Sole structure for an article of footwear and related methods

Abstract

A sole structure (14A, 14B, 14C, 14D, 14) for an article of footwear (10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 10) is provided. The sole structure (14A, 14B, 14C, 14D, 14) includes a first midsole portion (36A, 36B, 36C, 36D, 36, 44A, 44B, 44C, 44D, 44), a second midsole portion (36A, 36B, 36C, 36D, 36, 44A, 44B, 44C, 44D, 44), and a sheet. The first midsole portion (36A, 36B, 36C, 36D, 36, 44A, 44B, 44C, 44D, 44) includes a first sidewall. The second midsole portion (36A, 36B, 36C, 36D, 36, 44A, 44B, 44C, 44D, 44) includes a second sidewall. The sheet is disposed between the first midsole portion (36A, 36B, 36C, 36D, 36, 44A, 44B, 44C, 44D, 44) and the second midsole portion (36A, 36B, 36C, 36D, 36, 44A, 44B, 44C, 44D, 44) and extends from the first sidewall and the second sidewall. The sheet extends at least partially over the second sidewall.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application filed on August 29, 2018, with application number 201880069031.9 and invention title "Sole Structure and Related Methods for Footwear Articles".

[0002] Cross-references to related applications

[0003] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 552,905, filed August 31, 2017, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0004] This invention generally relates to footwear articles, and more specifically, to sole structures for footwear articles. Background Technology

[0005] This section provides background information relating to this specification, but it is not necessarily prior art.

[0006] Footwear traditionally comprises an upper and a sole structure. The upper is formed of any suitable material (one or more) to receive, secure, and support the foot within the sole structure. The upper may work with laces, straps, or other fasteners to adjust the fit of the upper around the foot. The bottom portion of the upper—closer to the sole surface of the foot—is attached to the sole structure.

[0007] The sole structure generally comprises a stacked structure of a midsole and outsole extending between the ground surface and the upper. The sole provides frictional resistance and traction with the ground surface and can be formed of rubber or other materials that impart durability and abrasion resistance, as well as enhance traction with the ground surface. The midsole is positioned between the outsole and the upper. Although existing sole structures perform adequately for their intended purposes, improvements to sole structures are constantly sought to refine the technology. Attached Figure Description

[0008] The accompanying drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. The selected embodiments are not all possible implementations.

[0009] Figure 1 It is a perspective view of a footwear article incorporating a sole structure according to the principles of the present invention;

[0010] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An exploded cross-sectional view of footwear items;

[0011] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the assembled footwear items;

[0012] Figure 4 yes Figure 1exploded perspective view of the article of footwear of

[0013] Figure 5 is Figure 1 exploded perspective view of the article of footwear of

[0014] Figure 6 is Figure 4 perspective view of the portion of the article of footwear and the example mold tool corresponding thereto;

[0015] Figure 7 is Figure 6 another perspective view of the portion of the article of footwear of

[0016] Figure 8 is Figure 6 cross-sectional view of the portion of the article of footwear and the mold tool taken along line 8-8 of

[0017] Figure 9 is Figure 7 cross-sectional view of the portion of the article of footwear and the mold tool taken along line 9-9 of

[0018] Figure 10 is Figure 7 exploded perspective view of the portion of the article of footwear of

[0019] Figure 11 is Figure 10 assembled view of the article of footwear of

[0020] Figure 12 is perspective view of an article of footwear incorporating a sole structure according to the principles of the present invention;

[0021] Figure 13 is Figure 12 exploded cross-sectional view of the article of footwear of

[0022] Figure 14 is Figure 12 assembled cross-sectional view of the article of footwear of

[0023] Figure 15 is Figure 12 exploded perspective view of the article of footwear of

[0024] Figure 16 is Figure 12An exploded perspective view of a footwear article showing components of a sole article that contribute to forming the upper, the components being arranged in an uneven orientation to define at least a portion of a foot receiving chamber;

[0025] Figure 17 Is with Figure 15 Perspective views of corresponding footwear items and example mold tools;

[0026] Figure 18 It is arranged in another partially assembled state. Figure 17 Another perspective view of the footwear and mold tools;

[0027] Figure 19 It is along Figure 17 A cross-sectional view of a portion of a footwear item and a mold tool, taken from line 19-19;

[0028] Figure 20 It is along Figure 18 A cross-sectional view of a portion of a footwear item and a mold tool, taken from a 20-20 line.

[0029] Figure 21 yes Figure 18 An exploded perspective view of parts and outsoles of footwear items;

[0030] Figure 22 yes Figure 21 An assembled view of footwear items;

[0031] Figure 23 It is a perspective view of a footwear article incorporating a sole structure according to the principles of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 24 yes Figure 23 An exploded cross-sectional view of footwear items;

[0033] Figure 25 yes Figure 23 A cross-sectional view of the assembled footwear items;

[0034] Figure 26 yes Figure 23 An exploded perspective view of footwear, showing components of the sole that contribute to forming the upper, arranged in a generally flat orientation;

[0035] Figure 27 yes Figure 23 An exploded perspective view of a footwear article showing components of a sole article that contribute to forming the upper, the components being arranged in an uneven orientation to define at least a portion of a foot receiving chamber;

[0036] Figure 28 Is with Figure 26 Perspective views of corresponding footwear items and example mold tools;

[0037] Figure 29 the portion of the article of footwear and the mold tool of Figure 28 FIG. 4 is another perspective view of the portion of the article of footwear and the mold tool of

[0038] Figure 30 the portion of the article of footwear and the mold tool of Figure 28 FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the portion of the article of footwear and the mold tool of

[0039] Figure 31 the portion of the article of footwear and the mold tool of Figure 29 FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the portion of the article of footwear and the mold tool of

[0040] Figure 32 the portion of the article of footwear and the outsole of Figure 29 FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of the portion of the article of footwear and the outsole of

[0041] Figure 33 the assembled view of the article of footwear of Figure 32 FIG. 12 is an assembled view of the article of footwear of

[0042] Figure 34 the perspective view of the article of footwear incorporating a sole structure according to the principles of the present application;

[0043] Figure 35 the exploded cross-sectional view of the article of footwear of Figure 34 FIG. 16 is an assembled cross-sectional view of the article of footwear of

[0044] Figure 36 the exploded perspective view of the article of footwear of Figure 34 FIG. 18 is an assembled perspective view of the article of footwear of

[0045] Figure 37 the exploded perspective view of the article of footwear of Figure 34 FIG. 20 is an exploded perspective view of the article of footwear of

[0046] Figure 38 the exploded perspective view of the article of footwear of Figure 34 FIG. 22 is an exploded perspective view of the article of footwear of

[0047] Figure 39 the perspective view of the portion of the article of footwear and the example mold tool of Figure 37 FIG. 24 is another perspective view of the portion of the article of footwear and the mold tool of

[0048] Figure 40 the portion of the article of footwear and the mold tool of Figure 39 FIG. 26 is another perspective view of the portion of the article of footwear and the mold tool of

[0049] Figure 41 the cross-sectional view of the portion of the article of footwear and the mold tool ofFigure 39 partial view of a portion of an article of footwear and a mold tool taken along line 41-41 of

[0050] Figure 42 partial view of a portion of an article of footwear and a mold tool taken along line 42-42 of Figure 40

[0051] Figure 43 partial view of a portion of an article of footwear and an outsole taken along line 43-43 of Figure 40

[0052] Figure 44 assembled view of an article of footwear according to the principles of the present application; Figure 43

[0053] perspective view of an article of footwear incorporating a sole structure according to the principles of the present application; Figure 45

[0054] exploded cross-sectional view of an article of footwear according to the principles of the present application; Figure 46 Figure 45 assembled cross-sectional view of an article of footwear according to the principles of the present application;

[0055] Figure 47 Figure 45 perspective view of a portion of an article of footwear and an outsole taken along line 44-44 of

[0056] Figure 48 perspective view of a portion of an article of footwear and an outsole taken along line 45-45 of Figure 45

[0057] Figure 49 perspective view of a portion of an article of footwear and an outsole taken along line 46-46 of Figure 12

[0058] perspective view of a portion of an article of footwear and an outsole taken along line 47-47 of Figure 50 Figure 48 perspective view of a portion of an article of footwear and an outsole taken along line 48-48 of

[0059] Figure 51 Figure 50 perspective view of a portion of an article of footwear and a mold tool taken along line 49-49 of

[0060] Figure 52 cross-sectional view of a portion of an article of footwear and a mold tool taken along line 52-52 of Figure 50

[0061] cross-sectional view of a portion of an article of footwear and a mold tool taken along line 53-53 of Figure 53 Figure 51 cross-sectional view of a portion of an article of footwear and a mold tool taken along line 54-54 of​​​​​​​​

[0062] Figure 54 is Figure 51 a partial exploded perspective view of the footwear article and outsole of

[0063] Figure 55 is Figure 54 an assembled view of the footwear article of

[0064] Figure 56 is a perspective view of a foam cutting system including a receiver portion, an insert portion, and a foam workpiece portion;

[0065] Figure 57 is a side view of the foam cutting system and foam workpiece portion of Figure 56

[0066] is another side view of the foam cutting system and foam workpiece portion of Figure 58 Figure 57 is another side view of the foam cutting system and foam workpiece portion of

[0067] Figure 59 Figure 58 is another side view of the foam cutting system and foam workpiece portion of

[0068] Figure 60 is another side view of the foam cutting system and foam workpiece portion of Figure 59

[0069] is another side view of the foam cutting system and another foam workpiece portion of Figure 61 Figure 56 is another side view of the foam cutting system and foam workpiece portion of

[0070] Figure 62 Figure 61 is another side view of the foam cutting system and foam workpiece portion of

[0071] Figure 63 is another side view of the foam cutting system and foam workpiece portion of Figure 62

[0072] Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views of the drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0073] ​​​​​This description relates to sole structures for articles of footwear. The sole structures include one or more midsole portions (see, e.g., first midsole portions 36, 36a, 36b, 36c, 36d and second midsole portions 44, 44a, 44b, 44c, 44d) and material sheets (see, e.g., material sheets 52, 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d). In one example, the one or more midsole portions can be molded around, through, or around and through the material sheets. The one or more material sheets and the one or more midsole portions can be pre-formed to define a pattern (e.g., a sinusoidal pattern, a zigzag pattern, etc.). The one or combination of the material sheets and the pattern can facilitate desirable characteristics (e.g., shear strength, shear stability, shear load) in one or more regions (e.g., forefoot region, midfoot region, and heel region) of the sole structure of the article of footwear. Accordingly, the sole structure can provide improved stability in one or combination of parallel load directions and perpendicular load directions when a load is applied to the sole structure by a user's foot.

[0074] Example embodiments now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings. Example embodiments are provided so that this description will be thorough, and will fully convey the scope to those who are skilled in the art. Numerous specific details are set forth such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present description. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need not be employed, that the example embodiments can be practiced in a number of different configurations, and that the scope of the present description should not be limited to the specific details set forth here. In some example embodiments, well-known methods, known structures, and known technologies are not described in detail.

[0075] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular example embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms "comprises," "comprising," "including," and "having" are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. The method steps, processes, and operations described herein are not to be construed as necessarily requiring their performance in the particular order

[0076] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on" or "connected to" another element or layer, it can be directly on or connected to the other element or layer or intervening elements or layers can be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly on" or "directly connected to" another element, there are no intervening elements or layers present. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a like fashion (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.

[0077] Although the terms first, second, third, etc. can be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms can be only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. As used herein, such terms as "first", "second" and other numerical terms do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the example embodiments.

[0078] Spatially relative terms— such as "inner," "outer," "beneath," "below," "lower," "above," "upper," and the like— can be used herein for ease of description to describe one element's or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. Spatially relative terms can be intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if a device in the figures is turned over, elements described as "below" or "beneath" other elements or features would then be oriented "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the example term "below" can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device can be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

[0079] One aspect of the present description provides a sole structure of an article of footwear and related methods. The sole structure includes a first midsole portion including a first sidewall and a second midsole portion including a second sidewall. The sole structure further includes a sheet disposed between the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion and extending from the first sidewall and the second sidewall, the sheet extending at least partially over the second sidewall.

[0080] Embodiments of the present description can include one or more of the following optional features. In some embodiments, the piece extends from the first sidewall and the second sidewall at one of a medial side and a lateral side of the sole structure. Optionally, the piece can extend from the first sidewall and the second sidewall at both the medial side and the lateral side of the sole structure. The piece can further extend from the first sidewall and the second sidewall around an entire perimeter of the sole structure. In some examples, the piece extends from the first sidewall and the second sidewall and at least partially covers an outer surface of an upper of the article of footwear. Additionally or alternatively, the piece can extend from the first sidewall and the second sidewall and can form at least a portion of an upper of the article of footwear, or can form an ankle collar that defines an opening of the upper.

[0081] In some constructions, the piece of material includes a top surface, a bottom surface, and a sidewall surface extending between the top surface and the bottom surface. The sidewall surface can define a thickness of the piece and can form a sinusoidal pattern extending between a forefoot region and a heel region of the sole structure. The piece can include a series of peaks and valleys extending between the forefoot region and the heel region of the sole structure. When the piece includes a series of peaks and valleys extending between the forefoot region and the heel region of the sole structure, a height of the peaks, a depth of the valleys, or both can gradually decrease in a direction extending from the heel region toward the forefoot region.

[0082] In some examples, the piece extends from the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion at both a medial side and a lateral side of the sole structure. The piece can include at least one aperture. When the piece includes at least one aperture, each aperture of the at least one aperture can have a length of at least 3.0 mm in a maximum dimension, can have a length of at least 1 mm in a minimum dimension, and / or can be a post-processing aperture defined by removing material from the piece. When the piece includes at least one aperture, the piece can be woven, knit, or braided to integrally define each aperture of the at least one aperture. In some embodiments, the sole structure includes an outsole including a ground contact surface. The first midsole portion can be disposed between the outsole and the piece.

[0083] In some examples, the at least one aperture is formed through the piece in a region of the piece between the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion. The first midsole portion can define at least one first contact region, and the second midsole portion can define at least one second contact region. The at least one first contact region can contact the at least one second contact region at the at least one aperture. The first midsole portion and the second midsole portion can be bonded to each other at the at least one aperture. When the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion are bonded to each other at the at least one aperture, material of the first midsole portion and material of the second midsole portion can be fused at the at least one aperture. The sole structure can further include an adhesive disposed between the at least one first contact region and the at least one second contact region at the at least one aperture.

[0084] In some constructions, the first midsole portion includes a first surface in contact with the sheet, and the second midsole portion includes a second surface in contact with the sheet. The first surface and the second surface can each include a plurality of surface features. Here, the plurality of surface features can each have a minimum height or depth of at least 2 mm, or can have a minimum height or depth of at least 5 mm. Additionally or alternatively, the plurality of surface features can each have a maximum height or depth of less than 22 mm, or can have a maximum height or depth of less than 17 mm. The height or depth of each of the plurality of surface features can range from about 2 mm to about 15 mm.

[0085] In some examples, the first midsole portion includes a first series of peaks and a first series of valleys, and the second midsole portion includes a second series of peaks and a second series of valleys. In this example, the first series of peaks can be opposite the second series of valleys, and the second series of peaks can be opposite the first series of valleys. The sheet can conform to the shape of the first series of peaks and the first series of valleys, and can conform to the shape of the second series of peaks and the second series of valleys. Further, the first series of peaks, the first series of valleys, the second series of peaks, and the second series of valleys cooperate to provide the sheet with a side surface having a sinusoidal or sawtooth configuration.

[0086] In some embodiments, the sole structure includes a plurality of sheets disposed between the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion. The plurality of sheets can include two or more sheets positioned between a medial side of the sole structure and a lateral side of the sole structure. A width of each of the two or more sheets can be at least 0.5 cm. At least a portion of the plurality of sheets disposed between the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion can overlap each other in a region between the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion. Alternatively, the plurality of sheets disposed between the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion can not overlap each other in a region between the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion.

[0087] In some constructions, the sole structure includes an adhesive disposed between the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion. The adhesive can be applied to at least one of the first midsole portion, the second midsole portion, the upper surface of the sheet, and the lower surface of the sheet. The sheet can include a mesh fabric that includes at least one aperture in the mesh structure or a plurality of apertures in the mesh structure. The area of the mesh fabric disposed between the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion can include at least 50 apertures in the mesh structure. The sheet can further include a mesh fabric that includes a plurality of apertures, each aperture being at least 0.5 mm in length in a maximum dimension, or at least 1.0 mm in length in a maximum dimension. The sheet can further include a mesh fabric that includes a plurality of apertures, each aperture being less than 10 mm in length in a maximum dimension, each being less than 5.0 mm in length in a maximum dimension, or each being less than 3.0 mm in length in a maximum dimension. Additionally or alternatively, the sheet can include a mesh fabric that includes a plurality of apertures, each aperture being about 0.5 mm to 3.0 mm in length in a maximum dimension.

[0088] In some embodiments, the sheet is a fabric configured to stretch in only one dimension. Alternatively, the sheet can be a fabric that stretches in two dimensions. The sheet can be an embroidered fabric. The sheet can include embroidered regions disposed at discrete locations of the sheet. The sheet can further include a first embroidered region and a second embroidered region. The first embroidered region can have a different concentration of fibers than the second embroidered region.

[0089] In some constructions, at least one of the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion is formed of a polymeric material having a foam structure. The polymeric material having a foam structure can be an injection molded foam or can be an extrusion molded foam.

[0090] Another aspect of the present specification provides a method of manufacturing a sole structure for an article of footwear. The method includes providing a first midsole portion including a first sidewall and providing a second midsole portion including a second sidewall. The method further includes positioning a sheet between the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion, the sheet extending from the first sidewall and the second sidewall. The first midsole portion is connected to the second midsole portion while securing the sheet between the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion. The method further includes extending the sheet at least partially over the second sidewall.

[0091] Embodiments of the disclosure can include one or more of the following optional features. In some examples, the method further includes extending the sheet from the first sidewall and the second sidewall at one of a medial side and a lateral side of the sole structure. Optionally, the method further includes extending the sheet from the first sidewall and the second sidewall at both the medial side and the lateral side of the sole structure or around an entire perimeter of the sole structure. Additionally or alternatively, the method further includes extending the sheet from the first sidewall and the second sidewall and at least partially covering an outer surface of an upper of the article of footwear with the sheet. The method can further include extending the sheet from the first sidewall and the second sidewall to form an upper of the article of footwear with the sheet or to form an ankle collar that defines an opening of the upper of the article of footwear.

[0092] In some constructions, the method further includes positioning the sheet into a sinusoidal pattern extending between a forefoot region and a heel region of the sole structure. The method can further include providing the sheet with a series of peaks and valleys extending between the forefoot region and the heel region of the sole structure. When providing the sheet with a series of peaks, the method can include providing the series of peaks with a height that decreases between a direction extending from the heel region toward the forefoot region. When providing the sheet with a series of valleys, the method can further include providing the series of valleys with a depth that decreases between a direction extending from the heel region toward the forefoot region. The method can further include extending the sheet from the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion at both the medial side and the lateral side of the sole structure.

[0093] In some embodiments, the method includes providing the sheet with at least one aperture extending through the sheet. Here, the method can include forming the at least one aperture through the sheet in an area between the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion. The method can further include contacting the first midsole portion with the second midsole portion at the at least one aperture or bonding the first midsole portion to the second midsole portion at the at least one aperture. When bonding the first midsole portion to the second midsole portion, the method can further include fusing a material of the first midsole portion with a material of the second midsole portion. Optionally, when bonding the first midsole portion to the second midsole portion, the method can include applying an adhesive to at least one of the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion.

[0094] In some examples, the method includes providing a first series of peaks and a first series of valleys for the first midsole portion and a second series of peaks and a second series of valleys for the second midsole portion. In such examples, the method can include opposing the first series of peaks with the second series of valleys and opposing the second series of peaks with the first series of valleys. The method can further include conforming the sheet to the shape of the first series of peaks and the first series of valleys and conforming the sheet to the shape of the second series of peaks and the second series of valleys. In such examples, the method can further include forming the sheet from a flexible material that conforms to the shape of the first series of peaks and the first series of valleys and conforms to the shape of the second series of peaks and the second series of valleys. Additionally or alternatively, the method can include pre-forming the plate to a shape that matingly receives the first series of peaks and the second series of peaks.

[0095] In some implementations, the method includes forming the sheet from a fabric material or forming the sheet from at least one of a woven and a knitted fabric. The method can further include providing an adhesive disposed between the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion. The method can further include bonding the first midsole portion, the second midsole portion, and the sheet via the adhesive. Alternatively, the method can include forming at least one of the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion from a foam material.

[0096] In some configurations, the method includes injection molding a polymeric material to form at least one of the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion. In such configurations, the method can include injection molding a polymeric material to form an injection molded, foam polymeric material. The step of injection molding can further include injecting a molten polymeric material around or through a hole in the sheet, thereby forming an injection molded component that includes the sheet secured to both the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion. Additionally or alternatively, the step of injection molding can include providing an injection mold; inserting the sheet into the injection mold; injecting a molten polymeric material into the mold containing the sheet; cooling the mold to at least partially solidify the molten polymeric material to form an injection molded component that includes the sheet secured to the at least one of the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion; and removing the injection molded component from the mold.

[0097] In some examples, the method includes forming the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion from the same material or different materials. The method can further include forming the first midsole portion from a first material and forming the second midsole portion from a second material. Alternatively, the method can include forming the first material from a material that is different than the second material.

[0098] A method of manufacturing an article of footwear can include providing a sole structure manufactured according to the method described above, providing an upper for the article of footwear, and securing the sole structure and the upper to one another to form the article of footwear.

[0099] Reference is made to Figures 1-5 , an example article of footwear 10 is provided and includes an upper 12 and a sole structure 14 attached to the upper 12. The sole structure 10 can be divided into one or more regions. The regions can include a forefoot portion 16, a midfoot portion 18, and a heel portion 20. The forefoot region 16 can correspond with the joints connecting the metatarsal bones with the phalanges of the foot and the toes. The midfoot region 18 can correspond with the arch area of the foot, while the heel region 18 can correspond with the rear portion of the foot, including the calcaneus bone. The article of footwear 10 can additionally include a medial side 22 and a lateral side 24, which correspond with opposite sides of the article of footwear 10 and extend through the regions 16, 18, 20.

[0100] The sole structure 14 includes a midsole 28 and optionally an outsole 26. A cushioning structure (not shown) can optionally be disposed generally between the outsole 26 and the midsole 28.

[0101] Reference is made to Figure 4 , the outsole 26 includes a midsole-contacting surface 30 and a ground-contacting surface 32. The outsole 26 also includes a sidewall surface 34 extending between the midsole-contacting surface 30 and the ground-contacting surface 32.

[0102] As shown, for example, in Figure 4 , the midsole 28 includes a first midsole portion 36 and a second midsole portion 44. The first midsole portion 36 includes a top surface 38, a bottom surface 40, and a sidewall surface 42 extending between the top surface 38 and the bottom surface 40. The sidewall surface 42 can define a thickness (T 36 ) of the first midsole portion 36 extending between the top surface 38 and the bottom surface 40.

[0103] The top surface 38 and the bottom surface 40 of the first midsole portion 36 can generally define an outer surface profile of the first midsole portion 36. In one example, each of the top surface 38 and the bottom surface 40 of the first midsole portion 36 can be generally flat (e.g., planar). In this regard, each of the top surface 38 and the bottom surface 40 can not be interrupted by one or more recesses, channels, valleys, or other similar features. Further, in one example, the top surface 38 of the first midsole portion 36 can be generally parallel to the bottom surface 40 of the first midsole portion 36, such that the thickness (T 36 ) of the first midsole portion 36 is generally the same across a length (L 14 ) of the sole structure 14.

[0104] Continuing reference to Figure 4 , the second midsole portion 44 includes a top surface 46, a bottom surface 48, and a sidewall surface 50 extending between the top surface 46 and the bottom surface 48. The sidewall surface 50 can define a thickness (T 44 ) of the second midsole portion 44 extending between the top surface 46 and the bottom surface 48.

[0105] The top surface 46 and bottom surface 48 of the second midsole portion 44 can substantially define the outer surface profile of the second midsole portion 44. In one example, each of the top surface 46 and bottom surface 48 of the second midsole portion 44 can be substantially flat (e.g., planar). In this respect, each of the top surface 46 and bottom surface 48 may not be interrupted by one or more recesses, channels, valleys or other similar features. Furthermore, in one example, the top surface 46 of the second midsole portion 44 can be substantially parallel to the bottom surface 48 of the second midsole portion 44, thereby the thickness (T) of the second midsole portion 44... 44 ) The length (L) spanning the sole structure 14 14 They are largely the same.

[0106] In some examples, at least one of the first midsole portion 36 and the second midsole portion 44 is formed of a foam material. In some cases, one or both of the first midsole portion 36 and the second midsole portion 44 are formed of a polymer material. In some examples, the first midsole portion 36 and the second midsole portion 44 are formed of the same material. In another example, the first midsole portion 36 and the second midsole portion 44 are formed of different materials. The first midsole portion 36 may be formed of a first material, and the second midsole portion 44 may be formed of a second material. The first material forming the first midsole portion 36 may have substantially the same stiffness as the second material forming the second midsole portion 44. In some cases, the first material forming the first midsole portion 36 has a different stiffness than the second material forming the second midsole portion 44. In other examples, the first material forming the first midsole portion 36 is the same as the second material forming the second midsole portion 44. In yet another example, the first material forming the first midsole portion 36 is different from the second material forming the second midsole portion 44.

[0107] like Figure 4 As shown, the footwear article 10 also includes a material sheet 52 defining at least a portion of the upper 12. The material sheet 52 includes a top surface 54, a bottom surface 56, and a sidewall surface 58 extending between the top surface 54 and the bottom surface 56. The sidewall surface 58 may define the thickness (T) of the material sheet 52 extending between the top surface 54 and the bottom surface 56. 52 ).

[0108] In one example, material sheet 52 is formed of a flexible material. Material sheet 52 may include fabric materials, woven textiles (e.g., see...). Figure 4 (Enlarged view of material sheet 52) ​​or knitted textiles (e.g., see...) Figure 4(Enlarged view of material sheet 52). In some cases, material sheet 52 is porous. Material sheet 52 may be formed of a polymeric material, such as a thermoplastic polymeric material. Exemplary thermoplastic polymeric materials may include, for example, thermosetting polymeric materials. In some examples, material sheet 52 is formed of a thermoformable material. In some examples, if material sheet 52 is a woven or knitted structure (e.g., in...), Figure 4 (As can be seen in the magnified view), woven or knitted structures can be formed from polymer yarns. Furthermore, in other examples, if the material sheet 52 is a woven or knitted structure (e.g., in...), Figure 4 (As can be seen in the enlarged view), each channel or hole formed by the overlapping members of the woven or knitted structure defining the material sheet 52 may, for example, be at least 0.5 mm in length at its maximum dimension, or at least 1.0 mm in length at its maximum dimension. Furthermore, each channel or hole formed by the overlapping members of the woven or knitted structure defining the material sheet 52 may allow one or both of the first midsole portion 36 and the second midsole portion 44 to be in direct contact with each other. In other embodiments, one or both of the first midsole portion 36 and the second midsole portion 44 may be injection molded around or through each channel or hole formed by the overlapping members of the woven or knitted structure defining the material sheet 52.

[0109] In some examples, the material sheet 52 is an embroidered textile and has one or more first regions and one or more second regions, the first regions including embroidery, and the second regions having no embroidery or a smaller percentage of embroidered surface area compared to the first regions. The embroidery may provide reduced stretching or "locking" features to the regions of the material sheet 52. Such regions of the material sheet 52 providing reduced stretching may, for example, be located in the region of the material sheet 52 disposed between the first midsole portion 36 and the second midsole portion 44, or alternatively, be located in the region extending beyond the sidewall surface 58 of the material sheet 52.

[0110] Material sheet 52 may define a plurality of regions 60, 62, 64. Each of the top surface 54 and the bottom surface 56 may extend across the plurality of regions 60, 62, 64. The plurality of regions 60, 62, 64 may be defined by a central region 60, an outer region 62, and an intermediate region 64 extending between the central region 60 and the outer region 62. The intermediate region 64 may separate the central region 60 from the outer region 62 by a distance (D). 64 ).

[0111] The central region 60 of the material sheet 52 may be defined by a shape or size that substantially corresponds to the shape or size of the top or bottom surface 48 defining the second middle bottom portion 44. The distance (D) separating the central region 60 from the outer region 62... 64 It can be roughly equal to the thickness of the second midsole portion 44 (T) 44 ).

[0112] Referring to Figure 4 , the first midsole portion 36 is disposed between the outsole 26 and the upper 12. Referring to Figure 11 , the second midsole portion 44 is disposed between the first midsole 36 and the upper 12. As Figure 4 and 11 illustrate, the piece of material 52 is disposed between the first midsole 36 and the second midsole portion 44. The bottom surface 56 of the piece of material 52 extends across the top surface 38 of the first midsole portion 36 and beyond the sidewall surface 42 of the first midsole portion 36. The top surface 54 of the piece of material 52 extends across the bottom surface 48 of the second midsole portion 44 and beyond the sidewall surface 50 of the second midsole portion 44. Referring to Figure 4 and 11 , when the article of footwear 10 is formed, the top surface 54 of the piece of material 52 extends at least partially over the sidewall surface 50 of the second midsole portion 44 in a direction (X) toward the top surface 46 of the second midsole portion 44, as Figure 4 illustrate.

[0113] Referring to Figure 4 and 5 , at least the outer region 62 of the piece of material 52 is dimensioned to define the upper 12 of the article of footwear 10. As Figure 5 illustrate, when the upper 12 is formed from the outer region 62 of the piece of material 52, the top surface 54 of the piece of material 52 and the top surface 54 of the second midsole portion 44 defined by the outer region 62 of the piece of material 52 generally form a chamber 66 that is dimensioned to receive a foot (not shown) of a user.

[0114] Because the piece of material 52 is disposed between the first midsole 36 and the second midsole portion 44 and extends across: (1) the top surface 38 of the first midsole portion 36 and beyond the sidewall surface 42 of the first midsole portion 36; and (2) the bottom surface 48 of the second midsole portion 44 and beyond the sidewall surface 50 of the second midsole portion 44, the piece of material 52 can be defined as extending across substantially all or substantially most of the length (L 14), such as a forefoot region 16, a midfoot region 18, and a heel region 20. In another example, the material sheet 52 can extend across some or all of the heel region 20 of the sole structure 14, but not the forefoot region 16 or the midfoot region 18 of the sole structure 14. In yet another example, the material sheet 52 can extend across some or all of the forefoot region 16 of the sole structure 14, but not the midfoot region 18 or the heel region 20 of the sole structure 14. In one implementation, the material sheet 52 can be divided into a first portion that extends across some or all of the forefoot region 16, and a second portion that extends across some or all of the heel region 20, but not the midfoot region 18 of the sole structure 14. In other examples, the material sheet 52 can extend across substantially all of the width (W 14 ) of the sole structure 14 or one or more portions of the width (W 14 ) of the sole structure 14. The width (W 14 ) of the sole structure 14 can extend between the medial side 22 and the lateral side 24.

[0115] Referring to Figure 4 , at least the central region 60 of the material sheet 52 can further define at least one channel or aperture 68 or void of the material sheet 52. The at least one channel 68 extends through the thickness (T 52 ) of the material sheet 52 between the top surface 54 and the bottom surface 56. In one example, the at least one channel 68 is formed in the central region 60 of the material sheet 52, but not the outer region 62 or the intermediate region 64 of the material sheet 52. While implementations of the material sheet 52 can include the at least one channel 68 formed exclusively in the central region 60 of the material sheet 52, other implementations of the material sheet 52 can include the at least one channel 68 formed in two or more of the central region 60, the outer region 62, or the intermediate region 64 of the material sheet 52. If the polymeric material defines one or both of the first midsole portion 36 and the second midsole portion 44, the polymeric material can be molded around any surface defining the material sheet 52 and / or through the at least one channel 68 extending through the thickness (T 52 ) of the material sheet 52.

[0116] The at least one channel 68 can include a plurality of channels or apertures 68 n . For example, the at least one channel 68 can include a first channel 68 n , a last channel 68 n-1 , and one or more intermediate channels 68 n . In one example, as shown in Figure 4 , the plurality of channels 68 nAny desired pattern arrangement (e.g., (1) an arranged grid, (2) staggered rows and columns, or (3) a random pattern) may be used, the pattern extending across the forefoot region 16 and heel region 20 of the sole structure 14 (i.e., across substantially most or all of the length (L) of the sole structure 14). 14 The width (W) spanning the sole structure 14 between the inner 22 and outer 24 of the footwear 10. 14 The material sheet 52 extends into the central region 60. In other embodiments, the plurality of channels 681-68 n The pattern can be arranged in a pattern (e.g., (1) an arranged grid, (2) staggered rows and columns, or (3) a random pattern), the pattern not extending across the central region 60 of the material sheet 52 between the forefoot region 16 and the heel region 20 of the sole structure 14 and between the inner side 22 and the outer side 24 of the footwear article 10. Despite the plurality of channels 681-68 n It can be extended across substantially most or all of the length (L) of the sole structure 14 as described above. 14 The multiple channels 681-68 n A pattern arrangement (e.g., (1) an arranged grid, (2) staggered rows and columns, or (3) a random pattern) may be used, the pattern extending across: (1) some or all of the heel region 20 of the sole structure 14, but not the forefoot region 16 or midfoot region 18 of the sole structure 14; (2) some or all of the forefoot region 16 of the sole structure 14, but not the midfoot region 18 or heel region 20 of the sole structure 14; or (3) some or all of the forefoot region 16 and heel region 20 of the sole structure 14, but not the midfoot region 18 of the sole structure 14.

[0117] Continue to refer to Figure 4 The multiple channels 681-68 n Each channel is shown as being composed of any size or diameter (D) 68 The shape is generally circular or oval. In some examples, the size or diameter (D) is defined. 68 It can be approximately equal to about 0.5 mm or about 3.0 mm. In other examples, the size or diameter (D) 68 The diameter can be from approximately 0.5 mm to approximately 3.0 mm. Furthermore, the plurality of channels 681-68 n Each channel is defined by a generally similar size or diameter (D). 68 Although the multiple channels 681-68 n Each channel may be defined by a size or diameter (D) of approximately the same size or shape. 68 The embodiment of material sheet 52 may include at least one channel of the plurality of channels 681-68n, which has a different size or shape and a diameter (D).68 For example, the plurality of channels 681-68 n At least one channel of the plurality of channels 681-68 n of the sole structure 14, the forefoot region 16 of the sole structure 14, or both the forefoot region 16 and the heel region 20 of the sole structure 14 can have a different size or diameter (D 68 ) than another channel of the plurality of channels 681-68

[0118] The top surface 38 of the first midsole portion 36 can further define at least one second midsole contact region 70 and at least one piece of material contact region 72. The bottom surface 48 of the second midsole portion 44 can further define at least one first midsole contact region 74 and at least one piece of material contact region 76.

[0119] Each of the at least one second midsole contact region 70 of the first midsole portion 36 and the at least one first midsole contact region 74 of the second midsole portion 44 can define a size or shape that generally corresponds to the size or shape of the at least one channel 68 formed in the central region 60 of the piece of material 52. If the at least one channel 68 formed through the central region 60 of the piece of material 52 defines a plurality of channels 681-68 n , each of the at least one second midsole contact region 70 of the first midsole portion 36 and the at least one first midsole contact region 74 of the second midsole portion 44 can define a respective plurality of second midsole contact regions 701-70 n and a plurality of first midsole contact regions 741-74 n . Further, as Figure 4 indicated, each channel of the plurality of channels 681-68 n and a contact region can be axially aligned with one of the plurality of second midsole contact regions 701-70 n and one of the plurality of first midsole contact regions 741-74 n , respectively.

[0120] In one example, when the article of footwear 10 is formed, the piece of material 52, the first midsole portion 36, the second midsole portion 44, and the surface of the outsole 26 can be disposed in proximity to one another, near one another, spaced apart from one another, or adjacent to one another. For example, the at least one piece of material contact region 72 of the top surface 38 of the first midsole portion 36 can be disposed adjacent to the bottom surface 56 of the piece of material 52, and the at least one piece of material contact region 76 of the bottom surface 48 of the second midsole portion 44 can be disposed adjacent to the top surface 54 of the piece of material 52 defined by the central region 60 of the piece of material 52.

[0121] Once the material sheet 52 is positioned relative to the first midsole portion 36 and the second midsole portion 44, as described above, the material sheet 52 can be referred to as being positioned between the first midsole portion 36 and the second midsole portion 44. Although the material sheet 52 can be positioned between the first midsole portion 36 and the second midsole portion 44, as a result of the formation of the at least one channel 68 of the material sheet 52, one or more portions of the first midsole portion 36 can directly contact one or more portions of the second midsole portion 44, such that at least one second midsole contact area 70 of the top surface 38 of the first midsole portion 36 can be positioned adjacent to the at least one first midsole contact area 74 of the bottom surface 48 of the second midsole portion 44. After the at least one second midsole contact area 70 of the top surface 38 of the first midsole portion 36 is positioned adjacent to the at least one first midsole contact area 74 of the bottom surface 48 of the second midsole portion 44, the midsole 28 defined by the first midsole portion 36 and the second midsole portion 44 and the material sheet 52 can be positioned in the mold tool 92 (see, for example, see...). Figures 6-9 ), for directly bonding the first midsole portion 36 to the second midsole portion 44 at the at least one second midsole contact area 70 and the at least one first midsole contact area 74.

[0122] The mold tool 92 includes an upper mold half 92U and a lower mold half 92L. Each of the upper mold half 92U and the lower mold half 92L defines a mold surface that corresponds to the shape of the central region 60 of the material sheet 52 for bonding the first midsole portion 36 to the second midsole portion 44 under heat and pressure.

[0123] like Figure 6 and 8 As shown, the mold tool 92 is in an open configuration by separating the upper mold half 92U and the lower mold half 92L, thereby arranging the first midsole portion 36, the second midsole portion 44, and the material sheet 52 therebetween. Then, as... Figure 7 and 9 As shown, after the mold tool 92 is arranged in the closed configuration for a period of time, with the first midsole portion 36 joined to the second midsole portion 44 and the material sheet 52 fixed therebetween, the mold tool 92 can be returned to the open configuration.

[0124] After that, as Figure 10 As shown, the midsole contact surface 30 of the outsole 26 may be arranged adjacent to the bottom surface 40 of the first midsole portion 36 for attaching the outsole 26 to the first midsole portion 36. In one example, the outsole 26 may be attached to the first midsole portion 36 by an adhesive or by a molding tool in a manner generally similar to that described above.

[0125] Continue to refer to Figures 10-11The intermediate region 64 and the outer region 62 of the material sheet 52 are folded upwardly such that the intermediate region 64 defined by the top surface 54 of the material sheet 52 is disposed adjacent the sidewall surface 50 of the second midsole portion 44. With the intermediate region 64 defined by the top surface 54 of the material sheet 52 disposed adjacent the sidewall surface 50 of the second midsole portion 44, the outer region 62 of the material sheet 52 forms the upper 12. In one example, one or more of the outer region 62 and the intermediate region 64 of the material sheet 12 can be stamped, slit, perforated, cut, or otherwise formed to define a pattern P that defines the upper 12.

[0126] While the mold tool 92 can be used to join the first midsole portion 36 to the second midsole portion 44 through the at least one passage 68 of the material sheet 52 under heat and pressure, as shown in Figure 8 some constructions, optional adhesives 78, 80 can also or alternatively be used to bond the first midsole portion 36 to the second midsole portion 44. While Figure 8 the optional adhesives 78, 80 are shown in the form of a sheet having a shape that generally corresponds to the shape of the central region 60 of the material sheet 52, the optional adhesives 78, 80 can conform to any desired shape, pattern, or construction, such as, for example, the shape, pattern, or construction of the at least one passage 68 of the material sheet 52.

[0127] In one example, the first optional adhesive 78 can be disposed between the first midsole portion 36 and the second midsole portion 44; further, the first optional adhesive 78 can be disposed between the top surface 38 of the first midsole portion 36 and the bottom surface 56 of the material sheet 52 such that the first optional adhesive 78 is axially aligned with and radially extends across at least a portion of the shape, pattern, or construction of the at least one passage 68 of the material sheet 52. The first optional adhesive 78 adhesively bonds the first midsole portion 36, the second midsole portion 44, and the material sheet 52 together.

[0128] In another example, the second optional adhesive 80 can be disposed between the first midsole portion 36 and the second midsole portion 44; further, the second optional adhesive 80 can be disposed between the top surface 54 of the material sheet 52 and the bottom surface 48 of the second midsole portion 44 such that the second optional adhesive 80 is axially aligned with and radially extends across at least a portion of the shape, pattern, or construction of the at least one passage 68 of the material sheet 52. The second optional adhesive 80 adhesively bonds the first midsole portion 36, the second midsole portion 44, and the material sheet 52 together.

[0129] In yet another example, a first optional adhesive 78 and a second optional adhesive 80 can be disposed between the first midsole portion 36 and the second midsole portion 44. The first optional adhesive 78 can be disposed between the top surface 38 of the first midsole portion 36 and the bottom surface 56 of the material sheet 52 such that the first optional adhesive 78 is axially aligned with and radially extends across at least a portion of the shape, pattern, or configuration of the at least one channel 68 of the material sheet 52. The second optional adhesive 80 can be disposed between the top surface 54 of the material sheet 52 and the bottom surface 48 of the second midsole portion 44 such that the second optional adhesive 80 is axially aligned with and radially extends across at least a portion of the shape, pattern, or configuration of the at least one channel 68 of the material sheet 52. The first optional adhesive 78 and the second optional adhesive 80 adhesively bond the first midsole portion 36, the second midsole portion 44, and the material sheet 52 together.

[0130] In other constructions, the following surfaces of the material sheet 52, the first midsole portion 36, the second midsole portion 44, and the outsole 26 can be disposed in proximity to, near, spaced from, or adjacent to one another when the article of footwear 10 is formed. In one example, the material sheet 52 can extend from the sidewall surface 50 of the second midsole portion 44 at one of the medial side 22 and the lateral side 24 of the sole structure 14. In another example, the material sheet 52 can extend from the sidewall surface 50 of the second midsole portion 44 at both the medial side 22 and the lateral side 24 of the sole structure 14. In yet another example, the material sheet 52 extends from the sidewall surface 50 of the second midsole portion 44 around the entire perimeter of the sole structure 14.

[0131] With reference to Figures 4-5 , although the example embodiment of the article of footwear 10 includes the outer region 62 of the material sheet 52 forming the upper 12, in other examples, the outer region 62 of the material sheet 52 can form a first upper portion of the upper 12, and as such, at least a second upper portion can also contribute to forming the upper 12. In turn, in another embodiment, the outer region 62 of the material sheet 52 can define a first upper portion and extend from the sidewall surface 50 of the second midsole portion 44 and at least partially cover a second upper portion (not shown) that also contributes to forming the upper 12.

[0132] As described above, the intermediate region 64 of the material sheet 52 can separate the central region 60 of the material sheet 52 from the outer region 62 of the material sheet 52 by a distance (D 64 ). Further, in one example, the outer region 62 of the material sheet 52 can extend from the top surface 46 of the second midsole portion 44 by a sufficient distance (D 62 ) for forming a foot-covering portion of the upper 12 that terminates to define at least a portion of an ankle opening 82 of the upper 12 (see Figure 1 、 5In one configuration, the central region 60 of the piece of material 52 secured between the first midsole portion 36 and the second midsole portion 44 can be considered to be part of the midsole 28. In other configurations, the central region 60 of the piece of material 52 secured between the first midsole portion 36 and the second midsole portion 44 can be considered to be part of the piece of material 52 that contributes to the formation of the midsole 28, and the intermediate region 64 of the piece of material 52: (1) extending beyond the sidewall 42 of the first midsole portion 36 and the sidewall surface 50 of the second midsole portion 44, (2) disposed adjacent to the sidewall surface 50 of the second midsole portion 44, can each be considered to be another part of the piece of material 52 that contributes to the formation of the midsole 28. However, in another configuration, the intermediate region 64 of the piece of material 52: (1) extending beyond the sidewall 42 of the first midsole portion 36 and the sidewall surface 50 of the second midsole portion 44, (2) disposed adjacent to the sidewall surface 50 of the second midsole portion 44, can be considered to be a first portion of the upper 12 extending a distance (D 62 ) from the top surface 46 of the second midsole portion 44. The outer region 62 of the piece of material 52 extending a distance (D

[0133] Referring to Figures 12-16 , an example article of footwear 10a is provided and includes an upper 12a and a sole structure 14a attached to the upper 12a. The sole structure 10a can be divided into one or more regions. The regions can include a forefoot portion 16a, a midfoot portion 18a, and a heel portion 20a. The forefoot region 16a can correspond with the joints connecting the metatarsal bones with the phalanges of the foot and the toes. The midfoot region 18a can correspond with the arch area of the foot, while the heel region 18a can correspond with the rear portion of the foot, including the calcaneus bone. The article of footwear 10a can additionally include a medial side 22a and a lateral side 24a, which correspond with opposite sides of the article of footwear 10a and extend through the regions 16a, 18a, 20a.

[0134] The sole structure 14a includes a midsole 28a and optionally an outsole 26a. A cushioning structure (not shown) can optionally be disposed generally between the outsole 26a and the midsole 28a.

[0135] Referring to Figure 15 , the outsole 26a includes a midsole-contacting surface 30a and a ground-contacting surface 32a. The outsole 26a also includes a sidewall surface 34a, which extends between the midsole-contacting surface 30a and the ground-contacting surface 32a.

[0136] The midsole 28a includes a first midsole portion 36a and a second midsole portion 44a. The first midsole portion 36a includes a top surface 38a, a bottom surface 40a, and a sidewall surface 42a extending between the top surface 38a and the bottom surface 40a. The sidewall surface 42a may define the thickness (T) of the first midsole portion 36a extending between the top surface 38a and the bottom surface 40a. 36a ).

[0137] The top surface 38a and bottom surface 40a of the first midsole portion 36a can generally define the outer surface profile of the first midsole portion 36a. In one example, the top surface 38a of the first midsole portion 36a is not flat and may be defined by one or more peaks 84a and recesses, grooves, or valleys 86a, thereby defining a generally sinusoidal pattern that extends between the forefoot region 16a and the heel region 20a of the sole structure 14a. Furthermore, in one example, the sinusoidal pattern of the first midsole portion 36a may be defined by a generally constant amplitude A (see, for example, see...). Figure 19 The amplitude A is achieved by crossing the length (L) of the sole structure 14a. 14a Each peak 84a and each trough 86a is generally identical. Furthermore, as each peak 84a extends between the inner 22a and outer 24a of the sole structure 14a, the amplitude A defined by each peak 84a remains generally the same. Even further, in one example, as the sinusoidal pattern extends between the forefoot region 16a and the heel region 20a of the sole structure 14a, the sinusoidal pattern of the first midsole portion 36a can be defined by a generally constant frequency.

[0138] Continue to refer to Figure 15 The second midsole portion 44a includes a top surface 46a, a bottom surface 48a, and a sidewall surface 50a extending between the top surface 46a and the bottom surface 48a. The sidewall surface 50a may define the thickness (T) of the second midsole portion 44a extending between the top surface 46a and the bottom surface 48a. 44a ).

[0139] The top surface 46a and bottom surface 48a of the second midsole portion 44a can generally define the outer surface profile of the second midsole portion 44a. In one example, the bottom surface 48a of the second midsole portion 44a is not flat and may be defined by one or more peaks 88a and recesses, grooves, or valleys 90a, thereby defining a generally sinusoidal pattern that extends between the forefoot region 16a and the heel region 20a of the sole structure 14a. Furthermore, in one example, the sinusoidal pattern of the second midsole portion 44a may be defined by a generally constant amplitude A (see, for example, see...). Figure 19 The amplitude A is achieved by crossing the length (L) of the sole structure 14a. 14aEach peak 88a and each trough 90a is generally identical. Furthermore, as each peak 88a extends between the inner 22a and outer 24a of the sole structure 14a, the amplitude A defined by each peak 88a remains generally the same. Even further, in one example, as the sinusoidal pattern extends between the forefoot region 16a and the heel region 20a of the sole structure 14a, the sinusoidal pattern of the second midsole portion 44a can be defined by a generally constant frequency.

[0140] In some examples, at least one of the first midsole portion 36a and the second midsole portion 44a is formed of a foam material. In some cases, one or both of the first midsole portion 36a and the second midsole portion 44a are formed of a polymer material. In another example, the first midsole portion 36a and the second midsole portion 44a are formed of the same material. In yet another example, the first midsole portion 36a and the second midsole portion 44a are formed of different materials. In yet another example, the first midsole portion 36a is formed of a first material, and the second midsole portion 44a is formed of a second material. In yet another example, the first material forming the first midsole portion 36a has substantially the same stiffness as the second material forming the second midsole portion 44a. In some cases, the first material forming the first midsole portion 36a has a different stiffness than the second material forming the second midsole portion 44a. In other examples, the first material forming the first midsole portion 36a is the same as the second material forming the second midsole portion 44a. In yet another example, the first material forming the first midsole portion 36a is different from the second material forming the second midsole portion 44a.

[0141] like Figure 15 As shown, the footwear article 10a also includes a material sheet 52a. The material sheet 52a includes a top surface 54a, a bottom surface 56a, and a sidewall surface 58a extending between the top surface 54a and the bottom surface 56a. The sidewall surface 58a may define the thickness (T) of the material sheet 52a extending between the top surface 54a and the bottom surface 56a. 52a ).

[0142] In one example, material sheet 52 is formed of a flexible material. Material sheet 52a may include fabric materials, woven textiles (e.g., see...). Figure 15 (Enlarged view of material sheet 52a) or knitted textiles (e.g., see...) Figure 15 (Enlarged view of material sheet 52a). In some cases, material sheet 52a is porous. Material sheet 52a may be formed of a polymeric material, such as a thermoplastic polymeric material. Exemplary thermoplastic polymeric materials may include, for example, thermosetting polymeric materials. In some examples, material sheet 52a is formed of a thermoformable material. In some examples, if material sheet 52a is a woven or knitted structure (e.g., in...), Figure 15As seen in the enlarged view, the woven or knit structure can be formed from polymeric yarns. Further, in some examples, if the material sheet 52a is a woven or knit structure (e.g., in the Figure 15 As seen in the enlarged view, each channel or aperture formed by the overlapping members of the woven or knit structure of the material sheet 52a can be, for example, at least 0.5 mm in length at a maximum dimension, or at least 1.0 mm in length at a maximum dimension. Further, each channel or aperture formed by the overlapping members of the woven or knit structure of the material sheet 52a can allow one or both of the first midsole portion 36a and the second midsole portion 44a to directly contact one another. In other embodiments, one or both of the first midsole portion 36a and the second midsole portion 44a can be injection molded around or through each channel or aperture formed by the overlapping members of the woven or knit structure of the material sheet 52a.

[0143] In some cases, the material sheet 52a is an embroidered fabric. In some examples, the material sheet 52a has one or more first regions including embroidery and one or more second regions having no embroidery or a lesser percentage of embroidered surface area as compared to the first regions. The embroidery can provide a reduced stretch or "locking" feature to the regions of the material sheet 52a. Such regions of the material sheet 52a providing a reduced stretch quality can be positioned, for example, in regions of the material sheet 52a disposed between the first midsole portion 36a and the second midsole portion 44a, or alternatively positioned at regions extending beyond the sidewall surface 58a of the material sheet 52a.

[0144] The material sheet 52a can be further defined by a plurality of regions 60a, 62a, 64a. Each of the top surface 54a and the bottom surface 56a can extend across the plurality of regions 60a, 62a, 64a. The plurality of regions 60a, 62a, 64a can be defined by a central region 60a, an outer region 62a, and an intermediate region 64a extending between the central region 60a and the outer region 62a. The intermediate region 64a can separate the central region 60a from the outer region 62a by a distance (D 64a ).

[0145] The central region 60a of the material sheet 52a can be defined by a shape generally corresponding to a shape defining the top surface 46a of the second midsole portion 44a. The distance (D 64a ) separating the central region 60a from the outer region 62a can be generally equal to a thickness (T 44a ) of the second midsole portion 44a.

[0146] Referring to Figure 15 , the first midsole portion 36a is disposed between the outsole 26a and the upper 12a. As Figure 15 and 22As shown, the second midsole portion 44a is disposed between the first midsole 36a and the upper 12a. As Figure 15 As shown, the material sheet 52a is disposed between the first midsole 36a and the second midsole portion 44a. The bottom surface 56a of the material sheet 52a extends across the top surface 38a of the first midsole portion 36a and beyond the sidewall surface 42a of the first midsole portion 36a. The top surface 54a of the material sheet 52a extends across the bottom surface 48a of the second midsole portion 44a and beyond the sidewall surface 50a of the second midsole portion 44a. Referring to Figure 15 and 22 When the article of footwear 10a is formed, the top surface 54a of the material sheet 52a extends at least partially over the sidewall surface 50a of the second midsole portion 44a in a direction (X) as Figure 15 As shown, the top surface 46a of the second midsole portion 44a is extended toward.

[0147] Referring to Figure 16 and 16 The outer region 62a of the material sheet 52a is sized to define the upper 12a of the article of footwear 10a. As Figure 15 As shown, when the upper 12a is formed from the outer region 16a of the material sheet 52a, the top surface 54a of the material sheet 52a defined by the outer region 62a of the material sheet 52a generally forms a chamber 66a sized to receive a foot (not shown) of a user.

[0148] Referring to Figure 15 At least the central region 60a of the material sheet 52a can further define at least one passage or aperture 68a or void of the material sheet 52a. The at least one passage 68a extends through the thickness (T 52a ) of the material sheet 52a between the top surface 54a and the bottom surface 56a. In one example, the at least one passage 68a is formed in the central region 60a of the material sheet 52a and not the outer region 62a or the intermediate region 64a of the material sheet 52a. While embodiments of the material sheet 52a can include the at least one passage 68a formed exclusively through the central region 60a of the material sheet 52a, other embodiments of the material sheet 52a can include the at least one passage 68a formed from two or more of the central region 60a, the outer region 62a, or the intermediate region 64a of the material sheet 52a. If the polymeric material defines one or both of the first midsole portion 36a and the second midsole portion 44a, the polymeric material can be molded around any surface defining the material sheet 52a and / or through the at least one passage 68a extending through the thickness (T 52a ) of the material sheet 52a.

[0149] The at least one passage 68a can be through a plurality of passages or apertures 68 a1 -68 andefined, for example: a first channel 68 a1 , a last channel 68 an , and one or more intermediate channels 68 a2 -68 an-1 . In one example, as shown in Figure 15 , the plurality of channels 68 a1 -68 an may be arranged in any desired pattern (e.g., (1) an aligned grid, (2) an interlaced row and column, or (3) a random pattern) that extends across the central region 60a of the material sheet 52a between the forefoot region 16a and the heel region 20a of the sole structure 14a (i.e., across substantially most or all of the length (L 14a ) of the sole structure 14a and between the medial side 22a and the lateral side 24a of the article of footwear 10a (i.e., across the width (W 14a ) of the sole structure 14a). In other embodiments, the plurality of channels 68 a1 -68 an may be arranged in a pattern (e.g., (1) an aligned grid, (2) an interlaced row and column, or (3) a random pattern) that does not extend across the central region 60a of the material sheet 52a between the forefoot region 16a and the heel region 20a of the sole structure 14a and between the medial side 22a and the lateral side 24a of the article of footwear 10a. Although the plurality of channels 68 a1 -68 an may extend across substantially most or all of the length (L 14a ) of the sole structure 14a as described above, the plurality of channels 68 a1 -68 an may be arranged in a pattern (e.g., (1) an aligned grid, (2) an interlaced row and column, or (3) a random pattern) that extends across: (1) some or all of the heel region 20a of the sole structure 14a but not the forefoot region 16a or the midfoot region 18a of the sole structure 14a, (2) some or all of the forefoot region 16a of the sole structure 14a but not the midfoot region 18a or the heel region 20a of the sole structure 14a, or (3) some or all of the forefoot region 16a and the heel region 20a of the sole structure 14a but not the midfoot region 18a of the sole structure 14a.

[0150] With continued reference to Figure 15 , each channel of the plurality of channels 68 a1 -68 an is shown as being defined by a generally circular or oval shape having any size or diameter (D 68a ). In some examples, the size or diameter (D 68a) can be substantially equal to about 0.5 mm or about 3.0 mm. In some examples, the size or diameter (D 68a ) can be about 0.5 mm to about 3.0 mm. Further, the plurality of channels 68 a1 -68 an may each be defined by a substantially similar size or diameter (D 68a ). Although the plurality of channels 68 a1 -68 an may each be defined by a substantially similar size or diameter (D 68a ), embodiments of the material sheet 52a can include at least one channel of the plurality of channels 68 a1 -68 an having a different size or diameter (D 68a ). Further, at least one channel of the plurality of channels 68 a1 -68 an may have a different size or diameter (D a1 ) than another channel of the plurality of channels 68 an -68 68a , the difference being in (1) the heel region 20a of the sole structure 14a, (2) the forefoot region 16a of the sole structure 14a, or (3) the forefoot region 16a and the heel region 20a of the sole structure 14a.

[0151] The top surface 38a of the first midsole portion 36a can be further defined by at least one second midsole contact region 70a and at least one material sheet contact region 72a. The bottom surface 48a of the second midsole portion 44a can be further defined by at least one first midsole contact region 74a and at least one material sheet contact region 76a.

[0152] Each of the at least one second midsole contact region 70a of the first midsole portion 36a and the at least one first midsole contact region 74a of the second midsole portion 44a can be defined by a shape that substantially corresponds to the shape of the at least one channel 68a formed through the central region 60a of the material sheet 52a. If the at least one channel 68a formed through the central region 60a of the material sheet 52a is defined by a plurality of channels 68 a1 -68 an , each of the at least one second midsole contact region 70a of the first midsole portion 36a and the at least one first midsole contact region 74a of the second midsole portion 44a can be defined by a corresponding plurality of second midsole contact regions 70 a1 -70 an and a plurality of first midsole contact regions 74 a1 -74 an . Further, asFigures 17-20 The plurality of first midsole contact areas 74 a1 -74 an The plurality of second midsole contact areas 70 a1 -70 an The plurality of channels 68 a1 -68 an Each channel and contact area of the plurality of channels 68 and the plurality of contact areas, respectively, are axially aligned with one another.

[0153] In one example, when the article of footwear 10a is formed, the following surfaces of the material sheet 52a, the first midsole portion 36a, the second midsole portion 44a, and the outsole 26a can be disposed in the vicinity of one another, proximate to one another, spaced apart from one another, or adjacent to one another. The at least one material sheet contact area 72a of the top surface 38a of the first midsole portion 36a can be disposed adjacent to the bottom surface 56a of the material sheet 52a. The at least one material sheet contact area 76a of the bottom surface 48a of the second midsole portion 44a can be disposed adjacent to the top surface 54a of the material sheet 52a defined by the central region 60a of the material sheet 52a.

[0154] Once the material sheet 52a is disposed relative to the first midsole portion 36a and the second midsole portion 44a, as described above, the material sheet 52a can be referred to as being disposed between the first midsole portion 36a and the second midsole portion 44a. While the material sheet 52a can be disposed between the first midsole portion 36a and the second midsole portion 44a, as a result of the formation of the at least one channel 68a of the material sheet 52a, one or more portions of the first midsole portion 36a can be in direct contact with one or more portions of the second midsole portion 44a, such that at least one second midsole contact area 70a of the top surface 38a of the first midsole portion 36a can be disposed adjacent to the at least one first midsole contact area 74a of the bottom surface 48a of the second midsole portion 44a. After the at least one second midsole contact area 70a of the top surface 38a of the first midsole portion 36a is disposed adjacent to the at least one first midsole contact area 74a of the bottom surface 48a of the second midsole portion 44a, the midsole 28a defined by the first midsole portion 36a and the second midsole portion 44a and the material sheet 52a can be disposed in a molding tool 92a (see, e.g., FIG. 6) for directly bonding the first midsole portion 36a to the second midsole portion 44a at the at least one second midsole contact area 70a and the at least one first midsole contact area 74a. Figure 17

[0155] ​The mold tool 92a includes an upper mold half 92aU and a lower mold half 92aL. The upper mold half 92aU and the lower mold half 92aL each can define a mold surface that corresponds to the shape of the central region 60a of the material sheet 52a for bonding the first midsole portion 36a to the second midsole portion 44a under heat and pressure.

[0156] As shown in Figure 18 and 19 , the mold tool 92a is in an open configuration by spacing the upper mold half 92aU and the lower mold half 92aL apart so that the first midsole portion 36a, the second midsole portion 44a, and the material sheet 52a are disposed therebetween. Then, as shown in Figure 21 and 20 , after disposing the mold tool 92a in a closed configuration for a period of time, the first midsole portion 36a is bonded to the second midsole portion 44a with the material sheet 52a secured therebetween, the mold tool 92a can be returned to the open configuration.

[0157] Thereafter, as shown in Figures 21-22 , the midsole contact surface 30a of the outsole 26a can be disposed adjacent to the bottom surface 40a of the first midsole portion 36a for joining the outsole 26a to the first midsole portion 36a. In one example, the outsole 26a can be joined to the first midsole portion 36a in a generally similar manner as described above by an adhesive or by a molding tool.

[0158] With continued reference to Figure 19 , the intermediate region 64a and the outer region 62a of the material sheet 52a are folded upward so that the intermediate region 64a defined by the top surface 54a of the material sheet 52a is disposed adjacent to the sidewall surface 50a of the second midsole portion 44a. With the intermediate region 64a defined by the top surface 54a of the material sheet 52a disposed adjacent to the sidewall surface 50a of the second midsole portion 44a, the outer region 62a of the material sheet 52a forms the upper 12a. In one example, one or more of the outer region 62a and the intermediate region 64a of the material sheet 12a can be stamped, slit, perforated, cut, or otherwise formed to define a pattern P that defines the upper 12a.

[0159] While the mold tool 92a can be used to join the first midsole portion 36a to the second midsole portion 44a through the at least one passage 68a of the material sheet 52a under heat and pressure, as shown in Figure 19 , in some configurations, optional adhesives 78a, 80a can also or alternatively be used to bond the first midsole portion 36a to the second midsole portion 44a. Although Figure 12Optional adhesive 78a, 80a is shown in the form of a sheet having a shape that generally corresponds to the shape of central region 60a of sheet of material 52a. Optional adhesive 78a, 80a can conform to any desired shape, pattern or configuration, such as, for example, the shape, pattern or configuration of the at least one channel 68a of sheet of material 52a.

[0160] In one example, one optional adhesive 78a can be disposed between first midsole portion 36a and second midsole portion 44a; further, the one optional adhesive 78a can be disposed between top surface 38a of first midsole portion 36a and bottom surface 56a of sheet of material 52a, such that the one optional adhesive 78a is axially aligned with and radially extends across at least a portion of the shape, pattern or configuration of the at least one channel 68a of sheet of material 52a. The one optional adhesive 78a adhesively bonds first midsole portion 36a, second midsole portion 44a and sheet of material 52a together.

[0161] In another example, one optional adhesive 80a can be disposed between first midsole portion 36a and second midsole portion 44a; further, the one optional adhesive 80a can be disposed between bottom surface 48a of second midsole portion 44a and top surface 54a of sheet of material 52a, such that the one optional adhesive 80a is axially aligned with and radially extends across at least a portion of the shape, pattern or configuration of the at least one channel 68a of sheet of material 52a. The one optional adhesive 80a adhesively bonds first midsole portion 36a, second midsole portion 44a and sheet of material 52a together.

[0162] In yet another example, first optional adhesive 78a and second optional adhesive 80a can be disposed between first midsole portion 36a and second midsole portion 44a. First optional adhesive 78a can be disposed between top surface 38a of first midsole portion 36a and bottom surface 56a of sheet of material 52a, such that first optional adhesive 78a is axially aligned with and radially extends across at least a portion of the shape, pattern or configuration of the at least one channel 68a of sheet of material 52a. Second optional adhesive 80a can be disposed between bottom surface 48a of second midsole portion 44a and top surface 54a of sheet of material 52a, such that second optional adhesive 80a is axially aligned with and radially extends across at least a portion of the shape, pattern or configuration of the at least one channel 68a of sheet of material 52a. First optional adhesive 78a and second optional adhesive 80a adhesively bonds first midsole portion 36a, second midsole portion 44a and sheet of material 52a together.

[0163] In other constructions, the following surfaces of the material panel 52a, the first midsole portion 36a, the second midsole portion 44a, and the outsole 26a can be disposed proximate to, near to, spaced from, or adjacent to one another when the article of footwear 10a is formed. In one example, the material panel 52a can extend from the sidewall surface 50a of the second midsole portion 44a at one of the medial side 22a and the lateral side 24a of the sole structure 14a. In another example, the material panel 52a can extend from the sidewall surface 50a of the second midsole portion 44a at both the medial side 22a and the lateral side 24a of the sole structure 14a. In yet another example, the material panel 52a extends from the sidewall surface 50a of the second midsole portion 44a around the entire perimeter of the sole structure 14a.

[0164] Although the example embodiment of the article of footwear 10a includes the outer region 62a of the material panel 52a forming the upper 12a, in other examples, the outer region 62a of the material panel 52a can form a first upper portion of the upper 12a, and as such, at least a second upper portion can also contribute to forming the upper 12a. Accordingly, in another embodiment, the outer region 62a of the material panel 52a can define a first upper portion and extend from the sidewall surface 50a of the second midsole portion 44a and at least partially cover a second upper portion (not shown) that also contributes to forming the upper 12a.

[0165] As described above, the intermediate region 64a of the material panel 52a can separate the central region 60a of the material panel 52a from the outer region 62a of the material panel 52a by a distance (D 64a ). Further, in one example, the outer region 62a of the material panel 52a can extend from the top surface 46a of the second midsole portion 44a by a sufficient distance (D 62a ) for forming a foot-covering portion of the upper 12a that terminates to define at least a portion of the ankle opening 82a of the upper 12a (see Figures 23-27 , 16In one configuration, the central region 60a of the piece of material 52a secured between the first midsole portion 36a and the second midsole portion 44a can be considered to be part of the midsole 28a. In other configurations, the central region 60a of the piece of material 52a secured between the first midsole portion 36a and the second midsole portion 44a can be considered to be part of the piece of material 52a that contributes to the formation of the midsole 28a, and the intermediate region 64a of the piece of material 52a: (1) extending beyond the sidewall 42a of the first midsole portion 36a and the sidewall surface 50a of the second midsole portion 44a, (2) disposed adjacent to the sidewall surface 50a of the second midsole portion 44a, can each be considered to be another part of the piece of material 52a that contributes to the formation of the midsole 28a. However, in another configuration, the intermediate region 64a of the piece of material 52a: (1) extending beyond the sidewall 42a of the first midsole portion 36a and the sidewall surface 50a of the second midsole portion 44a, (2) disposed adjacent to the sidewall surface 50a of the second midsole portion 44a, can be considered to be a first portion of the upper 12a, and the outer region 62a of the piece of material 52a extending from the top surface 46a of the second midsole portion 44a a distance (D 62a ) can define a second portion of the upper 12a. Thus, the intermediate region 64a of the piece of material 52a can contribute to the formation of one or both of the upper and the midsole 28a.

[0166] As noted above, the first midsole portion 36a and the second midsole portion 44a are each not flat and can be interrupted by one or more peaks 84a, 88a and troughs, channels or valleys 86a, 90a, such that the first midsole portion 36a and the second midsole portion 44a each define a generally sinusoidal pattern extending between the forefoot region 16a and the heel region 20a of the sole structure 14a. The one or more peaks 84a, 88a can define a series of peaks, and the troughs, channels or valleys 86a, 90a can define a series of troughs, channels or valleys.

[0167] Furthermore, the respective sinusoidal patterns of each of the first midsole portion 36a and the second midsole portion 44a can be correspondingly shaped such that the first midsole portion 36a correspondingly matches the second midsole portion 44a. In turn, in one embodiment, the one or more peaks 84a of the first midsole portion 36a can oppose and be correspondingly received by the troughs, channels or valleys 90a of the second midsole portion 44a, and the one or more peaks 88a of the second midsole portion 44a can oppose and be correspondingly received by the troughs, channels or valleys 86a of the first midsole portion 36a.

[0168] In some configurations, the central region 60a of the material sheet 52a can be defined by a generally flat, non-sinusoidal pattern prior to the central region 60a of the material sheet 52a being secured between the first midsole portion 36a and the second midsole portion 44a. However, after the central region 60a of the material sheet 52a is secured between the first midsole portion 36a and the second midsole portion 44a, the central region 60a of the material sheet 52a can be shaped (by the sinusoidal pattern of each of the first midsole portion 36a and the second midsole portion 44a) to define a sinusoidal pattern that conforms to the mating configuration of the sinusoidal pattern of each of the first midsole portion 36a and the second midsole portion 44a. In one example, the sinusoidal pattern of the central region 60a of the material sheet 52a can extend between the forefoot region 16a and the heel region 20a of the sole structure 14a. Further, the sinusoidal pattern formed by the central region 60a of the material sheet 52a includes one or more peaks (formed by the one or more recesses, channels, or valleys 86a of the first midsole portion 36a and the one or more recesses, channels, or valleys 90a of the second midsole portion 44a) and one or more valleys (formed by the one or more peaks 84a of the first midsole portion 36a and the one or more peaks 88a of the second midsole portion 44a) extending between the forefoot region 16a and the heel region 20a of the sole structure 14a.

[0169] While some configurations can include a central region 60a of the material sheet 52a defined by a generally flat, non-sinusoidal pattern that is subsequently shaped to define a sinusoidal pattern after the central region 60a of the material sheet 52a is secured between the first midsole portion 36a and the second midsole portion 44a as described above, other configurations can include a central region 60a of the material sheet 52a that is pre-shaped to define a sinusoidal pattern that corresponds to the mating configuration of the sinusoidal pattern of each of the first midsole portion 36a and the second midsole portion 44a. In one example, the pre-shaped sinusoidal pattern of the central region 60a of the material sheet 52a can extend between the forefoot region 16a and the heel region 20a of the sole structure 14a. Further, the pre-shaped sinusoidal pattern of the central region 60a of the material sheet 52a includes one or more peaks (aligned with and corresponding to the one or more recesses, channels, or valleys 86a of the first midsole portion 36a and the one or more recesses, channels, or valleys 90a of the second midsole portion 44a) and one or more valleys (aligned with and corresponding to the one or more peaks 84a of the first midsole portion 36a and the one or more peaks 88a of the second midsole portion 44a) extending between the forefoot region 16a and the heel region 20a of the sole structure 14a.

[0170] Referring to Figure 26An example footwear article 10b is provided, including an upper 12b and a sole structure 14b attached to the upper 12b. The sole structure 10b may be divided into one or more regions. The regions may include a forefoot portion 16b, a midfoot portion 18b, and a heel portion 20b. The forefoot portion 16b may correspond to the joints connecting the metatarsals and phalanges of the foot and the toes. The midfoot portion 18b may correspond to the arch region of the foot, while the heel portion 18b may correspond to the rear portion of the foot, including the calcaneus. The footwear article 10b may additionally include medial sides 22b and lateral sides 24b, which correspond to opposite sides of the footwear article 10b and extend through regions 16b, 18b, and 20b.

[0171] The sole structure 14b includes a midsole 28b and optionally an outsole 26b. A cushioning structure (not shown) may optionally be arranged generally between the outsole 26b and the midsole 28b.

[0172] refer to Figure 30 The outsole 26b includes a midsole contact surface 30b and a ground contact surface 32b. The outsole 26b also includes a sidewall surface 34b extending between the midsole contact surface 30b and the ground contact surface 32b.

[0173] The midsole 28b includes a first midsole portion 36b and a second midsole portion 44b. The first midsole portion 36b includes a top surface 38b, a bottom surface 40b, and a sidewall surface 42b extending between the top surface 38b and the bottom surface 40b. The sidewall surface 42b may define the thickness (T) of the first midsole portion 36b extending between the top surface 38b and the bottom surface 40b. 36b ).

[0174] The top surface 38b and bottom surface 40b of the first midsole portion 36b can generally define the outer surface profile of the first midsole portion 36b. In one example, the top surface 38b of the first midsole portion 36b is not flat and may be interrupted by one or more peaks 84b and recesses, grooves, or valleys 86b, thereby defining a generally sinusoidal pattern that extends between the forefoot region 16b and the heel region 20b of the sole structure 14b. Furthermore, in one example, the sinusoidal pattern of the first midsole portion 36b can be defined by a generally non-constant amplitude A (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 30 As seen), thus the thickness (T) of the first midsole portion 36b 36b (defined by each peak 84b of the top surface 38b and each peak 84b of the bottom surface 40b) spanning the length (L) of the sole structure 14b 14b) are not substantially the same. In one example, the non-constant amplitude A of the first midsole portion 36b results in each peak 84b and each trough, channel, or valley 86b gradually decreasing in a direction extending from the heel region 20b to the forefoot region 16b of the sole structure 14b. Further, the amplitude A defined by each peak 84b remains substantially the same as each peak 84b extends between the medial side 22b and the lateral side 24b of the sole structure 14b. Yet even further, in one example, the sinusoidal pattern of the first midsole portion 36b can be defined by a substantially constant frequency as the sinusoidal pattern extends between the forefoot region 16b and the heel region 20b of the sole structure 14b.

[0175] The second midsole portion 44b includes a top surface 46b, a bottom surface 48b, and a sidewall surface 50b extending between the top surface 46b and the bottom surface 48b. The sidewall surface 50b can define a thickness (T 44b ) of the second midsole portion 44b extending between the top surface 46b and the bottom surface 48b.

[0176] The top surface 46b and the bottom surface 48b of the second midsole portion 44b can substantially define an outer surface profile of the second midsole portion 44b. In one example, the bottom surface 48b of the second midsole portion 44b is not flat and can be interrupted by one or more peaks 88b and troughs, channels, or valleys 90b, such that the second midsole portion 44b defines a substantially sinusoidal pattern extending between the forefoot region 16b and the heel region 20b of the sole structure 14b. Further, in one example, the sinusoidal pattern of the second midsole portion 44b can be defined by a substantially non-constant amplitude A (e.g., as seen in FIG. 6) such that the thickness (T Figure 26 44b ) of the second midsole portion 44b defined by each peak 88b of the top surface 46b and each peak 90b of the bottom surface 48b is not substantially the same across the length (L 14b ) of the sole structure 14b. In one example, the non-constant amplitude A of the second midsole portion 44b results in each peak 88b and each trough, channel, or valley 90b gradually decreasing in a direction extending from the heel region 20b to the forefoot region 16b of the sole structure 14b. Further, the amplitude A defined by each peak 88b remains substantially the same as each peak 88b extends between the medial side 22b and the lateral side 24b of the sole structure 14b. Yet even further, in one example, the sinusoidal pattern of the second midsole portion 44b can be defined by a substantially constant frequency as the sinusoidal pattern extends between the forefoot region 16b and the heel region 20b of the sole structure 14b.

[0177] ​In some examples, at least one of the first midsole portion 36b and the second midsole portion 44b is formed of a foam material. In some cases, one or both of the first midsole portion 36b and the second midsole portion 44b are formed of a polymer material. In another example, the first midsole portion 36b and the second midsole portion 44b are formed of the same material. In yet another example, the first midsole portion 36b and the second midsole portion 44b are formed of different materials. In another example, the first midsole portion 36b is formed of a first material, and the second midsole portion 44b is formed of a second material. In yet another example, the first material forming the first midsole portion 36b has substantially the same stiffness as the second material forming the second midsole portion 44b. In some cases, the first material forming the first midsole portion 36b has a different stiffness than the second material forming the second midsole portion 44b. In other examples, the first material forming the first midsole portion 36b is the same as the second material forming the second midsole portion 44b. In yet another example, the first material forming the first midsole portion 36b is different from the second material forming the second midsole portion 44b.

[0178] like Figure 26 As shown, the footwear article 10b also includes a material sheet 52b. The material sheet 52b includes a top surface 54b, a bottom surface 56b, and a sidewall surface 58b extending between the top surface 54b and the bottom surface 56b. The sidewall surface 58b may define the thickness (T) of the material sheet 52b extending between the top surface 54b and the bottom surface 56b. 52b ).

[0179] In one example, material sheet 52b is formed of a flexible material. Material sheet 52b may include fabric materials, woven textiles (e.g., see...). Figure 26 (enlarged view of material sheet 52b) or knitted textiles (e.g., see enlarged view of material sheet 52b) or knitted textiles (see enlarged view of material sheet 52b). Figure 26 (Enlarged view of material sheet 52b). In some cases, material sheet 52b is porous. Material sheet 52b may be formed of a polymeric material, such as a thermoplastic polymeric material. Exemplary thermoplastic polymeric materials may include, for example, thermosetting polymeric materials. In some examples, material sheet 52b is formed of a thermoformable material. In some examples, if material sheet 52b is a woven or knitted structure (e.g., in...), Figure 26 (As can be seen in the magnified view), woven or knitted structures can be formed from polymer yarns. Furthermore, in some examples, if material sheet 52b is a woven or knitted structure (e.g., in...), Figure 26As can be seen in the enlarged view, each channel or aperture formed by the overlapping members of the woven or knitted structure of the piece of material 52b can be, for example, at least 0.5 mm in length at a maximum dimension, or at least 1.0 mm in length at a maximum dimension. Further, each channel or aperture formed by the overlapping members of the woven or knitted structure of the piece of material 52b can allow one or both of the first midsole portion 36b and the second midsole portion 44b to directly contact one another. In other embodiments, one or both of the first midsole portion 36b and the second midsole portion 44b can be injection molded around or through each channel or aperture formed by the overlapping members of the woven or knitted structure of the piece of material 52b.

[0180] In some cases, the piece of material 52b is an embroidered fabric. In some examples, the piece of material 52b has one or more first regions including embroidery and one or more second regions having no embroidery or a lesser percentage of embroidered surface area as compared to the first regions. The embroidery can provide a reduced stretch or “locking” feature to the regions of the piece of material 52b. Such regions of the piece of material 52b providing a reduced stretch quality can be positioned, for example, in regions of the piece of material 52b disposed between the first midsole portion 36b and the second midsole portion 44b, or alternatively at regions extending beyond the sidewall surface 58b of the piece of material 52b.

[0181] The piece of material 52b can be further defined by a plurality of regions 60b, 62b, 64b. Each of the top surface 54b and the bottom surface 56b can extend across the plurality of regions 60b, 62b, 64b. The plurality of regions 60b, 62b, 64b can be defined by a central region 60b, an outer region 62b, and an intermediate region 64b extending between the central region 60b and the outer region 62b. The intermediate region 64b can separate the central region 60b from the outer region 62b by a distance (D 64b ).

[0182] The central region 60b of the piece of material 52b can be defined by a shape generally corresponding to a shape defining the top surface 46b of the second midsole portion 44b. The distance (D 64b ) separating the central region 60b from the outer region 62b can be generally equal to a thickness (T 44b ) of the second midsole portion 44b.

[0183] Referring to Figure 26 , the first midsole portion 36b is disposed between the outsole 26b and the upper 12b. As Figure 26 and 33As shown, the second midsole portion 44b is disposed between the first midsole 36b and the upper 12b. The sheet of material 52b is disposed between the first midsole 36b and the second midsole portion 44b. The bottom surface 56b of the sheet of material 52b extends across the top surface 38b of the first midsole portion 36b and beyond the sidewall surface 42b of the first midsole portion 36b. The top surface 54b of the sheet of material 52b extends across the bottom surface 48b of the second midsole portion 44b and beyond the sidewall surface 50b of the second midsole portion 44b. Referring to Figure 26 and 33 , when the article of footwear 10b is formed, the top surface 54b of the sheet of material 52b at least partially extends over the sidewall surface 50b of the second midsole portion 44b in a direction (X) as Figure 26 indicated, toward the top surface 46b of the second midsole portion 44b.

[0184] Referring to Figure 27 and 27 , the outer region 62b of the sheet of material 52b is dimensioned to define the upper 12b of the article of footwear 10b. As Figure 26 indicated, when the upper 12b is formed from the outer region 62b of the sheet of material 52b, the top surface 54b of the sheet of material 52b and the top surface 46b of the second midsole portion 44b defined by the outer region 62b of the sheet of material 52b generally form a chamber 66b that is dimensioned to receive a foot (not shown) of a user.

[0185] Referring to Figure 26 , at least the central region 60b of the sheet of material 52b can further define at least one passageway or aperture 68b or void of the sheet of material 52b. The at least one passageway 68b extends through the thickness (T 52b ) of the sheet of material 52b between the top surface 54b and the bottom surface 56b. In one example, the at least one passageway 68b is formed in the central region 60b of the sheet of material 52b and not the outer region 62b or the intermediate region 64b of the sheet of material 52b. While embodiments of the sheet of material 52b can include the at least one passageway 68b formed exclusively through the central region 60b of the sheet of material 52b, other embodiments of the sheet of material 52b can include the at least one passageway 68b formed from two or more of the central region 60b, the outer region 62b, or the intermediate region 64b of the sheet of material 52b. If the polymeric material defines one or both of the first midsole portion 36b and the second midsole portion 44b, the polymeric material can be molded around any surface defining the sheet of material 52b and / or through the at least one passageway 68b extending through the thickness (T 52b ) of the sheet of material 52b.

[0186] The at least one passageway 68b can be through a plurality of passageways or apertures 68 b1 -68 bndefined, for example: a first channel 68 b1 , a last channel 68 bn , and one or more intermediate channels 68 b2 -68 bn-1 . In one example, as shown in Figure 26 , the plurality of channels 68 b1 -68 bn may be arranged in any desired pattern (e.g., (1) an aligned grid, (2) an interlaced row and column, or (3) a random pattern) that extends across the central region 60b of the material sheet 52b between the forefoot region 16b and the heel region 20b of the sole structure 14b (i.e., across substantially most or all of the length (L 14b ) of the sole structure 14b and between the medial side 22b and the lateral side 24b of the article of footwear 10b (i.e., across the width (W 14b ) of the sole structure 14b). In other embodiments, the plurality of channels 68 b1 -68 bn may be arranged in a pattern (e.g., (1) an aligned grid, (2) an interlaced row and column, or (3) a random pattern) that does not extend across the central region 60b of the material sheet 52b between the forefoot region 16b and the heel region 20b of the sole structure 14b and between the medial side 22b and the lateral side 24b of the article of footwear 10b. Although the plurality of channels 68 b1 -68 bn may extend across substantially most or all of the length (L 14b ) of the sole structure 14b as described above, the plurality of channels 68 b1 -68 bn may be arranged in a pattern (e.g., (1) an aligned grid, (2) an interlaced row and column, or (3) a random pattern) that extends across: (1) some or all of the heel region 20b of the sole structure 14b but not the forefoot region 16b or the midfoot region 18b of the sole structure 14b, (2) some or all of the forefoot region 16b of the sole structure 14b but not the midfoot region 18b or the heel region 20b of the sole structure 14b, or (3) some or all of the forefoot region 16b and the heel region 20b of the sole structure 14b but not the midfoot region 18b of the sole structure 14b.

[0187] With continued reference to Figure 26 , each channel of the plurality of channels 68 b1 -68 bn is shown as being defined by a generally circular or oval shape having any size or diameter (D 68b ). In some examples, the size or diameter (D 68b) can be substantially equal to about 0.5 mm or about 3.0 mm. In some examples, the size or diameter (D 68b ) can be about 0.5 mm to about 3.0 mm. Further, the plurality of channels 68 b1 -68 bn may each be defined by a substantially similar size or diameter (D 68b ). Although the plurality of channels 68 b1 -68 bn may each be defined by a substantially similar size or diameter (D 68b ), embodiments of the material sheet 52b can include at least one channel of the plurality of channels 68 b1 -68 bn having a different size or shape size or diameter (D 68b ). Further, at least one channel of the plurality of channels 68 b1 -68 bn may have a different size or shape size or diameter (D b1 ) than another channel of the plurality of channels 68 bn -68 68b , the difference being in (1) the heel region 20b of the sole structure 14b, (2) the forefoot region 16b of the sole structure 14b, or (3) the forefoot region 16b and the heel region 20b of the sole structure 14b.

[0188] The top surface 38b of the first midsole portion 36b can be further defined by at least one second midsole contact region 70b and at least one material sheet contact region 72b. The bottom surface 48b of the second midsole portion 44b can be further defined by at least one first midsole contact region 74b and at least one material sheet contact region 76b.

[0189] Each of the at least one second midsole contact region 70b of the first midsole portion 36b and the at least one first midsole contact region 74b of the second midsole portion 44b can be defined by a shape that substantially corresponds to the shape of the at least one channel 68b formed through the central region 60b of the material sheet 52b. If the at least one channel 68b formed through the central region 60b of the material sheet 52b is defined by a plurality of channels 68 b1 -68 bn , each of the at least one second midsole contact region 70b of the first midsole portion 36b and the at least one first midsole contact region 74b of the second midsole portion 44b can be defined by a corresponding plurality of second midsole contact regions 70 b1 -70 bn and a plurality of first midsole contact regions 74 b1 -74 bn . Further, asFigures 28-31 The plurality of first midsole contact areas 74 b1 -74 bn The plurality of second midsole contact areas 70 b1 -70 bn The plurality of channels 68 b1 -68 bn Each channel and contact area is respectively axially aligned with one another.

[0190] In one example, when the article of footwear 10b is formed, the following surfaces of the material sheet 52b, the first midsole portion 36b, the second midsole portion 44b, and the outsole 26b can be disposed in the vicinity of one another, proximate to one another, spaced apart from one another, or adjacent to one another. The at least one material sheet contact area 72b of the top surface 38b of the first midsole portion 36a can be disposed adjacent to the bottom surface 56b of the material sheet 52b. The at least one material sheet contact area 76b of the bottom surface 48b of the second midsole portion 44b can be disposed adjacent to the top surface 54b of the material sheet 52b defined by the central region 60b of the material sheet 52b.

[0191] Once the material sheet 52b is disposed relative to the first midsole portion 36b and the second midsole portion 44b, as described above, the material sheet 52b can be referred to as being disposed between the first midsole portion 36b and the second midsole portion 44b. While the material sheet 52b can be disposed between the first midsole portion 36b and the second midsole portion 44b, as a result of the formation of the at least one channel 68b of the material sheet 52b, one or more portions of the first midsole portion 36b can be in direct contact with one or more portions of the second midsole portion 44b, such that at least one second midsole contact area 70b of the top surface 38b of the first midsole portion 36b can be disposed adjacent to the at least one first midsole contact area 74b of the bottom surface 48b of the second midsole portion 44b. After the at least one second midsole contact area 70b of the top surface 38b of the first midsole portion 36b is disposed adjacent to the at least one first midsole contact area 74b of the bottom surface 48b of the second midsole portion 44b, the midsole 28b defined by the first midsole portion 36b and the second midsole portion 44b and the material sheet 52b can be disposed in a molding tool 92b (see, for example, Figure 28 ) for directly bonding the first midsole portion 36b to the second midsole portion 44b at the at least one second midsole contact area 70b and the at least one first midsole contact area 74b.

[0192] The mold tool 92b includes an upper mold half 92bU and a lower mold half 92bL. The upper mold half 92bU and the lower mold half 92bL each can define a mold surface that corresponds to the shape of the central region 60b of the material sheet 52b for bonding the first midsole portion 36b to the second midsole portion 44b under heat and pressure.

[0193] As shown in Figure 29 and 30 , the mold tool 92b is in an open configuration by spacing the upper mold half 92bU and the lower mold half 92bL apart so that the first midsole portion 36b, the second midsole portion 44b, and the material sheet 52b are disposed therebetween. Then, as shown in Figure 32 and 31 , after disposing the mold tool 92b in a closed configuration for a period of time, the mold tool 92b can be returned to the open configuration with the first midsole portion 36b bonded to the second midsole portion 44b and the material sheet 52b secured therebetween.

[0194] After that, as shown in Figures 32-33 , the midsole contact surface 30b of the outsole 26b can be disposed adjacent to the bottom surface 40b of the first midsole portion 36b for joining the outsole 26b to the first midsole portion 36b. In one example, the outsole 26b can be joined to the first midsole portion 36b in a generally similar manner as described above by an adhesive or by a molding tool.

[0195] With continued reference to Figure 30 , the intermediate region 64b and the outer region 62b of the material sheet 52b are folded upward so that the intermediate region 64b defined by the top surface 54b of the material sheet 52b is disposed adjacent to the sidewall surface 50b of the second midsole portion 44b. With the intermediate region 64b defined by the top surface 54b of the material sheet 52b disposed adjacent to the sidewall surface 50b of the second midsole portion 44b, the outer region 62b of the material sheet 52b forms the upper 12b. In one example, one or more of the outer region 62b and the intermediate region 64b of the material sheet 12b can be stamped, slit, perforated, cut, or otherwise formed to define a pattern P that defines the upper 12b.

[0196] While the mold tool 92b can be used to join the first midsole portion 36b to the second midsole portion 44b through the at least one passage 68b of the material sheet 52b under heat and pressure, as shown in Figure 30 , in some configurations, optional adhesives 78b, 80b can also or alternatively be used to bond the first midsole portion 36b to the second midsole portion 44b. Although Figure 23Optional adhesive 78b, 80b is shown in the form of a sheet having a shape that generally corresponds to the shape of central region 60b of sheet of material 52b. Optional adhesive 78b, 80b can conform to any desired shape, pattern or configuration, such as, for example, the shape, pattern or configuration of the at least one channel 68b of sheet of material 52b.

[0197] In one example, one optional adhesive 78b can be disposed between first midsole portion 36b and second midsole portion 44b; further, the one optional adhesive 78b can be disposed between top surface 38b of first midsole portion 36b and bottom surface 56b of sheet of material 52b, such that the one optional adhesive 78b is axially aligned with and radially extends across at least a portion of the shape, pattern or configuration of the at least one channel 68b of sheet of material 52b. The one optional adhesive 78b adhesively bonds first midsole portion 36b, second midsole portion 44b and sheet of material 52b together.

[0198] In another example, one optional adhesive 80b can be disposed between first midsole portion 36b and second midsole portion 44b; further, the one optional adhesive 80b can be disposed between bottom surface 48b of second midsole portion 44b and top surface 54b of sheet of material 52b, such that the one optional adhesive 80b is axially aligned with and radially extends across at least a portion of the shape, pattern or configuration of the at least one channel 68b of sheet of material 52b. The one optional adhesive 80b adhesively bonds first midsole portion 36b, second midsole portion 44b and sheet of material 52b together.

[0199] In yet another example, first optional adhesive 78b and second optional adhesive 80b can be disposed between first midsole portion 36b and second midsole portion 44b. First optional adhesive 78b can be disposed between top surface 38b of first midsole portion 36b and bottom surface 56b of sheet of material 52b, such that first optional adhesive 78b is axially aligned with and radially extends across at least a portion of the shape, pattern or configuration of the at least one channel 68b of sheet of material 52b. Second optional adhesive 80b can be disposed between bottom surface 48b of second midsole portion 44b and top surface 54b of sheet of material 52b, such that second optional adhesive 80b is axially aligned with and radially extends across at least a portion of the shape, pattern or configuration of the at least one channel 68b of sheet of material 52b. First optional adhesive 78b and second optional adhesive 80b adhesively bond first midsole portion 36b, second midsole portion 44b and sheet of material 52b together.

[0200] In other constructions, the following surfaces of the material panel 52b, the first midsole portion 36b, the second midsole portion 44b, and the outsole 26b can be disposed proximate to, near to, spaced from, or adjacent to one another when the article of footwear 10b is formed. In one example, the material panel 52b can extend from the sidewall surface 50b of the second midsole portion 44b at one of the medial side 22b and the lateral side 24b of the sole structure 14b. In another example, the material panel 52b can extend from the sidewall surface 50b of the second midsole portion 44b at both the medial side 22b and the lateral side 24b of the sole structure 14b. In yet another example, the material panel 52b extends from the sidewall surface 50b of the second midsole portion 44b around the entire perimeter of the sole structure 14b.

[0201] Although the example embodiment of the article of footwear 10b includes the outer region 62b of the material panel 52b forming the upper 12b, in other examples, the outer region 62b of the material panel 52b can form a first upper portion of the upper 12b, and as such, at least a second upper portion can also contribute to forming the upper 12b. Accordingly, in another embodiment, the outer region 62b of the material panel 52b can define a first upper portion and extend from the sidewall surface 50b of the second midsole portion 44b and at least partially cover a second upper portion (not shown) that also contributes to forming the upper 12b.

[0202] As described above, the intermediate region 64b of the material panel 52b can separate the central region 60b of the material panel 52b from the outer region 62b of the material panel 52b by a distance (D 64b ). Further, in one example, the outer region 62b of the material panel 52b can extend from the top surface 46b of the second midsole portion 44b by a sufficient distance (D 62b ) for forming a foot-covering portion of the upper 12b that terminates to define at least a portion of the ankle opening 82b of the upper 12b (see Figures 34-38 、 27In one configuration, the central region 60b of the piece of material 52b secured between the first midsole portion 36b and the second midsole portion 44b can be considered to be part of the midsole 28b. In other configurations, the central region 60b of the piece of material 52b secured between the first midsole portion 36b and the second midsole portion 44b can be considered to be part of the piece of material 52b that contributes to the formation of the midsole 28b, and the intermediate region 64b of the piece of material 52b: (1) extending beyond the sidewall 42b of the first midsole portion 36b and the sidewall surface 50b of the second midsole portion 44b, (2) disposed adjacent to the sidewall surface 50b of the second midsole portion 44b, can each be considered to be another part of the piece of material 52b that contributes to the formation of the midsole 28b. However, in another configuration, the intermediate region 64b of the piece of material 52b: (1) extending beyond the sidewall 42b of the first midsole portion 36b and the sidewall surface 50b of the second midsole portion 44b, (2) disposed adjacent to the sidewall surface 50b of the second midsole portion 44b, can be considered to be a first portion of the upper 12b, extending from the top surface 46b of the second midsole portion 44b a distance (D 62b ) extending beyond the sidewall 42b of the first midsole portion 36b and the sidewall surface 50b of the second midsole portion 44b, (2) disposed adjacent to the sidewall surface 50b of the second midsole portion 44b, can each be considered to be another part of the piece of material 52b that contributes to the formation of the midsole 28b. However, in another configuration, the intermediate region 64b of the piece of material 52b: (1) extending beyond the sidewall 42b of the first midsole portion 36b and the sidewall surface 50b of the second midsole portion 44b, (2) disposed adjacent to the sidewall surface 50b of the second midsole portion 44b, can be considered to be a first portion of the upper 12b, extending from the top surface 46b of the second midsole portion 44b a distance (D

[0203] As noted above, the first midsole portion 36b and the second midsole portion 44b are each not flat, and can be interrupted by one or more peaks 84b, 88b and troughs, channels or valleys 86b, 90b, such that the first midsole portion 36b and the second midsole portion 44b each define a generally sinusoidal pattern extending between the forefoot region 16b and the heel region 20b of the sole structure 14b. The one or more peaks 84b, 88b can define a series of peaks, and the troughs, channels or valleys 86b, 90b can define a series of troughs, channels or valleys.

[0204] Furthermore, the respective sinusoidal patterns of each of the first midsole portion 36b and the second midsole portion 44b can be correspondingly shaped such that the first midsole portion 36b correspondingly matches the second midsole portion 44b. Accordingly, in one embodiment, the one or more peaks 84b of the first midsole portion 36b can oppose and be correspondingly received by the troughs, channels or valleys 90b of the second midsole portion 44b, and the one or more peaks 88b of the second midsole portion 44b can oppose and be correspondingly received by the troughs, channels or valleys 86b of the first midsole portion 36b.

[0205] In some configurations, the central region 60b of the material sheet 52b can be defined by a generally flat, non-sinusoidal pattern prior to the central region 60b of the material sheet 52b being secured between the first midsole portion 36b and the second midsole portion 44b. However, after the central region 60b of the material sheet 52b is secured between the first midsole portion 36b and the second midsole portion 44b, the central region 60b of the material sheet 52b can be shaped (by the sinusoidal pattern of each of the first midsole portion 36b and the second midsole portion 44b) to define a sinusoidal pattern that conforms to the mating configuration of the sinusoidal pattern of each of the first midsole portion 36b and the second midsole portion 44b. In one example, the sinusoidal pattern of the central region 60b of the material sheet 52b can extend between the forefoot region 16b and the heel region 20b of the sole structure 14b. Further, the sinusoidal pattern formed by the central region 60b of the material sheet 52b includes one or more peaks (formed by the one or more recesses, channels, or valleys 86b of the first midsole portion 36b and the one or more recesses, channels, or valleys 90b of the second midsole portion 44b) and one or more valleys (formed by the one or more peaks 84b of the first midsole portion 36b and the one or more peaks 88b of the second midsole portion 44b) extending between the forefoot region 16b and the heel region 20b of the sole structure 14b.

[0206] While some configurations can include a central region 60b of the material sheet 52b defined by a generally flat, non-sinusoidal pattern that is subsequently shaped to define a sinusoidal pattern after the central region 60b of the material sheet 52b is secured between the first midsole portion 36b and the second midsole portion 44b as described above, other configurations can include a central region 60b of the material sheet 52b that is pre-shaped to define a sinusoidal pattern that corresponds to the mating configuration of the sinusoidal pattern of each of the first midsole portion 36b and the second midsole portion 44b. In one example, the pre-shaped sinusoidal pattern of the central region 60b of the material sheet 52b can extend between the forefoot region 16b and the heel region 20b of the sole structure 14b. Further, the pre-shaped sinusoidal pattern of the central region 60b of the material sheet 52b includes one or more peaks (aligned with and corresponding to the one or more recesses, channels, or valleys 86b of the first midsole portion 36b and the one or more recesses, channels, or valleys 90b of the second midsole portion 44b) and one or more valleys (aligned with and corresponding to the one or more peaks 84b of the first midsole portion 36b and the one or more peaks 88b of the second midsole portion 44b) extending between the forefoot region 16b and the heel region 20b of the sole structure 14b.

[0207] With reference to Figure 37An example article of footwear 10c is provided and includes an upper 12c and a sole structure 14c attached to the upper 12c. The sole structure 10c can be divided into one or more regions. The regions can include a forefoot portion 16c, a midfoot portion 18c, and a heel portion 20c. The forefoot region 16c can correspond with the joints connecting the metatarsal bones with the phalanges of the foot and the toes. The midfoot region 18c can correspond with the arch area of the foot, while the heel region 18c can correspond with the rear portion of the foot, including the calcaneus bone. The article of footwear 10c can additionally include a medial side 22c and a lateral side 24c, which correspond with opposite sides of the article of footwear 10c and extend through the regions 16c, 18c, 20c.

[0208] The sole structure 14c includes a midsole 28c and optionally an outsole 26c. A cushioning structure (not shown) can optionally be disposed generally between the outsole 26c and the midsole 28c.

[0209] With reference to Figure 41 The outsole 26c includes a midsole-contacting surface 30c and a ground-contacting surface 32c. The outsole 26c also includes a sidewall surface 34c that extends between the midsole-contacting surface 30c and the ground-contacting surface 32c.

[0210] The midsole 28c includes a first midsole portion 36c and a second midsole portion 44c. The first midsole portion 36c includes a top surface 38c, a bottom surface 40c, and a sidewall surface 42c extending between the top surface 38c and the bottom surface 40c. The sidewall surface 42c can define a thickness (T 36c ) of the first midsole portion 36c extending between the top surface 38c and the bottom surface 40c.

[0211] The top surface 38c and the bottom surface 40c of the first midsole portion 36c can generally define an outer surface profile of the first midsole portion 36c. In one example, the top surface 38c of the first midsole portion 36c is not flat and can be interrupted by one or more peaks 84c and troughs, channels, or valleys 86c, such that the first midsole portion 36c defines a generally sinusoidal pattern extending between the forefoot region 16c and the heel region 20c of the sole structure 14c. Further, in one example, the sinusoidal pattern of the first midsole portion 36c can be defined by a generally non-constant amplitude A (e.g., as seen in FIG. 4), such that the thickness (T Figure 41 36c ) of the first midsole portion 36c defined by each peak 84c of the top surface 38c and each peak 84c of the bottom surface 40c spans a length (L 14c ​) are not substantially constant. In one example, the non-constant amplitude A of the first midsole portion 36c results in each peak 84c and each trough, channel, or valley 86c gradually decreasing in a direction extending from the heel region 20c toward the midfoot region 18c (e.g., there is a gap in the sinusoidal pattern extending across some, most, or all of the midfoot region 18c), and then gradually increasing from the midfoot region 18c of the sole structure 14c toward the forefoot region 16c. Further, the amplitude A defined by each peak 84c remains substantially constant as each peak 84c extends between the medial side 22c and the lateral side 24c of the sole structure 14c. Yet even further, in one example, as a result of the gap in the sinusoidal pattern extending across some, most, or all of the midfoot region 18c, the sinusoidal pattern of the first midsole portion 36c can be defined by a substantially non-constant frequency as the sinusoidal pattern extends between the forefoot region 16c and the heel region 20c of the sole structure 14c.

[0212] The second midsole portion 44c includes a top surface 46c, a bottom surface 48c, and a sidewall surface 50c extending between the top surface 46c and the bottom surface 48c. The sidewall surface 50c can define a thickness (T 44c ) of the second midsole portion 44c extending between the top surface 46c and the bottom surface 48c.

[0213] The top surface 46c and the bottom surface 48c of the second midsole portion 44c can generally define an outer surface profile of the second midsole portion 44c. In one example, the bottom surface 48c of the second midsole portion 44c is not flat and can be interrupted by one or more peaks 88c and troughs, channels, or valleys 90c, such that the second midsole portion 44c defines a generally sinusoidal pattern extending between the forefoot region 16c and the heel region 20c of the sole structure 14c. Further, in one example, the sinusoidal pattern of the second midsole portion 44c can be defined by a substantially non-constant amplitude A (e.g., as seen in FIG. 6), such that the thickness (T Figure 37 44c ) of the second midsole portion 44c defined by each peak 88c of the top surface 46c and each peak 90c of the bottom surface 48c spans a length (L 14c ​The amplitudes A of the second midsole portion 44c are not substantially the same. In one example, the non-constant amplitude A of the second midsole portion 44c causes each peak 88c and each recess, groove, or valley 90c to gradually decrease in the direction extending from the heel region 20c to the midfoot region 18c (thus creating gaps in the sinusoidal pattern extending across, for example, some, most, or all of the midfoot regions 18c), and then gradually increase from the midfoot region 18c of the sole structure 14c to the forefoot region 16c. Furthermore, as each peak 88c extends between the inner 22c and outer 24c of the sole structure 14c, the amplitude A defined by each peak 88c remains substantially the same. Moreover, in one example, as a result of gaps in the sinusoidal pattern extending across, for example, some, most, or all of the midfoot regions 18c, the sinusoidal pattern of the second midsole portion 44c can be defined by a substantially non-constant frequency as the sinusoidal pattern extends between the forefoot region 16c and the heel region 20c of the sole structure 14c.

[0214] In some examples, at least one of the first midsole portion 36c and the second midsole portion 44c is formed of a foam material. In some cases, one or both of the first midsole portion 36c and the second midsole portion 44c are formed of a polymer material. In another example, the first midsole portion 36c and the second midsole portion 44c are formed of the same material. In yet another example, the first midsole portion 36c and the second midsole portion 44c are formed of different materials. In another example, the first midsole portion 36c is formed of a first material, and the second midsole portion 44c is formed of a second material. In yet another example, the first material forming the first midsole portion 36c has substantially the same stiffness as the second material forming the second midsole portion 44c. In some cases, the first material forming the first midsole portion 36c has a different stiffness than the second material forming the second midsole portion 44c. In other examples, the first material forming the first midsole portion 36c is the same as the second material forming the second midsole portion 44c. In yet another example, the first material forming the first midsole portion 36c is different from the second material forming the second midsole portion 44c.

[0215] like Figure 37 As shown, the footwear article 10c also includes a material sheet 52c. The material sheet 52c includes a top surface 54c, a bottom surface 56c, and a sidewall surface 58c extending between the top surface 54c and the bottom surface 56c. The sidewall surface 58c may define the thickness (T) of the material sheet 52c extending between the top surface 54c and the bottom surface 56c. 52c ).

[0216] In one example, material sheet 52c is formed of a flexible material. Material sheet 52c may include woven fabrics, woven textiles (e.g., see...). Figure 37 (Enlarged view of material sheet 52c) or knitted textiles (e.g., see...) Figure 37of the material sheet 52c (see FIG. 27, which is an enlarged view of the material sheet 52c). In some cases, the material sheet 52c is porous. The material sheet 52c can be formed of a polymeric material, such as a thermoplastic polymeric material. Exemplary thermoplastic polymeric materials can include, for example, thermoset polymeric materials, among others. In some examples, the material sheet 52c is formed of a thermoformable material. In some examples, if the material sheet 52c is a woven or knit structure (e.g., as seen in the enlarged view of Figure 37 FIG. 27), the woven or knit structure can be formed of polymeric yarns. Further, in some examples, if the material sheet 52c is a woven or knit structure (e.g., as seen in the enlarged view of Figure 37 FIG. 27), each channel or aperture formed by overlapping members defining the woven or knit structure of the material sheet 52c can be, for example, at least 0.5 mm in length at a maximum dimension, or at least 1.0 mm in length at a maximum dimension. Further, each channel or aperture formed by overlapping members defining the woven or knit structure of the material sheet 52c can allow one or both of the first midsole portion 36c and the second midsole portion 44c to directly contact one another. In other embodiments, one or both of the first midsole portion 36c and the second midsole portion 44c can be injection molded around or through each channel or aperture formed by overlapping members defining the woven or knit structure of the material sheet 52c.

[0217] In some cases, the material sheet 52c is an embroidered fabric. In some examples, the material sheet 52c has one or more first regions that include embroidery and one or more second regions that lack embroidery or have a lesser percentage of embroidered surface area as compared to the first regions. The embroidery can provide a reduced stretch or "locking" feature to the regions of the material sheet 52c. Such regions of the material sheet 52c that provide a reduced stretch quality can be positioned, for example, in regions of the material sheet 52c disposed between the first midsole portion 36c and the second midsole portion 44c, or alternatively, at regions that extend beyond the sidewall surface 58c of the material sheet 52c.

[0218] The material sheet 52c can be further defined by a plurality of regions 60c, 62c, 64c. Each of the top surface 54c and the bottom surface 56c can extend across the plurality of regions 60c, 62c, 64c. The plurality of regions 60c, 62c, 64c can be defined by a central region 60c, an outer region 62c, and an intermediate region 64c that extends between the central region 60c and the outer region 62c. The intermediate region 64c can separate the central region 60c from the outer region 62c by a distance (D 64c ).

[0219] The central region 60c of the material sheet 52c can be defined by a shape that generally corresponds to the shape defining the top surface 46c of the second midsole portion 44c. The distance (D64c ) can be substantially equal to the thickness (T 44c ) of the second midsole portion 44c.

[0220] Referring to Figure 37 , the first midsole portion 36c is disposed between the outsole 26c and the upper 12c. As Figure 37 and 44 illustrate, the second midsole portion 44c is disposed between the first midsole 36c and the upper 12c. The sheet of material 52c is disposed between the first midsole 36c and the second midsole portion 44c. The bottom surface 56c of the sheet of material 52c extends across the top surface 38c of the first midsole portion 36c and beyond the sidewall surface 42c of the first midsole portion 36c. The top surface 54c of the sheet of material 52c extends across the bottom surface 48c of the second midsole portion 44c and beyond the sidewall surface 50c of the second midsole portion 44c. Referring to Figure 37 and 44 , when the article of footwear 10c is formed, the top surface 54c of the sheet of material 52c extends at least partially over the sidewall surface 50c of the second midsole portion 44c in a direction (X) as Figure 38 illustrates, toward the top surface 46c of the second midsole portion 44c.

[0221] Referring to Figure 37 and 38 , the outer region 62c of the sheet of material 52c is dimensioned to define the upper 12c of the article of footwear 10c. As Figure 37 illustrates, when the upper 12c is formed from the outer region 62c of the sheet of material 52c, the top surface 54c of the sheet of material 52c and the top surface 46c of the second midsole portion 44c defined by the outer region 62c of the sheet of material 52c generally form a chamber 66c that is dimensioned to receive a foot (not shown) of a user.

[0222] Referring to Figure 37 , at least the central region 60c of the sheet of material 52c can further define at least one passageway or aperture 68c or void of the sheet of material 52c. The at least one passageway 68c extends through the thickness (T 52cIn one example, the at least one channel 68c is formed in the central region 60c of the material sheet 52c rather than in the outer region 62c or the middle region 64c of the material sheet 52c. Although embodiments of the material sheet 52c may include the at least one channel 68c formed exclusively through the central region 60c of the material sheet 52c, other embodiments of the material sheet 52c may include the at least one channel 68c formed by two or more of the central region 60c, the outer region 62c, or the middle region 64c of the material sheet 52c. If the polymer material defines one or both of the first midsole portion 36c and the second midsole portion 44c, the polymer material may be molded around any surface defining the material sheet 52c and / or through a thickness (T) extending through the material sheet 52c. 52c At least one channel of 68c is molded.

[0223] The at least one channel 68c can be accessible through multiple channels or holes 68c1-68 cn Limitations, for example: first channel 68c1, last channel 68 cn and one or more intermediate channels 68 c2 -68 cn-1 In one example, such as Figure 37 As shown, the plurality of channels 68 c1 -68 cn Any desired pattern arrangement (e.g., (1) an arranged grid, (2) staggered rows and columns, or (3) a random pattern) may be used, said pattern extending across the forefoot region 16c and heel region 20c of the sole structure 14c (i.e., across substantially most or all of the length (L) of the sole structure 14c). 14c The width (W) spanning the sole structure 14c between the inner 22c and outer 24c of the footwear 10c. 14c The material sheet 52c extends from the central region 60c. In other embodiments, the plurality of channels 68 c1 -68 cn A pattern arrangement (e.g., (1) an arranged grid, (2) staggered rows and columns, or (3) a random pattern) may be used, the pattern not extending across the central region 60c of the material sheet 52c between the forefoot region 16c and the heel region 20c of the sole structure 14c and between the inner side 22c and the outer side 24c of the footwear article 10c. Despite the plurality of channels 68 c1 -68 cn It can be extended across substantially most or all of the length (L) of the sole structure 14c as described above. 14c The multiple channels 68 c1 -68 cnThe pattern can be arranged (e.g., (1) in a pattern of rows, (2) in a pattern of alternating rows and columns, or (3) in a random pattern) that extends across: (1) some or all of the heel region 20c of the sole structure 14c and not the forefoot region 16c or the midfoot region 18c of the sole structure 14c, (2) some or all of the forefoot region 16c of the sole structure 14c and not the midfoot region 18c or the heel region 20c of the sole structure 14c, or (3) some or all of the forefoot region 16c and the heel region 20c of the sole structure 14c and not the midfoot region 18c of the sole structure 14c.

[0224] With continued reference to Figures 39-42 , each channel of the plurality of channels 68 c1 -68 cn is shown as being defined by a generally circular or oval shape having any size or diameter (D 68c ). In some examples, the size or diameter (D 68c ) can be substantially equal to about 0.5 mm or about 3.0 mm. In some examples, the size or diameter (D 68c ) can be from about 0.5 mm to about 3.0 mm. Further, each channel of the plurality of channels 68 c1 -68 cn may be defined by a generally similar size or diameter (D 68c ). Although each channel of the plurality of channels 68 c1 -68 cn may be defined by a generally similar size or diameter (D 68c ), embodiments of the material sheet 52c can include at least one channel of the plurality of channels 68 c1 -68 cn having a different size or diameter (D 68c ). Further, at least one channel of the plurality of channels 68 c1 -68 cn may have a different size or diameter (D c1 ) than another channel of the plurality of channels 68 cn -68 68c by: (1) the heel region 20c of the sole structure 14c, (2) the forefoot region 16c of the sole structure 14c, or (3) the forefoot region 16c and the heel region 20c of the sole structure 14c.

[0225] The top surface 38c of the first midsole portion 36c can also be defined by at least one second midsole contact region 70c and at least one material sheet contact region 72c. The bottom surface 48c of the second midsole portion 44c can also be defined by at least one first midsole contact region 74c and at least one material sheet contact region 76c.

[0226] Each of the at least one second midsole contact area 70c of the first midsole portion 36c and the at least one first midsole contact area 74c of the second midsole portion 44c may be defined by a shape that generally corresponds to the shape of the at least one channel 68c formed through the central region 60c of the material sheet 52c. If the at least one channel 68c formed through the central region 60c of the material sheet 52c consists of a plurality of channels 68c1-68... cn Defined, each of the at least one second midsole contact area 70c of the first midsole portion 36c and the at least one first midsole contact area 74c of the second midsole portion 44c may be composed of a corresponding plurality of second midsole contact areas 70c1-70 cn and multiple first midsole contact areas 74c1-74 cn Limited. Furthermore, such as... Figure 39 As shown, the plurality of first midsole contact areas 74 c1 -74 cn and the plurality of second midsole contact areas 70c1-70 cn and the plurality of channels 68 c1 -68 cn Each channel and contact area is axially aligned with each other.

[0227] In one example, when the footwear article 10c is formed, the following surfaces of the material sheet 52c, the first midsole portion 36c, the second midsole portion 44c, and the outsole 26c may be arranged near each other, close to each other, spaced apart from each other, or adjacent to each other. The at least one material sheet contact area 72c of the top surface 38c of the first midsole portion 36c may be arranged adjacent to the bottom surface 56c of the material sheet 52c. The at least one material sheet contact area 76c of the bottom surface 48c of the second midsole portion 44c may be arranged adjacent to the top surface 54c of the material sheet 52c defined by the central region 60c of the material sheet 52c.

[0228] Once the material sheet 52c is arranged relative to the first midsole portion 36c and the second midsole portion 44c, as described above, the material sheet 52c can be referred to as being arranged between the first midsole portion 36c and the second midsole portion 44c. Although the material sheet 52c can be arranged between the first midsole portion 36c and the second midsole portion 44c, as a result of the formation of the at least one channel 68c of the material sheet 52c, one or more portions of the first midsole portion 36c can be in direct contact with one or more portions of the second midsole portion 44c, such that at least one second midsole contact area 70c of the top surface 38c of the first midsole portion 36c can be arranged adjacent to the at least one first midsole contact area 74c of the bottom surface 48c of the second midsole portion 44c. After arranging at least one second midsole contact area 70c of the top surface 38c of the first midsole portion 36c adjacent to at least one first midsole contact area 74c of the bottom surface 48c of the second midsole portion 44c, the midsole 28c defined by the first midsole portion 36c and the material sheet 52c can be arranged in the molding tool 92c (see, for example, see...). Figure 40 ), for directly bonding the first midsole portion 36c to the second midsole portion 44c at the at least one second midsole contact area 70c and the at least one first midsole contact area 74c.

[0229] The mold tool 92c includes an upper mold half 92cU and a lower mold half 92cL. Each of the upper mold half 92cU and the lower mold half 92cL defines a mold surface that corresponds to the shape of the central region 60c of the material sheet 52c for bonding the first midsole portion 36c to the second midsole portion 44c under heat and pressure.

[0230] like Figure 43 and 41 As shown, the mold tool 92c is in an open configuration by separating the upper mold half 92cU and the lower mold half 92cL, thereby arranging the first midsole portion 36c, the second midsole portion 44c, and the material sheet 52c therebetween. Then, as... Figures 43-44 and 42 As shown, after the mold tool 92c is arranged in the closed configuration for a period of time, with the first midsole portion 36c joined to the second midsole portion 44c and the material sheet 52c fixed therebetween, the mold tool 92c can return to the open configuration.

[0231] After that, as Figure 41 As shown, the midsole contact surface 30c of the outsole 26c can be arranged adjacent to the bottom surface 40c of the first midsole portion 36c for connecting the outsole 26c to the first midsole portion 36c. In one example, the outsole 26c can be connected to the first midsole portion 36c by an adhesive or by a molding tool in a manner generally similar to that described above.

[0232] With continued reference to Figure 41 , the medial region 64c and the lateral region 62c of the material panel 52c are folded upwardly such that the medial region 64c defined by the top surface 54c of the material panel 52c is disposed adjacent the sidewall surface 50c of the second midsole portion 44c. With the medial region 64c defined by the top surface 54c of the material panel 52c disposed adjacent the sidewall surface 50c of the second midsole portion 44c, the lateral region 62c of the material panel 52c forms the upper 12c. In one example, the lateral region 62c and the medial region 64c of the material panel 12c can be stamped, slit, perforated, cut, or otherwise formed to define a pattern P that defines the upper 12c. While the mold tool 92c can be used to join the first midsole portion 36c to the second midsole portion 44c through the at least one passage 68c of the material panel 52c under heat and pressure, as Figure 34 shown, in some constructions, optional adhesives 78c, 80c can also or alternatively be used to bond the first midsole portion 36c to the second midsole portion 44c. While Figures 45-49 the optional adhesives 78c, 80c are shown in the form of a sheet having a shape that generally corresponds to the shape of the central region 60c of the material panel 52c, the optional adhesives 78c, 80c can conform to any desired shape, pattern, or construction, such as, for example, the shape, pattern, or construction of the at least one passage 68c of the material panel 52c.

[0233] In one example, one optional adhesive 78c can be disposed between the first midsole portion 36c and the second midsole portion 44c; further, the one optional adhesive 78c can be disposed between the top surface 38c of the first midsole portion 36c and the bottom surface 56c of the material panel 52c such that the one optional adhesive 78c is axially aligned with and radially extends across at least a portion of the shape, pattern, or construction of the at least one passage 68c of the material panel 52c. The one optional adhesive 78c adhesively bonds the first midsole portion 36c, the second midsole portion 44c, and the material panel 52c together.

[0234] In another example, one optional adhesive 80c can be disposed between the first midsole portion 36c and the second midsole portion 44c; further, the one optional adhesive 80c can be disposed between the bottom surface 48c of the second midsole portion 44c and the top surface 54c of the material panel 52c such that the one optional adhesive 80c is axially aligned with and radially extends across at least a portion of the shape, pattern, or construction of the at least one passage 68c of the material panel 52c. The one optional adhesive 80c adhesively bonds the first midsole portion 36c, the second midsole portion 44c, and the material panel 52c together.

[0235] In yet another example, the first optional adhesive 78c and the second optional adhesive 80c can be disposed between the first midsole portion 36c and the second midsole portion 44c. The first optional adhesive 78c can be disposed between the top surface 38c of the first midsole portion 36c and the bottom surface 56c of the material sheet 52c, such that the first optional adhesive 78c is axially aligned with and radially extends across at least a portion of the shape, pattern, or configuration of the at least one channel 68c of the material sheet 52c. The second optional adhesive 80c can be disposed between the bottom surface 48c of the second midsole portion 44c and the top surface 54c of the material sheet 52c, such that the second optional adhesive 80c is axially aligned with and radially extends across at least a portion of the shape, pattern, or configuration of the at least one channel 68c of the material sheet 52c. The first optional adhesive 78c and the second optional adhesive 80c adhesively bond the first midsole portion 36c, the second midsole portion 44c, and the material sheet 52c together.

[0236] In other constructions, the following surfaces of the material sheet 52c, the first midsole portion 36c, the second midsole portion 44c, and the outsole 26c can be disposed in proximity to, near, spaced from, or adjacent to one another when the article of footwear 10c is formed. In one example, the material sheet 52c can extend from the sidewall surface 50c of the second midsole portion 44c at one of the medial side 22c and the lateral side 24c of the sole structure 14c. In another example, the material sheet 52c can extend from the sidewall surface 50c of the second midsole portion 44c at both the medial side 22c and the lateral side 24c of the sole structure 14c. In yet another example, the material sheet 52c can extend from the sidewall surface 50c of the second midsole portion 44c around the entire perimeter of the sole structure 14c.

[0237] Although the example embodiment of the article of footwear 10c includes the outer region 62c of the material sheet 52c forming the upper 12c, in other examples, the outer region 62c of the material sheet 52c can form a first upper portion of the upper 12c, and as such, at least a second upper portion can also contribute to forming the upper 12c. Accordingly, in another embodiment, the outer region 62c of the material sheet 52c can define a first upper portion and extend from the sidewall surface 50c of the second midsole portion 44c and at least partially cover a second upper portion (not shown) that also contributes to forming the upper 12c.

[0238] As described above, the intermediate region 64c of the material sheet 52c can separate the central region 60c of the material sheet 52c from the outer region 62c of the material sheet 52c by a distance (D 64c ) that is sufficient to allow the first midsole portion 36c to be adhesively bonded to the second midsole portion 44c. In one example, the outer region 62c of the material sheet 52c can extend from the top surface 46c of the second midsole portion 44c by a distance (D 62c) extends to define at least a portion of an ankle opening 82c of the upper 12c (see Figure 48 、 38 , 44). In one configuration, the central region 60c of the piece of material 52c secured between the first midsole portion 36c and the second midsole portion 44c can be considered a portion of the midsole 28c. In other configurations, the central region 60c of the piece of material 52c secured between the first midsole portion 36c and the second midsole portion 44c can be considered a portion of the piece of material 52c that contributes to the formation of the midsole 28c, and the medial region 64c of the piece of material 52c: (1) extending beyond the sidewall 42c of the first midsole portion 36c and the sidewall surface 50c of the second midsole portion 44c, (2) disposed adjacent to the sidewall surface 50c of the second midsole portion 44c, can each be considered another portion of the piece of material 52c that contributes to the formation of the midsole 28c. However, in another configuration, the medial region 64c of the piece of material 52c: (1) extending beyond the sidewall 42c of the first midsole portion 36c and the sidewall surface 50c of the second midsole portion 44c, (2) disposed adjacent to the sidewall surface 50c of the second midsole portion 44c, can be considered a first portion of the upper 12c, and the lateral region 62c of the piece of material 52c extending from the top surface 46c of the second midsole portion 44c a distance (D 62c ) can define a second portion of the upper 12c. Thus, the medial region 64c of the piece of material 52c can contribute to the formation of one or both of the upper and the midsole 28c.

[0239] As noted above, the first midsole portion 36c and the second midsole portion 44c are each not flat and can be interrupted by one or more peaks 84c, 88c and troughs, channels or valleys 86c, 90c, such that the first midsole portion 36c and the second midsole portion 44c each define a generally sinusoidal pattern extending between the forefoot region 16c and the heel region 20c of the sole structure 14c. The one or more peaks 84c, 88c can define a series of peaks, and the troughs, channels or valleys 86c, 90c can define a series of troughs, channels or valleys.

[0240] Furthermore, the respective sinusoidal patterns of each of the first midsole portion 36c and the second midsole portion 44c can be correspondingly shaped such that the first midsole portion 36c correspondingly matches the second midsole portion 44c. Correspondingly, in one embodiment, the one or more peaks 84c of the first midsole portion 36c can oppose and be correspondingly received by the troughs, channels or valleys 90c of the second midsole portion 44c, and the one or more peaks 88c of the second midsole portion 44c can oppose and be correspondingly received by the troughs, channels or valleys 86c of the first midsole portion 36c.

[0241] In some constructions, the central region 60c of the material sheet 52c can be defined by a generally flat, non-sinusoidal pattern prior to the central region 60c of the material sheet 52c being secured between the first midsole portion 36c and the second midsole portion 44c. However, after the central region 60c of the material sheet 52c is secured between the first midsole portion 36c and the second midsole portion 44c, the central region 60c of the material sheet 52c can be shaped (by the sinusoidal pattern of each of the first midsole portion 36c and the second midsole portion 44c) to define a sinusoidal pattern that conforms to the mating construction of the sinusoidal pattern of each of the first midsole portion 36c and the second midsole portion 44c. In one example, the sinusoidal pattern of the central region 60c of the material sheet 52c can extend between the forefoot region 16c and the heel region 20c of the sole structure 14c. Further, the sinusoidal pattern formed by the central region 60c of the material sheet 52c includes one or more peaks (formed by the one or more recesses, channels, or valleys 86c of the first midsole portion 36c and the one or more recesses, channels, or valleys 90c of the second midsole portion 44c) and one or more valleys (formed by the one or more peaks 84c of the first midsole portion 36c and the one or more peaks 88c of the second midsole portion 44c) extending between the forefoot region 16c and the heel region 20c of the sole structure 14c.

[0242] While some constructions can include a central region 60c of the material sheet 52c defined by a generally flat, non-sinusoidal pattern that is subsequently shaped to define a sinusoidal pattern after the central region 60c of the material sheet 52c is secured between the first midsole portion 36c and the second midsole portion 44c as described above, other constructions can include a central region 60c of the material sheet 52c that is pre-shaped to define a sinusoidal pattern that corresponds to the mating construction of the sinusoidal pattern of each of the first midsole portion 36c and the second midsole portion 44c. In one example, the pre-shaped sinusoidal pattern of the central region 60c of the material sheet 52c can extend between the forefoot region 16c and the heel region 20c of the sole structure 14c. Further, the pre-shaped sinusoidal pattern of the central region 60c of the material sheet 52c includes one or more peaks (aligned with and corresponding to the one or more recesses, channels, or valleys 86c of the first midsole portion 36c and the one or more recesses, channels, or valleys 90c of the second midsole portion 44c) and one or more valleys (aligned with and corresponding to the one or more peaks 84c of the first midsole portion 36c and the one or more peaks 88c of the second midsole portion 44c) extending between the forefoot region 16c and the heel region 20c of the sole structure 14c.

[0243] With reference to Figure 52An example article of footwear 10d is provided and includes an upper 12d and a sole structure 14d attached to the upper 12d. The sole structure 10d can be divided into one or more regions. The regions can include a forefoot portion 16d, a midfoot portion 18d, and a heel portion 20d. The forefoot region 16d can correspond with the joints connecting the metatarsal bones with the phalangeal bones of the foot and the toes. The midfoot region 18d can correspond with the arch area of the foot, while the heel region 18d can correspond with the rear portion of the foot, including the calcaneus bone. The article of footwear 10d can additionally include a medial side 22d and a lateral side 24d, which correspond with opposite sides of the article of footwear 10d and extend through the regions 16d, 18d, 20d.

[0244] The sole structure 14d includes a midsole 28d and optionally an outsole 26d. A cushioning structure (not shown) can optionally be disposed generally between the outsole 26d and the midsole 28d.

[0245] With reference to Figure 52 , the outsole 26d includes a midsole-contacting surface 30d and a ground-contacting surface 32d. The outsole 26d also includes a sidewall surface 34d that extends between the midsole-contacting surface 30d and the ground-contacting surface 32d.

[0246] The midsole 28d includes a first midsole portion 36d and a second midsole portion 44d. The first midsole portion 36d includes a top surface 38d, a bottom surface 40d, and a sidewall surface 42d extending between the top surface 38d and the bottom surface 40d. The sidewall surface 42d can define a thickness (T 36d ) of the first midsole portion 36d extending between the top surface 38d and the bottom surface 40d.

[0247] The top surface 38d and the bottom surface 40d of the first midsole portion 36d can generally define an outer surface profile of the first midsole portion 36d. In one example, the top surface 38d of the first midsole portion 36d is not flat and can be interrupted by one or more peaks 84d and recesses, channels, or valleys 86d, such that the first midsole portion 36d defines a generally serrated pattern extending between the forefoot region 16d and the heel region 20d of the sole structure 14d. Further, in one example, the serrated pattern of the first midsole portion 36d can be defined by a generally constant amplitude A (e.g., as seen in FIG. 4), such that the thickness (T Figure 48 ) of the first midsole portion 36d (defined by each peak 84d of the top surface 38d and each peak 84d of the bottom surface 40d) spans a length (L 36d ) of the sole structure 14d. 14dFurthermore, as each peak 84d extends between the medial side 22d and the lateral side 24d of the sole structure 14d, the amplitude A defined by each peak 84d remains substantially the same. Yet even further, in one example, as the zigzag pattern extends between the forefoot region 16d and the heel region 20d of the sole structure 14d, the zigzag pattern of the first midsole portion 36d can be defined by a substantially constant frequency.

[0248] The second midsole portion 44d includes a top surface 46d, a bottom surface 48d, and a sidewall surface 50d extending between the top surface 46d and the bottom surface 48d. The sidewall surface 50d can define a thickness (T 44d ) of the second midsole portion 44d extending between the top surface 46d and the bottom surface 48d.

[0249] The top surface 46d and the bottom surface 48d of the second midsole portion 44d can generally define the outer surface profile of the second midsole portion 44d. In one example, the bottom surface 48d of the second midsole portion 44d is not flat and can be interrupted by one or more peaks 88d and recesses, channels, or valleys 90d, such that the second midsole portion 44d defines a generally zigzag pattern that extends between the forefoot region 16d and the heel region 20d of the sole structure 14d. Furthermore, in one example, the zigzag pattern of the second midsole portion 44d can be defined by a substantially constant amplitude A (e.g., as seen in FIG. 6), such that the thickness (T Figure 48 44d ) of the second midsole portion 44d defined by each peak 88d of the top surface 46d and each peak 90d of the bottom surface 48d does not remain substantially the same across the length (L 14d ) of the sole structure 14d. Furthermore, as each peak 88d extends between the medial side 22d and the lateral side 24d of the sole structure 14d, the amplitude A defined by each peak 88d remains substantially the same. Yet even further, in one example, as the zigzag pattern extends between the forefoot region 16d and the heel region 20d of the sole structure 14d, the zigzag pattern of the second midsole portion 44d can be defined by a substantially constant frequency.

[0250] ​In some examples, at least one of the first midsole portion 36d and the second midsole portion 44d is formed of a foam material. In some cases, one or both of the first midsole portion 36d and the second midsole portion 44d are formed of a polymer material. In another example, the first midsole portion 36d and the second midsole portion 44d are formed of the same material. In yet another example, the first midsole portion 36d and the second midsole portion 44d are formed of different materials. In another example, the first midsole portion 36d is formed of a first material, and the second midsole portion 44d is formed of a second material. In yet another example, the first material forming the first midsole portion 36d has substantially the same stiffness as the second material forming the second midsole portion 44d. In some cases, the first material forming the first midsole portion 36d has a different stiffness than the second material forming the second midsole portion 44d. In other examples, the first material forming the first midsole portion 36d is the same as the second material forming the second midsole portion 44d. In yet another example, the first material forming the first midsole portion 36d is different from the second material forming the second midsole portion 44d.

[0251] like Figure 48 As shown, the footwear article 10d also includes a material sheet 52d. The material sheet 52d includes a top surface 54d, a bottom surface 56d, and a sidewall surface 58d extending between the top surface 54d and the bottom surface 56d. The sidewall surface 58d may define the thickness (T) of the material sheet 52d extending between the top surface 54d and the bottom surface 56d. 52d ).

[0252] In one example, the material sheet 52d is formed of a flexible material. The material sheet 52d may include woven fabrics, woven textiles (e.g., see...). Figure 37 (A magnified view of the material sheet 52d) or knitted textiles (e.g., see...) Figure 48 (Enlarged view of material sheet 52d). In some cases, material sheet 52d is porous. Material sheet 52d may be formed of a polymeric material, such as a thermoplastic polymeric material. Exemplary thermoplastic polymeric materials may include, for example, thermosetting polymeric materials. In some examples, material sheet 52d is formed of a thermoformable material. In some examples, if material sheet 52d is a woven or knitted structure (e.g., in...), Figure 48 (As can be seen in the magnified view), woven or knitted structures can be formed from polymer yarns. Furthermore, in some examples, if the material sheet 52d is a woven or knitted structure (e.g., in...), Figure 48As can be seen in the enlarged view, each channel or aperture formed by the overlapping members of the woven or knitted structure of the piece of material 52d can be, for example, at least 0.5 mm in length at a maximum dimension, or at least 1.0 mm in length at a maximum dimension. Further, each channel or aperture formed by the overlapping members of the woven or knitted structure of the piece of material 52d can allow one or both of the first midsole portion 36d and the second midsole portion 44d to directly contact one another. In other embodiments, one or both of the first midsole portion 36d and the second midsole portion 44d can be injection molded around or through each channel or aperture formed by the overlapping members of the woven or knitted structure of the piece of material 52d.

[0253] In some cases, the piece of material 52d is an embroidered fabric. In some examples, the piece of material 52d has one or more first regions including embroidery and one or more second regions having no embroidery or a lesser percentage of embroidered surface area as compared to the first regions. The embroidery can provide a reduced stretch or “locking” feature to the regions of the piece of material 52d. Such regions of the piece of material 52d that provide a reduced stretch quality can be positioned, for example, in regions of the piece of material 52d disposed between the first midsole portion 36d and the second midsole portion 44d, or alternatively at regions extending beyond the sidewall surface 58d of the piece of material 52d.

[0254] The piece of material 52d can be further defined by a plurality of regions 60d, 62d, 64d. Each of the top surface 54d and the bottom surface 56d can extend across the plurality of regions 60d, 62d, 64d. The plurality of regions 60d, 62d, 64d can be defined by a central region 60d, an outer region 62d, and an intermediate region 64d extending between the central region 60d and the outer region 62d. The intermediate region 64d can separate the central region 60d from the outer region 62d by a distance (D 64d ).

[0255] The central region 60d of the piece of material 52d can be defined by a shape that generally corresponds to a shape defining the top surface 46d of the second midsole portion 44d. The distance (D 64d ) separating the central region 60d from the outer region 62d can be generally equal to a thickness (T 44d ) of the second midsole portion 44d.

[0256] With reference to Figure 48 , the first midsole portion 36d is disposed between the outsole 26d and the upper 12d. As Figure 48 and 55As shown, the second midsole portion 44d is disposed between the first midsole 36d and the upper 12d. The sheet of material 52d is disposed between the first midsole 36d and the second midsole portion 44d. The bottom surface 56d of the sheet of material 52d extends across the top surface 38d of the first midsole portion 36d and beyond the sidewall surface 42d of the first midsole portion 36d. The top surface 54d of the sheet of material 52d extends across the bottom surface 48d of the second midsole portion 44d and beyond the sidewall surface 50d of the second midsole portion 44d. Referring to Figure 48 and 55 When the article of footwear 10d is formed, the top surface 54d of the sheet of material 52d extends at least partially over the sidewall surface 50d of the second midsole portion 44d in a direction (X) as shown. Figure 49 towards the top surface 46d of the second midsole portion 44c.

[0257] Referring to Figure 48 and 49 The outer region 62d of the sheet of material 52d is sized to define the upper 12d of the article of footwear 10d. As shown, Figure 48 When the upper 12d is formed from the outer region 62d of the sheet of material 52d, the top surface 54d of the sheet of material 52d and the top surface 46d of the second midsole portion 44d defined by the outer region 62d of the sheet of material 52d generally form a chamber 66d sized to receive a foot (not shown) of a user.

[0258] Referring to Figure 48 At least the central region 60d of the sheet of material 52d can further define at least one passage or aperture 68d or void of the sheet of material 52d. The at least one passage 68d extends through the thickness (T 52d ) of the sheet of material 52d between the top surface 54d and the bottom surface 56d. In one example, the at least one passage 68d is formed in the central region 60d of the sheet of material 52d and not the outer region 62d or the intermediate region 64d of the sheet of material 52d. While embodiments of the sheet of material 52d can include the at least one passage 68d formed exclusively through the central region 60d of the sheet of material 52d, other embodiments of the sheet of material 52d can include the at least one passage 68d formed from two or more of the central region 60d, the outer region 62d, or the intermediate region 64d of the sheet of material 52d. If the polymeric material defines one or both of the first midsole portion 36d and the second midsole portion 44d, the polymeric material can be molded around any surface defining the sheet of material 52d and / or through the at least one passage 68d extending through the thickness (T 52d ) of the sheet of material 52d.

[0259] The at least one passage 68d can be through a plurality of passages or apertures 68 d1 -68 dndefined, for example: a first channel 68 d1 , a last channel 68 dn , and one or more intermediate channels 68 d2 -68 dn-1 . In one example, as shown in Figure 4 , the plurality of channels 68 d1 -68 dn may be arranged in any desired pattern (e.g., (1) an aligned grid, (2) an interlaced row and column, or (3) a random pattern) that extends across the central region 60d of the material sheet 52d between the forefoot region 16d and the heel region 20d of the sole structure 14d (i.e., across substantially most or all of the length (L 14d ) of the sole structure 14d and between the medial side 22d and the lateral side 24d of the article of footwear 10d (i.e., across the width (W 14d ) of the sole structure 14d). In other embodiments, the plurality of channels 68 d1 -68 dn may be arranged in a pattern (e.g., (1) an aligned grid, (2) an interlaced row and column, or (3) a random pattern) that does not extend across the central region 60d of the material sheet 52d between the forefoot region 16d and the heel region 20d of the sole structure 14d and between the medial side 22d and the lateral side 24d of the article of footwear 10d. Although the plurality of channels 68 d1 -68 dn may extend across substantially most or all of the length (L 14d ) of the sole structure 14d as described above, the plurality of channels 68 d1 -68 dn may be arranged in a pattern (e.g., (1) an aligned grid, (2) an interlaced row and column, or (3) a random pattern) that extends across: (1) some or all of the heel region 20d of the sole structure 14d but not the forefoot region 16d or the midfoot region 18d of the sole structure 14d, (2) some or all of the forefoot region 16d of the sole structure 14d but not the midfoot region 18d or the heel region 20d of the sole structure 14d, or (3) some or all of the forefoot region 16d and the heel region 20d of the sole structure 14d but not the midfoot region 18d of the sole structure 14d.

[0260] With continued reference to Figures 50-53 , each channel of the plurality of channels 68 d1 -68 dn is shown as being defined by a generally oval or circular shape having any size or diameter (D 68d ). In some examples, the size or diameter (D 68dIt can be roughly equal to about 0.5 mm or about 3.0 mm. In some cases, the size or diameter (D) is... 68d The diameter can be from approximately 0.5 mm to approximately 3.0 mm. Furthermore, the plurality of channels 68 d1 -68 dn Each channel can be made of roughly the same size or diameter (D) 68d (This is a limitation.) Although the multiple channels 68 d1 -68 dn Each channel can be made of a size or diameter (D) that is generally similar in size or shape. 68d (This is a limitation, but the implementation of the material sheet 52d may include the plurality of channels 68) d1 -68 dn At least one channel having a different size or shape and a diameter (D) 68d In addition, the plurality of channels 68 d1 -68 dn At least one channel may have the same number of channels 68 d1 -68 dn Another channel of different size or shape, or diameter (D) 68d The difference is that: (1) the heel area of ​​the sole structure 14d is 20d, (2) the forefoot area of ​​the sole structure 14d is 16d, or (3) the forefoot area of ​​the sole structure 14d is 16d and the heel area is 20d.

[0261] The top surface 38d of the first midsole portion 36d may also be defined by at least one second midsole contact area 70d and at least one material sheet contact area 72d. The bottom surface 48d of the second midsole portion 44d may also be defined by at least one first midsole contact area 74d and at least one material sheet contact area 76d.

[0262] Each of the at least one second midsole contact area 70d of the first midsole portion 36d and the at least one first midsole contact area 74d of the second midsole portion 44d may be defined by a shape that substantially corresponds to the shape of the at least one channel 68d formed through the central region 60d of the material sheet 52d. If the at least one channel 68d formed through the central region 60d of the material sheet 52d consists of a plurality of channels 68... d1 -68 dn Defined, each of the at least one second midsole contact area 70d of the first midsole portion 36d and the at least one first midsole contact area 74d of the second midsole portion 44d may be composed of a corresponding plurality of second midsole contact areas 70 d1 -70 dn and multiple first midsole contact areas 74 d1 -74 dn Limited. Furthermore, such as...Figure 50 The plurality of first midsole contact areas 74 d1 -74 dn The plurality of second midsole contact areas 70 d1 -70 dn The plurality of channels 68 d1 -68 dn Each channel and contact area is respectively axially aligned with one another.

[0263] In one example, when the article of footwear 10d is formed, the following surfaces of the material sheet 52d, the first midsole portion 36d, the second midsole portion 44d, and the outsole 26d can be disposed in the vicinity of one another, proximate to one another, spaced apart from one another, or adjacent to one another. The at least one material sheet contact area 72d of the top surface 38d of the first midsole portion 36d can be disposed adjacent to the bottom surface 56d of the material sheet 52d. The at least one material sheet contact area 76d of the bottom surface 48d of the second midsole portion 44d can be disposed adjacent to the top surface 54d of the material sheet 52d defined by the central region 60d of the material sheet 52d.

[0264] Once the material sheet 52d is disposed relative to the first midsole portion 36d and the second midsole portion 44d, as described above, the material sheet 52d can be referred to as being disposed between the first midsole portion 36d and the second midsole portion 44d. While the material sheet 52d can be disposed between the first midsole portion 36d and the second midsole portion 44d, as a result of the formation of the at least one channel 68d of the material sheet 52d, one or more portions of the first midsole portion 36d can be in direct contact with one or more portions of the second midsole portion 44d, such that at least one second midsole contact area 70d of the top surface 38d of the first midsole portion 36d can be disposed adjacent to the at least one first midsole contact area 74d of the bottom surface 48d of the second midsole portion 44d. After the at least one second midsole contact area 70d of the top surface 38d of the first midsole portion 36d is disposed adjacent to the at least one first midsole contact area 74d of the bottom surface 48d of the second midsole portion 44d, the midsole 28d defined by the first midsole portion 36d and the second midsole portion 44d and the material sheet 52d can be disposed in a molding tool 92d (see, e.g., FIG. 10), for example, for directly bonding the first midsole portion 36d to the second midsole portion 44d at the at least one second midsole contact area 70d and the at least one first midsole contact area 74d. Figure 51

[0265] ​The mold tool 92d includes an upper mold half 92dU and a lower mold half 92dL. The upper mold half 92dU and the lower mold half 92dL can each define a mold surface that corresponds to the shape of the central region 60d of the material sheet 52d for bonding the first midsole portion 36d to the second midsole portion 44d under heat and pressure.

[0266] As shown in Figure 54 and 52 , the mold tool 92d is in an open configuration by spacing the upper mold half 92dU and the lower mold half 92dL apart so that the first midsole portion 36d, the second midsole portion 44d, and the material sheet 52d are disposed therebetween. Then, as shown in Figures 54-55 and 53 , after disposing the mold tool 92d in a closed configuration for a period of time, the mold tool 92d can be returned to the open configuration with the first midsole portion 36d bonded to the second midsole portion 44d and the material sheet 52d secured therebetween.

[0267] Thereafter, as shown in Figure 52 , the midsole contact surface 30d of the outsole 26d can be disposed adjacent to the bottom surface 40d of the first midsole portion 36d for joining the outsole 26d to the first midsole portion 36d. In one example, the outsole 26d can be joined to the first midsole portion 36d in a generally similar manner as described above by an adhesive or by a molding tool.

[0268] With continued reference to Figure 52 , the intermediate region 64d and the outer region 62d of the material sheet 52d are folded upward so that the intermediate region 64d defined by the top surface 54d of the material sheet 52d is disposed adjacent to the sidewall surface 50d of the second midsole portion 44d. With the intermediate region 64d defined by the top surface 54d of the material sheet 52d disposed adjacent to the sidewall surface 50d of the second midsole portion 44d, the outer region 62d of the material sheet 52d forms the upper 12d. In one example, one or more of the outer region 62d and the intermediate region 64d of the material sheet 12d can be stamped, slit, perforated, cut, or otherwise formed to define a pattern P that defines the upper 12d.

[0269] While the mold tool 92d can be used to join the first midsole portion 36d to the second midsole portion 44d through the at least one passage 68d of the material sheet 52d under heat and pressure, as shown in Figure 45 , in some configurations, optional adhesives 78d, 80d can also or alternatively be used to bond the first midsole portion 36d to the second midsole portion 44d. Although Figures 56-63Optional adhesive 78d, 80d is shown in the form of a sheet having a shape that generally corresponds to the shape of central region 60d of material sheet 52d. Optional adhesive 78d, 80d can conform to any desired shape, pattern or configuration, such as, for example, the shape, pattern or configuration of the at least one channel 68d of material sheet 52d.

[0270] In one example, one optional adhesive 78d can be disposed between first midsole portion 36d and second midsole portion 44d; further, the one optional adhesive 78d can be disposed between top surface 38d of first midsole portion 36d and bottom surface 56d of material sheet 52d, such that the one optional adhesive 78d is axially aligned with and radially extends across at least a portion of the shape, pattern or configuration of the at least one channel 68d of material sheet 52d. The one optional adhesive 78d adhesively bonds first midsole portion 36d, second midsole portion 44d and material sheet 52d together.

[0271] In another example, one optional adhesive 80d can be disposed between first midsole portion 36d and second midsole portion 44d; further, the one optional adhesive 80d can be disposed between bottom surface 48d of second midsole portion 44d and top surface 54d of material sheet 52d, such that the one optional adhesive 80d is axially aligned with and radially extends across at least a portion of the shape, pattern or configuration of the at least one channel 68d of material sheet 52d. The one optional adhesive 80d adhesively bonds first midsole portion 36d, second midsole portion 44d and material sheet 52d together.

[0272] In yet another example, first optional adhesive 78d and second optional adhesive 80d can be disposed between first midsole portion 36d and second midsole portion 44d. First optional adhesive 78d can be disposed between top surface 38d of first midsole portion 36d and bottom surface 56d of material sheet 52d, such that first optional adhesive 78d is axially aligned with and radially extends across at least a portion of the shape, pattern or configuration of the at least one channel 68d of material sheet 52d. Second optional adhesive 80d can be disposed between bottom surface 48d of second midsole portion 44d and top surface 54d of material sheet 52d, such that second optional adhesive 80d is axially aligned with and radially extends across at least a portion of the shape, pattern or configuration of the at least one channel 68d of material sheet 52d. First optional adhesive 78d and second optional adhesive 80d adhesively bond first midsole portion 36d, second midsole portion 44d and material sheet 52d together.

[0273] In other constructions, the following surfaces of the material panel 52d, the first midsole portion 36d, the second midsole portion 44d, and the outsole 26d can be disposed proximate to, near to, spaced from, or adjacent to one another when the article of footwear 10d is formed. In one example, the material panel 52d can extend from the sidewall surface 50d of the second midsole portion 44d at one of the medial side 22d and the lateral side 24d of the sole structure 14d. In another example, the material panel 52d can extend from the sidewall surface 50d of the second midsole portion 44d at both the medial side 22d and the lateral side 24d of the sole structure 14d. In yet another example, the material panel 52d extends from the sidewall surface 50d of the second midsole portion 44d around the entire perimeter of the sole structure 14d.

[0274] Although the example embodiment of the article of footwear 10d includes the outer region 62d of the material panel 52d forming the upper 12d, in other examples, the outer region 62d of the material panel 52d can form a first upper portion of the upper 12d, and as such, at least a second upper portion can also contribute to forming the upper 12d. Accordingly, in another embodiment, the outer region 62d of the material panel 52d can define a first upper portion and extend from the sidewall surface 50d of the second midsole portion 44d and at least partially cover a second upper portion (not shown) that also contributes to forming the upper 12d.

[0275] As described above, the intermediate region 64d of the material panel 52d can separate the central region 60d of the material panel 52d from the outer region 62d of the material panel 52d by a distance (D 64d ). Further, in one example, the outer region 62d of the material panel 52d can extend from the top surface 46d of the second midsole portion 44d by a sufficient distance (D 62d ) for forming a foot-covering portion of the upper 12d that terminates to define at least a portion of the ankle opening 82d of the upper 12d (see Figure 56 、 49In one configuration, the central region 60d of the piece of material 52d secured between the first midsole portion 36d and the second midsole portion 44d can be considered to be part of the midsole 28d. In other configurations, the central region 60d of the piece of material 52d secured between the first midsole portion 36d and the second midsole portion 44d can be considered to be part of the piece of material 52d that contributes to the formation of the midsole 28d, and the intermediate region 64d of the piece of material 52d: (1) extending beyond the sidewall 42d of the first midsole portion 36d and the sidewall surface 50d of the second midsole portion 44d, (2) disposed adjacent to the sidewall surface 50d of the second midsole portion 44d, can each be considered to be another part of the piece of material 52d that contributes to the formation of the midsole 28d. However, in another configuration, the intermediate region 64d of the piece of material 52d: (1) extending beyond the sidewall 42d of the first midsole portion 36d and the sidewall surface 50d of the second midsole portion 44d, (2) disposed adjacent to the sidewall surface 50d of the second midsole portion 44d, can be considered to be a first portion of the upper 12d, extending from the top surface 46d of the second midsole portion 44d a distance (D 62d The outer region 62d of the piece of material 52d extending from the top surface 46d of the second midsole portion 44d a distance (D

[0276] As noted above, the first midsole portion 36d and the second midsole portion 44d are each not flat, and can be interrupted by one or more peaks 84d, 88d and valleys, troughs or dells 86d, 90d, such that the first midsole portion 36d and the second midsole portion 44d each define a generally zigzag pattern extending between the forefoot region 16d and the heel region 20d of the sole structure 14d. The one or more peaks 84d, 88d can define a series of peaks, and the valleys, troughs or dells 86d, 90d can define a series of valleys, troughs or dells.

[0277] Furthermore, the respective zigzag patterns of each of the first midsole portion 36d and the second midsole portion 44d can be matingly shaped such that the first midsole portion 36d matingly matches the second midsole portion 44d. Accordingly, in one embodiment, the one or more peaks 84d of the first midsole portion 36d can oppose and be matingly received by the valleys, troughs or dells 90d of the second midsole portion 44d, and the one or more peaks 88d of the second midsole portion 44d can oppose and be matingly received by the valleys, troughs or dells 86d of the first midsole portion 36d.

[0278] In some configurations, the central region 60d of the material sheet 52d can be defined by a generally flat, non-serrated pattern prior to the central region 60d of the material sheet 52d being secured between the first midsole portion 36d and the second midsole portion 44d. However, after the central region 60d of the material sheet 52d is secured between the first midsole portion 36d and the second midsole portion 44d, the central region 60d of the material sheet 52d can be shaped (by the serrated pattern of each of the first midsole portion 36d and the second midsole portion 44d) to define a serrated pattern that conforms to the mating configuration of the serrated pattern of each of the first midsole portion 36d and the second midsole portion 44d. In one example, the serrated pattern of the central region 60d of the material sheet 52d can extend between the forefoot region 16d and the heel region 20d of the sole structure 14d. Further, the serrated pattern formed by the central region 60d of the material sheet 52d includes one or more peaks (formed by the one or more recesses, channels, or valleys 86d of the first midsole portion 36d and the one or more recesses, channels, or valleys 90d of the second midsole portion 44d) and one or more valleys (formed by the one or more peaks 84d of the first midsole portion 36d and the one or more peaks 88d of the second midsole portion 44d) extending between the forefoot region 16d and the heel region 20d of the sole structure 14d. Although some configurations can include a central region 60d of the material sheet 52d defined by a generally flat, non-serrated pattern that is subsequently shaped to define a serrated pattern after the central region 60d of the material sheet 52d is secured between the first midsole portion 36d and the second midsole portion 44d as described above, other configurations can include a central region 60d of the material sheet 52d that is pre-shaped to define a serrated pattern that corresponds to the mating configuration of the serrated pattern of each of the first midsole portion 36d and the second midsole portion 44d. In one example, the pre-shaped serrated pattern of the central region 60d of the material sheet 52d can extend between the forefoot region 16d and the heel region 20d of the sole structure 14d. Further, the pre-shaped serrated pattern of the central region 60d of the material sheet 52d includes one or more peaks (aligned with and corresponding to the one or more recesses, channels, or valleys 86d of the first midsole portion 36d and the one or more recesses, channels, or valleys 90d of the second midsole portion 44d) and one or more valleys (aligned with and corresponding to the one or more peaks 84d of the first midsole portion 36d and the one or more peaks 88d of the second midsole portion 44d) extending between the forefoot region 16d and the heel region 20d of the sole structure 14d.

[0279] With reference to Figure 56A foam cutting system for manufacturing the first midsole portions 36, 36a, 36b, 36c, 36d and the second midsole portions 44, 44a, 44b, 44c, 44d is generally shown at 100. As shown Figures 56-63 The system 100 generally includes a receiver portion 102 and an insertion portion 104. The receiver portion 102 includes a conveyor 106, an extrusion device 108, and a separating device 110 having a blade 111. The insertion portion 104 includes one or more extrusion dies, such as, for example, a first extrusion die 112 and a second extrusion die 114, and one or more extrusion blocks, such as, for example, a first extrusion block 116 and a second extrusion block 118.

[0280] As shown Figure 57 Prior to interfacing with the receiver portion 102, a raw foam material unit F can be secured by the insertion portion 104. Any of the first midsole portions 36, 36a, 36b, 36c, 36d and the second midsole portions 44, 44a, 44b, 44c, 44d are derived from the raw foam material unit F. In the example shown Figures 57-58 As shown

[0281] Referring to Figure 58 In one example, prior to the insertion portion 104 interfacing with the receiver portion 102, the raw foam material unit F is disposed on the first extrusion die 112 such that the lower surface FL of the raw foam material unit F opposes the patterned surface 112P of the first extrusion die 112. In one example, the patterned surface 112P of the first extrusion die 112 generally corresponds to a sinusoidal pattern having a generally constant amplitude and frequency. Further, the first extrusion block 116 is disposed on the upper surface FU of the raw foam material unit F. The first extrusion block 116 can be derived from a foam material that defines a greater hardness or stiffness than the raw foam material unit F.

[0282] As shown Figures 59-60As shown, the conveyor 106 feeds the insertion portion 104 (defined by the first extrusion die 112 and the first extrusion block 116) and the raw foam material unit F fixed therein to the extrusion device 108, which can be defined by a plurality of roller members. The plurality of roller members of the extrusion device 108 can be spaced apart at a distance D on the upper surface of the conveyor 106, the distance D being less than the combined thickness of the first extrusion die 112, the first extrusion block 116 and the raw foam material unit F.

[0283] like Figure 57 As shown, once the insertion portion 104 and the original foam material unit F are in contact with the receiver portion 102, the plurality of roller members compress both the first compression block 116 and the original foam material unit F, thereby the first compression block 116 compresses at least a first portion F1 of the original foam material unit F (e.g., as shown in the diagram). Figures 58-59 (As seen) pushed into chamber 113 (e.g., as Figures 59-60 As seen, the chamber is defined by the patterned surface 112P of the first extrusion die 112. (See reference) Figure 60 When the first part F1 of the original foam material unit F is pushed into the chamber 113 of the first extrusion die 112, the blade 111 of the separating device 110 separates the second part F2 of the original foam material unit F (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 60 (As seen) it is separated from the first part F1 of the original foam material unit F.

[0284] refer to Figure 61 The first portion F1 of the original foam material unit F—defined by the chamber 113 of the patterned surface 112P and the first extrusion mold 112—may substantially define the size, shape, and geometry of the second midsole portion 44a as described above. Furthermore, as... Figures 61-62 As shown, the second part F2 of the original foam material unit F can be a material waste defined by a negative impression, which corresponds to the first part F1 of the second insole 44a / original foam material unit F as described above.

[0285] refer to Figure 62In another example, before the insertion portion 104 engages with the receiver portion 102, the original foam material unit F is arranged on the second extrusion die 114, such that the lower surface FL of the original foam material unit F is opposite to the patterned surface 114P of the first extrusion die 112. In one example, the patterned surface 114P of the second extrusion die 114 generally corresponds to a flat, non-sinusoidal pattern. Furthermore, a first pressure block 116 is arranged on the upper surface FU of the original foam material unit F. The first extrusion block 116 may be made of foam material defined by a hardness or stiffness greater than that of the original foam material unit F. Further still, the lower surface 118L of the second extrusion block 118 is arranged on the upper surface 116U of the first extrusion block 116, whereby the lower surface 118L of the second extrusion block 118 is defined by a sinusoidal pattern having a generally constant amplitude and frequency. Like the first extrusion block 116, the second extrusion block 118 may be defined by a hardness or stiffness greater than that of the original foam material unit F.

[0286] like Figures 62-63 As shown, the conveyor 106 feeds the insertion portion 104 (defined by the second extrusion die 114, the first extrusion block 116, and the second extrusion block 118) and the raw foam material unit F, which is defined by a plurality of roller members, towards the extrusion device 108. The plurality of roller members of the extrusion device 108 are spaced apart at a distance D on the upper surface of the conveyor 106, the distance D being less than the combined thickness of the first extrusion die 112, the first extrusion block 116, the second extrusion device 118, and the raw foam material unit F.

[0287] like Figure 61 As shown, once the insertion portion 104 and the original foam material unit F are in contact with the receiver portion 102, the plurality of roller members compress the first compression block 116, the second compression block 118, and the entirety of the original foam material unit F, thereby causing the first compression block 116 and the second compression block 118 to compress at least a first portion F1 of the original foam material unit F (e.g., as shown in the diagram). Figures 62-63 (As seen) pushed into chamber 115 (e.g., as Figures 62-63 As seen, the chamber is defined by the patterned surface 114P of the second extrusion die 114. (See reference) Figure 63 When the first part F1 of the original foam material unit F is pushed into the chamber 115 of the second extrusion die 114, the blade 111 of the separating device 110 separates the second part F2 of the original foam material unit F (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 63 (As seen) it is separated from the first part F1 of the original foam material unit F.

[0288] refer to Figures 56-63The first portion Fl of the raw foam material unit F, which is defined by the combination of the lower surface 118L of the second extrusion block 118 and the cavity 115 of the second extrusion die 114, can generally define the dimensions, shape, and geometry of the first midsole portion 36a as described above. Further, as shown in ​ the second portion F2 of the raw foam material unit F can be a scrap piece of material defined by a negative imprint corresponding to the first midsole 36a / first portion Fl of the raw foam material unit F as described above.

[0289] Although a foam cutting system 100 for cutting a pattern (e.g., a sinusoidal pattern, a sawtooth pattern, etc.) provided by any of the first midsole portions 36, 36a, 36b, 36c, 36d and the second midsole portions 44, 44a, 44b, 44c, 44d has been described above, ​ other methods can be used by the first midsole portions 36, 36a, 36b, 36c, 36d and the second midsole portions 44, 44a, 44b, 44c, 44d to cut the pattern. In one example, a wire cutting device, in which a wire (such as a heated wire) under tension, for example, is used as a "cutting blade."

[0290] Furthermore, although one or both of the first midsole portion 36, 36a, 36b, 36c, 36d and the second midsole portion 44, 44a, 44b, 44c, 44d can be cut to form a pattern (e.g., a sinusoidal pattern, a zigzag pattern, etc.), one or both of the first midsole portion 36, 36a, 36b, 36c, 36d and the second midsole portion 44, 44a, 44b, 44c, 44d can be formed directly into a desired shape without being cut from a sheet of material. For example, one or both of the first midsole portion 36, 36a, 36b, 36c, 36d and the second midsole portion 44, 44a, 44b, 44c, 44d can be injection molded around or through the sheet of material 52, 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d. In such an embodiment, at least one of the first midsole portion 36, 36a, 36b, 36c, 36d, the second midsole portion 44, 44a, 44b, 44c, 44d, and the sheet of material 52, 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d can be preformed to define a pattern (e.g., a sinusoidal pattern, a zigzag pattern, etc.). If, for example, the sheet of material 52, 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d is preformed to define a pattern (e.g., a sinusoidal pattern, a zigzag pattern, etc.), injection molding of one or both of the first midsole portion 36, 36a, 36b, 36c, 36d and the second midsole portion 44, 44a, 44b, 44c, 44d around, through, or around and through the sheet of material 52, 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d will result in one or both of the first midsole portion 36, 36a, 36b, 36c, 36d and the second midsole portion 44, 44a, 44b, 44c, 44d being formed into a pattern (e.g., a sinusoidal pattern, a zigzag pattern, etc.) that corresponds to the preformed pattern of the sheet of material 52, 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d.

[0291] The pattern (e.g., a sinusoidal pattern, a zigzag pattern, etc.) provided by either of the first midsole portion 36, 36a, 36b, 36c, 36d and the second midsole portion 44, 44a, 44b, 44c, 44d contributes to improved performance of the article of footwear 10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d when worn by a user. Furthermore, as a result of the central region 60, 60a, 60b, 60c, 60d of the sheet of material 52, 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d being captured between the first midsole portion 36, 36a, 36b, 36c, 36d and the second midsole portion 44, 44a, 44b, 44c, 44d, the sheet of material 52, 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d can also contribute to improved performance of the article of footwear 10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d.

[0292] In an example, the improved performance of the article of footwear can result from one or more properties (e.g., stiffness) of the selected material of at least one of the first midsole portion 36, 36a, 36b, 36c, 36d, the second midsole portion 44, 44a, 44b, 44c, 44d, and the material panel 52, 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d and from the shape (e.g., pattern, amplitude A, and / or frequency) of at least one of the first midsole portion 36, 36a, 36b, 36c, 36d, the second midsole portion 44, 44a, 44b, 44c, 44d, and the material panel 52, 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d. In an example, at least one of the pattern, the amplitude A, and the frequency can contribute to a desired amount of shear strength in one or more regions (e.g., the forefoot region 16, 16a, 16b, 16c, 16d, the midfoot region 18, 18a, 18b, 18c, 18d, and the heel region 20, 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d) of the sole structure 14, 14a, 14b, 14c, 14d of the article of footwear 10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d.

[0293] In some examples, shorter wavelengths, such as defined by a sinusoidal pattern or a sawtooth pattern, can result in improved shear strength of the sole structure 14, 14a, 14b, 14c, 14d in one or more regions (e.g., the forefoot region 16, 16a, 16b, 16c, 16d, the midfoot region 18, 18a, 18b, 18c, 18d, and the heel region 20, 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d) of the article of footwear 10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d. Even further, if, for example, the material panel 52, 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d is a stretchable fabric, as a result of the central region 60, 60a, 60b, 60c, 60d of the material panel 52, 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d (which can also define at least a portion of the upper 12, 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) being captured between the first midsole portion 36, 36a, 36b, 36c, 36d and the second midsole portion 44, 44a, 44b, 44c, 44d, the sole structure 14, 14a, 14b, 14c, 14d can produce improved shear stability. Thus, in an example, in response to a shear load applied by a user's foot, the central region 60, 60a, 60b, 60c, 60d of the material panel 52, 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d can be placed under tension (resulting from the selected pattern of the first midsole portion 36, 36a, 36b, 36c, 36d and the second midsole portion 44, 44a, 44b, 44c, 44d) in order to provide improved stability in one or a combination of the parallel load direction and the perpendicular load direction.

[0294] The following clauses provide exemplary constructions of the sole structure and methods of manufacturing the sole structure as described above.

[0295] Clause 1 : A sole structure for an article of footwear, the sole structure comprising: a first midsole portion comprising a first sidewall; a second midsole portion comprising a second sidewall; and a sheet disposed between the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion and extending from the first sidewall and the second sidewall, the sheet extending at least partially over the second sidewall.

[0296] Clause 2: The sole structure of clause 1, wherein the sheet extends from the first sidewall and the second sidewall at one of a medial side and a lateral side of the sole structure.

[0297] Clause 3: The sole structure of clause 1, wherein the sheet extends from the first sidewall and the second sidewall at both a medial side and a lateral side of the sole structure.

[0298] Clause 4: The sole structure of clause 1, wherein the sheet extends from the first sidewall and the second sidewall around an entire perimeter of the sole structure.

[0299] Clause 5: The sole structure of clause 1, wherein the sheet extends from the first sidewall and the second sidewall and at least partially covers an outer surface of an upper of the article of footwear.

[0300] Clause 6: The sole structure of clause 1, wherein the sheet extends from the first sidewall and the second sidewall and forms at least a portion of an upper of the article of footwear.

[0301] Clause 7: The sole structure of clause 1, wherein the sheet extends from the first sidewall and the second sidewall and forms an ankle collar that defines an opening of the upper.

[0302] Clause 8: The sole structure of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the sheet comprises a top surface, a bottom surface, and a sidewall surface extending between the top surface and the bottom surface, the sidewall surface defining a thickness of the sheet and forming a sinusoidal pattern extending between a forefoot region and a heel region of the sole structure.

[0303] Clause 9: The sole structure of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the sheet comprises a series of peaks and valleys extending between the forefoot region and the heel region of the sole structure.

[0304] Clause 10: The sole structure of clause 9, wherein a height of the peaks, a depth of the valleys, or both, gradually decreases in a direction extending from the heel region toward the forefoot region.

[0305] Clause 11 : The sole structure of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the sheet extends from the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion at both a medial side and a lateral side of the sole structure.

[0306] Clause 12: The sole structure of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the sheet includes at least one aperture.

[0307] Clause 13: The sole structure of Clause 12, wherein each aperture of the at least one aperture is at least 3.0 mm in length in a largest dimension.

[0308] Clause 14: The sole structure of Clause 12, wherein each aperture of the at least one aperture is at least 1 mm in length in a smallest dimension.

[0309] Clause 15: The sole structure of Clause 12, wherein each aperture of the at least one aperture is a post-processing aperture defined by removing material from the sheet.

[0310] Clause 16: The sole structure of Clause 12, wherein the sheet is woven, knit, or braided to integrally define each aperture of the at least one aperture.

[0311] Clause 17: The sole structure of Clause 1, further comprising an outsole including a ground contact surface.

[0312] Clause 18: The sole structure of Clause 17, wherein a first midsole portion is disposed between the outsole and the sheet.

[0313] Clause 19: The sole structure of Clause 12, wherein the at least one aperture is formed through the sheet in a region of the sheet between a first midsole portion and a second midsole portion.

[0314] Clause 20: The sole structure of Clause 19, wherein the first midsole portion defines at least one first contact region and the second midsole portion defines at least one second contact region, the at least one first contact region contacting the at least one second contact region at the at least one aperture.

[0315] Clause 21: The sole structure of Clause 20, wherein the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion are bonded to one another at the at least one aperture.

[0316] Clause 22: The sole structure of Clause 21, wherein a material of the first midsole portion and a material of the second midsole portion are fused at the at least one aperture.

[0317] Clause 23: The sole structure of any of Clauses 20-22, further comprising an adhesive disposed between the at least one first contact region and the at least one second contact region at the at least one aperture.

[0318] Clause 24: The sole structure of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first midsole portion includes a first surface in contact with the sheet, the second midsole portion includes a second surface in contact with the sheet, and the first and second surfaces each include a plurality of surface features.

[0319] Clause 25: The sole structure of Clause 24, wherein the plurality of surface features each have a minimum height or depth of at least 2 mm.

[0320] Clause 26: The sole structure of Clause 24, wherein the plurality of surface features each have a minimum height or depth of at least 5 mm.

[0321] Clause 27: The sole structure of Clause 24, wherein the plurality of surface features each have a maximum height or depth of less than 22 mm.

[0322] Clause 28: The sole structure of Clause 24, wherein the plurality of surface features each have a maximum height or depth of less than 17 mm.

[0323] Clause 29: The sole structure of Clause 24, wherein the plurality of surface features each have a height or depth ranging from about 2 mm to about 15 mm.

[0324] Clause 30: The sole structure of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first midsole portion includes a first series of peaks and a first series of valleys, and the second midsole portion includes a second series of peaks and a second series of valleys.

[0325] Clause 31 : The sole structure of Clause 30, wherein the first series of peaks opposes the second series of valleys, and the second series of peaks opposes the first series of valleys.

[0326] Clause 32: The sole structure of Clause 31, wherein the sheet conforms to a shape of the first series of peaks and the first series of valleys, and conforms to a shape of the second series of peaks and the second series of valleys.

[0327] Clause 33: The sole structure of any of Clauses 30-32, wherein the first series of peaks, the first series of valleys, the second series of peaks, and the second series of valleys cooperate to provide the sheet with a lateral surface having a sinusoidal or sawtooth configuration.

[0328] Clause 34: The sole structure of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the sole structure includes a plurality of sheets disposed between the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion.

[0329] Clause 35: The sole structure of Clause 34, wherein the plurality of sheets includes two or more sheets positioned between a medial side of the sole structure and a lateral side of the sole structure.

[0330] Clause 36: The sole structure of any of the preceding clauses, wherein each of the two or more pieces has a width of at least 0.5 cm.

[0331] Clause 37: The sole structure of any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least a portion of the plurality of pieces disposed between the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion overlap one another in an area between the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion.

[0332] Clause 38: The sole structure of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the plurality of pieces disposed between the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion do not overlap one another in an area between the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion.

[0333] Clause 39: The sole structure of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising an adhesive disposed between the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion, the adhesive being applied to at least one of the first midsole portion, the second midsole portion, an upper surface of the pieces, and a lower surface of the pieces.

[0334] Clause 40: The sole structure of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the pieces comprise a mesh fabric comprising at least one aperture in a mesh structure.

[0335] Clause 41 : The sole structure of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the pieces comprise a mesh fabric comprising a plurality of apertures in a mesh structure.

[0336] Clause 42: The sole structure of Clause 41, wherein an area of the mesh fabric disposed between the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion comprises at least 50 apertures in the mesh structure.

[0337] Clause 43: The sole structure of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the pieces comprise a mesh fabric comprising a plurality of apertures, each aperture being at least 0.5 mm in length in a maximum dimension.

[0338] Clause 44: The sole structure of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the pieces comprise a mesh fabric comprising a plurality of apertures, each aperture being at least 1.0 mm in length in a maximum dimension.

[0339] Clause 45: The sole structure of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the pieces comprise a mesh fabric comprising a plurality of apertures, each aperture being less than 1.0 mm in length in a maximum dimension.

[0340] Clause 46: The sole structure of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the pieces comprise a mesh fabric comprising a plurality of apertures, each aperture being less than 5.0 mm in length in a maximum dimension.

[0341] Clause 47: The sole structure of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the sheet comprises a mesh fabric comprising a plurality of holes, each hole having a length of less than 3.0 mm in a largest dimension.

[0342] Clause 48: The sole structure of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the sheet comprises a mesh fabric comprising a plurality of holes, each hole having a length of about 0.5 mm to about 3.0 mm in a largest dimension.

[0343] Clause 49: The sole structure of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the sheet is a fabric configured to stretch in only one dimension.

[0344] Clause 50: The sole structure of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the sheet is a fabric that stretches in two dimensions.

[0345] Clause 51 : The sole structure of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the sheet is an embroidered fabric.

[0346] Clause 52: The sole structure of Clause 51, wherein the embroidered fabric comprises a first embroidered region and a second embroidered region, the first embroidered region having a different fiber concentration than the second embroidered region.

[0347] Clause 53: The sole structure of Clause 1, wherein the sheet comprises embroidered regions disposed at discrete locations of the sheet.

[0348] Clause 54: The sole structure of Clause 1, wherein the sheet comprises a first embroidered region and a second embroidered region, the first embroidered region having a different fiber concentration than the second embroidered region.

[0349] Clause 55: The sole structure of any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one of the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion is formed of a polymeric material having a foam structure.

[0350] Clause 56: The sole structure of Clause 55, wherein the polymeric material having a foam structure is an injection molded foam.

[0351] Clause 57: The sole structure of Clause 55, wherein the polymeric material having a foam structure is an extrusion molded foam.

[0352] Clause 58: An article of footwear comprising the sole structure of any of the preceding clauses.

[0353] Clause 59: A method of manufacturing an article of footwear, comprising: providing the sole structure of any of Clauses 1-58; providing an upper for the article of footwear; and securing the footwear structure and the upper to one another to form the article of footwear.

[0354] Clause 60: A method of manufacturing a sole structure for an article of footwear, the method comprising: providing a first midsole portion comprising a first sidewall; providing a second midsole portion comprising a second sidewall; positioning a sheet between the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion, the sheet extending from the first sidewall and the second sidewall; connecting the first midsole portion to the second midsole portion while securing the sheet between the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion; and causing the sheet to extend at least partially over the second sidewall.

[0355] Clause 61 : The method of clause 60, further comprising causing the sheet to extend from the first sidewall and the second sidewall at one of a medial side and a lateral side of the sole structure.

[0356] Clause 62: The method of clause 60, further comprising causing the sheet to extend from the first sidewall and the second sidewall at both a medial side and a lateral side of the sole structure.

[0357] Clause 63: The method of clause 60, further comprising causing the sheet to extend from the first sidewall and the second sidewall around an entire perimeter of the sole structure.

[0358] Clause 64: The method of clause 60, further comprising causing the sheet to extend from the first sidewall and the second sidewall and at least partially cover an outer surface of an upper of the article of footwear with the sheet.

[0359] Clause 65: The method of clause 60, further comprising causing the sheet to extend from the first sidewall and the second sidewall to form an upper of the article of footwear with the sheet.

[0360] Clause 66: The method of clause 60, further comprising causing the sheet to extend from the first sidewall and the second sidewall to form an ankle collar that defines an opening of an upper of the article of footwear.

[0361] Clause 67: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising positioning the sheet into a sinusoidal pattern extending between a forefoot region and a heel region of the sole structure.

[0362] Clause 68: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising providing the sheet with a series of peaks and valleys extending between the forefoot region and the heel region of the sole structure.

[0363] Clause 69: The method of clause 68, wherein providing the sheet with a series of peaks comprises providing a series of peaks having a height that decreases between a direction extending from the heel region toward the forefoot region; and wherein providing the sheet with a series of valleys comprises providing a series of valleys having a depth that decreases between the direction extending from the heel region toward the forefoot region.

[0364] Clause 70: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising extending the piece from the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion at both the medial side and the lateral side of the sole structure.

[0365] Clause 71 : The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising providing the piece with at least one aperture extending through the piece.

[0366] Clause 72: The method of Clause 71, wherein providing the at least one aperture comprises forming the at least one aperture through the piece in the area between the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion.

[0367] Clause 73: The method of Clause 72, further comprising contacting the first midsole portion with the second midsole portion at the at least one aperture.

[0368] Clause 74: The method of Clause 73, further comprising bonding the first midsole portion to the second midsole portion at the at least one aperture.

[0369] Clause 75: The method of Clause 74, wherein bonding the first midsole portion to the second midsole portion comprises fusing the material of the first midsole portion with the material of the second midsole portion.

[0370] Clause 76: The method of Clause 74, wherein bonding the first midsole portion to the second midsole portion comprises applying an adhesive to at least one of the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion.

[0371] Clause 77: The method of Clause 60, further comprising providing the first midsole portion with a first series of peaks and a first series of valleys, and providing the second midsole portion with a second series of peaks and a second series of valleys.

[0372] Clause 78: The method of Clause 77, wherein providing the first series of peaks and providing the second series of valleys comprises opposing the first series of peaks to the second series of valleys, and opposing the second series of peaks to the first series of valleys.

[0373] Clause 79: The method of Clause 78, further comprising conforming the piece to the shape of the first series of peaks and the first series of valleys, and conforming the piece to the shape of the second series of peaks and the second series of valleys.

[0374] Clause 80: The method of Clause 79, further comprising forming the piece from a material that conforms to the shape of the first series of peaks and the first series of valleys, and conforms to the shape of the second series of peaks and the second series of valleys.

[0375] Clause 81 : The method of Clause 79, further comprising pre-forming the piece to a shape that matingly receives the first series of peaks and the second series of peaks.

[0376] Clause 82: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming the sheet from a fabric material.

[0377] Clause 83: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming the sheet from at least one of a woven and a knit fabric.

[0378] Clause 84: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising disposing an adhesive between the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion.

[0379] Clause 85: The method of Clause 84, further comprising bonding the first midsole portion, the second midsole portion, and the sheet via the adhesive.

[0380] Clause 86: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming at least one of the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion from a foam material.

[0381] Clause 87: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising injection molding a polymeric material to form at least one of the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion.

[0382] Clause 88: The method of Clause 87, wherein injection molding the polymeric material comprises molding the polymeric material to form an injection molded, foam polymeric material.

[0383] Clause 89: The method of Clause 87 or 88, wherein the step of injection molding further comprises injecting the molten polymeric material around or through a hole in the sheet to form an injection molded component comprising the sheet secured to both the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion.

[0384] Clause 90: The method of any of Clauses 87-89, wherein the step of injection molding comprises providing an injection mold; inserting the sheet into the injection mold; injecting a molten polymeric material into the mold containing the sheet; cooling the mold to at least partially solidify the molten polymeric material to form an injection molded component comprising the sheet secured to the at least one of the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion; and removing the injection molded component from the mold.

[0385] Clause 91: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion from the same material.

[0386] Clause 92: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion from different materials.

[0387] Clause 93: The method of any of the preceding Clauses, further comprising forming the first midsole portion from a first material and forming the second midsole portion from a second material.

[0388] Clause 94: The method of Clause 93, further comprising forming the first material from a material different than the second material.

[0389] Clause 95: An article of footwear manufactured, comprising a sole structure as in any of the preceding Clauses.

[0390] Clause 96: A sole structure manufactured as in the method of any of Clauses 60-95.

[0391] Clause 97: An article of footwear comprising a sole structure manufactured as in the method of any of Clauses 60-95.

[0392] Clause 98: A method of manufacturing an article of footwear, comprising: providing a sole structure manufactured as in the method of any of Clauses 60-95; providing an upper for the article of footwear; and securing the footwear structure and the upper to one another to form the article of footwear.

[0393] The foregoing description of embodiments has been presented for the purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the specification to the precise form disclosed. Individual elements or features of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment, but, where appropriate, are interchangeable with other elements or features of another embodiment, even if not specifically shown or described. The individual elements or features of a particular embodiment can be altered even though not specifically shown or described. Such alterations of the individual elements or features are not to be considered departures from the scope of the specification, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the specification.

Claims

1. A sole structure for an article of footwear, the sole structure comprising: a first midsole portion including a first series of peaks and a first series of valleys, a first peak of the first series of peaks having a different shape than other peaks of the first series of peaks, and the first peak of the first series of peaks having a shorter height than other peaks of the first series of peaks; a second midsole portion including a second series of peaks and a second series of valleys, a first valley of the second series of valleys having a different shape than other valleys of the second series of valleys, and the first valley of the second series of valleys having a shorter depth than other valleys of the second series of valleys, the first peak and the first valley being disposed in a midfoot region of the sole structure; and a sheet disposed between the first midsole portion and the second midsole portion, the sheet conforming to a shape of the first series of peaks and the first series of valleys, and conforming to a shape of the second series of peaks and the second series of valleys. the sheet includes a first aperture formed through a thickness of the sheet.

2. The sole structure of Claim 1, wherein, the first midsole portion is in contact with the second midsole portion at the first aperture.

3. The sole structure of Claim 2, wherein, the first midsole portion is attached to the second midsole portion at the first aperture.

4. The sole structure of Claim 2, wherein, the first peak extends into the first aperture.

5. The sole structure of claim 2, wherein, the first peak is in contact with the first valley at the first aperture.

6. The sole structure of Claim 5, wherein, the first peak is attached to the first valley at the first aperture.

7. The sole structure of claim 5, wherein, the first aperture is elongated.

8. The sole structure of claim 2, wherein, the first aperture includes a longitudinal axis that is substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the sole structure.

9. The sole structure of claim 2, wherein, 10. An article of footwear incorporating the sole structure of claim 1. ​

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