Vamp incorporating knitted butterfly workpiece for article of footwear

Abstract

An upper for an article of footwear incorporating a knitted butterfly workpiece. An article of footwear incorporating an upper formed from a forefoot component, a knit workpiece, and a heel component is described herein. Each of the forefoot component, the knitted workpiece, and the heel component is independent of one another and joined along a connection region. A reinforcing element covers the connection region. In one embodiment, the knitted workpiece includes a collar portion and a throat portion extending forward from the collar portion. The knitted workpiece also includes an inward lobe extending from a side of the throat portion and an outward lobe extending from a side of the throat portion opposite the inward lobe. The collar portion, the throat portion, the inward lobes, and the outward lobes form a single single piece knitted workpiece.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application filed on September 12, 2023, with application number 202380065957.1 (international application number PCT / IB2023 / 000533) and entitled "Shoe upper with knitted butterfly workpiece for footwear articles". Technical Field

[0002] This embodiment generally relates to an upper for footwear articles, and particularly to an upper for footwear articles incorporating a knitted butterfly-shaped workpiece. Background Technology

[0003] Conventional footwear typically comprises two main components: the upper and the sole assembly. The upper is attached to the sole assembly and forms a cavity within the footwear to comfortably and securely receive the foot. The sole assembly is attached to the underside of the upper to position it between the upper and the ground.

[0004] A variety of materials are commonly used in the manufacture of shoe uppers. Materials can be selected based on various properties, including, for example, tensile strength, abrasion resistance, flexibility, breathability, compressibility, and moisture absorption, each of which gives the shoe upper different characteristics.

[0005] There is a need in the art for footwear articles with uppers that provide a combination of properties for improving fit and feel for the wearer. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In one aspect, a knitted workpiece is provided for incorporation into the upper of a footwear article. The knitted workpiece includes a collar portion and a throat portion, the throat portion extending forward from the collar portion. The knitted workpiece also includes an inward leaf and an outward leaf, wherein the inward leaf extends from one side of the throat portion, and the outward leaf extends from the side of the throat portion opposite to the inward leaf. The collar portion, the throat portion, the inward leaf, and the outward leaf form a single, individual knitted workpiece.

[0007] In another aspect, an upper for footwear articles is provided. The upper includes a knitted workpiece disposed in at least a portion of a midfoot region and a heel region of the upper. The upper also includes a forefoot member disposed in the forefoot region of the upper. The forefoot member is configured to attach to the knitted workpiece along a first attachment region on an inward side and a second attachment region on an outward side. The upper further includes a heel member disposed in the heel region of the upper. The heel member is configured to attach to the knitted workpiece along a third attachment region on an inward side and a fourth attachment region on an outward side.

[0008] In another aspect, a footwear article is provided. The footwear article includes: an upper having a knitted workpiece disposed in at least a portion of a midfoot region and a heel region of the upper; a forefoot component disposed in the forefoot region of the upper, the forefoot component being configured to attach to the knitted workpiece along a first attachment region on an inward side and a second attachment region on an outward side; and a heel component disposed in the heel region of the upper, the heel component being configured to attach to the knitted workpiece along a third attachment region on an inward side and a fourth attachment region on an outward side. The upper also includes a first reinforcing element, a second reinforcing element, and a third reinforcing element, wherein the first reinforcing element is disposed on the third attachment region on the inward side, the second reinforcing element is disposed on both the first attachment region on the inward side and the second attachment region on the outward side, and the third reinforcing element is disposed on the fourth attachment region on the outward side. The upper also includes a sole assembly attached to the upper.

[0009] Other systems, methods, features, and advantages of this disclosure will be or will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the following figures and detailed description. All such additional systems, methods, features, and advantages are intended to be included within this specification and summary, within the scope of this disclosure, and protected by the appended claims. Attached Figure Description

[0010] The present disclosure can be better understood by referring to the following figures and description. The components in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale, but are used to emphasize the principles of the present disclosure. Furthermore, in the figures, the same reference numerals denote corresponding components in different views.

[0011] Figure 1 It is an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of a footwear article including an upper incorporating a knitted butterfly-shaped workpiece;

[0012] Figure 2 This is an outward side view of an exemplary embodiment of a footwear article including an upper incorporating a knitted butterfly-shaped workpiece;

[0013] Figure 3 This is an inside side view of an exemplary embodiment of a footwear article including an upper incorporating a knitted butterfly-shaped workpiece;

[0014] Figure 4 This is a top view of an exemplary embodiment of a footwear article including an upper incorporating a knitted butterfly-shaped workpiece;

[0015] Figure 5This is a rear view of an exemplary embodiment of a footwear article including an upper incorporating a knitted butterfly-shaped workpiece;

[0016] Figure 6 This is an enlarged view of the collar portion of an exemplary embodiment of a knitted butterfly-shaped workpiece;

[0017] Figure 7 This is an enlarged view of the throat portion of an exemplary embodiment of a knitted butterfly-shaped workpiece;

[0018] Figure 8 This is an enlarged inward view of an exemplary embodiment of a knitted butterfly-shaped workpiece;

[0019] Figure 9 This is an enlarged view of the outer side of an exemplary embodiment of a knitted butterfly-shaped workpiece;

[0020] Figure 10 This is an exploded view of components of an exemplary embodiment of a footwear article including an upper incorporating a knitted butterfly-shaped workpiece; and

[0021] Figure 11 This is a representative plan view of an exemplary embodiment of a knitted butterfly-shaped workpiece. Detailed Implementation

[0022] This document describes a footwear article having an upper incorporating a knitted butterfly-shaped workpiece. The knitted butterfly-shaped workpiece can be combined with additional components to form the upper. The selected components used to form the upper can provide various properties to different areas of the footwear article. The technology of this embodiment provides an upper for a footwear article that provides improved fit and feel to the wearer's foot.

[0023] For consistency and convenience, directional adjectives are used throughout the detailed description corresponding to the illustrated embodiments. For the purposes of this disclosure, when referring to footwear articles, the following directional terms refer to the footwear article when placed in an upright position with the sole facing the ground, i.e., when the footwear article is worn by a wearer standing on a substantially horizontal surface. The terms “medial,” “lateral,” “front,” “rear,” etc., are intended to refer to the anatomical orientation corresponding to a person on whom the article is constructed to be placed or worn. For example, “medial” refers to a relative position positioned towards the center of the body, while “lateral” refers to a relative position positioned away from the center of the body. In relation to footwear, the term “front” refers to a relative position closer to the wearer’s toes, and “rear” refers to a relative position closer to the wearer’s heel. The same directional terms may be used in the absence of a wearer, as if the footwear article were worn in its intended configuration.

[0024] As used throughout this detailed description and in the claims, the term "longitudinal" refers to the direction in which the length of the article extends. In some cases, the longitudinal direction may extend from the forefoot region of the article to the heel region. Furthermore, as used throughout this detailed description and in the claims, the term "lateral" refers to the direction in which the width of the article extends. In other words, the lateral direction may extend between the inward and outward sides of the article.

[0025] Terms such as “up,” “down,” “vertical,” and “horizontal” should be understood in the context of the specific article under discussion. For example, an article may be oriented about defined X, Y, and Z axes, where the X-axis corresponds to the longitudinal direction and the Y-axis corresponds to the lateral direction. In those examples, the XY plane will be defined as horizontal, with “up” defined as the positive Z-direction and “down” defined as the negative Z-direction. Furthermore, as used throughout this detailed description and claims, the term “vertical” refers to a direction substantially perpendicular to the XY plane and / or the lateral and longitudinal directions. For example, in the case where the article is laid flat on the ground, the vertical direction may extend upwards from the ground. It should be understood that each of these directional adjectives can be applied to various parts of the article, such as the upper and / or sole structure.

[0026] Figures 1 to 11 An exemplary embodiment of footwear article 100 is shown. For clarity, the following detailed description discusses the exemplary embodiment in the form of running shoes; however, it should be noted that the technology described herein can be applied to any form of footwear article, including but not limited to: athletic shoes, training shoes, yoga shoes, football boots, rugby shoes, basketball shoes, baseball shoes, rugby shoes, other types of athletic shoes, casual shoes, hiking boots, and other types of footwear. Figures 1 to 11 As shown, footwear article 100 (also referred to simply as article 100) is intended for use with the left foot; however, it should be understood that the following discussion may equally apply to a mirror image of footwear article 100 intended for use with the right foot.

[0027] refer to Figures 1 to 11 For reference purposes, article 100 may include a forefoot region 10, a midfoot region 20, and a heel region 30. The forefoot region 10 is generally associated with the toes and the joints connecting the metatarsals and phalanges. The midfoot region 20 is generally associated with the arch of the foot. Similarly, the heel region 30 is generally associated with the heel, including the calcaneus. Furthermore, article 100 may include a medial side 40 and a lateral side 50. Specifically, the medial side 40 and the lateral side 50 may be opposite sides of article 100. Additionally, both the medial side 40 and the lateral side 50 may extend through the forefoot region 10, the midfoot region 20, and the heel region 30.

[0028] It should be understood that the forefoot region 10, midfoot region 20, and heel region 30 are intended for descriptive purposes only and are not intended to divide the article 100 into precise areas, but rather to describe their relative positions. Similarly, the inward side 40 and outward side 50 are intended to roughly represent the two sides of the article, rather than precisely dividing the article 100 into two halves. Furthermore, the forefoot region 10, midfoot region 20, and heel region 30, as well as the inward side 40 and outward side 50, can also be applied to various components of the article, such as the sole assembly and / or the upper.

[0029] Article 100 may include an upper 110 and a sole assembly 120. In some embodiments, the sole assembly 120 may be configured to provide adhesive friction to the article 100. In addition to providing adhesive friction, the sole assembly 120 may reduce ground reaction forces when compressed between the foot and the ground during walking, running, or other walking activities. The construction of the sole assembly 120 can vary significantly in different embodiments to include a variety of conventional or unconventional structures. In some cases, the construction of the sole assembly 120 may be based on one or more types of ground surfaces on which the sole assembly 120 may be used. Examples of ground surfaces include, but are not limited to, soil, concrete, paved surfaces, natural turf, synthetic turf, and other surfaces.

[0030] The sole assembly 120 is attached to the upper 110 and extends between the foot and the ground when the article 100 is worn. In different embodiments, the sole assembly 120 may include different components. For example, the sole assembly 120 may include an outsole, a midsole, and / or an insole. In some cases, one or more of these components may be optional. Furthermore, in some cases, the sole assembly 120 itself may be optional.

[0031] The upper 110 is typically configured to receive and cover the foot. In some embodiments, the upper 110 may incorporate a knitted workpiece 112. In an exemplary embodiment, the knitted workpiece 112 may extend through a large portion of the midfoot region 20 and at least a portion of the heel region 30 of the upper 110. In one embodiment, the knitted workpiece 112 is a single, monolithic knitted workpiece formed from a single knitted composition made by looping at least one continuous yarn / thread into multiple rows defining the shape of the knitted workpiece 112. The monolithic knitted workpiece 112 may be incorporated into the upper 110 and may be combined with additional components to form the upper 110 of the footwear article 100. These additional components may include one or more individual workpieces that, when combined with the monolithic knitted workpiece 112, form portions of the upper 110.

[0032] For example, in some embodiments, the knitted workpiece 112 may be combined with a forefoot component 114 and / or a heel component 116. In one embodiment, the forefoot component 114 extends through a large portion of the forefoot region 10 of the upper 110, and the heel component 116 extends through a large portion of the heel region 30 of the upper 110. Each of the forefoot component 114 and the heel component 116 is fabricated separately from the knitted workpiece 112 and is joined or attached to the knitted workpiece 112 to form the upper 110.

[0033] Additional components may also include one or more yarns / threads that are stitched together to form seams, joining portions of the individual knitted workpieces 112 together and / or attaching other components, which may be individually formed from similar or different materials, including the forefoot component 114 and / or the heel component 116. Additional components may also include structural elements such as overlays, base layers, reinforcing members, laces, cushioning or padding, coverings, etc., and / or decorative elements such as designs, logos, images, colored overlays, or films. Other techniques, such as the use of adhesives, heat and / or pressure bonding, or overmolding, may be used to attach components to the upper 110, including the knitted workpieces 112 and / or other workpieces, such as the forefoot component 114 and / or the heel component 116, to form the upper 110.

[0034] As described above, the knitted workpiece 112 can be made from a single piece of knitted composition, and the additional parts can be formed individually from similar or different materials. In an exemplary embodiment, the forefoot part 114 and / or the heel part 116 can be made from one or more material elements, including but not limited to textiles, leather, synthetic leather, polymer sheets, and combinations thereof, which are joined together, for example, by stitching or bonding. The knitted workpiece 112, the forefoot part 114, and the heel part 116 together form the upper 110.

[0035] In some embodiments, the upper 110 may include an opening 118 that provides an entrance into the interior of the upper 110 and / or the article 100. In an exemplary embodiment, a knitted workpiece 112 may extend longitudinally through the instep region of the upper 110 from the opening 118 in a direction toward the forefoot part 114 and the forefoot region 10 to which the knitted workpiece 112 is attached.

[0036] Additionally, the upper 110 may include a plurality of reinforcing elements 122 positioned along a connection region of the upper 110, where the knitted workpiece 112 is attached or joined to the forefoot component 114 and / or the heel component 116. In an exemplary embodiment, the reinforcing elements 122 may be located in a connection region of the upper 110 generally between the forefoot region 10 and the midfoot region 20, where the forefoot component 114 and the knitted workpiece 112 meet, and the reinforcing elements 122 may also be located in a connection region of the upper 110 generally between the midfoot region 20 and the heel region 30, where the heel component 116 and the knitted workpiece 112 meet. In some embodiments, the plurality of reinforcing elements 122 may be joined or attached to individual components to form a connection region of the upper 110 to cover seams or joints and provide reinforcement and / or structural support to the seams or joints.

[0037] In some embodiments, the plurality of reinforcing elements 122 may further include arrangements for tightening or otherwise securing the upper 110 and article 100 to the wearer's foot. Although not shown in this embodiment, some embodiments of the article 100 may include laces or other fastening members that can be used to adjust the fit of the upper 110 around the wearer's foot. For example, the plurality of reinforcing elements 122 may be provided with a plurality of holes 124 configured to receive laces for tightening the upper 110.

[0038] Figure 2 The outer side 50 of the article 100 is shown. In an exemplary embodiment, the upper 110 of the article 100 extends from the toe cap 200 located at the front portion of the article 100 to the heel end 202 located at the rear portion of the article 100 opposite in longitudinal direction to the toe cap 200. In one embodiment, the sole assembly 120 extends from the toe cap 200 to the heel end 202 through each of the forefoot region 10, the midfoot region 20, and the heel region 30 of the article 100. Figure 2 As shown, the sole assembly 120 includes a lower surface 204 extending along the bottom of the sole assembly 120. In an exemplary embodiment, the lower surface 204 of the sole assembly 120 is configured to contact the ground when the article 100 is worn. In one embodiment, the sole assembly 120 may extend vertically from the lower surface 204 to an upper edge 206 adjacent to the upper 110 of the article 100. In some cases, the upper edge 206 may define an engagement line or boundary at which the upper 110 and the sole assembly 120 meet on each side of the article 100 (e.g., on the inward side 40 and the outward side 50).

[0039] In an exemplary embodiment, the article 100 includes a plurality of reinforcing elements 122 positioned along a connection region of the upper 110, at which a knitted workpiece 112 is attached or engaged with a forefoot component 114 and / or a heel component 116. Figure 2 As shown, the plurality of reinforcing elements 122 include at least a first reinforcing element 208 disposed on the outward side 50. The first reinforcing element 208 is positioned along the connection area where the knitted workpiece 112 is attached or joined to the heel component 116. The first reinforcing element 208 covers and encloses the seam or joint between the knitted workpiece 112 and the heel component 116, and provides reinforcement and structural support for the connection area where these individual components are joined.

[0040] In one embodiment, the first reinforcing element 208 has a generally curved U-shape with a bend 214 that separates a first portion 216 extending vertically along the outward side 50 toward the sole assembly 120 and a second portion 218 extending longitudinally along the outward side 50 toward the heel end 202.

[0041] The plurality of reinforcing elements 122 may also include a second reinforcing element 210. The second reinforcing element 210 extends from the outer side 50 to the opposite inner side 40 across the top portion of the upper 110. The second reinforcing element 210 is positioned along the connection area where the knitted workpiece 112 is attached or joined to the forefoot component 114. The second reinforcing element 210 covers and encloses the seam or joint between the knitted workpiece 112 and the forefoot component 114, and provides reinforcement and structural support for the connection area where these individual components join.

[0042] In one embodiment, the second reinforcing element 210 has a generally curved U-shape, wherein the central portion 220 is located approximately in the middle of the top portion of the upper 110, thereby separating the first curved portion 222, which extends longitudinally along the outward side 50 in a direction away from the toe 200, then changes direction at the outward curve 224 and extends downward toward the sole assembly 120.

[0043] Figure 3 The inward side 40 of article 100 is shown. In an exemplary embodiment, the upper 110 may have a similar arrangement on each of the inward side 40 and the outward side 50. In other embodiments, the upper 110 of article 100 may have an asymmetrical arrangement such that the portion of the upper 110 on the inward side 40 differs from the portion of the upper 110 on the outward side 50. Additionally, in this embodiment, the sole assembly 120 has a substantially similar arrangement on each of the inward side 40 and the outward side 50. For example, as... Figure 3As shown, the sole assembly 120 extends vertically from the lower surface 204 to the upper edge 206, which is adjacent to the upper 110 of the article 100 on the inner side 40 in a similar manner to that on the outer side 50. However, in other embodiments, the sole assembly 120 may extend to different heights on the inner side 40 and outer side 50 of the upper 110 in the vertical direction.

[0044] like Figure 3 As shown, the plurality of reinforcing elements 122 also includes a third reinforcing element 212 disposed on the inward side 40. The third reinforcing element 212 is positioned along the connection area where the knitted workpiece 112 is attached or joined to the heel component 116. With this arrangement, the third reinforcing element 212 covers and conceals the seam or joint between the knitted workpiece 112 and the heel component 116, and provides reinforcement and structural support to the connection area where these individual components join.

[0045] In one embodiment, the third reinforcing element 212 has a generally curved U-shape with a bend 300 that separates a first portion 302 extending vertically along the inward side 40 toward the sole assembly 120 and a second portion 304 extending longitudinally along the inward side 40 toward the heel end 202. In an exemplary embodiment, the third reinforcing element 212 is disposed on the inward side 40, directly opposite the first reinforcing element 208 on the outward side 50. In some cases, the third reinforcing element 212 and the first reinforcing element 208 may be similarly shaped to be symmetrical on each of the inward side 40 and the outward side 50. In other cases, the shape and / or arrangement of the third reinforcing element 212 and the first reinforcing element 208 on each of the inward side 40 and the outward side 50 may be different, resulting in asymmetry on opposite sides of the upper 110.

[0046] like Figure 3 As shown, a second reinforcing element 210 extends from the inward side 40 to the opposite outward side 50 across the top portion of the upper 110. The second reinforcing element 210 is positioned along the connection area where the knitted workpiece 112 is attached or joined to the forefoot component 114. The second reinforcing element 210 covers and encloses the seam or joint between the knitted workpiece 112 and the forefoot component 114, and provides reinforcement and structural support to the connection area where these individual components join. In one embodiment, the second reinforcing element 210 has a generally curved U-shape, with a central portion 220 located approximately in the middle of the top portion of the upper 110, thereby separating a second curved portion 306 that extends longitudinally along the inward side 40 in a direction away from the toe 200, then changes direction at an inward bend 308 and extends downward toward the sole assembly 120.

[0047] Now for reference Figure 4The image shows a top view of the article 100 and the upper 110. In some embodiments, the upper 110 may be formed from a combination of individual or individually manufactured components assembled to assemble the upper 110. In an exemplary embodiment, the upper 110 includes a forefoot component 114, a knitted component 112, and a heel component 116. In this embodiment, the knitted component 112 extends through a large portion of the midfoot region 20 and a portion of the heel region 30.

[0048] In an exemplary embodiment, the knitted workpiece 112 includes a throat portion 400 and a collar portion 402. The throat portion 400 of the knitted workpiece 112 extends forward from the opening 118 through the back region of the upper 110 in a direction toward the forefoot part 114 and the forefoot region 10 to which the knitted workpiece 112 is attached. The collar portion 402 of the knitted workpiece 112 extends rearward from the throat portion 400 and surrounds or encloses the opening 118. In an exemplary embodiment, the collar portion 402 includes a forward end 404 at which the throat portion 400 begins, and the collar portion 402 engages along a seam at a rear end opposite to the forward end 404. In one embodiment, a tab 408 may be located at the rear end of the collar portion 402 to cover the seam at the rear edge of the collar portion 402 and to assist the wearer when inserting their foot into the opening 118 of the article 100.

[0049] In this embodiment, the throat portion 400 of the knitted workpiece 112 extends longitudinally from the front end 404 of the collar portion 402 at the opening 118 through the back region of the upper 110 in a direction toward the forefoot region 10, to the front end 406 of the throat portion 400. In some embodiments, a plurality of reinforcing elements 122 are configured to cover and / or reinforce the connection area between individual components of the upper 110. For example, a first reinforcing element 208 and a third reinforcing element 212 are configured to cover and reinforce the connection area between the knitted workpiece 112 and the heel component 116, and a second reinforcing element 210 is configured to cover and reinforce the connection area between the knitted workpiece 112 and the forefoot component 114. Figure 4 As shown, the front end 406 of the throat portion 400 is located at or near the center portion 220 of the second reinforcing element 210, where the knitted workpiece 112 and the forefoot component 114 engage or attach to each other. In an exemplary embodiment, the throat portion 400 of the knitted workpiece is configured to cover the instep of the wearer's foot of the article 100. However, in other embodiments, a tongue may be provided.

[0050] Figure 5This is a rear view of an exemplary embodiment of a footwear article 100 including an upper 110 with a knitted workpiece 112 joined thereto. In this embodiment, a tab 408 is shown covering the seams on both sides of the collar portion 402 of the knitted workpiece 112, which joins along the rear of the upper 110. In some embodiments, a cover 500 may be disposed on or along a connection area at the rear of the upper 110 where the collar portion 402 of the knitted workpiece 112 and the heel component 116 are joined or attached. In this embodiment, the cover 500 is a sheet of thermoplastic polymer or similar film material that can be attached to the connection area between the knitted workpiece 112 and the heel component 116 using heat and / or pressure to bond to the surfaces of the knitted workpiece 112 and the heel component 116. In other embodiments, adhesives or other types of attachment, such as stitching, may be used.

[0051] Now for reference Figure 6 An enlarged view of the collar portion 402 of the knitted workpiece 112 is shown. In some embodiments, the collar portion 402 of the knitted workpiece 112 may have an asymmetrical arrangement between the inward side 40 and the outward side 50. For example, as... Figure 6 As shown, the upper edge 600 of the collar portion 402 extends around and surrounds the opening 118. On each of the inward side 40 and the outward side 50, a notch is provided in the upper edge 600 of the collar portion 402 to accommodate the ankle of the wearer's foot. In this embodiment, the upper edge 600 of the collar portion 402 includes an outward notch 602 on the outward side 50 of the collar portion 402 and an inward notch 604 on the inward side 40 of the collar portion 402.

[0052] In one embodiment, the outward notch 602 and the inward notch 604 may be asymmetrically arranged such that the outward notch 602 and the inward notch 604 have different positions in the longitudinal direction (i.e., closer to or further away from the heel end 202 of the article 100) and / or different heights in the vertical direction (i.e., closer to or further away from the sole assembly 120). Figure 6 As shown, the outward notch 602 is closer to the heel end 202 of the product 100 than the inward notch 604 along the longitudinal direction of the upper 110 and the product 100 (for example, the outward notch 602 is located behind the inward notch 604).

[0053] In this embodiment, the outward notch 602 extends a distance from the upper edge 600 of the collar portion 402 toward the sole assembly 120, a distance greater than the distance the inward notch 604 extends from the upper edge 600 (e.g., the outward notch 602 extends further downward in the vertical direction than the inward notch 604). That is, the outward notch 602 is closer to the sole assembly 120 than the inward notch 604. This asymmetrical arrangement of the outward and inward notches 602 on the collar portion 402 of the knitted workpiece 112 adapts to the ankle of the wearer's foot. However, in other embodiments, the arrangement of the outward and inward notches 602 can differ, including a configuration where the inward notch 604 is closer to the heel end 202 and / or closer to the sole assembly 120 than the outward notch 602. In other embodiments, the outward notch 602 and the inward notch 604 may have substantially similar arrangements on each of the outward side 50 and the inward side 40, thus being symmetrical.

[0054] In some embodiments, the knitted workpiece 112 may have a butterfly arrangement having a portion extending laterally from the throat portion 400, which forms at least a portion of the inward side 40 and the outward side 50 of the upper 110. Referring now... Figure 7 The image shows an enlarged view of the throat portion 400 of the knitted butterfly workpiece 112. In this embodiment, the throat portion 400 of the knitted butterfly workpiece 112 extends longitudinally from the front end 404 of the collar portion 402 to the front end 406. In some embodiments, the knitted butterfly workpiece 112 may further include a portion extending laterally outward from the side of the throat portion 400 in a direction toward the inward side 40 and the outward side 50.

[0055] In an exemplary embodiment, the knitted butterfly workpiece 112 includes an outward leaf 700 extending laterally outward from one side of the throat portion 400 and an inward leaf 702 extending laterally outward from the opposite side of the throat portion 400. In some embodiments, the outward leaf 700 and the inward leaf 702 are configured to engage with a separate forefoot component 114 along the front sides of the outward leaf 700 and the inward leaf 702, and to engage with a separate heel component 116 along the rear sides of the outward leaf 700 and the inward leaf 702. With this arrangement, the outward leaf 700 of the knitted butterfly workpiece 112 forms at least a portion of the upper 110 on the outward side 50 of the article 100, and the inward leaf 702 of the knitted butterfly workpiece 112 forms at least a portion of the upper 110 on the inward side 40 of the article 100.

[0056] As described above, in some embodiments, the upper 110 is formed of a plurality of individual components joined along connecting regions to assemble the upper 110. For example, in an exemplary embodiment, the upper 110 is formed of a knitted butterfly workpiece 112 joined or attached along a plurality of connecting regions to a separate toe section 114 and a separate heel section 116, at which portions of the knitted workpiece 112 meet or abut against portions of the toe section 114 and / or the heel section 116. In some embodiments, the upper 110 may include provisions for reinforcement at the plurality of connecting regions, such as a plurality of reinforcing elements 122 configured to cover the connecting regions and provide reinforcement and structural support to these connecting regions on the upper 110.

[0057] Now for reference Figure 8 An enlarged view of the inward side 40 of the knitted butterfly-shaped workpiece 112 is shown. In this embodiment, a portion of the second reinforcing element 210 covers and reinforces the first connection region 800 between the knitted workpiece 112 and the forefoot part 114, and the third reinforcing element 212 covers and reinforces the third connection region 802 between the knitted workpiece 112 and the heel part 116. Specifically, the first portion 302 of the third reinforcing element 212 covers and reinforces a portion of the third connection region 802 between the inward leaf 702 of the knitted workpiece 112 and the heel part 116, and the second portion 304 of the third reinforcing element 212 covers and reinforces a portion of the third connection region 802 between the collar part 402 of the knitted workpiece 112 and the heel part 116.

[0058] The inward-facing leaf 702 of the knitted workpiece 112 engages with the forefoot component 114 at a first connecting region 800 extending along the front side of the inward-facing leaf 702. The inward-facing leaf 702 of the knitted workpiece 112 engages with the heel component 116 at a third connecting region 802 extending along the rear side of the inward-facing leaf 702. Figure 8 As shown, a portion of the second reinforcing element 210 is disposed on the first connection region 800, and the third reinforcing element 212 is disposed on the third connection region 802.

[0059] In some embodiments, the reinforcing element may include a ridge extending generally through the middle of each reinforcing element to provide structural rigidity to the reinforcing element. For example, such as Figure 8As shown, the second reinforcing element 210 includes a first ridge 804, and the third reinforcing element 212 includes a second ridge 814. In some cases, the first ridge 804 and the second ridge 814 can be formed by molding the ridges into the material forming the respective reinforcing element (e.g., a rigid plastic or polymer material). In other cases, the first ridge 804 and the second ridge 814 can be separate elements or parts attached to or incorporated into the reinforcing element, such as a section of metal wire, rigid plastic, or other generally non-flexible material, to provide structural rigidity to each respective reinforcing element.

[0060] In some embodiments, the reinforcing element (including the second reinforcing element 210 and / or the third reinforcing element 212) may be provided with a plurality of holes 124, which, as described above, are configured to receive shoelaces. In this embodiment, the portion of the second reinforcing element 210 on the inward side 40 includes a first shoelace hole 806 and a second shoelace hole 808 disposed on one side of the first ridge 804 (e.g., above the first ridge 804). The portion of the second reinforcing element 210 on the inward side 40 also includes a third shoelace hole 810 and a fourth shoelace hole 812 disposed on the side of the first ridge 804 opposite to the first shoelace hole 806 and the second shoelace hole 808 (e.g., below the first ridge 804). With this arrangement, the force applied to a shoelace extending through one or more of the first shoelace hole 806, the second shoelace hole 808, the third shoelace hole 810, and the fourth shoelace hole 812 can be distributed across the second reinforcing element 210 on both sides of the first ridge 804.

[0061] In this embodiment, the third reinforcing element 212 includes a fifth shoelace eyelet 816 and a sixth shoelace eyelet 818 disposed on one side of the second ridge 814 (e.g., above the second ridge 814), and a seventh shoelace eyelet 820 and an eighth shoelace eyelet 822 disposed on the opposite side of the second ridge 814 (e.g., below the second ridge 814). With this arrangement, the force applied to a shoelace extending through one or more of the fifth shoelace eyelet 816, sixth shoelace eyelet 818, seventh shoelace eyelet 820, and eighth shoelace eyelet 822 can be distributed across the third reinforcing element 212 on both sides of the second ridge 814.

[0062] In some embodiments, the central portion (including the inward leaf 702) of the throat portion 400 of the knitted workpiece 112 is substantially without lace holes. That is, as Figure 8As shown, the region of the inward leaf 702 on the knitted workpiece 112, including the portion of the third reinforcing element 212 and the second reinforcing element 210 located on the inward side 40, does not include any of the shoelace holes in the plurality of holes 124. With this arrangement, when the article 100 is worn and during activities such as running or walking, the inward leaf 702 of the knitted workpiece 112 can allow the wearer's foot to flex and bulge laterally.

[0063] Figure 9 An enlarged view of the outward side 50 of the knitted butterfly-shaped workpiece 112 is shown. In this embodiment, a portion of the second reinforcing element 210 covers and reinforces the second connection region 900 between the knitted workpiece 112 and the forefoot part 114, and the first reinforcing element 208 covers and reinforces the fourth connection region 902 between the knitted workpiece 112 and the heel part 116. The outward leaf 700 of the knitted workpiece 112 engages with the forefoot part 114 at the second connection region 900 extending along the front side of the outward leaf 700. Specifically, the first portion 216 of the first reinforcing element 208 covers and reinforces a portion of the fourth connection region 902 between the outward leaf 700 of the knitted workpiece 112 and the heel part 116, and the second portion 218 of the first reinforcing element 208 covers and reinforces a portion of the fourth connection region 902 between the collar part 402 of the knitted workpiece 112 and the heel part 116.

[0064] The outward-facing leaf 700 of the knitted workpiece 112 engages with the heel component 116 at a fourth connecting region 902 extending along the rear side of the outward-facing leaf 700. (As shown) Figure 9 As shown, a portion of the second reinforcing element 210 is disposed on the second connection region 900, and the first reinforcing element 208 is disposed on the fourth connection region 902.

[0065] As described above, in some embodiments, the reinforcing element may include a ridge extending generally through the middle of each reinforcing element to provide structural rigidity to the reinforcing element. For example, such as Figure 9 As shown, the second reinforcing element 210 includes a first ridge 804, and the first reinforcing element 208 includes a third ridge 912. The third ridge 912 may be formed in a manner substantially similar to the first ridge 804 and / or the second ridge 814, including similar materials as described above.

[0066] In some embodiments, the second reinforcing element 210 and / or the first reinforcing element 208 may be provided with a plurality of holes 124, which, as described above, are configured to receive shoelaces. In this embodiment, the portion of the second reinforcing element 210 on the outward side 50 includes a ninth shoelace hole 904 and a tenth shoelace hole 906 located on one side of the first ridge 804 (e.g., above the first ridge 804). The portion of the second reinforcing element 210 on the outward side 50 also includes an eleventh shoelace hole 908 and a twelfth shoelace hole 910 located on the side of the first ridge 804 opposite to the ninth shoelace hole 904 and the tenth shoelace hole 906 (e.g., below the first ridge 804). With this arrangement, the force applied to a shoelace extending through one or more of the ninth shoelace hole 904, the tenth shoelace hole 906, the eleventh shoelace hole 908, and the twelfth shoelace hole 910 can be distributed across the second reinforcing element 210 on both sides of the first ridge 804.

[0067] In this embodiment, the first reinforcing element 208 includes a thirteenth and fourteenth shoelace eyelets 914 and 916 located on one side of the third ridge 912 (e.g., above the third ridge 912), and a fifteenth and sixteenth shoelace eyelets 918 and 920 located on the opposite side of the third ridge 912 (e.g., below the third ridge 912). With this arrangement, the force applied to a shoelace extending through one or more of the thirteenth, fourteenth, fifteenth, and sixteenth shoelace eyelets 914 and 916 can be distributed across the first reinforcing element 208 on both sides of the third ridge 912.

[0068] In some embodiments, the central portion (including the outward-facing leaf 700) of the throat portion 400 of the knitted workpiece 112 is substantially without lace holes. That is, as Figure 9 As shown, the region of the outward leaf 700 on the knitted workpiece 112, including the portion located on the outward side 50 of the first reinforcing element 208 and the second reinforcing element 210, does not include any of the shoelace holes in the plurality of holes 124. With this arrangement, when the article 100 is worn and during activities such as running or walking, the outward leaf 700 of the knitted workpiece 112 can allow the wearer's foot to flex and bulge laterally.

[0069] In some embodiments, the reinforcing elements on each of the inward side 40 and the outward side 50 are symmetrical. That is, the generally curved U-shape of the first reinforcing element 208 on the outward side 50 is substantially similar to the generally curved U-shape of the third reinforcing element 212 on the inward side 40. Additionally, the generally curved U-shape of the second reinforcing element 210 is symmetrical on both sides of the central portion 220. However, in other embodiments, the reinforcing elements may have different or varied shapes, including an asymmetrical arrangement between the inward side 40 and the outward side 50 of the upper 110.

[0070] Figure 10 This is an exploded view of components of an exemplary embodiment of a footwear article 100 including an upper 110 incorporating a knitted butterfly workpiece 112. According to the technology of this embodiment described herein, the upper can be formed from a combination of multiple individual components, including at least one knitted workpiece. Each individual component forming the upper can be configured to provide different or varying properties or characteristics to the upper and the article formed therefrom. For example, the component may have different or varying amounts of tensile strength, durability, stiffness, support, comfort, and cushioning, as well as other properties or characteristics, and may be made or formed from different or varying materials.

[0071] In an exemplary embodiment, the upper 110 is formed of at least a knitted workpiece 112, a forefoot component 114, and a heel component 116, which are joined or attached together to assemble the upper 110. Figure 10 As shown, the forefoot component 114 is configured to engage or attach to the knitted butterfly workpiece 112 along a first connecting region 800 and a second connecting region 900, where the front edges of the outward-facing leaves 700 and inward-facing leaves 702 of the knitted butterfly workpiece 112 meet or abut against the edge of the forefoot component 114. The heel component 116 is configured to engage or attach to the knitted butterfly workpiece 112 along a third connecting region 802 and a fourth connecting region 902, where the rear edges of the outward-facing leaves 700 and inward-facing leaves 702 of the knitted butterfly workpiece 112 meet or abut against the edge of the heel component 116.

[0072] In some embodiments, the degree or amount of tensile strength of the knitted butterfly component 112 is lower than that of the forefoot component 114 and / or the heel component 116, such that when the article 100 is worn, the portion of the upper 110 in the midfoot region 20 primarily formed by the knitted butterfly component 112 allows for movement of the wearer's foot. For example, the knitted butterfly component 112 allows the upper 110 to bend and twist in the midfoot region 20 to accommodate changes in the shape of the wearer's foot as the foot moves. In such embodiments, the forefoot component 114 and / or the heel component 116 may provide a greater degree or amount of tensile strength to provide support and stability for the toes and heels of the wearer's foot, including the upper 110 and the article 100.

[0073] like Figure 10 As shown, additional components may be attached or joined as part of the upper 110 and / or article 100 to the knitted workpiece 112, the toe part 114, and the heel part 116. For example, as described above, reinforcing elements may be provided on one or more connection areas between the individual components forming the upper 110. In this embodiment, a first reinforcing element 208 is configured to cover and reinforce a fourth connection area 902 between the heel part 116 and the edge of the outward leaf 700 of the knitted butterfly workpiece 112 on the outward side 50, and a third reinforcing element 212 is configured to cover and reinforce a third connection area 802 between the heel part 116 and the edge of the inward leaf 702 of the knitted butterfly workpiece 112 on the inward side.

[0074] The second reinforcing element 210 is configured to cover and reinforce the first connecting region 800 and the second connecting region 900 between the edges of the forefoot component 114 and the outward leaf 700 and the inward leaf 702. Additionally, the second reinforcing element 210 covers the front end 406 of the throat portion 400 of the knitted butterfly workpiece 112, at which the edge of the throat portion 400 meets or abuts against the top edge of the forefoot component 114. Furthermore, as... Figure 10 As shown, the cover 500 can extend over and cover the following connection area at the rear of the article 100, where the edge of the collar portion 402 of the knitted butterfly workpiece 112 meets or abuts the top edge of the heel component 116.

[0075] In an exemplary embodiment, the upper 110 may be configured to engage or attach to the sole assembly 120 to form footwear article 100. For example, as Figure 10As shown, the upper surface 1000 of the sole assembly 120 may be attached to portions of the upper 110, including portions of the knitted workpiece 112, the forefoot component 114, and / or the heel component 116. In some cases, strobelsocks, insoles, insoles, midsoles, or other components may be used to engage the bottom edges of the knitted workpiece 112, the forefoot component 114, and / or the heel component 116 to close the upper 110 and provide a mating surface between the upper 110 and the upper surface 1000 of the sole assembly 120. In an exemplary embodiment, the bottom edges of the outward leaf 700 and / or the inward leaf 702 are configured to terminate just beyond or adjacent to the upper edge 206 of the sole assembly 120, such that, during wear, the outward leaf 700 and / or the inward leaf 702 do not extend under the wearer's foot of the footwear article 100.

[0076] Now for reference Figure 11 A representative plan view of an exemplary embodiment of the knitted workpiece 112 is shown isolated from other components of the upper 110. In the exemplary embodiment, the knitted workpiece 112 is a single, monolithic knitted workpiece formed from a single piece of knitted composition, which is made by looping at least one continuous yarn / thread into a plurality of rows defining the shape of the knitted workpiece 112. In this embodiment, the knitted workpiece 112 has a butterfly shape having an outward leaf 700 extending laterally outward from one side of the throat portion 400 and an inward leaf 702 extending laterally outward from the opposite side of the throat portion 400. That is, the outward leaf 700 and the inward leaf 702 give the appearance of wings extending laterally outward from the throat portion 400 to give the knitted butterfly workpiece 112 its butterfly shape.

[0077] In one embodiment, the rear edges of the collar portion 402 of the knitted butterfly workpiece 112 are attached or joined to each other to close and define an opening 118. In an exemplary embodiment, the inward and outward rear edges of the collar are joined by a seam 1112 to define the opening 118 of the collar portion 402 for receiving the wearer's foot.

[0078] like Figure 11As shown, the knitted butterfly workpiece 112 includes an outer peripheral edge 1100 extending around the periphery of the knitted butterfly workpiece 112. In this embodiment, the outer peripheral edge 1100 extends through the front end 406 of the instep region 1102 of the throat portion 400, extends in a direction away from the front end 406, and changes direction at the front edge 1104 of the inward leaf 702. The outer peripheral edge 1100 continues from the front edge 1104 along the inward side edge 1106 of the inward leaf 702, and changes direction at the rear edge 1108 of the inward leaf 702. The outer peripheral edge 1100 extends from the rear edge 1108 through the inward side edge 1110 of the collar portion 402 to the rear edge of the inward collar where the seam 1112 is located.

[0079] Continuing from the outward rear edge of the collar portion 402 on the opposite side of the seam 1112, the outer peripheral edge 1100 extends through the outward side edge 1114 of the collar portion 402 to the rear side edge 1116 of the outward leaf 700. The outer peripheral edge 1110 changes direction at the rear side edge 1116 of the outward leaf 700 and extends forward along the outward side edge 1118 of the outward leaf 700. The outer peripheral edge 1100 changes direction again at the front side edge 1120 of the outward leaf 700 and continues to the front end 406 of the instep region 1102 of the throat portion 400.

[0080] An exemplary embodiment of the knitted butterfly workpiece 112 has a generally butterfly shape, as shown in the figure. However, it should be understood that other shapes and arrangements of portions of the knitted workpiece (e.g., knitted workpiece 112) may be provided in various embodiments.

[0081] In some embodiments, portions of the knitted butterfly workpiece 112 may have different amounts or degrees of tensile strength to provide different stretch zones to the knitted butterfly workpiece 112. In one embodiment, the tensile strength of the outward leaf 700 and the inward leaf 702 may be different. For example, the amount or degree of tensile strength of the outward leaf 700 may be greater than that of the inward leaf 702 (i.e., the outward leaf 700 stretches less than the inward leaf 702), or the amount or degree of tensile strength of the inward leaf 702 may be greater than that of the outward leaf 700 (i.e., the inward leaf 702 stretches less than the outward leaf 700).

[0082] In another embodiment, the amount or degree of tensile strength of the central portion of the throat region 400 located between the outward leaf 700 and the inward leaf 702 may differ from the amount or degree of tensile strength of other portions of the knitted butterfly workpiece 112 (such as the instep region 1102, the outward leaf 700, the inward leaf 702, and / or the collar portion 402). For example, the amount or degree of tensile strength of the central portion of the throat region 400 between the outward leaf 700 and the inward leaf 702 may be greater than the amount or degree of tensile strength of one or more of the instep region 1102, the outward leaf 700, the inward leaf 702, and / or the collar portion 402, such that the central portion is less stretched than other portions of the knitted butterfly workpiece 112. Using this arrangement, the upper 110 and the article 100 can have stretch zones with different amounts or degrees of tensile strength in different portions of the knitted butterfly workpiece 112.

[0083] While various embodiments of this disclosure have been described, this description is intended to be exemplary and not restrictive, and it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that further embodiments and implementations are possible within the scope of this disclosure. Therefore, this disclosure is not limited except as provided in the appended claims and their equivalents. Moreover, various modifications and alterations can be made within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A knitted workpiece for bonding to the upper of footwear articles, the knitted workpiece comprising: Collar part; The throat portion extends from the collar portion toward the front end; An inward-facing leaflet extends from one side of the throat portion; as well as Outward leaflet, the outward leaflet extending from the side of the throat portion opposite to the inward leaflet; The collar portion, the throat portion, the inward leaflet, and the outward leaflet form a single knitted workpiece.

2. The knitted workpiece according to claim 1, wherein, The inward-facing leaflets and the outward-facing leaflets are symmetrical.

3. The knitted workpiece according to claim 1, wherein, The collar portion includes the upper edge of the collar; and The inner side of the upper edge of the shoe collar is asymmetrical with the outer side of the upper edge of the shoe collar.

4. The knitted workpiece according to claim 3, wherein the upper edge of the collar includes an inward notch on the inward side and an outward notch on the outward side; and in, The outward notch extends a greater distance from the upper edge of the collar on the outward side than the inward notch extends a greater distance from the upper edge of the collar on the inward side.

5. The knitted workpiece according to claim 1, wherein, The inward-facing leaflet and the outward-facing leaflet are configured to join to a separate forefoot component along the front side.

6. The knitted workpiece according to claim 1, wherein, The inward-facing leaflet and the outward-facing leaflet are configured to join to a separate heel component along the rear side.

7. The knitted workpiece according to claim 1, wherein, The collar portion includes an inward-facing rear edge and an outward-facing rear edge; and The inward and outward rear edges of the shoe collar are joined by a seam to close the shoe collar portion and define an opening for receiving the wearer's foot.

8. The knitted workpiece according to claim 1 further comprises at least two parts having different amounts of tensile strength.

9. An upper for footwear articles, the upper comprising: A knitted workpiece disposed in at least a portion of the midfoot region and the heel region of the shoe upper; A forefoot component, the forefoot component being disposed in the forefoot region of the upper, the forefoot component being configured to be attached to the knitted workpiece along a first attachment region on the inward side and a second attachment region on the outward side; as well as A heel component disposed in the heel region of the shoe upper, the heel component being configured to attach to the knitted workpiece along a third attachment region on the inward side and a fourth attachment region on the outward side.

10. The upper according to claim 9 further includes a plurality of reinforcing elements disposed on the first attachment region, the second attachment region, the third attachment region and the fourth attachment region.

11. The upper according to claim 10, wherein, The first reinforcing element of the plurality of reinforcing elements is disposed on the third attachment region on the inward side. The second reinforcing element among the plurality of reinforcing elements is disposed on both the first attachment region on the inward side and the second attachment region on the outward side; and The third reinforcing element among the plurality of reinforcing elements is disposed on the fourth attachment area on the outward side.

12. The upper according to claim 11, wherein, The knitted workpiece includes: A collar portion, located in the heel area of ​​the upper, defining an opening in the upper; and The throat portion extends from the front end of the collar portion toward the forefoot region of the upper.

13. The upper according to claim 12, wherein, The second reinforcing element is further disposed on the front end of the throat portion and the forefoot component of the knitted workpiece.

14. The upper of claim 10, further comprising a plurality of holes for receiving shoelaces on one or more of the plurality of reinforcing elements.

15. The upper according to claim 14, wherein, Each of the plurality of reinforcing elements includes a ridge extending through the middle of the reinforcing element.

16. The upper according to claim 15, wherein, At least two of the plurality of holes are located above the ridge of each reinforcing element; and At least two of the plurality of holes are located below the ridge of each reinforcing element.

17. A footwear article, said footwear article comprising: The upper, comprising: A knitted workpiece disposed in at least a portion of the midfoot region and the heel region of the shoe upper; A forefoot component, the forefoot component being disposed in the forefoot region of the shoe upper, the forefoot component being configured to attach to the knitted workpiece along a first attachment region on an inward side and a second attachment region on an outward side; and A heel component disposed in the heel region of the shoe upper, the heel component being configured to be attached to the knitted workpiece along a third attachment region on the inward side and a fourth attachment region on the outward side; A first reinforcing element is disposed on the third attachment region on the inward side; The second reinforcing element is disposed on both the first attachment region on the inward side and the second attachment region on the outward side; A third reinforcing element, the third reinforcing element being disposed on the fourth attachment region on the outward side; and A sole assembly, which is attached to the upper.

18. The footwear article according to claim 17, wherein, Each of the first reinforcing element, the second reinforcing element, and the third reinforcing element includes a plurality of holes configured to receive shoelaces.

19. The footwear article according to claim 17, wherein, The knitted workpiece includes: A collar portion, located in the heel area of ​​the upper, defining an opening in the upper; and The throat portion extends from the front end of the collar portion toward the forefoot region of the upper.

20. The footwear article according to claim 19, wherein, The knitted workpiece also includes: An inward-facing leaflet, the inward-facing leaflet extending from one side of the throat portion; and Outward leaflet, the outward leaflet extending from the side of the throat portion opposite to the inward leaflet; The collar portion, the throat portion, the inward leaflet, and the outward leaflet form a single knitted workpiece.

21. The footwear article according to claim 20, wherein, The edges of the inward and outward leaves are attached to the upper edge of the sole assembly such that the inward and outward leaves do not extend under the wearer's foot.

22. An upper for a footwear article, the upper comprising a knitted workpiece, the knitted workpiece comprising: The throat portion is located in the middle area of ​​the shoe upper and extends toward the front end of the knitted workpiece; The collar portion extends rearward from the throat portion toward the rear end, opposite to the forward direction; The throat portion extends continuously from the front end of the collar portion toward the front end of the knitted workpiece in a longitudinal direction toward the forefoot region of the upper. An inward-facing leaflet extends from one side of the throat portion; as well as Outward leaflet, the outward leaflet extending from the side of the throat portion opposite to the inward leaflet; The throat portion, the collar portion, the inward leaflet, and the outward leaflet form a single knitted workpiece. The inward leaf includes a front side facing the front end of the knitted workpiece and a rear side opposite to the front side; The outward-facing leaflet includes a front side facing the front end of the knitted workpiece and a rear side opposite to the front side; The outer peripheral edge of the knitted workpiece extends along the front edge of the front side of the inward leaf, the inward side edge of the inward leaf, and the rear edge of the rear side of the inward leaf on one side of the shoe upper. The outer peripheral edge of the knitted workpiece extends on the opposite side of the shoe upper along the front edge of the front side of the outward leaf, the outward side edge of the outward leaf, and the rear edge of the rear side of the outward leaf; The leading edges of the inward-facing leaf and the leading edges of the outward-facing leaf are located behind the front end of the throat portion in the longitudinal direction toward the collar portion of the shoe upper; and The rear edges of the inward-facing leaf and the rear edges of the outward-facing leaf are located in front of the front end of the collar portion in the direction toward the forefoot region of the shoe upper.

23. An upper for a footwear product, the upper comprising a knitted workpiece, the knitted workpiece comprising: The throat portion is located in the middle area of ​​the shoe upper and extends toward the front end of the knitted workpiece; The collar portion extends rearward from the throat portion toward the rear end, opposite to the forward direction; The throat portion extends continuously from the front end of the collar portion toward the front end of the knitted workpiece in a longitudinal direction toward the forefoot region of the upper. An inward-facing leaflet extends from one side of the throat portion; as well as Outward leaflet, the outward leaflet extending from the side of the throat portion opposite to the inward leaflet; The throat portion, the collar portion, the inward leaflet, and the outward leaflet form a single knitted workpiece. The inward leaf includes a front side facing the front end of the knitted workpiece and a rear side opposite to the front side; The outward-facing leaflet includes a front side facing the front end of the knitted workpiece and a rear side opposite to the front side; and The throat portion is located between the rear side of the inward leaf and the rear side of the outward leaf.

24. An upper for a footwear article, the upper comprising a knitted workpiece, the knitted workpiece comprising: The throat portion is located in the middle area of ​​the shoe upper and extends toward the front end of the knitted workpiece; The collar portion extends rearward from the throat portion toward the rear end, opposite to the forward direction; The throat portion extends continuously from the front end of the collar portion through the back portion of the upper in a longitudinal direction toward the front portion of the upper towards the front end of the knitted workpiece; An inward leaf extending outward from one side of the throat portion in front of the collar portion in the mid-shoe region of the upper, forming at least a portion of the inward side of the upper in the mid-shoe region; and Outward leaflet, the outward leaflet extending outward in the middle region of the shoe upper from the side opposite to the inward leaflet of the throat portion in front of the collar portion in the outward direction; The throat portion, the collar portion, the inward leaflet, and the outward leaflet form a single knitted workpiece. The inward leaf includes a front side facing the front end of the knitted workpiece and a rear side opposite to the front side; The outward-facing leaflet includes a front side facing the front end of the knitted workpiece and a rear side opposite to the front side; The rear sides of the inward-facing leaf and the rear sides of the outward-facing leaf are not present in the heel area of ​​the shoe upper; and The throat portion is located between the rear side of the outward-facing leaf and the rear side of the inward-facing leaf.

25. An upper for a footwear product, said upper comprising: A knitted workpiece, said knitted workpiece being formed from a single piece of knitted composition disposed in at least a portion of the midfoot region and the heel region of the shoe upper, said knitted workpiece comprising: Collar part; The throat portion extends from the front end of the collar portion toward the front end of the knitted workpiece; An inward-facing leaflet extends from one side of the throat portion; Outward leaflet, the outward leaflet extending from the side of the throat portion opposite to the inward leaflet; The inward leaf includes a front side facing the front end of the knitted workpiece and a rear side opposite to the front side; The outward-facing leaflet includes a front side facing the front end of the knitted workpiece and a rear side opposite to the front side; A heel component, the heel component being formed as a separate component from the knitted workpiece, the heel component being disposed in the heel region of the upper, wherein the heel component is engaged to the rear side of the inward leaf of the knitted workpiece at a seam along a first attachment region, and engaged to the rear side of the outward leaf of the knitted workpiece at a seam along a second attachment region. A first reinforcing element is disposed above the seam between the inward leaf and the heel component along the first attachment region; and A second reinforcing element is disposed on the seam between the outward leaf and the heel component along the second attachment region; The knitted workpiece includes an outer peripheral edge, the outer peripheral edge comprising: The front edge on the front side of the inward-facing leaf; The inward edge of the inward leaf; The rear edge on the rear side of the inward-facing leaf; The inner edge of the collar portion; The outer edge of the collar portion; The rear edge on the rear side of the outward-facing leaf; The outward-facing edge of the outward-facing leaf; and The front edge on the front side of the outward-facing leaf; The outer peripheral edge changes direction at the front edge on the front side of the inward leaf and the front edge on the front side of the outward leaf; and The outer peripheral edge changes direction at the rear edge on the rear side of the inward leaf and the rear edge on the rear side of the outward leaf.

26. A footwear product, comprising: The upper, comprising: A knitted workpiece, said knitted workpiece being formed from a single piece of knitted composition disposed in at least a portion of the midfoot region and the heel region of the shoe upper, said knitted workpiece comprising: Collar part; The throat portion extends from the front end of the collar portion toward the front end of the knitted workpiece; An inward-facing leaflet extends from one side of the throat portion; Outward leaflet, the outward leaflet extending from the side of the throat portion opposite to the inward leaflet; The inward leaf includes a front side facing the front end of the knitted workpiece and a rear side opposite to the front side; The outward-facing leaflet includes a front side facing the front end of the knitted workpiece and a rear side opposite to the front side; A heel component, the heel component being formed as a separate component from the knitted workpiece, the heel component being disposed in the heel region of the upper, wherein the heel component is engaged to the rear side of the inward leaf of the knitted workpiece at a seam along a first attachment region, and engaged to the rear side of the outward leaf of the knitted workpiece at a seam along a second attachment region. A first reinforcing element is disposed above the seam between the inward leaf and the heel component along the first attachment region; and A second reinforcing element is disposed on the seam between the outward leaf and the heel component along the second attachment region; The knitted workpiece includes an outer peripheral edge, the outer peripheral edge comprising: The front edge on the front side of the inward-facing leaf; The inward edge of the inward leaf; The rear edge on the rear side of the inward-facing leaf; The inner edge of the collar portion; The outer edge of the collar portion; The rear edge on the rear side of the outward-facing leaf; The outward-facing edge of the outward-facing leaf; and The front edge on the front side of the outward-facing leaf; The outer peripheral edge changes direction at the front edge on the front side of the inward leaf and the front edge on the front side of the outward leaf; and The outer peripheral edge changes direction at the rear edge on the rear side of the inward leaf and the rear edge on the rear side of the outward leaf; and A sole assembly, which is attached to the upper.

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