Knitted socks and methods for knitting socks

Abstract

The present invention relates to a knitted sock (1) comprising a toe region (5), a midfoot region (10) and a heel region (15), and optionally a leg region. The sock (1) advantageously comprises a knitted trapezoidal back (20) and a knitted trapezoidal plantar (30) rigidly attached to each other by a knitted medial fixation region (40) and a knitted lateral fixation region (50), and the knitted trapezoidal back and plantar (20, 30) and the knitted medial and lateral fixation regions (40, 50) extend into the toe region (5) and at least partially into the midfoot region (10).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of knitted socks and a method for knitting such socks, in particular for performing sports. Background Art

[0002] One-piece knitted socks usually comprise a knitted pocket at the level of the toes for accommodating the toes, then a tubular portion for accommodating the midfoot and finally a pocket for accommodating the heel. The pocket for accommodating the heel or the toes is usually obtained by knitting a trapezoidal upper part and a trapezoidal lower part. The tubular portion arranged in the midfoot region and between the pocket for the toes and the pocket for the heel comprises an elastic yarn in order to conform to the midfoot region. In practice, this tubular shape does not correspond to the natural shape of the foot and is therefore not suitable for conforming to the foot. In practice, it is desirable that the knitted sock conforms to the foot in order to prevent the fabric portion of the sock from loosening or forming wrinkles and rubbing against the skin. However, the sock must not be too tight on the foot in order to maintain comfort. These two criteria, focusing on comfort and fit, are opposed and difficult to meet, especially when the knitted sock is intended to be worn for playing sports.

[0003] Therefore, there is a need for a one-piece knitted sock that can be adjusted to the foot but is not too tight and avoids creating areas of friction that may cause blisters.

[0004] At the same time, knitted socks that can be recycled are sought. To this end, there is a need to reduce the number of different materials in knitted socks. Typically, elastic yarns are used to improve the fit of the sock on the foot and to improve comfort. These elastic yarns include a core of elastomeric material, complicating the dyeing of the sock and complicating recycling by being a different material than the rest of the sock (e.g. based on polyester or polyamide). End-of-life articles that include elastic yarns based on elastane, which are difficult to recycle, are landfilled or burned.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need for a one-piece knitted sock that is easily recyclable and conforms to the foot while maintaining comfort and avoiding the formation of friction areas. Summary of the invention

[0006] According to a first aspect, the invention relates to a knitted sock, in particular for performing sports, comprising a toe region, a midfoot region and a heel region, and optionally a leg region, which overcomes the above-mentioned problems in that the knitted sock advantageously comprises a knitted trapezoidal dorsal and a knitted trapezoidal plantar (bottom of the foot), which are secured by knitted medial and lateral securing regions. Furthermore, the knitted trapezoidal dorsal and plantar as well as the knitted medial and lateral securing regions extend in the toe region and at least partially in the midfoot region.

[0007] Advantageously, the dorsal and metatarsal parts of the trapezoid are knitted so as to extend at least into the midfoot region and possibly to the border of the heel region.

[0008] Advantageously, the knitted trapezoidal back and metatarsal portion together form a knitted pocket, in particular having a substantially trapezoidal overall shape, accommodating the toe area and partially accommodating the midfoot area, and possibly the entire midfoot area.

[0009] This arrangement makes it possible to obtain a one-piece knitted sock that conforms to the foot without forming wrinkles or creating friction areas.The knitted sock according to the invention thus has an ergonomic shape, unlike prior art socks that comprise a tubular portion substantially throughout the midfoot area.

[0010] Advantageously, it is not necessary to knit one or more elastic yarns in the trapezoidal back and metatarsal parts in order to make the knitted bag conform to the shape of the foot, which makes it possible to reduce the number of yarns of different materials and facilitates dyeing.

[0011] It is also observed that the knitted back is decoupled from the knitted plantar part and that this separation is achieved on the inside and outside of the sock by means of knitted medial and lateral fixing areas that are independent of the sole and back of the trapezoid, which allows the sock to remain correctly positioned on the foot without forming wrinkles when following the movements of the foot. This technical effect is particularly advantageous when the sock is used to practice sports.

[0012] In this context, the "toe region of a knitted sock" refers to a region corresponding to the five toes of a foot, in particular corresponding to the phalanges of the foot. The knitted toe region of a knitted sock may at least partially or completely cover the five toes of a foot.

[0013] Herein, the "midfoot region of a knitted sock" refers to the region extending between the toe region and the heel region of the knitted sock, and in particular, the midfoot region includes the regions corresponding to the metatarsal bones of the foot, and also includes the navicular bone, cuboid bone and arch of the foot.

[0014] The knitted midfoot region of the knitted sock may at least partially or completely cover the metatarsals, navicular, cuboid bones, and arch of the foot.

[0015] In the present context, the "heel region of a knitted sock" refers to the region corresponding to the heel of the foot, in particular including the calcaneus.

[0016] The knitted heel region of the knitted sock may at least partially or completely cover the heel.

[0017] In this context, the "leg region of a knitted sock" refers to the region corresponding to the leg (particularly including the ankle) and whose height varies. The height of the leg region is variable and may extend to the middle height of the leg below the knee, or to just below the knee or to above the knee.

[0018] Preferably, the knitted trapezoidal portion (whether plantar or dorsal, or upper or lower when at heel level) comprises a large base and a small base, which are substantially parallel to each other and connected by lateral and medial sides that converge towards the small base.

[0019] Preferably, the large base corresponds to a row of knitted stitches comprising x stitches, and the small base corresponds to a row of knitted stitches comprising y stitches, y being less than x, more preferably y being less than or equal to 0.7*x, preferably y being less than or equal to 0.6*x, more preferably y being less than or equal to 0.5*x, and in particular y being less than or equal to 0.4*x.

[0020] Preferably, the knitted trapezoidal back (and also the plantar portion) comprises a distal end and a proximal end, in particular corresponding to the small base and the large base, respectively, defined above.

[0021] Preferably, the distal end corresponds to the portion of the knitted trapezoidal back (and the plantar portion) farthest from the leg, and the proximal end corresponds to the portion of the knitted trapezoidal back (and the plantar portion) closest to the leg.

[0022] Preferably, the knitted trapezoidal back portion (and the metatarsal portion) comprises a distal portion and a proximal portion, which are in particular arranged near the distal end and the proximal end, respectively.

[0023] Preferably, the knitted trapezoidal back portion (and the metatarsal portion) comprises a medial edge, in particular arranged on the inside of the knitted sock, and a lateral edge, in particular arranged on the outside of the knitted sock.

[0024] Preferably, the inner edge of the knitted trapezoidal back portion is fixed by knitting to the inner edge of the knitted trapezoidal metatarsal portion, in particular in a knitted inner fixing area.

[0025] Preferably, the outer side edge of the knitted trapezoidal back portion is fixed to the outer side edge of the knitted trapezoidal metatarsal portion by knitting, in particular in a knitted outer side fixing area.

[0026] Preferably, the knitted trapezoidal back has substantially the same size as the knitted trapezoidal plantar portion, in particular, the large base, small base, inner and outer sides of the knitted trapezoidal back have substantially the same size as the large base, small base, inner and outer sides of the knitted trapezoidal plantar portion, respectively.

[0027] Preferably, the knitted trapezoidal back (and the metatarsal portion) is substantially a single knitted trapezoid.

[0028] In one embodiment, the foot lead-in hole of the knitted sock is knitted and comprises a knitted border, in particular a rib edge a*b, where a and b are integers other than 0, wherein a may be equal to b.

[0029] In one embodiment, the knitted sock comprises one or more yarns, in particular one or more spun fiber yarns (spun fiber yarns), and / or one or more multifilament yarns, and / or one or more monofilament yarns.

[0030] The yarn for knitting socks is one or more materials selected from the list including: polyester (such as polyethylene terephthalate and polybutylene terephthalate), polyolefin (such as polypropylene and polyethylene), polyacrylic, polyamide (such as polyamide 6-6 or 6), cotton, viscose, linen, etc.

[0031] Preferably, the knitted trapezoidal back and / or the knitted trapezoidal plantar both comprise one or more spun fiber yarns, and / or one or more multifilament optionally textured yarns (textured yarns, fluffy yarns), in particular one or more materials selected from the list consisting of polyesters (such as polyethylene terephthalate and polybutylene terephthalate) and polyamides.

[0032] In one embodiment, the knitted medial fixation region and the knitted lateral fixation region extend from distal portions of the knitted trapezoidal back and the knitted trapezoidal metatarsal, respectively, into the midfoot region or extend in the midfoot region and all the way to the heel region.

[0033] In one embodiment, the sock includes a knitted heel pocket intended to accommodate all or part of a wearer's heel, particularly extending in the heel region of the sock.

[0034] In one embodiment, the knitted medial fixing area and the knitted lateral fixing area extend from the distal parts of the knitted trapezoidal back and plantar portion, respectively, to the knitted heel pocket, in particular, the heel pocket includes a knitted upper trapezoidal heel portion and a knitted lower trapezoidal heel portion, and are fixed by knitting along their respective medial and lateral edges.

[0035] In particular, the heel pocket has a substantially trapezoidal overall shape.

[0036] Preferably, the sock comprises a longitudinal axis L extending between its front and rear edges, and a transverse axis T extending between its medial and lateral edges, in particular axis T being secant to axis L, more in particular T and L being substantially perpendicular.

[0037] In one embodiment, the knitted sock has a length l0 extending between its front edge and its rear edge, in particular substantially parallel to its longitudinal axis L, and the knitted inner fixing area and the knitted outer fixing area extend over a portion of the length l0 of the sock and have a length l1, l1 is greater than or equal to 0.30*l0 or greater than or equal to 0.40*l0, in particular less than or equal to 0.50*l0.

[0038] In another embodiment, l0 is greater than or equal to 0.50*l1, in particular l0 is greater than or equal to 0.70*l1.

[0039] Preferably, "knitted trapezoidal back" refers to the portion of the knitted sock that is arranged on the top of the foot when worn, in particular opposite the metatarsal region.

[0040] Preferably, the "knitted trapezoidal plantar portion" refers to the portion of the knitted sock which is arranged on the underside of the foot when worn, in particular the portion facing the sole of the foot.

[0041] In a variation of the embodiment, the knitted medial fastening region and the knitted lateral fastening region extend from the toe region to the midfoot region, possibly substantially to the heel region, and are substantially straight or curved.

[0042] In one variation of an embodiment, the inner fixation region is substantially curved and the outer fixation region is substantially curved, the inner and outer fixation regions converging toward each other at or near the proximal end of the knitted trapezoidal back.

[0043] In a variation of the embodiment, the medial fixing area and the knitted lateral fixing area include one or more binding yarns knitted in the knitted trapezoidal back and the knitted trapezoidal plantar portion, preferably, the one or more binding yarns are alternately knitted in the knitted trapezoidal back and the knitted trapezoidal plantar portion and are knitted over the entire length of the medial fixing area and the lateral fixing area.

[0044] Advantageously, the binding yarn forms one or more knitted segments extending between the medial or lateral edge of the knitted trapezoidal back and the corresponding (medial or lateral) edge of the knitted trapezoidal metatarsal portion.

[0045] In one embodiment, the inner fixing area and the outer fixing area respectively include one or more tying yarns that form one or more knitting knots, and the one or more knitting knots are respectively arranged along the inner edge and the outer edge of the knitted trapezoidal back and along the inner edge and the outer edge of the knitted inner part.

[0046] This arrangement makes it possible to reinforce the inner and outer fixing areas.

[0047] In one embodiment, the medial and lateral fixation regions include one or more yarns that form tuck stitches in the knitted trapezoidal back and knitted trapezoidal plantar.

[0048] This arrangement makes it possible to reduce the length of the knitted fixing yarn between the connecting edges and reduce elasticity.The tuck stitch improves stability and promotes the retention of the knitted shape.

[0049] Advantageously, the length of the section of knitted binding yarn can vary. Thus, the edge of the back and the edge of the plantar can be separated by a through hole or can be adjacent. In this case, there is no through hole. Depending on the desired technical effect, these two aspects can also be combined along the length of the fixing area.

[0050] Advantageously, the length of the knitted binding yarn extending between the knitted trapezoidal back and the knitted inner part, and / or the type of stitches formed by said yarn, makes it possible to bring the inner edge and the outer edge closer to each other more or less and to form one or more through holes of varying sizes.

[0051] In a variation of the embodiment, the knitted trapezoidal back portion and / or the knitted trapezoidal plantar portion and / or the knitted trapezoidal upper heel portion and / or the knitted trapezoidal lower heel portion each include one or more transverse looped stitch reinforcement strips, in particular extending in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis L of the knitted sock.

[0052] In one variation of the embodiment, the knitted trapezoidal back portion includes one or more looped knitted areas, and / or the knitted trapezoidal plantar portion includes one or more looped knitted areas, and / or the knitted trapezoidal upper heel portion includes one or more looped knitted areas, and / or the knitted trapezoidal lower heel portion includes one or more looped knitted areas, and / or the knitted leg portion includes one or more looped knitted areas.

[0053] These looped areas locally provide more textile material and can thus ensure a cushioning or reinforcing function.

[0054] In the present context, a "looped knitted area or a looped stitch reinforcement strip" refers to a strip or area comprising looped stitches, that is to say stitches comprising elongated loops, in particular known in the art as terry loops.

[0055] In a variation of an embodiment, the knitted trapezoidal back and / or the knitted trapezoidal plantar both comprise a first yarn and a second yarn, the first yarn and the second yarn being different, in particular differing in at least one characteristic selected from the group consisting of: color, linear quality (dtex), composition and structure (e.g. texture is applied or not applied to the yarn depending on the number of filaments).

[0056] In one embodiment, the knitted trapezoidal back and / or the knitted trapezoidal metatarsal both include a first yarn of a first color and a second yarn of a second color, the first color being different than the second color.

[0057] In a variation of the embodiment, the knitted trapezoidal upper heel portion and / or the knitted trapezoidal lower heel portion both comprise a first yarn and a second yarn, the first yarn and the second yarn being different, in particular differing in at least one characteristic selected from: color, linear quality (dtex), composition (e.g. the first yarn being made of polyamide 6-6 and the second yarn being made of polyethylene terephthalate) and structure (e.g. texture being applied or not applied to the yarn depending on the number of filaments).

[0058] The knitting machine for knitting the socks according to the invention advantageously makes it possible to knit at least two different yarns for the main trapezoidal knitted foot pocket and / or the trapezoidal knitted heel pocket, which was not possible before. This arrangement makes it possible to give the socks more functionality (cushioning, comfort, better ergonomics, reduced heating).

[0059] In one variation of the embodiment, the knitted trapezoidal back is knitted with multiple rows of back stitches knitted back and forth, and the knitted trapezoidal plantar is knitted with multiple rows of plantar stitches knitted back and forth.

[0060] Advantageously, the knitted trapezoidal back and the knitted trapezoidal plantar portion are knitted in a row of stitches by forming a back and forth movement on a circular knitting machine.

[0061] In particular, portions that are knitted back and forth are also referred to in the art as front-to-back knitting, more particularly in contrast to portions that are knitted in the circular direction.

[0062] The circular knitted part comprises a plurality of rows of stitches knitted in a circle in succession. Therefore, the knitting is always done on the same side. In contrast to back and forth knitting, for example the right side is knitted and then the reverse side is knitted back.

[0063] In a variant of an embodiment, the knitted sock comprises a knitted tubular portion having a plurality of rows of stitches knitted in a circular pattern arranged in the midfoot region of the knitted sock, in particular between the knitted trapezoidal back and the knitted trapezoidal plantar portion on the one hand and the heel region on the other hand.

[0064] In one variation of an embodiment, a knitted sock includes a knitted tubular portion having a plurality of rows of circularly knitted stitches disposed in the leg region.

[0065] In one variation of the embodiment, the knitted trapezoidal metatarsal portion is folded over the knitted trapezoidal back portion in the toe region of the sock.

[0066] Advantageously, the trapezoidal plantar portion is knitted continuously with the trapezoidal back portion, in particular, the small base of the trapezoid of the back portion is merged or continuous with the small base of the trapezoid of the trapezoidal plantar portion.

[0067] In a variation of the embodiment, the knitted trapezoidal back portion includes an inner surface and an outer surface, the knitted trapezoidal plantar portion includes an inner surface and an outer surface, and the inner surface of the knitted trapezoidal back portion is disposed facing the inner surface of the knitted trapezoidal plantar portion.

[0068] Preferably, the inner surface is oriented to face the interior volume of the sock.

[0069] Preferably, the outer surface is oriented towards the outside of the sock.

[0070] In one variation of the embodiment, the knitted trapezoidal metatarsal portion includes a toe end or a distal end, the knitted trapezoidal back portion includes a toe end or a distal end, and the toe end or the distal end of the knitted trapezoidal metatarsal portion and the toe end or the distal end of the knitted trapezoidal back portion are knitted continuously.

[0071] In a variation of an embodiment, the knitted trapezoidal metatarsal portion and the knitted trapezoidal back portion together form a pocket, in particular a substantially trapezoidal shaped pocket, which is arranged to at least partially accommodate the toes of the foot and at least partially accommodate the midfoot of the foot, optionally the entire midfoot.

[0072] In a variation of the embodiment, the knitted trapezoidal back comprises a distal end portion and a proximal end portion, and the number of stitches in a row of stitches in the distal end portion (a d ) is less than the number of pins in a row of pins near the end (b d ), in particular, the number a d Less than or equal to 0.50*b d .

[0073] In a variation of the embodiment, the knitted trapezoidal plantar portion comprises a distal end portion and a proximal end portion, and the number of stitches in a row of stitches in the distal end portion (a p ) is less than the number of pins in a row of pins near the end (b p ), in particular, the number a p Less than or equal to 0.50*b p .

[0074] Number a d 、b d 、a pand b p Determined by the desired size of pocket for accommodating the toes and all or part of the midfoot.

[0075] Advantageously, from the number of pins b d Reduce the number of pins in that row to the number of pins in a given row. d is progressive so that the number of stitches in each row measured over two consecutive rows of stitches and moving from the proximal end to the distal end of the knitted trapezoidal back decreases or remains constant but does not increase.

[0076] Advantageously, from the number of pins a p Increase the number of pins in the row to the number of pins in the given row b. p It is progressive so that the number of stitches in each row measured over two consecutive rows of stitches and from the distal end to the proximal end of the knitted trapezoidal plantar portion increases or remains constant but does not decrease.

[0077] In one variation of the embodiment, the number of stitches (k) in any row of stitches (n) knitted in a knitted trapezoidal back is greater than or equal to the number of stitches (p) in the row of stitches (n+2) knitted in the knitted trapezoidal back following that row of stitches (n), and the numbers n, p and k are integers other than 0.

[0078] Advantageously, the row of stitches (n+2) is knitted after the row of stitches n, the trapezoidal back being knitted from its proximal / proximal part to its distal / distal part.

[0079] In one variation of the embodiment, the number of stitches (k') in any row of stitches (n') knitted in the knitted trapezoidal plantar portion is less than or equal to the number of stitches (p') in the row of stitches (n'+2) knitted after the row of stitches (n) and in the knitted trapezoidal plantar portion, and the numbers n', p' and k' are integers other than 0.

[0080] Advantageously, the row of stitches (n'+2) is knitted after the row of stitches n', the trapezoidal metatarsal portion being knitted from its distal end / distal part towards its proximal end / proximal part.

[0081] In one variation of the embodiment, the knitted trapezoidal back and the knitted trapezoidal plantar portion are symmetrical along a transverse symmetry axis (T1) passing between a distal end of the knitted trapezoidal back and a distal end of the knitted trapezoidal plantar portion.

[0082] Advantageously, the progressive decrease in the number of knitted stitches from one row of stitches to another in the knitted trapezoidal back is similar to the progressive increase in the number of knitted stitches from one row of stitches to another in the knitted trapezoidal plantar portion. The transverse axis T1 extends from the inside to the outside of the knitted sock and is transverse to the longitudinal axis (L) of the knitted sock, possibly substantially perpendicular to said axis (L).

[0083] In a variation of the embodiment, at least one of the knitted inner fixing region and the knitted outer fixing region comprises a plurality of knitted through-holes, and preferably each of the knitted inner fixing region and the knitted outer fixing region comprises a plurality of knitted through-holes.

[0084] Advantageously, the periphery of each through-hole comprises a portion of the knitted lateral edge and the knitted medial edge of the knitted trapezoidal back, and a portion of the knitted lateral edge and the knitted medial edge of the knitted trapezoidal plantar portion, and optionally one or two knitted segments extending between the lateral edge and the medial edge of the back and the lateral edge and the medial edge of the plantar portion.

[0085] Preferably, at least one dimension of at least one through hole (optionally each through hole) is greater than or equal to 1 mm, in particular greater than or equal to 3 mm, more in particular less than or equal to 8 mm.

[0086] The size of the holes is preferably measured on the foot with the knitted sock slightly tensioned.

[0087] Advantageously, the through holes provided on the inner side and the outer side of the knitted sock improve the mobility of the trapezoidal back portion relative to the trapezoidal metatarsal portion.

[0088] In a variation of the embodiment, the knitted inner fixing area and the knitted outer fixing area do not comprise through holes.

[0089] In a variant of embodiment, the medial and lateral edges of the knitted trapezoidal back are in direct contact with the medial and lateral edges of the knitted trapezoidal metatarsal portion, in particular over all or part of the length of said edges.

[0090] In particular, in this case the inner fixing region and the outer fixing region do not comprise a through-hole in the region adjoining the inner edge or the outer edge.

[0091] In one variation of an embodiment, a knitted sock includes a knitted trapezoidal lower heel portion and a knitted trapezoidal upper heel portion, which are secured by a knitted auxiliary medial securing region and a knitted auxiliary lateral securing region.

[0092] Advantageously, the trapezoidal lower and upper heel portions form a pocket for receiving the heel.

[0093] Preferably, the pocket housing the heel has a generally trapezoidal shape.

[0094] In a variation of the embodiment, the trapezoidal lower heel portion is knitted from a proximal end of the knitted trapezoidal metatarsal portion, in particular, is continuous with the proximal end of the knitted trapezoidal metatarsal portion.

[0095] In a variation of the embodiment, the proximal end of the knitted trapezoidal upper heel portion and the proximal end of the knitted trapezoidal back portion are adjacent and connected by knitting, in particular by knitting of at least one row of circular knitting stitches.

[0096] In one variation of an embodiment, the knitted sock includes at least one portion that is knitted with multiple rows of circular stitches, and the knitted portion extends in a midfoot region of the knitted sock.

[0097] In particular, the portion knitted with a plurality of rows of circular stitches is arranged between the toe region and the heel region.

[0098] In a variant of an embodiment, the knitted sock comprises at least one dorsal or metatarsal auxiliary through-hole which is knitted and has a knitted border, extending in particular in the midfoot region of the knitted sock.

[0099] In particular, at least one dimension of the auxiliary through hole is greater than or equal to 10 mm or 20 mm, in particular greater than or equal to 30 mm or 40 mm, in particular less than or equal to 60 mm.

[0100] The auxiliary through-hole preferably has a rounded (in particular circular or oval) shape.

[0101] The auxiliary hole has the function of improving the comfort, proprioception and ventilation of the socks.

[0102] In one embodiment, the auxiliary through-holes comprise one or more rows of circular knit stitches.

[0103] Preferably, the knitted sock comprises a hole for introducing a foot into a foot receiving volume of the knitted sock, which hole is different from the auxiliary through-hole.

[0104] In one embodiment, the secondary through-holes are defined by a circular knit border.

[0105] In one embodiment, the auxiliary through-holes are provided in a knitted tubular portion provided in the midfoot region, in particular the tubular portion comprising a plurality of rows of circular stitches.

[0106] In particular, the knitted tubular portion comprising a plurality of rows of circular stitches is arranged between the knitted trapezoidal back and the knitted trapezoidal metatarsal portion on the one hand and the heel region on the other hand.

[0107] In a variation of the embodiment, the knitted trapezoidal metatarsal portion and the knitted trapezoidal dorsal portion as well as the knitted medial fastening region and the knitted lateral fastening region extend in the toe region and the midfoot region as far as the heel region.

[0108] Advantageously, the entire foot, except for the heel, is contained in the pocket formed by the knitted trapezoidal metatarsal portion and the knitted trapezoidal back portion.

[0109] This arrangement enhances the advantages mentioned above because they are present over the entire foot, that is to say from the toe end up to the ankle: the sock conforms better to the foot and has better ergonomics, the main trapezoidal knitted pocket comprises very little or no elastic yarn, it is easier to recycle when the sock does not comprise elastic yarn, the arrangement avoids the formation of wrinkles and therefore creates little or no friction with the foot (in particular avoiding the formation of blisters).

[0110] In a variation of the embodiment, the knitted trapezoidal plantar portion and the knitted trapezoidal back portion comprise up to 16%, preferably up to (or less than) 10%, more preferably up to 6% or 5% by mass of one or more elastomeric yarns, optionally excluding any elastomeric yarn.

[0111] In particular, the mass fraction made of elastomeric yarn in the knitted trapezoidal plantar part and the knitted trapezoidal back part is greater than or equal to 0%.

[0112] Advantageously, because the trapezoidal dorsal and metatarsal portions extend and cover a large portion of the foot, the sock does not need to use elastomeric yarns to perfectly adjust to the shape of the foot.

[0113] As used herein, "elastomeric yarn" refers to any yarn comprising a natural elastomeric (eg, rubber) or synthetic (eg, polyurethane, such as spandex or lycra) material.

[0114] In a variant of the embodiment, the mass fraction of elastic yarn, in particular elastomeric yarn, in the knitted trapezoidal plantar part and the knitted trapezoidal back is greater than or equal to 0% and less than or equal to 16%, in particular less than or equal to 10%, more particularly less than or equal to 6% or 5%.

[0115] "Elastic yarn" means any yarn having an elongation at break greater than or equal to 50%, specifically greater than or equal to 80%, more specifically greater than or equal to 100%.

[0116] The mass fraction made of elastic yarn in the knitted trapezoidal plantar portion and the knitted trapezoidal back portion is a ratio of the total mass made of elastic yarn to the total mass of the knitted trapezoidal plantar portion and the knitted trapezoidal back portion.

[0117] According to a second aspect, the invention relates to a method for knitting a knitted sock, in particular according to any of the variants of embodiment with reference to the first aspect of the invention, in particular a knitted sock for playing sports, the knitted sock comprising a toe area, a midfoot area and a heel area, and optionally a leg area, the method advantageously comprising:

[0118] - step (B), knitting a trapezoidal back or trapezoidal plantar part by progressively reducing the number of knitting stitches in each row of stitches; in particular, reducing the number of knitting stitches in each row of stitches at least every other row of stitches;

[0119] - step (C), knitting the trapezoidal plantar portion or the trapezoidal back portion from the distal end of the knitted trapezoidal back portion or the knitted trapezoidal plantar portion by gradually increasing the number of knitting stitches in each row of stitches; in particular, increasing the number of knitting stitches in each row of stitches at least every other row of stitches;

[0120] - step (D), knitting out the outer fixing area and the inner fixing area, which fix the knitted trapezoidal back and the knitted trapezoidal plantar part along their respective outer edges and inner edges, the knitting of the outer fixing area and the inner fixing area being performed progressively during the knitting step (C);

[0121] - knitting the knitted trapezoidal back and the knitted trapezoidal metatarsal portion and the knitted medial and lateral fixation regions to extend in the toe region of the knitted sock and at least partially in the midfoot region of the knitted sock; and

[0122] - The method further comprises the step (A) of knitting a hole, said hole opening into a foot receiving space of the sock.

[0123] In one embodiment, the knitting step (A) is a step of knitting a hole for introducing a foot into a foot receiving volume of the knitted sock, and step (A) is performed before step (B).

[0124] In one embodiment, the knitting step (A) is a step of knitting auxiliary through holes, in particular as described below, and the knitting step (A) is performed before the step (B) of knitting a trapezoidal back or a trapezoidal plantar part or after the step (D).

[0125] Preferably, step (C) is performed after step (B).

[0126] Preferably, "progressively increasing and decreasing the number of stitches in each row of stitches" means that the number of stitches from one row of stitches to the next row of stitches increases, decreases or is equal. In particular, the number of rows of stitches on which the increased / decreased stitches are distributed is determined according to the desired shape of the dorsal or plantar trapezoid.

[0127] Preferably, during the knitting step (D), the outer fixing area and the inner fixing area are knitted when the trapezoidal plantar (or dorsal) portion is knitted, and its outer edge is connected to the outer edge of the trapezoidal dorsal (or plantar) portion by knitting, and its inner edge is connected to the inner edge of the trapezoidal dorsal (or plantar) portion by knitting.

[0128] Preferably, the knitting method is carried out on a circular knitting machine, for example the one manufactured by the company Lonati with reference number 616DF3.

[0129] In one embodiment, the hole leading to the foot receiving volume of the sock is a hole for introducing a foot into the sock receiving volume, in particular the foot introduction hole comprises / is formed by a plurality of rows of circular knitting stitches.

[0130] In another embodiment, the hole leading to the foot accommodating volume of the sock is an auxiliary through hole, in particular, the auxiliary through hole comprises / is formed by a plurality of rows of circular knitting stitches. Preferably, in this case, the method further comprises the step of knitting a hole for introducing a foot into the foot accommodating volume of the sock, more preferably, the introduction hole comprises / is formed by a plurality of rows of circular knitting stitches.

[0131] In a variation of the embodiment, the step (A) of knitting the hole into the foot-receiving volume is performed before the knitting step (B).

[0132] Advantageously, the hole is a hole for introducing the foot into the inner volume of the sock.

[0133] In one variation of the embodiment, a trapezoidal back is knitted using multiple rows of back stitches knitted back and forth.

[0134] In a variation of the embodiment, a trapezoidal plantar portion is knitted using multiple rows of plantar portion stitches knitted back and forth.

[0135] Advantageously, it will be appreciated that the trapezoidal back and the trapezoidal plantar part are knitted by moving two rows of stitches back and forth on the circular needle bed, which can also be referred to in the art as front-to-back knitting. Thus, the knitting back and forth of the needles is not performed by following the entire circumference of the circular needle bed, but by knitting only on a portion of the needles of the circular needle bed.

[0136] In a variant of the embodiment, the knitting step (A) is a step of circular knitting a hole for introducing a foot into an internal foot-receiving volume of the knitted sock.

[0137] In an alternative variation of the embodiment, the knitting step (A) is a step of knitting (particularly circular knitting) a plantar or dorsal auxiliary through-hole leading to an inner foot-accommodating volume of the knitted sock, the auxiliary through-hole extending in the midfoot region of the knitted sock.

[0138] Preferably, the step (A) of knitting the auxiliary through holes is performed before the knitting step (B) or after the knitting step (D).

[0139] In particular, the knitting step (A) comprises knitting a knitted border around the periphery of the auxiliary through-hole, in particular, the knitted border being closed on itself and / or having a substantially circular shape.

[0140] "Back auxiliary holes" means that the knitted sock includes auxiliary holes facing the back / top of the foot, and "plantar auxiliary holes" means that the knitted sock includes auxiliary holes facing the bottom / underside of the foot.

[0141] In a sub-variation of the embodiment, the method further comprises the step (E) of circularly knitting a hole for introducing a foot into an interior foot-receiving volume of the knitted sock.

[0142] Advantageously, the foot introduction aperture is different from the metatarsal auxiliary through-aperture or the dorsal auxiliary through-aperture.

[0143] Preferably, knitting step (E) is performed after knitting step (A), in particular after step (D), in particular after the step of knitting a heel pocket and / or after step (F) of knitting a tubular midfoot or leg portion.

[0144] In one embodiment, the knitting step (E) is performed before the knitting step (A) and before the knitting step (B).

[0145] Preferably, in this case, the knitting of the foot lead-in hole is started and the knitting of the auxiliary through hole is completed.

[0146] In a variant of the embodiment, the method comprises the step (F) of circularly knitting a tubular portion comprising a plurality of rows of circular knit stitches in the midfoot region or in the leg region.

[0147] The tubular portion may be disposed between the trapezoidal back and trapezoidal metatarsal and heel regions of the sock, particularly in the midfoot region.

[0148] The tubular portion may be arranged between the hole for introducing the foot into the inner volume of the sock and the heel area, in particular in the leg area.

[0149] In a variant of the embodiment, the knitting method comprises, in particular in the following order:

[0150] - step (A), circularly knitting a portion comprising a plurality of rows of circular knitted stitches (p in ) to form a hole for introducing a foot into the foot receiving volume of the knitted sock; in particular, step (A) corresponds to step (E) defined above;

[0151] - Optional step (F) of circularly knitting a tubular portion comprising a plurality of rows of circular knit stitches (p j ) to form a leg portion extending in the leg region of the knitted sock;

[0152] - In particular:

[0153] - each row of stitches of the tubular portion is obtained by knitting stitches on a circular needle bed of a circular knitting machine; and / or

[0154] - Tubular part (p j )'s height is determined by the number of rows of knitted stitches;

[0155] - Optionally, the tubular portion (p j ) or tubular part (p in ) is suspended on part of the needles of a circular needle bed, in particular of a knitting machine;

[0156] - step (B), knitting a trapezoidal back or a trapezoidal plantar part by gradually reducing the number of knitting stitches per row of stitches;

[0157] - In particular:

[0158] - knitting a plurality of rows of stitches of a trapezoidal back or a trapezoidal plantar part from front to back (or that is to say, by making a back and forth movement on a part of the needles of the circular needle bed of the knitting machine); and / or

[0159] - the knitting step (B) comprises knitting a tubular portion (p j ) or (p in ) is particularly provided on a circular needle bed of a knitting machine;

[0160] - step (C), knitting a trapezoidal plantar portion or a knitted trapezoidal back portion from a distal end of the knitted trapezoidal back portion or the knitted trapezoidal plantar portion by gradually increasing the number of knitted stitches per row of stitches;

[0161] - in particular, knitting a plurality of rows of stitches of a trapezoidal plantar part or a trapezoidal back part from front to back (that is to say, by making a back and forth movement on a circular needle bed of a knitting machine);

[0162] - step (D) of knitting out lateral and medial fixing areas which fix the knitted trapezoidal back and the knitted trapezoidal plantar portion along their respective lateral and medial edges, the knitting of the lateral and medial fixing areas being performed progressively during step (C) of knitting out the trapezoidal plantar portion or the trapezoidal back; and

[0163] - the knitted trapezoidal back and the knitted trapezoidal metatarsal portion and the knitted medial fixing area and the knitted lateral fixing area are knitted to extend in the toe area and at least partially in the midfoot area of ​​the knitted sock, or in the midfoot area up to the border of the heel area;

[0164] - optional step (G), knitting by progressively reducing the number of knitting stitches per row of stitches

[0165] The trapezoidal lower heel area, especially:

[0166] - Start at the proximal end of the knitted trapezoid, and / or

[0167] - knitting the rows of stitches of the trapezoidal lower heel from front to back (that is, by making a back and forth movement on the circular needle bed of the knitting machine), and / or

[0168] - knitting a trapezoidal lower heel portion from a first end to a second end, wherein the first end of the trapezoidal lower heel portion is adjacent to a proximal end of the knitted trapezoidal plantar portion;

[0169] - optional step (H), knitting by progressively increasing the number of knitting stitches per row of stitches

[0170] The upper heel part of the trapezoid;

[0171] - In particular:

[0172] - starting from the second end of the knitted trapezoidal lower heel portion, and / or

[0173] - knitting the rows of stitches of the trapezoidal upper heel from front to back (that is, by making a back and forth movement on the circular needle bed of the knitting machine);

[0174] - optionally, step (I) of knitting an additional lateral fixing area and an additional medial fixing area, said additional lateral fixing area and additional medial fixing area fixing the knitted trapezoidal upper heel portion and the knitted trapezoidal lower heel portion along their respective lateral edges and medial edges, said knitting of said additional lateral fixing area and additional medial fixing area being performed progressively during step (H) of knitting the trapezoidal upper heel portion;

[0175] - Optionally, by aligning the heel portion of the trapezoid with the tubular portion (p j ) or (p in ) is a step of knitting stitches in the continuous part of the paused stitches to close the knitted socks.

[0176] Preferably, this variant corresponds to a knitted sock in which the medial and lateral fastening regions extend in the toe region and in the midfoot region up to the border of the heel region.

[0177] Knitted socks may include a knitted or non-knitted leg portion, the height of which varies depending on the ultimate function of the sock.

[0178] In a variant of the embodiment, the knitting method comprises, in particular, in the following order:

[0179] - step (A), circularly knitting a portion comprising a plurality of rows of circular knitted stitches (p in) to form a hole for introducing a foot into the foot receiving volume of the knitted sock; in particular, step (A) corresponds to step (E) defined above;

[0180] - Optional step (F) of circularly knitting a tubular portion comprising a plurality of rows of circular knit stitches (p j ) to form a leg portion extending in the leg region of the knitted sock;

[0181] - In particular:

[0182] - each row of stitches of the tubular portion is obtained by knitting stitches on a circular needle bed of a circular knitting machine; and / or

[0183] - Tubular part (p j )'s height is determined by the number of rows of knitted stitches;

[0184] - The tubular part (p j ) or tubular part (p in ) is particularly a step in which a portion of a stitch of a knitting machine is paused on a portion of a needle of a circular needle bed of a knitting machine;

[0185] - step (G), by progressively reducing the number of knitted stitches per row of stitches, in particular from part (p j ) or (p in ) stitches, especially the part that is not left as a pause, knit out the trapezoidal upper heel part,

[0186] - In particular:

[0187] - knitting the rows of stitches of the trapezoidal upper heel from front to back (that is, by making a back and forth movement on the circular needle bed of the knitting machine), and / or

[0188] - knitting a trapezoidal upper heel portion from the first end to the second end;

[0189] - step (H), knitting a trapezoidal lower heel portion by gradually increasing the number of knitting stitches in each row of stitches,

[0190] - In particular:

[0191] - knitting a trapezoidal lower heel portion from a first end to a second end, wherein the first end of the knitted trapezoidal lower heel portion is adjacent to the second end of the trapezoidal upper heel portion, and / or

[0192] - starting from the second end of the knitted trapezoidal upper heel portion, and / or

[0193] - knitting the rows of stitches of the trapezoidal lower heel from front to back (that is, by making a back and forth movement on the circular needle bed of the knitting machine);

[0194] - step (I) of knitting an additional lateral fixing area and an additional medial fixing area, said additional lateral fixing area and additional medial fixing area fixing said knitted trapezoidal upper heel portion and said knitted trapezoidal lower heel portion along their respective lateral edges and medial edges, said knitting of said additional lateral fixing area and additional medial fixing area being performed progressively during step (H) of knitting the trapezoidal lower heel portion;

[0195] - knitting a tubular portion comprising a plurality of rows of circular stitches extending in the midfoot region (p mp ) steps;

[0196] - In particular, by knitting out all or part of the stitches of the knitted trapezoidal lower heel portion and the tubular portion (p j ) or (p in ) and all or part of the pins suspended;

[0197] - step (B), knitting a trapezoidal back or a trapezoidal plantar part by gradually reducing the number of knitting stitches per row of stitches;

[0198] - In particular:

[0199] - knitting a plurality of rows of stitches of a trapezoidal back or a trapezoidal plantar part from front to back (or that is to say, by making a back and forth movement on a part of the needles of the circular needle bed of the knitting machine); and / or

[0200] - the knitting step (B) comprises knitting a tubular portion (p mp ) is particularly arranged on a circular needle bed of some needle feet, in particular part (p mp )'s pins are suspended;

[0201] - step (C), knitting a trapezoidal plantar portion or a trapezoidal back portion from a distal end of the knitted trapezoidal back portion or the knitted trapezoidal plantar portion by gradually increasing the number of knitted stitches per row of stitches;

[0202] - in particular, knitting a plurality of rows of stitches of a trapezoidal plantar part or a trapezoidal back part from front to back (that is to say, by making a back and forth movement on a circular needle bed of a knitting machine);

[0203] - step (D), knitting out the outer fixing area and the inner fixing area, which fix the knitted trapezoidal back and the knitted trapezoidal plantar part along their respective outer edges and inner edges, and the knitting of the outer fixing area and the inner fixing area is carried out progressively during step (C) of knitting the trapezoidal plantar part or the trapezoidal back;

[0204] - the knitted trapezoidal back and the knitted trapezoidal metatarsal portion and the knitted medial fixing area and the knitted lateral fixing area are knitted to extend in the toe area of ​​the knitted sock and at least partially in the midfoot area;

[0205] - Optionally, by knitting a trapezoidal plantar part and a knitted trapezoidal back with a tubular part (p mp ) is a step of knitting stitches in the continuous part of the paused stitches to close the knitted socks.

[0206] This variant advantageously corresponds to a knitted sock in which the medial and lateral fastening regions extend in the toe region and in the midfoot region.

[0207] In another variant of the embodiment, the knitting method comprises, in particular, in the following sequence:

[0208] - step (A) of knitting, in particular circular knitting, an auxiliary through-hole intended to lead to a foot-receiving volume of the knitted sock;

[0209] - step (B), knitting a trapezoidal back or a trapezoidal plantar part by gradually reducing the number of knitting stitches per row of stitches;

[0210] - in particular, knitting a plurality of rows of stitches of a trapezoidal back or trapezoidal plantar part from front to back (or that is to say, by making a back and forth movement on a circular needle bed of a knitting machine);

[0211] - performing the knitting step (A) before the knitting step (B) or after the knitting step (D) described below. - step (C) of knitting a trapezoidal plantar portion or a trapezoidal back portion from a distal end of the knitted trapezoidal back portion or the knitted trapezoidal plantar portion by gradually increasing the number of knitted stitches per row of stitches;

[0212] - in particular, knitting the rows of stitches of the trapezoidal plantar part from front to back (or that is to say, by making a back and forth movement on the circular needle bed of the knitting machine);

[0213] - step (D), knitting out the outer fixing area and the inner fixing area, the outer fixing area and the inner fixing area fixing the knitted trapezoidal back and the knitted trapezoidal plantar part along their respective outer edges and inner edges, the knitting of the outer fixing area and the inner fixing area being performed progressively during step (C) of knitting out the trapezoidal plantar part or the trapezoidal back;

[0214] - the trapezoidal back and the trapezoidal metatarsal portion and the knitted medial and lateral fastening regions are knitted to extend in the toe region of the knitted sock and at least partially in the midfoot region;

[0215] - Optional step (F), circular knitting a tubular portion comprising a plurality of rows of circular stitches (p mp ) to form a midfoot portion extending in the midfoot region of the knitted sock;

[0216] - In particular, the tubular portion is obtained by knitting stitches on a circular needle bed (pmp ) of each row of pins; and / or tubular portion (p mp )'s length is determined by the number of rows of knitted stitches;

[0217] - Optionally, the tubular portion (p mp ) steps to pause some of the pins;

[0218] - in particular on circular needle beds of knitting machines;

[0219] - step (G), knitting a trapezoidal lower heel portion by gradually reducing the number of knitting stitches in each row of stitches;

[0220] - In particular:

[0221] - Start at the proximal end of the knitted trapezoid, and / or

[0222] - From the tubular part (p mp ), in particular a portion of a needle bed of a knitting machine, and / or

[0223] - knitting the rows of stitches of the trapezoidal lower heel from front to back (that is, by making a back and forth movement on the circular needle bed of the knitting machine), and / or

[0224] - a trapezoidal lower heel portion is knitted from the first end to the second end, the first end of the trapezoidal lower heel portion being connected to the proximal end or tubular portion of the knitted trapezoidal plantar portion (p mp ) are adjacent to the proximal ends of some of the stitches;

[0225] - step (H), knitting a trapezoidal upper heel portion by gradually increasing the number of knitting stitches in each row of stitches;

[0226] - In particular:

[0227] - starting from the second end of the knitted trapezoidal lower heel portion, and / or

[0228] - knitting a plurality of rows of stitches of the trapezoidal upper heel from front to back (that is, by making a back and forth movement on the second needle bed of the knitting machine);

[0229] - step (I) of knitting an additional lateral fixing area and an additional medial fixing area, which fix the knitted trapezoidal upper heel portion and the knitted trapezoidal lower heel portion along their respective lateral edges and medial edges, the knitting of the additional lateral fixing area and the additional medial fixing area being performed progressively during step (H) of knitting the trapezoidal upper heel portion;

[0230] - Optionally, by aligning the heel portion of the trapezoid with the tubular portion (p mp) and a step of knitting stitches in a continuous portion of the stitches of the paused stitches or the trapezoidal back stitches to close the knitted sock; - optionally, a step (F) of circular knitting a tubular portion (P) comprising a plurality of rows of circular knitted stitches. j ) to form a leg portion extending in the leg region of the knitted sock;

[0231] - Step (E) of circularly knitting a hole for introducing a foot into a foot-receiving volume of the knitted sock.

[0232] In a variant of the embodiment, the knitting method comprises, in particular in the following order:

[0233] - Step (A), circular knitting a portion comprising a plurality of rows of circular knitted stitches (p in ) to form a hole for introducing a foot into the foot receiving volume of the knitted sock; in particular, step (A) corresponds to step (E) defined above;

[0234] - Optional step (F), circular knitting a tubular portion comprising a plurality of rows of circular knit stitches (p j ) to form a leg portion extending in the leg region of the knitted sock;

[0235] - In particular:

[0236] - each row of stitches of the tubular portion is obtained by knitting stitches on a circular needle bed of a circular knitting machine, and / or

[0237] - Tubular part (p j )'s height is determined by the number of rows of knitted stitches.

[0238] - Optionally, the tubular portion (p j ) or tubular part (p in ) is a step in which a portion of the stitches is paused on a portion of the needles of a circular needle bed of a knitting machine;

[0239] - step (H), knitting a trapezoidal upper heel portion by gradually reducing the number of knitting stitches in each row of stitches;

[0240] - In particular:

[0241] - From the tubular part (p j ) or tubular part (p in ) and / or - knitting a plurality of rows of stitches of the trapezoidal upper heel portion from front to back (that is, by moving back and forth on the circular needle bed of the knitting machine), and / or

[0242] - a trapezoidal upper heel portion is knitted from the first end to the second end, wherein the first end of the trapezoidal upper heel portion is connected to the tubular portion (p j ) or tubular part (p in)'s parts are adjacent to each other;

[0243] - step (G), knitting a trapezoidal lower heel portion by gradually increasing the number of knitting stitches in each row of stitches;

[0244] - In particular:

[0245] - Starting from the second end of the upper heel portion of the trapezoid, and / or

[0246] - knitting the rows of stitches of the trapezoidal lower heel from front to back (that is, by making a back and forth movement on the circular needle bed of the knitting machine), and / or

[0247] - knitting a trapezoidal lower heel portion from the first end to the second end, wherein the first end of the trapezoidal lower heel portion is adjacent to the second end of the trapezoidal upper heel portion;

[0248] - step (I) of knitting an additional lateral fixing area and an additional medial fixing area, which fix the knitted trapezoidal upper heel portion and the knitted trapezoidal lower heel portion along their respective lateral edges and medial edges, the knitting of the additional lateral fixing area and the additional medial fixing area being performed progressively during step (G) of knitting the trapezoidal lower heel portion;

[0249] - Optional step (F), circular knitting a tubular portion comprising a plurality of rows of circular knit stitches (p mp ) to form a midfoot portion extending in the midfoot region of the knitted sock;

[0250] - In particular:

[0251] - by knitting out the needle for the tubular portion (P j ) or for the tubular part (p in ) and all or part of the stitches of the lower heel of the trapezoid to obtain the tubular portion (p mp ), and / or

[0252] - Tubular part (p mp )'s length is determined by the number of rows of knitted stitches;

[0253] - step (C), knitting a trapezoidal plantar part or a trapezoidal back from the knitted trapezoidal lower heel part by gradually reducing the number of knitted stitches in each row of stitches;

[0254] - In particular:

[0255] - knitting the rows of stitches of the trapezoidal sole from front to back (that is, by making a back and forth movement on the circular needle bed of the knitting machine);

[0256] - step (B), knitting a trapezoidal back or trapezoidal plantar part by gradually increasing the number of knitting stitches per row of stitches;

[0257] - In particular:

[0258] - knitting a plurality of rows of stitches from front to back (or, that is, by making a back and forth movement on the circular needle bed of the knitting machine) on the trapezoidal back or on the trapezoidal plantar part;

[0259] - step (D), knitting out the outer fixing area and the inner fixing area, which fix the knitted trapezoidal back and the knitted trapezoidal plantar part along their respective outer edges and inner edges, and the knitting of the outer fixing area and the inner fixing area is carried out progressively during step (C) of knitting out the trapezoidal plantar part or the trapezoidal back;

[0260] - the knitted trapezoidal back and the knitted trapezoidal metatarsal portion and the knitted medial fixing area and the knitted lateral fixing area are knitted to extend in the toe area of ​​the knitted sock and at least partially in the midfoot area;

[0261] - A step (A) of knitting, in particular circular knitting, auxiliary through holes, which is performed after step (D).

[0262] According to a third aspect, the invention relates to a shoe upper comprising a knitted sock according to any of the variants and / or embodiments of the first aspect of the invention and / or comprising a knitted sock obtained by a knitting method according to the second aspect of the invention. Advantageously, the upper comprises at least one sock comprising one or more at least partially thermofusible yarns, in particular the knitted trapezoidal back and / or the knitted trapezoidal metatarsal and / or the heel pocket each comprising one or more thermofusible yarns.

[0263] The heat-fusible yarn is one or more heat-fusible yarns which have at least partially been subjected to a thermoforming or thermocompression process for shaping and possibly molding the upper.

[0264] According to a fourth aspect, the invention also relates to an article of footwear comprising a sole assembly and an upper according to the third aspect of the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0265] The invention will be better understood on reading the following examples according to the invention, which are mentioned in a non-limiting manner and are illustrated by the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0266] [ Figure 1 ] Figure 1 Schematically showing a top view of a first example of a knitted sock according to the present invention;

[0267] [ Figure 2 ] Figure 2 Schematically shows Figure 1 A substantially flat inner side view of a knitted sock;

[0268] [ Figure 3 ] Figure 3 Schematically showing the arrangement on the foot-shaped preform Figure 1 and Figure 2 An inner side view of a knitted sock;

[0269] [ Figure 4 ] Figure 4 Schematically shows Figures 1 to 3 The knitting diagram of the trapezoidal plantar part and the trapezoidal back part as well as the trapezoidal upper heel part and the trapezoidal lower heel part of the socks shown in ;

[0270] [ Figure 5 ] Figure 5 Schematically showing an outside view of a second example of a knitted sock according to the invention arranged on a foot-shaped preform;

[0271] [ Figure 6 ] Figure 6 Schematically shows Figure 5 A substantially flat outside view of the knitted sock shown in;

[0272] [ Figure 7 ] Figure 7 schematically illustrates a substantially flat medial side view of a third example of a knitted sock according to the present invention;

[0273] [ Figure 8 ] Figure 8 Schematically shows Figure 7 A substantially flat top view of a knitted sock;

[0274] [ Fig. 9 ] Fig. 9 Schematically showing the arrangement on the foot-shaped preform Figure 7 and Figure 8 An inner side view of a knitted sock;

[0275] [ Fig.10 ] Fig.10 Schematically showing the arrangement on the foot-shaped preform Figures 7 to 9 Rear view of knitted socks;

[0276] [ Fig.11 ] Fig.11 Schematically shows Figures 7 to 10 The knitting diagram of the trapezoidal metatarsal and trapezoidal back of the socks shown in;

[0277] [ Fig.12 ] Fig.12A fourth example of a medial side view of a knitted sock according to the invention arranged on a foot-shaped preform is schematically shown;

[0278] [ Fig.13 ] Fig.13 Schematically shows a variation of the knitted inner fixing area of ​​the fifth example of the knitted sock according to the present invention;

[0279] [ Fig.14 ] Fig.14 The knitting pattern of the trapezoidal metatarsal and trapezoidal back of a knitted sock is schematically shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0280] Figures 1 to 3 The first example of a knitted sock 1 shown in FIG. 1 comprises a toe region 5, a midfoot region 10 and a heel region 15. The knitted sock 1 comprises a knitted trapezoidal back 20 and a knitted trapezoidal metatarsal portion 30, which are fixed by a knitted medial fixing region 40 and a knitted lateral fixing region 50. The knitted trapezoidal back 20 and the knitted trapezoidal metatarsal portion 30 as well as the knitted medial fixing region 40 and the knitted lateral fixing region 50 extend in the toe region 5 and at least partially in the midfoot region 10, in particular in the midfoot region 10 up to the heel region 15.

[0281] The knitted trapezoidal back 20 includes an inner edge 21 and an outer edge 22, and the knitted trapezoidal metatarsal 30 includes an inner edge 31 and an outer edge 32 (see Figure 3 and Figure 4 ). The knitted trapezoidal back 20 and the knitted trapezoidal metatarsal portion 30 are fixed by knitted medial fixing areas 40 and knitted lateral fixing areas 50, in particular, the lateral edge 22 is fixed by knitting with the lateral edge 32 along a knitting line (not visible in the figure), and the medial edge 21 is fixed by knitting with the medial edge 31 along a knitting line 41. The knitting line 41 (or gore line) advantageously includes through holes 42, the size of which varies depending on the tension applied to the knitted binding yarn 45 extending between the back 20 and the metatarsal portion 30 and the type of stitch used for knitting fixing.

[0282] The knitted thread 41 or the medial fixing area 40 extends over a length L1 from the toe area 5, through the midfoot area 15 and up to the heel area 15. The sock 1 has a length L0 between its front edge and its rear edge. Figure 2 It can be seen that L1 is greater than or equal to L0*0.5, in particular, greater than or equal to L0*0.6.

[0283] The sock 1 also includes a foot introduction aperture 60 leading to a foot receiving space 70 .

[0284] The sock 1 comprises, in the heel region 15, a knitted trapezoidal lower heel portion 80 and a knitted trapezoidal upper heel portion 90, which are connected by a knitted auxiliary inner fixing area 100 and a knitted auxiliary outer fixing area (not visible in the figure). The trapezoidal lower heel portion 80 comprises an inner edge 81 and an outer edge 82, and the trapezoidal upper heel portion 90 comprises an inner edge 91 and an outer edge 92. The outer edges 82 and 92 are fixed by knitting along a knitting thread provided on the outer side of the sock 1, and the inner edges 81 and 91 are fixed by knitting along a knitting thread provided on the inner side of the sock 1.

[0285] The sock 1 may include a front gripping tab 2 and a rear gripping tab 4 that are knitted and knit-connected with the knitted foot lead-in hole 60 .

[0286] Advantageously, the knitted trapezoidal metatarsal portion 30 is folded over the knitted trapezoidal back portion 20 from the toe region 5 .

[0287] Advantageously, the toe end 35 of the knitted trapezoidal metatarsal portion 30 is knitted continuously with the toe end 25 of the knitted trapezoidal back portion 20 .

[0288] Advantageously, the knitted trapezoidal metatarsal portion 30 and the knitted trapezoidal back portion 20 together form a pocket 110 arranged to accommodate the toes and the midfoot of the foot and having substantially a generally trapezoidal shape.

[0289] The knitted trapezoidal back 20 extends between a proximal end 26 passing through the large base and a distal end 28 passing through the small base. The small base and the large base are connected by an inner edge 21 and an outer edge 22 that converge toward the distal end 28 (see Figure 4 ).

[0290] The shape of the trapezoidal foot portion 30 is inverted relative to the trapezoidal back portion 20. The knitted trapezoidal foot portion 30 extends between a proximal end 36 passing through a large base and a distal end 38 passing through a small base. The small base and the large base are connected by an inner edge 31 and an outer edge 32 that converge toward the distal end 38.

[0291] Advantageously, the trapezoidal metatarsal portion 30 and the trapezoidal back portion 20 are symmetrical to each other along a transverse symmetry axis T1 passing between the distal ends 28 and 38 of the knitted trapezoidal back portion 20 and 30 , the axis T1 preferably being secant with the longitudinal axis L of the sock 1 .

[0292] Preferably, the rows of stitches of the back 20 and the metatarsal portion 30 and the lower heel portion 80 and the upper heel portion 90 extend along an axis X, and the rows of stitches of the back 20 and the metatarsal portion 30 and the lower heel portion 80 and the upper heel portion 90 extend along an axis Y, axes X and Y being substantially perpendicular. Preferably, the knitted sock 1 is obtained by a knitting method comprising the following steps, in particular carried out in the following order on a circular knitting machine comprising a circular needle bed:

[0293] - Step (A), circular knitting a portion comprising a plurality of rows of stitches (p in ) to form a hole 60 for introducing a foot into the foot receiving space of the knitted sock 1;

[0294] - optionally, knitting out the front tab 2 and / or the rear tab 3, in particular during the circular knitting step (A);

[0295] - The tubular part (p in ) is particularly suspended on a circular needle bed of a knitting machine;

[0296] - Step (B) of knitting the trapezoidal back 20 by progressively reducing the number of knitted stitches per row, in particular in the direction of the arrow F1, in particular in every other row of stitches. For example, a row of stitches at the level of the proximal end 26 comprises 80 to 150 stitches, while a row of stitches at the level of the distal end 28 comprises 30 to 60 stitches.

[0297] Advantageously, the rows of stitches of the trapezoidal back 20 are knitted from front to back (or that is to say by making a back and forth movement on the needle bed of the knitting machine). For example, one row of stitches is knitted from the inside edge 21 to the outside edge 22, and then the next row of stitches is knitted back from the outside edge 22 to the inside edge 21. Knitting is continued in this way up to the desired length of the back 20 and in accordance with the decreasing number of stitches applied from row to row.

[0298] The knitting step (B) comprises knitting the tubular portion (p in ), in particular, the back 20 is knitted in a continuation of partial stitches (that is, stitches that are not paused on the needle bed) arranged on a needle bed of a circular knitting machine.

[0299] - Step (C): knitting the trapezoidal plantar portion 30 from the distal end 28 of the knitted trapezoidal back 30 by progressively increasing the number of knitted stitches per row of stitches, in particular every other row of stitches. In particular, the rows of stitches of the trapezoidal plantar portion 30 are knitted from front to back (that is to say, by making a back and forth movement on the needle bed of the knitting machine). For example, a row of stitches is knitted from the inner edge 31 to the outer edge 32, and then the next row of stitches is knitted back from the outer edge 32 to the inner edge 31. Knitting is continued in this way until the desired length of the plantar portion 30 and according to the decreasing nature of the number of stitches applied from row to row. Advantageously, the number of stitches in the rows of stitches at the level of the proximal ends 26 and 36 is similar, and the number of stitches in the rows of stitches at the level of the distal ends 28 and 38 is also similar. Preferably, the progression of the increase in the number of stitches per row for the metatarsal portion 30 is carried out so as to form a knitted trapezoidal metatarsal portion symmetrical to the back portion 20 so as to be perfectly folded relative to the back portion.

[0300] - Step (D), knitting out the outer fixing area 50 and the inner fixing area 40, which are knitted along their respective outer edges 22, 32 and inner edges 21,

[0301] The knitted trapezoidal back 20 and the knitted trapezoidal plantar 30 are fixed by 31, and during the step (C) of knitting the trapezoidal plantar 30, the knitting of the lateral fixing area 50 and the medial fixing area 40 is progressively performed. Advantageously, at the end of each row of stitches of the plantar 30, the edge of the plantar 30 and the corresponding edge of the back 20 are knitted or non-knitted. The stitch pattern of the lateral fixing area 50 and the medial fixing area 40 makes it possible to define the number of through holes 42, their size and their distribution in the different areas 5, 10, 15 of the sock 1.

[0302] The knitted trapezoidal back 20 and the knitted trapezoidal metatarsal portion 30 as well as the knitted medial fixing region 40 and the knitted lateral fixing region 50 are knitted to extend in the toe region 5 and the midfoot region 10 of the knitted sock 1 as far as the heel region 15 .

[0303] - Step (G), in particular, knitting the trapezoidal lower heel portion 80 from at least part of the stitches of the proximal end 36 of the knitted trapezoidal plantar portion 30 by progressively increasing the number of knitted stitches per row of stitches. In particular, the rows of stitches of the trapezoidal lower heel portion 80 are knitted from front to back (that is, by making a back and forth movement between the inner edge 81 and the outer edge 82 on the needle bed of the knitting machine). Preferably, the trapezoidal lower heel portion 80 is knitted from the first end 83 to the second end 84, and in this specific example, the first end 83 of the trapezoidal lower heel portion 80 is adjacent to the proximal end 36 of the knitted trapezoidal plantar portion 30.

[0304] - Step (H), knitting the trapezoidal upper heel portion 90 by gradually increasing the number of knitted stitches per row of stitches, in particular, starting from the second end 84 of the knitted trapezoidal lower heel portion 80. The rows of stitches of the trapezoidal upper heel portion 90 are knitted equally between its inner edge 91 and its outer edge 92 from front to back (that is, by forming a back and forth movement on the needle bed of the knitting machine).

[0305] - step (I) of knitting an additional lateral fixing area (not visible in the figure) and an additional medial fixing area 100, which fix the knitted trapezoidal lower heel part 80 and the knitted trapezoidal upper heel part 90 at their respective lateral edges 82, 92 and medial edges 81, 91, the knitting of which is progressively performed during step (H) of knitting the trapezoidal upper heel part. In a similar manner to the knitting of the fixing areas 40, 50 for the back 20 and the plantar part 30, at the end of each row of knitted stitches of the upper heel part, the edge of the upper heel part and the corresponding edge of the lower heel part are knitted or not knitted.

[0306] - By connecting the heel portion 90 on the trapezoidal shape with the tubular portion (p in ) The step of knitting stitches in a continuous portion of all or part of the stitches while maintaining the pause to close the knitted socks.

[0307] Advantageously, the knitted trapezoidal back 20 comprises a distal end 28a and a proximal end 26a (see Figure 4 ), and the number of pins in a row of pins at the distal end 28a (a d ) is less than the number of pins in a row of pins at the proximal end 26a (b d ), in particular, the number a d Less than or equal to 0.50*b d For example, a d The range is 40 to 60 pins per row, b d The range is 120 to 150 pins per row.

[0308] Similarly, the knitted trapezoidal plantar portion 30 includes a distal end portion 38a and a proximal end portion 36a, and the number of stitches in a row of stitches of the distal end portion 38a (a P ) is less than the number of pins in a row of pins at the proximal end 36a (b p ), in particular, the number a P Less than or equal to 0.50*b p For example, a P The range is 40 to 60 pins per row, b p The range is 120 to 150 pins per row.

[0309] Advantageously, the number of stitches (k) in any row of stitches (n) knitted in the knitted trapezoidal back 20 is greater than or equal to the number of stitches (p) in the row of stitches (n+2) knitted after the row of stitches (n) according to the knitting direction indicated by the arrow F1, and the numbers n, p and k are integers other than 0.

[0310] The sock 1 thus obtained comprises a pocket 110 having a substantially trapezoidal shape and extending in the toe region 5 and the midfoot region 10 up to the beginning of the heel region 15. This arrangement makes it possible to obtain a sock that conforms to the foot without forming wrinkles that could generate friction. Furthermore, the trapezoidal back 20 moves freely on the instep without systematically driving the trapezoidal metatarsal 30, which improves comfort by avoiding the formation of wrinkles and allows the sock to conform to the foot regardless of how the foot moves, in particular when performing sports activities.

[0311] Advantageously, the shape of the trapezoidal pocket 110 housing the toes and midfoot makes it possible to not use elastomeric yarn in knitting the trapezoidal back and metatarsal parts ( 20 , 30 ). This arrangement makes it possible to limit the number of different materials in the sock 1 .

[0312] The sock 1 thus comprises textile materials that are more compatible with each other, which facilitates the recycling of the sock if they subsequently have to be converted. Figure 5 and Figure 6 A second example of a knitted sock 200 according to the invention is shown, which is similar to the sock 1 except that it comprises a leg portion (pj) knitted behind a hole for introducing a foot 260 into the sock receiving space 200 .

[0313] The knitted sock 200 also includes a knitted trapezoidal back 220 and a knitted trapezoidal plantar portion 230 secured by knitting in medial and lateral securing areas along their respective medial and lateral edges, and a trapezoidal lower heel portion 280 and an upper heel portion 290 secured by knitting in additional medial and lateral securing areas along their respective medial and lateral edges.

[0314] The method for knitting the sock 200 is similar to the method for knitting the sock 1, except that after the knitting step (A), the tubular portion (P) is circularly knitted by a plurality of rows of circular stitches. j ), and the pin placed on the pause is not the tubular portion for the lead-in pin (p in ) is not part of the stitching, but rather the tubular leg portion (p j ) part of the pins.

[0315] exist Figure 5In the figure, it is observed that through holes 242 are visible along the medial and lateral fixing areas, because they are slightly tensioned on the foot-shaped preform. These holes 242 facilitate the discharge of heat and sweat, which improves comfort.

[0316] Figures 7 to 11 The third example of a knitted sock 300 shown in FIG. 1 comprises a knitted trapezoidal back 320 and a knitted trapezoidal metatarsal 330, whose respective medial edges 321, 331 and lateral edges 322, 332 are secured by knitting in medial securing areas 340 and lateral securing areas 350. The sock 300 comprises an aperture for introducing a foot 360 into the accommodation volume of the sock 300, and a leg portion (p j )370.

[0317] The sock 300 also includes an auxiliary through-hole 375, which in this particular example is a dorsal auxiliary through-hole and is at least partially disposed in the trapezoidal back portion 320. In this example, the auxiliary through-hole 375 opens into the foot receiving volume of the sock 300 and is bounded by a circular knit border 376. In this example, the auxiliary through-hole 375 is substantially circular and has a width extending between the medial edge and the lateral edge, the width being, for example, approximately 40 mm to 50 mm.

[0318] The back 320 and the metatarsal portion 330 and the medial and lateral fastening regions 340 and 350 extend in the toe region 305 and partially extend into the midfoot region 310. The sock 300 includes a tubular portion 378 (p mp ), the tubular portion includes multiple rows of circular stitches and is arranged in the midfoot area 310 between the trapezoidal knit pocket formed by the back 320 and the plantar portion 330 and the heel area 315.

[0319] Advantageously, in addition to the advantages mentioned above regarding the trapezoidal pocket for accommodating the toes and part of the midfoot area, the auxiliary through-holes 375 also improve the evacuation of heat and sweat, and improve proprioception when performing certain physical activities (dance, fitness, etc.).

[0320] Preferably, the knitted sock 300 is obtained by a knitting method 30 comprising the following steps, carried out in the order described, on a circular knitting machine, in particular comprising a circular needle bed:

[0321] - Step (A), knitting, in particular circular knitting, of an auxiliary through hole 375 intended to open into the foot-receiving volume of the knitted sock 300 .

[0322] - Step (B), knitting the trapezoidal back 320 by progressively reducing the number of knitted stitches per row of stitches. In particular, rows of stitches of the trapezoidal back 320 are knitted from front to back (that is, by making a back and forth movement on the needle bed of the knitting machine) between the inner edge 321 and the outer edge 322. Knitting step (A) is performed before knitting step (B).

[0323] - Step (C), knitting a trapezoidal plantar portion 330 from the distal end 328 of the knitted trapezoidal back 320 by progressively increasing the number of knitting stitches per row of stitches. In particular, multiple rows of stitches of the trapezoidal plantar portion 330 are knitted from front to back (that is, by forming a back and forth movement on the needle bed of the knitting machine).

[0324] - Step (D), knitting out the lateral fixing area 350 and the medial fixing area 340, which fix the knitted trapezoidal back 320 and the knitted trapezoidal metatarsal portion 330 along their respective lateral edges 322, 332 and medial edges 321, 331, the knitting of the lateral fixing area 350 and the medial fixing area 340 being performed progressively during the step (C) of knitting the trapezoidal metatarsal portion. The knitted trapezoidal back 320 and the knitted trapezoidal metatarsal portion 330 and the knitted medial fixing area 340 and the knitted lateral fixing area 350 are knitted to extend in the toe region 305 of the knitted sock 300 and partially in the midfoot region 310.

[0325] - Step (F), circular knitting of the tubular portion (p mp )378, the tubular portion includes multiple rows of circular stitches to form a midfoot portion extending in the midfoot area 310 of the knitted sock 300.

[0326] Tubular part (p mp )378 The length is determined by the number of rows of knitted stitches.

[0327] - The tubular part (p mp ) A step in which some of the stitches of 378, particularly those arranged in the back of the foot, are paused on the needle bed of the knitting machine.

[0328] - step (G), by progressively increasing the number of knitted stitches per row of stitches, in particular, from the tubular portion (p mp ) Starting from all or part of the stitches of 378 that are not paused, knitting out the trapezoidal lower heel portion 380.

[0329] In particular, multiple rows of stitches of the trapezoidal lower heel portion 380 are knitted from front to back (that is, by forming a back and forth movement on the circular needle bed of the knitting machine). The trapezoidal lower heel portion 380 is knitted from the first end 383 to the second end 384 (see Fig.10), the first end 383 of the trapezoidal lower heel portion 380 and the tubular portion (p mp ) The proximal end 378a of the partial pin 378 is adjacent.

[0330] - Step (H), knitting the trapezoidal upper heel portion 390 by gradually increasing the number of knitting stitches in each row of stitches, in particular, starting from the second end 384 of the knitting trapezoidal lower heel portion 380 .

[0331] Specifically, a plurality of rows of stitches of the trapezoidal upper heel portion 390 are knitted from front to back.

[0332] -Step (I), knitting out an additional lateral fixing area 400 and an additional medial fixing area 405, the additional lateral fixing area and the additional medial fixing area fixing the knitted trapezoidal lower heel portion 380 and the knitted trapezoidal upper heel portion 390 along their respective lateral edges and medial edges, and knitting of the additional lateral fixing area and the additional medial fixing area (400, 405) is performed progressively during step (H) of knitting out the trapezoidal upper heel portion 390.

[0333] - By connecting the heel portion 390 on the trapezoidal shape with the tubular portion (p mp )378 and the step of knitting stitches in the continuous portion of the paused stitches to close the knitted sock 300.

[0334] - Optional step (F), circularly knitting a tubular portion (P j )370, the tubular portion includes multiple rows of circular knit stitches to form a leg portion extending in the leg area of ​​the knitted sock 300.

[0335] - Step (E), circularly knitting a hole 360 ​​for introducing a foot into the foot receiving volume of the knitted sock 300 .

[0336] Depending on the desired technical effect, the tubular portion (P j ) 370 or knit the tubular portion at a different height than shown. If there is no portion (P j )370, the introduction hole 360 ​​is basically set at the level of the ankle, above or below the ankle depending on the desired technical effect.

[0337] The method can alternatively begin with knitting out the foot lead-in hole and end with knitting out the auxiliary through-hole.

[0338] The fourth example of the knitted sock 500 includes a knitted trapezoidal back 520 and a knitted trapezoidal foot portion 530, the medial edges 521, 531 and the lateral edges (at Fig.12 The inner fixing area 540 and the outer fixing area are fixed by knitting.

[0339] The back 520 and the metatarsal portion 530 as well as the medial and lateral fastening regions 540 extend in the toe region 505 and partially extend in the midfoot region 510. The sock 500 includes a tubular portion (p mp )578, the tubular portion includes multiple rows of circular stitches and is arranged in the midfoot area 510 between the trapezoidal knit pocket formed by the back 520 and the plantar side portion 530 and the heel area 515.

[0340] Preferably, the knitted sock 500 is obtained by a knitting method comprising the following steps, carried out in the order described, in particular on a circular knitting machine comprising a circular needle bed:

[0341] - Step (E), circularly knitting a hole 560 for introducing a foot into the foot receiving volume of the knitted sock 500 .

[0342] - Optional step (F), circularly knitting a tubular portion (p j )570, the tubular portion includes multiple rows of circular knit stitches to form a leg portion extending in the leg region of the knitted sock.

[0343] - Optionally, the tubular portion (p mp )The portion of the pin 570 is placed in a pause step.

[0344] - step (H), by progressively reducing the number of knitted stitches per row of stitches, in particular, from the tubular portion (p j ) 570, especially the part stitches that are not left for pause, knit out the trapezoidal upper heel portion 590. From front to back, from the first end to the second end, knit out multiple rows of stitches of the trapezoidal upper heel portion 590.

[0345] - Step (G), knitting the trapezoidal lower heel portion 580 by gradually increasing the number of knitting stitches per row of stitches, in particular, starting from the second end of the trapezoidal upper heel portion 590. Multiple rows of stitches of the trapezoidal lower heel portion 580 are knitted from front to back. The trapezoidal lower heel portion 580 is knitted from the first end to the second end, and the first end of the trapezoidal lower heel portion is adjacent to the second end of the trapezoidal upper heel portion.

[0346] -Step (I), knitting out an additional lateral fixing area and an additional medial fixing area, the additional lateral fixing area and the medial fixing area fixing the knitted trapezoidal lower heel portion 580 and the knitted trapezoidal upper heel portion 590 along their respective lateral edges and medial edges, the knitting of the additional lateral fixing area and the additional medial fixing area being performed progressively during the step (G) of knitting out the trapezoidal lower heel portion.

[0347] - Step (F), circularly knitting the tubular portion (p mp) 578, the tubular portion includes a plurality of rows of circular stitches to form a midfoot portion extending in the midfoot region of the knitted sock. In particular, the tubular portion (p) is obtained by knitting at least part of the stitches of the tubular portion 570 and at least part of the stitches of the trapezoidal lower heel portion 580. mp )578.

[0348] - Step (B), knitting the trapezoidal back 520 by progressively reducing the number of knitted stitches per row of stitches. In particular, the rows of stitches of the trapezoidal back 520 are knitted from front to back (that is, by forming a back and forth movement on the circular needle bed of the knitting machine). mp )

[0349] Partial stitches of 578 begin to knit out the back 520.

[0350] - Step (C), knitting the trapezoidal plantar portion 530 starting from the distal end 528 of the knitted trapezoidal back 520 by gradually increasing the number of knitting stitches per row of stitches. In particular, multiple rows of stitches of the trapezoidal plantar portion 530 are knitted from front to back (that is, by forming a back and forth movement on the circular needle bed of the loom).

[0351] -Step (D), knitting out the lateral fixing area and the medial fixing area 540, which fix the knitted trapezoidal back 520 and the knitted trapezoidal plantar part 530 along their respective lateral edges and medial edges, and the knitting of the lateral fixing area and the medial fixing area is carried out progressively during the step (C) of knitting out the trapezoidal plantar part.

[0352] - By connecting the trapezoidal metatarsal portion 530 and the tubular portion (p mp )The step of knitting stitches in the continuous part of the corresponding stitches of 578 to close the knitted sock 500.

[0353] Fig.13 A variation of the medial securing region 640 of the exemplary sock 600 is shown. The medial securing region 640 includes through holes 642 and is reinforced by at least one tying yarn 650 knitted in and extending between the knitted trapezoidal back 620 and the knitted trapezoidal metatarsal 630 in the medial region 640. The tying yarn is knitted together at the end of a row of stitches in the metatarsal 630 with one or more stitches of a corresponding row of stitches in the back 650 by forming one or more blocking stitches, such as one or more knots. The same arrangement can be applied to the lateral securing region.

[0354] Fig.14Shown is a knitting diagram of a knitted trapezoidal back 630 and a knitted trapezoidal plantar portion 620, which includes multiple rows of stitches knitted with a first yarn having a first color, alternating with multiple rows of stitches knitted with a second yarn having a second color. Every other row of stitches, a blocking stitch 635 (such as a knot) is formed between the inner edge 631 and the inner edge 621 to be fixed together. Similarly, the outer edge 622 is fixed by knitting a blocking stitch (such as a knot) to the outer edge 632. This pattern of combining the edges together makes it possible to enhance and therefore improve the strength of the inner and outer fixing areas.

Claims

1. A knitted sock (1, 200, 300, 500, 600) comprising a toe region (5, 305, 505), a midfoot region (10, 310, 510) and a heel region (15, 515), and optionally a leg region, characterized in that The knitted socks (1, 200, 300, 500, 600) include a knitted trapezoidal back (20, 220, 320, 520, 620) and a knitted trapezoidal plantar portion (30, 230, 330, 530, 630), wherein the knitted trapezoidal back and the knitted trapezoidal plantar portion are fixed by a knitted inner fixing area (40, 340, 540, 640) and a knitted outer fixing area (50, 350), and the The knitted trapezoidal back and the knitted trapezoidal plantar portion (20, 220, 320, 520, 620; 30, 230, 330, 530, 630) and the knitted medial fixing area and the knitted lateral fixing area (40, 340, 540, 640; 50, 350) extend in the toe area (5, 305, 505) and at least partially in the midfoot area (10, 310, 510).

2. The knitted socks (1, 200) according to claim 1, characterized in that: The knitted trapezoidal back and knitted trapezoidal plantar portion (20, 220; 30, 230) as well as the knitted medial and lateral fixing areas (40, 50) extend in the toe area (5) and the midfoot area (10) of the sock as far as the heel area (15).

3. The knitted socks (1, 200) according to claim 2, characterized in that: From the tubular part (p in or p mp or P j ) is knitted starting from at least part of the stitches of the knitted trapezoidal back (20, 220), the tubular portion comprising one or more rows of circular stitches and covering all or part of the ankle of the user.

4. The knitted socks (300, 500, 600) according to any one of claims 1 and 2, characterized in that: The knitted sock (1, 300, 500, 600) comprises at least one dorsal or metatarsal auxiliary through-hole (375) which is knitted and has a knitted border (376), in particular extending in the midfoot region (310) of the knitted sock.

5. The knitted sock (1, 200, 300, 500, 600) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: At least one of the knitted inner and outer fixing regions (40, 340, 540, 640; 50, 350) includes a plurality of knitted through holes (42, 242, 642).

6. The knitted sock (1, 200, 300, 500, 600) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that: The knitted trapezoidal back (20, 220, 320, 520, 620) is knitted with multiple rows of back stitches knitted back and forth, and the knitted trapezoidal plantar (30, 230, 330, 530, 630) is knitted with multiple rows of plantar stitches knitted back and forth.

7. The knitted sock (1, 200, 300, 500, 600) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that: The knitted trapezoidal metatarsal portion (30, 230, 330, 530, 630) includes a toe end (35), the knitted trapezoidal back portion (20, 220, 320, 520, 620) includes a toe end (25), and the toe end (35) of the knitted trapezoidal metatarsal portion (30, 230, 330, 530, 630) and the toe end (25) of the knitted trapezoidal back portion (20, 220, 320, 520, 620) are knitted continuously.

8. The knitted sock (1, 200, 300, 500, 600) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that: The knitted trapezoidal metatarsal portion (30, 230, 330, 530, 630) and the knitted trapezoidal back portion (20, 220, 320, 520, 620) together form a substantially trapezoidal shaped pocket (110) arranged to at least partially accommodate the toes of a foot and at least partially accommodate the midfoot region (10, 310, 510) of the foot.

9. The knitted sock (1, 200, 300, 500, 600) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that: The knitted trapezoidal back (20, 220, 320, 520, 620) comprises a distal end (28a) and a proximal end (26a), and the number of stitches in a row of stitches of the distal end (28a) is (a) d ) is smaller than the number of pins in a row of pins at the proximal end portion (26a) (b d ), in particular, the number a d Less than or equal to 0.50*b d .

10. The knitted sock (1, 200, 300, 500, 600) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that: The number of stitches (k) in any row of stitches (n) knitted in the knitted trapezoidal back (20, 220, 320, 520, 620) is greater than or equal to the number of stitches (p) in the row of stitches (n+2) knitted in the knitted trapezoidal back (20) following the row of stitches (n), and the numbers n, p and k are integers other than 0.

11. The knitted sock (1, 200, 300, 500, 600) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that: The knitted trapezoidal back (20, 220, 320, 520, 620) and the knitted trapezoidal metatarsal portion (30, 230, 330, 530, 630) are symmetrical along a transverse symmetry axis (T1) passing between a distal end (28) of the knitted trapezoidal back and a distal end (38) of the knitted trapezoidal metatarsal portion.

12. The knitted sock (1, 200, 300, 500, 600) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that: The knitted socks include a knitted trapezoidal lower heel portion (80, 280, 580) and a knitted trapezoidal upper heel portion (90, 290, 590), wherein the knitted trapezoidal lower heel portion and the knitted trapezoidal upper heel portion are connected via a knitted auxiliary inner fixing area (100) and a knitted auxiliary outer fixing area.

13. The knitted sock (300, 500, 600) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that: The knitted sock includes at least one portion (378, 578) knitted with multiple rows of circular stitches, and the knitted portion (378, 578) extends in a midfoot region (310, 510) of the knitted sock.

14. The knitted sock (1, 200, 300, 500, 600) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that: The knitted trapezoidal plantar portion (30, 230, 330, 530, 630) and the knitted trapezoidal back portion (20, 220, 320, 520, 620) include up to 16% by mass of one or more elastomeric yarns.

15. A method for knitting a knitted sock (1, 200, 300, 500, 600), in particular according to any one of claims 1 to 14, comprising a toe region (5, 305, 505), a midfoot region (10, 310, 510) and a heel region (15, 515), and optionally a leg region, characterized in that The method comprises: - step (B), knitting a trapezoidal back (20, 220, 320, 520, 620) or a trapezoidal plantar part (30, 230, 330, 530, 630) by gradually reducing the number of knitting stitches in each row of stitches; - step (C), knitting a trapezoidal plantar portion (30, 230, 330, 530, 630) or a trapezoidal back portion (20, 220, 320, 520, 620) from the distal end (28) of the knitted trapezoidal back portion or the knitted trapezoidal plantar portion by gradually increasing the number of knitted stitches per row of stitches; - step (D), knitting out an outer fixing area (50, 350) and an inner fixing area (40, 340, 540, 640), said outer fixing area and said inner fixing area fixing said knitted trapezoidal back or said knitted trapezoidal plantar part along their respective outer edges (32, 532) and inner edges (31, 531), said knitting (D) of said outer fixing area and said inner fixing area being performed progressively during the knitting step (C); - wherein the knitted trapezoidal back and knitted trapezoidal plantar portion (20, 220, 320, 520, 620; 30, 230, 330, 530, 630) and the knitted medial fixing area and the knitted lateral fixing area are knitted to extend in the toe region (5, 305, 505) of the knitted sock and at least partially in the midfoot region (10, 310, 510) of the knitted sock; - the method comprises a step (A) of knitting a hole (60, 260, 360, 375, 560) opening into a foot-receiving space of the sock.

16. The knitting method according to claim 15, characterized in that The knitting step (A) is performed before the knitting step (B).

17. The knitting method according to any one of claims 15 and 16, characterized in that The trapezoidal back (20, 220, 320, 520, 620) is knitted with multiple rows of back stitches knitted back and forth, and the trapezoidal plantar portion (30, 230, 330, 530, 630) is knitted with multiple rows of plantar portion stitches knitted back and forth.

18. The knitting method according to any one of claims 15 to 17, characterized in that The knitting step (A) is a step of circularly knitting a hole (60, 260, 560) for introducing a foot into an inner foot receiving space of the knitted sock.

19. The knitting method according to any one of claims 15 to 17, characterized in that The knitting step (A) is a step of knitting a back or plantar auxiliary through hole (375) leading to the inner foot accommodating space of the knitted socks, wherein the hole (375) extends in the midfoot area (310) of the knitted socks, and preferably, the hole (375) is at least partially arranged in the knitted trapezoidal back (320) or the knitted trapezoidal plantar (330).

20. The knitting method according to claim 19, characterized in that The method further comprises step (E): circularly knitting a hole (360) for introducing a foot into an inner foot receiving space of the knitted sock, preferably, step (E) is performed after step (A).

21. The knitting method according to any one of claims 15 to 20, characterized in that The method further comprises the step (F) of circularly knitting a tubular portion (370, 378, 570, 578) comprising a plurality of rows of circular knit stitches disposed in the midfoot region (10, 310, 510) or in the leg region.

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