Waterproof, breathable sole structure

Abstract

A waterproof and breathable shoe sole structure is described, having an inner surface (2) intended to face the inside of the shoe and an outer surface (3) intended to face the outside environment of the shoe, wherein said shoe sole structure (1) comprises: a tread (4) having an upper surface (5) on the side of said inner surface (2) and a lower surface (6) on the side of said outer surface (3); one or more ventilation channels (8); a functional area comprising its own breathable portion adapted to the passage of water vapor, a waterproof membrane (10) permeable to water vapor and a sealing area (9) surrounding said breathable portion, said membrane being sealingly connected to said sealing area in a waterproof manner, wherein said one or more ventilation channels (8) are adapted to direct water vapor towards the surface of said membrane facing said inner surface (2), and wherein said breathable portion of said functional area is entirely located outside the forefoot portion corresponding to the maximum bending area.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of footwear, and more particularly to a waterproof and breathable sole structure. Background Technology

[0002] Typically, footwear includes: a sole structure positioned below the footwear for use, the sole structure being adapted to support the wearer's foot, thus allowing the weight of the wearer's foot to be released to the ground and reducing stress transmitted from the ground to the foot; and an upper assembly positioned above and surrounding the foot, the upper assembly being connected to the sole structure, the sole structure being either monolithic, i.e., manufactured as a single piece, or the sole structure including a tread connected to the midsole.

[0003] Currently, to increase comfort, known technologies provide footwear items that include a waterproof and breathable sole structure, which is specifically designed with a breathable area and a waterproof and breathable functional layer. The breathable area has perforations, and the waterproof and breathable functional layer is sealed in a waterproof manner along the periphery of the breathable area.

[0004] The perforations allow sweat vapor generated by the wearer's feet to escape through the sole structure, while the waterproof and breathable functional layer (actually a membrane) has the dual function of preventing water from entering the shoe from the outside while allowing vapor to escape. In other words, the membrane acts as a barrier, preventing water from entering the shoe through the perforations (which is why it's waterproof), but it allows vapor generated by the wearer to escape to the outside through the same perforations, which is why it is vapor-permeable or breathable.

[0005] The above-mentioned type of sole structure is described in, for example, patents EP 0382904 B1 and EP 0858270 B1 and patent application WO 98 / 51177.

[0006] The aforementioned functional layer is typically made of polymer materials such as polyurethane (PU), polyester, or expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (e-PTFE), and its bending strength is tested when footwear is used.

[0007] The sole structure is subjected to repeated bending, which is transmitted to all its components, primarily affecting the forefoot area, the same area where the aforementioned breathable areas are located, and thus contains a membrane. The forefoot area is where most of the sweat glands of the foot are located and is therefore most affected by sweating.

[0008] More precisely, the forefoot area of ​​the sole structure is most affected by mechanical stresses such as the aforementioned flexure, which essentially corresponds to the forefoot area of ​​the wearer most affected by sweat. This area is often referred to as the "maximum flexure area," and it can be identified, for example, by known methods described below.

[0009] Therefore, according to the method described in Chapter 8.4.2 of ISO 20344:2011, the aforementioned stress can cause the membrane to rupture in the region of maximum bending due to structural failure caused by exceeding a given number of bending cycles, such as 2,000,000 cycles. Disadvantageously, membrane rupture corresponds to a loss of impermeability in the sole structure.

[0010] definition

[0011] -According to the general definition given in standard EN ISO 19952:2005, page 18, item 106, the term "midsole" means any element or layer of any nature inserted between the outsole and the insole.

[0012] - When a material is subjected to a pressure of at least 1 bar for at least 30 seconds, it is waterproof without water penetrating the point / intersection, and therefore components made solely of this material are also waterproof. Specifically, according to the method described in EN1734, impermeability is assessed as the ability of a sample essentially composed of the tested material to resist water penetration under pressure. According to this method, a sample of the aforementioned material is secured to a container and used to seal the container, wherein the container, which provides a pressurized water inlet, is filled with water such that the surface of the aforementioned sample facing inwards is subjected to a hydrostatic pressure of 1 bar, held in this state for 30 seconds. Specifically, the aforementioned sample is held between the nozzle of the container and a restraining ring, wherein the sample and the restraining ring are covered by a silicone rubber gasket, and wherein pressurization is achieved by forcing water from a canister into the container by means of a compressed air flow, the compressed air flow being regulated by a valve with a pressure gauge displaying the achieved pressure. The sample surface outside the container is then observed. The absence of intersections formed by droplets with diameters ranging from 1 mm to 1.5 mm forming on the surface or face indicates the impermeability of the sample, thus indicating the impermeability of the aforementioned material. If it is necessary to prevent sample deformation, a square grid of synthetic material with a side length not exceeding 30 mm, made of wires with diameters ranging from 1 mm to 1.2 mm, is fastened to it.

[0013] - Vapor permeability is the amount of vapor that passes through a material due to a local pressure gradient. Standard ISO 20344-2004 describes a test method in Chapter 6.6, “Determination of water vapor permeability,” related to safety footwear. This method involves securing a sample of the test material to seal the opening of a bottle containing a certain amount of solid desiccant (i.e., silica gel), where the bottle is subjected to a strong airflow in a conditioned atmosphere. The bottle is rotated to mix the solid desiccant and optimize its drying effect on the air contained within the bottle. The bottle is weighed before and after the test to determine the mass of moisture that has passed through the material and been absorbed by the solid desiccant. The water vapor permeability is then calculated, in milligrams per square centimeter per hour [mg / cm²]. 2 ·h] indicates.

[0014] - In the context of this invention, according to common practice, the expressions "permeable / vapor permeable," "permeable / water vapor permeable," etc., are intended to be equivalent to each other and synonymous with "breathable." Furthermore, in the context of this invention, the expressions "breathable area" and "breathable portion" refer to areas or portions through which water vapor can pass, as described above, and are made of breathable materials such as leather, skin, fabric, nonwoven fabric, etc., but may also refer to areas or portions having at least one through-hole.

[0015] Water-repellent agents are materials that allow water droplets to slide off their surfaces. This is because, in the absence of hydrostatic pressure, a very large contact angle is formed between the surface and the water droplet, preventing the water droplet from being absorbed by the material. The contact angle between the water droplet and the surface, as well as the surface tension, are commonly used to measure the water-repellency of a surface.

[0016] -In the following description, based on the anatomy described above and similar to that of the foot, such as Figure 1a In the example, the forefoot region A, midfoot region M, and hindfoot region R of the shoe sole structure and footwear are schematically depicted and defined as follows:

[0017] The forefoot region is located in the front part of the foot, the midfoot region is located in the arch region, and the hindfoot region is located in the back part. In particular, the forefoot region typically includes the portion of the footwear corresponding to the toes and the joints between the metatarsals and proximal phalanges, while the hindfoot region typically includes the portion of the footwear corresponding to the calcaneus.

[0018] The footwear article (or sole structure) also includes a portion located on the outer side of the foot (outer portion) and a portion located on the inner side of the foot (inner portion), each of which extends through the rearfoot portion, midfoot portion, and forefoot portion, generally corresponding to opposite portions of the footwear article. The outer foot portion and the inner foot portion are ideally separated by a Brannock axis, which can be defined as an axis bisecting the foot in the anteroposterior direction (hindfoot-forefoot direction). The rearfoot region, midfoot region, and forefoot region are not intended to delineate precise areas of the footwear article or sole structure, but rather to provide a general representation of the areas used to describe the footwear article or sole structure of the present invention.

[0019] The portion of the forefoot that experiences the greatest flex, i.e., the aforementioned maximum flex area, corresponds to a section of the sole structure that extends close to or across the flexure / bending line defined in paragraph 8.4 on page 64 of standard ISO 20344:2004(E). In practice, the bending line is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (which, for simplicity, may be referred to as the Brannock axis) and intersects the longitudinal axis at one-third of its length, starting from the toe portion of the sole. Therefore, the maximum flex area is approximately one-third of the total length of the sole structure, starting from the toe, and can be easily identified without instruments by simply holding the sole structure in your hand and bending it approximately one-third of its length.

[0020] Alternatively, the aforementioned maximum bending region can be identified in more detail by referring to the construction lines represented by r, s, and t, which are defined below considering the ground projection of the internal contour of the sole structure. Figure 1 The image is shown along with the bones of the wearer's foot; this projection is denoted here by P.

[0021] --A structural line r, which identifies the flexion axis of the foot, passes through point B, which represents the end of the proximal phalanx of the first metatarsal bone facing the big toe, and the structural line r passes forward (i.e., toward the toe) through the distal phalanx of the fifth toe, preferably tangent to its upper end, and the structural line r intersects the projection at point Y toward the outside of the foot. In practice, the structural line r does not pass through the fifth toe: in fact, the fifth toe is almost unaffected by the flexion of the foot during walking.

[0022] --Construction line s, which passes through the proximal phalanx of the big toe at its midpoint, is located anterior to point B and at a distance of approximately 15-20 mm for a men's foot size 42 (refer to French sizing). This distance is measured parallel to the longitudinal axis b, which, for simplicity, is considered analogous to the Brannock axis bisecting the foot in the forefoot-hindfoot direction. Construction line s also intersects the distal phalanx of the fourth toe between the anterior end and the center line. As constructed, construction line s intersects construction line r at point O and projection P at point X. Point O lies on the plane containing the ground projection of the aforementioned inner contour of the sole structure.

[0023] --Construction line t extends from the intersection point O between construction lines r and s, and intersects with projection P at point Z, such that the length of arc YZ is approximately half the length of arc XY.

[0024] The above ratio can be expressed as:

[0025] L XY = 2•L YZ

[0026] This was obtained from experimental evidence, based on which:

[0027] Arc XY extends along the portion of the foot and sole structure with the greatest bending stress, and

[0028] As seen above regarding the fifth toe, the fourth toe is almost excluded from bending during walking due to the anatomy of the human foot, and thus the arc YZ, which is thus sized, identifies the bending stress of the foot and sole structure as a non-negligible part of the membrane stress, although the value of this bending stress is lower than that observed at arc XY.

[0029] Therefore, the construction lines s and t define the maximum bending area of ​​the sole structure. Summary of the Invention

[0030] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a waterproof and breathable sole structure that has features that can overcome one or more of the defects mentioned above in the known art.

[0031] According to the present invention, the above-mentioned problem is solved by a shoe sole structure including at least one breathable portion suitable for the passage of water vapor, wherein a water vapor permeable waterproof membrane is provided at the at least one breathable portion, wherein the at least one breathable portion is located on the outside of the forefoot portion of the sole structure, which is referred to as the maximum flexion region.

[0032] Essentially, the proposed solution involves placing a membrane portion at least at the at least one breathable portion, and preferably the entire membrane at a location relatively far from the maximum flex area of ​​the sole structure and, in any case, outside of that maximum flex area, while facilitating the flow of sweat vapor to the breathable portion or, if there are more than one breathable portion, to these breathable portions.

[0033] Specifically, the waterproof and breathable sole structure of the present invention, having an inner surface intended to face the inside of the shoe and an outer surface intended to face the external environment of the shoe, comprises:

[0034] A tread surface having an upper surface on the inner surface side and a lower surface on the outer surface side;

[0035] One or more ventilation ducts;

[0036] The functional area includes a breathable portion suitable for water vapor passage, a water vapor-permeable waterproof membrane, and a sealed area surrounding the breathable portion, the membrane being waterproofly connected to the sealed area via a suitable sealing part.

[0037] Its features

[0038] The one or more ventilation channels are adapted to direct water vapor to the surface of the membrane facing the inner surface.

[0039] And among them

[0040] The breathable portion of the functional area is entirely located on the outside of the forefoot portion corresponding to the maximum flexion area.

[0041] Based on the above, it can be said that the functional area is generally waterproof and permeable to water vapor.

[0042] The membrane is preferably arranged entirely outside the region of maximum curvature.

[0043] The sealing area is preferably located entirely outside the area of ​​maximum bending.

[0044] The sealing area is preferably substantially flat.

[0045] The sealing area is preferably substantially smooth.

[0046] The membrane is preferably sealed to the sealing area in a waterproof manner by means of bonding with a specific adhesive, by co-molding, or by a third element, such as a sealing ring made of a waterproof material like polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), which partially covers the membrane and partially covers the sealing area.

[0047] The membrane is preferably made of PU, polyester, polyethylene or ePTFE.

[0048] The functional area is preferably provided with a cavity, and the membrane is housed in the cavity.

[0049] According to the invention, if a cavity exists, the sealing region can be outside or inside the cavity. When the sealing region is inside the cavity, the membrane is preferably sealed by gluing or co-molding; when the sealing region is outside the cavity, the membrane is preferably sealed by means of a third element, such as a glued sealing ring, spanning between the membrane itself and the sealing region, which actually extends around the cavity from the outside. It should be noted that, according to the above, a sealing ring can also be used even without the cavity.

[0050] The sole structure preferably includes a breathable element or breathable material layer disposed above or below the membrane, and / or a material layer with channels disposed above the membrane, the channels facing the ground during use. This material layer is preferably waterproof and is also commonly referred to as a protective element.

[0051] The breathable element or breathable material layer is preferably a polyester felt or a three-dimensional fabric.

[0052] The one or more ventilation channels preferably have a primary longitudinal direction, for example, pointing from the rear foot (or the rear area of ​​the tread) or from the front foot (or the front area of ​​the tread) toward the ventilated portion.

[0053] The one or more ventilation channels may have more or fewer straight sections, wavy sections, curved sections, or discontinuous patterns or combinations thereof, but always in the main longitudinal direction.

[0054] The one or more ventilation channels preferably have a width in the range of 2 mm to 10 mm.

[0055] The one or more ventilation channels preferably have a depth of 1 mm to 5 mm.

[0056] The one or more ventilation channels preferably have a bottom located at the height of the sealed area.

[0057] The one or more ventilation channels are preferably defined by ribs, which are integrally formed with the tread surface, for example by injection molding or compression molding of a polymer material, such as rubber, polyurethane (PU), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), or thermoplastic rubber (TR).

[0058] As mentioned above, the term "breathable portion" (or breathable area) refers to a portion or area through which water vapor can pass, as described above, because it is made of breathable material, or it may be a portion or area with at least one through opening, which also allows water vapor to pass through.

[0059] In this respect, in the case of one or more through openings, it should be said that they are preferably circular or elliptical in shape, but other shapes, such as quadrilaterals, are not excluded.

[0060] The at least one through opening preferably has a width in the range of 2 mm to 30 mm.

[0061] The at least one through-hole is preferably located at least 14 mm from the inner edge of the sole structure to leave a sufficiently large allowance to ensure the sealing of the membrane and the bonding to any other parts of the sole structure or upper components. In this respect, the sealed area preferably has a width in the range of 4 mm to 12 mm.

[0062] According to one embodiment of the invention, the breathable portion is located between the upper and lower surfaces of the tread, particularly extending from the upper surface to the lower surface of the tread. In this case, the breathable portion is preferably, but not exclusively, located at the midfoot portion of the sole structure or at the forefoot portion of the sole structure in front of the maximum flexion region; however, the possibility of providing a breathable portion located at the rearfoot portion, precisely inside the rearfoot portion, or spanning the midfoot and rearfoot portions is not excluded. Two breathable portions of the aforementioned type may also be provided, in which case the sole structure of the invention includes a second functional area disposed on the tread, the second functional area including its own breathable portion suitable for water vapor passage (the second breathable portion of the sole structure), a second waterproof membrane permeable to water vapor, and a second sealing region surrounding the breathable portion, the membrane being waterproofly sealed to the second sealing region, wherein the breathable portion of the second functional area is entirely outside the maximum flexion region, wherein the second membrane is preferably entirely outside the maximum flexion region, and wherein the second sealing region is more preferably entirely outside the maximum flexion region. In the case of two breathable sections, one breathable section is preferably located in the midfoot area of ​​the sole structure, and the other breathable section is located in the forefoot area of ​​the sole structure in front of the maximum flexion area.

[0063] According to the embodiments of the present invention, the one or more ventilation channels are arranged on the upper surface of the tread and are in fluid communication with the functional area, and possibly with the second functional area.

[0064] According to a variation of an embodiment of the present invention, the sole structure of the present invention includes a shock-absorbing element, which is essentially a midsole, the shock-absorbing element having an upper surface, a lower surface connected to the upper surface of the tread, and a second breathable portion suitable for water vapor passage, wherein the breathable portion (first breathable portion) of the functional area is located between the upper surface and the lower surface of the tread, wherein the second breathable portion is located between the upper surface and the lower surface of the midsole, wherein one or more ventilation channels are disposed on the upper surface of the midsole and in fluid communication with the second breathable portion, the second breathable portion preferably having at least one through opening, and wherein the breathable portion and the second breathable portion substantially overlap each other.

[0065] According to a variation of the foregoing embodiments of the present invention, the sole structure of the present invention may include a cavity (second cavity) at the second breathable portion.

[0066] The sole structure preferably includes a breathable element or a breathable material layer, which is preferably waterproof, disposed at the second breathable portion, and possibly housed inside the second cavity.

[0067] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the sole structure of the present invention includes a midsole having an upper surface and a lower surface connected to the upper surface of the tread, wherein the breathable portion of the functional area is located between the upper surface and the lower surface of the midsole, wherein the sole structure includes a second breathable portion adapted for water vapor to pass between the upper surface and the lower surface of the tread, wherein one or more ventilation channels are disposed on the upper surface of the midsole and in fluid communication with the breathable portion, wherein the breathable portion preferably has at least one through opening, wherein the breathable portion of the functional area (the first breathable portion) and the second breathable portion substantially overlap each other.

[0068] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the sole structure of the present invention includes a midsole having an upper surface, a lower surface connected to the upper surface of the tread, and a second breathable portion suitable for water vapor to pass between the upper surface and the lower surface of the midsole, wherein the one or more ventilation channels include a first series and a second series, the first series including one or more channels disposed on the upper surface of the midsole, the second series including one or more channels disposed on the lower surface of the midsole, wherein the channels of the first series and the second series are in fluid communication with the second breathable portion, the second breathable portion preferably having a through opening, wherein the breathable portion (first breathable portion) of the functional area is located between the upper surface and the lower surface of the tread, and wherein the breathable portion and the second breathable portion are interleaved and do not overlap.

[0069] In the latter case, the breathable portion (first breathable portion) and the second breathable portion of the functional area preferably extend at the rearfoot and midfoot of the sole structure, respectively.

[0070] The first series of one or more channels preferably extends from the second breathable portion to the forefoot, and the second series of one or more channels extends from the second breathable portion to the hindfoot.

[0071] The region of maximum curvature is preferably defined by the construction lines s and t defined above.

[0072] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the sole structure of the present invention includes a midsole having an upper surface, a lower surface connected to the upper surface of the tread, and a side edge located between the lower surface and the upper surface, wherein the ventilated portion of the functional area is located between the upper surface and the lower surface of the midsole, wherein one or more ventilation channels are disposed on the upper surface of the midsole and in fluid communication with the ventilated portion, and wherein the sole structure is provided with one or more lateral passages extending from the ventilated portion to the side edge on the lower surface of the midsole. Attached Figure Description

[0073] Other features and advantages of the invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of some preferred but not exclusive embodiments, which are for illustrative purposes only and not for limiting purposes, with the aid of the accompanying drawings:

[0074] - Figure 1 The diagram schematically shows the projection of the internal contour of a typical shoe sole structure onto the ground, with corresponding construction lines r, s, t, which are adapted to define the forefoot portion of the sole structure in a known manner, the forefoot portion being known as the region of maximum flexion, and also shows the bones of the wearer's foot.

[0075] - Figure 1a The internal outline of a typical shoe sole structure with forefoot, midfoot, and hindfoot areas is schematically shown above;

[0076] - Figure 2 This is a schematic top plan view of a first embodiment of a shoe sole structure including a tread according to the present invention;

[0077] - Figure 3 It is along Figure 2 A schematic longitudinal sectional view of the sole structure according to the present invention, taken from plane AA;

[0078] - Figure 4 It is along Figure 2A schematic cross-sectional view of the sole structure according to the present invention, taken from the plane BB;

[0079] - Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the perspective and separated portions of a sole structure including an upper and a midsole, a variation of an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the midsole is shown according to a bottom view and a top view of an upper assembly indicated by dashed lines;

[0080] - Figure 6 It shows Figure 5 A schematic perspective view of the sole structure, wherein the aforementioned upper components are indicated by dashed lines;

[0081] - Figure 7a and 7b The diagram schematically illustrates the lateral direction of two embodiments of the invention. Figure 6 The plane CC intercept Figure 5 A detailed cross-sectional view of the shoe sole structure;

[0082] - Figure 7c It is a variation of an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5 A detailed schematic diagram of the sole structure, or more precisely, a detailed schematic diagram of the aforementioned midsole;

[0083] - Figure 8a and 8b A schematic diagram of the details of the aforementioned midsole is shown, illustrating a variation of another embodiment of the invention, with two different constructions.

[0084] - Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the sole structure of the present invention, including an upper and a midsole, according to another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the midsole is shown according to a bottom view and a top view, having an upper assembly indicated by dashed lines.

[0085] - Figure 10 It is a variation of an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 9 A detailed schematic diagram of the sole structure, or more precisely, a detailed schematic diagram of the aforementioned midsole;

[0086] - Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the sole structure of the present invention, including a tread and a midsole, according to another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the midsole is shown according to a bottom view and a top view of the upper assembly indicated by dashed lines. Detailed Implementation

[0087] The so-called maximum flexion area of ​​the sole structure or shoe structure, and the maximum flexion area of ​​the foot, are located in the forefoot and can be identified in several different ways, especially using the previously described in detail... Figure 1 Identify the construction lines r, s, and t shown in the figure, and refer to Figure 1 as well as Figure 1a Describe, Figure 1a The diagram schematically illustrates the areas of the sole structure identified as forefoot A, midfoot M, and hindfoot R.

[0088] In particular, Figure 1 In this context, P represents the projection of the internal contour of a common sole structure onto the ground. Therefore, the sole structure can be a sole structure based on known technology or a sole structure according to the present invention. In both cases, the aforementioned maximum bending area is uniquely and equally defined by the construction lines s and t.

[0089] In view of the above, the present invention provides a waterproof and breathable sole structure comprising a water vapor-permeable waterproof membrane disposed at a breathable portion, the breathable portion being adapted for water vapor passage, and advantageously, allowing sweat vapor to converge toward the breathable portion, wherein the breathable portion is disposed outside the maximum bending region. In fact, according to the present invention, the membrane is at least partially, preferably integrally, located outside the maximum bending region.

[0090] refer to Figure 2-4 Example 1 represents a sole structure of a shoe according to the invention, having an inner surface 2 intended to face the inside of the shoe and an outer surface 3 intended to face the external environment of the shoe.

[0091] In detail, the sole structure 1 includes:

[0092] The tread surface 4 has an upper surface 5 on the side of the inner surface 2 and a lower surface 6 on the side of the outer surface 3.

[0093] A functional area for preventing water from entering from the outer surface 3 to the inner surface 2 includes a breathable portion 7 that is adapted for water vapor to pass through and extends from the upper surface 5 to the lower surface 6, a water vapor-permeable waterproof membrane 10, and a sealing area 9 surrounding the breathable portion 7, where the membrane 10 is sealed in a waterproof manner by a proper seal.

[0094] Multiple ventilation channels (but it should be said that, according to the invention, only one ventilation channel may be provided) are used to guide water vapor to the surface of the membrane 10 facing the inner surface 2 on the inner surface 3 side, in this particular case guiding it to the breathable portion 7, wherein each ventilation channel (indicated by 8) preferably has a predominantly longitudinal direction, and

[0095] The breathable portion 7 is located entirely outside the maximum bending area.

[0096] On this point, Figure 2 In the example, the inner edge of the sole structure 1 is represented by 11, which essentially corresponds to Figure 1The projection P of the internal contour of the ordinary shoe sole structure onto the ground is shown, and corresponds to... Figure 1a The same internal contour as the ordinary shoe sole structure shown.

[0097] According to Figure 2-4 In an exemplary embodiment, as described above, the sole structure according to the invention essentially includes a breathable portion having a plurality of through openings 12 (however, it should be noted that, according to the invention, only one through opening may also be provided), which is located rearward relative to the region of greatest flexion, i.e., near the rearfoot portion of the sole structure. More precisely, the through openings 12 effectively define a breathable portion 7 of the sole structure 1, which is contained within the midfoot. More strictly, the breathable portion can generally be defined as the smallest area whose contour encompasses all of the aforementioned through openings. It should be added that the aforementioned closed contour can be suitably modified to be convex, thus facilitating the manufacturing process of membranes and any protective elements, as described below, where "convex contour" means that the space defined by such contour encompasses all segments connecting the aforementioned through openings. It should be added that, in all embodiments according to the invention, as an alternative to the through openings, the breathable portion may be made of a breathable material, such as leather, skin, fabric, nonwoven fabric, etc. In this case, the outline of the breathable part is basically consistent with the outline of the breathable material (or multiple breathable materials, if not one).

[0098] In the case of through openings, they should preferably have a circular or elliptical shape, but other shapes, such as quadrilateral shapes, are not excluded.

[0099] Furthermore, the width of the through opening 12 is preferably in the range of 2 mm to 30 mm, and the through opening is preferably arranged at least 14 mm away from the inner edge 11 of the sole structure 1, so as to leave a sufficiently large allowance without opening to ensure the sealing of the membrane 10 and to ensure that it can be glued to any other part of the sole structure or to the upper component intended to restrain the sole structure.

[0100] The above-mentioned points, which apply to cases with multiple through openings, are also valid when there is only one through opening or when a breathable material is used instead of a through opening.

[0101] Regarding the sealing area 9 extending outside the ventilated portion along its periphery, it should be said that it preferably has a width of 4 mm to 12 mm, and the through opening 12 is preferably located inside the ventilated portion at a distance of 4 mm from the sealing area.

[0102] Furthermore, the sealing area 9 is preferably arranged entirely outside the maximum curvature area and is preferably substantially flat and / or smooth, so as to make the seal between the membrane 10 and the tread surface 4 stronger.

[0103] The membrane 10 is constrained to the sealing area 9. In addition to being practically waterproof and permeable to water vapor, the membrane is also waterproofly sealed to the sealing area by means of a special adhesive, by co-molding, or by a third element, such as a sealing ring made of a waterproof material, such as polyvinyl chloride-PVC or ethylene vinyl acetate-EVA. The third element partially covers the membrane above and partially covers the sealing area, as will be described in more detail below.

[0104] The membrane 10, which is actually a functional layer, is preferably made of polyurethane (PU), polyester, polyethylene or ePTFE.

[0105] like Figure 2-4 As shown in the example, the sole structure 1 may also be equipped with a cavity 13; however, for the sole structure according to the invention, the cavity 13 is optional, and the cavity is disposed in the functional area where the membrane 10 is housed.

[0106] Therefore, if present, the sealing area can be outside or inside the cavity. In the case of a sealing area inside the cavity, the membrane is preferably sealed by gluing or co-molding, while in the case of a sealing area outside the cavity, as described above, the membrane is preferably sealed by a glued sealing ring that spans across the membrane itself, and the sealing area extends around the cavity, effectively outside of it. Figure 2-4 As shown in the example, the sealing ring is not shown.

[0107] It should be noted that, based on the above, a sealing ring can also be used even without the cavity described above.

[0108] The ventilation channel 8 converges and is interrupted in the sealing area 9 so as not to interfere with the sealing connection between the membrane 10 and the tread surface 4.

[0109] Specifically, regarding ventilation channels 8, it should be added that they may have more or fewer straight sections, wavy sections, curved sections, or discontinuous patterns or combinations thereof, but always in the main longitudinal direction, and they are defined by ribs 14, which, depending on the ventilation channel, may be primarily continuous or discontinuous, for example, when one or more ventilation channels intersect each other, such as... Figure 2-4 As shown in the example.

[0110] Rib 14 is preferably integrally formed with tread surface 4, for example by injection molding or compression molding of polymer material, such as rubber, polyurethane (PU), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), or thermoplastic rubber (TR).

[0111] Specifically, the tread can also be manufactured by direct injection into the shoe upper using a pre-formed insert with ventilation channels that is inserted into the mold. In this way, the ventilation channels are already formed on the insert, for example, through compression molding, and therefore are not formed during the molding process of the tread, thus accelerating and simplifying the process. Without using a pre-formed insert, manufacturing ventilation channels by direct injection into the shoe upper requires careful attention to temperature, pressure, and process duration, and may lead to potential defects: for example, closed channels that are not visible from the outside, because the interior of the sole structure manufactured by direct injection into the shoe upper is not actually visible.

[0112] The ventilation channel 8, extending from the rear foot (or the rear area of ​​the tread) and the forefoot (or the front area of ​​the tread) toward the ventilated portion, preferably has a width of 2 mm to 10 mm and preferably a depth of 1 mm to 5 mm.

[0113] Furthermore, the ventilation channel 8 preferably has a bottom located at the level / height of the sealing area 9. In practice, the ventilation channel 8 connects smoothly to the sealing area 9, effectively avoiding a step between the ventilation channel and the sealing area that would cause undesirable stagnation and thus pose a risk of condensation of vapor phase sweat. In fact, vapor phase sweat from the ventilation channel 8 is collected at the sealing area 9 and the breathable portion 7.

[0114] In particular, according to Figure 2-4 For example, the sealing region 9 is preferably lower than the upper surface of the rib 14 by an amount H, preferably in the range of 1 mm to 5 mm, to create a gap that accommodates the vapor phase of sweat from the ventilation channel 8. Specifically, the gap is defined below by the sealing region 9 and the membrane 10, and above by the upper assembly.

[0115] The gap is located inside a breathable material (such as polyester felt, three-dimensional fabric, etc.) that provides support for the upper components without blocking sweat, or an impermeable material that has a channel facing the ground during use and directs the vapor phase sweat from the ventilation channel 8 to the through opening 12.

[0116] More generally, according to the invention, the sole structure of the invention may include a breathable material layer or breathable element disposed above or below the membrane, and / or include a material layer disposed above the membrane with a channel facing the ground in use, the material layer being preferably waterproof and also commonly referred to as a protective element.

[0117] Remembering the above, it should be said that the depth of cavity 13 is preferably equal to the total thickness of membrane 10 and any material or protective element (if present). Therefore, the template of cavity 10 is formed with a negative offset to the inner edge 11 of sole structure 1 to allow for at least 10 mm of allowance for bonding between tread 4 and upper assembly. Cavity 13 preferably has a longitudinal extension length of 5% to 50% of the length of tread 4, and the resulting edges are appropriately joined with a radius of curvature preferably in the range of 2 mm to 10 mm.

[0118] exist Figure 2-4 In the example, the breathable portion or area containing the through opening 12 is located at the midfoot of the sole structure 1. It can be said that this breathable portion or area has no physical boundary, but only an ideal boundary, and is designed with a sharp angle only for convenience. Although in Figure 2-4 In the example, the aforementioned breathable portion is not physically demarcated, but it can still be provided with a longitudinal extension length of 5% to 50% of the tread length.

[0119] In this regard, recalling that the task of the ventilation channels is to facilitate the flow of sweat vapor from the upper components through the corresponding insole to the breathable parts, the following observations were made.

[0120] After passing through the insole and reaching the ventilation channel, the sweat vapor naturally escapes through the openings in the breathable part because the vapor pressure inside the ventilation channel is greater than that in the external environment.

[0121] Further promotion of the escape of sweat vapor through the through openings comes from the compression acting on the ventilation channels, which occurs due to walking.

[0122] As mentioned above, according to Figure 2-4For example, the vapor phase of sweat can escape to the external environment from the through opening 12 provided on the tread 4 at the midfoot of the sole structure of the present invention. At this point, the breathable portion is located in the area of ​​the sole structure where the heel-to-toe movement occurs approximately in the middle, i.e., the movement performed by the wearer's foot (and therefore also by the sole structure according to the invention), which begins with the rearfoot striking the ground, then rests on the midfoot, and finally on the forefoot. In fact, the thrust on the vapor phase of sweat is applied in a first time period substantially coinciding with the first heel-to-toe movement, i.e., it reaches its maximum value in such an area around the sole structure that gradually moves upward from the rearfoot to the breathable portion of the midfoot. Then, as the heel-to-toe movement continues, in a second time period substantially coinciding with the final part of the heel-to-toe movement, the thrust on the vapor phase of sweat is applied due to compression, i.e., it reaches its maximum value in such an area around the sole structure that gradually moves upward from the breathable portion of the midfoot to the forefoot. During this second time period, the vapor phase of sweat located directly behind the breathable part is pushed towards the breathable part and gradually pushed away from the breathable part, namely the toe area of ​​the sole structure.

[0123] As previously stated, according to known techniques, such as gluing, the sole structure of the present invention is intended to be connected to the upper assembly (in) on a portion of the inner surface 2 of the sole structure 1, i.e., at the upper surface 5 of the tread 4. Figure 2-4 (Not shown in the example). In detail, the connection between the upper assembly and the sole structure occurs at the insole, which is placed on the lower portion of the upper assembly, between the lower surface of the insole and the upper surface of the sole structure.

[0124] Specifically, the insole is preferably made of a breathable or perforated material, at least in the forefoot and / or in the breathable portions of the functional areas of the sole structure. In this way, sweat in the vapor phase generated by the wearer's foot within the upper assembly can pass through the insole and reach the breathable portions of the sole structure in a so-called "direct" manner: through pores present in the insole (or through the breathable material) and / or through pores present in the forefoot (or through the breathable material), thus reaching the ventilation channels and from there to the breathable portions of the sole structure in a so-called "indirect" manner.

[0125] Advantageously, according to the invention, by positioning the membrane portion, at least at the breathable portion, outside the maximum flexural area of ​​the sole structure, the risk of membrane rupture is eliminated, and the range of available membranes is further increased, including, for example, membranes with relatively low flexural strength but particularly inexpensive.

[0126] It should be added that, according to Figure 2-4The exemplary embodiments are also particularly applicable to women's shoes that use a sole structure comprising a tread and a relatively high heel, with the heel applied to the rear foot area. Typically, the tread thickness of this type of shoe ranges from 2.5 mm to 5 mm, therefore the ventilation channels preferably have a depth ranging from 1 mm to 3 mm. It should be noted that in this type of women's shoe, it is almost impossible to form a breathable section at the rear foot.

[0127] In any case, if in Figure 2-4 In the example, the breathable portion is located in the midfoot. It should be noted that, according to a variation of the invention, as an alternative, it can be located in the forefoot section of the sole structure, in front of the area of ​​maximum flexion. In this case, the area of ​​the sole structure where the final heel-to-toe movement occurs is substantially the same as the breathable portion. In fact, the thrust against the vapor phase of sweat is actually applied from the rearfoot all the way to the forefoot before reaching the breathable portion.

[0128] Furthermore, according to the present invention, it should be noted that the possibility of providing a breathable portion of the type described above, located at the rearfoot, precisely positioned within the rearfoot, or situated across the midfoot and rearfoot, is not excluded. In the case of a breathable portion at the rearfoot, the sole structure of the present invention advantageously provides additional degrees of freedom in implementation and can be used in implementations including, for example, special safety devices that make the implementation of breathable portions at the midfoot and / or forefoot more difficult.

[0129] Two breathable portions of the aforementioned type can also be provided. In this case, the sole structure of the present invention includes a second functional area disposed on the tread surface. This second functional area includes a second breathable portion suitable for water vapor passage, a second sealing area surrounding the second breathable portion, and a second waterproof membrane that is permeable to water vapor and waterproofly sealed to the second sealing area. The second breathable portion of the second functional area is entirely outside the maximum flexion area, and the second sealing area is preferably entirely outside the maximum flexion area. Therefore, the second membrane is preferably located outside the maximum flexion area. In the case of two breathable portions, one breathable portion is preferably located at the midfoot portion of the sole structure, and the other breathable portion is located at the forefoot portion of the sole structure anterior to the maximum flexion area. This arrangement is advantageous because it allows for an increase in the overall breathable area of ​​the sole structure.

[0130] refer to Figure 2-4As an example, it should be added that the tread extends along a longitudinal axis (axis AA) in the forefoot-hindfoot direction. In this case, the tread is therefore continuous in the sole structure. However, according to the invention, a discontinuous tread can be provided, i.e., comprising two or more portions that do not contact each other, i.e., portions isolated from each other. In the case of a discontinuous tread, the sole structure according to the invention also includes a midsole, as in the embodiment described below.

[0131] refer to Figure 5 , 6 7a and 7b, embodiments and variations of the invention will now be described in detail.

[0132] In particular, the foregoing figures show references to [reference]. Figure 2-4 The example shown is the sole structure 100 of the sole structure 1, which is described with reference to the example and is related to the sole structure 1. Figure 2-4 The essential difference in the sole structure is that it includes a shock-absorbing element, which is actually a midsole represented by 115, and a ventilation channel 108 is provided on the midsole. The ventilation channel 108 is in fluid communication with the corresponding breathable part (second breathable part) of the midsole, while the tread does not have a ventilation channel.

[0133] In detail, the sole structure 100 includes a tread 104 with a through opening 112 that defines a breathable portion 107 surrounded by a sealing area 109. A membrane 110, which is exactly similar to and therefore referenced to the membrane 10 described above, is waterproofly constrained to the breathable portion 107.

[0134] The membrane, the breathable portion 107, and the sealed area 109 generally define a functional area that is waterproof and permeable to water vapor.

[0135] The insole, indicated by reference numeral 115, is constrained to the tread 104, which includes an upper surface 116 and a lower surface 117, the lower surface 117 being connected to the tread 104 at the upper surface 105.

[0136] The midsole 115 preferably extends across the surface of the tread 104.

[0137] As described above, the midsole 115 is also provided with a breathable portion, also known as a second breathable portion, indicated by 118, which is suitable for water vapor to pass through and extends from the upper surface 116 of the midsole to the lower surface 117.

[0138] Ventilation channel 108 is arranged on the upper surface 116 of midsole 115 and is in fluid communication with second breathable portion 118, as shown in the example in the figure. The second breathable portion 118 preferably has a through opening 112a, wherein the breathable portion 107 of the functional area and therefore the breathable portion of the tread (first breathable portion) and the second breathable portion 118 of the midsole substantially overlap each other and are preferably arranged at the midfoot (e.g., Figure 5 (as shown), but the possibility of providing them in the hind foot, or across the midfoot and hind foot, or outside the area of ​​maximum flexion in the forefoot is not excluded.

[0139] The ventilation duct 108 has a substantially longitudinal extension and preferably has an approximately straight pattern.

[0140] Additionally, a substantially transverse channel (not shown in the example in the figures) may optionally be provided, also having an approximately straight pattern from the outside to the inside of the foot, and preferably oriented along the said construction lines r, s, t. This is advantageous because it allows the sole structure to flex according to the movement of the foot in each step of movement from heel to toe.

[0141] In fact, the ventilation channel 108 of the midsole 115 of the sole structure 100 performs essentially the same function as the ventilation channel 8 of the tread 4 of the sole structure 1.

[0142] The use of midsole 115 advantageously allows for a reduction in the weight of the sole structure because, since the channels are no longer located on the tread, the same tread can be made with a reduced thickness: this results in a reduction in the weight of the sole structure, since the tread is typically made of a material with a density that can also be two or three times that of the material used in the midsole.

[0143] exist Figure 5 In the example, ventilation channels 108 are depicted as being located at the forefoot, but according to the invention, as an alternative or addition, they may be located at the rearfoot, and they may also have a pattern similar to the ventilation channels 8 of the aforementioned sole structure 1.

[0144] In the same case, the sole structure of the present invention may feasiblely include a cavity 113 (first cavity) disposed on the upper surface 105 of the tread 104 and in which the membrane 110 is housed, and optionally include a cavity 120 (second cavity) disposed at the midsole 115, particularly at the second breathable portion.

[0145] Therefore, the sole structure according to the present invention may include two cavities, one cavity, or no cavity.

[0146] Specifically, regarding the cavity 113 disposed on the tread surface 104 and in which the membrane 110 is disposed, it should be said that the sealing connection of the membrane at the sealing area 109 can be achieved by gluing or by means of the sealing element 122 (e.g., Figure 7a and 7b (as shown in the examples respectively), wherein the sole structure 100 is shown without a midsole, and the sealing element 122 may be, for example, a PVC or EVA sealing ring.

[0147] Protective elements such as waterproof polyester felt may be further located below or above membrane 110.

[0148] Therefore, the optional protective element can also be defined as a breathable element or a breathable material layer, and Figure 5 The example is indicated by the figure 121.

[0149] In particular, protective elements placed above the membrane can be used to "eliminate" height differences that may be caused by the sealing elements and can be perceived by the wearer, and are often used to provide further protection for the membrane that comes into contact with the upper components.

[0150] A protective element placed beneath the membrane protects it from any roughness of the tread surface it contacts. Due to leakage of the material used in molding the tread and / or due to imperfections in the combing operation necessary to remove material residue to form the through-holes described above (otherwise, in the case of treads made of, for example, PU or compressed EVA, such material residue is unavoidable due to the molding process, the through-holes would be blind holes), roughness may be primarily present at the through-holes.

[0151] When the protective element is placed under the membrane and the membrane is directly sealed to the tread surface, i.e. without the sealing element, the protective element has a smaller size than the membrane, for example, a negative offset of 4-6 mm relative to the membrane template, so as not to hinder the seal.

[0152] As for the cavity 120 located at the midsole 115, it should be said that it has almost the same template as the cavity 113 located on the tread 104.

[0153] The sole structure 100 may also include a breathable element or a breathable material layer, preferably waterproof, and disposed at the second breathable portion 118. It may be accommodated above or below the through opening 112a in a cavity 120 of the midsole, depending on the location of the cavity 120: whether it is located on the upper or lower surface of the midsole. It should be added that the cavity 120 may be a completely through cavity and entirely filled with the breathable element or breathable material layer. In practice, in the latter case, it is similar to having a single through opening filled with a breathable element or breathable material layer.

[0154] The breathable element or breathable material layer is formed according to the template of the cavity 120 and may be made of, for example, three-dimensional fabric.

[0155] The breathable elements or breathable material layer at the midsole help to further reduce the weight of the sole structure, while ensuring that the vapor phase of sweat flows from the through opening 112a of the midsole 115 to the membrane 110, and from there to the external environment through the through opening 112 of the tread 104.

[0156] According to the present invention, also in this embodiment, thanks to the combined effect of the ventilation channel 108 in the midsole and the through openings 112a and 112 respectively provided on the midsole 115 and the tread 104, the expulsion of vapor phase sweat occurs away from the areas of greatest sweating and greatest foot flexion.

[0157] Regarding the ventilation channels still mentioned, it should be added that, as an alternative to the above, they can have a curved pattern that primarily involves the area most relevant to heel-to-toe movement, particularly the forefoot portion closest to the outer side of the foot, such as... Figure 7c As shown, the left midsole 115 is a shock-absorbing element, with a ventilation channel 108a having a convex surface facing the outer part of the foot. This embodiment allows for better utilization of the compression generated by heel-to-toe movement because it more closely follows its pattern.

[0158] For reference Figure 5 , 6 The embodiments described in 7a, 7b, and 7c, unless otherwise stated, are equally applicable to those mentioned above for sole structure 1, and have reference value. Figure 2-4 The corresponding variations are described above.

[0159] refer to Figure 8a and 8b Now, another embodiment variation of the invention according to two different configurations will be described.

[0160] In detail, Figure 8a and 8b In the example, details of the invention are schematically shown, namely that the midsole 225 of the sole structure is similar to the reference. Figure 5 , 6 The sole structure 100 described in examples 7a, 7b, and 7c is referenced. Figure 5 , 6 Examples of 7a, 7b, and 7c, and with Figure 5 , 6 The difference between examples 7a, 7b, and 7c is that it includes a membrane 210 constrained to the midsole 225 at the sealing area 209 instead of constrained to a membrane at the tread surface. Figure 8a and 8bThe example is not shown.

[0161] Therefore, the midsole 225 is designed to be constrained to the tread, which has no ventilation channels and sealed areas, but has a second breathable section.

[0162] In fact, Figure 8a and 8b In one example embodiment, the functional area of ​​the sole structure having its own breathable portion (first breathable portion) is located in the midsole, rather than in the tread as occurred in the previous embodiments.

[0163] In detail, the insole 225 includes an upper surface 226, a lower surface 227 intended to connect to the upper surface of the tread, and the breathable portion 207 adapted for the passage of water vapor and extending from the upper surface 226 to the lower surface 227.

[0164] In addition, the midsole 225 has a ventilation channel 208 arranged on its own upper surface 226, the ventilation channel 208 being in fluid communication with the breathable portion 207, the breathable portion 207 preferably being provided with a through opening 212a.

[0165] According to the invention, the breathable portion (first breathable portion) of the midsole and the breathable portion (second breathable portion) of the tread substantially overlap each other, particularly arranged at the midfoot, but the possibility of providing them at the rearfoot, across the midfoot and rearfoot, or outside the maximum flexion area in the forefoot is not excluded.

[0166] exist Figure 8a In the example, the sealing region 209 to which the membrane 210 is sealed is provided on the upper surface 226 of the midsole. Furthermore, a cavity 213 may be present on the upper surface 226, in which the membrane 210 is accommodated.

[0167] As an alternative, such as Figure 8b As shown in the example, the membrane 210 can be sealed to the lower surface 227 of the midsole 225, so the sealing area 209 is also arranged on the lower surface, and a cavity 213 for accommodating the membrane 210 can be present on the lower surface.

[0168] Remembering what was said earlier, one can observe, especially by referring to... Figure 8a For example, depending on the type of seal, the sealing region 209 can be located either outside or inside the cavity 213. If the membrane is directly sealed to the midsole and the cavity interior, the seal is made, for example, by adhesive using an external strip at least 4 to 6 millimeters wide along the cavity. If the membrane is indirectly sealed to the midsole by a sealing element of the aforementioned type, the sealing element is placed across the membrane and the sealing region, and the sealing element is sealingly connected to the midsole in the sealing region.

[0169] refer to Figure 8b For example, it should be said that the membrane is always actually sealed within a sealing area contained inside the cavity. In this case, the membrane is always sealed directly to the midsole, without the need for a sealing element.

[0170] Similar to the foregoing embodiments described above, depending on the location of the membrane, whether it penetrates the entire thickness or only a portion of the midsole, care is taken to maintain the sealing area for the membrane. Figure 8a and 8b In the example, the breathable element or breathable material layer, not shown, may be located below or above the membrane. This means that the template of the breathable element or breathable material layer is smaller than the template of the membrane, because it is actually formed as a negative offset of 4 mm to 10 mm from the template of the membrane.

[0171] The breathable element or breathable material layer is advantageous because it further reduces the weight of the sole structure of the present invention.

[0172] Generally, it is advantageous to use the aforementioned breathable elements or breathable material layers because it also allows the use of materials that, in addition to high breathability, possess elasticity (i.e., the material's ability to reversibly deform upon impact) and / or resilience (i.e., the material's ability to absorb the energy generated by stress (typically impact)), different from the materials constituting the midsole. The ability to place the membrane not only in the midfoot but also in the heel, using particularly elastic breathable elements or breathable material layers, can increase the elastic response of the sole structure, thus returning some of the stress as upward thrust and making walking less tiring.

[0173] for Figure 8a and 8b Unless otherwise stated, the embodiments described above for sole structures 1 and 100 are equally applicable, and their respective variations are described with reference to their respective accompanying drawings.

[0174] refer to Figure 9 Now, another embodiment of the invention will be described.

[0175] In detail, Figure 9 The example describes something similar to the reference. Figure 5 , 6 The sole structure 300 of the sole structure 100 described in 7a, 7b and 7c, refer to... Figure 5 , 6 7a, 7b and 7c, and with Figure 5 , 6The main difference between 7a, 7b and 7c is that the breathable portion (first breathable portion) of the functional area on the tread and the breathable portion (second breathable portion) of the midsole do not overlap each other, and that they include ventilation channels on both the upper and lower surfaces of the midsole.

[0176] The sole structure 300 includes a midsole 325 constrained to a tread 304 without ventilation channels, and the midsole 325 has a sealed area 309 surrounding a breathable portion 318 (a first breathable portion), the breathable portion 318 preferably including a through opening 312, and a membrane 310 disposed in a cavity 313 is sealed to the sealed area 309.

[0177] exist Figure 9 In the example, the sealing region 309 is inside the cavity 313; however, if the membrane is sealed to the tread surface by a sealing element similar to that described above, a sealing region can be provided outside the cavity and surrounding the cavity.

[0178] Specifically, the midsole 325 includes an upper surface 326 and a lower surface 327 connected to the upper surface of the tread 304, and ventilation channels 308 are provided on the upper and lower surfaces. The midsole also includes a breathable portion 318a (a second breathable portion) adapted for the passage of water vapor and extending from the upper surface 326 to the lower surface 327 of the midsole. The ventilation channels 308 include a first series of channels 308a arranged on the upper surface 326 of the midsole and a second series of channels 308b arranged on the lower surface 327 of the midsole. The first and second series of channels are in fluid communication with the second breathable portion 318a of the midsole 325. The second breathable portion 318a preferably has a through opening 312a.

[0179] Specifically, the ventilation channels converge in the through opening 312a.

[0180] It should be added that the first series of channels 308a extends from the second ventilated portion 318a to the forefoot, and the second series of channels 318b extends from the second ventilated portion 318a to the hindfoot.

[0181] As described above, the breathable portion 318 of the tread and the breathable portion 318a of the midsole do not overlap each other. In particular, the first breathable portion is provided at the rear foot and the second breathable portion is provided at the midfoot.

[0182] Each channel 308b of the second series converges at opposite ends of the channels at the corresponding through openings 312a into the breathable portion 318 of the tread surface 304. Thus, the vapor phase sweat generated primarily in the forefoot reaches the channel 308a of the first series of ventilation channels, passes through the through openings 312a, reaches the channel 308b of the second series of ventilation channels, and from there reaches the openings 312 provided on the tread surface 304 (after passing through the membrane 310), and then reaches its external environment.

[0183] This embodiment is advantageous because it allows for greater freedom of execution, particularly by allowing the through-holes in the tread surface for the escaping of sweat vapor to be positioned at the rear foot (where the surface area for breathability can, in some cases, be larger than that available at the midfoot), and by allowing the use of components in the rear foot area of ​​the midsole that would prevent the through-holes from being positioned at the rear foot, such as fluid-filled pads, lighting devices, sensors, etc.

[0184] Regarding the aforementioned ventilation channels, it should be added that they can be substantially longitudinal, such as... Figure 9 As shown in the example. Alternatively, channel 308a of the first series of channels may have a convex surface facing the outer portion of the foot, similar to... Figure 7c As shown in the example, and / or the channel 308b of the second series of channels may have a convex surface facing the outer portion of the foot, such as Figure 10 As shown in the example, in order to more closely follow the movement from heel to toe, the compression acting on the vapor phase of sweat present inside the same ventilation channel is almost maximized at each point.

[0185] For reference Figure 9 and Figure 10 The embodiments shown, unless otherwise stated, are equally applicable to those described above for sole structures with their respective variations, which we refer to.

[0186] refer to Figure 11 Now, another embodiment of the invention will be described.

[0187] In detail, Figure 11 The example schematically illustrates something similar to the reference. Figure 8a and 8b The example describes the sole structure 400, which is a sole structure for reference. Figure 8a and 8b Examples, and with Figure 8a and 8b The essential difference between the examples is that the tread has no breathable parts.

[0188] In other words, the sole structure 400 includes a midsole 425 constrained to the tread 404, wherein the tread has neither ventilation channels nor breathable portions, and the midsole 425, which includes an upper surface 426, a lower surface 427 connected to the upper surface 405 of the tread, and a side edge 450 extending between the lower surface 427 and the upper surface 426, is provided with a breathable portion 407 contained between the upper surface 426 and the lower surface 427.

[0189] The sole structure 400 also includes a ventilation channel 408 disposed on the upper surface 426 of the midsole, the ventilation channel 408 being in fluid communication with the breathable portion 407, the breathable portion 407 preferably being provided with a through opening 412.

[0190] In this embodiment, the corresponding sole structure therefore includes a functional area comprising the breathable portion 407 suitable for water vapor to pass through, a water vapor-permeable waterproof membrane 410, and a sealing area 409 surrounding the breathable portion 407, wherein the membrane 410 is sealed to the sealing area 409 in a waterproof manner.

[0191] exist Figure 11 In the example, the membrane 410 is sealed to a sealing region 409 arranged on the upper surface 426 of the midsole, and surrounds the cavity 413 disposed therein with respect to the through opening 412.

[0192] According to the present invention, the sole structure 400 is further provided with one or more passages 460, in Figure 11 In the example, there are three pathways, one or more of which extend laterally from the breathable portion 407 to the side edge 450 on the lower surface 427 of the midsole 425.

[0193] for Figure 11 Unless otherwise stated, the embodiments described above refer to... Figure 8a and 8b The same applicable descriptions of the sole structures shown, which have their own variations, are referred to in their descriptions.

[0194] The advantages of the invention, which become apparent from the above description, can be summarized by pointing out that a waterproof and breathable sole structure is provided that is particularly durable and thus prevents breakage after repeated bending cycles.

[0195] Furthermore, the sole structure of the present invention advantageously ensures a high degree of comfort during walking.

[0196] Furthermore, the sole structure of the present invention can be advantageously manufactured at low cost.

[0197] Therefore, the sole structure according to the present invention is both economical and reliable.

[0198] The above description is due to the fact that at least the breathable portion of the waterproof and breathable membrane is attached to it, which is moved away from the so-called maximum flex area of ​​the sole structure (where most of the sweat glands of the foot are also located), while facilitating the convergence of the vapor phase of sweat towards the breathable portion of the tread and possibly the breathable portion of the midsole to expel it out of the shoe.

[0199] In this regard, it should be remembered that the purpose of the invention is to maintain the function of the functional areas for a long time to prevent water from entering the interior of the shoe from the outside, including this sole structure. Recall that, by construction, the outline of the sealing area of ​​the tread or sole encompasses the outline of the breathable portion of the tread or midsole, and the membrane extends into both the breathable portion and the sealing area. It should be emphasized that even if the membrane ruptures in the sealing area of ​​the tread or midsole, the function can still be preserved, because in this case, impermeability is guaranteed anyway by the presence of the seal. Therefore, according to the invention, it is sufficient that the breathable portion of the functional area is outside the maximum bending area, and the sealing area and the entire membrane are also preferably outside the maximum bending area.

[0200] To meet occasional and specific needs, those skilled in the art may make various changes and modifications to the invention in the illustrated and described embodiments, all of which are therefore included within the scope of protection of the invention as defined in the following claims.

Claims

1. A waterproof and breathable sole structure having an inner surface (2) intended to face the interior of the shoe and an outer surface (3) intended to face the external environment of the shoe. The sole structure (1) mentioned above includes: Tread surface (4), the tread surface having an upper surface (5) on the inner surface (2) side and a lower surface (6) on the outer surface (3) side; One or more ventilation ducts (8); The functional area includes a breathable portion suitable for water vapor passage, a water vapor-permeable waterproof membrane (10), and a sealing area (9) surrounding the breathable portion, the membrane being sealed to the sealing area in a waterproof manner. Its features The one or more ventilation channels (8) are adapted to direct water vapor to the surface of the membrane facing the inner surface. And among them The breathable portion of the functional area is located entirely outside the forefoot portion corresponding to the area of ​​maximum flexion.

2. The sole structure according to claim 1, wherein, The membrane (10) is completely outside the maximum bending region, and / or the sealing region (9) is completely outside the maximum bending region.

3. The sole structure according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The sealing area (9) is substantially flat, and preferably, the sealing area is substantially smooth.

4. The sole structure according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The functional area is provided with a cavity (13), and the membrane (10) is housed in the cavity.

5. The sole structure according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a preferably waterproof, breathable element or breathable material layer (121) disposed above or below the membrane, and / or comprising a material layer disposed above the membrane and having a channel facing the ground in a use arrangement.

6. The sole structure according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The breathable portion is located between the upper surface (5) and the lower surface (6) of the tread, wherein preferably, the breathable portion is located at the midfoot or at the forefoot in front of the maximum bending area.

7. The sole structure according to claim 6, comprising a second functional area disposed on the tread surface, the second functional area comprising a breathable portion thereof adapted for water vapor passage, a second sealing area surrounding the breathable portion, and a second waterproof membrane permeable to water vapor, the second waterproof membrane being sealed to the second sealing area in a waterproof manner, wherein the breathable portion of the second functional area is entirely located outside the maximum bending area, wherein preferably, the second sealing area is entirely located outside the maximum bending area, and / or wherein the second membrane is entirely located outside the maximum bending area.

8. The sole structure according to claim 6 or 7, wherein, The one or more ventilation channels (8) are disposed on the upper surface (5) of the tread (4) and are in fluid communication with the functional area, and may also be in fluid communication with the second functional area.

9. The sole structure according to claim 6, comprising a midsole (115) having an upper surface (116), a lower surface (117) of the upper surface (105) connected to the tread (104), and a second ventilated portion (118) suitable for water vapor passage, the second ventilated portion being located between the upper surface (116) and the lower surface (117) of the midsole (115), wherein one or more ventilation channels (108) are disposed on the upper surface (116) of the midsole (115) and in fluid communication with the second ventilated portion (118), wherein the ventilated portion (107) and the second ventilated portion (118) substantially overlap each other.

10. The sole structure according to claim 9, comprising a preferably waterproof breathable element or breathable material layer (121) disposed at the second breathable portion (118).

11. The sole structure according to any one of claims 1-5, comprising a midsole (225) having an upper surface (226) and a lower surface (227) connected to the upper surface of the tread, wherein the breathable portion (207) of the functional area is located between the upper surface (226) and the lower surface (227) of the midsole (225), wherein the sole structure includes a second breathable portion located between the upper surface (5) and the lower surface (6) of the tread, wherein one or more ventilation channels (208) are disposed on the upper surface (226) of the midsole (225) and in fluid communication with the breathable portion (207), wherein the breathable portion (207) and the second breathable portion substantially overlap each other.

12. The sole structure (300) according to claim 6, comprising a midsole (325) having an upper surface (326), a lower surface (327) connected to the upper surface of the tread (304), and a second ventilated portion (318a) suitable for water vapor passage, the second ventilated portion being located between the upper surface (326) and the lower surface (327) of the midsole (325), wherein the one or more ventilation channels (308) comprise a first series and a second series, the first series comprising one or more channels (308a) disposed on the upper surface (326) of the midsole, the second series comprising one or more channels (308b) disposed on the lower surface (327) of the midsole, wherein the channels (308a, 308b) of the first series and the second series are in fluid communication with the second ventilated portion (318a), wherein the ventilated portion (318) and the second ventilated portion (318a) are staggered and do not overlap.

13. The sole structure (300) according to claim 12, wherein, The breathable portion (318) and the second breathable portion (318a) of the functional area extend at the rear foot and the midfoot, respectively. Preferably, the first series of one or more channels (308a) extends from the second breathable portion (318a) to the forefoot, and the second series of one or more channels (308b) extends from the second breathable portion (318a) to the rear foot.

14. The sole structure according to any one of claims 1-5, comprising a midsole (425) having an upper surface (426), a lower surface (427) connected to the upper surface (405) of the tread (404), and a side edge (450) located between the lower surface (427) and the upper surface (426), wherein the breathable portion (407) of the functional area is located between the upper surface (426) and the lower surface (427) of the midsole (425), wherein one or more ventilation channels (408) are disposed on the upper surface (426) of the midsole and in fluid communication with the breathable portion (407), wherein the sole structure is provided with one or more lateral passages (460) extending from the breathable portion (407) to the side edge (450) on the lower surface (427) of the midsole.

15. The sole structure according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The width of the one or more ventilation channels (8) is in the range of 2 mm to 10 mm, wherein preferably, the depth of the one or more ventilation channels (8) is in the range of 1 mm to 5 mm.

16. The sole structure according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The one or more ventilation channels (8) have a bottom located at the height of the sealed area (9).

17. The sole structure according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The region of maximum curvature is defined by construction lines s and t.

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