Shoe with improved heel support

Abstract

A shoe, in particular a sports shoe, comprises an upper and a heel element arranged to at least partially overlap with at least a portion of the upper. The heel element is configured to enclose at least a portion of a heel of a wearer of the shoe and is movable relative to the upper. The movable arrangement between the heel element and the upper allows the wearer to adjust the fit of the shoe.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a shoe having improved heel support. Background Art

[0002] Shoes need to provide adequate support for the wearer's feet. This is particularly important for sports shoes, such as running shoes, basketball shoes, tennis shoes, or training shoes, which involve sudden stops, accelerations, sharp turns, jumps, etc. For this purpose, a shoe includes an upper to receive the foot, couple the foot to a sole structure of the shoe, and support the foot. Another important aspect is the correct size, width, and shape of the shoe, which need to be as close as possible to the size, width, and shape of the foot to provide a snug fit.

[0003] However, the size, width, and shape of industrially manufactured shoes are typically available only in a limited degree of quantification, such that some wearers are often between two available sizes, widths, and / or shapes. To some extent, this can be compensated for by allowing the wearer to tighten the laces, straps, hook-and-loop fasteners, or similar fastening mechanisms of the upper. However, such fastening mechanisms typically target only the instep or dorsum part of the foot. Thus, even if the wearer tightens the fastening mechanism, the heel of the foot may still not be adequately secured. Since the heel may slide within the shoe, the wearer may feel that the shoe is loose, despite the fastening mechanism applying a significant amount of pressure. This can cause discomfort and friction, which can lead to blisters and reduced performance over time.

[0004] Therefore, considering that no two feet are alike and industrially manufactured shoes can only offer a limited variety of sizes, widths, and shapes, there is room for improvement in the fit of shoes, particularly sports shoes. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Embodiments of the present disclosure include a shoe that includes an upper and a movable heel element that is arranged to at least partially overlap at least a portion of the upper. The heel element is configured to enclose at least a portion of the heel of the wearer of the shoe and is movable relative to the upper. The movable arrangement between the heel element and the upper allows the wearer to adjust the fit of the shoe. In some embodiments, the wearer can adjust the fit of the shoe by pulling on the laces of the shoe. By way of example and not limitation, the present disclosure contemplates at least the following embodiments.

[0006] The first embodiment (I) of the present application relates to a shoe (18), in particular a sports shoe, which comprises: an upper (1); and a heel element (2) arranged to at least partially overlap at least a part of the upper (1), wherein the heel element (2) is configured to enclose at least a part of the heel of the wearer of the shoe, and the heel element (2) is movable relative to the upper (1).

[0007] In the second embodiment (II), the upper (1) according to the first embodiment (I) does not include a heel part.

[0008] In the third embodiment (III), the heel element (2) according to the first embodiment (I) or the second embodiment (II) overlaps the upper (1) on the outer side and the inner side of the foot of the upper (1), in particular, the heel element (2) only overlaps the upper (1) on the outer side and the inner side of the foot of the upper (1).

[0009] In the fourth embodiment (IV), the upper (1) according to the first embodiment (I) or the third embodiment (III) includes a heel part (3), and the heel element (2) is arranged inside the upper.

[0010] In the fifth embodiment (V), the heel element (2) according to the third embodiment (III) or the fourth embodiment (IV) includes an inward-facing surface and an opposite outward-facing surface, wherein most of the outward-facing surface is not connected to the heel part (3) of the upper (1), such that a gap (4) is formed between the outward-facing surface of the heel element (2) and the heel part (3) of the upper (1).

[0011] In the sixth embodiment (VI), the heel element (2) according to any one of the embodiments (I)-(V) defines an edge part (5), and at least one section of the edge part (5) connects the heel element (2) to the rest of the shoe.

[0012] In the seventh embodiment (VII), the edge part (5) according to the sixth embodiment (VI) is connected to the upper (1) and / or the strobel board (6) and / or the insole and / or the midsole and / or the outsole of the shoe.

[0013] In the eighth embodiment (VIII), the edge part (5) according to the sixth embodiment (VI) or the seventh embodiment (VII) connects the heel element (2) to the rest of the shoe by a plurality of stitches, adhesives and / or welding points.

[0014] In the ninth embodiment (IX), the heel element (2) according to any one of the embodiments (I)-(VIII) includes a textile material.

[0015] In a tenth embodiment (X), the heel element (2) according to any one of embodiments (I)-(IX) includes an upper part (9a) and a lower part (9b), and the lower part (9b) is arranged closer to the sole of the shoe than the upper part (9a).

[0016] In an eleventh embodiment (XI), the lower part (9b) according to the tenth embodiment (X) has a higher stretchability than the upper part (9a).

[0017] In a twelfth embodiment (XII), the upper part (9a) according to the tenth embodiment (X) or the eleventh embodiment (XI) is filled with a cushioning material (15).

[0018] In a thirteenth embodiment (XIII), the cushioning material (15) according to the twelfth embodiment (XII) is a foam material.

[0019] In a fourteenth embodiment (XIV), the upper part (9a) according to any one of embodiments (X)-(XIII) includes a mesh material.

[0020] In a fifteenth embodiment (XV), the heel element (2) according to any one of embodiments (I)-(XIV) is coupled to the shoelaces (10) of the shoe.

[0021] In a sixteenth embodiment (XVI), the heel element (2) according to the fifteenth embodiment (XV) is configured to receive the shoelaces (10) of the shoe at different positions on the heel element (2).

[0022] In a seventeenth embodiment (XVII), the heel element (2) according to the sixteenth embodiment (XVI) includes one or more loops (11a, 11b, 11c) and / or lugs and / or perforations on opposite sides of the heel element (2) for receiving the shoelaces (10).

[0023] In an eighteenth embodiment (XVIII), the shoelaces (10) according to any one of embodiments (XV)-(XVII) pass from a first eyelet of the shoe upper (1), through a first eyelet of the heel element (2), and to a second eyelet of the shoe upper (1).

[0024] In a nineteenth embodiment (XIX), the first eyelet of the shoe upper (1) according to the eighteenth embodiment (XVIII) is located on a first side of the shoe (18), and the first eyelet of the heel element (2) and the second eyelet of the shoe upper (1) according to the eighteenth embodiment (XVIII) are located on a second side of the shoe (18) opposite the first side.

[0025] In the twentieth embodiment (XX), the eyelets of the upper (1) according to the eighteenth embodiment (XVIII) or the nineteenth embodiment (XIX) and / or the eyelets of the heel element (2) according to the eighteenth embodiment (XVIII) or the nineteenth embodiment (XIX) are rings, webbing (28), lugs or perforations.

[0026] In the twenty - first embodiment (XXI), the shoe according to any one of embodiments (I) or (III) - (XX) further comprises a flap (13) that connects the heel portion (3) of the upper and the shoe heel element (2).

[0027] In the twenty - second embodiment (XXII), the heel element (2) according to embodiment (XV) comprises a fulcrum (35) for receiving a shoelace (10), and the fulcrum (35) is configured to provide a lever for moving the heel element (2) relative to the upper (1) when the wearer pulls on the shoelace (10).

[0028] In the twenty - third embodiment (XXIII), the shoelace (10) according to embodiment (XXII) passes from an eyelet (38) of the upper (1), through a shoelace guide (37) of the heel element (2), to the fulcrum (35).

[0029] In the twenty - fourth embodiment (XXIV), the heel element (2) according to any one of embodiments (I) - (XXIII) comprises an integral additive - manufacturing part. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in more detail with reference to the following drawings. The drawings, together with the description, are also used to explain the principles of the disclosed embodiments and to enable a person skilled in the relevant art to make and use the disclosed embodiments. These drawings are intended to illustrate rather than limit. Although the present disclosure is generally described in the context of these embodiments, it should be understood that it is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure to these specific embodiments. In the drawings, the same reference numerals represent the same or functionally similar elements.

[0031] Figure 1A -D shows the upper of a shoe and a heel element arranged in the upper according to some embodiments.

[0032] Figure 2A -C shows the upper of a shoe and a heel element arranged in the upper according to some embodiments.

[0033] Figure 3 Shows the position of the heel element in the upper of a shoe according to some embodiments.

[0034] Figure 4A -C shows a shoe according to some embodiments.

[0035] Figure 5A is Figure 4A -C, a schematic view of the upper and heel element of a shoe.

[0036] Figure 5B shows Figure 5A the outline of the upper, heel element and support shroud of

[0037] Figure 6 shows the composition of the heel element according to some embodiments.

[0038] Figure 7A -C shows a shoe according to some embodiments.

[0039] Figure 8A shows Figure 7A -C, a schematic view of the upper of a shoe.

[0040] Figure 8B shows Figure 7A -C, a schematic view of the heel element of a shoe.

[0041] Figure 9A -C shows the operation of the heel element according to some embodiments.

[0042] Figure 10A -B shows a lacing system according to some embodiments.

[0043] Figure 11A -B shows a lacing system according to some embodiments.

[0044] Figure 12A -B shows the heel element according to some embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] The indefinite articles "a / an" and "the" include plural referents unless expressly contradicted or the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0046] The term "comprising" is an open transitional phrase. The list of elements after the transitional phrase "comprising" is non-exclusive, such that elements other than those specifically recited in the list may also be present. The phrase "consisting essentially of" limits the composition of a component to the specified materials and those materials that do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristics of the component. The phrase "consisting of" limits the composition of a component to the specified materials and excludes any unspecified materials.

[0047] Embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail herein with reference to the embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals are used to denote the same or functionally similar elements. When referring to "an embodiment", "(a)n embodiment", "some embodiments", "in certain embodiments", etc., it means that the described embodiment may include a specific feature, structure, or characteristic, but each embodiment may not necessarily include the specific feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Further, when describing a specific feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with an embodiment, it is considered within the knowledge of those skilled in the art to affect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments, whether or not explicitly described.

[0048] In the following, only some possible embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail. However, the present disclosure is not limited to these, and many other embodiments may be applied without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The presented embodiments may be modified in various ways and may be combined with each other as long as they are compatible, and certain features may be omitted as long as they do not seem necessary. In particular, the disclosed embodiments may be modified by combining certain features of one embodiment with one or more features of another embodiment.

[0049] It should be understood that not all features of the described aspects / embodiments are necessary to achieve the technical advantages provided by the present disclosure, which is defined by the subject matter of the claims. The disclosed aspects / embodiments may be modified by combining certain features of one aspect / embodiment with one or more features of another aspect / embodiment. Specifically, those skilled in the art will understand that the features and / or functional elements of one aspect / embodiment may be combined with the technically compatible features and / or functional elements of any other aspect / embodiment of the present disclosure, as long as the resulting combination falls within the definition of the present disclosure.

[0050] Throughout the drawings and the description of this application, the same reference numerals represent the same elements. For clarity and conciseness, certain aspects of the components or steps of some embodiments are presented without excessive detail - when such detail would be obvious to those skilled in the art based on the teachings herein and / or when such detail would obscure the understanding of the more relevant aspects of the embodiments.

[0051] As understood by those skilled in the art and / or to avoid redundancy, reference is also made to the explanations in the previous sections, which also apply to the following detailed description. Moreover, for the sake of brevity and clarity, not all features, parts, elements, aspects, components, and / or steps are explicitly indicated by reference numerals. This applies particularly to cases where those skilled in the art recognize that these features, parts, elements, aspects, components, and / or steps exist in multiple.

[0052] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide an improved heel support for a shoe, particularly a sports shoe, the shoe including an upper and a heel element arranged to at least partially overlap at least a portion of the upper. The heel element is configured to enclose at least a portion of the heel of the wearer of the shoe, and the heel element is movable relative to the upper. The relative movement of the heel element and the upper may allow the wearer to adjust the fit of the shoe. And by allowing the wearer to adjust the fit of the shoe, the heel support allows the wearer to improve the fit of the shoe to their particular foot shape and size. Such an improvement can result in an improvement in the performance of the shoe, for example, an improvement in foot support during physical activity and / or an improvement in preventing foot irritation (e.g., blisters).

[0053] These and other advantages discussed herein overcome the problems or disadvantages of prior art shoes. These advantages are achieved by the shoes described herein. Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are described herein.

[0054] In the context of the present disclosure, "element" encompasses, for example, soft structures based on textiles, but also more rigid structures based on molded plastic elements. Combinations of multiple materials with different properties are also possible.

[0055] A shoe according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a heel element that surrounds, covers, and secures the heel of the wearer. Since the heel element is movable relative to the upper, the heel element can adapt to the size, width, and shape of the foot. In this way, a snug fit is provided, and the heel element can accommodate feet of different sizes, widths, and / or shapes. Thus, the shoes according to the present disclosure at least partially overcome the disadvantages of prior art shoes in terms of fit and adaptability.

[0056] For example, the heel element described herein can be applied to basketball shoes. Conventional basketball shoes have a fixed heel with zero adjustability at the heel pocket. Embodiments of the present disclosure specifically provide locking and agility. For basketball players, it is common to wear shoes that are one or two sizes too large to accommodate ankle braces. Embodiments of the present disclosure feature a self-adjusting decoupled heel element that reduces movement within the shoe and provides a customized fit adapted to each individual athlete. The adaptable or articulated heel element accommodates individual support needs (e.g., ankle braces), while maintaining a low cut for agile gameplay. While basketball shoes are a possible application, embodiments of the present disclosure can be applied to any sport.

[0057] In some embodiments, the upper may not include a heel portion. Instead, in such embodiments, the heel element performs the function of the heel portion. Since the movement of the heel element is not restricted by the heel portion of the upper, it can optimally adapt to the foot.

[0058] The rear element can overlap the upper on the outer side and the inner side of the foot of the upper. In some embodiments, the rear element can overlap the upper only at the outer side and the inner side of the foot of the upper. The outer side portion and the inner side portion of the upper that overlap the rear element can provide some outer side and inner side guidance for the rear element.

[0059] In some embodiments, the upper can include a rear portion, and the rear element can be disposed inside the upper. In such embodiments, the rear portion of the upper provides additional support and protects the wearer's sensitive heel.

[0060] The rear element can include an inward-facing surface and an opposite outward-facing surface. In some embodiments, most of the outward-facing surface is not connected to the rear portion of the upper, such that a gap is formed between the outward-facing surface of the rear element and the rear portion of the upper. Due to this arrangement, the rear element is movable even in embodiments where the rear element is covered by the rear portion of the upper.

[0061] As used herein, the upper and the rear element described as being "not connected" to each other means that the upper and the rear element are not fixedly joined in the plane in which they coextend, such that the upper and the rear element are movable relative to each other. In some embodiments, the relative movement between the upper and the rear element can include a sliding movement of the rear element relative to the upper, a pivoting movement of the rear element relative to the upper, or both.

[0062] In some embodiments, the relative movement between the upper and the rear element can be initiated by pulling on the shoelaces of the shoe. In some embodiments, the relative movement between the upper and the rear element can reduce the distance between the eyelets of the shoelaces on the rear element and the eyelets of the shoelaces on the upper. As described herein, in some embodiments, such a change in distance can be produced by the wearer pulling on the shoelaces of the shoe. This change in distance can provide a lock on the wearer's heel by pulling the rear element forward.

[0063] In the context of the present disclosure, "inward-facing" should be understood as facing the foot of the wearer wearing the shoe. Conversely, in the context of the present disclosure, "outward-facing" represents the opposite direction, i.e., away from the foot.

[0064] In the context of the present disclosure, the gap formed between the outward-facing surface of the rear element and the rear portion of the upper means that one can separate the rear portion from the rear element, for example by inserting a finger therebetween. The presence of the gap does not necessarily mean that the rear element and the rear portion of the upper do not abut each other. For example, during use of the shoe, the heel of the wearer's foot can push the rear element against the rear portion of the upper. This can depend on the size of the foot compared to the size of the shoe, and for example on the type of movement performed by the wearer.

[0065] The heel element may define an edge portion, and at least one section of the edge portion may connect the heel element to the remainder of the shoe. In some embodiments, a section of the edge portion of the heel element may be connected to the edge portions of the shoe's strobel and upper. In some embodiments, a section of the edge portion of the heel element may be connected only to the shoe's strobel. In any case, the heel element may be firmly coupled to the remainder of the shoe at the shoe edge portion while still floating freely within the shoe. In some embodiments, the edge portion may be connected to the shoe's upper and / or strobel and / or insole and / or midsole and / or outsole. Thus, the heel element may be connected to the remainder of the shoe on its bottom side, i.e., the side facing the ground. Thus, the foot is firmly coupled to the shoe, especially, for example, during the final stance or heel-off phase of the gait cycle.

[0066] The edge portion may connect the heel element to the remainder of the shoe by means of a plurality of stitches, adhesives, and / or weld points. In this way, a firm and permanent connection is achieved.

[0067] In some embodiments, the heel element may comprise a textile material. The textile material is felt to be soft and provides a comfortable feeling for the foot. In addition, it may help to draw moisture away from the foot core.

[0068] The heel element may comprise an upper part and a lower part, and the lower part may be closer to the sole than the upper part. In such an embodiment, the heel element is divided into two parts, which may provide different functions to the target areas of the foot.

[0069] In some embodiments, the lower part of the heel element may comprise a higher stretchability than the upper part. In such an embodiment, the lower part of the heel element may adapt to the heel of the foot and provide an improved fit.

[0070] In some embodiments, the upper part of the heel element may be filled with a cushioning material. In this way, the sensitive Achilles tendon is protected and the wearing comfort is improved. In addition, it creates a snug fit around the foot.

[0071] In some embodiments, the cushioning material may comprise a foam material. The foam material provides the necessary cushioning effect and is easy to handle during manufacturing. For example, the foam material may be provided as a preformed insert.

[0072] In some embodiments, the upper portion of the heel element may include a mesh material. The mesh material includes a plurality of holes or apertures that provide ventilation. Additionally, the mesh material has sufficient tensile strength to secure the heel of the foot within the shoe. In some embodiments, the upper portion may include a reinforcing material that is added to supplement the structure and / or strength of the mesh material. The upper portion of the heel element may additionally or alternatively include knit, leather, woven material, synthetic leather, or any combination thereof.

[0073] The heel element may be coupled to the shoelaces of the shoe. Thus, a wearer of the shoe can tighten the shoelaces to activate the heel element as described herein to snugly wrap around the heel. Depending on the force applied during tightening the shoelaces, the pressure exerted by the heel element on the heel can be adjusted according to the needs of the wearer.

[0074] In some embodiments, the heel element may be configured to receive the shoelaces of the shoe at different positions on the heel element. For example, at a first position, the heel element is generally arranged closer to the heel portion of the upper, while at a second position, the heel element may be arranged closer to the tongue portion of the upper. In this way, the fit of the shoe can be adapted to the individual foot size and / or foot shape of the wearer.

[0075] The heel element may include one or more eyelets (e.g., loops and / or tabs and / or perforations) on opposite sides of the heel element for receiving the shoelaces. By passing the shoelace through one of the eyelets, the heel element is securely coupled to the tongue region of the shoe. By selecting the appropriate shoelace eyelet, the position of the heel element relative to the upper can be adjusted to compensate for the size or shape of the individual foot and obtain a snug fit.

[0076] In some embodiments, the shoelace may pass from a first eyelet of the upper through a first eyelet of the heel element to a second eyelet of the upper. In this way, when the shoelace is pulled to tighten the shoe, the heel element is activated, moves towards the wearer's heel, and locks the heel. In such an embodiment, the first eyelet of the upper may be located on a first side of the shoe, and the first eyelet of the heel element and the second eyelet of the upper may be located on a second side of the shoe opposite the first side. In this way, the heel element can be integrated into a cross-lacing that is easy to tighten and loosen and provides a secure fit. The eyelets of the upper and / or the heel element may be loops, webbing, tabs, or perforations, or any other structure suitable for securing the shoelace to the shoe.

[0077] In some embodiments, the shoelaces can pass from the first eyelet of the upper through the lace guides of the heel element to the fulcrum of the heel element, and then to the second eyelet of the upper. In this way, when the shoelaces are pulled to tighten, the heel element is actuated, moves towards the wearer's heel and locks the heel. In such embodiments, the lace guides can be configured to position the shoelaces along the heel element at an angle relative to the fulcrum such that the fulcrum provides optimal leverage when the shoelaces are pulled by the wearer. In this way, the heel element can be easily hinged towards the wearer's heel and provide a secure fit.

[0078] In some embodiments, the shoe can include a tab that connects the heel portion of the upper and the heel element. In such embodiments, when putting on the shoe, the wearer of the shoe can grasp the tab to generally pull the shoe towards the foot and also pull the heel element towards the heel portion of the upper to facilitate insertion of the foot.

[0079] In some embodiments, the heel element can include a plurality of apertures. In this way, ventilation of the foot is achieved, which generally increases the comfort of wearing.

[0080] In some embodiments, the heel element can be manufactured by additive manufacturing techniques. In such embodiments, the heel element can include an integral additive manufacturing part.

[0081] Figure 1A -D shows an upper 1 and a heel element 2 for a shoe according to some embodiments. The shoe in this example is a sports shoe and includes a sole (not shown in the figure) that will be attached to the underside of the upper 1. Generally, the embodiments of the present disclosure can be applied to various sports, including training (such as high-intensity interval training), running, and basketball, which is a non-limiting list.

[0082] The heel element 2 is disposed inside the upper 1 and overlaps at least a portion of the heel portion 3 of the upper 1. The heel element 2 is configured to enclose at least a portion of the heel of the wearer of the shoe. In this way, the heel element 2 includes an inward-facing surface and an opposite outward-facing surface. The inward-facing surface will face the foot of the wearer wearing the shoe. The outward-facing surface will face the opposite direction, i.e., away from the foot. In particular, as Figure 1A and 1B shown, most of the outward-facing surface is not connected to the heel portion 3 of the upper 1, such that a gap 4 is formed between the outward-facing surface of the heel element 2 and the heel portion 3 of the upper 1. Therefore, the heel element 2 is movable relative to the upper 1, particularly movable in the longitudinal direction of the shoe to accommodate different sizes, widths, lengths, and shapes of the foot.

[0083] The heel element 2 defines a rim portion 5, which generally defines the border or margin of the heel element 2. At least one section of the rim portion 5 connects the heel element 2 to the rest of the shoe. In Figure 1A -D's exemplary embodiment, the heel element 2 is stitched to both the strobel board 6 and the edge portion of the upper 1. The seam is Figure 1C marked by the shaded area 7 in Figure 1D . In

[0084] In Figure 1A -D's exemplary embodiment, both the upper 1 and the heel element 2 are made of textile materials. In some embodiments, the textile materials may include mesh materials, weft or warp knitted fabrics, woven materials, non-woven materials, or combinations thereof.

[0085] In Figure 1A -D's exemplary embodiment, the heel element 2 includes an upper portion 9a and a lower portion 9b, as Figure 1D specifically shown in

[0086] Specifically, as Figure 1BAs shown, the heel element 2 is coupled to the shoelaces 10 of the shoe. This is achieved by means of lace holes (e.g., loops 11a) through which the shoelaces 10 pass. Similar lace holes (e.g., loops) are located on the opposite side of the heel element 2 that receives the shoelaces 10. In addition, the heel element 2 includes additional lace holes (e.g., loops 11b and 11c), which allow the heel element 2 to be fixed relative to the upper 1 at different positions to compensate for different foot sizes, lengths, shapes, etc. Thus, when the shoelaces 10 pass through the first lace hole (e.g., loop 11a), the heel element 2 is in the position closest to the heel portion 3 of the upper 1. Conversely, when the shoelaces 10 pass through the second lace hole (e.g., loop 11c), the heel element will be in a position closer to the tongue 12 of the shoe. When the shoelaces 10 pass through the third lace hole (e.g., loop 11b), the heel element 2 will be in an intermediate position. The opposite sides of the heel element 2 include three holes (e.g., loops similar to loops 11a, 11b, and 11c). In some embodiments, the number of lace holes may vary; instead of loops, the heel element 2 may include lace holes in the form of lugs and / or perforations. In some embodiments, the lace holes may be in the form of hooks, straps, or similar devices to fasten the heel element to the upper at different positions. In Figure 1A In the exemplary embodiment of -D, the loops 11a, 11b, and 11c are implemented by straps sewn to the outer side of the heel element 2, where the seams are arranged to form three voids that form the loops 11a, 11b, and 11c. In some embodiments, the lace holes may be located on a sheet-like extension, such as the extensions 16a and 16b described below in connection with Figure 3 description.

[0087] In some embodiments, as shown in the example of Figure 1A -D, the shoe may also include a flap 13 that connects the heel portion 3 of the upper 1 and the heel element 2. In such an embodiment, when wearing the shoe, the wearer of the shoe can grasp the flap 13 to generally pull the shoe towards the foot and the heel element 2 towards the heel portion 3 of the upper 1 to facilitate inserting the foot. In the exemplary embodiment, the flap 13 is implemented by a strap sewn to the outer side of the upper 1 and the outward-facing surface of the heel element 2.

[0088] Figure 2A and 2B shows a heel element 2 according to some embodiments. Figure 2C shows a Figure 2A and 2BThe heel element. Also in this example, the heel element 2 includes an upper part 9a and a lower part 9b. The upper part 9a includes a foam insert, and the position of the foam insert is indicated by the area denoted by the reference numeral 15. The thickness of the foam insert is, for example, 5 mm, but may have different thicknesses in other embodiments. The upper part 9a includes a front side and a rear side, and the front side and the rear side are joined by stitches and a turn seam represented by the line 14. The lower part 9b is a stretch insert having a higher stretchability than the upper part 9a. Figure 2A The heel element of -C also includes lace loops 11a and 11b for receiving the shoelaces of the shoe.

[0089] Figure 3 The position of the heel element 2 in the shoe upper 1 according to some embodiments is shown. In Figure 3 the rim or edge of the heel element is highlighted and marked with the reference numeral 5. Thus, the heel element 2 will cover at least a part of the wearer's heel. The heel element 2 extends from the bottom of the shoe to the Achilles tendon and forms two sheet-like extension parts 16a and 16b that extend to the instep part. Shoelace eyelets (for example, the loops 11a, 11b, and 11c explained with reference to Figure 1A -D) will be located on these extension parts 16A and 16b. Figure 3 The shown heel element 2 is connected to the shoe upper 1 at the bottom 17 of its edge part 5.

[0090] Figure 4A , 4B And 4C show a shoe 18 according to some embodiments. Figure 4A A side view is shown, Figure 4B A top view is shown, Figure 4C A side view / rear view is shown. The shoe 18 includes a shoe upper 1, a heel element 2, and a sole structure 19. Contrary to the foregoing embodiments of FIGS. 1-3, the shoe upper 1 does not include a heel part but is open at the heel. In such an embodiment, the shoe upper 1 includes a rearmost peripheral edge 50 that defines a hollow, rear-facing opening on the shoe 18. The rearmost peripheral edge 50 may include the outer side of the foot (defining the outer side of the rear-facing opening) and the inner side of the foot (defining the inner side of the rear-facing opening). The heel element 2 is not fixedly connected to the shoe upper 1 but is movable relative to the shoe upper 1. The heel element 2 is connected to the rest of the shoe at the strobel board. In Figure 4A the embodiment shown in -C, the heel element 2 is mounted within the rearmost peripheral edge 50 of the shoe upper 1 to enclose the hollow, rear-facing opening defined by the edge 50.

[0091] Figure 5A is Figure 4A-C schematic diagram of the upper 1 and the heel element 2 of the embodiment, showing the relative positions of the two elements. This diagram shows the upper 1 in a flat configuration, i.e., before being integrated into the shoe. The heel element 2 is not connected to the upper 1, so that the heel element 2 is movable relative to the upper 1. The upper 1 does not include a heel portion. Instead, in the final shoe, the heel element 2 will form the rearmost part of the shoe around the foot. As Figure 5A shown, the heel element 2 and the upper 1 partially overlap in the area indicated by the reference numeral 20. Such areas exist on both sides of the final shoe 18 - i.e., the outside and inside of the foot. Figure 5A An optional support shroud 21 (or stabilizing sheath / corner plate) is also shown, which is attached to the bottom edge of the heel element 2 but not connected to the upper. Instead, the support shroud 21 can be connected to the rest of the shoe - in the same way as the heel element 2 is connected to the rest of the shoe. For example, the support shroud 21 can be connected to the rest of the shoe at the strobel board, just like the heel element 2. The support shroud 21 helps to keep the heel element 2 aligned in the correct position. The shroud 21 is optional, and other embodiments do not include the support shroud.

[0092] Figure 5B Shown is Figure 5A the contour of the upper 1, the heel element 2 and the support shroud 21. This diagram shows that the upper 1 does not have a heel portion and is open at the heel.

[0093] Figure 6 Shown is according to some embodiments of Figure 4A -C composition of the heel element 2 of the embodiment. The outer layer of the heel element 2 is a textile material 22. An integral heel stabilizer 23 reinforces the heel element 2. The integral heel stabilizer 23 can reinforce the heel portion of the shoe because Figure 4A -C the upper 1 does not have a heel portion. Therefore, only the heel element 2 provides stability, support and protection for the heel. In some embodiments, the heel stabilizer 23 can be a molded part. For comfort and padding effect, the heel element 2 includes a foam encapsulation 24, and the foam encapsulation 24 can also be a molded part. Finally, the inner side of the heel element 2 facing the foot ends with a lining material 25. In some embodiments, combined with Figure 1A-3 or Figure 7A-9C described, the heel element 2 can include Figure 6 the composition shown in.

[0094] Figure 7A -C shows a shoe according to some embodiments, including an upper 1, a heel element 2 and a sole structure 19. Figure 7A Shown is the whole shoe. Figure 7B Shown is the shoe with the upper 1 removed, i.e., only the heel element 2 and the sole structure 19. Figure 7Cis an "X-ray view" showing the position of the heel element 2 in the shoe upper 1. Figure 7A In the embodiment of -C, the shoe upper 1 includes a heel part 3. An outer heel stabilizer 26 is arranged on the heel part 3. The support cover 21 is joined to the lower edge of the heel element 2 and is connected to the rest of the shoe 18 at the insole board. As in other embodiments described herein, the heel element 2 is not connected to the shoe upper 1, such that the heel element 2 is movable relative to the shoe upper 1. The heel element 2 includes an eyelet 27 through which the shoelaces of the shoe can pass. It is understood that the eyelet 27 is provided on either side (outer side of the foot and inner side of the foot) of the heel element 2. Reference will be made to Figure 9A -C to describe how to activate the heel element 2 to lock the foot by the shoelaces of the shoe 18.

[0095] Figure 8A shows Figure 7A a schematic view of the shoe upper 1 of the embodiment of -C. In addition to the heel stabilizer 26, Figure 8A it is also shown that the shoe upper 1 includes a webbing, one of the webbings is denoted by the reference numeral 28 and serves as a fixing point (lace hole) for the shoelaces of the shoe. Figure 8A In the exemplary embodiment of, the webbing extends to the edge line of the shoe upper 1 and will be connected to the sole structure of the shoe. The webbing 28 is configured to receive the shoelaces 10 of the shoe and acts like a loop through which the shoelaces 10 pass. In other embodiments, for example, similar to Figure 9A the embodiment shown in -C, the webbing does not extend to the sole structure of the shoe. In addition, instead of the webbing, loops, lugs or perforations can also be used.

[0096] Figure 8B shows Figure 7A a schematic view of the heel element 2 of the embodiment of -C. The outline of the shoe upper is also shown (see Figure 8A ) to schematically show the relative arrangement of the shoe upper 1 and the heel element 2. As described above, the shoe upper 1 and the heel element 2 can move relative to each other in the final shoe, which means that they are not joined in the plane where they commonly extend.

[0097] Figure 9A -C shows how the heel element 2 is activated by pulling the shoelaces 10 of the shoe 18 according to some embodiments. Any embodiment of the heel element 2 described herein can be activated by the shoelaces 10 as described in connection with Figure 9A -C.

[0098] Figure 9Ashows the start of pulling up the shoelace 10. When the wearer pulls up vertically on the shoelace 10 (as shown by arrow 30) - which is the natural and intuitive way to tie a shoe, the tension from the shoelace 10 will cause the hinged heel element 2 to start moving forward horizontally towards the wearer's heel. This hinged movement of the heel element 2 can include a sliding movement of the heel element 2 in the forward direction, a pivoting movement of the heel element 2 in the forward direction, or a combination of sliding and pivoting movements. In any case, the hinged movement can reduce the distance 31 between the lace holes 27 on the heel element 2 and the lace holes (e.g., webbing 28) on the shoe upper 1. As Figure 9A and 9B shown, there is an initial distance 31 between the lace holes 27 of the heel element 2 and the lace holes (webbing 28) of the shoe upper 1, and this initial distance decreases during the process of pulling on the shoelace 10.

[0099] Figure 9B illustrates a state roughly in the middle of when the heel element starts to move. During the process of pulling up the shoelace 10, the increased vertical force 30 increases the tension in the system, starting from the hole 27 of the hinged heel element 2. As the tension increases, the pulley system brings the hole 27 closer to the lace holes (webbing 28) of the shoe upper 1, causing the heel element 2 to pivot forward as shown by arrow 32 and causing a decreased distance 31.

[0100] Figure 9C illustrates full heel locking. When the hinged heel element 2 fully engages with the wearer's heel geometry, the system is fully locked. As Figure 9C shown, the wearer has pulled up the shoelace 10, the distance 31 between the lace holes of the heel element 2 and the laces of the shoe upper 1 has further decreased, and the heel element 2 has moved forward to fit closely against the heel as shown by arrow 32.

[0101] Thus, the vertical pulling force applied to the shoelace 10 is converted into a horizontal force that acts on the heel element 2 and pulls it towards the wearer's heel to look down the foot in the shoe. The lacing mechanism according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is designed and manufactured to form a lever. When an athlete intuitively laces up the shoe and pulls the shoelace vertically, the lever mechanism in the lacing configuration will move the heel element forward, directly against the athlete's unique heel morphology. Thus, a self - adjusting system is provided.

[0102] Figure 10AShows details of a lacing system according to some embodiments and how it interacts with the heel element 2. The shoe includes standard laces up to the penultimate eyelet 33 of the upper, which in this example is implemented as a webbing. Instead of a webbing, loops, tabs, or perforations can be used. It will be understood that there is a penultimate eyelet 33 on either side (outer foot and inner foot) of the upper 1. The shoelace passes from the penultimate eyelet 33 to the opposing eyelet 27 of the heel element 2. In some embodiments, the shoelace can pass through the eyelet 27 from the inward-facing side to the outward-facing side of the heel element 2. Additionally, there is an eyelet 27 on either side of the heel element 2, and the outer foot eyelet 27 receives the shoelace 10 from the inner foot eyelet 33 of the upper, while the inner foot eyelet 27 receives the shoelace 10 from the outer foot eyelet 33 of the upper. The shoelace 10 passes from the eyelet 27 to the last eyelet 28 of the upper 1, which in this example is again provided as a webbing. The webbing 28 is provided on either side (outer foot and inner foot) of the upper as the last lacing point. This last lacing point is below the eyelet 27 of the heel element 2. Thus, when the shoelace 10 is pulled, the heel element 2 is pulled towards the upper 1 by the shoelace 10.

[0103] Figure 10B Shows details of the lacing system from another perspective. The figure also shows the distance 34 that the heel element 2 can move forward when the shoelace 10 is pulled as described previously. This distance 34 is directly related to the distance between the eyelet 27 of the heel element 2 and the webbing 28 on the upper 1. The distance between the eyelet 27 and the webbing 28 is the distance that the heel element can hinge forward during lacing when the system is engaged.

[0104] Figure 11A -B shows how, according to some embodiments, the heel element 2 is actuated by pulling the shoelace 10 of the shoe 18. Any embodiment of the heel element 2 described herein can be activated by the shoelace 10 described in conjunction with Figure 11A -B.

[0105] Figure 11A Shows the heel element 2 including a fulcrum 35. The fulcrum 35 is configured to provide a lever that is used to move the heel element 2 relative to the upper when the wearer pulls the shoelace 10. In particular, the shoelace 10 passes through the fulcrum 35 and forms a bend such that pulling the shoelace 10 actuates the heel element 2 by the lever applied around the fulcrum 35, causing the heel element 2 to start moving towards the wearer's heel. This movement of the heel element 2 towards the wearer's heel can include a sliding movement of the heel element 2 in the forward direction, a pivoting movement of the heel element 2 in the forward direction, or a combination thereof. In any case, the movement of the heel element 2 can reduce the distance 36 between the fulcrum 35 and the shoelace eyelet (e.g., the webbing 28) of the upper 1.

[0106] The distance 36 between the fulcrum 35 and the lace holes (e.g., the webbing 28) of the shoe upper 1 is the distance by which the heel element 2 can be hinged forward when the lace 10 is pulled. In some embodiments, the fulcrum 35 is positioned on the rear half of the heel element 2, increasing the distance 36 between the fulcrum 35 and the lace holes (e.g., the webbing 28) of the shoe upper 1, thereby increasing the distance by which the heel element 2 can be hinged forward when the lace 10 is pulled. The increased hinging distance of the heel element 2 is beneficial as it provides greater adjustability of the shoe 18 and thus a better fit for its wearer. In some embodiments, when the heel element 2 is in an unactivated state (e.g., when the shoe 18 is not in use), the distance 36 ranges from 30 mm to 50 mm. In some embodiments, the fulcrum 35 is located behind the rearmost part of the tongue 12 of the shoe 18.

[0107] As Figure 11A shown, the heel element 2 may further include a lace guide 37. The lace guide 37 is configured to position the lace 10 along the surface of the heel element 2 when the lace 10 passes over the fulcrum 35. In some embodiments, when the wearer pulls the lace 10, the lace 10 may pass through the lace guide 37 in a direction parallel to the lever provided by the fulcrum 35. This orientation of the lace 10 provided by the lace guide 37 may allow the wearer to easily adjust the heel element 2.

[0108] In some embodiments, the lace guide 37 may be located on the outward-facing surface of the heel element 2, adjacent to the inward-facing surface of the heel portion 3 of the shoe upper 1. In some embodiments, the inward-facing surface of the heel portion 3 on which the lace guide 37 is positioned may overlap with the outward-facing surface of the heel element 2, such that the lace guide 37 is tucked away from the top of the wearer's foot (when wearing the shoe 18). In some embodiments, at least a portion of the lace guide 37 is tucked within the void 4.

[0109] In some embodiments, the fulcrum 35 may be positioned on the outward-facing surface of the heel element 2, adjacent to the inward-facing surface of the heel portion 3 of the shoe upper 1. In some embodiments, the inward-facing surface of the heel portion 3 on which the fulcrum 35 is positioned may overlap with the outward-facing surface of the heel element 2, such that the fulcrum 35 is tucked away from the top of the wearer's foot (when wearing the shoe 18). In some embodiments, at least a portion of the fulcrum 35 is tucked within the void 4.

[0110] In embodiments where the lace guide 37 and / or the fulcrum 35 are hidden by the void 4, at least a portion of the lace 10 is tucked into the void 4. In such embodiments, the inward-facing surface of the heel portion 3 may overlap the outward-facing surface of the heel element 2 such that at least a portion of the lace 10 extends from the top of the wearer's foot (when the shoe 18 is worn).

[0111] In some embodiments, the heel portion 3 may be omitted such that, in the absence of the adjacent inward-facing surface of the shoe heel portion 3, the lace guide 37 and / or the fulcrum 35 guide the lace 10 away from the top of the wearer's foot.

[0112] The fulcrum 35 and / or the lace guide 37 may be present on either side (outer foot and inner foot) of the heel element 2. In such embodiments, the heel element 2 may include a second fulcrum 35 on a side opposite the first fulcrum 35. Similarly, in such embodiments, the heel element 2 may include a second lace guide 37 on a side opposite the first lace guide 37. The fulcrum 35 and / or the lace guide 37 may be a lace hole, loop, webbing, lug, perforation, or any other structure suitable for securing the lace 10 and / or providing a lever for moving the heel element 2 relative to the upper 1 when the lace 10 is pulled.

[0113] Figure 11B Details of a lacing system according to some embodiments are shown and how it interacts with the heel element 2. The shoe 18 includes standard lacing up to the second-to-last eyelet 38, as Figure 11B shown, which eyelet may be webbing. In addition to webbing, loops, lugs, perforations, or any other structure suitable for securing the lace 10 may also be used. In some embodiments, there is a second-to-last eyelet 38 on either side (outer foot and inner foot) of the upper 1. In such embodiments, the upper includes an additional second-to-last eyelet 38 on the opposite side of the second-to-last eyelet 38. From the second-to-last eyelet 38, the lace 10 passes to the lace guide 37. From the lace guide 37, the lace 10 passes to the fulcrum 35. Finally, from the fulcrum 35, the lace 10 passes to the last eyelet 39 on the upper 1, as Figure 11B shown, which eyelet 39 may be webbing. Again, in addition to webbing, loops, lugs, perforations, or any other structure suitable for securing the lace 10 may also be used. In some embodiments, there is a last eyelet 39 on either side (outer foot and inner foot) of the upper 1. In these embodiments, the upper includes a second last eyelet 39 on a side opposite the first last eyelet 39. In some embodiments, the lace guide 37 may be omitted such that the lace 10 passes directly from the second-to-last eyelet 38 to the fulcrum 35.

[0114] For example Figure 12AAs shown, in some embodiments, the heel element 2 can be manufactured by additive manufacturing techniques. Exemplary additive manufacturing techniques generally include, for example, selective laser sintering, selective laser melting, selective heat sintering, stereolithography, fused deposition modeling, or 3-D printing. Various additive manufacturing techniques related to footwear articles are described, for example, in US2009 / 0126225, WO2010 / 126708, US2014 / 0300676, US2014 / 0300675, US2014 / 0299009, US2014 / 0026773, US2014 / 0029030, WO2014 / 008331, WO2014 / 015037, US2014 / 0020191, EP2564719, EP2424398, and US2012 / 0117825. In some embodiments, the additive manufacturing process can include a continuous liquid interface production process.

[0115] In some embodiments, the heel element 2 can include an opening 41. The opening 41 can reduce the amount of material required to form the heel element 2, thereby reducing the weight of the heel element 2 and thus the total weight of the shoe 18, which can provide performance benefits to the wearer. Additionally, the opening 41 can reduce the contact between the inward-facing surface 42 of the heel element 2 and the wearer's heel, preventing abrasion of the wearer's heel. The opening 41 can also provide breathability to the shoe 18, which may be desirable, for example, when the wearer is exercising.

[0116] In some embodiments, the outward-facing surface 43 of the heel element 2 can include a protruding hatch 44 that extends across the outward-facing surface 43. In such embodiments, the hatch 44 can be configured to provide additional support to the heel element 2 and thus to the wearer's heel. In some embodiments, the hatch 44 can extend across the outward-facing surface 43 at the rearmost portion 40 of the heel element 2. In some embodiments, the hatch 44 can extend across the opening 41, thereby providing additional support to the opening 41. In such embodiments, the hatch 44 can extend from a first portion 43a of the outward-facing surface, across the opening 40, to a second portion 43b of the outward-facing surface.

[0117] In some embodiments, the inward-facing surface 42 of the heel element 2 may include an aperture 44. In such embodiments, the aperture 44 on the inward-facing surface 42 may be similarly configured to provide additional support to the heel element 2 and thus to the wearer's heel. In some embodiments, the aperture 44 on the inward-facing surface 42 may extend on the inward-facing surface 42 at the rearmost portion 40 of the heel element 2. In some embodiments, the aperture 44 on the inward-facing surface 42 may extend over the opening 41 to provide support for the opening 41. In these embodiments, the aperture 44 may extend from a first portion 42a of the inward-facing surface, across the opening 41, to a second portion 42b of the inward-facing surface. In some embodiments, the heel element 2 may include an aperture 44 on both the outward-facing surface 43 and the inward-facing surface 42.

[0118] Figure 12B Shown is a heel element 2 within a shoe 18—manufactured by an additive manufacturing technique—according to some embodiments. As shown, the heel element 2 may include eyelets 27 through which a shoelace 10 may pass. The eyelets 27 may be present on either side (outer foot and inner foot) of the heel element 2.

[0119] As shown, in some embodiments, the additively manufactured heel element 2 may include a lining material 25 coupled to at least a portion of the inward-facing surface 42 of the heel element 2.

[0120] In some embodiments, the additively manufactured heel element 2 may include a textile material 22 coupled to at least a portion of the outward-facing surface 43 of the heel element 2. In such embodiments, the textile material 22 may include any of the features of the heel element 2 embodiments discussed above. For example, in some embodiments, the textile material 22 may include loops 11a, 11b, and 11c. As another example, in some implementations, the textile material 22 may include eyelets 27. As yet another example, in some embodiments, the textile material 22 may include fulcrums 35 and shoelace guides 37. As a further example, in some embodiments, the textile material 22 may include webbing, loops, tabs, perforations, or any other structure suitable for securing the shoelace 10. In such embodiments, the heel element 2 may be configured to move relative to the upper 2 through the interaction between the shoelace 10 and the textile material 22 to which the heel element 2 is coupled. In some embodiments, the additively manufactured heel element 2 may be disposed between the lining material 25 and the textile material 22.

[0121] The heel element 2 manufactured by additive manufacturing technology can be used in any of the embodiments of the heel element 2 discussed above. For example, the heel element 2 manufactured by additive manufacturing technology may include a fulcrum 35 and a lace guide 37. In some embodiments, the fulcrum and the lace guide 37 may be glued to the heel element 2. By another example, the heel element 2 manufactured by additive manufacturing technology may include loops 11a, 11b, and 11c. In some embodiments, a webbing, loop, lug, perforation, or any other structure adapted to secure the lace 10 may be glued to the heel element 2.

[0122] Although various embodiments have been described herein, they are presented by way of example and not limitation. Based on the teachings and guidance presented herein, it should be apparent that adaptations and modifications are intended to be within the meaning and scope of the equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. Accordingly, various changes in form and detail may be made to the embodiments disclosed herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure, which will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The elements of the embodiments presented herein are not necessarily mutually exclusive, but may be interchangeable to meet various situations, as will be understood by those skilled in the art.

[0123] These embodiments of the present disclosure are illustrative and not restrictive. Other suitable adjustments of the various conditions and parameters commonly encountered in the art that are obvious to those skilled in the art are also within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0124] It should be understood that the language or terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and not limitation. The breadth and scope of the present disclosure should not be limited by any of the above exemplary embodiments, but should be defined in accordance with the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A shoe comprising: vamp; as well as a heel element arranged to at least partially overlap at least a portion of the upper, wherein: The heel element is configured to enclose at least a portion of a heel of a wearer of the shoe, and The heel element is movable relative to the upper. The shoe of claim 1 , wherein the upper does not include a heel portion.

3. The shoe according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The heel element overlaps the upper at the lateral side and the medial side of the upper.

4. The shoe according to any one of claims 1 or 3, wherein: The upper includes a heel portion, and the heel element is arranged on the inner side of the upper, wherein the heel element includes an inner-facing surface and an opposite outer-facing surface, wherein a majority of the outer-facing surface is not connected to the heel portion of the upper, so that a gap is formed between the outer-facing surface of the heel element and the heel portion of the upper.

5. The shoe according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: The heel element includes an upper portion and a lower portion, wherein the lower portion is arranged closer to the sole of the shoe than the upper portion, wherein the upper portion is filled with a cushioning material, and wherein the cushioning material is a foam material.

6. The shoe according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The heel element includes an upper portion and a lower portion, wherein the lower portion is disposed closer to a sole of the shoe than the upper portion, and wherein the upper portion comprises a mesh material.

7. The shoe according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: The heel element is coupled to a lace of the shoe.

8. The shoe of claim 7, wherein the heel element includes a fulcrum for receiving the shoelace, and wherein the fulcrum is configured to provide a lever for moving the heel element relative to the upper when a wearer pulls on the shoelace.

9. The shoe according to claim 8, wherein: The lace is passed from the eyelets of the upper via the lace guides of the heel element to the fulcrum.

10. The shoe according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein: The heel element is configured to receive the lace of the shoe at different locations on the heel element.

11. The shoe according to claim 10, wherein: The heel element includes one or more lace eyelets on opposite sides of the heel element for receiving the lace.

12. The shoe according to any one of claims 7, 10 or 11, wherein: The lace is passed from the first eyelet of the upper through the first eyelet of the heel element to the second eyelet of the upper.

13. The shoe according to any one of claims 7 or 10-12, wherein: a first eyelet of the upper is located on a first side of the shoe, and The first eyelet of the heel element and the second eyelet of the upper are located on a second side of the shoe opposite the first side.

14. The shoe according to claim 12 or 13, wherein: The eyelets of the upper and the eyelets of the heel element are loops, webbing, lugs or perforations.

15. The shoe of any one of claims 1 or 3-14, further comprising a wing connecting a heel portion of the upper and the heel element.

16. A shoe comprising: vamp; as well as a heel element arranged to at least partially overlap at least a portion of the upper, wherein: The heel element is configured to enclose at least a portion of a heel of a wearer of the shoe, The heel element is movable relative to the upper, The heel element is coupled to a lace of the shoe, and The heel element includes a fulcrum configured to provide a lever for moving the heel element relative to the upper when a wearer pulls on the laces. The shoe of claim 16 , wherein the upper does not include a heel portion.

18. The shoe according to claim 16, wherein: The heel element overlaps the upper at a lateral side and a medial side of the upper.

19. The shoe according to claim 16, wherein the upper includes a heel portion, and the heel element is arranged on the inner side of the upper, wherein the heel element includes an inner-facing surface and an opposite outer-facing surface, wherein a majority of the outer-facing surface is not connected to the heel portion of the upper, so that a gap is formed between the outer-facing surface of the heel element and the heel portion of the upper.

20. The shoe of claim 19, wherein at least a portion of the lace is tucked into the void.

21. The shoe of claim 16, wherein the fulcrum is positioned on a rear half of the heel element.

22. The shoe of claim 21, wherein the fulcrum is positioned rearward of a rearwardly-rearward portion of a tongue of the shoe.

23. The shoe according to claim 16, wherein: The heel element also includes a lace guide.

24. The shoe according to claim 23, wherein: The lace guide is positioned on an outwardly facing surface of the heel element and adjacent an inwardly facing surface of a heel portion of the upper.

25. The shoe of claim 24, wherein the fulcrum is positioned on an outwardly facing surface of the heel element and adjacent an inwardly facing surface of a heel portion of the upper.

26. The shoe according to claim 23, wherein: The shoelace is passed from the first eyelet of the shoe upper through the shoelace guide to the fulcrum.

27. The shoe of claim 26, wherein the lace is further threaded from the fulcrum to a second eyelet of the upper.

28. The shoe according to claim 27, wherein: When the wearer pulls the shoelace, the distance between the fulcrum of the upper and the second eyelet decreases.

29. The shoe of claim 28, wherein the distance is in the range of 30 mm to 50 mm when the heel element is in an unactivated state.

30. The shoe according to claim 27, wherein: Each of the first eyelet, the lace guide, the fulcrum, and the second eyelet includes a loop, webbing, a lug, or a punched hole.

31. The shoe of claim 16, wherein the lace is threaded from a first eyelet of the upper to the pivot point.

32. The shoe of claim 31 , wherein the lace is further threaded from the fulcrum to a second eyelet of the upper.

33. The shoe according to claim 16, wherein: The heel element includes a second fulcrum on a side opposite to the first fulcrum.

34. The shoe according to claim 23, wherein: The heel element includes a second lace guide on a side opposite the first lace guide.

35. The shoe of claim 16, wherein the heel element is configured to articulate forwardly when the lace is pulled.

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