Article of footwear with asymmetric ankle collar

Abstract

An article of footwear includes an asymmetric ankle collar that can be enlarged in a manner that facilitates putting on and taking off the article of footwear, such as when a wearer slides his or her heel out of the article of footwear. The article of footwear can also include a collar riser.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application filed on December 19, 2019, with application number 201980085020.4 and invention title "Footwear with Asymmetrical Ankle Collar". Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure relates to a footwear article having an asymmetrical ankle collar, the asymmetrical ankle collar having an inner property that differs from the outer property. Background Technology

[0003] Some footwear articles include an ankle collar that is manipulated when the footwear is worn. For example, the ankle collar can be pressed down toward the sole as the wearer's foot slides into the upper. Furthermore, some of these footwear articles include a collar lifter operable to move the ankle collar from a pressed or lowered state to an elevated state. An example of one type of collar lifter is described in U.S. Patent No. 9,820,527, and examples of other collar lifters are described in U.S. Patent Publication 2018 / 0110292 and U.S. Patent Publication 2018 / 0289109. Attached Figure Description

[0004] Some of the subjects described in this disclosure are referenced in the accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0005] Figure 1 A side view of a footwear article according to one aspect of this disclosure is depicted.

[0006] Figure 2 One aspect of this disclosure is described Figure 1 A top view of footwear products.

[0007] Figures 3A to 3C Another footwear article having a collar lifter is depicted according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0008] Figures 4A to 4C Another footwear article with an alternative collar lifter is depicted according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0009] Figures 5 to 9 Another footwear product is depicted according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0010] Figures 10 to 13 Each describes a corresponding alternative footwear product according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0011] Figures 14 to 15 Another footwear product is depicted according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0012] Figures 16 to 17Another footwear product is depicted according to one aspect of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0013] To meet statutory requirements, the subject matter is described in detail and specifically throughout the specification. The aspects described throughout the specification are intended to be illustrative rather than restrictive, and the specification itself is not intended to necessarily limit the scope of the claims. Rather, the claimed subject matter may be implemented in other ways to include different elements or combinations of elements equivalent to those described herein and combined with other current or future technologies. Upon reading this disclosure, alternative aspects may become apparent to those skilled in the art practicing in relation to the described aspects without departing from the scope of this disclosure. It should be understood that certain features and sub-combinations are useful and may be employed without reference to other features and sub-combinations. This is contemplated by the claims and is within the scope of the claims.

[0014] The subject matter described in this specification generally relates to a footwear article having an asymmetrical ankle collar, including methods of manufacture therewith. In some aspects, the asymmetrical ankle collar can be extended in a manner that facilitates putting on and taking off the footwear article, for example, when the wearer slides his or her heel out of the footwear article. Some aspects of this disclosure relate to a footwear article having an asymmetrical ankle collar and a collar lifter.

[0015] Before describing the accompanying drawings in more detail, some additional explanations will now be provided regarding certain terms that may be used in this disclosure.

[0016] The terms “an,” “a,” “the,” “at least one,” and “one or more” are used interchangeably to indicate the presence of at least one of the items. When such terms are used, multiple such items may exist unless the context explicitly indicates otherwise. Unless explicitly or clearly stated otherwise in the context (including the appended claims), all numerical values ​​of parameters (e.g., quantities or conditions) in this specification shall be understood to be modified in all cases by the term “about,” regardless of whether “about” actually appears before the numerical value. “About” indicates that the numerical value allows for some slight imprecision (numerically close to exact; close to or quite close to the value; approximately). If the imprecision provided by “about” is not understood in that ordinary sense in the art, then “about” as used herein at least indicates a variation that can be caused by ordinary methods of measuring and using such parameters. Furthermore, the disclosure of a scope shall be understood to specifically disclose all values ​​within that scope and further subdivisions of the scope. All references cited herein are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0017] The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” are inclusive, thus specifying the presence of the stated feature, step, operation, element, or component, but not excluding the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, or components. The order of steps, processes, and operations may be changed where possible, and additional or alternative steps may be employed. As used herein, the term “or” includes any and all combinations of the associated listed items. The term “any” should be understood to include any possible combination of the referenced items, including “any one” of the referenced items. The term “any” should be understood to include any possible combination of the referenced claims in the appended claims, including “any one” of the referenced claims.

[0018] For consistency and convenience, directional adjectives may be used throughout the detailed description corresponding to the illustrated examples. Those skilled in the art will recognize that terms such as “above,” “below,” “upward,” “downward,” “top,” and “bottom” may be used descriptively with respect to the drawings and not to limit the scope of the invention as defined by the claims.

[0019] As may be used throughout the detailed description and in the claims, the term "longitudinal" refers to the direction in which the length of the extending component is directed. For example, the longitudinal direction of a shoe extends between the forefoot region and the heel region. The terms "forward" or "front" are used to refer to a general direction from the heel region toward the forefoot region, while the terms "backward" or "rear" are used to refer to the opposite direction, i.e., from the forefoot region toward the heel region. In some cases, a component may be identified as having a longitudinal axis and a longitudinal direction along that axis. The longitudinal direction or axis may also be referred to as the front-back direction or axis.

[0020] As may be used throughout the detailed description and in the claims, the term "lateral" refers to the direction in which the width of the extending part is directed. For example, the lateral direction of a shoe extends between the outer and inner sides of the shoe. The lateral direction or axis may also be referred to as the outer direction or axis, or the middle outer direction or axis.

[0021] As may be used throughout the detailed description and in the claims, the term "vertical" refers to a direction substantially perpendicular to both the lateral and longitudinal directions. For example, when the sole is laid flat on the ground, the vertical direction can extend upwards from the ground. It should be understood that each of these directional adjectives can be applied to various parts of the sole. The term "upwards" or "upwardly" refers to a vertical direction pointing towards the top of a part, which may include the instep, fastening area, and / or throat of the upper. The term "downwards" or "downwardly" refers to a vertical direction pointing towards the bottom of a part, opposite to the upward direction, and can generally refer to the bottom of the sole structure of a footwear article.

[0022] The “interior” of a footwear product (e.g., a shoe) refers to the portion of the space occupied by the wearer’s foot when the shoe is worn. The “inner side” of a component refers to the side or surface of a component in an assembled footwear product that faces (or will face) the interior of the component or footwear product. The “outer side” or “outer side” of a component refers to the side or surface of a component in an assembled shoe that is oriented away from (or will face) the interior of the shoe. In some cases, other components may be located between the inner side and the interior of a component in an assembled footwear product. Similarly, other components may be located between the outer side of a component and the exterior of the assembled footwear product. Furthermore, the terms “inward” and “inner” should refer to a direction toward the interior of a component or footwear product (e.g., a shoe), and the terms “outward” and “outer” should refer to a direction toward the exterior of a component or footwear product (e.g., a shoe). Additionally, the term “proximal” refers to a direction closer to the center of the footwear component or closer to the foot when the foot is inserted into the footwear product while the user is wearing it. Similarly, the term "distal" refers to the relative position of the foot when it is inserted into the footwear, which is farther from the center of the footwear component or farther from the foot. Therefore, the terms proximal and distal can be understood as providing generally opposite terms to describe relative spatial positions.

[0023] To aid in the explanation and understanding of aspects of this specification, please refer to the following: Figure 1 and Figure 2 The following describes the elements of a typical footwear article 10, which may include a tongue reinforcement. Figure 1 The outer side of footwear 10 is depicted, and Figure 2 The top of the footwear article is depicted. When describing the various figures mentioned in this disclosure, the same reference numerals denote the same parts in all views.

[0024] Footwear article 10 includes at least two main elements, including a sole structure 12 and an upper 14. When footwear article 10 is worn (as intended on the foot), the sole structure 12 is generally located near the sole surface of the foot (i.e., the bottom of the foot). The sole structure 12 protects the bottom of the foot, and furthermore, it can reduce ground reaction forces, absorb energy, provide traction, and control foot movements, such as pronation and supination. The upper 14 is coupled to the sole structure 12 and, together with the sole structure 12, forms a foot receiving cavity 16. That is, while the sole structure 12 generally surrounds the bottom of the foot, the upper 14 extends over and at least partially covers the top portion of the foot (i.e., the top or instep) and secures the footwear article 10 to the foot. The upper 14 includes a foot insertion opening 18 through which the foot is positioned in the foot receiving cavity 16 when the footwear article 10 is put on.

[0025] like Figure 1As shown, footwear article 10 may include a forefoot region 20, a midfoot region 22, a heel region 24, and an ankle region 26. The forefoot region 20, midfoot region 22, and heel region 24 extend through the sole structure 12 and the upper 14. The ankle region 26 is located within a portion of the upper 14. The forefoot region 20 generally includes the portion of footwear article 10 corresponding to the toe and the joints connecting the metatarsals and phalanges. The midfoot region 22 generally includes the portion of footwear article 10 corresponding to the arch and instep of the foot. The heel region 24 corresponds to the posterior portion of the foot and includes the calcaneus. The ankle region 26 corresponds to the ankle. The forefoot region 20, midfoot region 22, heel region 24, and ankle region 26 are not intended to define precise areas of footwear article 10, but rather to represent general areas of footwear article 10 to aid in understanding various aspects of this specification. Additionally, portions of footwear article may be described using these general areas in relative terms. For example, the first structure can be described as being more oriented toward the heel than the second structure, in which case the second structure would be more oriented toward the forefoot and closer to the forefoot.

[0026] Footwear product 10 also has an inner side 28 (in) Figure 2 In the middle of the label and in Figure 1 (not visible in the middle) and the outer 30 (in the middle) Figure 2 In the middle of the label and in Figure 1 (See image). The medial side 28 and lateral side 30 extend through each of the forefoot region 20, midfoot region 22, heel region 24, and ankle region 26, and correspond to opposite sides of the footwear article 10, each falling on opposite sides of the longitudinal midline reference plane 29 of the footwear article 10, as understood by those skilled in the art. For example, the longitudinal midline reference plane 29 may pass through the foremost and rearmost points of the sole structure. Therefore, the medial side 29 is considered to be opposite the lateral side 30. Generally, the lateral side corresponds to the outer region of the foot (i.e., the surface facing away from the other foot), and the medial side corresponds to the inner region of the foot (i.e., the surface facing the other foot). On the other hand, the footwear article includes a fore portion 33 and a rear portion 35, which fall on opposite sides of the lateral midline reference plane 31 of the footwear article 10. The lateral midline reference plane 31 extends perpendicular to the longitudinal midline reference plane 29 and the ground plane, and is evenly spaced between the foremost and rearmost points of the footwear article 10. In addition, these terms can also be used to describe the relative positions of different structures. For example, a first structure that is closer to the inner part of a footwear product can be described as the inner side of a second structure that is closer to the outer area and further out.

[0027] When describing footwear, the relative terms "bottom" and "top" can also be used. For example, the top part usually corresponds to the upper part that faces closer to the head when a person's foot is flat on a level surface and the person is standing upright, while the bottom part usually corresponds to the lower part that faces further away from the head and is closer to the ground.

[0028] The sole structure 12 can be made of various materials and can include various elements. For example, the sole structure 12 may include a midsole 32 and an outsole 34. The midsole 32 may be formed of a compressible polymer foam element (e.g., polyurethane or vinyl acetate (EVA) foam) that reduces ground reaction forces (i.e., provides cushioning) when compressed between the foot and the ground during walking, running, or other activities. In other aspects, the midsole 32 may include fluid-filled chambers, plates, adjusters, or other elements that further reduce forces, enhance stability, or influence foot movement. The midsole 32 may be a single piece or may be multiple components integrated into a single unit. In some aspects, the midsole 32 may be integrated with the outsole 34. The outsole 34 may be a single piece or may be several outsole components and may be formed of an abrasion-resistant rubber material that may be textured to provide traction and / or may include traction elements such as treads or anti-slip blocks attached to the midsole 32. Outsole 34 can extend the entire length and width of the sole or only partially across the length and / or width.

[0029] The upper 14 can be made of various materials and can include various features. For example, the upper 14 can be made of leather, textiles, or other synthetic or natural materials. Furthermore, the upper 14 can be knitted textiles, woven fabrics, braided fabrics, nonwoven fabrics, laminated fabrics, or any combination thereof. The upper 14 can have various material properties related to breathability, stretchability, flexibility, wicking, and water resistance.

[0030] The upper 14 typically includes a portion that overlaps with and connects to the sole structure 12, and the junction of this connection may be referred to as a strobel. Additionally, the upper 14 may include a strobel, which comprises a panel of material extending from the upper 14 and across at least a portion of the foot-facing surface of the sole structure 12, and the strobel is used to hold the upper 14 onto the last when the sole structure 12 is attached to the upper 14. In other words, the sole structure 12 integrated into the footwear article 10 includes a foot-facing surface, and in some cases, the upper 14 may include a panel (referred to as the strobel) extending inward from near the strobel region and at least partially covering the foot-facing surface. In this case, the strobel is positioned under the foot when the footwear article is worn. The strobel may be covered by an insole or other material layer.

[0031] The upper 14 includes other features. For example, the upper 14 includes an ankle collar 36 that forms a periphery around at least a portion of the foot insertion opening 18. Additionally, the upper 14 includes a throat 38 that generally extends from the ankle collar 36 and forms a periphery along at least one or more sides of the elongated opening 40. A tongue 42 is located within the elongated opening 40, and the size of the elongated opening 40 can be adjusted using various closure systems. For example, Figure 1 The illustration shows a lace-up 44, and other closure systems may include elastic bands, hook-and-loop straps, zippers, buckles, etc. The position of the tongue 42 and the connection of the closure system can be adjusted to change the size of the foot insertion opening and the elongated opening, for example, by making the opening larger when the footwear is put on or taken off and by making the opening smaller when the footwear is secured to the foot. As will be described in other parts of this disclosure, the tongue 42 may include a tongue reinforcement that helps the tongue maintain its shape and position when subjected to forces or adjustments, such as those from other footwear components or from the wearer.

[0032] Footwear article 10 may include athletic shoes, such as those that can be worn while running or walking, and the description of footwear article 10 (including information about...) Figure 1 and Figure 2 The described elements can also be applied to other types of shoes, such as basketball shoes, tennis shoes, American football shoes, soccer shoes, casual shoes or loafers, dress shoes, work shoes, sandals, slippers, boots, hiking boots, etc.

[0033] Already described Figure 1 and Figure 2 For reference now Figures 3A to 3C and Figures 4A to 4C To describe some other aspects of this disclosure. Figure 3A , Figure 3B and Figure 3C Each of the figures depicts a footwear article 310, which includes an upper 314 attached to a sole 312, and the upper 314 includes a heel region 324 and an ankle region 326 having an ankle collar 336. The ankle collar 336 can be in a lowered state (e.g., Figure 3C (as shown) and elevated state (such as) Figure 3A and Figure 3B The ankle collar 336 moves between the two positions (as shown). In the lowered state, the ankle collar 336 is positioned closer to the sole 312, and in the raised state, the ankle collar 336 is positioned further away from the sole 312. Similarly, the footwear article 410 includes an upper 414 attached to the sole 412, and the upper 414 includes a heel region 424 and an ankle region 426 having the ankle collar 436.

[0034] Furthermore, footwear article 310 includes a collar lifter 350, which is attached to the upper 314 near the heel region 324 and / or the ankle region 326 and operable to move the ankle collar 336 from a lowered state to an elevated state. More specifically, the collar lifter 350 includes a portion positioned in the heel region 324 and extending upward into the ankle region 326. As previously mentioned, there is not necessarily a precise depiction between the heel region 324 and the ankle region 326; rather, describing the positioning of the collar lifter 350 relative to these regions is one way of describing the collar lifter 350 extending from a lower portion closer to the sole to an upper portion closer to the ankle collar 336. Regarding the attachment of the collar lifter 350 to the upper 314 near the heel region 324 and / or the ankle region 326, this attachment can take various forms. For example, the collar lifter 350 may be attached to the upper in the heel region 324, attached to the ankle collar 336 in the ankle region 326, or any and all combinations thereof. The collar lifter 350 is an example of a collar lifter operable to move the ankle collar from a lowered state to an elevated state, and as will be described in other parts of this disclosure, the collar lifter may include, in addition to... Figures 3A to 3C One or more alternative structures besides those described herein. For example, Figures 4A to 4C A footwear article 410 is depicted having a collar lifter 450, which is operable to lift the ankle collar 436 from a lowered state (e.g., Figure 4C ) Move to an elevated state (e.g., Figure 4A and Figure 4B It also has a different structure from the collar lifter 350.

[0035] For illustrative purposes, uppers 314 and 414 are indicated by dashed lines, and the collar lifter can be positioned relative to the upper in various locations. For example, the collar lifter can be at least partially, and possibly entirely, attached between the outer layer and the lining in the heel area, ankle area, ankle collar, or any and all combinations thereof. On the other hand, the collar lifter can be at least partially exposed and positioned on the outer or outer surface of the upper. On another hand, at least a portion of the collar lifter can be positioned on the foot-facing surface inside the lining. On yet another hand, the collar lifter can be positioned on the outer surface of the footwear and can be attached to the heel portion of the ankle collar by means of a winglet, heat fusion, adhesive, stitching, or other fastener.

[0036] Collar lifters (such as collar lifters 350 and 450) may include various elements. In one aspect, a collar lifter includes an inner lever arm, an outer lever arm, and a central connecting strap that connects the inner lever arm to the outer lever arm and is located in the heel portion of the ankle collar. In another aspect, each lever arm is attached to a base that remains stationary relative to the lever arm when the ankle collar is moved to a lowered state and when the lever arm is deformed. The base may be part of a footwear article, such as part of a sole or upper. Additionally, the base may be one or more other anchors directly or indirectly attached to the sole, the sole itself, or any combination thereof. US 9,820,527 describes one or more collar lifters, some of which may be referred to as deformable members or deformable members (with or without a base), and the entire disclosure of US 9,820,527 is incorporated herein by reference. According to one aspect of this disclosure, at least some of the deformable members described in US 9,820,527 include an inner lever arm, an outer lever arm, and a central connecting band connecting the inner lever arm to the outer lever arm. In other instances, US 2018 / 0110292 and US 2018 / 0289109 each describe several other collar lifters, some of which are referred to as control levers (with or without a base), and the entire disclosure of US 2018 / 0110292 and US 2018 / 0289109 is incorporated herein by reference. According to one aspect of this disclosure, at least some of the control levers described in US 2018 / 0110292 and US 2018 / 0289109 include an inner lever arm, an outer lever arm, and a central connecting band connecting the inner lever arm to the outer lever arm.

[0037] Each of the collar lifters 350 and 450 shown depicts an example of an inner lever arm 352 and 452, respectively. Additionally, each of the collar lifters 350 and 450 shown depicts an example of an outer lever arm 354 and 454, and a central connecting strap 356 and 456, respectively. Furthermore, lever arms 352 and 354 are attached to a base 358, and lever arms 452 and 454 are attached to a base 458 having a different structure than base 358. Base 358 is attached to or near the foot-facing surface of sole 312, and base 358 may be a part of the outsole, a part of the midsole, a part of the insole, a part of the sole fabric, a plate or sheet laminated between any of these soles, or any combination thereof. Base 358 may include a rigid portion or segment to which lever arms 352 and 354 are anchored. Figures 4A to 4CDifferent aspects are depicted, in which base 458 may be attached to a portion of the upper (e.g., the main heel), a portion of the midsole sidewall, or any combination thereof, and base 458 is wrapped around the back of the footwear article, which is the opposite of extending through the insole in the manner described with respect to base 358.

[0038] The inner lever arm, outer lever arm, and central connecting band can be a single continuum, such that there is no clear boundary between the inner lever arm, outer lever arm, and central connecting band. For example, the inner and outer arms, as well as the central connecting band, can be molded, cast, 3D printed, or otherwise formed as a single integral unit. In other respects, the inner and outer lever arms can be discrete, separate, and distinct elongated components, which are connected to the central connecting band, for example, by mechanical or chemical coupling, friction fit, sleeve, or other connection methods.

[0039] Having generally described some structural elements of the collar lifter, some operational aspects of the collar lifter will now be described. As briefly described above, the collar lifter moves the ankle collar from a lowered state to an elevated state. More specifically, at least a portion of the medial lever arm, lateral lever arm, center connecting strap, or any combination thereof is attached to a portion of the upper. In one aspect, the center connecting strap may be attached near the heel portion of the ankle collar. For example, as described in other parts of this disclosure, the center connecting strap may be attached to the heel portion of the ankle collar by adhesive, connecting flaps, heat fusion, stitching, etc. Thus, when the ankle collar moves to a lowered state closer to the sole, the medial and lateral lever arms deform to a more compressed or loaded position. In other words, when an applied force moves the ankle collar from an elevated state to a lowered state, the collar lifter moves from a less compressed construction (e.g., Figure 3A and Figure 4A Constructions that deform elastically to more compressible structures (e.g., Figure 3C and Figure 4C The collar lifter stores potential energy. When the applied force is removed, the potential energy causes the collar lifter to return to a less compressed configuration, and the ankle collar also moves from a lowered state to an elevated state as the collar lifter adheres to the upper. While the compression of the collar lifter can be greater when the ankle collar moves to the lowered state (compared to the elevated state), in the elevated state, the collar lifter can still store potential energy in a state of at least partial deformation (i.e., preloaded compression) to be able to hold the rear heel portion of the ankle collar around the wearer's heel. For example, if the collar lifter is attached to the upper heel area and / or upper ankle area, then when the ankle collar is in the elevated state, portions of the upper can hold or retain the collar lifter in a preloaded configuration. In other respects, the collar lifter can be unloaded when the ankle collar is in the elevated state.

[0040] In one aspect, the portion 325 or 425 of the upper below the central connecting strap may include walls of one or more textiles that are more flexible than other portions of the upper. For example, this more flexible area of ​​the upper may be at least partially located in the heel area. Wherein, this more flexible portion 325 or 425 of the upper may collapse more easily when the ankle collar moves to a lower position, and may provide less resistance to the collar lifter (compared to other portions of footwear or the less flexible upper in typical footwear) when the collar lifter returns to a less compressed state.

[0041] In some respects, the combination of the inner lever arm, the outer lever arm, and the central connecting band can be referred to as a deformable element. The term "deformable element" refers to an elastic, flexible member that can be bent or compressed but has a biased tendency to move toward a non-bent or uncompressed state. A deformable element may include a single, integrally formed deformable element that extends continuously from the inner lever arm to the outer lever arm. In other respects, the inner and outer lever arms may be two or more separate and distinct deformable elements connected to a central connecting band, which may also be referred to as a heel piece.

[0042] In some aspects, the deformable element may be directly coupled, mounted, or attached to the base. In other aspects, the base may include one or more anchors that engage and hold the deformable element in place. For example, the anchor may be located at the junction between the lever arm and the base (e.g., 359 and 459). Such anchors may be integrally formed with a portion of the sole (e.g., insole, midsole, outsole), coupled to the sole portion, and / or located within, between, or outside the sole portion. For example, the anchor may be disposed in a block, plate, or wedge stacked within, above, or below the sole. In some cases, a portion of the sole (e.g., midsole) may be sculpted or cut to attach to or accommodate the anchor. On another aspect, a base extending in a mid-lateral orientation (e.g., base 358) includes an anchor housing into which the anchor is engaged by a resistance fit, compression fit, snap-fit ​​fit, or via an interlocking mechanism / construction. In other instances, the anchor may be integrally formed with a portion of the upper, coupled to the portion of the upper, and / or located within, between, or outside the portion of the upper. For example, anchors can be located in the upper, the main heel, or any combination thereof. A single anchor can extend the entire width of the footwear, or two anchors can be positioned on opposite sides of the footwear (e.g., on the inner and outer sides). Deformable members can be attached to the base or anchors at an angle. For example, a deformable member can be attached to the base at a perpendicular angle and then bend backward or arc. On the other hand, a deformable member can be attached at a forward tilt angle (i.e., upward and forward) or a backward tilt angle (i.e., upward and backward) before arcing backward.

[0043] The connection between the deformable element and the base or anchor can be described in various ways. For example, in one aspect, the deformable element does not pivot about the base (e.g., about the insole, midsole, or outsole). In other words, the deformable element can be non-rotatably coupled to the base. In various aspects, there is no gap between the deformable element and the base (or anchor), which means there is little or no relative movement between the two parts.

[0044] Deformable elements may include one or more of tubes, wires, springs, shape memory structures, or materials. Furthermore, deformable elements may include one or more materials, such as carbon steel, stainless steel, titanium, nickel-titanium (NiTiNO3) and other metals and alloys (shape memory alloys or others), polymers (shape memory polymers or others), composite materials, foam materials, graphite, carbon fiber, glass fiber, TPC-ET, silicone, TPU, and polycarbonate. For example, a deformable element may include titanium or titanium wire. Additionally, one or more deformable elements may be made of a first material (e.g., titanium), and one or more additional deformable elements may be made of a second material (e.g., graphite).

[0045] In some respects, the deformable element may include a single integral piece. For example, a first end of the deformable element (e.g., one end of the inner lever arm) may be embedded in or attached to an inner anchor; a second end of the deformable element (e.g., one end of the outer lever arm) may be embedded in or attached to an outer anchor; and a middle portion of the deformable element (e.g., a central connecting band) may extend around the heel or ankle portion of the upper or be embedded in additional heel support structures.

[0046] In other respects, deformable elements may include multiple separate and distinct components. For example, a deformable element may include two separate components, wherein a first component (e.g., an inner lever arm) has a first end embedded or attached to an inner anchor and a second end embedded or attached to the inside of a heel piece or center connecting strap. Similarly, a second component (e.g., an outer lever arm) may include a first end embedded or attached to an outer anchor and a second end embedded or attached to the outside of a heel piece or center connecting strap. Multiple separate and distinct components may be secured together, for example, using one or more of the following: tape, braided shell, overmolded material (e.g., TPU), heat shrink tubing, etc., each of which can provide different levels of stability and strength. For example, a deformable element may include one or more threads individually or together encapsulated in a cover, sleeve, overmolded material, or heat shrink tubing. The one or more threads may arch, bend, and swing before returning to their initial / normal state to facilitate the elastic deformation of the deformable element.

[0047] A deformable element can have variable mechanical properties along its length and / or at different points along its length. This variation can be provided by the deformable element (e.g., by a wire or bundle of two or more strands), by fasteners surrounding all or part of the deformable element, or any combination thereof. For example, the deformable element and / or fasteners can have variable cross-sections, variable densities, variable materials, etc., along its length. Conversely, a variable cross-section can be provided by variations in thickness or shape, or by twisting of a deformable element that otherwise has a constant thickness or shape along its length.

[0048] As briefly described above, a deformable element may include a cover, sleeve, overmolded part, or other suitable structure that can protect other elements of the deformable element (e.g., wire, spring, etc.) and can control, guide, support, and / or otherwise influence the flexure or compression of the deformable element. In some aspects, the cover is configured, based on its manufacturing material, shape, geometry, etc., to facilitate the distribution of mechanical stress by transferring mechanical bending / deformation forces from the deformable element (e.g., from wire or spring) to the cover, to prevent or at least inhibit damage or breakage of the deformable element caused by concentrated and repetitive mechanical stresses that may be experienced by the deformable element. For example, the cover may have dimensions that vary along its length, such as a funnel-shaped cone, to help distribute stress and facilitate the dynamic flexure of the deformable element. In the event of a breakage of the deformable element, the cover may still provide at least some degree of bias, thereby still facilitating the movement of the ankle collar from a lowered position to an elevated position. Furthermore, the cover may provide additional padding and / or support for the deformable element and may prevent or at least inhibit the wearer from feeling the deformable element.

[0049] As briefly described above, the center connecting strap can also be referred to as the heel piece. The center connecting strap can be integrally formed as a single continuous unit with the medial and lateral lever arms. Alternatively, the center connecting strap can be a separate piece extending between and bridging the medial and lateral lever arms. The center connecting strap can provide a connection to the upper and can also provide a framework to the ankle collar to prevent the ankle collar from collapsing into the foot-accommodating opening during foot insertion.

[0050] When put on by the wearer, footwear with collar lifters (e.g., collar lifters 350 and 450) can be slid on by the wearer without the wearer needing to manipulate the footwear with his or her hands. For example, the wearer's toes can be inserted through foot insertion openings 318 or 418, while the arch or heel of his or her foot presses down on the ankle collar 336 or 436 toward the sole 312 or 412. Adjusting the ankle collar 336 or 436 to a lowered state closer to the sole can increase the size of the foot insertion openings 318 or 418. Once the wearer's foot slides into the foot receiving cavity 316 or 416, the collar lifters 350 or 450 move the ankle collar from the lowered state (i.e., Figure 3C and Figure 4C ) Move to the elevated state (i.e., Figure 3A and Figure 4A ( ) to help secure footwear to the wearer's feet.

[0051] Among them, the collar lifters 350 and 450 can reduce potential structural damage over time in the upper heel and upper ankle regions by providing a frame operable to return to or offset in the elevated state, rather than structural damage that can occur from repeated hands-free putting on. Furthermore, the collar lifters 350 and 450 allow the user to more easily put on (i.e., wear) his or her shoes without using their hands and / or without bending down to tighten laces, without using a shoehorn, or without using other such adjustment features, elements, or fitting mechanisms. Additionally, footwear articles 310 and 410 can more easily accommodate or guide the wearer's foot into or accommodate the foot relative to the foot-accommodating opening. One reason for this potential ease of putting on may be that the collar lifters 350 and 450 help provide a larger foot insertion opening without allowing the ankle collar opening to fold inward toward the foot-accommodating cavity.

[0052] The operation of footwear articles 310 and 410 can be described in various ways. For example, ankle collars 336 and 436 can be elastic, or can include a triangular fabric element that, for example, allows foot insertion openings 318 and 418 to expand when the ankle collar is moved to a lowered state. In the lowered state, foot insertion openings 318 and 418 can expand by at least about 5%, or at least about 10%, or at least about 15%. This expansion can be detected in various ways. For example, a first circumference of the foot insertion opening can be measured when the ankle collar is in a first state, and a second circumference can be measured when the ankle collar is in a second state, which is closer to the sole (relative to the first state). In both the first and second states, the distance from the ankle collar to the sole can be measured in a vertical plane (i.e., perpendicular to a horizontal reference plane, which includes a flat surface on which the ground contact surface rests), and this distance can be measured from the last point of the ankle collar opening edge to the sole opening edge (e.g., where the sole connects to the upper at the position line). Thus, the distance in the first state will be longer than the distance in the second state, and in one respect, the second distance is equal to or less than 75% of the first distance. Continuing with the above example, in the second state where the distance is equal to or less than 75% of the distance in the first state, the circumference can be expanded by at least about 5%, or at least about 10%, or at least about 15%. In another example, when the ankle collar is in the second state where the distance is equal to or less than 75% of the distance in the first state, the circumference of the foot insertion openings 318 and 418 can be expanded by at least about 1.0 inch (about 2.54 cm). The amount of expansion of the foot insertion openings 318 and 418 can vary depending on the style and size of the shoe. In other respects, the ankle collars 336 and 436 are approximately 50% lower than the soles 312 and 412 in the lowered position compared to the raised position; however, for other parameters, this may vary depending on the type and size of the shoe.

[0053] As described in other parts of this disclosure, when the ankle collars 336 and 436 are moved from a lowered state to an elevated state, the collar lifters 350 and 450 provide a return force. In some aspects, the return force is in the range of about 1 pound to about 15 pounds, and this can be measured at various locations on the ankle collar. For example, as described above, the ankle collar may include a first state having a first distance from the sole and a second state having a second distance from the sole, the second distance being shorter than the distance in the first state. In one aspect, the collar lifters 350 and 450 provide a return force in the range of about 1 pound to about 15 pounds in the second state, where the distance is equal to or less than about 85% of the distance in the first state. In another aspect, the collar lifters 350 and 450 provide a return force in the range of about 1 pound to about 15 pounds in the second state, where the distance is equal to or less than about 75% of the distance in the first state. Furthermore, collar lifters 350 and 450 provide a rebound force ranging from approximately 1 pound to approximately 15 pounds in a second state, where the distance is equal to or less than approximately 50% of the distance in the first state. This rebound force is strong enough that the rear of the ankle collar springs back from the second state and fits snugly around the wearer's heel. For example, when the distance between the ankle collar and the sole in the lowered state is less than 85%, 75%, or 50% of the distance in the raised state, ankle collars 336 and 436 can rise from the lowered state to the raised state in less than approximately 1 second. In other respects, when the distance between the ankle collar and the sole in the lowered state is less than 85%, 75%, or 50% of the distance in the raised state, ankle collars 336 and 436 can rise from the lowered state to the raised state in less than approximately 0.5 seconds. Furthermore, in other respects, when the distance between the ankle collar and the sole in the lowered state is less than 85%, 75%, or 50% of the distance in the raised state, the ankle collars 336 and 436 can rise from the lowered state to the raised state in less than approximately 0.2 seconds. This rebound time was measured without any counteracting external force, such as friction that might be exerted by the wearer's heel.

[0054] Now for reference Figures 5 to 9 Another footwear article 510 is described, having an upper 514 attached to a sole 512. The upper 514 includes a heel region 524 and an ankle region 526 having an ankle collar 536. The ankle collar 536 can be positioned in a lowered state closer to the sole 512 (e.g., ...). Figure 8 ) and positioned further away from the sole 512 in an elevated state (e.g., Figure 5 and Figure 6The shoe article 510 includes a collar lifter 550 coupled to the heel region 524 of the upper, coupled to the ankle region 526 of the upper, adjacent to or coupled to the ankle collar 536, or any combination thereof, and operable to move the ankle collar 536 from a lowered state to an elevated state. For example, as described in other parts of this disclosure, a center connecting strap 556 may be attached to (or adjacent to) the rear portion of the ankle collar 536, and / or lever arms 552 and 554 may be attached to the heel region 524 of the upper. The collar lifter 550 is an example of one type of collar lifter, and in other aspects of this disclosure, the shoe article 510 may include any of a variety of other collar lifters disclosed herein. The upper 514 is tongueless, such that the forefoot extends from the forefoot region to the forefoot cuff edge of the ankle collar 536. In alternatives, the upper 514 may include a throat (e.g., 38), a tongue (e.g., 42), and a closure system (such as hook and loop straps, elastic bands, laces 44, etc.).

[0055] In one aspect of this disclosure, the ankle collar 536 includes an inner portion 560; an outer portion 562; and a rear transverse portion 564 that wraps around the rear and connects the inner portion 560 and the outer portion 562. Figures 5 to 9 In the middle, portions 560, 562, and 564 extend continuously from one to the other, such that the ankle collar 536 extends continuously from the inside, through the rear transverse portion, and to the outside. Portions 560, 562, and 562 do not necessarily provide a precise demarcation along the ankle collar 536, and may be helpful in describing the relative positioning of the features.

[0056] In another aspect of this disclosure, the ankle collar 536 is asymmetrical and includes a first set of structures or properties in the medial portion 560 that differ from a second set of structures or properties in the lateral portion 562. For example, in one aspect of this disclosure, the ankle collar 536 includes a gusset plate 570 along the medial portion 560, but without a corresponding gusset plate along the lateral portion 562.

[0057] As used in this disclosure, a "gusset" includes a piece of textile (e.g., a panel or strip) that is attached to and expands a portion of the ankle collar. For example, the gusset 570 may include an elastic material that includes a first resting state, which expands when the ankle collar is depressed (e.g., when the wearer slides his or her foot through the foot insertion opening) and returns to the first resting state when the ankle collar returns to an elevated position. In this sense, the gusset 570 provides a temporary expansion of the ankle collar 536, which may also increase the size of the foot insertion opening 518. For example, Figure 8A diagram is provided showing the wearer W inserting his or her left foot through the foot insertion opening 518 and pressing his or her foot down the ankle collar 536 (e.g., in the rear transverse portion 564). Figure 8 As shown, the angle gusset plate 570 is in a position relative to... Figure 6 The static state shown is a more extended or elongated state. The gusset plate 570 is depicted as largely uncovered. For example, the gusset plate may be attached to the upper around the edge of the gusset plate material panel. In some other cases, the gusset plate may include a material strip, and at least a portion of said strip may be enclosed between material layers in the ankle collar or ankle region.

[0058] Furthermore, as used herein, "corresponding gusset" refers to a gusset having a substantially similar construction to another gusset, including similar size, shape, material, angular orientation, and position along the longitudinal orientation (i.e., front and back, such that the gusset and the corresponding gusset are substantially aligned along the inside-to-outside orientation). As described above, in one aspect of this disclosure, footwear articles include a gusset (e.g., 570) along an inner portion (e.g., 560) without a corresponding gusset along an outer portion (e.g., 562). Thus, along the outer portion, footwear articles may include smaller gussets, gussets constructed of different materials, gussets positioned further forward or backward, gussets with different angular orientations, or any and all combinations thereof. In another example, the outer portion of the footwear article may not include any gusset, such as... Figures 5 to 7 As shown.

[0059] According to one aspect of this disclosure, footwear articles having gussets along the inner portion but not corresponding gussets along the outer portion can be operated in various ways. (Reference) Figure 9 The image depicts a top view of a footwear item 510, for example, having an ankle collar 536 in a more extended state when the ankle collar 536 is pressed down. (Compared to...) Figure 7 Compared to the static state, Figure 9The ankle collar 536 extends more in the medial portion 560 than in the lateral portion 562. This varying elongation and extension at different portions of the ankle collar 536 can provide utility in various settings. For example, the position of the elongating element (e.g., a gusset plate) can be configured to correspond to on / off techniques or limitations of some wearer. That is, in some cases, the wearer may more typically press down the ankle collar 236 at a position closer to the medial side than the lateral side (e.g., 275). For various reasons, the wearer may press down the ankle collar 236 at position 275, contrary to a more centrally positioned position. For example, the wearer may have limited flexibility and range of motion, making position 275 an easier target for pressing down the ankle collar. In other cases, the wearer may more naturally tilt or twist (e.g., externally rotate) the lateral portion of his or her foot downwards when inserting it through the foot insert opening, and this rotation may adjust his or her heel inwards and more aligned with position 275. In other cases, when removing footwear, the wearer's heel may not be lifted along a path directly aligned with the more centrally positioned location 277. For example, the heel may be pulled from the foot insertion opening 518 along a path more aligned with location 275, such that the enlargement along the inner portion 560 is positioned to facilitate easier removal of the footwear.

[0060] In other cases, the wearer can still apply pressure at a more centrally positioned location 277, and the structure of the outer portion 264 can be preserved for other purposes, excluding the corresponding gusset plate along the outer portion 264. For example, when the corresponding gusset plate is not included along the outer portion 264, the desired aesthetics of the outer portion 264 (as well as the ankle region 526 and heel region 524) can be preserved, or different functional elements can be included within the outer upper that would otherwise be compromised by the corresponding gusset plate. Examples of different functional elements may include textiles with stiffness, a degree of breathability, a degree of insulation, a degree of water resistance, etc.

[0061] Figures 5 to 9 An example is depicted where the outer portion 562 does not include any gusset plates. In other aspects, the outer portion may include gusset plates that are not corresponding to gusset plates, as gusset plates on the outer portion may include different sizes, different shapes, positions, different angular orientations, different materials, or any combination thereof. For example, in Figure 10 In this context, the outer corner gusset 580A is not a corresponding corner gusset to the inner corner gusset 570 because the outer corner gusset 580A is smaller (i.e., narrower), even though the outer corner gusset 580A and the inner corner gusset 570 are aligned in an inner-to-outer orientation and include similar angular orientations. Figure 11In another example provided, the outer gusset 580A includes a different longitudinal position than gusset 270, such that gussets 580A and 570 are not aligned in the latitudinal direction in the inner-to-outer orientation. Thus, gusset 580 / b is not a corresponding gusset, even though it has similar dimensions, shape, and angular orientation. Figure 12 Another example is provided, and the outer corner gusset 580C is not a corresponding gusset relative to the inner corner gusset 570 because the outer corner gusset 580C has a different shape, even though the outer corner gusset 580C and the inner corner gusset 570 are aligned in an inner-to-outer orientation and include similar dimensions and angular orientations. Figure 13 In this context, the outer corner gusset 580D is not a corresponding corner gusset relative to the inner corner gusset 570 because the outer corner gusset 580D has a different angular orientation. The angular orientation of the corner gusset can be determined in various ways. For example, a reference line can be extended from the midpoint of the base of the corner gusset to the midpoint of the tip of the corner gusset, and the angle at which the reference line intersects with a horizontal reference plane (e.g., a flat ground with the ground contact surface in a static position) can be measured. Figures 10 to 13 These are just some examples of different footwear products with collar lifters and asymmetrical ankle collars, and in other respects, the asymmetrical gussets on the outer side may have other differences compared to the inner gussets.

[0062] As shown in other parts of this disclosure, the ankle collar 536 is asymmetrical and includes a first set of structures or properties in the inner portion 560 that differ from the second set of structures or properties in the outer portion 562. Figures 5 to 13 The illustration shows some aspects of footwear including a gusset plate along the inner portion 560 but not a corresponding gusset plate along the outer portion 562. The ankle collar 536 may also be asymmetrical in other ways. See, for example, [reference needed]. Figure 14 and Figure 15 The invention depicts an alternative footwear article 610 having a collar lifter 650. Additionally, the inner portion 660 may include a first upper construction having a first set of one or more materials arranged in one or more layers of material, and the outer portion 662 may include a second upper construction having a second set of one or more materials arranged in one or more layers of material. According to one aspect of this disclosure, the first upper construction may include material properties different from those of the second upper construction. Examples of potentially different material properties include modulus of elasticity or stiffness. These properties can be measured using one or more standards or test methods suitable for a person skilled in the art. For example, the modulus of elasticity of the first and second upper constructions may be measured according to ASTM WK27572 (enabled February 11, 2010), ASTM D5034, or similar test methods. If ASTM D5034 is applied, in one aspect, the longer side of the specimen will be aligned along the upper in a forefoot orientation.

[0063] On the other hand, the first upper construction of the medial portion 660 includes a lower modulus of elasticity than the second upper construction. On the other hand, the first upper construction of the medial portion 660 is more flexible than the second upper construction. Furthermore, the medial portion 660 may be more elastic and more flexible than the lateral portion 662. Greater elasticity, greater flexibility, or a combination thereof can facilitate the manipulation of the footwear article 610 in various ways. For example, with regard to… Figure 9 The operation described is similar, and the asymmetry of the ankle collar along the inner portion 660, which includes greater elasticity and / or greater flexibility, may help to expand more along the inner side during putting on and taking off.

[0064] The first construction can differ from the second construction in various ways. For example, the first construction may include a first knitted structure, and the second construction may include a second knitted structure. The first knitted structure may include a stitch size or stitch type that contributes to a lower modulus of elasticity, greater flexibility, or a combination thereof. In another example, the first construction may include a material with a higher elastic yarn content, and the second construction may include one or more additional material layers, or a combination thereof, not included in the first construction.

[0065] In another alternative instance, refer to Figure 16 and Figure 17 Another footwear article 710 is depicted as having a collar lifter 750. Additionally, the inner portion 760 of the ankle collar includes an inner cuff edge 761, and the outer portion 762 includes an outer cuff edge 763. In one aspect of this disclosure, the ankle collar 736 is asymmetrical based on the difference between the inner cuff edge 761 and the outer cuff edge 763. For example, the inner cuff edge 761 has a valley that slopes more sharply downwards towards the sole 712 as it extends from the front portion to the back portion. Conversely, as the outer cuff edge 763 extends from front to back, it extends more horizontally without a sharp slope. The cuff edges 761 and 763 can be compared in various ways. For example, the lowermost portion of the inner cuff edge 761 is closer to the sole 712 than the lowermost portion of the outer cuff edge. Furthermore, the inner cuff edge 761 is longer than the outer cuff edge 763. For example, if the first inner-to-outer reference plane extends through points 780A and 780B, and the second inner-to-outer reference plane, which is parallel to the first inner-to-outer reference plane, extends through points 782A and 782B, then the length of the inner edge 761 between the planes is longer than the length of the outer edge 763 between the planes.

[0066] The lower portion of the inner opening edge 761, the longer length of the inner opening edge 761, or combinations thereof, can facilitate the operation of the footwear 710 in various ways. For example, with regard to Figure 9The described operation is similar, and the ankle collar asymmetry, including the differences in the cuff edges 761 and 763, may contribute to greater expansion along the medial side during putting on and taking off. In operation, compared to the medial cuff edge 761, the straighter and higher lateral cuff edge 763 can provide tension and resistance to posterior collapse earlier in the compression cycle (and throughout the entire compression cycle) when the ankle collar undergoes a compression cycle (e.g., during a handless putting-on operation, when the foot presses down on the ankle collar), while the medial cuff edge 761 can deform more easily in the medial heel portion of the upper 724.

[0067] Some aspects of this disclosure have been described with reference to the examples provided in the accompanying drawings. Additional aspects of this disclosure will now be described, which may be related subject matter included at the time of filing in one or more claims or clauses of this application or in one or more related applications, but the claims or clauses are not limited to the subject matter described only in the following sections of this specification. These additional aspects may include features illustrated in the drawings, features not illustrated in the drawings, and any combination thereof. In describing these additional aspects, reference may be made to the elements depicted in the drawings for illustrative purposes.

[0068] One aspect of this disclosure relates to a footwear article including a sole. The footwear article also includes an upper coupled to the sole, serving as a heel region and an ankle region. Additionally, the footwear article includes an ankle collar positioned in the ankle region. The ankle collar includes an inner ankle collar and an outer ankle collar, wherein the ankle collar is movable between a lowered state positioned closer to the sole and an raised state positioned further away from the sole. The footwear article includes a collar lifter positioned at least in the heel region and operable to move the ankle collar from a lowered state to an raised state. Furthermore, the footwear article includes a gusset plate positioned along the inner ankle collar, but without a corresponding gusset plate along the outer ankle collar.

[0069] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to a footwear article including a sole. The footwear article also includes an upper coupled to the sole, serving as a heel region and an ankle region. The footwear article further includes an ankle collar positioned in the ankle region. The ankle collar comprises an inner ankle collar and an outer ankle collar, wherein the ankle collar is movable between a lowered state positioned closer to the sole and an raised state positioned further away from the sole. The inner ankle collar includes an inner cuff edge, and the outer ankle collar includes an outer cuff edge that is not a mirror image of the inner cuff edge. Furthermore, the footwear article includes a collar lifter positioned at least in the heel region, operable to move the ankle collar from a lowered state to an raised state.

[0070] Additionally, one aspect of this disclosure relates to a footwear article including a sole. The footwear article also includes an upper coupled to the sole, having a heel region and an ankle region with an ankle collar. The ankle collar includes a medial ankle collar and a lateral ankle collar. In response to an applied force, the medial ankle collar has a lower modulus of elasticity, greater flexibility, or a combination thereof, than the lateral ankle collar. In response to an applied force, the ankle collar is reversibly movable from an elevated state positioned further away from the sole to a lowered state positioned closer to the sole. Furthermore, the footwear article includes a collar lifter positioned in the heel region and operable to move the ankle collar from the lowered state to the elevated state when the applied force is removed.

[0071] As can be seen from the above, the present invention is well suited to achieving all the objectives and goals set forth above, as well as other advantages that can be achieved by those skilled in the art and that are inherent to the structure.

[0072] It should be understood that certain features and sub-combinations are useful and can be employed without reference to other features and sub-combinations. This is contemplated by the claims and is within the scope of the claims.

[0073] Since many possible aspects can be made to this aspect without departing from the scope of the invention, it should be understood that everything set forth herein or shown in the drawings should be interpreted as illustrative rather than restrictive.

[0074] As used herein and in conjunction with the claims listed below, the term "any clause" or similar variations thereof are intended to be interpreted as meaning that the features of the claim / clause can be combined in any combination. For example, exemplary clause 4 may indicate a method / apparatus according to any one of clauses 1 to 3, which is intended to be interpreted as meaning that the features of clauses 1 and 4 can be combined, the elements of clauses 2 and 4 can be combined, the elements of clauses 3 and 4 can be combined, the elements of clauses 1, 2, and 4 can be combined, the elements of clauses 2, 3, and 4 can be combined, the elements of clauses 1, 2, 3, and 4 can be combined, and / or other variations thereof. Furthermore, the term "any one of the clauses" or similar variations thereof are intended to include "any one of the clauses" or other variations of such terms, as indicated by some of the examples provided above.

[0075] The following terms are the aspects envisioned in this document.

[0076] Clause 1. A footwear article comprising: a sole; an upper connected to the sole and having a heel region and an ankle region; an ankle collar positioned in the ankle region and having an inner ankle collar side and an outer ankle collar side, wherein the ankle collar is movable between a lowered state positioned closer to the sole and an raised state positioned further away from the sole; a collar lifter positioned at least in the heel region and operable to move the ankle collar from the lowered state to the raised state; and a gusset plate positioned along the inner ankle collar side without a corresponding gusset plate along the outer ankle collar side.

[0077] Clause 2. The apparatus according to any one of the clauses, wherein when an applied force moves the ankle collar from the raised state to the lowered state, the collar lifter stores potential energy by elastically deforming from a first configuration to a second configuration, and wherein when the applied force is removed, the potential energy causes the collar lifter to return to the first configuration.

[0078] Clause 3. The device according to any one of the clauses, wherein the collar lifter includes an inner lever arm, an outer lever arm, and a central connecting strap, the central connecting strap connecting the inner lever arm to the outer lever arm and located in the rear portion of the ankle collar.

[0079] Clause 4. The device according to any one of the clauses, wherein the outer side of the ankle collar does not include a gusset plate.

[0080] Clause 5. The device according to any one of the clauses, wherein the outer side of the ankle collar includes a non-corresponding gusset plate smaller than the gusset plate.

[0081] Clause 6. The device according to any one of the clauses, wherein the outer side of the ankle collar includes a non-corresponding gusset plate, the non-corresponding gusset plate comprising a first material having less elasticity than a second material of the gusset plate.

[0082] Clause 7. The device according to any one of the clauses, wherein the outer side of the ankle collar includes a non-corresponding gusset plate positioned further forward than the gusset plate.

[0083] Clause 8. The device according to any one of the clauses, wherein the outer side of the ankle collar includes a non-corresponding gusset plate having an angular orientation different from that of the gusset plate.

[0084] Clause 9. The device according to any one of the clauses, wherein the outer side of the ankle collar includes a non-corresponding gusset plate having a different shape from the gusset plate.

[0085] Clause 10. A footwear article comprising: a sole; an upper coupled to the sole and having a heel region and an ankle region; an ankle collar positioned in the ankle region and having an inner ankle collar side and an outer ankle collar side, wherein the ankle collar is movable between a lowered state positioned closer to the sole and an raised state positioned further away from the sole, wherein the inner ankle collar side includes an inner opening edge and the outer ankle collar side includes an outer opening edge, the outer opening edge not being a mirror image of the inner opening edge; and a collar lifter positioned at least in the heel region and operable to move the ankle collar from the lowered state to the raised state.

[0086] Clause 11. The device according to any one of the clauses, wherein the inner flange edge includes a first flange edge portion extending from a front position to a rear position, wherein the outer flange edge includes a second flange edge portion extending from a front portion to a rear portion, and wherein the first flange edge portion includes a valley deeper than the second flange edge portion.

[0087] Clause 12. The device according to any one of the clauses, wherein the lowermost portion of the first cuff edge portion is closer to the sole than the lowermost portion of the second cuff edge portion.

[0088] Clause 13. The device according to any one of the clauses, wherein the first rim portion is longer than the second rim portion.

[0089] Clause 14. A footwear article comprising: a sole; an upper coupled to the sole and having a heel region and an ankle region with an ankle collar; the ankle collar including an inner ankle collar and an outer ankle collar, wherein, in response to an applied force, the inner ankle collar includes a lower elastic modulus, greater flexibility, or a combination thereof, than the outer ankle collar; wherein, in response to the applied force, the ankle collar is reversibly movable from an elevated state positioned further away from the sole to a lowered state positioned closer to the sole; and a collar lifter positioned in the heel region and operable to move the ankle collar from the lowered state to the elevated state when the applied force is removed.

[0090] Clause 15. The device according to any one of the clauses, wherein the inner side of the ankle collar includes a first knitted structure, wherein the outer side of the ankle collar includes a second knitted structure, and wherein the first knitted structure includes a stitch size or stitch type that contributes to the lower elastic modulus, the greater flexibility, or a combination thereof.

[0091] Clause 16. The device according to any one of the clauses, wherein the inner side of the ankle collar includes one or more inner textiles, and the outer side of the ankle collar includes one or more outer textiles, and wherein the one or more inner textiles include a higher elastic yarn content than the one or more outer textiles.

Claims

1. A footwear product, comprising: A sole; an upper, said upper being connected to the sole and having a heel area and an ankle area; An ankle collar, positioned in the ankle region and having an inner ankle collar and an outer ankle collar, wherein the ankle collar is movable between a lowered state positioned closer to the sole and an elevated state positioned further away from the sole; a collar lifter, positioned at least in the heel region and operable to move the ankle collar from the lowered state to the elevated state; and an inner gusset plate and an outer gusset plate, the inner gusset plate being positioned along the inner side of the ankle collar and the outer gusset plate being positioned along the outer side of the ankle collar, and the outer gusset plate being a non-corresponding gusset plate having a different construction from the inner gusset plate.

2. The footwear product according to claim 1, wherein, The outer corner brace has a different size than the inner corner brace.

3. The footwear product according to claim 1, wherein, The ankle collar has multiple material layers, the inner gusset plate has an outer peripheral edge, the outer gusset plate has an outer peripheral edge, and at least a portion of the outer peripheral edge of the inner gusset plate and the outer peripheral edge of the outer gusset plate are encapsulated between the material layers of the ankle collar.

4. The footwear product according to claim 3, wherein, The outer corner brace has a different size than the inner corner brace.

5. The footwear product according to claim 4, wherein, The outer corner brace is smaller than the inner corner brace.

6. The footwear product according to claim 3, wherein, The outer corner brace includes a first material, the elasticity of which is lower than that of the second material of the inner corner brace.

7. The footwear product according to claim 3, wherein, The outer corner brace is positioned further forward than the inner corner brace.

8. The footwear product according to claim 3, wherein, The outer corner brace has a different shape than the inner corner brace.

9. The footwear product according to claim 3, wherein, The outer corner brace has a different angular orientation than the inner corner brace.

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