A sole including a reinforcing structure, a shoe having such a sole, and a method of manufacturing such an article

Abstract

This invention relates to a sole for shoes, particularly running shoes. The invention also relates to a shoe, particularly a running shoe, including such a sole. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method of manufacturing such an article. A sole for shoes, particularly running shoes, is provided, comprising at least two reinforcing members extending at least in the forefoot portion of the sole, and at least two leaf members also extending at least in the forefoot portion of the sole. The reinforcing members define a first layer within the sole, and the leaf members define a second layer within the sole, wherein the first and second layers are at least partially displaced from each other in the vertical direction.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a sole for a shoe, in particular a running shoe. The present invention also relates to a shoe, in particular a running shoe, comprising such a sole. The present invention also relates to a method for manufacturing such an article. BACKGROUND

[0002] Sole generally has many different functions, such as cushioning the impact forces generated when the foot strikes the ground and providing traction to avoid slipping of the wearer's foot. The role that a sole generally plays is to provide a certain degree of stability to the wearer's foot, thereby reducing the risk of spraining the ankle or other types of injuries, such as plantar fasciitis or muscle overloading, etc. Another function of a sole, in particular for performance footwear such as running shoes, is to promote a good transmission of force from the runner's leg through their foot to the ground and an efficient way of running in order to improve the runner's performance.

[0003] To address the above-mentioned stability and performance issues in running shoes, shoe core spacer elements, torsion systems, shinguards, etc. have been considered. However, one drawback of these structures is that they result in shoes having a high rigidity and stiffness, leading to a running experience that is not very ergonomic. It is also observed that the footwear structures known in the prior art do not adapt to specific anatomical landmarks in the foot. Such structures tend to artificially limit and constrain the foot in one plane, allowing only a fixed degree of movement and unnatural push-off when running. This can result in tensioning or using the joints in the leg and foot in a way that can lead to discomfort or even injuries in the long run.

[0004] On the other hand, a stabilizing element having five stabilizing members extending from a connecting member is known from US 6,968,637 B1. However, this stabilizing element is located mainly in the midfoot region. This inevitably goes along with the problem of insufficient support in the toe-off region of the sole, which is an important factor, for example, when dynamically and energy-efficiently pushing off the foot during running.

[0005] US 2005 / 0268489 A1 describes a resilient shoe lifting device comprising a series of levers stabilized by a rod and integrally molded into a sole structure.

[0006] EP 1 906 783 B1 describes a sole comprising at least three elongated elements longitudinally oriented within a horizontal plane of the sole and adapted to increase in rigidity in response to an increase in longitudinal tension of the sole.

[0007] US 6,502,330 B1 describes a sole comprising a reinforcing member in the form of a closed loop resting around the area on which the heel of the foot rests and extending forward in the form of two branches extending along two edges of the sole, at least up to the area of the first and fifth metatarsal heads.

[0008] On the basis of this prior art, the problem of the present invention is to provide a reinforcing structure for a sole of a shoe, in particular a running shoe, which improves and overcomes at least some of the drawbacks of the known structures described above. A particular object of the present invention is to provide a reinforcing structure which allows a better consideration of the physiology of the foot of the wearer and which contributes to a natural and pleasant running experience and to a reduction of the risk of injuries. Another problem addressed by the present invention is to provide a method for manufacturing such a reinforcing structure and / or sole. SUMMARY

[0009] The different (but combinable) aspects of the present invention address the problems described above and solve them at least partially.

[0010] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a sole for a shoe is provided.

[0011] In particular, the sole can be used in a running shoe. However, the sole can also be used in different types of shoes, in particular other types of sports shoes, and its use is not limited to running shoes. For example, the sole can be used in track shoes, long jump shoes, sprint or short distance track shoes, hurdling shoes, middle or long distance track shoes, etc.

[0012] In one embodiment, the sole comprises at least two reinforcing members extending in the front half of the sole, wherein the reinforcing members are adapted to be deflected independently by forces acting on the sole during a gait cycle.

[0013] It can be desirable to provide sufficient stiffness and cushioning around the toe region of the foot to reduce movement and fatigue and also to provide sufficient stiffness and cushioning at the metatarsophalangeal joint (MTP joint) and the 1st metatarsal to avoid stress overload. By extending in the front half of the sole, the reinforcing members can adequately support and stabilize the toes and the toe joints, which are under high loads during running, thereby contributing to a reduction of overload on key anatomical landmarks and muscle groups.

[0014] The reinforcing members can further contribute to a reduction of the eccentric work generated during running, which in turn can contribute to a reduction of the energy lost by the athlete, which can reduce the work done at the MTP joint, the knee joint, the ankle joint and the hip joint. The less work done means less fatigue for the wearer of such a shoe and less injury from overuse or overloading. Unlike the previously known rigid or monolithic elements of the prior art, the reinforcing members can also cater to the anatomy and physiology of the foot.

[0015] Furthermore, when acting together, the stiffening members can also provide a stable platform for the foot to land on, giving the user a smooth running experience. The stability can be obtained, for example, by the stiffening members' rigid rod-like or tube-like structure.

[0016] In summary, the stiffening members according to the present invention take into account the human foot structure and its anatomy to provide biomechanical protection, motion and simplicity. In other words, the present invention takes its inspiration from the human foot itself: by complementing the natural shape and anatomy of the foot, it improves the foot's contact with the ground, increases the smoothness of the roll and reduces the impact forces, thereby reducing the overloading on the foot's structure and muscle groups. This can help the wearer to achieve a smoother and more natural running gait.

[0017] Furthermore, by having a plurality of stiffening members and having each stiffening member react and respond to the forces generated during the gait cycle independently, the stiffening function of the stiffening members can be controlled in more detail and adapted to the specific needs of the runner compared to using a simple single stiffening element. The individual stiffening members can cater to specific anatomical landmarks in the foot, such as each individual metatarsal structure. For example, the stiffness of each stiffening member can cater to these anatomical landmarks. In summary, using individual stiffening members, alone and / or working together with each other, can allow for stabilizing the sole and shoe in the longitudinal direction, while also allowing for biomechanically preferred movements of the foot, ankle and surrounding substructures during the support phase of the gait cycle when running.

[0018] Another benefit of using the disclosed stiffening members is that they can allow for a more controlled movement of the foot from lateral to medial and vice versa, where the stiffening members can preferably hang in the midsole material such as soft foam material. Since each stiffening member element can move independently of the other stiffening member elements, the foot will not move and twist quickly, but rather a "controlled freedom" is provided. The following analogy can be used to further illustrate this effect: when playing the piano with five fingers, each finger can strike a key without pressing the other keys, thus allowing for a movement from left to right at a slower pace and with greater control over each key. On the other hand, if a single monolithic structure, such as a flat rod or plate, is used instead of five individual fingers, there is little control over how many keys are pressed, and in fact, it is likely that it will only be possible to press all the individual keys simultaneously. Similarly, with the aid of the individual stiffening members of the present invention, each member can be individually activated from lateral to medial during running to create a smooth and stable ride, whereas a monolithic structure is activated all at once, thus likely being less stable and providing less controllability.

[0019] At this location, it is emphasized that for the reinforcement members different geometrical shapes and cross-sectional shapes are possible. The cross-sectional shape can also vary along different sections of a given reinforcement member and / or it can vary between different reinforcement members. Examples of possible cross-sectional shapes of the reinforcement members or sections of the reinforcement members include, but are not limited to, circular, elliptical, prismatic, trapezoidal, square, rectangular, and the reinforcement members can be rod-like / tube-like or plate-like (or comprise sections with such shapes), as will be discussed in more detail in the remainder of this document.

[0020] Each reinforcement member can comprise a non-linear section.

[0021] In this context, "non-linear" means not extending along a straight line. In other words, each reinforcement member can have a curved or bent section. For example, kinks or sharp bends are also possible, but are generally less preferred.

[0022] For reinforcement members with e.g. circular cross-sections, it is clear how to determine whether they follow a straight line or not. However, for reinforcement members with different cross-sections, such as plate-like reinforcement members as further discussed below, the term "flow-line of the reinforcement member" will be used below to describe the general shape and geometry of the reinforcement member. The flow-line of a given reinforcement member can be considered as the line that passes through the "center" of the reinforcement member (or through the center of each section of the reinforcement member, if the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcement member varies over different sections of the reinforcement member).

[0023] Mathematically, a more rigorous way of defining the flow-line of a reinforcement member, without taking into account the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcement member, is for example to longitudinally divide the reinforcement member into a plurality of slices of constant thickness (e.g. 1 mm, or 2 mm, or 5 mm, etc. depending on the desired accuracy), to determine the center of mass of each slice and mark it with a dot, to splice the reinforcement member back together, and to connect all the so-determined dots. The resulting line can then be considered as the flow-line of the reinforcement member. While the above-described procedure can in principle be performed "physically" by actually cutting the reinforcement member into pieces, it will generally be performed "virtually" using computer simulations without having to destroy the reinforcement member. Suitable procedures and equipment for this purpose (e.g. 3D scanners) are known to the person skilled in the art and will not be further discussed here.

[0024] Thus, regardless of the cross-section of the reinforcement member, the center line or flow-line of a non-linear reinforcement member does not follow a straight line.

[0025] However, in addition to one or more non-linear sections, a given reinforcing member can also comprise one or more linear (i.e. straight) sections, or the entire reinforcing member can be non-linear. Linear and non-linear sections can also alternate. Moreover, reinforcing members with and without such straight sections can also be combined within a sole. These statements remain applicable to the following discussion, where more specific shapes and geometries of the reinforcing members are discussed, even if not explicitly repeated again.

[0026] The use of non-linear portions in the reinforcing members allows the reinforcing members to, for example, follow the general shape and anatomy of the foot, and thus provide adequate support, stability and guidance of the foot and surrounding substructures, thereby helping to prevent injuries, joint overloading and fatigue, and generally promoting good rolling behavior of the sole.

[0027] For example, each reinforcing member can comprise a section having a concave shape in a side view of the sole (when the sole is resting in an unstressed state on a flat ground or table without being bent or twisted, and viewed from the medial or posterior side).

[0028] In the context of the present disclosure, a "concave shape" is understood as a shape similar to that of a bowl, or a dish, or a spoon, i.e. a shape in which water would collect without being drained.

[0029] Thus, as can be seen from the figures, the reinforcing members can provide a "bowl shape" or "dish shape" or "spoon shape" in the front half of the foot, in which the toes, in particular the metatarsal bones and the metatarsophalangeal joints (MTP joints) can rest, thereby avoiding, for example, pressure points. Moreover, such a geometry is particularly helpful to allow the metatarsal and phalangeal structures to be guided in an anatomically effective position in support phase, and to increase the moment arm between the ankle and the ground when the toes are off the ground. Such a geometry also reduces the braking force that is attenuated at each MTP joint, and can help prevent injuries during the support phase of the gait cycle during running.

[0030] To further promote these effects, the reinforcing members can curve in a smooth and continuous manner across the entire front half of the foot, for example, their geometry (e.g. as defined by their flow lines) can follow at least an approximately circular arc (which can be different arc / circle for different reinforcing members). This can allow a very smooth rolling or striding, i.e. a rolling motion, from the heel to the toes during running, as a circle is a very efficient shape for motion, and thus provides a very efficient motion channel as it rolls effortlessly.

[0031] Each reinforcing member can have a shape comprising local low points with respect to the horizontal plane, wherein each said low point is located in the front half of the sole.

[0032] The term "horizontal plane" is used to refer to a plane parallel to the flat ground when the sole of the shoe is on a flat surface and is not bent or twisted, that is, when no force is applied.

[0033] For example, considering again the streamlines of the reinforcing member defined above, each of these streamlines, according to the options discussed here, passes through a local low point in the front half of the sole. "Local" means that the low point is not an extended area, but rather a identifiable point. In other words, the reinforcing member moves upwards on either side of the low point.

[0034] Each of the aforementioned low points may be located in the area between the midfoot region and the toe region of the sole. More specifically, each of the aforementioned low points may be located in the region of the MTP joint.

[0035] The low point of the reinforcing member corresponds to the low point of the bone structure, and the anatomy of the foot again helps to provide sufficient support for the foot and form a stable structure to reduce overload on muscles and tendons during running.

[0036] Each of the aforementioned low points may be located at a distance of at least 5 mm below a plane tangent to the upper side of the structure formed by the reinforcing member, preferably at least 8 mm.

[0037] The distance from this (conceptual) plane describes the "depth" of the "disc" formed by the reinforcing members in the forefoot. This depth can be selected based on several factors, such as the overall size of the sole (generally, the larger the sole, the greater the depth). However, because the present invention uses individual reinforcing members, the depth of each individual reinforcing member can also be independently selected and adapted, which allows for particularly fine-tuning control of the sole's characteristics. The mentioned minimum values ​​provide sufficient depth to ensure a comfortable wearing experience and avoid fatigue, for example, and they also allow the forefoot anatomy to "settle" into the reinforced structure provided by the reinforcing members. The depth of the low point can also be adjusted according to the intended activity provided by the sole and the shoe. For example, a greater depth can be selected for activities that require or favor greater stability. The depth of the low point can be further adjusted to accommodate the desired stacking height of the midsole; for example, if a thinner midsole is required, the depth of the low point can be selected to be slightly smaller.

[0038] The distance between the cut surface and each of the said low points can be the same or at least approximately the same to provide constant roll-off behavior across the entire width of the sole, which can improve stability during roll-off and push-off and help avoid, for example, forefoot joint injuries and fatigue.

[0039] However, the distance between the cut surface and each of the said low points can also depend on the position of the corresponding low point relative to the outer or inner edge of the sole.

[0040] In other words, the depth of each low point can vary across the sole from the medial side to the lateral side.

[0041] In one example, the depth of the low points on the medial and lateral edges of the sole can be less than the middle of the sole, such that the reinforcing structure provided by the reinforcing members not only has a curvature in the side view of the sole and in the longitudinal direction, but also in the medial-to-lateral direction.

[0042] In another example, the depth of the low points gradually increases from the medial side towards the lateral side. This structure can be advantageous because it can allow for a greater external hip rotation angle, which can increase the gluteal activity through the last ground contact point. It can thus redistribute positive work contribution from the lower limbs to improve running efficiency. This shape can also direct the forefoot to evert slightly more, which can improve the activity of the hallux and allow the center of pressure to have a more linear translation in the direction of motion when the toes leave the ground.

[0043] In summary, since the preferred low points are aligned with the position of anatomical landmarks of the foot, such as the MTP joints, as described above, and since these are generally person-specific in terms of position and / or depth, the option of individually and independently selecting the position and / or depth of each low point provides a high degree of customizability, which is very difficult, if not impossible, to achieve using the overall stabilizing structures known in the art.

[0044] The section of each reinforcing member having a non-linear shape can extend at least from the midfoot region to the toe region of the sole.

[0045] The region from the toes to the midfoot is particularly important for the toe-off or kick-off of the foot, and it is therefore particularly supported by the reinforcing structure of the sole of the invention. Avoiding straight lines, i.e. linear reinforcing members, in this region helps to promote the natural roll and kick-off motion of the foot, while still providing the necessary stability and stiffness to allow for less stress and fatigue on the lower limbs and to reduce the eccentric work done by the athlete.

[0046] The reinforcing members, or at least some of them, can also extend backwards beyond the midfoot region and into the heel region of the sole (further details on this possibility are discussed below in relation to the second aspect of the invention).

[0047] In this heel region, the reinforcing members can also be curved and non-linear, or they can be straight or at least more straight, since the hindfoot region generally does not experience as much flexion as the midfoot and toe regions. Therefore, the use of approximately straight sections as reinforcing members can be beneficial to provide a high degree of stability during heel strike.

[0048] However, in some cases (e.g. depending on the intended field of use of the sole), it can also be preferred that the reinforcing members do not extend backwards beyond the protrusion of the calcaneus, as the heel can require more solid support than the toes. In the heel region, there is primarily one bone in contact with the support, namely the calcaneus, whereas during the transition to the forefoot region, these bones typically act independently of each other. Thus, while the individual reinforcing members supporting the midfoot region and in particular the forefoot region are adapted to move independently of each other, they can leave room for a more solid support structure in the heel region, such as the load distribution member discussed further below.

[0049] The reinforcing members can be plate-like members.

[0050] In this context, "plate-like" can refer to having a small vertical thickness compared to the longitudinal and transverse extension of the member. Plate-like reinforcing members can be beneficial as they provide a large surface area on which the foot can rest, thereby providing a good stability frame for the foot.

[0051] The reinforcing members can also be rod-like and / or tube-like members.

[0052] Rod-like or tube-like members are e.g. members having a (approximately) circular, elliptical, prismatic, trapezoidal, square or rectangular cross-section, where the cross-section is small compared to the longitudinal extension of the member. Rod-like members can be considered as being substantially solid members (i.e. consisting mainly of solid sections), whereas tube-like members can be considered as being substantially hollow members (i.e. consisting mainly of hollow sections).

[0053] Hybrid shapes, located between rod-like / tube-like and plate-like, are also possible, and the cross-sectional shape can also vary along a given reinforcing member (e.g. a given member can have one or more sections that are rod-like / tube-like and one or more sections that are plate-like). Furthermore, it is not necessary that all reinforcing members within a given sole are of the same type and shape, but a mix is also possible.

[0054] As mentioned above, the reinforcing members can comprise solid sections, and the reinforcing members can also comprise hollow sections. Again, this can vary along a given reinforcing member, and in this respect it is not necessary that all reinforcing members within a given sole have the same structure.

[0055] The use of hollow sections, in particular for circular or elliptical tube-like reinforcing members, can allow for providing a particularly light-weight construction, while still providing the necessary degree of reinforcement (stiffening) of the sole.

[0056] On the other hand, the use of solid sections can e.g. allow for purposefully increasing the weight of certain areas or sections of the sole, which can be used to balance the sole and improve the dynamic behaviour of the sole when it experiences accelerations in different directions during the gait cycle.

[0057] The diameter of the reinforcing members can also vary between at least two reinforcing members and / or the diameter of at least one reinforcing member can vary along said reinforcing member.

[0058] In other words, the diameter is another parameter of the reinforcing members which can be varied and adapted to vary the dynamic behavior of the sole as desired. Reinforcing members positioned at locations which bear greater forces during toe-off (e.g. under the first and third toes and the corresponding metatarsal bones) can for example have a greater diameter to bear such forces and provide a high degree of reinforcement in these areas in particular.

[0059] For a circular cross-section, the meaning of the diameter is clear. For other types of geometry of the rod-like or tube-like members, the diameter can for example be the smallest (or alternatively the largest) distance across a cross-section of such a member. For example, for an elliptical cross-section, the diameter can be the length of the minor axis (or alternatively the major axis) of the ellipse. For plate-like reinforcing members, the vertical thickness can serve as a measure of their diameter.

[0060] Furthermore, if the diameters of the relevant members vary along their extension, the above statements regarding the diameter can for example apply to an average diameter obtained by averaging the diameters of the respective members over their longitudinal extension, or to the diameters of the respective members at a particular location within the sole (e.g. defined by a particular cross-sectional plane through the sole).

[0061] For reinforcing members comprising tube-like segments, in addition or alternatively to varying their diameter, their wall thickness can also be modified and adapted to influence their physical properties (e.g. their deformation and stiffness properties and their weight).

[0062] In one particular embodiment of the application, there are five reinforcing members, each corresponding to a respective metatarsal bone. This can provide anatomical support during the rolling of the foot from the lateral to the medial toe-off.

[0063] For example, the five reinforcing members can extend approximately under the metatarsal bones of the foot. However, they need not be precisely located under these bones, but can also be slightly offset to one side or different sides (at least some of them), for example to help shift the center of mass of the sole towards the big toe for maximum take-off efficiency, or to provide a more natural flow which better follows the overall anatomy of the foot.

[0064] In this case, the reinforcing members corresponding to the first and third metatarsal bones can have a higher deflection stiffness than the remaining three reinforcing members.

[0065] This can for example be achieved by the stiffening members corresponding to the first and third metatarsal bones having a larger diameter than the remaining three stiffening members.

[0066] The increased stiffness of the first metatarsal bone is beneficial as this is generally the largest and strongest structure of the five metatarsal bones in the foot and thus has to exert and withstand the highest forces during running. On the other hand, the third metatarsal bone in the center of the foot is naturally located around the center of pressure during the stance phase of the gait cycle of running and thus also benefits from increased support.

[0067] To further promote the beneficial support provided by the present invention, the stiffening members underneath the first metatarsal bone can also extend to the edges of the midsole unit to increase the distance between the ankle joint and the toe-off position, increasing the moment arm in the anterior-posterior axis, i.e. the longitudinal axis. The stiffening members underneath the first metatarsal bone can also have a flattened or tapered end in the area underneath the big toe to further promote this effect.

[0068] The stiffening members can comprise carbon fiber, carbon fiber composite material and / or glass fiber composite material. An example of a suitable carbon fiber composite material is for example a polyamide material infused with carbon fibers, an example of a suitable glass fiber composite material is for example a polyamide material infused with glass fibers.

[0069] These materials can be preferred as they provide high stability and stiffness while having a relatively low weight.

[0070] However, other kinds of materials for the stiffening members, such as metals, or wood, or injection molded plastic materials, are also possible and encompassed by the present invention.

[0071] Furthermore, the material composition can vary between different stiffening members and / or along a given stiffening member, which can also allow different physical properties to be imparted to different stiffening members or different sections of a given stiffening member.

[0072] The stiffening members can be manufactured using a variety of manufacturing methods. Preferred options of these methods include for example: molding (e.g. injection molding), additive manufacturing (e.g. 3D printing) or carbon extrusion.

[0073] Further details of a manufacturing method according to one aspect of the present invention, which allows for the manufacturing of hollow tubular stiffening members, are given below.

[0074] The at least two stiffening members can also be connected by a connecting member.

[0075] This can help to provide some additional stability for the overall stiffening structure provided by the stiffening members, for example in the heel region where heel strikes typically occur. However, the connection provided by the connecting member can be merely supplemental in the sense that it does not impede or at least not completely negate the ability of the stiffening members to independently react and respond to forces acting on the stiffening members during the gait cycle, in particular not in the front half of the foot.

[0076] The connecting member can for example be arranged at or close to the end regions of the stiffening members. The connecting member can for example connect several or all stiffening members close to their rear end to improve the stability of this region (which can be the midfoot region or the heel region depending on the rearward extension of the stiffening members).

[0077] A connection can also be provided in the midfoot region, in particular in the region under the arch of the foot, as this is a very sensitive region of the foot which can require particular support, for example to prevent injuries or fatigue.

[0078] Another possibility is to have a connection between two stiffening members closest to the medial side of the sole (for example corresponding to the big toe and the second toe of the foot) and close to the front end of these two stiffening members (for example in the region under the toes mentioned above). With a proper positioning and design of such a connection, some additional support can be provided for a stable push-off on the two toes, while the two connected stiffening members can still largely maintain their independence in responding to forces acting during the phase of the gait cycle preceding the actual push-off on the tips of the toes. In any case, by connecting only a pair of stiffening members, the motion independence of the remaining stiffening members, if present, is not impaired.

[0079] The stiffening members can extend substantially along the longitudinal direction of the sole.

[0080] The flow lines of the stiffening members can thus follow the natural flow lines of the foot and the anatomy, and thus provide a particularly good support for reducing overloading on the lower limbs. Also, the rolling of the foot mainly occurs along this direction, so that having the stiffening members follow this direction also allows the natural rolling motion to be taken into account by their shape and design.

[0081] In this context, the word "substantially" can be understood to mean that the deviation of the flow lines of the stiffening members from the longitudinal direction is small compared to the length of the stiffening members. To give a specific example, for a stiffening member of 20 cm length, a deviation of the flow lines of the member from the longitudinal direction (i.e. a "lateral motion") of up to 1 cm, or up to 2 cm, or even up to 5 cm, can still be considered as a "substantial" longitudinal extension of the member.

[0082] The stiffening members can be arranged next to each other along the medial to lateral direction.

[0083] This can contribute to providing a support frame on which the wearer's foot can rest and be well supported and is also beneficial from a structural point of view, as the thickness of the sole can be kept within, for example, an acceptable range.

[0084] This also facilitates the option that the reinforcing members can be connected to the web material.

[0085] Such a web material can further increase the overall stability of the reinforcing structure provided by the reinforcing members, while still at least largely maintaining their individual ability to deflect, i.e. to react and respond to acting forces, individually.

[0086] The reinforcing members can advantageously be further designed in accordance with and adapted to the needs of the wearer, such as the running speed, running style and anatomy of the athlete, as well as the running distance. This customization can involve varying the stiffness, length, material composition, cross-section, elasticity, plasticity, etc. of the individual reinforcing members as needed.

[0087] For example, by using more plastic materials to manufacture the reinforcing members, the shape of the reinforcing members can be customized according to the gait pattern of the runner, thus adapting the structure of the midsole including the reinforcing members to the actual individual anatomical features of the runner.

[0088] In another example, more elastic reinforcing members will maintain their original shape and provide better energy return, facilitating the take-off phase in a smoother way, thus reducing the load and stress at the lower joints, in particular the MTP joint and the ankle joint.

[0089] The sole can further comprise a load distribution member arranged in the rear half of the sole, preferably in the heel region of the sole.

[0090] As the name suggests, such a load distribution member can serve to distribute the large forces generated, for example, during heel strike, to a larger area of the foot and the sole, to save the joints of the runner and also to improve the stability of the heel strike to avoid injuries and ankle sprains. More specifically, the load distribution member can help to distribute the forces generated during the impact from the lower limb to the sole from the calcaneus to prevent all forces being distributed directly under the origin of the plantar fascia and to help distribute the forces over the entire surface area of the calcaneus. To enhance this effect, the load distribution member can be slightly curved rather than completely flat, as this can allow the foot to sit on the load distribution member in a more ergonomic way and it can also allow the medial / lateral forces to be absorbed by the load distribution member (due to its upward curvature) and from there to be distributed into the midsole material.

[0091] The load distribution member can in particular comprise, or be configured as, a load distribution plate to provide a particularly high degree of load distribution while keeping the weight low. Due to the reasons just discussed above, the plate can be curved, for example upwards at its edges.

[0092] For example, the load distribution member in the form of a heel plate can help to ensure stability of the ankle joint under ground reaction when the foot strikes during running, which in turn can help to reduce overloading of the ankle.

[0093] To reduce the weight, the load distribution member can further comprise carbon fiber, carbon fiber composite material, and / or glass fiber composite material. An example of a suitable carbon fiber composite material is for example a polyamide material infused with carbon fibers, and an example of a suitable glass fiber composite material is for example a polyamide material infused with glass fibers. As mentioned above, these materials provide a particularly beneficial combination of high stability and stiffness and low weight.

[0094] The load distribution member can further extend further upwards into the sole and into the midfoot region of the sole.

[0095] The load distribution member can thus also help to support the arch of the foot, which is a particularly sensitive area of the foot, and distribute the forces and pressure loads acting on the arch to avoid fatigue and injury, and to promote a comfortable wearing sensation and good overall stability of the sole.

[0096] The reinforcing member and the load distribution member can also at least partially overlap.

[0097] In this context, the term “overlap” refers to a vertical projection or plan view of the sole. If from this perspective a part of the reinforcing member is located below or above the load distribution member. The term “overlap” does not imply that the reinforcing member and the load distribution member need to be in contact with each other or even connected to each other (although this is often also possible).

[0098] On the one hand, this overlap can provide a certain degree of interlocking between the rear and front half of the foot, again contributing to high overall stability and desired reinforcement to promote dynamic running motion. In other words, even if the reinforcing member and the load distribution member are not necessarily physically connected, the overlap can have the effect that the load distribution member, once a load is applied, evenly transfers the force to the reinforcing member (for example, through an intermediate midsole material), thereby helping to maintain sufficient longitudinal support and also to create a high level of stability in the midfoot region, which is associated with a reduced risk of injuries caused for example by twisting of the foot. If a stronger force transfer is desired, the reinforcing member and the load distribution member can also be physically connected, for example through one or more connectors or connecting wings or flaps.

[0099] On the other hand, the overlap can also contribute to the transition of the foot from the heel plate in the heel area towards the stiffening member in the forefoot area and can thus result in a comfortable fit in the arch area.

[0100] In some cases (e.g. depending on the intended field of application of the sole or shoe) it can be preferred that the stiffening member and the load distribution member are independent elements, even though a physical connection is in principle possible, as already explained above.

[0101] While this can reduce the above-mentioned interlocking, it contributes to maintaining the independence of the individual stiffening members in reacting and responding to forces of action, which has been discussed above as a beneficial feature of the invention.

[0102] As an alternative or in addition to the load distribution member arranged in the rear half of the sole, the sole can also comprise a forefoot support plate arranged in the front half of the foot, preferably in the toe area of the sole.

[0103] The forefoot support plate can be curved, e.g. upwards at its edges. The stiffening member can comprise carbon fiber, carbon fiber composite material and / or glass fiber composite material. An example of a suitable carbon fiber composite material is e.g. a polyamide material infused with carbon fibers, an example of a suitable glass fiber composite material is e.g. a polyamide material infused with glass fibers. These materials provide a particularly beneficial combination of high stability and stiffness and low weight.

[0104] The forefoot support plate can also extend further upwards into the sole and into the midfoot area of the sole, in particular into the arch area, and the stiffening member and the forefoot support plate can also at least partially overlap.

[0105] In particular, the forefoot support plate can be provided as a floor plate forming part of the outsole or ground contact surface of the sole and be arranged underneath the stiffening member, and it can e.g. provide a receptacle for mounting a cleat or stud.

[0106] The forefoot support plate can be connected to one or more stiffening members by one or more connectors or wings. For example, two stiffening members at the medial and lateral edges of the sole can be connected to the forefoot support plate, or four of the five stiffening members can be connected to the forefoot support plate.

[0107] Between the forefoot support plate and the stiffening member, there can be a layer of foam or cushioning (or several such layers of different materials), as will now be discussed.

[0108] The stiffening member can be at least partially embedded in the midsole of the sole. The midsole can further comprise a polymeric foam material. The stiffening member can also be completely embedded in the midsole.

[0109] Embedding the reinforcing members (partially or completely) within the midsole, in particular a foam midsole, offers a number of benefits:

[0110] Firstly, by embedding the reinforcing members, additional fastening means or structures can not be necessary, and even the use of adhesives or glue can not be necessary (although this is also possible within the scope of the invention), as the reinforcing members are simply held in place by the surrounding midsole material. This is advantageous for manufacturing and makes the overall sole more environmentally friendly. The more the reinforcing members are surrounded by midsole material, generally the better they are fixed, i.e. if the reinforcing members are completely embedded in the midsole, their fixation by the midsole material is generally the best.

[0111] Secondly, by embedding the reinforcing members at least partially in the midsole, the reinforcing members can be kept from direct contact with the wearer's foot and the ground. The former can be unpleasant and uncomfortable, while the latter can reduce the coefficient of adhesion and cause the sole to slip when, for example, stepping on a tree root or a stone, due to the relative rigidity of the reinforcing members. From this perspective, it is acceptable for example for some segments of the reinforcing members at the sidewalls of the sole to be exposed, while it can be undesirable for the reinforcing members at the top or bottom side of the sole to be exposed. However, it is also possible for the reinforcing members to be at least partially exposed from the top or bottom side of the sole if this is required for aesthetic, technical or fitting reasons.

[0112] The use of foam material for the midsole helps to keep the weight of the sole low, while providing good cushioning and shock-absorbing properties.

[0113] The midsole can comprise a particle foam. In particular, the midsole can comprise a particle foam comprising particles of one or more of the following materials: expanded thermoplastic polyurethane (eTPU), expanded polyamide (ePA), expanded polyether block amide (ePEBA), expanded thermoplastic polyester ether elastomer (eTPEE).

[0114] These materials are particularly suitable for performance footwear such as running shoes, as they have a relatively low weight, a high lifespan, good temperature stability (i.e. they maintain their cushioning and energy return properties over a large temperature range) and a high cushioning and energy return to the runner. In particular, with regard to the option of using ePEBA particle foam, this particular advantage of this particle foam is that it allows similar performance levels to be achieved with a lower weight than with other particle foams.

[0115] Alternatively or additionally, the following materials can be used, alone or in combination, for the particles of the particle foam midsole: expanded polylactide (ePLA), expanded polyethylene terephthalate (ePET), expanded polybutylene terephthalate (ePPBT) and expanded thermoplastic olefin (eTPO).

[0116] As an alternative or in addition to the granular foam material, the midsole can also comprise a homogenous foam material.

[0117] Examples of such materials are ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), injection molded TPU, TPEE, polyamide, PEBA or other suitable materials. Such materials can be used because they are cheaper and / or easier to process in some aspects than granular foam. For example, for injection molding, where a liquid material is injected into a mold cavity under high pressure, a uniform distribution of the midsole material around the reinforcing member can be more easily obtained than with a granular substrate material that can stick.

[0118] Likewise, granular foam and homogenous foam materials can also be combined in the midsole, and in particular, different materials can be used in different locations and / or layers in the midsole to provide different properties to the respective areas or layers.

[0119] Alternatively or in addition to the use of foam materials for the midsole, other materials and manufacturing options can also be used, and what is described above with respect to embedding the reinforcing member within a foam midsole can also apply to such other midsole options, as far as physically and technically feasible. For example, the midsole can comprise or consist of a lattice structure, e.g. an additively manufactured lattice structure (e.g. a structure made using a 3D printing process or a laser sintering process or a stereolithography process), which can be tailored for long distance running shoes, where high cushioning is preferred, and sprint spikes or short distance running shoes, where high cushioning is not necessarily required, but high stiffness and anatomical guidance of the foot during ground contact are beneficial.

[0120] The midsole can comprise a lower midsole portion and an upper midsole portion, with the reinforcing member positioned between the lower midsole portion and the upper midsole portion.

[0121] This can facilitate assembly of the sole, as the upper and lower portions can first be manufactured separately, and the reinforcing member is then arranged between the two. This can be relevant, for example, when using granular foam, as a uniform distribution of the granules around the reinforcing member can not always be easily achieved during manufacturing, especially if the reinforcing member is "dense" within the midsole and does not provide sufficient openings for the granules to pass through during mold loading. By manufacturing the upper midsole portion and the lower midsole portion separately, such issues can be avoided. However, this approach can also be beneficial if the midsole uses other materials and / or manufacturing options, such as the lattice structure described above.

[0122] Furthermore, the use of separate upper and lower portions can also be used to provide different physical and performance properties for different parts of the midsole. For example, the lower portion can be manufactured to be more wear resistant and stable, while the upper portion can be specifically targeted towards cushioning and shock absorption, to name one possible example.

[0123] This structure with an upper midsole portion and a lower midsole portion can also be used for further advantages, as the stiffening members and the load distribution member can be separated by the upper midsole portion (and similarly, if desired, for the forefoot support plate and e.g. the lower midsole portion).

[0124] For example, the upper midsole portion can be arranged substantially on top of the stiffening members, and the load distribution member can then be placed on top or partially or completely embedded in the top side of the upper midsole portion. As mentioned above, it can be preferred for certain applications that the stiffening members and the load distribution member remain as separate elements, while still providing a certain degree of functional interlocking, and by using the upper midsole portion as an intermediate element, the two requirements can advantageously be balanced with each other.

[0125] To repeat this again, the load distribution member can be at least partially embedded within the upper midsole portion.

[0126] However, it is again emphasized that the functional interlocking between the stiffening members and the load distribution member / forefoot support plate can also be achieved in other ways, e.g. the load distribution member / forefoot support plate can have portions that extend into the space between the stiffening members and / or connect to some or all of the stiffening members.

[0127] In addition to the functional interlocking with the stiffening members described above, embedding the load distribution member within the upper midsole portion can also help to keep the load distribution member in place and also prevent the load distribution member from coming into direct contact with the runner's foot or at least prevent the load distribution member from protruding from the sole, likewise similar statements apply for the forefoot support plate and the lower midsole portion.

[0128] However, it should be mentioned that in all these structures, the stiffening members can retain their ability to move independently with respect to the other stiffening members, thereby being able to "adhere" to the anatomical and biomechanical properties of the individual wearer's foot.

[0129] Alternatively or additionally, in addition to embedding the load distribution member (partially or completely) within the upper midsole portion, the sole can also comprise an insole.

[0130] If the above-mentioned advantages have not yet been achieved by embedding the load distribution member in the upper midsole portion, the insole can be arranged on top of the upper midsole portion and at least partially cover the load distribution member to achieve the above directly mentioned advantages.

[0131] It should also be emphasized that the insole can also be used in the sole of the present invention without having the load distribution member. The insole can also typically be used as the upper midsole portion, for example, to reduce the manufacturing complexity associated with embedding the reinforcing member within the midsole. The reinforcing member can for example be placed in the lower midsole "shell" and then the insole is simply added on top to serve as a "lid" to cover and contain the reinforcing member within the sole. Another benefit of using the insole is that it can reduce the thickness of the upper midsole portion or midsole and compensate for the loss of cushioning, then a high insole with good cushioning properties can be included (for example, an insole using eTPU granular foam). In other words, the insole can provide a further degree of cushioning to the sole. Or it can provide a further degree of stability to the sole. Yet another option is that in order to have replaceable elements in a pair of shoes, for example, if the shoes get wet from rain or sweat, the insole can simply be expected, at which point the insole can be replaced by a dry pair, without having to replace the entire pair of shoes. The insole can further help reduce eccentric forces and muscle injuries after long-term use, for example, after long runs.

[0132] The sole can further comprise an outsole.

[0133] This can help to increase the coefficient of friction and also provide improved wear resistance, so the sole and shoe have a longer life.

[0134] Although the possible features, options and modifications of the sole according to the first aspect of the present invention have been described above in a specific order, it is emphasized that this is not intended to express some kind of dependency between the described features and options (unless otherwise stated). On the contrary, different features and options can also be combined with each other in different orders and arrangements, as long as this is physically and technically feasible, and such a combination of features or even sub-features is also covered by the present invention. If the above individual features or sub-features are not essential for obtaining the desired technical effect, they can be omitted.

[0135] To briefly summarize and further expand on the aspects, embodiments and options of the present invention discussed so far, the present invention in particular provides a lightweight reinforcing structure with tubular or rod-like members that can help eliminate support material that can not be needed in the sole and can help eliminate open areas on the footwear bottom unit or upper that require different effects. By using different compounds for the hollow or solid, i.e. tubular or rod-like members, these members can be used according to the deformation and reactivity of the material used to enhance the propulsion or shock absorption of the sole.

[0136] Lightweight, hollow or solid, i.e. tubular or rod-like members can also be adjusted in size and profile and by changing the orientation of the profile and the width of the members they can be adjusted to different needs of the sole and shoe. By changing their geometry and using materials from soft to hard, they can be designed from very hard to very flexible to create the application system. The visual of the resulting reinforcement structure also supports its meaning, thus becoming unique and intuitively understandable for the customer. The invention helps for example to see the torsional ability, the heel impact, the shock absorption, the forefoot propulsion, the guidance along the pressure center, the banking, the heel-upper support, the ankle / midfoot support and locking and it can become or provide new suspension / cushioning technologies of different categories, for example the suspension strut technology for American football or non-slip shoes.

[0137] The addition of additional flexible or elastic fibers / fabrics / composites to the reinforcement structure of the invention with tubular or rod-like members also provides the possibility to create a "trampoline effect" in the shoe, which can be used to provide a new type of midsole-upper structure, for example, again flexible materials are used for the tubular / rod-like members.

[0138] The second aspect of the invention also relates to a sole for a shoe.

[0139] Likewise, the sole can be used for running shoes. However, the sole can also be used for different types of shoes, in particular other types of sports shoes, and its use is not limited to running shoes. For example, the sole can be used for track and field shoes, long jump shoes, sprint or short distance track shoes, hurdling shoes, middle or long distance track shoes, etc.

[0140] Furthermore, it is emphasized that all options, modifications and embodiments discussed herein with respect to the first aspect and / or the third aspect of the invention (see below) can also be used within the context of and in combination with any and all embodiments of the second aspect of the invention (as far as technically and physically possible), and vice versa, even if not explicitly discussed. For the sake of conciseness, therefore, only some selected such options and combinations are mentioned and described in more detail below, to provide a better understanding of the scope of the invention and disclosure. With respect to the respective technical advantages, we refer to the above and below statements which also apply in the context of the second aspect of the invention.

[0141] In one embodiment, the sole according to this second aspect comprises at least two reinforcement members extending in the front half of the sole, wherein at least a first one of the reinforcement members (for the sake of clarity, referred to in the following as "first reinforcement member") further extends backwards beyond the midfoot region and into the heel region of the sole and wraps upwards to a rear portion of the ankle region.

[0142] Preferably, the second one of the reinforcing members (hereinafter referred to as "second reinforcing member" for clarity) also extends rearward beyond the midfoot region and into the heel region of the sole and wraps upward to the rear portion of the ankle region.

[0143] The second aspect of the present application provides in particular the possibility to provide a reinforcing structure with hollow and / or solid, i.e. tubular and / or rod-like reinforcing members, which can be manufactured from, for example, carbon fiber composite material or carbon infused polyamide material and which can be located in the midsole of the shoe, directly under the metatarsal bones, stretch back to the rear foot and wrap upward to the rear portion of the ankle / calcaneus region, thereby providing a uniform stiffness which can create an optimized ankle-lever during fast running.

[0144] One key function of such a reinforcing structure according to the second aspect of the present application is to increase the longitudinal bending stiffness of the overall shoe and to allow biomechanically preferred movements of the foot, ankle and surrounding substructures during the support phase of the gait cycle while running. The reinforcing members can have similar stiffness but unequal geometry, with adjustable diameter / wall thickness and they can be hollow or solid or have such sections as already mentioned. The reinforcing members under the first metatarsal bones can extend to the edges of the midsole unit to increase the distance between the ankle joint and the toe-off position, thereby increasing the moment arm in the anterior-posterior axis.

[0145] The reinforcing structure can also be curved in a smooth and continuous manner, i.e. its geometry (for example, defined by the streamlines of the reinforcing members) can at least approximately follow a circular arc from the rear foot to under the metatarsal heads, thereby allowing sufficient support and guidance of the foot and surrounding substructures. Such a geometry can also reduce the braking force attenuated at the metatarsophalangeal joints and reduce the total work done at this joint during the support phase of the gait cycle during running. Furthermore, such a geometry can allow the metatarsal and phalangeal structures to be guided in an anatomically efficient position in the support phase and also allow an increase in the moment arm between the ankle and the ground when the toes are off the ground. The improvements made by the present application can thus also translate into an increase in the athlete's lifetime, with a reduction in recovery time and a reduction in the risk / rate of injury.

[0146] Another advantage of the reinforcing structure provided is its weight reduction and thus the overall product weight reduction compared to older models. Another advantage is the simplicity of the shoe structure and stock fitting with the midsole material compared to known technologies and structures. Another advantage is that a uniform stiffness from the ankle / calcaneus region to the toe-off region can be provided, which is not uniform on known structures.

[0147] Also, for this second aspect, the reinforcing members can be adapted to deflect independently during the gait cycle by the forces acting on the sole, in particular in the front half of the sole.

[0148] The first reinforcing member can in particular be a medial reinforcing member, and the second reinforcing member can be a lateral reinforcing member.

[0149] The first reinforcing member and the second reinforcing member can be connected together, in particular at the back of the heel.

[0150] The first reinforcing member can further comprise a flat end extending into the area under the first metatarsal phalangeal / hallux.

[0151] The reinforcing members can be rod-like and / or tube-like members. They can consist of or comprise solid and / or hollow sections.

[0152] The diameter of the reinforcing members can vary between at least two of the reinforcing members and / or the diameter of at least one of the reinforcing members can vary along said reinforcing member.

[0153] Alternatively or additionally, in case some or all of the reinforcing members comprise a hollow section, the wall thickness of the hollow section can vary between at least two of the reinforcing members and / or along one or more of the reinforcing members.

[0154] In particular, there can be five reinforcing members, each corresponding to a respective metatarsal bone, wherein preferably the first reinforcing member corresponds to the first metatarsal bone / hallux.

[0155] The reinforcing members corresponding to the first and third metatarsal bones can have a higher flexural stiffness than the remaining three reinforcing members. In this case, the reinforcing members corresponding to the first and third metatarsal bones can have a larger diameter and / or a larger wall thickness than the remaining three reinforcing members.

[0156] A third aspect of the present invention also relates to a sole for a shoe.

[0157] The sole can be used for a running shoe. However, the sole can also be used for different types of shoes, in particular other types of sports shoes, and its use is not limited to running shoes. For example, the sole can be used for track and field shoes, long jump shoes, sprint or short distance track shoes, hurdling shoes, middle or long distance track shoes, etc.

[0158] Furthermore, it is emphasized that all options, modifications and embodiments discussed herein in relation to the first and / or second aspect of the application can also be used in the context of any and all embodiments of the second aspect of the application and in combination with any and all embodiments of the third aspect of the application (as far as technically and physically possible), and vice versa, even if not explicitly discussed. For the sake of conciseness, therefore, only some selected such options and combinations are mentioned and described in more detail below, in order to provide a better understanding of the scope of the application and disclosure. In relation to the respective technical advantages, we again refer to the above and below statements which also apply in the context of the third aspect of the application.

[0159] In one embodiment, the sole according to the third aspect comprises at least two stiffening members extending at least in a front half of the sole, and it further comprises at least two blade members also extending at least in the front half of the sole. The stiffening members define a first layer within the sole, and the blade members define a second layer within the sole, wherein the first and second layers are at least partially displaced from each other in a vertical direction.

[0160] The at least two stiffening members of the third aspect can be, for example, stiffening members as discussed elsewhere in this disclosure, in particular as discussed in the context of the first and / or second aspect of the application, with all respective options and possible features and properties, which are hereby referred to for the sake of conciseness. In particular, the stiffening members can be adapted to independently deflect by forces acting on the sole during a gait cycle, in particular in the front half of the sole.

[0161] The blade members are additional members which complement the stiffening members by defining a second layer which is at least partially vertically displaced from the stiffening members (i.e. above or below the stiffening members), in order to further improve the performance and wearing / perception characteristics of the sole, in particular for soles having a large stack height / thickness. The vertical direction can be understood as, for example, a direction from the ground upwards, e.g. from the ground towards the wearer's foot.

[0162] The terms "first layer" and "second layer" are used herein primarily as a conceptual means to describe the relative spatial arrangement of the reinforcing members with respect to the blade members. The terms do not imply that the respective members need to be physically connected to form a continuous layer of material within the sole (although this is also possible, for example, when the members are connected or glued to a piece of textile material), nor do they imply a certain dimension or extension of the layers (like an extension over the entire area of the sole, although this is also possible). On the other hand, it is envisaged that the reinforcing members are connected or glued to a piece of textile material with any excess material around the outermost members cut away, which is a way of determining the position and extension of the first layer defined by the reinforcing members when there is no actual physical connection between the reinforcing members, and similarly for the second layer defined by the blade members.

[0163] In other words, the first layer can be understood as a (conceptual) surface spanned by the reinforcing members in much the same way as the canopy of an umbrella is spanned and supported by its foldable ribs, and similarly for the second layer and the blade members.

[0164] As mentioned above, the blade members extend at least in the front half of the sole, but they can also extend into the back half of the sole, or they can even extend over the entire back half of the sole. Optionally or additionally, one or more blade members can also protrude beyond the big toe and out of the sole / outside of the shoe. Not all blade members need to have the same (longitudinal) extension, even though this is also an option. Furthermore, all these options can be applied analogously to the reinforcing members.

[0165] All blade members can have the same dimensions (e.g. height, width and / or length), or some of them can have the same dimensions while others do not, or all of them can have different dimensions.

[0166] The same applies to the cross-section of the blade members: all blade members can have the same or similar cross-section (e.g. elliptical), or some of them can have the same or similar cross-section while others do not, or all of them can have different cross-sections. Alternatively or additionally, the cross-section can also vary along a given blade member.

[0167] The blade members can be connected to each other, or some of them can be connected to each other while others are not connected to any other blade member, or all blade members can be separate members. Furthermore, some or all of the blade members can also be connected to a respective reinforcing member or several reinforcing members.

[0168] The number of blade members can be the same as or different from the number of stiffening members. For example, there can be five stiffening members (e.g. one associated with each of the metatarsal bones), but only three blade members.

[0169] Similar to the stiffening members, the blade members can be arranged mainly or even essentially along the longitudinal direction of the sole when viewed from above (i.e. in a top view of the sole), i.e. they can extend approximately in a direction from the proximal end to the distal end of the sole. However, other arrangements are possible as well.

[0170] With respect to their projection on the sagittal plane (i.e. the plane that cuts through the center of the sole vertically and longitudinally), the blade members can extend parallel to each other, or at least some of them can not be parallel or at least comprise non-parallel portions.

[0171] The blade members (or some of them) can also extend mainly or even essentially parallel to the stiffening members (or some of them), e.g. in the sense that the first and second layers extend parallel to each other at least in certain regions of the sole. Or the blade members (or some of them) can be arranged non-parallel to the stiffening members.

[0172] Generally, the curvature and / or geometry of the blade members can be the same or similar for all blade members, or some blade members have the same or similar curvature and / or geometry while others do not, or all blade members can have different curvature and / or geometry.

[0173] All blade members can have the same stiffness (e.g. bending stiffness and / or torsional stiffness), or some of them can have the same stiffness while others do not, or all of them can have different stiffness.

[0174] For example, the blade members can comprise or be made of a reinforced polymer material, and the material composition of the blade members can be the same for all blade members, or some of them can have the same material composition while others have a different material composition, or the material composition of all blade members can be different. Alternatively or additionally, the material composition can also vary within a given blade member.

[0175] To repeat and further detail some of the options and features discussed so far, with respect to the blade members only, they can have a variety of different geometries, like different shapes, dimensions, lengths, thicknesses, cross-sections (e.g. with elliptical or relatively flat cross-sections), curvatures, and in different numbers (at least two). In one example, they can be provided as longitudinal elements that are not connected to each other, but as already mentioned, other cases are possible as well.

[0176] Regarding the position of the blade members in the sole / insole, they can generally extend from the midfoot region to the forefoot region, but they can also extend to the heel or protrude beyond the big toe and protrude outside the sole / insole.

[0177] Regarding the material composition of the blade members, they can be made of or comprise carbon infused composites, carbon, polymeric materials, in particular polyamide (PA), BZM8, BZM 30, BSR 30, glass fibers and carbon fibers. They can also be cut from carbon plates instead of being injection molded.

[0178] Regarding the combination of blade members and stiffening members within the sole, they can be provided in an overlapping configuration, with one or more regions overlapping with the stiffening members (e.g. in a top view of the sole). By varying the degree of overlap, it is possible to control and influence how the two sets of members (i.e. the stiffening members and the blade members) interact with each other to obtain an advantage.

[0179] Further concepts that can be achieved by the different options and possibilities provided by the third aspect of the invention include, for example, blade members provided as segmented plates, frames of bars / blade in multiple levels / different planes, open or closed leaf spring structures, "bar-leaf springs" or tramp springs.

[0180] Generally, the spring effect can be achieved with blade members of specific structures to allow for better energy storage and better energy return during the ground contact / push-off phase (compared to a simple foam midsole).

[0181] For example, by using two sets of separate or combined stiffening elements, one set being stiffening members provided as bars and the other set being blades (or also bars, etc.), it is possible to help "squeeze" and compress the foam material between the layers in a more efficient way, accumulate more of the foam itself, store more energy and thus release more of the stored energy back to the runner compared to just one layer of stiffening members. The angles and surface areas can help ensure that the foam between and under the bars / blades is used efficiently. Furthermore, when different member layers / sets are connected, one generally expects the material at the junction to have some hysteresis, which can be used to influence the kinematics and kinetics of the person running in these shoes by influencing how far the force applied to the ground moves away from the joint center. This "pogo stick effect" can allow the material properties and geometry to be tuned to create a force and point of application of force aligned with the athlete's body such that when the compressed / deformed material recovers its shape, the person can use the force and synchronize it with their own motion to produce an enhanced motion pattern, similar to how a person jumping on a trampoline can use the elastic energy recovery and the synthetic speed of the trampoline floor to propel themselves further in the air.

[0182] Thus, the third aspect of the application provides the possibility of incorporating a blade-like structure in the form of at least two blade members into a sole, which sole may, for example, extend parallel to the stiffening members and have a radius that allows for a rolling motion and a smooth transition during the later stages of the support phase. It also allows for the incorporation of sole blade members with different arrangements, different geometries, different levels of stiffness, different material behavior characteristics (e.g. different mechanical and chemical compositions, etc.) in order to vary and control the properties of the sole in a plurality of different ways and directions. For example, by using different geometries, arrangements and / or materials for the blade members (and / or the stiffening members), it is possible to influence the dynamics and kinematics of a run during the support phase, for example by manipulating the distance between the centers of articulation and the application of the runner's force to the ground.

[0183] In order to further clarify the scope and concept covered by the third aspect of the application, some specific features and feature combinations will now be discussed in more detail.

[0184] The first layer can be arranged at least partially above the second layer.

[0185] In other words, seen from the ground upwards, the stiffening members can be arranged at least partially above the blade members. However, the stiffening members (or some of them) and the blade members (or some of them) can also meet or merge with each other at certain locations or areas in the sole, which means that their respective layers also meet or merge.

[0186] However, the first layer can also be completely different from the second layer.

[0187] In particular, the stiffening members can be arranged entirely above (or alternatively below) the blade members and vertically separated from the blade members by a certain distance over the entire sole. However, it should be borne in mind that this does not exclude the possibility of the blade members (or some of them) and the stiffening members (or some of them) being connected by additional connecting members.

[0188] Moreover, in either case (i.e. partial or complete vertical displacement of the stiffening members relative to the blade members), the space or gap between the two groups of members can be filled with (particulate or homogeneous) foam material or, for example, spring elements.

[0189] Moreover, by varying and adjusting the vertical distance between the two groups of members, the interaction and interaction between the two groups of members can be varied and controlled in order to help achieve, for example, the desired stability and elasticity of the sole.

[0190] The first layer and the second layer can at least partially overlap in a vertical projection of the sole.

[0191] Also in this context and as mentioned above, the term "overlapping" refers to a vertical projection or top view of the sole, for example in a state in which the sole is located on a flat ground without being subjected to any forces or deformations. If viewed from this perspective, parts of the reinforcing members can be located below or above the blade members and "cast a shadow" over them. Thus, the term "overlapping" does not imply that the reinforcing members and the blade members need to be in physical contact with each other or connected to each other, although this is often also possible.

[0192] By varying and adjusting the degree of overlapping, the interaction and mutual influence between the two groups of members can again be varied and controlled to help achieve a desired stability and resilience of the sole, for example.

[0193] For example, the reinforcing members can overlap the blade members in a staggered manner, i.e. slightly offset in a top view of the sole. This can help to stabilize the spaces between the reinforcing members, for example, with the aid of the blade members, to further improve the overall stability of the sole.

[0194] The first and second layers can also comprise parts with a respective curvature.

[0195] Graphically speaking, this can mean that the two layers defined or spanned by the reinforcing members and the blade members, respectively, can fit together like two shells of an onion. This can help to provide a particularly smooth roll-off behavior of the sole, while still providing the above-mentioned foam compression effect or springboard effect, in particular for soles with a larger stack height / thickness.

[0196] The reinforcing members can in particular be rod-like and / or tube-like members, as has already been discussed further above, so that further details and advantages with regard to this particular selection are referred to this discussion.

[0197] In particular, there can be five reinforcing members in the sole, each corresponding to a respective metatarsal bone. Again, this particular case has been discussed further above, so that it is again referred to.

[0198] The blade members can comprise an elliptical cross-section.

[0199] This cross-section is beneficial in that it does not excessively increase the stack height / thickness of the sole, while still allowing the blade members to provide a "leaf spring function" to the sole, increasing the resilience and energy return of the sole, for example.

[0200] The diameter of the reinforcing members and / or the blade members can vary between at least two of the reinforcing members and / or the blade members.

[0201] Alternatively or additionally, the diameter of at least one reinforcing member and / or at least one blade member can vary along said reinforcing member or blade member.

[0202] Changing the diameter can be a simple but effective way of changing or influencing, for example, the stiffness and elasticity of the respective member, which can then translate into a corresponding change in the properties of the sole in the respective area.

[0203] As already mentioned several times, a connection can exist between at least one blade member and one reinforcing member. In particular, each blade member can be connected to at least one reinforcing member.

[0204] Alternatively or additionally, at least some of the blade members can also be connected to each other. For example, the blade members can be provided as segmented plates.

[0205] This additional connection can increase the overall stiffness and stability of the sole, but it can also help to improve the interaction between the two groups of members and / or between the blade members themselves, for example, to increase the elasticity of the sole and its energy return.

[0206] As mentioned above, (granular and / or homogeneous) foam material and / or spring members can be arranged in the gap defined between the first and second layers. In particular, the gap can be filled with foam material, which can lead to the above-mentioned "foam squeeze effect" and thus to a better perception and performance of the sole, for example, with regard to the elastic properties of the sole.

[0207] The blade members can comprise a reinforced polymer material, in particular a glass fiber-reinforced or carbon fiber-reinforced or carbon-infused polymer material.

[0208] Such materials are very suitable because they are lightweight but very stable and can be easily processed into the shapes required by the presently discussed third aspect of the invention.

[0209] A fourth aspect of the invention is provided by a shoe, in particular a running shoe, comprising a sole according to one of the options and embodiments of the above-mentioned first and / or second and / or third aspect or according to the sole further described below in this document. However, as already mentioned at the beginning, the sole of the invention can also be used in different types of shoes, in particular other types of sports shoes, for example for track and field shoes, long jump shoes, sprint or short distance track shoes, hurdle shoes, medium or long distance track shoes.

[0210] A fifth aspect of the invention provides a method for manufacturing a reinforcing structure or a part of a reinforcing structure for a sole having at least one reinforcing member with a hollow section.

[0211] In one embodiment, the method comprises the steps of: (a) injecting a liquid molding material into a cavity of a mold, the cavity having a shape corresponding to the outer dimensions of the reinforcing member with the hollow section; and (b) injecting a displacing gas under pressure into the cavity, wherein (c) in steps (a) and (b) the outlet passage connecting the cavity to the outlet well is closed. The method further comprises the step of (d) opening the outlet passage to release the pressurized displacing gas and to remove the liquid molding material from the center of the cavity to form the hollow section.

[0212] The method can be used to manufacture a sole according to any selection or embodiment of the first and / or second and / or third aspect of the application, as well as a shoe according to the embodiments of the fourth aspect of the application. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0213] Possible embodiments of the application are described in more detail below, with reference to the following drawings:

[0214] Figure 1a -f: sole with rod / tubular reinforcing members of five different diameters, each reinforcing member corresponding to a respective metatarsal bone;

[0215] Figure 2 : sole with rod / tubular reinforcing members of five different diameters, each reinforcing member corresponding to a respective metatarsal bone;

[0216] Figure 3a -b: sole with four rod / tubular reinforcing members;

[0217] Figure 4 : sole with four rod / tubular reinforcing members;

[0218] Figure 5a -b: sole with two plate-shaped reinforcing members;

[0219] Figure 6a -d: sole with four plate-shaped reinforcing members;

[0220] Figure 7a -b: sole with four reinforcing members, with a mixed shape between plate-shaped and rod / tubular;

[0221] Figure 8a -b: sole with four reinforcing members, with a mixed shape between plate-shaped and rod / tubular, and connected by a mesh material.

[0222] Figure 9a -b: sole with rod / tubular reinforcing members of five different diameters, each reinforcing member corresponding to a respective metatarsal bone;

[0223] Figure 10a- d: sole with rod / tubular shaped reinforcing members with different configurations;

[0224] Figure 11a - f: sole with five rod / tubular shaped reinforcing members and forefoot support plate;

[0225] Figure 12a - i: sole with five reinforcing members, two of which extend rearward beyond the midfoot region and into the heel region of the sole, wrap upward to the rear portion of the ankle region, and connect behind the heel to form a heel support;

[0226] Figure 13 - i: sole with five reinforcing members, two of which extend rearward beyond the midfoot region and into the heel region of the sole, wrap upward to the rear portion of the ankle region, and connect behind the heel to form a heel support;

[0227] Figure 14 - i: sole with five reinforcing members, two of which extend rearward beyond the midfoot region and into the heel region of the sole, wrap upward to the rear portion of the ankle region, and connect behind the heel to form a heel support;

[0228] Figure 15a - b: a method for manufacturing reinforcing members comprising hollow sections.

[0229] Figure 16a - e: sole with five rod / tubular shaped reinforcing members and three blade members;

[0230] Figure 17 - e: sole with five rod / tubular shaped reinforcing members and three blade members;

[0231] Figure 18a - e: sole with three blade members and details on blade member geometry;

[0232] Figures 19-23 - e: sole with five rod / tubular shaped reinforcing members and three blade members;

[0233] Figure 24 - e: sole with five rod / tubular shaped reinforcing members and three blade members; Figure 23 Possible modifications of the sole of DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0234] The possible embodiments of the different aspects of the invention are described below mainly in relation to running shoes. However, it is again emphasized that the different aspects of the invention can also be implemented in different kinds of shoes and are not limited to the specific embodiments set out below.

[0235] Further reference is made to the fact that only individual embodiments of the present application can be described in more detail in the following. However, the person skilled in the art will understand that the features described with reference to these specific embodiments and possible modifications can also be further modified in different ways or in different subcombinations and / or combined with each other without departing from the scope of the present application. Individual features or sub-features can also be omitted if they are not required for the desired result. Therefore, in order to avoid repetitions, reference is made to the explanations in the preceding sections, which also apply to the following detailed description.

[0236] Figure 1a - shows an embodiment 100 of a sole according to the present application or parts thereof from different perspectives.

[0237] Figure 1a An exploded view of the entire sole 100 is shown. The sole 100 comprises a midsole 110 having an upper midsole portion 111 and a lower midsole portion 112. A reinforcing structure 120 comprising five reinforcing members is fully embedded between the upper midsole portion 111 and the lower midsole portion 112, at Figure 1a In this context, the five reinforcing members are denoted by reference numerals 121-125, respectively. The sole 100 further comprises a load distribution member 140 partially embedded within the top side of the upper midsole portion 111. Thus, the upper midsole portion 111 separates the reinforcing members 121-125 from the load distribution member 140, i.e. the reinforcing members 121-125 and the load distribution member 140 are arranged as separate and individual elements on the one hand. The load distribution member 140 and the upper midsole portion 111 are further covered by a sockliner 150, which can be replaceable or permanently connected to the load distribution member 140 and the upper midsole portion 111. In other embodiments, the sockliner 150 can also be absent. The sole 100 can further comprise an outsole (not shown) to improve the grip and wear resistance. The sole 100 can also be equipped with studs and / or spikes to make it suitable for e.g. track and field sports.

[0238] The sole 100 can be used for sports shoes, in particular running shoes.

[0239] The upper midsole portion 111 and the lower midsole portion 112 can comprise or be made of a polymer foam material. The upper midsole portion 111 and the lower midsole portion 112 can comprise or be made of the same material, or they can comprise or be made of different materials. Within a given midsole portion, it is also possible that the material composition changes locally, i.e. different materials are used in different areas, for example to locally influence the mechanical properties of the upper midsole portion 111 and / or the lower midsole portion 112. The polymer foam material can comprise a homogenous foam material, like ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) or injection molded thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), or thermoplastic polyester ether elastomer (TPEE), polyamide, PEBA or other suitable materials. The polymer foam material can also comprise a cellular foam. For example, cellular foams made of or comprising particles of expanded thermoplastic polyurethane (eTPU), expanded polyamide (ePA), expanded polyether block amide (ePEBA) and / or expanded thermoplastic polyester ether elastomer (eTPEE) are particularly suitable for performance footwear, as they provide a high degree of cushioning and energy return to the wearer. For example, cellular foams of eTPU maintain their beneficial properties over a large temperature range, e.g. -20°C to 40°C. Cellular foams comprising expanded polylactide (ePLA), expanded polyethylene terephthalate (ePET), expanded thermoplastic olefin (eTPO) and / or expanded polybutylene terephthalate (ePBT) are also possible. To give one specific example, the lower midsole portion 112 can be made of a homogenous EVA or TPU or TPEE foam material to provide good overall stability and wear resistance to the sole 100, while the upper midsole portion 111 can be made of a cellular foam comprising eTPU, ePA, ePEBA and / or eTPEE to provide good cushioning, high energy return and a smoother transition of the comfortable load and to reduce eccentric forces.

[0240] However, it is emphasized that, alternatively or additionally, other materials and manufacturing options can be used in addition to the use of foam material for the midsole 110. For example, the midsole 110 or parts thereof can comprise or consist of a lattice structure, for example an additively manufactured lattice structure (e.g. a structure made using a 3D printing method or a laser sintering method or a stereolithography method), as already further mentioned above, which can be used for long distance running shoes (where high cushioning is preferred) and sprint spike shoes or short distance running shoes (where high cushioning is not necessary, but high stiffness and an anatomical guidance of the foot during ground contact are beneficial).

[0241] Furthermore, it is emphasized that the present invention also encompasses embodiments in which the sole does not comprise separate upper midsole and lower midsole portions, but only a unitary midsole component. Such a midsole can also comprise or be made of one or more of the above-mentioned homogeneous foam materials and / or cellular foams and / or non-foam materials, such as a lattice structure as described above.

[0242] The load distribution member 140 is located in the rear half of the sole 100, mainly in the heel region of the sole 100, in which heel strikes occur. It also extends a certain distance towards the center of the sole 100, i.e. the midfoot region, such that in a vertical projection of the sole 100, the load distribution member 140 partially overlaps with the reinforcing structure 120 provided by the five reinforcing members 121-125 (to be described in more detail below). In the embodiment shown here, the load distribution member 140 is provided as a substantially planar load distribution plate, but other geometrical shapes, such as a slight bowl or cup shape, potentially including a heel counter, are also possible. In order to reduce weight but still provide a desired degree of load distribution, the load distribution member 140 can for example comprise or be made of carbon fiber, carbon fiber composite material and / or glass fiber composite material, e.g. a polyamide material infused with carbon fibers and / or a polyamide material infused with glass fibers.

[0243] Turning to the exemplary embodiment of the reinforcing structure 120 provided by the five reinforcing members 121-125, the reinforcing members 121-125 extend in the front half of the sole 100. More specifically, the reinforcing members 121-125 extend from the midfoot region, here the region under the arch, up to the toes. The reinforcing members 121-125 extend substantially longitudinally through the sole 100, i.e. their longitudinal, i.e. from the rear to the front of the sole 100, extension is much greater than their lateral, i.e. from the lateral side to the medial side of the route they take through the sole 100. The reinforcing members 121-125 are also arranged next to each other in a medial-to-lateral direction, starting with the reinforcing member 121 on the medial side of the sole 100 and continuing up to the reinforcing member 125 on the lateral side of the sole 100. The reinforcing members 121-125 of the embodiment shown here have a circular cross-section, and their central axis of symmetry defines their “streamline” as referred to herein. However, other cross-sectional shapes are also encompassed by the present invention. Examples of other possible cross-sectional shapes include an elliptical, prismatic, trapezoidal, square or rectangular cross-section.

[0244] As mentioned above, the reinforcing members 121-125 are located between the upper midsole portion 111 and the lower midsole portion 112 and can be fully embedded within the midsole 110. If necessary or deemed beneficial, the reinforcing members 121-125 can be connected to the material of the midsole 110 by, for example, an adhesive or glue or by some mechanical fastening means. However, this can not be necessary as they are fully embedded within the material of the midsole 110. In other embodiments, the reinforcing members 121-125 can also partially protrude from the midsole material and be exposed on the outside of the sole 100, for example at the medial or lateral sidewalls. However, it is generally preferred that the reinforcing members 121-125 are not exposed on the top and bottom sides of the sole 100 so as not to compromise the fit and the coefficient of friction of the sole, respectively.

[0245] The reinforcing members 121-125 are adapted to move independently of each other under the action of forces acting during the gait cycle. They are in particular adapted to deflect independently of each other by forces acting during the gait cycle and thus provide a locally fine-tuned support and reinforcement function which cannot be achieved by simple monolithic structures known from the prior art. Thus, by allowing different regions of the sole 100, in particular the front half and the toe region of the sole 100, to be supported and reinforced to different degrees, they cater to the complex anatomy of the human foot and the complex movement patterns involved in running or sprinting movements. This provides a more biomechanically driven solution than the solutions known in the prior art. The reinforcing members 121-125 help to provide a more stable landing and smooth transition of the foot, thereby reducing eccentric forces and overloading of muscles, bones and joints. This helps to reduce the overall risk of injury during movement.

[0246] The reinforcing members 121-125 are non-linear, i.e. their flow lines do not follow straight lines, to further cater to the human anatomy. In the embodiments shown here, the reinforcing members 121-125 do not even comprise straight segments, although this is generally possible within the scope of the present invention. As Figure 1d and 1e As can be clearly seen in the medial view of Figs. 1 1 and 12, the reinforcing members 121-125 form a concave structure (i.e. a structure in the shape of a bowl or a dish) in the region between the midfoot region and the toes, which concave structure corresponds to the general shape and anatomy of the foot. This shape also facilitates a smooth rolling motion of the foot and thus promotes a natural movement pattern.

[0247] In more mathematical terms, the shape (e.g. defined by the flow lines) of each reinforcing member 121-125 comprises a minimum or local low point with respect to the horizontal plane. It should be noted that this statement includes the assumption that the sole is located on a horizontal, flat ground surface (if the sole is inclined, the reference plane must also be inclined in the same way) and is in a force-free state (i.e. not bent or twisted). The position of these low points is in the region of the midfoot region and the toes, respectively.Figure 1a and 1b In the side view of Fig. 1c, the cross of all five reinforcing members 121-125 is indicated, and the low points are indicated with reference numerals 131-135. In the side view of Fig. 1d, only two of these low points are shown, in order not to clutter the figure too much. All low points 131 and 135 are located in the front half of the sole 100. More specifically, each low point is located between the midfoot region and the toe of the sole 100, here in the region of the MTP joint. In other embodiments, the exact location can differ from the one shown here, for example to suit the specific anatomy of the runner's foot, running style and movement pattern, etc. It is also emphasized that the location of the low points 131-135 is only indicated in Figs. 1c and 1d (and all subsequent figures of this application) to illustrate such points, not with the highest precision (e.g. using computer simulations). Figure 1d , 1e In the side view of Fig. 1c, the cross of all five reinforcing members 121-125 is indicated, and the low points are indicated with reference numerals 131-135. In the side view of Fig. 1d, only two of these low points are shown, in order not to clutter the figure too much. All low points 131 and 135 are located in the front half of the sole 100. More specifically, each low point is located between the midfoot region and the toe of the sole 100, here in the region of the MTP joint. In other embodiments, the exact location can differ from the one shown here, for example to suit the specific anatomy of the runner's foot, running style and movement pattern, etc. It is also emphasized that the location of the low points 131-135 is only indicated in Figs. 1c and 1d (and all subsequent figures of this application) to illustrate such points, not with the highest precision (e.g. using computer simulations). Figure 1a , 1b , 1d and 1e (and all subsequent figures of this application) to illustrate such points, not with the highest precision (e.g. using computer simulations).

[0248] As mentioned above, the reinforcing members 121-125 form a concave structure (i.e. a structure in the shape of a bowl or dish) in the region between the midfoot region and the toe. In relation to the low points 131-135, this means that these points are located at a distance below the plane that is tangent to the upper side of the reinforcing structure 120 formed by the reinforcing members 121-125. Figure 3b A clear illustration of this concept is given (see plane 339 and distance d), and for more details and explanation, reference is made to the discussion of this figure. An illustrative way to consider this is to imagine isolating the reinforcing structure 120 from the sole 100, its shape and structure remaining intact, and then placing a sheet of paper or thin metal sheet on top of this structure. Then, the (vertical) distance of the low points 131-135 from this plane is determined. The more "bowl-shaped" the reinforcing structure 120, the larger this distance typically is.

[0249] To cater for typical human anatomy, all low points 131-135 can be located at a distance of at least 5 mm, or even at least 8 mm, below the tangentially defined reference plane. As mentioned above, the depth can also be adjusted in relation to the intended activity for which the sole and shoe is provided. For example, for activities that require or favor more stability, a larger depth can be chosen. However, as already mentioned, the depth can also be chosen smaller if, for example, a particularly thin midsole is required.

[0250] Alternatively or additionally, in addition to respecting a lower limit on the depth of the structure defined by the reinforcing members 121-125, the distance of the low points 131-135 to the tangential reference plane can also be adjusted or varied depending on the position of the respective low point with respect to the medial-to-lateral direction. For example, the "central point" 133 can be the deepest, and then the distance to the reference plane (i.e., the depth of the low point) decreases toward the lateral edge and the medial edge in line with the general anatomy of a human foot. However, other configurations are possible, taking into account specific anatomical features or some individual movement patterns.

[0251] Depending on the desired trade-off between, for example, weight, stability, stiffness, etc., the reinforcing members 121-125 can be solid (i.e., rod-like members) or they can be hollow (i.e., tubular members), or they can be partially solid and partially hollow. In this regard, not all of the reinforcing members 121-125 need to have the same structure.

[0252] As shown in the vertical projection (or top view) of some components of the sole 100 shown in Figure 1b and 1c Each of the reinforcing members 121-125 corresponds to one of the toes of the foot. To make this more apparent, in Figure 1b and 1c the reinforcing structure 120, made up of the reinforcing members 121-125, is overlaid on a schematic view of an X-ray photograph of a typical human foot. While it can be appreciated from this overlaid view that the reinforcing members 121-125 do not always precisely follow every "bend and turn" of the human bone structure, the correspondence between the five reinforcing members 121-125 and the five metatarsal bones is nevertheless clearly visible. Thus, each of the reinforcing members 121-125 is a primary source of support for one of the toes of the foot. Reinforcing member 121 corresponds to the first metatarsal bone (i.e., the "big toe"), reinforcing member 122 corresponds to the second metatarsal bone, reinforcing member 123 corresponds to the third metatarsal bone, reinforcing member 124 corresponds to the fourth metatarsal bone, and reinforcing member 125 corresponds to the fifth metatarsal bone.

[0253] As can also be clearly seen in Figure 1b and 1a (and in all other Figure 1a -fs relating to the sole 100), the reinforcing members 121 and 123, which respectively correspond to the first and third metatarsal bones, have a greater diameter than the remaining three reinforcing members 122, 124, and 125. The increased diameter results in a higher flexural stiffness of the reinforcing members 121 and 123, and thus in increased support of the first and third metatarsal bones and of the first and third toes, compared to the other three reinforcing members 122, 124, and 125, under the action of the forces acting during the gait cycle.

[0254] Alternatively or additionally, in addition to having different diameters, the reinforcing members 121 and 123 can also have a greater wall thickness than the reinforcing members 122, 124 and 125, if they are provided as tubular or at least have a hollow section.

[0255] The reinforcing member 121 also has an extended front section 126 which preferably "bends inwards" under the tip of the big toe to provide even better support in this area. One reason for this particular shape and design of the reinforcing members 121 and 123 is that the first metatarsal bone benefits from increased stiffness as this is generally the largest and strongest structure of the five metatarsal bones in the foot and thus has to exert and take the highest forces during running. On the other hand, the third metatarsal bone in the center of the foot naturally lies around the center of pressure in the support phase of the gait cycle of running and thus also benefits from increased support. This further helps to load the biomechanically driven and evenly distributed between the different MTP bones. This will reduce the risk of injury.

[0256] The different diameters of the reinforcing members 121 and 123 compared to the reinforcing members 122, 124 and 125 are also visible in Figure 1f the left half of this figure shows a cross section through the sole 100 from the medial side to the lateral side in the area below the MTP joint. Figure 1f It is also shown very well again how the five reinforcing members 121-125 are embedded between the upper midsole portion 111 and the lower midsole portion 112.

[0257] More generally, it should be noted that the diameters and / or wall thicknesses (for hollow or partially hollow members) of the reinforcing members 121-125 can also vary and adapt between them in different ways and that the diameters and / or wall thicknesses do not need to remain constant along a given reinforcing member either, even if this is the case in the sole 100 shown in Figure 1a Fig. 10a-d. By varying the diameters / thicknesses between different reinforcing members and / or along a given reinforcing member, it is thus possible to obtain a fine-tuning of a set of specific requirements regarding the support and reinforcement provided by the reinforcing structure 120.

[0258] Other examples of soles 900 and 1000a-d with rod / tube-like reinforcing members having different configurations will be discussed below in connection with Figure 9a Figs. 10a-d.

[0259] The reinforcing members 121-125 can comprise or be made of a large number of materials. However, in order to achieve a beneficial compromise between, on the one hand, stiffness and reinforcement, and, on the other hand, low weight, the preferred materials for constructing the reinforcing members 121-125 are carbon fiber, carbon fiber composite and / or glass fiber composite, e.g. polyamide material infused with carbon fibers and / or polyamide material infused with glass fibers. Besides their good stiffness-to-weight ratio, they are also very suitable when it comes to the kind of geometry and shape that the reinforcing members can be made of, which is particularly important for obtaining a good fit with an object as complex as a human foot. Other possible materials are e.g. metal, wood or injection molded plastic material.

[0260] Potential methods for manufacturing the reinforcing members 121-125 include e.g. molding (e.g. injection molding), additive manufacturing (e.g. 3D printing) or carbon extrusion.

[0261] Details about the method of manufacturing a reinforcing member or structure comprising a hollow, i.e. tubular, section will be discussed below in connection with Figure 15a - Fig. 6.

[0262] Another feature of the sole 100, which has been briefly described above, is that the rear ends of the load distribution member 140 and the reinforcing members 121-125 at least partly overlap (in the vertical projection of the sole, which is best seen in Figure 1c Fig. 6), a feature which becomes more clearly visible in the top view of Figure 1c Fig. 6 and in the intermediate side view of Figure 1d Fig. 6 and 1e Fig. 6. The area of overlap is indicated by reference numeral 145 in Figures 1c-1e Fig. 6. What this overlap does is that, even though the reinforcing members 121-125 and the load distribution member 140 are provided as separate parts of the sole 100 and are separated by the upper midsole portion 111 (however, it is to be noted that a physical connection between these components is also possible in general), there is still some interaction or interlocking between the two, in the sense that the material of the upper midsole portion 111 couples the two together, and the overall stability of the sole in the entire gait cycle (when the main pressure point moves typically from the heel area through the midfoot area to the toes for push-off) is improved, without any sudden jumps or discontinuities in the response of the sole to the forces acting on it.

[0263] As an alternative or in addition to having such a load distribution member 140, the sole can also comprise a forefoot support plate, as discussed below in connection with Figure 11a - Fig. 6.

[0264] Figure 2 ( Figure 2 shown in exploded view) of an embodiment 200 of a sole according to the present application with Figure 1a- f are very similar. Therefore, all the description regarding the respective components, elements and parts of the sole 100 also applies to Figure 2 the embodiments of the sole according to the application (of course, unless physically or technically excluded), and is therefore not repeated.

[0265] The sole 200 comprises a midsole 210 with an upper midsole portion 211 and a lower midsole portion 212, between which five reinforcing members 220 are located. They are completely embedded within the midsole 210. The reinforcing members 220 are also rod- / tube-like, and the reinforcing members corresponding to the first and third metatarsal bones have a larger diameter than the other three reinforcing members. The sole further comprises a load distribution member 240, which is mainly arranged in the heel region and on top of the upper midsole portion 211, and an outsole 260, which in the embodiment shown here comprises several separate sub-portions (however, this need not always be the case).

[0266] One notable feature of the sole 200 is that the lower midsole portion 212 comprises five recesses 215, each corresponding to one of the five reinforcing members 220. This can help to fix the reinforcing members 220 in their position, and thus help to avoid or limit the use of e.g. adhesive or glue, and generally contribute to the assembly of the sole 200.

[0267] Figure 3a and 3b The embodiment 300 of the sole according to the application shown is also very similar to Figure 1a - f and Figure 2 Therefore, all the description regarding the respective components, elements and parts of the sole 100 and 200 also applies to Figure 3a and 3b the embodiments of the sole according to the application (unless physically or technically excluded), and is therefore not repeated.

[0268] Figure 3a An exploded view of the sole 300 is shown, Figure 3b a side view of the sole 300 is shown.

[0269] The sole 300 comprises a midsole 310 with an upper midsole portion 311 and a lower midsole portion 312, but now only four reinforcing members 321-324 are located between them to form a reinforcing structure 320. This structure is again completely embedded within the midsole 310.

[0270] Reducing the number of individual reinforcing members can for example simplify the structure and reduce weight and cost. On the other hand, for example compared to the structure 120 having five individual members 121-125, this can relinquish a certain degree of control over the reinforcing function provided by the reinforcing structure 320. On the other hand, it can well be found that for a particular activity, support of the fifth metatarsal and fifth toe can not be necessary, then one reinforcing member can simply be omitted, while the remaining four reinforcing members 321-324 still correspond to the first to fourth metatarsal. Or, the outermost of the four reinforcing members, i.e. reinforcing member 324, can be associated with supporting the fourth and fifth metatarsal, while the first three reinforcing members 321-323 each correspond to one metatarsal. Further permutations in this respect can be envisaged by the skilled person. In the embodiment shown, reinforcing members 321-323 are also bar / tube-like.

[0271] The sole 300 further comprises a load distribution member 340 mainly arranged in the heel region and on top of the upper midsole portion 311, and an outsole 360 having several individual sub-portions.

[0272] Figure 3b Again, the meaning of the low points of the reinforcing members and their distance to a plane 339 tangent to the upper side of the reinforcing structure 320 formed by reinforcing members 321-324 is shown. Shown in Fig. 3B is one of the low points, specifically, the low point 334 of reinforcing member 324. The situation is similar for the other reinforcing members 321-323. The low point 334 can be considered as the point on the streamline of reinforcing member 324 closest to the ground, i.e. the horizontal plane. On the other hand, the reference plane 339 is a plane tangent to the upper side of the structure formed by reinforcing members 321-324 (this plane 339 can be considered as a "lid" on top of this structure). The distance d from this plane is referred to as the depth of the respective low point (here, low point 334).

[0273] Figure 4 Another embodiment 400 of a sole according to the application is shown in an exploded state, very similar to Figure 3a and 3b The above similar statements with respect to, for example, sole 300 apply equally and are therefore not repeated here.

[0274] The sole comprises a midsole 410 having an upper midsole portion 411 and a lower midsole portion 412. In Figure 4 In the embodiment shown, both portions are made of homogeneous TPEE foam material. However, portions 411 and 412 can generally be made of all the materials mentioned throughout this text. For example, the upper midsole portion 411 can comprise a particle foam having ePEBA particles, while the lower midsole portion 412 can comprise a particle foam having ePTEE particles, or vice versa.

[0275] The sole further comprises a reinforcement structure 420 having four reinforcement members 421-424 which are located between the midsole portions 411, 412 and are fully embedded within the midsole 410.

[0276] One particular feature of the reinforcement structure 420 is that the four reinforcement members 421-424 are connected in the midfoot region by a connecting member 428 which is provided as a small connecting bar between the individual reinforcement members 421-424. This not only facilitates the assembly of the sole 400, but also the manufacture of the four reinforcement members 421-424 themselves, since the individual reinforcement members can be manufactured or molded as a single (partially) connected unit. The connecting member 428 can also increase the stability of the sole 400 in the midfoot region. It is worth noting that in the front half of the sole, in particular in the forefoot region, there is no connection between the reinforcement members 421-424 in order not to impede their ability to deflect individually under the action of forces acting during the gait cycle.

[0277] The use of a connecting member like the member 428 can also compensate (at least partially) for the fact that no load distribution member is used in the heel region of the sole, as is the case with the sole 400 shown. On the other hand, such a load distribution member can also be added to the sole 400 to provide even better stability in the heel region. Figure 4

[0278] Figure 5a and 5b Another embodiment 500 of a sole according to the application is shown. Figure 5a An exploded view of the entire sole 500 is shown, Figure 5b a top view of only some of the components is shown.

[0279] The sole 500 likewise comprises a midsole 510 having an upper midsole portion 511 and a lower midsole portion 512 and an outsole 560 having several individual components. Everything described in the context of the embodiments 100, 200, 300 and 400 with regard to these components also applies here (as far as physically and technically compatible) and is not repeated.

[0280] The difference from the above-described embodiments 100, 200, 300 and 400 lies in the shape and structure of the reinforcement structure 520, which in this case is provided by two plate-like reinforcement members 521 and 522. Even though these two reinforcement members have a different shape from the above-described reinforcement members, they are still adapted to deflect independently under the forces acting on them during the gait cycle. Although they are plate-like in shape, the reinforcement members 521 and 522 can also have, for example, a hollow core or hollow sections. They can also be solid members.

[0281] ​Another difference with the above-described embodiments is that the stiffening members 521 and 522 extend rearward beyond the midfoot region and into the heel region, up to the calcaneus. This can increase the stiffness of the entire sole, not just the front half.

[0282] Figure 5a and 5b Streamlines 521a, 522a of the stiffening members 521, 522, respectively, are also shown. As discussed in section 3 above, for stiffening members with non-circular (or, more generally, non-symmetrical) cross-sections, the way to define the streamlines is to (conceptually) divide the member into equidistant slices, determine the center of mass of each slice, and stitch these points together to obtain the streamline. As in the case of the low points 131-135 described above, the positions of the streamlines 521a, 522a are not determined with absolute mathematical precision here, but are only roughly indicated to show such points.

[0283] From the streamlines it can be seen that both stiffening members 521 and 522 comprise a non-linear section extending across the front half of the sole 500. In the rear half of the sole 500, the stiffening members 521 and 522 comprise a straight or at least approximately straight section. More specifically, in the front half of the sole 500, the stiffening members 521 and 522 provide the stiffening structure 520 with a concave shape, while the low points 531 and 532 are located at a distance below the plane tangent to the upper side of the stiffening structure 520. The lower bounds of suitable values for this distance have been discussed already, and are not repeated here, as the values discussed are also applicable to plate-like stiffening members like the members 521 and 522.

[0284] Figures 6a-6d A further variation of the basic structure provided by the sole 500 is shown. Figure 6a An exploded view of an embodiment 600 of a sole according to the present application is shown, Figure 6b A top view of some components of the sole 600, as well as a cross-section along line A-A, is shown. Figure 6c and 6d A possible modification of the stiffening members is shown.

[0285] The sole 600 likewise comprises a midsole 610 having an upper midsole portion 611 and a lower midsole portion 612, as well as an outsole 660 having several individual components. These components have been discussed extensively already, and all of the above applies here as well.

[0286] In contrast to the two stiffening structures of the sole 500, in the sole 600 the stiffening structure 620 is provided by four plate-like stiffening members 621-624. One specific feature of the sole 600 is that the stiffening members 621-624 have a slightly convex section along their central longitudinal axis (i.e., at least approximately along their streamlines), which starts approximately at the rear end of the arch and extends forward up to the toe region. For example, along theFigure 6b In a cross-section taken along the cutting line A-A indicated in the lower left corner of Fig. 6, these slightly protruding sections can be seen. Such protruding sections can for example increase the stiffness of the reinforcing members 621-624 in the sections where they are applied.

[0287] Figure 6c Another possible variant of the reinforcing structure 620 provided by the reinforcing members 621-624 is shown, wherein the reinforcing members 621-624 can be connected in the rear half of the sole 600, for example in the arch area, by connecting members 628, here in the form of rods, each rod connecting two adjacent reinforcing members. Preferably, such connections are limited to the rear half of the sole 600, so that the ability of the reinforcing members to respond and react to forces in the front half of the sole 600 is not impaired by the connections.

[0288] Figure 6d Another option is shown, namely to increase the overall stability of the sole 600, while not unduly impairing the independent movement of the individual reinforcing members 621 and 624. Instead of connecting the reinforcing members 621-624 to each other, the reinforcing members 621-624 are here laminated or otherwise connected to a mesh material 680. Such material can be highly tear resistant, but still flexible enough to allow a good compromise between stability and independence of movement of the individual reinforcing members 621-624. It can also facilitate the assembly of the sole 600 and increase its life and durability.

[0289] Figure 7a and 7b and Figure 8a and 8b Further structures of the application are shown. Figure 7a and 8a Exemplary embodiments 700, 800 of a sole according to the application are shown in exploded view, Figure 7b and 8b Corresponding top views of some components of the soles 700, 800 are shown.

[0290] The soles 700 and 800 are for example very similar to the above described sole 300. Both soles comprise a midsole 710, 810 having an upper midsole portion 711, 811 and a lower midsole portion 712, 812, respectively, and an outsole 760, 860. The soles 700, 800 further comprise a reinforcing structure 720, 820 having four reinforcing members 721-724 and 821-824, respectively.

[0291] Therefore, by not repeating everything said above with respect to the corresponding elements and components, redundancy is avoided, which also applies to the embodiments 700, 800.

[0292] However, the cross-section of the stiffening members 721-724 and 821-824 differs. These are a "mix" between plate-like and rod / tube-like, and the cross-section also varies along the stiffening members. The front and rear ends of the stiffening members 721-724 and 821-824 are flat, while their mid-sections are round with an elliptical cross-section. It can be beneficial to flatten the ends, in particular towards the front of the sole 700, 800, as the sole typically becomes thinner towards its front end, so that the space to accommodate the stiffening members is smaller. Thus, making them thinner towards the front end can help to avoid that the front half of the sole is too thick and bulky.

[0293] Furthermore, the respective length of the stiffening members 721-724 and 821-824 also differs. Generally, the longer a stiffening member, the more transition support it will provide during the support phase, as well as better guiding through engineered motion. Selecting different lengths for the stiffening members 721-724 and 821-824 also allows to tailor the force distribution along the different metatarsal bones in a more anatomically / ergonomically way, compared to the overall structure known in the prior art.

[0294] It should be explicitly noted here that this option of selecting different lengths for different stiffening members also applies to all other embodiments described herein (unless explicitly stated otherwise) and is not limited to Figure 7a - the specific embodiments 700 and 800. Figure 8a - the specific embodiments 700 and 800.

[0295] The sole 800 also comprises a web material 880, to which the stiffening members 821-824 are laminated or otherwise connected, to increase the overall stability of the sole 800, to facilitate assembly and / or to increase the lifetime.

[0296] Figure 9a - the specific embodiments 700 and 800.

[0297] Figure 9a - the specific embodiments 700 and 800. Figure 1a - the specific embodiments 700 and 800. Figure 9a - the specific embodiments 700 and 800.

[0298] Figure 9a The sole 900 shown in Fig. 10 first comprises a midsole 910 with a lower midsole portion 912. In Figure 9aThe right-hand side of Fig. 9a-d shows the respective upper midsole portion 911 to be placed on top of the reinforcing structure 920. The upper midsole portion 911 has a recess in the rear half of the sole, in which a load distribution member (not shown) can be placed, as already discussed. In the case shown here, the midsole portions 911, 912 are made of a homogeneous foam material, but any of the above-mentioned materials suitable for a midsole of a sole of the present invention can also be employed. Figure 9a Fig. 9a-d shows a sole for the right foot.

[0299] In Figure 9b The reinforcing structure 920, which is again shown in a detached form on the right-hand side of Fig. 9a-d, comprises five tubular / rod-like reinforcing members 921-925, each of which corresponds to one of the toes of the foot / metatarsal bones (in the case shown here, the big toe, the second toe, the third toe, the fourth toe and the little toe, respectively). Figure 9b On the left-hand side of Fig. 9a-d, the corresponding "mirror image", i.e. the corresponding structure for the left foot, is also shown. The medial reinforcing member 921 corresponds to the big toe / first metatarsal bone and is "curled" under the big toe (see area 926) to provide additional support for the toe-off in this area.

[0300] The reinforcing members 921 and 923, which correspond to the first and third toes / metatarsal bones, have a greater diameter than the remaining three reinforcing members 922, 924 and 925 to provide additional support to the first and third toes / metatarsal bones by their increased stiffness. If tubular (i.e. hollow or having hollow sections), the reinforcing members 921 and 923 can alternatively or additionally have a greater wall thickness than the remaining three reinforcing members 922, 924 and 925.

[0301] The five reinforcing members 921-925 extend through the front half of the sole 900 and extend approximately to the rear edge of the arch area, where they are connected by a connecting member 928, which is also provided as a rod / tubular member in this case. Each of the five reinforcing members 921-925 is connected to the member 928 by a short passage 929 of reduced diameter. This connection at the rear edge of the arch area can provide an additional degree of stability to this sensitive area of the foot, for example to help avoid injuries or fatigue of the wearer.

[0302] Figure 10a The soles 1000a-d shown in Figs. 10a-d also comprise a midsole 1010a-d, which can be any of the structures and / or materials mentioned in the present disclosure (e.g. granular and / or homogeneous foam material). The right-hand side of each figure shows a top view of the respective sole 1000a-d, while the left-hand side shows a lateral side view. A respective reinforcing structure 1020a-d is at least partially embedded within the midsole 1010a-d. In particular at the toe end of the sole, the respective reinforcing structure 1020a-d can also partially protrude or be exposed, for example at the bottom side of the midsole (see Figs. 10a-d, right-hand side, area 1021a-d). Figure 10a and10b ), or at least arranged in close proximity to the bottom surface of the midsole (see Figure 10c and 10d ).

[0303] Each of the reinforcing structures 1020a-d comprises five reinforcing members 1021a-1025a, 1021b-1025b, 1021c-1025c and 1021d-1025d, which extend through the front half of the sole 1000a-d, respectively, and each of which corresponds to a respective toe / metatarsal bone of the foot. The reinforcing members 1021a-1025a, 1021b-1025b, 1021c-1025c and 1021d-1025d also extend beyond the arch area and into the rear half of the sole.

[0304] It is a feature of the reinforcing structures 1020a-d that some or even all of the reinforcing members 1021a-1025a, 1021b-1025b, 1021c-1025c and 1021d-1025d are formed from a continuous rod or tube material, i.e. the reinforcing members are connected and fused to each other in certain areas of the sole, in particular under the rear foot / heel. Moreover, at least two reinforcing members of each sole 1000a-d are independent of each other in the sense that they can react and deform independently under pressure loads during walking or running, in particular in the front half of the sole. See, for example, Figure 10b the reinforcing members 1022b, 1024b and 1025b of Figure 10d and the reinforcing members 1021d and 1023d of Figure 10a and 10c In

[0305] In the reinforcing structures 1020a, 1020b and 1020c, the medial, lateral and central reinforcing members, i.e. the reinforcing members 1021a, 1023a, 1025a and 1021b, 1023b, 1025b and 1021c, 1023c, 1025c, have a larger diameter than the remaining two reinforcing members of the respective structure, and they are provided as hollow tubes, whereas the two thinner reinforcing members are provided as solid rods. See also the cross sections 10a-c taken in the arch area of each of the soles 1000a-c.

[0306] In Figure 10dIn the reinforcing structure 1020d, all five reinforcing members 1021d-1025d are provided as tubes having the same diameter and wall thickness, see cross-section 10d. Here, the members 1022d and 1023d as well as 1024d and 1025d are also connected in the toe region, under the 2ndand 3rdas well as 4thand 5thmetatarsal bones, respectively, in order to provide additional support to these "weaker" toes (compared to the big toe / 1stmetatarsal bone). Another particular feature of this structure is that the "loop" connecting the reinforcing members 1022d and 1024d in the arch region is lower in the midsole 1010d than the "loop" connecting the reinforcing members 1021d and 1025d (see cross-section 10d), thus providing a heel support with a lower center and raised side edges, to provide a heel cup into which the heel can be placed. Figure 10d The left-hand figure of Fig. 10d shows a cross-section of the reinforcing structure 1020d in the heel region, and the right-hand figure shows a cross-section of the reinforcing structure 1020d in the forefoot region.

[0307] Figure 10a Also shown schematically in Fig. 10d is an outsole 1060a-d which can be connected to the midsole 1010a-d.

[0308] Figure 11a Fig. 11 shows an embodiment of a reinforcing structure 1120 and a forefoot support plate 1190 which can be incorporated into an embodiment of a sole according to the present application, e.g. one of the soles 100-900 or 1000a-d discussed so far in the present detailed description.

[0309] Figure 11a Fig. 11a shows a top view of the reinforcing structure 1120 and the forefoot support plate 1190 with connectors 1195a-b between them, Figure 11b Fig. 11b shows a bottom view, Figure 11c Fig. 11c shows a lateral side view, Figure 11d Fig. 11d shows a rear view, and Figure 11e Fig. 11e shows an inclined lateral side view. Figure 11f Fig. 11f shows an inclined medial side view of a variant of the reinforcing structure 1120 and the forefoot support plate 1190 with an increased number of connectors 1195a-d between them.

[0310] The reinforcement structure 1120 has five reinforcement members 1121-1125, each of which corresponds to one of the toes / metatarsal bones of the foot. The reinforcement member 1121 corresponding to the big toe / first metatarsal bone is also "curled" under the big toe (see region 1126) to provide additional support for toe-off, as has been discussed many times already. In the exemplary embodiment shown here, all reinforcement members 1121-1125 have more or less (e.g., within a few percent, such as within 10% or 5% or 2%) the same diameter (e.g., understood as their diameter at a particular cross-sectional plane or longitudinal position along the sole, or as their average diameter along their direction of extension). However, in other cases, this can be different. Also, if the reinforcement members 1121-1125 are provided as tubes, i.e., have at least some hollow sections, their wall thickness can also vary. For example, as has been discussed already, the wall thickness of members 1121 and 1123 can be larger, such that they are stiffer than the rest of the members.

[0311] In other respects, the reinforcement structure 1120 is similar to, e.g., the reinforcement structures 120, 220 or 920, and therefore reference is made to the above corresponding statements for the sake of brevity.

[0312] In the present example, a forefoot support plate 1190 is arranged underneath the reinforcement structure 1120 (principally, it could also be arranged on top of the reinforcement structure), and in the example shown, it also serves as an outsole or part of an outsole in the forefoot region of the sole. The forefoot support plate 1190 may, for example, be made of or include a fiber-reinforced lightweight material to provide increased stiffness for dynamic and efficient toe-off, e.g., for running or sprinting shoes.

[0313] To further facilitate such dynamic toe-off and fast motion, the forefoot support plate 1190 of the example shown includes profile elements 1199 for improved traction and grommets or receptacles 1198 in which cleats or spikes (not shown) can be (removably or permanently) installed. In the example shown, the forefoot support plate 1190 is made of a fiber-reinforced lightweight material, such as carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP), and the profile elements 1199 are made of a harder material, such as a hard plastic or metal, and are embedded in the forefoot support plate 1190. Figure 11f In the example shown, each receptacle 1198 is also fitted with a (e.g., plastic or metal) thread 1198a for removably screwing such a cleat or spike into it.

[0314] In Figure 11a In -e, the medial reinforcement member 1121 and the lateral reinforcement member 1125 are connected to the forefoot support plate 1190 by two connectors or wings 1195a and 1195b, respectively. In Figure 11fIn the shown improved embodiment, there are additional connectors 1195c and 1195d between the reinforcing members 1122 and 1124 and the forefoot support plate 1190, respectively. These connectors serve, for example, the purpose of further increasing the mechanical coupling and overall rigidity of the forefoot support structure provided by the reinforcing structure 1120 and the forefoot support plate 1190, and thus facilitate the transmission of high push-off forces from the leg and foot to the ground.

[0315] For the sake of clarity, Figure 11a - not shown in -f is a midsole material, which is typically arranged between the forefoot support plate 1190 and the reinforcing members 1121-1125, and which the reinforcing members 1121-1125 are typically at least partially embedded in, as already discussed. Therefore, for the sake of conciseness, reference is made here to the explanations already given.

[0316] Figure 12a - i shows an embodiment of a sole 1200 (or a part thereof) with at least two reinforcing members extending in the front half of the sole, wherein at least a first of said reinforcing members further extends backwards beyond the midfoot region and into the heel region of the sole, and wraps up to a rear portion of the ankle region.

[0317] Figure 12a and 12b shows a top view of the reinforcing structure 1220 of this sole 1200, Figure 12c is an oblique lateral side view, Figure 12d is a front view, Figure 12e is another oblique lateral side view, Figure 12f is an example of a reinforcing structure 1220 embedded within a midsole 1210, Figure 12g , 12h and 12i show a structural diagram related to the shown embodiment.

[0318] It is again pointed out that everything that has been described or disclosed so far, in particular with respect to Figures 1a-11f embodiments and examples, can also apply to (and of course, if not physically or technically impossible) the embodiments and examples described and disclosed below, even if not explicitly discussed in detail.

[0319] The sole 1200 comprises a reinforcing structure 1220, which comprises five reinforcing members 1221-1225 extending in the front half of the sole 1200, and each of which corresponds to a toe / phalange of the foot (however, in other embodiments, a lower or higher number of reinforcing members is also possible, e.g. 2, 3, 4 or 6 or 7 reinforcing members).

[0320] The first, medial, reinforcing member 1221 corresponds to the big toe / first metatarsal bone. The second, lateral, reinforcing member 1225 corresponds to the 5th metatarsal bone. Between these two reinforcing members, three reinforcing members 1222, 1223 and 1224 are arranged, corresponding to the 2nd, 3rd and 4th metatarsal bones, respectively.

[0321] The first, medial, reinforcing member 1221 includes a flat or tapered end that extends toward the front edge / terminal end of the sole 1200 (e.g., see Figure 12h and 12i ) and "curls" under the big toe (see area 1226) to provide additional support for toe-off.

[0322] The reinforcing members 1221 and 1223, corresponding to the 1st and 3rd metatarsal bones, have a greater diameter than the remaining three reinforcing members 1222, 1224 and 1225. This can be seen in Figure 12g , where several cross-sections through the reinforcing structure 1220 are shown. From medial to lateral (i.e., from member 1221 to member 1225), the indicated diameters of the five reinforcing members are: 4 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 3 mm and 3 mm at their terminal ends just forward of cross-section B-B'; 6 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm, 5 mm and 5 mm around the area of cross-section C-C'; and 6 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm, 5 mm and 5 mm just forward of cross-section D-D'. Thus, at each longitudinal position along the sole 1200, the reinforcing members 1221 and 1223 are thicker, and thus stiffer and more resistant to deformation, than the other members (for Figure 12g , some portions of the reinforcing members are also indicated with a wall thickness of 1 mm). However, wall thickness is another parameter, in addition to diameter, that can vary between the reinforcing members 1221-1225 and / or along a given reinforcing member to alter and affect their physical properties.

[0323] In the arch area of the foot, the reinforcing members 1222 and 1225 are also connected by a hollow connecting area 1228 having a central surface protrusion (see cross-section n-n' in Figure 12g ) to provide additional support and stability to this area of the sole 1200.

[0324] It is noted that in the center of the hollow connecting area 1228, in the area shown by the ellipse 1299, the dashed line does not represent a separate tubular member, but rather a surface protrusion on the hollow connecting area 1228 that is slightly higher (6 mm) than the rest of this hollow connecting area 1228 (5 mm) (see also cross-section n-n').

[0325] The first medial reinforcing member 1221 and the second lateral reinforcing member 1225 further extend backwards beyond the midfoot region and into the heel region of the sole and form segments 1221a and 1225a, respectively, which wrap up to the rear part of the ankle region and merge with each other in the area 1227 behind the heel (see Figure 12c , 12d , 12e, 12f and 12h to obtain information about the three-dimensional configuration of this region). In this way, a support structure for the heel of the wearer is provided which "locks the heel in place" and allows a particularly good transmission of forces and increased leverage during the push-off and full stabilization of the foot.

[0326] To further promote this effect, and although most of the reinforcing members are preferably provided as hollow members, i.e. tubular (cf. the cross-section in Figure 12g ), the first reinforcing member 1221 can be provided as a solid member, i.e. a rod. This is indicated in Figure 12b by the dashed line 1221b, which shows the (approximate) extension of this solid segment of the reinforcing structure 1220. As mentioned above, the remaining components are preferably provided as hollow structures (although not absolutely necessary), e.g. to reduce the weight.

[0327] Irrespective of the additional support provided by the heel support from the components 1221a and 1225a and the connection in the area 1227, the reinforcing members 1221-1225 are still adapted to be deflected independently by the forces acting on the sole in the front half of the sole 1200 during the gait cycle, so that the respective advantages already discussed in detail are not lost.

[0328] Finally, as already mentioned, Figure 12f , 12h and 12i show an example of how the reinforcing structure 1220 can be implemented into and embedded in the midsole 1210 of the sole and how it can be arranged relative to the midsole 1210 and possibly the outsole 1260.

[0329] Figure 13 Another example of a reinforcing structure 1320 very similar to the reinforcing structure 1220 is shown in a tilted medial side view. It contains five reinforcing members 1321-1325 and all the statements made above with respect to the reinforcing members 1221-1225 generally apply to the reinforcing members 1321-1325 as well. However, in the embodiment 1320 shown in Figure 13 , the cores of the reinforcing members 1322-1325 are filled with a filling (e.g. plastic or metal) material, as indicated by the different color as compared to the reinforcing member 1321 in Figure 13 .

[0330] Another embodiment of a sole 1400 is shown in Figure 14The embodiment comprises a reinforcing structure 1420, which can be, for example, the reinforcing structure 1220 or 1320 just discussed. Therefore, all the descriptions made in relation to the respective components, elements and parts of the reinforcing members 1220 and 1320 also apply to the reinforcing structure 1420 (of course, unless physically or technically excluded), and therefore are not repeated.

[0331] The sole 1400 comprises a midsole 1410 having an upper midsole portion 1411 and a lower midsole portion 1412, between which five reinforcing members 1420 are located. It is completely embedded within the midsole 1410. The sole also comprises an outsole 1460, which in the embodiment shown here comprises several separate sub-portions (however, this need not always be the case).

[0332] Reference is made in particular in relation to the different midsole portions 1411, 1412, the outsole 1460 and the possible details and materials that can be used in this regard, to the respective statements and explanations given in relation to the components Figure 1a - the respective statements and explanations given in relation to the components f, 2, 3a-b, 4, 5a-b, 6a-d, 7a-b, 8a-b and 9a, which components are similarly applicable here, and therefore are not repeated.

[0333] Figure 15a - embodiments 1500a and 1500b of a method for manufacturing a reinforcing structure or a part of a reinforcing structure for a sole having at least one reinforcing member having a hollow section, for example, for manufacturing any one of the reinforcing structures 120, 220, 320, 420, 720, 820, 1020, 1120, 1220, 1320, 1420 or the hollow sections thereof discussed herein so far.

[0334] For the sake of clarity, the following discussion will focus on the manufacturing of one single hollow section of such a reinforcing structure, but the person skilled in the art will understand that the method can also be extended to the manufacturing of several such hollow sections on a single machine and in a single operation, possibly in combination with solid / non-hollow sections. Of course, the components obtained by the method can also be subsequently joined, glued, connected, etc. to other components or parts for the reinforcing structure, if desired. However, the details in relation to these steps will not be the focus of the following discussion.

[0335] The method 1500a comprises the step of injecting a liquid molding material into a mold cavity 15 of a mold, the mold cavity 15 having a shape corresponding to the outer dimensions of the reinforcing member having a hollow section to be manufactured (as mentioned above, for the sake of clarity, the simple case of manufacturing one hollow reinforcing member is discussed here, and in the following, reference will be made to a reinforcing member having a hollow section, which can be a single hollow section or a plurality of hollow sections, possibly in combination with solid / non-hollow sections). Figure 15a and 15bThe result of this step is shown in Fig. 15a in the figure reference 1510a, where the cavity 15 is filled with (still liquid) molding material. Figure 15a

[0336] The liquid molding material can be a plastic material suitable for injection molding, such as EVA or TPU or some other material known to the skilled person for said purpose.

[0337] Referring to Fig. 15a in Figure 15a the method further comprises the step of injecting a displacing gas under pressure into the cavity. A displacing liquid can also be used instead of a displacing gas, as explained below in relation to Fig. 16a. The displacing gas can be, for example, air or nitrogen, or another gas, which is preferably inert, i.e. it does not react with the liquid injection material, but simply displaces it and pushes the injection material against the walls of the cavity 15. Figure 15b

[0338] This displacement of the injection material is achieved during the two steps described above. The outlet channel 20 to the outlet well 30 is closed, so that the gas pressure builds up and can be maintained within the cavity 15.

[0339] Once a sufficient amount of gas has been injected and a sufficient gas pressure has been built up, the outlet channel 20 is opened, so that the pressurized displacing gas "flushes" the material, which is still liquid, out of the center of the cavity 15 and into the outlet well 30, see Fig. 15a in the figure reference 1530a, thereby creating a hollow tube of injection material in the cavity 15, which then solidifies to form a hollow section of the reinforcing member. Figure 15a

[0340] Figure 15b An improved version 1500b of the method is shown, in which the outlet channel 20 for removing the displacing medium from the cavity is also used as an injection channel for the medium, so that the medium itself closes the outlet channel 20 during its injection into the cavity 15 under pressure, which can simplify the operation of the machine.

[0341] At figure reference 1510b, the liquid material is injection molded into the cavity 15 by the injection molding machine 40, which has a shape corresponding to the outer dimensions of the reinforcing member with hollow section to be manufactured.

[0342] ​​​At reference numeral 1520b, the method 1500b comprises injecting a displacing gas or a displacing liquid (e.g. water) into the cavity 15 under pressure. In the present example, this is done through the inlet channel 20, which also serves as an outlet channel for the liquid material being ejected from the center of the cavity 15. As the displacing medium is injected into the cavity 15 via the channel 20 under pressure, the medium itself seals the channel 20 as long as the injection pressure is maintained, and no additional valve or hollow line is needed in the present example.

[0343] This is done at reference numeral 1530b, where the displacing gas or liquid is again removed from the cavity 15 via the channel 20 and into the outlet well 30 within the respective unit 50, while “taking along” the liquid material that is still present in the center of the cavity 15 at this point.

[0344] Prior to the removal at reference numeral 1530b, it can be allowed that the injected molding material at least partially solidifies or cures within the cavity 15, especially at the walls of the cavity 15 (which can be heated for this purpose, for example), while the material in the center remains in the liquid phase. This facilitates the removal of the excess molding material from the center of the cavity at the same time as the displacing medium is removed (this option is also applicable to the above-described embodiment 1500a).

[0345] Then, the part can be allowed to solidify and cure (e.g. while being actively cooled), and then demolded, see reference numeral 1540b in Figure 15b .

[0346] Figure 16a - shows an embodiment 1600 of a shoe according to the invention or parts thereof from different perspectives. Figure 16a and 16b shows an exploded view of the entire shoe 1600 from the side and from two slightly different angles. Figure 16c and 16d shows a close-up view of the front of the sole 1605 of the shoe 1600. Figure 16e shows the concept of a first layer and a second layer used in the discussion here.

[0347] The shoe 1600 comprises an upper 1601 which is not discussed in further detail here. The shoe 1600 further comprises a sole 1605 having a midsole 1610 with an upper midsole portion 1611, a lower midsole portion 1612 and an intermediate midsole portion 1613. A reinforcing structure 1620 comprising five rod- and / or tube-like reinforcing members, indicated by reference numerals 1621-1625, respectively, is fully embedded within the midsole 1610. Each of the five reinforcing members 1621-1625 corresponds to a respective metatarsal bone. The sole 1600 of the shoe 1600 further comprises a load distribution member 1640 which is partially embedded within the top side of the upper midsole portion 1611. The upper midsole portion 1611 thus separates the reinforcing members 1621-1625 from the load distribution member 1640, i.e. the reinforcing members 1621-1625 and the load distribution member 1640 are provided as separate and individual elements. The load distribution member 1640 and the upper midsole portion 1611 can further be covered by an insole (not shown) which can be replaceable or permanently connected to the load distribution member 1640 and the upper midsole portion 1611. The sole 1605 of the shoe 1600 further comprises an outsole 1660 for improved traction and wear resistance. The shoe 1600 can also be equipped with cleats and / or spikes to make it suitable for e.g. track and field sports. The shoe 1600 can be a sports shoe, in particular a running shoe.

[0348] The upper midsole portion 1611, the lower midsole portion 1612 and / or the intermediate midsole portion 1613 can comprise or be made of a polymer foam material. The midsole portions 1611, 1612, 1613 can comprise or be made of the same material or they can comprise or be made of different materials. It is also possible that the material composition changes locally within a given midsole, i.e. different materials are used in different areas, for example to locally influence the mechanical properties of the upper midsole portion 1611, the lower midsole portion 1612 and / or the intermediate midsole portion 1613. The polymer foam material can comprise a homogenous foam material, like ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) or injection molded thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), or thermoplastic polyester ether elastomer (TPEE), polyamide, PEBA or other suitable materials. The polymer foam material can also comprise a cellular foam. For example, cellular foams made of or comprising particles of expanded thermoplastic polyurethane (eTPU), expanded polyamide (ePA), expanded polyether block amide (ePEBA) and / or expanded thermoplastic polyester ether elastomer (eTPEE) are particularly suitable for performance footwear, as they provide a high degree of cushioning and energy return to the wearer. For example, cellular foams of eTPU maintain their beneficial properties over a large temperature range, for example -20°C to 40°C. Cellular foams comprising expanded polylactide (ePLA), expanded polyethylene terephthalate (ePET), expanded thermoplastic olefin (eTPO) and / or expanded polybutylene terephthalate (ePBT) are also possible. To give one specific example, the lower midsole portion 1612 can be made of a homogenous EVA or TPU or TPEE foam material to provide good overall stability and wear resistance to the sole of the shoe 1600, while the upper midsole portion 1611 and / or the intermediate midsole portion 1613 can be made of a cellular foam comprising eTPU, ePA, ePEBA and / or eTPEE to provide good cushioning, high energy return and a smoother transition of the comfortable ride with reduced eccentric forces.

[0349] However, it is emphasized that alternatively or additionally to the use of foam material for the midsole 1610, other materials and manufacturing options can be used as well. For example, the midsole 1610 or parts thereof can comprise or consist of a lattice structure, for example an additively manufactured lattice structure (for example a structure made using a 3D printing process or a laser sintering process or a stereolithography process), as already further mentioned above, which can be used for long distance running shoes (where high cushioning is preferred) and sprint spike shoes or short distance running shoes (where high cushioning is not necessary, but high stiffness and anatomic guidance of the foot during ground contact is beneficial).

[0350] Furthermore, it is also emphasized that the present application also encompasses embodiments in which the midsole 1610 does not comprise separate upper midsole parts, lower midsole parts and intermediate midsole parts, but only comprises one uniform midsole part. Alternatively, at least two of the upper midsole parts, lower midsole parts and intermediate midsole parts can be one integral midsole part, while the remaining midsole parts are separate. Such a midsole can also comprise or be made of one or more of the above-mentioned homogeneous foam materials and / or cellular foams and / or non-foam materials, such as the lattice structures mentioned above.

[0351] It will be appreciated that in the description so far of the sole 1605 of the shoe 1600, this sole 1605 is very similar to, for example, the sole 100 shown in Figure 1a -f or the sole 200 shown in Figure 2 . Accordingly, everything discussed in relation to the reinforcement structures 120 and 220 also applies to the reinforcement structure 1620 discussed here with the reinforcement members 1621-1625, and vice versa, of course, unless physically or technically excluded.

[0352] More generally, all the descriptions in relation to the specific members, elements and parts already discussed above in the context of embodiments of the present application also apply to the corresponding members, elements and parts of the shoe 1600 discussed here, if present, and also to the corresponding members, elements and parts of further shoes and soles discussed below in relation to Figures 17-24 , if present, (of course, unless physically or technically excluded). In order to avoid redundancy, therefore, all these options will not be discussed again, but reference is made to the above corresponding statements.

[0353] In addition to the reinforcement members 1621-1625, the sole 1605 also comprises at least two blade members, in the present case three blade members 1671, 1672 and 1673, which also extend in the front half of the sole 1605, jointly denoted by reference 1670 in Figure 16a -e. In the embodiment shown here, the blade members 1671, 1672 and 1673 do not extend into the rear half of the sole, but their extension is limited to the area from the toe area to the arch area, but this can be different in other embodiments, and the blade members (or one or two of them) can also extend beyond the arch area and into the rear half of the foot. One or more or all of the blade members 1671, 1672 and 1673, for example the medial blade member 1671, can also protrude from the front of the sole 1605 and be visible from the outside. Furthermore, the above can also apply to the reinforcement members 1621-1625, which also extend at least in the front half of the sole 1605.

[0354] Similar to the grooves 215 of the reinforcing members 220 of the sole 200 shown in Figure 2 The lower midsole portion 1612 of the sole 1605 can comprise three grooves 1616 in which three blade members 1671, 1672 and 1673 can be placed, similar to the grooves 215 of the reinforcing members 220 of the sole 200 shown in Figure 16c and 16d Similar grooves 1615 for the reinforcing members 1621, 1625 are also present in the upper midsole portion 1611, as shown in

[0355] The reinforcing members 1621 -1625 define a first layer 1608 within the sole 1605, and the blade members 1671 -1673 define a second layer 1609 within the sole 1605. In Figure 16e both layers 1608 and 1609 have been indicated. As will be understood by the skilled person, the two layers 1608 and 1609 can be considered to be spanned or defined by the reinforcing members 1621 -1625 and the blade members 1671 -1673, respectively, in much the same way as the foldable ribs of an umbrella span the umbrella surface of the umbrella. A different way of determining the two layers 1608 and 1609 can be to envisage that the reinforcing members 1621 -1625 and the blade members 1671 -1673 are glued or welded to respective pieces of textile material (or similar, such as mesh material or foil), wherein any excess around the outermost members is cut away. It should also be emphasized that such a structure can in fact be used within the scope of the present invention, even though this is not shown here, and this concept is only discussed as a conceptual aid.

[0356] In the sole 1605, the first layer 1608 and the second layer 1609 are displaced from each other in the vertical direction, with the first layer 1608 being arranged above the second layer 1609, and the two layers being completely distinct from each other (see Figure 16e ), meaning that in the case shown here, there is no direct contact between the reinforcing members 1621 -1625 and the blade members 1671 -1673. However, this can be different in other embodiments.

[0357] In the gap defined between the first layer 1608 and the second layer 1609, the intermediate midsole portion 1613 is arranged such that the gap is filled with the (foam) material of the intermediate midsole portion 1613. Suitable materials for this and other portions of the midsole have been discussed above.

[0358] Furthermore, in a vertical projection of the sole 1605 (i.e. when viewed from the "top"), the first layer 1608 and the second layer 1609 at least partially overlap (e.g. in contrast to members arranged in completely different areas of the sole). In other words, the reinforcing members 1621-1625 are "stacked on top of the blade members 1671-1673" within the sole 1605.

[0359] For example, as Figure 16b and 16c indicated, the first layer 1608 and the second layer 1609 comprise respective portions with respective curvatures in the forefoot region and generally in the area under the metatarsal bones. This is indicated in Figure 16c by the two lines 1608a and 1609a. As can be seen from the figure, the two layers 1608 and 1609, and thus the reinforcing members 1621-1625 and the blade members 1671-1673, have a geometry in this area that fits together like two "onion skins". This allows the foot to be well and snugly seated in the support structure provided by the reinforcing members and the blade members, and allows the natural rolling motion of the foot.

[0360] The blade members 1671-1673 of the sole 1605 have a flattened oval cross-section, as is particularly clearly shown in Figure 16c . This can contribute to keeping the stack height or thickness of the recess 1605 low, despite the two sets of structural members (i.e. the reinforcing members 1621-1625 and the blade members 1671-1673) being stacked on top of each other and being spread and displaced by the intermediate midsole portion 1613 within the sole 1605.

[0361] As has already been discussed, e.g. in detail with respect to the sole 100 of Fig. 1, the diameter of the reinforcing members can vary between some or all of the reinforcing members. This also applies to the reinforcing members 1621-1625 of the sole 1605, with all the options and corresponding technical effects. Alternatively or additionally, the diameter of at least one of the reinforcing members 1621-1625 can also vary along said reinforcing member. Again in this respect, reference is made to the corresponding statements and explanations above.

[0362] Also, the same applies to the blade members 1671-1673. In other words, the diameter of the blade members 1671-1673 can vary between at least two of the blade members 1671-1673, and alternatively or additionally, the diameter of at least one of the blade members 1671-1673 can vary along said blade member. For example, each blade member 1671-1673 can have a thicker central portion compared to its front and rear tip, and the lateral blade member 1673 can have a smaller cross-section (e.g. as an average along the respective blade member, or taken at a specific location along the longitudinal axis of the sole 1605) than the medial blade member 1671, and thus be more flexible than the medial blade member 1671. The cross-section of one or more of the blade members 1671-1673 can also become more rounded in certain cross-sections or portions, so as to increase the bending stiffness of the respective member in that cross-section or portion compared to an elliptical or even flatter blade member.

[0363] Possible materials for the reinforcing members have been discussed above in relation to other embodiments of the invention, and these considerations apply to the reinforcing members 1621-1625 as well. The blade members 1671-1673 can comprise a reinforced polymer material, such as a reinforced polyamide (PA) material, in particular a glass fiber reinforced or carbon fiber reinforced or carbon infused polymer material.

[0364] Further possible modifications and further embodiments of a sole with at least two reinforcing members and at least two blade members will now be discussed in relation to Figure 17 and 18a - e. Again, all options and possibilities discussed so far can apply to the respective members, elements and components of the previous embodiments, as far as no specific members, elements and components of the following embodiments are detailed, even if not explicitly repeated and discussed again, of course, unless physically or technically excluded.

[0365] Figure 17 A shoe 1700 is shown with a sole 1705, which is very similar to the shoe 1600 described above. The shoe 1700 comprises an upper 1701, and the sole 1705 comprises a midsole 1710 with an upper midsole portion 1711, a lower midsole portion 1712 and an intermediate midsole portion 1713. Fully embedded within the midsole 1710 is a reinforcing structure 1720 comprising five rod-like and / or tube-like reinforcing members, each corresponding to a respective metatarsal bone. The sole 1705 of the shoe 1700 further comprises three blade members 1770, which are vertically displaced and arranged below the reinforcing members 1720. The lower midsole portion 1712 comprises three recesses 1716, in which the three blade members 1770 are located, and the upper midsole portion 1711 can comprise corresponding recesses for the reinforcing members 1720 (in its bottom surface, in theFigure 17 The sole 1705 also comprises a load distribution member 1740 partially embedded within the top side of the upper midsole portion 1711. The sole 1705 also comprises an outsole 1760, and it can further comprise an insole or inner sole (not shown here).

[0366] Unlike the sole 1605 of the shoe 1600, the three blade members 1770 of the sole 1705 of the shoe 1700 have a slightly smaller width (in the direction from the medial side to the lateral side), i.e. in this case, the width is comparable to the diameter of the rod / tube-like reinforcing members 1720. In contrast, in the sole 1605 of the shoe 1600, the width of the blade members 1671-1673 is larger than the diameter of the rod / tube-like reinforcing members 1621-1625 at least in their central portions away from their tips. This can result in the blade members 1770 having e.g. a slightly smaller stiffness of deformation and a slightly larger flexibility than the blade members 1671-1673.

[0367] Figure 18a - Fig. 18 shows another sole 1800 (for the left foot) having three blade members 1871, 1872 and 1873 (in the case shown here, jointly denoted by reference 1870), and also shows details regarding the geometry of these blade members. The blade member 1871 is arranged on the medial side of the sole 1800, the blade member 1872 is a central member, and the blade member 1873 is arranged on the lateral side of the sole 1800, see Figure 18a .

[0368] The sole 1800 comprises a midsole 1810 having an upper midsole portion 1811, a lower midsole portion 1812 and an intermediate midsole portion 1813. A reinforcing structure comprising several reinforcing members is completely embedded within the midsole 1810, which reinforcing members are not visible in Fig. 18, and which will not be further discussed here for the sake of conciseness. Instead, reference is made to the respective options and possibilities discussed so far. The sole 1800 also comprises an outsole 1860, and the sole 1800 can further comprise an insole, a load distribution member, etc., as already discussed several times so far (all not shown here).

[0369] The three blade members 1871, 1872 and 1873 are arranged (in the assembled state of the sole 1800) in respective grooves 1816 in the lower midsole portion 1811, e.g. similarly as already discussed with respect to the soles 1605 and 1705.

[0370] Figures 18b-18e Included to provide a better understanding of possible geometries of such blade members.

[0371] Figure 18bA top view of blade components 1871, 1872, and 1873 is shown (referring to their arrangement in the assembled state of sole 1800).

[0372] Figure 18c The lateral perspective views of the blade members 1871, 1872, and 1873 in their inverted configuration are shown, that is, when viewed from the heel toward the toes and with the sole rotated upwards from the bottom side, in their lateral perspective views of the sole 1800.

[0373] Figure 18d The preceding examples show components that are also in an inverted configuration, i.e., in... Figure 18d The midsole of the 1800 model has its side facing upwards.

[0374] Figure 18e The outer side view (projection in the sagittal plane) is shown, which is also in the inverted structure.

[0375] As can be seen from these figures, blade components 1871, 1872, and 1873 are shown in the top view (see...). Figure 18b ) as well as the front view and side view (see Figure 18c -e) all include non-linear components or curvature, which allows the blade components to follow the natural anatomy and anatomical landmarks of the wearer's foot.

[0376] Figures 19-23 Other possible embodiments of the shoe sole with reinforcing members and blade members are shown. Figure 24 It shows Figure 23 Possible modifications to the sole shown. Again, all the options and possibilities discussed so far are applicable to the corresponding components, elements, and parts of the preceding embodiments, unless otherwise stated in detail, even without explicit repetition and discussion, unless they are physically or technically excluded.

[0377] Figure 19 A sole 1900 for footwear, such as athletic shoes, is shown, having a midsole 1910 with five reinforcing members 1920 (one for each metatarsal) and two leaf members 1970 embedded therein, namely a medial leaf member 1971 and a lateral leaf member 1972. The two leaf members 1971 and 1972 are generally arranged below the reinforcing members 1920 such that the layer defined or crossed by the reinforcing members 1920 is generally different from the layer defined or crossed by the leaf members 1970 and is vertically displaced.

[0378] However, in the sole 1900, the blade members 1971 and 1972 are connected to the (some) reinforcing members 1920 in a region 1978 towards the rear end of the sole 1900. In other words, the layers delimited or spanned by the two sets of members 1920 and 1970 meet or merge in the region 1978. In the case shown here, the medial blade member 1971 is connected to the two outermost reinforcing members on the medial side of the sole 1900 in the region 1978, and the lateral blade member 1972 is connected to the two outermost reinforcing members on the lateral side of the sole 1900 in the region 1978. The connection can be formed, for example, by means of glue or adhesive, or by welding the elements together, or the elements can be integrally manufactured, for example, by injection molding or a 3D pre-spraying method.

[0379] In the forefoot region of the sole 1900 and also partly extending into the rear half of the sole 1900, there is thus a gap 1979 between the reinforcing members 1920 and the blade members 1970, and this gap 1979 can be filled by the foam material or intermediate midsole portion 1913, as shown in the lower half of Figure 19 This configuration can improve the forward propulsion of the sole during walking or running, as shown in the lower half of Figure 19 in steps S19A, S19B and S19C:

[0380] In step S19A, it is shown that at or before ground contact and foot strike the sole is in an uncompressed state, the forefoot region of the sole 1900 still has its initial stack height / thickness, and the foam material 1913 is (mostly) uncompressed and does not store a significant amount of elastic energy.

[0381] In step S19B, during support phase, the foam material 1913 is "squeezed into" by the support structure resulting from the reinforcing members 1920 and blade members 1970 arranged above and below the foam material 1913, respectively, leading to a reduction of the stack height / thickness of the sole 1900 in the forefoot region and a storage of elastic energy in the system.

[0382] In step S19C, at lift-off and unloading, this elastic energy in the system is (at least partially) released, thus contributing to the forward propulsion of the wearer, and the initial configuration of the sole 1900 is substantially restored (typically, some small energy losses can occur, for example, due to hysteresis in the materials involved).

[0383] Figure 20 A sole 2000 and possible modifications thereof are shown, in which the midsole 2010 comprises reinforcing members 2020 (for example, five reinforcing members, each corresponding to a metatarsal bone, as shown in the sole 2004 of the bottom of Figure 20 and blade members 2070 (for example, as with the sole 1900, as shown in the bottom of Figure 19The two leaf members discussed, or the three leaf members discussed with respect to Figure 16a The leaf members 2070 are generally arranged underneath the stiffening members 2020, such that the layers defined or spanned by the stiffening members 2020 and the layers defined or spanned by the leaf members 2070 are generally different and vertically displaced from each other, but in a region 2078 towards the rear end of the sole 2000, the leaf members 2070 connect to the (some) stiffening members 2020, so the layers defined by the two sets of members 2020, 2070 meet or merge in this region.

[0384] In the forefoot region of the sole 2000, also partially extending into the rear half of the sole 2000, there is also a gap 2079 between the stiffening members 2020 and the leaf members 2070, similar to the sole 1900 discussed above with respect to Figure 19 However, here, spring members 2077 are arranged in the gap 2079, instead of filling the gap with foam material as described above. However, it is emphasized that in the sole 2000 and variants thereof discussed below, the gap 2079 can contain foam material in addition to the spring members 2077.

[0385] In the sole 2000, the spring members 2077 are provided as elastomeric ball elements (e.g. rubber balls) arranged at or near the hinge points where the stiffening members 2020 and the leaf members 2070 meet and connect to each other.

[0386] In the variant shown below, i.e. in the sole 2001, the spring members 2077 are provided as elastic tubes (e.g. rubber tubes) at the rocker loading points, i.e. towards the front end of the foot's arch region. The spring members 2077 of the sole 2001 can thus potentially allow for storing energy, e.g. during the transition phase (> 50 ms), wherein the energy storage by the spring elements 2077 can come from the collapsing load of the foot's arch during the middle of the support phase. It can also allow for transferring energy to the last contact point during push-off, and / or returning energy during push-off when the spring elements 2077 are unloaded at the end of the support phase.

[0387] In the variant shown below, i.e. in the sole 2002, the spring members 2077 are provided by (biased) spring steel inserts.

[0388] In each of the soles 2000, 2001, 2002, there can be, e.g., a total of one such spring member 2077, or one spring member 2077 per leaf member, or one spring member 2077 per stiffening member, etc. The exact number of spring members 2077 can be determined, e.g., according to the degree of "springiness" required for the sole.

[0389] InFigure 20 In the two variations of the bottom shown, namely in soles 2003 and 2004, the blade member 2070 itself functions as a spring-like member; that is, in sole 2003, it functions as a spring steel member connected to at least one reinforcing member at its front and rear ends, and in sole 2004, it functions as an interlocking finger element. This reduces the number of individual components in the sole, and thus can, for example, reduce weight, manufacturing complexity, and cost.

[0390] Figure 21 The sole 2100 and its possible variations are shown, wherein the midsole 2110 has a set of reinforcing members 2120 (e.g., five reinforcing members, each corresponding to a metatarsal bone, as shown in...). Figure 21 (as shown in the sole 2103 at the bottom) and a set of blade components 2170 (e.g., also in the bottom of the shoe sole 2103 ... Figure 21 The two blade members shown in the bottom sole 2103 (or the three blade members as described above) form a springboard-like support structure, wherein the blade members 2170 are again generally arranged below the reinforcing member 2120.

[0391] The form of the springboard structure included in the sole 2100 is slightly modified in... Figure 21 The top of the midsole 2110 is shown in isolation (i.e., without the surrounding midsole 2110), and a spring member (or several spring members) 2177 is arranged between the front end portion of one or more blade members 2170 and the front or middle portion of one or more reinforcing members. This spring member 2177 or the multiple spring members may be attached to the blade members and / or reinforcing members, or may be held in place, for example, by the surrounding material of the midsole 2110, without being attached to these members.

[0392] However, in the form of the springboard structure included in the soles 2101 and 2102, there is no additional spring member; instead, the leaf member 2170 itself provides the springboard structure by forming a "ring," which can... Figure 21 The two soles are shown in the side view depicted in the image.

[0393] In particular, such as Figure 21 The bottom sole 2103, shown in a bottom view, can be, for example, sole 2101 or sole 2102. It may have two leaf members 2170, namely an inner leaf member 2171 and an outer leaf member 2172 forming a "ring" of sole 2101 or 2102, and is arranged below the five reinforcing members 2120 of sole 2003. The inner and outer leaf members 2171 and 2172 are further connected at the front and rear ends to increase the overall stability of the springboard structure.

[0394] Such a connection between two or more blade members and blade member design as segmented plates is possible for all other embodiments discussed herein if not explicitly stated otherwise or physically or technically excluded.

[0395] Figure 22 A sole 2200 is shown, which is Figure 19 an improvement of the sole 1900 shown. There are also five stiffening members 2220, each corresponding to a metatarsal bone, and two blade members 2271 and 2272 (collectively represented by reference numeral 2270) which are connected to the two outermost medial and lateral stiffening members in the area 2278 in the back half of the sole 2200, respectively.

[0396] The main difference is that the medial and lateral blade members 2271 and 2272 of the sole 2200 only extend upwards towards the middle of the front half of the sole, whereas the blade members 1971 and 1972 extend almost all the way up towards the tip of the sole 1900 (see, for example, the top picture in Figure 19 and the top picture in Figure 22 ). This can make the tip of the sole 2200 softer and more flexible than the tip of the sole 1900, and for example, this can also help to reduce the stack height / thickness of the tip of the sole 2200 compared to the sole 1900.

[0397] Figure 23 A possible variation of the sole 2200 is shown, in the form of a sole 2300, in which the medial and lateral blade members 2371 and 2372 (collectively represented by reference numeral 2370) are now not in the back half of the sole 2300, but at the tip of the sole 2300 and the stiffening members 2320, i.e. connected to the two outermost medial and lateral stiffening members 2320 in the area 2378.

[0398] Finally, Figure 24 a further possible variation of the sole 2300 is shown, in the form of a sole 2400, in which the blade members are replaced by five "spring arm" rods 2420a which extend in a downward and rearward direction from the tip of each of the five stiffening members 2420. As Figure 24 indicated in the upper picture, there can also be one or more stiffening members (e.g. the outermost lateral and / or medial stiffening members) which extend rearward beyond the midfoot region and into the heel region of the sole, and wrap around upwards to the back of the ankle region, for example as discussed in detail in the context of Figure 12a -i, 13 and 14, which are discussed at this point.

[0399] Further embodiments are described below to facilitate understanding of the invention:

[0400] 1. A sole for a shoe, in particular a running shoe, comprising:

[0401] a. at least two stiffening members extending in a front half of the sole,

[0402] b. wherein the stiffening members are adapted to independently deflect during a gait cycle by forces acting on the sole.

[0403] 2. The sole according to example 1, wherein each of the stiffening members comprises a non-linear section.

[0404] 3. The sole according to example 2, wherein each of the stiffening members comprises a section having a concave shape in a side view of the sole.

[0405] 4. The sole according to any one of examples 2 to 3,

[0406] wherein each stiffening member has a shape comprising a local low point relative to a horizontal plane, and

[0407] wherein each of the low points is located in the front half of the sole.

[0408] 5. The sole according to example 4, wherein each of the low points is located in a region between a midfoot region and a toe region of the sole.

[0409] 6. The sole according to example 5, wherein each of the low points is located in a region of the metatarsophalangeal joint (MTP joint).

[0410] 7. The sole according to any one of examples 4 to 6, wherein each of the low points is located at a distance of at least 5 mm, preferably at least 8 mm, below a plane tangent to an upper side of a structure formed by the stiffening member.

[0411] 8. The sole according to example 7, wherein the distance between the tangent and each of the low points depends on the location of the respective low point relative to a lateral edge or a medial edge of the sole.

[0412] 9. The sole according to any one of examples 2 to 8, wherein the section of each stiffening member having a non-linear shape extends at least from the midfoot region to the toe region of the sole.

[0413] 10. The sole according to any one of examples 1 to 9, wherein the stiffening members extend rearward beyond the midfoot region and into a heel region of the sole.

[0414] 11. The sole according to any one of examples 1 to 10, wherein the stiffening members are plate-like members.

[0415] 12. The sole according to any one of examples 1 to 10, wherein the reinforcing members are rod-like members and / or tube-like members.

[0416] 13. The sole according to example 11 or 12, wherein the reinforcing members comprise solid sections.

[0417] 14. The sole according to any one of examples 11 to 13, wherein the reinforcing members comprise hollow sections.

[0418] 15. The sole according to any one of examples 11 to 14, wherein the diameter of the reinforcing members varies between at least two of the reinforcing members, and / or wherein the diameter of at least one of the reinforcing members varies along the reinforcing member.

[0419] 16. The sole according to any one of examples 11 to 15, wherein there are five reinforcing members, each corresponding to a respective metatarsal bone.

[0420] 17. The sole according to example 16, wherein the reinforcing members corresponding to the first and third metatarsal bones have a higher flexural stiffness than the remaining three reinforcing members.

[0421] 18. The sole according to any one of examples 16 to 17, wherein the reinforcing members corresponding to the first and third metatarsal bones have a larger diameter than the remaining three reinforcing members.

[0422] 19. The sole according to any one of examples 1 to 18, wherein the reinforcing members comprise one or more of the following materials: carbon fiber, carbon fiber composite, glass fiber composite.

[0423] 20. The sole according to any one of examples 1 to 19, wherein at least two of the reinforcing members are connected by a connecting member.

[0424] 21. The sole according to any one of examples 1 to 20, wherein the reinforcing members extend substantially along a longitudinal direction of the sole.

[0425] 22. The sole according to any one of examples 1 to 21, wherein the reinforcing members are arranged adjacent to each other in a medial-to-lateral direction.

[0426] 23. The sole according to example 22, wherein the reinforcing members are connected to a web material.

[0427] 24. The sole according to any one of examples 1 to 23, further comprising a load distribution member arranged in a rear half of the sole, preferably in a heel region of the sole.

[0428] 25. The sole according to example 24, wherein the load distribution member comprises a load distribution plate.

[0429] 26. The sole according to any one of examples 24 to 25, wherein the load distribution member comprises one or more of the following materials: carbon fiber, carbon fiber composite, glass fiber composite.

[0430] 27. The sole according to any one of examples 24 to 26, wherein the load distribution member extends into the midfoot region of the sole.

[0431] 28. The sole according to any one of examples 24 to 27, wherein the stiffening member and the load distribution member at least partially overlap.

[0432] 29. The sole according to any one of examples 24 to 28, wherein the stiffening member and the load distribution member at least partially overlap.

[0433] 30. The sole according to any one of examples 1 to 29, wherein the stiffening member is at least partially embedded within a midsole of the sole, wherein the midsole comprises a polymeric foam material.

[0434] 31. The sole according to example 30, wherein the stiffening member is completely embedded within the midsole.

[0435] 32. The sole according to any one of examples 30 to 31, wherein the midsole comprises a cellular foam, in particular a cellular foam of expanded thermoplastic polyurethane (eTPU) particles, expanded polyamide (ePA) particles, expanded polyether block amide (ePEBA) particles, and / or expanded thermoplastic polyester ether elastomer (eTPEE) particles.

[0436] 33. The sole according to any one of examples 30 to 32, wherein the midsole comprises a homogenous foam material.

[0437] 34. The sole according to any one of examples 30 to 33, wherein the midsole comprises a lower midsole portion and an upper midsole portion, and wherein the stiffening member is positioned between the lower midsole portion and the upper midsole portion.

[0438] 35. The sole according to example 34 in combination with any one of examples 24 to 29, wherein the stiffening member and the load distribution member are separated by the upper midsole portion.

[0439] 36. The sole according to example 35, wherein the load distribution member is at least partially embedded within the upper midsole portion.

[0440] 37. The sole according to any one of examples 1 to 36, further comprising an insole.

[0441] 38. The sole according to any one of examples 37 in combination with examples 35 to 36, wherein the insole is arranged on top of the upper midsole portion and at least partially covers the load distribution member.

[0442] 39. The sole according to any one of examples 1 to 38, further comprising an outsole.

[0443] 40. A shoe, in particular a running shoe, comprising a sole according to any one of the preceding examples 1 to 39.

[0444] 41. A sole for a shoe, in particular a running shoe, comprising:

[0445] a. at least two stiffening members extending in a front half of the sole,

[0446] b. wherein at least a first of the stiffening members further extends rearward beyond a midfoot region and into a heel region of the sole and wraps upward to a rear portion of an ankle region.

[0447] 42. The sole according to example 41, wherein a second of the stiffening members also further extends rearward beyond the midfoot region and into the heel region of the sole and wraps upward to the rear portion of the ankle region.

[0448] 43. The sole according to example 41 or 42, wherein the stiffening members are adapted to independently deflect, in particular in the front half of the sole, by forces acting on the sole during a gait cycle.

[0449] 44. The sole according to any one of examples 42 to 43, wherein the first stiffening member is a medial stiffening member and the second stiffening member is a lateral stiffening member.

[0450] 45. The sole according to any one of examples 42 to 44, wherein the first and second stiffening members are connected at a rear of the heel.

[0451] 46. The sole according to any one of examples 41 to 45, wherein the first stiffening member further comprises a flat end extending into a region below the first metatarsophalangeal head.

[0452] 47. The sole according to any one of examples 41 to 46, wherein the stiffening members are rod-like members and / or tube-like members.

[0453] 48. The sole according to any one of examples 41 to 47, wherein the diameter of the reinforcing members varies between at least two of the reinforcing members, and / or wherein the diameter of at least one of the reinforcing members varies along the reinforcing member.

[0454] 49. The sole according to any one of examples 41 to 48, wherein some or all of the reinforcing members comprise a hollow section, and wherein the wall thickness of the hollow section varies between at least two of the reinforcing members and / or along at least one of the reinforcing members.

[0455] 50. The sole according to any one of examples 41 to 49, wherein there are five reinforcing members, each corresponding to a respective metatarsal bone, and preferably wherein the first reinforcing member corresponds to the first metatarsal bone.

[0456] 51. The sole according to example 50, wherein the reinforcing members corresponding to the first and third metatarsal bones have a higher flexural stiffness than the remaining three reinforcing members.

[0457] 52. The sole according to any one of examples 50 to 51, wherein the reinforcing members corresponding to the first and third metatarsal bones have a larger diameter and / or a larger wall thickness than the remaining three reinforcing members.

[0458] 53. A shoe, in particular a running shoe, comprising a sole according to any one of the preceding examples 41 to 52.

[0459] 54. A method for manufacturing a reinforcing structure or a part of a reinforcing structure for a sole having at least one reinforcing member with a hollow section, the method comprising:

[0460] a. injecting a liquid molding material into a cavity of a mold, the cavity having a shape corresponding to the outer dimensions of a reinforcing member with a hollow section;

[0461] b. injecting a displacing gas under pressure into the cavity, wherein

[0462] c. during steps a and b, an outlet passage of the cavity to an outlet well is closed; and

[0463] d. opening the outlet passage to release the pressurized displacing gas and remove liquid molding material from the center of the cavity to form a hollow section.

[0464] 55. The method according to example 54, wherein the method is for manufacturing a sole according to any one of examples 41 to 52 or a shoe according to example 53.

Claims

1. Sole (1605, 1705, 1800, 1900, 2000-2004, 2100-2103, 2200, 2300) for a shoe (1600, 1700), in particular a running shoe, comprising: a. at least two stiffening members (1620, 1720, 1920, 2020, 2120, 2220, 2320) extending at least in a front half of the sole; and b. at least two blade members (1670, 1770, 1870, 1970, 2070, 2170, 2270, 2370) also extending at least in the front half of the sole, wherein c. the stiffening members define a first layer (1608) within the sole and the blade members define a second layer (1609) within the sole, d. the first layer and the second layer are at least partially displaced from each other in a vertical direction, e. in a forefoot region of the sole, and partially extending into a rear half of the sole, there is a gap between the stiffening members and the blade members, the gap being provided with an intermediate midsole portion, a foam material or a spring component.

2. The shoe sole of claim 1, wherein, the first layer is at least partially arranged above the second layer.

3. The sole of claim 1 or 2, wherein, the first layer is completely different from the second layer.

4. The sole of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, the first layer and the second layer at least partially overlap in a vertical projection of the sole.

5. The sole of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, the first layer and the second layer comprise portions with a corresponding curvature.

6. The sole of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, the stiffening members are rod-like members and / or tube-like members.

7. The sole of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, there are five stiffening members, each stiffening member corresponding to a respective metatarsal bone.

8. The sole of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, the blade members comprise an elliptical cross-section.

9. The sole of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, a diameter of the stiffening members and / or of the blade members varies between at least two of the stiffening members and / or of the blade members.

10. The sole of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, a diameter of at least one of the stiffening members and / or of at least one of the blade members varies along the stiffening member or the blade member.

11. The sole of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, there is a connection between at least one blade member and one stiffening member, preferably wherein each blade member is connected to at least one stiffening member.

12. The sole of any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein, at least some of the blade members (2171, 2172) are connected to each other, preferably wherein the blade members are provided as segmented plates.

13. The sole of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein, the blade members are connected to the stiffening members in a region towards a rear end of the sole, so that the first layer meets or merges with the second layer in this region.

14. The sole of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein, the blade members comprise a reinforced polymer material, in particular a glass fiber reinforced polymer material or a carbon fiber reinforced polymer material or a carbon infused polymer material.

15. A shoe (1600, 1700), in particular a running shoe, comprising a sole (1605, 1705, 1800, 1900, 2000-2004, 2100-2103, 2200, 2300) according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

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