Sole structure for article of footwear

Abstract

The present application relates to a sole structure for an article of footwear. A sole structure includes a body formed from a first material and at least one insert formed from a second material. The body defines a first portion of the ground engaging surface, the first portion including a first groove defined by a first section extending along a first axis and a second section extending along a second axis transverse to the first axis. One or more inserts are received in sockets formed in the body. The at least one insert defines a second portion of the ground-engaging surface and has a second groove including a third section extending along a third axis parallel to the first axis and a fourth section extending along a fourth axis transverse to the third axis and substantially parallel to the second axis. One of the first trench and the second trench defines an interface between the body and the interposer.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of an application with an application date of January 22, 2019, application number 202210142668.4, and invention name “Sole structure for footwear articles”.

[0002] The application with the application date of January 22, 2019, the application number of 202210142668.4, and the invention name of “Sole structure for footwear” is a divisional application of the application with the application date of January 22, 2019, the application number of 201980009132.1, and the invention name of “Sole structure for footwear”.

[0003] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0004] This application is a PCT international application, which claims priority to U.S. application serial number 15 / 878,095 filed on January 23, 2018, the contents of which are incorporated by reference in their entirety. field

[0006] The present disclosure relates generally to sole structures for articles of footwear, and more particularly to sole structures incorporating composite ground-contacting surfaces.

[0007] background

[0008] This section provides background information related to the present disclosure which is not necessarily prior art.

[0009] Articles of footwear conventionally include an upper and a sole structure. The upper may be formed of any suitable material to receive, secure and support the foot on the sole structure. The upper may cooperate with laces, straps or other fasteners to adjust the fit of the upper around the foot. The bottom portion of the upper, which is adjacent to the bottom surface of the foot, is attached to the sole structure.

[0010] The sole structure generally includes a layered arrangement extending between the ground surface and the upper. One layer of the sole structure includes an outsole that provides wear resistance and traction with the ground surface. The outsole can be formed using materials and geometries that impart durability and wear resistance and enhance traction with the ground surface. Another layer of the sole structure includes a midsole disposed between the outsole and the upper. The midsole provides cushioning for the foot and may be partially formed of a polymer foam material that elastically compresses under an applied load to cushion the foot by weakening ground reaction forces. The midsole may additionally or alternatively include a fluid-filled bladder to increase the durability of the sole structure and to provide cushioning for the foot by elastically compressing under an applied load to weaken ground reaction forces. The sole structure may also include an insole or sockliner for enhanced comfort positioned in a cavity near the bottom portion of the upper, and a strobel (midsole cloth) attached to the upper and disposed between the midsole and the insole or sockliner. Summary of the invention

[0011] This disclosure provides the following:

[0012] 1. A sole structure for an article of footwear, the sole structure comprising:

[0013] a body formed of a first material and defining a first region of a ground engaging surface, the first region of the ground engaging surface comprising a first groove defined by a first segment extending along a first axis and a second segment extending along a second axis transverse to the first axis; and

[0014] and at least one insert formed of a second material and received by the body, the at least one insert defining a second region of the ground engaging surface, the second region of the ground engaging surface being flush with the first region of the ground engaging surface and having a second groove, the second groove including a third segment extending along a third axis parallel to the first axis and a fourth segment extending along a fourth axis transverse to the third axis and substantially parallel to the second axis, one of the first groove and the second groove defining an interface between the body and the insert.

[0015] 2. The sole structure of 1, wherein the at least one insert comprises a front insert defining at least a portion of a forefoot area of ​​the ground engaging surface, and a rear insert defining at least a portion of a heel area of ​​the ground engaging surface.

[0016] 3. A sole structure as described in 2, wherein the front insert includes the second groove and the rear insert includes a third groove, the third groove having a fifth section extending along a fifth axis substantially parallel to the first axis and a sixth section extending along a sixth axis transverse to the fifth axis and substantially parallel to the second axis, the third groove defining an interface between the body and the rear insert.

[0017] 4. The sole structure of 2, wherein the body defines at least a portion of a midfoot region of the sole structure and separates the front insert from the rear insert.

[0018] 5. The sole structure of 1, wherein the body is formed of a foam material, and the at least one insert is formed of a rubber material.

[0019] 6. The sole structure of claim 1, wherein the body further defines at least one side surface of the sole structure, and a portion of the first groove of the body extends along the side surface.

[0020] 7. The sole structure of 6, wherein the at least one side surface of the sole structure comprises an outer side surface and an inner side surface, the outer side surface having a first portion of the first groove formed therein, and the inner side surface having a second portion of the second groove formed therein.

[0021] 8. The sole structure of 7, wherein the body includes a socket defined by a concave surface offset from the ground engaging surface and a side wall extending between the ground engaging surface and the concave surface and intersecting the at least one side surface.

[0022] 9. The sole structure of 8, wherein the insert is received by the socket, a first portion of the peripheral surface of the insert cooperates with the side wall of the socket, and a second portion of the peripheral surface of the insert is flush with the at least one side surface.

[0023] 10. The sole structure according to 1, wherein a cross-section of the first groove is elliptical, and a cross-section of the second groove is polygonal.

[0024] 11. A sole structure for an article of footwear, the sole structure comprising:

[0025] a body defining a first region of a ground engaging surface and at least one side surface extending from the ground engaging surface;

[0026] at least one insert received by the body and defining a second region of the ground engaging surface; and

[0027] A first groove, the first groove is defined by a first plurality of segments, the first plurality of segments including a first segment extending from the first node to the second node along a first axis, a second segment extending from the third node to the fourth node along a second axis transverse to the first axis, and a third segment extending from the fifth node to the sixth node along a third axis transverse to the second axis and substantially parallel to the first axis.

[0028] 12. The sole structure of 11, wherein the first segment is formed along a first side surface, the second segment is formed in the first area of ​​the ground engaging surface, and the third segment is formed along a second side surface.

[0029] 13. The sole structure as described in 11 also includes a second groove defined by a second plurality of segments, wherein the second plurality of segments include a fourth segment extending from the seventh section to the eighth section along a fourth axis substantially parallel to the first axis and a fifth segment extending from the ninth section to the tenth section along a fifth axis substantially parallel to the second axis.

[0030] 14. The sole structure of 13, wherein the first groove is formed only in the body of the sole structure, and the second groove is formed only in the insert of the sole structure.

[0031] 15. The sole structure of 14, wherein the insert includes a hole through at least one of the nodes of the second groove, the body being exposed through the hole.

[0032] 16. The sole structure of 13, wherein a first portion of the first groove is formed in the body, and a second portion of the first groove is formed in the insert.

[0033] 17. The sole structure of 13, wherein at least one of the segments includes an intermediate node.

[0034] 18. The sole structure of 17, wherein a width of each of the first groove and the second groove varies in a direction along at least one of the axes.

[0035] 19. The sole structure of 11, wherein the second section and the third section define a first common section, and the fourth section and the fifth section define a second common section, such that the first section, the second section, and the third section are connected in series.

[0036] 20. The sole structure of 11, wherein the second node, the third node, and the fifth node define a common node, such that the second segment and the third segment define a first sub-groove and a second sub-groove, respectively. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0037] The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected configurations and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0038] Figure 1 is a side perspective view of an article of footwear according to the principles of the present disclosure;

[0039] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 a lateral front view of the article of footwear;

[0040] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 a medial front view of the article of footwear;

[0041] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A front elevation view of an article of footwear;

[0042] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 a rear elevational view of an article of footwear;

[0043] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 a top view of an article of footwear;

[0044] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 a bottom perspective view of a sole structure of an article of footwear illustrating the geometry and configuration of a plurality of segments associated with a ground contacting surface of the sole structure;

[0045] Figure 8A-8C yes Figure 7 A bottom view of a sole structure of a shoe;

[0046] Fig. 9 yes Figure 7 A lateral front view of a sole structure;

[0047] Fig.10 yes Figure 7 A medial front view of a sole structure of the shoe;

[0048] Fig.11 yes Figure 7 A front elevational view of a sole structure of the shoe;

[0049] Fig.12 yes Figure 7 A rear elevational view of a sole structure of the shoe;

[0050] Fig.13 yes Figure 1 a bottom perspective view of a sole structure of an article of footwear illustrating the geometry and configuration of a plurality of segments associated with a ground contacting surface of the sole structure;

[0051] Figure 14A-Figure 14C yes Fig.13 A bottom view of a sole structure of a shoe;

[0052] Fig.15 yes Fig.13 A lateral front view of a sole structure;

[0053] Fig.16 yes Fig.13 A medial front view of a sole structure of the shoe;

[0054] Fig.17 yes Fig.13 A front elevational view of a sole structure;

[0055] Fig.18 yes Fig.13 A rear elevational view of a sole structure of the shoe;

[0056] Fig.19 yes Figure 1 a bottom perspective view of a sole structure of an article of footwear illustrating the geometry and configuration of a plurality of segments associated with a ground contacting surface of the sole structure;

[0057] Figure 20A-20C yes Fig.19 A bottom view of a sole structure of a shoe;

[0058] Fig.21 yes Fig.19 A lateral front view of a sole structure;

[0059] Fig. 22 yes Fig.19 A medial front view of a sole structure of the shoe;

[0060] Fig.23 yes Fig.19 A front elevational view of the sole structure of FIG. 1 ; and

[0061] Fig.24 yes Fig.19 Rear elevational view of a sole structure of the shoe.

[0062] Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the drawings. Detailed Description

[0064] Exemplary configurations will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. Example configurations are provided so that the present disclosure will be thorough and will fully convey the scope of the present disclosure to those of ordinary skill in the art. Specific details, such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the configurations of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that specific details need not be employed, that example configurations may be implemented in many different forms, and that the specific details and example configurations should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure.

[0065] The terms used herein are only for the purpose of describing specific exemplary configurations and are not intended to be restrictive. As used herein, unless otherwise clearly indicated in the context, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" may also be intended to include plural forms. The terms "comprises", "comprising", "including" and "having" are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of features, steps, operations, elements and / or parts, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, parts and / or their groups. Unless specifically identified as an order of execution, the method steps, processes and operations described herein should not be interpreted as necessarily requiring them to be performed in the specific order discussed or illustrated. Additional or alternative steps may be adopted.

[0066] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on another element or layer," "engaged to," "connected to," "attached to," or "coupled to" another element or layer, it may be directly on, engaged, connected, attached to, or coupled to another element or layer, or there may be intervening elements or layers. Conversely, when an element is referred to as being "directly on another element or layer," "directly engaged to," "directly connected to," "directly attached to," or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, there may be no intervening elements or layers. Other words used to describe relationships between elements should be interpreted in a similar manner (e.g., "between" versus "directly between," "adjacent" versus "directly adjacent," etc.). As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more associated listed items.

[0067] The terms first, second, third, etc. can be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or parts. These elements, components, regions, layers and / or parts should not be limited by these terms. These terms may only be used to distinguish an element, component, region, layer or part from another region, layer or part. Unless clearly indicated by the context, terms such as "first", "second" and other numerical terms do not mean order or sequence. Therefore, without departing from the teaching of exemplary configurations, the first element, component, region, layer or part discussed below may be referred to as the second element, component, region, layer or part.

[0068] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a sole structure for an article of footwear. The sole structure includes a body formed of a first material and defining a first portion of a ground engaging surface. The body includes a first groove defined by a first segment extending along a first axis and a second segment extending along a second axis transverse to the first axis. The sole structure also includes at least one insert formed of a second material and received by the body. The at least one insert defines a second portion of the ground engaging surface flush with the first area of ​​the ground engaging surface and has a second groove including a third segment extending along a third axis parallel to the first axis and a fourth segment extending along a fourth axis transverse to the third axis and substantially parallel to the second axis. One of the first groove and the second groove defines an interface between the body and the insert.

[0069] Embodiments of the present disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In some embodiments, at least one insert includes a front insert that defines at least a portion of the forefoot region of the ground engaging surface, and a rear insert that defines at least a portion of the heel region of the ground engaging surface. Here, the front insert may include a second groove and the rear insert may include a third groove, the third groove having a fifth section extending along a fifth axis substantially parallel to the first axis and a sixth section extending along a sixth axis transverse to the fifth axis and substantially parallel to the second axis, the third groove defining an interface between the body and the rear insert. Additionally or alternatively, the body may define at least a portion of the midfoot region of the sole structure, and the front insert may be separated from the rear insert.

[0070] In some examples, the body is formed of a foam material and the at least one insert is formed of a rubber material. The body may define at least one side surface of the sole structure, and a portion of the first groove of the body extends onto the side surface. Here, the at least one side surface of the sole structure may include a lateral side surface and a medial side surface, the lateral side surface having a first portion of the first groove formed therein, and the medial side surface having a second portion of the second groove formed therein.

[0071] In some configurations, the body includes a socket defined by a recessed surface offset from the ground engaging surface and a sidewall extending between the ground engaging surface and the recessed surface and intersecting the at least one side surface to define the socket. In this configuration, the insert is received by the socket, a first portion of the peripheral surface of the insert mates with the sidewall of the socket, and a second portion of the peripheral surface of the insert is disposed in the socket and flush with the at least one side surface. In some examples, the first region of the ground engaging surface is continuous and flush with the second region of the ground engaging surface.

[0072] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a sole structure for an article of footwear. The sole structure includes a body that defines a first area of ​​a ground engaging surface and at least one side surface extending from the ground engaging surface. The sole structure also includes at least one insert received by the body, the at least one insert defining a second area of ​​the ground engaging surface. The sole structure also includes a first groove defined by a first plurality of segments, the first plurality of segments including a first segment extending from a first node to a second node along a first axis, a second segment extending from a third node to a fourth node along a second axis transverse to the first axis, and a third segment extending from a fifth node to a sixth node along a third axis transverse to the second axis and substantially parallel to the first axis.

[0073] Implementations of the present disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In some implementations, a first segment is formed along a first side surface, a second segment is formed in a first region of the ground engaging surface, and a third segment is formed along a second side surface.

[0074] In some examples, the sole structure includes a second groove defined by a second plurality of segments, the second plurality of segments including a fourth segment extending from the seventh node to the eighth node along a fourth axis substantially parallel to the first axis, and a fifth segment extending from the ninth node to the tenth node along a fifth axis substantially parallel to the second axis. Here, the first groove may be formed only in the body of the sole structure and the second groove may be formed only in the insert of the sole structure. The insert may include a hole passing through at least one of the nodes of the groove so that the body is exposed through the hole. The first portion of the first groove may be formed in the body and the second portion of the first groove is formed in the insert. At least one of the segments may include an intermediate node. Here, the width of each of the first groove and the second groove may vary in the direction of at least one of the axes along the axis.

[0075] In some configurations, the second and third nodes define a first common node, and the fourth and fifth nodes define a second common node, such that the first, second, and third segments are connected in series. Alternatively, the second, third, and fifth nodes may define a common node, such that the second and third segments define a first sub-groove and a second sub-groove, respectively.

[0076] refer to Figure 1-Figure 6 , article of footwear 10 includes an upper 100 and a sole structure 200. Article of footwear 10 may be divided into one or more regions. The regions may include a forefoot region 12, a midfoot region 14, and a heel region 16. Forefoot region 12 may be subdivided into a toe portion 12 corresponding to the toe bones. T and the ball region associated with the metatarsal bones of the foot12 BMidfoot region 14 may correspond to an arch area of ​​the foot, and heel region 16 may correspond to a rear portion of the foot, including the calcaneus bone. Footwear 10 may also include a front end 18 associated with a forward-most point of forefoot region 12, and a rear end 20 corresponding to a rearward-most point of heel region 16. A longitudinal axis A of footwear 10 is F The lateral region 22 and the medial region 24 generally correspond to opposite sides of the footwear 10 and extend through the regions 12, 14, and 16, respectively. Figure 8A-8C , Figure 14A-Figure 14C and Figure 20A-20C The longitudinal axis A of the footwear is shown F may be arcuate in shape such that the longitudinal axis A F Positioned generally centrally along the length of footwear 10 between lateral side 22 and medial side 24 .

[0077] The upper 100 includes an interior surface defining an interior cavity 102 that is configured to receive and secure a foot for support on the sole structure 200. The upper 100 may be formed of one or more materials that are stitched or adhesively bonded together to form the interior cavity 102. Suitable materials for the upper may include, but are not limited to, mesh, textiles, foams, leather, and synthetic leather. The materials may be selected and positioned to impart properties of durability, breathability, wear resistance, flexibility, and comfort.

[0078] In some examples, upper 100 includes a strobel (not shown) having a bottom surface opposite sole structure 200 and an opposite top surface of footbed 108 defining interior cavity 102. Stitching or adhesive can secure strobel to upper 100. Footbed 108 can be contoured to conform to the contour of a bottom surface of a foot (e.g., the sole). Optionally, upper 100 can also include additional layers, such as an insole 110 or a sockliner, which can be disposed on the strobel and placed within interior cavity 102 of upper 100 to receive the plantar surface of the foot, thereby improving the comfort of article of footwear 10. An ankle opening 112 in heel region 16 can provide access to interior cavity 102. For example, ankle opening 112 may receive a foot to secure the foot within void 102 and to facilitate entry and removal of the foot into interior void 102 .

[0079] In some examples, one or more fasteners (not shown) extend along the upper 100 to adjust the fit of the interior cavity 102 around the foot and accommodate the entry and removal of the foot from the interior cavity 102. The upper 100 may include holes 116 (such as eyelets) and / or other engagement features (such as fabric or mesh loops that receive fasteners). The fasteners may include laces, straps, ropes, hook-and-loops, or any other suitable type of fasteners. The upper 100 may include a tongue portion 118 extending between the interior cavity 102 and the fasteners.

[0080] refer to Figure 7-Figure 24 , several alternative embodiments of a sole structure 200 according to the present disclosure are provided. In view of the substantial similarity in structure and function of the components associated with each embodiment, the same reference numerals are used below and in the accompanying drawings to identify common components of the same design. Similar reference numerals containing letter extensions are used to identify variations of the same components within an embodiment of the sole structure 200, while reference numerals containing a prime (′) are used to identify examples of the same components that have been modified between embodiments, and reference numerals containing subscripts are used to identify subcomponents of a parent component. Therefore, representations of components using numbers that do not include letter extensions, primes, or subscripts are understood to refer collectively to all variations of the same components that include similar reference numerals, including those examples with letter extensions, primes, and / or subscripts.

[0081] refer to Figure 7-Figure 24, sole structure 200, 200'-200"' includes a ground engaging surface 202, 202'-202"' configured to interface with a ground surface when article of footwear 10 is worn by a user. Sole structure 200 is also defined by an upper surface 204 formed on a side of sole structure 200 opposite ground engaging surface 202 and configured to oppose an upper to provide a foot support surface. The side surfaces 206, 206'-206"' extend between the ground engaging surface 202 and the upper surface 204 and define an outer perimeter of the sole structure 200. Although the illustrated sole structure 200 includes a generally continuous contoured side surface 206 extending around the entire perimeter of the sole structure 200, the side surface 206 may be defined as including lateral surfaces 206a, 206a'-206a"' extending generally along the lateral side 22 of the sole structure 200, medial surfaces 206b, 206b' extending generally along the medial side 24 of the sole structure 200, and medial surfaces 206c, 206c' extending generally along the medial side 24 of the sole structure 200. -206b″′, front surfaces 206c, 206c′-206c″′ extending around the forefoot area 12 between the lateral surface 206a and the medial surface 206b, and rear surfaces 206d, 206d′-206d″′ extending around the heel area 16 between the lateral surface 206a and the medial surface 206b. The front surface 206c can be defined by a toe cap or tab 208 that protrudes from the upper surface 204 and is configured to be attached to or coupled to the upper 100 at the front end 18.

[0082] A transition portion 209 may be formed at the intersection of ground engaging surface 202 and side surface 206 and may be formed by a variable radius R extending around the perimeter of sole structure 200. T , R T1 , R T2 For example, in the forefoot region 12 and the heel region 14, the transition portion 209 may be defined by a first radius R T1 Defined by the first radius R T1 A relatively sharp transition portion 209 is provided between the ground engaging surface 202 and the side surface 206. In contrast, in the midfoot region 14, the transition portion 209 between the ground engaging surface 202 and the side surface 206 may be formed by a relatively large radius R T2 Defined thereby, the ground engaging surface 202 and the side surface 206 are substantially continuously formed.

[0083] The sole structure 200 also includes a plurality of grooves 210, 210'-210"' formed therein. The grooves 210 are offset from the ground engaging surface 202 by a depth D CThe groove 210 is defined by a concave surface 212 and a pair of opposite side walls 214 extending from the ground engaging surface 202 to the concave surface 212. The distance between the side walls 214 defines the width W of the groove 210. C ,like Figure 8C , Fig. 14C and Fig. 20C As described in more detail below, the depth D of the groove 210 C and width W C The length of the groove 210 may vary.

[0084] Each of the grooves 210 includes a plurality of elongated segments 222. Each of the segments 222 includes two or more nodes 224 connected to each other by an intermediate necked region 226 and extending along a longitudinal segment axis A. S Extending from the first end section 224a to the second end section 224a, such as Fig. 8A One or more of the segments 222 may also include an intermediate node 224b extending along the segment axis A. S The segments 222 are arranged between the end nodes 224a and connected to each other through the necking region 226. Therefore, the end nodes 224a, the middle nodes 224b and the necking region 226 of the corresponding segment 222 are all along the common segment axis A. S Align. Reference Figure 8B , Fig. 14B and Fig. 20B , the segment axis A of each segment in segment 222 S1-n The longitudinal axis A of the footwear 10 may be F Arranged at an oblique angle.

[0085] As discussed above, the width W of each of the trenches 210 is C The length of the trench 210 varies. More specifically, the width W C The first width W of the segment 222 at the node 224 varies along each segment 222. C1 Greater than the second width W of the segment 222 at each of the necked regions 226 C2 ,like Figure 8B , Fig. 14B and Fig. 20B Alternatively, the sidewall 214 may be described as having an undulated shape, whereby the sidewalls 214 of each segment 222 converge with each other at the necking region 226 and diverge at the node 224 .

[0086] The segments 222 of each groove 210 may be arranged in series at alternating oblique angles or right angles relative to each other. Figure 8B , Fig. 14B and Fig. 20B As shown in FIG. 2 , the segment axis A of the connected segments in segment 222 S1-n Transverse to each other and defining a wave or chevron shape. One or more of the grooves 210 can define a single continuous path, whereby the segments 222 are arranged in series in an end-to-end arrangement. For example, the first segment 222 can be arranged along the first segment axis A. S1 The second segment 222 extends from the first end segment 224a to the second end segment 224a, and the second segment 222 can be arranged along an axis A relative to the first segment. S1 The second axis A at an oblique or right angle S2 The third segment 222 may extend from the second end segment 224a to the third end segment 224a. S3 The third section axis A extends from the third end section 224a to the fourth end section 224a. S3 With the second axis A S2 At an oblique or right angle and substantially parallel (e.g., within about 5 degrees) to the first segment axis A S1 In addition to or as an alternative to the grooves 210 arranged in series, the sole structure 200 can include a branched groove 210 whereby three or more sub-grooves 210 diverge from a common end node 224a that defines a junction 220. In some examples, one or more grooves 210 can include a circuitous portion where one or more segments 222 of the groove are disposed between two or more other segments of the groove 210, as described below.

[0087] In some embodiments, the sole structure 200 can be compositely formed of a body 250, 250'-250"' and one or more inserts 260, 260'-260"' that cooperate to define a ground engaging surface 202 of the sole structure 200. As discussed in more detail below, the body 250 includes one or more receptacles 252, 252′-252″′, each of which is configured to receive a corresponding one of the inserts 260, thereby allowing the area of ​​the ground engaging surface 202 and the side surface 206 defined by the insert 260 to be flush with the area of ​​the ground engaging surface 202 and the side surface 206 defined by the body 250. The interface between the insert 260 and the body 250 can be defined by the groove 210, so that the interface between the insert 260 and the body 250 has a profile that is substantially similar to the profile of one of the grooves 210. Additionally or alternatively, the body 250 and the insert 260 can cooperate to define the grooves 210 of the sole structure 200, whereby one or more of the grooves 210 can extend substantially uninterrupted between the body 250 and the one or more inserts 260.

[0088] refer to Figure 7 , Fig.13 and Fig.19 Each socket 252 is offset from the ground engaging surface 202 of the body by a depth D S 254 and the ground engaging surface 202. The side walls 256 of the socket 252 may intersect with one or more of the side surfaces 206 of the sole structure 200, thereby defining an opening (not shown) or recess through the side surface 206.

[0089] The insert 260 is configured to be received within the socket 252 of the body 250. Thus, the insert 260 is defined by an inner surface 262, 262′-262″′ (hidden) opposite the ground engaging surface 202 and a peripheral surface 264, 264′-264″′ extending between the inner surface 262 and the ground engaging surface 202. The distance between the ground engaging surface 202 and the inner surface 262 defines the thickness T of each insert 260. I , which is substantially similar to the depth D of the corresponding socket 252 S , such that the area of ​​the ground engaging surface 202 defined by the insert 260 is generally aligned or coplanar with the area of ​​the ground engaging surface 202 defined by the body 250.

[0090] The contour of the peripheral surface 264 of each insert 260 corresponds to the contour defined by the sidewall 256 and opening of the corresponding socket 252. Thus, the peripheral surface 264 of the insert 260 cooperates with the sidewall 256 of the socket 252 to provide a continuous and uninterrupted transition between the body 250 and the insert 260 along the ground engaging surface 202. In addition, the portion of the peripheral surface 264 that extends along the opening of the socket 252 is generally flush with the corresponding side surface 206 defined by the body 250 to provide a continuous and uninterrupted transition between the body 250 and the insert 260 along the side surface 206.

[0091] As shown, the body 250 defines the upper surface 204 and the side surface 206 of the sole structure 200, and further defines one or more areas of the ground engaging surface 202. Thus, the body 250 is configured to provide the functionality of both a conventional midsole and an outsole, and may be formed of a molded foam material to provide a range of desired properties, including durability, energy return, cushioning, traction, and support. Examples of suitable materials are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. US2017 / 0267845, US2017 / 0267846, US2017 / 0267847, US2017 / 0267848, US2017 / 0267849, and US2017 / 0267850, which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0092] Insert 260 is generally positioned in an area of ​​ground engaging surface 202 that is more likely to be subject to increased point loads relative to areas of ground engaging surface 202 defined by the foam material of body 250. Thus, insert 260 is formed of a material having a greater coefficient of friction, durability, and wear resistance than the material of body 250.

[0093] As discussed above, the grooves 210 of the sole structure 200 may extend continuously along the ground engaging surface 202. Thus, one or more of the grooves 210 may traverse both the body 250 and the one or more inserts 260 in a substantially continuous and uninterrupted manner. For example, a first segment of the segments 222 may be formed in one of the inserts 260 and may be connected to a second segment of the segments 222 formed in the body 250. Additionally or alternatively, a single segment of the segments 222 may extend from the body 250 to the insert 260, or vice versa.

[0094] like Figure 7 , Fig.13 and Fig.19260, the portion of the groove 210 defined by the body 250 may be formed with a "softer" edge than the portion of the groove 210 defined by the insert. For example, the edge formed by the intersection of the concave surface 212 and the sidewall 214 of the groove 210 may have a larger radius in the body 250 than in the insert 260. In some examples, the concave surface 212 and the sidewall 214 defining the groove 210 formed in the body 250 may be substantially continuous and define the groove 210 having a semi-elliptical cross-section. In contrast, the concave surface 212 and the sidewall 214 defining the groove formed in the insert may intersect to define the groove 210 having a polygonal (e.g., rectangular) cross-section.

[0095] The differences in groove definition between the body 250 and the insert 260 are configured to maximize traction and minimize wear of the ground engaging surface 202. For example, although the body 250 is formed of a durable foam material, it may exhibit a lower wear resistance than the material forming the insert 260. By providing a "softened" edge, the groove 210 is less likely to experience high load concentrations and wear, thereby improving durability. In contrast, the insert 260 is formed of a material having a relatively high wear resistance. Therefore, the groove 210 of the insert 260 can be formed with a "harder" edge to provide improved traction, especially on soft ground surfaces.

[0096] refer to Figure 7-Figure 12 , an example of a sole structure 200, 200' is provided and includes a body 250, 250' and a plurality of inserts 260, 260' that cooperate to define a ground engaging surface 202, 202' having a plurality of grooves 210, 210' formed therein. As discussed above, the body 250' is formed of a first foam material, while the inserts 260' are formed of one or more rubber materials.

[0097] like Figure 7 and Figure 8A-8C As shown in FIG. 2 , body 250 ′ defines a first area of ​​ground engaging surface 202 ′ and one or more side surfaces 206 ′ extending between ground engaging surface 202 ′ and upper surface 204 of sole structure 200 ′.

[0098] In the illustrated example, the insert 260' of the sole structure 200' includes a front insert 260a' disposed within the front socket 252a' of the body 250' and a rear insert 260b' disposed within the rear socket 252b' of the body. Figure 7-Figure 9 As shown in FIG. 1 , the front insert 260a′ extends from the front end 18 to the ball area 12b and from the lateral side 22 to the medial side 24. Thus, the front insert 260a′ generally defines the toe portion 12 of the forefoot region 12.T The rear insert 260b' extends from the rear end 20 to the middle portion of the heel region 16 and from the lateral side 22 to the medial side. The middle portion of the heel region 16 can be defined by a transition portion between a convex portion of the ground engaging surface 202' extending forward from the rear end 20 and a generally flat portion of the ground engaging surface 202', such as Fig. 9 Thus, the body 250' defines a portion extending from the toe portion 12 T The ground engaging surface 202' extends to a middle portion of the heel region 16 and meets the front insert piece 260a' and the rear insert piece 260b' at opposite ends, respectively.

[0099] The sole structure 200' includes a plurality of grooves 210, 210', 210a'-210j' formed therein. Figure 8C As shown in FIG. 1 , the first end grooves 210′, 210a′ generally define a first end of a first region of the ground engaging surface 202′, and the second end grooves 210b′ generally define a second end of the first region of the ground engaging surface 202′, whereby the side walls 256a′, 256b′ defining the respective receptacles 252a′, 252b′ correspond to the profile of the respective end grooves 210a′, 210b′. Each of the first end grooves 210a′ and the second end grooves 210b′ includes a plurality of segments 222 arranged in series and extending along the outer side surface 206a′, the ground engaging surface 202′, and the inner side surface 206b′.

[0100] The body 250' of the sole structure 200' also includes a plurality of third grooves 210c' formed adjacent to the first end groove 210a'. The third groove 210c' includes segments 222 arranged in series extending from the lateral surface 206a' to the medial surface 206b'. The segments 222 are arranged at alternating angles relative to each other to define a wave-shaped or mountain-shaped pattern that generally corresponds to the shape of the first end groove 210a', such that the grooves 210a' and 210c' define a plurality of third grooves 210c' along the longitudinal axis A. F A repeated mountain-shaped pattern extends in a direction toward the rear end 20. Similarly, a plurality of fourth grooves 210d' are formed adjacent to the second grooves 210b' and are disposed along the longitudinal axis A. F The front end 18 is spaced apart in a direction toward the front end 18.

[0101] The body 250' of the sole structure 200' may also include a branched fifth groove 210e' extending from the lateral surface 206a' to the medial surface 206b'. The branched fifth groove 210e' includes a first sub-groove 210e1' that includes a series of segments 222 that are arranged in series at alternating angles relative to each other and extend from the lateral surface 206a' to a junction 220 at a middle portion of the ground engaging surface 202'. The branched groove 210e' is further defined by a pair of sub-grooves 210e2', 210e3' that diverge from the first sub-groove 210e1' at a middle portion of the ground engaging surface 202' and each extend onto the medial surface 206b'.

[0102] Continue to refer Figure 8C , the sole structure 200′ includes a circuitous sixth groove 210f′, which is arranged adjacent to the branched groove 210e′ and extends from the lateral surface 206a′ to the medial surface 206b′, and includes a sub-groove 210f1′, which has a plurality of segments 222 arranged in a circuitous configuration in the central area of ​​the ground engaging surface 202′. The circuitous structure of the sixth groove 210f′ is defined by a first section 222 extending from the first end node 224a to the second end node 224a at a first angle, a second section 222 extending from the second end node 224a to the third end node 224a at a second angle substantially perpendicular to the first angle, a third section 222 extending from the third end node 224a to the fourth end node 224a at a first angle, a fourth section 222 extending from the fourth end node 224a to the fifth end node 224a at a second angle, a fifth section 222 extending from the fifth end node 224a to the sixth end node 224a at a first angle, and a sixth section 222 extending from the sixth end node 224a to the seventh end node 224a at a second angle, whereby the first section, the third section and the fifth section 222 are parallel to each other, wherein the fifth section 222 is arranged between the first section 222 and the third section 222. Likewise, the second segment 222 , the fourth segment 222 , and the sixth segment 222 are parallel to each other, wherein the fourth segment 222 is disposed between the second segment 222 and the sixth segment 222 .

[0103] The body 250' of the sole structure 200' may also include a seventh groove 210h' having a horseshoe shape whereby first and second ends of the seventh groove 210h' are formed on the same side surface and a middle portion of the groove extends onto the ground engaging surface 202'.

[0104] Continue to refer Figure 8C, the front insert 260a' includes a plurality of eighth grooves 210i' that are generally complementary in shape to the first end grooves 210a' of the body 250'. Similarly, the rear insert 260b' includes a plurality of ninth grooves 210j' that are generally complementary to the second end grooves 210b'. Thus, the eighth grooves 210i' and the ninth grooves 210j' cooperate with the corresponding end grooves 210a', 210b' to define a wave-shaped interface between the side wall 256a' of the body 250' and the peripheral surfaces 264a', 264b' of the inserts 260a', 260b'.

[0105] The width W of the grooves 210i′ and 210j′ c The sole structure 200' may taper from one side 22, 24 to the other side 22, 24. For example, in the front insert 260a', the width W of the node 224 is C1 The width W of the node 224 may be gradually reduced in the direction from the outer side 22 to the inner side 24. In contrast, in the rear insert 260b', the width W of the node 224 is C1 The grooves 210i', 210j' of each of the inserts 260a', 260b' may include a hole 266 formed therethrough that exposes the lower concave surface 254a', 254b' of the body 250'. In the illustrated example, the hole 266 is formed through the node 224 of the grooves 210i', 210j' and gradually decreases or increases in width (i.e., diameter) from one side 22, 24 to the other side 22, 24, similar to the node 224.

[0106] As discussed above, insert 260' of sole structure 200' is configured to provide increased traction and wear resistance to areas of ground engaging surface 202' relative to body 250'. However, because the material forming insert 260' has a greater density than the material forming body 250', it is desirable to provide insert 260' only in areas of ground engaging surface 202' that are subject to relatively high force concentrations in order to provide a balance between the overall weight of sole structure 200' and desired performance. For example, in Figure 7-Figure 12 In the example of sole structure 200' shown in , front insert 260a' and rear insert 260b' are configured to absorb greater forces associated with forward movement, while body 250' is configured to define ground engaging surface 202' in an area that is subject to less forces than insert 260'.

[0107] refer to Figure 13-Figure 18, another example of a sole structure 200, 200" is provided and includes a body 250, 250" and a plurality of inserts 260, 260" that cooperate to define a ground engaging surface 202, 202" having a plurality of grooves 210, 210" formed therein. As discussed above, the body 250" is formed of a first foam material and the inserts 260" are formed of one or more rubber materials.

[0108] like Fig.13 and Figures 14A-14C As shown in , the body 250″ defines a first area of ​​the ground engaging surface 202″ and one or more side surfaces 206″ extending between the ground engaging surface 202″ and the upper surface 204 of the sole structure 200″. In the illustrated example, the sole structure 200″ includes a front insert 260a″ disposed within a front receptacle 252a″ of the body 250″ and a rear insert 260b″ disposed within a rear receptacle 252b″ of the body 250″. Figure 14A-Figure 16 As shown in the figure, the front insert 260a" extends from the front end 18 to the midfoot region 14 and from the lateral side 22 to the medial side 24. Therefore, the front insert 260a" generally defines a ground engaging surface 202" in the forefoot region 12 of the sole structure 200". The rear insert 260b" extends from the rear end 20 to the midfoot region 12 and from the lateral side 22 to the medial side 24. Therefore, the rear insert 260b" generally defines a ground engaging surface 202" in the heel region 16 of the sole structure 200". Therefore, the body 250" defines a ground engaging surface 202" extending through the midfoot region 14 and connects to the front insert 260a" and the rear insert 260b" at opposite ends, respectively.

[0109] The sole structure 200' includes a plurality of grooves 210, 210", 210a"-210j" formed therein. Fig. 14C As shown in the figure, the first end groove 210a" generally defines a first end area of ​​the ground engaging surface 202" defined by the main body 250", and the second end groove 210b" generally defines a second end of the area of ​​the ground engaging surface 202" defined by the main body 250", thereby defining the side walls 256a", 256b" of the corresponding sockets 252a", 252b" corresponding to the contours of the corresponding end grooves 210a", 210b".

[0110] refer to Fig. 14C The first end groove 210a″ is branched and includes a plurality of sub-grooves 210a 1-5″. The first sub-groove 210a1″ and the second sub-groove 210a2″ are connected at the first joint 220 defined by the first end node 224a, and cooperate to define the profile of the side wall 256a″ of the front socket 252a″. The third sub-groove 210a3″ extends from the first joint 220 and is arranged in a circuitous configuration set in the central portion of the ground engaging surface 202″. The circuitous configuration is formed by the longitudinal axis A relative to the longitudinal axis A. F The third section 222 is defined by a first section 222 extending from a first end section 224a at a first joint 220 to a second end section 224a at a first angle, a second section 222 extending from the second end section 224a to a third end section 224a at a second angle substantially perpendicular to the first angle, a third section 222 extending from the third end section 224a to a fourth end section 224a at a first angle, a fourth section 222 extending from the fourth end section 224a to a fifth end section 224a at a second angle, and a fifth section 222 extending from the fifth end section 224a to a sixth end section 224a at the first angle, whereby the third section 222 is disposed between the first section 222 and the fifth section 222 and is parallel to the first section 222 and the fifth section 222. The sixth end node 224a of the third sub-groove 210a3" defines a second joint portion 220 from which each of the fourth sub-groove 210a4" and the fifth sub-groove 210a5" diverges and extends onto the inner side surface 206b".

[0111] The second end groove 210b" includes a plurality of segments 222 arranged in series and extends from the outer side surface 206a" along the ground engaging surface 202" and onto the inner side surface 206b".

[0112] The main body 250" of the sole structure 200" also includes a third groove 210c" formed adjacent to the first end groove 210a". The third groove 210c" includes segments 222 arranged in series extending from the outer surface 206a" to the inner surface 206b". The segments 222 are arranged at alternating angles relative to each other to define a wavy or mountain-shaped pattern that generally corresponds to the contour of the first end groove 210a".

[0113] The main body 250" of the sole structure 200" may also include a branched fourth groove 210d" extending from the lateral surface 206a" to the medial surface 206b". The branched fourth groove 210d" includes a first sub-groove 210d1", which includes a series of segments 222, which are arranged in series at alternating angles relative to each other and extend from the medial surface 206b" to the middle portion of the ground engaging surface 202". The branched fourth groove 210d" is further defined by a pair of sub-grooves 210d2", 210d3", which branch from the first sub-groove 210d1" at the middle portion of the ground engaging surface 202", and each extends to the lateral surface 206a".

[0114] Continue to refer Fig. 14C , the front insert 260a″ includes a plurality of fifth grooves 210e″ extending between the outer side 22 and the inner side 24 of the front insert 260a″. The branched sixth groove 210f″ is disposed adjacent to the plurality of fifth grooves 210e″ and extends continuously between the outer side 22 and the inner side 24. The branched sixth groove 210f″ includes a first sub-groove 210f1″ and a pair of sub-grooves 210f2″ and 210f3″, the first sub-groove 210f1″ extending from the outer side 22 to a joint 220 in a middle portion of the ground engaging surface 202″, and the pair of sub-grooves 210f2″ and 210f3″ branch off from the joint 220 and extend to the inner side 24 of the front insert 260a″. The front insert 260a" also includes a seventh groove 210g" disposed between the branched sixth groove 210f" and the first end groove 210a"' of the body 250". The seventh groove 210g" extends from the outer side 22 of the front insert 260a" and intersects with the first end groove 210a" formed in the body 250".

[0115] The rear insert 260b" includes a plurality of eighth grooves 210h" extending between the outer side 22 and the inner side 24 of the rear insert 260b". A pair of ninth grooves 210i" extends from the outer side 22 of the rear insert 260b" to the longitudinal axis A. F Similarly, the tenth groove 210j″ extends from the inner side 24 to the longitudinal axis A. F and a terminal end in the middle of the inner side 24 .

[0116] The width W of the grooves 210a"-210j" c The sole structure 200" may taper from one side 22, 24 to the other side 22, 24. For example, in the front insert 260a", the width W of the node 224 is C1The width W of the node 224 may be gradually reduced in the direction from the outer side 22 to the inner side 24. In contrast, in the rear insert 260b″, the width W of the node 224 is C1 It may gradually increase in the direction from the outer side 22 to the inner side 24. The grooves 210i"-210j" of each of the inserts 260a", 260b" may include a hole 266 formed therethrough that exposes the lower recessed surface 254a", 254b" of the body 250". In the illustrated example, the hole 266 is formed through the node 224 of the grooves 210e"-210j" and gradually decreases or increases in width (i.e., diameter) from one side 22, 24 to the other side 22, 24, similar to the node 224.

[0117] As discussed above, the insert 260" of the sole structure 200" is configured to provide increased traction and wear resistance to areas of the ground engaging surface 202". However, because the material forming the insert 260" has a greater density than the material forming the body 250", it is desirable to provide the insert 260" only in areas of the ground engaging surface 202" that are subject to relatively high force concentrations in order to minimize the overall weight of the sole structure 200". For example, in Figure 13-Figure 18 In the example of sole structure 200″ shown in , front insert 260a″ and rear insert 260b″ are configured to absorb greater forces associated with forward and lateral movement, while the body is configured to define an area of ​​ground engaging surface 202″ that is subject to less force than the area defined by insert 260″.

[0118] refer to Figure 19-Figure 24 , another example of a sole structure 200, 200'' is provided and includes a body 250, 250'' and a plurality of inserts 260, 260'' that cooperate to define a ground engaging surface 202, 202'' having a plurality of grooves 210, 210'' formed therein. As discussed above, the body 250'' is formed of a first foam material and the inserts 260'' are formed of one or more rubber materials.

[0119] like Fig.19 and Figure 20A-20CAs shown in the figure, the body 250'' defines a first area of ​​the ground engaging surface 202'', and one or more side surfaces 206'' extending between the ground engaging surface 202'' and the upper surface 204 of the sole structure 200''. In the illustrated example, the sole structure 200'' includes a front insert 260a''' received in the front socket 252a'' of the body 250'', a rear insert 260b''' received in the rear socket 252b'' of the body 250'', a lateral insert 260c''' disposed in the lateral socket 252c'' of the body 250'', and a medial insert 260d''' disposed in the medial socket 252d''.

[0120] like Figure 19-20C As shown in , the front insert 260a'' extends from the front end 18 to the middle portion of the forefoot area 12, and from the lateral side 22 to the medial side 24. Therefore, the front insert 260a'' generally defines the ground engaging surface 202'' in the forefoot area 12 of the sole structure 200''. The rear insert 260b'' extends from the rear end 20 to the middle portion of the heel area 16, and from the lateral side 22 to the medial side 24. Therefore, the rear insert 260b'' generally defines the ground engaging surface 202'' in the heel area of ​​the sole structure 200''. The lateral insert 260c'' extends from a first side adjacent to the lateral side 22 of the sole structure to a second side intermediate the lateral side 22 and the longitudinal axis AF, and from a first end opposite the front insert 260a'' to a second end at the midfoot area 12. Likewise, medial insert 260d'" extends from a first side adjacent medial side 24 to a second side intermediate medial side 24 and longitudinal axis AF, and from a first end opposite front insert 260a'" to a second end at midfoot region 12. Inserts 260'" are all spaced apart from one another by body 250'"'.

[0121] The sole structure 200' includes a plurality of grooves 210, 210'', 210a''-210j'' formed therein. Fig. 20C As shown in the figure, the first end grooves 210', 210a' generally define the first end of the first area of ​​the ground engaging surface 202', thereby defining the contour of the interface between the peripheral surface 264a'' of the front insert 260a'' and the side wall 256a'' of the front socket 252a''. The first end groove 210a'' extends continuously along the body 250'' from the outer side surface 206a'' to the inner side surface 206b''.

[0122] The second end groove 210b'' generally defines a second end of a first region of the ground engaging surface 202'' defined by the body 250'' and includes a first sub-groove 210b1'' and a second sub-groove 210b2''. The first sub-groove 210b1'' extends from the outer side surface 206a'' to the ground engaging surface 202'' on the longitudinal axis A. F and a terminal end portion intermediate the inner side 24. The second sub-groove 210b2′″ extends from the inner side surface 202b′″ to a terminal end portion intermediate the longitudinal axis AF and the inner side 24 on the ground engaging surface 202′″. Therefore, the second groove 210b′″ can be described as including a discontinuity between the first sub-groove 210b1′″ and the second sub-groove 210b2′″.

[0123] The third groove 210c'" is disposed adjacent to the first end groove 210a'" and extends continuously from the outer side surface 206a'" to the inner side surface 206b'" along the ground engaging surface 202'" and within the body 250'"'. Thus, the third groove 210c'" generally defines the contour of the interface between the peripheral surfaces 264c'"', 264d'" of the outer and inner insert pieces 260c'"', 260d'"' and the side walls 256c'"', 256d'" of the outer and inner sockets 252c'"', 252d'"'. In particular, the third groove 210c'" defines the interface at the first ends of the outer and inner insert pieces 260c'"', 260d'"'. As shown, the interface has a generally mountain-shaped contour corresponding to the contour of the third groove 210c'"'.

[0124] The sole structure 200' includes a plurality of fourth grooves 210d', each of which extends continuously from the lateral side 22 to the medial side 24 and crosses at least one of the lateral insert 260c' and the medial insert 260d' and the body 250'. Fig. 20C As shown in FIG. 1 , at least one of the fourth grooves 210d″′ extends from the outer side 22 along the ground engaging surface of the outer insert 260c″′, traverses the portion of the body 250″′ that separates the outer insert 260c″′ and the inner insert 260d″′, and continues across the inner insert 260d″′ to the inner side 24. Additional grooves 210d″′ may extend from the outer side 22 along the outer insert 260c″′ and continue along the body 250″′ to the inner side 24, adjacent to the second end of the inner insert 260d″′.

[0125] The body 250'' includes a branched fifth groove 210e'', which includes a circuitous sub-groove 210e3''. The first sub-groove 210e1'' and the second sub-groove 210e2'' are connected at the first joint 220 defined by the first end node 224a, and cooperate to continuously extend from the outer side surface 206a'' to the inner side surface 206b''. The third sub-groove 210e3'' extends from the first joint 220 and is arranged in a circuitous configuration set in the central portion of the ground engaging surface 202''. The circuitous configuration is formed by a groove 210e1'' and a groove 210e2'' relative to the longitudinal axis A. F The invention is defined by a first section 222 extending from a first end node 224a at a first joint 220 to a second end node 224a at a first angle, a second section 222 extending from the second end node 224a to a third end node 224a at a second angle substantially perpendicular to the first angle, a third section 222 extending from the third end node 224a to a fourth end node 224a at the first angle, and a fourth section extending from the fourth end node 224a toward the first section 222 at a second angle and terminating at a fifth end node 224a between the second section 222 and the second sub-groove 210a2″′.

[0126] The body 250'' also includes a pair of sixth grooves 210f'', which are disposed between the second groove 210b'' and the branched fifth groove 210e'' and extend from the lateral surface 206a'' to the medial surface 206b''. The seventh groove 210g'' is disposed between the sixth grooves 210f'' at the lateral side 22 of the sole structure 200'' and extends from a first end on the lateral surface 206a'' to the ground engaging surface 202'' and returns to a second end on the lateral surface 206a''. The eighth groove 210h'' is disposed between the second end groove 210b'' and the pair of sixth grooves 210f'' and extends from the lateral surface 206a'' to the longitudinal axis A on the ground engaging surface 202''. F and a distal end intermediate the medial side 24 of the sole structure 200''.

[0127] The front insert 260a′″ includes a plurality of ninth grooves 210i′″ formed therein and extending continuously from the outer side 22 to the inner side 24. The profile of the ninth grooves 210i′″ of the front insert 260a′″ is complementary to the profile of the first end groove 210a′″ and forms a repeating mountain-shaped pattern along the front insert 260a′″. Similarly, the rear insert 260b′″ includes a plurality of tenth grooves 210j′″ formed therein and extending continuously from the outer side 22 to the inner side 24. The profile of the tenth groove 210j′″ is complementary to the profile of the second end groove 210b′″ and forms a repeating mountain-shaped pattern along the rear insert 260b′″.

[0128] The width W of the grooves 210a'-210j' c The sole structure 200"' may taper from one side 22, 24 to the other side 22, 24. For example, in the front insert 260a"', the width W of the node 224 is C1 The width W of the node 224 may be gradually reduced in the direction from the outer side 22 to the inner side 24. In contrast, in the rear insert 260b″′, the width W of the node 224 is C1 The thickness may gradually increase in a direction from the outer side 22 to the inner side 24 .

[0129] The grooves 210i″′-210n″′ of each of the inserts 260a″′, 260b″′, and 260d″′ may include a hole 266 formed therethrough that exposes the underlying recessed surfaces 254a″′, 254b″′, and 254d″′ of the body 250″′. In the illustrated example, the front insert 260a″′ includes a hole formed through a node 224 generally disposed on the lateral side 24 of the sole structure, while the rear insert 260b″′ includes a hole formed through a node 224 generally disposed on the medial side 24 of the sole structure 200″′. As shown, all of the nodes 224 of the lateral insert 260c″′ include holes formed therethrough, while none of the nodes 224 of the medial insert 260d″′ include a hole. Additionally or alternatively, all of the inserts 260 ′″ may include apertures 266 formed through all of their nodes 224 , or no insert 260 ′″ may include apertures 266 .

[0130] As discussed above, the insert 260'' of the sole structure 200'' is configured to provide increased traction and wear resistance to areas of the ground engaging surface 202''. However, because the material forming the insert 260'' has a greater density than the material forming the body 250'', it is desirable to provide the insert 260'' only in areas of the ground engaging surface 202'' that are subject to relatively high force concentrations. For example, in Figure 19-24 In the example of the sole structure 200'' shown in , the front insert 260a'' and the rear insert 260b'' are configured to absorb relatively high forces associated with forward running, the lateral insert 260c'' and the medial insert 260d'' are configured to absorb relatively high forces associated with lateral movement, and the body 250'' is configured to define an area of ​​the ground engaging surface 202'' that is subject to less force than the area defined by the insert 260''.

[0131] Item 1: A sole structure for an article of footwear, the sole structure comprising a body formed of a first material and defining a first portion of a ground engaging surface, the first portion of the ground engaging surface comprising a first groove, the first groove being defined by a first segment extending along a first axis and a second segment extending along a second axis transverse to the first axis; and at least one insert formed of a second material and received by the body, the at least one insert defining a second portion of the ground engaging surface and having a second groove, the second groove comprising a third segment extending along a third axis parallel to the first axis and a fourth segment extending along a fourth axis transverse to the third axis and substantially parallel to the second axis, one of the first groove and the second groove defining an interface between the body and the insert.

[0132] Clause 2: The sole structure of Clause 1, wherein the at least one insert comprises a front insert defining at least a portion of a forefoot area of ​​the ground engaging surface, and a rear insert defining at least a portion of a heel area of ​​the ground engaging surface.

[0133] Item 3: A sole structure as described in Item 2, wherein the front insert includes the second groove and the rear insert includes a third groove, the third groove having a fifth section extending along a fifth axis substantially parallel to the first axis and a sixth section extending along a sixth axis transverse to the fifth axis and substantially parallel to the second axis, the third groove defining an interface between the body and the rear insert.

[0134] Clause 4: The sole structure of Clause 2, wherein the body defines at least a portion of a midfoot region of the sole structure and separates the front insert piece from the rear insert piece.

[0135] Clause 5: The sole structure of Clause 1, wherein the body is formed of a foam material and the at least one insert is formed of a rubber material.

[0136] Clause 6: The sole structure of Clause 1, wherein the body further defines at least one side surface of the sole structure, a portion of the first groove of the body extending onto the side surface.

[0137] Clause 7: The sole structure of Clause 6, wherein the at least one side surface of the sole structure comprises a lateral surface having a first portion of the first groove formed therein and a medial surface having a second portion of the second groove formed therein.

[0138] Clause 8: The sole structure of Clause 1, wherein the body includes a socket defined by a concave surface offset from the ground engaging surface and a sidewall extending between the ground engaging surface and the concave surface and intersecting the at least one side surface to define the socket.

[0139] Item 9: A sole structure as described in Item 8, wherein the insert is received by the socket, a first portion of the peripheral surface of the insert cooperates with the side wall of the socket, and a second portion of the peripheral surface of the insert is disposed in the recess and is flush with the at least one side surface.

[0140] Clause 10: The sole structure of Clause 1, wherein the first area of ​​the ground engaging surface is continuous and flush with the second area of ​​the ground engaging surface.

[0141] Item 11: A sole structure for an article of footwear, the sole structure comprising a body defining a first area of ​​a ground engaging surface and at least one side surface extending from the ground engaging surface; at least one insert received by the body and defining a second area of ​​the ground engaging surface; and a first groove, the first groove being defined by a first plurality of segments, the first plurality of segments comprising a first segment extending from a first section to a second section along a first axis, a second segment extending from a third section to a fourth section along a second axis transverse to the first axis, and a third segment extending from a fifth section to a sixth section along a third axis transverse to the second axis and substantially parallel to the first axis.

[0142] Clause 12: The sole structure of Clause 11, wherein the first segment is formed along a first side surface, the second segment is formed in the first area of ​​the ground engaging surface, and the third segment is formed along a second side surface.

[0143] Item 13: The sole structure as described in Item 11 also includes a second groove defined by a second plurality of segments, wherein the second plurality of segments include a fourth segment extending from the seventh section to the eighth section along a fourth axis substantially parallel to the first axis and a fifth segment extending from the ninth section to the tenth section along a fifth axis substantially parallel to the second axis.

[0144] Clause 14: The sole structure of Clause 13, wherein the first groove is formed only in the body of the sole structure and the second groove is formed only in the insert of the sole structure.

[0145] Clause 15: The sole structure of Clause 14, wherein the insert includes an aperture through at least one of the knuckles of the groove, the body being exposed through the aperture.

[0146] Clause 16: The sole structure of Clause 13, wherein a first portion of the first groove is formed in the body and a second portion of the first groove is formed in the insert.

[0147] Clause 17: The sole structure of Clause 13, wherein at least one of the segments includes an intermediate section.

[0148] Clause 18: The sole structure of Clause 17, wherein a width of each of the first groove and the second groove varies in a direction along at least one of the axes.

[0149] Clause 19: The sole structure of Clause 11, wherein the second section and the third section define a first common section, and the fourth section and the fifth section define a second common section, such that the first section, the second section, and the third section are connected in series.

[0150] Clause 20: The sole structure of Clause 11, wherein the second node, the third node, and the fifth node define a common node such that the second segment and the third segment define a first sub-groove and a second sub-groove, respectively.

[0151] The foregoing description has been provided for the purpose of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present disclosure. Individual elements or features of a particular configuration are generally not limited to that particular configuration, but are interchangeable where applicable and can be used in a selected configuration, even if it is not explicitly shown or described. These features can also be varied in many ways. Such variations are not considered to be out of the present disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A footwear article, the sole structure of the footwear article comprising: a plurality of grooves, at least one of the grooves comprising a plurality of segments, wherein the plurality of segments are arranged at alternating angles relative to each other to define a wave-shaped or mountain-shaped pattern, wherein the plurality of segments include at least a first segment, a second segment, and a third segment extending along respective segment axes, the first segment extending along a first segment axis, the second segment extending along a second segment axis at an oblique angle or a right angle relative to the first segment axis, the third segment extending along a third segment axis at an oblique angle or a right angle relative to the second segment axis, and the third segment axis being substantially parallel to the first segment axis; and Wherein said at least one of said grooves comprises a width that varies in a direction along at least one of said first segment axis, said second segment axis and said third segment axis.

2. The article of footwear according to claim 1, wherein the at least one of the plurality of grooves extends continuously from an inner edge of the sole structure to an outer edge of the sole structure; and / or Another of the plurality of grooves is disposed in a central portion of the sole structure and includes a serpentine configuration.

3. The article of footwear according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of segments are arranged in series end to end; and / or Wherein the plurality of segments extend between a lateral side of the sole structure and a medial side of the sole structure.

4. The article of footwear according to claim 1, wherein the sidewall of each of the plurality of segments has a corrugated shape.

5. The article of footwear according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of grooves further comprises: a first end groove that generally defines a first end of a first area of ​​a ground engaging surface of the sole structure; and a second end groove generally defining a second end of the first region of the ground engaging surface; and Wherein, the multiple grooves also include a plurality of third grooves formed adjacent to the first end groove, each of the third grooves includes a plurality of segments, and the wavy or mountain-shaped pattern defined by the plurality of segments of each third groove being arranged at alternating angles relative to each other substantially corresponds to the shape of the first end groove.

6. The article of footwear according to claim 5, wherein each of the first end groove and the second end groove extends along a lateral surface of the sole structure, the ground engaging surface, and a medial surface of the sole structure.

7. The article of footwear according to claim 5, wherein the plurality of grooves further comprises a plurality of fourth grooves formed adjacent to the second end groove and spaced apart in a direction along the longitudinal axis of the sole structure toward the front end of the sole structure.

8. The article of footwear according to any one of claims 1-7, wherein each of the first segment axis, the second segment axis, and the third segment axis are disposed at an oblique angle relative to a longitudinal axis of the article of footwear.

9. The article of footwear according to any one of claims 1-7, wherein the third segment axis is substantially parallel to the first segment axis within 5 degrees.

10. The article of footwear according to any one of claims 5-7, wherein: The width of the first end groove varies along the length of the first end groove; and / or The width of the second end groove varies along the length of the second end groove.

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