Article of footwear

Abstract

An article of footwear includes an upper and a plate having a top surface facing the upper and a bottom surface formed on opposite sides of the top surface, the plate extending from a first end of a forefoot region to a second end of a heel region. A first cushioning element is attached to the bottom surface of the plate in the forefoot region and a second cushioning element is attached to the bottom surface of the plate in the heel region, the second cushioning element being separated from the first cushioning element by a first gap formed in the midfoot region. Each of the one or more fluid-filled bladders is at least partially surrounded by a first cushioning element in the forefoot region and has a top surface attached to the bottom surface of the plate.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the patent application with the filing date of December 9, 2020 and the application number of 202080092675.7.

[0002] Cross - reference to related applications

[0003] This application claims the priority of U.S. Application No. 17 / 115768, filed on December 8, 2020, which claims the priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 945826, filed on December 9, 2019, under 35 U.S.C.§119(e). The disclosures of these prior applications are considered to be part of the disclosure of this application and are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties. Technical field

[0004] The present invention generally relates to the sole structure of an article of footwear. Background art

[0005] This section provides background information related to the present disclosure, which is not necessarily prior art.

[0006] An article of footwear generally includes an upper and a sole structure. The upper can be formed of any suitable material to receive, secure, and support the foot over the sole structure. The upper can cooperate with laces, straps, or other fasteners to adjust the fit of the upper around the foot. The bottom of the upper near the bottom of the foot is attached to the sole structure.

[0007] The sole structure generally includes a layered arrangement extending between the ground and the upper. One layer of the sole structure includes an outsole, which provides abrasion resistance and traction with the ground. The outsole can be made of rubber or other materials that impart durability and abrasion resistance as well as enhanced traction with the ground. Another layer of the sole structure includes a midsole disposed between the outsole and the upper. The midsole provides cushioning for the foot and is generally at least partially formed of a polymeric foam material that elastically compresses under an applied load to cushion the foot by attenuating the ground reaction force. The midsole can define a bottom surface on a side opposite the outsole and a shoe bed on the opposite side, the contour of which can conform to the contour of the bottom of the foot. The sole structure can also include an insole and / or an insole insert for enhanced comfort located within a void near the bottom of the upper.

[0008] High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) fitness involves alternating between all-out effort and rest for recovery. The movements are diverse - burpees, kettlebell swings, lunges, mountain climbers, push-ups, squats, etc. - and are sequenced to achieve maximum results with maximum effort. In a HIIT fitness class, athletes typically wear shoes optimized for shock absorption or shoes optimized for support. Unfortunately, while such shoes are sufficient for their intended purpose (i.e., cushioning or support), their design cannot provide both benefits simultaneously and thus perform poorly during HIIT exercises. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected configurations and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0010] Figure 1 is a bottom perspective view of an article of footwear in accordance with the principles of the present invention;

[0011] Figure 2 is Figure 1 a front elevational view of the article of footwear taken from the outside;

[0012] Figure 3 is Figure 1 a front elevational view of the article of footwear taken from the inside;

[0013] Figure 4 is Figure 1 an exploded top perspective view of the article of footwear;

[0014] Figure 5 is Figure 1 an exploded bottom perspective view of the article of footwear;

[0015] Figure 6 is Figure 1 a bottom plan view of the article of footwear;

[0016] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the article of footwear taken along section line 7-7 of Figure 6 ; Figure 1 the article of footwear;

[0017] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the article of footwear taken along section line 8-8 of Figure 6 ; Figure 1 the article of footwear;

[0018] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of the article of footwear taken along section line 9-9 of Figure 6 ; Figure 1 the article of footwear;

[0019] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of the article of footwear taken along section line 10-10 of Figure 6 ; Figure 1 the article of footwear;

[0020] Figure 11 is taken along line 11-11 of Figure 6 a footwear article; Figure 1 a cross-sectional view of the footwear article;

[0021] Figure 12 is taken along line 12-12 of Figure 6 a footwear article; Figure 1 a cross-sectional view of the footwear article;

[0022] Figure 13 is a front elevational view of the outside of another example of a footwear article in accordance with the principles of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 14 is Figure 13 a front elevational view of the inside of a footwear article;

[0024] Figure 15 is Figure 13 a bottom plan view of a footwear article;

[0025] Figure 16 is a front elevational view of the outside of another example of a footwear article in accordance with the principles of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 17 is Figure 16 a front elevational view of the inside of a footwear article;

[0027] Figure 18 is Figure 16 a bottom plan view of a footwear article; and

[0028] Figure 19 is Figure 16 a top plan view of a footwear article.

[0029] In all of the figures, corresponding reference numerals represent corresponding parts. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] Example configurations will now be described more fully with reference to the drawings. Example configurations are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those of ordinary skill in the art. Specific details, such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the configurations of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those of skill in the art that example embodiments may be implemented in many different forms and that specific details and example configurations should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure.

[0031] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular exemplary configurations only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular articles "a", "an" and "the" may also be intended to include the plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms "comprising", "including" and "having" are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of stated features, steps, operations, elements and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components and / or groups thereof. Unless specifically identified as the order of execution, the method steps, processes and operations described herein should not be construed as necessarily being performed in the particular order discussed or illustrated. Additional or alternative steps may be employed.

[0032] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on", "engaged to", "connected to", "attached to" or "coupled to" another element or layer, it can be directly on, engaged, connected, attached or coupled to the other element or layer, or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly on", "directly engaged to", "directly connected to", "directly attached to" or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, intervening elements or layers may not be present. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a like manner (e.g., "between" versus "directly between", "adjacent to" versus "directly adjacent to", etc.). As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0033] The terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections. These elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another. Terms such as "first", "second" and other numerical terms do not imply an order or sequence unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below may be referred to as a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the exemplary configuration.

[0034] One aspect of the present disclosure includes an article of footwear. The article of footwear includes an upper. The article of footwear also includes a plate having a top surface facing the upper and a bottom surface formed on an opposite side of the top surface, the plate extending from a first end in a forefoot region to a second end in a heel region. The article of footwear also includes a first cushioning element having an upper surface attached to the bottom surface of the plate in the forefoot region and including a first side shield extending from the upper surface and along an inner side of the upper and a second side shield extending from the upper surface and along an outer side of the upper. The article of footwear also includes one or more fluid-filled bladders, each bladder at least partially surrounded by the first cushioning element in the forefoot region and having a top surface attached to the bottom surface of the plate.

[0035] This aspect of the disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In some examples, one or more fluid-filled bladders include a first fluid-filled bladder disposed on the inner side and a second fluid-filled bladder disposed on the outer side. In some embodiments, the first end of the plate includes an outer portion and an inner portion, and the inner portion is separated from the outer portion by a gap. In some configurations, the first cushioning element includes one or more holes, each hole configured to receive a corresponding one of the one or more fluid-filled bladders.

[0036] In some examples, each of the plate and the upper is received between a first side shield and a second side shield. In some configurations, one or more fluid-filled bladders are disposed between the first side shield and the second side shield. In some embodiments, the first side shield and the second side shield include an arch extending along a respective side of the footwear item from the first end to the second end.

[0037] Optionally, the footwear item may include a second cushioning element that is disposed in the heel region and is spaced apart from the first cushioning element by a gap in the midfoot region of the footwear item. Here, the footwear item may include an outsole having a first segment attached to the first cushioning element, a second segment attached to the second cushioning element, and a third segment attached to one or more fluid-filled bladders. In some examples, the plate includes one or more upper sockets, each upper socket receiving a first end of one of the one or more fluid-filled bladders, and the outsole includes one or more lower sockets, each lower socket receiving a second end of one of the one or more fluid-filled bladders.

[0038] Another aspect of the disclosure provides a footwear item including an upper and a plate having a top surface facing the upper and a bottom surface formed on an opposite side of the top surface. The plate extends from a first end in the forefoot region to a second end in the heel region. The footwear item further includes a first cushioning element having an upper surface attached to the bottom surface of the plate in the forefoot region, and including a first side shield defining a first opening formed on an outer side of the first cushioning element and a second shield defining a second opening formed on an inner side of the first cushioning element. The footwear item further includes one or more fluid-filled bladders, each bladder at least partially surrounded by the first cushioning element in the forefoot region and having a top surface attached to the bottom surface of the plate.

[0039] This aspect of the disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In some examples, one or more fluid-filled bladders include a first fluid-filled bladder disposed on the inner side and a second fluid-filled bladder disposed on the outer side. In some embodiments, the first end of the plate includes an outer portion and an inner portion, and the inner portion is separated from the outer portion by a gap. In some configurations, the first cushioning element includes one or more holes, each hole configured to receive a corresponding one of the one or more fluid-filled bladders.

[0040] In some configurations, each of the plate and the upper is received between a first side shield and a second side shield. In some examples, one or more fluid-filled bladders are disposed between the first side shield and the second side shield. In some embodiments, each of the first side shield and the second side shield includes an arch extending from a first end to a second end along a respective side of the footwear item.

[0041] In some examples, the footwear item further includes a second cushioning element that is disposed in the heel region and is spaced apart from the first cushioning element by a gap in the midfoot region of the footwear item. In some examples, the footwear item includes an outsole having a first segment attached to the first cushioning element, a second segment attached to the second cushioning element, and a third segment attached to one or more fluid-filled bladders. Optionally, the plate includes one or more upper sockets, each of which receives a first end of one of the one or more bladders, and the outsole includes one or more lower sockets, each of which receives a second end of one of the one or more bladders.

[0042] Reference Figure 1 , footwear item 10 includes an upper 100 and a sole structure 200. Shoe 10 may also include a front end 12 associated with the foremost point of shoe 10, and a rear end 14 corresponding to the rearmost point of shoe 10. As Figure 6 shown, the longitudinal axis A of shoe 10 10 extends along the length of shoe 10 from the front end 12 parallel to the ground to the rear end 14, and generally divides shoe 10 into an inner side 16 and an outer side 18. Thus, the inner side 16 and the outer side 18 respectively correspond to opposite sides of shoe 10 and extend from the front end 12 to the rear end 14. As used herein, the longitudinal direction refers to the direction extending from the front end 12 to the rear end 14, and the transverse direction refers to the direction transverse to the longitudinal direction and extending from the inner side 16 to the outer side 18.

[0043] The footwear item 10 can be divided into one or more regions. These regions may include a forefoot region 20, a midfoot region 22, and a heel region 24. The forefoot region 20 can be subdivided into a toe portion 20 corresponding to the phalanges T and a sole portion 20 associated with the metatarsals of the foot B . The midfoot region 22 may correspond to the arch region of the foot, and the heel region 24 may correspond to the rear portion of the foot, including the calcaneus.

[0044] The upper 100 includes an inner surface that defines an inner void 102 configured to receive and secure a foot for support on a sole structure 200. The upper 100 can be formed of one or more materials that are stitched or bonded together to form the inner void 102. Suitable materials for the upper 100 can include, but are not limited to, mesh, textiles, foams, leather, and synthetic leather. The materials can be selected and positioned to impart durability, breathability, abrasion resistance, flexibility, and comfort.

[0045] Reference Figure 5 , in some examples, the upper 100 includes a midsole fabric having a bottom surface opposite the sole structure 200 and a top surface of the insole that defines the inner void 102. The midsole fabric can be secured to the upper 100 by stitching or an adhesive. The contour of the insole can conform to the contour of the bottom surface (e.g., plantar surface) of the foot. Optionally, the upper 100 can also incorporate additional layers, such as an insole or sockliner, that can be disposed on the midsole fabric and within the inner void 102 of the upper 100 to accommodate the plantar surface of the foot, thereby enhancing the comfort of the footwear item 10. An ankle opening 104 in the heel region 24 can provide an entrance to the inner void 102. For example, the ankle opening 104 can receive the foot to secure the foot within the void 102 and facilitate entry of the foot into and removal from the inner void 102. In some examples, one or more fasteners 106 extend along the upper 100 to adjust the fit of the inner void 102 around the foot and accommodate entry and exit of the foot.

[0046] Reference Figure 4 , the sole structure 200 includes a midsole 202 configured to provide cushioning and responsive characteristics, and an outsole 204 configured to provide a ground engaging surface for the footwear item 10. Unlike traditional midsoles formed from a single sheet of material, the midsole 202 of this example is formed as a composite structure and includes various sub-components configured to impart desired characteristics to the footwear item 10. For example, the midsole 202 includes a rigid or semi-rigid plate 206, a forefoot cushioning element 208, a heel cushioning element 210, and a fluid cushioning device 212 having one or more fluid-filled bladders 214. Similarly, the outsole 204 includes a composite structure and includes a toe segment 216 attached to the forefoot cushioning element 208 at the front end 12, a forefoot segment 218 disposed in the forefoot region 20 and attached to the fluid cushioning device 212, and a heel segment 220 attached to the heel cushioning element 210 at the rear end 14.

[0047] Continuing reference Figure 4 , the plate 206 includes an elastic material, such as polyether block amide (PEBA) (e.g., manufactured by Arkema S.A. a plate elastomer). The plate 206 extends from a first end 222 disposed in the forefoot region 20 to a second end 224 disposed in the rear end 14. The plate 206 includes a top surface 225a attached to the midsole cloth of the upper 100 and a bottom surface 225b formed on a side of the plate 206 opposite to the top surface 225a. The distance from the top surface 225a to the bottom surface 225b defines the thickness of the plate 206. As shown, the first end 222 of the plate 206 may include a forked configuration, where a gap or crack 226 extends from the first end 222 through the thickness of the plate 206 and partially along the length of the plate 206. Thus, the gap 226 divides the first end 222 into inner and outer protrusions 228a, 228b that can bend independently of each other. As Figure 5 shown, the inner and outer protrusions 228a, 228b may include sockets 229a, 229b on the bottom surface 225b for engaging and securing the bladder 214 of the fluid buffer device 212.

[0048] Each of the forefoot cushioning element 208 and the heel cushioning element 210 includes an elastic polymeric material, such as foam or rubber, to impart cushioning, responsiveness, and energy distribution characteristics to the wearer's foot. The forefoot cushioning element 208 and the heel cushioning element 210 may include the same or different materials to impart the desired performance characteristics to the corresponding regions of the sole structure 200. Exemplary elastic polymeric materials for the cushioning elements 208, 210 may include materials based on foaming or molding one or more polymers, such as one or more elastomers (e.g., thermoplastic elastomers (TPE)). The one or more polymers may include aliphatic polymers, aromatic polymers, or a mixture of both; and may include homopolymers, copolymers (including terpolymers), or a mixture of both.

[0049] In some aspects, the one or more polymers may include olefin homopolymers, olefin copolymers, or mixtures thereof. Examples of olefin polymers include polyethylene, polypropylene, and combinations thereof. In other aspects, the one or more polymers may include one or more ethylene copolymers, such as ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymers, EVOH copolymers, ethylene-ethyl acrylate copolymers, ethylene-unsaturated monofatty acid copolymers, and combinations thereof.

[0050] In further aspects, the one or more polymers may include one or more polyacrylates, such as polyacrylic acid, esters of polyacrylic acid, polyacrylonitrile, polyacrylate, methyl polyacrylate, ethyl polyacrylate, butyl polyacrylate, polymethyl methacrylate, and polyvinyl acetate; including derivatives thereof, copolymers thereof, and any combinations thereof.

[0051] In yet another aspect, one or more polymers can include one or more ionomers. In these aspects, ionomers can include polymers having carboxylic acid functional groups, sulfonic acid functional groups, and their salts (such as sodium, magnesium, potassium, etc.), and / or their acid anhydrides. For example, ionomers can include one or more fatty acid-modified ionomers, polystyrene sulfonates, ethylene-methacrylic acid copolymers, and combinations thereof.

[0052] In additional aspects, one or more polymers can include one or more styrenic block copolymers, such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene block copolymers, styrene acrylonitrile block copolymers, styrene ethylene butene styrene block copolymers, styrene ethylene butadiene styrene block copolymers, styrene ethylene propylene styrene block copolymers, styrene butadiene styrene block copolymers, and combinations thereof.

[0053] In additional aspects, one or more polymers can include one or more polyamide copolymers (such as polyamide-polyether copolymers) and / or one or more polyurethanes (such as crosslinked polyurethanes and / or thermoplastic polyurethanes). Examples of suitable polyurethanes include those discussed above for the barrier layer. Alternatively, one or more polymers can include one or more natural and / or synthetic rubbers, such as butadiene and isoprene.

[0054] When the elastomeric polymeric material is a foamed polymeric material, a physical blowing agent or a chemical blowing agent can be used to foam the foam material. The physical blowing agent phase-changes into a gas based on changes in temperature and / or pressure, and the chemical blowing agent forms a gas when heated above its activation temperature. For example, the chemical blowing agent can be an azo compound, such as azodicarbonamide, sodium bicarbonate, and / or isocyanate.

[0055] In some embodiments, the foamed polymeric material can be a crosslinked foam material. In these embodiments, a peroxide-based crosslinking agent, such as dicumyl peroxide, can be used. Additionally, the foamed polymeric material can include one or more fillers, such as pigments, modified or natural clays, modified or unmodified synthetic clays, talc, glass fibers, powdered glass, modified or natural silica, calcium carbonate, mica, paper, wood chips, etc.

[0056] The elastomeric polymeric material can be formed using a molding process. In one example, when the elastomeric polymeric material is a molded elastomer, the uncured elastomer (such as rubber) can be mixed with optional fillers and a curing package, such as a sulfur-based or peroxide-based curing package, in a Banbury mixer, calendered, shaped, placed in a mold, and vulcanized.

[0057] In another example, when the elastomeric polymeric material is a foam material, the material can be foamed during the molding process, such as in an injection molding process. The thermoplastic polymeric material can be melted in the barrel of an injection molding system and combined with a physical or chemical blowing agent and optionally a crosslinking agent, and then injected into a mold under conditions that activate the blowing agent to form a molded foam.

[0058] Optionally, when the elastomeric polymeric material is a foam material, the foam material can be a compression molded foam. Compression molding can be used to change the physical properties of the foam (such as density, stiffness, and / or hardness), or to change the physical appearance of the foam (such as fusing two or more pieces of foam, shaping the foam, etc.), or both.

[0059] The compression molding process desirably begins with the formation of one or more foam preforms, such as by injection molding and foaming the polymeric material, by forming foam granules or beads, by cutting a foam sheet, etc. Then, a compression molded foam can be manufactured by placing one or more preforms formed from the foam polymeric material in a compression mold and applying sufficient pressure to the one or more preforms to compress the one or more preforms in the closed mold. Once the mold is closed, sufficient heat and / or pressure is applied to the one or more preforms in the closed mold for a sufficient period of time to change the preforms by forming a skin on the outer surface of the compression molded foam, fusing individual foam granules to each other, permanently increasing the density of the foam, or any combination thereof. After heating and / or applying pressure, the mold is opened and the molded foam article is removed from the mold.

[0060] Continuing with reference Figure 1-5 , the front foot cushioning element 208 extends from a first end 230 located at the front end 12 to a second end 232 disposed in the midfoot region 22. The front foot cushioning element 208 includes a top surface 233a attached to the bottom surface 225b of the plate 206 and a bottom surface 233b disposed on the opposite side. The distance from the top surface 233a to the bottom surface 233b defines the thickness of the front foot cushioning element 208. The front foot cushioning element 208 includes one or more holes 234a, 234b formed through the entire thickness (i.e., from the top surface 233a to the bottom surface 233b), and the holes 234a, 234b are configured to receive each bladder 214 therein. Thus, when the sole structure 200 is assembled, the bladders 214 of the fluid cushioning device 212 will be surrounded by the front foot cushioning element 208.

[0061] The front foot buffer element 208 further includes a pair of shielding plates 235a, 235b extending upward from opposite sides of the front foot buffer element 208 between a first end 230 and a second end 232. Here, each of the shielding plates 235a, 235b is configured to extend upward along one of the inner and outer sides 16, 18 of the upper 100 in a portion of the front foot region 20 associated with the sole of the foot, thereby providing lateral reinforcement and stability to the side portion of the upper 100 in this region. In the illustrated example, each of the shielding plates 235a, 235b is formed as an arched structure extending from a first end 236a, 236b to a second end 237a, 237b along the side surface of the front foot buffer element 208. Here, the arched structure provides the desired lateral stability while still allowing the sole structure 200 to span the sole portion 20 of the front foot region 20 B to bend appropriately. As Figure 2 and 3 best shown, the shielding plates 235a - 235b define lateral openings 238a, 238b that extend from the outer periphery of the front foot buffer element 208 and intersect with holes 234 formed through the thickness of the front foot buffer element 208. Thus, when assembling the sole structure 200, the bladder 214 can be exposed through the openings 238a, 238b formed through the front foot buffer element 208.

[0062] Still referring to Figure 1-5 , the heel buffer element 210 is attached to the bottom surface of the plate 206 and extends from a first end 239 of the midfoot region 22 to a second end 240 of the rear end 14 of the sole structure 200. As Figure 1-3 best shown, the first end 239 of the heel buffer element 210 faces or is opposite to the second end 232 of the front foot buffer element 208. However, the first end 239 of the heel buffer element 210 is separated from the second end 232 of the front foot buffer element 208 by a gap 242 in the midfoot region 22. Here, the bottom surface of the plate 206 is exposed along the gap 242. This gap provides stability for movements typically associated with HIIT training exercises, such as the plank pose, and allows the foot to bend naturally when advancing towards the climber. The first end 239 of the heel buffer element 210 may include a notch 244 extending in the longitudinal direction of the footwear item 10, such that the first end 239 is divided into inner and outer finger-like members 246a, 246b that can move independently of each other.

[0063] The fluid buffer device 212 of the illustrated example includes a pair of bladders 214, each bladder defining a respective chamber for containing pressurized fluid. A first bladder 214 is disposed on the inner side 16 of the sole structure 200 in the forefoot region 20, and a second bladder 214 is disposed on the outer side 18 of the sole structure 200 in the forefoot region 20. As described above, each bladder 214 extends through one of the holes 234 formed through the forefoot cushioning element 208 such that the top surface of each bladder 214 is received within one of the sockets 229a, 229b and attached to the bottom surface 225b of the plate 206, and the bottom surface of each bladder 214 is received by the socket of the forefoot segment 218 of the outsole 204.

[0064] Each bladder 214 may include a first barrier element 248a and a second barrier element 248b formed of an elastic material. The chamber of each bladder 214 may receive a tension element 250 ( Figure 8 ). Each tension element 250 may include a series of tension lines 252 extending between an upper tension sheet 254 and a lower tension sheet 254. The upper tension sheet 254 may be attached to the first barrier element 248a, and the lower tension sheet 254 may be attached to the second barrier element 248b. In this way, when the bladder 214 receives pressurized fluid, the tension lines 252 of the tension element 250 are in a tensioned state. Since the upper tension sheet 254 is attached to the first barrier element 248a and the lower tension sheet 254 is attached to the second barrier element 248b, the tension lines 252 maintain the desired shape of the bladder 214 when pressurized fluid is injected into the chamber.

[0065] Continuing with reference to Figure 4 , the toe segment 216 of the outsole 204 is formed of an elastic material and is disposed at the front end 12 of the sole structure 200. The forefoot segment 218 is disposed in the forefoot region 20 and is formed independently of each of the toe segment 216 and the heel segment 220. As shown, the forefoot segment 218 includes one or more sockets 256a, 256b formed in the top surface, which are configured to receive and secure the lower portion of a corresponding bladder 214. Thus, the forefoot segment 218 provides a bottom structure for securing the bladder 214. In some cases, the forefoot segment 218 may be formed of a material having greater rigidity than the other segments 216, 220 to impart stability between the individual bladders 214.

[0066] The heel segment 220 extends around the heel region 24 and includes a first segment 258a extending along the inner side 16, a second segment 258b extending along the outer side 18, and an arched third segment 258c extending around the rear end 14. As shown, the second segment 258b may be longer than the first segment 258a.

[0067] Specifically referring to Figure 13-15, there is provided a footwear item 10a, which includes an upper 100a and a sole structure 200a attached to the upper 100a. Considering the basic structural and functional similarities of the components related to the footwear item 10 with respect to the footwear item 10a, like reference numerals are used in the following text and drawings to identify like components, while like reference numerals with alphabetic extensions are used to identify those components that have been modified.

[0068] In Figure 13-15 the footwear item, the sole structure 200a includes an integral midsole 202a, which includes a single cushioning element that includes a foam material extending from a front end 12 to a rear end 14. Here, the sole structure 200a does not include separate cushioning elements or bladders. The midsole 202a includes medial and lateral shields 235c, 235d, which are narrower in profile than the side shields 235a, 235b of the previous example. In this example, the side shields 235c, 235d are formed as solid (i.e., not including openings) elements along the sides of the midsole 202a. Optionally, the midsole 202a may include arched release channels 270a - 270d, which are formed in the peripheral surface of the midsole 202a at opposite ends of the side shields 235c, 235d to allow the midsole 202a to bend around the side shields 235c, 235d. Thus, the sole structure 200a is configured as a simplified lightweight alternative to the sole structure 200. The minimalist sole structure 200a may be ideal for travel (i.e., packing in luggage) and use in restricted areas.

[0069] The upper 100a of the footwear item 10a may include arched bending regions 130a, 130b that partially surround the side shields 235c, 235d. As shown, the bending regions 130a, 130b each extend from a first release channel 130a, 130c at the front end of one of the side shields 235c, 235d to a second release channel 130b, 130d formed at the front end of the corresponding side shield 235c, 235d. Thus, the upper 100a cooperates with the release channels 170a - 170d to provide flexibility along the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint.

[0070] Specifically referring to Figure 16-19 , there is provided a footwear item 10b, which includes an upper 100b and a sole structure 200b attached to the upper 100b. Considering the basic structural and functional similarities of the components related to the footwear item 10 with respect to the footwear item 10b, like reference numerals are used in the following text and drawings to identify like components, while like reference numerals with alphabetic extensions are used to identify those components that have been modified.

[0071] Reference Figure 16-19, Another example of a footwear item 10b according to the principles of the present invention is configured for cycling. The upper 100b includes a translucent mesh material that extends over the forefoot region 20 and along the outer side 18 of the midfoot region 22. The upper 100b also includes a forefoot strap 108 and a midfoot strap 110, each extending across the upper 100b from the inner side 16 to the outer side 18.

[0072] The forefoot strap 108 includes an inner forefoot strap 112 and an outer forefoot strap 114. The inner forefoot strap 112 is attached at a bite line formed between the upper 100b and the sole structure 200b on the inner side 16, and the outer forefoot strap 114 is attached at a bite line on the outer side 18. Each forefoot strap 112, 114 includes a fixed end 116, 118 attached at the bite line and a free end operable to adjustably attach to the free end of the other forefoot strap 112, 114. As shown, the fixed ends 116, 118 of the forefoot straps 112, 114 flare outwards (i.e., increase in width along the direction towards the bite line) and include an arched reinforcing strip 120 attached to or embedded within the fixed ends 116, 118. Thus, the fixed ends 116, 118 of the forefoot strap 108 can function similarly to the above-described guards 235a, 235b to provide lateral stability along the ball region of the foot while also allowing the upper to flex or bend along the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint.

[0073] The midfoot strap 110 includes an inner midfoot strap 122 and an outer midfoot strap 124 that cooperate to extend across the upper 100b adjacent the ankle opening 104. As Figure 17 and 19 shown, the inner midfoot strap 122 is integrally formed with the upper 100b. Thus, the inner midfoot strap 122 extends along the inner side of the shoe and defines an inner quarter panel and an inner heel panel. When the inner midfoot strap 122 is attached to the outer midfoot strap 124, the inner midfoot strap 122 can be pulled to the dorsal region of the foot to adjust the size of the upper 100b and the ankle opening 104. Here, the outer midfoot strap 124 includes a fixed end 126 attached to the upper 100b on the outer side 18 of the ankle opening 104 and a second end configured to adjustably attach to the inner midfoot strap 122.

[0074] The sole structure 200b includes a forefoot plate 260 and a heel plate 262 attached to the upper 100b. The forefoot plate 260 includes a coupler 264 with SPD and triangular studs. The forefoot plate 260 also includes a plurality of ventilation holes 266 formed through the thickness of the forefoot plate 260 and communicating with the inner void 102 of the upper 100 to provide ventilation to the plantar surface of the foot within the upper 100b. Each of the forefoot plate 260 and the heel plate 262 includes resilient studs 268 to provide traction during walking.

[0075] Using fluid-filled bladders with tensile members in the forefoot not only creates a dynamic aesthetic but also helps provide impact protection and responsiveness. The fluid-filled cushioning devices - a two-unit system under the forefoot - do not act independently. The flat plate from heel to forefoot helps the foot roll forward and prepares for most upright HIIT movements. The upper is carefully designed to support lateral movements such as skating and side lunges.

[0076] The following clauses provide exemplary configurations of the above sole structure and footwear item.

[0077] Clause 1: A footwear item, comprising: an upper; a plate having a top surface facing the upper and a bottom surface formed on the opposite side of the top surface, the plate extending from a first end in the forefoot region to a second end in the heel region; a first cushioning element having an upper surface attached to the bottom surface of the plate in the forefoot region, and including a first side shield extending from the upper surface and along the inner side of the upper and a second side shield extending from the upper surface and along the outer side of the upper; and one or more fluid-filled bladders, each bladder at least partially surrounded by the first cushioning element in the forefoot region and having a top surface attached to the bottom surface of the plate.

[0078] Clause 2: The footwear item of Clause 1, wherein the one or more fluid-filled bladders include a first fluid-filled bladder disposed on the inner side and a second fluid-filled bladder disposed on the outer side.

[0079] Clause 3: The footwear item of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first end of the plate includes an outer portion and an inner portion separated from the outer portion by a gap.

[0080] Clause 4: The footwear item of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first cushioning element includes one or more holes, each hole configured to receive a corresponding one of the one or more fluid-filled bladders.

[0081] Clause 5: The footwear item of any of the preceding clauses, wherein each of the plate and the upper is received between the first side shield and the second side shield.

[0082] Clause 6: The footwear item of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the one or more fluid-filled bladders are disposed between the first side shield and the second side shield.

[0083] Clause 7: The footwear item of any of the preceding clauses, wherein each of the first side shield and the second side shield includes an arch extending from the first end to the second end along the respective side of the footwear item.

[0084] Clause 8: The footwear item of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising a second cushioning element disposed in the heel region and spaced apart from the first cushioning element by a gap in the midfoot region of the footwear item.

[0085] Clause 9: The footwear article of Clause 8 further includes an outsole having a first segment attached to a first cushioning element, a second segment attached to a second cushioning element, and a third segment attached to one or more fluid-filled bladders.

[0086] Clause 10: The footwear article of Clause 9, wherein the plate includes one or more upper sockets, each upper socket receiving a first end of one of the one or more bladders, and the outsole includes one or more lower sockets, each lower socket receiving a second end of one of the one or more bladders.

[0087] Clause 11: A footwear article comprising: an upper; a plate having a top surface facing the upper and a bottom surface formed on an opposite side of the top surface, the plate extending from a first end in a forefoot region to a second end in a heel region; a first cushioning element having an upper surface attached to the bottom surface of the plate in the forefoot region, and including a first side shield defining a first opening formed on an outer side of the first cushioning element and a second side shield defining a second opening formed on an inner side of the first cushioning element; and one or more fluid-filled bladders, each bladder at least partially surrounded by the first cushioning element in the forefoot region and having a top surface attached to the bottom surface of the plate.

[0088] Clause 12: The footwear article of Clause 11, wherein the one or more fluid-filled bladders include a first fluid-filled bladder disposed on the inner side and a second fluid-filled bladder disposed on the outer side.

[0089] Clause 13: The footwear article of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first end of the plate includes an outer portion and an inner portion separated from the outer portion by a gap.

[0090] Clause 14: The footwear article of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first cushioning element includes one or more holes, each hole configured to receive a corresponding one of the one or more fluid-filled bladders.

[0091] Clause 15: The footwear article of any of the preceding clauses, wherein each of the plate and the upper is received between the first side shield and the second side shield.

[0092] Clause 16: The footwear article of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the one or more fluid-filled bladders are disposed between the first side shield and the second side shield.

[0093] Clause 17: The footwear article of any of the preceding clauses, wherein each of the first side shield and the second side shield includes an arch extending along a respective side of the footwear article from the first end to the second end.

[0094] Article 18: An article of footwear of any of the preceding articles, further including a second cushioning element disposed in the heel region and spaced apart from the first cushioning element by a gap in the midfoot region of the article of footwear.

[0095] Article 19: The article of footwear of Article 18, further including an outsole having a first segment attached to the first cushioning element, a second segment attached to the second cushioning element, and a third segment attached to one or more fluid-filled bladders.

[0096] Article 20: The article of footwear of Article 19, wherein the plate includes one or more upper sockets, each upper socket receiving a first end of one of the one or more bladders, and the outsole includes one or more lower sockets, each lower socket receiving a second end of one of the one or more bladders.

[0097] For purposes of illustration and description, the foregoing description has been provided. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure. Individual elements or features of a particular configuration are generally not limited to that particular configuration, but are interchangeable and may be used in a selected configuration, even if not specifically shown or described, where applicable. This may also vary in many ways. Such variations should not be regarded as a departure from the disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the disclosure.

Claims

1. An article of footwear, comprising: an upper; a plate having a top surface facing the upper and a bottom surface formed on an opposite side of the top surface, the plate extending from a first end in a forefoot region to a second end in a heel region, and the plate including a gap defining first and second protrusions operable to bend relative to each other; a first fluid-filled bladder attached to the bottom surface of the plate at the first protrusion; a second fluid-filled bladder attached to the bottom surface of the plate at the second protrusion.

2. The footwear item according to claim 1, wherein, The first fluid-filled bladder is disposed on an inner side of the plate, and the second fluid-filled bladder is disposed on an outer side of the plate.

3. The footwear article according to claim 1, wherein, The first protrusion includes a first socket operable to receive the first fluid-filled bladder, and the second protrusion includes a second socket operable to receive the second fluid-filled bladder.

4. The footwear article according to claim 3, wherein, The first socket and the second socket are formed in the bottom surface of the plate, adjacent corresponding distal ends of the first and second protrusions.

5. The article of footwear according to claim 1, further comprising a first cushioning member having an upper surface attached to the bottom surface of the plate in the forefoot region.

6. The footwear article according to claim 5, wherein, The first cushioning member includes a first hole formed through a thickness of the first cushioning member and a second hole formed through the thickness of the first cushioning member, the first hole receiving the first fluid-filled bladder, and the second hole receiving the second fluid-filled bladder.

7. The footwear item according to claim 5, wherein The first and second fluid-filled bladders extend through the first cushioning member, and each of the first and second fluid-filled bladders includes a first surface attached to the bottom surface of the plate and a second surface formed on an opposite side of each of the first and second fluid-filled bladders from the first surface and attached to an outsole.

8. The article of footwear according to claim 5, further comprising a second cushioning member disposed in the heel region and spaced apart from the first cushioning member by a gap in a midfoot region of the article of footwear.

9. The article of footwear according to claim 8, further comprising an outsole having a first portion attached to the first cushioning member, a second portion attached to the second cushioning member, and a third portion attached to the first and second fluid-filled bladders.

10. The footwear article according to claim 8, wherein, The plate is exposed in a gap defined between the first and second cushioning members.

11. An article of footwear, comprising: an upper; a plate having a top surface facing the upper and a bottom surface formed on an opposite side of the top surface, the plate extending from a first end in a forefoot region to a second end in a heel region; a first cushioning member having an upper surface attached to the bottom surface of the plate in the forefoot region and including a first side shield and a second side shield, the first side shield extending from the upper and along an outer surface of the upper at an inner side of the upper, the second side shield extending from the upper and along an outer surface of the upper at an outer side of the upper; a first fluid-filled bladder attached to the bottom surface of the plate and surrounded by the first cushioning member; and a second fluid-filled bladder attached to the bottom surface of the plate and surrounded by the first cushioning member.

12. The footwear article according to claim 11, wherein, The first fluid-filled bladder is disposed on an inner side of the plate, and the second fluid-filled bladder is disposed on an outer side of the plate.

13. The footwear item according to claim 11, wherein, The plate includes a gap defining first and second protrusions operable to bend relative to one another.

14. The footwear article according to claim 13, wherein, The first protrusion includes a first socket operable to receive the first fluid-filled bladder, and the second protrusion includes a second socket operable to receive the second fluid-filled bladder.

15. The footwear article according to claim 14, wherein, The first socket and the second socket are formed in the bottom surface of the plate, near corresponding distal ends of the first and second protrusions.

16. The footwear article according to claim 11, wherein, The first cushioning member includes a first hole formed through the thickness of the first cushioning member and a second hole formed through the thickness of the first cushioning member, the first hole receiving the first fluid-filled bladder and the second hole receiving the second fluid-filled bladder.

17. The footwear article according to claim 11, wherein, The first and second fluid-filled bladders extend through the first cushioning member, the first and second fluid-filled bladders each including a first surface attached to the bottom surface of the plate and a second surface formed on an opposite side of the first and second fluid-filled bladders from the first surface and attached to the outsole.

18. The footwear item according to claim 11, further comprising a second cushioning member disposed in the heel region and spaced from the first cushioning member by a gap in the midfoot region of the footwear item.

19. The footwear item according to claim 18, further comprising an outsole having a first portion attached to the first cushioning member, a second portion attached to the second cushioning member, and a third portion attached to the first and second fluid-filled bladders.

20. The footwear article according to claim 18, wherein, The plate is exposed in a gap defined between the first cushioning member and the second cushioning member.

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