Mountain bike shoe sole with improved access for pedals

Abstract

A mountain bike sole comprises an outer sole and at least one concave area, wherein the outer sole has a lower surface and a sole surface, and the at least one concave area comprises an inner surface and at least one slope.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a mountain bike shoe sole with improved access.

[0002] More particularly, the present invention relates to a mountain bike shoe sole for use with a clip-in or clipless bicycle pedal that facilitates engagement with the pedal during use. Background Art

[0003] During cycling, especially mountain biking or downhill riding, the user needs to engage and disengage the shoes and pedals several times. The use of clip-in or clipless pedals has been developed several years ago and is now widely used.

[0004] For clipless pedals, cycling shoes, especially mountain bike shoes, typically have soles with recessed areas to accommodate and mount dual-hole pedal cleats (often referred to as SPD-compatible cleats) using threaded fasteners placed in the soles. Such fasteners can typically slide back and forth and rotate slightly to adjust and customize the attachment position of the SPD-compatible cleat, which in turn engages the pedal's engagement mechanism.

[0005] To release the pedal from the shoe, the user must rotate the sole of the shoe to disengage the pedal's engagement mechanism from the shoe's cleat.

[0006] Document US 2016 / 0249704 discloses a bicycle shoe sole according to the prior art.

[0007] However, it is not always easy to engage the pedals on the shoes and there is a need for a shoe equipped with a sole that allows easy access to the cleats for the pedals. Summary of the Invention

[0008] Therefore, the technical object of the present invention is to improve the state of the art in the field of mountain bike soles.

[0009] Within such technical aims, an object of the present invention is to develop a mountain bike sole allowing to eliminate the drawbacks previously complained of.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a mountain bike shoe sole that is easy to engage with the pedals.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to develop a mountain bike sole that allows the cyclist to pedal safely and effectively even when the cleats of the outsole are not engaged in the engagement mechanism of the pedal.

[0012] Another object of the present invention is to devise a mountain bike sole which allows achieving the above-mentioned objectives with a constructively simple and inexpensive technical solution.

[0013] This aim and these objects are achieved by a mountain bike sole according to the appended claims.

[0014] A mountain bike shoe sole includes an outsole having: a lower surface and a tread; at least one recessed area provided in the lower surface for accommodating a cleat assembly; and at least one ramp, particularly a first ramp or entry ramp, proximate the recessed area to easily access an engagement mechanism of a clipless pedal in the recessed area.

[0015] According to another aspect of the invention, the mountain bike sole comprises at least two ramps near the recessed area, in particular a first ramp or entry ramp and a second ramp or exit ramp, the second ramp or exit ramp allowing easy exit of the engagement mechanism of the clipless pedal when engagement with the cleat is not required / unsuccessful.

[0016] According to another aspect of the present invention, the mountain bike shoe sole includes a fixing block and / or a hollow seat that serves as a temporary block area when the engagement of the shoe and pedal is unsuccessful.

[0017] According to another aspect of the invention, the recessed area has side walls with a defined height; this height is the same along all the extensions of the side walls and this improves the engagement / disengagement steps of the shoe and the pedal.

[0018] According to another aspect of the invention, the sole surface of the outsole includes a region-specific pattern based on curves and / or grooves. This pattern aims to improve the shoe's rotation during the engagement and disengagement steps with the pedal, as the curves and / or grooves follow the direction of rotation. This reduces friction and facilitates the sole's function.

[0019] According to yet another aspect of the present invention, embodiments in which a second ramp or exit ramp is present may also include at least one stopper located at the end of the second ramp or exit ramp opposite the recessed area. This stopper acts as a "real" barrier, preventing the pedal from sliding against the shoe sole if engagement with the shoe is unsuccessful. This provides users with a greater sense of security and avoids further risks associated with failed engagement.

[0020] According to another aspect of the present invention, the lower surface of the sole has a radius of curvature of a certain size in the recessed area and / or in its front region. This size is related to the amplitude of foot movement during engagement and disengagement, thereby making it easier for the pedal to reach and engage with the shoe, ensuring freedom of movement of the foot. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] These and other advantages will be better understood by those skilled in the art from the following description and from the accompanying drawings, given as non-limiting examples, in which:

[0022] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a mountain bike shoe sole according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A three-dimensional view of the mountain bike shoe sole from its inner side;

[0024] Figure 3 is based on Figure 1 A top view of the mountain bike shoe sole;

[0025] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A top view of a mountain bike shoe sole, including a cleat assembly;

[0026] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A side view of a mountain bike shoe sole from its outer side;

[0027] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A side view of a mountain bike shoe sole from its inner side;

[0028] Figure 7 It is along Figure 3 A side sectional view taken at section A1 of FIG.

[0029] Figure 8 This is a front view of the mountain bike shoe sole from the previous figures;

[0030] Figure 9 This is a rear view of the mountain bike shoe sole from the previous pictures;

[0031] Figure 10 and Figure 11 are along Figure 3 A cross-sectional view taken at sections Bl and Cl;

[0032] Figure 12 and Figure 13 are along Figure 3 A sectional view taken at sections D1 and E1;

[0033] Figure 14 is a top view of a mountain bike shoe sole according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 14A and 14B Shown Figure 14 Some detailed views of the fixing blocks of the sole;

[0035] Figure 15 It is along Figure 14 A side sectional view taken at section A2 of FIG.

[0036] Figure 16 It is along Figure 14a sectional view taken at section C2 of FIG.

[0037] Figure 17A 、 17B 17C shows three options for coupling the sole of the present invention to a clip-in or clipless pedal. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0038] In this specification, the word "front" or "front part" refers to an object or component located in the front position of the sole and / or shoe, ie in the part of the sole and / or shoe in the toe area.

[0039] The terms "rear" or "rear" refer to an object or component located in a rear position of the sole and / or shoe, ie, in the portion of the sole and / or shoe in the heel area.

[0040] The term "side" or "lateral" refers to an object or component located at the side of the sole and / or shoe, that is, in the portion of the sole and / or shoe's foot-lateral region. If such foot-lateral region refers to a location on the inside or outside of the foot, it may be better defined as the "inner" or "medial" side, rather than the "outer" side, if desired.

[0041] The direction "longitudinal" means the direction from the toes to the heel of the foot and / or sole and / or shoe; the word "transverse" means the direction from one side of the foot and / or sole and / or shoe to the other.

[0042] If not otherwise specified, the term "height" refers to the dimension measured in a direction generally perpendicular to the ground, or in any case rising from the ground; the term "width" refers to the dimension measured from one side of the shoe and / or sole to the other; and the term "length" refers to the dimension measured from the toe to the heel of the shoe and / or sole.

[0043] refer to Figure 1 , reference numeral 10 denotes a mountain bike shoe sole according to the present invention.

[0044] In more detail, the sole 10 comprises an outsole 20 defining a lower surface adapted to contact the ground or a bicycle pedal, in particular a clip-in or clipless pedal of a bicycle or mountain bike.

[0045] The sole 10 and / or the outsole 20 have or define a tread 30 .

[0046] The sole surface 30 has a pattern that helps the user to grip the ground while walking or running or in any situation.

[0047] The sole surface 30 is made of a rubber material in order to better adapt to the different soils on which the sole must be placed and to provide adequate grip on the pedals and on slippery surfaces.

[0048] In one version of the invention, the rubber material is at least one of the following composites: butadiene rubber (RB), isobutylene isoprene rubber or butyl rubber (IIR), bromobutyl rubber (BIIR), BIIR and RB, natural rubber (NR), and the like, and mixtures thereof.

[0049] In another embodiment of the present invention, the outsole 20 and / or the sole surface 30 and / or the sole 10 can be made of the above-mentioned type of rubber material, or made of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), vinyl acetate (EVA), PHYLON, polyurethane (PU), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), PEBAX, nylon, carbon fiber, glass fiber, composite materials, etc.

[0050] In one version of the invention, the bulk of sole 10 (or its sole) may be made of EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate).

[0051] Specifically, the sole surface 30 of the sole 10 includes a plurality of columns 32 .

[0052] In plan view, each pillar 32 may have a square, rectangular, polygonal, or irregular shape.

[0053] Each column 32 is defined by at least one channel 34 , which form a recessed “line” or area in the outsole 20 .

[0054] Thus, each post 32 has a sidewall that is convex inwardly relative to the lower surface of the sole, and a base surface 36 that defines the lower surface of the sole 10 .

[0055] In a plan view, each base surface 36 may also have a square, rectangular, polygonal, or irregular shape.

[0056] In fact, as Figure 2 As can be clearly seen, the bases 36 of the plurality of posts 32 lie along a substantially regular plane or surface and define the lower surface of the sole 10 having a substantially regular, uniform and continuous surface interrupted by the channels 34 and / or recesses caused by the channels 34 .

[0057] You can also consider sectioning Figures 10 to 13 To understand this feature.

[0058] As can be understood from these figures, lateral side 12 of sole 10 is a wall that rises upwardly from the lower surface of outsole 20 in a generally perpendicular manner relative to the ground and / or outsole 20 .

[0059] For example, from Figure 4As can be seen in the figure, in the heel region H of the sole, i.e., in the rear portion of the sole at the heel, all channels 34 have a substantially transverse direction, i.e., they traverse the sole from side to side. The same situation occurs in the foremost region LF of the sole. In these regions H and LF, the columns 32 have a generally elongated shape, for example a rectangular shape, extending from side to side.

[0060] In the central region C of the sole 10 (i.e., the area from the heel region H to the front region F of the sole) and the mid-forward region MF of the sole 10 (i.e., the area from the central region C to the frontmost region LF), the channels 34 have some generally transverse directions and others generally longitudinal directions. The latter have a curved pattern. Specifically, the longitudinal channels 34 placed on the outside of the sole 10 have a curved pattern that follows the shape of the outside of the shoe and / or have a curved concave pattern with the cavity facing the inside of the sole. On the inside of the sole, the longitudinal channels 34 have a curved pattern that is opposite to the outside longitudinal channels and / or have a convex pattern with the cavity facing the outside of the sole.

[0061] In this way, the resulting columns 32 have a square or rhombus shape that extends less than the columns placed in the heel region H and the foremost region LF of the sole 10. The front region of the sole 10 is formed by the foremost region LF and the middle foremost region MF, i.e. from the central region C to the toe tip.

[0062] The channel 34 has a major dimension (corresponding to its major extension) and a minor dimension transverse to the major dimension.

[0063] The minor dimension of channels 34 is in any case much smaller than the dimension of posts 32. Thus, a major portion of the lower surface of outsole 20 is defined by base surfaces 36 of the posts, which is the portion of sole surface 30 and / or outsole 20 that rests on the ground.

[0064] In at least one version of the invention, the curvature of longitudinal channel 34 is designed according to a curved "energy line." This means that, given that pedal engagement and disengagement occur through rotational movement of the foot (and therefore the shoe and / or sole), the curvature of channel 34 is designed with a specific radius to facilitate pedal operation. Consequently, friction between the pedal and sole 10 is minimized.

[0065] In one version of the invention, the curvature pattern of longitudinal channels 34 is designed according to the structure and geometry of a particular pedal, such as applicant's pedal or any other pedal available on the market.

[0066] The posts 32 adjacent to such curved longitudinal channels 34 will have the same curvature as these curved longitudinal channels.

[0067] Notably, the sole 10 has a recessed area 40 .

[0068] The recessed area 40 is provided in the region between the central region C and the front region F of the sole 10 (ie, substantially under the ball of the foot), in which region a cleat assembly 180 may be secured, as better explained below.

[0069] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, the recessed area has a main longitudinal extension and its width is smaller than its length.

[0070] The recessed area 40 is recessed relative to the lower surface of the outsole 20 .

[0071] In detail, the recessed area 40 includes an inner surface 42 and lateral walls 44 .

[0072] The inner surface of the recessed area is a surface that is placed deeper relative to the lower surface of the sole 10. The inner surface 42 has an extension in a plane that is parallel or approximately parallel to the ground. In another version of the invention, the inner surface 42 has a slightly curved plane extension that follows the curvature of the sole in this area and / or is slightly convex, with its cavity facing the upper part of the shoe.

[0073] In at least one version of the invention, there are two lateral walls 44, one facing each side of the foot. They extend from the side portions 42a, 42b of the inner surface 42 to the lower surface of the sole 10 itself.

[0074] In at least one version of the invention, lateral walls 44 are generally perpendicular to the plane of interior surface 42 and / or the lower surface of sole 10 .

[0075] The sides 42a, 42b of the inner surface 42 are generally parallel, and they are placed at the outside and inside of the user's foot, respectively.

[0076] Their size is approximately equal to the length of the inner surface 42 .

[0077] The inner surface 42 also has a front side 42c and a rear side 42d. The front side 42c and the rear side 42d are substantially parallel to each other and are respectively placed at the front and rear of the sole 10.

[0078] Their dimensions are generally equal to the width of the inner surface 42. Thus, in at least one version of the invention, the recessed area 40 at the inner surface 42 has a constant width.

[0079] In any case, the width of the recessed area is less than the width of the sole 10 .

[0080] Thus, the posts 32 surround the recessed area 40 of the sole 10. When engaged, these posts come into contact with the pedal.

[0081] If the inner surface 42 has a curved extension, the lateral walls 44 have a rectangular or trapezoidal shape and / or an arched shape.

[0082] In at least one version of the invention, each lateral wall 44 has a constant, specific height 44a. In one version of the invention, this height 44a is in the range of 7.5 mm to 7.9 mm, or 7.7 mm. This specific dimension has been shown to facilitate pedal engagement and disengagement. In fact, the sole 10 is adapted to connect to or accommodate a cleat assembly 180 for clip-in or clipless pedals at the recessed area 40. When present, in at least one version of the invention, the cleat assembly 180 is a mountain bike cleat system.

[0083] The cleat assembly 180 is adapted to engage and / or disengage from an engagement mechanism of a pedal. Figure 17A 、 17B 17C shows three options for engaging the sole 10 of the present invention with a clip-in or clipless pedal P, namely moving the shoe downward, forward, or backward on the pedal P. In one example, the pedal is a clipless Crankbrothers pedal.

[0084] The outsole 20 comprises two grooves 46 along the recessed area 40 or better along the inner surface 42. The grooves 46 have a longitudinal pattern and they are parallel to each other.

[0085] Such grooves 46 are known to allow for securing the cleat assembly 180 to the outsole 20 .

[0086] The cleat assembly 180 includes a cleat and a securing member for securing the cleat to the outsole 20 .

[0087] The cleat assembly 180 is of known type and will not be described further.

[0088] The sole 10 and / or the recessed area 40 further includes a first slope 50 (also referred to as an entry slope) to facilitate access to the engagement mechanism of the clipless pedal in the recessed area.

[0089] In a preferred version of the invention, the sole 10 and / or the recessed area 40 includes a second ramp 52 (also referred to as an exit ramp) that allows for easy exit of the engagement mechanism of the clipless pedal when engagement with the cleat is not desired and / or engagement with the cleat is unsuccessful.

[0090] The first slope 50 and / or the second slope 50 have an inclined surface with respect to the inner surface 42 and / or the lower surface of the sole 10 .

[0091] Specifically, the first slope 50 is positioned at a forward position relative to the inner surface 42 of the recessed area 40. Specifically, the first slope 50 is positioned in a middle forward region MF of the sole 10 and terminates at a forward-most region LF of the sole 10. More generally, the first slope 50 is positioned in a forward region F of the sole 10, at the user's forefoot.

[0092] The first slope 50 begins at the front side 42 c of the inner surface 42 .

[0093] The second slope 52 is positioned at a rear position relative to the inner surface 42 of the recessed area 40. Specifically, the second slope 52 is positioned in the central area C of the sole 10. More generally, the second slope 52 is positioned in the ball of the foot or plantar arch area.

[0094] The second slope 52 begins at the rear side 42 d of the inner surface 42 .

[0095] In the type that has both first slope 50 and second slope 52, they can have the same shape (but opposite to each other) or different shapes. In the accompanying drawings, they are both present and have the same shape. However, this is not a limitation of the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0096] Specifically, as shown in the figure, the first slope 50 has an inner side 50a corresponding to the front side 42c of the inner surface 42, and an outer side 50b located at the lower surface of the outsole 20. Therefore, the outer side 50b is suitable for contacting the ground, while the inner side 50a is recessed relative to the lower surface of the outsole 20.

[0097] The first slope 50 further includes lateral sides 50c and 50d connected to the lateral walls 44 of the recessed area 40. The lateral sides 50c and 50d are each located on one side of the foot. The lateral sides 50c and 50d are generally perpendicular to the ground plane and / or the lower surface of the sole 10 and / or the plane in which the first slope 50 is located and / or the inner surface 42.

[0098] Thus, the first slope 50 constitutes an inclined or sloped plane or surface that gradually connects the inner surface 42 of the recessed area 40 to the lower surface of the outsole 20 .

[0099] Furthermore, in at least one version of the invention, the dimensions of the outer side 50b are smaller than the dimensions of the inner side 50a.

[0100] Furthermore, the lateral sides 50 c , 50 d may have a radial configuration so as to gradually and evenly connect with the lateral walls 44 of the recessed area 40 .

[0101] In this way, sharp edges and interference points are avoided that could interfere with engagement / disengagement with the pedal and that could store dirt, powder or debris that collects during use.

[0102] As already described, the second ramp 52 has an inner side 52a, an outer side 52b, and lateral sides 52c, 52d having the same features as disclosed for the first ramp 50, except that the second ramp 52 has an opposite position and configuration relative to the first ramp 50.

[0103] Specifically, as shown in the figure, the second slope 52 has an inner side 52a corresponding to the rear side 42d of the inner surface 42, and an outer side 52b located at the lower surface of the outsole 20 in a rearward position relative to the recessed area 40. Therefore, the outer side 52b is adapted to contact the ground, while the inner side 52a is recessed relative to the lower surface of the outsole 20.

[0104] The lateral sides 52c, 52d are connected to the lateral walls 44 of the recessed area 40. The lateral sides 52c, 52d are each on one side of the foot.

[0105] Thus, the second slope 52 constitutes an inclined or sloped plane or surface that gradually connects the inner surface 42 of the recessed area 40 to the lower surface of the outsole 20 .

[0106] Furthermore, in at least one version of the invention, the dimensions of outer side 52b are smaller than the dimensions of inner side 52a.

[0107] Furthermore, the lateral sides 52 c , 52 d may have a radial configuration so as to gradually and evenly connect with the lateral walls 44 of the recessed area 40 .

[0108] Due to the presence of at least one ramp 50, 52, the opening of the recessed area 40 is larger than the area of ​​its inner surface 42, thereby allowing easy access to the engagement mechanism of a clip-in or clipless pedal. Similarly, when the second ramp 52 is present, the larger opening allows the pedal's engagement mechanism to be easily withdrawn when needed or if engagement is unsuccessful.

[0109] Thus, when the shoe sole rests on the pedal, at least one ramp 50 "guides" the pedal's engagement mechanism toward the cleat assembly 180, allowing the shoe to engage the pedal. In a similar manner, when the shoe is to be removed from the pedal, the second ramp 52 "guides" the pedal's engagement mechanism away from the cleat assembly, possibly due to the rotational movement of the shoe.

[0110] This is particularly useful when the user's shoes frequently come off, depending on the particular style of riding the user is doing.

[0111] The inclination angle of at least one ramp 50 , 52 may vary from less than 180° to 140°.

[0112] In one version of the invention, the first ramp 50 and the second ramp 52 are of the same size and configuration, with the first ramp 50 sloping inwardly at the rear thereof and the second ramp 50 sloping inwardly at the front.

[0113] In the example of the present invention, the length of one ramp 50 , 52 is approximately one quarter of the length of the inner surface 42 .

[0114] The posts 32 placed at the outer side 52b of the second slope 52 are placed substantially in a transverse line, so that when the shoe and the pedal are not engaged successfully, the posts 32 act as stops or stoppers. Thus, the sliding of the pedal engagement mechanism outside the recessed area 40 stops at these points, thereby better ensuring the safety of the user.

[0115] In one version of the invention, for example, Figure 5 and Figure 6 As can be seen, the front region F of the sole is elevated relative to the heel region H and / or the central region C of the sole 1. Specifically, the front region F and / or the recessed area 40 of the sole are curved, with a recess Q facing away from the ground. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the radius of this curvature ranges from 130 mm to 170 mm, particularly 150 mm. This curvature facilitates engagement with the pedal, taking into account the movement of the foot during this maneuver. This is a preferred embodiment of the invention, as a flat sole is also possible, but this would restrict the foot's freedom of movement.

[0116] Accordingly, in at least one version of the invention, lateral wall 44 is curved to the same extent as side portions 42a, 42b of inner surface 42.

[0117] Figure 14 The following figures show another embodiment of the present invention, in particular a mountain bike sole 110. Elements similar to those already disclosed in the previous embodiments are referenced by 100. Unless otherwise indicated, the features already disclosed for each element are also intended to apply to the elements of the sole 110.

[0118] The sole 110 includes an outsole 120 defining a lower surface adapted to contact the ground or a bicycle pedal, in particular a clip-in or clipless pedal of a bicycle or mountain bike.

[0119] from Figure 16 As can be seen in FIG, lateral side 112 of sole 110 is a wall that rises upwardly from the lower surface of outsole 120 in a generally perpendicular manner relative to the ground and / or outsole 120.

[0120] The sole 110 and / or the outsole 120 have or define a tread 130 including a plurality of posts 132 .

[0121] Each post 132 has a sidewall that is convex inwardly relative to the lower surface of the sole and a base 136 that defines the lower surface of the sole 110. In plan view, the posts 132 and / or base 136 may have a square, rectangular, polygonal, or irregular shape. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of posts 132 have substantially identical configurations.

[0122] The base surfaces 36 , 136 of at least some of the pillars 32 , 132 may be decorated and / or may have a logo and / or may be imprinted or embossed with a certain image or multiple images that are different from one another or the same.

[0123] Each post 132 is defined by at least one channel 134 , which form a recessed “line” or area in the outsole 120 .

[0124] In at least one version of the invention, passage 134 has a substantially straight run.

[0125] Specifically, the channels 134 may form a grid structure defining a series of cells, each cell forming a column 132 .

[0126] Specifically, consider Figure 14 Considering the cross-sectional plane A2 of FIG14 , some channels 134 are inclined at an angle 134a, and considering the cross-sectional plane A2 of FIG14 , some other channels 134 are inclined at an angle 134b. In one version of the invention, and / or in at least some portions of the outsole 120, the angle 134b can measure up to 134a+90°.

[0127] Notably, the sole 110 has a recessed area 140, at least one slope 150, 152 or a first slope 150 and a second slope 152, which have the same features as those already described in the previous embodiment, which are also reviewed in this embodiment.

[0128] In this particular embodiment, a fixed block 160 is provided that serves as a temporary stopping area when pedal to shoe engagement is not occurring.

[0129] The fixing block 160 may be placed at the second slope 152 , occupying the inclined free space defined by the second slope 52 .

[0130] The fixing block 160 includes a protrusion 162, for example having a semi-cylindrical or parallelepiped configuration or a mixture of these configurations. Figure 14A and 14B Some detailed views of the fixing block 160 can be seen in FIG.

[0131] Specifically, in Figure 14 、 14AIn the version shown in FIG. 14B , the protrusion 162 includes a semi-cylindrical protrusion 162B with the cubic protrusion 162A placed thereon.

[0132] In detail, the semi-cylindrical protrusion 162B includes a curved lateral wall, two semi-circular bases, and a rectangular cross-section base. The rectangular cross-section base is attached to the second slope 152 and / or the recessed area 140, and the curved lateral wall has a lateral direction because the two semi-circular bases are respectively placed at one side of the foot.

[0133] Above the curved side walls are placed cuboid protrusions 162A.

[0134] In this particular version, the outermost surfaces of protrusions 162 and / or cuboid protrusions 162A lie on the plane of the lower surface of sole 110 , thereby defining a portion of outsole 120 and / or tread 130 .

[0135] The outermost surface of the cubic protrusion 162A serves as the column 132 of the sole 110. Obviously, the cubic protrusion 162A may also be a rectangular parallelepiped or parallelepiped protrusion without departing from the scope of protection of the pending claims.

[0136] In the same manner, the semi-cylindrical protrusion 162B may have a similar alternative shape.

[0137] In the version shown, at the top of the protrusion 162 and / or the cuboid protrusion 162A, considering the top of the protrusion to be the part thereof adapted to come into contact with the ground, there is a transverse hollow area 164 shaped like a channel, for example.

[0138] Furthermore, relative to the second slope 152 and / or the recessed area 140, the securing block 160 defines at least one hollow seat 166. In one version of the invention, there are two hollow seats 166, one positioned between the securing block 160 and the recessed area 140, and a second positioned between the securing block 160 and the lower surface of the sole 110, optionally positioned rearward relative to the second slope 152. The at least one hollow seat 166, together with the securing block 160, is adapted to prevent the engagement mechanism of the pedal from sliding in the event that the pedal fails to engage with the cleat assembly 180 of the sole 110.

[0139] In fact, in a particular version of the invention, the fixing block 160 and / or its protrusion 162 and / or at least one hollow seat 166 have a shape at least partially complementary to the engagement means of the pedal P, so as to help resist its sliding.

[0140] As for the hollow seat 166, if Figure 14BAs shown, they have a triangular cross-section with one vertex 166A located medially relative to sole 110. Specifically, vertex 166A is a medial vertex and, in at least one version of the invention, has a depth greater than the depth of recessed area 140. In other words, vertex 166A may be set further back within sole 110 than recessed area 140.

[0141] In this manner, when engagement with sole 110 is not required / unsuccessful, there is a restriction wall 166B between apex 166A and recessed area 140 , which defines an obstacle for pedal P to slide.

[0142] The restriction wall 166B may have a vertical extension relative to the lower surface of the sole 110, or may have an inclination opposite to a portion of the adjacent curved lateral wall of the semi-cylindrical protrusion 162B. Specifically, the restriction wall 166B positioned toward the front F of the sole 110 is inclined rearward toward the interior of the sole 110, while the restriction wall 166B positioned toward the heel region H of the sole 110 is inclined forward toward the interior of the sole 110.

[0143] In one version of this embodiment, the second slope 152 may not exist, and the fixing block 160 is located in the place of the second slope.

[0144] In one version of the invention, for example, Figure 15 It can be seen that the front region F of the sole 110 is raised relative to the heel region H and / or the central region C of the sole. Specifically, the front region F and / or the concave region 140 of the sole 110 are curved with a concavity Q facing away from the ground. In a preferred version of the invention, the radius of this curvature is in the range of 130 mm to 170 mm, in particular 150 mm.

[0145] In some examples of the invention, we find the following dimensions or measurements: In at least one version of the invention, the width of the recessed area 140 is in the range of 40 mm to 45 mm or 42 mm, and the length is in the range of 50 mm to 55 mm or 53 mm.

[0146] The channel 34 may have a height of 2 mm or 2.2 mm.

[0147] Lateral side 12 of sole 110 may have a height of 30 mm in the rearmost portion of the heel region. The tip of the forward-most portion of lateral side 12 of sole 110 may be raised 45 mm to 55 mm or 47 mm from the ground, and at this point, the lower surface may be raised 25 mm to 30 mm or 26 mm from the ground.

[0148] The lateral side 12 of the sole 10 may have a height of 36-37 mm in the rearmost portion of the heel region. The tip of the forwardmost portion of the lateral side 12 of the sole 10 may be raised 45 mm to 55 mm or 52.5 mm from the ground.

[0149] In at least one version of the invention, the recessed area 40 has a width in the range of 40 mm to 45 mm or is 40 mm and a length in the range of 70 mm to 80 mm or is 75 mm.

[0150] The outer side 50b of the first slope 50 and / or the outer side 52b of the second slope 52 is in the range of 15 mm to 40 mm or 25 mm to 30 mm or is 26 mm (the same measure may also apply to the first slope 150 and the second slope 152).

[0151] The length of the first ramp 50 , 150 and / or the second ramp 52 , 152 (ie, for example, the distance between the outer side and the inner side) may vary from 10 mm to 30 mm.

[0152] In previously disclosed embodiments of the invention, individual features presented in connection with those particular embodiments may in fact be interchanged with other different features present in other embodiments.

[0153] The invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, but equivalent variations can be devised without departing from the scope of protection offered by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A mountain bike sole comprising an outer sole (20, 120) having a lower surface and a sole surface (30, 130), at least one recessed area (40, 140) disposed in the lower surface of the outer sole (20, 120) and recessed relative thereto, the recessed area (40, 140) being configured to accommodate a cleat assembly (180) and comprising an inner surface (42) and a lateral wall (44), wherein: The sole (10, 110) further includes at least one ramp (50, 150, 52, 152) having an inclined surface relative to the inner surface (42) and the lower surface of the outer sole (20, 120), wherein the at least one ramp includes a first ramp (50, 150) and a second ramp (52, 152), the first ramp being positioned at a front position relative to the inner surface (42) to facilitate access to a clipless pedal engagement mechanism in the recessed area (40, 140), and the second ramp being positioned at a rear position relative to the inner surface (42) to facilitate exit of the clipless pedal engagement mechanism, wherein the first ramp (50) has lateral sides (50c, 50d) connected to the lateral walls (44) of the recessed area (40), the lateral sides being substantially perpendicular to the lower surface of the sole (10, 110).

2. The mountain bike sole according to claim 1, characterized in that The first slope (50, 150) starts from the front side (42c) of the inner surface (42), and the second slope (52, 152) starts from the rear side (42d) of the inner surface (42).

3. The mountain bike sole according to claim 1, characterized in that The first slope (50, 150) has an inner side (50a), an outer side (50b) and a lateral side (50c, 50d), the inner side corresponding to the front side (42c) of the inner surface (42), the outer side being placed at the lower surface of the outer sole (20, 120), and the lateral side being substantially perpendicular to the lower surface of the outer sole (20, 120) and / or the plane in which the first slope (50, 150) is located and / or the inner surface (42).

4. The mountain bike sole according to claim 3, characterized in that: The size of the outer side (50b) is smaller than the size of the inner side (50a), and / or wherein, The lateral sides (50c, 50d) have a radial configuration so as to gradually and evenly connect to the lateral walls (44) of the recessed area (40).

5. The mountain bike sole according to claim 1, characterized in that: The shoe sole (30, 130) includes a plurality of columns (32, 132) and at least one channel (34, 134).

6. The mountain bike sole according to claim 5, characterized in that: Each of the plurality of columns (32, 132) is defined by the at least one channel (34, 134), and / or each of the plurality of columns (32, 132) has a sidewall that rises inwardly relative to a lower surface of the sole (10, 110), and a base surface (36, 136) that defines the lower surface of the sole, wherein the base surface (36, 136) has a square, rectangular, polygonal or irregular shape.

7. The mountain bike sole according to claim 5, characterized in that: The at least one channel (34, 134) includes a channel having a generally transverse direction and a channel having a generally longitudinal direction, wherein the channel having a generally longitudinal direction has a curved pattern that follows the shape of the outside of the sole (10, 110).

8. The mountain bike sole according to claim 7, characterized in that: The channel disposed on the lateral outer side of the sole (10, 110) with a generally longitudinal direction has a curved concave pattern, the cavity of which faces the inner side of the sole, while the channel disposed on the lateral inner side of the sole (10, 110) with a generally longitudinal direction has a curved convex pattern, the cavity of which faces the outer side of the sole.

9. The mountain bike shoe sole according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that The recessed area (40, 140) is arranged in a region between a central area (C) and a front area (F) of the sole (10, 110) and has a width that is constant and / or smaller than its main longitudinal length.

10. The mountain bike shoe sole according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that The recessed area (40, 140) comprises the inner surface (42) and lateral walls (44), wherein the inner surface (42) is the surface of the setback area (40, 140) placed at a deeper position relative to the lower surface of the sole (10, 110), and / or wherein the inner surface (42) has a flat extension or a slightly curved planar extension, wherein the cavity faces away from the lower surface of the outsole (20, 120).

11. The mountain bike sole according to claim 1, characterized in that: The lateral walls (44) are respectively placed towards the sides of the foot, and / or the lateral walls (44) are substantially perpendicular to the plane of the inner surface (42) and / or the lower surface of the outer sole (20, 120), and / or wherein, if the inner surface (42) has a curved extension, the lateral walls (44) have a rectangular or trapezoidal shape and / or an arched shape, and / or wherein the height (44a) of each of the lateral walls (44) is in the range of 7.5 mm to 7.9 mm or is 7.7 mm.

12. The mountain bike shoe sole according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that The inner surface (42) includes generally parallel sides (42a, 42b) that are positioned at the lateral side and the medial side of a user's foot, respectively, and / or wherein the sides (42a, 42b) are sized generally equal to the length of the inner surface (42).

13. The mountain bike shoe sole according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that The inner surface (42) includes a front side (42c) and a rear side (42d), the front side and the rear side being substantially parallel to each other and having a dimension approximately equal to the width of the inner surface (42).

14. The mountain bike shoe sole according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that The sole (10, 110) is raised in its front region (F) relative to the heel region (H) and / or the center region (C) of the sole (10, 110), and / or the sole (10, 110) is curved in its front region (F) and / or in the recessed region (40, 140) with a recess (Q) facing away from the ground.

15. The mountain bike sole according to claim 14, characterized in that: The curvature radius of the recess (Q) is in the range of 130 mm to 170 mm, in particular 150 mm.

16. The mountain bike shoe sole according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that The mountain bike shoe sole includes a fixed block (160), or a temporary stop area when pedal engagement with the shoe sole (10, 110) is not occurring.

17. The mountain bike shoe sole according to claim 16, characterized in that: The fixing block (160) comprises a protrusion (162) having a semi-cylindrical (164B) and / or parallelepiped-shaped configuration (164A) or a mixture of these configurations, and / or wherein the outermost surface of the protrusion (162) is located on the plane of the lower surface of the outsole (120), defining a portion of the outsole (120) and / or the sole surface (130), and / or wherein the fixing block (160) further comprises a transverse hollow area (164) shaped like a channel, and / or wherein the fixing block (160) defines at least one hollow seat (166) or two hollow seats (166), one being placed between the fixing block (160) and the recessed area (140) and the other being placed between the fixing block (160) and the lower surface of the sole (110).

18. The mountain bike shoe sole according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that The outsole (20, 120) includes two grooves (46) along the recessed area (40, 140) and / or along the inner surface (42) to connect with the cleat assembly (180) during use.

19. A mountain bike shoe sole comprising an outer sole (20, 120) having a lower surface and a sole surface (30, 130), at least one recessed area (40, 140) disposed in and recessed relative to the lower surface of the outer sole (20, 120), the recessed area (40, 140) being configured to accommodate a cleat assembly (180) and comprising an inner surface (42) and a lateral wall (44), wherein: The sole surface (30, 130) includes a plurality of columns (32, 132) and at least one channel (34, 134), characterized in that the sole (10, 110) further includes at least one slope (50, 150, 52, 152), the slope having an inclined surface relative to the inner surface (42) and the lower surface of the outsole (20, 120), wherein the at least one channel (34, 134) includes a channel having a substantially transverse direction and a channel having a substantially longitudinal direction , wherein the channel with a generally longitudinal direction has a curved pattern following the shape of the outer side of the sole (10, 110), wherein the channel with a generally longitudinal direction positioned laterally outward of the sole (10, 110) has a curved concave pattern, the cavity of the concave pattern facing the inner side of the sole, and the channel with a generally longitudinal direction positioned laterally inward of the sole (10, 110) has a curved convex pattern, the cavity of the convex pattern facing the outer side of the sole.

20. The mountain bike shoe sole according to claim 19, characterized in that: The at least one ramp includes a first ramp (50, 150) and a second ramp (52, 152), the first ramp being positioned at a forward position relative to the inner surface (42) to facilitate access to a clipless pedal engagement mechanism in the recessed area (40, 140), and the second ramp being positioned at a rearward position relative to the inner surface (42) to facilitate exit of the clipless pedal engagement mechanism.

21. The mountain bike shoe sole according to claim 20, characterized in that: The first slope (50, 150) starts from the front side (42c) of the inner surface (42), and the second slope (52, 152) starts from the rear side (42d) of the inner surface (42).

22. The mountain bike shoe sole according to claim 20, characterized in that The first slope (50, 150) has an inner side (50a), an outer side (50b) and a lateral side (50c, 50d), the inner side corresponding to the front side (42c) of the inner surface (42), the outer side being placed at the lower surface of the outer sole (20, 120), and the lateral side being substantially perpendicular to the lower surface of the outer sole (20, 120) and / or the plane in which the first slope (50, 150) is located and / or the inner surface (42).

23. The mountain bike shoe sole according to claim 22, characterized in that The size of the outer side (50b) is smaller than the size of the inner side (50a), and / or wherein, The lateral sides (50c, 50d) have a radial configuration so as to gradually and evenly connect to the lateral walls (44) of the recessed area (40).

24. The mountain bike shoe sole according to claim 21, characterized in that The second slope (52, 152) has an inner side (52a), an outer side (52b), and lateral sides (52c, 52d), wherein the inner side corresponds to the rear side (42d) of the inner surface (42), the outer side is placed at the lower surface of the outsole (20, 120) in a rearward position relative to the recessed area (40), and the lateral sides are connected to the lateral walls (44) of the recessed area (40, 140).

25. The mountain bike shoe sole according to any one of claims 19 to 24, characterized in that The outsole (20, 120) includes two grooves (46) along the recessed area (40, 140) and / or along the inner surface (42) to connect with the cleat assembly (180) during use.

26. The mountain bike shoe sole according to claim 19, characterized in that Each of the plurality of columns (32, 132) is defined by the at least one channel (34, 134), and / or each of the plurality of columns (32, 132) has a sidewall that rises inwardly relative to a lower surface of the sole (10, 110), and a base surface (36, 136) that defines the lower surface of the sole, wherein the base surface (36, 136) has a square, rectangular, polygonal or irregular shape.

27. The mountain bike shoe sole according to any one of claims 19 to 24, characterized in that The recessed area (40, 140) is arranged in a region between a central area (C) and a front area (F) of the sole (10, 110) and has a width that is constant and / or smaller than its main longitudinal length.

28. The mountain bike shoe sole according to claim 19, characterized in that The recessed area (40, 140) comprises the inner surface (42) and lateral walls (44), wherein the inner surface (42) is the surface of the setback area (40, 140) placed at a deeper position relative to the lower surface of the sole (10, 110), and / or wherein the inner surface (42) has a flat extension or a slightly curved planar extension, wherein the cavity faces away from the lower surface of the outsole (20, 120).

29. The mountain bike shoe sole according to any one of claims 23, 24 and 28, characterized in that: The lateral walls (44) are respectively placed towards the sides of the foot, and / or the lateral walls (44) are substantially perpendicular to the plane of the inner surface (42) and / or the lower surface of the outer sole (20, 120), and / or wherein, if the inner surface (42) has a curved extension, the lateral walls (44) have a rectangular or trapezoidal shape and / or an arched shape, and / or wherein the height (44a) of each of the lateral walls (44) is in the range of 7.5 mm to 7.9 mm or is 7.7 mm.

30. The mountain bike shoe sole according to any one of claims 19 to 24, characterized in that The inner surface (42) includes generally parallel sides (42a, 42b) that are positioned at the lateral side and the medial side of a user's foot, respectively, and / or wherein the sides (42a, 42b) are sized generally equal to the length of the inner surface (42).

31. The mountain bike shoe sole according to any one of claims 19 to 24, characterized in that The inner surface (42) includes a front side (42c) and a rear side (42d), the front side and the rear side being substantially parallel to each other and having a dimension approximately equal to the width of the inner surface (42).

32. The mountain bike shoe sole according to any one of claims 19 to 24, characterized in that The sole (10, 110) is raised in its front region (F) relative to the heel region (H) and / or the center region (C) of the sole (10, 110), and / or the sole (10, 110) is curved in its front region (F) and / or in the recessed region (40, 140) with a recess (Q) facing away from the ground.

33. The mountain bike shoe sole according to claim 32, characterized in that The curvature radius of the recess (Q) is in the range of 130 mm to 170 mm, in particular 150 mm.

34. The mountain bike shoe sole according to any one of claims 19 to 24, characterized in that The mountain bike shoe sole includes a fixed block (160), or a temporary stop area when pedal engagement with the shoe sole (10, 110) is not occurring.

35. The mountain bike shoe sole according to claim 34, characterized in that The fixing block (160) comprises a protrusion (162) having a semi-cylindrical (164B) and / or parallelepiped-shaped configuration (164A) or a mixture of these configurations, and / or wherein the outermost surface of the protrusion (162) is located on the plane of the lower surface of the outsole (120), defining a portion of the outsole (120) and / or the sole surface (130), and / or wherein the fixing block (160) further comprises a transverse hollow area (164) shaped like a channel, and / or wherein the fixing block (160) defines at least one hollow seat (166) or two hollow seats (166), one being placed between the fixing block (160) and the recessed area (140) and the other being placed between the fixing block (160) and the lower surface of the sole (110).

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