Sole structure for article of footwear

Abstract

A sole structure for an article of footwear includes a midsole having a top surface, a bottom surface opposite the top surface, and a perimeter surface extending between the top surface and the bottom surface. The bottom surface includes a recess defining a first opening in the peripheral surface. The sole structure for the article of footwear also includes an insert disposed within the recess and including a first material having a first gloss unit value and a second material disposed on an outer surface of the first material and having a second gloss unit value. The second material is at least partially disposed within the first opening.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of an application filed on September 24, 2020, with application number 202080067783.9, and invention name “Sole structure for footwear articles”. CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This PCT international application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 581,840, filed on September 25, 2019, the contents of which are incorporated by reference in their entirety. field

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to a sole structure for an article of footwear and, more particularly, to a sole structure that includes a midsole having an insert received therein. background

[0004] This section provides background information related to the present disclosure and is not necessarily prior art.

[0005] 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 be fitted with laces, straps or other fasteners to adjust the fit of the upper around the foot. The bottom portion of the upper, which is proximate the bottom surface of the foot, is attached to the sole structure.

[0006] The sole structure generally includes a layered arrangement extending between a ground surface and an upper. One layer of the sole structure includes an outsole that provides wear resistance and traction to the ground surface. The outsole may be formed of rubber or other materials that impart durability and wear resistance and enhance traction to 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 formed in part of a polymer foam material that elastically compresses under an applied load to cushion the foot by attenuating ground reaction forces. The midsole may additionally or alternatively include an insert (e.g., a fluid-filled bladder or a foam insert) to increase the durability of the sole structure and provide cushioning for the foot by elastically compressing under an applied load to attenuate ground reaction forces. The sole structure may also include a comfort-enhancing insole or sockliner positioned within the void proximate a bottom portion of the upper, and a strobel attached to the upper and disposed between the midsole and the insole or sockliner.

[0007] Midsoles that employ inserts typically include a recess that is sized and shaped to receive a similarly sized and shaped insert. The insert is typically constructed of a foam material that both flexes and provides support when elastically compressed under an applied load, such as during athletic activity. In this regard, the insert is often designed to balance the support of the foot with cushioning properties that provide responsiveness when the insert is elastically compressed under an applied load. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected configurations and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0009] Figure 1 is a side view of an article of footwear according to the principles of the present disclosure; Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A bottom view of a sole structure of an article of footwear; Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of a sole structure along Figure 2 The line 3-3 corresponding to the longitudinal axis of the sole structure is taken; Figure 4 yes Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of a sole structure along Figure 2 The line 4-4 corresponding to the lateral axis of the sole structure is taken; Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A bottom view of a midsole of an article of footwear; Figure 6 yes Figure 1 an exploded top perspective view of an insert of an article of footwear; Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A top view of an insert; Figure 8 According to the principles of the present disclosure, Figure 1 a top view of another insert of the article of footwear; Fig. 9 yes Figure 8 a side view of an insert; and Fig.10 yes Figure 8 Front view of the insert.

[0010] Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the drawings. Detailed Description

[0011] Example 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 specific details and example configurations should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure.

[0012] The terms used herein are only for the purpose of describing specific exemplary configurations and are not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular articles "a", "an" and "the" may also be intended to include plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms "comprises", "comprising", "including" and "having" are inclusive and thus 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 groups thereof. 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 optional steps may be adopted.

[0013] 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 the relationship 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 of the associated listed items.

[0014] The terms first, second, third, etc. can be used in this article to describe a variety of elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections. These elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms can only be used to distinguish an element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Terms such as "first", "second" and other numerical terms do not imply sequence or order unless the context clearly indicates. Therefore, the first element, first component, first region, first layer or first section discussed below can be referred to as the second element, second component, second region, second layer or second section, without departing from the teaching of the exemplary configuration.

[0015] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a sole structure for an article of footwear. The sole structure includes a midsole having a top surface, a bottom surface opposite the top surface, and a peripheral surface extending between the top surface and the bottom surface. The bottom surface includes a recessed portion defining a first opening in the peripheral surface. The sole structure also includes an insert disposed within the recessed portion and including a first material having a first gloss unit value and a second material disposed on an outer surface of the first material and having a second gloss unit value. The second material is at least partially disposed within the first opening.

[0016] Embodiments of the present disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In some embodiments, the first material is visible through the second material. The first opening may be disposed in a medial side of the midsole. The recess may define a second opening in the peripheral surface, and the second material may be at least partially disposed within the second opening. Here, the first opening may be disposed in a medial side of the midsole, and the second opening may be disposed in a lateral side of the midsole opposite the medial side.

[0017] In some examples, the sole structure includes an outsole coupled to at least one of the midsole or the insert and defining a hole, and the second material is at least partially disposed in the hole. Here, the insert may include a protrusion disposed in the hole. Optionally, the second material may be disposed on the protrusion.

[0018] In some configurations, the insert includes a central member and a peripheral member, the peripheral member being at least partially disposed within the first opening. Here, the second material is disposed on the peripheral member. In some examples, the second gloss unit value is greater than the first gloss unit value.

[0019] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a sole structure for an article of footwear. The sole structure includes a midsole having a top surface, a bottom surface opposite the top surface, and a peripheral surface extending between the top surface and the bottom surface. The midsole includes a recess that (i) is disposed between the top surface and the bottom surface and (ii) defines a first opening in the peripheral surface. The sole structure also includes an insert that is disposed within the recess and includes a first material having a first gloss unit value and a second material disposed on an outer surface of the first material and having a second gloss unit value. The second material is at least partially disposed within the first opening.

[0020] Embodiments of this aspect of the disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In some configurations, the first material is visible through the second material. The first opening may be disposed in the medial side of the midsole. The recess may define a second opening in the peripheral surface, with the second material at least partially disposed within the second opening. Here, the first opening may be disposed in the medial side of the midsole, and the second opening may be disposed in the lateral side of the midsole opposite the medial side.

[0021] In some embodiments, the outsole is coupled to at least one of the midsole or the insert and defines a hole, and the second material is at least partially disposed in the hole. Here, the insert may include a protrusion disposed in the hole. The second material may be disposed on the protrusion.

[0022] In some examples, the insert includes a central member and a peripheral member, the peripheral member at least partially disposed within the first opening. Here, the second material can be disposed on the peripheral member. In other examples, the second gloss unit value is greater than the first gloss unit value.

[0023] The details of one or more embodiments of the present disclosure are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other aspects, features, and advantages will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims.

[0024] refer to Figure 1 , 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. These 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 phalanges. T and the ball portion of the foot associated with the metatarsal bones12 B Midfoot region 14 may correspond with the arch area of ​​the foot, and heel region 16 may correspond with a rear portion of the foot, including the calcaneus bone.

[0025] 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. F The longitudinal axis A extends parallel to the ground surface along the length of the footwear 10 from the front end 18 to the rear end 20. F The longitudinal axis A may be centrally located along the length of the footwear 10 such that the longitudinal axis A F The footwear 10 is generally divided into a medial side 22 and a lateral side 24. Thus, the medial side 22 and the lateral side 24 correspond to opposite sides of the footwear 10 and extend through the regions 12, 14, 16, respectively. As used herein, the longitudinal direction refers to a direction extending from the front end 18 to the rear end 20, while the lateral direction refers to a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction and extending from the medial side 22 to the lateral side 24.

[0026] The article of footwear 10, and more specifically the sole structure 200, can be further described as including a peripheral region 26 and an interior region 28. Figure 2 Peripheral region 26 is generally described as an area located between interior region 28 and the outer periphery of sole structure 200. In particular, peripheral region 26 extends from forefoot region 12 to heel region 16 along each of medial side 22 and lateral side 24, and surrounds each of forefoot region 12 and heel region 16. Interior region 28 is defined by peripheral region 26 and extends from forefoot region 12 to heel region 16 along a central portion of sole structure 200. Thus, each of forefoot region 12, midfoot region 14, and heel region 16 may be described as including peripheral region 26 and interior region 28.

[0027] Upper 100 includes an interior surface 101 defining an interior cavity 102 that is configured to receive and secure a foot for support on sole structure 200. Upper 100 may be formed of one or more materials that are stitched or adhesively bonded together to form interior cavity 102. Suitable materials for upper 100 may include, but are not limited to, mesh, textile, foam, leather, and synthetic leather. The materials may be selected and positioned to impart properties of durability, breathability, wear resistance, flexibility, and comfort.

[0028] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4In some examples, the upper 100 includes a strobel 104 having a bottom surface opposite the sole structure 200 and an opposite top surface of a footbed 106 that defines an interior cavity 102. Stitching or adhesive can secure the strobel to the upper 100. The footbed 106 can be contoured to conform to the contour of a bottom surface of the foot (e.g., the plantar). Optionally, the upper 100 can also include additional layers, such as an insole 108 or sockliner that can be disposed on the strobel 104. The insole or sockliner 108 can be located within the interior cavity 102 of the upper 100 and positioned to receive the plantar surface of the foot to enhance the comfort of the article of footwear 10. Referring again to Figure 1 , ankle opening 114 in heel region 16 may provide access to interior void 102. For example, ankle opening 114 may receive a foot to secure the foot within void 102 and facilitate entry and removal of the foot into and out of interior void 102.

[0029] In some examples, one or more fasteners 110 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 (such as eyelets) and / or other engagement features (such as fabric or mesh loops that receive the fasteners 110). The fasteners 110 may include laces, straps, cords, hooks and loops, or any other suitable type of fasteners. The upper 100 may include a tongue portion 116 extending between the interior cavity 102 and the fasteners 110.

[0030] refer to Figure 1-Figure 4 , sole structure 200 includes a midsole 202 configured to provide cushioning properties to sole structure 200, and one or more outsole members 204 configured to provide a ground engaging surface 30 of article of footwear 10. Figure 3 and Figure 4 , the midsole 202 may include a plurality of subcomponents for providing regional cushioning and performance characteristics. For example, the midsole 202 may include a primary member 206 and a secondary member or insert 208. The subcomponents 206, 208 of the midsole 202 may be assembled and secured to one another using a variety of bonding methods, including, for example, adhesive bonding and fusion. As described in more detail below, the outsole 204 may be overmolded onto the subcomponents 206, 208 of the midsole 202 such that the midsole 202 defines the contours of the ground-engaging surface 30 of the footwear 10.

[0031] refer to Figure 5, the main member 206 extends from a first end 212 at the front end 18 of the footwear 10 to a second end 214 at the rear end 20 of the footwear. Thus, the main member 206 can extend along the entire length of the footwear 10. Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, main member 206 may also include a top surface 216 and a bottom surface 218 formed on a side of main member 206 opposite top surface 216. Top surface 216 of main member 206 is configured to oppose strombel 104 of upper 100 and may be contoured to define a contour of footbed 106 corresponding to the shape of a foot. Figure 3 As shown, the distance between the top surface 216 and the bottom surface 218 defines the thickness T of the main member 206. FE , the thickness T FE May vary along the length of sole structure 200 .

[0032] like Figure 1 As illustrated in FIG. 2 , main member 206 also includes a peripheral side surface 220 extending between top surface 216 and bottom surface 218 . Peripheral side surface 220 generally defines an outer perimeter of sole structure 200 .

[0033] refer to Figure 5 , the main member 206 may include a recess 226 that is sized and shaped to receive the insert 208. The recess 226 may be formed in the forefoot region 12 of the sole structure 200 and may be defined by a front perimeter sidewall 232 and a rear perimeter sidewall 233. The front perimeter sidewall 232 and the rear perimeter sidewall 233 may extend from the bottom surface 218 of the main member 206 toward the top surface 216. Generally, the recess 226 divides the main member 206 into a front section 228 and a rear section 230. The front section 228 extends between the recess 226 and the front end 18 of the sole structure 200, while the rear section 230 extends between the recess 226 and the rear end 20 of the sole structure 200. In this regard, the front peripheral sidewall 232 may be disposed at the rear end of the front segment 228, and the rear peripheral sidewall 233 may be disposed at the front end of the rear segment 230, such that the front peripheral sidewall 232 is generally opposite or facing the rear peripheral sidewall 233. Figure 5 As illustrated in FIG. 2 , in some embodiments, the front peripheral sidewall 232 defines a concave “U” shape, while the rear peripheral sidewall 233 defines a convex “U” shape. However, it should be understood that within the scope of the present disclosure, the front peripheral sidewall 232 and the rear peripheral sidewall 233 may define other shapes (e.g., arcuate, sinusoidal, sawtooth, etc.).

[0034] In the illustrated example, the front peripheral sidewall 232 and the rear peripheral sidewall 233 of the recess 226 partially extend from the bottom surface 218 to the top surface 216 and terminate at an intermediate surface 234 disposed between the bottom surface 218 and the top surface 216. Figure 3 As shown, the depth D of the recess 226 measured from the bottom surface 218 to the intermediate surface 234 is R Extends only partially through the thickness T of the primary member 206 FE Here, front section 228 and rear section 230 of main member 206 are connected to each other through a portion of main member 206 formed between middle surface 234 and top surface 216. Thus, main member 206 may be formed as a unitary structure extending from forefoot region 12 to heel region 16.

[0035] like Figure 3 As shown, in some examples, the front peripheral sidewall 232 and the rear peripheral sidewall 233 intersect the peripheral side surface 220 of the primary member 206 to define an opening 235 through the peripheral side surface 220 of the primary member 206 into the recess 226. Figure 5 In some examples, the recess 226 defines one or more receiving portions 242 for receiving the insert 208. As shown, the contour of each receiving portion 242 can be defined by the front peripheral sidewall 232 and the rear peripheral sidewall 233 of the recess 226, and can correspond to the outer peripheral contour of the insert 208. In this regard, the intermediate surface 234 and the front peripheral sidewall 232 and the rear peripheral sidewall 233 can engage the insert 208 so that each receiving portion 242 is substantially filled by the insert 208.

[0036] refer to Figure 1 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 In the example shown, insert 208 is formed as a multi-component structure arranged to provide cushioning in forefoot region 12 of sole structure 200. For example, Figure 4 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown in , insert 208 may include a central member 236, an outer peripheral member 238, and an inner peripheral member 240. Central member 236 and outer peripheral members 238 and inner peripheral members 240 may be assembled and secured to one another using various bonding methods, including, for example, adhesive bonding and fusion.

[0037] like Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 6 and Figure 7, the central member 236 may also include a top surface 243, a bottom surface 244 formed on a side of the central member 236 opposite the top surface 243, and a peripheral side surface 246 extending between the top surface 243 and the bottom surface 244. The peripheral side surface 246 generally defines the outer perimeter of the central member 236. In an assembled configuration, the top surface 243 of the central member 236 may be opposite (e.g., engaged) to the middle surface 234 of the main member 206, while the peripheral side surface 246 may be opposite (e.g., engaged) to the outer peripheral member 238 and the inner peripheral member 240 or the front peripheral side wall 232 and the rear peripheral side wall 233 defining the recess 226. In some embodiments, the peripheral side surface 246 is contoured to match the contour or shape of (i) the middle surface 234 of the main member 206 or the front peripheral side wall 232 or the rear peripheral side wall 233 of the main member 206, or (ii) the contour or shape of the outer peripheral member 238 or the inner peripheral member 240. In this regard, if Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, one or more of the top surface 243, the bottom surface 244, and the peripheral side surface 246 can define the shape of the center member 236 to include a lobed shape having a plurality of lobes. For example, the center member 236 can include a front lobed corner 248, a lateral lobed corner 250, and a medial lobed corner 252, each of which is at least partially defined by one of the surfaces 243, 244, 246. In particular, the front lobed corner 248, the lateral lobed corner 250, and the medial lobed corner 252 can each be defined by a convex "U" shaped portion of the peripheral surface 246, so that the center member 236 defines a generally three-leaf clover-shaped structure.

[0038] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 , the bottom surface 244 of the center member 236 may include a protrusion 253. For example, the protrusion 253 may define a peripheral lip around a portion 244-1 of the bottom surface 244. In some embodiments, the portion 244-1 of the bottom surface 244 is concave. As will be explained in more detail below, in the assembled configuration, the portion 244-1 of the bottom surface 244 can be exposed through the outsole 204.

[0039] refer to Figure 4 , the peripheral surface 246 of the central member 236 may further include an outer peripheral groove 254 and an inner peripheral groove 256 extending around a portion of the central member 236. For example, the outer posterior kyphosis angle 250 may include the outer peripheral groove 254, and the inner posterior kyphosis angle 252 may include the inner peripheral groove 256. Figure 6, the lateral peripheral groove 254 may extend from a first end 258 disposed between a pair of convex corners 248, 250, 252 (e.g., between the lateral posterior convex corner 250 and the medial posterior convex corner 252) to a second end 260 disposed between another pair of convex corners 248, 250, 252 (e.g., between the lateral posterior convex corner 250 and the front convex corner 248). Similarly, the medial peripheral groove 256 may extend from a first end 264 disposed between a pair of convex corners 248, 250, 252 (e.g., between the lateral posterior convex corner 250 and the medial posterior convex corner 252) to a second end 266 disposed between another pair of convex corners 248, 250, 252 (e.g., between the medial posterior convex corner 252 and the front convex corner 248).

[0040] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 , the first ends 258, 264 of the outer peripheral groove 254 and the inner peripheral groove 256 may be separated by the first outward protrusion 268 of the central member 236, and the second ends 260, 266 of the outer peripheral groove 254 and the inner peripheral groove 256 may be separated by the second outward protrusion 270 of the central member 236. For example, at the first outward protrusion 268 and the second outward protrusion 270, one or more of the top surface 243, the bottom surface 244, or the peripheral surface 246 may extend outward relative to adjacent portions of the top surface 243, the bottom surface 244, or the peripheral surface 246, respectively.

[0041] like Figure 4 As shown, the cross-sectional shape of the peripheral grooves 254, 256 can correspond to (e.g., match) the outer cross-sectional shape of the outer peripheral member 238 and the inner peripheral member 240. In some embodiments, the outer peripheral groove 254 and the inner peripheral groove 256 partially extend from the top surface 243 of the center member 236 to the bottom surface 244, and terminate at the outer intermediate surface 272 and the inner intermediate surface 274 respectively disposed between the bottom surface 244 and the top surface 243, so that the center member 236 includes an outer flange 273 and an inner flange 275 extending outward from the peripheral surface 246 and the central portion of the center member 236. The flanges 273, 275 can be at least partially defined by the bottom surface 244 and the intermediate surfaces 272, 274. In this regard, the corresponding peripheral surface 246 can extend only a portion of the thickness of the center member 236 at the peripheral grooves 254, 256.

[0042] refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7, the size, shape and assembly arrangement of the outer peripheral member 238 can be substantially similar to the size, shape and arrangement of the inner peripheral member 240. Therefore, similar reference numerals will be used to describe similar features of the outer peripheral member 238 and the inner peripheral member 240. The peripheral members 238, 240 can each include opposing inner peripheral surfaces 276 and outer peripheral surfaces 278 and opposing proximal ends 280 and distal ends 282. The inner peripheral surface 276 and the outer peripheral surface 278 can extend from the proximal end 280 to the distal end 282. In some embodiments, the outer peripheral surface 278 defines a convex profile extending between the proximal end 280 and the distal end 282. For example, the profile of the outer peripheral surface 278 can match the profile of the peripheral surface 246 of the center member 236. Similarly, the profile of the inner peripheral surface 276 can match the profile of the peripheral surface 246 at the peripheral grooves 254, 256.

[0043] In some embodiments, the central member 236 and the outer peripheral member 238 and the inner peripheral member 240 are each at least partially made of a polymer foam material. For example, the central member 236 can be made of a first polymer foam material having a first set of properties (e.g., density, elastic modulus, rigid modulus, stiffness, etc.), and the outer peripheral member 238 or the inner peripheral member 240 can be made of a second polymer foam material having a second set of properties (e.g., density, elastic modulus, rigid modulus, stiffness, etc.). The second set of properties can be different from the first set of properties, so that when a force is applied to the central member 236 and the outer peripheral member 238 and the inner peripheral member 240, the outer peripheral member 238 and the inner peripheral member 240 have a different reaction (e.g., flexure, shear, compression, etc.) than the central member 236. For example, the lateral peripheral member 238 and the medial peripheral member 240 may have a modulus of rigidity or modulus of elasticity greater than the modulus of rigidity or modulus of elasticity of the central member 236 such that forces applied to the outer peripheral surfaces 278 of the peripheral members 238, 240 or the top surface 243 of the central member 236 are attenuated differently by the peripheral members 238, 240 than by the central member 236. In particular, the compression of the peripheral members 238, 240 under an applied load may be less than the compression of the central member 236 under an applied load to provide variable distribution of forces on the insert 208 and active cushioning, stability, and support by attenuating ground reaction forces during forward running motion of the footwear 10.

[0044] refer to Figure 6, the peripheral members 238, 240 and / or the central member 236 may further include a material 284 located on at least a portion of the outer peripheral surface 278, the top surface 243 and / or the bottom surface 244. In some embodiments, the material 284 is applied as a layer on the outer peripheral surface 278 and the bottom surface 244 (e.g., the portion 244-1 of the bottom surface 244). For example, the material 284 can be applied to the outer peripheral surface 278 and the bottom surface 244 using overmolding, coating or other suitable processes. The material 284 may include or otherwise define a high gloss finish. For example, the material 284 may have a gloss corresponding to a first gloss unit value that is greater than the gloss of the outer peripheral member 238 and the inner peripheral member 240 (e.g., the surface 278). In some embodiments, the material 284 is transparent or translucent so that the outer peripheral member 238 and the inner peripheral member 240 and / or the central member 236 can be seen through the material 284. Alternatively, the material 284 itself may define an opaque high gloss finish. In some embodiments, the material 284 and the outer perimeter member 238 and the inner perimeter member 240 may have the same gloss unit value.

[0045] refer to Figure 1-Figure 4 When the sole structure 200 is assembled, the lateral peripheral member 238 and the medial peripheral member 240 can be disposed within the peripheral grooves 254, 256, respectively, such that the inner peripheral surfaces 276 of the lateral peripheral member 238 and the medial peripheral member 240 engage the peripheral surface 246 of the central member 236, and the proximal end 280 and the distal end 282 engage the corresponding end portions 258, 260, 264, 266 defined by the peripheral grooves 254, 256. The insert 208 can be disposed within the recess 226 such that the top surface 243 of the central member 236 engages the intermediate surface 234 of the main member 206, and the bottom surface 244 of the central member 236 can be flush (e.g., coplanar) with the bottom surface 218 of the central member 236, such that the lateral peripheral member 238 and the medial peripheral member 240 (e.g., the material 284) are exposed or visible within the opening 235 of the main member 206. In particular, as shown in FIG. Figure 5 As best shown in FIG. 2 , the receiving portions 242 may receive components of the insert 208. For instance, in the illustrated example, the lordotic angle 248 may be disposed in a first one of the receiving portions 242, the lateral lordotic angle 250 (including the lateral peripheral member 238) may be disposed in a second one of the receiving portions 242, and the medial lordotic angle 252 (including the medial peripheral member 240) may be disposed in a third one of the receiving portions 242.

[0046] As previously described, peripheral members 238, 240 and central member 236 may be arranged to provide localized cushioning properties to sole structure 200. Figure 2As shown, the longitudinal position of the peripheral members 238, 240 may correspond to the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint of the foot in the ball portion 12 of the forefoot region 12. B The location of the place.

[0047] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 208, when the sole structure 200 is assembled, the main member 206 and the insert 208 can cooperate to define the contour of the surface 30 that engages the ground. In this regard, the midsole 202 can be referred to as defining the contour of the surface 30 that engages the ground, while the outsole 204 actually forms the surface 30 that engages the ground. For example, the shape of the surface 30 that engages the ground can be determined by the midsole 202, and the outsole 204 can be overmolded onto the midsole 202 to provide wear resistance and traction properties. In other examples, the outsole 204 can be formed separately from the midsole 202 and adhesively bonded to the midsole 202. The outsole 204 can form a surface 30 that engages the ground, and the contour of the surface 30 that engages the ground is generally similar to the contour defined by the cooperation of the various components 206, 208, 210 of the midsole 202. Outsole 204 may be described as having an inner surface 299 that is configured to attach to bottom surface 218 of main member 206 and bottom surface 244 of insert 208. Outsole 204 may have an outer surface 300 formed on a side opposite inner surface 299 and forming ground-engaging surface 30 of sole structure 200. Thus, outsole 204 at least partially surrounds each of main member 206 and insert 208. Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments, outsole 204 includes aperture 302. Aperture 302 can extend through one or both of inner surface 299 and outer surface 300. In an assembled configuration, protrusion 253 of insert 208 can be disposed within aperture 302 such that portion 244-1 of bottom surface 244 is exposed (e.g., visible) through aperture 302.

[0048] With this arrangement, the cushioning and performance properties of insert 208 are imparted to ground engaging surface 30. In particular, forces associated with push-off of the forefoot during running or jumping motions can be absorbed by insert 208. Additionally, the generally higher modulus of rigidity or modulus of elasticity of lateral peripheral member 238 and medial peripheral member 240 relative to the modulus of rigidity or modulus of elasticity of central member 236 can provide relatively localized rigid regions at lateral peripheral member 238 and medial peripheral member 240 that facilitate banking during lateral motion.

[0049] Reference now Figure 8-Figure 10, another insert 208a is provided for article of footwear 10. Given that the structure and function of insert 208a are generally similar relative to insert 208, like reference numerals are used below and in the figures to identify like parts, while like reference numerals with letter extensions are used to identify those parts that have been modified.

[0050] As shown, insert 208a may be formed as a unitary structure arranged to provide cushioning in forefoot region 12 of sole structure 200. For example, insert 208a may include a central member 236a having a unitary structure.

[0051] refer to Figure 8-Figure 10 , the central member 236a may also include a top surface 243a, a bottom surface 244a formed on a side of the central member 236a opposite the top surface 243a, and a peripheral side surface 246a extending between the top surface 243a and the bottom surface 244a. The peripheral side surface 246a generally defines the outer periphery of the central member 236a. In an assembled configuration, the top surface 243a of the central member 236a may be opposite (e.g., engaged) to the middle surface 234 of the main member 206, and the peripheral side surface 246a may be opposite (e.g., engaged) to the front peripheral side wall 232 and the rear peripheral side wall 233 defining the recess 226. In some embodiments, the peripheral side surface 246a is contoured to match the contour or shape of the middle surface 234 or the front peripheral side wall 232 or the rear peripheral side wall 233 of the main member 206. In this regard, one or more of the top surface 243a, the bottom surface 244a, and the peripheral side surface 246a can define the shape of the center member 236a to include a convex angle shape having multiple convex angles. For example, the center member 236a can include a convex angle 248a, a lateral convex angle 250a, and a medial convex angle 252a, each of which is at least partially defined by one of the surfaces 243a, 244a, 246a. In particular, the convex angle 248a, the lateral convex angle 250a, and the medial convex angle 252a can each be defined by a convex "U" shaped portion of the peripheral surface 246a, so that the center member 236a defines a generally three-leaf clover-shaped structure.

[0052] Insert 208a may also include material 284 disposed on at least a portion of top surface 243a, bottom surface 244a, and peripheral side surface 246a. Figure 8-Figure 10As shown, the material 284 can be disposed on a portion of the peripheral side surface 246a near the lateral posterior corner 250a and the medial posterior corner 252a. In some embodiments, the material 284 is applied as a layer on one or more of the peripheral side surface 246a, the top surface 243a, and the bottom surface 244a. For example, the material 284 can be applied to the peripheral side surface 246a, the top surface 243a, and / or the bottom surface 244a using overmolding, coating, or other suitable processes. In some embodiments, the material 284 may include an outer peripheral portion 238a extending between a first end 280a and a second end 282a on the outer posterior convex corner 250a and an inner peripheral portion 240a extending between a first end 280a and a second end 282a on the inner posterior convex corner 252a, such that the second end 282a of the outer peripheral portion 238a and the second end 282a of the inner peripheral portion 240a are separated by the first portion 268a of the central member 236a, and the first end 280a of the outer peripheral portion 238a and the first end 280a of the inner peripheral portion 240a are respectively separated by the second portion 270a of the central member 236a. In some embodiments, the material 284 is disposed on the bottom surface 244a, including on the protrusion 253 and the corresponding portion 244a-1 of the bottom surface 244a. In other embodiments, material 284 covers the entire outer surface of central member 236a (eg, top surface 243a, bottom surface 244a, and peripheral side surfaces 246a).

[0053] As previously described, the material 284 may include or otherwise define a high gloss finish. For example, the material 284 may have a gloss corresponding to a first gloss unit value that is greater than the gloss of the central member 236a (e.g., the peripheral side surface 246a). In some embodiments, the material 284 is transparent or translucent so that the portion of the central member 236a covered by the material 284 (e.g., the outer peripheral portion 238a and the inner peripheral portion 240a) can be seen through the material 284. Alternatively, the material 284 itself may define an opaque high gloss finish. In other embodiments, the material 284 and the outer peripheral member 238a and the inner peripheral member 240a may have the same gloss unit value.

[0054] In some embodiments, the core member 236a is at least partially made of a polymer foam material. For example, the core member 236a can be made of a first polymer foam material having a first set of properties similar to the core member 236 (eg, density, elastic modulus, rigid modulus, stiffness, etc.).

[0055] refer to Figure 1 , Figure 5 and Figure 8, when sole structure 200 is assembled, insert 208a can be disposed within recess 226 such that top surface 243a of central member 236a engages intermediate surface 234 of main member 206, and lateral peripheral portion 238a and medial peripheral portion 240a (e.g., material 284) are exposed or visible within opening 235 of main member 206. In particular, as Figure 5 As best shown in FIG. 2 , the receiving portion 242 may receive components of the insert 208a. For example, in the illustrated example, the lordosis angle 248a may be disposed within a first one of the receiving portions 242, the lateral lordosis angle 250a (including the lateral perimeter portion 238a) may be disposed within a second one of the receiving portions 242, and the medial lordosis angle 252a (including the medial perimeter portion 240a) may be disposed within a third one of the receiving portions 242. An inner surface 299 of the outsole 204 may be attached to the bottom surface 218 of the main member 206 and the bottom surface 244a of the insert 208a. An outer surface 300 of the outsole 204 may be formed on a side opposite the inner surface 299 and form a ground engaging surface 30 of the sole structure 200. Thus, the outsole 204 may at least partially surround each of the main member 206 and the insert 208a. As previously described, and as shown in FIG. Figure 2 As illustrated in , the protrusion 253 of the insert 208a may be disposed within the aperture 302 of the outsole 204 such that a portion 244a - 1 of the bottom surface 244a is exposed (eg, visible) through the aperture 302 .

[0056] As previously described, the peripheral portions 238a, 240a and the central member 236a may be arranged to provide localized cushioning properties to the sole structure 200. For example, the longitudinal position of the peripheral portions 238a, 240a may correspond to the ball portion 12 of the forefoot region 12 of the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint of the foot. B The location of the place.

[0057] The following clauses provide exemplary configurations of a sole structure for an article of footwear as described above.

[0058] Item 1: A sole structure for an article of footwear, the sole structure comprising: a midsole having a top surface, a bottom surface opposite the top surface, and a peripheral surface extending between the top surface and the bottom surface, the bottom surface including a recess defining a first opening in the peripheral surface; and an insert disposed in the recess and comprising a first material having a first gloss unit value and a second material disposed on an outer surface of the first material and having a second gloss unit value, the second material being at least partially disposed in the first opening.

[0059] Clause 2: The sole structure of clause 1, wherein the first material is visible through the second material.

[0060] Clause 3: The sole structure of clause 1, wherein the first opening is disposed in the medial side of the midsole.

[0061] Clause 4: The sole structure of Clause 1, wherein the recess defines a second opening in the peripheral surface, and wherein the second material is at least partially disposed within the second opening.

[0062] Clause 5: The sole structure of Clause 4, wherein the first opening is disposed in a medial side of the midsole, and wherein the second opening is disposed in a lateral side of the midsole opposite the medial side.

[0063] Clause 6: The sole structure of clause 1, further comprising an outsole coupled to at least one of the midsole or the insert and defining an aperture, wherein the second material is at least partially disposed within the aperture.

[0064] Clause 7: The sole structure of Clause 6, wherein the insert includes a protrusion disposed within the aperture.

[0065] Clause 8: The sole structure of Clause 7, wherein the second material is disposed on the protrusion.

[0066] Clause 9: The sole structure of Clause 1, wherein the insert includes a central member and a peripheral member, the peripheral member being at least partially disposed within the first opening.

[0067] Clause 10: The sole structure of clause 9, wherein the second material is disposed on the peripheral member.

[0068] Clause 11: The sole structure of Clause 1, wherein the second gloss unit value is greater than the first gloss unit value.

[0069] Item 12: A sole structure for an article of footwear, the sole structure comprising: a midsole having a top surface, a bottom surface opposite the top surface, and a peripheral surface extending between the top surface and the bottom surface, the midsole comprising a recess that (i) is disposed between the top surface and the bottom surface and (ii) defines a first opening in the peripheral surface; and an insert disposed within the recess and comprising a first material having a first gloss unit value and a second material disposed on an outer surface of the first material and having a second gloss unit value, the second material being at least partially disposed within the first opening.

[0070] Clause 13: The sole structure of clause 12, wherein the first material is visible through the second material.

[0071] Clause 14: The sole structure of Clause 12, wherein the first opening is disposed in the medial side of the midsole.

[0072] Clause 15: The sole structure of Clause 12, wherein the recess defines a second opening in the peripheral surface, and wherein the second material is at least partially disposed within the second opening.

[0073] Clause 16: The sole structure of Clause 15, wherein the first opening is disposed in a medial side of the midsole, and wherein the second opening is disposed in a lateral side of the midsole opposite the medial side.

[0074] Clause 17: The sole structure of clause 12, further comprising an outsole coupled to at least one of the midsole or the insert and defining an aperture, wherein the second material is at least partially disposed within the aperture.

[0075] Clause 18: The sole structure of Clause 17, wherein the insert comprises a protrusion disposed within the aperture.

[0076] Clause 19: The sole structure of clause 18, wherein the second material is disposed on the protrusion.

[0077] Clause 20: The sole structure of Clause 12, wherein the insert includes a central member and a peripheral member, the peripheral member being at least partially disposed within the first opening.

[0078] Clause 21: The sole structure of clause 20, wherein the second material is disposed on the peripheral member.

[0079] Clause 22: The sole structure of clause 12, wherein the second gloss unit value is greater than the first gloss unit value.

[0080] The foregoing description has been provided for the purpose of illustration and description. The foregoing description is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present disclosure. The individual elements or features of a particular configuration are generally not limited to the particular configuration, but are interchangeable where applicable and can be used in a selected configuration, even if not explicitly shown or described. The individual elements or features of a particular configuration 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 sole structure for an article of footwear, the sole structure comprising: a midsole having a top surface, a bottom surface opposite the top surface, and a peripheral surface, the peripheral surface (i) extending between the top surface and the bottom surface and (ii) defining a first opening at a medial side of the sole structure and a second opening at a lateral side of the sole structure, the first opening and the second opening being disposed in a forefoot region of the sole structure; a first protrusion formed of a foam material and having a first arcuate outer surface, the first arcuate outer surface being visible at the inner side through the first opening, the first arcuate outer surface comprising a first gloss unit value that is higher than a gloss unit value of the peripheral surface; and A second protrusion is formed of a foam material and has a second arcuate outer surface, the second arcuate outer surface is visible at the outer side through the second opening, the second arcuate outer surface includes a second gloss unit value higher than the gloss unit value of the peripheral surface.

2. The sole structure of claim 1, wherein the first protrusion is aligned with the second protrusion across a width of the sole structure.

3. The sole structure according to claim 1, wherein the first curved outer surface and the second curved outer surface each form an outer surface of the sole structure.

4. The sole structure according to claim 1 further includes an outsole having an upper surface opposite to the midsole and a second surface formed on a side of the outsole opposite to the upper surface and defining a ground-contacting surface of the sole structure.

5. The sole structure according to claim 4 further includes a gap defined between the bottom surface of the midsole and the upper surface of the outsole, the first protrusion and the second protrusion being arranged in the gap and attached to the bottom surface of the midsole on a first side and attached to the upper surface of the outsole on a second side opposite to the first side.

6. The sole structure of claim 5, wherein the first protrusion and the second protrusion are part of the same unitary structure to collectively define an insert received within the gap.

7. The sole structure of claim 6, wherein the insert is symmetrical about a central longitudinal axis of the insert.

8. The sole structure of claim 1, further comprising a coating applied to the first curved outer surface and the second curved outer surface.

9. The sole structure of claim 8, wherein the coating provides the first gloss unit value to the first curved outer surface and provides the second gloss unit value to the second curved outer surface.

10. An article of footwear comprising the sole structure of claim 1.

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