure 204, and / or at least partially defined by other footwear components.

[0049] The sole structure 204 may be made of any material and / or components without departing from the invention, including conventional materials and / or conventional components / components known and used in the footwear field. As some more specific examples, the sole structure 204 may include one or more midsole components (e.g., for providing one or more of impact force attenuation, wearer comfort, etc.) and / or one or more outsole components (e.g., for providing one or more of wear resistance, traction, ground contact members, etc.). The midsole component (when present) may include one or more of the following components: one or more polymer foam material portions (e.g., made of polyurethane foam material, ethyl vinyl acetate foam material, etc.); one or more fluid-filled bladders; one or more mechanical shock absorbers; and the like. The midsole component (if any) may be joined to the upper, for example, directly joined to one or more upper components, such as a strobel component, an external upper component, an internal upper component, a boot component, and the like. The outsole component, if any, can be made of conventional outsole materials, such as natural or synthetic leather, natural or synthetic rubber, thermoplastic polyurethane, polyurethane, ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer materials, etc. The outsole component, if any, can be joined with one or more midsole components, one or more upper components, and / or with another footwear component. As another alternative feature present in one or more embodiments, a single sole structure component or portion can be used as both an impact-attenuating component and a ground-contacting component of the footwear article 200 (e.g., as both a midsole component and an outsole component).

[0050] like FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D As shown, the upper 202 of the exemplary article of footwear 200 includes one or more upper portions, the one or more upper portions defining:

[0051] (a) an ankle-encompassing portion 210 having a first side (e.g., lateral side 210AL), a second side (e.g., medial side 210AM), and a rear portion 210AR; and

[0052] (b) The instep includes a portion 220 having a first side (eg, lateral side 220IL), a second side (eg, medial side 220IM), and a central portion 220IC.

[0053] The upper 202 (and the portion defining the ankle containing portion 210 and / or the portion defining the instep containing portion 220) may be made of any materials and / or components without departing from this invention, including conventional materials and / or conventional components / components known and used in the footwear art.

[0054] The exemplary article of footwear 200 includes a closure system 230 engaged with the upper 202 and used to change the foot insertion opening 206 of the upper 202 (and the closure system 230) between an open state (in which a user can insert or remove his / her foot) and a closed state (in which the upper 202 is secured to the wearer's foot). In the illustrated example, the closure system 230 includes a track 230T that extends from a first end 230A (e.g., an open end) located at a first side (e.g., an outward side) of the ankle containing portion 210AL of the upper 202 to a second end 230B (e.g., a closed end) located at a first side (e.g., an outward side) of the instep containing portion 220IL of the upper 202. In this manner, as shown in FIG. FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D As shown, the track 230T can extend in the following manner: (a) around the rear ankle area 210AR of the ankle containing portion 210 of the upper 202, (b) along the second side (e.g., medial side) 210AM of the ankle containing portion 210 of the upper 202, and (c) across the central portion 220IC of the instep containing portion 220 of the upper 202 (e.g., across the central longitudinal axis of the upper 202 at a position forward of the foot insertion opening 206). The central portion 220IC of the instep containing portion 220 of the upper 202 is located between (e.g., bridges and / or connects) the first side (e.g., lateral side) 220IL of the instep containing portion 220 of the upper 202 and the second side (e.g., medial side) 220IM of the instep containing portion 220 of the upper 202. The path on the upper 202 defined by the track 230T can also define all or a portion of the foot insertion opening 206 of the upper 202 / footwear article 200.

[0055] In this exemplary footwear 200 structure, a slider 230S is engaged with a track 230T. The slider 230S can move along the track 230T to change the exemplary closure system 230 between an open state (e.g., a foot insertion state or a foot removal state) and a closed state (e.g., a foot securing state). The track 230T and the slider 230S can constitute a zipper-type closure system or other slider-based closure system (e.g., an interlocking track structure with a slider, etc.). As another alternative or possible feature, the slider 230S can be omitted and the track 230T can constitute an interlocking track that can be closed by applying pressure to the interlocking track portions and opened by separation / pulling (e.g., similar to a closure track along a resealable food storage bag). Additionally or alternatively, the closure system 230 may include one or more of the following: one or more buttons, one or more snaps, one or more Velcro straps, one or more buckles, one or more fixing straps (e.g., including an ankle strap), one or more straps, one or more magnets, etc., all of which are arranged at one or more positions along the length of the foot insertion opening 206 and / or the length of the track 230T of the closure system 230 (e.g., along the track 230T from the first end 230A to the second end 230B).

[0056] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D The exemplary article of footwear 200 is also shown to include an ankle strap 240, for example, extending around the front ankle covering portion 210AF and / or extending across the central instep containing portion 220IC of the upper 202 to help secure the article of footwear 200 to the wearer's foot. According to at least some examples of this invention, the ankle strap 240 can be engaged with the slider 230S of the closure system 230. The ankle strap 240 of this example includes and / or is engaged with a fastener to releasably secure to the upper 202. As a more specific example, the fastener can include an engagement element 240E that releasably engages a securing member 240S that is engaged with the upper 202, for example, at a second side of the ankle containing portion (e.g., the medial side 210AM). In this example, the ankle strap 240 is releasably engaged with the fixing member 240S to enable the ankle strap 240, the foot insertion opening 206, and / or the entire closure system 230 to be in an open state (where the ankle strap 240 is disengaged from the fixing member 240S, such as in combination with Figures 3A to 3E ) and a closed state (wherein the ankle strap 240 is engaged with the fixing member 240S, such as Figures 2A to 2DAny type of fastener may be used without departing from the invention, including one or more of the following: a combination of an engagement element 240E comprising an ankle strap 240 and a securing member 240S engaged with the upper 202; one or more snaps; one or more buttons; one or more Velcro strips; one or more buckles; one or more straps or bands; one or more magnets; etc. In the specifically illustrated example, the fastener includes a combination of a securing element 240E and a securing member 240S mating therewith, which are structurally part of a conventional releasable snap connector.

[0057] like FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D As further shown, in this exemplary footwear structure 200, when the foot insertion opening 206, the closure system 230, and / or the lace 240 are in a closed state, the ankle lace 240 extends from a first side 210AL of the ankle containing portion 210 (e.g., the lateral side) of the upper 202 to a second side 210AM (e.g., the medial side) of the ankle containing portion 210. FIG. 3A to FIG. 3E Additional details of the ankle strap 230, its engagement with the upper 202, and its transition between an open state and a closed state are described in greater detail.

[0058] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D Additional exemplary features of an article of footwear 200 and components thereof according to at least some examples of this invention are shown. Figure 2A As shown, a portion of the track 230 at the second side 210AM (e.g., the medial side) of the ankle containing portion 210 can be located at a distance D1 of less than 1.5 inches (3.81 cm) from the engagement element 240E (when the ankle strap 240 is secured) or at least a portion of the securing component 240S that cooperates therewith, and in some embodiments, less than 1.25 inches (3.18 cm), less than 1 inch (2.54 cm), or even less than 0.75 inches (1.91 cm). In addition, as FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D As shown, the engagement element 240E and / or its corresponding fixing component 240S can be located between the track 230T and the top (e.g., top edge 206E) of the foot insertion opening 206 of the upper 202. Additionally or alternatively, in at least some examples of the present invention, a portion of the track 230T at the second side 210AM (e.g., the medial side) of the ankle containing portion 210 can be located at a distance D2 of less than 2.25 inches (5.72 centimeters), less than 2 inches (5.08 cm), less than 1.75 inches (4.45 cm), less than 1.5 inches (3.81 cm), or even less than 1.25 inches (3.18 cm) from the top (e.g., top edge 206E) of the foot insertion opening 206 of the upper 202.

[0059] As another or alternative potential size feature, such as Figure 2D As shown in , in at least some examples of the present invention, when the footwear article 200 is positioned on a horizontal base surface, the top of the rearmost ankle portion of the track 230 (and / or the entire rearmost ankle portion of the track 230) can be located at a distance D3 of less than 2 inches (5.08 cm), and in some examples, less than 1.75 inches (4.45 cm), less than 1.5 inches (3.81 cm), or even less than 1.25 inches (3.18 cm) from the rearmost top point or top edge 206E of the upper 202. In some examples, the distance D3 can be measured from the top of the track 230T at the rearmost heel position RH of the upper 202 to the rearmost top point or rearmost top edge 206E of the foot insertion opening 206 of the upper 202 at the rearmost heel position RH of the upper 202. According to at least some examples of the present invention, as Figure 2B As shown, for example, when the upper 202 and the foot insertion opening 206 are in a closed state and the footwear 200 is supported in an unloaded state on a horizontal base surface, the first end 230A of the track 230 (e.g., the open end of the foot insertion opening 206) can be located at a distance D4 of less than 2 inches (5.08 cm) from the top of the foot insertion opening 206 of the upper 202 (e.g., the top edge 206E), and in some embodiments, less than 1.75 inches (4.45 cm), less than 1.5 inches (3.81 cm), or even less than 1.25 inches (3.18 cm).

[0060] According to at least some examples of this invention, the first end 230A of the track 230 and / or the foot insertion opening 206 may be located at the first side 210AL of the ankle containing portion 210 of the upper 202, for example, between parallel planes at P = 0.25L and P = 0.45L along the longitudinal direction L of the footwear article 200, and in some examples, between parallel planes at P = 0.3L and P = 0.4L (where P = 0.34L, e.g., Figure 2B Additionally or alternatively, the foot insertion opening 206 and / or track 230T may extend rearwardly from the first end 230A to a rearmost opening / track position PT, for example, between parallel planes at P=0L and P=0.2L along the longitudinal direction L of the footwear article 200, and in some examples, between parallel planes at P=0.05L and P=0.15L (where P=0.09L, as shown). Figure 2BAdditionally or alternatively, after extending around the wearer's ankle, the foot insertion opening 206 and / or track 230T can extend to its other end 230B (or to a forward-most point), for example, between parallel planes at P=0.6L and P=0.85L along the longitudinal direction L of the footwear article 200, and in some examples, between parallel planes at P=0.65L and P=0.8L (where P=0.74L, as shown). Figure 2B As described above, in at least some examples of the present invention, the second end 230B of the track 230T (and / or the foot insertion opening 206) is located on the first side 220IL of the instep containing portion 220 of the upper 202 (e.g., the same side of the upper 202 where the first end 230A of the track 230T and / or the foot insertion opening 206 are located). Additionally or alternatively, as Figure 2A As shown in , at least a portion of the fastener (e.g., 240E and / or 240S) or a location for securing the ankle strap 240 to the upper 202 (if any) may be located on the second side 210AM of the ankle containing portion 210 of the upper 202, for example, between parallel planes at P=0.2L and P=0.45L along the longitudinal direction L of the footwear article 200, and in some examples, between parallel planes at P=0.25L and P=0.4L (where P=0.32L, as shown in FIG. Figure 2A Other arrangements and / or positions of any one or more of these various components and / or features may be used, however, some exemplary articles of footwear according to the present invention may have any one or more of these positional features and / or characteristics without departing from the present invention. Figure 1 The above-mentioned plane position is determined in the manner described.

[0061] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D The upper 202 of the exemplary article of footwear 200 is also shown to include a heel support 250 that extends at least around the heel area of ​​the upper 202. The heel support 250 can be used at least in part as a conventional heel counter type structure or other heel support structure of the article of footwear 200. In the illustrated example, the heel support 250 of the upper 202 includes a locking member 330, which will be described below, for example, in conjunction with Figures 3A to 4G Describe in more detail.

[0062] The following will be combined FIG. 3A to FIG. 3E Additional or alternative potential features of articles of footwear and uppers according to at least some examples of the present invention are described, for example, including FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D Examples of footwear articles 200 and uppers 202. In addition to illustrating possible and exemplary structural features of such footwear articles and uppers, FIG. 3A to FIG. 3EAlso shown is such an article of footwear and an upper, which includes FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D The article of footwear 200, upper 202, closure system 230, and lace 240 of the present invention can be changed between an open state (e.g., a foot insertion configuration or a foot removal configuration) and a closed state (e.g., a foot securing configuration). FIG. 3A to FIG. 3E The reference numerals used in FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D Where the same reference numerals are used in the FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D These components / structures may have the same FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D The same or similar components / structures as those described above are replaced by the same or similar alternatives and / or features as those described above for their corresponding components). Repeated descriptions of these same or similar components / structures will be omitted.

[0063] like FIG. 3A to FIG. 3E As shown, the exemplary footwear article 300 includes a first upper component 302A (e.g., an outer upper component) and a second upper component 302B (e.g., an inner upper component). These upper components 302A and 302B can be fixed together or can be separated from each other. In the exemplary footwear article 300, the foot insertion opening 206 is at least partially defined by the first upper component 302A. In this specifically illustrated exemplary article of footwear 300, the foot insertion opening 206 extends in the following manner: (a) from the first side 210AL of the ankle containing portion 210 of the first upper component 302A, (b) around the rear heel or ankle region 210AR of the first upper component 302A, (c) along the second side 210AM of the ankle containing portion 210 of the first upper component 302A, (d) across the instep containing portion 220 of the first upper component 302A, and (e) to the first side 220IL of the instep containing portion 220 of the first upper component 302A. As described in more detail above, one or more of the above-mentioned portions of the foot insertion opening 206 described in items (a) to (e) above may also include a closure system 230, such as a track 230T and a slide 230S or other types of closure systems. The top edge 206E of the first upper component 302A also forms a portion of the foot insertion opening 206 of this example. The top edge 206E may include, for example, an elastic material or other material to fit and / or securely engage with the wearer's ankle / leg. The sole structure 204 may be joined with at least one of the first upper component 302A and / or the second upper component 302B (or another footwear component portion).

[0064] FIG. 3A to FIG. 3E The illustrated article of footwear 300 may also include an ankle strap 240 and / or a fastener (e.g., 240E / 240S) for the ankle strap 240, such as having a plurality of fasteners as described above. FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D Any features and / or alternatives of these components.

[0065] like FIG. 2A to FIG. 3D As shown, the foot insertion opening 206 and / or the closure system 230 can be in (a) a closed state (e.g., FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D foot fixed state as shown) and (b) an open state (e.g., as shown Figure 3C The footwear 200, 300 may be transitioned between a closed state, in which the footwear 200, 300 may be secured to the wearer's foot, and an open state, in which the foot may be inserted into or removed from the upper 202 / 302A. The ankle-containing portion 210 of the upper 202 / 302A (which may be formed from one or more portions) may constitute a "flap" of material or other flexible member that wraps around the wearer's foot / ankle and is releasably secured around the wearer's foot / ankle (e.g., using the closure system 230 and / or ankle strap 240).

[0066] By comparison Figure 2B and 3A As can be most clearly seen, the ankle-containing portion 210 of these example uppers 202 / 302A includes a first end 310A that meets (and may overlap) a second end 310B when the ankle-containing portion 210 of the upper 202 / 302A is in a closed state. These ends 310A / 310B may define the ankle-wrapping portion of the example upper 202 / 302A. FIG. 2A to FIG. 3E In the example footwear article 200 / 300 shown in , the first ankle wrap end 310A overlaps the second ankle wrap end 310B when the ankle containing portion 210 of the upper 202 / 302A is in a closed state. In some footwear structures, fasteners may be provided at one or both of the first ankle wrap end 310A and / or the second ankle wrap end 310B to secure these ends 310A / 310B together. Such fasteners may include one or more of the following: one or more snaps, one or more buttons, one or more Velcro, one or more buckles, one or more straps or ties, one or more magnetic connectors / fasteners, and the like. However, in the example shown, fasteners are not included at these two ends 310A / 310B, but when in the closed configuration, the ends 310A / 310B simply overlap. As shown in FIG. Figure 3AAs shown, when the ankle covering portion 210 is positioned in the closed position (or closed) and the article of footwear 300 is supported on a horizontal support surface, the second ankle wrapping end 310B of the ankle containing portion 210 is vertically aligned with or vertically overlaps the first end 230A of the track 230T (and / or the end of the foot insertion opening 206 is vertically aligned with or vertically overlaps the second ankle wrapping end 310B). In this way, when the foot insertion opening 206 and / or the closure system 230 (when present) are fully closed (e.g., when the slider 230S is located at the end 230A of the track 230T), the top of the ankle covering portion 210 of the upper component 302A will completely surround the wearer's ankle / leg.

[0067] As another possibility, the two ends 310A / 310B do not overlap, but can be close to each other or in close proximity to each other (the term "close proximity" used in this specific context means that at least some portion of the first ankle wrap end 310A is located within 1 inch (2.54 cm) of at least some portion of the second ankle wrap end 310B). Additionally or alternatively, the degree of overlap or separation of the ends 310A / 310B can depend at least in part on the circumference of the wearer's leg, the degree of elastic stretch in the top edge 206E (if any), and / or the user's desired tightness of the top edge 206E of the foot insertion opening 206 around his / her leg.

[0068] The second upper component 302B (eg, the “inner” upper component) of the upper of the exemplary article of footwear 300 will now be described in greater detail. Figure 3A and Figures 3C to 3E As shown, in the illustrated example, the second upper component 302B constitutes a boot that at least partially defines an interior chamber 308 for accommodating a wearer's foot. The second upper component 302B can fully or partially define the interior chamber 308, and it can be fully or partially contained / accommodated within the first upper component 302A (which can constitute an exterior upper component). Access to the interior chamber 308 is provided through a foot insertion opening 306 defined by the second upper component 302B. Figure 3B As shown, when the first upper component 302A, the foot insertion opening 206 and / or the closure system 230 are in a closed state, the second upper component 302B can be completely hidden. However, if desired, when the first upper component 302A, the foot insertion opening 206 and / or the closure system 230 are in a closed state, some portions of the second upper component 302B can be visible and / or exposed.

[0069] The illustrated exemplary footwear 300 structure includes additional structure to tension and secure the second upper component 302B to the wearer's foot. FIG. 3D to FIG. 3Eshown (and may also be included in FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D In the example of the embodiment of the present invention, the article of footwear 300 includes a first lacing section 320A that extends between the first upper component 302A and the second upper component 302B and crosses over (and is located below) the central instep inclusion portion 220IC of the first upper component 302A. The exemplary lacing section 320A extends from the lateral forefoot and / or lateral instep inclusion portion 220IL of the entire upper to the medial ankle inclusion portion 210AM of the entire upper. The article of footwear 300 also includes a second lacing section 320B that extends between the first upper component 302A and the second upper component 302B and crosses over (and is located below) the central instep inclusion portion 220IC of the first upper component 302A. The exemplary lacing section 320B extends from the medial forefoot and / or medial instep inclusion portion 220IM of the entire upper to the lateral ankle inclusion portion 210AL of the entire upper. Figure 3E As best shown, in the illustrated example, first lacing section 320A intersects second lacing section 320B at a location forward of foot-receiving opening 306 (e.g., foot-receiving boot) of inner upper component 302B. Forward ends of lacing sections 320A / 320B may be permanently or releasably engaged (e.g., by one or more of stitching, adhesives, mechanical connectors, etc.) with upper and / or sole structure 204 of footwear 300 at medial and / or lateral forefoot regions and / or medial and / or lateral midfoot regions of footwear article 300.

[0070] Reference Figures 3A to 4G , the first lacing section 320A extends along the medial ankle inclusion portion 210AM inside the first upper member 302A and outside the second upper member 302B, and leaves from the middle position to reach the area outside the first upper member 302A at the rear heel area of ​​the first upper member 302A (e.g., through the opening 304M set at the rear heel area, such as Figure 4D , 4F Similarly, second lacing section 320B extends along lateral ankle containment portion 210AL, inside first upper member 302A and outside second upper member 302B, and exits from this intermediate position to reach an area outside first upper member 302A at a rear heel area of ​​first upper member 302A (e.g., through opening 304L provided at the rear heel area, such as shown in FIG. 4G ). Figure 4D , 4F4G through opening 304L of heel support 250). Second lacing section 320B may extend from its intermediate position between first upper component 302A and second upper component 302B to the exterior of first upper component 302A, through the same opening in upper component 302A and / or heel support 250 as first lacing section 320A, or through a separate and independent opening (e.g., Figure 4D , 4F and openings 304M and 304L in 4G, and as described above, can be a single opening through which both lace sections 320A and 320B extend).

[0071] In the example shown (and in FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D In the example of the present invention, the rear heel area of ​​the first upper component 302A includes a lock 330 for engaging one or both lacing sections 320A / 320B. The lock 330 can be engaged with at least one of the first upper component 302A, the second upper component 302B, the first lacing section 320A, the second lacing section 320B and / or the sole structure 204 of the footwear article. The lock 330 releasably holds at least one of the first lacing section 320A and the second lacing section 320B in a tensioned state (for example) around the wearer's foot. In the example shown, the lock 330 engages the first lacing section 320A and the second lacing section 320B. The lacing sections 320A / 320B of this example are connected together at their free ends by a pull tab 322. The pull tab 322 may be formed by a separate portion to which the free ends of the lace segments 320A / 320B are joined (e.g., by sewing, adhesive, mechanical connectors, etc.), and / or the pull tab 322 may be formed by fixing the free ends of the lace segments 320A / 320B together without a separate portion (e.g., by joining the free ends of the lace segments together by sewing, adhesive, mechanical connectors, etc.).

[0072] like Figure 4B and Figure 4C As shown in the comparison of FIG. 3 , the first strap section 320A and the second strap section 320B can be tightened around the wearer's foot by pulling the pull tab 322 outward. This action is performed by Figure 4B , and which shortens the length of the first lacing section 320A and the second lacing section 320B within the interior of the upper (e.g., in the volume between the first upper component 302A and the second upper component 302B), thereby tightening the lacing sections 320A / 320B around the wearer's foot. Figure 4B The arrangement shown is changed to Figure 4COnce at the desired tension for the user, the lock 330 (an example of which will be described in more detail below) can be activated to hold the strap portions 320A / 320B in a fixed position relative to the lock 330 (e.g., Figure 4C ). The lacing section 320A / 320B may be tightened before or after the first upper component 302A is secured around the wearer's foot. The first upper component 302A may be secured around the wearer's foot, for example: (a) by sliding the slider 230S along the track 230T from the second end 230B to the first end 230A, or otherwise closing the closure system 230, and / or (b) by engaging the fastener element 240E with a mating fastener element 240S or otherwise securing the fastener, thereby securing the ankle strap 240 around the wearer's ankle / leg.

[0073] like FIG. 3C to FIG. 3E As shown, in the illustrated exemplary article of footwear 300, the first lacing section 320A and the second lacing section 320B engage an additional component, such as an additional lacing section 320C, and the additional component is used to loosen the first lacing section 320A and / or the second lacing section 320B from their / their tensioned state around the wearer's foot. More specifically, in this example, the loosening component (e.g., lacing section 320C) forms a loop, and the first lacing section 320A and the second lacing section 320B pass through the loop. The loosening component (e.g., lacing section 320C) loop is located at a central instep covering portion of the entire upper (e.g., between the first upper component 302A and the second upper component 302B) and / or in front of the foot insertion opening 306 of the second upper component 302B, for example as Figure 3E As shown. The release member need not constitute a strap portion. As other examples, it may constitute a pull tab, a loop, a hardware element, or any other type of structure that will allow a user to pull one or more of the strap portions 320A and / or 320B upward and / or forward from the wearer's foot and away from the wearer's leg / ankle, thereby loosening the strap portions 320A and / or 320B from the tensioned state.

[0074] Now refer to FIG. 3A to FIG. 3E The removal process of the footwear 300 is described in more detail, for example, from FIG. 2A to FIG. 2DThe secured shoe shown is started. First, the ankle strap 240 is loosened, for example, by separating the ankle strap fastener (e.g., by separating the ankle strap fastener element 240E from the upper-based fastener component 240S). Then, the foot insertion opening 206 of the first upper component 302A is opened by unfolding the ankle-containing wing 210 of the first upper component 302A around the wearer's leg. If the footwear article 300 is so equipped, this action may require moving the slider 230S from the first end 230A to the second end 230B along the track 230T (or otherwise disengaging any current type of closure system for the foot-receiving opening 206). The lock 330 can then be unlocked, and the wearer can then pull the loosened component (e.g., the lacing section 320C) forward, for example as shown. FIG. 3C to FIG. 3E As shown by arrow 326 in FIG. By pulling the release member (lace section 320C) forward, this also pulls the lace sections 320A and 320B forward and pulls the exposed lace sections 320A / 320B at the rear heel area inward (as shown in FIG. Figure 4C As shown by arrow 328 in FIG. Figure 4C The arrangement shown in is changed to Figure 4B ). Once first lacing section 320A and second lacing section 320B are sufficiently loosened, the wearer's foot can be removed from interior chamber 308 through foot insertion opening 306 and foot insertion opening 206. A separate loosening component (e.g., lacing section 320C) can be omitted, and lacing sections 320A and / or 320B can be loosened by pulling them back onto the upper. The above steps can also occur in a different order and / or some steps can occur simultaneously.

[0075] Any type of lock 330 structure may be provided without departing from the present invention. In the specifically illustrated example, lock 330 includes a base 330B having one or more openings defined through base 330B, through which lacing sections 320A and 320B extend (e.g., aligned with or as part of openings 304L and 304M in upper component 302A / heel support 250). Spring-loaded lock 330L may engage base 330B in a manner such that spring-loaded lock 330L may slide inwardly and outwardly relative to base 330B. Figure 4FAs shown, when the spring 330S of the spring-loaded lock 330L is in a "relaxed" or "extended" state, at least one of the first lace segment 320A and / or the second lace segment 320B is "clamped" between two (or more) supporting surfaces 404 to hold the lace segment 320A / 320B in an appropriate position relative to at least a portion of the lock 330 (e.g., the lock base 330B) and to hold the lace segment 320A / 320B in a tensioned state. In the "relaxed" or "extended" state of this particular example, at least some portion of openings 304L and / or 304M are "closed" to clamp lacing segment 320A / 320B between bearing surface 404 of lock 330L and base 330B and prevent relative movement of (a) lacing segment 320A / 320B relative to (b) lock base 330B, upper component 302A, upper component 302B, and / or heel support 250. In the illustrated exemplary lock 330 structure, spring 330S biases lock 330L to Figure 4F in a "relaxed" or locked configuration.

[0076] On the other hand, Figure 4D , 4E 4G, when the spring 330S of the spring-loaded lock 330L is in a "compressed" state (e.g., when the user pushes the opposite ends of the lock 330L inwardly as shown by arrow 402 with sufficient force to overcome the biasing force of the spring 330S), at least one of the first lace segment 320A and / or the second lace segment 320B will no longer be "sandwiched" between the two support surfaces 404. This "compressed" lock 330 state opens at least one of the openings 304L / 304M and allows the lace segments 320A / 320B to move relative to at least some portion of the lock 330 (e.g., the lock base 330B). This compressed lock 330 state also allows the lace segments 320A / 320B to be tightened or loosened according to the needs of the user. In the “compressed” state, at least some portion of openings 304L and / or 304M are “opened” to allow easy and relative movement of lacing sections 320A / 320B relative to lock base 330B, upper component 302A, upper component 302B and / or heel support 250.

[0077] Without departing from the invention, many variations of lacing sections, locks 330 structures and / or different types of lock structures and locking mechanisms may be provided. As an example, the two lacing sections 320A and 320B may constitute part of a single continuous lace. Additionally or alternatively, only one of the lacing sections 320A or 320B may engage the lock (regardless of whether the lacing sections 320A / 320B constitute part of one lace or two separate laces), and the other lacing section may be fixed relative to the footwear upper (e.g., to allow only one lacing section to be tightened or loosened, to allow tightening or loosening one lacing section with a lock to tighten or loosen both lacing sections (when the two lacing sections are part of a single continuous lace), etc.). Separate locks may be provided for each lacing section 320A, 320B. As another example, one or more locks may be provided at other locations on the shoe 300 structure, such as at one or more of the following: on the lateral heel and / or lateral ankle side of the upper and / or sole structure, on the medial heel and / or medial ankle side of the upper and / or sole structure, at the top instep inclusion area 220IC of the upper, etc.

[0078] Other types of locks may include, for example, one or more of the following: a ratcheting take-up reel that engages (e.g., rotationally) with one or more of the strap sections 320A / 320B; one or more clamps (e.g., that prevent the strap sections from moving inward through the openings 304L / 304M); one or more clips (e.g., that prevent the strap sections from moving inward through the openings 304L / 304M); one or more buckles; one or more buttons; one or more snaps; one or more retaining elements; and the like.

[0079] Although the foot insertion opening 206 and track 230 are described above and FIG. 2A to FIG. 3E 220 IL) extending across a central instep containing portion 220IC of upper 202 (e.g., across a central longitudinal axis of the upper at a forefoot portion of the upper), these features are not required in all embodiments of the invention. Instead, in some embodiments of the invention, such as Figure 3C210AL), (ii) around a rear heel or ankle region (e.g., 210AR) of the upper 202, (iii) along a second side (e.g., 210AM) of the ankle containing portion of the upper 202, and (iv) to an instep containing portion of the upper 202. In at least some embodiments of this aspect of the invention, an end of the foot insertion opening 206 and / or a closed end 230B of the track 230T may be located at a central longitudinal axis (Long.Axis, Long ... Figure 3C ) at a forefoot portion of the upper 202 at a position at or near the forefoot portion of the upper 202 (e.g., not crossing a central longitudinal axis (Long.Axis) of the upper 202 at the forefoot portion of the upper 202).

[0080] Figure 5A and Figure 5B Another example and / or additional details of an article of footwear 500, a first upper component 502 (which may constitute an inner upper component that is mated to or at least partially contained within an outer upper component), and / or lacing portions 520A / 520B are shown in accordance with at least some examples of this invention. Figure 5A and Figure 5B When the same reference numerals are used in the drawings as in other drawings, the reference numerals represent the same or similar components as described above, including any of the various alternatives, features and / or variations described above. The lacing portions 520A and 520B, the first upper component 502 and / or the combination of the following Figure 5A and Figure 5B The relative arrangement of these parts described in more detail can also be used in conjunction with the above Figures 2A to 4G Various embodiments of the present invention are described.

[0081] The exemplary footwear 500 structure includes at least a first upper component 502, a second upper component 550, and a sole structure 504 joined to at least one of the first upper component 502 and / or the second upper component 550. In the exemplary footwear structure 500, the first upper component 502 is at least partially contained within the second upper component 550. In another alternative embodiment, the first upper component 502 is completely contained within the second upper component 550. In the illustrated example, the lacing portions 520A and 520B are configured as separate laces that are joined at their free ends, such as by pull tabs 322, such as in any of the manners described above for the lacing sections 320A / 320B. The first lacing section 520A extends from the medial side of the footwear article 500 (e.g., from the medial midfoot region or the medial forefoot region of the footwear article 500), across the instep region of the footwear article 500, inside the second upper component 550 and between the second upper component 550 and the first upper component 502, through the opening at the lateral heel side region of the second upper component 550 (to the exterior of the second upper component 550), along the exterior of the lateral heel side region of the second upper component 550, to the lock 330 and the pull tab 322. The first lacing section 520A may be secured to the first upper component 502 and / or the sole structure 504 (and / or another footwear component) at the medial midfoot and / or medial forefoot region (e.g., where the first upper component 502, the sole structure 504, and the first lacing section 520A meet) (e.g., by stitching, adhesive, mechanical fasteners, etc.).

[0082] Similarly, the second lacing section 520B extends from the lateral side of the footwear article 500 (e.g., from the lateral midfoot region or lateral forefoot region of the footwear article 500), across the instep region of the footwear article 500, inside the second upper component 550 and between the second upper component 550 and the first upper component 502, through the opening 50454 at the medial heel side region of the second upper component 550 (to the exterior of the second upper component 550), along the exterior of the medial heel side region of the second upper component 550, to the lock 330 and the pull tab 322. The second lacing portion 520B may be secured to the first upper component 502 and / or the sole structure 504 (and / or another footwear component) in the lateral midfoot and / or lateral forefoot region (e.g., where the upper 502, the sole structure 504, and the second lacing portion 520B meet) (e.g., by stitching, adhesive, mechanical connector, etc.). The lateral side of the second upper component 550 may have an opening that is aligned with the Figure 5A502, and first lacing section 520A can extend through the lateral side opening to the outside of second upper component 550, as described above. The two lacing sections 520A / 520B cross each other at the instep area of ​​footwear article 500 (e.g., in front of and / or above any foot-receiving opening 502O of upper component 502).

[0083] The first upper component 502 and / or the second upper component 550 may be at least partially located on the other upper component ( Figure 5A 302A), and lock 330 may engage with the additional upper component. Additionally or alternatively, lock 330 may engage with second upper component 550 and / or first upper component 502. In some examples, second upper component 550 may constitute a heel support component (e.g., similar to heel support 250 and / or a heel counter) and / or may be an external component of article of footwear 500 (e.g., similar to a heel counter). Alternatively, first upper component 502 may have another upper component at least partially (or even completely) contained therein.

[0084] Figure 5B Some additional details of the lacing sections 520A, 520B that may be provided in at least some examples of the present invention are shown. As shown, the lacing sections 520A, 520B of this example include a wider forefoot and / or instep section 522 (e.g., having a width W1), a tapered section 524, and a narrower midfoot and / or heel / ankle section 526 (e.g., having a width W2). The width of the tapered section 524 tapers from W1 to W2. The wider forefoot and / or instep section 522 has a longitudinal length L1, the tapered section 524 has a longitudinal length L2, and the narrower midfoot and / or heel / ankle section 526 has a longitudinal length L3. The lacing sections 520A, 520B may have any one or more of the following dimensional features:

[0085] W1=1.2×W2 to 3×W2

[0086] W1 = 20 mm to 50 mm, and in some examples 30 mm

[0087] W2 = 10 mm to 25 mm, and in some examples 15 mm

[0088] L1=0.5×L3 to 1.5×L3

[0089] L1=0.65×L3 to 0.9×L3

[0090] L1=2×L2 to 6×L2

[0091] L1 = 3 × L2 to 5 × L2

[0092] L3 = 3 × L2 to 8 × L2

[0093] L3 = 4 × L2 to 6 × L2

[0094] L1+L2+L3=10×W1 to 16×W1

[0095] L1+L2+L3=20×W2 to 32×W2

[0096] L1 = 75 mm to 250 mm, and in some examples 150 mm

[0097] L2 = 0 mm to 100 mm, and in some examples 40 mm

[0098] L3 = 75 mm to 300 mm, and in some examples 200 mm

[0099] The wider forefoot and / or instep section 522 (e.g., having a width W1) of the lacing portions 520A and / or 520B (compared to the midfoot and / or heel / ankle section 526) can provide a wider area over which force is applied to the wearer's foot when the lacing portions 520A, 520B are tightened, thereby improving the comfort of the lacing portions 520A / 520B on the wearer's foot and directly engaging a larger portion of the wearer's foot. The narrower midfoot and / or heel / ankle section 526 can reduce the size of the lock 330 and the hardware associated therewith, thereby reducing its weight and / or volume and making the lacing sections 520A / 520B easier to operate. The lacing portions 520A and 520B can have the same or different dimensional characteristics L1, L2, L3, W1, and / or W2 in a single footwear 500 structure.

[0100] Alternatively, one or both of the lace sections 520A and / or 520B may have a constant width throughout its longitudinal length; one or both of the lace sections 520A and / or 520B may have a continuously tapering width throughout its longitudinal length; and / or one or both of the lace sections 520A and / or 520B may have one or more stepped width changes or otherwise varying width changes throughout its longitudinal length.

[0101] Conclusion

[0102] The present invention has been disclosed above with reference to various embodiments and / or features in the accompanying drawings. However, the purpose served by this disclosure is to provide examples of various features and concepts related to the present invention, rather than to limit the scope of the present invention. Those skilled in the relevant art will recognize that various changes and modifications may be made to the features of the present invention described above without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

[0103] For the avoidance of doubt, this application includes at least the subject matter described in the following numbered clauses:

[0104] Clause 1. An article of footwear comprising:

[0105] an upper formed from one or more upper portions, wherein at least one upper portion defines an ankle-containing portion of the upper and at least one upper portion defines an instep-containing portion of the upper; and

[0106] a closure system engaged with the upper, wherein the closure system comprises:

[0107] (i) a track extending from a first end at a first side of the ankle containing portion to a second end at the instep containing portion of the upper (e.g., at the first side of the instep containing portion, at the second side of the instep containing portion, at the lateral side of the article of footwear, at the medial side of the article of footwear, at a forefoot portion of the upper at or on either side of a central longitudinal axis of the upper, etc.), wherein the track extends around a posterior ankle region of the ankle containing portion, along the second side of the ankle containing portion, and to the instep containing portion of the upper (e.g., in some embodiments, across a central portion of the instep containing portion between the first side of the instep containing portion and the second side of the instep containing portion, in some embodiments, across the central longitudinal axis of the upper at the forefoot portion of the upper, or in some embodiments, to a position at or near the central longitudinal axis of the upper at the forefoot portion of the upper); and

[0108] (b) a slider engaged with the track, wherein the slider is movable along the track to change the closure system between an open state and a closed state.

[0109] Clause 2. The article of footwear according to clause 1, further comprising:

[0110] an ankle strap engaged with the slider; and

[0111] A fastener releasably secures the ankle strap to the upper at the second side of the ankle containing portion when the closure system is in the closed state.

[0112] Clause 3. The article of footwear of Clause 2, wherein when the closure system is in the closed state, the ankle strap extends from the first side of the ankle containing portion to the second side of the ankle containing portion.

[0113] Clause 4. The article of footwear of Clause 2 or 3, wherein at least some portion of the track at the second side of the ankle containing portion is located less than 1 inch (2.54 cm) from at least some portion of the fastener.

[0114] Clause 5. The article of footwear of any one of Clauses 2 to 4, wherein at least some portion of the fastener is located between the track and a top of the foot insertion opening of the upper.

[0115] Clause 6. The article of footwear of any one of Clauses 2 to 5, wherein the ankle strap extends across the instep inclusion portion.

[0116] Clause 7. An article of footwear as recited in any of the preceding clauses, wherein when the article of footwear is positioned on a horizontal support surface, the rearmost ankle portion of the track is located less than 1.5 inches (3.81 cm) from at least some portion of the top edge of the upper (e.g., from the rearmost top point and / or rearmost top edge of the upper, from the top point and / or top edge of the foot insertion opening of the upper at the rearmost heel position of the upper, etc.).

[0117] Clause 8. The article of footwear as recited in any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first end of the track is located less than 1.5 inches (3.81 cm) from a top of a foot insertion opening of the upper.

[0118] Clause 9. The article of footwear of any of the preceding clauses, wherein a portion of the track at the second side of the ankle containing portion is located less than 1.75 inches (4.45 cm) from a top of a foot insertion opening of the upper.

[0119] Clause 10. The article of footwear as recited in any preceding clause, wherein the track extends across a central longitudinal axis of the upper at a location forward of a foot insertion opening of the upper.

[0120] Clause 11. The article of footwear of any preceding clause, wherein the track comprises a zipper track and the slider comprises a zipper slider.

[0121] Clause 12. The article of footwear as recited in any preceding clause, wherein the upper comprises an outer component and an inner component, wherein the closure system is engaged with the outer component, and wherein the inner component comprises a foot-receiving boot.

[0122] Clause 13. The article of footwear of Clause 12, wherein the interior component further comprises at least one strap that engages the foot-receiving boot, and wherein the article of footwear further comprises a fastening system adapted to releasably secure the at least one strap in a tensioned condition.

[0123] Item 14. The article of footwear of Item 12, wherein the interior component comprises: (a) a first lacing section extending from a first side of a heel containing area of ​​the foot-receiving boot to a second side of the foot-receiving boot in front of the foot-receiving opening of the foot-receiving boot; and (b) a second lacing section extending from the second side of the heel containing area of ​​the foot-receiving boot to the first side of the foot-receiving boot in front of the foot-receiving opening of the foot-receiving boot.

[0124] Clause 15. The article of footwear of Clause 14, wherein the first lacing section intersects the second lacing section forwardly of the foot-receiving opening of the foot-receiving boot.

[0125] Item 16. An article of footwear according to Item 14 or 15, wherein the first lacing section extends along the first side of the heel containing area of ​​the foot-receiving boot at a position inside the outer part of the upper, wherein the second lacing section extends along the second side of the heel containing area of ​​the foot-receiving boot at a position inside the outer part of the upper, wherein the first lacing section extends to the outside of the outer part of the upper at a first rear heel area of ​​the upper, and wherein the second lacing section extends to the outside of the outer part of the upper at the first rear heel area of ​​the upper or at the second rear heel area of ​​the upper.

[0126] Item 17. The footwear article according to Item 16 further includes a lock located at the rear heel area of ​​the external portion of the upper, wherein the first lacing section and the second lacing section engage the lock and are releasably retained by the lock when the first lacing section or the second lacing section is in a tensioned state.

[0127] Clause 18. The sole structure according to any one of Clauses 1 to 11, further comprising:

[0128] at least one lace engaged with the upper; and

[0129] A lock engages at least one of the upper or sole structure of the article of footwear and releasably holds the at least one strap in tension.

[0130] Clause 19. The sole structure according to any one of Clauses 1 to 11, further comprising:

[0131] a first lacing section extending between overlapping layers of the upper over at least a portion of the length of the first lacing section;

[0132] a second lacing section extending between overlapping layers of the upper over at least a portion of the length of the second lacing section; and

[0133] A lock is engaged with at least one of the first tether section or the second tether section and is capable of releasably maintaining at least one of the first tether section or the second tether section in a tensioned state.

[0134] Clause 20. The sole structure according to any one of Clauses 1 to 11, further comprising:

[0135] a first lacing section extending from a first side of a heel-containing area of ​​the upper to the second side of the instep-containing portion of the upper;

[0136] a second lacing section extending from a second side of the heel-containing area of ​​the upper to the first side of the instep-containing portion of the upper; and

[0137] A lock is engaged with at least one of the first tether section or the second tether section and is capable of releasably maintaining at least one of the first tether section or the second tether section in a tensioned state.

[0138] Clause 21. The sole structure according to any one of Clauses 1 to 11, further comprising:

[0139] a first lacing section extending between overlapping layers of the upper over at least a portion of the length of the first lacing section, wherein the first lacing section extends from a first side of a heel-containing area of ​​the upper to the second side of the instep-containing portion of the upper;

[0140] a second lacing section extending between overlapping layers of the upper over at least a portion of the length of the second lacing section, wherein the second lacing section extends from a second side of the heel-containing area of ​​the upper to the first side of the instep-containing portion of the upper; and

[0141] A lock is engaged with at least one of the first tether section or the second tether section and is capable of releasably maintaining at least one of the first tether section or the second tether section in a tensioned state.

[0142] Clause 22. The article of footwear as recited in any one of Clauses 19 to 21, wherein the first lacing section intersects the second lacing section forwardly of a foot-receiving opening of the upper.

[0143] Clause 23. The article of footwear according to any one of Clauses 18 to 22, wherein the fastening system is located in a rear heel area of ​​the upper.

[0144] Clause 24. The article of footwear as recited in any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first side of the ankle containing portion and the first side of the instep containing portion are located on a lateral side of the upper.

[0145] Clause 25. An article of footwear comprising:

[0146] a first upper component;

[0147] a second upper component;

[0148] a foot insertion opening at least partially defined by the first upper component, wherein the foot insertion opening extends partially or continuously in the following manner: (a) from a first side of an ankle containing portion of the first upper component, (b) around a rear heel or ankle region of the first upper component, (c) along a second side of the ankle containing portion of the first upper component, and (d) to an instep containing portion of the first upper component (e.g., in some embodiments: (i) the foot insertion opening may extend across the instep containing portion of the first upper component and to a first side of the instep containing portion of the first upper component (e.g., across a central longitudinal axis of the first upper component at a forefoot portion of the first upper component); (ii) the foot insertion opening may extend at or near the central longitudinal axis of the first upper component at the forefoot portion of the first upper component to a position in the forefoot portion of the first upper component (e.g., without crossing the central longitudinal axis of the first upper component at the forefoot portion of the first upper component);

[0149] a first lacing section extending between the first upper component and the second upper component and across the instep-containing portion of the first upper component;

[0150] a second lacing section extending between the first upper component and the second upper component and across the instep-containing portion of the first upper component;

[0151] a sole structure joined to at least one of the first upper component or the second upper component; and

[0152] A lock engaged with at least one of the first upper component, the second upper component, the first lacing section, the second lacing section, or the sole structure, wherein the lock is capable of releasably maintaining at least one of the first lacing section or the second lacing section in a tensioned state.

[0153] Clause 26. The article of footwear of Clause 25, further comprising: a track engaged with the first upper component and a slider engaged with the track, wherein movement of the slider along the track changes the foot insertion opening between an open state and a closed state.

[0154] Clause 27. The article of footwear according to Clause 26, further comprising:

[0155] an ankle strap engaged with the slider; and

[0156] A fastener releasably secures the ankle strap to at least one of the first upper member or the second upper member when the foot insertion opening is in the closed state.

[0157] Clause 28. The article of footwear of Clause 27, wherein the ankle strap extends across a central longitudinal axis of the article of footwear.

[0158] Clause 29. The article of footwear of Clause 27 or 28, wherein at least a portion of the fastener is located between the track and an uppermost edge of an ankle opening of at least one of the first upper component or the second upper component.

[0159] Clause 30. The article of footwear of any of Clauses 27 to 29, wherein the ankle strap extends across the instep-containing portion of the first upper component.

[0160] Clause 31. The article of footwear according to Clause 25, further comprising:

[0161] an ankle strap engaged with at least one of the first upper component or the second upper component; and

[0162] A fastener releasably secures the ankle strap to at least one of the first upper member or the second upper member when the foot insertion opening is in a closed state.

[0163] Clause 32. The article of footwear of Clause 31, wherein the ankle strap extends across a central longitudinal axis of the article of footwear.

[0164] Clause 33. The article of footwear of Clause 31 or 32, wherein the ankle strap extends across the instep-containing portion of the first upper component.

[0165] Clause 34. The article of footwear according to any one of Clauses 25 to 33, wherein the first upper component comprises an outer upper component, and wherein the second upper component is at least partially received in the outer upper component.

[0166] Clause 35. The article of footwear of Clause 34, wherein the second upper component comprises a foot-receiving bootie.

[0167] Clause 36. The article of footwear of Clause 34, wherein the first lacing section extends along a first side of a heel containment area of ​​the second upper component, and the second lacing section extends along a second side of the heel containment area of ​​the second upper component.

[0168] Clause 37. The article of footwear according to Clause 36, wherein the first lacing section extends through the first upper component at a first rear heel area of ​​the first upper component, and wherein the second lacing section extends through the first upper component at the first rear heel area of ​​the first upper component or at a second rear heel area of ​​the first upper component.

[0169] Clause 38. The article of footwear of any one of clauses 25 to 37, wherein the lock engages at least one of the first lacing section or the second lacing section, and wherein the lock is located at a rear heel area of ​​at least one of the first upper component or the second upper component.

[0170] Clause 39. An article of footwear comprising:

[0171] An upper formed of one or more parts;

[0172] a first lacing section extending along the upper and across an instep-containing portion of the upper;

[0173] a second lacing section extending along the upper and across the instep-containing portion of the upper;

[0174] a sole structure engaged with the upper; and

[0175] A locking element engaged with at least one of the upper, the first lacing section, the second lacing section, or the sole structure, wherein the locking element is capable of releasably maintaining at least one of the first lacing section or the second lacing section in a tensioned state.

[0176] Item 40. The footwear article of claim 39, further comprising a foot insertion opening defined at least in part by the upper, wherein the foot insertion opening extends: (a) from a first side of an ankle-containing portion of the upper, (b) around a rear heel or ankle area of ​​the upper, (c) along a second side of the ankle-containing portion of the upper, and (d) to an instep-containing portion of the upper (for example, in some embodiments: (i) the foot insertion opening may extend across the instep-containing portion of the upper and to a first side of the instep-containing portion of the upper (for example, across a central longitudinal axis of the upper at a forefoot portion of the upper); or (ii) the foot insertion opening may extend at or near the central longitudinal axis of the upper at the forefoot portion of the upper to a position in the forefoot portion of the upper (for example, without crossing the central longitudinal axis of the upper at the forefoot portion of the upper).

[0177] Clause 41. The article of footwear of Clause 39 or 40, further comprising: a track engaged with the upper and a slider engaged with the track, wherein movement of the slider along the track changes the foot insertion opening between an open state and a closed state.

[0178] Clause 42. The article of footwear according to Clause 41, further comprising:

[0179] an ankle strap engaged with the slider; and

[0180] A fastener releasably secures the ankle strap to the shoe upper when the foot insertion opening is in the closed state.

[0181] Clause 43. The article of footwear according to Clause 40, further comprising:

[0182] an ankle strap engaged with the upper; and

[0183] A fastener releasably secures the ankle strap to the shoe upper when the foot insertion opening is in a closed state.

[0184] Clause 44. The article of footwear of any one of clauses 39 to 43, wherein the lock engages at least one of the first lacing section or the second lacing section, and wherein the lock is located at a rear heel area of ​​the upper.

[0185] Clause 45. The article of footwear according to any one of Clauses 39 to 44, wherein:

[0186] The first lacing section extends from a medial midfoot and / or medial forefoot region of the upper, across the instep containing portion of the upper, around the lateral ankle region of the upper, and to a rear heel region of the upper; and / or

[0187] The second lacing section extends from a lateral midfoot and / or lateral forefoot area of ​​the upper, across the instep containing portion of the upper, around the medial ankle area of ​​the upper, and to the rear heel area of ​​the upper.

[0188] Clause 46. An article of footwear comprising:

[0189] a first upper component;

[0190] a second upper component;

[0191] a first lacing section extending between the first upper component and the second upper component and across the instep-containing portion of the first upper component;

[0192] a second lacing section extending between the first upper component and the second upper component and across the instep-containing portion of the first upper component;

[0193] a sole structure joined to at least one of the first upper component or the second upper component; and

[0194] A lock engaged with at least one of the first upper component, the second upper component, the first lacing section, the second lacing section, or the sole structure, wherein the lock is capable of releasably maintaining at least one of the first lacing section or the second lacing section in a tensioned state.

[0195] Item 47. The footwear article of claim 46, further comprising a foot insertion opening defined at least in part by the first upper component, wherein the foot insertion opening extends: (a) from a first side of an ankle containing portion of the first upper component, (b) around a rear heel or ankle region of the first upper component, (c) along a second side of the ankle containing portion of the first upper component, and (d) to an instep containing portion of the first upper component (for example, in some embodiments: (i) the foot insertion opening may extend across the instep containing portion of the first upper component and to a first side of the instep containing portion of the first upper component (for example, across a central longitudinal axis of the upper at a forefoot portion of the first upper component); or (ii) the foot insertion opening may extend to a position in the forefoot portion of the first upper component at or near the central longitudinal axis of the first upper component (for example, without crossing the central longitudinal axis of the first upper component at the forefoot portion of the first upper component).

[0196] Clause 48. The article of footwear of Clause 46 or 47, further comprising: a track engaged with the first upper component and a slider engaged with the track, wherein movement of the slider along the track changes the foot insertion opening between an open state and a closed state.

[0197] Clause 49. The article of footwear according to Clause 48, further comprising:

[0198] an ankle strap engaged with the slider; and

[0199] A fastener releasably secures the ankle strap to at least one of the first upper member or the second upper member when the foot insertion opening is in the closed state.

[0200] Clause 50. The article of footwear according to Clause 46, further comprising:

[0201] an ankle strap engaged with at least one of the first upper component or the second upper component; and

[0202] A fastener releasably secures the ankle strap to at least one of the first upper member or the second upper member when the foot insertion opening is in a closed state.

[0203] Clause 51. The article of footwear according to any of Clauses 46 to 50, wherein the first upper component comprises an outer upper component, and wherein the second upper component is at least partially received in the outer upper component.

[0204] Clause 52. The article of footwear of Clause 51, wherein the second upper component comprises a foot-receiving bootie.

[0205] Clause 53. The article of footwear of Clause 51 or Clause 52, wherein the first lacing section extends along a first side of a heel containment area of ​​the second upper component and the second lacing section extends along a second side of the heel containment area of ​​the second upper component.

[0206] Item 54. An article of footwear according to Item 53, wherein the first lacing section extends through the first upper component at a first rear heel area of ​​the first upper component, and wherein the second lacing section extends through the first upper component at the first rear heel area of ​​the first upper component or at a second rear heel area of ​​the first upper component.

[0207] Clause 55. The article of footwear of any one of clauses 46 to 54, wherein the lock engages at least one of the first lacing section or the second lacing section, and wherein the lock is located at a rear heel area of ​​at least one of the first upper component or the second upper component.

[0208] Clause 56. An article of footwear as described in any one of Clauses 46 to 55, wherein: (a) the first lacing section extends from the medial midfoot and / or medial forefoot area of ​​the article of footwear, across the instep containing portion of the upper, around the lateral ankle area of ​​the upper, and to the rear heel area of ​​the upper; and / or (b) the second lacing section extends from the lateral midfoot and / or lateral forefoot area of ​​the article of footwear, across the instep containing portion of the upper, around the medial ankle area of ​​the upper, and to the rear heel area of ​​the upper.

Claims

1. A footwear article (200, 300, 500), comprising: A first upper component (302A); A second upper component (302B); a first lacing section (320A, 520A) extending between the first upper member (302A) and the second upper member (302B) and across an instep-containing portion (220) of the first upper member (302A); a second lacing section (320B, 520B) extending between the first upper member (302A) and the second upper member (302B) and across an instep-containing portion (220) of the first upper member (302A); a sole structure (204, 504) coupled to at least one of the first upper component (302A) or the second upper component (302B); a lock (330) engaged with at least one of the first upper component (302A), the second upper component (302B), the first lacing section (320A, 520A), the second lacing section (320B, 520B), or the sole structure (204, 504), wherein the lock (330) releasably holds at least one of the first lacing section (320A, 520A) or the second lacing section (320B, 520B) in a tensioned state; and A loosening component is used to loosen the first lacing section or the second lacing section, the loosening component forms a loop, the first lacing section and the second lacing section pass through the loop, wherein the loop is located at the central instep covering portion of the entire upper.

2. The footwear article (200, 300, 500) according to claim 1, further comprising a foot insertion opening (306, 502O) at least partially defined by the first upper portion (302A), wherein the foot insertion opening (306, 502O) extends as follows: (a) from a first side of an ankle containing portion of the first upper portion (302A), (b) around a rear heel or ankle area of ​​the first upper portion (302A), (c) along a second side of the ankle containing portion of the first upper portion (302A), and (d) to an instep containing portion (220) of the first upper portion (302A).

3. The article of footwear (200, 300, 500) according to claim 2, wherein: (i) the foot insertion opening (306, 502O) extends across the instep containing portion (220) of the first upper member (302A) and reaches a first side of the instep containing portion (220) of the first upper member (302A) and crosses a central longitudinal axis of the first upper member at a forefoot portion of the first upper member (302A); or (ii) the foot insertion opening (306, 502O) extends to a position in the forefoot portion of the first upper component (302A) at or near the central longitudinal axis of the first upper component (302A) at the forefoot portion of the first upper component (302A) and does not cross the central longitudinal axis of the first upper component (302A) at the forefoot portion of the first upper component (302A).

4. The article of footwear (200, 300, 500) according to claim 2 or 3, further comprising: A track (230T) engaged with the first upper component (302A) and a slider (230S) engaged with the track (230T), wherein movement of the slider (230S) along the track (230T) changes the foot insertion opening (306, 502O) between an open state and a closed state.

5. The article of footwear (200, 300, 500) according to claim 4, further comprising: an ankle strap (240) engaged with the slider (230S); and A fastener (240E, 240S) releasably secures the ankle strap (240) to at least one of the first upper member (302A) or the second upper member (302B) when the foot insertion opening (306, 502O) is in the closed state.

6. The article of footwear (200, 300, 500) according to claim 1, further comprising: an ankle strap (240) engaged with at least one of the first upper member (302A) or the second upper member (302B); and A fastener (240E, 240S) that releasably secures the ankle strap (240) to at least one of the first upper member (302A) or the second upper member (302B) when a foot insertion opening (306, 502O) at least partially defined by the first upper member (302A) is in a closed state.

7. The article of footwear (200, 300, 500) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The first upper component (302A) includes an outer upper component (302A, 250, 550), and wherein the second upper component (302B) is at least partially received in the outer upper component (302A, 250, 550).

8. The article of footwear (200, 300, 500) according to claim 7, wherein: The second upper component (302B) includes a foot-receiving bootie.

9. The article of footwear (200, 300, 500) according to claim 7, wherein: The first lacing section (320A, 520A) extends along a first side of a heel inclusion area of ​​the second upper component (302B), and the second lacing section (320B, 520B) extends along a second side of the heel inclusion area of ​​the second upper component (302B).

10. The article of footwear (200, 300, 500) according to claim 9, wherein: The first lacing section (320A, 520A) extends through the first upper component (302A) at a first rear heel area of ​​the first upper component (302A), and wherein the second lacing section (320B, 520B) extends through the first upper component (302A) at the first rear heel area of ​​the first upper component or at a second rear heel area of ​​the first upper component (302A).

11. The article of footwear (200, 300, 500) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The lock (330) engages at least one of the first lacing section (320A, 520A) or the second lacing section (320B, 520B), and wherein the lock (330) is located at a rear heel area of ​​at least one of the first upper component (302A) or the second upper component (302B).

12. The article of footwear (200, 300, 500) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: (a) the first lacing section (320A, 520A) extends from a medial midfoot and / or medial forefoot region of the article of footwear (200, 300, 500), across an instep-containing portion (220) of the first upper component, around a lateral ankle region of the upper (202), and to a rear heel region of the upper (202); and / or (b) The second lacing section (320B, 520B) extends from the lateral midfoot and / or lateral forefoot area of ​​the footwear article (200, 300, 500), across the instep containing portion (220) of the first upper component, around the medial ankle area of ​​the upper (202), and to the rear heel area of ​​the upper (202).

13. The article of footwear (200, 300, 500) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The first upper component (302A) includes an outer upper component (302A, 250, 550), and wherein at least a portion of the lock (330) is located at a rear heel area of ​​the outer upper component (302A, 250, 550).

14. The article of footwear (200, 300, 500) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The lock (330) includes a lock base (330B) and a spring-loaded lock member (330L) engaged with the lock base (330B) in a manner that enables the spring-loaded lock member (330L) to slide inwardly and outwardly relative to the lock base (330B).

15. The article of footwear (200, 300, 500) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The lock (330) includes a lock base (330B) having one or more openings defined through the lock base, and wherein the first lace section (320A, 520A) and the second lace section (320B, 520B) extend through the one or more openings defined through the lock base (330B).

16. The article of footwear according to claim 2, further comprising a closure system engaged with the first upper component, wherein: The closed system comprises: (a) a track extending from a first end located at a first side of the ankle containing portion to a second end located at the instep containing portion, wherein the track extends around a posterior ankle region of the ankle containing portion, along the second side of the ankle containing portion to the instep containing portion of the first upper component, and wherein the second end of the track is located on the first side of the instep containing portion of the first upper component, and the track extends across a central longitudinal axis of the first upper component at a forefoot portion of the first upper component, (b) a slider engaged with the track, wherein the slider is movable along the track to change the closure system between an open state and a closed state.

17. The article of footwear according to claim 16, further comprising: an ankle strap engaged with the slider; and A fastener releasably secures the ankle strap to the first upper component at the second side of the ankle containing portion when the closure system is in the closed state.

18. A footwear article comprising: an upper, formed of one or more parts; a first lacing section extending along the upper and across an instep-containing portion of the upper; a second lacing section extending along the upper and across an instep-containing portion of the upper; a sole structure joined to the upper; a lock engaged with at least one of the upper, the first lacing section, the second lacing section, or the sole structure, wherein the lock releasably holds at least one of the first lacing section or the second lacing section in tension; and A loosening component is used to loosen the first lacing section or the second lacing section, the loosening component forms a loop, the first lacing section and the second lacing section pass through the loop, wherein the loop is located at the central instep covering portion of the entire upper.

19. The article of footwear according to claim 18, further comprising a foot insertion opening at least partially defined by the upper, wherein: The foot insertion opening extends as follows: (a) from a first side of an ankle-containing portion of the upper, (b) around a rear heel or ankle area of ​​the upper, (c) along a second side of the ankle-containing portion of the upper, and (d) to an instep-containing portion of the upper.

20. The article of footwear according to claim 19, wherein: (i) the foot insertion opening extends across the instep containing portion of the upper and extends to a first side of the instep containing portion of the upper and across a central longitudinal axis of the upper at a forefoot portion of the upper; or (ii) the foot insertion opening extends to a position in the forefoot portion of the upper at or near a central longitudinal axis of the upper at the forefoot portion of the upper, and the foot insertion opening does not pass through the central longitudinal axis of the upper at the forefoot portion of the upper.

21. The article of footwear according to claim 19, further comprising: A track engaged with the upper and a slider engaged with the track, wherein movement of the slider along the track changes the foot insertion opening between an open state and a closed state.

22. The article of footwear according to claim 21, further comprising: an ankle strap engaged with the slider; and A fastener releasably secures the ankle strap to the upper when the foot insertion opening is in the closed state.

23. The article of footwear according to claim 19, further comprising: an ankle strap engaged with the upper; and A fastener releasably secures the ankle strap to the upper when the foot insertion opening is in a closed state.

24. The article of footwear according to claim 18 or 19, wherein: The lock engages at least one of the first lacing section or the second lacing section, and wherein the lock is located at a rear heel area of ​​the upper.

25. The article of footwear according to claim 18 or 19, wherein: The first lacing section extends from a medial midfoot and / or medial forefoot region of the upper, across an instep-containing portion of the upper, around a lateral ankle region of the upper, and to a rear heel region of the upper; and / or The second lacing section extends from a lateral midfoot and / or lateral forefoot area of ​​the upper, across an instep containing portion of the upper, around a medial ankle area of ​​the upper, and to a rear heel area of ​​the upper.

26. An article of footwear comprising: a first upper component; a second upper component; a foot insertion opening defined at least in part by the first upper component, wherein the foot insertion opening extends partially or continuously as follows: (a) from a first side of an ankle containing portion of the first upper component, (b) around a rear heel or ankle region of the first upper component, (c) along a second side of the ankle containing portion of the first upper component, and (d) to an instep containing portion of the first upper component; a first lacing section extending between the first upper member and the second upper member and across an instep-containing portion of the first upper member; a second lacing section extending between the first upper member and the second upper member and across an instep-containing portion of the first upper member; a sole structure engaged with at least one of the first upper component or the second upper component; a lock engaged with at least one of the first upper component, the second upper component, the first lacing section, the second lacing section, or the sole structure, wherein the lock releasably holds at least one of the first lacing section or the second lacing section in tension; and A loosening component is used to loosen the first lacing section or the second lacing section, the loosening component forms a loop, the first lacing section and the second lacing section pass through the loop, wherein the loop is located at the central instep covering portion of the entire upper.

27. The article of footwear according to claim 26, further comprising: A track engaged with the first upper component and a slider engaged with the track, wherein movement of the slider along the track changes the foot insertion opening between an open state and a closed state.

28. The article of footwear according to claim 27, further comprising: an ankle strap engaged with the slider; and A fastener releasably secures the ankle strap to at least one of the first upper member or the second upper member when the foot insertion opening is in the closed state.

29. The article of footwear according to claim 28, wherein: The ankle strap extends across a central longitudinal axis of the article of footwear.

30. The article of footwear according to claim 28 or 29, wherein: At least a portion of the fastener is located between the track and an uppermost edge of an ankle opening of at least one of the first upper component or the second upper component.

31. The article of footwear according to claim 28 or 29, wherein: The ankle strap extends across an instep-containing portion of the first upper member.

32. The article of footwear according to claim 27, further comprising: an ankle strap engaged with at least one of the first upper member or the second upper member; and A fastener releasably secures the ankle strap to at least one of the first upper member or the second upper member when the foot insertion opening is in the closed state.

33. The article of footwear according to claim 32, wherein: The ankle strap extends across a central longitudinal axis of the article of footwear.

34. The article of footwear according to claim 32 or 33, wherein: The ankle strap extends across an instep-containing portion of the first upper member.

35. The article of footwear according to any one of claims 26 to 29, wherein: The first upper component includes an outer upper component, and wherein the second upper component is at least partially received in the outer upper component.

36. The article of footwear according to claim 35, wherein: The second upper component includes a foot-receiving bootie.

37. The article of footwear according to claim 35, wherein: The first lacing section extends along a first side of a heel containment area of ​​the second upper component, and the second lacing section extends along a second side of the heel containment area of ​​the second upper component.

38. The article of footwear according to claim 37, wherein: The first lacing section extends through the first upper component at a first rear heel area of ​​the first upper component, and wherein the second lacing section extends through the first upper component at the first rear heel area of ​​the first upper component or at a second rear heel area of ​​the first upper component.

39. The article of footwear according to any one of claims 26 to 29, wherein: The lock engages at least one of the first lacing section or the second lacing section, and wherein the lock is located at a rear heel area of ​​at least one of the first upper component or the second upper component.

40. The article of footwear according to claim 26, wherein: The foot insertion opening can extend across an instep containing portion of the first upper component and to a first side of the instep containing portion of the first upper component and across a central longitudinal axis of the upper at a forefoot portion of the upper.

41. The article of footwear according to claim 40, wherein: The foot insertion opening spans a central longitudinal axis of the first upper component at a forefoot portion of the first upper component.

42. The article of footwear according to claim 26, wherein: The foot insertion opening can extend to a location in the forefoot portion of the first upper component at or near a central longitudinal axis of the first upper component at the forefoot portion of the first upper component.

43. The article of footwear according to claim 42, wherein: The foot insertion opening does not cross a central longitudinal axis of the first upper component at a forefoot portion of the first upper component.

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