Footwear configuration

Abstract

An article of footwear, such as a shoe or boot, includes a sole, an upper, and one or more guides coupled or attached to the upper. The one or more guides are configured and arranged to route or guide the tension member along a path around the footwear. The footwear also includes a panel having a fixed end attached to the first side of the upper and a free end positioned opposite the fixed end. The panel extends from a first side of the upper toward a second side of the upper. The panel can be positioned on at least one of the one or more guides to cover and hide the at least one guide from outside visible.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 357,523, filed on June 30, 2022, entitled “Footwear Configuration,” U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 425,946, filed on November 16, 2022, entitled “Footwear Configuration,” and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 430,457, filed on December 6, 2022, entitled “Footwear Configuration.” The entire disclosures of all of the above-mentioned U.S. Provisional Patent Applications are hereby incorporated by reference herein for all purposes as if fully set forth herein. Background Art

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a winding-based closure device and footwear using a winding-based closure device. Footwear generally includes some closure systems that allow the footwear to be placed around the wearer's foot and the footwear to be closed or tensioned around the foot. Closure systems are generally used to hold or fix the footwear around the foot. For example, the shoe is generally worn on the wearer's foot, and the shoelaces are tightened and tied to close and fix the shoe around the foot. Conventional closure systems have been modified in an attempt to increase the fit and / or comfort of the footwear around the foot. For example, the shoelace configuration and / or pattern have been modified in an attempt to increase the fit and / or comfort of wearing the shoe. Conventional closure systems have also been modified in an attempt to reduce the time to close and fix the footwear around the foot. These modifications have resulted in the use of various drawstrings, straps, and tensioning devices, so that the footwear can be quickly closed and fixed to the foot. Summary of the invention

[0004] Embodiments described herein relate to an article of footwear that includes a panel system designed to close and tighten the article of footwear around a wearer's foot. The panel system includes at least one panel that overlaps the tongue of a shoe. According to one aspect, the article of footwear includes a sole, an upper coupled to the sole, a tension member, one or more guides coupled to the upper, and a tensioning mechanism operably coupled to the tension member such that operation of the tensioning mechanism tensions the tension member. The one or more guides are constructed and arranged to route or guide the tension member along a path around the footwear. The footwear also includes a panel having: a fixed end attached to a first side of the upper; a body extending over a top of the upper toward a second side of the upper; and a free end opposite the fixed end. A panel can be positioned on at least one of the one or more guides and can be positioned on the tensioning mechanism to cover and hide the at least one guide and the tensioning mechanism from being visible from the outside.

[0005] The footwear typically also includes at least one panel guide attached to an inner surface of the panel. The at least one panel guide is constructed and arranged to route or guide the tension member along a path around the footwear. The at least one panel guide may be arranged so that when the tension member is tightened, the at least one panel guide pulls the panel into contact with the tongue or throat of the footwear. The at least one panel guide may be positioned on the body of the panel so that the free end of the panel does not have a guide for the tension member, i.e., the free end of the panel does not include a tension member guide. The at least one panel guide may be attached to the panel so that the at least one panel guide is positioned on a first side of the upper and the free end of the panel is positioned near the sole and on a second side of the upper.

[0006] The one or more guides may be guide members that are folded along the longitudinal length to form a loop or channel into which the tension member can be inserted. The free ends of the panels may be releasably connectable to the upper, for example, by using hook and loop fasteners, magnets, snaps, clamps or other mechanical fasteners.

[0007] According to another aspect, an article of footwear includes: a sole; an upper; one or more guides coupled to the upper; and a panel. The one or more guides are constructed and arranged to route or guide a tension member along a path around the footwear. The panel has a fixed end attached to a first side of the upper and has a free end opposite the fixed end. The panel extends from the first side of the upper toward a second side of the upper. The panel can be positioned on at least one of the one or more guides to cover and hide the at least one guide from being visible from the outside.

[0008] The one or more guide members may be guide members that are folded along a longitudinal length to form a ring or channel into which the tension member can be inserted. The footwear article typically also includes a tensioning mechanism that is operably coupled to the tension member so that operation of the tensioning mechanism tensions the tension member. In this case, the panel may be positionable on the tensioning mechanism to cover and hide the tensioning mechanism from the outside. The footwear article may also include an additional panel having a fixed end attached to the upper and a free end opposite to the fixed end. In this case, the panel may be positionable on the additional panel to cover and hide at least a portion of the additional panel from the outside. The free end of the panel may also be releasably coupled to the upper.

[0009] The article of footwear may also include at least one panel guide attached to an inner surface of the panel. The at least one panel guide may be constructed and arranged to route or guide the tension member along a path around the footwear. The at least one panel guide may be attached to the panel such that the at least one panel guide is positioned on a first side of the upper and a free end of the panel is positioned proximate the sole and on a second side of the upper. The at least one panel guide may be arranged such that when the tension member is tensioned, the at least one panel guide pulls the panel into contact with the tongue or throat of the footwear.

[0010] According to another aspect, a method of manufacturing an article of footwear includes providing an article of footwear including a sole and an upper. The method also includes coupling one or more guides to the upper such that the one or more guides are constructed and arranged to route or guide a tension member along a path around the footwear. The method also includes coupling a panel to a first side of the upper, the panel being oriented around the upper such that a distal end of the panel extends over the upper toward a second side of the upper, and the panel is positionable on the one or more guides to cover and conceal the one or more guides from external view.

[0011] The one or more guides may be guide members that are folded along a longitudinal length to form a ring or channel. In this case, the method may further include inserting a tension member through the ring or channel of the guide members. Additional method steps may include attaching one or more panel guides to the inner surface of the panel and / or attaching a tensioning mechanism to the upper. In the latter case, the tensioning mechanism is operably coupled to the tensioning member so that operation of the tensioning mechanism tensions the tensioning member. The tensioning mechanism may be positioned so that the panel can be positioned on the tensioning mechanism to cover and hide the tensioning mechanism from being visible from the outside. The distal end of the panel may be releasably coupled to the upper. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] The present invention is described with reference to the accompanying drawings:

[0013] Figure 1A to Figure 1B A first embodiment of an article of footwear having a panel system and a tensioning mechanism is shown.

[0014] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B A second embodiment of an article of footwear having a panel system and a tensioning mechanism is shown.

[0015] FIG. 3A to FIG. 3B A third embodiment of an article of footwear having a panel system and a tensioning mechanism is shown.

[0016] FIG. 4A to FIG. 4B A fourth embodiment of an article of footwear having a panel system and a tensioning mechanism is shown.

[0017] FIG. 5A to FIG. 5D Various embodiments of articles of footwear having panel systems and tensioning mechanisms are shown.

[0018] FIG. 6A to FIG. 6D Various embodiments of articles of footwear having panel systems and tensioning mechanisms are shown.

[0019] 7A to 7C Various embodiments of articles of footwear having panel systems and tensioning mechanisms are shown.

[0020] 8A to 9C Various embodiments of shoe configurations are shown that may be employed to achieve a desired closure and / or fit of the shoe about a wearer's foot.

[0021] FIG. 10A to FIG. 11C Embodiments of footwear configurations are shown that utilize a single wrap-based closure device to achieve a snug fit of the footwear around a wearer's foot.

[0022] In the drawings, similar parts and / or features may have the same numerical reference number. In addition, various parts of the same type may be distinguished by adding a letter that distinguishes the similar parts and / or features after the reference number. If only the first numerical reference number is used in the application document, the description applies to any of the similar parts and / or features having the same first numerical reference number without regard to the letter suffix. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] Embodiments herein describe a panel system designed to close and tension an article of footwear, such as a shoe, around a wearer's foot. The panel system includes at least one panel, and typically at least two panels, that overlap the tongue of the shoe. The overlapping one or more panels also overlap one or more components of a tensioning system. The tensioning system includes a tension member, one or more guides that guide or route the tension member along the footwear, and a tensioning mechanism that is operable to tension the tension member and thereby tension the footwear. One or more panels may overlap the tension member, one or more guides, and / or the tensioning mechanism.

[0024] In a specific embodiment, the panel system includes or is composed of paired panels. In such an embodiment, the lower panel is positioned closer to the foot, and the upper panel is positioned above or on the lower panel. The lower panel is usually smaller than the upper panel in the horizontal direction and / or shorter than the upper panel in the longitudinal direction. The lower panel can only extend beyond the back of the foot. The lower panel can be positioned below the tongue of the shoe to be closer to the foot, or the lower panel can be positioned above the tongue of the shoe as required. The use of the lower panel can provide an increased fit of the footwear around the wearer's foot, especially when the lower panel is positioned below the tongue of the shoe. The upper panel is usually larger or wider than the lower panel in the horizontal direction and / or longer than the lower panel in the longitudinal direction. In such an embodiment, the upper panel can cover and hide the lower panel completely or partially. Covering the lower panel can provide a cleaner and simpler visual aesthetic.

[0025] The lower panel and the upper panel are typically made of a flexible and soft material, such as a fabric material. However, in some embodiments, one or both panels may be made of a rigid or semi-rigid material, such as plastic. In such embodiments, the upper panel is more typically made of a rigid or semi-rigid material, while the lower panel remains relatively flexible. The tensioning system may be a winding-based closure, a drawstring system, a conventional lacing system, etc. The tensioning mechanism may be positioned at various locations on the footwear, such as on the tongue of the footwear, on the side of the footwear, on the heel of the footwear, or on the upper panel or the lower panel. For ease of description of various embodiments, the tensioning mechanism is shown as being positioned on the side of the footwear, but it should be understood that positioning the tensioning mechanism elsewhere on the footwear (i.e., on the tongue, heel, upper panel, or lower panel) is contemplated and intended to be included in any of the described embodiments.

[0026] In a particular embodiment, the tensioning system is a winding-based closure. The winding-based closure includes a knob or dial that can be grasped and rotated by the wearer. The knob or dial is coupled to a spool, and a tension member or lace is wound around the spool in response to rotation of the knob or dial in a tensioning direction. The rotation of the tension member / lace around the spool tensions the tension member / lace, thereby tensioning the footwear around the wearer's foot to increase contact with the wearer's foot by pulling the upper and any internal padding. Exemplary winding-based closures are further described in U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 297,047, filed on June 5, 2017, entitled "Combined Closure Components and Methods" and U.S. Patent No. 9,259,056, filed on June 21, 2013, entitled "Winding-Based Lacing System," the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0027] Reference Figure 1A to Figure 1B, an article of footwear 100 is shown, which in the illustrated embodiment is a shoe (hereinafter referred to as footwear 100 or shoe 100). Shoe 100 includes a tensioning mechanism 102, which in the illustrated embodiment is a roll-up based closure device (hereinafter referred to as roll-up based closure device 102). Roll-up based closure device 102 is positioned on the side of shoe 100 and is operably coupled with a tension member or lace 106 (hereinafter referred to as tension member 106). Tension member 106 is routed or guided along a path around shoe 100 via a plurality of guides 104, namely, guides 104a, 104b, and 104c. The path of tension member 106 passes through an opening 108 of shoe 100 and passes between guides (104a, 104b, and 104c) positioned on opposite sides of opening 108. One or more guides 104a are attached to the upper of the shoe 100. The guides 104a may be positioned near the eyestays of the shoe 100, near the sole of the shoe 100, or closer to a midpoint between the eyestays and the sole of the shoe 100.

[0028] The shoe 100 includes a lower panel 110 that is coupled or secured to a first side 112 (e.g., the medial side) of the shoe and that extends upward toward a second side 114 of the shoe 100. The lower panel 110 extends at least partially over the opening 108 of the shoe 100 and generally to the dorsal spine of the foot. In the illustrated embodiment, the lower panel 110 extends to about the centerline of the shoe 100, but in other embodiments, the lower panel 110 may not extend to the centerline or may extend significantly further than the centerline. The lower panel 110 may be positioned below the upper of the shoe 100 or may be positioned above the upper as desired. The lower panel 110 may be made of, for example, Figure 1A to Figure 1B The shoe 100 may be formed of a continuous panel segment as shown, or may be formed of multiple panel segments or strips. In such an embodiment, the shoe 100 may include three or more panels. The distal edge of the lower panel 110 may have a linear or straight edge or define a linear or straight edge, or the distal edge of the lower panel 110 may have a non-linear edge, such as Figure 1A to Figure 1B shown.

[0029] One or more guides 104b are coupled to the lower panel 110. The guides 104b may be coupled to the body of the lower panel 110 and / or attached to the distal edge of the lower panel 110. The tension member 106 is routed through the one or more guides 104b of the lower panel 110. Tensioning of the tension member 106 causes the tension member 106 to pull the one or more guides 104b of the lower panel 110, thereby pulling the lower panel 110 toward the second side 114 of the shoe 100 and increasing the fit of the shoe 100 around the wearer's foot.

[0030] The shoe 100 also includes an upper panel 120 that is coupled or secured to the first side 112 of the shoe and extends toward the second side 114 of the shoe 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper panel 120 extends on the shoe 100 in the same direction as the lower panel 110. In other embodiments, the upper panel 120 can extend on the shoe 100 in an opposite direction to the lower panel 110.

[0031] The upper panel 120 extends at least partially over the opening 108 of the shoe 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper panel 120 extends completely over the lower panel 110 and covers most or all of the tongue of the shoe. The upper panel 120 has a lateral width greater than the lateral width of the lower panel 110, wherein the lateral width is measured in the direction across the shoe from the medial side to the lateral side. The upper panel 120 also has a longitudinal length greater or longer than the longitudinal length of the lower panel 110, wherein the longitudinal length is measured in the direction from the heel of the shoe to the toe. The larger lateral width and longitudinal length of the upper panel 120 allow the upper panel 120 to completely cover and hide the lower panel 110. In some embodiments, the lateral width and / or longitudinal length of the upper panel 120 are less than the corresponding width or length of the lower panel 110. In such an embodiment, a portion of the lower panel 110 can be seen from below the upper panel 120, thereby providing a desired visual appearance.

[0032] The upper panel 120 generally extends beyond the centerline of the shoe 100, but in some embodiments, the upper panel 120 may extend to near the centerline, or may not extend to the centerline at all. The upper panel 110 is generally made of Figure 1A to Figure 1B100. The upper panel 120 is formed of a continuous panel segment as shown, but in some cases, the upper panel 120 can be formed of multiple panel segments or strips. In such an embodiment, the multiple panel segments or strips can completely or partially cover the lower panel 110. The distal edge of the upper panel 120 can define a generally linear, straight or smooth edge. In other embodiments, the distal edge of the upper panel 120 can be a non-linear shape. In the embodiment shown, the distal edge can extend or extend in a diagonal manner on the tongue of the shoe 100.

[0033] One or more guides 104c are coupled to the upper panel 120. The guides 104c are typically coupled to the inner surface of the upper panel 120 such that when the upper panel 120 is closed around the shoe 100, the guides 104c are hidden and not visible. In other embodiments, one of the one or more guides 104c, or a plurality of such guides, may be coupled to the outer surface of the upper panel 120 such that when the upper panel 120 is closed around the shoe 100, one or more guides are visible. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper panel 120 includes two guides 104c coupled to the inner surface of the panel. The guides 104c include a middle guide positioned toward the middle of the upper panel 120 and a top guide positioned closer to the heel of the shoe 100. The top guide may also be positioned on a wing of the upper panel 120 or a portion of the upper panel 120 that extends further in the lateral direction than the remainder of the panel. The middle guide 104c of the upper panel 120 may be positioned between the two guides 104b of the lower panel. The top guide 104c of the upper panel 120 may be positioned closest to the heel of the footwear compared to the other guides (104a, 104b, and 104c).

[0034] The tension member 106 is routed through one or more guides 104c of the upper panel 120. In the illustrated embodiment, as the tension member 106 is routed to extend from the wrap-based closure 102 toward the toe, the tension member 106 is routed through alternating guides of the shoe 100. Specifically, the tension member is routed from the wrap-based closure 102 to the top guide 104c of the upper panel 120, and from the top guide 104c of the upper panel 120 to the top guide 104a attached to the shoe 100. The tension member is routed from the top guide 104a of the shoe 100 to the middle guide 104c of the upper panel 120, and from the middle guide 104c of the upper panel 120 to the bottom guide 104a of the shoe 100. Then, the tension member is routed from the bottom guide 104a to the lower guide 104b of the lower panel 110, and from the lower guide 104b of the lower panel 110 to the middle guide 104a of the shoe 100. Finally, the tension member is routed from the middle guide 104a of the shoe 100 to the upper guide 104b of the lower panel 110, and from the upper guide 104b of the lower panel 110 to the wrap-based closure 102.

[0035] Tensioning the tension member 106 causes the tension member 106 to pull the one or more guides 104c of the upper panel 120 toward the second side 114 of the shoe 100 and pull the upper panel 120 onto the lower panel 110. As described herein, tensioning the tension member 106 also tensions the lower panel 110. In this way, the tension member 106 and the wrap-based closure device 102 can be used to tension the lower panel 110 and the upper panel 120 simultaneously.

[0036] The guides (104, 104B, and 104C) may be formed of a rigid, semi-rigid, or flexible material. In one embodiment, one or more of the guides (104, 104B, and 104C) may be formed of a fabric material that is folded to form a loop or channel through which the tension member 106 is inserted. In other embodiments, one or more of the guides (104, 104B, and 104C) may be formed of a more rigid material such as a plastic material, a metal material, etc.

[0037] Reference FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B , another embodiment of a shoe 100 including a panel system is shown. FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B The panel system is similar to Figure 1A to Figure 1B panel system, and similar reference numerals are used to indicate similar components of the dual panel system. Figure 1A to Figure 1B The description can also be applied to FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B , but for brevity, the FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B A description of the description is given.

[0038] The differences between the two systems are the location of the upper panel 120 and the lower panel 110 around the shoe 100 and the orientation of the panels over the vamp of the shoe 100. For example, the lower panel 110 includes a single guide 104b (although additional guides may be employed), and the distal edge of the lower panel 110 is generally linear or straight. The lower panel 110 is designed to fit over the upper portion of the wearer's foot. The lower panel 110 is tightened via the wrap-based closure 102 so that the lower panel 110 is constrained around the upper portion of the wearer's foot. The use of the lower panel 110 provides an increased fit of the footwear around the wearer's foot. As noted herein, the lower panel 110 may be positioned below the tongue, which may increase the fit.

[0039] The upper panel 120 includes a pair of guides 104c (although more or fewer guides may be used) that are positioned about the midpoint of the panel. The distal end or edge of the upper panel 120 does not include guides. Thus, tensioning the tension member 106 only pulls the middle portion of the upper panel 120 into contact with the shoe 100. Other attachment means may be used to attach or fasten the distal end or edge of the upper panel 120 to the shoe 100. For example, the illustrated embodiment uses a loop fastener 116 and a hook fastener 117 that are positioned on the shoe 100 and positioned on the distal edge of the upper panel 120. The loop fastener 116 and the hook fastener 117 secure the distal end of the upper panel 120 to the shoe 100. Other fastening means such as buttons, zippers, magnets, clips, clips, etc. may be used to fasten or secure the distal end of the upper panel 120 to the shoe 100.

[0040] As shown, the distal end of the upper panel 120 extends substantially to the sole of the shoe 100. This extension of the upper panel 120 ensures that substantially all of the guides 104 of the shoe 100 are covered and hidden by the upper panel 120. The distal end of the upper panel 120 may be substantially linear, such as FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B100. When the upper panel 120 is closed and pulled tightly against the lower panel 110 and the shoe 100, a portion of the lower panel 110 is visible. In the illustrated embodiment, when the upper panel 120 is pulled tightly against the shoe 100, only the roll-based closure device 102, a small portion of the tension member 106, and in some cases a portion of the lower panel 110 may be visible. Exposing the roll-based closure device 102 allows access to and operation of the roll-based closure device 102 even when the upper panel 120 is pulled tightly against the shoe 100.

[0041] Reference FIG. 3A to FIG. 3B , another embodiment of a shoe 100 including a panel system is shown. FIG. 3A to FIG. 3B The panel system is similar to Figure 1A to Figure 1B and FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B Similar reference numerals are used to refer to similar components of the various panel systems. Figure 1A to Figure 1B and FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B The description can also be applied to FIG. 3A to FIG. 3B , but for the sake of brevity, FIG. 3A to FIG. 3B It has been omitted in the description.

[0042] FIG. 3A to FIG. 3B The system of FIG. 1 differs from that of FIG. 1 in that the upper panel 120 and the lower panel 110 are positioned about the shoe 100 and relative to each other. For example, the lower panel 110 is significantly short and does not extend to the centerline of the shoe 100. The lower panel 110 includes a single guide 104b coupled to a distal edge of the lower panel 110. The lower panel 110 has a longitudinal length that is significantly shorter than the length of the upper panel 120. In some embodiments, the shoe 100 may not include a lower panel 110 at all. In this case, the guide 104b may be attached to the inner surface of the upper panel 120. Figure 3B An embodiment is shown in which the shoe 100 includes a lower panel 110 , and the guide 104 b is directly attached to the inner surface of the upper panel 120 .

[0043] The upper panel 120 includes a single guide 104c (although more guides may be used) positioned near the midpoint of the panel. In embodiments where the shoe 100 does not include a lower panel 110, the upper panel 120 includes a pair of guides (guides 104b and 104c) attached to the inner surface of the panel. FIG. 2A to FIG. 2BSimilar to the panel system of , the distal end or edge of the upper panel 120 does not include a guide. Therefore, tensioning the tension member 106 only pulls the middle portion of the upper panel 120 into contact with the shoe 100. Other attachment means are used to attach the distal end or edge of the upper panel 120 to the shoe 100, such as loop fasteners 116 and hook fasteners 117 positioned on the shoe 100 and positioned on the distal edge of the upper panel 120. Other fastening means may be used to fasten or secure the distal end of the upper panel 120 to the shoe 100, as previously described.

[0044] The distal end of the upper panel 120 extends generally to the sole of the shoe 100. The distal end of the upper panel 120 can be generally linear, such as FIG. 3A to FIG. 3B . In the illustrated embodiment, when the upper panel 120 is pulled tightly against the shoe, the wrap-based closure 102 and all of the guides (104a to 104c), or most of the guides (104a to 104c), are covered and hidden by the upper panel 120. Thus, when the upper panel 120 is pulled tightly against the shoe 100, substantially all of the components of the panel system are not visible, or only some of the components are visible. For example, only a distal portion of the tension member path may be visible when the upper panel 120 is pulled tightly against the shoe 100. The shape and / or size of the upper panel 120 may be modified to completely cover and hide the components of the panel system. FIG. 3A to FIG. 3B The panel system and particularly the upper panel 120 may provide a smooth and visually appealing exterior surface for the shoe 100 .

[0045] 4A to 7C Various embodiments of panel configurations and tension member paths that may be used with articles of footwear are shown. Various panel configurations and / or tension member configurations may be implemented to achieve a desired level of tensioning of the footwear around a wearer's foot. The illustrated panel configurations and tension member paths may be varied or combined to achieve a desired appearance and / or fit of the footwear around a wearer's foot. For example, a panel configuration of one embodiment, such as a panel on the footwear extending near the toe or throat, may be used with a tension member path of a different embodiment, such as a tension member path that is routed beneath the panel or above the upper of the footwear. Additionally, for the sake of brevity in describing the various embodiments, the panel configurations and / or tension member paths illustrated may be varied or combined to achieve a desired appearance and / or fit of the footwear around the wearer's foot. For example, a panel configuration of one embodiment, such as a panel that extends on the footwear near the toe or throat, may be used with a tension member path of a different embodiment, such as a tension member path that is routed beneath the panel or above the upper of the footwear. Additionally, in order to concisely describe the various embodiments, the tension member paths illustrated may be used to define the tension member paths of the footwear. 4A to 7C The embodiment of the present invention is described using reference numerals similar to those of the previous embodiment. It should be appreciated that the previous description of these components is also applicable to the present invention. 4A to 7CIn addition, for the sake of brevity, the description of certain features or characteristics of similar components may be omitted. However, in this case, the complete description of these features or characteristics can also apply to the similar components.

[0046] Now refer to FIG. 4A to FIG. 4B , an article of footwear or shoe is shown that includes a tensioning mechanism 102 positioned on a side of the shoe. The tensioning mechanism is operably coupled to a tension member 106 that is routed or guided along a path around the shoe via a plurality of guides, namely, guides 204a, 204b, and 204c. The path of the tension member 106 passes through an opening 202 of the shoe and between guides (204a, 204b, and 204c) positioned on opposite sides of the opening 202. One or more proximal guides 204a are attached to the upper of the shoe, which proximal guides 204a may be located near the eyelet, near the sole, or positioned closer to the midpoint between the eyelet and the sole of the shoe. One or more distal guides 204b are attached to the opposite side of the shoe, and may be located near the eyelet, near the sole, or positioned closer to the midpoint between the eyelet and the sole. In the illustrated embodiment, two distal guides 204b are attached to the eyelets of the shoe.

[0047] The shoe includes a panel 210 that is coupled or secured to a first side (e.g., the medial side) of the shoe and that extends upward toward a second side of the shoe. The panel 210 extends at least partially over the opening 202 of the shoe. The panel 210 is triangular in shape and has an upper portion that extends beyond the lateral centerline of the shoe. The upper portion is positioned near the throat of the shoe. The panel 210, and in particular the upper portion of the panel 210, covers the opening 202 or throat of the shoe. The panel 210 may also cover the one or more distal guides 204b. The triangular shape of the panel 210 prevents the lower portion of the panel 210 from covering the entire opening or throat of the shoe. The panel 210 is typically formed from a continuous panel segment, such as Figure 4B , but in some embodiments, panel 210 may be formed from multiple panel segments or strips.

[0048] At least one panel guide 204c is attached to panel 210, and in some embodiments, a single guide is attached to panel 210. In the illustrated embodiment, a single panel guide 204c is attached to the distal end of triangular-shaped panel 210. In some embodiments, one or more panel guides 204c may be attached to the inner surface of panel 210 so as to be hidden from view. Tension member 106 is routed through one or more panel guides 204c such that tightening tension member 106 causes tension member 106 to tighten panel 210, thereby pulling panel 210 toward the second side of the shoe and increasing the fit of the shoe around the wearer's foot.

[0049] like FIG. 4A to FIG. 4B , the tension member 106 is routed from the tensioning mechanism 102 through the panel guide 204c. The tension member 106 is routed from the panel guide 204c to the proximal guide 204a positioned on the second side of the shoe. The tension member 106 is then routed between the proximal guide 204a and the distal guide 204b positioned on the opposite side of the throat or tongue until the tension member 106 is routed back to the tensioning mechanism 102. Tensioning the tension member 106 causes the tension member 106 to pull the panel 210 toward the second side 114 via one or more panel guides 204c while pulling the opposite sides of the shoe, particularly the opposite sides of the throat or tongue, toward each other. In this way, the tension member 106 and a single wrap-based closure device 102 can be used to simultaneously tension the panel 210 and the opposite sides of the shoe.

[0050] The guides (204a, 204b, and 204c) may be formed of a rigid, semi-rigid, or flexible material. In one embodiment, one or more of the guides may be formed of a fabric material that is folded to form a loop or channel through which the tension member 106 may be inserted. In other embodiments, one or more of the guides may be formed of a more rigid material such as a plastic material, a metal material, etc. The other guides described herein may be formed in a similar manner.

[0051] Now refer to Figure 5A , showing the FIG. 4A to FIG. 4BThe shoe is similar to the shoe of the present invention. Specifically, the shoe includes a tensioning mechanism 102 positioned on a side of the shoe, the tensioning mechanism 102 being operably coupled to a tension member 106 that is routed or guided along a path around the shoe via a plurality of guides. The shoe also includes one or more proximal guides 204a attached to the upper on a second side of the shoe. In the illustrated embodiment, one of the proximal guides 204a is positioned on the eyelet, while the other proximal guide 204a is positioned at a midpoint between the eyelet and the sole of the shoe.

[0052] The shoe also includes a panel 210 that is coupled or fixed to a first side (e.g., medial side) of the shoe and that extends upward toward a second side of the shoe. The panel 210 extends at least partially over the opening of the shoe. The panel 210 is triangular in shape and has a FIG. 4A to FIG. 4B The configuration of the panel is similar to the configuration. Figure 5A The panel 210 of the shoe includes at least two panel guides 204c, wherein one of the panel guides 204c is attached to the distal end of the triangular-shaped panel 210, and the other of the panel guides 204c is attached near the longitudinal center of the panel 210. The panel guide 204c attached near the longitudinal center of the panel 210 can be attached to the inner surface of the panel 210 to be hidden and not visible. The shoe also includes one or more distal guides 204b on the first side of the shoe, and the one or more distal guides 204b can be attached to the eyelet or near the eyelet. In some embodiments, the one or more distal guides 204b can be attached to the inner surface of the panel 210 instead of being attached to the upper of the shoe. However, attaching one or more distal guides 204b to the upper of the shoe enables tension member 106 to simultaneously tension panel 210 and the opposite side of the shoe. Panel 210 typically covers one or more distal guides 204b.

[0053] The panel 210 is usually made of Figure 4B Although the panel 210 is formed of a continuous panel segment as shown in FIG, in some embodiments, the panel 210 may be formed of multiple panel segments or strips. The tension member 106 is routed through each of the guides 204a, 204b, and 204c, as previously described.

[0054] Now refer to Figure 5B, another shoe similar to the embodiments described herein is shown. The shoe includes a tensioning mechanism 102 positioned on a side of the shoe, the tensioning mechanism 102 being operably coupled to a tension member 106 that is routed or guided along a path around the shoe via a plurality of guides. The shoe includes one or more proximal guides 204a attached to the upper on a second side of the shoe. In the illustrated embodiment, two proximal guides 204a are positioned to be laterally offset from the eyelet at a midpoint between the eyelet and the sole of the shoe.

[0055] The shoe also includes a panel 212, which is connected or fixed to a first side portion (e.g., medial portion) of the shoe and extends upward toward a second side portion of the shoe. The panel 212 extends at least partially over the opening of the shoe. The panel 212 is triangular in shape and has a lower portion that extends beyond the transverse centerline of the shoe. The lower portion is positioned near the toe of the shoe. The panel 212 and in particular the lower portion of the panel 212 covers the opening or throat of the shoe. The panel 212 can cover one or more distal guides 204b, but in the illustrated embodiment, none of the distal guides 204b are covered. The triangular shape of the panel 212 is such that the upper portion of the panel 212 does not cover the entire opening or throat of the shoe. In the illustrated embodiment, only the lower portion of the throat or tongue of the shoe is covered, while the upper portion and the middle portion of the throat or tongue of the shoe are exposed or uncovered. Panel 212 is typically formed from a continuous panel segment, but panel 212 may be formed from multiple panel segments or strips.

[0056] In the illustrated embodiment, the panel 212 includes a single panel guide 204c attached to the distal end of the triangular-shaped panel 212. The single panel guide 204c can be attached to the inner surface of the panel 212 to be hidden from view, or the single panel guide 204c can be attached to the edge of the panel 212. The shoe also includes one or more distal guides 204b on a first side of the shoe, which can be attached to or near the eyelet. Figure 5B In the embodiment of the present invention, two distal guides 204b are attached to the non-linear eyelets so that the upper distal guide 204b is positioned laterally closer to the sole than the middle distal guide 204b. The tension member 106 is routed through each of the guides 204a, 204b, and 204c as previously described.

[0057] Figure 5C In terms of configuration Figure 5BVery similar, except that the panel 212 includes two panel guides 204c. The lower panel guide 204c is attached to the panel 212, such as Figure 5B , and the middle panel guide 204c is attached to the panel near the longitudinal center of the throat or tongue of the shoe. The middle panel guide 204c can be attached to the inner surface of the panel 212 so as to be hidden and not visible, or the middle panel guide 204c can be attached to the edge of the panel 212 so that the middle panel guide 204c is visible, such as Figure 5C as shown in . Figure 5C The panel 212 is longitudinally Figure 5B The panel 212 includes a relatively straight edge or portion, and the middle panel guide 204c is connected near the relatively straight edge or portion. Figure 5B Compared with the panel, Figure 5C The configuration of panel 212 provides greater coverage of the throat or tongue of the shoe.

[0058] In some embodiments, the shoe includes a single distal guide 204b. The positioning of the intermediate panel guide 204c on the panel 212 can allow the two proximal guides 204a to be positioned closer together on the second side of the shoe. The tension member 106 passes through each of the guides 204a, 204b, and 204c as previously described.

[0059] Now refer to Figure 5D , shows a shoe similar to the shoe described herein, wherein the shoe is modified in that a panel 214 is attached to the shoe. The panel 214 is structurally similar to Figure 5A The panel of the shoe is similar in that the panel 214 is coupled or fixed to the first side of the shoe and the panel 214 extends upward toward the second side to partially exceed the lateral centerline of the shoe. The shape of the panel 214 is generally triangular, but the panel 214 is longitudinally longer than Figure 5A The panel 214 includes a relatively straight edge or middle portion, and the panel guide 204c is connected near the relatively straight edge or middle portion. The panel guide 204c can be attached to the inner surface of the panel 214 to be hidden and not visible, or the panel guide 204c can be visible on the edge of the panel 214. Figure 5A Compared with the panel in Figure 5D The panel 214 in the middle allows the throat or tongue of the shoe to be covered to a greater extent.

[0060] The tensioning mechanism 102 is positioned on the proximal edge of the panel 214, rather than being attached to the side of the shoe. The tensioning mechanism 102 is operably coupled to a tension member 106, which is routed or guided along a path around the shoe via a plurality of guides 204a, 204b, and 204c. One or more proximal guides 204a are attached to the upper on the second side of the shoe. In the illustrated embodiment, one of the proximal guides 204a is positioned to be laterally offset from the eyelet near the midpoint between the eyelet of the shoe and the sole, but the positioning of the proximal guide 204a may be varied. The shoe also includes a proximal guide 204a (not shown), which is positioned closer to the heel of the shoe and closer to the sole of the shoe, and which is used to pull the proximal end / edge of the panel 214 backward toward the heel. In some embodiments, the proximal guide 204a (not shown) positioned closer to the heel and sole may include a pair of guides that together function as a single elongated guide (see, e.g., Fig. 6A ).

[0061] The shoe includes one or more distal guides 204b attached to a first side of the shoe. The distal guide 204b may be covered by a panel 214. In the illustrated embodiment, the shoe includes a single distal guide 204b positioned on an eyelet of the first side of the shoe, but additional distal guides may be employed. The panel 214 is typically formed from a continuous panel segment, but in some embodiments, the panel 214 may be formed from a plurality of panel segments or strips. The tension member 106 passes through each of the guides 204a, 204b, and 204c, as previously described.

[0062] Reference FIG. 6A to FIG. 6B , shows a shoe including a panel 216 having a Figure 5D Specifically, panel 216 is coupled or fixed to a first side of the shoe, and panel 216 extends toward a second side of the shoe to partially exceed the lateral centerline of the shoe. Tensioning mechanism 102 is positioned on the proximal edge of panel 216, rather than being positioned on the side of the shoe. Panel 216 has a similar Figure 5A The panel closely corresponds to the triangular shape. Figure 5D The panels are different. FIG. 6A to FIG. 6B The panel 216 does not include a relatively straight edge or middle portion near which the guide is connected. FIG. 5A to FIG. 5D Compared with the panel, FIG. 6A to FIG. 6BThe panel 216 does not include a panel guide attached to the panel 216. Rather, the tensioning mechanism 102 attached to the panel 216 serves as the only attachment point or coupling point of the tension member 106 to the panel 216.

[0063] The shoe includes a plurality of proximal guides 204a attached to the upper on the second side of the shoe. In the illustrated embodiment, the shoe includes four proximal guides 204a attached to the second side of the shoe. The four proximal guides 204a include a rearmost guide positioned closer to the heel and sole of the shoe, a guide positioned on the eyelet of the second side, and two guides positioned laterally offset from the eyelet. The two laterally offset guides together act as a single elongated guide.

[0064] The shoe also includes a plurality of distal guides 204b positioned below panel 216. Distal guides 204b may be positioned on the eyelets of the first side or positioned laterally offset from the eyelets of the first side. Proximal guides 204a positioned on the eyelets of the second side are longitudinally positioned between distal guides 204b. Panel 216 is typically formed from a continuous panel segment, but in some embodiments, panel 216 may be formed from a plurality of panel segments or strips. Tension member 106 is routed through each of guides 204a and 204b so that tensioning of tension member 106 simultaneously tensions panel 216 and the opposite side of the shoe.

[0065] Reference FIG. 6C to FIG. 6D , a shoe is shown including a panel 218 coupled or secured to a first side of the shoe and extending beyond a lateral centerline of the shoe toward a second side of the shoe. The tensioning mechanism 102 is positioned near a proximal edge of the panel 218 proximate an upper end positioned adjacent to a collar of the shoe. FIG. 6A to FIG. 6B The panel 218 has a more rectangular shape than the panel of FIG. 214 . The proximal edge of the panel 218 is longitudinally longer than the FIG. 6A to FIG. 6B The longer proximal edge of the panel 218 is configured such that the panel guide 204c can be positioned on or near the lower portion of the panel 218 closer to the toe. The panel guide 204c can be attached to the inner surface of the panel 218 to be hidden from view, or positioned on the proximal edge, such as Figure 6C The longer proximal edge of panel 218 allows the panel to cover a larger portion of the throat or tongue of the shoe. In some embodiments, panel 218 may include a relatively straight edge or middle portion, and the guide is connected near the relatively straight edge or middle portion, similar to Figure 5D The panel structure.

[0066] and FIG. 6A to FIG. 6B Similar to the panel of the shoe, the shoe includes a plurality of proximal guides 204a (e.g., four proximal guides 204a) attached to the upper on the second side of the shoe. These proximal guides 204a may include a rearmost guide located closer to the heel and sole of the shoe, a guide located on the eyelet of the second side (see Fig.6D ), and two guides positioned to be laterally offset from the eyelets of the shoe. FIG. 6A to FIG. 6B Unlike the embodiment of the present invention, the two guides offset laterally are not used as a single elongated guide. Specifically, the two guides offset laterally are positioned at opposite longitudinal ends of the panel guide 204c, and the tether is routed or guided from the panel guide 204c.

[0067] The shoe also includes a plurality of distal guides 204b positioned below panel 218. Distal guides 204b may be positioned on or laterally offset from eyelets on a first side of the shoe. Proximal guides 204a positioned on eyelets on a second side are longitudinally positioned between distal guides 204b. Panel 218 is typically formed from a continuous panel segment, but in some embodiments, panel 218 may be formed from a plurality of panel segments or strips. Tension member 106 is routed through each of guides 204a, 204b, and 204c so that tensioning of tension member 106 simultaneously tensions panel 218 and the opposite side of the shoe.

[0068] Reference Fig. 7A , the shoes shown are FIG. 4A to FIG. 4B The shoe is basically similar, and the description of this embodiment can also be applied to Fig. 7A Specifically, the configuration of the panel 210 and the positioning and function of the tensioning mechanism 102, the tension member 106, and the guides 204a, 204b, and 204c are similar to FIG. 4A to FIG. 4B Therefore, in order to briefly describe Fig. 7A The description of these components is omitted.

[0069] Fig. 7A and FIG. 4A to FIG. 4B The embodiment of is different in that the shoe includes a terminal guide 205, which is attached to the second side of the shoe. The terminal guide 205 serves as the end point or endpoint of the tension member 106. In contrast, FIG. 4A to FIG. 4BBoth ends of the tension member 106 in the embodiment are attached to and / or operably coupled to the tensioning mechanism 102. The use of the terminal guide 205 allows a single end of the tension member 106 to be tensioned when the tensioning mechanism is operated, thereby increasing the tension induced in the tension member 106. In addition to the use of the terminal guide 205, the panel guide 204c can also be positioned above the panel 210, and the lowermost proximal guide 204a can be laterally offset from the eyelet of the second side of the shoe.

[0070] Fig. 7A Panel 210 is typically formed from a continuous panel segment, but in some embodiments, panel 210 may be formed from multiple panel segments or strips. Tension member 106 is routed through each of guides 204a, 204b, and 204c so that tensioning tension member 106 simultaneously tensions panel 210 and the opposite side of the shoe.

[0071] Reference Figure 7B , a shoe is shown that includes a panel 220 that is positioned near or at a longitudinal center of the tongue or throat of the shoe. As with other embodiments, the panel 220 is coupled or fixed to a first side of the shoe, and the panel 220 extends toward a second side of the shoe. The tensioning mechanism 102 is positioned on the second side of the shoe and is operably coupled to a tension member 106 that is arranged or guided along a path via a plurality of guides 204a, 204b, and 204c. The panel 220 has a shape that is closer to a parabola than the panels previously described. The panel 220 includes a central region that extends toward the second side of the shoe and extends laterally beyond the lateral centerline of the shoe. The panel guides 204c are attached to the central region of the panel 220 at or near the ends of the panel 220. The panel guide 204c can be attached to the inner surface of the panel 220, to the outer surface of the panel 220, or along the edge as desired. In the illustrated embodiment, the panel guide 204c is attached to the outer surface of the panel 220 so that the panel guide 204c is visible.

[0072] The opposite sides of the panel 220 flare or extend outwardly from the central region in a curved or arcuate manner. The panel 220 is positioned around the shoe so that the central region is approximately centrally located along the longitudinal length of the tongue of the shoe, but the central region may also be located elsewhere as desired. The tension member 106 is routed from the tensioning mechanism 102 to the panel guide 204c, and the tension member 106 is routed from the panel guide 204c to the lowermost proximal guide 204a positioned on the second side of the shoe. The lowermost proximal guide 204a may be positioned laterally offset from the eyelet or positioned on the eyelet as desired. The second proximal guide 204a may be approximately aligned with the panel guide 204c in the longitudinal direction, and the second proximal guide 204a may be positioned laterally outwardly from the panel guide 204c, as shown.

[0073] The shoe includes a plurality of distal guides 204b positioned on a first side of the shoe. The distal guides 204b may be positioned on the eyelets of the first side or may be positioned to be laterally offset from the eyelets of the first side. The distal guides 204b may also be positioned on the opposite side of the panel guide 204c. The panel 220 may partially or completely cover and / or hide the distal guides 204b. The panel 220 is typically formed from a continuous panel segment, but in some embodiments, the panel 220 may be formed from a plurality of panel segments or strips. The tension member 106 is arranged to pass through each of the guides 204a, 204b, and 204c so that tensioning the tension member 106 simultaneously tensions the panel 220 and the opposite side of the shoe.

[0074] Reference Figure 7C , the shoes shown are Fig. 7A The shoe is substantially similar, and the description of this embodiment and the FIG. 4A to FIG. 4B The description of the implementation mode can also be applied to Figure 7C implementation method. Figure 7C and Fig. 7A The embodiment of is different in the positioning of the terminal guide 205 and the tensioning mechanism 102. Specifically, the terminal guide 205 is positioned at the distal end of the tension member path near the toe of the shoe, so that the tension member 106 terminates at or near the toe. The tensioning mechanism 102 is positioned on the heel of the shoe and is routed to the front of the shoe via a tubular portion 207 or other routing means, such as a channel formed in the upper or a guide attached to the upper. Although in Figure 7C , but the positioning of the tensioning mechanism 102 on the heel of the shoe may be used in any of the other embodiments described herein. Figure 7CThe use of terminal guides 205 in the shoe allows both ends of the tension member 106 to be attached to and / or operably coupled to the tensioning mechanism 102. As described herein, the shoe includes guides 204a, 204b, and 204c that route or guide the tension member along the path of the shoe. The tension member 106 is routed through each of the guides 204a, 204b, and 204c so that tensioning the tension member 106 simultaneously tensions the panel 210 and the opposite side of the shoe.

[0075] 8A to 9C Various embodiments of shoe configurations are shown that may be used to achieve a desired closure and / or fit of the shoe about a wearer's foot. 8A to 9C Embodiments of the present invention may employ panels, straps, and / or unique lacing path configurations to achieve a targeted tightening of the shoe around the wearer's foot. Each of the embodiments employs a tensioning mechanism 102 and a tension member 106 that is operably coupled to the tensioning mechanism 102, as previously described. The tensioning member 106 is routed through guides to which the shoe, panels, and / or straps are attached, such that operation of the tensioning mechanism 102 simultaneously tensions the strap and / or panel and the shoe. The tensioning mechanism 102 is generally shown as being positioned on or near the tongue of the shoe, but the location of the tensioning mechanism 102 may be varied, such as being located on the heel, side, etc. of the footwear. The illustrated panel and / or strap configurations and tension member paths may be varied or combined to achieve a desired appearance and / or fit of the shoe around the wearer's foot. For the purpose of brevity in describing the various embodiments, the following descriptions are provided for convenience only. 8A to 9C Similar reference numerals are used in the embodiment of the present invention as in the previous embodiment. It should be appreciated that the previous description of these components can also apply to the 8A to 9C In addition, for the sake of brevity, the description of specific features or characteristics of similar components may be omitted. In this case, the complete description of these features or characteristics can also apply to these similar components.

[0076] Reference Fig. 8A, the shoe shown includes a panel 310 that is coupled or fixed to a first side of the shoe and that extends toward a second side of the shoe partially beyond the lateral center of the shoe. The panel 310 has a recess, cavity, or opening 311 that is shaped and sized so that the tensioning mechanism 102 can be positioned within the opening 311. The panel 310 includes an upper portion and an elongated lower portion. The upper portion and the elongated lower portion of the panel 310 extend laterally outward from the opening 311 toward the second side of the shoe. In some embodiments, the upper portion of the panel 310 can extend further laterally than the elongated lower portion so that the upper portion of the panel 310 is more fully wrapped around the shoe and the wearer's foot. The opening 311 is sized so that when the panel 310 is fully tightened, the panel 310 does not contact the tensioning mechanism 102 or minimally contacts the tensioning mechanism 102.

[0077] A plurality of panel guides 306 are attached to the proximal edge of the panel 310, but in some embodiments, the panel guides 306 may be attached to the inner or outer surface of the panel 310. In the illustrated embodiment, a single panel guide 306 is positioned above the tensioning mechanism 102, while two panel guides 306 are positioned below the tensioning mechanism 102. One or more proximal guides 302 are attached to the second side of the shoe and are laterally offset from the eyelet, typically near the midpoint between the eyelet and the sole. The proximal guides 302 are arranged to route or guide the tension member 106 along a path between the panel guides 306 and the proximal guides 302. In some embodiments, the shoe further includes a heel strap 312 that is positioned near the heel and / or wrapped around the heel of the shoe. Heel strap 312 includes at least one heel strap guide 304 for routing the tension member along the path. Heel strap 312 can be used to pull the upper portion of panel 310 back toward the heel to more fully secure the wearer's foot inside the shoe. Panel 310 is typically formed from a continuous panel segment, but in some embodiments, panel 310 can be formed from multiple panel segments or straps.

[0078] Reference Figure 8B, the shoe shown includes a panel or strip 320 that is coupled or fixed to the second side of the shoe and extends toward the first side of the shoe partially beyond the lateral center of the shoe. The panel 320 is formed by, or coupled to, an upper portion of the eyelet of the second side of the shoe. The shape of the portion of the eyelet that is longitudinally below the panel 320 can be generally linear. The tensioning mechanism 102 is coupled to the panel 320 so that when the panel is tightened, the tensioning mechanism 102 is positioned approximately centrally in the lateral direction around the tongue of the shoe.

[0079] A plurality of proximal guides 302a are attached to the second side of the shoe longitudinally below the panel 320. The proximal guides 302a may be attached to eyelets located on the second side of the shoe, or may be positioned to be laterally offset from eyelets located on the second side of the shoe. One or more distal guides 302b are positioned on the first side of the shoe. The distal guides 302b may be attached to eyelets located on the first side of the shoe, or may be positioned to be laterally offset from eyelets located on the first side of the shoe. The distal guides 302b are generally positioned longitudinally proximate the panel 320, wherein at least one guide is longitudinally aligned with the tensioning mechanism 102 and spaced from the tensioning mechanism 102 to be laterally offset from the tensioning mechanism 102.

[0080] The shoe also includes at least one lower strap 322 coupled to the first side of the shoe and extending beyond the lateral center of the shoe toward the second side. In the illustrated embodiment, the shoe includes two lower straps 322 and 324, wherein the lowermost strap 324 extends further on the shoe than the other straps 322. Both straps include a strap guide 308 configured to route or guide the tension member 106 and positioned to work with a corresponding proximal guide 302a located on the second side of the shoe. The use of the panel 320 and one or more lower straps 322 and 324 allows the upper and lower portions of the shoe to wrap around the wearer's foot in opposite directions, thereby increasing the fit of the shoe around the wearer's foot.

[0081] Reference Figure 8C, the shoe shown includes a panel 330 that is coupled or fixed to a first side of the shoe and that extends toward a second side of the shoe partially beyond the lateral center of the shoe. The panel 330 is formed by or coupled to a lower portion of the eyelet of the first side of the shoe. The panel 330 is shaped so that a recess, cavity, or opening 332 is formed or defined in an upper portion of the panel 330 adjacent to the shoe collar. The opening 332 is shaped and sized so that the tensioning mechanism 102 can be positioned within the opening 332. The lower portion of the panel 330 extends laterally outward from the opening 332 toward the second side of the shoe. In some embodiments, the lowermost portion of the panel 330 may extend further in the lateral direction than the middle portion of the panel 330. The panel 330 may have a non-linear profile along the longitudinal length of the panel 330 from the shoe collar to the toe of the shoe.

[0082] A plurality of proximal guides 302 are attached to the second side of the shoe, and a plurality of panel guides 306 are attached to the panel along an edge of the panel or on an inner or outer surface of the panel. In the illustrated embodiment, the same number of proximal guides 302 and panel guides 306 are employed, and each of the proximal guides 302 is longitudinally aligned with a corresponding panel guide 306. Each proximal guide 302 and each panel guide 306 can form a guide pair for routing or guiding the tension member 106. As the lacing path approaches the toe of the shoe, the spacing between each guide pair can decrease.

[0083] Reference Fig.8D , the shoe shown does not include a panel, but instead includes or defines a unique tension member path and paired tension member guides. The shoe includes a tensioning mechanism 102, which can be centrally located on the tongue of the shoe, or the tensioning mechanism 102 can be located elsewhere as desired, such as on the heel or side of the shoe. The shoe also includes one or more proximal guides 302a and distal guides 302b that route or guide the tension members in a normal manner. The shoe also includes one or more guide pairs, wherein one guide in the guide pair is positioned to be laterally offset from the other guide in the guide pair.

[0084] In the illustrated embodiment, the shoe includes three guide pairs. Specifically, the upper guide pair includes an outer guide 303a and an inner guide 303b, which is positioned laterally inboard of the outer guide 303a. The inner guide 303b can be positioned on the eyelet of the shoe, while the outer guide 303a is laterally offset from the eyelet of the shoe. In other embodiments, the inner guide 303b can be positioned on the strap (see guide 303f) while the outer guide 303a is positioned on the eyelet or positioned to be laterally offset from the eyelet. The upper guide pair works together to increase the tensioning force applied to close and tension the upper portion of the shoe adjacent to the upper guide pair.

[0085] The shoe also includes an intermediate guide pair, which includes an outer guide 303c and an inner guide 303d, which is positioned laterally inside the outer guide 303c. The inner guide 303d can be positioned on the eyelet of the shoe or on the end of the strap, while the outer guide 303c is positioned on the eyelet or is positioned to be laterally offset from the eyelet. The intermediate guide pair works together to increase the tensioning force that is applied to close and tension the middle portion of the shoe adjacent to the intermediate guide pair. The shoe also includes a lower guide pair, which includes an outer guide 303e and an inner guide 303f, which is positioned laterally inside the outer guide 303e. The inner guide 303f is shown as being positioned on the end of the small strap, but the inner guide 303f can be positioned on the eyelet as desired. The outer guide 303e can be positioned on the eyelet of the shoe or positioned to be laterally offset from the eyelet of the shoe. The lower guide pair works together to increase the tensioning force applied to close and tension the lower portion of the shoe adjacent to the lower guide pair and located near the toe.

[0086] Although Fig.8D Three guide pairs are shown for use, but it should be appreciated that more or fewer guide pairs may be employed. Similarly, the position of one or more guide pairs may be varied to achieve increased tension at a desired location. For example, a guide pair longitudinally located above the tensioning mechanism 102 may be used to apply increased tension near the collar of the shoe.

[0087] Reference Fig.9A, the shoe shown includes a panel 340 that is coupled or fixed to the second side of the shoe and that extends toward the first side of the shoe. Most of the panel 340 is laterally offset from the lateral center or tongue of the shoe. However, the lower portion or end 342 of the panel 340 extends to the vicinity of the lateral center of the shoe, or the lower portion or end 342 of the panel 340 extends toward the distal end of the panel 340. The lower portion 342 of the panel 340 can be a strip member coupled to or formed by the panel 340. In some embodiments, the panel 340 can have a generally U-shaped configuration between the upper end of the panel 340 and the lower portion 342. The panel 340 and the lower portion 342 include one or more panel guides 343 that are attached to the edge of the panel 340 / lower portion 342 or to the inner or outer surface of the panel 340 / lower portion 342.

[0088] The shoe also includes a strap 344 attached to a first side portion of the shoe and extending toward a second side portion. The strap 344 may be positioned near the shoe collar so that the strap 344 extends toward a laterally offset portion of the panel 340. The tensioning mechanism 102 is attached to the strap 344 and positioned so that when the strap 344 is tightened, the tensioning mechanism 102 is positioned approximately centrally about the shoe in the laterally direction. The shoe also includes one or more distal guides 302b attached to the first side portion of the shoe. When the strap 344 is tightened, one of the distal guides 302b may be positioned partially or completely below the strap 344. Another distal guide 302b can be laterally offset from the distal guide 302b positioned below the strap 344. In some embodiments, the distal guide 302b positioned below the strap 344 can route or guide the lace to a panel guide 343 that is attached to the end of the lower portion 342 of the panel 340. The tension member segment spanning the two guides can be generally aligned with or parallel to the transverse centerline of the shoe.

[0089] Reference Fig. 9B, the shoe shown includes a panel 350 that is coupled or fixed to the second side of the shoe and that extends toward the first side of the shoe. The upper end of the panel 350 extends to near the lateral center of the shoe, or the upper end of the panel 350 extends toward the distal end of the panel 350, while the lower portion of the panel 350 and typically the majority of the panel 350 is laterally offset from the lateral center or tongue of the shoe. The tensioning mechanism 102 is attached to the upper end of the panel 350, and the tensioning mechanism 102 is positioned so that: when the panel 350 is tightened, the tensioning mechanism 102 is positioned approximately centrally around the shoe in the lateral direction. The upper end of the panel 350 can be a strip member coupled to or formed by the panel 350. In some embodiments, the panel 350 can have a generally curved or arcuate shape between the upper and lower ends of the panel 350. The panel 350 includes one or more panel guides 352 attached to the edge of the panel 350 or to the inner or outer surface of the panel 350. In the illustrated embodiment, the panel 350 includes a single guide 352 that acts in conjunction with the tensioning mechanism 102 to pull the panel 350 over the upper of the shoe. In other embodiments, additional panel guides 352 may be employed.

[0090] The shoe also includes a strap 354 that is attached to a first side portion of the shoe and that extends toward a second side portion. The strap 354 may be positioned near the toe of the shoe so that the strap 354 extends toward a laterally offset portion of the panel 350. The strap 354 includes a strap guide 356 that is attached to an edge of the strap 354 or to an inner or outer surface of the strap 354. The shoe also includes one or more proximal guides 302a and distal guides 302b attached to respective sides of the shoe. One or more pairs of proximal guides 302a and distal guides 302b may act in a cooperative manner to route or guide the middle portion of the tension member 106. One or more pairs of the proximal guide 302a and the distal guide 302b may be positioned between the upper end of the panel 350 and the strip 354 in the longitudinal direction.

[0091] Reference Fig. 9C, the shoe shown includes a panel 360 that is coupled or fixed to a first side portion of the shoe and that extends toward a second side portion of the shoe. The panel 360 includes a linear edge that is parallel to the transverse centerline of the shoe, but other configurations of the edges of the panel are possible. The panel 360 may extend to the vicinity of the transverse centerline of the shoe, or the panel 360 may extend toward the distal end of the panel 360. The tensioning mechanism 102 is attached to the upper end of the panel 360 near the shoe collar. In some embodiments, the tensioning mechanism 102 may be positioned on the heel of the shoe, on the side of the shoe, or elsewhere. The panel 360 includes one or more panel guides 362 that are attached to the outer surface of the panel 360 so that when the panel 360 is tightened, the panel guides 362 are approximately aligned with the transverse center of the shoe.

[0092] The shoe includes a proximal guide 302a attached to the second side of the shoe and includes a distal guide 302b attached to the first side of the shoe. The proximal guide 302a and the distal guide 302b are used to route or guide the tension member to or from the panel guide 362. The use of the panel guide 362 at the lateral center of the shoe can facilitate providing that the shoe is evenly closed around the wearer's foot.

[0093] Reference FIG. 10A to FIG. 11C , shows an embodiment of a footwear configuration that uses a single wrap-based closure device 102 to achieve a snug fit of the footwear around a wearer's foot. FIG. 10A to FIG. 11C The footwear configurations of may be particularly suitable for use with high cut footwear articles, such as various boots. These footwear configurations provide a good fit of the high cut footwear around the wearer's foot. In some cases, the high cut footwear may have a hybrid structure, wherein the upper portion of the footwear has a standard tongue structure, while the lower portion of the footwear has a canopy structure. The single wrap-around closure device 102 provides a uniform fit of the footwear around the wearer's foot from the upper portion to the lower portion of the closure area.

[0094] Reference FIG. 10A to FIG. 10C , shows an embodiment in which a footwear or boot (hereinafter referred to as a boot) has an overlapping guide configuration on the lower portion of the boot. The overlapping guide configuration is achieved by symmetrically positioned guides that work together in a pulley-like manner to create a tight fit of the boot around the wearer's foot. The overlapping configuration enables the lower portion of the boot to adapt to the volume and / or shape of the wearer's foot.

[0095] The boot includes a proximal side 402 and a distal side 410, which are positioned on opposite sides of the boot and are generally separated by an opening or tongue of the boot. A first proximal set of guides 404 is positioned on the proximal side 402 of the boot, and a first distal set of guides 412 is positioned on the distal side 410 of the boot. The first proximal set of guides 404 are positioned along the proximal eyelet of the boot in a typical manner. More specifically, the first proximal set of guides 404 are positioned such that an edge of each guide is positioned near an edge of the proximal eyelet. Similarly, the first distal set of guides 412 are positioned along the distal eyelet in a typical manner, wherein an edge of each guide is positioned near an edge of the distal eyelet.

[0096] A second proximal set of guides 406 and 408 are also positioned on the proximal side 402 of the boot. The second proximal set of guides 406 and 408 are positioned in an asymmetrical manner relative to the first proximal set of guides 404. Specifically, as shown in FIG. Fig. 10B , an upper guide 406 in the second proximal set of guides is positioned laterally outward from the proximal eyelet to be positioned closer to the heel and / or sole of the boot than the first proximal set of guides 404. The laterally outward positioning of the upper guide 406 causes increased rearward and downward tension to be applied to the boot via the tension member 106. The position of the upper guide 406 can be selected so that the increased rearward and downward tension or pressure results in a desired tightening of the boot around the wearer's foot, such as near the wearer's heel.

[0097] The lower guide 408 in the second proximal set of guides is positioned below the proximal eyelet adjacent to the lower guide in the first proximal set of guides 404. The lower guide 408 may be laterally offset from the proximal eyelet, similar to the upper guide 406, or the lower guide 408 may be generally aligned with the lower guide in the first proximal set of guides 404, as shown in FIG. Fig. 10B In either embodiment, lower guide 408 is longitudinally offset from the lower guides in first proximal guide set 404, generally by being positioned closer to the toe or collar of the boot.

[0098] The lower guide 408 acts together with the lower guide in the first proximal set of guides so that the two guides work together in a pulley-like manner to create a snug fit of the boot around the lower portion of the wearer's foot. It should be noted that while the lower guide 408 and the lower guide in the first proximal set of guides 404 are shown as being positioned near the bottom end of the lacing path, in some embodiments, the two guides can be positioned closer to the top end of the lacing path to create a snug fit of the boot around the upper portion of the wearer's foot.

[0099] The second distal set of guides 414 and 416 may also be positioned on the distal side 410 of the boot. When in use, the second distal set of guides 414 and 416 are positioned in an asymmetrical manner relative to the first distal set of guides 412. Specifically, as shown in FIG. Fig. 10B As shown in , the upper guide 414 of the second distal set of guides is positioned laterally inward from the distal eyelet to be positioned closer to the lateral center of the boot than the first distal set of guides 412. The laterally inward positioning of the upper guide 414 causes lateral tension to be applied to the boot near the lateral center of the boot. Fig. 10B In the illustrated embodiment, the upper guide 414 is generally aligned longitudinally with the lower guide in the first distal set of guides 412. In this manner, the upper guide 414 acts in conjunction with the lower guide in the first distal set of guides so that the two guides work together in a pulley-like manner to create a snug fit of the boot around the middle portion of the wearer's foot.

[0100] The lower guide 416 in the second distal set of guides may also be positioned laterally inward from the distal eyelet to be positioned closer to the lateral center of the boot than the first distal set of guides 412. The laterally inward positioning of the lower guide 416 allows lateral tension to be applied to the boot near the lateral center of the boot. It should be noted that in some embodiments, the lower guide 416 may be longitudinally aligned with a guide (not shown) in the first distal set of guides so that the lower guide 416 works with the guide in a pulley-like manner to apply a desired tension on the wearer's foot. It should also be noted that the upper guide 414 and / or the lower guide 416 may be positioned laterally outward from the first distal set of guides as desired.

[0101] Fig. 10C Shows about Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B The boot also includes a pair of guides in the first proximal group guides 404 and the first distal group guides 412, which are positioned at the bottom end of the lacing path. In addition, neither the lower guide 408 nor the upper guide 414 is longitudinally aligned with the corresponding guides in the first proximal group guides 404 or the first distal group guides 412. Instead, the lower guide 408 and the upper guide 414 are longitudinally positioned between the guides in the first proximal group guides 404 and the guides in the first distal group guides 412, respectively. Even if not longitudinally aligned, the lower guide 408 and / or the upper guide 414 can still act with other guides in a pulley-like manner.

[0102] In some embodiments, the wrap-based closure 102 can be centrally located on the tongue of the boot, as shown, but the wrap-based closure 102 can be located elsewhere as desired, such as on the eyelets, heel, or rear portion of the boot. Tenders 418 can also be used to help guide the tension member 106 and / or maintain its position around the tongue of the boot.

[0103] Reference FIG. 11A to FIG. 11C , shows another embodiment in which the boot has an overlapping guidance configuration achieved via guides positioned in an asymmetrical manner. FIG. 10A to FIG. 10C Specifically, the boot includes a proximal side 422 and a distal side 430, wherein a first proximal group guide 424 is positioned on the proximal side 422 of the boot, and a first distal group guide 432 is positioned on the distal side 430 of the boot. The first proximal group guide 424 is positioned with the proximal side 422 of the boot. Fig. 10B The first distal set of guides 432 are also positioned along the proximal eyelets of the boot in a similar manner to the first proximal set of guides 404. Fig. 10B The distal set of guides 412 are positioned along the distal eyelets in a similar manner.

[0104] A second proximal set of guides 426 and 428 are also positioned on the proximal side 402 of the boot. The second proximal set of guides 426 and 428 may be positioned asymmetrically relative to the first proximal set of guides 424. Specifically, in some cases, the upper guide 426 of the second proximal set of guides may be positioned laterally outward from the proximal eyelet (see Fig. 11C ), thereby causing increased rearward and downward tension to be applied to the boot, as previously described. In other embodiments, the upper guide 426 in the second proximal set of guides can be substantially aligned with the proximal eyelet, or substantially aligned with one or more lower guides in the first proximal set of guides 424 (see FIG. 11A to FIG. 11B ).

[0105] The lower guide 428 in the second proximal set of guides is positioned below the proximal eyelet adjacent to the lower guide in the first proximal set of guides 424. The lower guide 428 may be laterally offset from the proximal eyelet, the lower guide 428 may be substantially aligned with the proximal eyelet, or as shown in FIG. Fig. 11B, lower guide 428 is positioned laterally inward from first proximal set of guides 424. Lower guide 428 is longitudinally offset from lower guides in first proximal set of guides 424. Lower guide 428 can act in a pulley-like manner with one or more guides in first proximal set of guides 424 to create a snug fit of the boot around the lower portion of the wearer's foot.

[0106] The second distal set of guides 434 and 436 are positioned on the distal side 430 of the boot in an asymmetrical manner relative to the first distal set of guides 432. Specifically, the upper guide 434 and the lower guide 436 of the second distal set of guides are positioned laterally inward from the distal eyelet to be positioned closer to the lateral center of the boot than the first distal set of guides 432. In some embodiments, the upper guide 434 can be positioned laterally outward from the distal eyelet, or the lower guide 436 can be positioned laterally outward from the distal eyelet, or both the upper guide 434 and the lower guide 436 can be positioned laterally outward from the distal eyelet. In the illustrated embodiment, neither the upper guide 434 nor the lower guide 436 is longitudinally aligned with the corresponding guide in the first distal set of guides 432. The upper guide 434 or the lower guide 436 may act together with one or more of the first distal set of guides in a pulley-like manner to create a snug fit of the boot around the mid-portion of the wearer's foot.

[0107] like FIG. 11B to FIG. 11C As shown in FIG. 4 , the roll-based closure device 102 is not centrally positioned between opposing guides. Instead, the roll-based closure device 102 is positioned on the distal side 430 of the boot and opposite the upper guide in the first proximal set of guides 424. The tension member 106 is routed from the roll-based closure device 102 such that the upper portion of the tension member 106 is routed directly to the upper guide in the first proximal set of guides 424, and such that the lower portion of the tension member 106 is routed directly to the upper guide 426 in the second proximal set of guides. In this way, the roll-based closure device 102 can create a slightly asymmetric tension in the tension member 106.

[0108] Although various embodiments and arrangements of various components are described herein, it should be understood that the various components and / or combinations of components described in the various embodiments may be modified, rearranged, changed, adjusted, etc. For example, the arrangement of components in any of the described embodiments may be adjusted or rearranged, and / or various components described may be employed in any of the embodiments that are not currently described or employing such components. Therefore, it should be appreciated that the various embodiments are not limited to the specific arrangements and / or component configurations described herein.

[0109] In addition, it should be understood that any feasible combination of features and elements disclosed herein is also considered to be disclosed. In addition, at any time, as long as a certain feature is not discussed in the embodiments in this disclosure, it should be noted by those skilled in the art that some embodiments of the present invention may implicitly and explicitly exclude such features, thereby providing support for negative claim limitations.

[0110] Where multiple embodiments have been described, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various modifications, alternative structures and equivalents may be used without departing from the spirit of the present invention. In addition, in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the present invention, many well-known processes and elements are not described. Therefore, the above description should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present invention.

[0111] Where a range of values ​​is provided, it is to be understood that, unless the context clearly specifies otherwise, each intermediate value between the upper and lower limits of the range is also specifically disclosed, the intermediate value being one tenth of the unit of the lower limit. Each smaller range between any of the values ​​or intermediate values ​​in the range and any other values ​​or intermediate values ​​in the range is encompassed. The upper and lower limits of these smaller ranges may be included or excluded independently within the range, and each range in the case of including any extreme value, excluding any extreme value, or including two extreme values ​​within the smaller range is also encompassed within the present invention, except for any specifically excluded extreme value within the range. When the range includes one or two extreme values ​​in the extreme values, the range in which one or two of these included extreme values ​​are excluded is also included.

[0112] As used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to "a process" includes a plurality of such processes and reference to "the device" includes reference to one or more devices and their equivalents known to those skilled in the art, and so forth.

[0113] In addition, the terms "comprises", "including", "includes" and "comprising" when used in this specification and the appended claims are intended to indicate the presence of stated features, integers, components or steps, but these terms do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, components, steps, actions or groups.

Claims

1. A footwear article, comprising: Soles; an upper connected to the sole; Tension member; one or more guides coupled to the upper, the one or more guides configured to route or direct the tension member along a path around the footwear; a tensioning mechanism, the tensioning mechanism being operably coupled to the tension member such that operation of the tensioning mechanism tensions the tension member; as well as a panel having a fixed end coupled to a first side of the upper, a body extending over a top of the upper toward a second side of the upper, and a free end opposite the fixed end; The panel can be positioned on at least one guide of the one or more guides and can be positioned on the tensioning mechanism to cover and hide the at least one guide and the tensioning mechanism from being visible from the outside.

2. The footwear article according to claim 1, further comprising at least one panel guide attached to an inner surface of the panel, the at least one panel guide being configured to route or guide the tension member along the path around the footwear.

3. The article of footwear according to claim 2, wherein: The at least one panel guide is arranged such that when the tension member is tensioned, the at least one panel guide pulls the panel into contact with a tongue or throat of the footwear.

4. The article of footwear according to claim 2, wherein: The at least one panel guide is positioned on the body of the panel such that the free end of the panel is free of a guide for the tension member.

5. The article of footwear according to claim 2, wherein: The at least one panel guide is attached to the panel such that: the at least one panel guide is positioned on the first side of the upper and the free end of the panel is positioned adjacent the sole and on the second side of the upper.

6. The article of footwear according to claim 1, wherein: The one or more guides include a guide member that is folded along a longitudinal length to form a loop or channel into which the tension member is insertable.

7. The article of footwear according to claim 1, wherein: The free end of the panel is releasably coupleable to the upper.

8. A footwear article, comprising: Soles; vamp; one or more guides coupled to the upper, the one or more guides configured to route or direct a tension member along a path around the footwear; as well as a panel having a fixed end attached to a first side of the upper and a free end opposite the fixed end, the panel extending from the first side of the upper toward a second side of the upper; The panel can be positioned on at least one guide member among the one or more guide members to cover and hide the at least one guide member from being visible from the outside.

9. The article of footwear according to claim 8, wherein: The one or more guides include a guide member that is folded along a longitudinal length to form a loop or channel into which the tension member is insertable.

10. The article of footwear according to claim 8, wherein: The article of footwear includes a tensioning mechanism operably coupled to the tension member such that operation of the tensioning mechanism tensions the tension member, and wherein the panel is positionable over the tensioning mechanism to cover and conceal the tensioning mechanism from external view.

11. The article of footwear according to claim 8, wherein: The article of footwear includes at least one panel guide attached to an interior surface of the panel, the at least one panel guide configured to route or guide the tension member along the path around the footwear.

12. The article of footwear according to claim 11, wherein: The at least one panel guide is attached to the panel such that: the at least one panel guide is positioned on the first side of the upper and the free end of the panel is positioned adjacent the sole and on the second side of the upper.

13. The article of footwear according to claim 11, wherein: The at least one panel guide is arranged such that when the tension member is tensioned, the at least one panel guide pulls the panel into contact with a tongue or throat of the footwear.

14. The article of footwear according to claim 8, wherein: The footwear article includes an additional panel having a fixed end attached to the upper and having a free end opposite the fixed end, and wherein the panel can be positioned on the additional panel to cover and hide at least a portion of the additional panel from being visible from the outside.

15. The article of footwear according to claim 8, wherein: The free end of the panel is releasably coupleable to the upper.

16. A method of manufacturing an article of footwear, the method comprising: Provided is a footwear article, comprising: Soles; and vamp; coupling one or more guides to the upper, the one or more guides being configured to route or direct a tension member along a path around the footwear; and A panel is coupled to a first side of the upper, the panel being oriented about the upper such that: The distal end of the panel extends over the upper toward a second side of the upper; and The panel can be positioned on the one or more guides to cover and hide the one or more guides from being visible from the outside.

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein: The one or more guides include a guide member folded along a longitudinal length to form a loop or channel, and wherein the method further comprises inserting the tension member through the loop or channel of the guide member.

18. The method according to claim 16, wherein: The method also includes attaching the one or more panel guides to an inner surface of the panel.

19. The method according to claim 16, wherein: The method also includes: attaching a tensioning mechanism to the upper, the tensioning mechanism being operably coupled to the tension member so that operation of the tensioning mechanism tensions the tension member, wherein the tensioning mechanism is positioned so that the panel can be positioned on the tensioning mechanism to cover and hide the tensioning mechanism from being visible from the outside.

20. The method according to claim 16, wherein: The distal end of the panel is releasably coupleable to the upper.

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