Article of footwear with closure system

Abstract

An article of footwear with a closure system includes an upper and sole structure defining a central plane penetrating a toe end and a heel end; a plurality of retainers arranged along the upper and intersecting the central plane; and a rope including a first section and a second section. The cord is configured to engage the plurality of retainers to adjust the tightness of the footwear such that at least one of the plurality of retainers is not engaged by the cord.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit and priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 344,957, filed May 23, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to a footwear article including a closure system, and more specifically, to a closure system including a disc pulley fastening mechanism. Background Technology

[0004] Many traditional shoes or other footwear products typically consist of an upper and a sole attached to the underside of the upper. Traditional shoes also include an internal space, or cavity, formed by the inner surfaces of the upper and sole, which accommodates the user's foot before the shoe is secured to the foot. The sole is attached to the underside or boundary of the upper and lies between the upper and the ground. Therefore, when the shoe is worn, the sole typically provides stability and cushioning for the user. In some cases, the sole may include multiple components, such as an outsole, midsole, and toeboard. The outsole provides adhesion friction to the bottom surface of the sole, the midsole is attached to the inner surface of the outsole, and can provide cushioning or increase stability to the sole. For example, the sole may include a specific foam material that can increase stability along the sole at one or more desired locations, or a foam material that can reduce pressure or impact energy on the foot or leg when the user is running, walking, or engaging in another activity. The sole may also include additional components embedded in the sole, such as plates, to increase the overall rigidity of the sole and reduce energy loss during use.

[0005] The upper typically extends upwards from the sole and defines an internal cavity that completely or partially encloses the foot. In most cases, the upper extends across the instep and toe areas, traversing the medial and lateral sides of these areas. Many footwear products may also include a tongue that extends across the instep area to bridge the gap between the medial and lateral edges of the upper, defining an opening into the cavity. The tongue may also be positioned below the lacing system and between the medial and lateral sides of the upper to allow adjustment of the shoe's tightness. The tongue can also be manipulated by the user to allow the foot to enter and exit the internal space or cavity. Furthermore, the lacing system can allow the user to adjust certain dimensions of the upper or sole, allowing the upper to accommodate various foot shapes and sizes.

[0006] Many footwear uppers can include a variety of materials that can be used to form the upper and selected for use depending on one or more intended uses of the footwear. The upper can also include multiple portions composed of different materials that are specific to particular areas of the upper. For example, increased stability can be desired in the front portion of the upper or adjacent to the heel region to provide a higher degree of resistance or rigidity. Conversely, other portions of the footwear can include soft textile fabric to provide areas with stretch resistance, flexibility, breathability, or sweat absorption.

[0007] However, in many instances, there is a need for footwear articles with uppers having increased comfort and better fit, as well as improved closure mechanisms. One common closure mechanism that secures the upper and tongue to the user’s foot is the use of a shoelace. While a shoelace does provide a closure mechanism, the shoelace can break or come untied. Additionally, over time, the shoelace can become loose, thereby becoming less aesthetically pleasing. Thus, there is a need for a footwear article that is capable of selectively tightening the upper and tongue against the user’s foot and selectively loosening the upper and tongue against the user’s foot without the use of a shoelace. SUMMARY

[0008] As described herein, a footwear article can have various configurations. The footwear article can have an upper and a sole structure connected to the upper.

[0009] In some aspects, a footwear article includes an upper attached to a sole structure having a midfoot region, a heel region, a medial side, and a lateral side. The upper includes a tongue positioned at the midfoot region. The tongue has a plurality of retainers including a lower retainer having a first notch and a second retainer having a second notch. A medial side pulley and a lateral side pulley are positioned at the heel region and are secured to the medial side and the lateral side of the upper, respectively. A cord has a closed loop, and the first notch and the second notch are configured to selectively receive the closed loop. A first configuration of the cord defines the closed loop that is guided to be received in the medial side pulley, the lateral side pulley, the first notch, and the second notch.

[0010] In some aspects, a footwear article includes an upper and a sole structure defining a central plane through a toe end and a heel end, a plurality of retainers arranged along the upper and intersecting the central plane, and a cord including a first segment and a second segment. The cord is configured to engage the plurality of retainers to adjust a tightness of the footwear such that at least one of the plurality of retainers is not engaged by the cord.

[0011] In some embodiments, a distance between the plurality of retainers and the sole structure varies from a first retainer to a second retainer. In some embodiments, the cord includes a first segment and a second segment that selectively engage the plurality of retainers. In a first configuration, the cord is configured to engage the first retainer. Further, both the first segment and the second segment are configured to engage the first retainer. In a second configuration, the cord is configured to engage the first retainer and the second retainer. Further, the first segment is configured to engage the first retainer and the second segment is configured to engage the second retainer. In a third configuration, the cord is configured to engage the second retainer. Further, both the first segment and the second segment are configured to engage the second retainer. In some embodiments, the first segment and the second segment of the cord are connected to each other to form a closed loop.

[0012] In some aspects, an article of footwear includes an upper and a sole structure having a midfoot region disposed between a forefoot region and a heel region. A pulley is located in the heel region and is rotatably attached to the upper. A cord is movably coupled to the pulley. The cord has a first segment and a second segment that are connected to each other to form a closed loop. The pulley and the cord are configured to adjust a tightness of the footwear.

[0013] In some embodiments, the pulley includes a first pulley disposed on a medial side of the upper and a second pulley disposed on a lateral side of the upper. In some embodiments, at least one of the first pulley or the second pulley is configured to translate within a slot formed in the upper. In some embodiments, the cord is configured to selectively engage at least one retainer arranged on the upper.

[0014] In some aspects, an article of footwear includes an upper and a sole structure defining a central plane extending through a toe end and a heel end, a plurality of retainers arranged along the upper, a pulley, and a cord. The plurality of retainers are spaced apart from each other and intersect the central plane. The pulley is located in a heel region of the footwear and is rotatably attached to the upper. The cord is configured to engage at least one of the plurality of retainers and the pulley to adjust a tightness of the footwear.

[0015] In some embodiments, the plurality of retainers are disposed in a midfoot region of the footwear. In some embodiments, the pulley is rotatable about an axis that is closer to the sole structure relative to the plurality of retainers. In some embodiments, a distance is defined between the pulley and each of the plurality of retainers, the distance varying between the plurality of retainers. In some embodiments, the cord is configured to selectively engage two of the plurality of retainers and is movably attached to the pulley. In some embodiments, the pulley includes a first pulley located on a medial side of the footwear and a second pulley located on a lateral side of the footwear, at least one of the first pulley and the second pulley being configured to translate and rotate on the upper.

[0016] Other aspects of the article of footwear, including features and advantages thereof, will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, drawings, and claims, when considered in connection with the disclosure. Accordingly, the article of footwear is not limited to any particular embodiment described herein, but rather the scope of the article of footwear includes all embodiments falling within the scope of the claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0017] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the bottom and medial side of an article of footwear according to an embodiment of the disclosure, the article of footwear configured as a left foot shoe including an upper and a sole structure;

[0018] Figure 2 is a top view of the article of footwear of Figure 1

[0019] Figure 3 is a top view of the article of footwear of Figure 1

[0020] Figure 4 is a perspective view of the lateral side of an article of footwear according to an embodiment of the disclosure, the article of footwear configured as a left foot shoe and showing a fastener system;

[0021] Figure 5 is a side view of the article of footwear of Figure 4

[0022] Figure 6 is a perspective view of a pulley of the article of footwear of Figure 4

[0023] Figure 7 is a perspective view of a first arrangement of the article of footwear of Figure 4

[0024] Figure 8 is a perspective view of a second arrangement of the article of footwear of Figure 4

[0025] Figure 9 is a perspective view of a third arrangement of the article of footwear of Figure 4

[0026] Figure 10 is a detailed view of the lateral side of the heel region of the article of footwear of Figure 4

[0027] Figure 11 Figure 4 ​​​​​​​​​A schematic representation of a front view of a drive lever in an alternative embodiment of a footwear product, the drive lever having an actuation mechanism having a protective cover;

[0028] Figure 12 yes Figure 4 A schematic representation of the exploded perspective view of various components used in an alternative embodiment of the footwear product;

[0029] Figure 13 It is along Figure 11 A schematic representation of a cross-sectional view of the actuator and actuation mechanism with a protective shield, taken along line 13-13. Figure 4 A side view of the footwear product shows a fastener system configured in a locking configuration within an elliptical slot; and

[0030] Figure 14 It is along Figure 11 A schematic representation of a cross-sectional view of the actuator and actuation mechanism with a protective shield, taken along centerline 14-14. Figure 4 The side view of the footwear product shows the fastener system configured in an unlocked configuration within an elliptical slot. Detailed Implementation

[0031] The following discussion and accompanying figures disclose various embodiments or constructions of shoe and sole structures. While embodiments of shoe or sole structures are disclosed with reference to athletic footwear (e.g., running shoes, tennis shoes, basketball shoes, etc.), the concepts associated with embodiments of shoe or sole structures can be applied to a wide range of footwear and footwear styles, including, for example, cross-training shoes, soccer shoes, golf shoes, hiking boots, mountaineering boots, ski and snowboard boots, soccer shoes and spikes, walking shoes, and track spikes. The concepts of shoe or sole structures can also be applied to footwear articles considered non-athletic, including dress shoes, sandals, casual shoes, slippers, and high heels. In addition to footwear, the specific concepts described herein can also be applied to and incorporated into other types of clothing or other sporting equipment, including helmets, pads or protective mats, shin guards, and gloves. Furthermore, the specific concepts described herein can be incorporated into mats, backpack straps, golf clubs, or other consumer or industrial products. Therefore, the concepts described herein can be used in a wide variety of products.

[0032] As used herein, the term "approximately" refers to numerical variations that may occur after considering factors such as typical measurement and manufacturing procedures for footwear articles or other manufactured articles that may include embodiments disclosed herein; omissions or errors in such procedures; differences in the raw materials, sources, or purity used to prepare the composition or mixture; and differences in the methods of implementation, etc. Throughout this disclosure, the terms "approximately" and "roughly" refer to a range of values ​​within ±5% of the numerical value following the term.

[0033] The present disclosure relates to an article of footwear and / or particular components of an article of footwear, such as an upper and / or a sole (or sole structure). The upper can include a knit component, a woven fabric, and / or a nonwoven fabric. The knit component can be made from knit yarns, the woven fabric can be made from woven yarns, and the nonwoven fabric can be made from a unitary nonwoven web. Knit fabrics include fabrics formed by warp knitting, weft knitting, flat knitting, circular knitting, and / or other suitable knitting operations. For example, the knit fabric can have a jersey knit construction, a mesh knit construction, and / or a rib knit construction. Included, but not limited to, fabrics formed by any of a variety of weaves, such as a plain weave, a twill weave, a satin weave, a dobbin weave, a jacquard weave, a double weave, or a double cloth weave. Nonwoven fabrics include fabrics made, for example, by air-laying or spun-laying processes. The upper can include a variety of materials, such as a first yarn, a second yarn, and / or a third yarn, which can have different properties or different visual characteristics.

[0034] Figures 1-3 An exemplary embodiment of an article of footwear 100 is depicted, including an upper 102 (see Figure 1 and Figure 2 ) and a sole structure 104. The upper 102 is attached to the sole structure 104 and together define an interior void 106 (see Figure 2 ) into which a foot can be inserted. For reference, the article of footwear 100 defines a forefoot region 108, a midfoot region 110, and a heel region 112. The forefoot region 108 generally corresponds with portions of the article of footwear 100 that wrap around portions of the foot, including the toes, the forepart, and the joints connecting the metatarsal bones with the toes or phalanges. The midfoot region 110 is adjacent and proximate to the forefoot region 108 and generally corresponds with portions of the article of footwear 100 that wrap around the arch and the bridge of the foot. The heel region 112 is adjacent and proximate to the midfoot region 110 and generally corresponds with portions of the article of footwear 100 that enclose the rear of the foot, including the heel or calcaneus, the ankle, or Achilles tendon.

[0035] Many traditional uppers are formed from multiple elements (e.g., textiles, polymeric foam, polymeric sheeting, leather, and synthetic leather) that are joined together by being adhered or stitched at seams. In some embodiments, the upper 102 of the article of footwear 100 is formed from a knit structure or knit component. In various embodiments, the knit component can include various types of yarns that can provide different properties to the upper. For example, one area of the upper 102 can be formed from a first type of yarn that imparts a first set of properties, while another area of the upper 102 can be formed from a second type of yarn that imparts a second set of properties. With this construction, the properties of the upper 102 can be varied throughout the upper 102 by selecting particular yarns for different areas of the upper 102.

[0036] With reference to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , with respect to the one or more materials that make up the upper 102, the particular type of yarn that will impart particular properties to an area of the knit component depends, at least in part, on the materials of the various filaments and fibers that form the yarn. For example, cotton can provide a soft feel, biodegradability, or a natural aesthetic to the knit material. Spandex and stretch polyester can each provide the desired elasticity and recovery properties to the knit component. Rayon can provide a high luster and moisture absorbent material, wool can provide a moisture absorbent enhanced material, nylon can be a durable material that is resistant to abrasion, and polyester can provide a durable material that is hydrophobic.

[0037] Other aspects of the knit component can also be varied to affect the properties of the knit component and provide the desired attributes. For example, the yarns that form the knit component can include monofilament yarns or multifilament yarns, or the yarns can include filaments that are each formed from two or more different materials. Further, the knit component can be formed using a particular knitting process to impart particular properties to areas of the knit component. Thus, the materials that form the yarns and other aspects of the yarns can be selected to impart a variety of properties to particular areas of the upper 102.

[0038] Still referring to Figure 1 and Figure 2In some embodiments, the elasticity of the knit structure can be measured based on comparing a width or length of the knit structure in a first, non-stretched state to a width or length of the knit structure in a second, stretched state after the knit structure has been subjected to a force applied to the knit structure in the transverse direction. In other embodiments, the upper 102 can also include additional structural elements. For example, in some embodiments, a heel pad or overlay (not shown) can be disposed on the heel region 112 to provide additional support to the user's heel. In some cases, other elements (e.g., plastic materials, logos, trademarks, etc.) can also be applied and secured to the outer surface using glue or a thermoforming process. In some embodiments, the properties associated with the upper 102 can vary, such as the stitch type, the yarn type, or properties associated with different stitch types or yarn types, such as elasticity, aesthetics, thickness, breathability, or abrasion resistance.

[0039] The sole structure 104 is connected or fixed to the upper 102 and extends between the user's foot and the ground when the article of footwear 100 is worn by the user. The sole structure 104 can include one or more components, which can include an outsole, a midsole, a heel, an upper, and / or an insole. For example, in some embodiments, the sole structure can include an outsole that provides structural integrity to the sole structure and provides traction for the user, a midsole that provides a cushioning system, and an insole that provides support for the user's arch. In addition, the insole can be a strobel board, a forefoot board, a last board, etc., or combinations thereof, and the insole can be disposed between the upper 102 and the sole structure 104, or the insole can be disposed as part of the upper 102.

[0040] Still referring to Figure 1 and Figure 2 In addition, the insole can be located in an interior void of the upper, which can be in direct contact with the user's foot when the article of footwear is worn. In addition, the upper can also include a liner (not shown), which can increase comfort, for example, by reducing friction between the user's foot and the upper, sole, insole, etc., and / or by providing moisture-wicking properties. The liner can line the entire interior void or only a portion of the interior void. In some embodiments, a welt (not shown) can surround the opening of the interior void to secure the liner to the upper and / or to provide an aesthetic element on the article of footwear.

[0041] Referring to Figure 2 and Figure 3The article of footwear 100 also defines a lateral side 114 and a medial side 116. When the article of footwear 100 is worn by a user, the lateral side 114 corresponds to an outward-facing portion of the article of footwear 100, while the medial side 116 corresponds to an inward-facing portion of the article of footwear 100. As such, the article of footwear 100 has opposite lateral and medial sides 114, 116. The medial side 116 and the lateral side 114 adjoin one another along a longitudinal center plane (or center axis) 118 of the article of footwear 100, which is coplanar with the longitudinal axis L of the article of footwear 100. Figure 1 As will be discussed further herein, the center axis 118 can divide a central, intermediate axis between the medial side 116 and the lateral side 114 of the article of footwear 100. In other words, the center axis 118 can extend between a posterior proximal end 120 of the article of footwear 100 and an anterior distal end 122 of the article of footwear 100, and can continuously define a mid-portion of the insole 124, the sole structure 104, and / or the upper 102 of the article of footwear 100, i.e., the center axis 118 is a straight axis that extends through the posterior proximal end 120 of the heel region 112 to the anterior distal end 122 of the forefoot region 108.

[0042] Referring to Figure 3 Unless otherwise noted, the article of footwear 100 can be defined by a forefoot region 108, a midfoot region 110, and a heel region 112. The forefoot region 108 can generally correspond to portions of the article of footwear 100 that enclose portions of the foot 126 including a set of digits or toes 128, a ball 130, and a set of joints 132 connecting the set of metatarsal bones 134 with the set of digits or toes 128 of the foot 126. The midfoot region 110 is proximate to and adjoins the forefoot region 108. The midfoot region 110 generally corresponds to portions of the article of footwear 100 that enclose an arch 136 of the foot 126 and a bridge 138 of the foot 126. The heel region 112 is proximate to and adjoins the midfoot region 110. The heel region 112 generally corresponds to portions of the article of footwear 100 that enclose back portions of the foot 126 including a heel or calcaneus 140, an ankle (not shown), and / or an Achilles tendon (not shown).

[0043] Referring to Figure 1 and Figure 2The forefoot region 108, the midfoot region 110, the heel region 112, the medial side 116, and the lateral side 114 are intended to define the boundaries or areas of the article of footwear 100. To this end, the forefoot region 108, the midfoot region 110, the heel region 112, the medial side 116, and the lateral side 114 generally characterize a plurality of zones of the article of footwear 100. Aspects of the present disclosure can refer to portions or elements that extend collectively with one or more of the forefoot region 108, the midfoot region 110, the heel region 112, the medial side 116, or the lateral side 114. Further, both the upper 102 and the sole structure 104 are characterized as having portions that lie within the forefoot region 108, the midfoot region 110, the heel region 112, and / or along the medial side 116 and / or the lateral side 114. Thus, the upper 102 and the sole structure 104, and / or individual portions of the upper 102 and the sole structure 104, can include portions disposed within the forefoot region 108, the midfoot region 110, the heel region 112, and / or along the medial side 116 and / or the lateral side 114.

[0044] Referring to Figure 2 and Figure 3 the forefoot region 108, the midfoot region 110, the heel region 112, the medial side 116, and the lateral side 114 are shown in detail. The forefoot region 108 extends from a toe end 142 of the article of footwear 100 to a widest portion 144. The widest portion 144 is defined or measured along a first line 146 that is perpendicular to a central axis 118 that extends from a distal portion of the toe end 142 to a distal portion of a heel end 148 that is opposite the toe end 142. The midfoot region 110 extends from the widest portion 144 of the article of footwear 100 to a narrowest portion 150. The narrowest portion 150 of the article of footwear 100 is defined as the narrowest portion of the article of footwear 100 measured from one side to the other along a second line 152 that is perpendicular to the central axis 118. The heel region 112 extends from the narrowest portion 150 of the article of footwear 100 to the heel end 148.

[0045] It should be appreciated that in light of the foregoing description, numerous modifications will be apparent to those of skill in the art and that individual components thereof can be incorporated into a number of articles of footwear. Accordingly, aspects of the article of footwear 100 and components thereof can be described with reference to general regions or portions of the article of footwear 100, with the understanding that boundaries of the forefoot region 108, the midfoot region 110, the heel region 112, the medial side 116, and / or the lateral side 114 as described herein can vary between articles of footwear. However, aspects of the article of footwear 100 and individual components thereof can also be described with reference to exact regions or portions of the article of footwear 100, and the scope of the claims appended hereto can be associated with the limitations of these boundaries of the forefoot region 108, the midfoot region 110, the heel region 112, the medial side 116, and / or the lateral side 114 discussed herein.

[0046] Still referring to Figure 2 and Figure 3 The medial side 116 begins at a distal end of the toe end 142 and curves outward along the medial side of the article of footwear 100 along the forefoot region 108 toward the midfoot region 110. The medial side 116 reaches the first line 146 at which point the medial side 116 curves inward toward the central axis 118. The medial side 116 extends from the first line 146 (i.e., the widest portion 144) to the second line 152 (i.e., the narrowest portion 150) at which point (i.e., upon crossing the first line 146), the medial side 116 enters the midfoot region 110. Upon reaching the second line 152, the medial side 116 curves outward away from the central axis 118 at which point (i.e., upon crossing the second line 152), the medial side 116 extends into the heel region 112. The medial side 116 then curves outward and then inward toward the heel end 148 and terminates at the point at which the medial side 116 intersects the central axis 118.

[0047] The lateral side 114 also begins at a distal end of the toe end 142 and curves outward along the lateral side of the article of footwear 100 along the forefoot region 108 toward the midfoot region 110. The lateral side 114 reaches the first line 146 at which point the lateral side 114 curves inward toward the central axis 118. The lateral side 114 extends from the first line 146 (i.e., the widest portion 144) to the second line 152 (i.e., the narrowest portion 150) at which point (i.e., upon crossing the first line 146), the lateral side 114 enters the midfoot region 110. Upon reaching the second line 152, the lateral side 114 curves outward away from the central axis 118 at which point (i.e., upon crossing the second line 152), the lateral side 114 extends into the heel region 112. The lateral side 114 then curves outward and then inward toward the heel end 148 and terminates at the point at which the lateral side 114 intersects the central axis 118.

[0048] Referring to Figure 2The upper 102 extends along the outer side 114 and the inner side 116, and spans the forefoot region 108, the midfoot region 110, and the heel region 112 to accommodate and surround the user's foot. When fully assembled, the upper 102 also includes an inner surface 154 and an outer surface 156. The inner surface 154 faces inward and generally defines an internal cavity 106, while the outer surface 156 faces outward and generally defines an outer periphery or boundary of the upper 102. The upper 102 also includes an opening 158 located at least partially in the heel region 112 of the footwear article 100, providing an entrance to the internal cavity 106 through which the foot can be inserted and removed. In some embodiments, the upper 102 may also include an instep region 160 extending from the opening 158 in the heel region 112, covering a portion of the instep corresponding to the foot, up to a portion adjacent to the forefoot region 108. The instep area 160 may include a portion similar to the tongue 162 provided in this embodiment. In some embodiments, the upper 102 does not include the tongue 162, that is, the upper 102 has no tongue.

[0049] See Figure 1 The sole structure 104 includes a midsole 164 and an outsole 166. The outsole 166 defines the bottom end (or bottom surface) 168 of the sole structure 104, spanning the heel region 112, the midfoot region 110, and the forefoot region 108. Furthermore, the outsole 166 can be a ground-contact portion or a ground-contact surface including the sole structure 104, and can be opposite to its insole. Figure 1 As shown, the bottom surface 168 of the outsole 166 may include an anti-slip pattern 170, which may include various shapes and constructions. The outsole 166 may be formed of one or more materials to impart durability, abrasion resistance, wear resistance, or adhesive friction to the sole structure 104. In some embodiments, the outsole 166 may be formed of any kind of elastomeric material, such as rubber, including thermosetting elastomers or thermoplastic elastomers, or thermoplastic materials, such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). In some embodiments, the outsole 166 may be defined with a Shore A hardness of up to 95. Furthermore, the outsole 166 may be manufactured by processes including injection molding, vulcanization, and layer-by-layer printing (i.e., additive manufacturing systems or methods).

[0050] The midsole 164 can be composed of thermoplastic materials alone, such as polyurethane (PU) and / or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), copolymers thereof, or similar types of materials. In other embodiments, the midsole 164 can be an EVA-solid-sponge ("ESS") material, an EVA foam (e.g., IGNITE foam), a polyurethane, a polyether, an olefin block copolymer, an organic sheet, a thermoplastic material (e.g., a thermoplastic polyurethane, a thermoplastic elastomer, a thermoplastic polyolefin, etc.), or a supercritical foam. The midsole 164 can be a single polymeric material, or can be a mixture of multiple materials, such as an EVA copolymer, a thermoplastic polyurethane, a polyether block amide (PEBA) copolymer, and / or an olefin block copolymer. One example of a PEBA material is PEBAX®. In some embodiments, the midsole 164 is manufactured by a process involving injection molding, vulcanization, layer-by-layer printing (i.e., an additive manufacturing system or method), etc.

[0051] Referring to Figure 1 In embodiments where the midsole 164 is formed by a supercritical foaming process, the supercritical foam can include a microcellular foam or a granular foam, such as TPU, EVA, PEBAX® or mixtures thereof, manufactured using a process performed within an autoclave, an injection molding device, or any sufficiently heated / pressurized vessel capable of handling a mixture of a supercritical fluid (e.g., CO2, N2 or mixtures thereof) and a preferably molten material (e.g., TPU, EVA, polyolefin elastomer or mixtures thereof). In one example process, a solution of the supercritical fluid and the molten material can be pumped into a pressurized vessel, after which the pressure within the vessel is released, causing the molecules of the supercritical fluid to rapidly transform into a gas, to form small cavities within the material and cause the material to expand into a foam. In other embodiments, the midsole 164 can be formed using alternative methods known in the art, including the use of an expansion press, an injection machine, a granular expansion process, a cold foaming process, a compression molding technique, die cutting, or any combination thereof. For example, the midsole 164 can be formed using a process that includes an initial foaming step in which a supercritical gas is used to foam the material, which is then compression molded or die cut into a particular shape.

[0052] Referring to Figure 4Another embodiment of the footwear article 200, having a fastener system 204, is configured as a left shoe 208 and includes an upper 212 with a tongue 216, a midsole 220, and an outsole 224. The tongue 216 includes a plurality of retainers 228 arranged in an array, including a first retainer (or the lowermost retainer) 232 and a second retainer (or the uppermost retainer) 236. The lowermost retainer 232 is closer to the sole structure 104 than the uppermost retainer 236, such that the plurality of retainers 228 are at different heights relative to each other. Each of the plurality of retainers 228 has a first body (or retainer body) 240, the first body (or retainer body) 240 including a first surface (or notched surface) 244. Each notched surface 244 is configured to be concave and faces the forefoot region 108.

[0053] Multiple retainers 228 are spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction, i.e., in a direction parallel to the central axis 118. In some embodiments, each retainer 228 is arranged along the midfoot region 110 and intersects the central plane of the central axis 118 (see...). Figure 2 and Figure 3 In some embodiments, at least one of the retainers 228 is offset toward the outer side 114 or the inner side 116 and does not intersect the central plane of the central axis 118. In some embodiments, at least one of the retainers 228 is located in the forefoot region 108 or the heel region 112. In some embodiments, at least one of the retainers 228 is located on the sole structure 104. A first pulley (or outer pulley or pulley) 248 is shown in the heel region 112, facing the outer side 114 of the footwear article 200. The pulley 248 is held along a second surface (or outer surface) 252 of the upper 212. The pulley 248 includes a second body (or pulley body) 256 having a third surface (or circumferential surface) 260 perpendicular to the outer surface 252. The circumferential surface 260 defines a first channel (or pulley channel) 264.

[0054] Rope 268 has a third body (or rope body) 272, which includes a first segment (or upper segment) 276 and a second segment (or lower segment) 280. Rope 268 is configured to be flexible and capable of transmitting tension or strain. In some embodiments, rope 268 is configured as a closed loop 284. That is, rope 268 is configured as a continuous strip and has no free end. In some embodiments, rope 268 is configured as a strand and has a free end (not shown). The closed loop 284 of rope 268 is configured to be received in a pulley channel 264 such that the upper segment 276 extends from the first end (or higher end) 288 of pulley 248 from pulley channel 264 toward a plurality of retainers 228, and the lower segment 280 extends from the second end (or lower end) 292 of pulley 248 from pulley channel 264 toward a plurality of retainers 228. The lower end 292 of pulley 248 is closer to the outer bottom 224 than the higher end 288 of pulley 248, i.e., the distance from the outer bottom 224 is shorter. The upper section 276 and the lower section 280 are configured to be held or accommodated on the recessed surface 244 by any one of the plurality of retainers 228.

[0055] See Figure 5 The figure shows the inner side 116 of a footwear article 200 configured as a right shoe 295, with a second pulley (or inner pulley) 296 disposed on the inner side 116 and shown as having a similar shape to... Figure 4 The elements introduced into a portion of the outer pulley 248 of the left shoe 208 are corresponding to the same but mirror-image elements. The closed loop 284 of the rope 268 is accommodated or held on the pulley channels 264 of the inner pulley 296 and the outer pulley 248. Furthermore, the upper section 276 and the lower section 280 of the rope 268 are fixed or held on one of the plurality of recessed surfaces 244 of the plurality of retainers 228. In some embodiments, the closed loop 284 of the rope 268 is accommodated in the pulley channels 264 of the inner pulley 296, the pulley channels 264 of the outer pulley 248, and the recessed surface 244 of at least one of the plurality of retainers 228. Therefore, the rope 268 is stretched beyond its rest state, such that the rope 268 is in a taut state. Thus, the rope 268 applies pressure, i.e., compression, to the upper 212 of the footwear article 200. Increasing the distance of stretching of the rope 268 results in an increase in the potential energy 300 stored in the tension of the rope 268. As the tension in rope 268 increases, the amount of potential energy 300 increases. The tension in rope 268 generates a compressive force on footwear 200, for example in the midfoot region 110, thereby tightening the footwear 200 onto the user's foot. As the amount of potential energy 300 stored in rope 268 increases, the amount of compression on the midfoot region 110 increases. See also Figure 5 Through the first movement 308, the upper segment 276, the lower segment 280, or both can be removed from one recessed surface 244 and moved to another recessed surface 244.

[0056] Referring to Figure 6 , the pulley 248 is configured to rotate about a first axis (or pulley axis) 312 and is able to rotate 316 when subjected to a rotational force. In the illustrated embodiment, the pulley 248 is rotatably attached to the upper 102. In some embodiments, the pulley 248 is rotatably attached to the sole structure 104. The lower segment 280 and the upper segment 276 of the cord 268 are movably coupled to the pulley 248. In the illustrated embodiment, the lower segment 280 and the upper segment 276 of the cord 268 can be cycled toward or away from the pulley 248 by moving one of the lower segment 280 or the upper segment 276 along a first direction (or rearward direction) 320 toward the pulley 248 and moving the other of the lower segment 280 or the upper segment 276 along a second direction (or forward direction) 324 away from the pulley 248. Thus, the cord 268 can be cycled and prevent the formation of a worn segment of the cord 268, thereby extending the life of the cord 268. Further, the pulley 248 can be configured to provide audible feedback, e.g., a click, to indicate rotation, and thus adjustment, to the user. In some embodiments, the pulley channel 264 includes a first side wall (or left side wall) 328 and a second side wall (or right side wall) 332 that are spaced apart by a fourth surface (or containment surface) 336 that is located on the circumferential surface 260. The left side wall 328, the right side wall 332, and the containment surface 336 are configured to facilitate containment of the closed loop 284 of the cord 268 in the pulley channel 264.

[0057] Referring to Figure 7 , the notched surface 244 of the lowermost retainer 232 is a first distance (or longer distance) 340 from the pulley axis 312 and the notched surface 244 of the uppermost retainer 236 is a second distance (or shorter distance) 344 from the pulley axis 312. The longer distance 340 is longer than the shorter distance 344. As the cord 268 is stretched more, the cord 268 tends to transmit more tension when the upper segment 276 and the lower segment 280 are secured or held by the notched surface 244 of the lowermost retainer 232. The increase in tension transmitted by the cord 268 stores more potential energy 300 in the cord 268 and the amount of compression in the midfoot region 110 increases as one or both of the upper segment 276 and the lower segment 280 are held on the notched surface 244 of the lowermost retainer 232.

[0058] Referring to Figure 7 , a first configuration 348 of the cord 268 has the upper segment 276 and the lower segment 280 held on the notched surface 244 of the lowermost retainer 232. In a second configuration 352 of the cord 268, as Figure 8As shown, one of the lower segment 280 or the upper segment 276 is held on the recessed surface 244 of the lowermost retainer 232, and the other of the lower segment 280 and the upper segment 276 is held on the recessed surface 244 of the uppermost retainer 236. In the third configuration 356 of the rope 268, as Figure 9 As shown, both the lower segment 280 and the upper segment 276 remain on the notched surface 244 of the uppermost retainer 236. Therefore, in each of the first configuration 348, the second configuration 352, and the third configuration 356, the rope 268 is configured to engage with a plurality of retainers 228, less than all of them. In other words, the rope 268 is configured to engage a plurality of retainers 228 such that at least one retainer is not engaged by the rope 268. Thus, each of the plurality of retainers 228 is in a binary operating state of selective engagement or disengagement. In the first configuration 348, the rope 268 selectively engages with the lowermost retainer 232 such that only one of the plurality of retainers 228 is in the engaged state. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of retainers 228 comprises five retainers; therefore, the first configuration 348 corresponds to 80% of the plurality of retainers being in the disengaged state. In the second configuration 352, the rope 268 selectively engages with the lowermost retainer 232 and the uppermost retainer 236, such that the rope 268 engages with two of the plurality of retainers 228. In the illustrated embodiment, the second configuration 352 corresponds to 60% of the plurality of retainers being in the disengaged state. It is conceivable that the plurality of retainers 228 may include any total number of retainers, and therefore the percentage of disengaged and engaged retainers can vary as a function of the total number.

[0059] Back Figure 7 The potential energy 300 stored in the rope 268 in the first configuration 348 is greater than that in the second configuration 352 (see Figure 8 The potential energy 300 stored in rope 268 is higher. Furthermore, the potential energy 300 stored in rope 268 is greater than that in the third configuration 356 (see...). Figure 9 The potential energy 300 stored in the rope 268 is thus greater than that in the midfoot region 110 of the footwear 200 in the first configuration 348. Therefore, the compression in the midfoot region 110 of the footwear 200 in the first configuration 348 is greater than that in the midfoot region 110 of the second configuration 352, and the compression in the midfoot region 110 of the second configuration 352 is greater than that in the midfoot region 110 of the third configuration 356. Therefore, one way to control, adjust, and regulate the compression in the midfoot region 110 is to adjust the specific notch surface 244 maintained by the upper section 276, the lower section 280, or both. In this way, the user can adjust the compression in the first configuration 348 (see...). Figure 7 ), second configuration (see Figure 8 ) and the third configuration (see Figure 9between the uppermost retainer 236 and the lowermost retainer 232. In this way, by providing the article of footwear 200 with multiple retainers 228 along the upper 212, the fastener system 204 is configured to allow multiple levels of compression of the cord 268 between different configurations or arrangements of the multiple retainers 228 and the pulleys 248, 296.

[0060] Referring to Figure 10 In some embodiments, the article of footwear 200 includes an elliptical slot 360 positioned in, on, or within the upper 212 in the heel region 112 along the medial side 116 (see Figure 5 ) or the lateral side 114 (see Figure 4 ) of the article of footwear 200. The slot 360 has a fourth body (or slot body) 364 that includes a fifth surface (or recessed surface) 368 that is perpendicular to a sixth surface (or sidewall surface) 372. The sidewall surface 372 includes a first rounded end 376 and a second rounded end 380 that are located at opposite ends of the recessed surface 368. The recessed surface 368 and the sidewall surface 372 define a volume that forms a slot cavity 384 having an elliptical shape. The slot cavity 384 is configured to retain the pulley 248 in at least a first region (or anterior region) 388 and a second region (or posterior region) 392, which can be understood as anterior and posterior regions or volumes formed by the slot 360. In some embodiments, the slot 360 is not present and the pulley 248 is fixed to the outer surface 156 of the upper 212. In some embodiments, the pulley 248 can be configured to be placed in an anterior position in the anterior region 388, or in a posterior position in the posterior region 392, or the pulley 248 can be translated, e.g., swung or slid, between the anterior region 388 and the posterior region 392. In some embodiments, the pulley 248 can be moved between the anterior region 388 and the posterior region 392 by a driver rod 396 (see Figure 12 ).

[0061] Referring to Figure 11 and Figure 12 , the actuator mechanism 404 (see Figure 11) including a driver stem 396 and a fifth body (or stem body) 400 embodied as an actuator end 408 having a seventh surface (or front surface) 412. In some embodiments, the front surface 412 includes a marking (or indicium) 416 (see Figure 11 ), such as the word “open.” The marking 416 can provide feedback to an end user regarding how to activate the actuator mechanism 404 (see Figure 4 ) of the fastener system 204 (see Figure 11 ), embodied as the actuator end 408. In some embodiments, the driver stem 396 is fixed to a flexible shroud 420 to form a first seal (or shroud seal) 424 (see Figure 11 ) at a first edge (or circumferential edge) 428 (see

[0062] Turning to Figure 12 , several elements of the fastener system 204 are shown, including the driver stem 396, the shroud 420, a spring 432, a resilient wedge 436, and a hollow shaft 440. The driver stem 396 has a front surface 412 on the actuator end 408, which extends from an elongated shaft 444, which extends from a release mechanism 448 embodied as a release end 452. The actuator end 408 has an eighth surface (or spring face surface) 456 that faces in an opposite direction from the front surface 412. In some embodiments, the release end 452 has a frustoconical ninth surface (or drive surface) 460. In some embodiments, the release end 452 or the actuator end 408 is fixed to the rest of the driver stem 396 by threading, adhesive, or welding.

[0063] The hollow shaft 440 has a sixth body (or shaft body) 464 having a first bore (or front bore) 468 and a second bore (or rear bore) 472 connected by a tenth surface (or inner surface) 476 arranged concentrically with a second axis (or axis of the shaft) 480. An interior cavity 484 defines a volume between the front bore 468, the rear bore 472, and the inner surface 476. The hollow shaft 440 has an eleventh surface (or spring seat surface) 488, a twelfth surface (or wedge surface) 492, and a thirteenth outer surface 496 radially facing away from the inner surface 476. The spring seat surface 488 faces away from the wedge surface 492. The outer surface 496 of the hollow shaft 440 is configured to retain the pulley 248 when the pulley 248 is turned. In some embodiments, the hollow shaft 440 turns with the pulley 248. In some embodiments, the pulley 248 turns relative to the hollow shaft 440. The outer surface 496 of the hollow shaft 440 includes a plurality of shroud retainers 500. In some embodiments, the shroud 420 is configured to be retained by the plurality of shroud retainers 500. In some embodiments, the shroud 420 can turn relative to the plurality of shroud retainers 500. The shroud retainers 500 of the hollow shaft 440 can contact the shroud 420 to create audible feedback, such as a click, during relative turning of the shroud retainers 500 and the shroud 420. Additionally or alternatively, audible feedback can be created by the interaction between the shroud retainers 500 and the pulley 248. In some embodiments, audible feedback is created by the interaction between the pulley 248 and the upper 102 or between the pulley 248 and the elastic wedge 426. In some embodiments, audible feedback is created by the interaction between the driver rod 396 and one or some combination of the hollow shaft 400, the elastic wedge 426, the spring 432, or the slot 360. In some embodiments, audible feedback is a click created by the relative motion of opposing teeth or gears (not shown) disposed between components such that successive relative motion creates a series of successive clicks that only persist while relative motion is occurring. The opposing teeth or gears (not shown) can further be disposed as a locking mechanism to allow turning in one direction, such as to allow turning in a tightening direction, and prevent or resist turning in the opposite direction, such as to prevent or resist turning in a loosening direction. In some embodiments, the elastic wedge 436 can be pressed against the pulley 248 by the driver rod 396 acting through the spring 432 such that relative turning of the pulley 248 and the elastic wedge 436 causes opposing teeth (not shown) disposed thereon to interact with one another to create audible feedback and prevent reverse turning. Additionally or alternatively, opposing teeth (not shown) can be disposed between the elastic wedge 436 and the slot 360 or between the pulley 248 and the upper 102.

[0064] Still referring to Figure 12The elastic wedge 436 has a seventh body (or wedge body) 504 that is generally cylindrical with a fourteenth surface (or shaft surface) 508, a fifteenth surface (or engagement surface) 512, and a sixteenth surface (or frustoconical surface) 516. The elastic wedge 436 has a third hole (or axial hole) 520 that is concentrically arranged about a third axis (or wedge axis) 524. The frustoconical surface 516 contacts the shaft surface 508 at the axial hole 520. In some embodiments, the shaft surface 508 is perpendicular to the engagement surface 512. The elastic wedge 436 is made of an elastic material (e.g., a flexible rubber or plastic) that allows the elastic wedge 436 to be compressed or deformed into different shapes or sizes. The release mechanism 448 includes a drive surface 460 on the release end 452 of the driver rod 396. When the drive surface 460 of the driver rod 396 is pressed into the frustoconical surface 516 of the elastic wedge 436, the elastic wedge 436 is compressed and deformed. As a result, the closure mechanism 528 is embodied by the engagement surface 512 of the elastic wedge 436 that is radially compressed and expanded outward from the wedge axis 524 to an extended position 532. The closure mechanism 528 is embodied by the extended position 532 of the engagement surface 512 of the elastic wedge 436.

[0065] Referring to Figure 13 and Figure 14 , the fastener system 204 can facilitate movement of the pulley 248 in the slot 360 (see Figure 10 ) between the forward region 388 (see Figure 10 ) and the rearward region 392 (see Figure 10 ). In some embodiments, the pulley 248 has a fourth hole (or central hole) 536 that defines a central cavity 540. As the pulley 248 moves between the forward region 388 and the rearward region 392, the longer distance 340 (see Figure 7 ) and the shorter distance 344 (see Figure 7 ) change accordingly, which also changes the tension transmitted in the cord 268 (see Figure 4 ) and thus causes the magnitude of the potential energy 300 (see Figure 4 ) stored in the cord 268 to change. As described above, the change in the potential energy 300 stored in the cord 268 is directly proportional to the amount of compression within the midfoot region 110. Therefore, the displacement of the pulley 248 between the forward region 388 and the rearward region 392 is directly proportional to the amount of compression exerted by the cord 268 within the midfoot 110. That is, the compression in the midfoot region 110 can be modified in two different and independent ways, the first way being in the configuration of Figures 7-9 and the second way being the displacement of the pulley 248 within the slot 360.

[0066] When the notch surface 244 selected for the upper segment 276 or the lower segment 280 changes, the tension transmitted by the cord 268 changes. Alternatively or additionally, when the outboard pulley 248 or the inboard pulley 296 (see Figure 5 ) moves between the forward position in the forward region 388 and the rearward position in the rearward region 392, the longer distance 340 and the shorter distance 344 change, and the tension transmitted by the cord 268 changes. In some embodiments, neither the inboard pulley 296 nor the outboard pulley 248 can move between the forward region 388 and the rearward region 392, and the positions of both pulleys 248, 296 are fixed. In some embodiments, one of the inboard pulley 296 or the outboard pulley 248 is in a fixed position, and the other pulley 296, 248 can move between the forward region 388 and the rearward region 392. In some embodiments, both pulleys 248, 296 can move between the forward region 388 and the rearward region 392 to change the tension in the cord 268 between a maximum and a minimum. To facilitate movement of the fastener system 204 (see Figure 4 ) between the forward region 388 and the rearward region 392, the driver rod 396, the pulley 248, the hollow shaft 440, the spring 432, the shroud 420, and the resilient wedge 436 are assembled into an assembly 544 and inserted into the slot cavity 384.

[0067] Referring to Figure 13 , the assembly 544 is in a locked configuration 548 when the elongate shaft 444 of the driver rod 396 is concentrically within the hollow shaft 440, the hollow shaft 440 is concentrically within the pulley 248, the spring 432 contacts the spring seat surface 488 of the hollow shaft 440 and the spring face surface 456 of the actuator end 408 of the driver rod 396, and the drive surface 460 of the release end 452 of the driver rod 396 presses into the frustoconical surface 516 of the resilient wedge 436 such that the engagement surface 512 of the resilient wedge 436 is pressed to the extended position 532. In the locked configuration 548, the shaft axis 480 and the pulley axis 312 are collinear. The engagement surface 512 presses into and contacts the sidewall surface 372 (see Figure 10 ) of the slot 360 (see Figure 10 ) to hold the assembly 544 in the forward region 388 (see Figure 10 ) or the rearward region 392 (see Figure 10). In some embodiments, assembly 544 can be positioned between front region 388 and rear region 392. When assembled into locked configuration 548, assembly 544 is configured such that pulley 248 is configured to rotate about pulley axis 312 and driver rod 396 intersects pulley axis 312. When assembled into locked configuration 548, pulley 248, hollow shaft 440, spring 432, and resilient wedge 436 are all concentrically oriented with respect to pulley axis 312. Spring 432 is compressed against spring seat surface 488 of hollow shaft 440 and spring face surface 456 of actuator end 408 such that actuator end 408 is pressed away from hollow shaft 440 by outward force 552. When actuator end 408 is pressed by outward force 552, drive surface 460 of release end 452 is pressed into frustoconical surface 516 of resilient wedge 436, which presses engagement surface 512 into extended position 532, thereby engaging and holding assembly 544 in locked configuration 548 within slot 360. In some embodiments, engagement surface 512 of resilient wedge 436 is configured to engage all surfaces of first rounded end 376 (see Figure 10 ) or second rounded end 380 (see Figure 10 ) in locked configuration 548.

[0068] Referring to Figure 14 , assembly 544 is moved to unlocked configuration 556 by applying inward force 560 that overcomes outward force 552 generated by spring 432. Inward force 560 is directed from actuator end 408 to hollow shaft 440 along pulley axis 312. When inward force 560 overcomes outward force 552 of spring 432, actuator end 408 of driver rod 396 moves toward hollow shaft 440 (compare Figure 13 and Figure 14 ), which creates compression 564 in spring 432. As actuator end 408 moves toward hollow shaft 440, release end 452 moves away from hollow shaft 440 and resilient wedge 436. As drive surface 460 of release end 452 stops pressing against frustoconical surface 516 of resilient wedge 436, resilient wedge 436 changes shape and engagement surface 512 retracts from extended position 532 (see Figure 13 ). When closure mechanism 528 (see Figure 12 ) is embodied as engagement surface 512 retracts from extended position 532, assembly 544 loses contact with sidewall surface 372 of slot 360. In unlocked configuration 556, assembly 544 can be completely removed from slot 360, or assembly 544 is configured to easily move between front region 388 (see Figure 10 ) or rear region 392 (see Figure 10 ). Thus, another way to control, adjust, and modulate compression in midfoot region 110 includes adjusting the position of lateral pulley 248, medial pulley 296, or both, within their respective slots 360.

[0069] It is also contemplated that any of the pulleys 248, 296 can be provided with or modified to include a closure mechanism similar to those disclosed and described in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,325,613; 5,600,875; 5,606,778; 5,638,588; 5,651,198; and 5,669,116, which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. It is contemplated that the pulleys 248, 296 can be modified to include a closure mechanism in place of or in addition to the assembly to provide further tightening functionality and / or audible feedback when used with the cord 268 and installed on the footwear 200 of the present disclosure.

[0070] In other embodiments, other configurations are possible. For example, certain features and combinations of features presented in the above discussion for a particular embodiment can be used in other embodiments or in other combinations as appropriate to the

[0071] As previously described, those skilled in the art will appreciate that, although the application has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments and examples, it is not necessarily limited to the same and that the appended claims are intended to cover any and all modifications, equivalents, alternatives, and alternatives to the embodiments, examples, and uses of the application. The entire disclosure of each patent and publication cited herein is incorporated by reference, as if each such patent or publication were individually incorporated by reference herein. Various features and advantages of the application are set forth in the following claims.

[0072] INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

[0073] Many modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the foregoing description. Accordingly, this description is to be construed as illustrative only and is presented for the purpose of enabling those skilled in the art to make and use the application. The exclusive rights to all modifications coming within the scope of the appended claims are reserved.

Claims

1. An article of footwear having a closure system, characterized by, The article of footwear includes: an upper and a sole structure defining a central plane extending through a toe end and a heel end, wherein the upper has an exterior surface; a pulley rotatably attached to the upper, wherein the pulley is configured to translate within a slot formed in the upper; a plurality of retainers disposed along the upper and intersecting the central plane; and a cord including an upper segment and a lower segment, the upper segment being positioned above the lower segment and the upper segment and the lower segment of the cord stretching across the exterior surface from a heel region to a midfoot region to apply pressure in the midfoot region, the cord being paired to engage the plurality of retainers to adjust a tightness of the footwear such that at least one of the plurality of retainers is not engaged by the cord. Each of the plurality of retainers is disposed at a distance from the sole structure, the distance varying between the plurality of retainers.

2. The article of footwear according to claim 1, wherein, The cord is movably coupled to the pulley, wherein the pulley and the cord are configured to adjust a tightness of the footwear, and wherein the upper and sole structure have a midfoot region disposed between a forefoot region and a heel region.

3. The article of footwear according to claim 1, wherein, The pulley is positioned in the heel region and the plurality of retainers are disposed in the midfoot region.

4. The article of footwear according to claim 3, wherein, The pulley includes a first pulley disposed on a medial side of the upper and a second pulley disposed on a lateral side of the upper.

5. The article of footwear according to claim 3, wherein, At least one of the first pulley and the second pulley is configured to translate and rotate on the upper.

6. The article of footwear according to claim 5, wherein, At least one of the first pulley and the second pulley is configured to translate within a slot formed in the upper.

7. The article of footwear according to claim 6, wherein, The pulley is rotatable about an axis, the axis being disposed closer to the sole structure relative to the plurality of retainers.

8. The article of footwear according to claim 3, wherein, A distance is defined between the pulley and each of the plurality of retainers, and wherein the distance varies between the plurality of retainers.

9. The article of footwear according to claim 7, wherein, The plurality of retainers includes a first retainer and a second retainer, the second retainer being disposed further from the toe end relative to the first retainer.

10. The article of footwear according to claim 1, wherein, The cord includes an upper segment and a lower segment, the upper segment and the lower segment being selectively engaged with the plurality of retainers.

11. The article of footwear according to claim 9, wherein, In a first configuration, the upper segment and the lower segment are both configured to engage the first retainer.

12. The article of footwear according to claim 11, wherein, In a second configuration, the upper segment is configured to engage the first retainer and the lower segment is configured to engage the second retainer.

13. The article of footwear according to claim 11, wherein, In a third configuration, the upper segment and the lower segment are both configured to engage the second retainer.

14. The article of footwear of claim 11, wherein, The upper segment and the lower segment of the cord are connected to each other to form a closed loop.

15. The article of footwear of claim 11, wherein, ​

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