Article of footwear and sole structure for article of footwear

Abstract

The present application relates to articles of footwear and sole structures for articles of footwear. Sole structures (e.g., midsoles and / or outsoles) and articles of footwear include a heel support region and / or a forefoot support region that includes a central region (e.g., a central concave region) and a plurality of surrounding loops. Additionally or alternatively, sole structures (e.g., midsoles and / or outsoles) can include a band of material defined by a groove to provide a cushioned impact force attenuation structure.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the application filed on December 1, 2016, with application number 202110143350.3 and invention title "Footwear Articles and Sole Structures for Footwear Articles".

[0002] The application filed on December 1, 2016, with application number 202110143350.3 and entitled "Footwear Articles and Sole Structures for Footwear Articles", is a divisional application of the application filed on December 1, 2016, with application number 201680072974.8 and entitled "Footwear Articles and Sole Structures for Footwear Articles".

[0003] Relevant application data

[0004] This application claims priority to the following: (a) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 261,670, filed December 1, 2015, entitled "Articles of Footwear and Sole Structures for Articles of Footwear," and (b) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 261,691, filed December 1, 2015, entitled "Articles of Footwear and Sole Structures for Articles of Footwear." Each of these priority applications is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0005] This invention relates to the field of footwear. More specifically, aspects of this invention relate to footwear articles, the uppers of footwear articles, and / or the sole structures of footwear articles, such as footwear for basketball, cross-training, and / or other sports or activities. Background Technology

[0006] Terminology / General Information

[0007] First, some general terms and information are provided to help understand the various parts of the invention and the invention as described herein. As mentioned above, the invention relates to the field of footwear. "Footwear" refers to any type of footwear, and this term includes, but is not limited to: all types of shoes, boots, athletic shoes, sandals, flip-flops, flip-flops, heelless sandals, flat sandals, slippers, and athletic shoes (such as running shoes, golf shoes, tennis shoes, baseball shoes, cricket shoes, football boots or soccer shoes, ski boots, basketball shoes, cross-training shoes, etc.).

[0008] Figure 6Information is also provided that can be used to explain and understand aspects of this specification and / or the invention. More specifically, Figure 6 An illustration of a footwear component 100 is provided, which, in the example shown, constitutes part of the sole structure for a footwear object. The same general definitions and terms described below may be applied to general footwear and / or other footwear components or portions thereof, such as uppers, midsole components, outsole components, ground joint components, etc.

[0009] First, such as Figure 6 As indicated, unless otherwise specified or clearly stated in the context, the term "forward" or "forward direction" as used herein means the direction toward the forefoot ("FT") area of ​​the footwear structure or component 100 or the direction toward the forefoot ("FT") area of ​​the footwear structure or component 100. Unless otherwise specified or clearly stated in the context, the term "backward" or "backward direction" as used herein means the direction toward the rearmost heel area ("RH") of the footwear structure or component 100 or the direction toward the rearmost heel region ("RH") of the footwear structure or component 100. Unless otherwise specified or clearly stated in the context, the term "outer" or "lateral" as used herein means the outer side or "little toe" side of the footwear structure or component 100. Unless otherwise specified or clearly stated in the context, the term "inner" or "medial" means the inner side or "big toe" side of the footwear structure or component 100.

[0010] Furthermore, various exemplary features and aspects of the present invention can be disclosed or interpreted herein with reference to the "longitudinal direction" and / or with reference to the "longitudinal length" of the footwear component 100 (such as the footwear sole structure). Figure 6 As shown, the "longitudinal direction" is defined as the position from the last heel position of the footwear component 100 under discussion (in this example, the sole structure or foot support component). Figure 6 The RH in the middle extends to the position of the foremost toe ( Figure 6The direction of the line (FT) in the diagram. The "longitudinal length" L is the length dimension measured from the last heel position RH to the foreto position FT. The last heel position RH and the foreto position FT can be located by determining the heel and foreto tangent points relative to the front and rear parallel vertical planes VP when the component 100 (e.g., in this illustrated example, a sole structure or foot support member, optionally as part of a footwear object or foot receiving device) is oriented on the horizontal support surface S under no-load conditions (e.g., no weight is applied to the component 100 other than the potential weight of the shoe components engaged with the component 100). If the foremost and / or last position of a particular footwear component 100 constitutes a line segment (rather than a tangent point), then the foreto position and / or the rear last heel position constitute the midpoint of the corresponding line segment. If the foremost and / or last position of a particular footwear component 100 constitutes two or more separated points or line segments, then the foremost toe position and / or last heel position constitute the midpoint of the line segment connecting the farthest separating points and / or the farthest separating endpoints of the line segment (regardless of whether the midpoint itself is located on the structure of component 100). If the foremost and / or last position constitutes one or more zones, then the foremost toe position and / or last heel position constitute the geographic center of that zone or combination of zones (regardless of whether the geographic center itself is located on the structure of component 100).

[0011] Once the longitudinal direction of component 100 or structure 100 has been determined, and component 100 is oriented on the horizontal support surface S, the plane can be perpendicular to that longitudinal direction (e.g., the plane enters and exits). Figure 6 The orientation of these vertical planes (page orientation). The positions of these vertical planes can be defined based on their positions along the longitudinal length L, where the vertical planes intersect the longitudinal direction with the last heel position RH and the foremost toe position FT. Figure 6 In the example shown, the last heel position RH is considered the origin of the measurement (or "0L position"), and the foremost toe position FT is considered the end of the longitudinal length of the part 100 (or "1.0L position"). The planar position can be specified based on the positioning of the plane along the longitudinal length L (between 0L and 1.0L), measured forward from the last heel position RH in this example. Figure 6 The positions of various planes perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (and oriented along the transverse direction) and located at 0.25L, 0.4L, 0.5L, 0.55L, 0.6L, and 0.8L along the longitudinal length L (measured from the rear heel position RH in the forward direction) are further shown. These planes can be seen from... Figure 6The view shown extends into and out of the paper page, and similar vertical planes can be oriented along the longitudinal length L at any other desired location. While these planes can be parallel to the parallel vertical plane VP used to determine the positions of the last heel RH and the foremost toe FT, this is not necessary. Instead, the orientation of the vertical planes along the longitudinal length L will depend on the orientation in the longitudinal direction, which... Figure 6 The arrangement / orientation shown can be parallel or not parallel to the horizontal surface S. Summary of the Invention

[0012] This application provides the following:

[0013] 1) A sole structure for footwear, the sole structure comprising an upward surface and a ground-facing surface opposite to the upward surface, the sole structure comprising:

[0014] Heel support region, the heel support region including a central region surrounded by a first plurality of rings defined in the ground surface; and

[0015] A forefoot support region, the forefoot support region comprising a central region surrounded by a second plurality of rings defined in the ground surface,

[0016] Each of the first plurality of rings and the second plurality of rings includes: a first ring surrounding the central region and a second ring surrounding the first ring.

[0017] 2) According to the sole structure of 1), at least one of the first plurality of rings and the second plurality of rings includes a third ring surrounding the second ring and a fourth ring surrounding the third ring.

[0018] 3) According to the sole structure described in 1), wherein the heel support area and the forefoot support area constitute part of a single midsole element made of polymer foam material.

[0019] 4) Based on the sole structure described in 3), it further includes:

[0020] An outsole component that partially covers the single midsole element, wherein the outsole component includes a first opening and a second opening, at least some of the first plurality of rings being exposed through the first opening and at least some of the second plurality of rings being exposed through the second opening.

[0021] 5) According to the sole structure described in 3), it further includes:

[0022] An outsole component that at least partially covers the single midsole element, wherein the outsole component covers the first plurality of rings and the second plurality of rings.

[0023] 6) According to the sole structure described in 4) or 5), it further includes:

[0024] The midfoot support region includes a central midfoot region surrounded by a third plurality of rings defined in the outsole component, wherein the third plurality of rings includes an innermost ring surrounding the central midfoot region and at least three additional rings surrounding the innermost ring having gradually increasing circumferences.

[0025] 7) The sole structure described in 1) further includes:

[0026] The midfoot support region includes a central area of ​​the midfoot surrounded by a third plurality of rings defined in the ground surface, wherein the third plurality of rings includes an innermost ring surrounding the central area of ​​the midfoot and at least three additional rings having gradually increasing circumferences surrounding the innermost ring.

[0027] 8) According to the sole structure described in 7), a plurality of rings extend around a combined area of ​​the forefoot support area, the heel support area and the midfoot support area.

[0028] 9) According to the sole structure described in 7) or 8), the central region of the heel support region is elongated in the anteroposterior direction, the central region of the forefoot support region is elongated in the lateral to medial direction, and / or the central region of the midfoot support region is elongated in the anteroposterior direction.

[0029] 10) The sole structure according to any one of 6) to 9), wherein the midfoot central region is a recessed midfoot central region.

[0030] 11) The sole structure according to any of the preceding items, wherein the central region of the heel support region and at least some of the first plurality of rings have a curved shape or a circular shape, and / or wherein the central region of the forefoot support region and at least some of the second plurality of rings have a curved shape or a circular shape.

[0031] 12) The sole structure according to any of the preceding items further includes:

[0032] A first foreto support region, the first foreto support region including a central region of a first toe surrounded by a first toe ring defined in the ground surface.

[0033] 13) The sole structure according to 12), wherein the first foreto support region is positioned closer to the inner edge of the sole structure than to the outer edge of the sole structure.

[0034] 14) The sole structure according to 12), wherein the first foreto support region is positioned closer to the outer edge of the sole structure than to the inner edge of the sole structure.

[0035] 15) The sole structure according to 12), wherein the first toe central region is a first recessed toe central region.

[0036] 16) The sole structure according to 12) further includes:

[0037] The second foreto support region includes a central region of a second toe surrounded by a second toe ring defined in the ground surface.

[0038] 17) The sole structure according to 16) wherein the central region of the second toe is the central region of the second recessed toe.

[0039] 18) The sole structure according to 16), wherein the first foreto support region is positioned closer to the inner edge of the sole structure than the second foreto support region.

[0040] 19) The sole structure according to any one of 16) to 18), wherein a plurality of rings extend around the combined area of ​​the first foreto support region and the second foreto support region.

[0041] 20) The sole structure according to any one of 16) to 18), wherein a plurality of rings extend around a combined area of ​​the forefoot support region, the first foreto support region and the second foreto support region.

[0042] 21) The sole structure according to any one of 16) to 18), wherein a plurality of rings extend around a combined area of ​​the forefoot support region, the heel support region, the first foreto support region and the second foreto support region.

[0043] 22) The sole structure according to any of the preceding items further includes:

[0044] A first outer support region, the first outer support region including a first outer central region surrounded by a first outer ring defined in the ground surface.

[0045] 23) According to the sole structure of 22), wherein the first outer central region is the first recessed outer central region.

[0046] 24) According to the sole structure of 22), a plurality of rings extend around the combined area of ​​the forefoot support area and the first lateral support area.

[0047] 25) The sole structure according to 22) further includes:

[0048] The second outer support region includes a second outer central region surrounded by a second outer ring defined in the ground surface, wherein the second outer support region is located in front of the first outer support region.

[0049] 26) According to the sole structure of 22), a plurality of rings extend around the combined area of ​​the forefoot support region, the first lateral support region and the second lateral support region.

[0050] 27) According to the sole structure of 26), wherein the second outer central region is the second recessed outer central region.

[0051] 28) The sole structure according to 26) further includes:

[0052] The third outer support region includes a third outer central region surrounded by a third outer ring defined in the ground surface, wherein the third outer support region is located in front of the second outer support region.

[0053] 29) According to the sole structure of 28), a plurality of rings extend around a combined area of ​​the forefoot support region, the first lateral support region, the second lateral support region and the third lateral support region.

[0054] 30) According to the sole structure of 28), wherein the third outer central region is the outer central region of the third recess.

[0055] 31) The sole structure according to 22), wherein the first lateral support region is positioned closer to the lateral edge of the sole structure than the forefoot support region.

[0056] 32) The sole structure according to any of the preceding items further includes:

[0057] The medial midfoot support region includes a central region of the medial midfoot surrounded by a third plurality of rings defined in the ground surface, wherein the third plurality of rings includes an innermost ring surrounding the central region of the medial midfoot and at least two additional rings surrounding the innermost ring having gradually increasing circumferences.

[0058] 33) According to the sole structure described in 32), wherein the medial midfoot central region is a recessed medial midfoot central region.

[0059] 34) The sole structure according to any of the preceding claims, wherein a plurality of rings extend around a combined area of ​​the forefoot support region and the heel support region.

[0060] 35) The sole structure according to 34), wherein at least one of the plurality of rings extending around the combined region of the forefoot support region and the heel support region extends along at least a portion of the inner surface of the sole structure, and / or wherein at least one of the plurality of rings extending around the combined region of the forefoot support region and the heel support region extends along at least a portion of the outer surface of the sole structure.

[0061] 36) The sole structure according to 34), wherein at least one of the plurality of rings extending around the combined region of the forefoot support region and the heel support region extends along at least a portion of the inner surface of the sole structure and along at least a portion of the outer surface of the sole structure.

[0062] 37) The sole structure according to any one of 34) to 36), wherein at least one of the plurality of rings extending around the combined region of the forefoot support region and the heel support region extends along at least a portion of the foreto anterior surface of the sole structure.

[0063] 38) The sole structure according to any of the preceding items, wherein the central region of the heel support region is elongated in the tibial direction, and / or wherein the central region of the forefoot support region is elongated in the lateral to medial direction.

[0064] 39) The sole structure according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the central region of the heel support region and at least some of the first plurality of rings are elongated in the tibial direction, and / or wherein the central region of the forefoot support region and at least some of the second plurality of rings are elongated in the lateral to medial direction.

[0065] 40) The sole structure according to any of the preceding claims, wherein each of the first and second rings of the first plurality of rings and the second plurality of rings includes a base and a vertex, wherein the base of each ring is positioned closer to the upward surface than its corresponding vertex, and wherein the cross-section of each of the first and second rings at its base is wider than the cross-section at its vertex.

[0066] 41) According to the sole structure of 40), the vertex of the first ring in the first plurality of rings and the vertex of the second ring in the second plurality of rings are coplanar, and the vertex of the first ring in the second plurality of rings and the vertex of the second ring in the second plurality of rings are coplanar.

[0067] 42) The sole structure according to any of the preceding items, wherein the central region of the heel support region is a recessed central region, and / or the central region of the forefoot support region is a recessed central region.

[0068] 43) A sole structure for footwear, comprising:

[0069] A sole component having an upward surface and a ground surface, wherein the ground surface of the sole component includes:

[0070] The impact damping structure based on the heel includes a first central region, a first band surrounding the first central region, a second band surrounding the first band, and a first groove separating the first band and the second band.

[0071] The impact damping structure based on the forefoot includes a second central region, a third band surrounding the second central region, a fourth band surrounding the third band, and a second groove separating the third band and the fourth band.

[0072] 44) The sole structure according to 43) wherein the heel-based impact damping structure and the forefoot-based impact damping structure are formed of polymer foam material.

[0073] 45) The sole structure according to 43), wherein the sole component constitutes a midsole element, and wherein the sole structure further includes an outsole component formed by one or more outsole elements.

[0074] 46) The sole structure according to 45), wherein the outsole component includes a heel opening and a separate forefoot opening, wherein the heel-based impact damping structure is exposed outside the sole structure through the heel opening, and wherein the forefoot-based impact damping structure is exposed outside the sole structure through the forefoot opening.

[0075] 47) The sole structure according to 45), wherein the outsole component covers at least one of the heel-based impact damping structure and the forefoot-based impact damping structure.

[0076] 48) The sole structure according to any one of 45), 46), or 47) further includes:

[0077] The midfoot support region includes a central midfoot region surrounded by a plurality of rings formed in the outsole component, wherein the plurality of rings includes an innermost ring surrounding the central midfoot region and at least three additional rings surrounding the innermost ring having gradually increasing circumferences.

[0078] 49) The sole structure according to 43) wherein each of the first band, the second band, the third band and the fourth band includes two loops separated by a recess defined in the outer surface of the respective band.

[0079] 50) According to the sole structure of 49), the recesses provided in the first and second straps have a depth less than 20% of the depth of the first groove, and the recesses provided in the third and fourth straps have a depth less than 20% of the depth of the second groove.

[0080] 51) The sole structure according to 43) further includes:

[0081] The midfoot support region includes a central area of ​​the midfoot surrounded by a plurality of rings, wherein the plurality of rings includes an innermost ring surrounding the central area of ​​the midfoot and at least three additional rings surrounding the innermost ring with gradually increasing circumferences.

[0082] 52) According to the sole structure of 48) or 51), wherein the midfoot central region is a recessed midfoot central region.

[0083] 53) According to the sole structure of 43), the outer edge of the second band is defined by a third groove, and the outer edge of the fourth band is defined by a fourth groove.

[0084] 54) According to the sole structure described in 53), wherein:

[0085] (a) The deepest depth of the central region of the first recess is greater than the deepest depth of the first groove, and wherein the deepest depth of the first groove is greater than the deepest depth of the third groove; and

[0086] (b) The deepest depth of the central region of the second recess is greater than the deepest depth of the second groove, and the deepest depth of the second groove is greater than the deepest depth of the fourth groove.

[0087] 55) The sole structure according to 43) wherein each of the first central region, the first band and the second band has a curved or circular shape, and / or wherein each of the second central region, the third band and the fourth band has a curved or circular shape.

[0088] 56) The sole structure according to any one of 43) to 55), wherein each of the first band, the second band, the third band and the fourth band includes a base and a apex, wherein the base of each band is positioned closer to the upward surface than its corresponding apex, and wherein each of the first band, the second band, the third band and the fourth band has a wider cross-section at its base than at its apex.

[0089] 57) According to the sole structure of 56), the vertices of the first band and the second band are coplanar, and the vertices of the third band and the fourth band are coplanar.

[0090] 58) The sole structure according to any one of 43) to 57), wherein the first central region is a first recessed central region and / or the second central region is a second recessed central region.

[0091] 59) A sole structure for footwear, comprising:

[0092] A first sole component, the first sole component being made of a polymer foam material and including a first surface for supporting at least a portion of the sole surface of the wearer's foot and a second surface opposite to the first surface, wherein the second surface includes a supported surface portion and an impact damping structure, and wherein the impact damping structure includes a first ring structure, a second ring structure, and a recess separating the first ring structure and the second ring structure formed of the polymer foam material; and

[0093] A second sole component, the second sole component including a first surface and a second surface opposite thereto, wherein the second sole component defines an opening, and wherein the first sole component engages with the second sole component such that a supported surface portion of the first sole component engages with the first surface of the second sole component and such that an impact damping structure of the first sole component is exposed through the opening.

[0094] 60) The sole structure according to 59), wherein the impact damping structure includes a cushioning impact damping structure formed of the polymer foam material.

[0095] 61) The sole structure according to 59), wherein the second sole component is a second polymer foam component or an outsole component.

[0096] 62) A footwear item, comprising:

[0097] upper; and

[0098] The sole structure according to any of the preceding items is attached to the upper.

[0099] 63) The footwear article according to 62), wherein the upper includes a rear heel portion having: (a) a first elastic material band, (b) a second elastic material band vertically displaced from the first band, and (c) a first exposed mesh material band extending between the first elastic material band and the second elastic material band.

[0100] 64) The footwear article according to 63), wherein the rear heel portion of the upper further includes a second exposed mesh material strip extending downward from the second elastic material strip.

[0101] 65) The footwear article according to 62), wherein the upper includes an instep portion having: (a) a first elastic material band, (b) a second elastic material band forwardly displaced from the first band, and (c) a first exposed mesh material band extending between the first elastic material band and the second elastic material band.

[0102] 66) The footwear article according to 65), wherein the instep portion of the upper further includes a second exposed mesh material strip located prior to the second elastic material strip.

[0103] 67) The footwear article according to 65), wherein the elasticity of the first exposed mesh material strip is less than the stretchability of the first elastic material strip and the second elastic material strip.

[0104] 68) The footwear article according to 62), wherein the upper includes an instep portion having a plurality of elastic material bands, wherein adjacent pairs of the plurality of bands are separated by exposed mesh material bands.

[0105] 69) The footwear article according to 68), wherein the plurality of elastic material bands includes at least four bands extending across the instep region.

[0106] 70) The footwear article according to 68), wherein the plurality of elastic material bands includes at least eight bands extending across the instep region.

[0107] 71) The footwear items according to 62) further include:

[0108] A heel support portion that engages with the rear heel portion of the shoe upper.

[0109] 72) The footwear article according to 71), wherein at the rear heel region of the sole structure, the heel support extends above the circumferential boundary of the sole structure.

[0110] 73) The footwear article according to 71) or 72, wherein the heel support includes a top edge and a bottom edge, and wherein a plurality of vertically spaced slits extend through the heel support between the top edge and the bottom edge.

[0111] 74) The footwear article according to 71), wherein the rear heel portion of the heel support includes a rearwardly extending protrusion.

[0112] 75) The footwear article according to 74) wherein a plurality of vertically spaced slits extend through the heel support at the rearwardly extending protrusion.

[0113] 76) A footwear article according to any one of 73), 74) or 75), wherein the plurality of vertically spaced slits define at least three vertically spaced strips of material. Attached Figure Description

[0114] The following detailed description will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which similar reference numerals refer to the same or similar elements in all the various views in which the reference numerals appear.

[0115] Figures 1A-1D Various views of footwear objects according to at least some examples and aspects of the present invention are provided;

[0116] Figures 2A-2V Various views of sole structures for footwear articles are provided according to some examples and aspects of the present invention;

[0117] Figures 3A-3N Various views of another sole structure for footwear articles are provided according to some examples and aspects of the present invention;

[0118] Figures 4A-4O Various views of another sole structure for footwear articles are provided according to some examples and aspects of the present invention;

[0119] Figure 5 Views of another sole structure for footwear articles, according to some examples and aspects of the present invention, are provided; and

[0120] Figure 6 Background and definition information is provided to help illustrate and explain certain terms and aspects of the invention.

[0121] Readers should understand that the accompanying drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. Detailed Implementation

[0122] In the following description of various examples of footwear structures and components according to the invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form part of the invention, and various example structures and environments in which the invention can be practiced are illustrated by way of illustration. It should be understood that other structures and environments can be utilized without departing from the scope of the invention, and structural and functional modifications can be made from the specifically described structures and functions.

[0123] I. General Description of Aspects of the Invention

[0124] A. Shoe sole structural features

[0125] Some aspects of the present invention relate to a sole structure for footwear articles. Such a sole structure may include an upward surface and a ground surface opposite the upward surface. The sole structure may also include: (a) a heel support region comprising a central region (e.g., a recessed central region) surrounded by a first plurality of rings defined in the ground surface; and (b) a forefoot support region comprising a central region (e.g., a recessed central region) surrounded by a second plurality of rings defined in the ground surface. In such a structure, each of the first plurality of rings and the second plurality of rings may include: (i) a first ring (innermost ring) surrounding (and may at least partially define) the central region (e.g., the recessed central region); and (ii) at least a second ring surrounding the first ring. Either or both of the first plurality of rings and the second plurality of rings may further include: (iii) a third ring surrounding the second ring; (iv) a fourth ring surrounding the third ring; and (v) optionally one or more additional rings. Any desired number of rings may be provided. The rings can be separated from the surrounding structure by recesses in the material (and / or at least partially defined by said recesses), and / or form support areas. Furthermore, the first and / or second rings (and optional other rings) of the first plurality of rings and / or the second plurality of rings may include a base and a apex (wherein the base is positioned closer to the upward surface than the apex), wherein the cross-section of each of the first and second rings at its base may be wider than the cross-section at its apex (e.g., triangular, truncated triangle, rounded triangle, trapezoidal, teardrop-shaped, etc. cross-section). If desired, some or all of the first and / or second plurality of rings may be coplanar towards the ground surface or the apex. The heel support area and / or forefoot support area may form part of a single midsole element made of polymer foam material, may form part of two midsole elements made of polymer foam material, and / or may form part of one or more outsole elements, etc.

[0126] As described above, in the sole structure according to at least some examples of the invention, the heel support region and / or forefoot support region may constitute part of one or more midsole elements. Such a sole structure may additionally include an outsole component, for example, as one or more outsole elements. The outsole component may partially cover the midsole element and may include openings exposing at least some of the first plurality of rings and / or openings exposing at least some of the second plurality of rings. Alternatively, if desired, the outsole component may cover at least some (and optionally, all) of the first plurality of rings and / or the second plurality of rings. When covered, at least a portion of the outsole component covering the central region (e.g., a recessed central region) and / or the plurality of rings in the heel support region and / or forefoot support region may be at least partially transparent or translucent (e.g., such that the central region (e.g., a recessed central region) and / or at least some of the rings are visible at the outer surface of the sole structure).

[0127] While the sole structure according to some examples of the invention can be made in a variety of different shapes and manners, in at least some examples of the invention, the central region of the heel support area (e.g., a recessed central region) and at least some of the first plurality of rings can have curved shapes (e.g., non-linear and / or non-planar, and optionally circular, elliptical, oval, elongated, etc., around its periphery or circumference), and / or the central region of the forefoot support area (e.g., a recessed central region) and at least some of the second plurality of rings can have curved shapes (e.g., non-linear and / or non-planar, and optionally circular, elliptical, oval, elongated, etc., around its periphery or circumference). Individual features of the forefoot support area (e.g., the central recess and / or rings) can have the same size, shape, spacing, orientation, and / or other features as corresponding individual features of the heel support area (if any), or corresponding individual features (if any) in these areas can differ in one or more of the following features: size, shape, spacing, orientation, and / or other features.

[0128] According to at least some examples of the invention, additional foot support structures may be provided in the sole structure. As some more specific examples, the sole structure may include a midfoot support region comprising a central midfoot region (e.g., a recessed midfoot region) surrounded by a plurality of rings defined in the ground surface (e.g., in the midsole component and / or outsole component), wherein the plurality of rings includes an innermost ring surrounding (and may at least partially define) the central midfoot region (e.g., the recessed midfoot region) and at least three additional rings having a circumference that gradually increases around the innermost ring. The midfoot support region may be located closer to the outer edge of the sole structure than the inner edge of the sole structure (e.g., measured from the center of the central midfoot region). If desired, the central region of the heel support area (e.g., a concave central region) may be elongated (e.g., along the anteroposterior direction), the central region of the forefoot support area (e.g., a concave central region) may be elongated (e.g., in the lateral to medial direction), and / or the central midfoot region of the midfoot support area (e.g., a concave central midfoot region) may be elongated (e.g., in the anteroposterior direction). As a further option, if desired, multiple additional loops may extend around two or more combined regions of the forefoot support area, heel support area, and midfoot support area.

[0129] Additionally or alternatively, the sole structure according to some examples of the invention may include a medial midfoot support region comprising a medial midfoot central region (e.g., a recessed medial midfoot central region) surrounded by a plurality of rings defined in the ground surface (e.g., in the midsole component and / or in the outsole component), wherein the plurality of rings includes an innermost ring surrounding (and may at least partially define) the medial midfoot central region and at least two rings having a gradually increasing circumference surrounding the innermost ring.

[0130] As another potential feature, the sole structure according to at least some examples of the invention may include one or more foreto support regions, each foreto support region including a central toe region (e.g., a recessed central toe region) surrounded (and optionally at least partially defined by one or more toe loops defined in the ground surface). If desired, two, three, four, or even more foreto support regions may be provided in a single sole structure (e.g., spaced apart in a medial-to-lateral direction along the foreto region of the sole structure). When two or more foreto support regions are provided in the sole structure, multiple loops may extend around any combination of two or more of the foreto support regions if desired. In fact, if desired, multiple loops may extend around a combination of two or more foreto support regions and one or more of the forefoot support region, midfoot support region (if any), and / or heel support region of the sole structure.

[0131] As a further potential alternative, the sole structure according to at least some examples of the invention may include one or more lateral support regions, each of which may include a lateral central region (e.g., a recessed lateral central region) surrounded (and optionally at least partially defined by) at least one lateral ring defined in the ground surface. If desired, two, three, four, or even more lateral support regions may be provided in a separate sole structure (e.g., spaced anteroposteriorly along the lateral midfoot and / or lateral forefoot edges of the sole structure, optionally closer to the lateral edge of the sole structure than the forefoot support region (e.g., measured from the center of the central region) and / or optionally positioned along or towards the lateral side of the forefoot support region). When two or more lateral support regions are provided in the sole structure, multiple rings may extend around a combined area of ​​the two or more lateral support regions if desired. Indeed, if desired, multiple rings may extend around a combined area of ​​one or more of the two or more lateral support regions and the forefoot support region, midfoot support region (if any), foreto support region (if any), and / or heel support region of the sole structure.

[0132] As described above, in addition to the first plurality of rings surrounding the heel support region and the second plurality of rings surrounding the forefoot support region, additional rings may be present (e.g., defined in) the sole structure according to various aspects of the invention. Such rings may extend continuously around the combined area of ​​the forefoot support region and the heel support region (and optionally around any other foot support regions described above, if present). If desired, at least one of the additional rings may extend along one or more side surfaces of the sole structure (e.g., along at least a portion of the medial surface of the sole structure, along at least a portion of the lateral surface of the sole structure, along at least a portion of the posterior or heel lateral surface of the sole structure, and / or along at least a portion of the foreto anterior surface of the sole structure). Additionally or optionally, one or more of the rings may extend along the peripheral edge of the sole structure (e.g., a midsole component or an outsole component) forming thereof.

[0133] Another aspect of the invention relates to a sole structure for footwear articles, the sole structure including a sole member having an upward surface and a ground-facing surface opposite the upward surface, wherein the ground-facing surface of the sole member includes:

[0134] The heel-based impact damping structure includes: a first central region (e.g., a first recessed central region); a first band (e.g., a loop) of sole structural material surrounding the first central region; a second band (e.g., a loop) of sole structural material surrounding the first band; and a first groove separating the first band and the second band (and defined within the sole structural material); and

[0135] The forefoot-based impact damping structure includes: a second central region (e.g., a second recessed central region); a third band (e.g., a loop) of sole structural material surrounding the second central region; a fourth band (e.g., a loop) of sole structural material surrounding the third band; and a second groove separating the third and fourth bands (and defining them within the sole structural material). The sole component of this exemplary sole structure may include a heel-based impact damping structure and / or a forefoot-based impact damping structure formed from a polymer foam material (e.g., optionally both formed in a single midsole component and / or in a single piece of sole structural material as part of a midsole element). Alternatively, one or both of these impact damping structures may be formed in one or more outsole elements if desired. If desired, any one or both of these impact damping structures may be entirely formed in a single piece of material.

[0136] As an alternative or alternative, if desired, the sole component (wherein forming one or both of the heel-based and / or forefoot-based impact damping structures) can constitute a midsole element (e.g., formed of a polymer foam material) that is at least partially (e.g., at least at its bottom surface) covered by an outsole component formed of one or more outsole elements. The outsole component: (a) can cover (and conceal) one or both of the heel-based and / or forefoot-based impact damping structures, (b) can include one or more openings through which one or both of the heel-based and / or forefoot-based impact damping structures are exposed at the bottom surface of the sole structure, and / or (c) can use at least partially transparent or at least partially translucent window areas to cover one or both of the heel-based and / or forefoot-based impact damping structures (and thus retain at least some portions of these impact damping structures at least partially visible, but not directly exposed to the bottom surface of the sole structure). If necessary, the outer surface of any window area may also include a central area and / or one or more surrounding rings of various types as described above.

[0137] As described above, according to this aspect of the invention, the sole structure includes a first central region (e.g., a first recessed central region), a first band, a second band, a first groove, a second central region (e.g., a second recessed central region), a third band, a fourth band, and a second groove. While various configurations are possible, one or more of the first, second, third, and / or fourth bands may include at least two loops, said at least two loops being separated by recesses defined in the outer surfaces of the respective bands, if desired. When present, the recesses defining the loops in the first and / or second bands may have a depth of 20% or less of the depth of the first groove, and / or the recesses defining the loops in the third and / or fourth bands may have a depth of 20% or less of the depth of the second groove. Additionally or alternatively, if desired, the outer edge of the second band may be defined by the third groove, and / or the outer edge of the fourth band may be defined by the fourth groove. Similarly, when present, the recesses defining the rings in the first and / or second bands may have a depth of 20% or less (or even 10% or less) of the depth of the third groove, and / or the recesses defining the rings in the third and / or fourth bands may have a depth of 20% or less (or even 10% or less) of the depth of the fourth groove. In other words, the grooves separating the two bands and / or defining the edges of the bands may be much deeper than the recesses on the band surfaces forming and / or defining the rings on the band surfaces (e.g., at least 5 times deeper, and in some examples, at least 10 times deeper).

[0138] As some other potential features according to certain aspects of the invention, if desired, when the first central region is the first recessed central region: (a) the deepest depth of the first recessed central region may be greater than the deepest depth of the first groove; and (b) the deepest depth of the first groove may be greater than the deepest depth of the third groove (if present). Additionally or alternatively, when the second central region is the second recessed central region: (a) the deepest depth of the second recessed central region may be greater than the deepest depth of the second groove; and (b) the deepest depth of the second groove may be greater than the deepest depth of the fourth groove (if present). As other potential or alternative features, any one or more of the first recessed central region, the second recessed central region, the first band, the second band, the third band, the fourth band, the first groove, the second groove, the third groove (if present), and the fourth groove (if present) may have a curved shape (e.g., non-linear and / or non-planar, and optionally circular, elliptical, oval, elongated, etc.). All “depths” and / or “deepest depths” can be measured from a common base surface, such as the horizontal surface on which the sole structure is located in an unloaded state.

[0139] The sole structure according to this aspect of the invention (having a central region (e.g., a recessed central region), bands, and grooves) may further include one or more of the midfoot support region, medial midfoot support region, foreto support region, and / or lateral support region of the type described above. Additionally or optionally, if desired, the sole structure according to this aspect of the invention may further include any one or more of the aforementioned ring groups and / or ring features (e.g., rings extending to the sidewalls around various combined regions in the sole structure, etc.).

[0140] A sole structure for footwear articles according to at least some further aspects of the invention comprises: (a) a first midsole component at least partially formed of a first polymeric foam material, wherein the first midsole component forms a majority of at least a plantar support surface and / or at least a majority of a medial sidewall surface of the sole structure, and wherein the first midsole component includes an outer edge; and (b) a second midsole component at least partially formed of a second polymeric foam material, wherein the second midsole component forms at least a majority of a lateral sidewall surface of the sole structure, wherein the second midsole component includes an inner edge extending adjacent to the outer edge of the first midsole component, and wherein the second polymeric foam material has a higher hardness gauge hardness than the first polymeric foam material. Optionally, the medial sidewall surface formed by the first midsole component may include a first plurality of corrugated structures and / or ring structures, and / or the lateral sidewall surface formed by the second midsole component may include a second plurality of corrugated structures and / or ring structures. The sole structure may constitute a midsole component, which may optionally include one or more outsole elements engaged therewith.

[0141] The first midsole component can extend continuously from the heel area (e.g., the rear heel region) of the sole structure to the forefoot area (e.g., the toe region), and / or the second midsole component can extend continuously from the heel area (e.g., the rear heel region) of the sole structure to the forefoot area (e.g., the toe region). For example, if desired, the rear joint area between the first and second midsole components can be located at the rearmost heel area and / or can define the rearmost point RH of the sole structure, and / or the anterior joint area between the first and second midsole components can be located at the foreto area of ​​the sole structure. In this way, the first midsole component can form at least a portion of the rear heel medial sidewall of the sole structure, and the second midsole component can form at least a portion of the rear heel lateral sidewall of the sole structure.

[0142] In at least some sole structures according to this aspect of the invention, at least a first midsole component (and optionally a second midsole component) may form a portion of the bottom surface of the midsole component. In some specific exemplary structures, the first midsole component may form at least 70% of the total volume of the midsole component (and in some examples, at least 75% or even at least 80% of the total volume), and the second midsole component may form 30% or less of the total volume of the midsole component (and in some examples, 25% or less or even 20% or less of the total volume). As an additional or alternative potential feature, the first midsole component may form at least 75% of the plantar support surface area of ​​the sole structure (and in some examples, at least 80% or even at least 85% of the plantar support surface area), and the second midsole component may form 25% or less of the plantar support surface area of ​​the sole structure (and in some examples, 20% or less or even 15% or less of the plantar support surface area).

[0143] The sole structure according to at least some aspects of the invention can generally have a height that is slightly forward within the entire sole structure. As some more specific examples, if the sole structure is considered to define the rear heel position, the foreto position, and the longitudinal length from the rear heel position to the foreto position (e.g., as combined above) Figure 6 As described above, the highest point of the inner sidewall surface formed by the first midsole component and / or the highest point of the outer sidewall surface formed by the second midsole component can be located perpendicular to the longitudinal length of the sole structure and oriented in front of a plane intersecting the longitudinal length at a point at least 20% of the longitudinal length forward from the last heel position (e.g., in front of the vertical plane at 0.2L). Alternatively or additionally, the highest point of the inner sidewall surface formed by the first midsole component and / or the highest point of the outer sidewall surface formed by the second midsole component can be located perpendicular to the longitudinal length of the sole structure and oriented in front of a plane intersecting the longitudinal length at a point at least 40% of the longitudinal length forward from the last heel position (e.g., behind the vertical plane at 0.4L). In other words, the highest point of the inner sidewall surface and / or the highest point of the outer sidewall surface can be located between planes perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the sole structure and oriented between 0.2L and 0.4L, as referred to above. Figure 6 The above (and in some examples, between the vertical planes of 0.25L and 0.35L).

[0144] Other potential characteristics of the “highest point” dimension may be as follows. In at least some examples of the invention, when the sole structure stands unloaded on a horizontal base surface, the first midsole component will define: (a) the rear heel height dimension measured from the horizontal base surface, and (b) the highest sidewall height dimension of the medial sidewall surface measured from the horizontal base surface. In this orientation, in at least some examples of the invention, the highest sidewall height dimension of the medial sidewall surface may be at least 1.25 times the rear heel height dimension (and in some examples, at least 1.4 times or even 1.6 times the rear heel height dimension). Alternatively or if desired, this highest sidewall height dimension of the medial sidewall surface will be at least 0.5 inches larger than the rear heel height dimension (and in some examples, at least 0.75 inches larger, at least 1 inch larger, or even at least 1.25 inches larger).

[0145] Similarly, in at least some examples of the invention, when the sole structure stands unloaded on a horizontal base surface, the second midsole component will define: (a) a rear heel height dimension measured from the horizontal base surface, and (b) a maximum sidewall height dimension of the lateral sidewall surface measured from the horizontal base surface. In this orientation, in at least some examples of the invention, the maximum sidewall height dimension of the lateral sidewall surface may be at least 1.25 times the rear heel height dimension (and in some examples, at least 1.4 times or even 1.6 times the rear heel height dimension). Alternatively or if desired, this maximum sidewall height dimension of the lateral sidewall surface will be at least 0.5 inches larger than the heel height dimension (and in some examples, at least 0.75 inches larger, at least 1 inch larger, or even at least 1.25 inches larger).

[0146] As some additional or alternative possible dimensional features exist, when the sole structure is oriented on a horizontal base surface in an unloaded state, the sole structure will define: (1) a first width dimension between (a) the highest point of the medial sidewall formed by the first midsole component and (b) the highest point of the lateral sidewall surface formed by the second midsole component; and (2) a second width dimension corresponding to the maximum width dimension between the outer surfaces of (a) the medial sidewall and (b) the lateral sidewall in a vertical plane passing through the highest points of the medial and lateral sidewall surfaces. In this orientation, the first width dimension may be less than 85% of the second width dimension (and in some examples, less than 80% or even less than 75% of the second width dimension).

[0147] As described above, the sole structure according to this aspect of the invention may include an outsole component. The outsole component may have a top surface that engages with the bottom surface of a first midsole component and / or the bottom surface of a second midsole component. The top surface of the outsole component may completely cover at least 85% (and in some examples, at least 90% or even at least 95%) of the combined area of ​​the bottom surfaces of the first and second midsole components. The outsole component may also include a foreto portion extending upwards and covering the foretomost edge of the first midsole component and / or the foretomost edge of the second midsole component.

[0148] Alternatively or concurrently, the outsole component may include at least one first opening defined therethrough, and at least a portion of the bottom surface of the first midsole component may be exposed through the first opening, but the bottom surface of the second midsole component may not be exposed through the first opening. Similarly, the outsole component may include a second opening defined therethrough, and at least a portion of the bottom surface of the first midsole component may be exposed through the second opening, but the bottom surface of the second midsole component may not be exposed through the second opening. Alternatively, in addition to the opening, the outsole component may also include one or more window areas (e.g., at least partially transparent or translucent window areas), and the bottom surface of the first midsole component may be visible through one or more window areas, but the bottom surface of the second midsole component need not be visible through any window area.

[0149] The sole structure according to this aspect of the invention may further include any one or more of the midfoot support region, medial midfoot support region, foreto support region, and / or lateral support region of the type described above. Additionally or optionally, if desired, the sole structure according to this aspect of the invention may further include any one or more of the aforementioned ring groups and / or ring features. Additionally or optionally, according to other aspects of the invention as described above, more specific features of this aspect of the invention may be included in the sole structure (e.g., rings extending to the sidewalls around various combined regions in the sole structure, etc.).

[0150] This specification describes various components or features of the sole structure that can “surround” another feature (e.g., a loop or band can “surround” a central area (e.g., a recessed central area), other bands, other loops, etc.). As used herein, the term “surround” does not require that the “surrounding component” have a periphery or circumference extending 100% around the “surrounded component.” Rather, if desired, the “surrounding component” may have one or more discontinuities or breaks in its overall structure while still providing a structure that can be considered as “surrounding” the “surrounded component.” More specifically, a component “surrounds” another component if (a) the surrounding component (e.g., a band or loop) comprises an actual physical structure extending at least 80% around its periphery, and (b) the “surrounded component” is entirely located within the area defined by the surrounding component, wherein the area defined by the surrounding component includes the area defined within the actual physical structure around the periphery of the surrounding component and the straight line segment connecting the adjacent ends of any discontinuities in the actual physical structure around the periphery of the surrounding component.

[0151] B. Uppers, footwear components, and other features

[0152] Another aspect of the invention relates to footwear articles comprising any of a variety of sole structures and / or any one or more features of the aforementioned sole structures. The sole structure can be coupled to an upper for the footwear article. The upper can have any desired construction, including conventional footwear upper constructions as known and used in the art.

[0153] However, as other examples, at least some examples of the invention include an upper in a footwear structure that may include a rear heel portion having: (a) a first elastic or stretchable material strip, (b) a second elastic or stretchable material strip vertically displaced from the first strip, and (c) a first exposed mesh material strip extending between the first and second elastic or stretchable material strips. The second exposed mesh material strip may extend downward from the second elastic or stretchable material strip if desired. The mesh material may have less elasticity or stretchability than the material of the elastic or stretchable material strip. This construction, particularly when used in conjunction with a "tongue-less" instep construction, helps to provide sufficient stretchability to allow the foot to easily insert and remove itself.

[0154] Alternatively or, if desired, the instep area of ​​the upper may include a continuous structure (without a conventional footwear "tongue" component) comprising a similar construction: (a) a first elastic or stretchable material band, (b) a second elastic or stretchable material band displaced forward from the first band, and (c) a first exposed mesh material band extending between the first and second elastic or stretchable material bands. In practice, if desired, the instep area may include multiple elastic or stretchable material bands, wherein adjacent pairs of bands are separated by exposed mesh material bands. As some more specific examples, the multiple elastic or stretchable material bands may include at least four bands extending across the instep area, and in some examples, at least six or even at least eight bands. This construction helps to provide sufficient stretchability to allow the foot to easily insert and remove itself while providing a secure fit.

[0155] Footwear articles according to at least some examples of the invention may include a heel support that engages with a rear heel portion of the upper and a rear heel region of the sole structure (and along the outer and inner heel sides of the footwear structure). In the rear heel region and along the outer and inner heel sides, the heel support may extend above the circumferential boundary of the sole structure. The heel support may include a rearwardly extending projection in the rear heel portion. If desired, the heel support may include a top edge and a bottom edge (e.g., an exposed bottom edge portion), and multiple vertically spaced slits may extend through the heel support between the top and bottom edges (and optionally through the rearwardly extending projection). The vertically spaced slits may define at least three vertically spaced bands of heel support material, and in some examples, at least six or even at least eight vertically spaced bands of heel support material may be defined. These slits contribute to providing greater flexibility and breathability in the heel region while providing comprehensive support for the heel.

[0156] C. Detailed description of specific examples of the present invention

[0157] Figures 1A-1D Various views of a footwear item 200 according to at least some examples of the present invention are provided. More specifically, Figure 1A An exterior view of the exemplary footwear object 200 is provided. Figure 1B An inside view is provided. Figure 1C A top view is provided, and Figure 1DA close-up view of the instep area is provided. This exemplary footwear item 200 is a high-top basketball shoe. However, aspects of the invention can also be used for other types of applications and / or other athletic activities. Footwear item 200 includes an upper 202 and a sole structure 204 joined to the upper 202. The upper 202 and sole structure 204 can be joined together in any desired manner, including in ways conventionally known and used in the footwear industry (e.g., by adhesives or glues, by stitching or sewing, by mechanical fasteners, etc.).

[0158] The example upper 202 includes a foot receiving opening 206 that provides access to an internal cavity into which the wearer's foot inserts. The upper 202 may also include a tongue member (or other structure, as will be described in more detail below) located across the instep area and positioned to reduce the tactile feedback of the closure system 210 on the wearer's foot (which, in this illustrated example, constitutes a lace-up closure system). However, as... Figures 1A-1D As shown in the specific example, the upper 202 of this example does not include a separate tongue component, but is formed as an integral structure, wherein the instep covering component 202a is integrally formed with the inner region 202m and the outer region 202l of the upper 202, and connects the inner region 202m and the outer region 202l of the upper 202. In this way, as shown, the shoe 202 has a sock-like foot receiving opening 206 and / or a sock-like overall appearance.

[0159] Without departing from the invention, the upper 202 can be made of any desired material and / or in any desired construction and / or manner. As some more specific examples, at least a portion (and optionally most, most, or even all) of the upper 202 can be formed as woven textile components and / or knitted textile components. The textile components for the upper 202 can have the same characteristics as those in… The structure and / or construction used in branded footwear and / or via FLYWEAVE™ technology available from NIKE products in Beaverton, Oregon, are similar to those used in the product.

[0160] Alternatively or, if desired, the upper 202 construction may include an upper having a foot fixation and engagement structure (e.g., a “dynamic” and / or “adaptive fit” structure) of the type described, for example, in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013 / 0104423, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. As some further examples, if desired, the uppers and footwear articles according to the invention may include those available from NIKE Corporation, Beaverton, Oregon. Types of foot support and engagement structures used in branded footwear. These types of wraparound and / or adaptive or dynamic fit structures are shown as follows: Figures 1A-1D A portion of the lacing element 210a in the example upper 202. The lacing element 210a may form part of a relatively non-stretchable component that engages with or is integrally formed in the upper structure 202, for example, at least partially wrapping around and reliably holding the wearer's foot.

[0161] As another alternative or alternative, if desired, the upper 202 and footwear article 200 according to at least some examples of the invention may include a fused layer of upper material, such as the type of upper included in NIKE's "FUSE" line for footwear products, and / or upper material bonded by hot melt adhesive or other adhesive materials. As another example, without departing from the invention, uppers of the type described in U.S. Patent Nos. 7,347,011 and / or 8,429,835 (each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety) may be used.

[0162] exist Figures 1A-1DIn the specific example of the upper 202 shown, the rear heel portion 212 of the upper 202 includes various stretchable structures, including: (a) a first elastic or stretchable material strip 212a (e.g., 0.25 inches to 1.25 inches wide), (b) a second elastic or stretchable material strip 212b (e.g., 0.25 inches to 1.25 inches wide) vertically displaced from the first strip 212a, (c) a first exposed mesh material strip 214a (e.g., 0.125 inches to 1 inch wide) extending between the first elastic or stretchable material strip 212a and the second elastic or stretchable material strip 212b, and (d) a second exposed mesh material strip 214b (e.g., 0.125 inches to 1 inch wide) extending downward from the second elastic or stretchable material strip 212b. The uppermost elastic or stretchable material strip (element 212a in the example shown here) forms and defines the top of the foot receiving opening 206 for the footwear article 200 (and may include a comfort-enhancing soft material). In this rear heel portion 212 structure, the exposed mesh material strips 214a and / or 214b are less elastic or stretchable than the elastic or stretchable material strips 212a and / or 212b (e.g., they may be made of a resilient material). However, as an alternative, the stretchability of the material can be reversed (e.g., strips 214a and / or 214b may be made of a relatively elastic or stretchable material, and strips 212a and / or 212b may be made of a less elastic or stretchable material). Other types of materials and / or material structures may also be used without departing from the invention. Elastic or stretchable materials 212a and / or 212b provide sufficient flexibility to help allow the wearer's foot to be inserted and removed, while the overall structure still provides a stable, secure, and breathable fit (e.g., from the mesh structure and / or from the elastic / stretchable material to / towards their initial / unstretched side and / or shape recovery). The straps 212a, 212b, 214a, and / or 214b can be joined together, for example, by stitching or sewing, or by adhesives or glues.

[0163] Some footwear items according to examples of the invention (including the specifically illustrated example 200) may include a similar arrangement of multiple elastic or stretchable straps 222 separated by multiple smaller elastic or stretchable (e.g., mesh) straps in the instep region 202a (e.g., replacing the more conventional footwear "tongue" in the footwear structure 200). It is worth noting that, as Figure 1C and Figure 1DAs shown, the instep region 202a includes a plurality of elastic or stretchable material strips 222, and adjacent / proximity pairs of the plurality of elastic or stretchable material strips 222 are separated by exposed mesh material strips 224. In this way, the strips 222 and 224 are generally arranged parallel and alternately on the instep region 202a and extend from the inner region 202m of the footwear 200 to the outer region 202l. In this instep region 202a structure, the exposed mesh material strips 224 are less elastic or stretchable than the elastic or stretchable material strips 222 (e.g., made of an elastic material). However, as an alternative, the stretchability of the materials can be reversed (e.g., and strip 224 can be made of a relatively elastic or stretchable material, and strip 222 can be made of a less elastic or stretchable material). Other types of materials and / or material structures may also be used without departing from the invention. The elastic or stretchable material 222 provides sufficient flexibility to help allow the wearer's foot to be inserted and removed, while the overall structure still provides a stable, secure and breathable fit (e.g., from the mesh structure and / or from the elastic / stretchable material to / towards their initial / unstretched side and / or shape recovery).

[0164] Without departing from the invention, any number of relatively elastic or stretchable material strips 212 / 222 and / or less elastic or stretchable material strips 214 / 224 may be provided in the rear heel region 212 and / or the instep region 202a. In the example shown, the rear heel region 212 includes two strips each, but as an additional example, each region may be provided with 2-6 strips if desired. Moreover, in the example shown, each instep region 202a includes 12 strips, although as an additional example, each region may use 3 to 18 strips, 4 to 16 strips, 6 to 15 strips, or 8 to 12 strips if desired.

[0165] Figure 1A , Figure 1B , Figures 2B-2F , Figure 2M , Figure 2R and Figure 2S Examples of the invention are shown, including at least some, of a heel support 250 that may be incorporated into the upper 202 and / or sole structure 204 of a footwear (e.g., engaged with the rear heel portion 212 of the upper 202 and / or with one or more sole structural components (e.g., midsole components, as will be described in more detail below). The heel support 250 may employ the structure and / or function of conventional heel support body structures, including heel support body structures known and used in the footwear industry.

[0166] However, the heel support 250 shown in the illustration does not have a conventional heel support structure, and will be described in more detail below. As shown in the accompanying drawings above, the heel support 250 of this example extends above the upper perimeter 300P of the footwear midsole component 300 (e.g., Figures 1A-1D In the example shown, in the insole structure 300, above the upper perimeter 300P of the outer midsole component 300L, the inner midsole component 300M, and the base midsole component 300B, and... Figures 2A-2V In the example shown, in the sole structure 400, above the outer midsole component 400L and the inner midsole component 400M's upper perimeter 400P. Further shown in the figures, the heel support 250 includes: an exposed top edge 250T and an exposed bottom edge 250B (when the sole structure 204 is oriented on a horizontal base surface as shown); and a plurality of vertically spaced slits 250S extending through the heel support 250 between the top edge 250T and the bottom edge 250B. These slits 250S define a plurality of flaps 250F (or strips) of the heel support 250 material (e.g., rubber, thermoplastic polyurethane, polymer foam, or other polymeric material) between adjacent slits 250S. This slitted structure helps improve / control the flexibility of the heel area while still providing support and improved breathability. Figure 1A , Figure 1B , Figure 2C and Figure 2D As shown, the slit 250S does not extend to the front edge of the heel support 250, thereby allowing the heel support 250 to be manufactured as a single integral piece with multiple flexible flaps 250F surrounding the rear heel region 212.

[0167] As shown in the example in the illustration Figure 1A , Figure 1B , Figure 2C , Figure 2D and Figure 2M As further shown, the heel support 250 includes a rearwardly extending protrusion 250P, which in the illustrated example forms a slightly thicker spherical region immediately adjacent to the rear heel. When shaped in this manner and when at least some of the plurality of vertically spaced slits 250S extend through the rearwardly extending protrusion 250P, as Figure 2M As best shown, the central region wing 250F can be formed with a slightly larger width (heel-to-toe direction) than the wing 250F closer to the top edge 250T and / or closer to the bottom edge 250B. Although Figure 1A-Figure 2VThe exemplary structure shows eight vertically spaced strips of material for the flaps 250F or heel supports 250, but any desired number of flaps 250F can be provided, including, for example, at least three flaps 250F, at least six flaps 250F, from 0 to 16 flaps 250F, and in some examples, from 1 to 15 flaps 250F, from 2 to 12 flaps 250F, or even from 3 to 10 flaps, etc. The thickness (top to bottom dimension) of the flaps 250F can be less than 5 mm, and in some examples, it is in the range of 0.5 mm to 4 mm, or even 1 mm to 3.5 mm.

[0168] Now we will describe it in more detail. Figures 1A-1D The sole structure 204 of a specific exemplary footwear item 200 is shown in the figure. For example... Figure 1A and Figure 1B As shown, the exemplary sole structure 204 includes a midsole component 300 (made of multiple parts) and an outsole component 306. As briefly mentioned above, the midsole component 300 in this example is a multi-part structure comprising a lateral midsole component 300L, a medial midsole component 300M, and a base midsole component 300B. The base midsole component 300B forms the primary plantar support surface of the sole structure 204 and extends from the rear heel region of the sole structure 204 to the foreto region of the sole structure 204 and from the lateral midsole component 300L to the medial midsole component 300M. Alternatively or, if desired, the lateral midsole component 300L and / or the medial midsole component 300M may form some, most, or even all of the plantar support surface. Without departing from the invention, the midsole component portions 300B, 300L, and 300M can be assembled together in any desired manner, including by using adhesives or bonding agents, mechanical fasteners, friction fits, etc. Similarly, without departing from the invention, the midsole component portions 300B, 300L, and 300M can be made of any desired material, including, if desired, the same or different materials, such as one or more of polymeric foam materials (e.g., polyurethane foam, ethylene vinyl acetate foam, etc.), thermoplastic polyurethane materials, thermosetting polyurethane, etc. Additionally or alternatively, without departing from the invention, the various midsole component portions 300B, 300L, and 300M can be manufactured in any desired manner, including by conventional methods known and used in the art (e.g., injection molding, compression molding, other molding techniques, etc.).

[0169] The lateral midsole component 300L of this exemplary sole structure 204 provides support for the lateral edge of the foot during various movements, such as turning or slicing motions in basketball. Therefore, in some examples of the invention, the lateral midsole component 300L may be made of a material that is harder, stronger, and / or more rigid than the material of the medial midsole component 300M. Increased stiffness, strength, and / or rigidity can help provide enhanced support for these types of movements. Moreover, as... Figure 1C As shown in the view, the sole structure 204 may be slightly widened at the lateral forefoot and / or midfoot area 300LF to provide a wider base for better support, such as during turning or slicing movements, for example when playing basketball.

[0170] In addition, such as Figure 1A and Figure 1B As shown, the exemplary sole structure 204 includes an outsole component 306 that engages with one or more of the midsole component portions 300B, 300L, and / or 300M. While the outsole component 306 may be made of multiple separate portions or elements, in this illustrated example, the outsole component 306 is a single-piece structure extending from the rear heel region of the sole structure 204 to the foreto region, and at least covers a large portion of the bottom surface of the midsole base component 300B (and / or other midsole components). Furthermore, as shown, the outsole component 306 in this example extends upward in the foreto region of the sole structure 204 to provide a reinforced toe region 306T, which, for example, at least partially covers the fore-end surface of one or more of the midsole base component 300B, the lateral midsole component 300L, and / or the medial midsole component 300M. If desired, the foreto region 306T may also engage with the footwear upper 202. The outsole component 306 can be formed from any desired material, such as rubber, thermoplastic polyurethane, thermosetting polyurethane, other polymer materials, including materials conventionally known and used in the footwear industry.

[0171] The following will refer to Figures 2A-5 The sole structure shown is described in more detail. Figures 1A-1D Various potential aspects, properties and / or features of the sole structure 204 shown. Figures 1A-1D The sole structure 204 may have any one or more of the features described in more detail below, including but not limited to: features of the foot support area (e.g., location, size, shape, etc. of the support area); features of the impact damping area (e.g., location, size, shape, etc. of the strap); features of the loops (e.g., location, number, size, shape, etc.); midsole sidewall height and / or other dimensional features; etc.

[0172] Now we will describe it in more detail. Figures 2A-2S The sole structure is 204. Figure 2AA bottom view of the exemplary sole structure 204 is provided; Figure 2B A top-view view is provided; Figure 2C An outside view is provided; Figure 2D An inside view is provided; Figure 2E A toe view is provided; Figure 2F A follow-up view is provided; Figure 2G A top view of the 400M midsole component is provided; Figure 2H A top view of another midsole component, 400L, is provided; Figure 2I A bottom view of the 400M midsole component is provided; Figure 2J A bottom view of the 400L midsole component is provided; Figure 2K An assembled view of the top portion of the midsole component 400 is provided; Figure 2L An assembled view of the bottom portion of the midsole component 400 is provided; Figure 2M Provide along Figure 2A and Figure 2B Longitudinal cross-sectional view of line MM in the middle; Figure 2N Provide along Figure 2A and Figure 2B A cross-sectional view of line NN in the diagram; Figure 2O Provided along Figure 2A and Figure 2B A cross-sectional view of line OO in the diagram; Figure 2P Provided along Figure 2A and Figure 2B A cross-sectional view of line PP in the diagram; Figure 2Q Provided along Figure 2A and Figure 2B A cross-sectional view of line QQ in the diagram; Figure 2R Provided along Figure 2A and Figure 2B A cross-sectional view of line RR in the diagram; and Figure 2S Provided along Figure 2A and Figure 2B A cross-sectional view of line SS in the diagram.

[0173] and Figures 1A-1D The four-piece sole structure shown in Figure 204 is different. Figures 2A-2S The exemplary sole structure 204 has three main parts: an inner midsole component 400M; an outer midsole component 400L; and an outsole component 406. However, if desired, Figures 2A-2S The 204 sole structure can be used with Figures 1A-1D Used together and / or replaced with the upper in the shoe. Figures 1A-1D The specific sole structure 204 shown is used. Figures 2A-2S The heel support structure 250 shown can be considered as another part of the sole structure 204, a part of the upper structure (e.g., 202), and / or a general part of the footwear structure (e.g., 200).

[0174] The medial midsole component 400M of this exemplary sole structure 204 may be at least partially formed of a polymer foam material (e.g., polyurethane foam formed by compression molding, injection molding, etc., ethylene vinyl acetate foam, etc.), and may form at least a majority of the plantar support surface 400S and at least a majority of the medial sidewall surface 402M of the sole structure 204. The exemplary medial midsole component 400M also includes an outer edge 404 and a bottom surface 400B on the opposite side of the plantar support surface 400S. The midsole component 400 also includes an outer midsole component 400L formed at least partially of a second polymer foam material (e.g., polyurethane foam formed by compression molding, injection molding, etc., ethylene vinyl acetate foam, etc.), wherein the outer midsole component 400L forms at least a majority of the outer sidewall surface 402L of the sole structure 204. The lateral midsole component 400L includes a medial edge 408 that extends adjacent to (and optionally engages with and / or is secured to) the lateral edge 404 of the medial midsole component 400M. The engagement between the lateral edges 404 and 408 may be positioned along the plantar support surface of the midsole component 400, for example, optionally closer to the lateral sidewall surface 402L than the medial sidewall surface 402M. This engagement between the lateral edges 404 and 408 may extend continuously from the rear heel region of the midsole component 400 and / or the sole structure 204 to the foretoel region. The lateral midsole component 400L may also form at least a portion of the bottom surface of the entire midsole structure (e.g., see region 408B).

[0175] Similarly, as shown in the figures, at least some portions of the outer inner sidewall surface 402M formed by the inner midsole component 400M may include multiple corrugated or ring structures, and / or at least some portions of the outer outer sidewall surface 402L formed by the outer midsole component 400L may also include a second plurality of corrugated or ring structures.

[0176] In at least some embodiments of the invention, the polymer foam material of at least some portions of the outer midsole component 400L (and optionally all of the outer midsole component 400L) will have a higher hardness / rigidity than the polymer foam material of at least some portions of the inner midsole component 400M (and optionally all of the inner midsole component 400M). As some more specific examples: (a) the inner foam insole component 400M may have a hardness in the range of 30 Asker C to 60 Asker C, and in some examples, from 35 Asker C to 55 Asker C, from 40 Asker C to 50 Asker C, or even from 43 Asker C to 47 Asker C; (b) the outer foam insole component 400L may have a hardness in the range of 45 Asker C to 75 Asker C, and in some examples, from 50 Asker C to 70 Asker C, from 55 Asker C to 65 Asker C, or even from 57 Asker C to 61 Asker C; and / or (c) the outer foam insole component 400L may have a hardness at least 10% higher than that of the inner foam insole component 400M, and in some examples, at least 15% higher or even at least 20% higher (e.g., based on measurements on an Asker C scale). Alternatively, if desired, the lateral midsole component 400L may form at least a majority of the plantar support surface 400S and / or the plantar support surface area, or the medial midsole component 400M and the lateral midsole component 400L may each constitute half of the plantar support surface 400S and / or the plantar support surface area. The medial midsole component 400M and the lateral midsole component 400L may be joined to each other, for example, by adhesives or bonding agents, by mechanical fasteners, by fusion techniques, by co-molding techniques, etc. (e.g., along edges 404 and 408, respectively).

[0177] As further illustrated in the accompanying drawings, in this illustrated example, each of the medial midsole component 400M and the lateral midsole component 400L extends continuously from the heel region of the sole structure 204 and / or the midsole structure 400 to the forefoot region. For example, as shown in the various figures, the rear joint region 404R between the medial midsole component 400M and the lateral midsole component 400L in this exemplary structure 400 is located in the rear heel region of the sole structure 204 and / or the midsole structure 400 (e.g., at the final heel position RH). In this way, (a) the medial midsole component 400M forms at least a portion of the rear heel medial sidewall of the sole structure 204 and / or the midsole structure 400, and / or (b) the lateral midsole component 400L forms at least a portion of the rear heel sidewall and / or the lateral heel sidewall of the sole structure 204 and / or the midsole structure 400. Furthermore, the forefoot engagement region 404F between the medial midsole component 400M and the lateral midsole component 400L in this exemplary sole structure 204 and / or midsole structure 400 is located in the foreto region of the sole structure 204 and / or midsole structure 400. As other possible options or features, either or both of the medial midsole component 400M and / or the lateral midsole component 400L may be made of two or more separate parts (e.g., joined together by adhesives or bonding agents, mechanical fasteners, fusion techniques, co-molding techniques, etc.).

[0178] Without departing from the invention, the medial midsole component 400M and the lateral midsole component 400L may have various different relative dimensions relative to each other and / or relative to the entire midsole structure 400. As some more specific examples, the medial midsole component 400M may form at least 70% of the total volume of the midsole component 400, and in some examples may form at least 75%, at least 80%, or even at least 85% of that total volume. In such a structure 400, the lateral midsole component 400L may form 30% or less of the total volume of the midsole component, and in some examples, form 25% or less, 20% or less, or even 15% or less of that total volume. As another possible feature, the medial midsole component 400M may form at least 75% of the plantar support surface area of ​​the sole structure 204 and / or the midsole structure 400, and in some examples, form at least 80% or even at least 85% of that plantar support surface area. In such a structure 400, the outer midsole component 400L may form 25% or less of the foot support surface area of ​​the sole structure 204 and / or the midsole structure 400, and in some examples, may form 20% or less or even 15% or less of the foot support surface area.

[0179] Figure 2C and Figure 2DAdditional features (e.g., related to midsole height) that may be included in the midsole 400 of the sole structure 204 and / or footwear article 200 according to at least some examples of the invention are shown. (Refer to the above text) Figure 6 As described, the sole structure 204 and / or midsole structure 400 can define the rear heel position RH, the foreto position FT, and the longitudinal length L from the rear heel position RH to the foreto position FT. Return to Figure 2C and Figure 2D In at least some examples of the present invention, the highest point 410M of the inner sidewall surface 402M formed by the inner midsole component 400M and / or the highest point 410L of the outer sidewall surface 402L formed by the outer midsole component 400L may (a) be located in front of a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal length L of the sole structure 204 and / or the midsole component 400 and oriented to intersect the longitudinal length L at a point at least 20% of the longitudinal length L from the last heel position RH (i.e., in front of the plane at 0.2L) and / or (b) be located behind a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal length L of the sole structure 204 and / or the midsole component 400 and oriented to intersect the longitudinal length L at a point at least 40% of the longitudinal length L from the last heel position RH (i.e., behind the plane at 0.4L). In some examples, these highest points 410M and / or 410L can be located in front of the parallel plane at 0.25L and / or behind the parallel plane at 0.35L. In this way, for example, as... Figure 1A and Figure 1B As shown, the highest points 410M and / or 410L can be positioned in front of the foot insertion opening 206 of the upper structure 202, and the sidewalls 402M and 402L provide significant lateral support for the heel and / or midfoot area of ​​the wearer's foot. If the highest points 410M and / or 410L form one or more line segments, then the "highest point" is defined as the midpoint of the line segment connecting the outermost points of the line segments. As shown, the top edges of the inner sidewall surface 402M and / or the outer sidewall surface 402L can smoothly curve upwards to their respective highest points 410M and / or 410L.

[0180] Figure 2C and Figure 2D The structure and orientation shown illustrate additional possible features of the midsole structure 400. More specifically, as shown in these figures, the inner midsole component 400M and the outer midsole component 400L define a rear heel height dimension H1 from the horizontal base surface S to the top of the midsole components 400M and 400L at the final heel position RH. Furthermore, these midsole components 400M and 400L respectively define a maximum sidewall height dimension H from the horizontal base surface S to the highest points 410M and 410L. M and H LIn at least some exemplary sole structures 204 and / or midsole structures 400 according to the present invention, one or more of the following dimensional characteristics may be provided:

[0181]

[0182] As some additional or alternative potential options, from a more absolute size perspective, H L and / or H M It can be at least 0.5 inches larger than H1, and in some examples, at least 0.75 inches larger, at least 1 inch larger, or even at least 1.25 inches larger.

[0183] Figure 2R Other possible features of the exemplary sole structure 204 and / or midsole structure 400 are illustrated. As shown, the exemplary sole structure 204 and / or midsole structure 400 is defined by a first width dimension W1 between (a) the highest point 410M of the medial sidewall surface 402M formed by the medial midsole component 400M, and (b) the highest point 410L of the lateral sidewall surface 402L formed by the lateral midsole component 400L. The sole structure 204 and / or midsole structure 400 further defines a vertical plane passing through the highest point 410M of the medial sidewall surface 402M and the highest point 410L of the lateral sidewall surface 402L (e.g., Figure 2R The second width dimension W2 corresponds to the widest or largest width dimension between the outer surface of (a) the inner sidewall 402M (or other sole structure 204 component) and (b) the outer surface of the outer sidewall 402L (or other sole structure 204 component) of the page plane. In at least some exemplary sole structures 204 / midsole components 400 according to the invention, one or more of the following characteristics may be provided:

[0184] W1≥0.85W2 W1≥0.8W2 W1≥0.75W2

[0185] As mentioned above, Figures 2A-2SThe sole structure 204 shown includes an outsole component 406. This exemplary outsole component 406 includes a top surface 406A that engages with the bottom surface 400B of the medial midsole component 400M and / or the bottom surface 408B of the lateral midsole component 400L. If desired, the top surface 406A of the outsole component 406 may completely cover at least 75%, at least 80%, at least 85%, at least 90%, at least 95%, or even 100% of the combined area of ​​the bottom surfaces 400B and 408B of the medial midsole component 400M and the lateral midsole component 400L. The exemplary outsole component 406 also includes a foreto portion 406T that extends forward and covers the foretomost edge 408M of the medial midsole component 400M and / or the foretomost edge 408L of the lateral midsole component 400L.

[0186] However, in Figures 2A-2S In the exemplary sole structure 204 shown, the outsole component 406 includes at least one opening defined therethrough, such that a portion of the bottom surface 400B, 408B of at least one of the midsole components 400M / 400L can be exposed through the opening. In this particular illustrated example, a portion of the bottom surface 400B of the medial midsole component 400M is exposed through both outsole component 406 openings, but the bottom surface 408B of the lateral midsole component 400L is not exposed through either of these openings. Figures 2A-2S An exemplary sole structure 406 includes an opening 406H in the heel support area (see...). Figure 2A and Figure 2S ) and an opening 406F in the forefoot support area (see Figure 2A and Figure 2O Without departing from the invention, more or fewer openings of this type may be provided via the outsole structure 406 if desired. These openings 406H and 406F are located at the primary heel and forefoot impact-damping locations of the sole structure 204 (e.g., areas where a pressure map indicates higher impact during basketball play) to allow the foam midsole component 400M to directly contact the ground and provide its impact-damping characteristics at these high-impact locations.

[0187] Figure 2T and Figure 2U Provided (respectively) Figure 2O and Figure 2S (Enlarged version) to illustrate additional possible features of the impact damping structure according to at least some examples of the invention. As shown in these figures, the exemplary sole structure 204 includes sole members (e.g., midsole member 400, medial midsole member 400M, and / or lateral midsole member 400L) having an upward surface 400S and a ground surface 400B, wherein the ground surface 400B includes:

[0188] (a) Impact damping structure based on heel 420H ( Figure 2U The shoe includes: a first central region (e.g., a first recessed central region) 422H; a first band 424A (e.g., or a loop) of sole structure 204 material (e.g., midsole material) surrounding (and optionally at least partially defining) the first central region 422H; a second band 424B (e.g., or a loop) of sole structure 204 material (e.g., midsole material) surrounding the first band 424A; and a first groove 426A that separates the first band 424A and the second band 424B (and optionally at least partially defines one or both bands 424A and / or 424B); and

[0189] (b) Impact damping structure based on forefoot 420F ( Figure 2T The sole includes a second central region (e.g., a second recessed central region) 422F; a third band 424C (e.g., a loop) of sole structure 204 material (e.g., a sole) surrounding (and optionally at least partially defining) the second central region 422F; a fourth band 424D (e.g., a loop) of sole structure 204 material (e.g., a midsole material) surrounding the third band 424C; and a second groove 426B that separates the third band 424C and the fourth band 424D (and optionally at least partially defines one or both bands 424C and / or 424D).

[0190] As in Figure 2T and Figure 2U As further illustrated in the example, either or both of the heel-based impact damping structure 422H and / or the forefoot-based impact damping structure 422F can be formed of a polymer foam material (e.g., one of the polymer foam materials of elements 400M and / or 400L of the midsole component 400). As further shown, the heel-based impact damping structure 422H is exposed to the outside of the sole structure 204 through the heel opening 406H in the outsole component 406, and / or the forefoot-based impact damping structure 406F is exposed to the outside of the sole structure 204 through the forefoot opening 406F in the outsole component 406. Figure 2T and Figure 2U Further illustration shows that the outer edge 424E of the second band 424B is surrounded by (and optionally at least partially defined by) the third groove 426C, and / or the outer edge 424G of the fourth band 424D is surrounded by (and optionally at least partially defined by) the fourth groove 426D. Alternatively, additional bands and / or grooves (e.g., with progressively larger dimensions surrounding the central recesses 422H and / or 422F) may be provided if desired.

[0191] The following describes additional possible features and / or characteristics of the recessed regions 422H, 422F, bands 424A-424D, and / or grooves 426A-426D. For example, the deepest depth of the central region (e.g., the recessed central region) 422H (e.g., in the direction from the inner midsole member 400M to the bottom surface 400B in the foot support surface 400S, e.g., dimension D1) may be deeper than the deepest depth of the first groove 426A (e.g., dimension D2), and / or the deepest depth of the first groove 426A (dimension D2) may be deeper than the deepest depth of the third groove 426C (e.g., dimension D3, if present). See also Figure 2U Additionally or optionally, if desired, the deepest depth of the central region (e.g., a recessed central region) 422F (e.g., in the direction from the inner midsole member 400M to the bottom surface 400B in the plantar support surface 400S, e.g., dimension D4) may be deeper than the deepest depth of the second groove 426B (e.g., dimension D5), and / or the deepest depth of the second groove 426B (dimension D5) may be deeper than the deepest depth of the fourth groove 426D (e.g., dimension D6, if present). See also Figure 2T .

[0192] In at least some examples of the invention, dimension D1 will cause the recess of the central region 422H to extend at a location immediately adjacent to the recessed region 422H through a depth of about 25% to about 65% of the total thickness T1 of the midsole component 400M (e.g., the thickness of the first band 424A) (and in some examples, through about 30% to 60% of the total thickness T1). Alternatively or additionally, in some configurations 400, dimension D2 will cause the first groove 426A to extend through a depth of about 15% to 50% of the total thickness T1 of the midsole component 400M, and / or through 15% to 50% of the thickness of the first strip 424A and / or the second strip 424B (and in some examples, through about 20% to about 40% of one or more of these thicknesses) and / or dimension D3 will cause the third groove 426C to extend through a depth of about 10% to about 30% of the total thickness T1 of the midsole component 400M and / or through about 10% to about 30% of the thickness of the first strip 424A and / or the second strip 424B (and in some examples, through about 12% to 25% of one or more of these thicknesses). Alternatively or alternatively, in some configurations, dimension D4 will cause the recess of the central region 422F to extend at a location immediately adjacent to the recessed region 422F through a depth of approximately 55% to approximately 85% of the total thickness T4 of the midsole component 400M (e.g., the thickness of the third band 424C) (and in some examples, through approximately 60% to approximately 80% of the total thickness T4). Additionally or alternatively, in some configurations 400, dimension D5 will cause the second groove 426B to extend through a depth of about 25% to about 60% of the total thickness T2 of the midsole component 400M and / or through 25% to 60% of the thickness of the third band 424C and / or the fourth band 424D (and in some examples, through about 30% to about 50% of one or more of these thicknesses), and / or dimension D6 will cause the fourth groove 426D to extend through a depth of about 18% to about 45% of the total thickness T2 of the midsole component 400M and / or through 18% to 45% of the thickness of the third band 424C and / or the fourth band 424D (and in some, for example, through about 24% to about 40% of one or more of these thicknesses).

[0193] As another possible feature, also Figure 2AAs shown, if desired, one or more of the following: the first central region (e.g., the central region of the first recess) 422H, the first band 424A, the second band 424B, the first groove 426A, the third groove 424C, the second central region (e.g., the central region of the second recess) 422F, the third band 424C, the fourth band 424D, the second groove 426B, and / or the fourth groove 424D may have a curved shape. As some more specific examples, any of the recessed central region, band, and / or groove may have any of the following shapes: circular, elliptical, oval, elongated, etc. (or other non-linear and / or non-planar shapes).

[0194] Some additional example dimensional characteristics of these exemplary impact damping structures 420H and / or 420F will be described in more detail below. Figures 2A-2S In the exemplary structure, the two openings are 406H and 406F (see Figure 2A The exposed area of ​​the bottom surface 400B of the inner midsole component 400M in each of the components can range from approximately 0.75 square inches to 10 square inches, and in some examples, from 2 square inches to 8 square inches or even from 2.5 square inches to 6 square inches. These areas can also define the regions of the impact damping structures 420F and / or 420H (e.g., the area surrounded by the outermost deep groove of each structure 420F and / or 420H). When circular, the diameter of the openings 406H and / or 406F can range from 1 inch to 3.5 inches, and in some examples, from 1.5 inches to 3 inches. See also Figure 2V (This is Figure 2O (Enlarged image).

[0195] like Figure 2V As further shown, the various central regions, bands, and grooves of the impact damping structures 420H and / or 420F can have one or more of the following dimensional features:

[0196]

[0197] The dimensional features in the table above can be applied to heel-based impact damping structures 420H, forefoot-based impact damping structures 420F, and / or impact damping structures located at other desired locations in the sole structure. Furthermore, without departing from the invention, although their structures can be identical, this type of impact damping structure on a single footwear component 200, midsole structure 400, and / or sole structure 204 can differ from each other (e.g., in size). Alternatively, if desired, a particular sole structure 204 and / or midsole component 400 can contain only one type of impact damping structure (e.g., only in the heel, only in the forefoot, etc.).

[0198] In the exemplary structure 400 shown, the heel-based impact damping structure 420H and the forefoot-based impact damping structure 420F are located in the midsole structure 400 at locations where high impact forces are expected during typical use (e.g., based on two-dimensional foot force or pressure maps; based on measured foot force or pressure; measured when an athlete is performing certain functions, such as walking, running, stepping or jumping, playing basketball or other activities, etc.). The central regions (e.g., recessed central regions) 422F, 422H; the bands 424A-424D; and the grooves 426A-426D can be formed as a single, integral structure, for example, in the ground-facing surface 400B of the polymer foam midsole component 400 (e.g., the inner midsole component 400M). In this way, the central regions 422F, 422H, the bands 424A-424D and the grooves 426A-426D can be formed from or with polymer foam materials used in footwear midsole structures.

[0199] As further shown, for example, in Figure 2O and Figure 2S In the midsole, at least one (and optionally some or all) of the first band 424A and the second band 424B surrounding the central region 422H based on the heel, and the third band 424C and the fourth band 424D surrounding the central region 422F based on the forefoot (and optionally other bands and / or loops surrounding these regions 422H and / or 422F) may include a base 424Y and a apex 424X (wherein the base 424Y of each band is positioned closer to the upward surface 400S of the midsole component 400 than the apex 424X of that band). If desired, at least one (and optionally some or all) of the first band 424A, the second band 424B, the third band 424C, and / or the fourth band 424D may be formed to have a wider cross-section at its base 424Y than at its apex 424X (e.g., a shaped groove having a triangular, truncated triangular, circular triangular, trapezoidal, droplet-shaped cross-section, etc.). If desired, the ground surfaces or apexes 424X of the first band 424A and the second band 424B may be coplanar (optionally together with the apexes of any one or more additional bands in the heel impact damping structure 420H), and / or the ground surfaces or apexes 424X of the third band 424C and the fourth band 424D may be coplanar (optionally together with the apexes of any one or more additional bands in the forefoot impact damping structure 420F).

[0200] While not wishing to be limited by any specific operational theory, for at least some exemplary structures according to aspects of the invention, under compressive forces (e.g., when contacting the ground after a step or jump), it is believed that the concave central regions 422F, 422H and grooves 426A-426D will begin to collapse or decrease in depth, and / or the bands 424A-424D will decrease in depth and / or flatten as event forces deform or deflect the midsole structure 400, particularly at one or more locations of the bands 424A-424D. The shape and / or geometry of the recessed central regions 422F, 422H (and any other regions), bands 424A-424D (and any other regions), and grooves 426A-426D (and any other regions), such that, for example, the cross-section of bands 424A-424D is wider at their base than at their top, and / or the cross-section of recessed regions 422F, 422H, and grooves 426A-426D is narrower at their upper ends than at their exposed and / or open ends, provide space between bands 424A-424D and provide gaps for the diffusion of foam material because each band 424A-424D is compressed, deformed, or deflected under event forces. When these actions occur and / or the impact force increases, the concave central areas 422F, 422H and / or grooves 426A-426D are considered to become substantially filled with the midsole material and / or deform in other ways. This causes the impact-absorbing structures 420F, 420H to begin to slow down and / or resist additional deformation and / or deflection (because the deflecting material filling the concave central areas 422F, 422H and / or grooves 426A-426D slows down or stops further deformation / deflection). In this way, the impact-absorbing structures 420H, 420F provide a comfortable feel (e.g., a soft initial response) and responsive walking. Furthermore, the feel is very soft in response to relatively low foot force or pressure (because the concave areas 422F, 422H are open, relatively large, and can easily receive deflected midsole material), but the midsole component 400 provides sufficient support under higher foot force or pressure (when deformation and / or deflection as described above occur). The impact damping structures 420F and 420H can operate in a "buffering" manner to dampen impact forces.

[0201] Figures 2A-2V The illustrations depict at least some examples of other possible impact damping features, traction enhancement features, and / or support enhancement features that can be provided in the sole structure 204 according to the present invention. For example, such as Figure 2A As shown, the outsole component 406 may also include a central region (e.g., a recessed central region) surrounded by one or more rings (e.g., two or more rings). As Figure 2AIn one specific example shown, the outsole component 406 includes a midfoot support region 470, which includes a central midfoot region (e.g., a recessed central midfoot region) 470a surrounded by a plurality of rings 470b. In this illustrated example, the plurality of rings 470b includes an innermost ring directly surrounding (and optionally at least partially defining) the central midfoot region 470a, and at least three additional rings surrounding the innermost ring with gradually increasing circumferences. Figure 2Q As shown, the midfoot central region 470a and the recesses between (and optionally defining) the rings 470b are not as deep as the central regions 422F, 422H and / or grooves 426A-426D of the impact damping structures 420F and 420H formed in the midsole component 400 of this example. As a more specific example, if desired, the recesses defining adjacent rings 470b may have a maximum depth less than 20% of the deepest depth of any one or more of the central regions 422H, 422F and / or grooves 426A-426D of the recesses (and in some examples, less than 15% or even less than 10%). Such a midfoot support area (e.g., located between the impact damping structures 420F and 420H in the longitudinal direction of the sole structure 204) can provide additional midfoot impact damping, support and / or stability, particularly for basketball shoes.

[0202] Figure 2A An additional foot support area is shown, comprising a central region (e.g., a recessed central region) surrounded by one or more rings at other locations in the sole structure 204. For example, Figure 2A The sole structure 204 includes three lateral foot support regions 480a, 480b, and 480c located along the lateral edge of the sole structure 204 (and formed in the outsole component 406 in this example). Figure 2N , Figure 2O and Figure 2PThe diagram also shows portions of these lateral foot support regions 480a, 480b, and 480c. Each of these regions 480a, 480b, and 480c includes a central portion (e.g., a recessed central portion) surrounded by one or more rings (e.g., two or more rings) of the general type described above with respect to the midfoot support region 470. In the example shown, the lateral foot support regions 480a, 480b, and 480c are arranged relative to each other in a generally heel-toe direction and are located outside the forefoot impact damping structure 420F (wherein region 480b is located between the opening 406F of the forefoot impact damping structure 420F and the outer edge of the sole member 204). The lateral foot support areas 480a, 480b, and 480c can provide additional traction, support, and / or stability for activities such as basketball, such as when making turns or slices, when stopping quickly or changing direction, or when stepping or jumping.

[0203] Figure 2A Further illustrated are two forefoot or foreto zone support regions 490a and 490b located along the foreto zone of sole structure 204 (and formed in the outsole component 406 in this illustrated example). Each of these regions 490a and 490b includes a central portion (e.g., a recessed central portion) surrounded by one or more loops (e.g., two or more loops) of the general type described above with respect to midfoot support region 470. In this illustrated example, the forefoot or toe zone support regions 490a and 490b are arranged relative to each other in a generally side-to-side orientation and are located anterior to the forefoot impact damping structure 420F. The forefoot or toe zone support regions 490a and 490b can provide additional impact damping, traction, support, and / or stability, for example, during the toe-off phase of the running cycle, during jumps, when changing direction, etc.

[0204] The ring structure shown in the outsole component 406, as described above, is not limited to a single central region tightly surrounding the foot support regions 470, 480a-480c, 490a, and / or 490b. Rather, as... Figure 2AAs shown, as the rings increase in size, a single (e.g., continuous) ring extending around more than one foot support region 470, 480a-480c, 490a, and / or 490b can be provided. As some more specific examples, ring 492 (and in fact, multiple rings surrounding ring 492) surrounds a combined area of ​​forefoot or toe support regions 490a and 490b. Additionally or optionally, several rings can be provided surrounding a combined area of ​​one or two impact damping structures 420F and 420H and / or other foot support regions 470, 480a-480c, 490a, and / or 490b. In fact, as... Figure 2A As shown, some of the outermost rings of the outsole component 406 surround the combined areas of all impact damping structures 420F and 420H and foot support regions 470, 480a-480c, 490a and / or 490b. This ring may be located at or near the outermost periphery of the outsole component 406.

[0205] The foot support ring (e.g., optionally having the size, shape, and / or dimensional characteristics of rings 470b and / or 492 as described above) is not limited to the foot support surface of the outsole component 406. Rather, as Figures 2C-2F As shown, this type of ring can extend along the outer surface of the outsole component 406, for example, along the outer side (optionally along...). Figure 2C Extending along the entire outer side (as shown), along the inner heel side region ( Figure 2D Extending along the medial forefoot region ( Figure 2D Extending along the foretoe region ( Figure 2E Extending, and / or along the rear heel area ( Figure 2F ) extends. Alternatively or as shown in these figures, such a similar ring may extend along at least some portions of the walls of the inner midsole component 400M and / or the outer midsole component 400L (e.g., on at least a portion of the rear heel wall). Figure 2F ) and / or at least a portion of the sidewall surfaces 402L and 402M ( Figure 2C , Figure 2D The annular structure along the sidewalls of the outsole component 406, the medial midsole component 400M, and / or the lateral midsole component 400L helps to provide a more consistent appearance for the sole structure 204, helps to conceal the connection between the outsole 406 and the midsole 400, and / or helps to conceal wrinkling when the sole structure 204 is compressed during use.

[0206] In addition, such as Figure 2A , Figure 2I , Figure 2L , Figure 2M , Figure 2O and Figure 2S-Figure 2VAs shown, the ring structure 494 of the above type can be formed in the ground-facing surface of one or more bands 424A-424D of the impact damping structures 420F and / or 420H. These ring structures 494 can help provide additional traction and / or impact damping for the midsole component 400. More specifically, as shown in the figures, one or more of the first band 424A, the second band 424B, the third band 424C, and / or the fourth band 424D can include two (or more) rings on their ground-facing surface, wherein each pair of adjacent rings is separated by a recess defined in the outer (ground-facing) surface of their respective bands. When present, the recesses provided in the bands 424A-424D to define the ring therein may have a depth less than 20% of the depth D1-D6 of the central region 422F and / or 422H and / or the grooves 426A-426D (and in some examples, less than 10% of the depth of any one or more of the depths D1-D6).

[0207] As an alternative or alternative, it can be omitted if necessary. Figures 2A-2V The exemplary outsole structure 204 shown includes an outsole component 406, and features of the outsole component 406 (e.g., one or more of the rings 492, foot support regions 470, 480a-480c, 490a, 490b, etc.) may be formed in the midsole structure 400 (e.g., in the ground surfaces 400B and / or 408B). If desired, at least the outermost surface of the midsole structure 400 may be made of a relatively durable foam material and / or other materials to provide better abrasion resistance and durability.

[0208] The following will combine Figures 3A-3N Another exemplary sole structure 504 according to at least some examples of the present invention is described. Specifically, Figure 3A A bottom view of sole structure 504 is provided; Figure 3B A top-view view is provided; Figure 3C A side view is provided; Figure 3D An inside view is provided; Figure 3E A toe view is provided; Figure 3F A follow-up view is provided; Figure 3G A bottom view provides alternative outsole constructions and / or features; Figure 3H Provided along Figure 3A and Figure 3B Longitudinal cross-sectional view of line HH in the middle;

[0209] Figure 3I Provide along Figure 3A and Figure 3B A cross-sectional view of line II in the diagram; Figure 3J Provide along Figure 3A and Figure 3BA cross-sectional view of line JJ in the diagram; Figure 3K Provided along Figure 3A and Figure 3B A cross-sectional view of line KK in the diagram; Figure 3L Provided along Figure 3A and Figure 3B A cross-sectional view of line LL in the diagram; Figure 3M Provided along Figure 3A and Figure 3B The cross-sectional view of line MM in the middle; and Figure 3N Provided along Figure 3A and Figure 3B A cross-sectional view of the NN line in the example. Due to the characteristics of the midsole component 400 (including the medial midsole component 400M and the lateral midsole component 400L) in this exemplary sole structure 504, combined with the above... Figures 2A-2V The described features are the same or similar, so many detailed descriptions of the midsole component 400, the inner midsole component 400M, and the outer midsole component 400L will not be repeated. However, it is worth noting that the reference numerals in the different figures refer to the same or similar parts, and Figures 3A-3N The midsole component 400, the inner midsole component 400M, and / or the outer midsole component 400L may have the features described above. Figures 2A-2V Any of the various features, characteristics, and / or options of the described component.

[0210] Figures 2A-2V The sole structure of 204 and Figures 3A-3N One difference between the 504 and 504 sole constructions involves the absence of [something related to the sole structure]. Figures 3A-3N The heel support 250 of the sole structure 504. Alternatively, if desired, the heel support 250 having any of the above features, options, and / or characteristics can be combined with... Figures 3A-3N The sole construction uses 504 stainless steel. As an alternative or replacement option, it can be used if needed. Figures 3A-3N The sole structure 504 provides a conventional heel support or heel support structure as known and used in the footwear industry. Furthermore, Figures 3A-3N The sole structure 504 can be joined with the footwear upper structure, which, if desired, includes various types of footwear uppers 202 and / or has the above-mentioned joint. Figures 1A-1D Describe one or more features.

[0211] Another difference in this exemplary sole structure 504 relates to the outsole component 506. Specifically, the outsole component 506 of this exemplary sole structure 504 does not include the bottom openings 406H and / or 406F defined therethrough. Instead, as Figure 3A , Figure 3H , Figure 3J and Figure 3NAs shown, in this exemplary sole structure 504, the outsole component 506 covers the forefoot-based impact damping structure 420F and the heel-based impact damping structure 420H (although these types of impact damping structures 420F and 420H are still disposed in the ground-facing surface of the midsole component 400). Therefore, in this exemplary sole structure 504, the forefoot-based impact damping structure 420F and the heel-based impact damping structure 420H are not exposed at the bottom surface of the sole structure 504 (e.g., as shown in the diagram). Figure 3A (As shown in the diagram) (and thus can better protect the impact damping structures 420H and 420F from the effects of the external environment, thereby improving durability, abrasion resistance, scratch resistance, etc.).

[0212] More specifically, such as Figures 3A-3N As shown, the exemplary sole structure 504 includes an upward surface and a ground surface opposite the upward surface, wherein: (a) a heel support region 520H includes a central region (e.g., a recessed central region) 522A defined in the ground surface (e.g., of the outsole member 506) and optionally surrounded by a first plurality of rings 524A; and / or (b) a forefoot support region 520F includes a central region (e.g., a recessed central region) 522B defined in the ground surface (e.g., of the same outsole member 506 or different portions of the outsole member 506) and optionally surrounded by a second plurality of rings 524A. Each of the first plurality of rings 524A and the second plurality of rings 524B may include: a first ring (e.g., the innermost ring) surrounding (and optionally at least partially defining) the respective central regions 522A, 522B and at least a second ring surrounding the first ring. In the example shown, each of the first plurality of rings 524A and the second plurality of rings 524B includes at least a third ring surrounding the second ring; and optionally a fourth ring surrounding the third ring; and optionally more rings. The central region 522A / 522B and the rings 524A / 524B can help provide traction, impact damping, support, and / or stability.

[0213] As further shown, for example, in Figure 3H , Figure 3J and Figure 3NIn the first plurality of rings 524A and / or the second plurality of rings 522A and 522B, at least some (and optionally all) of the first and second rings (and other rings optionally surrounding these regions) surrounding the central regions 522A and 522B may include a base 524Y and a vertex 524X (wherein the base 524Y of each ring is positioned closer to the upward surface 406A of the outer bottom member 406 than the vertex 524X of that ring). If desired, at least some (and optionally all) of the first and second rings in the first plurality of rings 524A and / or the second plurality of rings 524B may be formed such that the cross-section at its base 524Y is wider than the cross-section at its vertex 524X (e.g., the cross-section is triangular, truncated triangular, circular triangular, trapezoidal, droplet-shaped, etc.). If necessary, some or all of the ground-facing surfaces or vertices of the first and / or second plurality of rings 524A, 524B may be coplanar, including at least a first and a second ring of any or both of the plurality of rings 524A and / or 524B. When each ring 524A, 524B is compressed, deformed, or deflected under force, the shape and / or geometry of the recesses between the central regions 522A, 522B (and any other regions), the rings 524A, 524B (and any other rings), and / or the recesses between the rings 524, 524B (e.g., where the cross-section of the rings 524A, 524B at their base 524Y is wider than at their vertices 524X, and / or the cross-section of the recesses between the central regions 522A, 522B and the rings at their upper ends is narrower than the cross-section at their exposed and / or open ends) may provide space between the rings 524A, 524B and gaps for the spread of the sole material.

[0214] If necessary, then as follows Figure 3G As shown, the outsole component 506 can be formed to include at least a first window region defined therein, and wherein the first window region can be at least partially transparent or translucent. More specifically, in Figure 3G In the illustrated sole structure 504, the outsole component 506 includes at least a partially transparent or translucent forefoot window 510F and a separate heel window 510H. In this way, if desired, the bottom surface of the midsole component 400 (e.g., the bottom of the medial midsole component 406M), the bottom of the impact damping structure (e.g., 420F and / or 420H), etc., can be visible (but not openly exposed) through the forefoot window area 510F and / or the heel window area 510H.

[0215] When present, without departing from the invention, windows 510F and / or 510H of this type can be formed in the outsole component 506 in any desired manner. For example, if desired, openings can be cut into the outsole component 506, and / or openings can be provided in the outsole component 506 (e.g., in a manner similar to that of the outsole component 406 described above, such as by molding techniques, etc.), and then the individual window components can be joined to the outsole component 506 and / or the midsole component 400 to close the openings (e.g., by adhesives or glues, mechanical fasteners, fusion techniques, friction fits, etc.). Alternatively, if desired, window regions 510F and / or 510H can be integrally formed with the rest of the outsole component 506, for example by selectively positioning at least partially transparent or translucent outsole material in the region of window 510F / 510H in a mold (e.g., using a “dam” in the mold or in other suitable manner), and then molding the entire outsole component 506. As another option, if desired, the entire bottom of the outsole component (or even the entire outsole component 506) can be made of at least partially transparent or translucent outsole material.

[0216] Figures 3A-3N Further illustration shows that the outsole component 506 may have multiple ring features surrounding one or more of the foot support regions 520H, 520F, 470, 480a, 480b, 480c, 490a, and / or 490b (including combined areas of any two or more of these foot support regions). The midsole component 400 may also have rings of the same type (e.g., on its sidewall surface, rear heel surface, foretoel surface, etc.). As shown above regarding Figures 2A-2V As described in the exemplary structure, the surrounding ring of the sole structure 504 may have any one or more of various features, sizes, shapes, constructions and / or orientations.

[0217] Or, if necessary, Figures 3A-3N The outsole component 506 of the exemplary structure shown may be omitted, and features of the outsole component 506 (including any recessed central regions, rings, and recesses described above and below) may be formed in the midsole structure 400 (e.g., with or without impact damping structures 420F and / or 420H formed in the midsole component 400). If desired, at least the outermost surface of the midsole structure 400 may be made of a relatively durable foam material, for example, to provide better abrasion resistance and durability. As a more specific example, the heel support region 520H and / or the forefoot support region 520F may constitute part of a single midsole element (e.g., midsole component 400, medial outsole component 400M, lateral midsole component 400L, etc.), which may be made of a polymeric foam material (e.g., polyurethane foam, ethyl vinyl acetate foam, etc.).

[0218] like Figures 3A-3N As further shown in the exemplary sole structure 504, a plurality of rings are provided that extend around a combined area of ​​forefoot support region 520F, heel support region 520H, and midfoot support region 470. As another feature, as shown in these figures, two foreto support regions 490a, 490b (each including a recessed central toe region surrounded by one or more rings (also referred to herein as “toe rings”)) are defined in the ground-facing surface of the sole component 506. These toe support regions (e.g., Figure 3A At least one of the regions 490a) can be positioned closer to the inner edge of the sole structure 504 than to the outer edge of the sole structure 504, or closer to the outer edge of the sole structure 504 than to the inner edge of the sole structure 504. The two foreto support regions 490a and 490b shown are arranged in a generally side-by-side orientation; for example, one foreto support region (e.g., 490a) is positioned closer to the inner edge of the sole structure 504 than the other foreto support region (e.g., 490b). As further shown, in Figure 3A In this design, one or more rings may be formed in the outsole component 506, extending around a combined area of ​​the first forefoot support region 490a and the second forefoot support region 490b. Additionally, one or more rings may further extend around the combined area of ​​the forefoot support region 520F, the first forefoot support region 490a, and the second forefoot support region 490b (and optionally also around the heel support region 520H, any existing midfoot support region 470, and / or any one or more lateral (or laterally forefoot) support regions (e.g., 480a, 480b, and / or 480c). At least some of the rings (and optionally all) associated with the central region and / or the respective foot support regions may have a curved shape (and optionally, at least some may have a circular, elliptical, oval, or other non-linear or non-planar shape).

[0219] Figures 4A-4O Another exemplary sole structure 604 according to some aspects of the present invention is shown. Specifically, Figure 4A A bottom view of sole structure 604 is provided; Figure 4B A top-view view is provided; Figure 4C A side view is provided; Figure 4D An inside view is provided; Figure 4E A toe view is provided; Figure 4F A follow-up view is provided; Figure 4G A bottom view of the outsole 606 and midsole 600 structures is provided; Figure 4H A top view of the outsole structure 606 and the structural midsole 600 is provided; Figure 4I Provided along Figure 4A and Figure 4BLongitudinal cross-sectional view of line II in the middle; Figure 4J Provide along Figure 4A and Figure 4B A cross-sectional view of line JJ in the diagram; Figure 4K Provide along Figure 4A and Figure 4B A cross-sectional view of line KK in the diagram; Figure 4L Provided along Figure 4A and Figure 4B A cross-sectional view of line LL in the diagram; Figure 4M Provided along Figure 4A and Figure 4B A cross-sectional view of line MM in the diagram; Figure 4N Provided along Figure 4A and Figure 4B A cross-sectional view of line NN in the diagram; and Figure 4O Provide along Figure 4A and Figure 4B A cross-sectional view of line OO in the diagram. Since most of the midsole component 600 in this exemplary sole structure 604 can be combined with the above... Figures 2A-2V and Figures 3A-3N The described midsole components are identical or similar, so much of the detailed description of the midsole component 600 will not be repeated (although some differences will be discussed). It is worth noting that reference numerals in the various figures denote identical or similar parts, and the midsole component 600 and / or outsole component 606 may have the above-described combinations. Figures 2A-3N The structure describes any one of the desired features, characteristics, and / or options of the component. Furthermore, Figures 4A-4O The sole structure 604 can be joined with the footwear upper structure, which, if desired, includes various types of footwear uppers 202 and / or has the above-mentioned joint. Figures 1A-1D Describe one or more features.

[0220] Figures 4A-4O The sole structure of 604 is combined with the above. Figures 1A-3N Some differences between the other described sole constructions relate to the midsole construction 600. Figures 4A-4OIn the sole structure 600, the midsole structure 600 constitutes a single-piece construction (e.g., made of a polymer foam material such as polyurethane foam, ethylene vinyl acetate foam, etc., for example, by injection molding, compression molding and / or other known processes used in footwear). Furthermore, in this example, the sole structure 600 includes an upward (and plantar surface-supporting) base surface 600S and a ground-facing surface 600B with relatively smooth and / or gentle contours. Specifically, and unlike the structure 400 described above, the midsole structure 600 of this example does not include the impact damping structures 420F and 420H described with respect to the sole structures 204 and 504 described above. Optionally, if desired, the midsole structure 600 may include one or more impact damping structures, such as one or both of the structures 420F and 420H as described in detail above.

[0221] The outsole component 606 in this example differs slightly from the exemplary structures 406 and 506 described above. For example, although the outsole component 606 includes a heel support region 520H, a forefoot support region 520F, a midfoot support region 470, and foretoine support regions 490a and 490b, the shape and / or orientation of these regions are different from those described above. Figures 2A-3N The corresponding regions described are slightly different. Although each of these regions still includes a central region (e.g., a recessed central region) (e.g., the corresponding regions in regions 522A, 522B, 470a and 490a, 490b) and multiple rings (e.g., 524A, 524B, 470b and the corresponding rings in regions 490a, 490b), the shapes of these regions are somewhat different. For example, the central region (e.g., a recessed central region) 522A and / or ring 524A of the heel support region 520 and the central region (e.g., a recessed central region) 470a and / or ring 470b of the midfoot support region 470 are elongated (e.g., slightly oval, elliptical, or egg-shaped) in the anteroposterior direction of the sole structure 604. Moreover, the central region (e.g., a recessed central region) 522B and / or ring 524B of the forefoot support region 520F extends in the lateral to medial direction (e.g., again, slightly oval, elliptical, or egg-shaped). Similarly, the central region and / or ring of the forefoot / toe support areas 490a and / or 490b are also elongated in the anteroposterior direction (e.g., again, slightly oval, elliptical, or egg-shaped).

[0222] The following section will describe some additional dimensional features of the outsole component 606 in more detail. Figures 4A-4OIn the example configuration, each of the heel support region 520H, midfoot support region 470, and forefoot support region 520F is defined by a plurality of rings surrounding only that particular support region. In at least some examples of the invention, the area of ​​the heel support region 520H, surrounded only by the rings surrounding the heel support region 520H, will range from 2 square inches to 14 square inches (and in some examples, from 2.5 square inches to 12 square inches or even from 3 square inches to 10 square inches). Alternatively or additionally, the area of ​​the midfoot support region 470, surrounded only by the rings surrounding the midfoot support region 470, will range from 0.75 square inches to 8 square inches (and in some examples, from 1 square inch to 7 square inches or even from 1.5 square inches to 6 square inches). Alternatively, the area of ​​the forefoot support area 520F, which is surrounded only by a ring around the forefoot support area 520F, will range from 2 square inches to 14 square inches (and in some examples, from 2.5 square inches to 12 square inches or even from 3 square inches to 10 square inches). These same size ranges can be used for various heel, forefoot, and / or midfoot support areas in other sole constructions described herein.

[0223] Figures 4A-4O The sole structure 604 includes several foot support regions not shown in the other exemplary sole structures 204, 504 described above, each foot support region having a central region and one or more rings. For example, a forefoot midfoot support region 620, including a central region (e.g., a recessed central region) 622 and multiple rings 624 (with gradually increasing circumferences or perimeters), is located behind the forefoot support region 520F. This forefoot midfoot support region 620 can provide additional traction, impact damping, stability, and / or support to the first metatarsal head support region (e.g., for use during the toe-off phase of the step cycle, when stepping or jumping, when initiating a step or jump, etc.). Additionally or alternatively, a rear midfoot support region 630, including a central region (e.g., a recessed central region) 632 and multiple rings 634 (with gradually increasing circumferences or perimeters), is located in front of and / or along the medial side of the heel support region 520H. This rear midfoot support zone 630 can provide additional stability and / or support for the arch area (e.g., for use during a landing step or jump).

[0224] like Figure 4G and Figure 4HAs shown, the example sole structure 604 is assembled by joining the inner surface 606S of the outsole component 606 to the bottom surface 600B of the midsole component 600. These parts can be joined together in any desired manner, including by using adhesives or glues, mechanical fasteners, friction fits, fusion techniques, etc., including in ways conventionally known and used in the footwear industry.

[0225] Again, such as Figure 4A As shown, one or more rings may surround any combination of two or more of the following areas: forefoot support region 520F, heel support region 520H, midfoot support region 470, rear midfoot support region 630, fore midfoot support region 620, fore toe support region 490a, and / or fore toe support region 490b. These surrounding rings may have any of the features, options, and / or characteristics of the aforementioned similar rings, and may extend to the lateral regions or surfaces, the rear heel regions or surfaces, and / or the fore toe regions or surfaces of the outsole structure 606 and / or the midsole structure 600.

[0226] Alternatively, it can be omitted if needed. Figures 4A to 4O The exemplary structure shown is an outsole component 606, and features of the outsole component 606 may be formed in the midsole structure 600 (e.g., in the bottom surface 600B). If desired, at least the outermost surface of the midsole structure 600 may be made of a relatively durable foam material to provide better abrasion resistance and durability.

[0227] Figure 5 A bottom view of another sole structure 700 (e.g., midsole component, outsole component, combined midsole component and outsole component, etc.) according to an additional possible aspect of the invention is shown. Figures 2A-2V Similarly, the exemplary sole structure 700 includes a heel-based impact damping structure 720H ​​and a forefoot-based impact damping structure 720F having a central region (e.g., a central recessed region) (722A and 722B respectively), a surrounding band (724A-724D), and a groove (726A-726D) of the type described above. These regions 720H, 720F, 722A, 722B, 724A-724D, and / or 726A-726D may have the characteristics described above. Figures 2A-2V Any specific features, properties, structure, dimensions, etc. of the corresponding part described.

[0228] However, Figure 5 Structure 700 illustrates additional or alternative possible features of the impact force damping structure (e.g., 720H, 720F) according to the invention. For example, Figure 5The heel-based impact damping structure 720H ​​is shown to include a third band 724E located outside of band 724B and separated from (and / or at least partially defined by) another groove 726E. An additional groove 726F surrounding groove 726E defines the outer edge of band 724E in this example and deforms into the remainder of sole structure 700. Bands 724A, 724B, and 724E, and grooves 726A, 726C, 726E, and 726F, change from a generally circular structure facing inward (e.g., elements 724A, 724B, 726A) to a more teardrop-shaped structure facing outward (e.g., elements 726C, 724E, 726E, and 726F).

[0229] Furthermore, despite Figure 5 The sole structure 700 includes foot support areas similar to the regions 470, 480a, 480b, 480c, 490a, and 490b described above. However, in this sole structure 700, at least some of these foot support areas (e.g., regions 480b, 490a, and 490b in the illustrated example) are located inside a groove 726D defining the outer edge of the forefoot-based impact damping structure 720F. If desired, more, fewer, and / or different types of foot support areas may be provided within the outermost groove 726D. Additionally or alternatively, if desired, one or more other support areas (with a recessed central area and multiple rings) may be provided within one or more grooves 726A, 726C, 726E, and / or 726F provided within the heel-based impact damping structure 720H. These types of impact damping structures can be incorporated into a single sole component 700 (e.g., an outsole or midsole component) or onto two or more separate sole components (e.g., an outsole component and / or a midsole component). Furthermore, Figure 5 The sole structure 700 can be joined with the footwear upper structure, and if required, the footwear upper includes various types of footwear uppers 202 and / or has the above-mentioned joint. Figures 1A-1D Describe one or more features. Figure 5 The sole structure 700 may also have any of the aforementioned circumferential ring structures, for example on the outsole or midsole components, including on the side surface or sidewall of any of these components.

[0230] II. Conclusion

[0231] The invention has been disclosed above with reference to various embodiments and / or options in the accompanying drawings. However, the purpose of this disclosure is to provide examples of various features and concepts related to the invention, and not to limit the scope of the invention. Those skilled in the art will recognize that many changes and modifications can be made to the features of the invention described above without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A sole structure for an article of footwear, the sole structure comprising an upward-facing surface and a ground-facing surface opposite the upward-facing surface, the sole structure comprising: a heel support region comprising a recessed central region surrounded by a first plurality of rings defined in the ground-facing surface, wherein the recessed central region of the heel support region and at least some of the first plurality of rings are elongate in a fore-aft direction of the sole structure; and a forefoot support region comprising a recessed central region surrounded by a second plurality of rings defined in the ground-facing surface, wherein the recessed central region of the forefoot support region and at least some of the second plurality of rings are elongate in a lateral-to-medial direction of the sole structure, wherein each of the first plurality of rings and the second plurality of rings comprises: a first ring surrounding the recessed central region and a second ring surrounding the first ring, wherein a plurality of rings extend around a combined area of the forefoot support region and the heel support region, wherein the forefoot support region and the heel support region constitute portions of an outsole component of the sole structure, and wherein an upward-facing surface of the outsole component completely covers a ground-facing surface of a midsole element of the sole structure such that the ground-facing surface of the midsole element is not openly exposed.

2. The sole structure of Claim 1, wherein at least one of the first plurality of loops and the second plurality of loops comprises: a third ring surrounding the second ring and a fourth ring surrounding the third ring.

3. The sole structure of claim 1, further comprising: a midfoot support region comprising a recessed midfoot central region surrounded by a third plurality of rings defined in the ground-facing surface of the sole structure, wherein the third plurality of rings comprises an innermost ring surrounding and defining the recessed midfoot central region and at least three additional rings having progressively increasing circumferences surrounding the innermost ring, and wherein the recessed midfoot central region and at least some of the third plurality of rings are elongate in the fore-aft direction.

4. The sole structure of claim 3, wherein the plurality of rings extending around the combined area of the forefoot support region and the heel support region additionally extend around the midfoot support region.

5. The sole structure of claim 1, further comprising: a first fore toe support region comprising a first recessed toe central region surrounded by a first toe ring defined in the ground-facing surface of the sole structure, wherein the first recessed toe central region and the first toe ring are elongate in the fore-aft direction.

6. The sole structure of claim 5, further comprising: a second fore toe support region comprising a second recessed toe central region surrounded by a second toe ring defined in the ground-facing surface of the sole structure, wherein the second recessed toe central region and the second toe ring are elongate in the fore-aft direction.

7. The sole structure of claim 6, wherein the first fore toe support region is positioned closer to a medial edge of the sole structure than the second fore toe support region.

8. The sole structure of claim 1, further comprising: a medial midfoot support region comprising a recessed medial midfoot central region surrounded by a third plurality of loops defined in the ground-facing surface of the sole structure, wherein the third plurality of loops comprises an innermost loop surrounding and defining the recessed medial midfoot central region and at least two additional loops having progressively increasing circumferences surrounding the innermost loop.

9. The sole structure of claim 1, wherein the midsole element is formed of a polymeric foam material.

10. The sole structure of claim 1, wherein at least one of the plurality of loops extending around the combined area of the forefoot support region and the heel support region extends along at least a portion of a medial side surface of the sole structure and along at least a portion of a lateral side surface of the sole structure.

11. The sole structure of claim 1, wherein at least one of the plurality of loops extending around the combined area of the forefoot support region and the heel support region extends along at least a portion of a forefoot toe front surface of the sole structure.

12. A sole structure for an article of footwear, the sole structure comprising an upward-facing surface and a ground-facing surface opposite the upward-facing surface, the sole structure comprising: a heel support region comprising a recessed central region surrounded by a first plurality of loops defined in the ground-facing surface, wherein the recessed central region of the heel support region and at least some of the first plurality of loops are elongate in a fore-aft direction of the sole structure; a forefoot support region comprising a recessed central region surrounded by a second plurality of loops defined in the ground-facing surface, wherein the recessed central region of the forefoot support region and at least some of the second plurality of loops are elongate in a lateral-medial direction of the sole structure, wherein each of the first plurality of loops and the second plurality of loops comprises: a first loop surrounding the recessed central region and a second loop surrounding the first loop; a first forefoot toe support region comprising a first recessed toe central region surrounded by a first toe loop defined in the ground-facing surface, wherein the first recessed toe central region and the first toe loop are elongate in the fore-aft direction; a second forefoot toe support region comprising a second recessed toe central region surrounded by a second toe loop defined in the ground-facing surface, wherein the second recessed toe central region and the second toe loop are elongate in the fore-aft direction, and wherein a plurality of loops extend around a combined area of the first forefoot toe support region and the second forefoot toe support region, wherein the forefoot support region and the heel support region constitute portions of an outsole component of the sole structure, and wherein an upward-facing surface of the outsole component completely covers a ground-facing surface of a midsole element of the sole structure such that the ground-facing surface of the midsole element is not openly exposed.

13. The sole structure of claim 12, wherein the plurality of loops extending around the combined area of the first fore toe support region and the second fore toe support region additionally extend around the combined area of the forefoot support region, the first fore toe support region, and the second fore toe support region.

14. The sole structure of claim 12, wherein the plurality of loops extending around the combined area of the first fore toe support region and the second fore toe support region additionally extend around the combined area of the forefoot support region, the heel support region, the first fore toe support region, and the second fore toe support region.

15. A sole structure for an article of footwear, comprising: - an outsole component comprising an upward facing surface and a ground facing surface opposite the upward facing surface, the outsole component comprising: -- a heel support region comprising a recessed central region surrounded by a first plurality of loops defined in the ground facing surface, wherein the recessed central region of the heel support region and at least some of the first plurality of loops are elongated in a fore-aft direction of the sole structure; -- a forefoot support region comprising a recessed central region surrounded by a second plurality of loops defined in the ground facing surface, wherein the recessed central region of the forefoot support region and at least some of the second plurality of loops are elongated in a lateral-to-medial direction of the sole structure, wherein each of the first plurality of loops and the second plurality of loops comprises: a first loop surrounding the recessed central region and a second loop surrounding the first loop; -- a midfoot support region comprising a recessed midfoot central region surrounded by a third plurality of loops defined in the ground facing surface, wherein the third plurality of loops comprises an innermost loop surrounding and defining the recessed midfoot central region and at least three additional loops surrounding the innermost loop with progressively increasing circumferences, and wherein the recessed midfoot central region and at least some of the third plurality of loops are elongated in the fore-aft direction; -- a first fore toe support region comprising a first recessed toe central region surrounded by a first toe loop defined in the ground facing surface, wherein the first recessed toe central region and the first toe loop are elongated in the fore-aft direction; and -- a second fore toe support region comprising a second recessed toe central region surrounded by a second toe loop defined in the ground facing surface, wherein the second recessed toe central region and the second toe loop are elongated in the fore-aft direction, wherein the first fore toe support region is positioned closer to a medial edge of the sole structure than the second fore toe support region; wherein the forefoot support region and the heel support region make up portions of the outsole component of the sole structure; and - a midsole element formed of a polymeric foam material and including an upwardly facing surface and a ground-facing surface, wherein the upwardly facing surface of the outsole component completely covers the ground-facing surface of the midsole element such that the ground-facing surface of the midsole element is not openly exposed.

16. The sole structure of claim 15, further comprising: a medial midfoot support region including a recessed medial midfoot central region surrounded by a fourth plurality of loops defined in the ground-facing surface of the outsole component, wherein the fourth plurality of loops includes an innermost loop surrounding and defining the recessed medial midfoot central region and at least two additional loops having progressively increasing circumferences around the innermost loop.

17. The sole structure of claim 15, wherein the outsole component further comprises a plurality of loops extending around a combined region of the heel support region, the forefoot support region, the midfoot support region, the first forefoot toe support region, and the second forefoot toe support region.

18. A sole structure for an article of footwear, the sole structure including an upwardly facing surface and a ground-facing surface opposite the upwardly facing surface, the sole structure comprising: a heel support region including a recessed central region surrounded by a first plurality of loops defined in the ground-facing surface; and a forefoot support region including a recessed central region surrounded by a second plurality of loops defined in the ground-facing surface, wherein each of the first plurality of loops and the second plurality of loops includes a first loop surrounding the recessed central region and a second loop surrounding the first loop, wherein the forefoot support region and the heel support region constitute portions of an outsole component of the sole structure, and wherein an upwardly facing surface of the outsole component completely covers a ground-facing surface of a midsole element of the sole structure such that the ground-facing surface of the midsole element is not openly exposed.

19. The sole structure of claim 18, wherein at least one of the first plurality of loops and the second plurality of loops includes a third loop surrounding the second loop and a fourth loop surrounding the third loop.

20. The sole structure of claim 18, further comprising: a midfoot support region including a midfoot central region surrounded by a third plurality of loops defined in the ground-facing surface of the sole structure, wherein the third plurality of loops includes an innermost loop surrounding and defining the midfoot central region and at least three additional loops having progressively increasing circumferences around the innermost loop.

21. The sole structure of claim 20, wherein a plurality of loops extend around a combined region of the forefoot support region, the heel support region, and the midfoot support region.

22. The sole structure of any one of claims 18 to 21, wherein the recessed central region of the heel support region and at least some of the first plurality of loops have a curved shape or a circular shape, and / or wherein the recessed central region of the forefoot support region and at least some of the second plurality of loops have a curved shape or a circular shape.

23. The sole structure of any of claims 18-21, further comprising: a first forefoot support region comprising a first forefoot central region surrounded by a first forefoot loop defined in the ground-facing surface of the sole structure.

24. The sole structure of any of claims 18-21, further comprising: a first lateral support region comprising a first lateral central region surrounded by a first lateral loop defined in the ground-facing surface of the sole structure.

25. The sole structure of claim 24, wherein a plurality of loops extend around a combined area of the forefoot support region and the first lateral support region.

26. The sole structure of claim 24, further comprising: a second lateral support region comprising a second lateral central region surrounded by a second lateral loop defined in the ground-facing surface of the sole structure, wherein the second lateral support region is forward of the first lateral support region.

27. The sole structure of claim 26, wherein a plurality of loops extend around a combined area of the forefoot support region, the first lateral support region, and the second lateral support region.

28. The sole structure of claim 27, further comprising: a third lateral support region comprising a third lateral central region surrounded by a third lateral loop defined in the ground-facing surface of the sole structure, wherein the third lateral support region is forward of the second lateral support region.

29. The sole structure of claim 28, wherein a plurality of loops extend around a combined area of the forefoot support region, the first lateral support region, the second lateral support region, and the third lateral support region.

30. The sole structure of claim 24, wherein the first lateral support region is positioned closer to a lateral edge of the sole structure than the forefoot support region.

31. The sole structure of any of claims 18-21 or 25-30, further comprising: a medial midfoot support region comprising a medial midfoot central region surrounded by a plurality of loops defined in the ground-facing surface of the sole structure, wherein the plurality of loops surrounding the medial midfoot central region comprises an innermost loop surrounding and defining the medial midfoot central region and at least two additional loops surrounding the innermost loop with progressively increasing circumferences.

32. The sole structure of any of claims 18-21 or 25-30, wherein a plurality of loops extend around a combined area of the forefoot support region and the heel support region.

33. The sole structure of claim 32, wherein at least one of the plurality of loops extending around the combined area of the forefoot support region and the heel support region extends along at least a portion of a medial side surface of the sole structure, and / or wherein at least one of the plurality of loops extending around the combined area of the forefoot support region and the heel support region extends along at least a portion of a lateral side surface of the sole structure.

34. The sole structure of claim 32, wherein at least one of the plurality of loops extending around the combined area of the forefoot support region and the heel support region extends along at least a portion of a medial side surface of the sole structure and along at least a portion of a lateral side surface of the sole structure.

35. The sole structure of claim 32, wherein at least one of the plurality of loops extending around the combined area of the forefoot support region and the heel support region extends along at least a portion of a forefoot front surface of the sole structure.

36. An article of footwear comprising: a footwear upper; and the sole structure of any one of claims 1-35 engaged with the footwear upper.

37. The article of footwear of claim 36, wherein the footwear upper includes a rear heel portion having: (a) a first band of elastic material, (b) a second band of elastic material vertically displaced from the first band of elastic material, and (c) a first exposed mesh material band extending between the first band of elastic material and the second band of elastic material.

38. The article of footwear of claim 37, wherein the rear heel portion of the footwear upper further includes a second exposed mesh material band extending downwardly from the second band of elastic material.

39. The article of footwear of claim 37, wherein the first exposed mesh material band is less stretchable than the first band of elastic material and the second band of elastic material.

40. The article of footwear of claim 36, wherein the footwear upper includes an instep portion having: (a) a first band of elastic material, (b) a second band of elastic material forwardly displaced from the first band of elastic material, and (c) a first exposed mesh material band extending between the first band of elastic material and the second band of elastic material.

41. The article of footwear of claim 40, wherein the instep portion of the footwear upper further includes a second exposed mesh material band positioned anterior to the second band of elastic material.

42. The article of footwear of claim 40, wherein the first exposed mesh material band is less stretchable than the first band of elastic material and the second band of elastic material.

43. The article of footwear of claim 36, wherein the footwear upper includes an instep portion having a plurality of bands of elastic material, wherein adjacent pairs of the plurality of bands of elastic material are separated by an exposed mesh material band.

44. The article of footwear of claim 43, wherein the plurality of bands of elastic material includes at least four bands extending across the instep portion. ​ 45. The article of footwear according to claim 43, wherein the plurality of elastic material bands includes at least eight bands extending across the instep portion.

46. The article of footwear according to claim 36, further comprising: a heel support portion engaged with a rear heel portion of the upper.

47. The article of footwear according to claim 46, wherein at a rear heel region of the sole structure, the heel support portion extends above an upper perimeter of the sole structure.

48. The article of footwear according to claim 46 or 47, wherein the heel support portion includes a top edge and a bottom edge, and wherein a plurality of vertically spaced slits extend through the heel support portion between the top edge and the bottom edge.

49. The article of footwear according to claim 46, wherein a rear heel portion of the heel support portion includes a rearwardly extending protrusion.

50. The article of footwear according to claim 49, wherein a plurality of vertically spaced slits extend through the heel support portion at the rearwardly extending protrusion.

51. The article of footwear according to claim 48, wherein the plurality of vertically spaced slits define at least three vertically spaced material bands.

52. The article of footwear according to claim 48, wherein the plurality of vertically spaced slits define at least six vertically spaced material bands.

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