Upper including protrusions

Abstract

The present invention relates to an upper for an athletic shoe, comprising a plurality of regions, including: a medial region, a lateral region, a toe region, a instep region, a heel region, and a collar region, wherein the upper comprises at least one protrusion in at least four of the above-mentioned regions, and wherein the protrusion protrudes from an outer surface of the upper.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of Chinese invention patent application filed on May 11, 2021, with application number 202110508801.9 and invention title "Including a Protruding Shoe Upper". Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to a shoe upper including protrusions, and more particularly to protrusions having a specific arrangement on the shoe upper. Background Technology

[0003] Athletic shoes must meet a variety of requirements. Besides good wearing comfort, they must also provide the best possible support for the athlete. Especially in ball sports such as soccer or rugby, the shoe's upper must be designed to provide optimal foot-to-ball contact. A key aspect is the customized friction between the shoe's upper and the ball to improve ball control across the entire shoe, rather than just in certain areas.

[0004] Energy transfer during a kick can be optimized through various applications applied to the uppers of athletic shoes. These applications allow athletes to perform specific techniques, such as spinning the ball. In existing technology, these applications are mostly made of rubber and are only distributed in specific areas of the shoe's upper where the primary contact with the ball occurs.

[0005] For example, WO 2010 / 086672 A1 relates to an athletic shoe in which the upper includes a deformable protrusion in the forefoot area, the deformable protrusion being in the form of a suction cup.

[0006] CN206390385U relates to a training shoe having a highly elastic rubber outer layer, which is distributed on the outer surface in the form of small rubber cylindrical protrusions.

[0007] CN207269957 relates to a football boot with high-speed ball control, wherein the upper is provided with protrusions including small circular suction cups.

[0008] US 9693694 B2 relates to a footwear article in which the outsole may include lateral and medial arch portions for attaching friction.

[0009] EP 1430801 A1 relates to a footwear article including a ball control area, such as a football boot. The ball control area includes a series of geometric protrusions of varying sizes arranged on the upper of the football boot.

[0010] WO 2010 / 055276 A1 relates to a ball control component for athletic shoes, wherein the upper surface of the ball control component is provided with a plurality of diamond-shaped rubber parts.

[0011] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a shoe for ball sports, particularly a shoe for football, which has improved grip, thereby allowing for improved ball control. Furthermore, the object of the present invention is to provide a shoe for ball sports, particularly a shoe for football, with improved fit. Summary of the Invention

[0012] The above problem is solved by an upper for an athletic shoe that includes multiple regions, including: a medial region, a lateral region, a toe region, an instep region, a heel region, and a collar region, wherein the upper includes at least one protrusion in at least four of the aforementioned regions, and wherein the protrusion extends from the outer surface of the upper.

[0013] The fact that the protrusions are not only distributed in a limited area but extend to many areas of the shoe's upper results in improved ball control throughout the shoe. Because many areas of the upper include grip and damping elements, more creative movement techniques are possible. Therefore, athletes can interact with the ball not only using the forefoot and sides of the shoe but also the heel or instep areas. This leads to many new ways of maneuvering the ball and executing special skills or feints, as well as increasing ball spin.

[0014] The upper may include at least one protrusion in each of the multiple regions. In this way, the advantageous effects of the invention are even more pronounced.

[0015] The upper may include at least one protrusion in the medial, lateral, toe, and instep areas. Distributing these protrusions in these areas further improves ball control. The combination of protrusions in the medial, lateral, toe, and instep areas particularly supports ball control during kicks for scoring. The distribution in the aforementioned areas enables more precise goal-scoring shots.

[0016] The upper may include at least one protrusion in the medial, lateral, toe, instep, and heel areas. Distributing protrusions in these areas can further improve ball control, particularly for shooting and executing tricks. Many feints in football involve guiding the ball around the player's heel. Protrusions in the heel area further enhance the player's ability to perform tricks and feints.

[0017] According to the invention, at least one protrusion in the first region of the aforementioned plurality of regions may differ in size and / or shape and / or orientation from at least one protrusion in the second region of the aforementioned plurality of regions. To provide improved functional performance of the athletic shoe, different regions of the shoe should have specific and varying characteristics, thus allowing for selective ball control. In the kicking zone, maximum energy transfer is required, while in the heel zone, better ball control is needed when performing tricks. In some zones, the athlete should be able to easily spin the ball, while in others, lateral movement of the ball should be avoided.

[0018] The upper can include multiple protrusions in a first and second region, and the distribution density of the protrusions in the first region can differ from that in the second region. Different distribution densities result in different cushioning behaviors and ball control. Therefore, it is possible to respond to changes in ball contact by altering the distribution density of the protrusions. Furthermore, the stretchability of the upper can be adjusted by regulating the distribution density of the protrusions in different regions. If the base material of the upper in the first region is flexible, a high distribution density results in lower stretchability in the first region. A low distribution density results in greater stretchability in the first region.

[0019] The upper may include at least two protrusions in at least one of multiple areas, and the at least two protrusions may differ in size and / or shape and / or orientation. With at least two protrusions differing in size and / or shape and / or orientation, the characteristics of each of the multiple areas can be adjusted very individually. This also makes it possible to customize products to meet the needs of individual athletes.

[0020] The upper may include multiple protrusions in at least one of several regions, and these protrusions may be unevenly distributed in at least one region. The transition from one region to another may require adjusting the density of the protrusions to ensure their uneven distribution within a single area. This uneven distribution is not random and can be designed as a pattern for a specific function. For example, the pattern may have a “flowing” or generally dynamic appearance. In this way, for example, channels may be formed by the protrusions through which moisture can be more effectively removed from the surface of the upper. Water is more efficiently expelled from the surface of the upper because airflow can be generated through these channels during dynamic movement.

[0021] The upper may include multiple protrusions in at least one of several regions, and two adjacent protrusions in at least one region may include substantially the same orientation. In the context of this invention, this will be understood as the axes of symmetry of adjacent protrusions being aligned within a tolerance of a few degrees, for example, within ten degrees, more preferably within five degrees. Alignment of one protrusion relative to an adjacent protrusion results in regions having similar protrusion orientations. In this way, streamlined orientations are possible. However, on a larger scale, the alignment of protrusions can differ by more than just a few degrees.

[0022] In the context of this invention, two non-adjacent protrusions in at least one region may include different orientations. By gradually changing the orientation, curved channels can be formed. Targeted removal of moisture can be achieved via these curved channels. Further visual effects can be created that can help identify athletes on the field.

[0023] The upper may include a base material forming an attachment for at least one protrusion. The upper may be formed of only the base material. Alternatively, the base material may cover an underlying layer of the upper. This underlying layer may be a lining, such as a fabric lining that comes into contact with the foot when the shoe is worn.

[0024] A base material can form the outer surface of the upper. Depending on the material of the protrusions, the base material can be selected to ensure ideal adhesion. This allows for protrusions to be provided in different areas of the upper, even if the underlying material in those areas may differ. Alternatively, the base material can be at least partially covered by a coating. This coating can be applied to the outside of the base layer and provide additional properties, such as additional abrasion resistance. The coating can form the outer surface of the upper, at least in some areas. This allows for protrusions with ideal adhesion in different areas of the upper, such as areas where the base material forms the outer surface of the upper and / or areas where the coating forms the outer surface of the upper. The protrusions can be directly applied to the base material and / or directly applied to the coating.

[0025] The base material of the shoe upper may include fabric and / or synthetic materials. Depending on the material of the protrusions, the base material may include fabric or synthetic materials to ensure ideal adhesion.

[0026] The base material of the shoe upper can include stretch in a first region and a second stretch in a second region. The first and second stretch can be different. The different stretch properties of the base material in different regions improve the functionality of the shoe. For example, the instep area may require greater flexibility than the kicking area.

[0027] The protrusions can comprise rubber and / or cast polyurethane (CPU) and / or silicone. Depending on the desired level of energy transfer, softer or harder materials can be used. This allows for fine-tuning of the upper's response to the ball. Furthermore, the choice of protrusion material can depend on the base or underlayer material of the upper to achieve good adhesion. Using both rubber and CPU protrusions on a single upper allows for fine-tuning and customization of grip and ball control.

[0028] The protrusions in the outer, inner, and toe areas may comprise rubber. The rubber incorporates high energy transfer properties, particularly in the kicking area. Furthermore, the base material for these areas may comprise coated or foil-coated fabrics, providing a strong bond to the rubber material.

[0029] The protrusions in the instep, heel, and collar areas may include CPU and / or silicone. The softer material increases the cushioning properties of the upper, which is desirable for athletes performing tricks. The base material in these areas may include fabrics such as knitted, mesh, or Lycra. Compared to rubber materials, CPU and / or silicone generally have better adhesion to fabrics.

[0030] The present invention also relates to a shoe comprising an upper as described herein and a sole attached to the upper.

[0031] Another aspect of the invention relates to an upper for an athletic shoe, comprising at least one protrusion on the outer surface of the upper, wherein the at least one protrusion includes a deltoid-shaped or circular base region and forms at least one peak extending from the outer surface of the upper. The shape of the protrusion directly affects friction. Utilizing this specific shape, the coefficient of friction can be optimized, giving the athlete an advantage. Thus, an upper that provides greater control when kicking a ball is provided. When kicking the ball, the protrusion interacts with the surface of the ball, thereby enhancing the friction between the upper and the ball, and thus enhancing ball control.

[0032] The basal region of a triangle can include a convex deltoid and / or a concaved deltoid. Both triangle forms positively affect friction in the foot-ball interaction.

[0033] The base region of a triangle can include two adjacent sides of a first length and two adjacent sides of a second length different from the first length. For example, the base region of a triangle can have the shape of a kite. It is important to clarify that a regular rhombus has different friction compared to an actual triangle. Compared to a regular rhombus base region, a triangular base region offers greater freedom in designing protrusions, allowing them to interact with the sphere in a beneficial way.

[0034] At least one protrusion may include at least one notch, such that at least one protrusion comprises at least two peaks. Maximum energy transfer is achieved with a single peak. However, if the athlete not only wants to kick the ball but also to perform a skill, thus requiring greater cushioning of the ball on the shoe, then several peaks are advantageous.

[0035] The upper may include at least one protrusion in each of the medial, lateral, instep, heel, collar, and toe areas. The distribution of protrusions throughout the shoe allows for 360° control of the ball.

[0036] At least one protrusion in different areas may include different shapes and / or materials. Specific shapes and materials are required depending on the area of ​​the upper. For example, the kicking zone requires a different shape and material than areas not used for kicking, but in this area, for example, it may be necessary for the ball to be balanced on the upper for as long as possible.

[0037] At least one protrusion in the lateral, medial, and toe areas may include a peak, and at least one protrusion in the instep and heel areas may include at least one peak. By adjusting the number of peaks included in at least one protrusion, the cushioning or absorption effect of the shoe upper can be customized according to the athlete's preferences.

[0038] At least one protrusion may comprise rubber and / or cast polyurethane (CPU) and / or silicone. Besides shape, the elasticity of the material also plays a crucial role. Different materials are used to form the protrusion depending on whether the ball's impact is to be maintained or mitigated as much as possible.

[0039] At least one protrusion in the lateral, medial, and toe regions may comprise rubber. The rubber is characterized by the high energy transfer required in the lateral, medial, and toe regions.

[0040] At least one protrusion in the instep, heel, and collar areas may include a CPU and / or silicon. These areas have different requirements, where ball control is the primary focus and maximum impact transfer is not necessary. Therefore, CPUs and / or silicon are used in these areas.

[0041] At least one protrusion on the upper can be flexible. Flexible protrusions can provide better absorption of impact from the ball.

[0042] The upper can include at least two protrusions with different stiffnesses. Stiffness also affects how the impact of the ball is absorbed by the upper.

[0043] The present invention also relates to a shoe comprising an upper as described herein and a sole attached to the upper.

[0044] Another aspect of the invention relates to an upper for an athletic shoe, comprising an instep portion and a collar portion, wherein the collar portion is partially connected to the instep portion such that it partially overlaps the instep portion. In particular, the instep portion and the collar portion are advantageously separate members connected to each other only at selected points or areas. In unconnected areas, the separation between the instep portion and the collar portion allows the upper to easily extend when the user steps into the shoe. This aspect of the invention offers the advantage of providing a comfortable fit, easy on-the-shoulder design, and simultaneously reliable locking, especially for mid-cut shoes, i.e., shoes that at least partially cover the wearer's ankle. Furthermore, secure locking can be achieved without laces.

[0045] The instep portion may include an edge, and the collar portion may connect to the instep portion at a portion of the edge. The edge of the instep portion may connect to the collar portion at the lower part of the ankle or heel area. This connection allows for partial overlap between the collar and instep portions, as well as strong support in the ankle area. The stretchable overlap facilitates easy slip-on.

[0046] In the overlapping area, the collar portion can define the outer surface of the shoe upper, while the instep portion can define the inner surface.

[0047] The collar portion may include an edge, and a portion of the edge of the collar portion may be connected to the instep portion.

[0048] Alternatively, or in addition to the connection between the edge of the instep portion and the collar portion, the collar portion, and particularly the edge of the collar portion, may connect to the instep portion in the midfoot area of ​​the upper. This connection allows the instep portion to fit snugly against the back of the foot. Furthermore, due to this connection, when the instep portion is pushed forward by the wearer's foot, such as when the wearer is running or making sudden movements with the foot, the collar portion attaches more tightly to the Achilles tendon and the heel of the wearer's foot. Therefore, even under heavy loads such as sprinting or kicking a ball, the shoe remains firmly in place on the foot.

[0049] The collar and / or instep portion can be made of fabric, preferably knitted fabric. This allows for precise design of the shape of the collar and / or instep portion while reducing the amount of material needed for the waist section.

[0050] The collar portion may include a first component and a second component. The division of the collar portion allows for a more precise shaping of the collar portion relative to the anatomy of the foot and results in a better distribution of forces acting on the material under strain.

[0051] The first component can be located on the inside of the upper, and the second component can be located on the outside of the upper. The connection between the closed heel area and the inside and outside of the shoe provides reliable wearing comfort and a snug fit.

[0052] The first and second components can be connected at least partially at the heel area of ​​the upper. The first component can be partially connected to the instep portion on the inner side of the upper, and the second component can be partially connected to the instep portion on the outer side of the upper. The special design and arrangement of the three components of the fabric, and their connection, particularly the special design and arrangement of the knitted fabric (the first component, the second component, and the instep portion), results in the advantageous effect of forming a 3D structure of the upper around the instep, as well as around the Achilles tendon and in the heel area, which can be achieved without complex knitting techniques. Therefore, a stable 3D structure can be achieved by simply using and connecting the components of the knitted fabric.

[0053] The distance between the edge of the collar and the sole of the upper can increase from the midfoot area to the heel area of ​​the upper. Specifically, in the heel area, the distance between the collar and the sole can be greater than the distance between the instep and the sole. More specifically, in the heel area, the collar can extend higher in the midfoot area than the instep. Through the special design and arrangement of the collar and instep sections of the upper, when the shoe is worn, the wearer's Achilles tendon area is covered and protected by the upper, while the forefoot remains uncovered, allowing for greater freedom of movement.

[0054] Therefore, the collar section can be adapted to at least partially cover the wearer's Achilles tendon. This partial coverage of the Achilles tendon ensures that the area is protected. On the other hand, once the shoe is on, this construction also results in easier footing and a more stable fit.

[0055] As mentioned earlier, the upper may include knitted fabric. Using knitted fabric has several advantages, such as comfortable wear provided by optimal alignment with a given foot shape, and better protection of the athlete's foot from injury provided by the high flexibility of the knitted fabric.

[0056] The upper can be laceless. Laceless uppers save athletes time when putting on the shoes and make cleaning easier. Furthermore, it avoids the possibility of tangled laces causing accidents or injuries, and also prevents the problem of laces suddenly coming undone during exercise.

[0057] The present invention also relates to a shoe comprising an upper as described herein and a sole attached to the upper. Attached Figure Description

[0058] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. These drawings illustrate:

[0059] Figure 1A Example of a preferred embodiment of the athletic shoe according to the present invention is shown;

[0060] Figure 1B An example of a preferred embodiment of the athletic shoe according to the invention is shown from the front side;

[0061] Figure 1C An example of a preferred embodiment of the athletic shoe according to the invention is shown from the rear side;

[0062] Figure 2 The upper of a sports shoe has multiple protrusions, the protrusions having a shape according to another aspect of the invention;

[0063] Figure 3A The outer surface of the upper of a sports shoe having multiple protrusions, the protrusions having a shape according to another aspect of the invention;

[0064] Figure 3B Illustration of the outer surface of another embodiment of the upper of a sports shoe having multiple protrusions having a shape according to another aspect of the invention;

[0065] Figure 4A Example of a preferred embodiment, shown from a top view, illustrates the upper of a sports shoe according to another aspect of the invention;

[0066] Figure 4B Example of a preferred embodiment, showing the upper of a sports shoe with laces according to another aspect of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0067] Possible embodiments of the present invention will be described in the following detailed description, primarily referring to athletic shoes. It should be emphasized that the present invention is not limited to these embodiments.

[0068] Figure 1A , 1B Figures 1 and 1C show embodiments of the upper 101 of the athletic shoe 100 according to the invention from the outer, front, and rear sides of the shoe, respectively. The upper 101 includes a plurality of protrusions 102 and 110 in the instep region 116, a plurality of protrusions 103 in the outer region 118, a plurality of protrusions 104 in the toe region 117, a plurality of protrusions 107 in the inner region 119, a plurality of protrusions 105 in the collar region 114, and a plurality of protrusions 106 in the heel region 115. The protrusions project from the outer surface of the upper 101 and are flexible, allowing them to deform upon contact with, for example, a ball.

[0069] All protrusions in the outer region 118, inner region 119, and toe region 117 have a single peak and comprise rubber, preferably a rubber material with a very light weight composition. Protrusions 102 and 110 in the instep region 116 have one peak (such as protrusion 110) or two peaks (such as protrusion 102), and protrusion 106 in the heel region 115 and protrusion 105 in the collar region 114 have one, two, or three peaks. Protrusions 102 and 110 in the instep region 116, protrusion 106 in the heel region 115, and protrusion 105 in the collar region 114 comprise cast polyurethane (CPU). In another embodiment, the protrusions in these regions may comprise silicone.

[0070] The upper 101 is made of a flexible base material that is non-uniform throughout the athletic shoe 100. Depending on the required elasticity in specific areas of the athletic shoe 100, the base material may include different materials. In the medial region 110, lateral region 118, and toe region 117, the base material comprises fabric. In these regions, the fabric base material is at least partially covered with a coating. In another embodiment, the coating may comprise a foil, preferably a polyurethane foil. The base material in the collar region 114, heel region 115, and instep region 116 comprises fabric. In another embodiment, the fabric may comprise knitted materials and / or mesh materials and / or materials made of elastane fibers. In a preferred embodiment, the fabric base material in the collar region 114, heel region 115, and instep region 116 is not covered with a coating, and the fabric base material forms the outer surface of the upper 101.

[0071] The protrusions are unevenly distributed on the shoe upper 101, either in one of several areas or in two areas, for contrast. The density of the protrusions differs significantly between the outer area 118 and the inner area 119. For example, as... Figure 1A As shown, the outer region 118 includes a region 1181 with a lower distribution density of protrusions and a region 1182 with a higher distribution density of protrusions. For athletic shoes, particularly football shoes, region 1181 is close to the quarter region as commonly understood in the art, and region 1182 is close to the midfoot region as commonly known. The medial region 119 (not shown) may have a similar arrangement of protrusions.

[0072] Within each of the multiple areas of the upper, the alignment of the protrusions is specifically designed to provide optimal ball control. The alignment of a protrusion is essentially based on the alignment of adjacent protrusions. This construction results in a streamlined orientation of the protrusions within each area and also throughout the entire upper. In the transition from the outer area 118 to the toe area 117, the arrangement and orientation of the protrusions can be described as concentric segments 111.

[0073] Compared to the protrusions 102, 110, 103, 104, and 107 in other areas 116, 117, 118, and 119, the protrusions 105 and 106 in the heel area 115 and the collar area 114 include increased dimensions.

[0074] In the context of this invention, references Figure 1C The heel region 115 is further defined to include the ankle region 113, which should be understood as the area around the athlete's ankle when wearing the athletic shoe. In a preferred embodiment, the protrusions in the ankle region 113 also include a CPU, similar to the protrusion 106 in the heel region 115. Compared to conventional athletic shoes, the additional CPU protrusions in the ankle region 113 provide shock absorption and thus additional ankle / foot protection.

[0075] In a preferred embodiment, the athletic shoe is laceless, therefore there are no laces in the instep region 116. In this case, the additional free space in the instep region 116 can be used to arrange more CPU protrusions to increase friction when kicking the ball, thereby improving ball spin. In another embodiment, the protrusions may be made of silicon. Alternatively, the athletic shoe may have laces in the instep region 116 and optionally have fewer or no protrusions in the instep region 116.

[0076] The instep region 116 may include a tongue region 1161, which is generally understood to be the top region of the instep region 116 near the user's ankle when wearing the athletic shoe. In addition to the protrusions 102, 110 in the instep region 116, the upper may also have protrusions in the tongue region. Alternatively, as... Figure 1A and 1B As shown, the tongue area may be without protrusions to provide easier stepping in when wearing athletic shoes.

[0077] Figure 2 A preferred embodiment of another aspect of the invention is shown, namely the upper 201 of an athletic shoe 200. The upper 201 includes a base material, which may include fabrics and / or synthetic materials.

[0078] exist Figure 2In some embodiments, the base material comprises a fabric. Specifically, the base material includes a knitted material, such as a plain knit fabric, in region 204, and a coating on top of the fabric base material in region 205. Furthermore, the base material may also include non-knitted materials, such as mesh materials or materials made of elastic fibers, in other regions. For example, in another embodiment, the coating on top of the base material in region 205 may comprise a foil, preferably a polyurethane foil.

[0079] The upper 201 includes a plurality of protrusions 202 having one peak and a plurality of protrusions 203 having two peaks. Each protrusion has a convex triangular base region. The convex triangular base corresponds to a kite-shaped base region. Typically, the triangle includes two adjacent sides of a first length and two opposing sides of a second length different from the first length. In other embodiments, the base region may have a concave triangular shape or a circular shape. In this embodiment, all protrusions, particularly those with two peaks, have at least one concave increase. This refers to the concave rise between the two peaks.

[0080] A protrusion 202 with one peak is located in region 205 of the upper 201 and comprises rubber. A protrusion 203 with two peaks is located in region 204 of the knitted material and comprises a CPU. In a further embodiment, the CPU may be replaced by silicon.

[0081] Figure 3A An upper 300 of an athletic shoe is shown. The upper 300 comprises a coated fabric with multiple protrusions 302, i.e., a fabric base material with a coating. Each protrusion 302 has a convex triangular base region and a peak. The protrusions 302 are unevenly distributed on the outer surface of the upper 300. Therefore, the upper 300 includes regions with varying protrusion densities. For example, the protrusion density in region 311 is significantly higher than that in region 312. The distribution and orientation of the protrusions result in a style corresponding to a structured profile.

[0082] Figure 3B Another embodiment of the invention is illustrated. On a first surface 307, protrusions formed thereon have circular base regions, such as protrusions 303, 304, and 305. On a second surface 308, protrusions formed thereon partially have concave triangular base regions, such as protrusion 306. Protrusions with circular base regions may include one peak, such as protrusion 304, or two peaks, such as protrusion 303. Peaks can be described as sharp cones curved in one direction, making them resemble spikes, as shown in more detail with respect to protrusion 305.

[0083] Figure 4A and 4B Another aspect of the invention is shown. Figure 4A The laceless upper 401 of the athletic shoe 400 is shown. Figure 4B The upper 401 of an athletic shoe 400 with shoelaces 406 is shown. Therefore, it should be understood that shoelaces 406 are optional in this embodiment. Figure 4A The upper and Figure 4B The uppers of all shoes are, in particular, mid-cut uppers, that is, uppers designed to at least partially cover the ankle of the wearer of the shoe.

[0084] The upper 401 includes the collar portion 403 and the instep portion 402. For example... Figure 4A As shown, the collar portion 403 can be understood as a portion that extends around at least a portion of the opening of the shoe used by the user and covers at least a portion of the wearer's heel. Specifically, for mid-top shoes, such as... Figure 4A and 4B The high-cut shoe shown, and for high-cut shoes, has a collar portion 403 designed to at least partially cover the Achilles tendon, and may cover at least part of the athlete's ankle when the athletic shoe 400 is worn. The edges of the collar portion 403 connect to the instep portion 402 on both sides 405. Specifically, the edges of the collar portion 403 connect to the instep portion 402 on the outer and inner sides of the upper 401. Since the collar portion 403 and the instep portion 402 are made of knitted material, they can be sewn together at positions 405a and 405b on both sides 405, respectively.

[0085] The main advantage is the second connection 404 between the edge of the instep portion 402 and the collar portion 403. These connections can be sewn together. The connection, particularly the seam 404, is located in the heel area at ankle height or below the ankle of the athlete wearing the athletic shoe 400, and is responsible for the partial overlap between the collar portion 403 and the instep portion 402. This connection in the heel area near the ankle of the athlete's foot ensures secure wearing comfort.

[0086] Specifically, in the overlapping area, the instep portion 402 defines the inner surface of the upper 401, while the collar portion 403 defines its outer surface. Figure 4B The dashed lines shown indicate the extension of the instep portion 402 within the collar portion 403 in the overlapping area.

[0087] The fact that the collar portion 403 and the instep portion 402 are connected only at selected points or areas, and thus separated in the remaining areas by the separation between them, allows for greater stretchability of the two portions in the unconnected areas, thus allowing the upper 401 to stretch easily when the user steps into the shoe 400.

[0088] In one embodiment, the collar portion 403 includes a component disposed on the inside of the upper and another component disposed on the outside of the upper.

[0089] The inner and outer components are preferably joined together at the heel area of ​​the upper, particularly on the back side of the shoe. For example, the inner and outer components may be sewn together along their rear edges. The two-component structure of the collar section allows the upper 401 to be more precisely shaped at the heel area, thus providing better support for the athlete's foot. Furthermore, embodiments where the components of the collar section 403 are made of knitted fabric also provide comfort and flexibility.

[0090] In another embodiment, the collar portion 403 may be made from a single component.

[0091] The instep portion 402 is partially surrounded by the collar portion 403, which provides a stable 3D construction using stitches 404a and 404b located near the ankle and more generally in the heel area, and stitches 405a and 405b located in the instep area. This results in a robust arrangement of the collar and instep portions, while simultaneously enhancing the stretch of both portions as previously mentioned, without the need for complex knitting techniques. Therefore, the elimination of complex knitting processes minimizes production costs and time.

[0092] In the heel area, the collar portion 403 is designed to be high enough to cover the athlete's Achilles tendon. Therefore, the collar portion 403 forms its highest point at the rear of the foot and slopes towards the midfoot. In other words, the distance between the edge of the collar portion 403 and the sole of the shoe gradually decreases from the heel area of ​​the upper 401 to the midfoot area. This causes the collar portion 403 in the rear of the shoe to extend beyond the instep portion 402, and then its height in the midfoot portion decreases as the instep portion 402 extends beyond the collar portion 403. Figure 4B As shown in the embodiment, shoelace 406 is optional.

[0093] The following describes another embodiment of the invention, which relates to an upper having a specific collar portion and an instep portion.

[0094] 1. An upper for a sports shoe, comprising:

[0095] Instep; and

[0096] Collar part;

[0097] The collar section connects to the instep.

[0098] This causes the collar of the shoe to overlap with the instep.

[0099] 2. The upper according to embodiment 1, wherein the collar portion includes an edge, and wherein a portion of the edge of the collar portion is connected to the instep portion.

[0100] 3. The upper according to one of embodiments 1-2, wherein the collar portion connects to the instep portion at the midfoot region of the upper.

[0101] 4. The upper according to any one of embodiments 1-3, wherein the collar portion includes a first component and a second component.

[0102] 5. The upper according to embodiment 4, wherein the first component is disposed on the inner side of the upper and the second component is disposed on the outer side of the upper.

[0103] 6. The upper according to embodiment 5, wherein the first component and the second component are connected at least partially at the heel area of ​​the upper.

[0104] 7. The upper according to one of embodiments 5-6, wherein a first component is partially connected to the instep portion at the inner side of the upper, and wherein a second component is partially connected to the instep portion at the outer side of the upper.

[0105] 8. The upper according to any one of embodiments 1-7, wherein the collar portion includes an edge, and the distance between the edge of the collar portion and the sole portion of the upper increases from the midfoot region of the upper to the heel region of the upper.

[0106] 9. The upper according to embodiment 8, wherein, in the rearfoot region, the distance between the edge of the collar portion and the sole portion is greater than the distance between the instep portion and the sole portion.

[0107] 10. The upper according to any one of embodiments 1-9, wherein the collar portion is adapted to at least partially cover the wearer's Achilles tendon.

[0108] 11. The upper according to any one of embodiments 1-10, wherein the upper comprises a knitted fabric.

[0109] 12. The upper according to any one of embodiments 1-11, wherein the upper is a laceless upper.

[0110] 13. A shoe comprising:

[0111] The shoe upper according to one of embodiments 1-12; and

[0112] The sole that is attached to the upper of the shoe.

[0113] The following describes another embodiment of the invention, which relates to a shoe upper with protrusions of a specific shape.

[0114] 1. An upper for a sports shoe, comprising:

[0115] At least one protrusion on the outer surface of the shoe upper;

[0116] At least one of the protrusions includes a triangular or circular base region and forms at least one peak extending from the outer surface of the shoe upper.

[0117] 2. The shoe upper according to Embodiment 1, wherein the triangular base region includes a convex triangle and / or a concave triangle.

[0118] 3. The shoe upper according to one of embodiments 1-2, wherein the base region of the triangle includes two adjacent sides of a first length and two adjacent sides of a second length different from the first length.

[0119] 4. The upper according to any one of embodiments 1-3, wherein at least one protrusion includes at least one notch, such that at least one protrusion includes at least two peaks.

[0120] 5. The upper according to any one of embodiments 1-4, wherein the upper includes at least one protrusion in each of the medial region, lateral region, instep region, heel region, collar region, and toe region.

[0121] 6. The upper according to embodiment 5, wherein at least one protrusion in different regions comprises different shapes and / or materials.

[0122] 7. The upper according to embodiment 6, wherein at least one protrusion in the outer region, the inner region and the toe region includes a peak, and wherein at least one protrusion in the instep region and the heel region includes at least one peak.

[0123] 8. The upper according to any one of Examples 1-7, wherein at least one protrusion comprises rubber and / or CPU and / or silicone.

[0124] 9. The upper according to embodiment 8, wherein at least one protrusion in the outer region, the inner region, and the toe region comprises rubber.

[0125] 10. The upper according to embodiment 8, wherein at least one protrusion in the instep region, heel region and collar region comprises CPU and / or silicon.

[0126] 11. The upper according to any one of embodiments 1-10, wherein at least one protrusion is flexible.

[0127] 12. The upper according to any one of embodiments 1-11, wherein the upper includes at least two protrusions with different hardnesses.

[0128] 13. A shoe comprising:

[0129] The shoe upper according to one of embodiments 1-12; and

[0130] The sole that is attached to the upper of the shoe.

[0131] The following is the original claims of the parent application:

[0132] 1. An upper for a sports shoe, comprising:

[0133] Multiple areas, including:

[0134] Inner region

[0135] outer region

[0136] Toe area

[0137] Instep area

[0138] Heel area, and

[0139] Collar area;

[0140] The upper includes at least one protrusion in at least four of the plurality of regions, and the protrusion protrudes from the outer surface of the upper.

[0141] 2. The upper according to claim 1, wherein the upper includes at least one protrusion in the inner region, the outer region, the toe region, and the instep region.

[0142] 3. The upper according to claim 1, wherein the upper includes at least one protrusion in the inner region, the outer region, the toe region, the instep region, and the heel region.

[0143] 4. The upper according to any one of items 1-3, wherein the at least one protrusion in the first region of the plurality of regions differs in size and / or shape and / or orientation from the at least one protrusion in the second region of the plurality of regions.

[0144] 5. The upper according to any one of items 1-4, wherein the upper includes a plurality of protrusions in a first region and a second region of the plurality of regions, and wherein the distribution density of the protrusions in the first region is different from the distribution density of the protrusions in the second region.

[0145] 6. The upper according to any one of items 1-5, wherein the upper includes at least two protrusions in at least one of the plurality of regions, and wherein the at least two protrusions differ in size and / or shape and / or orientation.

[0146] 7. The upper according to any one of items 1-6, wherein the upper includes a plurality of protrusions in at least one of the plurality of regions, and wherein the protrusions are unevenly distributed in the at least one region.

[0147] 8. The upper according to any one of items 1-7, wherein the upper includes a plurality of protrusions in at least one of the plurality of regions, and wherein two adjacent protrusions in the at least one region have substantially the same orientation.

[0148] 9. The upper according to item 8, wherein two non-adjacent protrusions in the at least one region have different orientations.

[0149] 10. The upper according to any one of items 1-9, wherein the upper comprises a base material forming an mounting element for the at least one protrusion.

[0150] 11. The upper according to claim 10, wherein the base material forms the outer surface of the upper.

[0151] 12. The upper according to item 10 or 11, wherein the base material of the upper comprises fabric and / or synthetic material.

[0152] 13. The upper according to any one of items 10-12, wherein the base material of the upper includes a first stretch in a first region of the plurality of regions and a second stretch in a second region of the plurality of regions, and wherein the first stretch and the second stretch are different.

[0153] 14. The upper according to any one of items 1-13, wherein the at least one protrusion comprises rubber and / or cast polyurethane CPU and / or silicone.

[0154] 15. The upper according to any one of items 1-14, wherein the protrusions in the outer region, the inner region and the toe region comprise rubber.

[0155] 16. The upper according to any one of items 1-15, wherein the protrusions in the instep region, and / or the heel region, and / or the collar region comprise cast polyurethane CPU and / or silicone.

[0156] 17. A shoe comprising:

[0157] The upper according to any one of items 1 to 16; and the sole attached to said upper.

Claims

1. An upper for a sports shoe, comprising: At least one protrusion on the outer surface of the shoe upper, wherein the at least one protrusion includes a triangular base region; The at least one protrusion forms at least one peak extending from the outer surface of the shoe upper; The special shape of the protrusions optimizes the coefficient of friction, allowing the protrusions to interact with the ball's surface when the ball is kicked, thereby enhancing the friction between the shoe upper and the ball, and thus improving ball control. The upper includes multiple areas, including: an inner area, an outer area, a toe area, an instep area, a heel area, and a collar area. The protrusions in the outer, inner, and toe areas contain rubber. The upper includes a plurality of protrusions in at least one of the plurality of regions, and the protrusions are unevenly distributed in the at least one region; in the outer region and / or the inner region, the region with lower distribution density is closer to the instep region, and the region with higher distribution density is closer to the midfoot region.

2. The upper according to claim 1, wherein the upper includes at least two protrusions in at least one of the plurality of regions, and wherein the at least two protrusions differ in size and / or shape and / or orientation.

3. The upper of claim 1, wherein the upper includes a plurality of protrusions in at least one of the plurality of regions, and wherein two adjacent protrusions in the at least one region have substantially the same orientation.

4. The upper according to claim 1, wherein the upper includes a plurality of protrusions in at least one of the plurality of regions, and wherein two non-adjacent protrusions in the at least one region have different orientations.

5. The upper of claim 1, wherein the upper comprises a base material forming an mounting element for the at least one protrusion.

6. The upper according to claim 5, wherein the base material forms the outer surface of the upper.

7. The upper according to claim 5, wherein the base material of the upper comprises fabric and / or synthetic material.

8. The upper according to claim 1, wherein the at least one protrusion comprises rubber and / or cast polyurethane (CPU) and / or silicone.

9. The shoe upper according to claim 1, wherein, The upper includes at least one protrusion in at least four of the plurality of regions.

10. The shoe upper according to claim 1, wherein, The instep area includes a tongue area, which has a protrusion.

11. The upper according to claim 9, wherein the at least one protrusion in the first region of the plurality of regions differs in size and / or shape and / or orientation from the at least one protrusion in the second region of the plurality of regions.

12. The upper of claim 9, wherein the upper includes a plurality of protrusions in a first region and a second region of the plurality of regions, and wherein the distribution density of the protrusions in the first region is different from the distribution density of the protrusions in the second region.

13. The upper of claim 9, wherein the upper comprises a base material forming an mounting element for the at least one protrusion. The base material includes a first tensile property in a first region of the plurality of regions and a second tensile property in a second region of the plurality of regions, and The first tensile property is different from the second tensile property.

14. The shoe upper according to claim 1, wherein, The upper includes multiple protrusions with one peak and multiple protrusions with two peaks.

15. The upper of claim 8, wherein the protrusions in the instep region, and / or the heel region, and / or the collar region comprise cast polyurethane (CPU) and / or silicone.

16. A shoe comprising: The upper according to any one of claims 1 to 15; as well as The sole is attached to the upper of the shoe.

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