Sole structure and article of footwear with conformable heel stabilizer structure

Abstract

Articles of footwear in accordance with some aspects of the present technology include foot support components and / or heel stabilizer structures that include openings, voids, and / or grooves around a heel region. These openings, voids, or grooves may make the heel stabilizer structure more conformable, lightweight, and / or flexible. The opening, void, or groove may allow the heel or heel stabilizer structure to better conform to the user's heel / foot, providing an "adaptive" response to accommodate different heels in different ways. Openings, voids, or grooves may be customized within the heel stabilizer component based on the shape of the user's foot and / or heel. Additionally or alternatively, these openings, voids, or grooves may better conform the heel configuration to the wearer's heel, and better receive and move with the wearer's heel (e.g., during use), and improve bendability, comfort, and fit.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 353,448, filed on June 17, 2022, entitled “Sole Structures and Articles of Footwear Having Conformable Heel Counter Structures,” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety and made a part hereof. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to the field of footwear. More specifically, aspects of the present invention relate to heel counter structures, footwear support structures, and articles of footwear including such structures. Additional aspects of the present invention relate to methods of manufacturing footwear sole structures and / or articles of footwear including these heel counter structures. Background Art

[0004] Footwear, and in particular athletic shoes, may include a heel counter component that provides stability to the foot and extends the life of the footwear. Without a reinforced heel counter, the shoe loses its shape and provides limited support to the foot. The heel counter component may be positioned at the rear of the footwear, where the calcaneus is located. Summary of the invention

[0005] The present invention generally provides footwear articles according to some aspects of the present technology, which include foot support components and / or heel stabilizer structures, which include openings, gaps and / or grooves around the heel area. These openings, gaps or grooves can make the heel stabilizer structure more conformable, lightweight and / or flexible. The openings, gaps or grooves can allow the heel or heel stabilizer structure to better conform to the user's heel / foot, thereby providing an "adaptive" response to adapt to different heels in different ways. The openings, gaps or grooves can be customized in the heel stabilizer component based on the shape of the user's foot and / or heel. These openings, gaps or grooves can make it easier to assemble the foot support component into the footwear article. Additionally or alternatively, these openings, gaps or grooves can make the heel structure better conformable to the wearer's heel, and better accommodate the wearer's heel and move with the wearer's heel (e.g., during use), and improve flexibility, comfort and fit.

[0006] According to one embodiment, a footwear structure may include: an outer cage component; an inner upper component that defines a foot receiving chamber; and a foot supporting component that releasably engages the outer cage component and the inner upper component to form the footwear structure, wherein the inner upper component is assembled inside the outer cage component. The outer cage component may include: (i) an outsole portion, and (ii) an upper portion. The outer cage component may define an interior chamber. The inner upper component may include a bottom surface, a heel receiving area, a midfoot receiving area, and a forefoot receiving area. The foot supporting component may include: a top surface for supporting the entire plantar surface of a wearer's foot; a bottom surface opposite the top surface; and an integrally formed heel stabilizer structure that extends from the top surface at the heel area of ​​the foot supporting component. The heel stabilizer structure may include a sidewall defined by a lateral sidewall, a medial sidewall, and a rear sidewall formed between the lateral sidewall and the medial sidewall. The heel stabilizer structure may also include a void structure formed in the sidewall. The void structure may be defined by one or more of an opening, a void, or a groove. The void structure may include a central hub having a plurality of spokes radiating from the central hub. One or more of the plurality of spokes may include a circular hole opposite the central hub. When radiating from the central hub, the plurality of spokes may be equally spaced. Additionally or alternatively, the void structure may include a circular opening and a slit extending upward from the opening toward an upper portion of the sidewall, wherein the opening and the slit are located on the rear sidewall. Additionally or alternatively, the void structure may include a groove extending from a portion of the medial sidewall through the rear sidewall to a portion of the lateral sidewall, wherein the groove extends from a bottom portion of the heel stabilizer structure to an upper portion of the heel stabilizer structure in a vertically continuous V-shape. The foot support component may be formed as an integral, one-piece construction.

[0007] According to another embodiment, a foot support component can be configured to releasably engage with an outer cage component and an inner upper component to form a footwear article, the outer cage component including an outer sole portion and an upper portion, wherein the inner upper component is assembled inside the outer cage component. The foot support component can include: a top surface for supporting the entire plantar surface of the wearer's foot; a bottom surface opposite the top surface; and an integrally formed heel stabilizer structure extending from the top surface at the heel area of ​​the foot support component. The heel stabilizer structure can include a sidewall having a lateral sidewall, a medial sidewall, and a rear sidewall extending between the lateral sidewall and the medial sidewall. The heel stabilizer structure can also include a void structure formed in the sidewall. The void structure can be defined by one or more of an opening, a void, or a groove. The void structure can include a central hub having a plurality of spokes radiating from the central hub. One or more of the plurality of spokes can include a circular hole opposite the central hub. When radiating from the central hub, the plurality of spokes can be equally spaced. Additionally or alternatively, the void structure may include a circular opening and a slit extending upward from the opening toward an upper portion of the sidewall, wherein the opening and the slit are located on the rear sidewall. Additionally or alternatively, the void structure may include a groove extending from a portion of the medial sidewall through the rear sidewall to a portion of the lateral sidewall, wherein the groove extends in a vertically continuous V-shape from a bottom portion of the heel counter structure to an upper portion of the heel counter structure. The foot-supporting component may be formed as an integral, one-piece construction.

[0008] According to another embodiment, a footwear structure may include: an outer cage member; an inner upper member defining a foot receiving chamber; and a foot supporting member releasably engaged with the outer cage member and the inner upper member to form the footwear structure, wherein the inner upper member fits inside the outer cage member. The outer cage member may include: (i) an outer sole portion including a plurality of cleat shells, and (ii) an upper portion. The outer cage member may define an interior chamber. The inner upper member may include a bottom surface, a heel receiving area, a midfoot receiving area, and a forefoot receiving area. The foot supporting member may include: a top surface for supporting an entire plantar surface of a wearer's foot; a bottom surface opposite the top surface; and an integrally formed heel stabilizer structure extending from the top surface at a heel area of ​​the foot supporting member. The bottom surface may include a plurality of cleat inserts. One or more of the plurality of cleat inserts may be configured to extend into a corresponding one of a plurality of recesses defined in an outsole portion of the outer cage member. The heel stabilizer structure may include a sidewall defined by a lateral sidewall, a medial sidewall, and a rear sidewall formed between the lateral sidewall and the medial sidewall. The heel stabilizer structure may also include a void structure formed in the sidewall, the void structure being defined by one or more of an opening, a void, or a groove. The void structure may include a central hub having a plurality of spokes radiating from the central hub. One or more of the plurality of spokes may include a circular hole relative to the central hub. When radiating from the central hub, the plurality of spokes may be equally spaced. Additionally or alternatively, the void structure may include a circular opening and a slit extending upward from the opening toward an upper portion of the sidewall, wherein the opening and the slit are located on the rear sidewall. Additionally or alternatively, the void structure may include a groove extending from a portion of the medial sidewall through the rear sidewall to a portion of the lateral sidewall, wherein the groove extends from a bottom portion of the heel stabilizer structure to an upper portion of the heel stabilizer structure in a vertically continuous V-shape. The foot support component may be formed as an integral, one-piece construction.

[0009] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] The following detailed description will be better understood when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals represent the same or similar elements throughout the various views in which such reference numerals appear.

[0011] Figure 1 Component views of articles of footwear according to some examples of the present technology are provided.

[0012] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2E Various views of outer cage components of articles of footwear according to some examples of the present technology are provided.

[0013] Figure 2F According to some examples of the present technology, an outer cage component of a footwear article is provided along Figure 2A Cross-sectional view taken along section line AA.

[0014] Figure 2G According to some examples of the present technology, an outer cage component of a footwear article is provided along Figure 2C A cross-sectional view taken along section line BB in FIG.

[0015] Figure 2H Provided Figure 2G An enlarged view of area 2H is shown to illustrate specific features of a spike housing on an outer cage component of an article of footwear according to some examples of the present technology.

[0016] FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C Views of various alternative embodiments of outer cage components for articles of footwear according to some examples of the present technology are provided.

[0017] Figure 4A and Figure 4B Views of interior upper components of articles of footwear according to some examples of the present technology are provided.

[0018] FIG. 5A to FIG. 5C Various views of foot-supporting components of articles of footwear according to some examples of the present technology are provided.

[0019] Figure 5D Provided Figure 5C An enlarged view of area "5D" is shown to illustrate specific features of a cleat insert on a foot-supporting component of an article of footwear according to some examples of the present technology.

[0020] Figure 5E and Fig. 5F A side perspective view of another cleat insert engaged with another cleat shell is provided in accordance with examples and aspects of the present technology.

[0021] Figure 5G and Figure 5H A side perspective view of another cleat insert engaged with another cleat shell is provided in accordance with examples and aspects of the present technology.

[0022] Fig. 6A Top views of articles of footwear according to some examples of the present technology are provided.

[0023] Figure 6B According to some examples of the present technology, a footwear article is provided along Fig. 6A Cross-sectional view taken along section line CC.

[0024] Figure 6CAccording to some examples of the present technology, a footwear article is provided along Figure 6B A cross-sectional view taken along section line DD in FIG.

[0025] Fig. 7A A rear perspective cutaway view of an article of footwear according to some examples of the present technology is provided, highlighting the engagement between a cleat insert and a cleat shell.

[0026] Figure 7B Provided Fig. 7A An enlarged view of area "7B" is shown to illustrate a cleat insert engaged with a cleat shell in accordance with some examples and aspects of the present technology.

[0027] Fig. 8A and Figure 8B Various views of another foot-supporting component of an article of footwear according to some examples of the present technology are provided.

[0028] Fig.9A and Fig. 9B Various views of another heel counter structure of a foot-supporting component of an article of footwear according to some examples of the present technology are provided.

[0029] Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B Various views of another heel counter structure of a foot-supporting component of an article of footwear according to some examples of the present technology are provided.

[0030] Fig.11A and Fig. 11B Various views of another heel counter structure of a foot-supporting component of an article of footwear according to some examples of the present technology are provided.

[0031] Fig. 12A and Fig. 12B Various views of another heel counter structure of a foot-supporting component of an article of footwear according to some examples of the present technology are provided. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] In the following description of various examples of footwear structures and components according to the present technology, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which are shown by way of illustration various example structures and environments in which aspects of the present technology may be practiced. It should be understood that other structures and environments may be utilized, and that structural and functional modifications may be made to the specifically described structures, functions, and methods without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0033] As used herein, the term "footwear" refers to any type of wearable garment for the feet, and the term includes, but is not limited to, all types of shoes, boots, sneakers, sandals, flip-flops, flip-flops, slippers, sleep shoes, loafers, sports-specific shoes (such as golf shoes, tennis shoes, baseball shoes, soccer shoes or football shoes, ski boots, basketball shoes, cross-training shoes, dance shoes, urban dance shoes, etc.), and the like.

[0034] As used herein, the terms "removably engaged" or "removably attached" (unless otherwise specified or clear from the context) mean that two "engaged" or "attached" objects are designed to be repeatedly "engaged / disengaged" and / or "attached / unattached" to each other without damaging either object or the structure engaged with these objects. In other words, the terms "removably engaged" and / or "removably attached" mean that two "engaged" or "attached" objects are "non-destructively removable" and / or releasable from each other.

[0035] This application and / or claims use adjectives such as "first," "second," "third," etc. to identify certain components and / or features associated with the present technology. These adjectives are used merely for convenience, for example to help maintain the distinction between components and / or features of a particular structure. The use of these adjectives should not be interpreted as requiring a specific order or arrangement of the components and / or features in question. In addition, the use of these specific adjectives for specific structures in the specification does not require the use of the same adjective to refer to the same part in the claims (e.g., a component or feature referred to as "fourth" in the specification can correspond to any numerical adjective used for that component or feature in the claims).

[0036] Various structures and parameters of footwear and its sole structure are described based on the "longitudinal length" parameter L. The longitudinal length L can be found when the footwear and / or sole structure is oriented on its surface facing the ground on a horizontal support surface in an unloaded state (e.g., no weight is applied to it except the weight of other parts of the footwear and / or sole structure). Once so oriented, parallel vertical planes perpendicular to the horizontal support surface are oriented to contact the last heel position and the most forward toe position of the footwear and / or sole structure. The parallel vertical planes should be oriented to face each other, as far away from each other as possible, while still contacting the last heel and the most forward toe position. The direct distance between these vertical planes corresponds to the length (e.g., longitudinal length) L of the footwear and / or sole structure. The positions of some footwear components are described in this specification based on their corresponding positions along the length measured forward from the rear heel vertical plane. Along the sole length L, the last heel position is located at position 0L, and the most forward toe position is located at position 1L. The middle position along the sole length L is represented by a fractional position (e.g., 0.25L) along the sole length L measured forward from the rear heel vertical plane. As used herein, the term "parallel planes" are planes oriented parallel to the vertical plane. These parallel planes may intersect the longitudinal length or longitudinal direction somewhere between P = 0L and P = 1.0L.

[0037] As used herein, the term "rearward" means located at or toward the heel area of ​​a footwear article (or its components), and as used herein, the term "forward" means located at or toward the forefoot or forefoot area of ​​a footwear article (or its components). Unless otherwise defined, the term "heel" or "heel area" refers to the area defined by parallel planes at 0L and 0.3L, the term "midfoot" or "arch" refers to the area defined by parallel planes at 0.3L and 0.6L, and the term "forefoot" refers to the area defined by parallel planes at 0.6L and 1.0L. In addition, the term "lateral side" means the "little toe" side of a footwear article or its components (e.g., upper, sole structure, etc.), and the term "medial side" means the "big toe" side of a footwear article or its components (e.g., upper, sole structure, etc.).

[0038] I. General Description of Aspects of the Technology

[0039] An article of footwear according to some aspects of the present technology includes a simple construction comprising three main parts that are each made of a single material and releasably assembled together. Aspects of the present technology can enhance the recyclability and sustainability of an article of footwear and its component parts.

[0040] At least some more specific aspects of the present technology relate to footwear articles that may include three main parts: (a) an outer cage that may include a single piece having the following features: (i) a footwear upper, and (ii) a sole structure having one or more spike shells; (b) an inner upper component; and (c) a base and heel counter component having a bottom surface that includes one or more spike inserts and supports mounted within the one or more spike shells.

[0041] Some additional or alternative aspects of the present technology relate to a footwear structure that includes: an outer cage component, an inner upper component, and a foot support component. The outer cage component can be formed as an integral, single-piece construction that can include: (i) an outsole portion that includes a first spike shell and a second spike shell separated from the first spike shell, and (ii) an upper portion. The outer cage component can define an internal chamber. The internal chamber can include a footbed portion formed by an internal surface of the outer sole portion. The footbed portion can include a first recess and a second recess, the first recess extending into the interior of the first spike shell and defining a first undercut within the interior of the first spike shell, and the second recess extending into the interior of the second spike shell and defining a second undercut within the interior of the second spike shell. The inner upper component can be formed as an integral, single-piece construction that defines a foot receiving chamber that includes a bottom surface, a heel receiving area, a midfoot receiving area, and a forefoot receiving area. The inner upper component can be formed of a fabric material. The bottom surface may include a first opening and a second opening, the first opening being at least partially aligned with the first recess, the second opening being spaced apart from the first opening and at least partially aligned with the second recess. The foot-supporting component may be formed as an integral, one-piece construction, the one-piece, one-piece construction including: (i) a first surface for supporting the entire plantar surface of the wearer's foot, and (ii) a second surface opposite the first surface. The second surface may include a first spike insert extending into the first recess and a second spike insert extending into the second recess. The first spike insert may include a first enlarged free end, the first enlarged free end being positioned to engage the first undercut and secure the first spike insert within the first recess. The second spike insert may include a second enlarged free end, the second enlarged free end being positioned to engage the second undercut and secure the second spike insert within the second recess. The foot-supporting component may be received within a foot-receiving chamber of the inner vamp component. The first spike insert may extend through the first opening, and the second spike insert may extend through the second opening.

[0042] Another additional or alternative aspect of the present technology relates to a footwear structure, which includes: an outer cage component, an inner upper component, and a foot support component. The outer cage component can be formed as an integral, single-piece construction, which includes: (i) an outer sole portion, which includes a plurality of spike shells, and (ii) an upper portion. The outer cage component can define an internal chamber. The internal chamber can include a footbed portion formed by an inner surface of the outer sole portion. The footbed portion can include a plurality of recesses. Each of the plurality of recesses can extend into the interior of each of the plurality of spike shells and define an undercut portion within the interior of each of the plurality of spike shells. The inner upper component can be formed as an integral, single-piece construction, which defines a foot receiving chamber, which includes a bottom surface, a heel receiving area, a midfoot receiving area, and a forefoot receiving area. The inner upper component can be formed of a fabric material. The bottom surface can include a plurality of openings. Each of the plurality of openings can be at least partially aligned with a corresponding one of the plurality of recesses. The foot-supporting component may be formed as an integral, one-piece construction including: (i) a top surface for supporting the entire plantar surface of the wearer's foot, and (ii) a bottom surface opposite the top surface. The bottom surface may include a plurality of spike inserts. Each of the plurality of spike inserts may extend into a corresponding one of the plurality of recesses. Each of the plurality of spike inserts may include an enlarged free end positioned to engage a corresponding undercut and secure each of the plurality of spike inserts within a corresponding one of the plurality of recesses. The foot-supporting component may be received within a foot-receiving chamber of the inner vamp component. Each of the plurality of spike inserts may extend through a corresponding one of the plurality of openings.

[0043] Alternatively, some aspects of the present technology relate to footwear component structures and / or articles of footwear of the types described above, wherein components according to any of the above examples are permanently joined to one another (e.g., by an adhesive or bonding agent, by mechanical fasteners, etc.).

[0044] Still additional aspects of the present technology relate to methods of making the various types of footwear component structures and / or footwear articles described above, as well as methods of using the various types of footwear component structures and / or footwear articles described above (e.g., by attaching and detaching a foot-supporting component from an outer cage component, by attaching and detaching a sole structure (or at least a portion thereof) from an upper component, by interchanging different outsole components on a midsole structure, by interchanging different midsole structures on an outsole component, by interchanging different sole structures on an upper component, by interchanging different upper components on a sole structure, etc.).

[0045] Given the general description of features, examples, aspects, structures, processes, and arrangements according to certain examples of the present technology provided above, following is a more detailed description of specific example footwear component structures, footwear articles, and / or methods according to the present technology.

[0046] II. Detailed Description of Example Articles of Footwear, Footwear Component Structures, and Other Components / Features / Methods According to Aspects of the Present Technology

[0047] With reference to the figures and the following discussion, examples of footwear component structures and articles of footwear according to aspects of the present technology are described. Figure 1 The article of footwear 10 of the present invention includes an outer cage member 100, an inner upper member 160, and a foot-supporting member 200. Each of the outer cage member 100, the inner upper member 160, and the foot-supporting member 200 may be formed as an integral, one-piece construction and / or each may be made of a single material. The foot-supporting member 200 may be assembled inside the inner upper member 160, and further, the inner upper member 160 and the foot-supporting member 200 may be assembled together inside the outer cage member 100. Once the foot-supporting member 200 is assembled inside the inner upper member 160, these combined components may be assembled into the interior chamber 102 of the outer cage member 100.

[0048] In another embodiment, foot-supporting component 200 may be mounted inside outer cage component 100, and further, inner upper component 160 may be located on top of foot-supporting component 200 and mounted inside outer cage component 100. Once foot-supporting component 200 is mounted inside outer cage component 100, inner upper component 160 may be mounted into interior chamber 102 of outer cage component 100 and located on top of foot-supporting component 200.

[0049] In the accompanying drawings, Figure 2A Frontal and medial perspective views are provided; Figure 2B A posterior, medial perspective view is provided; Figure 2C A top view is provided; Figure 2D Provides top, outside perspective views; and Figure 2E A bottom, medial perspective view of an outer cage component 100 of an article of footwear 10 according to some examples of the present technology is provided. Further, Figure 2F An outer cage component 100 of an article of footwear according to some examples of the present technology is provided along line AA. Figure 2C Cross-sectional view of .

[0050] Outer cage component 100 may include an upper portion 120 and a sole structure 140 joined to upper portion 120. In some examples, upper portion 120 and sole structure 140 may be formed as a single portion (as an integral, one-piece structure). Upper portion 120 may also be referred to as an "upper". Sole structure 140 may also be referred to as an "outsole portion". Upper portion 120 (which may be formed of one or more portions) potentially defines, together with sole structure 140, a foot-receiving interior chamber 102 for accommodating a wearer's foot.

[0051] like FIG. 2A to FIG. 2F As further illustrated, the upper portion 120 of the outer cage component 100 may include other components joined to or integrally formed with the upper portion 120. For example, the upper portion 120 may include a tongue member 122 positioned across the instep region of the foot and positioned to soften the feel of the closure system of the footwear on the wearer's foot. The upper 120 may also include a heel counter, a toe cap, or a securing strap. Additionally, the upper portion 120 may include a closure system (e.g., including one or more of a lace-type closure system, a zipper-type closure system, a buckle-type closure system, an elastic stretch element, etc.). As illustrated, the closure system may include a plurality of lace engagement openings 124. The article of footwear 10 may also include one or more lace elements extending through the lace engagement openings 124. In the illustrated example, the lacing element can extend over the tongue member 122 (e.g., in a cross-shaped manner), through one or more lacing engagement openings 124L, 124M located at the lateral and medial sides of the instep portion of the upper portion 120 (and / or adjacent to the lateral and medial sides of the instep opening). The lacing element can include a fastening mechanism and / or a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism can be located at the rear heel area of ​​the upper portion 120. Further, the upper portion 120 can include a collar 126 extending around the opening 102.

[0052] like Figure 2A , Figure 2B , Figure 2E and Figure 2F As illustrated, sole structure 140 of outer cage 100 may include a plurality of cleat members 142 extending from a sole base surface 144 of sole structure 140 . Figure 2H An enlarged view of a cleat member 142 is provided, which may be disposed at Figure 2F140 . As illustrated, the spike members 142 of this example may be permanently secured to the sole base surface 144 of the sole structure 140 relative to their corresponding base members 146 (e.g., by molding, in-mold forming, rapid manufacturing additive manufacturing techniques, etc.). The base members 146 may be in the shape of a frustoconical curved surface around the spike members 142. The base members 146 form an outer spike surface for directly engaging the ground (or other contact surface).

[0053] Although other numbers and / or arrangements of cleat elements are possible, the example sole structure 140 includes twelve cleat members 142a, 142b, 142c, 142d, 142e, 142f, 142g, 142h, 142i, 142j, 142k, 142l. A first set of four cleat members 142a, 142b, 142c, 142d may be located at a rear heel area of ​​the sole structure 140, with two cleat members 142a, 142b located medial (inside) of the rear heel area of ​​the sole structure 140 and two cleat members 142c, 142d located lateral (lateral) of the sole structure 140.

[0054] Additionally, a second set of four cleat members 142e, 142f, 142g, 142h and a third set of four cleat members 142i, 142j, 142k, 142l may be disposed in a midfoot region and / or a forefoot region (e.g., beneath the metatarsal heads and / or toe region of a wearer's foot) of sole structure 140. Second set of four cleat members 142e, 142f, 142g, 142h may be located lateral to the midfoot region and / or forefoot region of sole structure 140. Third set of four cleat members 142i, 142j, 142k, 142l may be located medially to the midfoot region and / or forefoot region of sole structure 140. Various numbers and groups of cleat members 142 may be provided and positioned at various locations along sole structure 140 , such as at the heel, midfoot, and / or forefoot regions of sole structure 140 and / or along the lateral and / or medial sides of sole structure 140 .

[0055] The illustrated spike members 142 of this example can have a similar structure (although possibly with a slightly different size and / or shape). Given the benefit of this disclosure, those skilled in the art will appreciate that spike members 142 can have similar structures, features, and / or characteristics. According to the present technology, spike members 142 can have any desired size or dimensions. For the forefoot spike members 142e, 142f, 142g, 142h, 142i, 142j, 142k, 142l of the above-described types, the height or maximum dimension of spike members 142 (from the sole base surface 144 and in a direction away from the sole base surface 144) is H 鞋钉 The height or maximum dimension of spike member 142 (from sole base surface 144 and in a direction away from sole base surface 144) may be at least 5 mm (e.g., in a range of 2 mm to 20 mm), and in some examples, at least 10 mm high, or even at least 14 mm high. For heel-type spike members 142a, 142b, 142c, 142d of the type described above, the height or maximum dimension of spike member 142 (from sole base surface 144 and in a direction away from sole base surface 144) H 鞋钉 It may be at least 20 mm (eg in the range of 15 mm to 30 mm), and in some examples at least 23 mm high, or even at least 25 mm high.

[0056] like Figure 2B , Figure 2C , Figure 2D and Figure 2F As further illustrated, the sole structure 140 and the interior chamber 102 of the outer cage component 100 may include a footbed portion 148 of the sole structure 140. The footbed portion 148 may extend from the toe of the sole structure 140 to the heel along the medial and lateral sides. The footbed portion 148 may include one or more spike housings 150. The spike housings 150 may be defined by holes in the interior chamber 102 of the outer cage component 100 and the footbed portion 148, such that the interior of the spike member 142 is hollowed out to form the spike housings 150. For each spike housing 150, the footbed portion 148 may also include a recess 152 extending into the interior of the spike housing 150. The recess 152 may be positioned circumferentially around the spike housing 150 on the footbed portion 148. Further, each spike housing 150 may include an undercut portion 154 within the interior of the spike housing 150. See also Figure 2G and Figure 2H The interior surface defined by recess 152 may form a closed end having an enlarged or "bulbous" structure below the undercut portion. Undercut portion 154 provides a "stop surface" within the interior of spike housing 150 that engages and / or mates with spike insert 222, as will be explained and described in detail below.

[0057] The exterior surface of the cleat member 142 may define a 4,000 mm 3 For example, the volume defined by the exterior surface of the spike member 142 may be approximately 500 mm 3 Up to 4,000mm 3 or in some instances, within 700 mm 3 and 3,500mm 3 Between, or 800mm 3 and 2,700mm 3 between.

[0058] The interior surface of the spike housing 150 or recess 152 may define a 1,500 mm 3 For example, the volume of the inner surface of the shoe spike housing 150 or the recess 152 may be approximately 300 mm 3 Up to 1,500mm 3 or in some instances, within 400 mm 3 and 1,000mm 3 Between, or within 450mm 3 and 900mm 3 between.

[0059] Upper portion 120 and sole structure 140 may be of one-piece construction. Alternatively, if desired, upper portion 120 and sole structure 140 may be joined together in any desired manner, such as by one or more of an adhesive or cement, stitching or sewing, a mechanical connector, etc., including in a manner commonly known and used in the footwear art. This will allow upper portion 120 and sole structure 140 to still be separated, for example, for recycling purposes.

[0060] Without departing from the present technology, upper portion 120 may be made of any desired material and / or in any desired configuration and / or manner. As some more specific examples, all or at least a portion of upper portion 120 (and optionally most, substantially all, or even all of upper portion 120) may be formed as a woven textile component, a knitted textile component, another textile component, a natural leather component, a synthetic leather component, a polymer component (e.g., TPU, etc.), a plastic component, etc. The components used for upper portion 120 may have structures and / or configurations similar to those used in footwear commercially available from NIKE, Inc. of Beaverton, OR, and / or other manufacturers, including conventional structures and configurations known and used in the art.

[0061] Additionally or alternatively, if desired, the upper portion 120 construction may include foot fixation and engagement structures (e.g., "dynamic" and / or "adaptive fit" structures) of the type described, for example, in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013 / 0104423, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. As some additional examples, if desired, the upper portion 120 and footwear article 10 according to the present technology may include foot fixation and engagement structures of the type used in footwear products commercially available from Nike, Inc. of Beaverton, Oregon. These types of wrap-around and / or adaptive or dynamic fit structures may at least partially wrap around and / or securely hold the wearer's foot.

[0062] As yet another alternative or additional feature, if desired, upper portions 120 and articles of footwear 10 according to at least some examples of the present technology may include a fused layer of upper material, such as an upper of the type including upper materials bonded by heat-melt or other adhesive materials, such as the uppers in footwear commercially available from Nike, Inc. of Beaverton, Ore. As yet additional examples, upper portions of the type described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,347,011 and / or 8,429,835 (each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety) may be used without departing from the present technology.

[0063] FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C An alternative embodiment of the outer cage component 100 is illustrated. Figure 3A A front, outside perspective view of a first alternative embodiment of an outer cage component 300A according to some examples of the present technology is provided. Figure 3B A front, outside perspective view of another alternative embodiment of an outer cage component 300B according to some examples of the present technology is provided. Figure 3C A front, inside perspective view of another alternative embodiment of an outer cage component 300C is provided in accordance with some examples of the present technology.

[0064] like Figure 3A As shown, the outer cage member 300A includes various apertures 301A having various sizes and shapes, such as oval, circular, triangular, and rectangular. Figure 3A10. The shapes and sizes of holes shown in the figure can be used for the outer cage member 300A. Additionally, various holes 301A can be located throughout the outer cage member 300A, such as on the upper portion, medial side, lateral side, toe portion, heel portion, and / or tongue portion. The various holes 301A can be used for various benefits, such as providing breathability, flexibility, weight reduction, etc., while providing strength to the outer cage member 300A and the entire footwear article 10. In addition, holes 301A can be provided or omitted at specific localized areas of the outer cage member 300A, for example, to control the properties (e.g., breathability, flexibility, etc.) at the localized areas.

[0065] like Figure 3B As shown, the outer cage member 300B includes a pattern of apertures 301B, wherein each of the apertures has substantially the same size and shape, such as an oval shape. The pattern of apertures 301B of the outer cage member 300B can define horizontal and vertical linear patterns along the upper portion of the outer cage member 300B. Other patterns can define a pattern of apertures 301B along the outer cage member 300B, such as diagonal lines, circles, matrices, etc. Figure 3B The holes illustrated in FIG. 1 are generally defined by smaller ovals. Other sizes and shapes of holes may define a pattern of holes 301B along the outer cage member 300B. The pattern of holes 301B may be positioned along the upper portion of the outer cage member 300B to include the heel and midfoot portions, but not along the toe portion (e.g., Figure 3B 1B). The pattern of apertures 301B may also be located at various other locations along the outer cage member 300B, such as on the upper portion, medial side, lateral side, toe portion, heel portion, and / or tongue portion. The various apertures 301A may be used for various benefits, such as providing breathability, flexibility, weight reduction, etc., while providing strength to the outer cage member 300B and the entire footwear article 10. In addition, apertures 301B may be provided or omitted at specific localized areas of the outer cage member 300B, for example, to control the properties (e.g., breathability, flexibility, etc.) at that localized area.

[0066] like Figure 3C As shown, the outer cage member 300C includes various chords 301C extending around the base of the outer cage member 300C. The various chords 301C may extend at various angles around any of various locations of the outer cage member 300C, such as extending around an upper portion, a sole structure, a medial side, a lateral side, a toe portion, a heel portion, and / or a tongue. The various chords 301C may intersect with other chords, or they may not intersect with other chords. Along the outer cage member 300C and the entire article of footwear 10, the various chords 301C may be used for various benefits, such as strength, stretch resistance, etc.

[0067] An example article of footwear 10, an inner upper component 160, and components thereof will now be described in greater detail in conjunction with FIG. 4 . The inner upper component 160 may be formed as an integral, one-piece construction that defines a foot-receiving chamber 162. The inner upper component 160 may include a bottom surface 164, a heel-receiving area 166, a midfoot-receiving area 168, and a forefoot-receiving area 170. The inner upper component 160 may be formed of a textile material, such as a knitted textile component (e.g., having a sock-like structure). Further, the bottom surface 164 of the inner upper component 160 may include a plurality of openings 172. Each of the plurality of openings 172 on the inner upper component 160 may be at least partially aligned with each of the recesses 152 of the footbed portion 148 of the sole structure 140 on the outer cage component 100 and the spike housing 150.

[0068] Now combine FIG. 5A to FIG. 5D Example article of footwear 10, foot-supporting member 200, and components thereof are described in greater detail. Figure 5A Provides top and inside perspective views; Figure 5B A front, outside perspective view is provided; and Figure 5C A bottom perspective view of a foot-supporting member 200 is provided in accordance with some examples and aspects of the present technology. Figure 5D An enlarged view of a cleat insert 222 of a foot-supporting component 200 according to some examples and aspects of the present technology is provided, which cleat insert 222 may be disposed at Figure 5C in the surround area marked “5D”.

[0069] Foot-supporting component 200 may include a base and heel counter component having a bottom surface including one or more cleat inserts 222 mounted inside one or more cleat housings 150. Foot-supporting component 200 may be formed as an integral, one-piece construction including a first (top) surface 210 and a second (bottom) surface 220 opposite first surface 210. First surface 210 may be used to support the entire plantar surface (or at least a portion thereof) of a wearer's foot. Second surface 220 may include a plurality of flexible cleat inserts 222.

[0070] like FIG. 5A to FIG. 5C As shown, top surface 210 may include top panel 212 and heel support 214 disposed around the heel area of ​​foot-supporting member 200. Heel support 214 may provide additional support to the heel area of ​​the wearer's foot (e.g., similar to a heel counter structure). Figure 5A and Figure 5BAs shown, top panel 212 may include lateral edge 212L and medial edge 212M. Lateral edge 212L may extend from top panel 212 around at least a portion of a perimeter of a lateral side of foot-supporting component 200. Medial edge 212M may extend from top panel 212 around at least a portion of a perimeter of a medial side of foot-supporting component 200. Additionally, top panel 212 may include toe edge 212T extending from top panel 212 and around at least a portion of a top perimeter of a toe area of ​​foot-supporting component 200.

[0071] The top panel 212 may also include a recess 216. Figure 5A and Figure 5B As shown, recesses 216 of this example include a plurality of polygons, particularly hexagons (although other shapes may also be used) distributed on top panel 212. As shown, recesses 216 may be provided along the heel region and midfoot region of top panel 212 and foot-supporting component 200. Recesses 216 may also include other shapes, such as other polygons, shapes, ridges, dimples, circles, stars, or through holes. Recesses 216 may also extend along other portions of top panel 212 and foot-supporting component 200, such as along the toe region, midfoot region, and / or heel region, or any combination of these regions. Recesses 216 may provide a “gripping structure” (e.g., for engaging and helping to prevent a wearer's foot from sliding within article of footwear 10, for preventing internal footwear components (such as an insole disposed within foot-supporting component 200) from moving within the interior of the footwear), may provide flexibility (e.g., to facilitate insertion of foot-supporting component 200 into inner upper component 160 and / or outer cage component 100), and / or may reduce the weight of foot-supporting component 200.

[0072] Heel support 214 may include a heel stabilizer structure 218, for example, to limit or control movement of the heel. Heel stabilizer structure 218 may be a structure integrally formed with foot support member 200. Heel stabilizer structure 218 may include a heel stabilizer lateral sidewall 218L, a heel stabilizer medial sidewall 218M, and a heel stabilizer posterior sidewall 218R formed between heel stabilizer lateral sidewall 218L and heel stabilizer medial sidewall 218M. Figure 5A and Figure 5B As illustrated, heel stabilizer structure 218 can be a complete and closed stabilizer structure at the rear heel area. In other embodiments, which will be further explained below, heel stabilizer structure 218 can include a structure having an opening or recess around the heel area.

[0073] Figure 5CA second (bottom) surface 220 and a foot-supporting component 200 are illustrated with a plurality of flexible cleat inserts 222. Although other numbers and / or arrangements of cleat inserts 222 are possible, this example second surface 220 of foot-supporting component 200 includes twelve cleat inserts. Similar to cleat member 142 as detailed above, second surface 220 of foot-supporting component 200 includes twelve cleat inserts 222a, 222b, 222c, 222d, 222e, 222f, 222g, 222h, 222i, 222j, 222k, 222l. A first set of four cleat inserts 222a, 222b, 222c, 222d may be located on a rear heel region of second surface 220 of foot-supporting component 200. Two cleat inserts 222a , 222b may be located on the medial side of the rear heel region of second surface 220 of foot-supporting component 200 , and two cleat inserts 222c , 222d may be located on the lateral side of second surface 220 of foot-supporting component 200 .

[0074] Additionally, the second group of four cleat inserts 222e, 222f, 222g, 222h and the third group of four cleat members 222i, 222j, 222k, 222l may be disposed in the midfoot region and / or forefoot region (e.g., beneath the metatarsal heads and / or toe regions of the wearer's foot) of the second surface 220 of the foot-supporting component 200. The second group of four cleat inserts 222e, 222f, 222g, 222h may be located lateral to the midfoot region and / or forefoot region of the second surface 220 of the foot-supporting component 200. The third group of four cleat inserts 222i, 222j, 222k, 222l may be located medially to the midfoot region and / or forefoot region of the second surface 220 of the foot-supporting component 200.

[0075] Flexible cleat inserts 222 may be at least partially aligned with each of cleat members 142, recesses 152, and cleat housings 150 of sole structure 140 on outer cage component 100. Flexible cleat inserts 222 may be sized, shaped, and positioned so that one cleat insert 222 fits into and extends into recesses 152 of one cleat member 142 and cleat housing 150. In another embodiment, two or more cleat inserts 222 may be sized, shaped, and positioned so that one cleat insert 222 fits into and extends into recesses 152 of one cleat member 142 and cleat housing 150.

[0076] like Figure 5C and Figure 5DAs specifically illustrated in FIG. 1 , the flexible spike insert 222 may include an enlarged free end 224 extending from a spike arm 226. The free end 224 may be positioned to engage an undercut portion 154 within the interior of the spike housing 150 and secure the spike insert 222 within the recess 152 of the spike housing 150. Further, the free end 224 of the example flexible spike insert 222 may have four "fin-type" enlarged spike components 224a-224d arranged around the intersection of two flex grooves or slits 223a, 223b (e.g., a separate spike component 224a-224d is provided in each quadrant or sector around the flex grooves or slits 223a, 223b). Other flexible spike structures and arrangements are possible without departing from the present invention. For example, the flexible spike insert 222 may include three spike components arranged around a "capital T" junction or intersection of two curved grooves (one or both of the two curved grooves may have a curvature if desired). As another example, the flexible spike insert 222 may include three spike components 224a to 224c arranged around a "capital Y" junction or intersection of three curved grooves, such as at any desired angle (one or more of the curved grooves may have a curvature if desired). Although other specific shapes and arrangements are also possible, the spike components may have a shape similar to the fin-type enlarged spike components 224a to 224d described above (and may have any of the various specific structural features and / or options for the enlarged spike components 224a to 224d described above). In another example, a spike component having a more T-shaped structure may have a structure similar to two adjacent spike components pushed together so that one extended wall or side faces the groove. The illustrated spike insert 222 of this example may have a similar structure (although may have a slightly different size and / or shape). Those skilled in the art will appreciate that spike insert 222 may have similar structure, features and / or characteristics. According to the technology, spike insert 222 may have any desired size, shape or dimensions.

[0077] FIG. 5E to FIG. 5H Alternative embodiments of flexible cleat structures and arrangements and the interaction of cleat insert 222 and cleat member 142 are illustrated. Figure 5E and Fig. 5F An elongated rectangular cleat insert 222 and a corresponding elongated rectangular cleat member 142 are illustrated. Figure 5G and Figure 5HAn elongated rectangular spike insert 222 and a corresponding elongated rectangular spike member 142 are illustrated having a slit 223. Spike member 142 may include a recess wherein the spike shell is formed to include an undercut portion. Spike insert 222 may include an enlarged end 224 extending into the recess. When spike insert 222 is pushed into the recess, enlarged end 224 may be pushed through the undercut portion into the recess to lock and retain spike insert 222 in spike member 142 within the recess and spike shell. Figure 5G and Figure 5H The spike insert 222 with the slit 223 in the embodiment of the present invention can be elastically rebounded (expanded outward) to enlarge, retain and lock the spike insert 222 in the spike member 142 within the recess and the spike housing. Other shapes of spike inserts 222 and spike members 142 may be utilized without departing from the present invention. Figure 5E and Figure 5H As shown, spike insert 222 and spike member 142 may utilize various sizes. For example, inner spike insert 222 may be approximately 2 mm wide and approximately 7 mm high. Without departing from the present invention, inner spike insert 222 may also be within the range of approximately 1 mm to 3 mm wide and approximately 5 mm to 9 mm high. Additionally, spike member 142 may include a wall thickness of approximately 0.8 mm, or within a thickness range of 0.5 mm to 2.5 mm, or within a thickness range of 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm. For example, the protrusion of enlarged end 224 on spike insert 222 may be approximately 0.5 mm, or within a range of 0.2 mm to 0.8 mm. Enlarged end 224 may be approximately 0.8 mm high, or within a height range of 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm. Other sizes may also be utilized, as these sizes are merely examples.

[0078] Now combine FIG. 6A to FIG. 6C and FIG. 7A to FIG. 7B Example article of footwear 10 and components thereof are described in greater detail. Fig. 6A A top view is provided; Figure 6B Provided along Fig. 6A A cross-sectional view of line CC of ; and Figure 6C According to some examples and aspects of the present technology, a footwear article 10 is provided along Figure 6B Cross-sectional view along line DD.

[0079] Fig. 6A and Figure 6BAn exemplary article of footwear 10 is illustrated in which all components are combined together to include an outer cage member 100, an inner upper member 160, and a foot-supporting member 200. As illustrated, the foot-supporting member 200 can be assembled inside the inner upper member 160. Further, the inner upper member 160 and the foot-supporting member 200 can be assembled together inside the outer cage member 100. Once the foot-supporting member 200 is assembled inside the inner upper member 160, the combined components of the foot-supporting member 200 and the inner upper member 160 can be assembled into the interior chamber 106 of the outer cage member 100. The foot-supporting member 200 can be oriented so that the cleat inserts 222 extend through the corresponding openings in the inner upper member 160 and extend into the recesses 152 of the corresponding cleat shells 150. In at least some examples of the present technology, a separate insole component, inner midsole component, or other comfort-enhancing component may be disposed above top surface 210 of foot-supporting component 200, e.g., to prevent direct contact between foot-supporting component 200 and a wearer's foot.

[0080] Figure 6C Enlarged free ends 224 of cleat inserts 222 of foot-supporting member 200 are shown fitting inside cleat shell 150 and engaging with cleat shell 150 and undercut portions 154 of cleat shell 150 on outer cage member 100 . Fig. 7A A rear perspective cutaway view of article of footwear 10 is provided, highlighting the engagement between cleat insert 222 of foot-supporting component 200 and cleat shell 150 of outer cage component 100 . Figure 7B Provided by Fig. 7A FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of cleat insert 222 of foot-supporting member 200 engaged with cleat shell 150 of outer cage member 100 in the surrounding area labeled “ 7B”.

[0081] As illustrated in the above views, recess 152 of spike housing 150 is formed to include undercut portion 154 (e.g., undercut portion 154 provides an opening to a bulbous closed end of recess 152), and spike insert 222 includes an enlarged end 224 (e.g., a bulbous free end), such as formed with enlarged spike components 224a-224d extending into recess 152. As spike insert 222 is pushed through undercut portion 154 into recess 152 and toward the closed end of spike housing 150, flexible grooves or slits 223a, 223b in spike insert 222 may narrow as enlarged spike components 224a-224d move inwardly toward flexible grooves or slits 223a, 223b. Once the enlarged spike components 224a-224d of spike insert 222 pass over undercut portion 154, the enlarged spike components 224a-224d of spike insert 222 may elastically rebound (expand outward) to enlarge the flexible grooves or slits 223a, 223b and retain spike insert 222 within spike housing 150. The bulbous free end of spike insert 222 formed by enlarged spike components 224a-224d extends into the bulbous closed end of recess 152 and will contact undercut portion 154 to prevent spike insert 222 from being easily removed from recess 152. Spike insert 222 may also provide internal reinforcement or support for the entire spike construction (e.g., to help prevent spike housing 150 from collapsing under the effect of forces applied to the ground). Other spring elements or biasing components may be provided to help the enlarged cleat components 224a-224d (or other retention structures) rebound to their increased spacing to provide such an engagement feature.

[0082] The outer cage component 100 and / or the foot support component 200 may include a rigid plastic material. For example, the rigid plastic material may include one or more (combination) of the following: thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), polyurethane, nylon, acrylic or polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polycarbonate (PC), polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PETE or PET), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). Other rigid plastic materials may also be used for the outer cage component 100 and / or the foot support component 200. The outer cage component 100 and / or the foot support component 200 may be made of other materials similar to the rigid plastic material and having similar material properties as the rigid plastic material. Various thickness and hardness properties may be used for the outer cage component 100 and / or the foot support component 200.

[0083] In at least some examples of the present technology, the volume (V RES) and the volume (V ) defined by the outer surface of the shoe spike insert 222 (when fully inserted into the recess 152) within the recess 152 INS ) may be substantially equal. As some more specific examples, V INS :V RES The ratio of can be in the range of 0.75 to 1, and in some examples, can be from 0.75 to 0.99, 0.75 to 0.95, 0.8 to 1, 0.8 to 0.99, or even 0.8 to 0.95. Additionally or alternatively, in at least some examples of the present technology, at least 75% (and in some examples, at least 80%, at least 85%, at least 90%, at least 95%, or even at least 98%) of the exterior surface area of ​​cleat insert 222 within the insert can be in direct contact with and / or in close proximity to the interior surface of recess 152. The tight fit with little additional open space within recess 152 helps prevent unwanted "play" or movement of cleat insert 222 within its corresponding recess 152.

[0084] Further, in at least some examples of the present technology, the spike inserts 222 extending into their respective recesses 152 (e.g., the free ends 224a-224d of the spike inserts 222 engage the undercut surface 154) will be the only connector structure that holds the foot-supporting component 200 to the outer cage component 100 and / or to the rest of the footwear structure. Additionally or alternatively, in at least some examples of the present technology, the spike inserts 222 extending into their respective recesses 152 (e.g., the free ends 224a-224d of the spike inserts 222 engage the undercut surface 154) will be the only connector structure that holds the inner upper component 160 to the rest of the footwear structure (e.g., the inner upper component 160 is only connected to the foot-supporting component 200 and / or the outer cage component 100). As a result, the footwear structures of these examples may be very environmentally friendly and have improved sustainability, for example, by avoiding the use of adhesives. In other embodiments, cleat insert 222 may extend through and / or penetrate cleat housing 150 and / or cleat member 142 .

[0085] When the useful life of one or more of the components ends, one or more of the components of article of footwear 10 may be disassembled, such as by removing cleat inserts 222 from cleat shell 150. For example, foot-supporting component 200 and cleat inserts 222 may be removed from outer cage component 100 and cleat shell 150. Portions such as outer cage component 100, inner upper component 160, and foot-supporting component 200 may then be easily recycled and replaced.

[0086] In the illustrated example, there are twelve cleat inserts 222a, 222b, 222c, 222d, 222e, 222f, 222g, 222h, 222i, 222j, 222k, 222l, which correspond to the twelve cleat members 142a, 142b, 142c, 142d, 142e, 142f, 142g, 142h, 142i, 142j, 142k, 142l having twelve cleat housings 150 and twelve recesses 152. Each of the twelve spike inserts 222a, 222b, 222c, 222d, 222e, 222f, 222g, 222h, 222i, 222j, 222k, 222l may engage a corresponding spike member 142a, 142b, 142c, 142d, 142e, 142f, 142g, 142h, 142i, 142j, 142k, 142l and spike housing 150. However, other numbers of spike inserts 222 and spike members 142 may engage and correspond with each other for article of footwear 10. For example, one or more spike inserts 222 may correspond and engage with recesses 152 in one or more spike housings 150. In another example, two spike inserts 222 may correspond and engage with recesses 152 in two spike housings 150. In another example, three, four, or five cleat inserts 222 may correspond to and engage recesses 152 in three, four, or five cleat housings 150. In another example, six, seven, or eight cleat inserts 222 may correspond to and engage recesses 152 in six, seven, or eight cleat housings 150. In another example, nine, ten, or eleven cleat inserts 222 may correspond to and engage recesses 152 in nine, ten, or eleven cleat housings 150. In another example, more than twelve cleat inserts 222 may correspond to and engage recesses 152 in more than twelve cleat housings 150. Any cleat insert 222 located throughout foot-supporting member 200 (such as along the toe portion, heel portion, or mid-section of foot-supporting member 200) may engage with a recess 152 in a corresponding cleat housing 150 located at a similar location along outer cage member 100 (such as along the toe, heel, or mid-section of outer cage member 100).

[0087] When used, this type of removable engagement is advantageous because it allows for individual replacement of the components (e.g., outer cage component 100, inner upper component 160, and / or foot-supporting component 200) and / or separation of the components (e.g., outer cage component 100, inner upper component 160, and / or foot-supporting component 200) for potential recycling purposes. Additionally or alternatively, when used, this type of removable engagement is advantageous because it allows a user to customize a shoe for themselves, such as traction, spike positioning, shoe geometry, the geometry of a user's foot, spike location, spike type, and / or spike size, etc. Additionally or alternatively, this type of removable engagement is advantageous when used because it allows a user to replace the individual components with other components, such as depending on the activity to be performed. More specifically, different outer cage components 100, inner upper components 160, foot-supporting components 200, and / or combinations thereof may be used for different activities, such as to provide better traction, better support, and / or other desired characteristics for a particular activity. As a more specific example, the same combination of inner upper component 160 and foot-supporting component 200 may be used (and switched between two different outer upper components 100), e.g., one outer upper component 100 is designed for soccer and the other upper component 100 is designed for baseball. Additionally or alternatively, different outer cage components 100, inner upper components 160, foot-supporting components 200, and / or combinations thereof may be used based on a user's preferences at a particular time (e.g., for different colors and / or color combinations, etc.). Additionally or alternatively, the engagement of a spike insert with its corresponding spike shell may form the only means of fastening and attaching shoe components together (such as, for example, fastening and attaching an outer cage component, an inner upper component, and a foot-supporting component together).

[0088] Conformable heel counter

[0089] Now combine Fig. 8A and Figure 8B Example article of footwear 10, alternative foot-supporting member 800, and components thereof are described in greater detail. Fig. 8A Lateral and medial perspectives are provided; Figure 8BA rear, bottom perspective view of a foot-supporting component 800 according to some examples and aspects of the present technology is provided. The foot-supporting component 800 may replace the foot-supporting component 200 with the article of footwear 10 described above and in detail. The foot-supporting component 800 may include openings, voids, and / or grooves 840 around the heel area. These openings, voids, or grooves 840 may make the heel structure 814 and the heel stabilizer component 818 more conformable, lightweight, and / or flexible. The openings, voids, or grooves 840 may allow the heel or stabilizer to better conform to the user's heel / foot, thereby providing an "adaptive" response that accommodates different heels in different ways. The openings, voids, or grooves 840 may be customized within the heel stabilizer component 818 based on the shape of the user's foot and / or heel. These openings, voids, or grooves 840 may make it easier to fit the foot-supporting component 800 into the inner upper component 160 and / or the outer cage component 100. Additionally or alternatively, these openings, voids, or grooves 840 may enable the heel structure to better conform to the wearer's heel, and better accommodate and move with the wearer's heel (e.g., during use), and improve flexure, comfort, and fit.

[0090] Foot-supporting component 800 may be formed as an integral, one-piece construction including a first (top) surface 810 and a second (bottom) surface 820 opposite first surface 810. Foot-supporting component 800 may include a base and heel counter component having bottom surface 820 including one or more cleat inserts 822 that fit within one or more cleat shells 150 of outer cage component 100. First surface 810 may be used to support the entire plantar surface (or at least some portion thereof) of a wearer's foot.

[0091] As described above, flexible cleat insert 822 may be at least partially aligned with each of cleat member 142, recess 152, and cleat housing 150 of footbed portion 148 of sole structure 140 on outer cage component 100. Flexible cleat insert 822 may be sized, shaped, and positioned to fit into and extend into cleat member 142 and recess 152 of cleat housing 150. Flexible cleat insert 822 may include enlarged free end 824 extending from cleat arm 826. Free end 824 may be positioned to engage undercut portion 154 within interior recess 152 of cleat housing 150 and secure cleat insert 822 within recess 152 of cleat housing 150. Further, the free end 824 of the example flexible spike insert 822 can have four "fin-type" enlarged spike components arranged around the intersection of two curved grooves or slits (e.g., a separate spike component is provided in each quadrant or sector around the curved groove or slit). The spike components can have shapes similar to the above-described fin-type enlarged spike components (and can have any of the various specific structural features and / or options for enlarged spike components described above), although other specific shapes and arrangements are also possible. Those skilled in the art will understand that spike insert 822 can have similar structures, features, and / or characteristics. Spike insert 822 can have any desired size or dimensions without departing from the present invention.

[0092] like Fig. 8A and Figure 8B As shown, top surface 810 may include top panel 812 and heel support 814 disposed around the heel area of ​​foot-supporting member 800. Heel support 814 may provide additional support to the heel area of ​​the wearer's foot. Fig. 8A and Figure 8B As shown, top panel 812 may include lateral edge 812L and medial edge 812M. Lateral edge 812L may extend from top panel 812 around at least a portion of a perimeter of a lateral side of foot-supporting component 800. Medial edge 812M may extend from top panel 812 around at least a portion of a perimeter of a medial side of foot-supporting component 800. Additionally, top panel 812 may include toe edge 812T extending from top panel 812 around at least a portion of a top perimeter of foot-supporting component 800 at a toe area. Top panel 812 may also include, for example, a toe edge 812T extending from top panel 812 around at least a portion of a top perimeter of foot-supporting component 800 at a toe area. Figure 5A and Figure 5B A recess 216 of the type described.

[0093] The heel support 814 may form a heel stabilizer structure 818 to limit or control the movement of the heel. The heel stabilizer structure 818 may be a structure formed integrally with the foot support member 800. The heel stabilizer structure 818 may include a heel stabilizer lateral sidewall 818L, a heel stabilizer medial sidewall 818M, and a heel stabilizer rear sidewall 818R formed between the heel stabilizer lateral sidewall 818L and the heel stabilizer medial sidewall 818M. Additionally or alternatively, the heel stabilizer structure 818 may be connected and / or engaged with the lace engagement opening 124 of the footwear article 10, thereby providing a structure to pull and / or tighten the heel stabilizer structure 818 against the user's heel.

[0094] Additionally, as described above, the heel counter structure 818 can include an opening, void, or recess 840 surrounding the heel region. The following and FIG. 8A to FIG. 12B The illustrated openings, voids or grooves 840, 840A, 840B, 840C, 840D are provided to enhance the comfort of the wearer. Typically, if a blister or hot spot forms on the user's foot on the heel, the blister typically forms in the rear heel or on the outside of the rear heel. Therefore, the surface area of ​​the heel stabilizer opening, void or groove 840, 840A, 840B, 840C, 840D may be slightly larger on the outside of the heel than on the inside of the heel at the center rear heel line of the heel stabilizer structure 818. For example, the heel stabilizer structure 818 may include an outside outside of a vertical line passing through the rearmost heel (RH) position and an inside inside of the vertical line. The surface area (A OL )( outside On the side Opening of area ) may be larger than the surface area (A) of the opening, void, or recess 840, 840A, 840B, 840C on the medial side of the heel counter structure 818. OM )( Inside On the side Opening of area ). In some examples, A OL =1.05 to 2xA OM ; or A OL = 1.1 to 1.9xA OM ; or A OL = 1.2 to 1.8xA OM .

[0095] Fig. 8A and Figure 8BThe openings, voids, or grooves 840 shown and illustrated in define hub and spoke voids 842. For example, the hub and spoke voids 842 can include a central hub 844 located on the rear sidewall 818R of the heel counter. A plurality of spokes 846 can radiate from the central hub 844. The size of the central hub 844 can vary, such as including a smaller or larger circular hub. The spokes 846 can include circular holes 848 at the ends of the spokes 846. In other examples, the spokes 846 can include holes of other shapes at the ends of the spokes 846. Fig. 8A and Figure 8B In the illustrated example, the hub and spoke void 842 may include eight spokes 846 emanating from a central hub 844 and eight circular holes 848 at the ends of the eight spokes 846. The eight spokes 846 may be equally spaced from each other around the central hub 844. Individual spokes 846 may be straight grooves with constant and / or varying widths. In other examples, the spokes 846 may be curved grooves. In other examples, the hub and spoke void 842 may include other numbers of spokes 846 emanating from the central hub 844, such as three spokes, four spokes, five spokes, six spokes, seven spokes, or nine or more spokes. In other examples, the spokes 846 may not be equally spaced from each other around the central hub 844. Additionally, in some examples, the spokes 846 may have the same length. In another example, the spokes 846 may have different lengths. The hub and spoke void 842 may be located primarily on the heel counter posterior sidewall 818R, however the spokes 846 and apertures 848 may extend into portions of the heel counter medial sidewall 818M and the heel counter lateral sidewall 818L.

[0096] like Fig. 8A and Figure 8B The illustrated hub and spoke spaces 842 and center hub 844 may define approximately 1,500 mm. 2 For example, the surface area of ​​the hub and spoke gaps 842 and the center hub 844 may be approximately 500 mm 2 Up to 1,500mm 2 or in some instances, within 750 mm 2 Up to 1,250mm 2 Between, or at 900mm 2 Up to 1,100mm 2 Additionally, if Fig. 8A and Figure 8B The illustrated single center hub 844 may define a 100 mm 2 For example, the surface area of ​​the center hub 844 can be approximately 20 mm 2 Up to 150mm 2or in some instances, within 30 mm 2 Up to 100mm 2 Between, or within 40mm 2 Up to 60mm 2 between.

[0097] Fig.9A and Fig. 9B Another example heel counter structure 818 is illustrated having an opening, void, or recess 840A. Fig.9A and Fig. 9B The opening, void or groove 840A shown and illustrated in the figure defines a hub and spoke void 842A. For example, the hub and spoke void 842A may include a central hub 844A located on the rear sidewall 818R of the heel counter. A plurality of spokes 846A may diverge from the central hub 844A. The size of the central hub 844A may vary, for example, including a smaller or larger circular hub. Fig.9A and Fig. 9B In the illustrated example, the hub and spoke gap 842A may include ten spokes 846A emanating from the center hub 844A. These ten spokes 846A may be spaced equidistantly from the center hub 844A. Individual spokes 846A may be straight grooves with constant and / or variable widths. In other examples, the spokes 846A may be curved grooves. In other examples, the hub and spoke gap 842A may include other numbers of spokes 846A emanating from the center hub 844A, such as three spokes, four spokes, five spokes, six spokes, seven spokes, eight spokes, nine spokes, or eleven or more spokes. In other examples, the spokes 846A may not be spaced equidistantly from each other around the center hub 844A. Additionally, in some examples, the spokes 846A may have the same length. In other examples, the spokes 846A may have different lengths. The hub and spoke void 842A may be primarily located on the heel counter posterior sidewall 818R, however the spokes 846A may extend into portions of the heel counter medial sidewall 818M and the heel counter lateral sidewall 818L.

[0098] like Fig.9A and Fig. 9B The illustrated hub and spoke gap 842A may define a 1,000 mm 2 For example, the surface area of ​​the hub and spoke gap 842A can be approximately 300 mm 2 Up to 1,000mm 2 or in some instances, within 400 mm 2 Up to 850mm 2 Between, or within 500mm 2 Up to 700mm 2 between.

[0099] Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B Another example heel counter structure 818 is illustrated having an opening, void, or recess 840B. Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B The opening, void, or recess 840B shown and illustrated defines an opening 842B having a slit 844B (e.g., an upwardly extending slit). The opening 842B can be circular and located on the heel counter rear sidewall 818R. In other example embodiments, the opening 842B can be other shapes, such as oval, triangular, rectangular, square, etc. The slit 844B can extend upward from the opening 842B toward the upper portion of the heel counter rear sidewall 818R. In other example embodiments, the slit 844B can have different widths.

[0100] like Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B The illustrated opening 842B and slot 844B may define a 1,500 mm 2 For example, the surface area of ​​the opening 842B and the slit 844B may be approximately 500 mm 2 Up to 1,500mm 2 or in some instances, within 750 mm 2 Up to 1,250mm 2 Between, or at 900mm 2 Up to 1,100mm 2 between.

[0101] Fig.11A and Fig. 11B Another example heel counter structure 818 is illustrated having an opening, void, or recess 840C. Fig.11A and Fig. 11B The opening, void or groove 840C shown and illustrated defines a hub and spoke void 842C. For example, the hub and spoke void 842C can include a central hub 844C located on the rear sidewall 818R of the heel counter. A plurality of spokes 846C can radiate from the central hub 844C. The size of the central hub 844C can vary, for example, including a smaller or larger circular hub. Fig.11A and Fig. 11BIn the illustrated example, the hub and spoke gap 842C may include eight spokes 846C emanating from the center hub 844C. The eight spokes 846C may be spaced equidistantly from the center hub 844C. Individual spokes 846C may be straight grooves with constant and / or varying widths. In other examples, the spokes 846C may be curved grooves. In other examples, the hub and spoke gap 842C may include other numbers of spokes 846C emanating from the center hub 844C, such as three spokes, four spokes, five spokes, six spokes, seven spokes, or nine or more spokes. In other examples, the spokes 846C may not be spaced equidistantly from each other around the center hub 844C. Additionally, in some examples, the spokes 846C may have the same length. In other examples, the spokes 846C may have different lengths. The hub and spoke void 842C may be located primarily on the heel counter posterior sidewall 818R, however the spokes 846C may extend into portions of the heel counter medial sidewall 818M and the heel counter lateral sidewall 818L.

[0102] like Fig.11A and Fig. 11B The illustrated hub and spoke gap 842C may define a 1,000 mm 2 For example, the surface area of ​​the hub and spoke gap 842C can be approximately 300 mm 2 Up to 1,000mm 2 or in some instances, within 400 mm 2 Up to 850mm 2 Between, or within 500mm 2 Up to 700mm 2 between.

[0103] Fig. 12A and Fig. 12B Another example heel counter structure 818 is illustrated having an opening, void, or recess 840D. Fig. 12A and Fig. 12B The opening, void, or groove 840D shown and illustrated defines a groove 842D. For example, the groove 842D can extend from the heel counter medial sidewall 818M to the heel counter lateral sidewall 818L around the heel counter posterior sidewall 818R. Fig. 12A and Fig. 12BIn the illustrated example, groove 842D extends in a continuous curve that extends multiple times between the bottom portion of heel stabilizer structure 818 and the upper portion of heel stabilizer structure 818. Groove 842D can be a continuous groove having multiple local minima at the bottom portion of heel stabilizer structure 818 and multiple local maxima at the top portion of heel stabilizer structure 818. Additionally or alternatively, groove 842D can also be a continuous groove having straight sides and different corners (e.g., providing a generally V-shaped corner). Groove 842D can be composed of multiple portions of the groove. Groove 842D can extend along heel stabilizer structure 818 in various shapes and methods, such as horizontal zigzags, wavy shapes, and other shapes and methods.

[0104] like Fig. 12A and Fig. 12B The illustrated groove 842D may define a 1,500 mm 2 For example, the surface area of ​​the groove 842D can be about 500 mm 2 Up to 1,500mm 2 or in some instances, within 750 mm 2 Up to 1,250mm 2 Between, or at 900mm 2 Up to 1,100mm 2 between.

[0105] III. Conclusion

[0106] The present technology is disclosed above and in the accompanying drawings with reference to various embodiments. However, the purpose of this disclosure service is to provide examples of various features and concepts related to the present technology, rather than to limit the scope thereof. Those skilled in the relevant art will recognize that many changes and modifications may be made to the above-described embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

[0107] For the avoidance of doubt, this application includes at least the subject matter described in the following numbered clauses:

[0108] Clause 1. A footwear structure comprising:

[0109] an outer cage member formed as an integral, one-piece construction, the outer cage member comprising: (i) an outer sole portion, the outer sole portion comprising a first cleat shell and a second cleat shell separate from the first cleat shell, and (ii) an upper portion, wherein the outer cage member defines an interior chamber, wherein the interior chamber includes a footbed portion formed by an interior surface of the outer sole portion, the footbed portion including a first recess and a second recess, the first recess extending into an interior of the first cleat shell and defining a first undercut within the interior of the first cleat shell, the second recess extending into an interior of the second cleat shell and defining a second undercut within the interior of the second cleat shell;

[0110] an inner upper component formed as an integral, one-piece construction, the inner upper component defining a foot-receiving chamber, the foot-receiving chamber including a bottom surface, a heel-receiving area, a midfoot-receiving area, and a forefoot-receiving area, wherein the inner upper component is formed of a textile material, and wherein the bottom surface includes a first opening and a second opening, the first opening being at least partially aligned with the first recess, the second opening being spaced from the first opening and at least partially aligned with the second recess; and

[0111] A foot-supporting component formed as an integral, one-piece construction, the foot-supporting component comprising: (i) a first surface for supporting an entire plantar surface of a wearer's foot, and (ii) a second surface opposite the first surface, wherein the second surface comprises a first cleat insert extending into the first recess and a second cleat insert extending into the second recess, wherein the first cleat insert comprises a first enlarged free end positioned to engage the first undercut and secure the first cleat insert within the first recess, wherein the second cleat insert comprises a second enlarged free end positioned to engage the second undercut and secure the second cleat insert within the second recess, and wherein the foot-supporting component is received within the foot-receiving chamber of the inner upper component, wherein the first cleat insert extends through the first opening, and wherein the second cleat insert extends through the second opening.

[0112] Clause 2. The footwear structure of Clause 1, wherein the foot-supporting component includes an integrally formed heel counter.

[0113] Clause 3. The footwear structure of clause 1, wherein the outer cage component includes a lace engagement opening and the overall footwear structure further includes a lace extending through the lace engagement opening.

[0114] Clause 4. The footwear structure of Clause 1, wherein each of the first cleat insert and the second cleat insert comprises one or more slits.

[0115] Clause 5. The footwear structure of Clause 1, wherein each of the first enlarged free end and the second enlarged free end includes four enlarged cleat components.

[0116] Clause 6. The footwear structure of Clause 1, wherein each of the first enlarged free end and the second enlarged free end includes three enlarged cleat components.

[0117] Clause 7. The footwear structure of clause 1, wherein the cleat inserts, in conjunction with their corresponding cleat shells, form the sole means of securing together the outer cage member, the inner upper member, and the foot-supporting member.

[0118] Clause 8. The footwear structure of clause 1, wherein the exterior surface of the first stud shell defines a 4,000 mm 3 or smaller size.

[0119] Clause 9. The footwear structure of clause 1, wherein the outer surface of the first stud shell is defined within 500 mm. 3 Up to 4,000mm 3 volume within the range of .

[0120] Clause 10. The footwear structure of clause 1, wherein the outer surface of the first stud shell is defined within 700 mm. 3 Up to 3,500mm 3 volume within the range of .

[0121] Clause 11. The footwear structure of clause 1, wherein the outer surface of the first stud shell is defined within 800 mm. 3 Up to 2,700mm 3 volume within the range of .

[0122] Clause 12. The footwear structure of clause 1, wherein the interior surface of the first recess defines a 1,500 mm 3 or smaller size.

[0123] Clause 13. A footwear structure according to clause 1, wherein the interior surface of the first recess defines a 300 mm 3 Up to 1,500mm 3 volume.

[0124] Clause 14. The footwear structure of clause 1, wherein the interior surface of the first recess defines a 400 mm 3 Up to 1,000mm3 volume.

[0125] Clause 15. The footwear structure of clause 1, wherein the interior surface of the first recess defines a 450 mm 3 Up to 900mm 3 volume.

[0126] Clause 16. The footwear structure of Clause 1, wherein a volume ratio of an interior surface of the first recess to an exterior surface of the first stud shell is in a range of 0.3 to 0.7.

[0127] Clause 17. A footwear structure according to Clause 16, wherein the volume ratio is in the range of 0.35 to 0.65.

[0128] Clause 18. A footwear structure according to Clause 17, wherein the volume ratio is in the range of 0.4 to 0.6.

[0129] Clause 19. The footwear structure of Clause 1, wherein the first cleat insert and the first recess are located in a forefoot region of the footwear structure, and the second cleat insert and the second recess are located in a heel region of the footwear structure.

[0130] Clause 20. The footwear structure of Clause 1, wherein the first cleat insert and the first recess are located in a forefoot region of the footwear structure, and the second cleat insert and the second recess are located in the forefoot region of the footwear structure.

[0131] Clause 21. The footwear structure of Clause 1, wherein the first cleat insert and the first recess are located in a heel region of the footwear structure, and the second cleat insert and the second recess are located in the heel region of the footwear structure.

[0132] Clause 22. The footwear structure of Clause 1, wherein the first cleat insert and the first recess are located in the footwear structure forward of the second cleat insert and the second recess.

[0133] Clause 23. The footwear structure of clause 1, wherein the first cleat insert and the first recess are located on a lateral side of the footwear structure, and the second cleat insert and the second recess are located on a medial side of the footwear structure.

[0134] Clause 24. The footwear structure of clause 1, wherein each of the first cleat insert, the first recess, the second cleat insert, and the second recess is located on one of a lateral side or a medial side of the footwear structure.

[0135] Clause 25. A footwear structure according to clause 1, wherein the outsole portion includes a third spike shell, and wherein the footbed portion includes a third recess extending into the interior of the third spike shell and defining a third undercut within the interior of the third spike shell, wherein the bottom surface of the inner upper component includes a third opening at least partially aligned with the third recess, and further wherein the second surface of the foot-supporting component includes a third spike insert extending into the third recess, wherein the third spike insert includes a third enlarged free end, the third enlarged free end being positioned to engage the third undercut and secure the third spike insert within the third recess, wherein the third spike insert extends through the third opening.

[0136] Clause 26. A footwear structure according to clause 25, wherein the outsole portion includes a fourth spike shell, and wherein the footbed portion includes a fourth recess extending into the interior of the fourth spike shell and defining a fourth undercut within the interior of the fourth spike shell, wherein the bottom surface of the inner upper component includes a fourth opening at least partially aligned with the fourth recess, and further wherein the second surface of the foot-supporting component includes a fourth spike insert extending into the fourth recess, wherein the fourth spike insert includes a fourth enlarged free end, the fourth enlarged free end being positioned to engage the fourth undercut and secure the fourth spike insert within the fourth recess, wherein the fourth spike insert extends through the fourth opening.

[0137] Clause 27. A footwear structure according to clause 26, wherein the outsole portion includes a fifth spike shell, and wherein the footbed portion includes a fifth recess extending into the interior of the fifth spike shell and defining a fifth undercut within the interior of the fifth spike shell, wherein the bottom surface of the inner upper component includes a fifth opening at least partially aligned with the fifth recess, and further wherein the second surface of the foot-supporting component includes a fifth spike insert extending into the fifth recess, wherein the fifth spike insert includes a fifth enlarged free end, the fifth enlarged free end being positioned to engage the fifth undercut and secure the fifth spike insert within the fifth recess, wherein the fifth spike insert extends through the fifth opening.

[0138] Clause 28. A footwear structure according to clause 27, wherein the outsole portion includes a sixth spike shell, and wherein the footbed portion includes a sixth recess extending into the interior of the sixth spike shell and defining a sixth undercut within the interior of the sixth spike shell, wherein the bottom surface of the inner upper component includes a sixth opening at least partially aligned with the sixth recess, and further wherein the second surface of the foot-supporting component includes a sixth spike insert extending into the sixth recess, wherein the sixth spike insert includes a sixth enlarged free end that is positioned to engage the sixth undercut and secure the sixth spike insert within the sixth recess, wherein the sixth spike insert extends through the sixth opening.

[0139] Clause 29. A footwear structure according to clause 28, wherein: (a) the first stud insert and the first recess are located in a lateral forefoot region of the footwear structure, (b) the second stud insert and the second recess are located in a medial forefoot region of the footwear structure, (c) the third stud insert and the third recess are located in a lateral forefoot region and / or a lateral midfoot region of the footwear structure behind the first stud insert and the first recess, (d) the fourth stud insert and the fourth recess are located in the medial forefoot region and / or the medial midfoot region of the footwear structure behind the second stud insert and the second recess, (e) the fifth stud insert and the fifth recess are located in a lateral heel region of the footwear structure, and (f) the sixth stud insert and the sixth recess are located in a medial heel region of the footwear structure.

[0140] Clause 30. A footwear structure comprising:

[0141] an outer cage member formed as an integral, one-piece construction, the outer cage member comprising: (i) an outer sole portion, the outer sole portion comprising a first cleat shell and a second cleat shell separate from the first cleat shell, and (ii) an upper portion, wherein the outer cage member defines an interior chamber, wherein the interior chamber includes a footbed portion formed by an interior surface of the outer sole portion, the footbed portion including a first recess and a second recess, the first recess extending into an interior of the first cleat shell and defining a first undercut within the interior of the first cleat shell, the second recess extending into an interior of the second cleat shell and defining a second undercut within the interior of the second cleat shell;

[0142] an inner upper component formed as an integral, one-piece construction, the inner upper component defining a foot-receiving chamber, the foot-receiving chamber including a bottom surface, a heel-receiving area, a midfoot-receiving area, and a forefoot-receiving area, wherein the inner upper component is formed of a textile material, and wherein the bottom surface includes a first opening and a second opening, the first opening being at least partially aligned with the first recess, the second opening being spaced from the first opening and at least partially aligned with the second recess; and

[0143] A foot-supporting component formed as an integral, one-piece construction, the foot-supporting component comprising: (i) a top surface for supporting an entire plantar surface of a wearer's foot, and (ii) a bottom surface opposite the top surface, wherein the bottom surface comprises a first cleat insert extending into the first recess and a second cleat insert extending into the second recess, wherein the first cleat insert comprises a first enlarged free end positioned to engage the first undercut and secure the first cleat insert within the first recess, wherein the second cleat insert comprises a second enlarged free end positioned to engage the second undercut and secure the second cleat insert within the second recess, and wherein the foot-supporting component is received within the foot-receiving chamber of the inner upper component, wherein the first cleat insert extends through the first opening, and wherein the second cleat insert extends through the second opening.

[0144] Clause 31. The footwear structure of Clause 30, wherein the foot-supporting component includes an integrally formed heel counter.

[0145] Clause 32. The footwear structure of clause 30, wherein the outer cage component includes a lace engagement opening and the overall footwear structure further includes a lace extending through the lace engagement opening.

[0146] Clause 33. The footwear structure of Clause 30, wherein each of the first cleat insert and the second cleat insert comprises one or more slits.

[0147] Clause 34. The footwear structure of clause 30, wherein each of the first enlarged free end and the second enlarged free end includes four enlarged cleat components.

[0148] Clause 35. The footwear structure of clause 30, wherein each of the first enlarged free end and the second enlarged free end includes three enlarged cleat components.

[0149] Clause 36. The footwear structure of clause 30, wherein the cleat inserts, in conjunction with their corresponding cleat shells, form the sole means of fastening together the outer cage member, the inner upper member, and the foot-supporting member.

[0150] Clause 37. The footwear structure of clause 30, wherein the exterior surface of the first stud shell defines a 4,000 mm 3 or smaller size.

[0151] Clause 38. The footwear structure of clause 30, wherein the outer surface of the first stud shell is defined within 500 mm. 3 Up to 4,000mm 3 volume within the range of .

[0152] Clause 39. The footwear structure of clause 30, wherein the outer surface of the first stud shell is defined within 700 mm. 3 Up to 3,500mm 3 volume within the range of .

[0153] Clause 40. The footwear structure of clause 30, wherein the exterior surface of the first stud shell is defined within 800 mm. 3 Up to 2,700mm 3 volume within the range of .

[0154] Clause 41. A footwear structure according to clause 30, wherein the interior surface of the first recess defines a 1,500 mm 3 or smaller size.

[0155] Clause 42. A footwear structure according to clause 30, wherein the interior surface of the first recess defines a 300 mm 3 Up to 1,500mm 3 volume.

[0156] Clause 43. A footwear structure according to clause 30, wherein the interior surface of the first recess defines a 400 mm 3 Up to 1,000mm 3 volume.

[0157] Clause 44. A footwear structure according to clause 30, wherein the interior surface of the first recess defines a 450 mm 3 Up to 900mm 3 volume.

[0158] Clause 45. The footwear structure of Clause 30, wherein a volume ratio of an interior surface of the first recess to an exterior surface of the first stud shell is in a range of 0.3 to 0.7.

[0159] Clause 46. A footwear structure according to Clause 45, wherein the volume ratio is in the range of 0.35 to 0.65.

[0160] Clause 47. A footwear structure according to Clause 46, wherein the volume ratio is in the range of 0.4 to 0.6.

[0161] Clause 48. The footwear structure of clause 30, wherein the first cleat insert and the first recess are located in a forefoot region of the footwear structure, and the second cleat insert and the second recess are located in a heel region of the footwear structure.

[0162] Clause 49. The footwear structure of clause 30, wherein the first cleat insert and the first recess are located in a forefoot region of the footwear structure, and the second cleat insert and the second recess are located in the forefoot region of the footwear structure.

[0163] Clause 50. The footwear structure of clause 30, wherein the first cleat insert and the first recess are located in a heel region of the footwear structure, and the second cleat insert and the second recess are located in the heel region of the footwear structure.

[0164] Clause 52. The footwear structure of clause 30, wherein the first cleat insert and the first recess are located in the footwear structure forward of the second cleat insert and the second recess.

[0165] Clause 53. The footwear structure of clause 30, wherein the first cleat insert and the first recess are located on a lateral side of the footwear structure, and the second cleat insert and the second recess are located on a medial side of the footwear structure.

[0166] Clause 54. The footwear structure of clause 30, wherein each of the first cleat insert, the first recess, the second cleat insert, and the second recess is located on one of a lateral side or a medial side of the footwear structure.

[0167] Clause 55. A footwear structure according to clause 30, wherein the outsole portion includes a third spike shell, and wherein the footbed portion includes a third recess extending into the interior of the third spike shell and defining a third undercut within the interior of the third spike shell, wherein the bottom surface of the inner upper component includes a third opening at least partially aligned with the third recess, and further wherein the second surface of the foot-supporting component includes a third spike insert extending into the third recess, wherein the third spike insert includes a third enlarged free end, the third enlarged free end being positioned to engage the third undercut and secure the third spike insert within the third recess, wherein the third spike insert extends through the third opening.

[0168] Clause 56. A footwear structure according to clause 55, wherein the outsole portion includes a fourth spike shell, and wherein the footbed portion includes a fourth recess extending into the interior of the fourth spike shell and defining a fourth undercut within the interior of the fourth spike shell, wherein the bottom surface of the inner upper component includes a fourth opening at least partially aligned with the fourth recess, and further wherein the second surface of the foot-supporting component includes a fourth spike insert extending into the fourth recess, wherein the fourth spike insert includes a fourth enlarged free end, the fourth enlarged free end being positioned to engage the fourth undercut and secure the fourth spike insert within the fourth recess, wherein the fourth spike insert extends through the fourth opening.

[0169] Clause 57. A footwear structure according to clause 56, wherein the outsole portion includes a fifth spike shell, and wherein the footbed portion includes a fifth recess extending into the interior of the fifth spike shell and defining a fifth undercut within the interior of the fifth spike shell, wherein the bottom surface of the inner upper component includes a fifth opening at least partially aligned with the fifth recess, and further wherein the second surface of the foot-supporting component includes a fifth spike insert extending into the fifth recess, wherein the fifth spike insert includes a fifth enlarged free end, the fifth enlarged free end being positioned to engage the fifth undercut and secure the fifth spike insert within the fifth recess, wherein the fifth spike insert extends through the fifth opening.

[0170] Clause 58. A footwear structure according to clause 57, wherein the outsole portion includes a sixth spike shell, and wherein the footbed portion includes a sixth recess extending into the interior of the sixth spike shell and defining a sixth undercut within the interior of the sixth spike shell, wherein the bottom surface of the inner upper component includes a sixth opening at least partially aligned with the sixth recess, and further wherein the second surface of the foot-supporting component includes a sixth spike insert extending into the sixth recess, wherein the sixth spike insert includes a sixth enlarged free end that is positioned to engage the sixth undercut and secure the sixth spike insert within the sixth recess, wherein the sixth spike insert extends through the sixth opening.

[0171] Clause 59. A footwear structure according to clause 58, wherein: (a) the first stud insert and the first recess are located in a lateral forefoot region of the footwear structure, (b) the second stud insert and the second recess are located in a medial forefoot region of the footwear structure, (c) the third stud insert and the third recess are located in a lateral forefoot region and / or a lateral midfoot region of the footwear structure behind the first stud insert and the first recess, (d) the fourth stud insert and the fourth recess are located in the medial forefoot region and / or the medial midfoot region of the footwear structure behind the second stud insert and the second recess, (e) the fifth stud insert and the fifth recess are located in a lateral heel region of the footwear structure, and (f) the sixth stud insert and the sixth recess are located in a medial heel region of the footwear structure.

[0172] Clause 60. A footwear structure comprising:

[0173] an outer cage member formed as an integral, one-piece construction, the outer cage member comprising: (i) an outsole portion, the outsole portion including a plurality of cleat shells, and (ii) an upper portion, wherein the outer cage member defines an interior chamber, wherein the interior chamber includes a footbed portion formed by an interior surface of the outsole portion, the footbed portion including a plurality of recesses, wherein each of the plurality of recesses extends into an interior of each of the plurality of cleat shells and defines an undercut within the interior of each of the plurality of cleat shells;

[0174] an inner upper component formed as an integral, one-piece construction, the inner upper component defining a foot-receiving chamber including a bottom surface, a heel-receiving area, a midfoot-receiving area, and a forefoot-receiving area, wherein the inner upper component is formed of a textile material, and wherein the bottom surface includes a plurality of openings, wherein each of the plurality of openings is at least partially aligned with a corresponding one of the plurality of recesses; and

[0175] A foot-supporting component formed as an integral, one-piece construction, the foot-supporting component comprising: (i) a top surface for supporting an entire plantar surface of a wearer's foot, and (ii) a bottom surface opposite the top surface, wherein the bottom surface comprises a plurality of cleat inserts, wherein each of the plurality of cleat inserts extends into a corresponding one of the plurality of recesses, wherein each of the plurality of cleat inserts comprises an enlarged free end positioned to engage a corresponding undercut and secure each of the plurality of cleat inserts within a corresponding one of the plurality of recesses, and wherein the foot-supporting component is received within the foot-receiving chamber of the inner upper component, wherein each of the plurality of cleat inserts extends through a corresponding one of the plurality of openings.

[0176] Clause 61. A footwear structure as described in Clause 60, wherein the foot-supporting component includes an integrally formed heel counter.

[0177] Clause 62. The footwear structure of clause 60, wherein the outer cage component includes a lace engagement opening and the overall footwear structure further includes a lace extending through the lace engagement opening.

[0178] Clause 63. The footwear structure of clause 60, wherein each of the plurality of cleat inserts comprises one or more slits.

[0179] Clause 64. The footwear structure of Clause 60, wherein each of the plurality of enlarged free ends comprises four enlarged cleat components.

[0180] Clause 65. The footwear structure of clause 60, wherein each of the plurality of enlarged free ends comprises three enlarged cleat components.

[0181] Clause 66. The footwear structure of clause 60, wherein the cleat inserts, in conjunction with their corresponding cleat shells, form the sole means of securing together the outer cage member, the inner upper member, and the foot-supporting member.

[0182] Clause 67. The footwear structure of clause 60, wherein the exterior surface of each of the plurality of stud shells defines a 4,000 mm 3 or smaller size.

[0183] Clause 68. The footwear structure of clause 60, wherein the exterior surface of each of the plurality of stud shells is defined within 500 mm. 3 Up to 4,000mm 3 volume within the range of .

[0184] Clause 69. The footwear structure of clause 60, wherein the exterior surface of each of the plurality of spike shells is defined within 700 mm. 3 Up to 3,500mm 3 volume within the range of .

[0185] Clause 70. The footwear structure of clause 60, wherein the exterior surface of each of the plurality of stud shells is defined within 800 mm. 3 Up to 2,700mm 3 volume within the range of .

[0186] Clause 71. The footwear structure of clause 60, wherein the interior surface of each of the plurality of recesses defines a 1,500 mm 3 or smaller size.

[0187] Clause 72. A footwear structure according to clause 60, wherein the interior surface of each of the plurality of recesses defines a 300 mm 3 Up to 1,500mm 3 volume.

[0188] Clause 73. A footwear structure according to clause 60, wherein the interior surface of each of the plurality of recesses defines a 400 mm 3 Up to 1,000mm 3 volume.

[0189] Clause 74. A footwear structure according to clause 60, wherein the interior surface of each of the plurality of recesses defines a 450 mm 3 Up to 900mm 3 volume.

[0190] Clause 75. The footwear structure of clause 60, wherein a volume ratio of an interior surface of each of the plurality of recesses to an exterior surface of each of the plurality of cleat shells is in a range of 0.3 to 0.7.

[0191] Clause 76. A footwear structure according to clause 75, wherein the volume ratio is in the range of 0.35 to 0.65.

[0192] Clause 77. A footwear structure according to clause 75, wherein the volume ratio is in the range of 0.4 to 0.6.

[0193] Clause 78. A footwear structure according to clause 60, wherein the plurality of spike inserts and one or more of the recesses are located in a forefoot region of the footwear structure, and the plurality of spike inserts and one or more of the recesses are located in a heel region of the footwear structure.

[0194] Clause 79. A footwear structure as recited in clause 60, wherein the plurality of stud inserts and recesses are located in a forefoot region of the footwear structure.

[0195] Clause 80. The footwear structure of clause 60, wherein the plurality of stud inserts and recesses are located in a heel region of the footwear structure.

[0196] Clause 81. A footwear structure according to clause 60, wherein the plurality of spike inserts and one or more of the recesses are located on a lateral side of the footwear structure, and the plurality of spike inserts and one or more of the recesses are located on a medial side of the footwear structure.

[0197] Clause 82. The footwear structure of clause 60, wherein the plurality of cleat inserts and recesses are located on one of a lateral side or a medial side of the footwear structure.

[0198] Clause 83. The footwear structure of clause 60, wherein the plurality of cleat inserts is defined by six cleat inserts.

[0199] Clause 84. The footwear structure of clause 60, wherein the plurality of cleat inserts is defined by eight cleat inserts.

[0200] Clause 85. The footwear structure of clause 60, wherein the plurality of cleat inserts is defined by ten cleat inserts.

[0201] Clause 86. The footwear structure of clause 60, wherein the plurality of cleat inserts is defined by twelve cleat inserts.

[0202] Clause 87. A foot-supporting component configured to releasably engage with an outer cage component and an inner upper component to form an article of footwear, the outer cage component comprising an outsole portion and an upper portion, wherein the inner upper component fits inside the outer cage component, the foot-supporting component comprising:

[0203] a top surface for supporting the entire plantar surface of a wearer's foot;

[0204] a bottom surface opposite the top surface, wherein the bottom surface includes a plurality of cleat inserts, wherein one or more of the plurality of cleat inserts are configured to extend into a corresponding recess of the outer cage member; and

[0205] an integrally formed heel counter structure extending from the top surface at a heel area of ​​the foot-supporting member, the heel counter structure including a sidewall having a lateral sidewall, a medial sidewall, and a rear sidewall extending between the lateral sidewall and the medial sidewall, the heel counter structure further comprising a void structure formed in the sidewall, the void structure being defined by one or more of an opening, a void, or a recess,

[0206] Wherein the foot-supporting member is formed as a unitary, one-piece construction.

[0207] Clause 88. The foot-supporting member of clause 87, wherein the void structure comprises a central hub having a plurality of spokes emanating from the central hub.

[0208] Clause 89. The foot-supporting member of clause 88, wherein one or more of the plurality of spokes comprises a circular aperture opposite the central hub.

[0209] Clause 90. The foot-supporting member of clause 88, wherein the plurality of spokes includes four spokes.

[0210] Clause 91. The foot-supporting member of clause 88, wherein the plurality of spokes includes six spokes.

[0211] Clause 92. The foot-supporting member of clause 88, wherein the plurality of spokes includes eight spokes.

[0212] Clause 93. The foot-supporting member of clause 88, wherein the plurality of spokes includes ten spokes.

[0213] Clause 94. The foot-supporting member of clause 88, wherein the plurality of spokes are equally spaced about the central hub.

[0214] Clause 95. The foot-supporting member of Clause 88, wherein the void structure is located only on the rear sidewall.

[0215] Clause 96. The foot-supporting member of clause 88, wherein the central hub of the void structure is located along the rear sidewall and one or more of the plurality of spokes extend into portions of the medial sidewall and the lateral sidewall.

[0216] Clause 97. The foot-supporting member of Clause 87, wherein the void structure comprises an opening and a slit extending upward from the opening toward an upper portion of the sidewall.

[0217] Clause 98. The foot-supporting member of Clause 97, wherein the opening is a circular opening.

[0218] Clause 99. The foot-supporting member of Clause 87, wherein the opening and the slit are located on the rear sidewall.

[0219] Clause 99. The foot-supporting member of clause 87, wherein the void structure comprises a groove extending from a portion of the medial sidewall through the rear sidewall to a portion of the lateral sidewall.

[0220] Clause 100. The foot-supporting member of Clause 99, wherein the groove extends in a vertically continuous V-shape from a bottom portion of the heel counter structure to an upper portion of the heel counter structure.

[0221] Clause 101. The foot-supporting member of clause 87, wherein the void structure defines a 1,500 mm 2 or smaller surface area.

[0222] Clause 102. The foot-supporting member of clause 101, wherein the surface area of ​​the void structure is within 500 mm 2 Up to 1,500mm 2 within the range.

[0223] Clause 103. The foot-supporting member of clause 102, wherein the surface area of ​​the void structure is within 750 mm 2 Up to 1,250mm 2 within the range.

[0224] Clause 104. The foot-supporting member of clause 103, wherein the surface area of ​​the void structure is within 900 mm 2 Up to 1,000mm 2 within the range.

[0225] Clause 105. A foot-supporting member as described in clause 87, wherein one or more of the plurality of cleat inserts include an enlarged free end configured to engage an undercut in the recess of the outer cage member and secure the plurality of cleat inserts within their respective recesses.

[0226] Clause 106. The foot-supporting component of clause 105, wherein the cleat insert comprises one or more slits.

[0227] Clause 107. The foot-supporting member of clause 105, wherein the enlarged free end comprises four enlarged cleat components.

[0228] Clause 108. The foot-supporting member of clause 105, wherein the enlarged free end comprises three enlarged cleat components.

[0229] Clause 109. The foot-supporting member of clause 87, wherein one or more of the plurality of cleat inserts are located in a forefoot region of the bottom surface and one or more of the plurality of cleat inserts are located in a heel region of the bottom surface.

[0230] Clause 110. The foot-supporting member of clause 87, wherein the plurality of cleat inserts are located in a forefoot region of the bottom surface.

[0231] Clause 111. The foot-supporting member of clause 87, wherein the plurality of cleat inserts are located in a heel region of the bottom surface.

[0232] Clause 112. The foot-supporting component of clause 87, wherein one or more of the plurality of cleat inserts are located on a lateral side of the bottom surface and one or more of the plurality of cleat inserts are located on a medial side of the bottom surface.

[0233] Clause 113. The foot-supporting member of clause 87, wherein the plurality of cleat inserts are located on one of a lateral side or a medial side of the bottom surface.

[0234] Clause 114. The foot-supporting member of clause 87, wherein the plurality of cleat inserts is defined by six cleat inserts.

[0235] Clause 115. The foot-supporting member of clause 87, wherein the plurality of cleat inserts is defined by eight cleat inserts.

[0236] Clause 116. The foot-supporting member of clause 87, wherein the plurality of cleat inserts is defined by ten cleat inserts.

[0237] Clause 117. The foot-supporting member of clause 87, wherein the plurality of cleat inserts is defined by twelve cleat inserts.

[0238] Clause 118. A footwear structure comprising:

[0239] an outer cage member, the outer cage member comprising: (i) an outsole portion, the outsole portion comprising a plurality of stud shells, and (ii) an upper portion, the outer cage member defining an interior chamber;

[0240] an inner upper component defining a foot-receiving chamber including a bottom surface, a heel-receiving area, a midfoot-receiving area, and a forefoot-receiving area; and

[0241] a foot-supporting member that is releasably engaged with the outer cage member and the inner upper member to form the footwear structure, wherein the inner upper member fits inside the outer cage member, the foot-supporting member comprising:

[0242] a top surface for supporting the entire plantar surface of a wearer's foot;

[0243] a bottom surface opposite the top surface, wherein the bottom surface includes a plurality of cleat inserts, wherein one or more of the plurality of cleat inserts are configured to extend into a corresponding one of a plurality of recesses defined in the outsole portion of the outer cage member; and

[0244] an integrally formed heel counter structure extending from the top surface at a heel region of the foot-supporting member, the heel counter structure including a sidewall defined by a lateral sidewall, a medial sidewall, and a rear sidewall formed between the lateral sidewall and the medial sidewall, the heel counter structure further comprising a void structure formed in the sidewall, the void structure being defined by one or more of an opening, a void, or a recess,

[0245] Wherein the foot-supporting member is formed as a unitary, one-piece construction.

[0246] Clause 119. A footwear structure according to clause 118, wherein the internal chamber includes a footbed portion formed by the internal surface of the outsole portion, the footbed portion including the plurality of recesses, wherein one or more of the plurality of recesses extend into the interior of a corresponding one of the plurality of spike shells and define an undercut within the interior of one or more of the plurality of spike shells.

[0247] Item 120. A footwear structure as described in Item 119, wherein the inner upper component is formed from a textile material, and wherein the bottom surface includes a plurality of openings, wherein one or more of the plurality of openings are at least partially aligned with a corresponding one of the plurality of recesses.

[0248] Clause 121. A footwear structure according to clause 119, wherein one or more of the plurality of spike inserts includes an enlarged free end, the enlarged free end being configured to engage the undercut in a corresponding one of the recesses of the outer cage component and secure one or more of the plurality of spike inserts within its corresponding recess.

[0249] Clause 122. A footwear structure according to clause 121, wherein the spike insert comprises one or more slits.

[0250] Clause 123. A footwear structure according to clause 121, wherein one or more of the enlarged free ends comprises four enlarged spike components.

[0251] Clause 124. A footwear structure according to clause 121, wherein one or more of the enlarged free ends comprises three enlarged spike components.

[0252] Clause 125. A footwear structure as described in clause 118, wherein the void structure includes a central hub having a plurality of spokes emanating from the central hub.

[0253] Clause 126. A footwear structure as described in clause 125, wherein one or more of the plurality of spokes includes a circular aperture opposite the central hub.

[0254] Clause 127. A footwear structure as described in clause 125, wherein the plurality of spokes includes four spokes.

[0255] Clause 128. A footwear structure as described in clause 125, wherein the plurality of spokes includes six spokes.

[0256] Clause 129. A footwear structure as described in clause 125, wherein the plurality of spokes includes eight spokes.

[0257] Clause 130. A footwear structure as described in clause 125, wherein the plurality of spokes includes ten spokes.

[0258] Clause 131. A footwear structure as described in clause 125, wherein the plurality of spokes are equally spaced apart as they emanate from the central hub.

[0259] Clause 132. A footwear structure according to clause 125, wherein the void structure is located only on the rear side wall.

[0260] Clause 133. A footwear structure as described in clause 125, wherein the central hub of the void structure is located along the rear sidewall and one or more of the plurality of spokes extend into portions of the medial sidewall and the lateral sidewall.

[0261] Clause 134. A footwear structure as described in clause 118, wherein the void structure includes an opening and a slit extending upward from the opening toward an upper portion of the sidewall.

[0262] Clause 135. A footwear structure according to clause 134, wherein the opening is a circular opening.

[0263] Clause 136. A footwear structure according to clause 134, wherein the opening and the slit are located on the rear side wall.

[0264] Clause 137. A footwear structure as described in clause 118, wherein the void structure includes a groove that extends from a portion of the medial sidewall through the rear sidewall to a portion of the lateral sidewall.

[0265] Clause 138. A footwear structure according to clause 137, wherein the groove extends in a vertically continuous V-shape from a bottom portion of the heel counter structure to an upper portion of the heel counter structure.

[0266] Clause 139. A footwear structure according to clause 118, wherein the void structure defines a 1,500 mm 2 or smaller surface area.

[0267] Clause 140. A footwear structure according to clause 139, wherein the surface area of ​​the void structure is within 500 mm 2 Up to 1,500mm 2 within the range.

[0268] Clause 141. A footwear structure according to clause 140, wherein the surface area of ​​the void structure is within 750 mm 2 Up to 1,250mm 2 within the range.

[0269] Clause 142. A footwear structure according to clause 141, wherein the surface area of ​​the void structure is within 900 mm 2 Up to 1,000mm 2 within the range.

[0270] Clause 143. A footwear structure as described in clause 118, wherein one or more of the plurality of cleat inserts are located in a forefoot region of the bottom surface and one or more of the plurality of cleat inserts are located in a heel region of the bottom surface.

[0271] Clause 144. A footwear structure as described in clause 118, wherein the plurality of spike inserts are located in a forefoot region of the bottom surface.

[0272] Clause 145. A footwear structure as described in clause 118, wherein the plurality of spike inserts are located in a heel region of the bottom surface.

[0273] Clause 146. A footwear structure according to clause 118, wherein one or more of the plurality of cleat inserts are located on a lateral side of the bottom surface and one or more of the plurality of cleat inserts are located on a medial side of the bottom surface.

[0274] Clause 147. A footwear structure as described in clause 118, wherein the plurality of spike inserts are located on one of a lateral side or a medial side of the bottom surface.

[0275] Clause 148. A footwear structure as described in clause 118, wherein the plurality of cleat inserts is defined by six cleat inserts.

[0276] Clause 149. A footwear structure as described in clause 118, wherein the plurality of cleat inserts is defined by eight cleat inserts.

[0277] Clause 150. The footwear structure of clause 118, wherein the plurality of cleat inserts is defined by ten cleat inserts.

[0278] Clause 151. The footwear structure of clause 118, wherein the plurality of cleat inserts is defined by twelve cleat inserts.

Claims

1. A footwear structure comprising: an outer cage member, the outer cage member comprising: (i) an outsole portion, and (ii) an upper portion, the outer cage member defining an interior chamber; an inner upper component defining a foot-receiving chamber including a bottom surface, a heel-receiving area, a midfoot-receiving area, and a forefoot-receiving area; and a foot-supporting member that is releasably engaged with the outer cage member and the inner upper member to form the footwear structure, wherein the inner upper member fits inside the outer cage member, the foot-supporting member comprising: a top surface for supporting the entire plantar surface of a wearer's foot; a bottom surface opposite the top surface; and an integrally formed heel counter structure extending from the top surface at a heel region of the foot-supporting member, the heel counter structure including a sidewall defined by a lateral sidewall, a medial sidewall, and a rear sidewall formed between the lateral sidewall and the medial sidewall, the heel counter structure further comprising a void structure formed in the sidewall, the void structure being defined by one or more of an opening, a void, or a recess, Wherein the foot-supporting member is formed as a unitary, one-piece construction.

2. The footwear structure of claim 1, wherein the void structure includes a central hub having a plurality of spokes emanating from the central hub.

3. The footwear structure of claim 2, wherein one or more of the plurality of spokes include a circular aperture opposite the central hub.

4. The footwear structure of claim 2, wherein the plurality of spokes are equally spaced apart as they emanate from the central hub.

5. The footwear structure of claim 1, wherein the void structure includes a circular opening and a slit extending upward from the opening toward an upper portion of the sidewall, wherein the opening and the slit are located on the rear sidewall.

6. A footwear structure according to claim 1, wherein the void structure includes a groove that extends from a portion of the medial sidewall through the rear sidewall to a portion of the lateral sidewall, wherein the groove extends in a vertically continuous V-shape from a bottom portion of the heel counter structure to an upper portion of the heel counter structure.

7. A footwear structure according to claim 1, wherein the bottom surface includes a plurality of cleat inserts, wherein one or more of the plurality of cleat inserts are configured to extend into a corresponding one of a plurality of recesses defined in the outsole portion of the outer cage component.

8. The footwear structure of claim 7, wherein the outsole portion includes a plurality of cleat shells.

9. A footwear structure according to claim 8, wherein the internal chamber includes a footbed portion formed by an interior surface of the outsole portion, the footbed portion including the plurality of recesses, wherein one or more of the plurality of recesses extend into an interior of a corresponding one of the plurality of cleat shells and define an undercut within the interior of one or more of the plurality of cleat shells.

10. A foot-supporting component configured to releasably engage with an outer cage component and an inner upper component to form an article of footwear, the outer cage component comprising an outsole portion and an upper portion, wherein the inner upper component fits inside the outer cage component, the foot-supporting component comprising: a top surface for supporting the entire plantar surface of a wearer's foot; a bottom surface opposite the top surface; as well as an integrally formed heel counter structure extending from the top surface at a heel area of ​​the foot-supporting member, the heel counter structure including a sidewall having a lateral sidewall, a medial sidewall, and a rear sidewall extending between the lateral sidewall and the medial sidewall, the heel counter structure further comprising a void structure formed in the sidewall, the void structure being defined by one or more of an opening, a void, or a recess, Wherein the foot-supporting member is formed as a unitary, one-piece construction.

11. The foot-supporting member of claim 10, wherein the void structure includes a central hub having a plurality of spokes emanating from the central hub, wherein the plurality of spokes are equally spaced about the central hub.

12. The foot-supporting member of claim 11, wherein the void structure is located only on the rear sidewall.

13. The foot-supporting member of claim 11, wherein the central hub of the void structure is located along the rear sidewall and one or more of the plurality of spokes extend into portions of the medial sidewall and the lateral sidewall.

14. The foot-supporting member of claim 10, wherein the void structure includes a circular opening and a slit extending upward from the opening toward an upper portion of the sidewall, wherein the opening and the slit are located on the rear sidewall.

15. The foot-supporting member of claim 10, wherein the void structure includes a groove extending from a portion of the medial sidewall through the rear sidewall to a portion of the lateral sidewall, wherein the groove extends in a vertically continuous V-shape from a bottom portion of the heel counter structure to an upper portion of the heel counter structure.

16. A footwear structure comprising: an outer cage member, the outer cage member comprising: (i) an outsole portion, the outsole portion comprising a plurality of stud shells, and (ii) an upper portion, the outer cage member defining an interior chamber; an inner upper component defining a foot-receiving chamber including a bottom surface, a heel-receiving area, a midfoot-receiving area, and a forefoot-receiving area; and a foot-supporting member that is releasably engaged with the outer cage member and the inner upper member to form the footwear structure, wherein the inner upper member fits inside the outer cage member, the foot-supporting member comprising: a top surface for supporting the entire plantar surface of a wearer's foot; a bottom surface opposite the top surface, wherein the bottom surface includes a plurality of cleat inserts, wherein one or more of the plurality of cleat inserts are configured to extend into a corresponding one of a plurality of recesses defined in the outsole portion of the outer cage member; and an integrally formed heel counter structure extending from the top surface at a heel region of the foot-supporting member, the heel counter structure including a sidewall defined by a lateral sidewall, a medial sidewall, and a rear sidewall formed between the lateral sidewall and the medial sidewall, the heel counter structure further comprising a void structure formed in the sidewall, the void structure being defined by one or more of an opening, a void, or a recess, Wherein the foot-supporting member is formed as a unitary, one-piece construction.

17. A footwear structure according to claim 16, wherein the internal chamber includes a footbed portion formed by an interior surface of the outsole portion, the footbed portion including the plurality of recesses, wherein one or more of the plurality of recesses extend into an interior of a corresponding one of the plurality of cleat shells and define an undercut within the interior of one or more of the plurality of cleat shells.

18. The footwear structure of claim 16, wherein the void structure includes a central hub having a plurality of spokes emanating from the central hub.

19. The footwear structure of claim 16, wherein the void structure includes a circular opening and a slit extending upward from the opening toward an upper portion of the sidewall, wherein the opening and the slit are located on the rear sidewall.

20. A footwear structure according to claim 16, wherein the void structure includes a groove that extends from a portion of the medial sidewall through the rear sidewall to a portion of the lateral sidewall, wherein the groove extends in a vertically continuous V-shape from a bottom portion of the heel counter structure to an upper portion of the heel counter structure.

Images