Article of footwear having a sole plate

Abstract

An article of footwear having a sole structure and an upper, the sole structure including an outsole, a first cushioning member, a second cushioning member, and a midsole, the outsole having a ground engaging surface, the first cushioning member disposed between the outsole and the upper in a heel region of the sole structure, the second cushioning member disposed between the outsole and the upper in a forefoot region of the sole structure, the midsole having a rear portion and a flex portion, the flex portion including an anterior flex portion and a posterior flex portion. Further, the anterior flex portion is disposed proximate the second cushioning member, a portion of the posterior flex portion straddling between the first cushioning member and the second cushioning member, the rear portion disposed between the first cushioning member and the upper. Additionally, the ground engaging surface is non-contiguous along a midfoot region of the article of footwear.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This patent application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application 63 / 067,073, filed August 18, 2020, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference for any and all purposes.

[0003] References to federally sponsored research or development

[0004] not applicable.

[0005] sequence list

[0006] not applicable. Background Technology 1. Technical Field

[0008] This disclosure generally relates to footwear products, including soles.

[0009] 2. Background Description

[0010] Many conventional shoes or other footwear typically include an upper and a sole attached to the lower part of the upper. Conventional shoes also include an internal space (i.e., a cavity or air gap) formed by the inner surfaces of the upper and sole, which receives the user's foot before the shoe is secured to the foot. The sole is attached to the lower surface or boundary of the upper and positions itself between the upper and the ground. Therefore, when a shoe is worn, the sole typically provides stability and cushioning to the user. In some cases, the sole may include multiple components such as an outsole, midsole, and insole. The outsole provides traction to the bottom surface of the sole, and the midsole is attached to the inner surface of the outsole and provides cushioning or increased stability to the sole. For example, the sole may include a specific foam material that can increase stability along one or more desired locations on the sole or a foam material that reduces stress or impact energy to the foot or leg when the user is running, walking, or engaging in other activities. The sole may also include additional components, such as plates, which are embedded with the sole to increase the overall stiffness of the sole and reduce energy loss during use.

[0011] The upper typically extends upwards from the sole and defines an internal cavity that completely or partially surrounds the foot. In most cases, the upper extends over the instep and toe areas of the foot, extending across its inner and outer sides. Many footwear products may also include a tongue that extends across the instep area to bridge the gap between the inner and outer edges of the upper, defining an opening into the cavity. The tongue may also be positioned below the lacing system and between the inner and outer sides of the upper to allow for adjustment of the shoe's tightness. The tongue may also be user-operable to allow the foot to enter or exit the internal space or cavity. Furthermore, the lacing system allows the user to adjust certain dimensions of the upper or sole, thus allowing the upper to accommodate a wide variety of foot shapes and sizes.

[0012] The uppers of many shoes can include a wide variety of materials that can be used to form the upper and are selected based on one or more intended uses of the shoe. Uppers may also include sections made of different materials, specifically designed for particular areas of the upper. For example, increased stability may be desired near the forefoot or heel area of ​​the upper to provide a higher level of resistance or stiffness. Conversely, other parts of the shoe may include soft textiles to provide areas with tensile strength, flexibility, breathability, or moisture-wicking properties.

[0013] However, in many cases, footwear with uppers that offer increased comfort and a better fit is desirable, along with soles that have improved cushioning systems or structural properties, such as sole plates, to increase rigidity or spring-like properties. Summary of the Invention

[0014] As described herein, footwear articles can have various configurations. Footwear articles can have an upper and a sole structure attached to the upper.

[0015] In some embodiments, this disclosure provides a sole structure for footwear articles. The sole structure includes an outsole having a grounding surface. Additionally, the sole structure includes a first cushioning member, a second cushioning member, and a sole plate; the first cushioning member extends through a forefoot region, a midfoot region, and a heel region of the sole structure; the second cushioning member is disposed in the forefoot region of the sole structure between the outsole and the first cushioning member; the sole plate has a first portion and a second portion, the first portion being disposed between the outsole and the second cushioning member, and the second portion being disposed between the second cushioning member and the first cushioning member. Furthermore, the grounding surface is discontinuous along the midfoot region of the footwear article.

[0016] In another embodiment, the sole structure includes an outsole, a first cushioning member, a second cushioning member, and a sole plate; the outsole has a grounding surface; the first cushioning member extends through the forefoot region, midfoot region, and heel region of the sole structure; the second cushioning member is disposed between the outsole and the first cushioning member in the forefoot region of the sole structure; the sole plate has an upper flange, a lower flange, and a gap between the upper and lower flanges. Furthermore, a portion of the upper flange is disposed between the outsole and the second cushioning member, and a portion of the lower flange is disposed between the second and first cushioning members. Additionally, the grounding surface is discontinuous along the midfoot region of the footwear.

[0017] In other embodiments, the sole structure includes an outsole, a first cushioning member, a second cushioning member, and a sole plate; the outsole has a grounding surface; the first cushioning member is disposed between the outsole and the upper in the heel region of the sole structure; the second cushioning member is disposed between the outsole and the upper in the forefoot region of the sole structure; the sole plate has a rear portion and a curved portion, the curved portion including a forward curved portion and a backward curved portion. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the forward curved portion is disposed within the second cushioning member, a portion of the backward curved portion spans between the first and second cushioning members, and the rear portion is disposed between the first cushioning member and the upper. Additionally, the grounding surface is discontinuous along the midfoot region of the footwear.

[0018] In another embodiment, the sole structure includes an outsole, a first cushioning member, a second cushioning member, and a sole plate; the outsole has a grounding surface; the first cushioning member extends through the forefoot region, midfoot region, and heel region of the sole structure; the second cushioning member is disposed between the outsole and the first cushioning member in the forefoot region of the sole structure; and the sole plate is disposed between the first cushioning member and the upper in the midfoot region of the sole structure. Furthermore, the grounding surface is discontinuous along the midfoot region of the footwear.

[0019] Another aspect of this disclosure is a footwear article having a sole structure and an upper. In this embodiment, the sole structure includes an outsole, a first cushioning member, a second cushioning member, and a sole plate; the outsole has a grounding surface; the first cushioning member is disposed between the outsole and the upper in the heel region of the sole structure; the second cushioning member is disposed between the outsole and the upper in the forefoot region of the sole structure; the sole plate has a rear portion and a curved portion, the curved portion including a forward curved portion and a backward curved portion. The forward curved portion is disposed adjacent to the second cushioning member, a portion of the backward curved portion spans between the first and second cushioning members, and the rear portion is disposed between the first cushioning member and the upper. Furthermore, the grounding surface is discontinuous along the midfoot region of the footwear article.

[0020] In some other embodiments, the gap extends between the first and second cushioning members. Additionally, a portion of the midfoot area of ​​the sole structure comprises a sole plate, and the sole structure also includes a second plate. In some embodiments, the second plate includes sidewalls and surrounds the sole plate. Furthermore, in other embodiments, the sole plate includes a plurality of protrusions and grooves; and in these embodiments, a material, such as thermoplastic polyurethane, may be located within the grooves of the sole plate. In other embodiments, the sole plate may be made of carbon fiber, and the second plate may be made of thermoplastic polyurethane.

[0021] Another aspect of this disclosure provides a footwear article having a sole structure and an upper. In this embodiment, the sole structure includes a first cushioning member, a second cushioning member, and a plate; the first cushioning member is located in the heel region of the sole structure; the second cushioning member is located in the forefoot region of the sole structure; the plate extends continuously from the heel region, midfoot region, and forefoot region of the sole structure. Furthermore, a gap extends between the first and second cushioning members, and the plate extends between the gap.

[0022] In some embodiments, the plate may be located within the second cushioning member, and the plate may be positioned above the first cushioning member in the heel region of the sole structure. In these embodiments, a gap extends between the plate and the upper in the midfoot region of the sole structure. Furthermore, in other embodiments, the sole structure includes an outsole, a portion of the second cushioning member extending between the outsole and the plate in the forefoot region of the sole structure, and the first cushioning member extending between the plate and the outsole in the heel region of the sole structure.

[0023] In other embodiments, the plate may be located within the second buffer member and may be located within the first buffer member, such that the plate branches off the second buffer member and the first buffer member.

[0024] In other embodiments, the sole structure includes an outsole, a portion of a first cushioning member extending between a plate and an outsole in the heel region of the sole structure, and a portion of a second cushioning member extending between a plate and an outsole in the forefoot region of the sole structure. In some embodiments, the sole structure further includes a second plate having sidewalls surrounding the plate. In these embodiments, the plate may include a plurality of protrusions and grooves; and material may be located within the grooves of the plate.

[0025] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a footwear article is also provided, having a sole structure and an upper. In this embodiment, the sole structure includes an outsole, a first cushioning member, a second cushioning member, a first plate, and a second plate; the outsole has a grounding surface; the first cushioning member is disposed in the heel region of the sole member; the second cushioning member is disposed in the forefoot region of the sole structure; the first plate has a rear portion and a curved portion, the curved portion including a forward curved portion and a backward curved portion; the second plate has a base and a sidewall extending from the base. Furthermore, the forward curved portion is disposed adjacent to the second cushioning member, a portion of the backward curved portion spans between the first and second cushioning members, and the rear portion is disposed between the first cushioning member and the upper. Additionally, the first plate includes a plurality of protrusions and a plurality of grooves; and material is located within the grooves of the first plate.

[0026] Other aspects of footwear articles, including their features and advantages, will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the accompanying drawings and detailed description herein. Therefore, all such aspects of footwear articles are intended to be included within the details and summary of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0027] Figure 1 A lateral side view of a footwear article according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the footwear article being configured as a left shoe, the left shoe including an upper and a sole structure;

[0028] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A top transverse side view of the sole structure of a footwear product, the sole structure having a sole plate;

[0029] Figure 3 for Figure 2 A transverse side view of the sole structure;

[0030] Figure 4 for Figure 2 Bottom view of the shoe sole structure;

[0031] Figure 5 for Figure 2 An inside side view of the sole structure;

[0032] Figure 6 For along Figure 4 A sectional view of the sole structure intercepted by line 6-6;

[0033] Figure 7 for Figure 2 A top view of the shoe sole structure;

[0034] Figure 8 For along Figure 4 A sectional view of the sole structure intercepted by line 8-8;

[0035] Figure 9 For along Figure 4 A sectional view of the sole structure intercepted by line 9-9;

[0036] Figure 10 For along Figure 4 A sectional view of the sole structure intercepted by line 10-10;

[0037] Figure 11 For along Figure 4 A sectional view of the sole structure intercepted by line 11-11;

[0038] Figure 12 For along Figure 4 A sectional view of the sole structure intercepted by line 12-12;

[0039] Figure 13 for Figure 2 An isometric view of the sole plate of the shoe sole structure;

[0040] Figure 14 A lateral side view of a footwear article according to another embodiment of the present disclosure shows that the footwear article is configured as a left shoe, the left shoe including an upper and a sole structure;

[0041] Figure 15 for Figure 14 A top transverse side view of the sole structure of a footwear product, the sole structure having a sole plate;

[0042] Figure 16 for Figure 15 A transverse side view of the sole structure;

[0043] Figure 17 for Figure 15 Bottom view of the shoe sole structure;

[0044] Figure 18 for Figure 15 An inside side view of the sole structure;

[0045] Figure 19 For along Figure 17 A sectional view of the sole structure intercepted by line 19-19;

[0046] Figure 20 for Figure 15 A top view of the shoe sole structure;

[0047] Figure 21 For along Figure 17 A sectional view of the sole structure intercepted by line 21-21;

[0048] Figure 22 For along Figure 17 A sectional view of the sole structure intercepted by line 22-22;

[0049] Figure 23 For along Figure 17 A sectional view of the sole structure intercepted by line 23-23;

[0050] Figure 24 For along Figure 17 A sectional view of the sole structure intercepted by line 24-24;

[0051] Figure 25 For along Figure 17 A sectional view of the sole structure intercepted by line 25-25;

[0052] Figure 26 for Figure 15 An isometric view of the sole plate of the shoe sole structure;

[0053] Figure 27 for Figure 26 Side view of the shoe sole;

[0054] Figure 28 for Figure 26 A top view of the shoe sole;

[0055] Figure 29 A lateral side view of a footwear article according to another embodiment of the present disclosure shows that the footwear article is configured as a left shoe, the left shoe including an upper and a sole structure;

[0056] Figure 30 for Figure 29 A top transverse side view of the sole structure of a footwear product, the sole structure having a sole plate;

[0057] Figure 31 for Figure 30 A transverse side view of the sole structure;

[0058] Figure 32 for Figure 30 Bottom view of the shoe sole structure;

[0059] Figure 33 for Figure 30 An inside side view of the sole structure;

[0060] Figure 34 For along Figure 32 A sectional view of the sole structure intercepted by line 34-34;

[0061] Figure 35 for Figure 30 A top view of the shoe sole structure;

[0062] Figure 36 For along Figure 32 A sectional view of the sole structure intercepted by line 36-36;

[0063] Figure 37 For along Figure 32 A sectional view of the sole structure intercepted by line 37-37;

[0064] Figure 38 For along Figure 32 A sectional view of the sole structure intercepted by line 38-38;

[0065] Figure 39 For along Figure 32 A sectional view of the sole structure intercepted by line 39-39;

[0066] Figure 40 For along Figure 32 A sectional view of the sole structure intercepted by line 40-40;

[0067] Figure 41 for Figure 30 An isometric view of the sole plate of the shoe sole structure;

[0068] Figure 42 for Figure 41 Side view of the shoe sole;

[0069] Figure 43 for Figure 41 A top view of the shoe sole;

[0070] Figure 44 A lateral side view of a footwear article according to another embodiment of the present disclosure shows that the footwear article is configured as a left shoe, the left shoe including an upper and a sole structure;

[0071] Figure 45 for Figure 44 A top transverse side view of the sole structure of a footwear product, the sole structure having a sole plate;

[0072] Figure 46 for Figure 45 A transverse side view of the sole structure;

[0073] Figure 47 for Figure 45 Bottom view of the shoe sole structure;

[0074] Figure 48 for Figure 45 An inside side view of the sole structure;

[0075] Figure 49 For along Figure 47 A sectional view of the sole structure intercepted by line 49-49;

[0076] Figure 50 for Figure 45 A top view of the shoe sole structure;

[0077] Figure 51 For along Figure 47 A sectional view of the sole structure intercepted by line 51-51;

[0078] Figure 52 For along Figure 47 A sectional view of the sole structure intercepted by line 52-52;

[0079] Figure 53 For along Figure 47 A sectional view of the sole structure intercepted by line 53-53;

[0080] Figure 54 For along Figure 47 A sectional view of the sole structure intercepted by line 54-54;

[0081] Figure 55 For along Figure 47 A sectional view of the sole structure intercepted by line 55-55;

[0082] Figure 56 A lateral side view of a footwear article according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the footwear article being configured as a left shoe, the left shoe including a sole structure;

[0083] Figure 57 for Figure 56 Bottom view of the shoe sole structure;

[0084] Figure 58 for Figure 56 An inside side view of the sole structure;

[0085] Figure 59 For along Figure 57 A sectional view of the sole structure intercepted by line 59-59;

[0086] Figure 60 for Figure 56 A top view of the shoe sole structure;

[0087] Figure 61 For along Figure 57 A sectional view of the sole structure intercepted by line 61-61;

[0088] Figure 62 For along Figure 57 A sectional view of the sole structure intercepted by line 62-62;

[0089] Figure 63 For along Figure 57 A sectional view of the sole structure intercepted by line 63-63;

[0090] Figure 64 For along Figure 57A sectional view of the sole structure intercepted by line 64-64;

[0091] Figure 65 For along Figure 57 A sectional view of the sole structure intercepted by line 65-65;

[0092] Figure 66 A lateral side view of a footwear article according to another embodiment of the present disclosure shows that the footwear article is configured as a left shoe, the left shoe including a sole structure;

[0093] Figure 67 for Figure 66 Bottom view of the shoe sole structure;

[0094] Figure 68 for Figure 66 An inside side view of the sole structure;

[0095] Figure 69 For along Figure 67 A sectional view of the sole structure intercepted by line 69-69;

[0096] Figure 70 for Figure 66 A top view of the shoe sole structure;

[0097] Figure 71 For along Figure 67 A sectional view of the sole structure intercepted by line 71-71;

[0098] Figure 72 For along Figure 67 A sectional view of the sole structure intercepted by line 72-72;

[0099] Figure 73 For along Figure 67 A sectional view of the sole structure intercepted by line 72-72;

[0100] Figure 74 For along Figure 67 A sectional view of the sole structure intercepted by line 72-72;

[0101] Figure 75 For along Figure 67 A sectional view of the sole structure intercepted by line 72-72;

[0102] Figure 76 A lateral side view of a footwear article according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the footwear article being configured as a left shoe, the left shoe including a sole structure;

[0103] Figure 77 for Figure 76 Bottom view of the shoe sole structure;

[0104] Figure 78 for Figure 76 An inside side view of the sole structure;

[0105] Figure 79 For along Figure 77 A sectional view of the sole structure intercepted by line 79-79;

[0106] Figure 80 for Figure 76 A top view of the shoe sole structure;

[0107] Figure 81 For along Figure 77 A sectional view of the sole structure intercepted by line 81-81;

[0108] Figure 82 For along Figure 77 A sectional view of the sole structure intercepted by line 81-81;

[0109] Figure 83 For along Figure 77 A sectional view of the sole structure intercepted by line 82-82;

[0110] Figure 84 For along Figure 77 A sectional view of the sole structure intercepted by line 83-83;

[0111] Figure 85 For along Figure 77 A sectional view of the sole structure intercepted by line 84-84;

[0112] Figure 86 For use with Figure 56 , Figure 66 or Figure 76 An isometric view of the sole plate used in conjunction with the sole structure;

[0113] Figure 87 for Figure 86 Top plan view of the shoe sole;

[0114] Figure 88 For use with Figure 66 and Figure 76 An isometric view of another plate used in conjunction with the sole structure;

[0115] Figure 89 for Figure 88 Top plan view of the board;

[0116] Figure 90 The average relative maximum oxygen uptake relative to the runner's speed is illustrated schematically based on one or more aspects described in this article;

[0117] Figure 91The average heart rate relative to a runner's speed is illustrated schematically based on several aspects described in this article;

[0118] Figure 92 The average perceived fatigue rating relative to a runner's speed is illustrated schematically based on several aspects described in this article.

[0119] Figure 93 The average lactate concentration relative to a runner's speed is illustrated schematically based on several aspects described in this article; and

[0120] Figure 94 Based on the various aspects described in this paper, a regression analysis comparing sensory ratings with lactate concentration is illustrated. Detailed Implementation

[0121] The following discussion and accompanying drawings disclose various embodiments or configurations of shoe and sole constructions. While embodiments of shoe or sole constructions are disclosed with reference to athletic footwear (such as running shoes, tennis shoes, basketball shoes, etc.), the concepts associated with embodiments of shoe or sole constructions are applicable to a wide range of footwear and footwear styles, including, for example, cross-training shoes, rugby shoes, golf shoes, hiking shoes, mountaineering boots, ski and snowboard boots, soccer shoes and spikes, race walking shoes, and track and field spikes. The concepts of shoe or sole constructions are also applicable to footwear articles considered non-sports, including dress shoes, sandals, loafers, slippers, and high heels. In addition to footwear, the specific concepts described herein are also applicable to and incorporated into other types of clothing or other sporting equipment, including helmets, padding or protective pads, neck braces, and gloves. Furthermore, the specific concepts described herein can be incorporated into cushions, backpack straps, golf clubs, or other consumer or industrial products. Therefore, the concepts described herein can be used in a variety of products.

[0122] As used herein, the term “about” refers to a quantitative variable that may occur, for example, through typical measurement and manufacturing processes used in footwear or other manufactured articles (which may include embodiments disclosed herein); through unintentional errors in these processes; through differences in the manufacture, origin, or purity of the ingredients used to prepare the composition or mixture or to perform the method, etc. Throughout the disclosure, the terms “about” and “approximately” refer to a range of ±5% prior to the numerical value of the term.

[0123] As used herein, the terms “weight percent,” “wt-%,” “percent by weight,” “% by weight,” and their variations indicate the concentration of a substance or component as the weight of that substance or component divided by the total weight (e.g., the total weight of a composition or a particular component of a composition) and multiplied by 100. It should be understood that, as used herein, “percentage,” “%,” etc., may be synonymous with “weight percent” and “wt-%.”

[0124] This disclosure relates to footwear articles and / or specific components of footwear articles, such as uppers and / or soles or sole structures. Uppers may include knitted components, woven textiles, and / or nonwoven textiles. Knitted components are made by knitting yarns, woven textiles are made by weaving yarns, and nonwoven textiles are made by manufacturing a single nonwoven web. Knitted textiles include textiles formed by warp knitting, weft knitting, flat knitting, circular knitting, and / or other suitable knitting operations. Knitted textiles may have, for example, plain knit structures, mesh knit structures, and / or rib knit structures. Woven textiles include, but are not limited to, textiles formed through any of a variety of weaving methods, such as plain weave, twill weave, satin weave, dobbin weave, jacquard weave, double weaves, and / or double cloth weaves. Nonwoven textiles include textiles prepared by methods such as air-laid and / or spun-laid. The upper may comprise a variety of materials, such as a first yarn, a second yarn, and / or a third yarn, which may have different properties or different visual characteristics.

[0125] Figures 1 to 12An exemplary embodiment of footwear article 100 is shown, which includes an upper 102 and a sole structure 104. The upper 102 is attached to the sole structure 104 and together defines an internal cavity into which a foot can be inserted. For reference, footwear article 100 defines a forefoot region 108, a midfoot region 110, and a heel region 112. The forefoot region 108 generally corresponds to a portion of the foot in footwear article 100 that surrounds a plurality of parts including the toes, the ball of the big toe, and joints connecting the metatarsals to the toes or phalanges. The midfoot region 110 is adjacent to and abuts the forefoot region 108 and generally corresponds to a portion of the foot in footwear article 100 that surrounds the arch and bridge of the foot. The heel region 112 is adjacent to and abuts the midfoot region 110 and generally corresponds to a portion of the foot in footwear article 100 that surrounds the posterior portion of the foot (including the heel, heel bone, ankle, and / or Achilles tendon).

[0126] Many conventional footwear uppers are formed from multiple elements (e.g., textiles, polymer foams, polymer sheets, leather, and synthetic leather) that are joined together by bonding or stitching at seams. In some embodiments, the upper 102 of the footwear article 100 is formed from a knitted structure or knitted components. In various embodiments, the knitted components may incorporate various types of yarns that impart different properties to the upper. For example, one area of ​​the upper 102 may be formed from a first type of yarn (which imparts a first set of properties), and another area of ​​the upper 102 may be formed from a second type of yarn (which imparts a second set of properties). With this configuration, the properties of the upper 102 can be varied throughout the upper 102 by selecting specific yarns for different areas of the upper 102.

[0127] Footwear 100 also includes an inner side 116 (see, for example, see...) Figure 3 ) and outer 118 (for example, see Figure 5 Specifically, the outer side 118 corresponds to the outer portion of the footwear 100, and the inner side 116 corresponds to the inner portion of the footwear 100. Thus, the left and right footwear pieces have relatively outer and inner sides such that the inner sides 116 are closest to each other when the user puts on the footwear 100, while the outer sides 118 are defined as the sides furthest from each other when worn. The inner sides 116 and outer sides 118 are adjacent to each other at their relatively distal ends of the footwear 100.

[0128] Unless otherwise specified, the forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, heel region 112, medial side 116, and lateral side 118 are intended to define the boundaries or areas of the footwear article 100. Therefore, the forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, heel region 112, medial side 116, and lateral side 118 generally characterize segments of the footwear article 100. Additionally, both the upper 102 and the sole structure 104 may be characterized by having portions within the forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, and heel region 112, and on the medial side 116 and lateral side 118. Thus, separate portions of the upper 102 and sole structure 104, and / or the upper 102 and sole structure 104, may include portions disposed within the forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, and heel region 112, and on the medial side 116 and lateral side 118.

[0129] The sole structure 104 is attached to or secured to the upper 102 and extends between the user's foot and the ground when the footwear 100 is worn by the user. The sole structure 104 may include one or more components, such as an outsole, midsole, heel, forefoot, and / or insole. For example, in some embodiments, the sole structure may include an outsole, a midsole, and an insole, the outsole providing structural integrity and traction to the user, the midsole providing a cushioning system, and the insole providing support to the user's arch. As will be further discussed herein, the sole structure 104 of this embodiment of the invention includes one or more components that preferably provide spring and damping properties to the sole structure 104.

[0130] The sole structure 104 includes an outsole 130, a first cushioning member 132, a second cushioning member 134, and a sole plate 136 (see...). Figure 6 The outsole 130 may define the bottom end or surface of the sole structure 104 that traverses the heel region 112, midfoot region 110, and forefoot region 108. Additionally, the outsole 130 may be a grounding portion, or may include the grounding surface of the sole structure 104, and may be opposite to its insole. The outsole 130 may be formed of one or more materials to impart durability, abrasion resistance, corrosion resistance, or traction to the sole structure 104. In some embodiments, the outsole 130 may be formed of, for example, rubber.

[0131] A first cushioning member 132 may be positioned adjacent to and on top of the outsole 130 in the heel region 112, and positioned adjacent to and on top of a second cushioning member 134 in the midfoot region 110 and forefoot region 108. The first cushioning member 132 may include one or more longitudinal grooves or flexures 138 extending between an inner side 116 and an outer side 118, which segment the first cushioning member 132 within the heel region 112. For example, in Figures 1 to 12 In the specific embodiment shown, the first buffer member 132 includes five deflection curves 138, which define four deflection regions 140. Additionally, as... Figure 4 As shown, the deflection curve 138 may have a sinusoidal shape between the inner side 116 and the outer side 118.

[0132] The second cushioning member 134 may be positioned adjacent to and on top of the outsole 130 in the midfoot region 110 and the forefoot region 108. As will be discussed further herein, the second cushioning member 134 may also be located between the midfoot region 110 and / or the forefoot region 108, or may be enclosed within the sole plate 136 (see [link to footplate]). Figure 6 ).

[0133] The first cushioning member 132 and / or the second cushioning member 134 may be independently constructed of a thermoplastic material, such as polyurethane (PU), for example, and / or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), its copolymers, or similar types of materials. In other embodiments, the first cushioning member 132 and / or the second cushioning member 134 may be an EVA-Solid-Sponge (ESS) material, EVA foam (e.g., ProFoam Lite TM The materials used may be IGNITE foam, polyurethane, polyether, olefin block copolymers, thermoplastic materials (e.g., thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoplastic elastomers, thermoplastic polyolefins, etc.), or supercritical foam. The first cushioning member 132 and / or the second cushioning member 134 may be a single polymer material or a blend of materials, such as EVA copolymers, thermoplastic polyurethane, polyester block amide (PEBA) copolymers, and / or olefin block copolymers. An example of PEBA material is...

[0134] In embodiments where the first buffer member 132 and / or the second buffer member 134 are formed by a supercritical foaming process, the supercritical foam may include microporous foam or particulate foam, such as TPU, EVA, The microporous foam or granular foam, or a mixture thereof, is manufactured using a process performed in an autoclave, injection molding apparatus, or any sufficiently heated / pressurized vessel capable of handling the mixing of a supercritical fluid (e.g., CO2, N2, or mixtures thereof) with a preferably molten material (e.g., TPU, EVA, polyolefin elastomer, or mixtures thereof). During an exemplary process, a solution of the supercritical fluid and molten material is pumped into a pressurized vessel, after which the pressure within the vessel is released, causing the molecules of the supercritical fluid to rapidly convert into gas to form small pits within the material and cause the material to expand into a foam, which can be used as a first buffer member 132, and more preferably, a second buffer member 134. In other embodiments, the first buffer member 132 and / or the second buffer member 134 can be formed using alternative methods known in the art, including the use of an expansion press, injection machine, granule expansion process, cold foaming process, compression molding technique, die cutting, or any combination thereof. For example, the first buffer member 132 and / or the second buffer member 134 may be formed using a process involving an initial foaming step in which a supercritical gas is used to foam the material and then compress it or cut it into a specific shape using a mold.

[0135] The sole structure 104 also includes a sole plate 136, such as Figure 13 As best shown, the sole plate 136 includes an upper flange 150 and a lower flange 152, and an arcuate, curved, or C-shaped rear portion 154 connecting the upper flange 150 and the lower flange 152. Additionally, a gap 156 extends between the upper flange 150 and the lower flange 152, and a second cushioning member 134 may be located within the gap 156, as discussed previously herein. Figure 6 As shown, the sole plate 136 extends at least partially through the midfoot region 110 and at least partially through the forefoot region 108. Figure 6 As further shown, the rear portion 154 of the sole plate 136 can be separated from the rear side of the second cushioning member 134, thereby forming a gap 158.

[0136] Continue to refer to Figure 6 The lower flange 152 may be adjacent to and located between the outsole 130 and the second cushioning member 134, and the upper flange 150 may be adjacent to and located between the second cushioning member 134 and the first cushioning member 132. In some embodiments, the sole plate 136 has a uniform thickness. For example, in a specific embodiment, the thickness is approximately 1.2 cm.

[0137] In some embodiments, the sole plate 136 comprises a PU plastic, such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). Other thermoplastic elastomers, including block copolymers, are also possible. In other embodiments, the sole plate 136 may comprise, for example, carbon fiber.

[0138] In some embodiments, the outsole 130 or the ground surface is discontinuous along the footwear article 100. For example, as Figure 6 Ideally, a spacing 158 exists along the footwear article 100, or there is no grounding surface located within the midfoot region 110 of the footwear article 100.

[0139] Figures 14 to 25 Another configuration of footwear article 200 is shown. Similar to sole structure 104, sole structure 204 is configured to attach to upper 202 and together define an internal cavity into which the foot can be inserted. For reference, sole structure 204 defines a forefoot region 208, a midfoot region 210, and a heel region 212. Forefoot region 208 generally corresponds to a portion of the foot in footwear article (e.g., such as footwear article 200) that surrounds multiple parts including the toes, the ball of the big toe, and the joints connecting the metatarsals to the toes or phalanges. Midfoot region 210 is adjacent to and abuts forefoot region 208 and generally corresponds to a portion of the footwear article surrounding the arch and bridge of the foot. Heel region 212 is adjacent to and abuts midfoot region 210 and generally corresponds to a portion of the footwear article surrounding the posterior portion of the foot (including the heel, heel bone, ankle, and / or Achilles tendon).

[0140] Footwear product 200 also includes an inner side 216 (see, for example, see...) Figure 18 ) and outer 218 (for example, see Figure 16 Specifically, the outer side 218 corresponds to the outer portion of the footwear 200, and the inner side 216 corresponds to the inner portion of the footwear 200. Thus, the left and right footwear pieces have relatively outer and inner sides such that the inner sides 216 are closest to each other when the user puts on the footwear 200, while the outer sides 218 are defined as the sides furthest from each other when worn. The inner sides 216 and outer sides 218 are adjacent to each other at their relatively distal ends of the footwear 200.

[0141] Unless otherwise specified, the forefoot region 208, midfoot region 210, heel region 212, medial side 216, and lateral side 218 are intended to define the boundaries or areas of the footwear article 200. Therefore, the forefoot region 208, midfoot region 210, heel region 212, medial side 216, and lateral side 218 generally characterize segments of the footwear article 200. Additionally, both the upper 202 and the sole structure 204 may be characterized by having portions located within the forefoot region 208, midfoot region 210, and heel region 212, and on the medial side 216 and lateral side 218. Thus, individual portions of the upper 202 and sole structure 204, and / or the upper 202 and sole structure 204, may include portions disposed within the forefoot region 208, midfoot region 210, heel region 212, and on the medial side 216 and lateral side 218.

[0142] The sole structure 204 is attached to or secured to the upper 202 and extends between the user's foot and the ground when the footwear 200 is worn by the user. The sole structure 204 may include one or more components, such as an outsole, midsole, heel, forefoot, and / or insole. For example, in some embodiments, the sole structure may include an outsole, a midsole, and an insole, the outsole providing structural integrity and traction to the user, the midsole providing a cushioning system, and the insole providing support to the user's arch. As will be further discussed herein, the sole structure 204 of this embodiment of the invention includes one or more components that preferably provide spring and damping properties to the sole structure 204.

[0143] The sole structure 204 includes an outsole 230, a first cushioning member 232, a second cushioning member 234, and a sole plate 236 (see...). Figure 19 The outsole 230 may define the bottom end or surface of the sole structure 204 that traverses the heel region 212, midfoot region 210, and forefoot region 208. Additionally, the outsole 230 may be a grounding portion, or may include the grounding surface of the sole structure 204, and may be opposite to its insole. The outsole 230 may be formed of one or more materials to impart durability, abrasion resistance, corrosion resistance, or traction to the sole structure 204. In some embodiments, the outsole 230 may be formed of, for example, rubber.

[0144] A first cushioning member 232 may be positioned adjacent to and on top of the outsole 230 in the heel region 212, and positioned adjacent to and on top of a second cushioning member 234 in the midfoot region 210 and forefoot region 208. The first cushioning member 232 may include one or more longitudinal grooves or flexures 238 extending between an inner side 216 and an outer side 218, which segment the first cushioning member 232 within the heel region 212. For example, in Figures 14 to 25 In the specific embodiment shown, the first buffer member 232 includes five flexural curves 238, which define four flexural regions 240. Additionally, as... Figure 17 As shown, the deflection curve 238 may have a sinusoidal shape between the inner side 216 and the outer side 218.

[0145] The second cushioning member 234 may be positioned adjacent to and on top of the outsole 230 in the midfoot region 210 and the forefoot region 208. As will be discussed further herein, the second cushioning member 234 may also be located between or within the sole plate 236 of the forefoot region 208 (see [link to documentation]). Figure 19 ).

[0146] The first cushioning member 232 and / or the second cushioning member 234 may be independently constructed of a thermoplastic material, such as polyurethane (PU), for example, and / or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), its copolymers, or similar types of materials. In other embodiments, the first cushioning member 232 and / or the second cushioning member 234 may be an EVA-solid-sponge (“ESS”) material, EVA foam (e.g., ProFoam Lite TM The materials used may be IGNITE foam, polyurethane, polyether, olefin block copolymers, thermoplastic materials (e.g., thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoplastic elastomers, thermoplastic polyolefins, etc.), or supercritical foam. The first cushioning member 232 and / or the second cushioning member 234 may be a single polymer material or a blend of materials, such as EVA copolymers, thermoplastic polyurethane, polyester block amide (PEBA) copolymers, and / or olefin block copolymers. An example of PEBA material is...

[0147] In embodiments where the first buffer member 232 and / or the second buffer member 234 are formed by a supercritical foaming process, the supercritical foam may include microporous foam or particulate foam, such as TPU, EVA, The microporous foam or granular foam, or a mixture thereof, is manufactured using a process performed in an autoclave, injection molding apparatus, or any sufficiently heated / pressurized vessel capable of handling the mixing of a supercritical fluid (e.g., CO2, N2, or mixtures thereof) with a preferably molten material (e.g., TPU, EVA, polyolefin elastomer, or mixtures thereof). During an exemplary process, a solution of the supercritical fluid and molten material is pumped into a pressurized vessel, after which the pressure within the vessel is released, causing the molecules of the supercritical fluid to rapidly convert into gas to form small pits within the material and cause the material to expand into a foam, which can be used as a first buffer member 232, and more preferably, a second buffer member 234. In other embodiments, the first buffer member 232 and / or the second buffer member 234 can be formed using alternative methods known in the art, including the use of an expansion press, injection machine, granule expansion process, cold foaming process, compression molding technology, die cutting, or any combination thereof. For example, the first buffer member 232 and / or the second buffer member 234 may be formed using a process involving an initial foaming step in which a supercritical gas is used to foam the material and then compress it or cut it into a specific shape using a mold.

[0148] The sole structure 204 also includes the sole plate 236, such as Figures 26 to 28As best shown, the sole plate 236 includes an upper flange 250 and a lower flange 252 connected at a apex 254. Additionally, a gap 256 extends between the upper flange 250 and the lower flange 252, within which a second cushioning member 234 may be located, as previously discussed herein. Figure 19 As shown, the sole plate 236 extends through the forefoot area 208. (As indicated...) Figure 19 As further shown, the vertex 254 can be separated from the front side of the second buffer member 234, which forms a gap or clearance 258 between the upper flange 250 and the lower flange 252.

[0149] Continue to refer to Figure 19 The rear portion of the lower flange 252 may be adjacent to and located between the outsole 230 and the second cushioning member 234, and the rear portion of the upper flange 250 may be adjacent to and located between the second cushioning member 234 and the first cushioning member 232. In some embodiments, the sole plate 236 has a uniform thickness. For example, in a specific embodiment, the thickness is approximately 1.2 cm.

[0150] refer to Figure 26 and Figure 28 The upper flange 250 and the lower flange 252 may also include one or more cutout portions 260, 262. The cutout portions 260, 262 may be advantageous to allow the inner and outer sides of the sole plate 236 to flex independently of each other.

[0151] In some embodiments, the sole plate 236 comprises a PU plastic, such as a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material. Other thermoplastic elastomers, including block copolymers, are also possible. In other embodiments, the sole plate 236 may comprise, for example, carbon fiber.

[0152] In some embodiments, the outsole 230 or the ground surface is discontinuous along the footwear article 200. For example, as... Figure 19 Ideally, a spacing 264 exists along the footwear 200, or there is no grounding surface located within the midfoot region 210 of the footwear 200.

[0153] Figures 29 to 40Another configuration of footwear article 300 is shown. Similar to sole structures 104, 204, sole structure 304 is configured to attach to upper 302 and together define an internal cavity into which the foot can be inserted. For reference, sole structure 304 defines a forefoot region 308, a midfoot region 310, and a heel region 312. Forefoot region 308 generally corresponds to a portion of the foot in footwear article (e.g., such as footwear article 300) that surrounds the toes, the ball of the big toe, and multiple parts of the joints connecting the metatarsals to the toes or phalanges. Midfoot region 310 is adjacent to and abuts forefoot region 308 and generally corresponds to a portion of the footwear article surrounding the arch and bridge of the foot. Heel region 312 is adjacent to and abuts midfoot region 310 and generally corresponds to a portion of the footwear article surrounding the posterior portion of the foot (including the heel, heel bone, ankle, and / or Achilles tendon).

[0154] Footwear 300 also includes an inner side 316 (see, for example, see...) Figure 33 ) and outer 318 (for example, see Figure 31 Specifically, the outer side 318 corresponds to the outer portion of the footwear 300, and the inner side 316 corresponds to the inner portion of the footwear 300. Thus, the left and right footwear pieces have relatively outer and inner sides such that the inner sides 316 are closest to each other when the user puts on the footwear 300, while the outer sides 318 are defined as the sides furthest from each other when worn. The inner sides 316 and outer sides 318 are adjacent to each other at their relatively distal ends of the footwear 300.

[0155] Unless otherwise specified, the forefoot region 308, midfoot region 310, heel region 312, medial side 316, and lateral side 318 are intended to define the boundaries or areas of footwear article 300. Therefore, the forefoot region 308, midfoot region 310, heel region 312, medial side 316, and lateral side 318 generally characterize segments of footwear article 300. Additionally, both the upper 302 and the sole structure 304 may be characterized by having portions located within the forefoot region 308, midfoot region 310, and heel region 312, and on the medial side 316 and lateral side 318. Therefore, separate portions of the upper 302 and sole structure 304, and / or the upper 302 and sole structure 304, may include portions disposed within the forefoot region 308, midfoot region 310, and heel region 312, and on the medial side 316 and lateral side 318.

[0156] The sole structure 304 is attached to or secured to the upper 302 and extends between the user's foot and the ground when the footwear 300 is worn by the user. The sole structure 304 may include one or more components, such as an outsole, midsole, heel, forefoot, and / or insole. For example, in some embodiments, the sole structure may include an outsole, a midsole, and an insole, the outsole providing structural integrity and traction to the user, the midsole providing a cushioning system, and the insole providing support to the user's arch. As will be further discussed herein, the sole structure 304 of this embodiment of the invention includes one or more components that preferably provide spring and damping properties to the sole structure 304.

[0157] The sole structure 304 includes an outsole 330, a first cushioning member 332, a second cushioning member 334, and a sole plate 336 (see...). Figure 34 The outsole 330 may define the bottom end or surface of the sole structure 304 that traverses the heel region 312, midfoot region 310, and forefoot region 308. Additionally, the outsole 330 may be a grounding portion, or may include the grounding surface of the sole structure 304, and may be opposite to its insole. The outsole 330 may be formed of one or more materials to impart durability, abrasion resistance, corrosion resistance, or traction to the sole structure 304. In some embodiments, the outsole 330 may be formed of, for example, rubber.

[0158] The first cushioning member 332 may be positioned adjacent to and on top of the outsole 330 in the heel region 312. The first cushioning member 332 may also be positioned adjacent to and below the sole plate 336. The first cushioning member 332 may include one or more longitudinal grooves or flexures 338 extending between the inner side 316 and the outer side 318, which segment the first cushioning member 332 in the heel region 312. For example, in Figures 29 to 40 In the specific embodiment shown, the first buffer member 332 includes five deflection curves 338, which define four deflection regions 340. Additionally, as... Figure 32 As best shown, the deflection curve 338 may have a sinusoidal shape between the inner side 316 and the outer side 318.

[0159] The second cushioning member 334 may be positioned adjacent to and on top of the outsole 330 in the midfoot region 310 and forefoot region 308. As will be discussed further herein, the sole plate 336 may also bifurcate the second cushioning member 334 such that the sole plate 336 is located within the second cushioning member 334 (see [link to article]). Figure 34 ).

[0160] The first cushioning member 332 and / or the second cushioning member 334 may be independently constructed of a thermoplastic material, such as polyurethane (PU), and / or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), its copolymers, or similar materials. In other embodiments, the first cushioning member 332 and / or the second cushioning member 334 may be an EVA-solid-sponge (“ESS”) material, EVA foam (e.g., ProFoam Lite TM The materials used may be IGNITE foam, polyurethane, polyether, olefin block copolymers, thermoplastic materials (e.g., thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoplastic elastomers, thermoplastic polyolefins, etc.), or supercritical foam. The first cushioning member 332 and / or the second cushioning member 334 may be a single polymer material or a blend of materials, such as EVA copolymers, thermoplastic polyurethane, polyester block amide (PEBA) copolymers, and / or olefin block copolymers. An example of PEBA material is...

[0161] In embodiments where the first buffer member 332 and / or the second buffer member 334 are formed by a supercritical foaming process, the supercritical foam may include microporous foam or particulate foam, such as TPU, EVA, etc. The microporous foam or granular foam, or a mixture thereof, is manufactured using a process performed in an autoclave, injection molding apparatus, or any sufficiently heated / pressurized vessel capable of handling the mixing of a supercritical fluid (e.g., CO2, N2, or mixtures thereof) with a preferably molten material (e.g., TPU, EVA, polyolefin elastomer, or mixtures thereof). During an exemplary process, a solution of the supercritical fluid and molten material is pumped into a pressurized vessel, after which the pressure within the vessel is released, causing the molecules of the supercritical fluid to rapidly convert into gas to form small pits within the material and cause the material to expand into a foam, which can be used as a first buffer member 332, and more preferably, a second buffer member 334. In other embodiments, the first buffer member 332 and / or the second buffer member 334 can be formed using alternative methods known in the art, including the use of an expansion press, injection machine, granule expansion process, cold foaming process, compression molding technique, die cutting, or any combination thereof. For example, the first buffer member 332 and / or the second buffer member 334 may be formed using a process involving an initial foaming step in which a supercritical gas is used to foam the material and then compress it or cut it into a specific shape using a mold.

[0162] The sole structure 304 also includes the sole plate 336, such as Figures 41 to 43As best shown, the sole plate 336 includes a curved portion 350 and a rear portion 352, the rear portion 352 being relatively flat. The curved portion 350 may also include a front curved portion 354 and a rear curved portion 356. The front curved portion 354 and the rear curved portion 356 may each independently include one or more radii of curvature.

[0163] refer to Figure 34 The curved portion 350 of the plate 336 may be located within the second cushioning member 334, and the rear portion 352 of the plate 336 may be located above the first cushioning member 332. Additionally, a portion of the rear curved portion 356 may extend between the gap 358 between the first cushioning member 332 and the second cushioning member 334. Therefore, in this embodiment, a portion of the plate 336 does not include a cushioning member (such as the first cushioning member 332 or the second cushioning member 334) located above, below, or between the plate 336. Thus, the plate 336 is spaced apart from the upper 302, and a gap (or no material) exists between the plate 336 and the upper 302, adjacent to the midfoot region 310 and / or the heel region 312 (see...). Figure 29 In some embodiments, the sole plate 336 has a uniform thickness. For example, in a specific embodiment, the thickness is approximately 1.2 cm.

[0164] In some embodiments, the sole plate 336 comprises a PU plastic, such as a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material. Other thermoplastic elastomers, including block copolymers, are also possible. In other embodiments, the sole plate 336 may comprise, for example, carbon fiber.

[0165] As briefly noted herein, in some embodiments, the outsole 330 or ground surface is discontinuous along the footwear article 300. For example, as Figure 34 Ideally, there is a spacing or gap 358 along the footwear article 300, or there is no grounding surface located in the midfoot region 310 of the footwear article 300.

[0166] Figures 44 to 55 Another configuration of footwear article 400 is shown. Similar to sole structures 104, 204, and 304, sole structure 404 is configured to attach to upper 402 and together define an internal cavity into which the foot can be inserted. Like other sole structures, sole structure 404 can be defined by a forefoot region 408, a midfoot region 410, a heel region 412, and a medial side 416 (see...). Figure 48 ) and outer 418 (see Figure 46The forefoot region, midfoot region, heel region, medial side, and lateral side are defined as boundaries or areas of the footwear article 400, unless otherwise specified. Therefore, the forefoot region, midfoot region, heel region, medial side, and lateral side generally characterize segments of the footwear article 400. Additionally, both the upper 402 and the sole structure 404 may be characterized by having portions located within the forefoot region 408, midfoot region 410, and heel region 412, and on the medial side 416 and lateral side 418. Thus, individual portions of the upper 402 and sole structure 404, and / or the upper 402 and sole structure 404, may include portions disposed within the forefoot region 408, midfoot region 410, heel region 412, and on the medial side 416 and lateral side 418.

[0167] The sole structure 404 is attached to or secured to the upper 402 and extends between the user's foot and the ground when the footwear 400 is worn by the user. The sole structure 404 may include one or more components, which may include an outsole, midsole, heel, forefoot, and / or insole. For example, in some embodiments, the sole structure may include an outsole, a midsole, and an insole, the outsole providing structural integrity and traction to the user, the midsole providing a cushioning system, and the insole providing support to the user's arch. As will be further discussed herein, the sole structure 404 of this embodiment of the invention includes one or more components that provide preferred spring and damping properties to the sole structure 404.

[0168] The sole structure 404 includes an outsole 430, a first cushioning member 432, a second cushioning member 434, and a sole plate 436 (see...). Figure 49 The outsole 430 may define the bottom end or surface of the sole structure 404 that traverses the heel region 412, midfoot region 410, and forefoot region 408. Additionally, the outsole 430 may be a grounding portion, or may include the grounding surface of the sole structure 404, and may be opposite to its insole. The outsole 430 may be formed of one or more materials to impart durability, abrasion resistance, corrosion resistance, or traction to the sole structure 404. In some embodiments, the outsole 430 may be formed of, for example, rubber.

[0169] A first cushioning member 432 may be positioned adjacent to and on top of the outsole 430 in the heel region 412, and positioned adjacent to and on top of a second cushioning member 434 in the midfoot region 410 and forefoot region 408. The first cushioning member 432 may include one or more longitudinal grooves or flexures 438 extending between an inner side 416 and an outer side 418, which segment the first cushioning member 432 within the heel region 412. For example, in Figures 44 to 55In the specific embodiment shown, the first buffer member 432 includes five deflection curves 438, which define four deflection regions 440. Additionally, as... Figure 47 As shown in the best embodiment, the deflection curve 438 may have a sinusoidal shape between the inner side 416 and the outer side 418.

[0170] The second cushioning member 434 may be positioned adjacent to and on top of the outsole 430 in the midfoot region 410 and the forefoot region 408. As will be discussed further herein, the second cushioning member 434 may also be located between or within the sole plate 436 of the forefoot region 408 (see [link to documentation]). Figure 49 ).

[0171] The first cushioning member 432 and / or the second cushioning member 434 may be independently constructed of a thermoplastic material, such as polyurethane (PU), and / or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), its copolymers, or similar materials. In other embodiments, the first cushioning member 432 and / or the second cushioning member 434 may be an EVA-solid-sponge (“ESS”) material, EVA foam (e.g., ProFoam Lite TM The materials used may be IGNITE foam, polyurethane, polyether, olefin block copolymers, thermoplastic materials (e.g., thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoplastic elastomers, thermoplastic polyolefins, etc.), or supercritical foam. The first cushioning member 432 and / or the second cushioning member 434 may be a single polymer material or a blend of materials, such as EVA copolymers, thermoplastic polyurethane, polyester block amide (PEBA) copolymers, and / or olefin block copolymers. An example of PEBA material is...

[0172] In embodiments where the first buffer member 432 and / or the second buffer member 434 are formed by a supercritical foaming process, the supercritical foam may include microporous foam or particulate foam, such as TPU, EVA, The microporous foam or granular foam, or a mixture thereof, is manufactured using a process performed in an autoclave, injection molding apparatus, or any sufficiently heated / pressurized vessel capable of handling the mixing of a supercritical fluid (e.g., CO2, N2, or mixtures thereof) with a preferably molten material (e.g., TPU, EVA, polyolefin elastomer, or mixtures thereof). During an exemplary process, a solution of the supercritical fluid and molten material is pumped into a pressurized vessel, after which the pressure within the vessel is released, causing the molecules of the supercritical fluid to rapidly convert into gas to form small pits within the material and cause the material to expand into a foam, which can be used as a first buffer member 432, and more preferably, a second buffer member 434. In other embodiments, the first buffer member 432 and / or the second buffer member 434 can be formed using alternative methods known in the art, including the use of an expansion press, injection machine, granule expansion process, cold foaming process, compression molding technique, die cutting, or any combination thereof. For example, the first buffer member 432 and / or the second buffer member 434 may be formed using a process involving an initial foaming step in which a supercritical gas is used to foam the material and then compress it or cut it into a specific shape using a mold.

[0173] The sole structure 404 also includes the sole plate 436, such as Figure 49 and Figure 50 As shown in the best embodiment, the sole plate 436 has a relatively flat structure, which has a first cutout portion 450 near its front end and a second cutout portion 452 near its rear end.

[0174] Special Reference Figure 49 The sole plate 436 may be located above the first cushioning member 432 in the midfoot region 410. In some embodiments, the sole plate 436 has a uniform thickness. For example, in a specific embodiment, the thickness is approximately 1.8 cm.

[0175] In some embodiments, the sole plate 436 comprises a PU plastic, such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). Other thermoplastic elastomers, including block copolymers, are also possible. In other embodiments, the sole plate 436 may comprise, for example, carbon fiber.

[0176] As briefly noted herein, in some embodiments, the outsole 430 or ground surface is discontinuous along the footwear article 400. For example, as Figure 49 Ideally, along the footwear 400, there is a gap or spacing 458, or there is no grounding surface located in the midfoot region 410 of the footwear 400.

[0177] Figures 56 to 65Another configuration of footwear article 500 is shown, having an upper 502 and a sole structure 504. Similar to sole structures 104, 204, 304, and 404, sole structure 504 is configured to attach to the upper 502 and, together with it, defines an internal cavity into which the foot can be inserted. Also similar to other sole structures, sole structure 504 includes a forefoot region 508, a midfoot region 510, a heel region 512, and a medial side 516 (see [reference]). Figure 58 ) and outer 518 (see Figure 56 Unless otherwise specified, the forefoot region 508, midfoot region 510, heel region 512, medial side 516, and lateral side 518 are intended to define the boundaries or areas of the footwear article 500. Additionally, as will be further discussed herein, the sole structure 504 of this embodiment of the invention includes one or more components that provide preferred spring and damping properties to the sole structure 504.

[0178] The sole structure 504 also includes an outsole 530, a first cushioning member 532, a second cushioning member 534, and a sole plate 536 (see...). Figure 59 The first cushioning member 532 may be positioned adjacent to and on top of the outsole 530 in the heel region 512. The first cushioning member 532 may also be positioned adjacent to and below the sole plate 536. The first cushioning member 532 may include one or more longitudinal grooves or flexural curves 538 extending between the inner side 516 and the outer side 518, which segment the first cushioning member 532 in the heel region 512.

[0179] The second cushioning member 534 may be positioned adjacent to and on top of the outsole 530 in the midfoot region 510 and the forefoot region 508. As will be discussed further herein, the sole plate 536 may also extend between the second cushioning member 534 and the outsole 530 (see [link to article]). Figure 59 The first cushioning member 532 and / or the second cushioning member 534 may be independently constructed of a thermoplastic material, such as polyurethane (PU), and / or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), its copolymers, or similar materials. In other embodiments, the first cushioning member 532 and / or the second cushioning member 534 may be an EVA-solid-sponge (“ESS”) material, EVA foam (e.g., ProFoam Lite TMThe materials used may be IGNITE foam, polyurethane, polyether, olefin block copolymers, thermoplastic materials (e.g., thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoplastic elastomers, thermoplastic polyolefins, etc.), or supercritical foam. The first cushioning member 532 and / or the second cushioning member 534 may be a single polymer material or a blend of materials, such as EVA copolymers, thermoplastic polyurethane, polyester block amide (PEBA) copolymers, and / or olefin block copolymers. An example of PEBA material is...

[0180] The sole structure 504 also includes the sole plate 536, such as Figure 59 As best shown, the sole plate 536 includes a curved portion 550 and a rear portion 552, the rear portion 552 being relatively flat. The curved portion 550 may also include a front curved portion 554 and a rear curved portion 556. The front curved portion 554 and the rear curved portion 556 may each independently include one or more radii of curvature.

[0181] refer to Figure 59 The curved portion 550 of the plate 536 may be located below the second cushioning member 534, and the rear portion 552 of the plate 536 may be located above the first cushioning member 532. Additionally, a portion of the rear curved portion 556 may extend between gaps 558 located between the first and second cushioning members 532 and 534. In some embodiments, the sole plate 536 has a uniform thickness. For example, in a specific embodiment, the thickness is approximately 1.2 cm. In some embodiments, the sole plate 536 comprises a PU plastic, such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). Other thermoplastic elastomers, including block copolymers, are also possible. In other embodiments, the sole plate 536 may comprise, for example, carbon fiber.

[0182] As briefly noted herein, in some embodiments, the outsole 530 or ground surface is discontinuous along the footwear article 500. For example, as Figure 59 Ideally, a gap or spacing 558 exists along the footwear 500, or there is no grounding surface located within the midfoot region 510 and / or heel region 512 of the footwear 500. In this embodiment, similar to plate 336, portions of plate 536 do not include cushioning members (such as first cushioning member 532 or second cushioning member 534) located above, below, or between plate 536. Therefore, plate 536 is spaced apart from upper 502, and a gap (or no material) exists between plate 536 and upper 502, adjacent to midfoot region 510 and / or heel region 512 (see [link]). Figure 59 ).

[0183] In some embodiments, the sole structure 504 may further include a second plate 560. Figures 56 to 65In the specific embodiment shown, the second plate 560 surrounds the sole plate 536, such that the sole plate 536 is situated within the second plate 560. Furthermore, as... Figure 59 As best shown, the second plate 560 extends across the forefoot region 508, the midfoot region 510, and the heel region 512. Therefore, the second plate 560 lies beneath the sole plate 536 along its full length. In other embodiments, as will be further discussed herein, the second plate 560 may extend only across a portion of the sole plate 536 and may be located along the sole structure 504 where the sole plate 536 requires targeted structural support. The second plate 560 may be constructed of a material similar to that of the sole plate 536, which has been discussed herein. However, in specific embodiments, the material used to construct the second plate 560 may also differ from the material used to construct the sole plate 536, such that the second plate 560 provides additional reinforcement to the sole plate 536. For example, in one embodiment, the sole plate 536 may be constructed of a carbon fiber material, and the second plate 560 may be constructed of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) to support the sole plate 536. In addition, the second plate 560 can support the structural integrity of the sole plate 536 and prevent the sole plate 536 from breaking during its use.

[0184] In addition to the second plate 560, a certain amount of material may also be injected into one or more grooves in the sole plate 536. More specifically, in this embodiment, the sole plate 536 may include two grooves 562 (see...). Figure 63 The material 564 can be injected or located within the groove 562. Similar to the second plate 560, the material injected into the groove 562 can provide additional structural support to the sole plate 536 and provide targeted support to the sole plate 536. For example, in this specific embodiment, a groove is provided that traverses the midfoot or arch region of the sole structure 504; and therefore, the material 564 can provide support to the sole plate 536 in its arch region, thereby providing additional support to the user's foot in the arch region of the sole structure 504. The injected material 564 can be a suitable plastic material, such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).

[0185] Figures 66 to 75 Another configuration of footwear article 600 is shown, which includes an upper 602 and a sole structure 604. Similar to sole structures 104, 204, 304, 404, and 504, the sole structure 604 is configured to attach to the upper 602 and, together with it, defines an internal cavity into which the foot can be inserted. Similar to other sole structures, the sole structure 604 includes a forefoot region 608, a midfoot region 610, a heel region 612, and a medial side 616 (see [reference]). Figure 68 ) and outer 618 (see Figure 66Unless otherwise specified, the forefoot area 608, midfoot area 610, heel area 612, medial side 616, and lateral side 618 are intended to define the boundaries or areas of the footwear article 600.

[0186] The sole structure 604 also includes an outsole 630, a first cushioning member 632, a second cushioning member 634, and a sole plate 636 (see...). Figure 69 The outsole 630 may define the bottom end or surface of the sole structure 604 that traverses the heel region 612, the midfoot region 610 and the forefoot region 608.

[0187] The first cushioning member 632 may be positioned adjacent to and on top of the outsole 630 in the heel region 612. The first cushioning member 632 may also be positioned adjacent to and below the sole plate 636. The first cushioning member 632 may include one or more longitudinal grooves or flexures 638 extending between the inner side 616 and the outer side 618, the one or more longitudinal grooves or flexures 638 causing the first cushioning member 632 to be segmented in the heel region 612.

[0188] The second cushioning member 634 may be positioned adjacent to and on top of the outsole 630 in the midfoot region 610 and the forefoot region 608. As will be discussed further herein, the sole plate 636 may also bifurcate the second cushioning member 634 such that the sole plate 636 is located within the second cushioning member 634 (see [link to article]). Figure 69 ).

[0189] The first buffer member 632 and / or the second buffer member 634 may be independently constructed from materials similar to those disclosed in other embodiments disclosed herein.

[0190] The sole structure 604 also includes the sole plate 636; such as Figure 69 As best shown, the sole plate 636 includes a curved portion 650 and a rear portion 652, the rear portion 652 being relatively flat. The curved portion 650 may also include a front curved portion 654 and a rear curved portion 656. The front curved portion 654 and the rear curved portion 656 may each independently include one or more radii of curvature.

[0191] refer to Figure 69 The curved portion 650 of the plate 636 may be located within the second cushioning member 634, and the rear portion 652 of the plate 636 may be located above the first cushioning member 632. Additionally, a portion of the rear curved portion 656 may extend within the gap 658 between the first and second cushioning members 632 and 634. In some embodiments, the sole plate 636 has a uniform thickness. For example, in a specific embodiment, the thickness is approximately 1.2 cm.

[0192] In some embodiments, the sole plate 636 comprises a PU plastic, such as a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material. Other thermoplastic elastomers, including block copolymers, are also possible. In other embodiments, the sole plate 636 may comprise, for example, carbon fiber.

[0193] As briefly noted herein, in some embodiments, the outsole 630 or ground surface is discontinuous along the footwear article 600. For example, as Figure 69 Ideally, along the footwear 600, there is a gap or spacing 658, or there is no grounding surface located in the midfoot region 610 of the footwear 600.

[0194] Similar to sole structure 504, sole structure 604 may also include a second plate 660. Figures 66 to 75 In the specific embodiment shown, the second plate 660 partially surrounds the sole plate 636, such that the sole plate 636 is situated within the second plate 660. Furthermore, as... Figure 69 As best shown, the second plate 660 extends across the midfoot region 610 and the heel region 610. Therefore, the second plate 660 is located beneath the sole plate 636, across a portion of the sole plate 636, and more specifically, in its arch or midfoot region. In other embodiments, as previously discussed herein, the second plate 660 may extend across the full length of the sole plate 636, or may be located along the sole structure 604 where the sole plate 636 requires targeted structural support. The second plate 660 may be constructed of a material similar to that of the sole plate 636, which has been discussed herein. However, in specific embodiments, the material used to construct the second plate 660 may differ from the material used to construct the sole plate 636, such that the second plate 660 provides additional reinforcement to the sole plate 636. For example, in one embodiment, the sole plate 636 may be constructed of a carbon fiber material, and the second plate 660 may be constructed of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) to support the sole plate 636. In addition, the second plate 660 can support the structural integrity of the sole plate 636 and prevent the sole plate 636 from breaking during its use.

[0195] In addition to the second plate 660, a certain amount of material may also be injected into one or more grooves in the sole plate 636. More specifically, in this embodiment, the sole plate 636 may include two grooves 662 (see...). Figure 73The material 664 can be injected into or located within the groove 662. Similar to the second plate 660, the material injected into the groove 662 can provide additional structural support to the sole plate 636 and provide targeted support to the sole plate 636. For example, in this specific embodiment, a groove is provided that traverses the midfoot or arch region of the sole structure 604, and therefore, the material 664 can provide support to the sole plate 636 in its arch region, thereby providing additional support to the user's foot in the arch region of the sole structure 604. The injected material 664 can be a suitable plastic material, such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).

[0196] Figures 76 to 85 Another configuration of footwear article 700 is shown, which has an upper 702 and a sole structure 704. Similar to sole structures 104, 204, 304, 404, 504, and 604, the sole structure 704 is configured to attach to the upper 702 and, together with it, defines an internal cavity into which the foot can be inserted. Additionally, the sole structure 704 includes a forefoot region 708, a midfoot region 710, a heel region 712, and a medial side 716 (see [reference]). Figure 78 ) and outer 718 (see Figure 76 Unless otherwise specified, the forefoot area 708, midfoot area 710, heel area 712, medial side 716, and lateral side 718 are intended to define the boundaries or areas of the footwear article 700.

[0197] The sole structure 704 includes an outsole 730, a first cushioning member 732, a second cushioning member 734, and a sole plate 736 (see [link]). Figure 79 The outsole 730 may define the bottom end or surface of the sole structure 704 that traverses the heel region 712, the midfoot region 710, and the forefoot region 708.

[0198] The first cushioning member 732 may be positioned adjacent to and on top of the outsole 730 in the heel region 712. The first cushioning member 732 may also be positioned adjacent to and below the sole plate 736. The first cushioning member 732 may include one or more longitudinal grooves or flexural curves 738 extending between the inner side 716 and the outer side 718, which segment the first cushioning member 732 in the heel region 712.

[0199] The second cushioning member 734 may be positioned adjacent to and on top of the outsole 730 in the midfoot region 710 and the forefoot region 708. As will be discussed further herein, the sole plate 736 may also bifurcate the second cushioning member 734, such that the sole plate 736 is located within the second cushioning member 734 (see [link to documentation]). Figure 79Additionally, the sole plate 736 can also cause the first cushioning member 732 to branch, so that the sole plate 736 is also located within the first cushioning member (see...). Figure 79 ).

[0200] The first buffer member 732 and / or the second buffer member 734 may be independently constructed from materials similar to the first and second buffer members in other embodiments.

[0201] The sole structure 704 also includes the sole plate 736; such as Figure 79 As best shown, the sole plate 736 includes a curved portion 750 and a rear portion 752, the rear portion 752 being relatively flat. The curved portion 750 may also include a front curved portion 754 and a rear curved portion 756. The front curved portion 754 and the rear curved portion 756 may each independently include one or more radii of curvature.

[0202] refer to Figure 79 The curved portion 750 of the plate 736 may be located within the second cushioning member 734, and the rear portion 752 of the plate 736 may be located above the first cushioning member 732. Additionally, a portion of the rear curved portion 756 may extend between the gap 758 between the first cushioning member 732 and the second cushioning member 734. In some embodiments, the sole plate 736 has a uniform thickness. For example, in a specific embodiment, the thickness is approximately 1.2 cm.

[0203] In some embodiments, the sole plate 736 comprises a PU plastic, such as a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material. Other thermoplastic elastomers, including block copolymers, are also possible. In other embodiments, the sole plate 736 may comprise, for example, carbon fiber.

[0204] As briefly noted herein, in some embodiments, the outsole 730 or ground surface is discontinuous along the footwear article 700. For example, as Figure 79 Ideally, there is a gap or spacing 758 along the footwear 700, or there is no grounding surface located in the midfoot area 710 of the footwear 700.

[0205] Similar to the 504 and 604 sole structures, the 704 sole structure may also include a second plate 760. Figures 76 to 85 In the specific embodiment shown, the second plate 760 partially surrounds the sole plate 736, such that the sole plate 736 is situated within the second plate 760. Furthermore, as... Figure 79As best shown, the second plate 760 extends across the midfoot region 710 and the heel region 712. Therefore, the second plate 760 is located only below the sole plate 736, across a portion of the sole plate 736, and more specifically, in the arch or midfoot region. In other embodiments, as previously discussed herein, the second plate 760 may extend across the full length of the sole plate 736, or may be located along the sole structure 704 where targeted structural support is required. The second plate 760 may be constructed of a material similar to the sole plate 736, which has been discussed herein. However, in specific embodiments, the material used to construct the second plate 760 may differ from the material used to construct the sole plate 736, such that the second plate 760 provides additional reinforcement to the sole plate 736. For example, in one embodiment, the sole plate 736 may be constructed of a carbon fiber material, and the second plate 760 may be constructed of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) to support the sole plate 736. In addition, the second plate 760 can support the structural integrity of the sole plate 736 and prevent the sole plate 736 from breaking during its use.

[0206] In addition to the second plate 760, a certain amount of material may also be injected into one or more grooves in the sole plate 736. More specifically, in this embodiment, the sole plate 736 may include two grooves 762 formed by a plurality of protrusions 764 (see...). Figure 83 , Figure 86 and Figure 87 The material 766 can be injected into or located within the groove 762. Similar to the second plate 760, the material injected into the groove 762 can provide additional structural support to the sole plate 736 and provide targeted support to the sole plate 736. For example, in this specific embodiment, a groove is provided that traverses the midfoot or arch region of the sole structure 704; and therefore, the material 766 can provide support to the sole plate 736 in its arch region, thereby providing additional support to the user's foot in the arch region of the sole structure 704. The injected material 766 can be a suitable plastic material, such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).

[0207] Figures 88 to 89 The second plate 760 of this embodiment is shown. Additionally, as discussed herein in conjunction with several embodiments, the second plates 560, 660, and 760 may surround the sole plates 536, 636, and 736. To perform this function, the second plates 560, 660, and 760 may include outer walls or side walls 570, 670, and 770 extending upward from the body of the second plates 560, 660, and 760. Furthermore, the second plates 560, 660, and 760 may include a shape adapted to the shape of the sole plates 536, 636, and 736. For example, as... Figure 88 and Figure 89As shown in the best embodiment, the second plate 760 may include a plurality of protrusions 772 and grooves 774, which correspond to the plurality of protrusions 764 and grooves 762 of the sole plate 736.

[0208] Example

[0209] The examples herein are intended to illustrate certain embodiments of the footwear articles and sole structures discussed herein to those skilled in the art, and should not be construed as limiting the scope of this disclosure as set forth in the claims. The footwear articles and sole structures of this disclosure may include the following non-limiting examples.

[0210] Example 1

[0211] Several studies were conducted to evaluate the performance of the sole construction discussed in this paper compared to other comparative sole constructions. First, the mean relative VO2 max of subjects wearing sole constructions 104, 204, and 304 was measured and compared to the mean relative VO2 max of subjects wearing comparative sole constructions. These measurements were performed while subjects ran on a treadmill at various speeds including 12 km / h, 14 km / h, and 16 km / h. The results of this study are presented in… Figure 90 middle.

[0212] Oxygen uptake, or VO2 max, is a measure of the capacity of the working tissues that take in oxygen and deliver it to an athlete's body, but a lower average relative VO2 max corresponds to more efficient running. In other words, for example, if a runner is more efficient through more efficient and effective shoe soles, the runner requires less oxygen, and therefore will exhibit a lower average relative VO2 max. (Reference) Figure 90 At all speeds, sole construction 304 consistently exhibited the lowest average relative VO2 max compared to other comparative soles. However, at higher speeds of 16 km / h, the difference in VO2 max values ​​was significant, with footwear utilizing sole construction 304 demonstrating an average relative VO2 max of 49.1 ml / min / kg, a considerably lower figure compared to other shoes with values ​​exceeding 51 ml / min / kg. Other sole constructions, 104 and 204, also exhibited extremely low VO2 max values ​​compared to some comparative shoes. These results suggest that sole constructions 104, 204, and 304 can provide improved efficiency for runners or athletes.

[0213] Example 2

[0214] Next, the average heart rate of subjects wearing shoes with sole constructions of 104, 204, and 304 was measured and compared with the heart rate of subjects wearing shoes with comparative sole constructions. These measurements were performed while subjects ran on a treadmill at various speeds including 12 km / h, 14 km / h, and 16 km / h.

[0215] A subject's heart rate (similar to oxygen uptake) can be a measure of a runner's efficiency and the efficiency of the sole construction of the shoes they wear. For example, if a runner is more efficient through a more efficient and effective sole construction, they will, for instance, have a lower average heart rate. (Reference) Figure 91 Compared to several other shoe soles, runners wearing each sole construction (104, 204, 304) had a lower heart rate, indicating the improved efficiency of shoes with sole constructions of 104, 204, and 304.

[0216] Example 3

[0217] After subjects ran on a treadmill at various speeds including 12 km / h, 14 km / h, and 16 km / h, their perceived fatigue was recorded. More specifically, for example, subjects were asked to run at 12 km / h and then rate their perceived fatigue on a scale of zero to ten, where zero indicates no perceived fatigue and ten indicates extremely high perceived fatigue. These values ​​were recorded for footwear with sole constructions of 104, 204, and 304, compared with several comparable soles, and then plotted. The results of this experiment are shown in... Figure 92 In the middle; and as Figure 92 As shown, runners or subjects consistently provided low ratings for footwear products with sole constructions 104, 204, and 304. In particular, subjects consistently provided the lowest average rating for perceived fatigue regarding sole construction 304 compared to other sole constructions, indicating a beneficial experience felt by subjects or runners during use of sole construction 304.

[0218] Example 4

[0219] The mean lactate concentration of subjects wearing shoes with sole constructions of 104, 204, and 304 was also measured and compared with the lactate concentration of subjects or runners wearing footwear with comparable sole constructions. These measurements were performed while subjects ran on a treadmill at various speeds including 12 km / h, 14 km / h, and 16 km / h. The results of this study are presented in… Figure 93 middle.

[0220] Blood lactate levels can serve as an indirect marker of biochemical events, such as muscle fatigue during exercise. Furthermore, blood lactate concentrations are typically between 1 and 2 mmol / L at rest, but can rise to over 20 mmol / L during strenuous exercise. In short, higher blood lactate concentrations are a sign of runner fatigue. Therefore, lower lactate concentrations are desirable because they indicate more efficient running and a more efficient shoe design that provides runners with higher performance levels. Reference Figure 93Compared to other sole constructions, each of sole constructions 104, 204, and 304 performed exceptionally well and provided lower lactate concentrations compared to other tested sole constructions. As discussed earlier, higher speeds (such as 16 km / h) provide clearer data and more pronounced differences between sole constructions; and looking at data collected at a running speed of 16 km / h, sole constructions 104, 204, and 304 each recorded lactate concentrations of approximately 3.2 mmol / L, a significantly lower value compared to other comparative sole constructions. Those skilled in the art will understand that these differences in lactate concentration (or reductions in lactate formation) can have a powerful and positive impact on runners during training, recovery, and performance activities, particularly endurance athletes or runners (e.g., marathon runners).

[0221] Example 5

[0222] In addition to measuring lactate concentration in subjects or runners, a regression analysis of perceived fatigue levels and lactate concentrations was performed. More specifically, for each sole construction, subjects or runners provided perceived fatigue levels on a scale of zero to ten, where zero indicates no perceived fatigue and ten indicates extremely high fatigue. These values ​​were then plotted together with lactate concentrations collected from Example 4 discussed earlier in this paper. Specifically, for each speed and for each sole construction, the runner's perceived fatigue level was plotted on the y-axis and their lactate concentration on the x-axis. The plot represents the results from... Figure 94 In this study, regression analysis was performed to determine the statistical relationship between blood lactate levels and perceived fatigue levels. Following the regression analysis, Figure 94 The graph has an R-squared value of 0.92, thus showing a strong statistical association between the runner's perceived level of fatigue and the concentration of lactate in their blood.

[0223] Any of the embodiments described herein may be modified to include any of the structures or methods disclosed in combination with different embodiments. Furthermore, this disclosure is not limited to footwear articles of the type explicitly shown. Moreover, aspects of footwear articles based on any of the embodiments disclosed herein may be modified for use with any type of footwear, apparel, or other sporting equipment.

[0224] As previously stated, those skilled in the art will understand that while the invention has been described above in conjunction with specific embodiments and examples, it is not necessarily so limited, and many other embodiments, examples, uses, and modifications and deviations based on those embodiments, examples, and uses are intended to be covered by the claims appended thereto. Each patent and publication cited herein in its entirety is incorporated by reference, as if each such patent or publication were independently incorporated by reference herein. Various features and advantages of the invention are set forth in the following claims.

[0225] Industrial applicability

[0226] Based on the foregoing description, many modifications of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, this description should be understood as illustrative only and is intended to allow those skilled in the art to prepare and utilize the invention. Exclusive rights to all modifications falling within the scope of the appended claims are reserved.

Claims

1. A footwear product having a sole structure and an upper, said sole structure comprising: Outer sole with a grounding surface; A first cushioning member is disposed between the outsole and the upper in the heel region of the sole structure; A second cushioning member is disposed between the outsole and the upper in the forefoot region of the sole structure; as well as The sole plate has a rear portion and a curved portion, the curved portion including a front curved portion and a rear curved portion. The first buffer member and the second buffer member are separated by a gap, which extends between the first buffer member and the second buffer member. The front curved portion is positioned adjacent to the second cushioning member, a portion of the rear curved portion spans between the first and second cushioning members, and the rear portion is positioned between the first cushioning member and the shoe upper. Wherein, the grounding surface is discontinuous along the midfoot region of the footwear, and The sole plate is located within the second cushioning member and extends through the gap to reach the first cushioning member.

2. The footwear product according to claim 1, wherein, The midfoot area of ​​the sole structure is composed of the sole plate.

3. The footwear product according to claim 1, wherein, The sole structure also includes a second plate.

4. The footwear product according to claim 3, wherein, The second plate includes sidewalls, and wherein the second plate surrounds the sole plate.

5. The footwear product according to claim 3, wherein, The sole plate includes multiple raised portions and grooves.

6. The footwear product according to claim 5, wherein, The plastic material is located within the groove of the sole plate.

7. The footwear product according to claim 6, wherein, The plastic material is thermoplastic polyurethane.

8. The footwear product according to claim 7, wherein, The sole plate is made of carbon fiber, and the second plate is made of thermoplastic polyurethane.

9. A footwear article having a sole structure and an upper, said sole structure comprising: The first cushioning member is located in the heel area of ​​the sole structure; The second cushioning component is located in the forefoot region of the sole structure; as well as The first plate extends continuously from the heel area, midfoot area, and forefoot area of ​​the sole structure. The gap extends between the first buffer member and the second buffer member, such that the first buffer member and the second buffer member are spaced apart by the gap, and the first plate extends between the gap. The first plate is located inside the second buffer component.

10. The footwear article according to claim 9, wherein, The first plate is located above the first cushioning member in the heel region of the sole structure.

11. The footwear article according to claim 10, wherein, The gap extends between the first plate and the upper in the midfoot region of the sole structure.

12. The footwear article according to claim 11, wherein, The sole structure also includes an outsole, and a portion of the second cushioning member extends between the outsole and the first plate in the forefoot region of the sole structure, and the first cushioning member extends between the first plate and the outsole in the heel region of the sole structure.

13. The footwear article according to claim 9, wherein, The first plate is located within the second buffer member and within the first buffer member, such that the first plate branches the second buffer member and the first buffer member.

14. The footwear article according to claim 13, wherein, The sole structure also includes an outsole, and wherein a portion of the first cushioning member extends between the first plate and the outsole in the heel region of the sole structure, and a portion of the second cushioning member extends between the first plate and the outsole in the forefoot region of the sole structure.

15. The footwear article according to claim 14, wherein, The sole structure also includes a second plate having sidewalls surrounding the first plate.

16. The footwear article according to claim 15, wherein, The first plate includes multiple protrusions and grooves.

17. The footwear article according to claim 16, wherein, The plastic material is located within the groove of the first plate.

18. A footwear article having a sole structure and an upper, said sole structure comprising: Outer sole with a grounding surface; A first cushioning component is disposed in the heel area of ​​the sole structure; The second cushioning component is disposed in the forefoot region of the sole structure; The first plate has a rear portion and a curved portion, the curved portion including a front curved portion and a rear curved portion; as well as The second plate has a base and sidewalls extending from the base, and the shape of the second plate is consistent with that of the first plate, such that the first plate is located within the second plate. The front curved portion is positioned adjacent to the second cushioning member, a portion of the rear curved portion spans between the first and second cushioning members, and the rear portion is positioned between the first cushioning member and the shoe upper. The first plate includes multiple protrusions and multiple grooves, and The plastic material is located within the groove of the first plate.

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