Shoes

Abstract

A shoe substantially comprises an upper and a sole. The sole is attached to the upper. The sole comprises an outsole and a first midsole. The first midsole has an anterior portion, a first heel portion, a second heel portion, and a boundary portion. The first heel portion is disposed at least partially along a longitudinal centerline of the shoe and is configured to support a central portion of the heel. The second heel portion is disposed laterally outward of the longitudinal centerline of the shoe and is configured to support an outer portion of the heel. The boundary portion is disposed between the first heel portion and the second heel portion to enable the first heel portion and the second heel portion to move relative to one another.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to a shoe. More specifically, this disclosure relates to a shoe with a sole. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, shoes have become highly specialized for specific activities. Therefore, some shoes may be suitable for certain activities but not others. For example, traditional cycling shoes are well-suited for cycling but less so for walking. Specifically, traditional cycling shoes have rigid or high-rigidity soles to transfer pedaling force to the pedals. On the other hand, rigid or high-rigidity soles are unsuitable for walking because they cannot absorb the impact when the shoe contacts the ground. Furthermore, some cycling shoes feature stud attachments for attaching cleats. For example, U.S. Patent No. 10,342,285 to Shimano Inc. discloses a cycling shoe. Summary of the Invention

[0003] During the development of the shoe disclosed herein, it was discovered that the load application point of cycling is different from that of walking.

[0004] In general, this disclosure relates to various features of shoes that can be used for different activities, such as riding human-powered vehicles and walking.

[0005] In view of the state of the prior art and according to a first aspect of this disclosure, a shoe is provided that substantially includes an upper and a sole. The sole is attached to the upper. The sole includes an outsole and a first midsole. The first midsole has a forefoot portion, a first heel portion, a second heel portion, and a boundary portion. The first heel portion is disposed at least partially along the longitudinal centerline of the shoe and configured to support the central portion of the heel. The second heel portion is disposed laterally outside the longitudinal centerline of the shoe and configured to support the outer portion of the heel. The boundary portion is disposed between the first heel portion and the second heel portion such that the first heel portion and the second heel portion are movable relative to each other.

[0006] By utilizing the shoes based on the first aspect, a shoe suitable for different activities can be provided, such as riding a human-powered vehicle and walking.

[0007] According to a second aspect of this disclosure, the shoe construction according to the first aspect is such that the boundary portion includes at least one opening disposed between the first heel portion and the second heel portion.

[0008] With the shoe according to the second aspect, the second heel can deform independently of the first heel so that the first heel can transmit the stepping force to the pedal, and the second heel absorbs the contact force during walking.

[0009] According to a third aspect of this disclosure, the shoe construction according to the first or second aspect is such that the boundary portion includes a slit disposed between the first heel portion and the second heel portion.

[0010] By using the shoe according to the third aspect, the second heel portion can be reliably provided to deform independently relative to the first heel portion during walking.

[0011] According to a fourth aspect of this disclosure, the shoe construction according to any one of the first to third aspects is such that the boundary portion has a lower stiffness than the first heel portion and the second heel portion.

[0012] Using the shoe according to the fourth aspect, due to the lower stiffness of the boundary portion relative to the first heel portion and the second heel portion, the second heel portion can reliably deform relative to the first heel portion during walking.

[0013] According to a fifth aspect of this disclosure, the shoe upper according to the third or fourth aspect is configured such that the slit has a first end located laterally outward relative to the longitudinal centerline of the first midsole and a second end located laterally inward relative to the longitudinal centerline of the first midsole. The second end of the slit is located behind the first end or laterally aligned with the longitudinal centerline.

[0014] Utilizing the shoe based on the fifth aspect, the lateral outer side of the first midsole can reliably deform during walking.

[0015] According to a sixth aspect of this disclosure, the shoe structure according to any one of the first to fifth aspects is such that the second heel portion includes an inner heel portion and an outer heel portion. The boundary portion includes an inner boundary portion and an outer boundary portion. The inner boundary portion is located between the inner heel portion and the first heel portion. The outer boundary portion is located between the outer heel portion and the first heel portion.

[0016] Using the shoe according to the sixth aspect, the inner and outer heel portions of the second heel section are reliably deformable relative to the boundary portion during walking.

[0017] According to a seventh aspect of this disclosure, the shoe according to any one of the first to sixth aspects further includes a second midsole disposed at least below the first heel portion of the first midsole. The second midsole has a receiving portion configured to receive at least a portion of the first heel portion when the first heel portion moves relative to the outsole.

[0018] By utilizing the shoe according to the seventh aspect, the downward deformation of the first heel can be reliably achieved.

[0019] According to the eighth aspect of this disclosure, the shoe structure according to the seventh aspect is such that the receiving portion includes a hollow recess.

[0020] Using the shoe according to the eighth aspect, the first heel part can be easily deformed downward into the hollow recess.

[0021] According to the ninth aspect of this disclosure, the shoe construction according to the seventh or eighth aspect is such that the receiving portion includes a plurality of slits.

[0022] Using the shoe according to aspect nine, the amount of downward deformation of the first heel can be easily adjusted based on the number and / or size of the slits.

[0023] According to the tenth aspect of this disclosure, the shoe construction according to any one of the seventh to ninth aspects is such that the receiving portion includes a foam material whose hardness is lower than that of the second midsole, at least partially surrounding the periphery of the receiving portion.

[0024] Using the shoe according to aspect ten, the downward deformation of the first heel can be easily adjusted based on the hardness of the foam material used.

[0025] According to the eleventh aspect of this disclosure, a shoe is provided that substantially includes an upper and a sole. The sole is attached to the upper. The sole includes an outsole and a first midsole. The first midsole covers at least from the middle of the outsole to the heel portion of the outsole. The first midsole has a forefoot portion, a first heel portion, and a second heel portion. The first heel portion is connected to the forefoot portion. The second heel portion is connected to the forefoot portion. The first heel portion is more rigid than the second heel portion.

[0026] Using the shoes described in the eleventh aspect, a shoe suitable for different activities can be provided, such as riding a human-powered vehicle and walking.

[0027] According to a twelfth aspect of this disclosure, the shoe according to an eleventh aspect further includes a second midsole disposed at least below a first heel portion of the first midsole. The second midsole has a receiving portion configured to receive at least a portion of the first heel portion when the first heel portion moves relative to the outsole.

[0028] By utilizing the shoe according to aspect 12, downward deformation of the first heel section can be reliably achieved.

[0029] According to the thirteenth aspect of this disclosure, the shoe structure according to the twelfth aspect is such that the receiving portion includes a hollow recess.

[0030] Using the shoe according to aspect thirteen, the first heel part can be easily deformed downward into the hollow recess.

[0031] According to the fourteenth aspect of this disclosure, the shoe construction according to the twelfth or thirteenth aspect is such that the receiving portion includes a plurality of slits.

[0032] Using the shoe according to aspect fourteen, the amount of downward deformation of the first heel can be easily adjusted based on the number and / or size of the slits.

[0033] According to the fifteenth aspect of this disclosure, the shoe construction according to any one of the twelfth to fourteenth aspects is such that the receiving portion includes a foam material whose hardness is lower than that of the second midsole, at least partially surrounding the periphery of the receiving portion.

[0034] Using the shoe according to aspect fifteen, the downward deformation of the first heel can be easily adjusted based on the hardness of the foam material used.

[0035] Furthermore, other objects, features, aspects, and advantages of the disclosed shoe will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, discloses preferred embodiments of the shoe. Attached Figure Description

[0036] Reference is now made to the accompanying drawings, which form part of this original disclosure.

[0037] Figure 1 This is a side elevation view of a shoe according to one embodiment.

[0038] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The shoe shown is a top view.

[0039] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 The shoe shown is viewed from below.

[0040] Figure 4 It is observed from the outside of the sole. Figure 1 and Figure 2 An exploded top perspective view of the sole of the shoe shown (e.g., outsole, first midsole, and second midsole).

[0041] Figure 5 It is used for Figure 1 and Figure 2 The shoes shown Figure 4 The shown sole (e.g., outsole, first midsole, and second midsole) is an exploded bottom perspective view taken from the outside of the sole.

[0042] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 and Figure 2 The image shows a top view of the outsole of the shoe.

[0043] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 and Figure 2 The image shows a top view of the first midsole of the shoe.

[0044] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 The outer elevation view of the first midsole is shown.

[0045] Figure 9 yes Figure 7 and8 The image shows a bottom view of the first midsole of the shoe.

[0046] Figure 10 yes Figures 7 to 9 The inner elevation view of the first midsole is shown.

[0047] Figure 11 yes Figure 1 and Figure 2 The image shows a top view of the second midsole of the shoe.

[0048] Figure 12 yes Figure 11 The outer elevation view of the second midsole is shown.

[0049] Figure 13 yes Figure 11 and 12 The image shows a bottom view of the second midsole of the shoe.

[0050] Figure 14 yes Figures 11 to 13 The inner elevation view of the second midsole is shown.

[0051] Figure 15 It is along Figure 11 Observed from section line 15-15 Figures 11 to 14 The longitudinal sectional view of the second midsole shown.

[0052] Figure 16 It is a top view of the first middle base according to the first modified example.

[0053] Figure 17 It is a top view of the first middle base based on the second variation.

[0054] Figure 18 It is a top view of the first middle base based on the third variation.

[0055] Figure 19 It is a top view of the first middle base based on the fourth variation.

[0056] Figure 20 It is a top view of the second middle base based on the first variant.

[0057] Figure 21 It is along Figure 20 Observed from section line 21-21 Figure 20 The longitudinal sectional view of the second midsole shown.

[0058] Figure 22 It is a top view of the second base according to the second variation.

[0059] Figure 23 It is along Figure 22 Observed from section line 23-23 Figure 22The longitudinal sectional view of the second midsole shown. Detailed Implementation

[0060] Selected embodiments will now be explained with reference to the accompanying drawings. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that the following description of the embodiments is illustrative only and not intended to limit the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0061] First refer to Figures 1 to 3 A shoe 10 according to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Shoe 10 is the left shoe in a pair of shoes that are symmetrical about left and right, with the right shoe omitted. The right shoe is identical to shoe 10 (left shoe), except that the right shoe is a mirror image of shoe 10 (left shoe). Therefore, the description of shoe 10 also applies to the right shoe. Therefore, only one shoe (left shoe 10) will be described. Shoe 10 is particularly well-suited for cycling and is constructed so that anti-slip studs can be attached to shoe 10. Therefore, shoe 10 can be considered a cycling shoe.

[0062] As should be understood from the accompanying drawings and description herein, the terms "inner side" and "towards the inner side" refer to the right side of the left shoe and the left side of the right shoe. In other words, the inner side or inwards side is the side of the shoe facing away from the shoe on the wearer's other foot. Similarly, the terms "outer side" and "towards the outer side" refer to the left side of the left shoe and the right side of the right shoe. The outer side or outwards side is the side of the shoe facing away from the shoe on the other foot. Likewise, the terms "inner side" and "towards the inner side" are used interchangeably with respect to this disclosure. Similarly, the terms "outer side" and "towards the outer side" are used interchangeably with respect to the description of this disclosure.

[0063] Basically, the shoe 10 includes the upper 12 and the sole 14. For example... Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, shoe 10 has a forefoot region FA, an arch or midfoot region MA, and a heel region HA. The forefoot region FA and the heel region HA are spaced apart along a longitudinal axis X of shoe 10, which extends between the forefoot region FA and the heel region HA, while the midfoot region MA is located along the longitudinal axis X between the forefoot region FA and the heel region HA. When shoe 10 is on the wearer's foot, the forefoot region FA of shoe 10 receives the toe portion of the wearer's foot. When shoe 10 is on the wearer's foot, the midfoot region MA of shoe 10 receives the arch portion of the wearer's foot. When shoe 10 is on the wearer's foot, the heel region HA of shoe 10 receives the heel portion of the wearer's foot.

[0064] Here, the upper 12 is a low-top style upper. However, the upper 12 is not limited to a low-top style, but can be any style. The upper 12 is made of any suitable natural or polymeric material. The upper 12 can be formed from expandable or non-expandable materials. For example, the upper 12 can be made of leather, nylon mesh, and / or any other material used in conventional uppers.

[0065] like Figure 2 As shown, the upper 12 includes a first side 16, a second side 18, and an opening 20 located between the first side 16 and the second side 18. The upper 12 also includes a tongue 22 located between the first side 16 and the second side 18. The upper 12 further includes a closure 24, which serves as a fastening structure for securing the shoe 10 to the wearer's foot. The closure 24 includes at least one strap tightener 24A and at least one lace 24B extending between the first side 16 and the second side 18. Here, the lace 24B is a strap that wraps around the eyelets 16A of the first side 16 and around the eyelets 18A of the second side 18.

[0066] Alternatively, the upper 12 may include one or more fastening straps having hook-and-loop fastening attachments with fabric hook-and-loop fastening material. These fastening structures for securing the shoe to the wearer's foot are conventionally well-known. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, a detailed description of the fastening structures is omitted. The various portions of the upper 12 are sewn or otherwise secured to each other. Because this disclosure is applicable to a wide variety of shoe styles, designs, and constructions, the illustrated embodiments show a basic shoe design made of several textile-based materials that are threaded or sewn together to form the described shape. However, this disclosure is not limited to the described shape, as will be understood from the following description of the disclosure.

[0067] The sole 14 supports the upper 12. Specifically, the sole 14 is attached to the upper 12. The sole 14 can be conventionally attached to the upper 12, for example by stitching, adhesive, and / or embedding a portion of the upper 12 into the sole 14. Thus, the upper 12 and the sole 14 are integrated together. In the illustrated embodiment, the sole 14 is constructed as a cross-country sole or an MTB sole. Here, as... Figure 3 As shown, the shoe 10 also includes an anti-slip stud attachment 26 disposed on the sole 14 for connecting the anti-slip studs.

[0068] like Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, the sole 14 includes an outsole 30 and a first midsole 32. In the illustrated embodiment, the shoe 10 also includes a second midsole 34. The second midsole 34 is disposed between the outsole 30 and the first midsole 32. Specifically, the second midsole 34 covers the outsole 30, and the first midsole 32 covers the second midsole 34. A pair of slots 36 are provided on the outsole 30 for receiving a portion of the anti-slip stud attachment 26 (see...). Figure 3 The outsole 30 is a one-piece component made of an elastic polymer material such as synthetic rubber or polyurethane (e.g., thermoplastic polyurethane). The outsole 30 can be formed by injection molding.

[0069] like Figures 3 to 6 As shown, the outsole 30 has a foot-shaped profile. The outsole 30 is a single piece of material having a forefoot 40, a midfoot 42, and a heel 44. The outsole 30 has a bottom surface 46 and a top surface 48. The bottom surface 46 forms the bottom surface of the shoe 10. The bottom surface 46 of the outsole 30 includes a plurality of grooves 46a defining the threads of the shoe 10. Furthermore, the bottom surface 46 of the outsole 30 includes a recess 46b. The recess 46b is primarily located in the forefoot 40 of the outsole 30. A slot 36 is located within the recess 46b. The recess 46b is sized to receive anti-slip studs configured as engaging clip-on pedals (i.e., step-in pedals). Thus, the anti-slip studs do not contact the ground during walking. The midfoot 42 has a protrusion 48a projecting upwards from the top surface 48 of the outsole 30. The protrusion 48a is aligned with the recess 46b. Therefore, the slot 36 is located within the protrusion 48a.

[0070] like Figures 7 to 10 As shown, the first midsole 32 has a foot-shaped profile. The profile of the first midsole 32 is slightly smaller than that of the outsole 30. However, the first midsole 32 does not need to be foot-shaped and / or cover most of the outsole 30. The first midsole 32 covers at least from the middle portion 42 of the outsole 30 to the heel portion 44 of the outsole 30. The first midsole 32 has a forefoot portion 50, a first heel portion 51, and a second heel portion 52. The first midsole 32 has a boundary portion 53. The first heel portion 51 is connected to the forefoot portion 50. In addition, the second heel portion 52 is connected to the forefoot portion 50. Specifically, the first midsole 32 has a middle portion 54 that connects the first heel portion 51 to the forefoot portion 50 and connects the second heel portion 52 to the forefoot portion 50. The first midsole 32 is a one-piece component made of, for example, fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) (e.g., carbon fiber, glass fiber, etc.). The front portion 50 of the first midsole 32 is provided with a pair of slots 56, which are used to receive a portion of the anti-slip stud attachment 26 (see...). Figure 3 The slot 56 of the first midsole 32 is aligned with the slot 36 of the outsole 30.

[0071] A first heel portion 51 is at least partially disposed along the longitudinal center line CL of the shoe 10. The first heel portion 51 is configured to support the central portion of the heel. A second heel portion 52 is disposed laterally outside the longitudinal center line CL of the shoe 10 and configured to support the outer portion of the heel. A boundary portion 53 is disposed between the first heel portion 51 and the second heel portion 52 so that the first heel portion 51 and the second heel portion 52 can move relative to each other.

[0072] In a first embodiment, the boundary portion 53 includes at least one opening disposed between the first heel portion 51 and the second heel portion 52. Specifically, the boundary portion 53 includes a slit 58a disposed between the first heel portion 51 and the second heel portion 52. In other words, in the first embodiment, at least one opening includes a slit 58a. Although the slit 58a (i.e., at least one opening) is shown as a single continuous slit, it will be apparent from this disclosure that at least one opening may be formed by a plurality of slits or a plurality of openings having one or more shapes. Here, the slit 58a includes an elongated groove extending generally parallel to the contour or peripheral edge of the first heel portion 51 and a portion of the middle portion 54. Furthermore, the slit 58a includes a plurality of notches extending from the elongated groove of the slit 58a toward the contour or peripheral edge of the first midsole 32. The boundary portion 53 also includes a plurality of recesses 58b extending from the slit 58a toward the contour or peripheral edge of the first midsole 32. Compared to the first heel portion 51 and the second heel portion 52, the slit 58a and the recess 58b reduce the rigidity of the boundary portion 53 of the first midsole 32. In any case, the rigidity of the boundary portion 53 is lower than that of the first heel portion 51 and the second heel portion 52.

[0073] Here, the slit 58a has a first end 58a1 located laterally outside the first midsole 32 relative to the longitudinal center line CL, and a second end 58a2 located laterally inside the first midsole 32 relative to the longitudinal center line CL. The first end 58a1 of the slit 58a is located in the middle 54, such that the slit 58a on the laterally outside of the first midsole 32 extends most or all of the longitudinal length of the middle 54 of the first midsole 32. The second end 58a2 of the slit 58a is located behind the first end 58a1 or laterally aligned with the longitudinal center line CL. Here, as... Figure 7As shown, the second end 58a2 of the slit 58a is located behind the first end 58a1. The second end 58a2 of the slit 58a is located in the middle 54, such that the slit 58a on the lateral inner side of the first midsole 32 extends less than half the longitudinal length of the middle 54 of the first midsole 32. If greater flexibility of the second heel portion 52 relative to the first heel portion 51 is desired, the slit 58a can be lengthened on one or both of the lateral outer and lateral inner sides. On the other hand, if less flexibility of the second heel portion 52 relative to the first heel portion 51 is desired, the slit 58a can be shortened on one or both of the lateral outer and lateral inner sides.

[0074] The first heel portion 51 is more rigid than the second heel portion 52. Here, the first heel portion 51 is thicker than the second heel portion 52, making the second heel portion 52 less rigid than the first heel portion 51. However, the rigidity of the second heel portion 52 can be made less than that of the first heel portion 51 in various ways. For example, the second heel portion 52 can have a localized area where the thickness is reduced relative to the first heel portion 51. Additionally, the second heel portion 52 can have openings at different locations. Alternatively, the first heel portion 51 can be provided with reinforcements or other reinforcing elements. Furthermore, if the first midsole 32 is made of two or more materials, the material of the second heel portion 52 can be less rigid than the material of the first heel portion 51.

[0075] like Figure 7 As shown, the second heel portion 52 includes an inner heel portion 52a and an outer heel portion 52b. The inner heel portion 52a is the portion of the second heel portion 52 located inside the longitudinal center line CL. The outer heel portion 52b is the portion of the second heel portion 52 located outside the longitudinal center line CL. The boundary portion 53 includes an inner boundary portion 53a and an outer boundary portion 53b. The inner boundary portion 53a is the portion of the boundary portion 53 located inside the longitudinal center line CL. The outer boundary portion 53b is the portion of the boundary portion 53 located outside the longitudinal center line CL. The inner boundary portion 53a is located between the inner heel portion 52a and the first heel portion 51. The outer boundary portion 53b is located between the outer heel portion 52b and the first heel portion 51.

[0076] like Figures 11 to 15 As shown, the second midsole 34 has a foot-shaped profile. The profile of the second midsole 34 is slightly smaller than that of the outsole 30 and slightly larger than that of the first midsole 32. The second midsole 34 has a forefoot portion 60, a heel portion 62, and a midfoot portion 64. The second midsole 34 is a one-piece component made of, for example, an ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymer or polyurethane.

[0077] As described above, the second midsole 34 is located below the first midsole 32 and above the outsole 30. Therefore, the second midsole 34 is located at least below the first heel portion 51 of the first midsole 32. Here, as... Figure 11 and Figure 15 As shown, the second midsole 34 has a receiving portion 66. The receiving portion 66 is mainly located in the heel portion 62 of the second midsole 34. The receiving portion 66 is configured to receive at least a portion of the first heel portion 51 when it moves relative to the outsole 30. In other words, during walking, the first midsole 32 moves downward toward the second midsole 34 and the outsole 30. Since the boundary portion 53 allows relative movement of the first heel portion 51 relative to the second heel portion 52, the first heel portion 51 can be received at least partially in the receiving portion 66 of the second midsole 34. Therefore, the receiving portion 66 facilitates the relative movement of the first heel portion 51 relative to the second heel portion 52, thereby allowing the second heel portion 52 to absorb contact forces from the ground during walking. Here, the receiving portion 66 includes a hollow recess.

[0078] like Figure 11 and Figure 15 As shown, the second midsole 34 also includes an opening 68, which is located primarily in the front portion 60 of the second midsole 34. The opening 68 is shaped to tightly receive the protrusion 48a of the outsole 30. Therefore, this arrangement prevents relative movement between the second midsole 34 and the outsole 30.

[0079] Now for reference Figure 16 The diagram shows a first midsole 32A according to a first variation. The first midsole 32A is used to replace the first midsole 32 in the shoe 10. Given the similarity between the first midsole 32 and the first midsole 32A, only the differences in the first midsole 32A will be discussed. Here, the first midsole 32A has a forefoot portion 50A, a first heel portion 51A, a second heel portion 52A, and a midfoot portion 54A. The first midsole 32A also includes a boundary portion 53A separating the first heel portion 51A and the second heel portion 52A. The first midsole 32A is identical to the first midsole 32, except that the boundary portion 53A of the first midsole 32A is modified relative to the boundary portion 53 of the first midsole 32. Here, the boundary portion 53A is a slit 58A, having a first end 58A1 located laterally outside the first midsole 32A relative to the longitudinal center line CL and a second end 58A2 located laterally inside the first midsole 32 relative to the longitudinal center line CL. The second end 58A2 of slit 58A is located behind the first end 58A1 of slit 58A.

[0080] Now for reference Figure 17The diagram shows a first midsole 32B according to a second variation. The first midsole 32B is used in place of the first midsole 32 in shoe 10. Given the similarity between the first midsole 32 and the first midsole 32B, only the differences of the first midsole 32B will be discussed. Here, the first midsole 32B has a forefoot portion 50B, a first heel portion 51B, a second heel portion 52B, and a midfoot portion 54B. The first midsole 32B also includes a boundary portion 53B separating the first heel portion 51B and the second heel portion 52B. The first midsole 32B is identical to the first midsole 32, except that the boundary portion 53B of the first midsole 32B is modified relative to the boundary portion 53 of the first midsole 32. Here, the boundary portion 53B is a slit 58B, which has a first end 58B1 located laterally outside the first midsole 32B relative to the longitudinal center line CL and a second end 58B2 located laterally inside the first midsole 32 relative to the longitudinal center line CL. The second end 58B2 of slit 58B is located behind the first end 58B1 of slit 58B.

[0081] Now for reference Figure 18 The diagram shows a first midsole 32C according to a third variation. The first midsole 32C is used in place of the first midsole 32 in shoe 10. Given the similarity between the first midsole 32 and the first midsole 32C, only the differences of the first midsole 32C will be discussed. Here, the first midsole 32C has a forefoot portion 50C, a first heel portion 51C, a second heel portion 52C, and a midfoot portion 54C. The first midsole 32C also includes a boundary portion 53C separating the first heel portion 51C and the second heel portion 52C. Here, the boundary portion 53C is a slit 58C, having a first end 58C1 located laterally outside the first midsole 32C relative to the longitudinal center line CL, and a second end 58C2 located laterally inside the first midsole 32C relative to the longitudinal center line CL. The second end 58C2 of the slit 58C is laterally aligned with the first end 58C1 relative to the longitudinal center line C.

[0082] Now for reference Figure 19The diagram shows a first midsole 32D according to a fourth variation. The first midsole 32D is used to replace the first midsole 32 in shoe 10. Given the similarity between the first midsole 32 and the first midsole 32D, only the differences of the first midsole 32D will be discussed. Here, the first midsole 32D has a forefoot portion 50D, a first heel portion 51D, a second heel portion 52D, and a midfoot portion 54D. The first midsole 32D also includes a boundary portion 53D separating the first heel portion 51D and the second heel portion 52D. The first midsole 32D is identical to the first midsole 32, except that the boundary portion 53D of the first midsole 32D is modified relative to the boundary portion 53 of the first midsole 32. Here, the boundary portion 53D is a slit 58D, which has a first end 58D1 located laterally outside the first midsole 32D relative to the longitudinal center line CL and a second end 58D2 located laterally inside the first midsole 32 relative to the longitudinal center line CL. The first end 58D1 of slit 58D is located behind the second end 58D2 of slit 58D.

[0083] Now for reference Figure 20 and Figure 21 The diagram shows a second midsole 34A according to a first variation. The second midsole 34A is used to replace the second midsole 34 in shoe 10. Given the similarity between the second midsole 34 and the second midsole 34A, only the differences in the second midsole 34A will be discussed. Here, the second midsole 34A has a forefoot portion 60A, a heel portion 62A, and a midfoot portion 64A. Here, the heel portion 62A of the second midsole 34A includes a receiving portion 66A. The forefoot portion 60A of the second midsole 34A includes an opening 68A.

[0084] The second midsole 34A is identical to the second midsole 34, except that the receiving portion 66A of the second midsole 34A is modified relative to the receiving portion 66 of the second midsole 34. Here, the receiving portion 66 includes a foam material 70A, the hardness of which is lower than that of the portion of the second midsole 34 that at least partially surrounds the receiving portion 66. Based on the hardness of the foam material 70A used and / or the shape of the recessed portion of the receiving portion 66A, the force causing the first heel portion 51 to move relative to the receiving portion 66A can be easily adjusted. Here, in the first modification, the receiving portion 66A is provided with a pair of protrusions 72A and 74A. Alternatively, the protrusions 72A and 74A can be omitted, and the receiving portion 66A can simply be a single recess filled with foam material 70A.

[0085] Now for reference Figure 22 and Figure 23The diagram shows a second midsole 34B according to a second variation. The second midsole 34B is used in place of the second midsole 34 in shoe 10. Given the similarity between the second midsole 34 and the second midsole 34B, only the differences in the second midsole 34B will be discussed. Here, the second midsole 34B has a forefoot portion 60B, a heel portion 62B, and a midfoot portion 64B. The heel portion 62B of the second midsole 34B includes a receiving portion 66B. The forefoot portion 60B of the second midsole 34B includes an opening 68B.

[0086] The second midsole 34B is identical to the second midsole 34, except that the receiving portion 66B of the second midsole 34B is modified relative to the receiving portion 66 of the second midsole 34. Here, the receiving portion 66B includes a plurality of slits 72B. The force causing the first heel portion 51 to move relative to the receiving portion 66B is adjusted based on the number and / or size of the slits 72B. Optionally, the slits 72B may be filled with foam material.

[0087] In understanding the scope of this invention, the term "comprising" and its derivatives, as used herein, are intended to be open-ended terms that specify the stated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps, but do not exclude the presence of other unstated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps. The foregoing also applies to words with similar meanings, such as "comprising," "having," and their derivatives. Furthermore, unless otherwise stated, the terms "part," "section," "section," "component," or "element," when used in the singular, may have a dual meaning of a single component or multiple components.

[0088] As used in this disclosure, the phrase "at least one" means "one or more" of the desired choices. For example, if the number of choices is two, the phrase "at least one" as used in this disclosure means "only one single choice" or "both of the two choices." As another example, if the number of choices is equal to or more than three, the phrase "at least one" as used in this disclosure means "only one single choice" or "any combination of equal to or more than two choices." Furthermore, the term "and / or" as used in this disclosure means "one or both of them."

[0089] Furthermore, it should be understood that although the terms "first" and "second" may be used herein to describe various components, these components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one component from another. Thus, for example, without departing from the teachings of the invention, the first component discussed above may be referred to as the second component, and vice versa.

[0090] As used herein, the term “attach to” or “attach” encompasses configurations in which an element is directly fixed to another element by adhering it directly to the other element; configurations in which an element is indirectly fixed to another element by adhering it to an intermediate component; and configurations in which one element is integral with another element, i.e., one element is substantially part of the other element. This definition also applies to words with similar meanings, such as “joint,” “connect,” “link,” “install,” “adhere,” “fix,” and their derivatives. Finally, terms such as “substantially,” “approximately,” and “approximately” as used herein refer to terms that are a reasonable amount of deviation from the modified terminology such that the final result is not significantly altered.

[0091] Although only selected embodiments have been chosen to illustrate the invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications may be made therein from this disclosure without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. For example, unless otherwise specifically stated, the size, shape, position, or orientation of various components may be changed as needed and / or desired, provided that such changes do not materially affect their intended function. Unless otherwise specifically stated, components shown as being directly connected or in contact with each other may have intermediate structures disposed between them, provided that such changes do not substantially affect their intended function. The function of one element may be performed by two, and vice versa, unless otherwise specifically stated. The structure and function of one embodiment may be adopted in another embodiment. It is not necessary for all advantages to be present simultaneously in a particular embodiment. Each feature unique to the prior art, alone or in combination with other features, should also be considered as a separate description of the applicant's further invention, including the structural and / or functional concepts embodied in such features. Therefore, the foregoing description providing embodiments according to the invention is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A shoe, comprising: vamp; as well as The sole is attached to the upper and includes an outsole and a first midsole, the first midsole having... Front A first heel portion, which is at least partially disposed along the longitudinal centerline of the shoe and configured to support the central portion of the heel. The second heel portion is disposed laterally outside the longitudinal centerline of the shoe and configured to support the outer side of the heel. A boundary portion is disposed between the first heel portion and the second heel portion so that the first heel portion and the second heel portion can move relative to each other. The boundary portion has a first end and a second end, with the second end located behind the first end.

2. The shoe according to claim 1, wherein The boundary portion includes at least one opening, which is disposed between the first heel portion and the second heel portion.

3. The shoe according to claim 1, wherein The boundary portion includes a slit disposed between the first heel portion and the second heel portion.

4. The shoe according to claim 1, wherein The boundary portion has lower stiffness than the first heel portion and the second heel portion.

5. The shoe according to claim 3, wherein The slit has a first end located laterally outside the first midsole relative to the longitudinal center line and a second end located laterally inside the first midsole relative to the longitudinal center line, the second end of the slit being located behind the first end.

6. The shoe according to claim 1, wherein The second heel portion includes an inner heel portion and an outer heel portion, and The boundary portion includes an inner boundary portion located between the inner heel portion and the first heel portion, and an outer boundary portion located between the outer heel portion and the first heel portion.

7. The shoe according to claim 1, further comprising: A second midsole is disposed at least below the first heel portion of the first midsole, and the second midsole has a receiving portion configured to receive at least a portion of the first heel portion when the first heel portion moves relative to the outsole.

8. The shoe according to claim 7, wherein The receiving portion includes a hollow recess.

9. The shoe according to claim 7, wherein The receiving section includes multiple slits.

10. The shoe according to claim 7, wherein The receiving portion includes a foam material, the foam material having a lower hardness than the second midsole, and at least partially surrounds the periphery of the receiving portion.

11. A shoe, said shoe comprising: vamp; as well as A sole, attached to the upper, the sole including an outsole and a first midsole, the first midsole covering at least from the middle of the outsole to the heel portion of the outsole, the first midsole having... Front A first heel portion, which is connected to the front portion. The second heel portion, which is connected to the front portion, and A boundary portion is disposed between the first heel portion and the second heel portion, the boundary portion having a first end and a second end, the second end being located behind the first end. The first heel section is more rigid than the second heel section.

12. The shoe according to claim 11, further comprising: A second midsole is disposed at least below the first heel portion of the first midsole, and the second midsole has a receiving portion configured to receive at least a portion of the first heel portion when the first heel portion moves relative to the outsole.

13. The shoe according to claim 12, wherein The receiving portion includes a hollow recess.

14. The shoe according to claim 12, wherein The receiving section includes multiple slits.

15. The shoe according to claim 12, wherein The receiving portion includes a foam material, the foam material having a lower hardness than the second midsole, and at least partially surrounds the periphery of the receiving portion.

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