Article of footwear with tongue reinforcement

Abstract

An article of footwear (10, 310, 410, 510B, 510, 610) includes a tongue (42, 560B, 560) and a tongue stiffener (590, 690) that helps the tongue (42, 560B, 560) maintain shape and position when the tongue (42, 560B, 560) is subjected to forces, such as from other article of footwear elements or from a wearer, or adjustments. For example, the tongue stiffener (590, 690) can help the tongue (42, 560B, 560) maintain shape and position when a wearer inserts his or her foot into the article of footwear (10, 310, 410, 510B, 510, 610) or when medial and / or lateral quarter (515) presses inward on the tongue (42, 560B, 560).

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application filed on December 19, 2019, with application number 201980085005.X and invention title "Footwear Article with Tongue Reinforcement". Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure relates to a footwear product with a tongue reinforcement. Background Technology

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

[0004] This disclosure relates to a footwear article comprising: an upper coupled to a sole, a collar lifter, a tongue, an inner connector, an outer connector, and a tongue reinforcement. The upper includes an inner side, an outer side, a heel area, and an ankle collar, the ankle collar being movable between a lowered state positioned closer to the sole and an raised state positioned further away from the sole. The collar lifter is at least positioned in the heel area and operable to move the ankle collar from the lowered state to the raised state. The inner connector attaches the tongue to the inner side. The outer connector attaches the tongue to the outer side and is spaced apart from the inner connector by a first length. The tongue reinforcement is coupled to the tongue and has an inner edge and an outer edge spaced apart from each other by a second length. The second length is equal to or greater than the first length.

[0005] This disclosure also relates to a footwear article comprising: an upper coupled to a sole, a collar lifter, a tongue, at least one connector, and a tongue reinforcement. The upper includes a medial side, a lateral side, a heel area, and an ankle collar, the ankle collar being movable between a lowered state positioned closer to the sole and an elevated state positioned further away from the sole. The collar lifter is at least located in the heel area and operable to move the ankle collar from the lowered state to the elevated state. The tongue has an opening edge and a tongue reference point intersecting a latitudinal midline reference plane of the footwear article. The at least one connector attaches the tongue to the medial side or the lateral side. The tongue reinforcement is coupled to the tongue and has at least a portion overlapping the at least one connector. The portion is positioned between the tongue reference point and the opening edge.

[0006] This disclosure also relates to a footwear article comprising: an upper coupled to a sole, a collar lifter, a tongue, at least one connector, and a tongue reinforcement. The upper includes a medial side, a lateral side, a heel area, and an ankle collar, the ankle collar being movable between a lowered state positioned closer to the sole and an elevated state positioned further away from the sole. The collar lifter is at least positioned in the heel area and operable to move the ankle collar from the lowered state to the elevated state. The tongue has a cuff edge and a tongue reference point intersecting a latitudinal midline reference plane of the footwear article. The at least one connector attaches the tongue to the medial side or the lateral side. The tongue reinforcement is coupled to the tongue and has a tongue reinforcement width extending from the medial edge to the lateral edge, and a tongue reinforcement length extending from the top edge to the bottom edge. The width of the tongue reinforcement is greater than the length of the tongue reinforcement. The top edge of the tongue reinforcement is located between the tongue reference point and the edge of the shoe opening. Attached Figure Description

[0007] Some of the subjects described in this disclosure are referenced in the accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0008] Figure 1 A side view of a footwear article according to one aspect of this disclosure is depicted.

[0009] Figure 2 One aspect of this disclosure is described Figure 1 A top view of footwear products.

[0010] Figures 3A to 3C Another footwear article having a collar lifter is depicted according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0011] Figures 4A to 4C Another footwear article with an alternative collar lifter is depicted according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0012] Figure 5 Another footwear product is depicted according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0013] Figure 6 The image depicts a portion of the shoe tongue being cut off according to one aspect of this disclosure. Figure 5 Footwear products.

[0014] Figure 7 The ankle collar is depicted in a lowered position according to one aspect of this disclosure. Figure 5 Footwear products.

[0015] Figure 8 Depicting one aspect of this disclosure having with Figure 5 Different alternatives to the tongue of the shoe in the product.

[0016] Figure 9 One aspect of this disclosure is described Figure 5 A top view of footwear products.

[0017] Figures 10A to 10D Various cross-sectional views of the tongue according to one aspect of this disclosure are depicted.

[0018] Figure 11 One aspect of this disclosure is described Figure 5 Another cross-sectional view of footwear products.

[0019] Figure 12 An example of a footwear article having a hook-and-loop connector according to one aspect of this disclosure is depicted.

[0020] Figures 13 to 16 Various views of a footwear article having a tongue reinforcement on the outward surface of the tongue, according to one aspect of this disclosure, are depicted. Detailed Implementation

[0021] To meet statutory requirements, the subject matter is described in detail and specifically throughout the specification. The aspects described throughout the specification are intended to be illustrative rather than restrictive, and the specification itself is not intended to necessarily limit the scope of the claims. Rather, the claimed subject matter may be implemented in other ways to include different elements or combinations of elements equivalent to those described herein and combined with other current or future technologies. Upon reading this disclosure, alternative aspects may become apparent to those skilled in the art practicing in relation to the described aspects without departing from the scope of this disclosure. It should be understood that certain features and sub-combinations are useful and may be employed without reference to other features and sub-combinations. This is contemplated by the claims and is within the scope of the claims.

[0022] The subject matter described in this specification generally relates to footwear articles having a tongue and a tongue reinforcement, including the manufacture, machines, and methods associated with them. In some aspects, the tongue reinforcement helps the tongue maintain its shape and position when subjected to forces or adjustments, such as from other footwear article components or from the wearer. For example, the tongue reinforcement helps the tongue maintain its shape and position when the wearer inserts his or her foot into the footwear article or when the medial and / or lateral instep presses inward against the tongue. Some aspects of this disclosure relate to a footwear article having a tongue reinforcement and a collar lifter.

[0023] Before describing the accompanying drawings in more detail, some additional explanations will now be provided regarding certain terms that may be used in this disclosure.

[0024] The terms “an,” “a,” “the,” “at least one,” and “one or more” are used interchangeably to indicate the presence of at least one of the items. When such terms are used, multiple such items may exist unless the context explicitly indicates otherwise. Unless explicitly or clearly stated otherwise in the context (including the appended claims), all numerical values ​​of parameters (e.g., quantities or conditions) in this specification shall be understood to be modified in all cases by the term “about,” regardless of whether “about” actually appears before the numerical value. “About” indicates that the numerical value allows for some slight imprecision (numerically close to exact; close to or quite close to the value; approximately). If the imprecision provided by “about” is not understood in that ordinary sense in the art, then “about” as used herein at least indicates a variation that can be caused by ordinary methods of measuring and using such parameters. Furthermore, the disclosure of a scope shall be understood to specifically disclose all values ​​within that scope and further subdivisions of the scope. All references cited herein are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0025] The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” are inclusive, thus specifying the presence of the stated feature, step, operation, element, or component, but not excluding the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, or components. The order of steps, processes, and operations may be changed where possible, and additional or alternative steps may be employed. As used herein, the term “or” includes any and all combinations of the associated listed items. The term “any” should be understood to include any possible combination of the referenced items, including “any one” of the referenced items. The term “any” should be understood to include any possible combination of the referenced claims in the appended claims, including “any one” of the referenced claims.

[0026] For consistency and convenience, directional adjectives may be used throughout the detailed description corresponding to the illustrated examples. Those skilled in the art will recognize that terms such as “above,” “below,” “upward,” “downward,” “top,” and “bottom” may be used descriptively with respect to the drawings and not to limit the scope of the invention as defined by the claims.

[0027] As may be used throughout the detailed description and in the claims, the term "longitudinal" refers to the direction in which the length of the extending component is directed. For example, the longitudinal direction of a shoe extends between the forefoot region and the heel region. The terms "forward" or "front" are used to refer to a general direction from the heel region toward the forefoot region, while the terms "backward" or "rear" are used to refer to the opposite direction, i.e., from the forefoot region toward the heel region. In some cases, a component may be identified as having a longitudinal axis and a longitudinal direction along that axis. The longitudinal direction or axis may also be referred to as the front-back direction or axis.

[0028] As may be used throughout the detailed description and in the claims, the term "lateral" refers to the direction in which the width of the extending part is directed. For example, the lateral direction of a shoe extends between the outer and inner sides of the shoe. The lateral direction or axis may also be referred to as the outer direction or axis, or the middle outer direction or axis.

[0029] As may be used throughout the detailed description and in the claims, the term "vertical" refers to a direction substantially perpendicular to both the lateral and longitudinal directions. For example, when the sole is laid flat on the ground, the vertical direction can extend upwards from the ground. It should be understood that each of these directional adjectives can be applied to various parts of the sole. The term "upwards" or "upwardly" refers to a vertical direction pointing towards the top of a part, which may include the instep, fastening area, and / or throat of the upper. The term "downwards" or "downwardly" refers to a vertical direction pointing towards the bottom of a part, opposite to the upward direction, and can generally refer to the bottom of the sole structure of a footwear article.

[0030] The “interior” of a footwear product (e.g., a shoe) refers to the portion of the space occupied by the wearer’s foot when the shoe is worn. The “inner side” of a component refers to the side or surface of a component in an assembled footwear product that faces (or will face) the interior of the component or footwear product. The “outer side” or “outer side” of a component refers to the side or surface of a component in an assembled shoe that is oriented away from (or will face) the interior of the shoe. In some cases, other components may be located between the inner side and the interior of a component in an assembled footwear product. Similarly, other components may be located between the outer side of a component and the exterior of the assembled footwear product. Furthermore, the terms “inward” and “inner” should refer to a direction toward the interior of a component or footwear product (e.g., a shoe), and the terms “outward” and “outer” should refer to a direction toward the exterior of a component or footwear product (e.g., a shoe). Additionally, the term “proximal” refers to a direction closer to the center of the footwear component or closer to the foot when the foot is inserted into the footwear product while the user is wearing it. Similarly, the term "distal" refers to the relative position of the foot when the foot is inserted into the footwear, which is farther from the center of the footwear component or farther from the foot. Therefore, the terms proximal and distal can be understood as providing generally opposite terms to describe relative spatial positions.

[0031] To aid in the explanation and understanding of aspects of this specification, please refer to the following: Figure 1 and Figure 2 The following describes the elements of a typical footwear article 10, which may include a tongue reinforcement. Figure 1 The outer side of footwear 10 is depicted, and Figure 2 The top of the footwear article is depicted. When describing the various figures mentioned in this disclosure, the same reference numerals denote the same parts in all views.

[0032] Footwear article 10 includes at least two main elements, including a sole structure 12 and an upper 14. When footwear article 10 is worn (as intended on the foot), the sole structure 12 is generally located near the sole surface of the foot (i.e., the bottom of the foot). The sole structure 12 protects the bottom of the foot, and furthermore, it can reduce ground reaction forces, absorb energy, provide traction, and control foot movements, such as pronation and supination. The upper 14 is coupled to the sole structure 12 and, together with the sole structure 12, forms a foot receiving cavity 16. That is, while the sole structure 12 generally surrounds the bottom of the foot, the upper 14 extends over and at least partially covers the top portion of the foot (i.e., the top or instep) and secures the footwear article 10 to the foot. The upper 14 includes a foot insertion opening 18 through which the foot is positioned in the foot receiving cavity 16 when the footwear article 10 is put on.

[0033] like Figure 1As shown, footwear article 10 may include a forefoot region 20, a midfoot region 22, a heel region 24, and an ankle region 26. The forefoot region 20, midfoot region 22, and heel region 24 extend through the sole structure 12 and the upper 14. The ankle region 26 is located within a portion of the upper 14. The forefoot region 20 generally includes the portion of footwear article 10 corresponding to the toe and the joints connecting the metatarsals and phalanges. The midfoot region 22 generally includes the portion of footwear article 10 corresponding to the arch and instep of the foot. The heel region 24 corresponds to the posterior portion of the foot and includes the calcaneus. The ankle region 26 corresponds to the ankle. The forefoot region 20, midfoot region 22, heel region 24, and ankle region 26 are not intended to define precise areas of footwear article 10, but rather to represent general areas of footwear article 10 to aid in understanding various aspects of this specification. Additionally, portions of footwear article may be described using these general areas in relative terms. For example, the first structure can be described as being more oriented toward the heel than the second structure, in which case the second structure would be more oriented toward the forefoot and closer to the forefoot.

[0034] Footwear product 10 also has an inner side 28 (in) Figure 2 In the middle of the label and in Figure 1 (not visible in the middle) and the outer 30 (in the middle) Figure 2 In the middle of the label and in Figure 1 (See image). The medial side 28 and lateral side 30 extend through each of the forefoot region 20, midfoot region 22, heel region 24, and ankle region 26, and correspond to opposite sides of the footwear article 10, each falling on opposite sides of the longitudinal midline reference plane 29 of the footwear article 10, as understood by those skilled in the art. For example, the longitudinal midline reference plane 29 may pass through the foremost and rearmost points of the sole structure. Therefore, the medial side 29 is considered to be opposite the lateral side 30. Generally, the lateral side corresponds to the outer region of the foot (i.e., the surface facing away from the other foot), and the medial side corresponds to the inner region of the foot (i.e., the surface facing the other foot). On the other hand, the footwear article includes a fore portion 33 and a rear portion 35, which fall on opposite sides of the lateral midline reference plane 31 of the footwear article 10. The lateral midline reference plane 31 extends perpendicular to the longitudinal midline reference plane 29 and the ground plane, and is evenly spaced between the foremost and rearmost points of the footwear article 10. In addition, these terms can also be used to describe the relative positions of different structures. For example, a first structure that is closer to the inner part of a footwear product can be described as the inner side of a second structure that is closer to the outer area and further out.

[0035] When describing footwear, the relative terms "bottom" and "top" can also be used. For example, the top part usually corresponds to the upper part that faces closer to the head when a person's foot is flat on a level surface and the person is standing upright, while the bottom part usually corresponds to the lower part that faces further away from the head and is closer to the ground.

[0036] The sole structure 12 can be made of various materials and can include various elements. For example, the sole structure 12 may include a midsole 32 and an outsole 34. The midsole 32 may be formed of a compressible polymer foam element (e.g., polyurethane or vinyl acetate (EVA) foam) that reduces ground reaction forces (i.e., provides cushioning) when compressed between the foot and the ground during walking, running, or other activities. In other aspects, the midsole 32 may include fluid-filled chambers, plates, adjusters, or other elements that further reduce forces, enhance stability, or influence foot movement. The midsole 32 may be a single piece or may be multiple components integrated into a single unit. In some aspects, the midsole 32 may be integrated with the outsole 34. The outsole 34 may be a single piece or may be several outsole components and may be formed of an abrasion-resistant rubber material that may be textured to provide traction and / or may include traction elements such as treads or anti-slip blocks attached to the midsole 32. Outsole 34 can extend the entire length and width of the sole or only partially across the length and / or width.

[0037] The upper 14 can be made of various materials and can include various features. For example, the upper 14 can be made of leather, textiles, or other synthetic or natural materials. Furthermore, the upper 14 can be knitted textiles, woven fabrics, braided fabrics, nonwoven fabrics, laminated fabrics, or any combination thereof. The upper 14 can have various material properties related to breathability, stretchability, flexibility, wicking, and water resistance.

[0038] The upper 14 typically includes a portion that overlaps with and connects to the sole structure 12, and the junction of this connection may be referred to as a strobel. Additionally, the upper 14 may include a strobel, which comprises a panel of material extending from the upper 14 and across at least a portion of the foot-facing surface of the sole structure 12, and the strobel is used to hold the upper 14 onto the last when the sole structure 12 is attached to the upper 14. In other words, the sole structure 12 integrated into the footwear article 10 includes a foot-facing surface, and in some cases, the upper 14 may include a panel (referred to as the strobel) extending inward from near the strobel region and at least partially covering the foot-facing surface. In this case, the strobel is positioned under the foot when the footwear article is worn. The strobel may be covered by an insole or other material layer.

[0039] The upper 14 includes other features. For example, the upper 14 includes an ankle collar 36 that forms a periphery around at least a portion of the foot insertion opening 18. Additionally, the upper 14 includes a throat 38 that generally extends from the ankle collar 36 and forms a periphery along at least one or more sides of the elongated opening 40. A tongue 42 is located within the elongated opening 40, and the size of the elongated opening 40 can be adjusted using various closure systems. For example, Figure 1 The illustration shows a lace-up 44, and other closure systems may include elastic bands, hook-and-loop straps, zippers, buckles, etc. The position of the tongue 42 and the connection of the closure system can be adjusted to change the size of the foot insertion opening and the elongated opening, for example, by making the opening larger when the footwear is put on or taken off and by making the opening smaller when the footwear is secured to the foot. As will be described in other parts of this disclosure, the tongue 42 may include a tongue reinforcement that helps the tongue maintain its shape and position when subjected to forces or adjustments, such as those from other footwear components or from the wearer.

[0040] Footwear article 10 may include athletic shoes, such as those that can be worn while running or walking, and the description of footwear article 10 (including information about...) Figure 1 and Figure 2 The described elements can also be applied to other types of shoes, such as basketball shoes, tennis shoes, American football shoes, soccer shoes, casual shoes or loafers, dress shoes, work shoes, sandals, slippers, boots, hiking boots, etc.

[0041] Already described Figure 1 and Figure 2 For reference now Figures 3A to 3C and Figures 4A to 4C To describe some other aspects of this disclosure. Figure 3A , Figure 3B and Figure 3C Each of the figures depicts a footwear article 310, which includes an upper 314 attached to a sole 312, and the upper 314 includes a heel region 324 and an ankle region 326 having an ankle collar 336. The ankle collar 336 can be in a lowered state (e.g., Figure 3C (as shown) and elevated state (such as) Figure 3A and Figure 3B The ankle collar 336 moves between the two positions (as shown). In the lowered state, the ankle collar 336 is positioned closer to the sole 312, and in the raised state, the ankle collar 336 is positioned further away from the sole 312. Similarly, the footwear article 410 includes an upper 414 attached to the sole 412, and the upper 414 includes a heel region 424 and an ankle region 426 having the ankle collar 436.

[0042] Furthermore, footwear article 310 includes a collar lifter 350, which is attached to the upper 314 near the heel region 324 and / or the ankle region 326 and operable to move the ankle collar 336 from a lowered state to an elevated state. More specifically, the collar lifter 350 includes a portion positioned in the heel region 324 and extending upward into the ankle region 326. As previously mentioned, there is not necessarily a precise depiction between the heel region 324 and the ankle region 326; rather, describing the positioning of the collar lifter 350 relative to these regions is one way of describing the collar lifter 350 extending from a lower portion closer to the sole to an upper portion closer to the ankle collar 336. Regarding the attachment of the collar lifter 350 to the upper 314 near the heel region 324 and / or the ankle region 326, this attachment can take various forms. For example, the collar lifter 350 may be attached to the upper in the heel region 324, attached to the ankle collar 336 in the ankle region 326, or any and all combinations thereof. The collar lifter 350 is an example of a collar lifter operable to move the ankle collar from a lowered state to an elevated state, and as will be described in other parts of this disclosure, the collar lifter may include, in addition to... Figures 3A to 3C One or more alternative structures besides those described herein. For example, Figures 4A to 4C A footwear article 410 is depicted having a collar lifter 450, which is operable to lift the ankle collar 436 from a lowered state (e.g., Figure 4C ) Move to an elevated state (e.g., Figure 4A and Figure 4B It also has a different structure from the collar lifter 350.

[0043] For illustrative purposes, uppers 314 and 414 are indicated by dashed lines, and the collar lifter can be positioned relative to the upper in various locations. For example, the collar lifter can be at least partially, and possibly entirely, attached between the outer layer and the lining in the heel area, ankle area, ankle collar, or any and all combinations thereof. On the other hand, the collar lifter can be at least partially exposed and positioned on the outer or outer surface of the upper. On another hand, at least a portion of the collar lifter can be positioned on the foot-facing surface inside the lining. On yet another hand, the collar lifter can be positioned on the outer surface of the footwear and can be attached to the heel portion of the ankle collar by means of a winglet, heat fusion, adhesive, stitching, or other fastener.

[0044] Collar lifters (such as collar lifters 350 and 450) may include various elements. In one aspect, a collar lifter includes an inner lever arm, an outer lever arm, and a central connecting strap that connects the inner lever arm to the outer lever arm and is located in the heel portion of the ankle collar. In another aspect, each lever arm is attached to a base that remains stationary relative to the lever arm when the ankle collar is moved to a lowered state and when the lever arm is deformed. The base may be part of a footwear article, such as part of a sole or upper. Additionally, the base may be one or more other anchors directly or indirectly attached to the sole, the sole itself, or any combination thereof. US 9,820,527 describes one or more collar lifters, some of which may be referred to as deformable members or deformable members (with or without a base), and the entire disclosure of US 9,820,527 is incorporated herein by reference. According to one aspect of this disclosure, at least some of the deformable members described in US 9,820,527 include an inner lever arm, an outer lever arm, and a central connecting band connecting the inner lever arm to the outer lever arm. In other instances, US 2018 / 0110292 and US 2018 / 0289109 each describe several other collar lifters, some of which are referred to as control levers (with or without a base), and the entire disclosure of US 2018 / 0110292 and US 2018 / 0289109 is incorporated herein by reference. According to one aspect of this disclosure, at least some of the control levers described in US 2018 / 0110292 and US 2018 / 0289109 include an inner lever arm, an outer lever arm, and a central connecting band connecting the inner lever arm to the outer lever arm.

[0045] Each of the collar lifters 350 and 450 shown depicts an example of an inner lever arm 352 and 452, respectively. Additionally, each of the collar lifters 350 and 450 shown depicts an example of an outer lever arm 354 and 454, and a central connecting strap 356 and 456, respectively. Furthermore, lever arms 352 and 354 are attached to a base 358, and lever arms 452 and 454 are attached to a base 458 having a different structure than base 358. Base 358 is attached to or near the foot-facing surface of sole 312, and base 358 may be a part of the outsole, a part of the midsole, a part of the insole, a part of the sole fabric, a plate or sheet laminated between any of these soles, or any combination thereof. Base 358 may include a rigid portion or segment to which lever arms 352 and 354 are anchored. Figures 4A to 4CDifferent aspects are depicted, in which base 458 may be attached to a portion of the upper (e.g., the main heel), a portion of the midsole sidewall, or any combination thereof, and base 458 is wrapped around the back of the footwear article, which is the opposite of extending through the insole in the manner described with respect to base 358.

[0046] The inner lever arm, outer lever arm, and central connecting band can be a single continuum, such that there is no clear boundary between the inner lever arm, outer lever arm, and central connecting band. For example, the inner and outer arms, as well as the central connecting band, can be molded, cast, 3D printed, or otherwise formed as a single integral unit. In other respects, the inner and outer lever arms can be discrete, separate, and distinct elongated components, which are connected to the central connecting band, for example, by mechanical or chemical coupling, friction fit, sleeve, or other connection methods.

[0047] Having generally described some structural elements of the collar lifter, some operational aspects of the collar lifter will now be described. As briefly described above, the collar lifter moves the ankle collar from a lowered state to an elevated state. More specifically, at least a portion of the medial lever arm, lateral lever arm, center connecting strap, or any combination thereof is attached to a portion of the upper. In one aspect, the center connecting strap may be attached near the heel portion of the ankle collar. For example, as described in other parts of this disclosure, the center connecting strap may be attached to the heel portion of the ankle collar by adhesive, connecting flaps, heat fusion, stitching, etc. Thus, when the ankle collar moves to a lowered state closer to the sole, the medial and lateral lever arms deform to a more compressed or loaded position. In other words, when an applied force moves the ankle collar from an elevated state to a lowered state, the collar lifter moves from a less compressed construction (e.g., Figure 3A and Figure 4A Constructions that deform elastically to more compressible structures (e.g., Figure 3C and Figure 4C The collar lifter stores potential energy. When the applied force is removed, the potential energy causes the collar lifter to return to a less compressed configuration, and the ankle collar also moves from a lowered state to an elevated state as the collar lifter adheres to the upper. While the compression of the collar lifter can be greater when the ankle collar moves to the lowered state (compared to the elevated state), in the elevated state, the collar lifter can still store potential energy in a state of at least partial deformation (i.e., preloaded compression) to be able to hold the rear heel portion of the ankle collar around the wearer's heel. For example, if the collar lifter is attached to the upper heel area and / or upper ankle area, then when the ankle collar is in the elevated state, portions of the upper can hold or retain the collar lifter in a preloaded configuration. In other respects, the collar lifter can be unloaded when the ankle collar is in the elevated state.

[0048] In one aspect, the portion 325 or 425 of the upper below the central connecting strap may include walls of one or more textiles that are more flexible than other portions of the upper. For example, this more flexible area of ​​the upper may be at least partially located in the heel area. Wherein, this more flexible portion 325 or 425 of the upper may collapse more easily when the ankle collar moves to a lower position, and may provide less resistance to the collar lifter (compared to other portions of footwear or the less flexible upper in typical footwear) when the collar lifter returns to a less compressed state.

[0049] In some respects, the combination of the inner lever arm, the outer lever arm, and the central connecting band can be referred to as a deformable element. The term "deformable element" refers to an elastic, flexible member that can be bent or compressed but has a biased tendency to move toward a non-bent or uncompressed state. A deformable element may include a single, integrally formed deformable element that extends continuously from the inner lever arm to the outer lever arm. In other respects, the inner and outer lever arms may be two or more separate and distinct deformable elements connected to a central connecting band, which may also be referred to as a heel piece.

[0050] In some aspects, the deformable element may be directly coupled, mounted, or attached to the base. In other aspects, the base may include one or more anchors that engage and hold the deformable element in place. For example, the anchor may be located at the junction between the lever arm and the base (e.g., 359 and 459). Such anchors may be integrally formed with a portion of the sole (e.g., insole, midsole, outsole), coupled to the sole portion, and / or located within, between, or outside the sole portion. For example, the anchor may be disposed in a block, plate, or wedge stacked within, above, or below the sole. In some cases, a portion of the sole (e.g., midsole) may be sculpted or cut to attach to or accommodate the anchor. On another aspect, a base extending in a mid-lateral orientation (e.g., base 358) includes an anchor housing into which the anchor is engaged by a resistance fit, compression fit, snap-fit ​​fit, or via an interlocking mechanism / construction. In other instances, the anchor may be integrally formed with a portion of the upper, coupled to the portion of the upper, and / or located within, between, or outside the portion of the upper. For example, anchors can be located in the upper, the main heel, or any combination thereof. A single anchor can extend the entire width of the footwear, or two anchors can be positioned on opposite sides of the footwear (e.g., on the inner and outer sides). Deformable members can be attached to the base or anchors at an angle. For example, a deformable member can be attached to the base at a perpendicular angle and then bend backward or arc. On the other hand, a deformable member can be attached at a forward tilt angle (i.e., upward and forward) or a backward tilt angle (i.e., upward and backward) before arcing backward.

[0051] The connection between the deformable element and the base or anchor can be described in various ways. For example, in one aspect, the deformable element does not pivot about the base (e.g., about the insole, midsole, or outsole). In other words, the deformable element can be non-rotatably coupled to the base. In various aspects, there is no gap between the deformable element and the base (or anchor), which means there is little or no relative movement between the two parts.

[0052] Deformable elements may include one or more of tubes, wires, springs, shape memory structures, or materials. Furthermore, deformable elements may include one or more materials, such as carbon steel, stainless steel, titanium, nickel-titanium (NiTiNO3) and other metals and alloys (shape memory alloys or others), polymers (shape memory polymers or others), composite materials, foam materials, graphite, carbon fiber, glass fiber, TPC-ET, silicone, TPU, and polycarbonate. For example, a deformable element may include titanium or titanium wire. Additionally, one or more deformable elements may be made of a first material (e.g., titanium), and one or more additional deformable elements may be made of a second material (e.g., graphite).

[0053] In some respects, the deformable element may include a single integral piece. For example, a first end of the deformable element (e.g., one end of the inner lever arm) may be embedded in or attached to an inner anchor; a second end of the deformable element (e.g., one end of the outer lever arm) may be embedded in or attached to an outer anchor; and a middle portion of the deformable element (e.g., a central connecting band) may extend around the heel or ankle portion of the upper or be embedded in additional heel support structures.

[0054] In other respects, deformable elements may include multiple separate and distinct components. For example, a deformable element may include two separate components, wherein a first component (e.g., an inner lever arm) has a first end embedded or attached to an inner anchor and a second end embedded or attached to the inside of a heel piece or center connecting strap. Similarly, a second component (e.g., an outer lever arm) may include a first end embedded or attached to an outer anchor and a second end embedded or attached to the outside of a heel piece or center connecting strap. Multiple separate and distinct components may be secured together, for example, using one or more of the following: tape, braided shell, overmolded material (e.g., TPU), heat shrink tubing, etc., each of which can provide different levels of stability and strength. For example, a deformable element may include one or more threads individually or together encapsulated in a cover, sleeve, overmolded material, or heat shrink tubing. The one or more threads may arch, bend, and swing before returning to their initial / normal state to facilitate the elastic deformation of the deformable element.

[0055] A deformable element can have variable mechanical properties along its length and / or at different points along its length. This variation can be provided by the deformable element (e.g., by a wire or bundle of two or more strands), by fasteners surrounding all or part of the deformable element, or any combination thereof. For example, the deformable element and / or fasteners can have variable cross-sections, variable densities, variable materials, etc., along its length. Conversely, a variable cross-section can be provided by variations in thickness or shape, or by twisting of a deformable element that otherwise has a constant thickness or shape along its length.

[0056] As briefly described above, a deformable element may include a cover, sleeve, overmolded part, or other suitable structure that can protect other elements of the deformable element (e.g., wire, spring, etc.) and can control, guide, support, and / or otherwise influence the flexure or compression of the deformable element. In some aspects, the cover is configured, based on its manufacturing material, shape, geometry, etc., to facilitate the distribution of mechanical stress by transferring mechanical bending / deformation forces from the deformable element (e.g., from wire or spring) to the cover, to prevent or at least inhibit damage or breakage of the deformable element caused by concentrated and repetitive mechanical stresses that may be experienced by the deformable element. For example, the cover may have dimensions that vary along its length, such as a funnel-shaped cone, to help distribute stress and facilitate the dynamic flexure of the deformable element. In the event of a breakage of the deformable element, the cover may still provide at least some degree of bias, thereby still facilitating the movement of the ankle collar from a lowered position to an elevated position. Furthermore, the cover may provide additional padding and / or support for the deformable element and may prevent or at least inhibit the wearer from feeling the deformable element.

[0057] As briefly described above, the center connecting strap can also be referred to as the heel piece. The center connecting strap can be integrally formed as a single continuous unit with the medial and lateral lever arms. Alternatively, the center connecting strap can be a separate piece extending between and bridging the medial and lateral lever arms. The center connecting strap can provide a connection to the upper and can also provide a framework to the ankle collar to prevent the ankle collar from collapsing into the foot-accommodating opening during foot insertion.

[0058] When put on by the wearer, footwear with collar lifters (e.g., collar lifters 350 and 450) can be slid on by the wearer without the wearer needing to manipulate the footwear with his or her hands. For example, the wearer's toes can be inserted through foot insertion openings 318 or 418, while the arch or heel of his or her foot presses down on the ankle collar 336 or 436 toward the sole 312 or 412. Adjusting the ankle collar 336 or 436 to a lowered state closer to the sole can increase the size of the foot insertion openings 318 or 418. Once the wearer's foot slides into the foot receiving cavity 316 or 416, the collar lifters 350 or 450 move the ankle collar from the lowered state (i.e., Figure 3C and Figure 4C ) Move to the elevated state (i.e., Figure 3A and Figure 4A ( ) to help secure footwear to the wearer's feet.

[0059] Among them, the collar lifters 350 and 450 can reduce potential structural damage over time in the upper heel and upper ankle regions by providing a frame operable to return to or offset in the elevated state, rather than structural damage that can occur from repeated hands-free putting on. Furthermore, the collar lifters 350 and 450 allow the user to more easily put on (i.e., wear) his or her shoes without using their hands and / or without bending down to tighten laces, without using a shoehorn, or without using other such adjustment features, elements, or fitting mechanisms. Additionally, footwear articles 310 and 410 can more easily accommodate or guide the wearer's foot into or accommodate the foot relative to the foot-accommodating opening. One reason for this potential ease of putting on may be that the collar lifters 350 and 450 help provide a larger foot insertion opening without allowing the ankle collar opening to fold inward toward the foot-accommodating cavity.

[0060] The operation of footwear articles 310 and 410 can be described in various ways. For example, ankle collars 336 and 436 can be elastic, or can include a triangular fabric element that, for example, allows foot insertion openings 318 and 418 to expand when the ankle collar is moved to a lowered state. In the lowered state, foot insertion openings 318 and 418 can expand by at least about 5%, or at least about 10%, or at least about 15%. This expansion can be detected in various ways. For example, a first circumference of the foot insertion opening can be measured when the ankle collar is in a first state, and a second circumference can be measured when the ankle collar is in a second state, which is closer to the sole (relative to the first state). In both the first and second states, the distance from the ankle collar to the sole can be measured in a vertical plane (i.e., perpendicular to a horizontal reference plane, which includes a flat surface on which the ground contact surface rests), and this distance can be measured from the last point of the ankle collar opening edge to the sole opening edge (e.g., where the sole connects to the upper at the position line). Thus, the distance in the first state will be longer than the distance in the second state, and in one respect, the second distance is equal to or less than 75% of the first distance. Continuing with the above example, in the second state where the distance is equal to or less than 75% of the distance in the first state, the circumference can be expanded by at least about 5%, or at least about 10%, or at least about 15%. In another example, when the ankle collar is in the second state where the distance is equal to or less than 75% of the distance in the first state, the circumference of the foot insertion openings 318 and 418 can be expanded by at least about 1.0 inch (about 2.54 cm). The amount of expansion of the foot insertion openings 318 and 418 can vary depending on the style and size of the shoe. In other respects, the ankle collars 336 and 436 are approximately 50% lower than the soles 312 and 412 in the lowered position compared to the raised position; however, for other parameters, this may vary depending on the type and size of the shoe.

[0061] As described in other parts of this disclosure, when the ankle collars 336 and 436 are moved from a lowered state to an elevated state, the collar lifters 350 and 450 provide a return force. In some aspects, the return force is in the range of about 1 pound to about 15 pounds, and this can be measured at various locations on the ankle collar. For example, as described above, the ankle collar may include a first state having a first distance from the sole and a second state having a second distance from the sole, the second distance being shorter than the distance in the first state. In one aspect, the collar lifters 350 and 450 provide a return force in the range of about 1 pound to about 15 pounds in the second state, where the distance is equal to or less than about 85% of the distance in the first state. In another aspect, the collar lifters 350 and 450 provide a return force in the range of about 1 pound to about 15 pounds in the second state, where the distance is equal to or less than about 75% of the distance in the first state. Furthermore, collar lifters 350 and 450 provide a rebound force ranging from approximately 1 pound to approximately 15 pounds in a second state, where the distance is equal to or less than approximately 50% of the distance in the first state. This rebound force is strong enough that the rear of the ankle collar springs back from the second state and fits snugly around the wearer's heel. For example, when the distance between the ankle collar and the sole in the lowered state is less than 85%, 75%, or 50% of the distance in the raised state, ankle collars 336 and 436 can rise from the lowered state to the raised state in less than approximately 1 second. In other respects, when the distance between the ankle collar and the sole in the lowered state is less than 85%, 75%, or 50% of the distance in the raised state, ankle collars 336 and 436 can rise from the lowered state to the raised state in less than approximately 0.5 seconds. Furthermore, in other respects, when the distance between the ankle collar and the sole in the lowered state is less than 85%, 75%, or 50% of the distance in the raised state, the ankle collars 336 and 436 can rise from the lowered state to the raised state in less than approximately 0.2 seconds. This rebound time was measured without any counteracting external force, such as friction that might be exerted by the wearer's heel.

[0062] Now for reference Figures 5 to 9 , Figures 10A to 10D , Figure 11 and Figure 12 The text describes another footwear article 510, which has an upper 514 attached to a sole 512. The upper 514 includes an inner vamp 515, and a portion of the inner vamp 515 is... Figure 9 , Figures 10A to 10D and Figure 11 It can be seen in [the text]. For example, it can be seen in [the text]. Figure 9 The top view shows the outside of the inner shoe waist 515, and it can be seen in... Figure 11 The cross-sectional view shows the interior of the inner shoe waist 515. Additionally, Figures 10A to 10CThe inner shoe waist 515 is also marked. The upper 514 also includes an outer shoe waist 517, and portions of the outer shoe waist 517 can be seen in various different drawings. For example, the outer side of the outer shoe waist 517 is... Figure 5 Outer front perspective and Figure 9 It is indicated in the top view. Additionally... Figures 10A to 10C It also indicates the outer shoe waist number 517.

[0063] Footwear 510 also includes a heel area 524 having an ankle collar 536. The ankle collar 536 can be positioned in a lowered state closer to the sole 512 (e.g., Figure 7 ) and positioned further away from the sole 512 in an elevated state (e.g., Figure 5 The footwear 510 includes a collar lifter 550, which is coupled to the heel area 524 and operable to move the ankle collar 536 from a lowered state to an elevated state. Figures 5 to 8 The collar lifter 550 shown is an example of one type of collar lifter, and in other aspects of this disclosure, the footwear article 510 may include any of the various other collar lifters disclosed in this specification.

[0064] Footwear also includes a tongue 560 having an inner edge 562, an outer edge 564, and an outward-facing surface 566. Although in a typical wearing construction, at least some portions of the inner and outer edges of the tongue may be obscured and not visible, the accompanying drawings depict the edges of the tongue in various ways. For example, the inner edge 562... Figures 10A to 10D and Figure 11 It is marked in the cross-sectional view. Figure 6 In the middle, a portion of the outer shoe waist has been removed to reveal the outer edge 564, and the outer edge 564 is also in the cross-section. Figures 10A to 10D The logo is in the center. The tongue 560 also includes the foremost edge 568, which is covered by the forefoot forefoot portion 570 of the upper 514, and... Figure 6 The image is shown in dashed lines. In one aspect, one or more connectors 572 (e.g., stitching, gluing, integral forming, etc.) may be positioned near the foremost edge 568 to provide a connection between the tongue 560 and the upper 512. The tongue 560 also includes a forefoot edge 574 along the rearmost portion of the tongue 560.

[0065] The tongue 560 of footwear 510 is an example of a type of tongue, and in other respects, the tongue can be integrally formed with the forefoot upper portion of the upper, such that the upper extends continuously from the forefoot vamp portion to the edge of the tongue opening. Figure 8An example of this type of tongue construction is illustrated, wherein the tongue 560B extends continuously from the forefoot vamp portion 570B, which may be a panel separate from the medial vamp 515B and the lateral vamp 517B. Unless otherwise explicitly stated to the contrary or clearly indicated from the context, the portions relating to the tongue 560 in this specification also apply to the tongue 560B. For example, Figures 10A to 10D The cross-sectional views will be equally accurate and applicable to both footwear articles 510 and 510B. Examples of differences between tongue 560 and tongue 560B may include the presence of a foremost edge (e.g., 568) and the length of the tongue measured from the foremost edge 568 to the toe edge 574. As may be described in other parts of this disclosure, the length of tongue 560B may be determined using different techniques.

[0066] The tongue 560 generally comprises a panel of one or more layers of material. For example, the tongue 560 may include a knitted, woven, braided, laminated, or nonwoven textile panel. Figures 10A to 10D and Figure 11 A cross-sectional view of tongues 560 and 560B is shown, and an outer tongue layer 576 and an inner tongue layer 578 are identified. The outer tongue layer 576 includes an inwardly facing surface 567 that receives a cavity facing the foot. Additionally, tongue 560 may include a first layer and a second layer with a cushioning layer between them. Although depicted as a single layer, each of layers 576 and 578 may alternatively include multiple layers. As described in other parts of this disclosure, tongue 560 is positioned within the throat of a footwear article and particularly helps to cover elongated openings. The multi-layered tongue shown is an example of one type of tongue, and in other respects, a tongue may include a single layer of material, such as a single knitted layer, a single woven layer, a single braided layer, a single nonwoven material layer, a single laminated material layer, etc.

[0067] In another aspect of this disclosure, footwear article 510 includes an outer connector 580 for attaching an outer surface 566 to an outer instep 517 and an inner connector 582 for attaching an outer surface 566 to an inner instep. For example, Figure 10A A cross-sectional view showing the interface between the outward-facing surface 566 and the shoe waist 515 and 517 is depicted, along with the illustrative locations of connectors 580 and 582.

[0068] In one aspect of this disclosure, the inner connector 582 and the outer connector 580 can transmit forces between the tongue 560 and the inner and outer insteps 515 and 517. For example, in some cases, the upper 514 can be shaped such that the inner and outer insteps 515 and 517 are tilted or biased inward toward the foot-receiving cavity in the directions indicated by arrows E and F. This inward tilting or biasing can be produced by the shape of the upper, the manner in which the upper is sustained, gravity, or any and all combinations thereof. Furthermore, this inward tilting applies a shear force to the tongue transmitted through the inner and outer connectors.

[0069] In other situations, when the ankle collar 536 is depressed to a lowered state, such as when the wearer slides his or her foot through the foot opening, the medial vamp 515 and lateral vamp 517 may collapse inward. For example, depressing the ankle collar 536 may sequentially pull the throat edges 538A and 538B. (See reference) Figure 9 When the ankle collar 536 is compressed near X, the throat edges 538A and 538B can be pulled backward and inward, as indicated by arrows C, D, E, and F. This, in turn, causes the inner throat edge 538A and the outer throat edge 538B (as well as the inner and outer insteps) to collapse toward each other. Thus, this inward collapse of the throat edges and the insteps collapsing toward each other exert a shear force on the tongue, which is transmitted through the inner and outer connectors.

[0070] In one aspect of this disclosure, the tongue 560 includes a lateral shear force region 585 and a medial shear force region 587 (see, for example...). Figure 10B The shear force region refers to the various portions of the tongue 560 to which shear force is directed from the shoe waist. In one aspect, the shear force region includes at least a portion of the outward-facing surface 566. The location of the shear force region can vary depending on various factors, such as the type and size of the connector.

[0071] In one respect, reference Figure 10C Connectors 580 and 582 can be releasable fasteners and include tongue-side connectors 581A and 581B that releasably mate with shoe waist-side connectors 583A and 583B. For example, Figure 12An exemplary footwear article is illustrated, wherein the releasable fastener is a hook-and-loop connector, such that the tongue-side connectors 581A / B are hook or loop portions, and the instep-side connectors 583A / B are another of the hook or loop portions. The releasable and adjustable fasteners allow a user to adjust and customize the fit of the footwear article by adjusting the connection position of the releasable fasteners. The hook-and-loop connector is one type of releasable fastener, and the connector may include other known releasable and adjustable fasteners. Alternatively, non-releasable fasteners 580 and 582 may connect the tongue to the inner and outer insteps. For example, stitching, welding, gluing, or other types of connectors may connect the instep to the tongue. In another example, the outer connector 580 may be one type of connector, and the inner connector 582 may be a different type of connector. For example, the outer connector 580 may include a releasable connector, and the inner connector 582 may be a non-releasable connector, or vice versa. The outer connector 580 may be a stitch, and the inner connector 582 may be a hook and loop, or vice versa. The outer connector 580 may be integrally formed with the shoe waist (e.g., knitted), and the inner connector 582 may be a releasable fastener (e.g., a hook and loop). In another aspect, at least one of the inner and outer connectors may be omitted, such that at least one side of the shoe tongue is disengaged from the corresponding shoe waist.

[0072] Return to reference Figure 10C The tongue-side connector 581A includes an innermost connector edge 584A positioned closest to the centerline reference plane 529 and an outermost connector edge 586 positioned furthest from the centerline reference plane. In one aspect, when the midfoot-side connector 583A is engaged with the tongue-side connector 581A, at least a portion of the shear force is transmitted to the innermost connector edge 584A before being ultimately transmitted to the tongue 560. Other portions of the shear force may be transmitted to other areas of the tongue-side connector 581A located between the innermost connector edge 584A and the outermost connector edge 586 before being transmitted to the tongue 560. Connectors 581B and 583B operate in a similar manner. That is, when the midfoot-side connector 583B is engaged with the tongue-side connector 581B, at least a portion of the shear force is transmitted to the innermost connector edge 584B before being ultimately transmitted to the tongue 560. Other portions of the shear force may be transmitted to other areas of the tongue-side connector 581B located between the innermost connector edge 584B and the outermost connector edge 586B before being transmitted to the tongue 560.

[0073] In one aspect of this disclosure, footwear article 510 includes a tongue reinforcement 590 extending laterally through the tongue 560. For example, Figure 6A portion of layer 576 is depicted cut away to expose a tongue reinforcement 590 layered between the outer layer 576 and the inner layer 578. Typically, the tongue reinforcement 590 includes additional material portions bonded to one or more layers of tongue material. In one aspect, the tongue reinforcement 590 is fixedly attached to an inward-facing surface 567. For example, the tongue reinforcement 590 may be adhered, bonded, or welded to the inward-facing surface. In another instance, the tongue reinforcement 590 may be sewn to the inward-facing surface 567. The additional material portions increase at least some of the rigidity of the tongue 560, which may prevent the tongue 560 from collapsing, folding, or otherwise deforming under forces applied to the tongue (e.g., shear forces transmitted from the waist and / or throat edges via connectors). The tongue reinforcement 590 may include various materials and structures. In one aspect, based on one or more testing criteria selectable by a person of ordinary skill in the art, the tongue reinforcement is made of a material harder than the outer layer 576. An example of a test standard that can be used to compare the stiffness of the tongue reinforcement material with that of the outer 576 layer is ASTM D1388, and any other suitable test method can be used. On the other hand, the tongue reinforcement is constructed from knitted panels, woven panels, mesh panels, etc. Furthermore, the tongue reinforcement can be made of plastics, such as nylon, TPU, or other suitable polymers or composites. The tongue reinforcement can also be made of natural materials, such as leather or synthetic fiber textiles. On the other hand, the tongue reinforcement can be a bistable spring element.

[0074] The tongue reinforcement includes an inner edge 592, an outer edge 594, a top edge 596, and a bottom edge 598. Additionally, the tongue reinforcement 590 includes a width extending from the inner edge 592 to the outer edge 594 and a length extending from the top edge 596 to the bottom edge 598. In one aspect of the invention, the tongue reinforcement 590 includes dimensions, locations, or combinations thereof that inhibit tongue deformation that could otherwise occur due to shear forces transmitted via the connector from the edges of the instep and / or throat. For example, as... Figure 10C As shown, the inner edge 592 of the tongue reinforcement 590 extends past the innermost edge 584B of the tongue side connector 581B. In other words, the innermost edges 584A and 584B are spaced apart by a certain distance. This distance can be along a reference plane (e.g., along...). Figure 9 The sum of one or more arc lengths (if the tongue is in a curved arrangement) intercepted by reference lines 10-10. Similarly, the tongue reinforcement 590 includes a width measured from the inner edge 592 to the outer edge 594 along a reference plane with the same distance as the innermost edge, and the width of the tongue reinforcement is greater than this distance. If this method is used to measure both distance and width, in one aspect, the width and distance are measured along arcs of the same radius (e.g., 600A, 600B, or 600C), with the reference line passing through the center of the common arc and the respective endpoints.

[0075] In similar respects, and referring to Figure 10D The illustration shows a flat-structured tongue 560, with a tongue reinforcement comprising a width 595 between an inner edge 592 and an outer edge 594. Additionally, a distance 591 extends between the innermost edge 584A of the outer connector 581A and the innermost edge 584B of the inner connector 581B. The width 595 of the tongue reinforcement is greater than the distance 591 extending between the innermost edges of connectors 581A / B. In another similar aspect, the innermost edge 584A of the outer, tongue-side connector 581A and the outer edge 594 of the tongue reinforcement 590 overlap each other (e.g., ...). Figure 10C and Figure 10D (as shown), and the innermost edge 584B of the inner side, the tongue side connector 581B and the inner edge 592 of the tongue reinforcement 590 overlap with each other.

[0076] The overlap between the tongue-side connectors 581A / B and the tongue reinforcement 590 is at least partially created by the width of the tongue reinforcement being greater than the distance between the innermost edges 584A / B. When the tongue-side connectors 581A / B and the tongue reinforcement 590 are fixedly attached to the tongue 560 in the overlapping areas 589A and 589B, the tongue 560 provides a medium for transmitting shear forces from the connectors 581A / B to the tongue reinforcement 590. For example, the tongue-side connectors 581A / B may be attached to the outer surface 566 in the overlapping area, and the tongue reinforcement 590 may be fixedly attached to the inner surface 567 in the overlapping area. A variety of different connectors can be used. In one aspect, the tongue-side connectors 581A / B and the tongue reinforcement 590 may be bonded, welded, sewn, thermoset, laminated, integrally knitted, integrally woven, integrally braided, or any and all combinations thereof to the tongue in the overlapping areas 589A / B. In one aspect of this disclosure, the tongue reinforcement extends outward and beyond the innermost edge of connector 581A / B to at least partially inhibit deformation of the tongue, which may be caused by shear forces transmitted to the innermost edges 584A and 584B.

[0077] As described elsewhere, except for the innermost edges 584A / B, shear force can be transmitted to various portions of the tongue-side connectors 581A / B. For example, shear force can be transmitted to the central portion of the tongue-side connectors 581A / B. In one aspect, each tongue-side connector 581A / B includes midpoints 588A (midpoint of the outer connector) and 588B (midpoint of the inner connector) located between the innermost edges 584A / B and the outermost edges 586A / B. Furthermore, Figure 10DThe diagram illustrates the distance 599 between midpoints 588A / B, and the width 595 of the tongue reinforcement is greater than the distance 599. As described above, when the tongue-side connectors 581A / B and the tongue reinforcement 590 are fixedly attached to the tongue 560 in this portion of the overlapping region 589A / B, this overlap in the region indicated by reference arrows 597A and 597B provides a medium for transmitting shear force from the connectors 581A / B through the tongue 560 to the tongue reinforcement 590.

[0078] In some aspects of this disclosure, the width of the tongue reinforcement (e.g., 595) may be greater than the distance between the innermost edges 584A / B and greater than the distance between the midpoints 588A / B. In other aspects, the width of the tongue reinforcement (e.g., 595) may be greater than the distance between the innermost edges 584A / B and less than the distance between the midpoints 588A / B. In still other aspects, the width of the tongue reinforcement (e.g., 595) may be greater than the distance between the innermost edges 584A / B, greater than the distance between the midpoints 588A / B, and greater than the distance between the outermost edges 586A / B. The construction of the relationship between the width 595 and other distances (e.g., between the outermost edges 586A / B, between the midpoints 588A / B, and between the innermost edges 584A / B) may be based on various factors, such as the amount of shear force applied by the shoe waist, the rigidity or flexibility of the tongue, the rigidity or flexibility of the tongue side connector, the rigidity or flexibility of the tongue reinforcement, or any and all combinations thereof.

[0079] In another aspect of this disclosure, the positioning of the tongue reinforcement 590 also helps to counteract the shear force applied from the instep to the tongue 560. For example, in some cases, the tongue reinforcement 590 is positioned closer to the cuff edge 574, rather than positioned further towards the forefoot or the foremost edge 568. This more rearward positioning can be configured based on the location of the greater force applied by the instep 515 and 517. For example, refer to... Figure 9 The label identifies the various parts of the throat, including parts 538A, 538B, 538C, 538D, and 538E. Parts 538C and 538D are closer to the base of the throat 538E, while parts 538A and 538B are further away from the throat base 538E. Thus, the throat base 538E provides greater resistance to the inward movement of parts 538C and 538D than to parts 538A and 538B. Additionally, parts 538A and 538B are closer to forces C, D, E, and F. Therefore, typically, the parts of the tongue 560 closer to the heel or rear than the parts further forward or foreground experience greater shear forces from the instep 515 and 517.

[0080] refer to Figure 11A lateral reference plane 531 is described, extending from the inside to the outside in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal reference plane and the flat ground plane, and positioned midway between the foremost point and the rearmost point of the footwear 510. The lateral reference plane 531 divides the footwear 510 into a front portion 533 and a front portion 535, and divides the tongue 560 into a top tongue portion 561 and a bottom tongue portion 563. The top tongue portion 561 includes a length 565 measured from a tongue reference point 565A (where the lateral reference plane 531 intersects the tongue 560) to the cuff edge 574. The length 565 is measured along a line following the contour of the outward-facing surface 566. (See also: Regarding...) Figure 10C and Figure 10D As described, the tongue reinforcement 590 includes a portion having a width of 595, and this width is at least greater than the distance between the innermost edges 584A / B, may be greater than the distance between the midpoints 588A / B, and may be greater than the distance between the outermost edges 586A / B. According to one aspect of this disclosure, the portion having the width of 595 is positioned between a tongue reference point 565A (where the latitudinal reference plane intersects the tongue) and the tongue opening edge 574. In another aspect, the distance between the wide portion of the tongue reinforcement and the tongue reference point 565A is equal to or greater than the length 565. In yet another aspect, the portion of the tongue reinforcement is the top edge 596.

[0081] As shown in other parts of this disclosure, the tongue reinforcement 590 includes a length extending from the top edge 596 to the bottom edge 598. The length can be based on various factors. For example, as described in other parts, the position and width of the tongue reinforcement 590 can be based on shear forces closer to the top edge 574. In some cases, the length of the tongue reinforcement can be reduced when sufficient force dissipation is achieved in the top tongue portion 561. A shorter tongue reinforcement length can contribute to lighter footwear and a more conformable tongue. Thus, in one aspect of this disclosure, the length of the tongue reinforcement is less than the width of the tongue reinforcement. In another aspect, the length of the tongue reinforcement is less than the length 565.

[0082] exist Figures 5 to 12 In this context, footwear article 510 includes a tongue reinforcement 590 attached to the inner surface 567 of the tongue. Alternatively, the tongue reinforcement may be attached to the outer surface of the tongue. For example, see reference... Figures 13 to 16Footwear article 610 includes a tongue reinforcement 690 coupled to an outwardly facing surface 666 and located below a tongue-side connector 681A. Unless the context clearly indicates or specifies otherwise, tongue reinforcement 690 operates in the same manner as tongue reinforcement 590, and the description relating to tongue reinforcement 590 also applies to tongue reinforcement 690. For example, similar to tongue reinforcement 590, tongue reinforcement 690 includes an inner edge 692 and an outer edge 694. According to one aspect of this disclosure, tongue reinforcement 690 includes a portion having a width 695, and this width is at least greater than the distance between the innermost edges 684A / B, may be greater than the distance between the midpoints 688A / B, and may be greater than the distance between the outermost edges 686A / B. Reference Figure 16 On the other hand, a portion having a width of 695 (equal to or greater than the distance between the innermost edges 684A and B) is positioned between the tongue reference point 665A (which intersects with the lateral reference plane 631) and the tongue opening edge 674. On the other hand, the distance between the wide portion of the tongue reinforcement and the tongue reference point 665A is equal to or greater than half the length 665. On the other hand, the wide portion of the tongue reinforcement is the top edge 696.

[0083] As can be seen from the above, the present invention is well suited to achieving all the objectives and goals set forth above, as well as other advantages that can be achieved by those skilled in the art and that are inherent to the structure.

[0084] It should be understood that certain features and sub-combinations are useful and can be employed without reference to other features and sub-combinations. This is contemplated by the claims and is within the scope of the claims.

[0085] Since many possible aspects can be made to this aspect without departing from the scope of the invention, it should be understood that everything set forth herein or shown in the drawings should be interpreted as illustrative rather than restrictive.

[0086] Some aspects of this disclosure have been described with reference to the examples provided in the accompanying drawings. Additional aspects of this disclosure will now be described, which may be related subject matter included at the time of filing in one or more claims or clauses of this application or in one or more related applications, but the claims or clauses are not limited to the subject matter described only in the following sections of this specification. These additional aspects may include features illustrated in the drawings, features not illustrated in the drawings, and any combination thereof. In describing these additional aspects, reference may be made to the elements depicted in the drawings for illustrative purposes.

[0087] As used herein and in conjunction with the claims listed below, the term "any clause" or similar variations thereof are intended to be interpreted as meaning that the features of the claim / clause can be combined in any combination. For example, exemplary clause 4 may indicate a method / apparatus according to any one of clauses 1 to 3, which is intended to be interpreted as meaning that the features of clauses 1 and 4 can be combined, the elements of clauses 2 and 4 can be combined, the elements of clauses 3 and 4 can be combined, the elements of clauses 1, 2, and 4 can be combined, the elements of clauses 2, 3, and 4 can be combined, the elements of clauses 1, 2, 3, and 4 can be combined, and / or other variations thereof. Furthermore, the term "any one of the clauses" or similar variations thereof are intended to include "any one of the clauses" or other variations of such terms, as indicated by some of the examples provided above.

[0088] The following terms are the aspects envisioned in this document.

[0089] Clause 1. A footwear article comprising: an upper coupled to a sole, the upper including a medial vamp, a lateral vamp, a heel region, and an ankle collar, the ankle collar being movable between a lowered state positioned closer to the sole and an elevated state positioned further away from the sole; a collar lifter, the collar lifter being at least positioned in the heel region and operable to move the ankle collar from the lowered state to the elevated state; a tongue having an outward-facing surface; a medial connector attaching the outward-facing surface to the medial vamp, wherein the medial connector includes a medial connector midpoint; a lateral connector attaching the outward-facing surface to the lateral vamp, wherein the lateral connector includes a lateral connector midpoint spaced apart from the medial connector midpoint by a first length; and a tongue reinforcement coupled to the tongue and having a medial edge and a lateral edge of the tongue reinforcement spaced apart from each other by a second length, wherein the second length is equal to or greater than the first length.

[0090] Clause 2. The apparatus according to any one of the clauses, wherein when an applied force moves the ankle collar from the raised state to the lowered state, the collar lifter stores potential energy by elastically deforming from a first configuration to a second configuration, and wherein when the applied force is removed, the potential energy causes the collar lifter to return to the first configuration.

[0091] Clause 3. The device according to any one of the clauses, wherein the collar lifter includes an inner lever arm, an outer lever arm, and a central connecting strap, the central connecting strap connecting the inner lever arm to the outer lever arm and located in the rear portion of the ankle collar.

[0092] Clause 4. The device according to any one of the clauses, wherein the tongue includes a first material layer having a first stiffness; and wherein the tongue reinforcement includes a second material layer having a second stiffness equal to or greater than the first stiffness.

[0093] Clause 5. The device according to any one of the clauses, wherein the tongue includes a first material layer having the outward surface and an inward surface, and wherein the inward surface is between the tongue reinforcement and the outward surface.

[0094] Clause 6. The device according to any one of the clauses, wherein the tongue includes a first material layer having the outward surface and an inward surface, and wherein the outward surface is between the tongue reinforcement and the inward surface.

[0095] Clause 7. The device according to any one of the clauses, wherein the inner connector includes a first portion of a first hook-and-loop connector, wherein a second portion of the first hook-and-loop connector is attached to the inner shoe waist, wherein the outer connector includes a first portion of a second hook-and-loop connector, and wherein a second portion of the second hook-and-loop connector is attached to the outer shoe waist.

[0096] Clause 8. The apparatus according to any one of the clauses, wherein the tongue includes a tongue reference point relating to a latitudinal centerline reference plane of the footwear article, and wherein a portion of the tongue reinforcement having the second length is positioned between the tongue reference point and the gusset edge of the tongue.

[0097] Clause 9. A footwear article comprising: an upper coupled to a sole, the upper including a medial vamp, a lateral vamp, a heel area, and an ankle collar, the ankle collar being movable between a lowered state positioned closer to the sole and an elevated state positioned further away from the sole; a collar lifter, the collar lifter being at least positioned in the heel area and operable to move the ankle collar from the lowered state to the elevated state; a tongue having a vamp edge, an outward surface, and a tongue reference point intersecting a latitudinal midline reference plane of the footwear article; and an inner connector, the inner... A side connector attaches the outward-facing surface to the inner shoe waist; an outer connector, spaced apart from the inner connector by a first distance, attaches the outward-facing surface to the outer shoe waist; and a tongue reinforcement, coupled to the tongue, having at least a portion of a width including an inner edge, an outer edge, and a width from the inner edge to the outer edge, wherein the width is greater than the first distance, and wherein the at least portion is positioned between a tongue reference point and the vamp edge.

[0098] Clause 10. The apparatus according to any one of the clauses, wherein the second distance between the tongue reference point and the at least portion is equal to or greater than half of a third distance extending from the tongue reference point to the edge of the vamp.

[0099] Clause 11. The apparatus according to any one of the clauses, wherein when an applied force moves the ankle collar from the raised state to the lowered state, the collar lifter stores potential energy by elastically deforming from a first configuration to a second configuration, and wherein when the applied force is removed, the potential energy causes the collar lifter to return to the first configuration.

[0100] Clause 12. The device according to any one of the clauses, wherein the collar lifter includes an inner lever arm, an outer lever arm, and a central connecting strap, the central connecting strap connecting the inner lever arm to the outer lever arm and located in the rear portion of the ankle collar.

[0101] Clause 13. The device according to any one of the clauses, wherein the inner connector includes a first portion of a first hook-and-loop connector, wherein a second portion of the first hook-and-loop connector is attached to the inner shoe waist, wherein the outer connector includes a first portion of a second hook-and-loop connector, and wherein a second portion of the second hook-and-loop connector is attached to the outer shoe waist.

[0102] Clause 14. The device according to any one of the clauses, wherein the tongue includes a first material layer having the outward surface and an inward surface, and wherein the inward surface is between the tongue reinforcement and the outward surface.

[0103] Clause 15. The device according to any one of the clauses, wherein the tongue includes a first material layer having the outward surface and an inward surface, and wherein the outward surface is between the tongue reinforcement and the inward surface.

[0104] Clause 16. A footwear article comprising: an upper coupled to a sole, the upper including a medial vamp, a lateral vamp, a heel area, and an ankle collar, the ankle collar being movable between a lowered state positioned closer to the sole and an elevated state positioned further away from the sole; a collar lifter, the collar lifter being at least positioned in the heel area and operable to move the ankle collar from the lowered state to the elevated state; a tongue having a vamp edge, an outward surface, and a tongue reference point intersecting a latitudinal midline reference plane of the footwear article; and an inner connector. The inner connector attaches the outer surface to the inner instep; the outer connector attaches the outer surface to the outer instep; and the tongue reinforcement is coupled to the tongue and has a tongue reinforcement width extending from the inner edge to the outer edge and a tongue reinforcement length extending from the top edge to the bottom edge, wherein the tongue reinforcement width is greater than the tongue reinforcement length, and wherein the top edge of the tongue reinforcement is between the tongue reference point and the instep edge.

[0105] Clause 17. The device according to any one of the clauses, wherein the bottom edge of the tongue reinforcement is positioned between the tongue reference point and the cuff edge.

[0106] Clause 18. The device according to any one of the clauses, wherein the width of the tongue reinforcement is greater than the distance that spacees the inner connector from the outer connector.

[0107] Clause 19. The device according to any one of the clauses, wherein the top edge of the tongue reinforcement includes the width of the tongue reinforcement.

[0108] Clause 20. The device according to any one of the clauses, wherein the bottom edge of the tongue reinforcement includes the width of the tongue reinforcement.

Claims

1. A footwear product, comprising: An upper attached to the sole, the upper including a medial side, a lateral side, a heel area and an ankle collar, the ankle collar being movable between a lowered state positioned closer to the sole and an elevated state positioned further away from the sole; A collar lifter, wherein the collar lifter is at least located in the heel region and operable to move the ankle collar from the lowered state to the raised state; The shoe tongue has a foremost edge and a vamp edge, the vamp edge being along the rear portion of the shoe tongue; An inner connector that attaches the shoe tongue to the inside; An outer connector that attaches the shoe tongue to the outside and is spaced apart from the inner connector by a first length; as well as A tongue reinforcement comprising an additional material portion bonded to one or more layers of tongue material, the additional material portion increasing at least some rigidity of the tongue, and the tongue reinforcement having an inner edge and an outer edge of a tongue reinforcement spaced apart from each other by a second length, wherein the second length is equal to or greater than a first length, and wherein the tongue reinforcement is positioned closer to the cuff edge than the foremost edge. The tongue includes a first material layer having a first stiffness; and the additional material portion of the tongue reinforcement includes a second material layer having a second stiffness equal to or greater than the first stiffness.

2. The footwear article of claim 1, wherein when an applied force moves the ankle collar from the raised state to the lowered state, the collar lifter stores potential energy by elastically deforming from a first configuration to a second configuration, and wherein when the applied force is removed, the potential energy causes the collar lifter to return to the first configuration.

3. The footwear article according to claim 2, wherein the collar lifter includes an inner lever arm, an outer lever arm, and a central connecting strap, the central connecting strap connecting the inner lever arm to the outer lever arm and located in the rear portion of the ankle collar.

4. The footwear article of claim 1, wherein the tongue comprises a first material layer having an outward surface and an inward surface, and wherein the inward surface is between the tongue reinforcement and the outward surface.

5. The footwear article of claim 1, wherein the tongue comprises a first material layer having an outward surface and an inward surface, and wherein the outward surface is between the tongue reinforcement and the inward surface.

6. The footwear article of claim 1, wherein the inner connector includes a first portion of a first hook-and-loop connector, wherein a second portion of the first hook-and-loop connector is attached to the inner side, wherein the outer connector includes a first portion of a second hook-and-loop connector, and wherein a second portion of the second hook-and-loop connector is attached to the outer side.

7. The footwear article of claim 1, wherein the tongue includes a tongue reference point relating to a latitudinal centerline reference plane of the footwear article, and wherein a portion of the tongue reinforcement having the second length is positioned between the tongue reference point and the edge of the tongue opening.

8. A footwear product, comprising: An upper attached to the sole, the upper including a medial side, a lateral side, a heel area and an ankle collar, the ankle collar being movable between a lowered state positioned closer to the sole and an elevated state positioned further away from the sole; A collar lifter, wherein the collar lifter is at least located in the heel region and operable to move the ankle collar from the lowered state to the raised state; The shoe tongue has an opening edge and a shoe tongue reference point that intersects with the weft centerline reference plane of the footwear product; At least one connector that attaches the tongue to the inner or outer side; and A tongue reinforcement comprising an additional material portion bonded to a material layer of the tongue, the additional material portion increasing at least some rigidity of the tongue, and the tongue reinforcement having at least a portion overlapping the at least one connector, wherein said portion is positioned between a tongue reference point and the cuff edge. The tongue includes a first material layer having a first stiffness; and the additional material portion of the tongue reinforcement includes a second material layer having a second stiffness equal to or greater than the first stiffness.

9. The footwear article of claim 8, wherein the second distance between the reference point of the tongue and the portion is equal to or greater than half of a third distance extending from the reference point of the tongue to the edge of the opening.

10. The footwear article of claim 8, wherein when an applied force moves the ankle collar from the raised state to the lowered state, the collar lifter stores potential energy by elastically deforming from a first configuration to a second configuration, and wherein when the applied force is removed, the potential energy causes the collar lifter to return to the first configuration.

11. The footwear article of claim 10, wherein the collar lifter comprises an inner lever arm, an outer lever arm, and a central connecting strap, the central connecting strap connecting the inner lever arm to the outer lever arm and located in the rear portion of the ankle collar.

12. The footwear article of claim 8, wherein the connector comprises a first portion of a hook-and-loop connector, and wherein a second portion of the hook-and-loop connector is attached to the inner side or the outer side.

13. The footwear article of claim 8, wherein the tongue comprises a first material layer having an outward surface and an inward surface, and wherein the inward surface is between the tongue reinforcement and the outward surface.

14. The footwear article of claim 8, wherein the tongue comprises a first material layer having an outward surface and an inward surface, and wherein the outward surface is between the tongue reinforcement and the inward surface.

15. A footwear product, comprising: An upper attached to the sole, the upper including a medial side, a lateral side, a heel area and an ankle collar, the ankle collar being movable between a lowered state positioned closer to the sole and an elevated state positioned further away from the sole; A collar lifter, wherein the collar lifter is at least located in the heel region and operable to move the ankle collar from the lowered state to the raised state; The shoe tongue has an opening edge and a shoe tongue reference point that intersects with the weft centerline reference plane of the footwear product; At least one connector that attaches the tongue to the inner or outer side; and A tongue reinforcement includes an additional material portion bonded to a material layer of the tongue, the additional material portion increasing at least some rigidity of the tongue, and the tongue reinforcement has a width extending from an inner edge to an outer edge, and a length extending from a top edge to a bottom edge, wherein the width is greater than the length, and wherein the top edge is located between a reference point on the tongue and the edge of the hem. The tongue includes a first material layer having a first stiffness; and the additional material portion of the tongue reinforcement includes a second material layer having a second stiffness equal to or greater than the first stiffness.

16. The footwear article of claim 15, wherein the bottom edge of the tongue reinforcement is positioned between the tongue reference point and the edge of the opening.

17. The footwear article of claim 15, wherein the tongue reinforcement includes a portion overlapping the at least one connector, and wherein the portion is located between the tongue reference point and the cuff edge.

18. The footwear article of claim 17, wherein the top edge of the tongue reinforcement includes the width of the tongue reinforcement.

19. The footwear article of claim 18, wherein the bottom edge of the tongue reinforcement includes the width of the tongue reinforcement.

20. A footwear product, comprising: An upper attached to the sole, the upper including a medial side, a lateral side, a heel area and an ankle collar, the ankle collar being movable between a lowered state positioned closer to the sole and an elevated state positioned further away from the sole; The shoe tongue has a foremost edge and a vamp edge, the vamp edge being along the rear portion of the shoe tongue; An inner connector having a width and a midpoint, the inner connector attaching the shoe tongue to the inner side; An outer connector having a width and a midpoint, the outer connector attaching the tongue to the outside and spaced apart from the inner connector by a first length; as well as A tongue reinforcement comprising an additional material portion bonded to a material layer of the tongue, the additional material portion increasing at least some rigidity of the tongue, and the tongue reinforcement having an inner edge and an outer edge of the tongue reinforcement spaced apart from each other by a second length, wherein the second length is equal to or greater than a first length, and wherein the tongue reinforcement is positioned closer to the cuff edge than the foremost edge. The tongue includes a first material layer having a first stiffness; and the additional material portion of the tongue reinforcement includes a second material layer having a second stiffness equal to or greater than the first stiffness.

21. The footwear article of claim 20, wherein the tongue comprises a first material layer having an outer surface and an inner surface, and wherein the inner surface is between the tongue reinforcement and the outer surface.

22. The footwear article of claim 21, wherein the tongue reinforcement is attached to the inner surface of the first material layer of the tongue.

23. The footwear article of claim 20, wherein the tongue comprises a first material layer having an outer surface and an inner surface, and wherein the outer surface is between the tongue reinforcement and the inner surface.

24. The footwear article of claim 20, wherein the inner connector includes a first portion of a first hook-and-loop connector, wherein a second portion of the first hook-and-loop connector is attached to the inner side, wherein the outer connector includes a first portion of a second hook-and-loop connector, and wherein a second portion of the second hook-and-loop connector is attached to the outer side.

25. The footwear article of claim 20, wherein the tongue includes a tongue reference point intersecting a latitudinal centerline reference plane of the footwear article, and wherein a portion of the tongue reinforcement is positioned between the tongue reference point and the edge of the tongue opening.

26. The footwear article of claim 25, wherein the entire tongue reinforcement is positioned between the tongue reference point and the opening of the tongue.

27. The footwear article of claim 25, wherein the tongue comprises an inner tongue layer and an outer tongue layer, and wherein the tongue reinforcement is located between the inner tongue layer and the outer tongue layer.

28. A footwear product, comprising: An upper attached to the sole, the upper including a forefoot area, a medial side, a lateral side, a heel area, and an ankle collar; The shoe tongue has an opening edge and a shoe tongue reference point that intersects with the weft centerline reference plane of the footwear, wherein the opening edge is closer to the heel area than the forefoot area; At least one connector that attaches the tongue to the inner or outer side; and A tongue reinforcement comprising an additional material portion bonded to a material layer of the tongue, the additional material portion increasing at least some rigidity of the tongue, and the tongue reinforcement having at least a portion overlapping the at least one connector, wherein said portion is positioned between a tongue reference point and the cuff edge. The tongue includes a first material layer having a first stiffness; and the additional material portion of the tongue reinforcement includes a second material layer having a second stiffness equal to or greater than the first stiffness.

29. The footwear article of claim 28, wherein the second distance between the reference point of the tongue and the portion is equal to or greater than half of a third distance extending from the reference point of the tongue to the edge of the opening.

30. The footwear article of claim 28, wherein the connector comprises a first portion of a hook-and-loop connector, and wherein a second portion of the hook-and-loop connector is attached to the inner side or the outer side.

31. The footwear article of claim 28, wherein the tongue comprises a first material layer having an outer surface and an inner surface, and wherein the inner surface is between the tongue reinforcement and the outer surface.

32. The footwear article of claim 28, wherein the tongue comprises a first material layer having an outer surface and an inner surface, and wherein the outer surface is between the tongue reinforcement and the inner surface.

33. A footwear product, comprising: An upper attached to the sole, the upper including a medial side, a lateral side, a heel area and an ankle collar, the ankle collar being movable between a lowered state positioned closer to the sole and an elevated state positioned further away from the sole; The shoe tongue has an opening edge and a shoe tongue reference point that intersects with the weft centerline reference plane of the footwear product; At least one connector that attaches the tongue to the inner or outer side; and A tongue reinforcement includes an additional material portion bonded to a material layer of the tongue, the additional material portion increasing at least some rigidity of the tongue, and the tongue reinforcement has a width extending from an inner edge to an outer edge, and a length extending from a top edge to a bottom edge, wherein the width is greater than the length, and wherein the top edge is located between a reference point on the tongue and the edge of the hem. The tongue includes a first material layer having a first stiffness; and the additional material portion of the tongue reinforcement includes a second material layer having a second stiffness equal to or greater than the first stiffness.

34. The footwear article of claim 33, wherein the bottom edge of the tongue reinforcement is positioned between the tongue reference point and the edge of the opening.

35. The footwear article of claim 33, wherein the tongue reinforcement includes a portion overlapping the at least one connector, and wherein the portion is located between the tongue reference point and the cuff edge.

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