Foot support system comprising tiltable forefoot member

Abstract

The sole structure (104) and article of footwear (100, 800, 1400) include a first footwear component (400, 802) including a ground-facing surface (400G, 802G), wherein a forefoot portion of the ground-facing surface (400G, 802G) includes: (a) an arcuate medial surface (400GM) that arcs downward from a medial edge of the sole structure (104) toward a central region (400GC) of the first footwear component (400, 802), and (b) an arcuate lateral surface (400GL) that arcs downward from a lateral edge of the sole structure (104) toward the central region (400GC) of the first footwear component (400, 802). The first footwear component (400, 802) includes one of a first track (402T, 1710T, 2000T) or a first channel (902T, 1710C). The sole structure (104) further includes a second footwear component (500, 1000) including an upward-facing surface (500U). A forefoot portion of the upward-facing surface (500U) includes: (a) an arcuate medial surface (500UM) that arcs downward from a medial edge of the second footwear component (500, 1000) toward a central region (500UC) of the second footwear component (500, 1000) and faces the arcuate medial surface (400GM) of the first footwear component (400, 802), and (b) an arcuate later surface (500UL) that arcs downward from a lateral edge of the second footwear component (500, 1000) toward the central region (500UC) of the second footwear component (500, 1000) and that faces the arcuate lateral surface (400GL) of the first footwear component (400, 802). The second footwear component (500, 1000) includes the other of the first track (1002T) or the first channel (500T, 1810C, 1810X, 2000C). When assembled, the first track (402T, 1710T, 2000T, 1002T) engages the first channel (902T, 1710C, 500T, 1810C, 1810X, 2000C), and the first footwear component (400, 802) is movably engaged with the second footwear component (500, 1000) by movement of the first footwear component (400, 802) relative to the first track (402T, 1710T, 2000T, 100

Description

[0001] Relevant application data

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority based on U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 028,305, filed May 21, 2020. U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 028,305 is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This invention relates to foot support systems in the field of footwear or other foot housings. At least some aspects of the invention relate to sole structures, foot support systems, footwear articles, and / or other foot housings comprising footwear components that slide, rotate, or tilt relative to another footwear component about an axis arranged in generally horizontal and longitudinal directions of the sole structure, foot support system, footwear article, and / or other foot housing. In some examples of such structures, when the wearer applies forces (e.g., downward and outward forces) to a contact surface beneath his / her medial forefoot, at least the outer side of the sole structure, footwear article, and / or other foot housing can slide upward, tilt, or rotate. Background Technology

[0004] Conventional athletic footwear comprises two main components: the upper and the sole structure. The upper provides coverage for the foot, securely housing and positioning it relative to the sole structure. Additionally, the upper may have configurations that protect the foot and provide breathability, keeping it cool and wicking away sweat. The sole structure is attached to the underside of the upper and is typically positioned between the foot and any contact surfaces. Besides reducing ground reaction forces and absorbing energy, the sole structure also provides traction and controls potentially harmful foot movements such as overpronation.

[0005] The upper forms a cavity within the footwear to accommodate the foot. This cavity has a general shape to the foot and an entrance at the ankle opening. Therefore, the upper extends along the medial and lateral sides of the foot, over the instep and toe areas, and around the heel area. A lacing system is typically integrated into the upper to allow the user to selectively change the size of the ankle opening and to modify certain dimensions of the upper, particularly the girth, to accommodate different foot proportions. Additionally, the upper may include a tongue that extends below the lacing system to enhance footwear comfort (e.g., adjust the pressure applied to the foot by the lacing). The upper may also include a heel stabilizer to limit or control heel movement.

[0006] As used herein, the term "footwear" means any type of clothing worn on the feet, and includes, but is not limited to: all types of shoes, boots, athletic shoes, sandals, flip-flops, mules, sleepwear, loafers, athletic footwear (such as golf shoes, tennis shoes, baseball cleats, football or rugby cleats, ski boots, track cleats, basketball shoes, cross-training shoes, etc.). As used herein, the term "foot housing" means any device used by a user to house at least a portion of his or her foot. In addition to the various types of "footwear," foot housings also include, but are not limited to: straps and other devices for securing the foot to skis, cross-country skis, water skis, snowboards, etc.; straps, clamps, or other devices for securing the foot to pedals used with bicycles, sports equipment, etc.; straps, clamps, or other devices for housing the foot during video games or other games, etc. A “foot housing device” may include one or more “foot covering members” (e.g., similar to footwear upper components) that help position the foot relative to other components or structures; and one or more “foot support members” (e.g., similar to footwear sole structural components) that support at least one or more portions of the sole surface of the user’s foot. A “foot support member” may include components for and / or as a midsole and / or outsole in footwear articles (or components that provide a corresponding function in non-footwear foot housing devices). Summary of the Invention

[0007] The purpose of providing this summary is to introduce some general concepts related to the present technology in a simplified form, which will be further described in the detailed embodiments below. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the invention.

[0008] This technology relates to various aspects of sole structures, foot support systems, footwear articles, and / or other foot housings, which are, for example, the types described below and / or claimed and / or illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Such sole structures, foot support systems, footwear articles, and / or other foot housings may include any one or more structures, portions, features, characteristics, and / or combinations of structures, portions, features, and / or characteristics of the examples described below and / or claimed and / or illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

[0009] A more specific aspect of this technology relates to sole structures, foot support systems, footwear articles, and / or other foot housings that include a forefoot footwear (e.g., a sole) component that slides, rotates, or tilts relative to another footwear component, for example, about an axis arranged in a generally horizontal and generally longitudinal direction in the sole structure, foot support system, footwear article, and / or other foot housing. In some instances of such structures, when the wearer applies forces (e.g., downward and outward forces) to a contact surface beneath his / her medial forefoot (e.g., downward and outward forces applied by the first metatarsal head region of the wearer's foot), at least the outer side of the sole structure, footwear article, and / or other foot housing can slide upward, tilt, and / or rotate.

[0010] While aspects of this technology are described in relation to foot support systems and footwear articles including them, additional aspects of this technology relate to methods of manufacturing such foot support systems and / or footwear articles and / or methods of using such foot support systems and / or footwear articles. Attached Figure Description

[0011] The foregoing invention and the following detailed description will be better understood when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein the same reference numerals refer to the same or similar elements in all the various views in which the reference numerals appear.

[0012] Figures 1A to 1D Various views of footwear products according to an example of this technology are provided;

[0013] Figures 2A to 2F Provided including Figures 1A to 1D Various views of the main sole components (e.g., midsole components) in footwear products;

[0014] Figure 3A and Figure 3B The diagrams show the contents of each illustration. Figures 1A to 1D The rear outsole and front outsole components in footwear products;

[0015] Figures 4A to 4D Provided includes Figures 1A to 1D Various views of the top footwear component showing relative movement characteristics in footwear products;

[0016] Figures 5A to 5D Provided includes Figures 1A to 1D Various views of the bottom footwear component, which exhibits relative movement characteristics in footwear products;

[0017] Figures 6A to 6C The diagram shows Figures 1A to 1D Assembly of the sole structure of footwear products;

[0018] Figure 7 The diagram shows Figures 1A to 1D The potential mobility characteristics of footwear products;

[0019] Figures 8A to 8D Various views of footwear articles according to another example of this technology are provided;

[0020] Figures 9A to 9F Provided including Figures 8A to 8D Various views of the main sole components in footwear products;

[0021] Figures 10A to 10E Provided includes Figures 8A to 8D Various views of the bottom footwear component, which exhibits relative movement characteristics in footwear products;

[0022] Figure 11 The illustration shows the included Figures 8A to 8D Fixing systems in footwear products;

[0023] Figure 12 The diagram shows Figures 8A to 8D Assembly of the sole structure of footwear products;

[0024] Figure 13A and Figure 13B The diagram shows Figures 8A to 8D The potential mobility characteristics of footwear products;

[0025] Figures 14A to 14D Various views of footwear articles according to another example of this technology are provided;

[0026] Figures 15A to 15F Provided including Figures 14A to 14D Various views of the main sole components (e.g., midsole components) in footwear products;

[0027] Figure 16 The illustration shows the included Figures 14A to 14D Outsole components in footwear products;

[0028] Figures 17A to 17E Provided includes Figures 14A to 14D Various views of the top footwear component showing relative movement characteristics in footwear products;

[0029] Figures 18A to 18F Provided includes Figures 14A to 14D Various views of the bottom footwear component, which exhibits relative movement characteristics in footwear products;

[0030] Figures 19A to 19C The diagram shows Figures 14A to 14D Assembly of the sole structure of footwear products;

[0031] Figures 20A to 20CThe illustration shows various features of another example sole structure according to various aspects of the present technology; and

[0032] Figure 21 Additional information regarding the relative motion characteristics of various footwear components is provided in accordance with various aspects of this technology. Detailed Implementation

[0033] In the following description of various examples of footwear structures and components according to the present invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form part of this document, and which illustrate by way of illustration various example structures and environments in which aspects of the present invention can be practiced. It should be understood that other structures and environments can be utilized, and structural and functional modifications can be made to the specifically described structures, functions, and methods without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0034] This specification describes various structures and parameters of footwear products and their soles based on the parameter L, which is the "length" of the sole or the "length" of the footwear product. See also... Figure 1A These lengths L can be found under unloaded conditions (e.g., no weight is applied to the footwear and / or sole structure except for the weight of other components of the footwear and / or sole structure) when the footwear and / or sole structure are oriented on the ground-facing surface of the horizontal support surface S. Once so oriented, a parallel vertical plane VP perpendicular to the horizontal support surface S is oriented to contact the relevant parts (e.g., the last heel (RH) position and the forefoot (FT) position of the footwear and / or sole structure). The parallel vertical planes VP should be oriented towards each other (e.g., in and out). Figure 1A The vertical parallel planes (P and L) are extended from each other as far apart as possible, while still contacting the positions of the last heel (RH) and the forefoot (FT). The direct distance between these vertical parallel planes corresponds to the length (e.g., longitudinal length) L of the footwear article and / or sole structure. The positions of various footwear components or features are described in this specification based on their respective positions along the length L, measured forward from the heel vertical plane VP. Along the length L, the last heel position is located at position 0L, and the forefoot position is located at position 1L. Intermediate positions along the length L are indicated by fractional positions (e.g., 0.5L, 0.75L) along the length L, measured forward from the heel vertical plane VP. As used herein, the term "parallel plane" is a plane oriented parallel to the vertical plane VP. These parallel planes may intersect the longitudinal length L or the longitudinal direction somewhere between P = 0L and P = 1.0L to identify the positions of various features. Note Figure 1A It includes parallel plane position indicators at 0.25L, 0.5L, and 0.75L.

[0035] This specification relates to "means for movably engaging two footwear components together". In some cases, the "means for movably engaging" will include at least one "track" engaging within at least one "channel". These terms are used herein (unless otherwise stated or clearly apparent from the context) such that a "track" includes at least one protruding portion extending into and engaging with at least one recess disposed in a corresponding "channel". The "track" may be configured as a structure similar to a train track or rail. The "channel" may be configured as a recess or groove into which at least a portion of the "track" extends, and the track may be movably engaged relative to the channel. The channel may extend partially and / or completely through the component in which these channels are formed, and / or may be configured as a gap between two components into which the track fits. The track and channel may form portions of a tongue and groove joint, a dovetail joint, a T-joint, a C-joint, and other types of slidable joints.

[0036] Means for movably joining parts together may also include retaining elements, which may form part of a separate part or another footwear component, and which at least partially help to hold relatively movable parts together (e.g., to secure a track within a channel). In some instances, a "retaining element" may form part or feature of the component forming the track and / or channel and / or part or feature of the track and / or channel itself (e.g., the shape that constitutes them when formed as a dovetail joint, tongue and groove joint, T-joint, C-joint, etc.). In some instances, a "retaining element" may form a footwear part or component separate from the component forming the track and / or groove, and / or it may be a separate part or component that engages with one or both components forming the track and / or groove.

[0037] Other structures may also be provided for providing "means for movably engaging". Such structures may include, for example, one or more roller structures (e.g., balls, cylinders, etc.) located in channels disposed in two adjacent footwear components (such as one footwear component moving relative to the other footwear component due to the movement of the roller structures).

[0038] Furthermore, the terms “slide / tilt / rotate” or variations thereof are used in this specification to describe the relative movement of the footwear components (e.g., movement of the top footwear component or portion relative to the bottom footwear component or portion). As used herein, the term is intended to refer to related movements including any one or more of sliding, tilting, and / or rotating.

[0039] I. Overview of various aspects of this technology

[0040] As described above, various aspects of this technology relate to sole structures, foot support systems, footwear articles, and / or other foot-accommodating devices, which are, for example, the types described below and / or claimed and / or illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Such sole structures, foot support systems, footwear articles, and / or other foot-accommodating devices may include any one or more structures, portions, features, characteristics, and / or combinations of structures, portions, features, and / or characteristics of the examples described below and / or claimed and / or illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

[0041] Some more specific aspects or examples of this technology relate to sole structures and / or footwear products that include the following:

[0042] (a) A first footwear component including a ground-facing surface, wherein the forefoot portion of the ground-facing surface includes: (i) an arched inner surface that arches downward from the inner edge of the sole structure toward a central region of the first footwear component, and (ii) an arched outer surface that arches downward from the outer edge of the sole structure toward a central region of the first footwear component, wherein the first footwear component includes one of a first track or a first channel; and

[0043] (b) A second footwear component including an upward-facing surface, wherein the forefoot portion of the upward-facing surface includes: (i) an arched inner surface that arches downward from the inner edge of the second footwear component toward the central region of the second footwear component and faces the arched inner surface of the first footwear component, and (ii) an arched outer surface that arches downward from the outer edge of the second footwear component toward the central region of the second footwear component and faces the arched outer surface of the first footwear component, wherein the second footwear component includes another of the first track or the first channel (e.g., not included in the first footwear component).

[0044] In this structure, the first track engages with the first channel, and the first footwear component is movably engaged with the second footwear component by the movement of the first track relative to the first channel.

[0045] Other aspects or examples of this technology relate to sole structures and / or footwear articles including the following:

[0046] (a) A first footwear component including a ground-facing surface, wherein the forefoot portion of the ground-facing surface includes: (i) an arched inner surface that arches downward from the inner edge of the sole structure toward the central region of the first footwear component, and (ii) an arched outer surface that arches downward from the outer edge of the sole structure toward the central region of the first footwear component.

[0047] (b) A second footwear component including an upward-facing surface, wherein the forefoot portion of the upward-facing surface includes: (i) an arched inner surface that arches downward from the inner edge of the second footwear component toward the central region of the second footwear component and faces the arched inner surface of the first footwear component; and (ii) an arched outer surface that arches downward from the outer edge of the second footwear component toward the central region of the second footwear component and faces the arched outer surface of the first footwear component; and

[0048] (c) A means for movably engaging a first footwear component with a second footwear component, such that: (i) the inner arcuate surface of the first footwear component moves relative to and along the inner arcuate surface of the second footwear component, and (ii) the outer arcuate surface of the first footwear component moves relative to and along the outer arcuate surface of the second footwear component.

[0049] The sole structure and / or footwear article according to any of these aspects or examples of the present technology may include one or more of the following characteristics: (a) the arched inner surface of the first footwear component includes an axial direction extending in the heel-to-toe direction of the footwear article; (b) the arched inner surface of the second footwear component includes an axial direction extending in the heel-to-toe direction of the footwear article; (c) the arched outer surface of the first footwear component includes an axial direction extending in the heel-to-toe direction of the footwear article; and / or (d) the arched outer surface of the second footwear component includes an axial direction extending in the heel-to-toe direction of the footwear article. Additionally or alternatively, the means for movably engaging the first footwear component and the second footwear component and / or the first footwear component and the second footwear component may be movably engaged by a structure capable of sliding, tilting, or rotating the first footwear component relative to the second footwear component about an axis extending in the heel-to-toe direction and / or generally horizontal direction of the sole structure and / or footwear article. As an additional example or alternative, the means for movably engaging the first footwear component with the second footwear component and / or the first footwear component and the second footwear component may be movably engaged by a structure capable of achieving the following: (a) the inner arched surface of the first footwear component slides relative to and / or along the inner arched surface of the second footwear component, and (b) the outer arched surface of the first footwear component slides relative to and / or along the outer arched surface of the second footwear component.

[0050] Based on certain examples of the technology provided above, an overview of the features, instances, aspects, structures, processes, and arrangements is given. The following is a more detailed description of specific examples of foot support structures, footwear products, and methods based on this technology.

[0051] II. Detailed description of example footwear, foot support systems, and other components / features based on this technology.

[0052] Figures 1A to 1D Inside, outside, top, and bottom views of example footwear 100 according to some examples of this technology are provided. Figure 2A (Inner view) Figure 2B (Outer view) Figure 2C (Top view) Figure 2D (Top view) Figure 2E (Rear bottom outer perspective view), and Figure 2F (Rear bottom inner perspective view) shows various views of the main midsole component 200 of this example footwear 100.

[0053] Figure 3A and Figure 3B Provided Figures 1A to 1D The example footwear product 100 is shown in the bottom view of the outsole components 300 and 350. Figure 4A A top view is provided of a footwear component 400 (also referred to herein as the "first footwear component," "first part," or "top part") that provides the required tilt / rotation / sliding motion, and Figure 4B , Figure 4C ,as well as Figure 4D A bottom view, a rear inner perspective view, and a rear outer perspective view of the first footwear component 400 are provided. Figure 5A A top view is provided of another footwear component 500 (also referred to herein as the "second footwear component," "second part," or "bottom component") that provides the required tilting / rotation / sliding motion, and Figure 5B , Figure 5C ,as well as Figure 5D A bottom view, a top rear inner perspective view, and a top rear outer perspective view of the second footwear component 500 are provided. Figures 6A to 6C The illustration shows the assembly of the sole structure 104 of the footwear product 100, and... Figure 7 The illustrations depict various aspects of relative motion provided by this type of sole structure 104 and / or footwear article 100. Although Figures 1A to 7 The specific example shown constitutes the sole structure of a golf shoe, but those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure will recognize that aspects of the footwear article 100 and / or sole structure 104 can also be used for other types of footwear.

[0054] Figures 1A to 1D The footwear article 100 includes an upper 102 and a sole structure 104 joined to the upper 102. The upper 102 and the sole structure 104 can be joined together in any desired manner, including in ways conventionally known and used in the footwear industry (such as one or more of adhesives or bonding agents, stitching or sewing, mechanical connectors, etc.), as long as at least some of the relative movement activities disclosed in various aspects of the present technology can be performed.

[0055] The upper 102 (which may be formed of one or more portions) potentially defines, together with the sole structure 104, a foot-receiving interior chamber 106 for housing the wearer's foot. The bottom of the upper 102 may include a strobel or other component that engages with or is integrally formed with another portion of the upper 102. The upper 102 may also include other components. For example, the upper 102 may include: a tongue member positioned across the instep area and designed to cushion the feel of the footwear's closure system on the wearer's foot; a closure system (e.g., one or more of lacing-type closures, zipper-type closures, snap-on closures, elastic stretch elements, etc.); a heel stabilizer; a toe cap; a fastening strap, etc. Additionally or alternatively, the upper 102 may include "sock-like" upper components, which are, for example, made of fabric and configured to fit snugly against the wearer's foot like a regular sock.

[0056] Without departing from the present technology, the upper 102 can be made of any desired material and / or in any desired construction and / or manner. As some more specific examples, all or at least a portion (and optionally most, substantially all, or even all of the upper 102) can be formed as a woven textile component, a knitted textile component, another textile component, a natural leather component, a synthetic leather component, a polymer component (e.g., TPU, etc.), etc. Components of the upper 102 can have structures and / or constructions similar to those used in footwear products commercially available from Nike, Inc. of Beaverton, OR and / or other manufacturers, including conventional structures and constructions known and used in the art.

[0057] Additionally or alternatively, if desired, the upper 102 construction may include an upper with foot stabilization and engagement structures, such as those described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013 / 0104423, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. As some additional examples, if desired, the upper 102 and footwear article 100 according to the present technology may include foot stabilization and engagement structures of the type used in footwear products commercially available from Nike, Inc., Beaverton, Oregon. These types of structures can at least partially wrap around and securely hold the wearer's foot, particularly in the midfoot and / or heel area.

[0058] As another alternative or additional feature, if desired, the upper 102 and footwear article 100 of at least some instances of the present technology may include a fused layer of upper material, such as an upper of the type comprising upper material bonded by heat melting or other adhesives, as in uppers in footwear products commercially available from Nike, Inc., Beaverton, Oregon. As yet another additional example, without departing from the present technology, uppers of the type described in U.S. Patent Nos. 7,347,011 and / or 8,429,835 (each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety) may be used.

[0059] Now we will combine Figures 1A to 7 The example footwear article 100 and its sole structure 104 are described in more detail, including more specific features, construction, and operation. The example sole structure 104 of the footwear article 100 comprises five components, although each individual component described below may be made of one or more parts (including two or more parts joined together and / or two or more parts providing the same function and / or structure). Some of the components may also be combined into a single part. The five components include: (a) a main sole component 200, which may include a midsole component 200 (see...). Figures 2A to 2F (b) Rear outsole component 300 (see Figure 3A (c) Forefoot outsole component 350 (see Figure 3B (d) Top component 400 (see Figures 4A to 4D (e) bottom component 500 (see Figures 5A to 5D In this example, the top component 400 and the bottom component 500 are located in the midfoot to forefoot support area of ​​the sole structure 104 and support the relative movement functions described in more detail below.

[0060] First, the main sole component 200 of this example will be described in more detail. For example... Figures 1A to 2FAs shown, the main sole component 200 of this example includes a midsole component, which may be made of one or more parts. As some more specific examples, the midsole component 200 may be made of polymeric foam materials, such as ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), polyurethane foam, and / or thermoplastic materials. Additionally or alternatively, if desired, the midsole component 200 may include one or more fluid-filled bladders and / or one or more mechanical damping components as impact-absorbing elements (e.g., for reducing ground reaction forces when the wearer steps or jumps). When present, any fluid-filled bladder and / or mechanical damping component may engage with and / or at least partially embed in another portion of the midsole component 200 (e.g., embedded in foam material). The midsole component 200 may have any desired number of portions and / or any desired structure or construction, including portions, structures, and / or constructions known and used in the footwear industry.

[0061] The midsole component 200 includes a ground-facing surface 200G and an upward-facing surface 200U. While other configurations are possible, in the example illustrated, the upward-facing surface 200U of the midsole component 200 extends sufficiently in the heel-to-toe and medial-to-lateral directions of the sole structure 104 and footwear article 100 to support the entire sole surface of the wearer's foot. The midsole component 200 includes a lateral wall 200L, a medial wall 200M, a heel wall 200H, and a forefoot wall 200F. These walls may define recesses extending downward to the upward-facing surface 200U, which provides a sole support surface for the wearer's foot. At least portions of the lateral wall 200L, medial wall 200M, heel wall 200H, and / or forefoot wall 200F may be exposed in the final sole structure 104 and / or final footwear article 100 construction. In the example shown in the illustration, the upward-facing surface 200U extends to provide continuous support for the entire sole surface of the wearer's foot.

[0062] For example Figures 2A to 2F As further shown, the ground-facing surface 200G of the midsole component 200 in this example has a recess 200R (or recessed region) defined therein. The recess 200R may also be partially defined by an outer sidewall 200L and / or an inner sidewall 200M. Figures 2A to 2FAs shown, the recess 200R extends completely from the outer sidewall 200L to the inner sidewall 200M. The foremost edge 200FE of the recess 200R may be located outside the parallel plane at 0.7L of the longitudinal length L (and in some instances, in front of the parallel plane at 0.75L, or even in front of the parallel plane at 0.8L), the longitudinal length L being measured between the last heel RH position of the shoe 100 and / or the sole structure 104 and the forefoot FT position of the shoe 100 and / or the sole structure 104. The last edge 200RE of the recess 200R may be located outside the parallel plane at 0.4L of the longitudinal length L as indicated above (and in some instances, in front of the parallel plane at 0.45L, or even in front of the parallel plane at 0.5L). In at least some embodiments of this technology, the entire longitudinal length of the recess 200R (and / or the component fitted into the recess 200R as described in more detail below) can be between 0.2L and 0.4L. The “L” discussed above can constitute the longitudinal length of the midsole component 200, the entire sole structure 104, and / or the footwear structure 100.

[0063] The recess 200R includes a downward-facing surface 200RS, which is configured to accommodate the first footwear component 400, as will be described in more detail below. In the example illustrated, the downward-facing surface 200RS has an arched or curved outer surface 200RL, an arched or curved inner surface 200RM, and a flat or curved center surface 200RC connecting the surfaces 200RL and 200RM. The arched or curved inner surface 200RM and the outer surface 200RL may have the same or different curvatures, and / or when the sole structure 104 is mounted on its ground-facing surface 200G on a horizontal base surface, the center surface 200RC may be flat or flatter than surfaces 200RL and 200RM. The shape of the downward-facing surface 200RS may be complementary to and / or in direct contact with the upward-facing surface 400U of the first footwear component 400, as will be described in more detail below. The recess 200R of the example sole structure 104 can be shaped, positioned, configured, and well-adapted to support the rotation of the wearer's forefoot during, for example, various phases of a golf swing. The shape of the recess 200R can also be structured to resist movement of the midsole component 200 relative to the first footwear component 400 when forces are applied to the sole structure 104 (e.g., due to discontinuities in the flexural / arched shape, the flatness or flattening of the center surface 200RC, a non-constant radius or curvature from the outer edge to the inner edge, etc.).

[0064] Figure 3A and Figure 3BThe bottom surfaces of outsole components 300 and 350 are illustrated respectively. These outsole components 300 and 350 engage with the ground-facing surface 200G of the midsole component 200. More specifically, the upward-facing surface (which may be made of one or more parts) of the rear outsole component 300... Figure 3A (Not shown) engages with the rear portion 200GR (behind the recess 200R) of the ground-facing surface 200G. Similarly, the upward-facing surface (not shown) of the front outsole member 350 (which may also be made of one or more parts) Figure 3B (Not shown) engages with the front portion 200GF (in front of the recess 200R) of the ground-facing surface 200G of the example sole structure 104. The outsole components 300 and 350 of this example sole structure 104 are completely separated from each other by the recess 200R. Although in this example, the outsole component 300 will completely cover the rear portion 200GR of the ground-facing surface 200G of the midsole component 200, and the outsole component 350 will completely cover the front portion 200GF of the ground-facing surface 200G of the midsole component 200, this is not necessary. Instead, if desired, the ground-facing surface 200G may be exposed at one or more locations on the outside of the entire sole structure 104, passing through and / or surrounding each of the outsole components 300 and / or 350.

[0065] Without departing from this technology, the outsole components 300 and 350 can be joined to the midsole component 200 in any desired manner (including by any one or more of adhesives, mechanical connectors, fusion techniques, etc.). Additionally or alternatively, if desired, although in Figures 1A to 7 Not shown in the example, but one or both of the outsole components 300, 350 may include upwardly extending sidewalls to engage some or all of the outer sidewall 200L and / or inner sidewall 200M of the midsole component 200. Furthermore, because this example footwear article 100 and sole structure 104 include golf shoes, the bottom of each outsole component 300 and 350 includes anti-slip studs 302 or other features that enhance adhesion and friction, such as features suitable for use when playing golf. Other types of golf ball anti-slip studs, cleats, other anti-slip studs (including removable and replaceable anti-slip studs), or other features that enhance adhesion and friction may be provided without departing from the present technology. Outsole components 300, 350 may be made of any desired material, including materials conventionally known and used in the footwear industry, including the golf shoe industry (e.g., rubber, TPU, etc.). Outsole components 300, 350 need not be made of the same material, but the same material may be used in each of them.

[0066] The sole structure 104 of this example also includes a top component 400 that supports desired sliding, tilting, and / or rotational features and forms part of a "means for movably engaging various footwear parts together". The top component 400 can be considered as a rail component (e.g., an upper rail component) that engages a corresponding (and / or complementary) structure in the bottom component 500. Figures 4A to 4D Top view, bottom view, bottom rear inner perspective view, and bottom rear outer perspective view of the example top component 400 are shown respectively. The top component 400 may be made of multiple parts if desired, as long as it supports the required sliding / tilting / rotating functions described herein. The top component 400 may be made of any desired one or more materials that support its required functions (e.g., having sufficient strength, durability, stiffness, etc. to maintain structural stability during use). Some example materials include metals (e.g., one or more of aluminum, aluminum alloys, titanium, titanium alloys, steel, etc.) and plastics (e.g., commercially available polyether block amines, thermoplastic polyurethanes, other thermoplastic elastomers, thermosetting polymers, fiber-reinforced polymers (e.g., carbon fiber materials), etc.).

[0067] Figure 4A The example top component 400 shows an upward-facing surface 400U. Without departing from the art, the upward-facing surface 400U of the top component 400 can be permanently and securely joined to the recess 200R of the midsole component 200 in any desired manner (including by any one or more of adhesives, mechanical connectors, fusion techniques, etc.). The shape of the upward-facing surface 400U of this example is complementary to the shape of the downward-facing surface 200RS of the recess 200R. More specifically, the example upward-facing surface 400U has: (a) an arcuate or curved outer surface 400UL for engaging the arcuate or curved outer surface 200RL of the recess 200R, (b) an arcuate or curved inner surface 400UM for engaging the arcuate or curved inner surface 200RM of the recess 200R, and (c) a flat or curved center surface 400UC for engaging the flat or curved center surface 200RC of the recess 200R. The flat or curved center surface 400UC connects to the upward-facing surface 400U, the outer surface 400UL, and the inner surface 400UM.

[0068] The top component 400 also includes a ground-facing surface 400G opposite the upward-facing surface 400U (see below). Figures 4B to 4DThe ground-facing surface 400G of this example includes: (a) an arched or curved outer surface 400GL that arches downward from the outer edge of the top component 400, footwear article 100, and / or the entire sole structure 104; and (b) an arched or curved inner surface 400GM that arches downward from the inner edge of the top component 400, footwear article 100, and / or the entire sole component 104. If necessary, and as... Figures 4B to 4D As illustrated, the ground-facing surface 400G may also include a flat or curved center surface 400GC connecting the outer surface 400GL and the inner surface 400GM of the ground-facing surface 400G. In this example, the center surface 400GC is flatter than both surfaces 400GL and 400GM. Moreover, in the illustrated example, the inner surface 400GM is flatter than the outer surface 400GL (e.g., more horizontal when the top component 400, footwear article 100, and / or sole structure 104 are supported on a horizontal base surface). The ground-facing surface 400G does not need to be parallel to the upward-facing surface 400U, but these surfaces 400G and 400U may be parallel or substantially parallel over some of their surface areas.

[0069] Alternatively, if desired, the curvature of the ground-facing surface 400G may continue continuously from the outer edge to the inner edge of the top component 400, footwear article 100, and / or sole structure 104, optionally without a significant change in curvature (e.g., becoming a single rounded surface). Without departing from at least some aspects of this technology, any shape (including flat portions), curvature, combination of shape, and / or combination of curvature of the ground-facing surface 400G that supports or accommodates the desired sliding / tilting / rotational functions may be used.

[0070] The ground-facing surface 400G of the example top component 400 includes one or more (four shown) raised tracks 402T. Two parallel tracks 402T are formed in the arched or curved outer surface 400GL (separated from each other in the telotropic direction of the sole structure 104), and two parallel tracks 402T are formed in the arched or curved inner surface 400GM (separated from each other in the telotropic direction of the sole structure 104). The bottom surface 402S of the tracks 402T may be generally parallel to surfaces 400GM and 400GL, and the tracks 402T are included on at least a portion (e.g., at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 75%, etc.) of the longitudinal length of surfaces 400GM and 400GL. The inner ends of one or more of the tracks 402T taper towards the ground-facing surface 400G, for example, towards its central region 400GC. The track 402T of the top component 400 in this example has a T-shaped cross-section and shape that helps hold the tracks 402T within their corresponding channels, which will be described in more detail below. Other shape-holding methods are also possible, such as dovetail joints, etc.

[0071] The sole structure 104 of this example also includes a bottom component 500 that supports desired sliding, tilting, and / or rotational features and forms part of a means for movably engaging various footwear parts (supporting movement of one part relative to another). The bottom component 500 can be considered as a rail component (e.g., a lower rail component) that engages a corresponding (and / or complementary) structure in the top component 400. Figures 5A to 5D Top view, bottom view, top rear inner perspective view, and top rear outer perspective view of the example bottom component 500 are shown respectively. The bottom component 500 can be made of multiple parts if desired, as long as it supports the required sliding / tilting / rotating functions described herein. The bottom component 500 can be made of any desired one or more materials that support its required functions (e.g., having sufficient strength, durability, rigidity, etc. to maintain structural stability in use). Some example materials include metals (e.g., one or more of aluminum, aluminum alloys, titanium, titanium alloys, steel, etc.) and plastics (e.g., commercially available polyether block amines, thermoplastic polyurethanes, other thermoplastic elastomers, thermosetting polymers, fiber-reinforced polymers (e.g., carbon fiber materials) etc.). In the example illustrated, the ground-facing surface 500G of the bottom component 500 is designed to directly contact the ground in use, and it includes an attached friction element 520 (e.g., a golf ball anti-slip stud or above). Figure 3A and Figure 3BOther elements of the type described (such as those that enhance adhesion friction). Additionally or alternatively, if desired, at least some (or even all) of the ground-facing surfaces 500G may be formed as one or more separate parts that engage with the bottom surface of the component, which includes other features of the bottom component 500.

[0072] Figure 5A , Figure 5C ,as well as Figure 5D The example shows the upward-facing surface 500U of the bottom component 500. This upward-facing surface 500U includes: (a) an arched or curved outer surface 500UL that arches downward from the outer edge of the bottom component 500, footwear article 100, and / or the entire sole structure 104 toward the central region of the bottom component 500 (and is configured to rest facing the arched or curved outer surface 400GL of the top component 400); and (b) an arched or curved inner surface 500UM that arches downward from the inner edge of the bottom component 500, footwear article 100, and / or the entire sole component 104 toward the central region of the bottom component 500 (and is configured to rest facing the arched or curved inner surface 400GM of the top component 400). If desired, and as... Figure 5A , Figure 5C ,as well as Figure 5D As illustrated in the example, the upward-facing surface 500U may also include a flat or curved center surface 500UC configured to face the top component 400 (when present). In this example, the flat or curved center surface 500UC connects the outer surface 500UL and the inner surface 500UM of the upward-facing surface 500U. The center surface 500UC is flatter than both surfaces 500UL and 500UM. Furthermore, in the illustrated example, the inner surface 500UM is flatter than the outer surface 500UL (e.g., more horizontal when the bottom component 500, footwear article 100, and / or sole structure 104 are supported on a horizontal base surface).

[0073] Alternatively, if desired, the curvature of the upward-facing surface 500U may continue continuously from the outer edge to the inner edge of the bottom component 500, footwear article 100, and / or sole structure 104, optionally without a significant change in curvature (e.g., becoming a single rounded surface). Without departing from at least some aspects of this technology, any shape (including flat portions), curvature, combination of shape, and / or combination of curvature) of the upward-facing surface 500U may be used, as long as it can cooperate with the top component 400 and support or accommodate the desired sliding / tilting / rotation functions.

[0074] The upward-facing surface 500U of the example bottom component 500 includes one or more (four shown) recessed channels 502T. Two parallel channels 502T are formed in the arched or curved outer surface 500UL (separated from each other in the telotropic direction of the sole structure 104), and two parallel channels 502T are formed in the arched or curved inner surface 500UM (separated from each other in the telotropic direction of the sole structure 104). The path defined by the channels 502T may be generally parallel to surfaces 500UM and 500UL, and the channels 502T are formed on at least a portion (e.g., at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 75%, etc.) of the longitudinal length of surfaces 500UM and 500UL. One or more of the channels 502T taper at their inner ends until they extend completely through the thickness of the bottom component 500 to define openings 502O through the bottom component 500. These openings 502O are positioned toward a central region and extend through the central surface 500UC or sidewall surfaces 500UL and / or 500UM. These openings 502O can help provide access to the channels 502O when the rails 402T are inserted into the channels 502T during assembly and / or allow the rails 402T to move more freely relative to the channels 502T during use (e.g., so that the end portions of the rails 402T can be moved to a position outside the channels 502T during sliding / tilting / rotating actions if necessary). If desired, one or more additional openings 504O can be defined completely through the bottom component 500. These additional openings 504O can be provided in desired locations, for example, to make the bottom component 500 lighter, to enhance and / or control flexibility, for aesthetic / design purposes, etc.

[0075] The channel 502T of the bottom component 500 in this example has a T-shaped cross-section that helps to hold the tracks 402T within their corresponding channels 502T (see [link]). Figure 1A Other shape retention methods are also possible, such as dovetail joints. The shape of channel 502T is complementary to the shape of track 402T to be inserted into.

[0076] Figures 6A to 6C The illustration depicts features of the assembly of a sole structure 104 according to at least some aspects of the present technology. The order of these steps may be altered in any suitable manner without departing from the present technology.

[0077] Figure 6AThe illustration depicts the assembly of a relatively movable footwear component of this example structure, where a top component 400 is coupled to a bottom component 500 to form a combined component 600. As shown, in this example, a T-shaped track 402T of the top component 400 is inserted into a corresponding T-shaped channel 502T of the bottom component 500. If necessary or required, the track 402T and / or channel 502T may comprise or be formed of a material including a lubricant (e.g., a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) coating) to facilitate relative movement of the top component 400 relative to the bottom component 500. Additionally or alternatively, the surfaces of the track 402T and / or channel 502T may be formed of or include a material having a low coefficient of friction relative to the other to facilitate the desired relative movement. In this illustrated example, the top component 400 can be moved relative to the bottom component 500 in a sliding / tilting / rotating manner via movement of the track 402T along the channel 502T. The T-shape holds the track 402T within the channel 502T. In addition to the track 402T and the channel 502T, the surfaces 400G and 500U of the top part 400 and the bottom part 500 facing each other may be formed of and / or include a lubricant and / or a material having a relatively low coefficient of friction relative to each other, to facilitate the desired sliding, tilting, and / or rotational movements.

[0078] If necessary or required, one or more "stop members" may be provided to limit the sliding / tilting / rotation of the top component 400 relative to the bottom component 500, for example, to prevent dangerous excessive rotation and / or complete separation of the footwear components 400 and 500. Alternatively, the shape of the footwear components 400 and / or 500 (e.g., their central regions 400GC and / or 500UC) may serve as stop members.

[0079] As an alternative to the track 402T in the channel 502T, one or more tracks can be omitted, and one or more roller structures (e.g., roller balls, roller cylinders, etc.) can be placed in the channel 502T to support the desired movement. In such a structure, the roller structures should be high enough and formed to contact each of the top component 400 and the bottom component 500 (e.g., extending from the surface of the channel 502T to the bottom of the top component 400). In this way, the top component 400 moves relative to the bottom component 500 in a sliding / tilting / rotating manner by rolling on the roller structures located within the channel 502T. If roller structures are used, some other ways of securing the bottom component 500 to the rest of the footwear 100 structure may be required, such as the engagement of the bottom component 500 with one or more other sole structure 104 components (such as the outsole components 300 and / or 350 described above), the external shape of the sole structure components, etc.

[0080] Figure 6BThe illustration shows the steps of engaging the composite component 600 in a recess 200R of the main sole component 200. Reference numeral 700 indicates a composite footwear component formed by the composite footwear component 600 and the midsole component 200. The outer periphery of the composite footwear component 600 and the inner periphery of the recess 200R may be complementary in shape, such that the composite component 600 rests substantially flush within the recess 200R at least along its front edge 200FE and rear edge 200RE. If necessary or required, the front edges 500FE and rear edges 500RE of the bottom component 500 and / or the front edges 200FE and / or rear edges 200RE of the recess 200R (i.e., their adjacent and mutually facing surfaces) may be formed of and / or include a lubricant and / or a material having a relatively low coefficient of friction relative to each other to facilitate desired sliding, tilting, and / or rotational movements.

[0081] In this example structure, if desired, the bottom of the composite component 600 (provided by the bottom component 500) may extend slightly downward from the bottom surface of the remainder of the sole structure 104 in a region adjacent to the front edge 200FE and the rear edge 200RE on at least one of its outer or inner sides. See also Figure 1A The downward extension 104E can range from 0.5mm to 10mm, and in some instances from 1mm to 8mm. This downward extension (when present) helps the composite component 600 to contact the ground earlier than the adjacent sole component area during the stepping cycle, making it easier to initiate the desired sliding / tilting / rotational movements.

[0082] The top surface of the composite component 600 (provided by the upward-facing surface 400U of the top component 400) can be permanently and securely joined to the ground-facing surface 200RS of the recess 200R by adhesive and / or in any desired manner (e.g., as described above). However, in this example composite structure 700, the bottom component 500 is not fixed relative to the midsole component 200 to allow it to move relative to the midsole component 200 and the top component 400.

[0083] Figure 6CThe illustration depicts the steps of applying outsole components 300, 350 to the ground-facing surface 200G of a midsole component 200, in which the midsole component 200 includes a portion of a composite footwear component 700. As described above, the outsole components 300, 350 can be securely bonded to the ground-facing surface 200G of the midsole component 200 in any desirable manner (such as via adhesive) to form the entire sole structure 104. In this example structure, the outsole components 300, 350 are not bonded to the bottom component 500. The outsole components 300, 350 can be bonded to the midsole component 200 at any time during the process of forming the sole structure 104. The sole structure 104 can also be bonded to the footwear upper 102 at any desired time during the assembly process.

[0084] Figure 7 The illustration shows the function and use of various aspects of this technology, for example, during a golf swing. When preparing for a golf swing, the golfer stands beside the ball, with the left shoe 100L separated from the right shoe 100R. Various aspects of this technology allow the golfer to apply a downward and optionally outward force (as indicated by arrow 702) in the forefoot area to firmly engage the bottom component 500 of the sole structure 104 with the ground. Because the bottom component 500 is firmly engaged with the ground (indicated by the "stop" mark 704) (e.g., due to the location of a considerable force applied to the ground by the foot) but not fixedly engaged with the rest of the sole structure 104 / footwear structure 100, the forefoot area of ​​the midsole component 200 can slide outward, tilt, or rotate (at least to some extent) as needed. This outward sliding / tilting / rotation... Figure 7 This is indicated by arrow 706. In this way, the metatarsal ball can remain firmly placed on the ground during the initial stance and throughout the golf swing, while allowing the rest of the foot to move slightly more easily and / or naturally. Most of the force exerted by the wearer's foot during the stance and / or certain phases of the golf swing is applied to the first metatarsal head region—in the forefoot, on the medial side of the sole. Therefore, the sole structure 104 provides a very stable base and feel, particularly for the golfer's heel during the downswing and ball contact phases of the golf swing. Similarly, in these shoes 100R, 100L, the inward rotation of the footwear 100R, 100L in the forefoot and heel regions of the sole structure 104 can also be supported by the bottom component 500 fixed to the ground, for example, to allow some additional inward rotation of the forefoot relative to the bottom component 500 during the follow-through phase of the golf swing.

[0085] The relative motion characteristics of the sole component 500 relative to the footwear 100 and / or the rest of the sole structure 104 can be maintained during all uses of the shoe, including during walking or other activities. The relative rotation characteristics allow for slightly more free and natural movement of the foot during a typical stepping cycle. Alternatively, if desired, a locking mechanism can be provided to releasably secure the sole component 500 to or relative to one or more other parts of the sole structure 104 (e.g., midsole 200, top component 400, outsole component 300 and / or 350) and / or footwear 100 to prevent relative slippage / tilt / rotation when it is not required. For example, one or more non-stretchable connectors 752 may selectively engage (connect and disconnect) between a stud 754 disposed in the bottom component 500 and another footwear component to temporarily and releasably secure the components together and prevent slippage / tilting / rotation. See also Figure 1A and Figure 1B As another example, the spring-loaded barrier can be selectively moved to enter or exit one or more channels 502T extensions to physically block the tracks 402T from moving in one or both directions within their channels 502T. A suitable locking mechanism can also be electronically controlled to change between a locked and unlocked state.

[0086] Figures 8A to 13B The illustration shows various features of another example of footwear product 800 according to some instances of this technology. Figures 8A to 8D The illustration shows the entire footwear product line, number 800. Figures 9A to 9F Various views of its main sole component 802 are provided; Figures 10A to 10E Various views of its bottom component 1000 are provided; Figure 11 The diagram illustrates its holding system; Figure 12 An example assembly is illustrated; and Figures 13A to 13B The illustrations depict the relatively movable parts in centered and tilted positions, respectively. This example footwear article 800, and particularly its sole structure 104, is ideally suited for use as a sprint or track and field shoe, but it can also be used for other desired footwear. The following description at least emphasizes the connection between this example footwear article 800 and the above. Figures 1A to 7 Some differences exist between the footwear articles 100 described. However, those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure will recognize that... Figures 8A to 13B The various features, options, alternatives, and differences provided in Structure 800 can be combined with Figures 1A to 7 In structure 100, and / or in Figures 1A to 7The various features, options, alternatives, and differences provided in Structure 100 can be combined with Figures 8A to 13B In structure 800. In Figures 8A to 13B Including with Figures 1A to 7 In the case of identical reference numerals included in the accompanying drawings, reference shall be made to the same or similar parts (including any disclosed features, characteristics, variations, modifications, options, and / or potential changes thereof), and some or all of their detailed repetitive descriptions may be omitted.

[0087] Figure 8A An inside view of footwear product 800 is provided. Figure 8B Its outer view is provided. Figure 8C It provides its top view, and Figure 8D A bottom view is provided. The footwear article 800 includes an upper 102 and a sole structure 104 joined to the upper 102. The sole structure 104 of this example footwear structure 800 includes features consistent with those shown in Figures 1 to 1990. Figure 7 The footwear structure comprises 100 different components. These differences include various structural features of aspects of "the means for movably joining the various footwear components together". At least some of these differences will be described in more detail below.

[0088] exist Figures 1A to 7 In the structure, the main sole component 200 includes a recess 200R, a separate top component 400 is fixed to the recess 200R, and the top component 400 includes a structural feature of "means for movably engaging". However, in Figures 8A to 13B In the example footwear structure 800, the main sole component 802 directly includes structural features that are part of the "means for movably engaging," rather than providing those components on a separate top component 400. In other words, compared to... Figures 1A to 7 Compared to the footwear structure of 100, in Figures 8A to 13B In the footwear structure 800, the top component 400, the "means for movably engaging," is directly engaged and integrally formed as part of the main sole component 802, rather than constituting a separate part. However, if necessary, Figures 1A to 7 The sole structure 104 may include a top component 400 integrally formed as part of the main sole structure (e.g., midsole 200), and / or Figures 8A to 13B The sole structure 104 may include separate components that form structural features of the top component 400.

[0089] The main sole component 802 of this example (which may include one or more parts) includes an upward-facing surface 802U of the entire sole surface that supports the wearer's foot (see [link]). Figure 9CThe main sole component 802, or at least some portions thereof (and particularly the forefoot region where relative movement of the various parts occurs), may be made of a relatively rigid material. Examples include one or more metals (including alloys), one or more plastics (e.g., polyether block amines, thermoplastic polyurethanes, other thermoplastic elastomers, thermosetting polymers, fiber-reinforced polymers (e.g., carbon fiber materials), combinations of these materials, etc. Although Figures 8A to 8D Specific examples of foam or other midsole components are not illustrated, but such components may be included or integrally formed as part of the main sole component 802 if desired (e.g., on top of the upward-facing surface 802U, below some or all of the sole surface of the wearer's foot, etc.). The main sole component 802 may be configured to flex under applied forces during use and provide return energy to the wearer's foot when the applied forces are released or sufficiently reduced.

[0090] Now refer to Figures 9A to 9F The main sole component 802 is described in more detail. Figure 9A An external view of the main sole component 802 is provided. Figure 9B Its outer view is provided. Figure 9C Its top view is provided. Figure 9D Its bottom view is provided. Figure 9E It provides a bottom inside perspective view, and Figure 9F A perspective view of its bottom outer side is provided. In this example illustration, reference numeral 900 identifies a portion of the main sole component 802, which includes the structure and function of a top component as a means of movably engaging. The top component portion 900 may be made of the same material as the aforementioned main sole component 802.

[0091] The front edge 900F of the top component portion 900 and / or the recess defined thereon for receiving the bottom component 1000 of the example structure may be located within any of the longitudinal position ranges described above with respect to edge 200FE (e.g., 0.7L front, 0.75L front, or even 0.8L front). The rear edge 900R of the top component portion 900 and / or the recess defined thereon for receiving the bottom component 1000 of the example structure may be located within any of the longitudinal position ranges described above with respect to edge 200RE (e.g., 0.4L front, 0.45L front, or even 0.5L front). In at least some embodiments of the present technology, the entire longitudinal length of the top component portion 900 and / or the recess defined thereon for receiving the bottom component 1000 in the example structure may be between 0.2L and 0.4L. The “L” discussed above constitutes the longitudinal length of the main sole component 802, the entire sole structure 104, and / or the footwear structure 800.

[0092] Figures 9D to 9F The illustration also shows that the ground-facing surface 802G of the forefoot region of the top component portion 900 includes: (a) an arched or curved lateral surface 400GL that arches downward from the lateral edge of the top component portion 900, the footwear article 800, and / or the entire sole structure 104; and (b) an arched or curved medial surface 400GM that arches downward from the medial edge of the top component portion 900, the footwear article 800, and / or the entire sole component 104. If necessary, and as... Figures 9D to 9F As shown in the example, the ground-facing surface 802G may also include a flat or curved central surface 400GC connecting the outer surface 400GL and the inner surface 400GM. In this example, the central surface 400GC is flatter than both surfaces 400GL and 400GM. The ground-facing surface 802G in the top component portion 900 may have any of the various size and shape options for the example structure described above for the top component 400.

[0093] Figures 9D to 9F The illustration also shows that the ground-facing surface 802G of the sole component 802 within the top component portion 900 is formed to include (or as part of a separately attached component) one or more channels 902T recessed into the surrounding base surface of the sole component 802. Figures 9A to 9F The example shows four such channels 902T, but other numbers may be used without departing from at least some aspects of the present technology. The four channels 902T are spaced apart in the longitudinal direction of the main sole component 802—two parallel rear channels 902T and two parallel front channels 902T. Furthermore, the ground-facing surface 802G of the sole component 802 within the top component portion 900 of this example sole structure 104 is formed to include one or more structures 904 (e.g., threaded holes) for engaging one or more retaining elements, which will be described in more detail below. Figures 9D to 9F Four such structures 904 (threaded holes in this example) are shown – two structures 904 located between the rear parallel channels 902T, and two structures 904 located between the front parallel channels 902T. Although other arrangements are possible, the structures 904 between the pairs of parallel channels 902T are spaced apart in the outer-to-inner direction. Figures 9D to 9F The track 902T (which is roughly rectangular in this example) located within the surrounding recess 930 is also shown.

[0094] Because most of the main sole component 802 of this example sole structure 104 is designed to contact the ground during use, some or any portion of the ground-facing surface 802G can be formed to include (or may be included as a separately attached structure) one or more anti-slip studs 302 or other elements that enhance adhesion and friction, if desired. In the example sole structure 104 illustrated, the anti-slip studs 302 are only provided in the forefoot support area of ​​the sole structure 104 (because sprinting events are typically run with the runner's toes). Other arrangements of the anti-slip studs 302 are also possible without departing from various aspects of this technology.

[0095] Figures 10A to 10E The following views of the bottom component 1000 are provided: Figure 10A A top view is provided; Figure 10B A bottom view is provided; Figure 10C A rear top outer perspective view is provided; Figure 10D A rear top inside perspective view is provided, and Figure 10E A rear inner bottom perspective view is provided. The bottom component 1000 includes an upward-facing surface 1000U and a ground-facing surface 1000G. In the example illustrated, the upward-facing surface 1000U includes: (a) an arched or curved outer surface 500UL that arches downward from the outer edge of the bottom component 1000, footwear article 800, and / or the entire sole structure 104 toward the central region of the bottom component 1000 (and is configured to face, contact, and / or rest adjacent to the arched or curved outer surface 400GL of the top component portion 900); and (b) an arched or curved inner surface 500UM that arches downward from the inner edge of the bottom component 1000, footwear article 800, and / or the entire sole component 104 toward the central region of the bottom component 1000 (and is configured to face, contact, and / or rest adjacent to the arched or curved inner surface 400GM of the top component portion 900). If desired, and as... Figure 10A and Figures 10C to 10E As illustrated in the example, the upward-facing surface 1000U may further include a flat or curved center surface 500UC, which is configured to face, contact, and / or rest adjacent to the top component portion 900 (when present). In this example, the flat or curved center surface 500UC connects the outer surface 500UL and the inner surface 500UM of the upward-facing surface 1000U. In this example, the center surface 500UC is flatter than both surfaces 500UL and 500UM.

[0096] The bottom component 1000 can be sized, shaped, and positioned such that its rear edge 1000RE and front edge 1000FE lie between (a) the front edge 900F of the top component portion 900 (e.g., a front edge of 0.7L, 0.75L, or even 0.8L) and (b) the rear edge 900R of the top component portion 900 (e.g., a front edge of 0.4L, 0.45L, or even 0.5L). In at least some instances of this technology, the entire longitudinal length of the bottom component 1000 in this example structure can be between 0.2L and 0.4L. The “L” discussed above constitutes the longitudinal length of the main sole component 802, the entire sole structure 104, and / or the footwear structure 800. The bottom component 1000 also includes one or more openings 1010 extending through it. Figures 10A to 10E The example structure shows two longitudinally spaced openings 1010. In this example, the two longitudinally spaced openings 1010 have substantially the same size and shape (but this is not required).

[0097] Figures 10A to 10E The illustration also shows that the upward-facing surface 1000U of the bottom component 1000 is formed to include (or as part of one or more separately attached components) one or more tracks 1002T extending outward from the surrounding base surface of the bottom component 1000 (in this example, outward from the central surface 500UC). Four such tracks 1002T are shown in this example, but other numbers may be used without departing from at least some aspects of the art. The four tracks 1002T are spaced apart in the longitudinal direction of the bottom component 1000—two parallel rear tracks 1002T and two parallel front tracks 1002T. Figure 10A and Figure 10B As shown, the track 1002T is positioned, sized, and formed to extend beyond the front and rear edges of the opening 1010 and into the open area of ​​the opening 1010. The track 1002T is also positioned, sized, and formed to fit into the channel 902T defined in the top component portion 900, which will be described in more detail below.

[0098] In the illustrated example, the ground-facing surface 1000G of the bottom component 1000 is designed to directly contact the ground during use. Therefore, if desired (and as shown), the ground-facing surface 1000G can be configured to include (or may be included as a separately attached component) one or more adhesion friction elements 520 (e.g., athletic anti-slip studs, structures for engaging separately attached athletic spikes, and / or more for...). Figure 3A , Figure 3B , Figure 5B ,as well as Figure 5COther elements of the type described above that enhance adhesion friction. Additionally or alternatively, if desired, at least some (or even all) of the ground-facing surfaces 1000G may be formed as separate parts (including anti-slip studs, shoe spikes, or other elements that enhance adhesion friction) that engage with the bottom surface of the component, which includes other features of the bottom component 1000.

[0099] Figure 11 The illustration shows a retention system 1100 (bottom view), which is included as part of a means for movably engaging with the footwear structure 800 of this example. The retention system 1100 includes a retention base 1104 having a through hole 1102 defined therein and positioned axially aligned with a corresponding structure 904 (e.g., a threaded hole) provided in the top component portion 900. The retention system 1100 of this example also includes two connectors 1110 (e.g., threaded screws or bolts) that extend through the hole 1102 and engage the structure 904 to secure the retention base 1104 to the main sole component 802.

[0100] Combining Figure 12 Description includes Figures 9A to 11 The parts Figures 8A to 8D The assembly of the sole structure 104. This example process begins with the following individual components described above: (a) the main sole component 802 (including an integrally formed or separately attached top component portion 900); (b) the bottom component 1000; and (c) two retaining systems 1100. First, as Figure 12 As indicated by arrow 1220, the bottom component 1000 is placed at the top component portion 900 of the main sole component 802, such that the upward-facing surface 1002U of the bottom component 1000 faces, contacts, and / or rests adjacent to the ground-facing surface 802G of the main sole component 802. The bottom component 1000 is placed within a recess defined between the front edge 900F and the rear edge 900R of the top component portion 900. The bottom component 1000 is positioned such that its track 1002T extends into a corresponding channel 902T in the top component portion 900. In this way, the recess 910 of the top component portion 900 is exposed through the opening 1010 of the bottom component 1000. The channel 902T is longer than the track 1002T in the inner-to-outer direction of the sole structure 104 (to support sliding / tilting / rotational movements described in more detail below).

[0101] The upward-facing surface 1000U of the bottom component 1000 may include one or more structures 1020 (e.g., recesses, holes, grooves, etc., see below). Figure 10A , Figure 10C , Figure 10DThe one or more structures 1020 correspond to one or more corresponding structures 920 on the ground-facing surface 802G of the top component portion 900 (e.g., raised ribs, studs, etc., see below). Figures 9D to 9F The joints 920 and 1020 help align and hold the parts 900 and 1000 relative to each other in the desired positions (provided that the desired sliding / tilting / rotational movements are not obstructed). Additionally or alternatively, these structures 920 and 1020 may act as stop members to limit the degree of relative sliding / tilting / rotation of the top part portion 900 relative to the bottom part 1000. In the illustrated example, these additional structures 920 and 1020 are located in the areas where (a) the arched or curved outer surfaces 400GL and 500UL meet the corresponding center surfaces 400GC and 500UC, and (b) the arched or curved inner surfaces 400GM and 500UM meet the corresponding center surfaces 400GC and 500UC. Three pairs of joint structures 920 and 1020 are shown on each side of the sole structure 104, but more or fewer joint structures may be used without departing from at least some instances of this technology.

[0102] With the bottom component 1000 located at the top component portion 900 as described above, the main opening 1010 extending to the bottom component 1000 (e.g.) Figure 10B The top surface of track 1002 (as shown) is exposed and extends along channel 902T. The inner edge of channel 902T is exposed through opening 1010. The base 1104 of system 1100 is then engaged with the combined main sole component 802 and bottom component 1000 structure 1200 by axially aligning their holes 1102 with corresponding openings 904 in the top component portion 900 of the main sole component 802. Figure 12 (Indicated by arrow 1230). Connector 1110 (part of retaining system 1100) engages the base 1104 of retaining system 1100 with the top part portion 900, for example, using a threaded connection or other suitable connection mechanism (see...). Figure 12 (See arrow 1240 in the image). These actions complete the sole structure 104 of this example (which can engage with the upper 102 at any appropriate time during the process).

[0103] In this example, the front and rear dimensions of the system base 1104 are maintained and formed to correspond to the front and rear dimensions of the corresponding opening 1010 in the bottom component 1000. Therefore, as Figure 12 (as well as Figure 8DAs shown, the front and rear edges of the base 1104 of the retaining system 1100 contact or rest adjacent to the corresponding front and rear edges of the recess 910. In this way, the bottom surface of the base 1104 of the retaining system 1100 extends above and / or contacts the exposed top surface of the track 1002T in the opening 1010 to hold the track 1002T within their respective channels 902T. However, also as Figure 8D and Figure 12 As shown, the outer and inner edges of the base 1104 of the retaining system 1100 do not extend to simultaneously contact or be adjacent to the corresponding outer and inner edges of the recess 910. Instead, the gap 1200G can be provided on either side of the outer and inner edges of the base 1104 of the retaining system 1100 and the corresponding outer and inner edges of the recess 910 (depending on the relative positioning of the top component portion 900 relative to the bottom component 1000). The gap 1200G supports sliding / tilting / rotational movements, as described in more detail below.

[0104] therefore, Figures 1A to 7 The sole structure 104 and Figures 8A to 13B The sole structure 104 differs in various structural features, while still providing the same generally required sliding / tilting / rotational movements, at least in the forefoot area. As at least some specific examples, Figures 1A to 7 The sole structure 104 and Figures 8A to 13B The difference in the sole structure 104 is that: (a) in Figures 1A to 7 In the sole structure 104, the top component 400 includes a raised track 402T while the bottom component 500 includes a recessed channel 502T as part of a means for movably engaging, but (b) in Figures 8A to 13B In the sole structure 104, the top component region 900 includes a recessed channel 902T, while the bottom component 1000 includes a raised track 1002T. However, if necessary, in Figures 1A to 7 In the structure, one or more channels can be disposed on the top component 400, and one or more tracks can be disposed on the bottom component 500. Similarly, if necessary, in Figures 8A to 13B In the structure, one or more of the tracks can be disposed on the top component portion 900, and one or more of the channels can be disposed on the bottom component 1000.

[0105] Figures 8A to 12 The sole structure 104 can be similar to Figures 1A to 7 It works in this way. Figure 13A and Figure 13B An example is shown. Figure 13AIn the design, the top component portion 900 and the bottom component 1000 are shown in a central or centered position, for example, with a gap 1200G in both of the following: (a) between the outer edge 1010L of the opening 1010 and the outer edge 1104L of the retaining base 1104, and (b) between the inner edge 1010M of the opening 1010 and the inner edge 1104M of the retaining base 1104. From there, the main sole component 802 and its top component portion 900 can be displaced outward or inward relative to the bottom component 1000. Figure 13B A top component portion 900 is shown displaced outward relative to the bottom component 1000. As illustrated in this example, the base 1104 of the retaining system 1100 (which is fixedly engaged with the top component portion 900 via a connector 1110 extending through openings 1102, 904) is displaced relative to the bottom component 1000 at most until the outer edge 1104L of the base 1104 of the retaining system 1100 abuts the outer edge 1010L of the opening 1010. Thus, the outer edges 1104L and 1010L serve as stops on the outside (and similarly, the inner edges 1104M and 1010M can serve as stops on the inside).

[0106] Figure 13B The bottom surface of track 1002T is also shown, which is partially exposed and partially covered by the retaining system 1100 to hold track 1002T within the channel 902T of the top component portion 900. Therefore, during the same actions described above, the channel 902T of the top component portion 900 moves relative to track 1002T of the bottom component 1000 (e.g., slides, rotates, tilts, etc.). Figure 13A and Figure 13B In this example, the top component portion 900 moves relative to the bottom component 1000 until the inner end portion 1002TE of the track 1002T reaches the inner edge 910E of the recess 910 defined in the ground-facing surface 802. When present, the inner end portion 1002TE of the track 1002T and the inner edge 910E of the recess 910 can act as stop members to prevent the top component portion 900 from excessively rotating relative to the bottom component 1000. Additionally or alternatively, if desired, the same type of track end portion 1002TE and the edge 910E of the recess 910 can be provided on the outside of the track 1002T and the recess 910. These stop members (formed by abutting / contacting the end portion 1002TE and the edge 910E) can be present to replace or supplement any stop members formed by the edges 1104L, 1104M and the edges 1010L, 1010M of the opening 1010.

[0107] Figures 14A to 19C Another example of footwear 1400 and its components is shown. Figure 14AAn inside view of the example footwear product 1400 is shown; Figure 14B Its outer view is provided; Figure 14C Its top view is provided; and Figure 14D Its bottom view is provided. Figure 15A An inside view of the midsole component 200 is provided; Figure 15B Its outer view is provided; Figure 15C Its top view is provided; Figure 15D Its bottom view is provided; Figure 15E It provides a bottom outer perspective view; and Figure 15F A bottom inside perspective view is provided. Figure 16 A bottom view of the outsole component 1600 is provided. Figures 17A to 17E The top component 400 is provided with an inner view, an outer view, an inner bottom perspective view, an outer bottom perspective view, and a bottom view. Figures 18A to 18F The bottom component 500 is provided with an inner view, an outer view, an inner top perspective view, an outer top perspective view, a bottom view, and a top view. Figures 19A to 19C The illustration shows the assembly of the example sole structure 104.

[0108] The components of this footwear product 1400 are similar to the combination described above. Figures 1A to 7 Those mentioned above (e.g., main midsole component 200, top component 400, bottom component 500, etc.). Therefore, Figures 14A to 19C Use many with Figures 1A to 7 The same reference numerals are used in the accompanying drawings. (Combined) Figures 1A to 7 Any of the features, characteristics, options, and / or alternatives of the components may also be described in Figures 14A to 19C The components are provided. Therefore, much of the repetitive discussion of these similar structures and / or features is omitted. The following discussion focuses primarily on… Figures 1A to 7 Examples and Figures 14A to 19C The structural differences between instances. Although footwear 1400 is configured as a basketball shoe, aspects of the structure of this example footwear 1400 can also be used for other types of footwear.

[0109] like Figures 14A to 14D and Figure 16As shown, one aspect of the footwear structure 1400, which differs from the footwear structure described above, involves an outsole component 1600. In this example, the outsole component 1600 extends to form at least a majority of the ground-facing surface of the footwear article 1400. In some embodiments of the art, the outsole component 1600 may extend to form at least 60%, at least 75%, at least 80%, at least 90%, or even at least 95%, but less than 100%, of the ground-facing (and contacting) surface of the footwear article 1400. The outsole component 1600 also extends at its bottom ground-contacting surface 1600G through one or more continuous paths from the forefoot region to the heel region of the footwear article 1400. Thus, the outsole component 1600 partially covers the bottom component 500 of the sole structure 104 that supports forefoot sliding / tilting / rotational movements, which will be described in more detail below. In this manner, the outsole component 1600 spans at its front and rear edges the junction of the ground-facing surface 200G of the midsole 200 and the ground-facing surface 500G of the outsole component 500. The ground-facing surface 1600G of the outsole component 1600 may include features that enhance adhesion and friction, such as those conventionally used in basketball footwear (and / or other shoe) constructions.

[0110] The accompanying drawings also show that the outsole component 1600 includes an opening 1600O that extends through the outsole component 1600 and is defined in the midfoot to forefoot region, located below the footwear components 400, 500 that support sliding / tilting / rotation features. It should also be noted that... Figure 14D The diagram shows portions of the midsole component 200 and at least the bottom component 500 visible (and optionally exposed) through opening 1600O. The outsole component 1600 may be formed of a sufficiently flexible material (e.g., rubber, TPU, etc.) such that its opening 1600O can buckle and change shape under applied forces (such as when the top component 400 moves relative to the bottom component 500 under applied lateral forces). If necessary or desired, the outsole component 1600 may be formed of a sufficiently elastic or stretchable material that will stretch under applied lateral forces and then return to its initial shape when the force is sufficiently relaxed or removed. This elastic or stretchable characteristic (when present) helps the sole structure 104 return to a centered or un-tilted / un-rotated configuration. In use, when the top component 400 moves laterally relative to the bottom component 500, the channel 1600C widens and opens, and when these footwear components 400 and 500 return to their centered or central position, the channel 1600C returns to its original position. Figure 14D and Figure 16 Configuration.

[0111] In its centered or unloaded state (e.g., as Figure 14D and Figure 16As shown), the opening 1600O includes a relatively large front opening and a rear opening 1600E (e.g., 100mm wide) connected by a continuous channel 1600C (e.g., less than 10mm wide). 2 Up to 500mm 2 At its center, channel 1600C also extends from each of the end openings 1600E toward the inner edge of the sole structure 104 (e.g., in a slightly U-shaped or V-shaped path), such that the outer edge of the large end opening 1600E is closer to the outer edge of the sole structure 104 than channel 1600C. Furthermore, this example outsole component 1600 includes a front cutout region and a rear cutout region 1620 (e.g., generally triangular) on the inner side, through which the front edge 200FE and rear edge 200RE of the midsole component 200 and a portion of the bottom component 500 are exposed. These cutout regions 1620 may be sized (at the bottom surface of the sole structure 104) to (e.g., 100 mm). 2 Up to 1000mm 2 Within the range of ), instead, the outer side of the outsole 1600 in this example extends substantially flush with or aligned with the outer periphery edge of the midsole 200 and does not include a similar cut-out area.

[0112] Figures 14A to 14D and Figure 16 The outsole component 1600 of this example is also shown to include a plurality of extensions 1610. During assembly, when the outsole component 1600 is attached to the ground-facing surface 200G of the midsole component 200 and the ground-facing surface 500G of the bottom component 500 (e.g., by adhesive), these extensions 1610 are wrapped upward to engage the peripheral side surfaces 200L, 200M of the midsole component 200 and the peripheral side surfaces 500L, 500M of the bottom component 500. These side extensions 1610 may also include features that enhance adhesion friction, such as those included on the ground-facing surface 1600G (e.g., herringbone pattern raised cylinders or ridges, etc.). These side extensions 1610 can provide additional adhesion friction, for example, during extreme stops, starts, stops, and / or changes of direction (as commonly occurs in basketball and other activities). This specific example shows nine spaced-apart lateral extensions 1610, positioned from the medial midfoot region, around the forefoot region, to the lateral midfoot region (four extensions 1610 on each side and one forefoot tip extension 1610). However, in some embodiments of the art, other numbers, combinations, sizes, and shapes of such extensions 1610 may be provided.

[0113] Figures 14A to 19C The sole structure 104 and Figures 1A to 7The difference in the sole structure 104 also lies in the structure in which footwear components 400 and 500 are movably joined to each other (and thus the structure of the means for movably joining these footwear components 400 and 500 differs). Figures 17A to 18F In footwear components 400 and 500, at least some of the structures of means for movably joining these components together are provided at the front and rear surfaces or at the front and rear regions of the footwear components 400 and 500. For example, such as Figure 17A and Figure 17C (as well as Figure 14A and Figure 19A As shown, on the inner side, the front edge 1710F and rear edge 1710R of the top member 400 form downwardly extending "C-shaped" edges 1710C at least a portion of the arcuate or curved inner surface 400GM. The bottommost portion of the C-shaped edge 1710C forms a track that extends into and engages with a corresponding channel 1810C disposed in the bottom member 500. Furthermore, the space defined between the upper surface of the bottommost portion of the C-shaped edge 1710C and the arcuate or curved inner surface 400GM defines a channel for receiving the track of the bottom member 500. See also Figure 14A and Figure 19A On the outer side, the front edge 1710F and rear edge 1710R of the top component 400 form tracks 1710T along at least a portion of the arcuate or curved outer surface 400GL. These tracks 1710T extend into and engage with corresponding channels 1810X provided in the bottom component 500. See also Figure 14B , Figure 17B , Figure 17D , Figure 17E ,as well as Figure 19B .

[0114] Figures 18A to 18F The illustration shows other structural differences in the bottom component 500 of the example footwear article 1400 and the means for movably joining the footwear components 400, 500 together. For example, as Figure 18A and Figure 18C (as well as Figure 14A and Figure 19AAs shown, on the inner side, the front edge 500FE and rear edge 500RE of the bottom component 500 form “C-shaped” edges 1810C spaced downwards from the upward-facing surface 500U. Recesses in these C-shaped edges 1810C form channels that receive a track formed by the bottommost portion of the C-shaped edge 1710C of the top component 400. Front and rear extending surfaces (which form the top of the C-shaped edge 1810C) form a track that extends into and engages with the channel defined by the space between the upper surface of the bottommost portion of the C-shaped edge 1710C and the arched or curved inner surface 400GM of the top component 400. These front and rear joints between footwear components 400 and 500 are also referred to in this specification as a type of “mortise and tenon joint.” See also Figure 14A and Figure 19A On the outer side, the front edge 500FE and rear edge 500RE of the bottom member 500 include channels 1810X extending at least partially along the arcuate wall surface. These channels 1810X receive tracks 1710T formed along at least a portion of the arcuate or curved outer surface 400GL of the top member 400. See also Figure 14B , Figure 18B ,as well as Figure 19B .

[0115] Figures 19A to 19C The diagram illustrates the relevant parts of assembling the sole structure 104. For example... Figure 19A As shown, firstly, the top component 400 engages with the bottom component 500 by joining the corresponding tracks and channels (e.g., including C-shaped components 1710C and 1810C on the inner side and tracks 1710T and channels 1810X on the outer side). These footwear components 400 and 500 are not fixedly joined together, but the shape of the tracks and channels prevents them from pulling apart in the top-to-bottom direction. The combined footwear components 400 and 500 constitute a component 1900 that can slide / tilt / rotate relative to each other. Figure 19B As shown, the relatively sliding / tilting / rotating component 1900 can be permanently engaged within the recess 200R of the midsole component 200. This can be achieved, for example, by securing the upward-facing surface 400U of the top component 400 to the ground-facing surface 200G in the recess 200R of the midsole component 200 (e.g., by adhesive). This securing arrangement allows the bottom component 500 to slide / tilt / rotate relative to the midsole component 200 secured to the top component 400. After this step, the top surface of the outsole component 1600 can be attached to the ground-facing surfaces 200G, 500G. See also Figure 19C .

[0116] Furthermore, the outsole extension 1610 (when present) can be attached to the sidewall surface of the midsole component 200 and / or the bottom component 500, as described above and as... Figure 19C As indicated by arrow 1910. In this illustrated example, four extensions 1610 engage with the sidewalls of the bottom component 500—two longitudinally spaced apart on the outer side and two longitudinally spaced apart on the inner side. One extension 1610 engages the inner sidewall of the midsole component 200 at the rear of the bottom component 500, and another extension 1610 engages the inner sidewall of the midsole component 200 at the front of the bottom component 500. Similarly, one extension 1610 engages the outer sidewall of the midsole component 200 at the rear of the bottom component 500, and another extension 1610 engages the outer sidewall of the midsole component 200 at the front of the bottom component 500. See also Figure 14D An extension 1610 engages the sidewall of the forefoot midsole 200 at the forefoot toe position. These connections maintain a stable outsole 1600 connection as the top component 400 moves relative to the bottom component 500, while still allowing the opening 1600O to expand and return and / or simultaneously allowing the outsole component 1600 material to stretch.

[0117] Figures 20A to 20C The illustration shows at least a portion of the sole structure 104, which is structurally similar to the combination described above. Figures 14A to 19C The sole structure 104 is described (and therefore several of the same reference numerals are used), but there are some variations in the top component 400 and the bottom component 500. These variations constitute variations in the means for movably joining the footwear components 400, 500 together. Figure 20A An inside view of the sole structure 104 is shown; Figure 20B A bottom perspective view of its top component 400 is shown; and Figure 20C A top perspective view of its bottom component 500 is shown. Besides... Figures 14A to 19CIn addition to the specific joining portions and structures shown at the front and rear edges of the footwear components 400 and 500, the top component 400 also includes intermediate tracks 2000T on the outer and inner sides of its ground-facing surface 400G. These intermediate tracks 2000T extend into and engage with intermediate channels 2000C, which are located on the outer and inner sides of the upward-facing surface 500U of the bottom component 500. In this context, "intermediate" means between the front and rear edges of the respective footwear components 400 and 500. More than one such set of intermediate tracks 2000T / intermediate channels 2000C may be provided on either side or both sides of the footwear components 400 and 500. The intermediate track 2000T / intermediate channel 2000C assembly can help provide a more secure connection between footwear components 400 and 500, and can help reduce unwanted play and / or relative sway of these footwear components 400 and 500 relative to each other in the longitudinal direction of the sole structure 104. Without departing from various aspects of this technology, Figures 20A to 20C The sole structure 104 may include Figures 14A to 19C Any of the other various features of the sole structure 104, including those with Figures 14A to 19C Any variations, options, or alternatives associated with the sole structure 104. Furthermore, the track 2000T and channel 2000C may include the above combinations. Figures 1A to 7 Any of the features of the similar parts.

[0118] As described above, aspects of this technology allow at least the forefoot area corresponding to the positions of the top footwear components 400, 900 and the bottom components 500, 1000 to tilt, rotate, and / or slide relative to each other outward and / or inward. If necessary, a stop member of any of the above types can be provided to limit or even eliminate such tilting, rotation, and / or sliding in one lateral direction or the other.

[0119] Figure 21 The illustration shows a rear view of a composite part 600 consisting of a top part 400 (or top part portion 900) and a bottom part 500 (or 1000). Figure 21 The view is taken from the heel toward the toe along the axial direction of sliding / tilting / rotation, with the composite part 600 supported on the support surface S. Figure 21 In this orientation, the modular component 600 is centered (e.g., the top component 400 is positioned relative to the bottom component 500 at the bottom of its movable range and / or the two footwear components 400, 500 are centered relative to each other). Figure 21The central base orientation is indicated by line B, which extends along and contacts the confluence of the central surfaces 400GC and 500UC of footwear components 400 and 500 at their lowest points / surfaces (e.g., tangent points). Line B may or may not be parallel to surface S. In use, the bottom component 500 will typically be placed on the ground or other contact surface S (and may be temporarily fixed relative to surface S). Lateral forces, either outward or inward, can be applied to move (e.g., slide, tilt, rotate) the ground-facing surface 400G of the top component 400 relative to the upward-facing surface 500U of the bottom component 500. Figure 21 An example tilt angle (relative to the base surface B about the center point C) is shown at angle α in the outer direction. Figure 21 An example tilt angle β is shown in the diagram in the inward direction (tilted relative to the base surface B about the center point C). The upper limits of tilt angles α and β can be controlled, for example, by a stop member, as described above. Although the upper limits of tilt angles α and β can be the same, in some aspects of this technology, the upper limit of tilt angle α can be greater than the upper limit of tilt angle β (so that the tilt in the outward direction can extend further than the tilt in the inward direction).

[0120] In some embodiments of this technology, footwear components 400, 500 may be structured and configured to allow tilting / rotation about an angle α of at least 2 degrees, and in some embodiments within at least any of the following ranges: at least 4 degrees; at least 6 degrees; at least 8 degrees; in the range of 2 to 20 degrees; in the range of 3 to 18 degrees; or in the range of 4 to 15 degrees. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments of this technology, footwear components 400, 500 may be structured and configured to allow rotation about an angle β of at least 0.5 degrees, and in some embodiments within at least any of the following ranges: at least 1 degree; at least 2 degrees; at least 4 degrees; in the range of 0 to 16 degrees; in the range of 1 to 14 degrees; or in the range of 2 to 12 degrees. In some embodiments of this technology, relative tilting / rotation in the inward direction may be stopped (tilt angle β is limited to 0 degrees). In other embodiments, the same degree of tilting / rotation may be allowed on both sides. Relative movement (e.g., tilting, rotation, etc.) occurs about an axis extending in the heel-to-toe direction of the sole structure 104 and the footwear article containing the sole structure 104. When the sole structure 104 and / or the footwear article containing the sole structure 104 are oriented on the horizontal base surface S on their ground-facing surface under unloaded conditions (no force is applied to them except for the weight of the footwear component itself), the axis can be a substantially horizontal axis (e.g., ±10 degrees from the horizontal direction).

[0121] III. Conclusion

[0122] The invention has been disclosed above and in the accompanying drawings with reference to various embodiments. However, the purpose of this disclosure is to provide examples of various features and concepts related to the invention, and not to limit the scope of the invention. Those skilled in the art will recognize that many variations and modifications can be made to the above embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

[0123] For the avoidance of doubt, this application includes at least the subject matter described in the following numbered clauses:

[0124] Clause 1. A sole structure for footwear articles, comprising:

[0125] A first footwear component including a ground-facing surface, wherein the forefoot portion of the ground-facing surface includes: (a) an arched inner surface that arches downward from the inner edge of the sole structure toward the central region of the first footwear component, and (b) an arched outer surface that arches downward from the outer edge of the sole structure toward the central region of the first footwear component;

[0126] A second footwear component including an upward-facing surface, wherein the forefoot portion of the upward-facing surface includes: (a) an arched inner surface that arches downward from the inner edge of the second footwear component toward the central region of the second footwear component and faces the arched inner surface of the first footwear component; and (b) an arched outer surface that arches downward from the outer edge of the second footwear component toward the central region of the second footwear component and faces the arched outer surface of the first footwear component; and

[0127] Means for movably engaging the first footwear component with the second footwear component such that: (a) the inner arcuate surface of the first footwear component moves relative to and along the inner arcuate surface of the second footwear component, and (b) the outer arcuate surface of the first footwear component moves relative to and along the outer arcuate surface of the second footwear component.

[0128] Clause 2. A footwear product comprising:

[0129] A first footwear component including a ground-facing surface, wherein the forefoot portion of the ground-facing surface includes: (a) an arched inner surface that arches downward from the inner edge of the footwear article toward the central region of the first footwear component, and (b) an arched outer surface that arches downward from the outer edge of the footwear article toward the central region of the first footwear component.

[0130] A second footwear component including an upward-facing surface, wherein the forefoot portion of the upward-facing surface includes: (a) an arched inner surface that arches downward from the inner edge of the second footwear component toward the central region of the second footwear component and faces the arched inner surface of the first footwear component; and (b) an arched outer surface that arches downward from the outer edge of the second footwear component toward the central region of the second footwear component and faces the arched outer surface of the first footwear component; and

[0131] Means for movably engaging the first footwear component with the second footwear component such that: (a) the inner arcuate surface of the first footwear component moves relative to and along the inner arcuate surface of the second footwear component, and (b) the outer arcuate surface of the first footwear component moves relative to and along the outer arcuate surface of the second footwear component.

[0132] Clause 3. The sole structure or footwear article according to Clause 1 or 2, wherein: (a) the arched inner surface of the first footwear component includes an axial direction extending in the heel-to-toe direction of the footwear article; (b) the arched inner surface of the second footwear component includes an axial direction extending in the heel-to-toe direction of the footwear article; (c) the arched outer surface of the first footwear component includes an axial direction extending in the heel-to-toe direction of the footwear article; and / or (d) the arched outer surface of the second footwear component includes an axial direction extending in the heel-to-toe direction of the footwear article.

[0133] Clause 4. The sole structure or footwear article according to any one of Clauses 1 to 3, wherein the means for movably engaging the first footwear component with the second footwear component causes the first footwear component to rotate relative to the second footwear component about an axis extending in the heel-to-toe direction of the footwear article.

[0134] Clause 5. The sole structure or footwear article according to any one of Clauses 1 to 3, wherein the means for movably engaging the first footwear component with the second footwear component is: (a) sliding the inner arched surface of the first footwear component relative to and along the inner arched surface of the second footwear component, and (b) sliding the outer arched surface of the first footwear component relative to and along the outer arched surface of the second footwear component.

[0135] Clause 6. The sole structure or footwear article according to any one of Clauses 1 to 5, wherein the means for movably engaging the first footwear component and the second footwear component comprises: (a) a first track disposed on the ground-facing surface of the first footwear component, and (b) a first channel disposed on the upward-facing surface of the second footwear component, wherein the first track engages with the first channel.

[0136] Clause 7. The sole structure or footwear article according to Clause 6, wherein the means for movably engaging the first footwear component and the second footwear component further comprises: (a) a second track disposed on the ground-facing surface of the first footwear component, and (b) a second channel disposed on the upward-facing surface of the second footwear component, wherein the second track engages with the second channel.

[0137] Clause 8. The sole structure or footwear article according to Clause 7, wherein each of the first track and the second track is disposed on the inner arched surface of the first footwear component, and each of the first channel and the second channel is disposed on the inner arched surface of the second footwear component.

[0138] Clause 9. The sole structure or footwear article according to Clause 7, wherein each of the first track and the second track is disposed on the arched outer surface of the first footwear component, and each of the first channel and the second channel is disposed on the arched outer surface of the second footwear component.

[0139] Clause 10. The sole structure or footwear article according to Clause 7, wherein: (a) the first track is disposed on the inner arched surface of the first footwear component, (b) the second track is disposed on the outer arched surface of the first footwear component, (c) the first channel is disposed on the inner arched surface of the second footwear component, and (d) the second channel is disposed on the outer arched surface of the second footwear component.

[0140] Clause 11. The sole structure or footwear article according to any one of Clauses 6 to 10, wherein the means for movably engaging the first footwear component and the second footwear component further comprises: (a) a third track disposed on the ground-facing surface of the first footwear component, and (b) a third channel disposed on the upward-facing surface of the second footwear component, wherein the third track engages with the third channel.

[0141] Clause 12. The sole structure or footwear article according to Clause 11, wherein the third track is disposed on the inner arched surface of the first footwear component, and the third channel is disposed on the inner arched surface of the second footwear component.

[0142] Clause 13. The sole structure or footwear article according to Clause 11, wherein the third track is disposed on the arched outer surface of the first footwear component, and the third channel is disposed on the arched outer surface of the second footwear component.

[0143] Clause 14. The sole structure or footwear article according to any one of Clauses 6 to 11, wherein the means for movably engaging the first footwear component and the second footwear component further comprises: (a) a fourth track disposed on the ground-facing surface of the first footwear component, and (b) a fourth channel disposed on the upward-facing surface of the second footwear component, wherein the fourth track engages with the fourth channel.

[0144] Clause 15. The sole structure or footwear article according to Clause 14, wherein: (a) the third track is disposed on the inner arched surface of the first footwear component, (b) the third channel is disposed on the inner arched surface of the second footwear component, (c) the fourth track is disposed on the outer arched surface of the first footwear component, and (d) the fourth channel is disposed on the outer arched surface of the second footwear component.

[0145] Clause 16. The sole structure or footwear article according to any one of Clauses 1 to 5, wherein the means for movably engaging the first footwear component and the second footwear component comprises: (a) a first channel disposed on the ground-facing surface of the first footwear component, and (b) a first track disposed on the upward-facing surface of the second footwear component, wherein the first track engages with the first channel.

[0146] Clause 17. The sole structure or footwear article according to Clause 16, wherein the means for movably engaging the first footwear component and the second footwear component further comprises: (a) a second channel disposed on the ground-facing surface of the first footwear component, and (b) a second track disposed on the upward-facing surface of the second footwear component, wherein the second track engages with the second channel.

[0147] Clause 18. The sole structure or footwear article according to Clause 17, wherein each of the first channel and the second channel is disposed at the central region of the first footwear component, and each of the first track and the second track is disposed at the central region of the second footwear component.

[0148] Clause 19. The sole structure or footwear article according to any one of Clauses 17 or 18, wherein the means for movably engaging the first footwear component with the second footwear component further comprises a first retaining element fixed to the first footwear component to retain the first track in the first channel and the second track in the second channel.

[0149] Clause 20. The sole structure or footwear article according to any one of Clauses 17 or 18, wherein the means for movably engaging the first footwear component with the second footwear component further comprises a first retaining element fixed to the first footwear component to retain the first track in the first channel and a second retaining element fixed to the first footwear component to retain the second track in the second channel.

[0150] Clause 21. The sole structure or footwear article according to any one of Clauses 17 to 20, wherein the means for movably engaging the first footwear component and the second footwear component further comprises: (a) a third channel disposed on the ground-facing surface of the first footwear component, and (b) a third track disposed on the upward-facing surface of the second footwear component, wherein the third track engages with the third channel.

[0151] Clause 22. The sole structure or footwear article according to Clause 21, wherein the third channel is disposed at the central region of the first footwear component, and the third track is disposed at the central region of the second footwear component.

[0152] Clause 23. The sole structure or footwear article according to any one of Clauses 21 or 22, wherein the means for movably engaging the first footwear component and the second footwear component further comprises: (a) a fourth channel provided on the ground-facing surface of the first footwear component, and (b) a fourth track provided on the upward-facing surface of the second footwear component, wherein the fourth track engages with the fourth channel.

[0153] Clause 24. The sole structure or footwear article according to Clause 23, wherein the fourth channel is disposed at the central region of the first footwear component, and the fourth track is disposed at the central region of the second footwear component.

[0154] Clause 25. The sole structure or footwear article according to Clause 23 or 24, wherein the means for movably engaging the first footwear component with the second footwear component further comprises: (a) a first retaining element fixed to the first footwear component to retain the first track in the first channel and the second track in the second channel, and (b) a second retaining element fixed to the first footwear component to retain the third track in the third channel and the fourth track in the fourth channel.

[0155] Clause 26. The sole structure or footwear article according to any one of Clauses 1 to 5, wherein the means for movably joining the first footwear component to the second footwear component includes a tongue and groove joint connecting the front end of the first footwear component to the front end of the second footwear component.

[0156] Clause 27. A sole structure or footwear article according to any one of Clauses 1 to 5 or 26, wherein the means for movably engaging the first footwear component and the second footwear component comprises a tongue and groove joint connecting the rear end of the first footwear component to the rear end of the second footwear component.

[0157] Clause 28. The sole structure or footwear article according to Clause 27, wherein the tongue and groove joint connecting the rear end of the first footwear component to the rear end of the second footwear component is located inside the first footwear component and inside the second footwear component.

[0158] Clause 29. The sole structure or footwear article according to any one of Clauses 26 to 28, wherein the tongue and groove joint connecting the front end of the first footwear component to the front end of the second footwear component is located inside the first footwear component and inside the second footwear component.

[0159] Clause 30. A sole structure or footwear article according to any one of Clauses 1 to 5 or 26 to 29, wherein the means for movably engaging the first footwear component with the second footwear component includes a first track located at the front end of the first footwear component, the first track being connected to a first channel located at the front end of the second footwear component.

[0160] Clause 31. A sole structure or footwear article according to any one of Clauses 1 to 5 or 26 to 30, wherein the means for movably engaging the first footwear component with the second footwear component includes a first channel located at the rear end of the first footwear component, the first channel being connected to a first track located at the rear end of the second footwear component.

[0161] Clause 32. The sole structure or footwear article according to any one of Clauses 30 or 31, wherein each of the first track and the first channel is located on the outside of the footwear article.

[0162] Clause 33. The sole structure or footwear article according to any of the preceding clauses further includes: a midsole component including a ground-facing surface having a recess defined therein, wherein the first footwear component is a separate part fixedly engaged in the recess with the ground-facing surface of the midsole component.

[0163] Clause 34. The sole structure or footwear article according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the second footwear component does not extend into the heel area of ​​the footwear article.

[0164] Clause 35. The sole structure or footwear article according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first footwear component extends continuously from the heel region of the footwear article to the forefoot region and is configured to support the entire sole surface of the wearer's foot.

[0165] Clause 36. The sole structure or footwear article according to any one of Clauses 1 to 34, wherein the first footwear component does not extend into the heel area of ​​the footwear article.

[0166] Clause 37. The sole structure or footwear article according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the ground-facing surface of the first footwear component includes a plurality of golf cleats or athletic cleats integrally formed with or joined thereto.

[0167] Clause 38. The sole structure or footwear article according to any of the preceding clauses further includes: an outsole component that engages with the ground-facing surface of at least one of the first footwear component or the second footwear component.

[0168] Clause 39. The sole structure or footwear article according to Clause 38, wherein an opening is defined through the outsole component, and a portion of the ground-facing surface of the second footwear component is exposed through the opening.

[0169] Clause 40. The sole structure or footwear article as described in Clause 38, wherein the ground-facing surface of the outsole component includes a plurality of golf cleats or athletic cleats integrally formed with or joined thereto.

[0170] Clause 41. The sole structure or footwear article according to Clause 38, wherein the outsole component is a first outsole component located in front of the second footwear component, and wherein the footwear article further comprises: a second outsole component located behind the second footwear component and separated from the first outsole component by the second footwear component.

[0171] Clause 42. The sole structure or footwear article according to Clause 41, wherein the ground-facing surface of each of the first outsole component and the second outsole component includes a plurality of golf cleats or athletic cleats integrally formed with or joined thereto.

[0172] Clause 43. The sole structure or footwear article according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the ground-facing surface of the second footwear component includes a plurality of golf cleats or athletic cleats integrally formed with or joined thereto.

[0173] Clause 44. The footwear article according to any one of Clauses 2 to 43 further comprises: a footwear upper that engages with the upward-facing surface of the first footwear component.

[0174] Clause 45. A sole structure for footwear articles, comprising:

[0175] A first footwear component including a ground-facing surface, wherein the forefoot portion of the ground-facing surface includes: (a) an arched inner surface that curves downward from the inner edge of the sole structure toward a central region of the first footwear component, and (b) an arched outer surface that curves downward from the outer edge of the sole structure toward the central region of the first footwear component, wherein the first footwear component includes either a first track or a first channel; and

[0176] A second footwear component including an upward-facing surface, wherein the forefoot portion of the upward-facing surface includes: (a) an arched inner surface that arches downward from the inner edge of the second footwear component toward the central region of the second footwear component and faces the arched inner surface of the first footwear component; and (b) an arched outer surface that arches downward from the outer edge of the second footwear component toward the central region of the second footwear component and faces the arched outer surface of the first footwear component, wherein the second footwear component includes another of the first track or the first channel, wherein the first track engages with the first channel, and wherein the first footwear component is movably engaged with the second footwear component by movement of the first channel relative to the first track.

[0177] Clause 46. A footwear product comprising:

[0178] A first footwear component including a ground-facing surface, wherein the forefoot portion of the ground-facing surface includes: (a) an arched inner surface that curves downward from an inner edge of the footwear component toward a central region of the first footwear component, and (b) an arched outer surface that curves downward from an outer edge of the footwear component toward the central region of the first footwear component, wherein the first footwear component includes either a first track or a first channel; and

[0179] A second footwear component including an upward-facing surface, wherein the forefoot portion of the upward-facing surface includes: (a) an arched inner surface that arches downward from the inner edge of the second footwear component toward the central region of the second footwear component and faces the arched inner surface of the first footwear component; and (b) an arched outer surface that arches downward from the outer edge of the second footwear component toward the central region of the second footwear component and faces the arched outer surface of the first footwear component, wherein the second footwear component includes another of the first track or the first channel, wherein the first track engages with the first channel, and wherein the first footwear component is movably engaged with the second footwear component by movement of the first channel relative to the first track.

[0180] Clause 47. The sole structure or footwear article according to Clause 45 or 46, wherein: (a) the inner arched surface of the first footwear component includes an axial direction extending in the heel-to-toe direction of the footwear article; (b) the inner arched surface of the second footwear component includes an axial direction extending in the heel-to-toe direction of the footwear article; (c) the outer arched surface of the first footwear component includes an axial direction extending in the heel-to-toe direction of the footwear article; and / or (d) the outer arched surface of the second footwear component includes an axial direction extending in the heel-to-toe direction of the footwear article.

[0181] Clause 48. The sole structure or footwear article according to any one of Clauses 45 to 47, wherein the first footwear component is movably engaged with the second footwear component about a rotation axis extending in the heel-to-toe direction of the sole structure or footwear article.

[0182] Clause 49. A sole structure or footwear article according to any one of Clauses 45 to 47, wherein the first footwear component and the second footwear component are movably engaged such that: (a) the inner arched surface of the first footwear component slides relative to and along the inner arched surface of the second footwear component, and (b) the outer arched surface of the first footwear component slides relative to and along the outer arched surface of the second footwear component.

[0183] Clause 50. The sole structure or footwear article according to any one of Clauses 45 to 49, wherein the first track is disposed on the ground-facing surface of the first footwear component, and the first channel is disposed on the upward-facing surface of the second footwear component.

[0184] Clause 51. The sole structure or footwear article according to Clause 50, wherein the movable engagement of the first footwear component and the second footwear component is further via: (a) a second track disposed on the ground-facing surface of the first footwear component, and (b) a second channel disposed on the upward-facing surface of the second footwear component, wherein the second track engages with the second channel.

[0185] Clause 52. The sole structure or footwear article according to Clause 51, wherein each of the first track and the second track is disposed on the arched inner surface of the first footwear component, and each of the first channel and the second channel is disposed on the arched inner surface of the second footwear component.

[0186] Clause 53. The sole structure or footwear article according to Clause 51, wherein each of the first track and the second track is disposed on the arched outer surface of the first footwear component, and each of the first channel and the second channel is disposed on the arched outer surface of the second footwear component.

[0187] Clause 54. The sole structure or footwear article according to Clause 51, wherein: (a) the first track is disposed on the inner arched surface of the first footwear component, (b) the second track is disposed on the outer arched surface of the first footwear component, (c) the first channel is disposed on the inner arched surface of the second footwear component, and (d) the second channel is disposed on the outer arched surface of the second footwear component.

[0188] Clause 55. The sole structure or footwear article according to any one of Clauses 50 to 54, wherein the movable engagement of the first footwear component and the second footwear component is further via: (a) a third track disposed on the ground-facing surface of the first footwear component, and (b) a third channel disposed on the upward-facing surface of the second footwear component, wherein the third track engages with the third channel.

[0189] Clause 56. The sole structure or footwear article according to Clause 55, wherein the third track is disposed on the inner arched surface of the first footwear component, and the third channel is disposed on the inner arched surface of the second footwear component.

[0190] Clause 57. The sole structure or footwear article according to Clause 55, wherein the third track is disposed on the arched outer surface of the first footwear component, and the third channel is disposed on the arched outer surface of the second footwear component.

[0191] Clause 58. The sole structure or footwear article according to any one of Clauses 50 to 55, wherein the movable engagement of the first footwear component and the second footwear component is further via: (a) a fourth track disposed on the ground-facing surface of the first footwear component, and (b) a fourth channel disposed on the upward-facing surface of the second footwear component, wherein the fourth track engages with the fourth channel.

[0192] Clause 59. The sole structure or footwear article according to Clause 58, wherein: (a) the third track is disposed on the inner arched surface of the first footwear component, (b) the third channel is disposed on the inner arched surface of the second footwear component, (c) the fourth track is disposed on the outer arched surface of the first footwear component, and (d) the fourth channel is disposed on the outer arched surface of the second footwear component.

[0193] Clause 60. The sole structure or footwear article according to any one of Clauses 45 to 49, wherein the first channel is provided on the ground-facing surface of the first footwear component, and the first track is provided on the upward-facing surface of the second footwear component.

[0194] Clause 61. The sole structure or footwear article according to Clause 60, wherein the movable engagement of the first footwear component and the second footwear component is via: (a) a second channel disposed on the ground-facing surface of the first footwear component, and (b) a second track disposed on the upward-facing surface of the second footwear component, wherein the second track engages with the second channel.

[0195] Clause 62. The sole structure or footwear article according to Clause 61, wherein each of the first channel and the second channel is disposed at the central region of the first footwear component, and each of the first track and the second track is disposed at the central region of the second footwear component.

[0196] Clause 63. The sole structure or footwear article according to any one of Clauses 61 or 62 further comprises: a first retaining element fixed to the first footwear component to retain the first track in the first channel and the second track in the second channel.

[0197] Clause 64. The sole structure or footwear article according to any one of Clauses 61 or 62 further comprises: a first retaining element fixed to the first footwear component to retain the first track in the first channel; and a second retaining element fixed to the first footwear component to retain the second track in the second channel.

[0198] Clause 65. A sole structure or footwear article according to any one of Clauses 61 to 64, wherein the movable engagement of the first footwear component and the second footwear component is via: (a) a third channel provided on the ground-facing surface of the first footwear component, and (b) a third track provided on the upward-facing surface of the second footwear component, wherein the third track engages with the third channel.

[0199] Clause 66. The sole structure or footwear article according to Clause 65, wherein the third channel is disposed at the central region of the first footwear component, and the third track is disposed at the central region of the second footwear component.

[0200] Clause 67. The sole structure or footwear article according to any one of Clauses 65 or 66, wherein the movable engagement of the first footwear component with the second footwear component is further via: (a) a fourth channel disposed on the ground-facing surface of the first footwear component, and (b) a fourth track disposed on the upward-facing surface of the second footwear component, wherein the fourth track engages with the fourth channel.

[0201] Clause 68. The sole structure or footwear article according to Clause 67, wherein the fourth channel is disposed at the central region of the first footwear component, and the fourth track is disposed at the central region of the second footwear component.

[0202] Clause 69. The sole structure or footwear article according to Clause 67 or 68 further comprises: (a) a first retaining element fixed to the first footwear component to retain the first track in the first channel and the second track in the second channel; and (b) a second retaining element fixed to the first footwear component to retain the third track in the third channel and the fourth track in the fourth channel.

[0203] Clause 70. The sole structure or footwear article according to any one of Clauses 45 to 49, wherein the first track and the first channel form a tongue and groove joint connecting the front end of the first footwear component to the front end of the second footwear component.

[0204] Clause 71. The sole structure or footwear article according to any one of Clauses 45 to 49, wherein the first track and the first channel form a tongue and groove joint connecting the rear end of the first footwear component to the rear end of the second footwear component.

[0205] Clause 72. The sole structure or footwear article according to any one of Clauses 45 to 49, wherein the first track and the first channel form a first mortise joint connecting the rear end of the first footwear component to the rear end of the second footwear component, and wherein the sole structure or the footwear article further includes a second mortise joint connecting the front end of the first footwear component to the front end of the second footwear component.

[0206] Clause 73. The sole structure or footwear article according to Clause 71 or 72, wherein the tongue and groove joint connecting the rear end of the first footwear component to the rear end of the second footwear component is located inside the first footwear component and inside the second footwear component.

[0207] Clause 74. The sole structure or footwear article according to any one of Clauses 70 to 72, wherein the tongue and groove joint connecting the front end of the first footwear component to the front end of the second footwear component is located inside the first footwear component and inside the second footwear component.

[0208] Clause 75. The sole structure or footwear article according to any one of Clauses 45 to 49, wherein the first track is located at the fore-end portion of the first footwear component, and the first channel is located at the fore-end portion of the second footwear component.

[0209] Clause 76. The sole structure or footwear article according to any one of Clauses 45 to 49, wherein the first track is located at the rear end of the first footwear component and the first channel is located at the rear end of the second footwear component.

[0210] Clause 77. The sole structure or footwear article according to any one of Clauses 75 or 76, wherein each of the first track and the first channel is located on the outside of the footwear article.

[0211] Clause 78. The sole structure or footwear article according to any one of Clauses 45 to 77 further comprises: a midsole component including a ground-facing surface having a recess defined therein, wherein the first footwear component is a separate part fixedly engaged in the recess with the ground-facing surface of the midsole component.

[0212] Clause 79. The sole structure or footwear article according to any one of Clauses 45 to 78, wherein the second footwear component does not extend into the heel area of ​​the footwear article.

[0213] Clause 80. The sole structure or footwear article according to any one of Clauses 45 to 79, wherein the first footwear component extends continuously from the heel region of the footwear article to the forefoot region and is configured to support the entire sole surface of the wearer's foot.

[0214] Clause 81. The sole structure or footwear article according to any one of Clauses 45 to 79, wherein the first footwear component does not extend into the heel area of ​​the footwear article.

[0215] Clause 82. The sole structure or footwear article according to any one of Clauses 45 to 81, wherein the ground-facing surface of the first footwear component includes a plurality of golf cleats or athletic cleats integrally formed with or joined thereto.

[0216] Clause 83. The sole structure or footwear article according to any one of Clauses 45 to 82 further includes: an outsole component that engages with the ground-facing surface of at least one of the first footwear component or the second footwear component.

[0217] Clause 84. The sole structure or footwear article according to Clause 83, wherein an opening is defined through the outsole component, and a portion of the ground-facing surface of the second footwear component is exposed through the opening.

[0218] Clause 85. The sole structure or footwear article as described in Clause 83, wherein the ground-facing surface of the outsole component includes a plurality of golf cleats or athletic cleats integrally formed with or joined thereto.

[0219] Clause 86. The sole structure or footwear article according to Clause 83, wherein the outsole component is a first outsole component located in front of the second footwear component, and wherein the footwear article further comprises: a second outsole component located behind the second footwear component and separated from the first outsole component by the second footwear component.

[0220] Clause 87. The sole structure or footwear article according to Clause 86, wherein the ground-facing surface of each of the first outsole component and the second outsole component includes a plurality of golf cleats or athletic cleats integrally formed with or joined thereto.

[0221] Clause 88. The sole structure or footwear article according to any one of Clauses 45 to 87, wherein the ground-facing surface of the second footwear component includes a plurality of golf cleats or athletic cleats integrally formed with or joined thereto.

[0222] Clause 89. The footwear article according to any one of Clauses 46 to 88 further comprises: a footwear upper that engages with the upward-facing surface of the first footwear component.

Claims

1. A sole structure for footwear products, comprising: A first footwear component including a ground-facing surface, wherein the forefoot portion of the ground-facing surface includes: (a) an arched inner surface that curves downward from the inner edge of the sole structure toward a central region of the first footwear component, and (b) an arched outer surface that curves downward from the outer edge of the sole structure toward the central region of the first footwear component, wherein the first footwear component includes either a first track or a first channel; and A second footwear component including an upward-facing surface, wherein the forefoot portion of the upward-facing surface includes: (a) an arched inner surface that arches downward from the inner edge of the second footwear component toward the central region of the second footwear component and faces the arched inner surface of the first footwear component; and (b) an arched outer surface that arches downward from the outer edge of the second footwear component toward the central region of the second footwear component and faces the arched outer surface of the first footwear component, wherein the second footwear component includes another of the first track or the first channel, wherein the first track engages with the first channel, and wherein the first footwear component is movably engaged with the second footwear component by movement of the first channel relative to the first track.

2. The sole structure of Claim 1, wherein: (a) The arched inner surface of the first footwear component includes an axial direction extending in the heel-to-toe direction of the sole structure; (b) The arched inner surface of the second footwear component includes an axial direction extending in the heel-to-toe direction of the sole structure; (c) The arched outer surface of the first footwear component includes an axial direction extending in the heel-to-toe direction of the sole structure; and / or (d) The arched outer surface of the second footwear component includes an axial direction extending in the heel-to-toe direction of the sole structure.

3. The sole structure according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first footwear component is movably engaged with the second footwear component about a rotation axis extending in the heel-to-toe direction of the sole structure.

4. The sole structure according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first footwear component and the second footwear component are movably engaged such that: (a) the inner arched surface of the first footwear component slides relative to and along the inner arched surface of the second footwear component, and (b) the outer arched surface of the first footwear component slides relative to and along the outer arched surface of the second footwear component.

5. The sole structure according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first track is disposed on the ground-facing surface of the first footwear component, and the first channel is disposed on the upward-facing surface of the second footwear component.

6. The sole structure of claim 5, wherein the movable engagement of the first footwear component and the second footwear component further comprises via: (a) a second track disposed on the ground-facing surface of the first footwear component, and (b) a second channel disposed on the upward-facing surface of the second footwear component, wherein the second track engages with the second channel.

7. The sole structure according to claim 6, wherein: (a) Each of the first track and the second track is disposed on the arcuate inner surface of the first footwear component, and each of the first channel and the second channel is disposed on the arcuate inner surface of the second footwear component; or (b) Each of the first track and the second track is disposed on the arched outer surface of the first footwear component, and each of the first channel and the second channel is disposed on the arched outer surface of the second footwear component; or (c)(i) the first track is disposed on the inner arched surface of the first footwear component, (ii) the second track is disposed on the outer arched surface of the first footwear component, (iii) the first channel is disposed on the inner arched surface of the second footwear component, and (iv) the second channel is disposed on the outer arched surface of the second footwear component.

8. The sole structure according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the movable engagement of the first footwear component and the second footwear component further comprises via: (a) a third track disposed on the ground-facing surface of the first footwear component, and (b) a third channel disposed on the upward-facing surface of the second footwear component, wherein the third track engages with the third channel.

9. The sole structure according to claim 8, wherein the third track is disposed on the inner arched surface of the first footwear component, and the third channel is disposed on the inner arched surface of the second footwear component, or The third track is disposed on the arched outer surface of the first footwear component, and the third channel is disposed on the arched outer surface of the second footwear component.

10. The sole structure according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the movable engagement of the first footwear component and the second footwear component further comprises via: (a) a fourth track disposed on the ground-facing surface of the first footwear component, and (b) a fourth channel disposed on the upward-facing surface of the second footwear component, wherein the fourth track engages with the fourth channel.

11. The sole structure of claim 10, wherein: (a) The third track is disposed on the inner arched surface of the first footwear component, (b) The third channel is disposed on the inner arched surface of the second footwear component, (c) The fourth track is disposed on the outer arched surface of the first footwear component, and (d) The fourth channel is disposed on the outer arched surface of the second footwear component.

12. The sole structure according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first channel is disposed on the ground-facing surface of the first footwear component, and the first track is disposed on the upward-facing surface of the second footwear component.

13. The sole structure of claim 12, wherein the movable engagement of the first footwear component and the second footwear component is via: (a) a second channel disposed on the ground-facing surface of the first footwear component, and (b) a second track disposed on the upward-facing surface of the second footwear component, wherein the second track engages with the second channel.

14. The sole structure of claim 13, wherein each of the first channel and the second channel is disposed at the central region of the first footwear component, and each of the first track and the second track is disposed at the central region of the second footwear component.

15. The sole structure according to claim 13 or 14, further comprising: A first retaining element is fixed to the first footwear component to hold the first track in the first channel and the second track in the second channel; or A first retaining element fixed to the first footwear component to hold the first track in the first channel; And a second retaining element fixed to the first footwear component to hold the second track in the second channel.

16. The sole structure according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the movable engagement of the first footwear component and the second footwear component is via: (a) a third channel disposed on the ground-facing surface of the first footwear component, and (b) a third track disposed on the upward-facing surface of the second footwear component, wherein the third track engages with the third channel.

17. The sole structure of claim 16, wherein the third channel is disposed in the central region of the first footwear component, and the third track is disposed in the central region of the second footwear component.

18. The sole structure according to claim 16 or 17, wherein the movable engagement of the first footwear component and the second footwear component further comprises via: (a) a fourth channel disposed on the ground-facing surface of the first footwear component, and (b) a fourth track disposed on the upward-facing surface of the second footwear component, wherein the fourth track engages with the fourth channel.

19. The sole structure of claim 18, wherein the fourth channel is disposed in the central region of the first footwear component, and the fourth track is disposed in the central region of the second footwear component.

20. The sole structure according to claim 18 or 19, further comprising: (a) A first retaining element fixed to the first footwear component to retain the first track in the first channel and the second track in the second channel; (b) a second retaining element fixed to the first footwear component to retain the third track in the third channel and the fourth track in the fourth channel.

21. The sole structure according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first track and the first channel form a tenon joint connecting the front end of the first footwear component to the front end of the second footwear component; or The first track and the first channel form a mortise and tenon joint that connects the rear end of the first footwear component to the rear end of the second footwear component.

22. The sole structure according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first track and the first channel form a first mortise joint connecting the rear end of the first footwear component to the rear end of the second footwear component, and wherein the sole structure further comprises a second mortise joint connecting the front end of the first footwear component to the front end of the second footwear component.

23. The sole structure according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first track is located at the front end of the first footwear component, and the first channel is located at the front end of the second footwear component; or The first track is located at the rear end of the first footwear component, and the first channel is located at the rear end of the second footwear component.

24. The sole structure according to any one of claims 1 to 23, further comprising: A midsole component, the midsole component including a ground-facing surface having a recess defined therein, wherein the first footwear component is a separate part fixedly engaged in the recess with the ground-facing surface of the midsole component.

25. The sole structure according to any one of claims 1 to 24, further comprising: An outsole component that engages with the ground-facing surface of at least one of the first or second footwear component, wherein an opening is defined through the outsole component, and wherein a portion of the ground-facing surface of the second footwear component is exposed through the opening.

26. A footwear product, comprising: vamp; as well as The sole structure according to any one of the preceding claims, which is joined to the upper.

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