Sole structure for an article of footwear

Abstract

An outsole for an article of footwear includes a plantar surface and a peripheral surface surrounding the plantar surface. The outsole for the article of footwear also includes an annular cleat assembly comprising a first plurality of traction elements sequentially arranged about a central axis on the plantar surface. The outsole for the article of footwear also includes one or more radial cleat assemblies, each radial cleat assembly comprising a second plurality of traction elements aligned along a corresponding radial axis intersecting the central axis. At least one of the second plurality of traction elements comprises a peripheral cleat formed on the peripheral surface.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This PCT international application claims priority to U.S. patent application serial number 17 / 183,281, filed on February 23, 2021, which claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to U.S. provisional patent application serial number 62 / 980,606, filed on February 24, 2020, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.

[0003] field

[0004] The present disclosure relates generally to sole structures for articles of footwear and, more particularly, to sole structures incorporating traction elements.

[0005] background

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

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

[0008] The sole structure typically includes a layered arrangement extending between the ground surface and the upper. One layer of the sole structure includes an outsole that provides wear resistance and adhesion to the ground surface. The outsole can be formed from rubber or other materials that impart durability and wear resistance and enhance adhesion to the ground surface. The outsole can include one or more traction elements or cleats for engaging the ground surface. Another layer of the sole structure includes a midsole disposed between the outsole and the upper. The midsole provides cushioning for the foot and can be partially formed from a polymer foam material that elastically compresses under an applied load to cushion the foot by reducing ground reaction forces. The sole structure can also include an insole or sockliner positioned within a void near the bottom portion of the upper to enhance comfort, and a strobel (midsole fabric) attached to the upper and disposed between the midsole and the insole or sockliner.

[0009] Attached photos

[0010] The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected configurations and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0011] Figure 1 is a bottom perspective view of an article of footwear according to the principles of the present disclosure;

[0012] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 an exploded perspective view of an article of footwear;

[0013] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 an exploded perspective view of an outsole of an article of footwear;

[0014] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 a medial side view of the article of footwear;

[0015] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 a lateral view of the article of footwear;

[0016] Figure 6A and Figure 6B yes Figure 1 a bottom view of the article of footwear;

[0017] Figure 7 It is along Figure 6B The section line 7-7 in Figure 1 a cross-sectional view of an article of footwear;

[0018] Figure 8 It is along Figure 6B The section line 8-8 in Figure 1 a cross-sectional view of an article of footwear;

[0019] Figure 9 It is along Figure 6B The section line 9-9 in Figure 1 a cross-sectional view of an article of footwear;

[0020] Figure 10 It is along Figure 6B The section line 10-10 in Figure 1 a cross-sectional view of an article of footwear;

[0021] Figure 11 It is along Figure 6B Line A 10 intercepted Figure 1 a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an article of footwear;

[0022] Figure 12A It is along Figure 6B Area 12A intercepted Figure 1 a plan view of an example of a primary cleat of an article of footwear;

[0023] Figure 12B It is along Figure 12AThe section line 12B-12B is taken Figure 12A a cross-sectional view of an example of a primary cleat;

[0024] Figure 13A It is along Figure 6B Area 13A intercepted Figure 1 a plan view of an example of a secondary cleat for an article of footwear;

[0025] Figure 13B It is along Figure 13A The section line 13B-13B is taken Figure 13A a cross-sectional view of an example of a secondary cleat;

[0026] Figure 14A It is along Figure 6B Area 14A intercepted Figure 1 a plan view of an example of a perimeter cleat for an article of footwear; and

[0027] Figure 14B It is along Figure 14A The section line 14B-14B is taken Figure 14A A cross-sectional view of an example of a perimeter cleat.

[0028] Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the drawings.

[0029] Detailed description

[0030] Example configurations will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. The example configurations are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those of ordinary skill in the art. Specific details, such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the configurations of the disclosure. It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that the specific details need not be employed, that the example configurations can be implemented in many different forms, and that the specific details and example configurations should not be construed as limiting the scope of the disclosure.

[0031] The terms used herein are merely for the purpose of describing specific exemplary configurations and are not intended to be restrictive. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular articles "a," "an," and "the" may also be intended to include the plural form. The terms "comprises," "comprising," "including," and "having" are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of features, steps, operations, elements, and / or parts, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, parts, and / or groups thereof. Unless specifically identified as an order of execution, the method steps, processes, and operations described herein should not be interpreted as necessarily requiring them to be performed in the particular order discussed or shown. Additional or alternative steps may be adopted.

[0032] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on," "engaged to," "connected to," "attached to," or "coupled to" another element or layer, it may be directly on, engaged, connected, attached, or coupled to the other element or layer, or there may be intervening elements or layers. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly on," "directly engaged to," "directly connected to," "directly attached to," or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, there may be no intervening elements or layers. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a similar manner (e.g., "between" versus "directly between," "adjacent" versus "directly adjacent," etc.). As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0033] The terms first, second, third, etc. can be used in this article to describe a variety of elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections. These elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms can only be used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Terms such as "first", "second" and other numerical terms do not imply a sequence or order unless the context clearly indicates. Therefore, the first element, first component, first region, first layer or first section discussed below can be referred to as the second element, second component, second region, second layer or second section without departing from the teaching of the example configuration.

[0034] One aspect of the present disclosure provides an outsole for an article of footwear. The outsole has a plantar surface and a peripheral surface surrounding the plantar surface. The outsole includes an annular cleat assembly comprising a first plurality of traction elements sequentially arranged about a central axis on the plantar surface. The outsole also includes one or more radial cleat assemblies, each radial cleat assembly comprising a second plurality of traction elements aligned along a corresponding radial axis intersecting the central axis. At least one of the second plurality of traction elements comprises a peripheral cleat formed on the peripheral surface.

[0035] Implementations of the present disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In some implementations, the annular cleat set is disposed on the medial side of the outsole. The annular cleat set may be disposed in the forefoot region of the outsole. Alternatively, the annular cleat set may be disposed in the ball portion of the outsole.

[0036] In some examples, the first plurality of traction elements includes a plurality of primary cleats and a plurality of secondary cleats. Here, the plurality of primary cleats may be arranged in a first ring around a central axis, and the plurality of secondary cleats may be arranged in a second ring around the central axis. The first ring may have a larger diameter than the second ring. The primary cleats may have a greater height than the secondary cleats. One or more of the primary cleats may include a reinforcing rib extending toward the central axis. The width of each primary cleat and each secondary cleat may taper.

[0037] In some configurations, the one or more radial cleat groups include one or more lateral radial cleat groups positioned adjacent to the lateral side of the outsole. The one or more lateral radial cleat groups may be positioned in the forefoot region of the outsole. Alternatively, the one or more lateral radial cleat groups may include a first lateral radial cleat group positioned in the ball portion of the outsole and a second lateral radial cleat group positioned in the toe portion of the outsole. The second plurality of traction elements in each of the one or more lateral radial cleat groups may include a plurality of secondary cleats positioned on the sole surface, and a primary cleat positioned on the sole surface between the peripheral cleat and the plurality of secondary cleats. The primary cleat may have a greater height than each of the secondary cleats. The plurality of secondary cleats may decrease in size along a direction from the primary cleat to the central axis. The peripheral cleat may extend at an oblique angle relative to the primary cleat.

[0038] In some embodiments, the one or more radial cleat groups include a front radial cleat group disposed at a front end of the outsole. Here, the front radial cleat group may be disposed on a medial side of the outsole. The second plurality of traction elements of the front radial cleat group may include a primary cleat disposed on the plantar surface adjacent to the peripheral surface, and a plurality of secondary cleats disposed between the primary cleat and the central axis.

[0039] In some examples, a heel cleat set is disposed in the heel region of the outsole and includes a third plurality of traction elements. Here, the heel cleat set can include a plurality of primary cleats and a plurality of secondary cleats, the primary cleats having a greater height than the secondary cleats. The outsole can include a first plate having an annular cleat set and one or more radial cleat sets, and a second plate having the heel cleat set. Optionally, at least one of the first plate and the second plate can be a modular structure comprising a shell formed from a first material and a frame housed within the shell and formed from a second material. Here, the frame can form a first portion of one of the traction elements, and the shell can form a second portion of one of the traction elements. One of the first plate and the second plate can include an insert that forms a third portion of one of the traction elements.

[0040] In some configurations, the primary cleat is positioned on the plantar surface between the annular cleat group and one of the one or more radial cleat groups. Here, the primary cleat may be positioned on the medial side of the outsole. The sole structure may include the outsole. Additionally or alternatively, the article of footwear may include the outsole.

[0041] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a sole structure for an article of footwear. The sole structure includes a midsole having a top surface and a bottom surface formed on a side opposite the top surface. The sole structure also includes an outsole attached to the bottom surface of the midsole and including an annular cleat assembly. The annular cleat assembly includes a first plurality of traction elements sequentially arranged about a central axis on a plantar surface of the outsole. The sole structure also includes one or more radial cleat assemblies, each radial cleat assembly including a second plurality of traction elements aligned along a corresponding radial axis intersecting the central axis. At least one of the second plurality of traction elements includes a peripheral cleat formed on a peripheral surface of the outsole.

[0042] This aspect may include one or more of the following optional features. In some examples, the second plurality of traction elements includes a plurality of secondary cleats disposed on the sole surface and a primary cleat disposed on the sole surface between the peripheral cleat and the plurality of secondary cleats. Optionally, the outsole may include a forefoot plate and a heel plate, the forefoot plate being attached to the bottom surface of the midsole in the forefoot region and including an annular cleat group and one or more radial cleat groups, the heel plate being attached to the bottom surface of the midsole in the heel region. Here, at least one of the forefoot plate and the heel plate may be formed as a modular component. Additionally or alternatively, a shank may be attached to the bottom surface of the midsole and disposed between the forefoot plate and the heel plate. Here, a bracket may be attached to the shank and disposed between the forefoot plate and the heel plate.

[0043] In some embodiments, a midsole includes a shell formed from a first material and a core formed from a second material disposed within the shell. The core can extend from a forefoot region to a heel region. The midsole can include a recess formed in a top surface of the midsole, and the core can be disposed in the recess. The article of footwear can include a sole structure.

[0044] The details of one or more embodiments of the present disclosure are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other aspects, features, and advantages will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims.

[0045] refer to Figures 1 to 11 , article of footwear 10 may include a sole structure 100 and an upper 200. Figure 6A As shown, article of footwear 10 may be divided into one or more regions. These regions may include a forefoot region 12, a midfoot region 14, and a heel region 16. Forefoot region 12 may be subdivided into a toe portion 12 corresponding to the phalanges. T and the ball portion 20 associated with the metatarsal bones of the foot B Midfoot region 14 may correspond with the arch area of the foot, and heel region 16 may correspond with the rear portion of the foot, including the calcaneus bone.

[0046] Footwear 10 may also include a front end 18 associated with the forward-most point of forefoot region 12, and a rear end 20 corresponding to the rearward-most point of heel region 16. Figure 6A As shown, the longitudinal axis A of the footwear 10 10 The longitudinal axis A extends along the length of the footwear 10 from the front end 18 to the rear end 20. 10Centrally located along the length of footwear 10, and generally divides footwear 10 into a lateral side 22 and a medial side 24. Thus, lateral side 22 and medial side 24 correspond to opposite sides of footwear 10, respectively, and extend through regions 12, 14, 16. As used herein, a longitudinal direction refers to a direction extending from front end 18 to rear end 20, while a lateral direction refers to a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction and extending from lateral side 22 to medial side 24.

[0047] Unlike conventional sole structures that may have a unitary construction, the sole structure 100 of the illustrated example is compositely formed and includes multiple subcomponents for providing the desired properties of cushioning, stiffness, traction, and durability. Figure 2 As shown, sole structure 100 includes outsole 102, midsole 104, shank 106, and bracket 108. Midsole 104 is configured to provide one or more layers of cushioning between upper 200 and ground-engaging surface 26. Optionally, midsole 104 may include shell portion 110 and shank 112 disposed within shell portion 110, as described in more detail below. Outsole 102 is configured to provide a durable ground-engaging surface for an article of footwear and includes a plurality of traction elements for interfacing with a ground surface.

[0048] Continue to refer Figure 2 Outsole 102 includes a forefoot plate 114a disposed in forefoot region 12 and including a first plurality of traction elements, and a heel plate 114b disposed in the heel region and including a second plurality of traction elements. Each of plates 114a, 114b can be described as including a top surface 115a, 115b facing upper 200, a bottom surface 116a, 116b formed on a side of plates 114a, 114b opposite top surface 115a, 115b, and a perimeter surface 117a, 117b extending from top surface 115a, 115b to bottom surface 116a, 116b. Here, bottom surface 116a, 116b is associated with a plantar (downward-facing) portion of each plate 114a, 114b. Peripheral surfaces 117a, 117b are formed at an oblique angle relative to bottom surfaces 116a, 116b and form the outer periphery of each plate 114a, 114b. In the example shown, peripheral surfaces 117a, 117b flare outwardly in a direction from bottom surfaces 116a, 116b to top surfaces 115a, 115b.

[0049] refer to Figure 6A, the traction elements of outsole 102 can be described as including primary cleats 118a-118n, secondary cleats 120a-120h, and perimeter cleats 122a-122d. Generally speaking, primary cleats 118a-118n and secondary cleats 120a-120h are formed on a plantar portion of outsole 102 (e.g., bottom surfaces 116a, 116b) and are configured to provide traction with a ground surface when a normal force is applied to the ground surface through the plantar surface of sole structure 100. Perimeter cleats 122a-122d project outwardly from a perimeter portion of outsole 102 (i.e., perimeter surfaces 117a, 117b) and are configured to engage the ground surface when a lateral or angular force is applied in a direction toward the lateral side 22 of sole structure 100. Figure 6B As best shown, traction elements 118a-118n, 120a-120h, 122a-122d may cooperate with one another to define a plurality of cleat groups, including cleat groups disposed on medial side 24 of forefoot plate 114a and on ball portion 122d. B The annular cleat group 124 in the forefoot plate 114a, along the lateral side 22 and / or on the toe portion 12 T A plurality of radial cleat groups 126a-126e arranged in the heel region 16, and a heel cleat group 128 provided on the heel plate 114b in the heel region 16.

[0050] Now refer to Figure 12A and Figure 12B , shows a general example 118 of one of the primary cleats 118a-118n. Although the size and / or geometry of each primary cleat 118a-118b may vary, unless otherwise specified, each primary cleat 118a-118n includes at least about Figure 12A and Figure 12B The features of the exemplary primary cleats 118 are described. As shown, the height H of each primary cleat 118a-118n is 118 Along axis A 118 The primary cleats 118a-118n extend from a base 130 proximate the bottom surfaces 116a, 116b of the sole structure 100 to a tip 132 disposed at an end of the primary cleats 118a-118n opposite the base 130. Here, the tip 132 is defined by a substantially planar distal surface, such that the tip 132 defines a flat end at each primary cleat 118a-118n. The outer perimeter of each primary cleat 118a-118n is cooperatively defined by a concave inner surface 134 and a convex outer surface 136, which converge with each other in a direction from the base 130 to the tip 132 to provide each primary cleat 118a-118n with a tapered width W. 118Additionally, the inner surface 134 and the outer surface 136 may converge with each other at opposite ends of the primary cleats 118a-118n such that the width W 118 The main cleats 118a-118n taper longitudinally from a central portion thereof. Thus, the main cleats 118a-118n can be described as having a crescent-shaped cross-section. Optionally, one or more of the main cleats 118a-118n can be formed with reinforcing ribs 138 projecting radially from the concave inner surface 134.

[0051] like Figure 13A and Figure 13B As shown, a general example 120 of one of the secondary cleats 120a-120h is shown. Although the size and / or geometry of each secondary cleat 120a-120h may be different, each secondary cleat 120a-120h may include at least about Figure 13A and Figure 13B The general features of the exemplary secondary cleats 120 are described. As shown, the height H of each secondary cleat 120a-120h is 120 Along axis A 120 The secondary cleats 120a-120h extend from a base 140 proximate the bottom surfaces 116a, 116b of the sole structure 102 to an edge 142 disposed at an end of the secondary cleats 120a-120h opposite the base 140. Here, the edge 142 is substantially continuous along the length of the secondary cleats 120a-120h. The outer perimeter of each secondary cleat 120a-120h is cooperatively defined by a concave inner surface 144 and a convex outer surface 146 that converge with each other in a direction from the base 140 to the edge 142. Furthermore, the inner surface 144 and the outer surface 146 may converge with each other at opposite ends of the secondary cleats 120a-120h such that the width W 120 The secondary cleats 120a-120h taper in the longitudinal direction from the center portion of each secondary cleat 120a-120h. Therefore, the secondary cleats 120a-120h can be described as having a crescent-shaped cross-section. 120 The height H of all secondary cleats 120a-120h may be different from each other, but 120 Less than the height H of all primary cleats 118a-118n 118 .

[0052] like Figure 14A and Figure 14B As shown, a general example 122 of one of the perimeter cleats 122a-122d is shown. Although the size and / or geometry of each perimeter cleat 122a-122d may vary, each perimeter cleat 122a-122d may include at least about Figure 14A and Figure 14BThe exemplary perimeter cleats 122 are described with reference to the general features of FIG. As shown, the height H of each perimeter cleat 122a-122d is 122 Along axis A 122 The perimeter cleats 122a-122d extend from a base 150 proximate the bottom surface of the sole structure 102 to a tip 152 disposed at an end of the perimeter cleats 122a-122d opposite the base 150. Unlike the primary cleats 118a-118n, which extend substantially perpendicular to the bottom surfaces 116a, 116b of the sole structure 102, the perimeter cleats 122a-122d extend from the perimeter surface 117a at an oblique angle relative to the bottom surface 116a, such that the tip 152 is defined by a substantially planar surface oriented at the oblique angle relative to the bottom surface 116a of the sole structure 102. The outer perimeter of each perimeter cleat 122a-122d is cooperatively defined by a convex inner surface 154 and a convex outer surface 156 that converge toward one another in a direction from the base 150 to the tip 152. Additionally, the inner surface 154 and the outer surface 156 may converge with each other at opposite ends of the perimeter cleats 122a-122d such that the width W 122 Each perimeter cleat 122a-122d tapers longitudinally from a central portion thereof. Thus, the perimeter cleats 122a-122d can be described as having an ellipsoidal cross-section.

[0053] Reference again Figure 6B The cleat groups 124, 126a-126e of the forefoot plate 114a are generally aligned with the axis A. 124 Layout, axis A 124 The annular cleat group 124 is defined and located in the ball portion 12B on the medial side 24. More specifically, the annular cleat group 124 includes a plurality of cleats disposed about the central axis A. 124 A plurality of primary cleats 118g-118j and secondary cleats 120f are arranged in an annular pattern, and each radial cleat group 126a-126e includes a corresponding series of traction elements including traction elements along a corresponding radial axis A. 126a -A 126e The aligned primary cleats 118a-118e, secondary cleats 120a-120e and / or peripheral cleats 122a-122d, corresponding radial axes A 126a -A 126e With the center axis A 124 Thus, radial cleat groups 126a-126e are sequentially arranged in a radial array around annular cleat group 124.

[0054] Continue to refer Figure 6A and Figure 6BThe annular cleat group 124 includes an outer ring 158a, which includes an outer ring 158a along the central axis A. 124 Here, the main cleats 118g-118j of the outer ring 158a can be evenly spaced from each other along the circumference of the outer ring 158a. Optionally, one or more main cleats 118g, 118h can include a plurality of main cleats 118g, 118h arranged toward the central axis A. 124 Inwardly extending reinforcing ribs 138, as described above.

[0055] In addition to the outer ring 158a, the annular cleat set 124 may include an inner ring 158b including an outer ring 158b extending about the central axis A. 124 As shown, the diameter of the inner ring 158b is smaller than the diameter of the outer ring 158a, so that the inner ring 158b is concentric with the outer ring 158a and is surrounded by the outer ring 158a. In the inner ring 158b, the width W of each secondary cleat 120f of the inner ring 158b is 120 The inner ring 158b tapers continuously from the first end to the second end along the circumference of the inner ring 158b. As shown, each secondary cleat 120f tapers in the same direction (e.g., clockwise). It should be understood that the secondary cleat 120f can taper in the opposite direction (e.g., counterclockwise) on the article of footwear 10 associated with the user's opposite foot (e.g., the left foot).

[0056] Still refer to Figure 6A and Figure 6B Forefoot plate 114a includes a plurality of lateral radial cleat groups 126a-126d arranged along lateral side 22 of forefoot plate 114a. Each lateral radial cleat group 126a-126d includes a respective primary cleat 118a-118d disposed on bottom surface 116a adjacent peripheral surface 117a, a series of secondary cleats 120a-120d disposed on bottom surface 116a between the respective primary cleats 118a-118d and annular cleat group 124, and a respective peripheral cleat 122a-122d disposed on peripheral surface 117a outboard of the respective primary cleats 118a-118d. Figure 7-10 The primary cleats 118a-118d, secondary cleats 120a-120d, and perimeter cleats 122a-122d of each outer radial cleat group 126a-126d are arranged along respective radial axes A. 124a -A 124d Arrange in sequence.

[0057] As shown, the secondary cleats 120a-120d of each cleat set 126a-126d are arranged sequentially such that the dimensions (eg, height, width, and / or length) of the secondary cleats 120a-120d are aligned along the respective radial axes A. 126a -A 126d The outer surface 146 of the secondary cleats 120a-120d adjacent to the primary cleats 118a-118d in each outer radial cleat group 126a-126d may be connected to the inner surface 134 of the corresponding primary cleat 118a-118d via one of the reinforcing ribs 138. Optionally, reinforcing ribs 138 may extend between and connect consecutive ones of the secondary cleats 120a-120d to one another.

[0058] like Figure 6B As shown, the outer radial cleat groups 126a-126d include a first radial axis A along which the outer radial cleat groups 126a-126d extend. 126a Aligned first outer radial cleat set 126a, first radial axis A 126a With the center axis A 124 In the example shown, the first radial axis A 126a With respect to the longitudinal axis A 10 The first oblique angle of the second outer radial cleat group 126b extends in a direction from the annular cleat group 124 toward the rear end 20 and the outer side 22. 124 Intersecting second radial axis A 126 Here, the second radial axis A 126b In relation to the longitudinal axis A of the article of footwear 10 10 The third outer radial cleat group 126c extends in a substantially vertical direction (eg, 90±5 degrees) toward the outer side 22. 126c Alignment, third radial axis A 126c With the center axis A 124 intersect and with respect to the longitudinal axis A 10 The second oblique angle of the fourth lateral radial cleat group 126d extends toward the lateral side 22 and the front end 18 of the sole structure 102. 126d Alignment, fourth radial axis A 126d With the center axis A 124 intersect and with respect to the longitudinal axis A10 The third oblique angle extends toward the front end 18 and the lateral side 22 of the sole structure 102.

[0059] In addition to the lateral radial cleat groups 126a-126d (each including perimeter cleats 122a-122d), the radial cleat groups 126a-126e may include a front radial cleat group 126e including perimeter cleats disposed on the medial side 24 of the toe portion 122. T As shown, the traction elements 118e, 120e of the front radial cleat set 126e are arranged along the fifth radial axis A. 126e Alignment, fifth radial axis A 126e With the longitudinal axis A of the article of footwear 10 10 Basically parallel (e.g. 0±5 degrees). Figure 6A As best shown in FIG. 1 , front radial cleat set 126e includes primary cleats 118e disposed on bottom surface 116a of forefoot plate 114a adjacent peripheral surface 117a at front end 18. A series of secondary cleats 120e are disposed along fifth radial axis A. 126e As discussed above with respect to the outer radial cleat groups 126a-126d, the secondary cleat 120e is aligned along the fifth radial axis A. 126e The cleats gradually decrease in size in the direction from the main cleats 118e to the annular cleat set 124.

[0060] Forefoot plate 114a may also include a medial primary cleat 118f disposed along perimeter surface 117a between front radial cleat group 126e and annular cleat group 124. Here, medial main cleat 118f is not associated with a cleat group, but rather is disposed as a separate main cleat 118f on medial side 24 of sole structure 102. As shown, medial main cleat 118f includes reinforcing ribs 138 extending from concave inner surface 134, and a convex outer surface 136 of medial main cleat 118f is oriented toward (i.e., faces) medial side 24 and rear end 20.

[0061] Now refer to Figure 6A and 6BAs shown, heel plate 114b includes a heel cleat set 128 comprising a plurality of primary cleats 118k-118n disposed on bottom surface 116b adjacent to peripheral surface 117b. As shown, a convex outer surface 136 of each primary cleat 118k-118n faces peripheral surface 117b. Each primary cleat 118k-118n on heel plate 114b includes a reinforcing rib 138 extending inwardly toward a central portion of heel plate 114b. As shown, heel cleat set 128 includes a first primary cleat 118k located on the lateral side adjacent to the front end of heel plate 114b, a second primary cleat 118l located on the lateral side adjacent to the rear end of heel plate 114b, a third primary cleat 118m located on the medial side adjacent to the front end of heel plate 114b, and a fourth primary cleat 118n located on the medial side adjacent to the rear end of heel plate 114b.

[0062] In addition to the primary cleats 118k-118n, the heel cleat set 128 includes an opposing pair of secondary cleats 120g, 120h disposed in an interior portion of the heel plate 114b. For example, the first of the secondary cleats 120g is disposed on the lateral side 22 of the heel plate 114b, and the second of the secondary cleats 120h is disposed on the medial side 24 of the heel plate 114b such that the concave inner surface 144 of the secondary cleat 120h spans the longitudinal axis A. 10 Facing each other.

[0063] Generally speaking, the outsole plates 114a, 114b are formed from one or more polymers and / or composite materials having a greater stiffness than the midsole 104. Although each outsole plate 114a, 114b can be formed as a unitary body (i.e., a single piece), the outsole plates 114a, 114b of the illustrated example are implemented as a modular or composite structure having a series of subcomponents stacked in a nested arrangement to form each plate 114a, 114b. Figure 3 , each plate 114a includes an inner skeleton 160a, 160b, an outer shell 162a, 162b, and one or more cleat inserts 164, which cooperate to define multiple portions of the outsole plates 114a, 114b and traction elements 118a-118n, 120a-120h, 122a-122d.

[0064] Continue to refer Figure 3 Forefoot plate 114a includes a forefoot skeleton 160a that is configured to interface with an upper portion of forefoot shell 162a to provide a laminate structure for forefoot plate 114a in an area including annular cleat group 124 and radial cleat groups 126a-126f. Figure 2 As shown, forefoot skeleton 160a is configured to nest within a recess formed in the top of forefoot shell 162a such that forefoot skeleton 160a and forefoot shell 162a cooperate to form a flush top surface 115a of forefoot plate 114a.

[0065] Continue to refer Figure 3 In some examples, the portions of traction elements 118a-118n, 120a-120h, 122a-122d formed by shells 162a, 162b may be thin-walled bodies that include cavities or recesses 166a, 166b that extend at least partially through shells 162a, 162b. Figure 7-10 As best shown, recesses 166a, 166b may include a first plurality of recesses 166a formed partially through the thickness of shells 162a, 162b in an area corresponding to the upper portion of secondary cleats 120a-120h. Here, the bottom surface of forefoot shank 160a and the bottom surface of heel shank 160b may include one or more protrusions 168, each protrusion 168 corresponding to one of recesses 166a formed in the top of shells 162a, 162b, such that when shanks 160a, 160b are assembled with shells 162a, 162b, protrusions 168 are received in recesses 166a to provide a composite structure for the corresponding secondary cleat 120a-120h having an outer layer formed from the material of shells 162a, 162b and a core formed from the material of shanks 160a, 160b.

[0066] The recesses 166a, 166b of the housings 162a, 162b may also include recesses 166b formed completely through the housings 162a, 162b at the primary cleats 118a-118n. Here, one or more primary cleats 118a-118n may be partially formed by one of the cleat inserts 164. Figure 3 As shown, each insert 164 includes a shank 170 that is configured to be inserted through a portion of the bottom surface 116a, 116b that forms one of the primary cleats 118a-118n such that the shank 170 is disposed within the recess 166b ( Figure 7-10 Each cleat insert 164 further includes a cap 172 disposed at the end of the stem 170, and the cap 172 is configured to form a distal portion of the primary cleat 118a-118n including the tip 132, as shown. Figure 3 and Figure 7-10 Thus, the primary cleats 118a-118n may also be compositely formed.

[0067] Reference again Figure 2, midsole 104 includes one or more materials configured to impart cushioning and resilient properties to sole structure 100. Although midsole 104 can be formed as a unitary structure comprising a single material, midsole 104 of the illustrated example is formed as a composite structure having a shell portion 110 and a core 112 disposed within shell portion 110. Shell portion 110 and core 112 can include different materials to impart different properties to midsole 104.

[0068] like Figure 2 As shown, shell portion 110 extends continuously from front end 18 to rear end 20 and includes a top surface 174, a bottom surface 176 formed on a side opposite top surface 174, and a peripheral side surface 178 extending between top surface 174 and bottom surface 176. Peripheral side surface 178 defines the outer perimeter of shell portion 110 and midsole 104. As shown, top surface 174 may include a recess 180 configured to receive core 112 therein such that, when sole structure 100 is assembled, the top surface of core 112 is flush and continuous with top surface 174 of shell portion 110. Recess 180 and core 112 extend continuously from forefoot region 12 to heel region 16. As shown, the width of core 112 and recess 180 may extend substantially across the entire width of shell portion 110 from lateral side 22 to medial side 24.

[0069] Sole structure 100 also includes a shank 106 formed of a material having a greater stiffness than midsole 104 and configured to be disposed adjacent bottom surface 176 of midsole shell 110 to provide longitudinal support along the bottom of sole structure 100. In the example shown, shank 106 is interposed between forefoot plate 114a and heel plate 114b on bottom surface 176 in midfoot region 14 of sole structure 100.

[0070] The shank 106 includes a top surface 182 attached to the bottom surface 176 of the midsole shell 110 and a bottom surface 184 formed on a side of the shank 106 opposite the top surface 182. The outer perimeter 186 of the shank 106 is configured to meet or mate with the forefoot plate 114a at the front end of the shank 106 and meet or mate with the heel plate 114b at the rear end of the shank 106, thereby providing a substantially continuous rigid structure along the bottom surface 176 of the midsole shell 110 from the front end 18 to the rear end 20. In some examples, the top surface 182 and / or the bottom surface 184 of the shank 106 may include a substantially longitudinal direction (i.e., along the longitudinal axis A). 10) and one or more elongated ribs 188 extending from the shank 106. Each of the ribs 188 may extend along a contoured path corresponding to the contour of the outer perimeter 186 along the lateral and medial sides of the shank 106. As desired, the ribs 188 provide the shank 106 with localized areas of increased thickness to provide longitudinal stiffness to the shank 106.

[0071] Still refer to Figure 2 , cradle 108 of sole structure 100 includes a top surface 190 that faces and is attached to bottom surface 184 of shank 106, and a bottom surface 192 formed on a side of cradle 108 opposite top surface 190. Bottom surface 192 forms a portion of the ground-engaging surface of sole structure 100 between bottom surface 116a of forefoot plate 114a and bottom surface 116b of heel plate 114b. Cradle 108 is configured to enclose shank 106 in midfoot region 14.

[0072] The sole structure 100 of the present disclosure provides several advantages over sole structures known in the art. For example, by providing a 124 The arrangement of the annular cleat group 124 and the plurality of radial cleat groups 126a-126e advantageously provides the sole structure 100 with desired traction in both the lateral and longitudinal directions when engaging a ground surface while allowing the sole structure 100 to move about the central axis A. 124 Additionally, the inclusion of perimeter cleats 122a-122d along lateral side 22 of sole structure 100 provides improved traction to sole structure 100 when medial side 24 of the sole structure lifts from the ground surface, such as when the outside of the foot pushes off.

[0073] Additional advantages of sole structure 100 include forming outsole 102 and midsole 104 as a composite structure. For example, by utilizing outer shells 162a, 162b and inner skeletons 160a, 160b to form outsole plates 114a, 114b, the exterior of outsole 102 can be formed from a more rigid material, while the interior of outsole 102 can be more flexible or provide improved cushioning. Similarly, forming midsole 104 as a composite structure can allow the exterior of midsole 104 to be formed from a more durable material, while the interior of midsole 104 is formed to have properties that impart desired stiffness and / or cushioning.

[0074] The following clauses provide example configurations for articles of footwear according to the principles of this disclosure.

[0075] Item 1: An outsole for an article of footwear, the outsole having a plantar surface and a peripheral surface surrounding the plantar surface, the outsole comprising: an annular cleat group comprising a first plurality of traction elements sequentially arranged about a central axis on the plantar surface; and one or more radial cleat groups, each radial cleat group comprising a second plurality of traction elements aligned along a respective radial axis intersecting the central axis, at least one of the second plurality of traction elements comprising a peripheral cleat formed on the peripheral surface.

[0076] Clause 2: The outsole of clause 1, wherein the annular cleat set is disposed on the medial side of the outsole.

[0077] Clause 3: An outsole according to any of clauses 1 or 2, wherein the annular stud set is provided in a forefoot region of the outsole.

[0078] Clause 4: The outsole of any of clauses 1-3, wherein the annular stud set is provided in the ball portion of the outsole.

[0079] Clause 5: The outsole of any of clauses 1-4, wherein the first plurality of traction elements comprises a plurality of primary cleats and a plurality of secondary cleats.

[0080] Clause 6: The outsole of clause 5, wherein the plurality of primary cleats are arranged in a first ring about the central axis and the plurality of secondary cleats are arranged in a second ring about the central axis.

[0081] Clause 7: The outsole of clause 6, wherein the first ring has a larger diameter than the second ring.

[0082] Clause 8: The outsole of any of clauses 5-7, wherein the primary cleat has a greater height than the secondary cleat.

[0083] Clause 9: The outsole of any of clauses 5-8, wherein one or more of the primary cleats includes a reinforcing rib extending toward the central axis.

[0084] Clause 10: The outsole of any one of clauses 5-9, wherein the width of each of the primary cleats and each of the secondary cleats tapers.

[0085] Clause 11: The outsole of any of clauses 1-9, wherein the one or more radial cleat groups include one or more lateral radial cleat groups disposed adjacent a lateral side of the outsole.

[0086] Clause 12: The outsole of clause 11, wherein the one or more lateral radial cleat groups are provided in a forefoot region of the outsole.

[0087] Item 13: The outsole of any one of Items 11 or 12, wherein the one or more lateral radial cleat groups include a first lateral radial cleat group disposed in a ball portion of the outsole and a second lateral radial cleat group disposed in a toe portion of the outsole.

[0088] Clause 14: The outsole of any of clauses 11-13, wherein the second plurality of traction elements of each of the one or more lateral radial cleat groups further comprises a plurality of secondary cleats disposed on the plantar surface, and a primary cleat disposed on the plantar surface between the perimeter cleat and the plurality of secondary cleats.

[0089] Clause 15: The outsole of clause 14, wherein the primary cleat has a greater height than each of the secondary cleats.

[0090] Clause 16: An outsole according to any of clauses 14 or 15, wherein said plurality of secondary cleats decrease in size in a direction from said primary cleat to said central axis.

[0091] Clause 17: An outsole according to any of clauses 14-16, wherein the perimeter cleat extends at an oblique angle relative to the primary cleat.

[0092] Clause 18: The outsole of any of clauses 1-17, wherein the one or more radial cleat groups include a front radial cleat group disposed at a front end of the outsole.

[0093] Clause 19: The outsole of clause 18, wherein the front radial stud set is disposed on the medial side of the outsole.

[0094] Clause 20: The outsole of clause 19, wherein the second plurality of traction elements of the front radial cleat set includes a primary cleat disposed on the plantar surface adjacent the peripheral surface, and a plurality of secondary cleats disposed between the primary cleat and the central axis.

[0095] Clause 21: The outsole according to any of clauses 1-20, further comprising a heel cleat set, said heel cleat set being arranged in a heel region of said outsole and comprising a plurality of third traction elements.

[0096] Clause 22: The outsole of clause 21, wherein the heel cleat set comprises a plurality of primary cleats and a plurality of secondary cleats, the primary cleats having a greater height than the secondary cleats.

[0097] Clause 23: Outsole according to any of clauses 21 or 22, wherein said outsole comprises a first plate having said annular cleat group and said one or more radial cleat groups, and a second plate having said heel cleat group.

[0098] Clause 24: The outsole of clause 23, wherein at least one of the first plate and the second plate is a modular structure comprising a shell formed of a first material and a skeleton housed in the shell and formed of a second material.

[0099] Clause 25: The outsole of clause 24, wherein the carcass forms a first portion of one of the traction elements and the shell forms a second portion of one of the traction elements.

[0100] Clause 26: The outsole of clause 25, wherein one of the first plate and the second plate further comprises an insert forming a third portion of one of the traction elements.

[0101] Clause 27: The outsole of any of clauses 1-26, further comprising a primary cleat disposed on the plantar surface between the annular cleat group and one of the one or more radial cleat groups.

[0102] Clause 28: The outsole of clause 27, wherein the primary cleat is disposed on a medial side of the outsole.

[0103] Clause 29: A sole structure comprising the outsole according to any one of clauses 1-28.

[0104] Clause 30: An article of footwear comprising the outsole according to any of clauses 1-28.

[0105] Item 31: A sole structure for an article of footwear, the sole structure comprising: a midsole having a top surface and a bottom surface formed on a side opposite to the top surface; and an outsole attached to the bottom surface of the midsole and comprising an annular cleat group and one or more radial cleat groups, the annular cleat group comprising a first plurality of traction elements arranged sequentially about a central axis on the plantar surface of the outsole, each radial cleat group comprising a second plurality of traction elements aligned along a respective radial axis intersecting the central axis, at least one of the second plurality of traction elements comprising a peripheral cleat formed on the peripheral surface of the outsole.

[0106] Clause 32: The sole structure of clause 31, wherein the second plurality of traction elements further comprises a plurality of secondary cleats disposed on the plantar surface, and a primary cleat disposed on the plantar surface between the perimeter cleat and the plurality of secondary cleats.

[0107] Clause 33: A sole structure according to any one of clauses 31 or 32, wherein the outsole comprises a forefoot plate and a heel plate, the forefoot plate being attached to the bottom surface of the midsole in the forefoot area and comprising the annular cleat group and the one or more radial cleat groups, the heel plate being attached to the bottom surface of the midsole in the heel area.

[0108] Clause 34: The sole structure of clause 33, wherein at least one of the forefoot plate and the heel plate is formed as a modular component.

[0109] Clause 35: The sole structure of any of clauses 33 or 34, further comprising a shank attached to the bottom surface of the midsole and disposed between the forefoot plate and the heel plate.

[0110] Clause 36: The sole structure of clause 35, further comprising a bracket attached to the shank and disposed between the forefoot plate and the heel plate.

[0111] Clause 37: A sole structure according to any of clauses 31 to 36, wherein the midsole comprises a shell formed of a first material and a core formed of a second material disposed within the shell.

[0112] Clause 38: A sole structure according to clause 37, wherein the core extends from the forefoot area to the heel area.

[0113] Clause 39: A sole structure according to any of clauses 37 or 38, wherein the midsole comprises a recess formed in a top surface of the midsole, the core being disposed within the recess.

[0114] Clause 40: An article of footwear comprising a sole structure according to any of clauses 31-39.

[0115] The foregoing description has been provided for the purpose of illustration and description. This foregoing description is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present disclosure. The individual elements or features of a particular configuration are generally not limited to that particular configuration, but are interchangeable where applicable and can be used in a selected configuration, even if not explicitly shown or described. The individual elements or features of a particular configuration can also be varied in many ways. Such variations are not considered to depart from the present disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. An outsole for an article of footwear, the outsole having a plantar surface and a peripheral surface surrounding the plantar surface, and comprising: an annular cleat set comprising a first plurality of traction elements arranged sequentially on the plantar surface about a central axis; and one or more radial cleat groups, each radial cleat group comprising a second plurality of traction elements aligned along a respective radial axis intersecting the central axis, at least one of the second plurality of traction elements comprising a peripheral cleat formed on the peripheral surface, wherein the one or more radial cleat groups include one or more outer radial cleat groups disposed adjacent an outer side of the outsole, wherein the second plurality of traction elements of each of the one or more outer radial cleat groups further includes a plurality of secondary cleats disposed on the plantar surface, and a primary cleat disposed on the plantar surface between the perimeter cleat and the plurality of secondary cleats, and The secondary cleats of each of the one or more outer radial cleat groups are arranged in sequence such that sizes of the secondary cleats gradually decrease along the direction of their respective radial axes from the primary cleat toward the annular cleat group.

2. The shoe outsole according to claim 1, wherein the annular cleat group is provided on the inner side of the shoe outsole.

3. The shoe outsole according to any one of claims 1-2, wherein the annular cleat group is provided in a forefoot region of the shoe outsole.

4. The shoe outsole according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the annular cleat group is provided in a ball portion of the shoe outsole.

5. The outsole of any one of claims 1-4, wherein the first plurality of traction elements includes a plurality of primary cleats and a plurality of secondary cleats.

6. The outsole of claim 5 , wherein the plurality of primary cleats of the first plurality of traction elements are arranged in a first ring about the central axis, and the plurality of secondary cleats of the first plurality of traction elements are arranged in a second ring about the central axis. The outsole of claim 6 , wherein the first ring has a larger diameter than the second ring.

8. The outsole of any one of claims 5-7, wherein the primary cleats of the first plurality of traction elements have a greater height than the secondary cleats of the first plurality of traction elements.

9. The outsole of any one of claims 5-8, wherein one or more of the primary cleats of the first plurality of traction elements includes a reinforcing rib extending toward the central axis.

10. The outsole of any one of claims 5-9, wherein each of the primary cleats and each of the secondary cleats of the first plurality of traction elements tapers in width.

11. The outsole of claim 1 , wherein the one or more lateral radial cleat groups are disposed in a forefoot area of the outsole.

12. The outsole of claim 11 , wherein the one or more lateral radial cleat groups include a first lateral radial cleat group disposed in a ball portion of the outsole and a second lateral radial cleat group disposed in a toe portion of the outsole.

13. The outsole of any of claims 11-12, wherein the primary cleat of the second plurality of traction elements has a greater height than each of the secondary cleats of the second plurality of traction elements.

14. A sole structure for an article of footwear, the sole structure comprising: a midsole having a top surface and a bottom surface formed on a side opposite to the top surface; as well as an outsole attached to the bottom surface of the midsole and comprising an annular cleat group and one or more radial cleat groups, the annular cleat group comprising a first plurality of traction elements sequentially arranged about a central axis on the plantar surface of the outsole, each radial cleat group comprising a second plurality of traction elements aligned along a respective radial axis intersecting the central axis, at least one of the second plurality of traction elements comprising a peripheral cleat formed on the peripheral surface of the outsole, wherein the one or more radial cleat groups include one or more outer radial cleat groups disposed adjacent an outer side of the outsole, wherein the second plurality of traction elements of each of the one or more outer radial cleat groups further includes a plurality of secondary cleats disposed on the plantar surface, and a primary cleat disposed on the plantar surface between the perimeter cleat and the plurality of secondary cleats, and The secondary cleats of each of the one or more outer radial cleat groups are arranged in sequence such that sizes of the secondary cleats gradually decrease along the direction of their respective radial axes from the primary cleat toward the annular cleat group.

15. The sole structure according to claim 14 , wherein the outsole includes a forefoot plate and a heel plate, the forefoot plate being attached to the bottom surface of the midsole in the forefoot area and including the annular cleat group and the one or more radial cleat groups, and the heel plate being attached to the bottom surface of the midsole in the heel area.

16. The sole structure according to claim 15, wherein at least one of the forefoot plate and the heel plate is formed as a modular component.

17. The sole structure according to any one of claims 15-16, further comprising a shank attached to the bottom surface of the midsole and disposed between the forefoot plate and the heel plate.

18. The sole structure of claim 17, further comprising a bracket attached to the shank and disposed between the forefoot plate and the heel plate.

19. The sole structure according to any one of claims 14-18, wherein the midsole includes a shell portion formed of a first material and a core formed of a second material disposed within the shell portion.

20. The sole structure according to claim 19, wherein the core extends from a forefoot area to a heel area.

21. The sole structure according to any one of claims 19-20, wherein the midsole includes a recess formed in a top surface of the midsole, the core being disposed within the recess.

22. An article of footwear comprising the sole structure according to any one of claims 14-21.

Images