Sole structure for footwear and footwear

Abstract

A sole structure for an article of footwear having an upper. The sole structure includes an outsole having a ground engaging surface and an upper surface formed on a side of the outsole opposite the ground engaging surface. The sole structure also includes a midsole attached to the outsole and including an outer peripheral surface extending between the outsole and the upper. The sole structure also includes a plate that is at least partially disposed within the midsole and (i) extends from a toe area of ​​the sole structure, (ii) passes through a metatarsophalangeal (MTP) point of the sole structure, and (iii) extends toward a heel area of ​​the sole structure. The plate includes a first plate portion extending from the outer peripheral surface of the midsole.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application is a PCT international application, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 62 / 994,578 filed on March 25, 2020, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0003] field

[0004] The present disclosure relates to a sole structure for an article of footwear, and more particularly, to a sole structure for an article of footwear that allows the sole structure to be selectively attached to an external structure, such as, for example, an exoskeleton.

[0005] background

[0006] This section provides background information related to the present disclosure which is not necessarily prior art.

[0007] Articles of footwear conventionally include an upper and a sole structure. The upper may be formed of any suitable material to receive, secure, and support the foot on the sole structure. The upper may cooperate with laces, straps, or other fasteners to adjust the fit of the upper around the foot. A bottom portion of the upper, proximate the bottom surface of the foot, is attached to the sole structure.

[0008] The sole structure generally includes a layered arrangement extending between a ground surface and an upper. One layer of the sole structure includes an outsole that provides wear resistance and traction with the ground surface. The outsole may be formed of rubber or other materials that impart durability and wear resistance and enhance traction with the ground surface. Another layer of the sole structure includes a midsole disposed between the outsole and the upper. The midsole provides cushioning for the foot and is generally at least partially formed of a polymer foam material that elastically compresses under an applied load to cushion the foot by attenuating ground reaction forces. The midsole may define a bottom surface on a side opposite to the outsole and a footbed on an opposite side, the contour of which may be set to conform to the contour of the bottom surface of the foot. The sole structure may also include an insole or sockliner for enhanced comfort, which is located within the cavity near the bottom portion of the upper.

[0009] During the running motion, an exoskeleton can be used in combination with conventional footwear to improve running performance by reducing the energy consumption associated with running. Although this exoskeleton improves running performance, it is usually difficult to be attached to conventional footwear because conventional footwear is not designed to be used with this external system. For example, conventional footwear is usually transformed to adapt to the exoskeleton by providing an external structure such as tape, adhesive, etc. to the footwear. Although the footwear of this transformation can be fully attached to the exoskeleton, it is difficult to maintain the relative position between the exoskeleton and the footwear in long-term use. In addition, due to a roughly cobbled mean (the exoskeleton is attached to the transformed footwear by a roughly cobbled mean), it is difficult to achieve the repeatable attachment of the exoskeleton to the footwear.

[0010] Attached photos

[0011] The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected configurations and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0012] Figure 1 is a lateral side view of an article of footwear according to the principles of the present disclosure;

[0013] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 a medial side view of an article of footwear;

[0014] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 a top view of an article of footwear;

[0015] Figure 4 It is along Figure 3 The line 4-4 in Figure 1 a cross-sectional view of an article of footwear;

[0016] Figure 5 It is along Figure 3 The line 5-5 in Figure 1 a cross-sectional view of an article of footwear;

[0017] Figure 6 It is along Figure 3 The line 6-6 in Figure 1 a cross-sectional view of an article of footwear;

[0018] Figure 7 It is along Figure 3 The line 7-7 in Figure 1 a cross-sectional view of an article of footwear;

[0019] Figure 8 It is along Figure 3The line 8-8 in Figure 1 a cross-sectional view of an article of footwear;

[0020] Fig. 9 is a perspective view of a plate for use in a sole structure for an article of footwear in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure;

[0021] Fig.10 is a side view of an article of footwear including a plate shown in conjunction with an external structure in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure;

[0022] Fig.11 yes Fig.10 a top view of an article of footwear;

[0023] Fig.12 is a side view of an article of footwear including a plate shown in conjunction with an external structure in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure;

[0024] Fig.13 yes Fig.11 a top view of an article of footwear;

[0025] Fig.14 is shown in conjunction with an article of footwear Fig.12 A partial perspective view of the panels and external structure;

[0026] Fig.15 is a perspective view of a plate for use in a sole structure for an article of footwear according to the principles of the present disclosure, the plate being shown in conjunction with an external structure;

[0027] Fig.16 yes Fig.12 Side view of the panels and external structure;

[0028] Fig.17 is an exploded perspective view of a sole structure and article of footwear according to the principles of the present disclosure;

[0029] Fig.18 is a partial perspective view of a heel portion of a sole structure according to the principles of the present disclosure;

[0030] Fig.19 is a partial perspective view of a heel portion of a sole structure according to the principles of the present disclosure;

[0031] Fig. 20 is a rear perspective view of a plate for use in a sole structure for an article of footwear in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure;

[0032] Fig.21 yes Fig. 20 A bottom perspective view of the board;

[0033] Fig. 22 yes Fig. 20 A side view of a plate;

[0034] Fig.23 is a lateral side view of an article of footwear in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure; and

[0035] Fig.24 yes Fig.23 A medial side view of an article of footwear.

[0036] Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the drawings.

[0037] Detailed Description

[0038] Example configurations will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. Example configurations are provided so that the disclosure will be thorough and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those of ordinary skill in the art. Specific details, such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the configurations of the disclosure. It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that specific details need not be employed, that example configurations may be implemented in many different forms, and that specific details and example configurations should not be construed as limiting the scope of the disclosure.

[0039] The terms used herein are only for the purpose of describing specific exemplary configurations, and are not intended to be restrictive. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular articles "a", "an" and "the" may also be intended to include plural forms. The terms "comprises", "comprising", "including" and "having" are inclusive, and thus specify the presence of features, steps, operations, elements and / or parts, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, parts and / or groups thereof. Unless specifically identified as an order of execution, the method steps, processes and operations described herein should not be interpreted as necessarily requiring them to be performed in the specific order discussed or shown. Additional or alternative steps may be adopted.

[0040] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on another element or layer," "engaged to," "connected to," "attached to," or "coupled to" another element or layer, it may be directly on, engaged, connected, attached to, or coupled to another element or layer, or there may be intervening elements or layers. Conversely, when an element is referred to as being "directly on another element or layer," "directly engaged to," "directly connected to," "directly attached to," or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, there may be no intervening elements or layers. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a similar manner (e.g., "between" versus "directly between," "adjacent" versus "directly adjacent," etc.). As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0041] The terms first, second, third, etc. can be used in this article to describe a variety of elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections. These elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms can only be used to distinguish an element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Terms such as "first", "second" and other numerical terms do not imply a sequence or order unless the context clearly indicates. Therefore, the first element, first component, first region, first layer or first section discussed below can be referred to as the second element, second component, second region, second layer or second section, without departing from the teaching of the example configuration.

[0042] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a sole structure for an article of footwear having an upper. The sole structure includes an outsole having a ground engaging surface and an upper surface formed on a side of the outsole opposite the ground engaging surface. The sole structure also includes a midsole attached to the outsole and including an outer peripheral surface extending between the outsole and the upper. The sole structure also includes a plate that is at least partially disposed within the midsole and (i) extends from a forefoot region of the sole structure, (ii) passes through a metatarsophalangeal (MTP) point of the sole structure, and (iii) extends toward a heel region of the sole structure. The plate includes a first plate portion extending from the outer peripheral surface of the midsole.

[0043] Embodiments of the present disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In certain embodiments, a first plate portion extends from an outer peripheral surface at one of a medial side of the sole structure and a lateral side of the sole structure. Here, the plate may include a second plate portion extending from an outer peripheral surface of the midsole. The second plate portion may be disposed on a side of the plate opposite to the first plate portion. Alternatively, the second plate portion may be disposed at the other of the medial side and the lateral side. The first plate portion and the second plate portion may be aligned with the MTP point. The second plate portion may be directly opposite the first plate portion.

[0044] In some examples, the first plate portion extends from a heel region of the sole structure. The plate may extend from a front end of the sole structure to a rear end of the sole structure. The plate may include a first plate segment disposed in a forefoot region of the sole structure and a second plate segment disposed in a heel region of the sole structure, and the first plate segment may be spaced apart from the second plate segment.

[0045] In some configurations, the sole structure includes a bore extending from a medial side of the sole structure through the midsole to a lateral side of the sole structure. Here, the bore may be disposed at a heel region of the sole structure. The first plate portion may include at least one of a flange, an aperture, and a slot operable to selectively attach the first plate portion to the external structure.

[0046] In some embodiments, the midsole includes a first midsole portion disposed between the plate and the upper and a second midsole portion disposed between the plate and the outsole. The first midsole portion may increase in thickness in a direction extending from a heel region of the sole structure toward a forefoot region of the sole structure. The thickness of the first midsole portion may be greatest at the MTP point. Optionally, the second midsole portion may increase in thickness in a direction extending from a forefoot region of the sole structure toward a heel region of the sole structure.

[0047] In some examples, the first plate portion includes a body extending from an outer perimeter surface of the midsole and a flange extending from the body in a direction away from the outsole. Here, the flange may extend substantially perpendicular to the body of the first plate portion. The article of footwear may include a sole structure.

[0048] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a sole structure for an article of footwear having an upper. The sole structure includes an outsole having a ground engaging surface and an upper surface formed on a side of the outsole opposite the ground engaging surface. The sole structure also includes a midsole attached to the outsole and including an outer peripheral surface extending between the outsole and the upper. The sole structure also includes a plate that is at least partially disposed within the midsole and (i) extends from a forefoot region of the sole structure, (ii) passes through a metatarsophalangeal (MTP) point of the sole structure, and (iii) extends toward a heel region of the sole structure. The plate includes a first plate portion defining a first hinge portion of a first hinge and a second plate portion defining a second hinge portion of a second hinge.

[0049] This aspect may include one or more of the following optional features. In some configurations, the first plate portion extends from the outer peripheral surface at one of the medial side of the sole structure and the lateral side of the sole structure. The second plate portion may extend from the outer peripheral surface at the other of the medial side of the sole structure and the lateral side of the sole structure. The second plate portion may be disposed on a side of the plate opposite to the first plate portion. Additionally or alternatively, the second plate portion may be disposed at the other of the medial side and the lateral side.

[0050] In some embodiments, the first plate portion and the second plate portion are aligned with the MTP point. The second plate portion may be directly opposite the first plate portion. The first plate portion and the second plate portion may extend along a longitudinal axis passing through the plate at a local area of ​​increased rigidity of the plate. The plate may extend from a front end of the sole structure to a rear end of the sole structure. The plate may include a first plate section disposed in a forefoot region of the sole structure and a second plate section disposed in a heel region of the sole structure, the first plate section may be spaced apart from the second plate section.

[0051] In some examples, the sole structure includes a hole extending from a medial side of the sole structure through the midsole to a lateral side of the sole structure. The hole can be disposed at a heel area of ​​the sole structure. The first hinge portion and the second hinge portion can each include at least one of a flange, a hole, and a slot operable to selectively attach the first plate portion and the second plate portion to the external structure.

[0052] In some configurations, the midsole includes a first midsole portion disposed between the plate and the upper and a second midsole portion disposed between the plate and the outsole. The first midsole portion may increase in thickness in a direction extending from a heel region of the sole structure toward a forefoot region of the sole structure. The thickness of the first midsole portion may be greatest at the MTP point. The second midsole portion may increase in thickness in a direction extending from a forefoot region of the sole structure toward a heel region of the sole structure.

[0053] In some embodiments, the first plate portion includes a first body extending from an outer peripheral surface of the midsole, and the first hinge portion includes a first flange extending from the first body in a direction away from the outsole. In this embodiment, the second plate portion includes a second body extending from the outer peripheral surface of the midsole, and the second hinge portion includes a second flange extending from the second body in a direction away from the outsole. Here, the first flange may extend substantially perpendicular to the first body of the first plate portion, and the second flange may extend substantially perpendicular to the second body of the second plate portion. The article of footwear may include a sole structure.

[0054] The details of one or more embodiments of the present disclosure are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other aspects, features, and advantages will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims.

[0055] refer to Figure 1-Figure 8 , a footwear article 10 is provided and includes an upper 100 and a sole structure 200 attached to the upper 100. The footwear 10 may also include a front end 12 associated with the forward-most point of the footwear 10, and a rear end 14 corresponding to the rearward-most point of the footwear 10. Figure 3 As shown, the longitudinal axis A of the footwear 10 10 The footwear 10 extends parallel to the ground surface from the front end 12 to the rear end 14 along the length of the footwear 10 and generally divides the footwear 10 into a medial side 16 and a lateral side 18. Therefore, the medial side 16 and the lateral side 18 correspond to opposite sides of the footwear 10 and extend from the front end 12 to the rear end 14. As used herein, the longitudinal direction refers to a direction extending from the front end 12 to the rear end 14, and the lateral direction refers to a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction and extending from the medial side 16 to the lateral side 18.

[0056] The article of footwear 10 may be divided into one or more regions. These regions may include a forefoot region 20, a midfoot region 22, and a heel region 24. The forefoot region 20 may be subdivided into a toe portion corresponding to the phalanges and a ball portion associated with the metatarsal bones of the foot. The metatarsophalangeal (MTP) point of the sole structure 200 is aligned with the MTP joint of the foot within the ball portion. The midfoot region 22 may correspond to the arch region of the foot, and the heel region 24 may correspond to the rear portion of the foot (including the calcaneus).

[0057] The upper 100 includes an inner surface defining an interior cavity 102 that receives and secures a foot for support on the sole structure 200. An ankle opening 104 in the heel region 24 may provide access to the interior cavity 102. For example, the ankle opening 104 may receive a foot to secure the foot within the cavity 102 and facilitate entry and removal of the foot from the interior cavity 102. In some examples, one or more fasteners 106 extend along the upper 100 to adjust the fit of the interior cavity 102 around the foot while accommodating entry and removal of the foot from the interior cavity 22. The upper 100 may include holes 108 (such as eyelets) and / or other engagement features (such as fabric or mesh loops) that receive fasteners 106. The fasteners 106 may include laces, straps, cords, hooks and loops, or any other suitable type of fastener.

[0058] Upper 100 may additionally include a tongue portion 110 extending between interior cavity 102 and fastener 106. Upper 100 may be formed of one or more materials stitched or adhesively bonded together to form interior cavity 102. Suitable materials for upper 100 may include textiles, foams, leather, and synthetic leather. These materials may be selected and positioned to impart durability, breathability, wear resistance, flexibility, and comfort to the foot when the foot is disposed within interior cavity 102.

[0059] Sole structure 200 is attached to upper 100 and provides support and cushioning for article of footwear 10 during use. That is, sole structure 200 attenuates ground reaction forces caused by article of footwear 10 striking the ground during use. Therefore, and as explained below, sole structure 200 may include one or more materials having energy absorbing properties to allow sole structure 200 to minimize the impacts experienced by a user while wearing article of footwear 10.

[0060] Sole structure 200 may include a midsole 202 , an outsole 204 , and a plate 206 extending from front end 12 toward rear end 14 of article of footwear 10 .

[0061] Continue to refer Figure 1-Figure 8 , midsole 202 is shown extending from front end 12 to rear end 14 of article of footwear 10. For example, midsole 202 may include a material such as a polymer foam. In one configuration, midsole 202 is opposite to strobel (midsole cloth, not shown) of upper 100 and may extend at least partially to upper surface 112 ( Figure 1) so that the midsole 202 covers the junction of the upper 100 and the Strobel. The midsole 202 may include an upper midsole portion 203a and a lower midsole portion 203b. As shown, the plate 206 is disposed between the upper midsole portion 203a and the lower midsole portion 203b.

[0062] Forming midsole 202 from a compliant and resilient material (such as a polymer foam) allows midsole 202 to attenuate ground reaction forces caused by movement of article of footwear 10 on the ground during use. In addition to attenuating forces associated with the use of article of footwear 10, midsole 202 can be used to attach plate 206 to upper 100. A suitable adhesive (not shown) can be used to attach midsole 202 and Strobel. Alternatively, plate 206 can be attached to midsole 202 by molding the material of midsole 202 directly to plate 206. For example, plate 206 can be disposed in a cavity of a mold (not shown) for forming midsole 202. Therefore, when midsole 202 is formed (i.e., by foaming the polymer material), the material of midsole 202 is bonded to the material of plate 206, thereby forming an integral structure having both midsole 202 and plate 206. Once formed, midsole 202 (including plate 206) can be attached to the strobel and / or upper 100. In some examples, upper midsole portion 203a and lower midsole portion 203b can be formed as separate components and / or formed of different materials and attached to opposite sides of plate 206.

[0063] As described above, the midsole 202 includes an elastic polymer material (such as foam or rubber) to impart cushioning, responsiveness, and energy distribution properties to the wearer's foot. Exemplary elastic polymer materials for the midsole 202 may include materials based on foaming or molding one or more polymers, such as one or more elastomers (e.g., thermoplastic elastomers (TPE)). The one or more polymers may include aliphatic polymers, aromatic polymers, or a mixture of the two; and may include homopolymers, copolymers (including terpolymers), or a mixture of the two.

[0064] In some aspects, one or more polymers can include olefinic homopolymers, olefinic copolymers or their blends. The example of olefinic polymers includes polyethylene, polypropylene and combinations thereof. In other aspects, one or more polymers can include one or more ethylene copolymers, such as ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymers, EVOH copolymers, ethylene-ethyl acrylate copolymers, ethylene-unsaturated monofatty acid copolymers and combinations thereof.

[0065] In a further aspect, the one or more polymers may include one or more polyacrylates, such as polyacrylic acid, esters of polyacrylic acid, polyacrylonitrile, polyacetic acid esters, polymethyl acrylate, polyethyl acrylate, polybutyl acrylate, polymethyl methacrylate, and polyvinyl acetate; including derivatives thereof, copolymers thereof, and any combination thereof.

[0066] In still other aspects, one or more polymers may include one or more ionomer polymers. In these aspects, the ionomer polymer may include a polymer having a carboxylic acid functional group, a sulfonic acid functional group, a salt thereof (e.g., a sodium salt, a magnesium salt, a potassium salt, etc.) and / or an anhydride thereof. For example, the ionomer polymer may include one or more fatty acid-modified ionomer polymers, polystyrene sulfonates, ethylene-methacrylic acid copolymers and combinations thereof.

[0067] In further aspects, the one or more polymers can include one or more styrene block copolymers, such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene block copolymers, styrene acrylonitrile block copolymers, styrene ethylene butylene styrene block copolymers, styrene ethylene butadi ... propylene styrene block copolymers, styrene butadiene styrene block copolymers, and combinations thereof.

[0068] In other aspects, one or more polymers may include one or more polyamide copolymers (e.g., polyamide-polyether copolymers) and / or one or more polyurethanes (e.g., cross-linked polyurethanes and / or thermoplastic polyurethanes). Alternatively, one or more polymers may include one or more natural rubbers and / or synthetic rubbers, such as butadiene and isoprene.

[0069] When the elastic polymer material is a foamed polymer material, the foamed material can be foamed using a physical foaming agent that changes phase into a gas based on a change in temperature and / or pressure, or a chemical foaming agent that forms a gas when heated above its activation temperature. For example, the chemical foaming agent can be an azo compound such as azodicarbonamide, sodium bicarbonate and / or isocyanate.

[0070] In some embodiments, the foamed polymer material can be a cross-linked foamed material. In these embodiments, a peroxide-based cross-linking agent such as dicumyl peroxide can be used. In addition, the foamed polymer material can include one or more fillers such as pigments, modified clay or natural clay, modified or unmodified synthetic clay, talc, glass fiber, glass powder, modified or natural silica, calcium carbonate, mica, paper, wood chips and the like.

[0071] The elastomeric polymer material can be formed using a molding process. In one example, when the elastomeric polymer material is a molded elastomer, an uncured elastomer (e.g., rubber) can be mixed with an optional filler and a cure package (such as a sulfur-based or peroxide-based cure package) in a Banbury mixer, calendared, formed into shape, placed in a mold, and vulcanized.

[0072] In another example, when the elastic polymer material is a foamable material, the material can be foamed during a molding process such as an injection molding process. The thermoplastic polymer material can be melted in the barrel of an injection molding system, combined with a physical or chemical foaming agent and an optional cross-linking agent, and then injected into a mold under conditions that activate the foaming agent to form a molded foam.

[0073] Optionally, when the elastic polymer material is a foamed material, the foamed material can be a compression molded foam. Compression molding can be used to change the physical properties of the foam (e.g., density, stiffness, and / or hardness), or to change the physical appearance of the foam (e.g., to fuse two or more pieces of foam, to shape the foam, etc.), or both.

[0074] The compression molding process is ideally started by forming one or more foam preforms (such as by injection molding polymer material and foaming the polymer material, by forming foamed particles or beads, by cutting foamed sheets and similar operations). Then, compression molded foam can be manufactured by placing one or more preforms formed by the foamed polymer material in a compression mold and applying enough pressure to one or more preforms to compress one or more preforms in a closed mold. Once the mold is closed, enough heat and / or pressure are applied to one or more preforms in the closed mold for a sufficiently long duration to change the preforms, fuse separate foam particles to each other, permanently increase the density of the foam or any combination thereof by forming a skin on the outer surface of the compression molded foam. After heating and / or applying pressure, the mold is opened and the molded foam article is taken out from the mold.

[0075] Plate 206 may be embedded within the material of midsole 202 such that plate 206 may be encapsulated by midsole 202. Additionally, plate 206 may be disposed within midsole 202 but not completely encapsulated.

[0076] Regardless of the specific location of plate 206 relative to midsole 202, plate 206 may be formed from a relatively rigid material. For example, plate 206 may be formed from a non-foamed polymer material, or alternatively, from a composite material including fibers such as carbon fibers. Forming plate 206 from a relatively rigid material allows plate 206 to distribute the forces associated with use of article of footwear 10 when article of footwear 10 contacts a ground surface, as will be described in greater detail below.

[0077] In some examples, the plate 206 includes a uniform local stiffness (e.g., tensile strength or flexural strength) throughout the entire surface area of ​​the plate 206. The stiffness of the plate 206 can be anisotropic, where the stiffness in one direction across the plate 206 is different from the stiffness in another direction. For example, the plate 206 can be formed by at least two layers of fibers that are anisotropic with each other to apply a gradient stiffness and a gradient load path on the plate 206. In one configuration, the plate 206 is formed by one or more fiber bundle layers and / or fiber layers, and the fiber includes at least one of carbon fiber, aramid fiber, boron fiber, glass fiber, and polymer fiber. In a specific configuration, the fiber includes carbon fiber, or glass fiber, or a combination of carbon fiber and glass fiber. The fiber bundle can be attached to the substrate. The fiber bundle can be attached by stitching or using an adhesive. In addition or alternatively, the fiber bundle and / or fiber layer can be consolidated using a thermosetting polymer and / or a thermoplastic polymer. Therefore, the plate 206 can be substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A. 10 The plate 206 has tensile strength or flexural strength in the transverse direction of the plate 206. The stiffness of the plate 206 can be selected for a specific wearer based on the wearer's shoe size, body mass, running speed or optimized ankle torque distribution. In addition, the stiffness of the plate 206 can also be adjusted based on the athlete's running motion. In other configurations, the plate 206 is formed by one or more layers / plies of a unidirectional tape. In some examples, each layer in the stack includes an orientation different from that of the layer arranged below. The plate 206 can be formed by a unidirectional tape, and the unidirectional tape includes at least one of carbon fiber, aramid fiber, boron fiber, glass fiber and polymer fiber. In some examples, one or more materials forming the plate 206 include a Young's modulus of at least 10a gigapascals (GPa).

[0078] In some embodiments, plate 206 includes a substantially uniform thickness ranging from about 0.6 millimeters (mm) to about 5.0 mm. In one example, the thickness of the plate is substantially equal to one (1.0) mm. In other embodiments, the thickness of plate 206 is non-uniform, such that plate 206 can define a greater thickness in different areas of sole structure 200. Plate 206 can be constructed as described in U.S. Application Serial No. 15 / 248,051 and U.S. Application Serial No. 15 / 248,059, both of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0079] Regardless of the material used to form the plate 206, the plate 206 may be a so-called "full-length plate" having a body 210 ( Fig. 9 ), body 210 extends from a first end 212 adjacent to front end 12 to a second end 214 adjacent to rear end 14. Allowing plate 206 to extend from front end 12 to rear end 14 allows plate 206 to extend from forefoot region 20 through midfoot region 22 to heel region 24. Although plate 206 may be a full-length plate extending from forefoot region 20 to heel region 24, plate 206 may alternatively extend through only a portion of sole structure 200. For example, plate 206 may extend from front end 12 of article of footwear 10 to midfoot region 22 without extending completely through midfoot region 22 and into heel region 24.

[0080] like Figure 1-Figure 9 As shown, the body 210 of the plate 206 is shown to include a curved portion 216 in the forefoot region 20 and a substantially flat portion 218 in the heel region 24. The curved portion 216 defines a concavity in the midfoot region 22 that faces in a direction toward the upper 100, and the curved portion 216 extends from the first end 212 to the substantially flat portion 218 in the heel region 24. As such, the foam material of the midsole 202 is thickest in the area between the plate 206 and the upper 100 in the forefoot region 20 of the sole structure 200, and has a reduced thickness between the plate 206 and the upper 100 in the heel region 24 of the sole structure 200.

[0081] The shape of plate 206 also causes the foam material of midsole 202 (e.g., upper midsole portion 203a) to be thinnest in the area of ​​forefoot region 20 of sole structure 200, between plate 206 and outsole 204. Conversely, the foam material of midsole 202 is thickest in the area beneath plate 206 (i.e., lower midsole portion 203b) in heel region 24 of sole structure 200. Specifically, the foam material of midsole 202 is thickest in the area beneath plate 206 in heel region 24 of sole structure 200, between substantially flat portion 218 of plate 206 and outsole 204.

[0082] The above-described construction of midsole 202 and the position of plate 206 relative to midsole 202 and within midsole 202 allow plate 206 to be positioned proximate to the ground contacting surface in forefoot area 20 and spaced a greater distance from the ground contacting surface in heel area 24. In doing so, forces applied to outsole 204 during walking and running motions are substantially directly transferred to the front portion of plate 206 disposed in forefoot area 20 via outsole 204. Furthermore, because plate 206 is spaced a greater distance from upper 100 in forefoot area 20 of sole structure 200, the foam material of midsole 202 disposed between plate 206 and upper 100 in forefoot area 20 provides a degree of comfort to the wearer during walking and running motions.

[0083] Figure 4-Figure 8 The various cross-sectional views shown in illustrative examples illustrate the aforementioned positions of plate 206 relative to midsole 202 and within midsole 202. For example, Figure 4 and Figure 5 The cross-sectional view shown in illustra ts the generally close proximity of plate 206 and the ground contacting surface (i.e., proximate outsole 204) during walking and running motions. Figure 7 and Figure 8 20 illustrates the distance that plate 206 is spaced from the ground contacting surface in heel region 24 during running and walking motions. In summary, the shape of plate 206 allows the forces associated with running and walking motions to be directly transferred to plate 206 in forefoot region 20 of sole structure 200, while at the same time allowing the foam material of midsole 202 to provide a degree of comfort and cushioning to the wearer in forefoot region 20 due to the thickness of the foam material of midsole 202 located above plate 206 in forefoot region 20.

[0084] Special References Fig. 9, plate 206 includes a body 210 having the above-described configuration, and a first set of protrusions 220 extending from body 210 and a second set of protrusions 222 extending from body 210. In one configuration, first set of protrusions 220 extend from body 210 in an area of ​​plate 206 located in forefoot region 20 of sole structure 200, while second set of protrusions 222 extend from body 210 in heel region 24 of sole structure 200. Although plate 206 is shown and described as including first set of protrusions 220 and second set of protrusions 222, plate 206 may include only first set of protrusions 220 or second set of protrusions 222. Although plate 206 may include only first set of protrusions 220 or second set of protrusions 222, reference will be made to Figure 1-Figure 9 The plate 206 is depicted as including a first set of protrusions 220 and a second set of protrusions 222 .

[0085] The first set of protrusions 220 may include a first protrusion 224 disposed on the inner side of the plate 206 and a second protrusion 226 disposed on the outer side of the plate 206. The first protrusion 224 extends from the body 210 to the distal end. Similarly, the second protrusion 226 extends from the plate 206 to the distal end in the opposite direction on the outer side 18 of the plate 206. The first protrusion 224 and the second protrusion 226 may be aligned across the width of the plate 206 so that the first protrusion 224 and the second protrusion 226 are substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A of the plate 206. 206 The lateral extension axis A 222 Thus, the first protrusion 224 and the second protrusion 226 may be directly opposite each other.

[0086] First protrusion 224 and second protrusion 226 may each include a flange 228 extending from first protrusion 224 and second protrusion 226. That is, once plate 206 is assembled to midsole 202 and midsole 202 is attached to upper 100, flange 228 may extend substantially perpendicular to first protrusion 224 and second protrusion 226, respectively, in a direction toward upper 100. Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, the flange 228 of the first protrusion 224 and the flange 228 of the second protrusion 226 extend in a direction toward the upper 100, and therefore, once the plate 206 is assembled to the midsole 202 and the midsole 202 is attached to the upper 100, portions of the flange 228 may extend along and be substantially parallel to the outer peripheral surface 208 of the midsole 202. In addition, depending on the thickness of the midsole 202 disposed between the plate 206 and the upper 100 and the height of the flange 228 of the first protrusion 224 and the flange 228 of the second protrusion 226, the flange 228 may extend adjacent to and be spaced apart from the outer surface 112 of the upper 100.

[0087] As with the first set of protrusions 220, the second set of protrusions 222 may also include a first protrusion 230 and a second protrusion 232. The first protrusion 230 of the second set of protrusions 222 may extend from the body 210 of the plate 206 in the heel region 24 and may be disposed on the medial side 16 of the plate 206. The second protrusion 232 of the second set of protrusions 222 may extend from the body 210 of the plate 206 in the heel region 24 and may be disposed on the lateral side 18 of the plate 206. Thus, the first protrusion 230 of the second set of protrusions 222 and the second protrusion 232 of the second set of protrusions 222 are disposed on opposite sides of the plate 206. Furthermore, these protrusions 230, 232 may be directly opposite each other, as with the protrusions 224, 226 of the first set of protrusions 220.

[0088] The first protrusion 230 and the second protrusion 232 in the second group of protrusions 222 may extend from the body 210 in opposite directions and may terminate at respective distal ends. Each of the first protrusion 230 and the second protrusion 232 may include a flange 234 disposed at its distal end. The flange 234 may extend away from the first protrusion 230 and the second protrusion 232, respectively, in a direction toward the upper 100 in a manner similar to the first protrusion 224 and the second protrusion 226 in the first group of protrusions 220. The flange 234 associated with the first protrusion 230 and the second protrusion 232 may extend substantially perpendicularly to the first protrusion 230 and the second protrusion 232 in a direction away from the first protrusion 230 and the second protrusion 232. Like the flange 228 of the first protrusion 224 and the second protrusion 226 in the first group of protrusions 220, the flange 234 associated with the first protrusion 230 and the second protrusion 232 in the second group of protrusions 222 can extend along the outer peripheral surface 208 of the sole midsole 202 and the outer surface of at least one of the upper 100.

[0089] like Figure 3 and Fig. 9 As shown, flange 228 associated with first protrusion 224 and second protrusion 226 in first set of protrusions 220 can be substantially parallel to flange 234 of first protrusion 230 and second protrusion 232 in second set of protrusions 222. In addition, flange 228 can be spaced apart and separated from flange 234 in a direction extending along longitudinal axis (L) of plate 206. Finally, flange 228 associated with first protrusion 224 and second protrusion 226 can be spaced apart from each other by a greater distance than flange 234 associated with first protrusion 230 and second protrusion 232 because body 210 of plate 206 is wider in forefoot region 20 of sole structure 200 than body 210 is wider at heel region 24 of sole structure 200.

[0090] As described above, the plate 206 may include a composite material. That is, the plate 206 may be formed of a carbon fiber composite material, which allows the plate 206 to have different degrees of stiffness at different locations along the length and / or width of the plate 206. In one configuration, the body 210 of the plate 206 is relatively flexible in the longitudinal direction of the plate 206 and relatively rigid in the lateral direction of the plate 206. That is, the body 210 can more easily be moved about a longitudinal axis A that is substantially perpendicular to the plate 206. 206 The extended axis flexes while resisting the longitudinal axis A around the plate 206. 206 bend.

[0091] The composite nature of the plate 206 further allows the body 210 to include localized degrees of strength and stiffness. For example, the body 210 can be locally reinforced at the location of one or both of the first set of protrusions 220 and the second set of protrusions 222. In one configuration, the body 210 of the plate 206 is the stiffest and, therefore, resists deformation along the lateral axis A. 220 The lateral axis extends between the first protrusion 224 and the second protrusion 226 in the first set of protrusions 220.

[0092] Although plate 206 is described and shown as being disposed proximate to the ground surface during use, plate 206 may have a different shape and / or be positioned closer to upper 100 in forefoot region 20 such that material of midsole 202 extends between plate 206 and outsole 204 in forefoot region 20. Additionally, a liner (not shown) may be disposed between plate 206 and outsole 204 as an alternative to or in addition to the material of midsole 202. For example, a fluid-filled chamber (not shown) may be positioned between plate 206 and outsole 204 in at least one of forefoot region 20, midfoot region 22, and heel region 24. Regardless of the specific shape and position of plate 206, plate 206 distributes loads applied at forefoot region 14 when a wearer rolls through a walking or running motion and helps apply torque around the wearer's ankle.

[0093] Special References Fig.10 and Fig.11 , another example of a plate 206a incorporated into an article of footwear 10a is shown. Given the similarity in structure and function of article of footwear 10a relative to article of footwear 10, like reference numerals will be used hereinafter and in the accompanying drawings to identify like parts, while reference numerals containing letter extensions will be used to identify those parts that have been modified.

[0094] like Fig.11 As shown, flange 228 of first protrusion 224 and flange 228 of second protrusion 226 are spaced apart from and opposed to outer peripheral surface 208 of midsole 202. That is, first protrusion 224 and second protrusion 226 extend from outer peripheral surface 208 in forefoot region 20 of sole structure 200a. Likewise, first protrusion 230 and second protrusion 232 of second set of protrusions 222 are spaced apart from and opposed to outer peripheral surface 208 of midsole 202 in heel region 24 of sole structure 200a. Thus, first set of protrusions 220 and second set of protrusions 222 are exposed and visible during use of article of footwear 10a. As will be described in greater detail below, protrusions 224 , 226 , 230 , 232 in first set of protrusions 220 and second set of protrusions 222 , respectively, allow plate 206a , and thus sole structure 200a and associated article of footwear 10a , to be selectively attached to an external structure, such as, for example, exoskeleton 300 .

[0095] Although plate 206 is described and illustrated as including first set of protrusions 220 and second set of protrusions 222, plate 206 may also include protrusions 236 extending from body 210 at locations spaced apart from the locations of first set of protrusions 220 and second set of protrusions 222. For example, protrusions 236 may be located in heel region 24 and may extend from outer peripheral surface 208 of midsole 202 at heel region 24. Protrusions 236 may also facilitate attachment of plate 206 to an external structure such as an exoskeleton and may be exposed during use of article of footwear 10a. Fig.10 and Fig.11 As shown, protrusion 236 may extend from outer peripheral surface 208 of midsole 202 at heel region 24 and may be positioned such that protrusion 236 is substantially perpendicular to outer peripheral surface 208 .

[0096] Special References Figure 12-16 , an article of footwear 10b is provided and includes a sole structure 200b including a plate 206b. Given that the structure and function of article of footwear 10b are substantially similar relative to article of footwear 10a, like reference numerals are used below and in the accompanying drawings to identify like parts, while reference numerals including letter extensions are used to identify those parts that have been modified.

[0097] Plate 206b is similar to plate 206, but includes only first set of protrusions 220b and optional protrusions 236. Furthermore, body 10 of plate 206b may include the same overall shape as plate 206 described above with respect to article of footwear 10, and may be formed from the materials described above with respect to plate 206.

[0098] Plate 206b may include a first set of protrusions 220b extending from plate 206b in forefoot region 20. First set of protrusions 220b may include a first protrusion 224b extending from body 210 of plate 206b at a medial side of body 210 and a second protrusion 226b extending from body 210 of plate 206b at a lateral side of body 210. First protrusion 224b and second protrusion 226b may each include a pair of flanges 228b extending from first protrusion 224b and second protrusion 226b, respectively, in a direction toward upper 100. As with first protrusion 224 and second protrusion 226 of plate 206 described above, flanges 228b of first protrusion 224b and flanges 228b of second protrusion 226b may extend from first protrusion 224b and second protrusion 226b, respectively, in a direction substantially perpendicular to first protrusion 224b and second protrusion 226b.

[0099] Each of the first and second projections 224b, 226b includes a pair of flanges 228b that are arranged along a substantially perpendicular axis A of the plate 206b. 206 The lateral directions of extension are spaced apart from each other by gaps 238 and (ii) may be substantially parallel to each other. Each flange 228b of each protrusion 224b, 226b may include a hole 240 formed through the thickness of the flange 228b. The hole 240 of the flange 228b of the first protrusion 224b may be parallel to the lateral axis A. 220 The first common axis A extending 240 Similarly, the hole 240 of the flange 228b of the second protrusion 226b can be aligned along the second common axis A 240 Thus, flange 228b may be configured as a hinge for pivotally attaching outer structure 300, as described below.

[0100] As with plate 206, plate 206b may include a composite material, such as, for example, a carbon fiber composite material. The carbon fiber composite material of plate 206b may include relatively high stiffness and bending resistance at the location of first protrusion 224b and second protrusion 226b. That is, the body 210 of plate 206b may be locally reinforced along a longitudinal axis extending between and through the first protrusion 224b and second protrusion 226b. In doing so, the body 210 of plate 206b has the greatest bending resistance at the location of the first set of protrusions 220b.

[0101] like Figure 14-16 As shown, the first set of protrusions 220b can allow the plate 206b, and therefore the article of footwear 10b, to be attached to the external structure 300. For example, the first set of protrusions 220b can allow the plate 206b to be attached to an external structure such as an exoskeleton. The exoskeleton 300 can include a bracket 302 that is received within the gap 238 between the flanges 228b of each protrusion 224b, 226b. The bracket 302 can include a hole 304 that can be aligned with the hole 240 of the flange 228b when the bracket 302 is attached to the first protrusion 224b.

[0102] Once the holes 240 of the flange 228b and the holes 304 of the bracket 302 are axially aligned, a fastener (not shown) can be inserted into the holes 240 of the flange 228b of the first protrusion 224b and through the holes of the bracket 302 to pivotally attach the bracket 302 to the first protrusion 224b. A similar procedure can be followed on both the inside and outside sides of the body 210 of the plate 206b so that a pair of brackets 302 are simultaneously and pivotally attached to the plate 206b at the first protrusion 224b and the second protrusion 226b, respectively. Because the bracket 302 is pivotally attached to the plate 206b via the flange 228b, the flange 228b acts as a hinge to pivotally attach the bracket 302 to the plate 206b.

[0103] Bracket 302, which attaches plate 206b to exoskeleton 300, allows plate 206b, and therefore article of footwear 10b, to be pivotally attached to exoskeleton 300 via bracket 302. In addition, because plate 206b is positioned in a fixed position relative to midsole 202 and midsole 202 is positioned in a fixed position relative to upper 100, the positions of first protrusion 224b and second protrusion 226b relative to midsole 202 and upper 100 are likewise fixed and constant. Thus, bracket 302, and therefore the attachment of the exoskeleton to plate 206b, is repeatable. In other words, when bracket 302 is removed and reinstalled on article of footwear 10b, the relative positions of bracket 302, midsole 202, and upper 100 can be repeated on multiple occasions.

[0104] When the bracket 302 is pivotally attached to the first protrusion 224b and the second protrusion 226b, the bracket 302 extends along a portion of the outer peripheral surface 208 of the midsole 202 and along the outer surface of the upper 100, such as Fig.13 shown. Fig.13 and Fig.14 It is also shown that a first inner flange of the flanges 228b of the first protrusion 224b is positioned adjacent to and opposite the outer peripheral surface 208 of the midsole 202, while a second outer flange of the flanges 228b of the first protrusion 224b is spaced apart from the outer peripheral surface 208 of the midsole 202 by a gap 238 and the thickness of the inner flange 228b. In one configuration, the inner flange 228b abuts the outer peripheral surface 208 of the midsole 202. Alternatively, the inner flange 228b may be spaced apart from the outer peripheral surface 208 of the midsole 202 by a predetermined distance.

[0105] Special References Fig.17 , an article of footwear 10c is shown. Given that the structure and function of article of footwear 10c are substantially similar relative to article of footwear 10a, like reference numerals are used below and in the figures to identify like components, while reference numerals including letter extensions are used to identify those components that have been modified.

[0106] The sole structure 200c of the article of footwear 10c is substantially the same as the article of footwear 10b except that the plate 206c has a two-part construction. That is, the body 210c of the plate 206c includes a first portion 211a disposed in the forefoot region 20 of the article of footwear 10c and a second portion 211b disposed in the heel region 24 of the article of footwear 10c. The first portion 211a extends from the front end 12 in a direction toward the rear end 14 and passes through the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) point. The first portion 211a includes a first set of projections 220 and is thus used to selectively attach the first portion 211a of the plate 206c to the bracket 302 of the exoskeleton, as described above with respect to the plate 206b. Optionally, the second portion 211b may include a second set of projections 222, as discussed above. The first portion 211a and the second portion 211b, once assembled to the midsole 202, are attached to the shoe along the longitudinal axis A. 10 Alternatively, midsole 202c of sole structure 200c may include a separate recess configured to receive portions 211a, 211b of body 210c therein.

[0107] like Fig.18 As shown, the sole structure 200d of the footwear article 10d may include a tunnel structure 242 disposed in the heel area 24. The tunnel structure 242 may be incorporated into any of the footwear articles 10-10c described above. For example, the tunnel structure 242 formed by a low-friction, high-molecular-weight, lightweight material may be disposed in the heel area 24. The tunnel structure 242 may define a hole 244 extending from the medial side 16 to the lateral side 18 and providing an entrance through the sole structure 200d. The tunnel structure 242 may be formed by a low-friction, high-molecular-weight, lightweight material having a low coefficient of friction. The hole 244 formed by the tunnel structure 242 allows the footwear article 10d to be selectively attached to the exoskeleton via a tether 246.

[0108] The tether 246 can be formed by a woven or braided element (such as a rope or cable extending from the exoskeleton to the footwear article 10d). For example, the tether 246 can be formed by a rope that extends downward from the exoskeleton to the tunnel structure 242 at the medial side 16, passes through the hole 244, extends out of the lateral side 18, and returns to the exoskeleton. In doing so, the tether 246 attaches the footwear article 10d to the exoskeleton and allows the exoskeleton to move in the direction toward the footwear article 10d. However, during operation, when an upward force is applied to the exoskeleton in a direction away from the footwear article 10d and the tether 246 is placed under tension, the attachment of the tether 246 to the tunnel structure 242 limits the exoskeleton 300 from moving a predetermined distance away from the footwear article 10d. That is, the exoskeleton is only allowed to move a certain distance away from the footwear article 10d, which is substantially equal to the length of the tether 246 at the medial side and the lateral side.

[0109] Special References Fig.19 , the heel region 24 of the sole structure 200e of the article of footwear 10e is shown as including a pair of protrusions 248 extending between the medial side 16 and the lateral side 18 of the plate 206e. The protrusions 248 can be formed from the material of the plate 206e in an effort to help locate and maintain the position of the plate 206e relative to the midsole 202e. In addition, the protrusions 248 can also define a channel for receiving an adhesive material to fix the tunnel structure 242 between the protrusions 248 and relative to the plate 206e in a desired position. In doing so, the protrusions 248 can cooperate with the tunnel structure 242 to ensure that the hole 244 defined by the tunnel structure 242 remains in a desired position relative to the midsole 202e and the plate 206e and, therefore, relative to the exoskeleton during use.

[0110] Special References Figure 20-22 , plate 206e is shown to include protrusions 250 that cooperate to define a channel 252. Channel 252 is positioned in the heel area of ​​plate 206e and can receive tunnel structure 242 therein to help maintain and position tunnel structure 242 relative to and within midsole 202e. Plate 206e is substantially similar to plate 206b except for protrusions 250 and channel 252.

[0111] Special References Fig.23 and Fig.24 , an article of footwear 10f is provided, and the article of footwear 10f includes a plate 206f incorporated into a sole structure 200f. Given that the structure and function of the article of footwear 10f are substantially similar relative to the article of footwear 10, the same reference numerals are used below and in the figures to identify the same parts, while reference numerals containing letter extensions are used to identify those parts that have been modified.

[0112] In this example, the flanges 228f, 234f of at least one of the plurality of sets of projections 220f, 222f may each be provided with a hole 254 in a manner similar to the flanges 228b of the first projection 224b and the flanges 228b of the second projection 226b. The holes 254 receive corresponding tethers 246 for selectively attaching the plate 206f, and thus the article of footwear 10f, to the exoskeleton. For example, the flanges 234f of the first projection 230f and the flanges 234f of the second projection 232f may include holes 250 that are provided with holes 254 to selectively attach the exoskeleton to the plate 206f, and thus the article of footwear 10f, while preventing the exoskeleton from moving a predetermined distance away from the article of footwear 10a during use. Fig.18 The holes 244 of the tunnel structure 242 of the first set of projections 220f may function in a similar manner. Optionally, the flanges 224f, 226f of the first set of projections 220f may also include holes 254 for attaching the exoskeleton 300.

[0113] Similarly, an exoskeleton can be attached to article of footwear 10f via bracket 302 and tether 246. The exoskeleton can assist a wearer of article of footwear 10f during walking and / or running motions by reducing the amount of energy required to propel the wearer, and can extend upward from article of footwear 10f toward the wearer's calf. Additionally, since plate 206c is described as including a portion disposed in forefoot region 20 proximate the ground contacting surface and a heel portion disposed proximate the wearer's foot, rotation about the ankle is enabled and rotation about the ankle allows rotation about the heel.

[0114] The following clauses provide example configurations of sole structures for articles of footwear as described above.

[0115] Item 1: A sole structure for an article of footwear, the article of footwear having an upper, the sole structure comprising: an outsole having a ground engaging surface and an upper surface formed on a side of the outsole opposite to the ground engaging surface; a midsole attached to the outsole and including an outer peripheral surface extending between the outsole and the upper; and a plate at least partially disposed within the midsole and (i) extending from a forefoot region of the sole structure, (ii) passing through a metatarsophalangeal (MTP) point of the sole structure, and (iii) extending toward a heel region of the sole structure, the plate comprising a first plate portion extending from the outer peripheral surface of the midsole.

[0116] Clause 2: The sole structure of clause 1, wherein the first plate portion extends from the outer perimeter surface at one of a medial side of the sole structure and a lateral side of the sole structure.

[0117] Clause 3: The sole structure of clause 2, wherein the plate includes a second plate portion extending from the outer perimeter surface of the midsole.

[0118] Clause 4: The sole structure of clause 3, wherein the second plate portion is disposed on a side of the plate opposite the first plate portion.

[0119] Clause 5: A sole structure according to clause 3 or 4, wherein the second plate portion is disposed at the other of the medial side and the lateral side.

[0120] Clause 6: A sole structure according to any of clauses 3-5, wherein the first plate portion and the second plate portion are aligned with the MTP point.

[0121] Clause 7: A sole structure as recited in any of clauses 3-6, wherein the second plate portion is directly opposite the first plate portion.

[0122] Clause 8: The sole structure of any of clauses 1-7, wherein the first plate portion extends from a heel area of ​​the sole structure.

[0123] Clause 9: A sole structure as recited in any of clauses 1-8, wherein the plate extends from a front end of the sole structure to a rear end of the sole structure.

[0124] Clause 10: A sole structure as recited in any of clauses 1-9, wherein the plate comprises a first plate segment disposed in a forefoot region of the sole structure and a second plate segment disposed in a heel region of the sole structure, the first plate segment being spaced apart from the second plate segment.

[0125] Clause 11: The sole structure of any of clauses 1-10, further comprising a hole extending from a medial side of the sole structure through the midsole to a lateral side of the sole structure.

[0126] Clause 12: A sole structure according to clause 11, wherein the holes are provided at a heel area of ​​the sole structure.

[0127] Clause 13: The sole structure of any of clauses 1-12, wherein the first plate portion includes at least one of a flange, a hole, and a slot operable to selectively attach the first plate portion to an external structure.

[0128] Clause 14: A sole structure according to any of clauses 1-13, wherein the midsole comprises a first midsole portion disposed between the plate and the upper and a second midsole portion disposed between the plate and the outsole.

[0129] Clause 15: The sole structure of Clause 14, wherein the first midsole portion increases in thickness in a direction extending from a heel region of the sole structure toward a forefoot region of the sole structure.

[0130] Clause 16: A sole structure according to clause 14 or 15, wherein the thickness of the first midsole portion is greatest at the MTP point.

[0131] Clause 17: A sole structure according to any of clauses 14-16, wherein the second midsole portion increases in thickness in a direction extending from a forefoot area of ​​the sole structure towards a heel area of ​​the sole structure.

[0132] Clause 18: The sole structure of any of clauses 1-17, wherein the first plate portion includes a body extending from the outer perimeter surface of the midsole and a flange extending from the body in a direction away from the outsole.

[0133] Clause 19: The sole structure of Clause 18, wherein the flange extends substantially perpendicular to the body of the first plate portion.

[0134] Clause 20: An article of footwear comprising a sole structure according to any of Clauses 1-19.

[0135] Item 21: A sole structure for an article of footwear, the article of footwear having an upper, the sole structure comprising: an outsole having a ground engaging surface and an upper surface formed on a side of the outsole opposite the ground engaging surface; a midsole attached to the outsole and including an outer peripheral surface extending between the outsole and the upper; and a plate at least partially disposed within the midsole and (i) extending from a forefoot region of the sole structure, (ii) passing through a metatarsophalangeal (MTP) point of the sole structure, and (iii) extending toward a heel region of the sole structure, the plate comprising a first plate portion defining a first hinge portion of a first hinge and a second plate portion defining a second hinge portion of a second hinge.

[0136] Clause 22: The sole structure of clause 21, wherein the first plate portion extends from the outer perimeter surface at one of a medial side of the sole structure and a lateral side of the sole structure.

[0137] Clause 23: The sole structure of clause 22, wherein the second plate portion extends from the outer perimeter surface at the other of the medial side of the sole structure and the lateral side of the sole structure.

[0138] Clause 24: The sole structure of clause 23, wherein the second plate portion is disposed on a side of the plate opposite the first plate portion.

[0139] Clause 25: A sole structure according to clause 23 or 24, wherein the second plate portion is disposed at the other of the medial side and the lateral side.

[0140] Clause 26: A sole structure according to any of clauses 21-25, wherein the first plate portion and the second plate portion are aligned with the MTP point.

[0141] Clause 27: A sole structure according to any of clauses 21-26, wherein the second plate portion is directly opposite the first plate portion.

[0142] Clause 28: A sole structure according to any of clauses 21-27, wherein the first plate portion and the second plate portion extend along a longitudinal axis through the plate at localized regions of increased rigidity of the plate.

[0143] Clause 29: A sole structure according to any of clauses 21-28, wherein the plate extends from a front end of the sole structure to a rear end of the sole structure.

[0144] Clause 30: A sole structure as recited in any of clauses 21-29, wherein the plate comprises a first plate segment disposed in a forefoot region of the sole structure and a second plate segment disposed in a heel region of the sole structure, the first plate segment being spaced apart from the second plate segment.

[0145] Clause 31: The sole structure of any of Clauses 21-30, further comprising a hole extending from a medial side of the sole structure through the midsole to a lateral side of the sole structure.

[0146] Clause 32: A sole structure according to clause 31, wherein the holes are arranged in a heel area of ​​the sole structure.

[0147] Clause 33: The sole structure of any of clauses 21-32, wherein the first hinge portion and the second hinge portion each include at least one of a flange, a hole, and a slot operable to selectively attach the first plate portion and the second plate portion to an external structure.

[0148] Clause 34: A sole structure according to any of clauses 21-33, wherein the midsole comprises a first midsole portion disposed between the plate and the upper and a second midsole portion disposed between the plate and the outsole.

[0149] Clause 35: A sole structure according to clause 34, wherein the first midsole portion increases in thickness in a direction extending from a heel area of ​​the sole structure toward a forefoot area of ​​the sole structure.

[0150] Clause 36: A sole structure according to clause 34 or 35, wherein the thickness of the first midsole portion is greatest at the MTP point.

[0151] Clause 37: A sole structure according to any of clauses 34-36, wherein the second midsole portion increases in thickness in a direction extending from a forefoot region of the sole structure towards a heel region of the sole structure.

[0152] Clause 38: A sole structure according to any one of Clauses 21-37, wherein the first plate portion includes a first body extending from the outer peripheral surface of the midsole and the first hinge portion includes a first flange extending from the first body in a direction away from the outsole, and the second plate portion includes a second body extending from the outer peripheral surface of the midsole and the second hinge portion includes a second flange extending from the second body in a direction away from the outsole.

[0153] Clause 39: The sole structure of clause 38, wherein the first flange extends substantially perpendicular to the first body of the first plate portion, and the second flange extends substantially perpendicular to the second body of the second plate portion.

[0154] Clause 40: An article of footwear comprising a sole structure according to any of Clauses 21-39.

[0155] The foregoing description has been provided for the purpose of illustration and description. The foregoing description is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present disclosure. The individual elements or features of a particular configuration are generally not limited to that particular configuration, but are interchangeable where applicable and can be used in a selected configuration, even if not explicitly shown or described. The individual elements or features of a particular configuration can also be varied in many ways. Such variations are not considered to be out of the present disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A sole structure for an article of footwear, the article of footwear having an upper, the sole structure comprising: an outsole having a ground engaging surface and an upper surface formed on a side of the outsole opposite the ground engaging surface; a midsole attached to the outsole and including an outer peripheral surface extending between the outsole and the upper, the midsole including an upper portion and a lower portion, the upper portion having a first thickness extending from an upper surface to a lower surface, the lower portion having a second thickness extending from the upper surface to the lower surface, the first thickness gradually decreasing between a forefoot region and a heel region, and the second thickness gradually increasing between the forefoot region and the heel region; and A plate is disposed between the upper portion and the lower portion of the midsole and (i) extends from the forefoot region of the sole structure, (ii) passes through a metatarsophalangeal (MTP) point of the sole structure, and (iii) extends toward the heel region of the sole structure, the plate comprising an upper surface contacting the lower surface of the upper portion of the midsole, a lower surface contacting the upper surface of the lower portion of the midsole, a curved portion in the forefoot region, a substantially flat portion in the heel region, and a portion extending from the outer perimeter surface of the midsole. The first protrusion and the second protrusion extend from the outer peripheral surface at one of the medial side of the sole structure and the lateral side of the sole structure, the second protrusion is arranged on the side of the plate opposite to the first protrusion, the first protrusion and the second protrusion start and end at the forefoot area or the heel area of ​​the sole structure, the first protrusion includes a first hinge portion and the second protrusion includes a second hinge portion, wherein the first hinge portion and the second hinge portion are perpendicular to the substantially flat portion of the plate. 2 . The sole structure according to claim 1 , wherein the first protrusion and the second protrusion are aligned with the MTP point.

3. The sole structure according to any one of claims 1-2, wherein the second protrusion is directly opposite to the first protrusion.

4. The sole structure according to any one of claims 1-2, wherein the plate extends from a front end of the sole structure to a rear end of the sole structure.

5. The sole structure according to any one of claims 1-2, wherein the plate includes a first plate segment disposed in the forefoot region of the sole structure and a second plate segment disposed in the heel region of the sole structure, the first plate segment being spaced apart from the second plate segment.

6. The sole structure according to any one of claims 1-2, further comprising a hole extending from a medial side of the sole structure through the midsole to a lateral side of the sole structure.

7. The sole structure of claim 6, wherein the holes are disposed at the heel region of the sole structure.

8. The sole structure of any one of claims 1-2 and 7, wherein the first protrusion includes at least one of a flange, a hole, and a slot operable to selectively attach the first protrusion to an external structure.

9. The sole structure according to any one of claims 1-2 and 7, wherein the first protrusion includes a body extending from the outer peripheral surface of the midsole and a flange extending from the body in a direction away from the outsole.

10. The sole structure of claim 9, wherein the flange extends substantially perpendicular to the body of the first projection.

11. An article of footwear comprising a sole structure according to any one of claims 1-10.

12. A sole structure for an article of footwear, the article of footwear having an upper, the sole structure comprising: an outsole having a ground engaging surface and an upper surface formed on a side of the outsole opposite the ground engaging surface; a midsole attached to the outsole and including an outer peripheral surface extending between the outsole and the upper, the midsole including a first area in a forefoot region and a second area in a heel region, an upper portion extending between the first area and the second area, and a lower portion extending between the first area and the second area, the upper portion of the midsole gradually decreasing in thickness between the forefoot region and the heel region, and the lower portion of the midsole gradually increasing in thickness between the forefoot region and the heel region; as well as A plate, which is arranged between the upper part and the lower part of the sole midsole and (i) extends from the forefoot area of ​​the sole structure, (ii) passes through the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) point of the sole structure, and (iii) extends toward the heel area of ​​the sole structure, the plate including a body having a curved portion in the forefoot area and a substantially flat portion in the heel area, a first protrusion defining a first hinge portion and a second protrusion defining a second hinge portion of a second hinge, the first protrusion and the second protrusion starting and ending at the forefoot area or the heel area of ​​the sole structure, and the first hinge portion and the second hinge portion are arranged perpendicular to the substantially flat portion of the plate.

13. The sole structure of claim 12, wherein the first protrusion extends from the outer perimeter surface at one of a medial side of the sole structure and a lateral side of the sole structure.

14. The sole structure of claim 13, wherein the second protrusion extends from the outer peripheral surface at the other of the medial side of the sole structure and the lateral side of the sole structure.

15. The sole structure of claim 14, wherein the second protrusion is disposed on a side of the plate opposite the first protrusion.

16. The sole structure according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the second protrusion is provided at the other of the medial side and the lateral side.

17. The sole structure according to any one of claims 12-15, wherein the first protrusion and the second protrusion are aligned with the MTP point.

18. The sole structure according to any one of claims 12-15, wherein the second protrusion is directly opposite to the first protrusion.

19. The sole structure according to any one of claims 12-15, wherein the first and second protrusions extend along a longitudinal axis through the plate at localized areas of increased rigidity of the plate.

20. The sole structure of any one of claims 12-15, wherein the plate extends from a front end of the sole structure to a rear end of the sole structure.

21. The sole structure according to any one of claims 12-15, wherein the plate includes a first plate segment disposed in the forefoot region of the sole structure and a second plate segment disposed in the heel region of the sole structure, the first plate segment being spaced apart from the second plate segment.

22. The sole structure according to any one of claims 12-15, further comprising a hole extending from a medial side of the sole structure through the midsole to a lateral side of the sole structure.

23. The sole structure of claim 22, wherein the apertures are disposed at the heel region of the sole structure.

24. The sole structure of any one of claims 12-15 and 23, wherein the first hinge portion and the second hinge portion each include at least one of a flange, a hole, and a slot operable to selectively attach the first protrusion and the second protrusion to an external structure.

25. A sole structure according to any one of claims 12-15 and 23, wherein the first protrusion includes a first body extending from the outer peripheral surface of the midsole and the first hinge portion includes a first flange extending from the first body in a direction away from the outsole, and the second protrusion includes a second body extending from the outer peripheral surface of the midsole and the second hinge portion includes a second flange extending from the second body in a direction away from the outsole.

26. The sole structure of claim 25, wherein the first flange extends substantially perpendicular to the first body of the first protrusion, and the second flange extends substantially perpendicular to the second body of the second protrusion.

27. An article of footwear comprising a sole structure according to any one of claims 12-26.

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