Sole structure of sneaker and sneaker with same
By designing a separable midsole structure in basketball shoes and using connectors to move laterally to absorb impact, the problem of existing basketball shoes restricting flexibility and increasing ankle injuries during fast movements is solved, resulting in higher athletic performance and safety.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202520482829.3
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-03-19
- Publication Date
- 2026-02-24
- Estimated Expiration
- 2035-03-19
AI Technical Summary
While existing basketball shoes offer protection in their design, they restrict the wearer's flexibility during quick turns and changes of direction, increasing the risk of ankle sprains, especially lateral ligament injuries of the ankle joint that are frequent in basketball.
Design a sole structure for an athletic shoe, including a separable first midsole and a second midsole connected by a connector, which allows for relative movement in the lateral direction, absorbing impact force and reducing foot tilt angle, thereby enhancing energy absorption.
It effectively reduces the risk of ankle sprains in basketball, improves athletes' flexibility and competitive performance, and reduces the probability of injuries caused by abnormal foot posture.
Smart Images

Figure CN223929617U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This utility model relates to the field of footwear and apparel technology, specifically to a sole structure. Based on this, it also relates to an athletic shoe having this sole structure. Background Technology
[0002] Basketball, one of my country's three major ball sports, is an important part of modern sports in my country. Its strong teamwork, high entertainment value, and intense competition make it popular among sports enthusiasts and enjoy a broad mass base. However, with the increasing number of participants, the number of injuries in basketball is also rising. As a highly competitive team sport involving walking, running, and jumping, basketball involves intense physical contact, making it prone to various sports injuries. Studies indicate that lower limb injuries are among the most common injuries in basketball, with the ankle and foot area having the highest incidence rate. This is mainly due to the frequent rapid turns, changes of direction, and lateral cuts in basketball, which subject the lower limbs to significant impact, torsional, and shear forces.
[0003] In the NBA, over 70% of players who miss games do so due to lower limb injuries, with ankle injuries being the most common. On average, 26% of players experience ankle sprains each season, making it a major reason for their absence. Specifically, injury patterns vary among basketball players of different ages and skill levels. Professional basketball players experience 3.8-5.2 ankle injuries per 1000 hours of activity, while teenage basketball players experience 1.94-2.64 lower limb injuries per 1000 hours, with foot and ankle injuries accounting for 39.7%-48%. Furthermore, 21%-29% of high school and college basketball players have experienced more than 10 ankle sprains. Generally, lateral ankle sprains are primarily caused by excessive inversion torque around the subtalar joint, with a particularly high risk of injury when the foot contacts the surface in an inverted position. In biomechanics, this reversal torque is considered a direct result of the position, magnitude, and direction of the ground reaction force vector relative to the center of the ankle joint.
[0004] Sports injuries severely impact athletes' competitive level, athletic performance, and career lifespan. Therefore, athletes not only need better physical fitness and more standardized techniques, but also require sports equipment tailored to their individual needs to reduce the likelihood of injury and improve performance. Basketball shoes are one of the most important pieces of equipment for basketball players, and wearing suitable basketball gear is an effective way to minimize the risk of injury. To this end, major sports shoe manufacturers are committed to improving shoe structural design to achieve this goal.
[0005] In the prior art, Chinese patent application CN102762121A discloses a shoe with a heel counter strap. This shoe has a heel cup formed of a flexible material, located below the heel on the upper portion of the shoe. Lateral and medial heel counters extend upwards from the heel cups on the lateral and medial sides, with the medial heel counter having a lower height than the lateral heel counter, and the rear edge of the heel cup being lower than the lateral and medial heel counters. A rear strap extends upwards around the lateral heel counter and around the wearer's Achilles tendon, securing it to the upper portion in front of the wearer's ankle. During cutting motion (where an item is worn on the lateral foot), the wearer's foot and ankle tilt inwards, pulling the strap and causing the lateral heel counter to conform and support the wearer's heel. However, while providing protection, the heel counter strap inevitably restricts the wearer's flexibility. Due to its tight constriction, the range of motion of the ankle, which would otherwise be free, is limited. In basketball, players need to frequently perform various difficult and quick turning movements. The presence of a support strip may affect their speed and range of motion during the turn, thus impacting their overall performance.
[0006] In conclusion, in the current field of footwear design, improving wearers' athletic performance and reducing the risk of sports injuries by optimizing the design of athletic shoes, while complying with existing rules and regulations, remains an important need that urgently needs to be met within the industry. Utility Model Content
[0007] Therefore, the purpose of this invention is to provide a shoe sole structure that at least partially overcomes the shortcomings of the prior art.
[0008] According to one aspect of the present invention, a sole structure for a sports shoe is provided, wherein the sole structure of the sports shoe has, in a longitudinal direction from back to front, a heel region corresponding to the heel, a midfoot region corresponding to the arch of the foot, and a forefoot region corresponding to the front of the foot, and has a transverse direction extending perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. It includes a midsole and an outsole arranged from top to bottom and fitted together, wherein the midsole includes a first midsole and a second midsole that are separable from each other, and further includes a connector disposed between the first midsole and the second midsole. The connector has a first form that forms a force-transmitting connection between the first midsole and the second midsole, and a second form that releases the force-transmitting connection. The connector is configured to change from the first form to the second form in response to the sports shoe experiencing a force component exceeding a preset value in the transverse direction during a fall, wherein in the second form, the second midsole moves relative to the first midsole at least in the transverse direction.
[0009] In this invention, the first and second midsoles are separable and connected by a connector, eliminating the need for traditional adhesive bonding. When the wearer accidentally steps on someone else's instep or an object, lateral displacement occurs between the first and second midsoles, effectively reducing the angle of foot landing. Simultaneously, the connector deforms, extending the impact duration and enhancing energy absorption. This reduces the risk of sports injuries and alleviates the damage caused by ankle sprains.
[0010] As a preferred aspect of this utility model, the first shoe midsole and the second shoe midsole are stacked vertically, and the connecting member is a plurality of elastic bands, which are arranged at intervals on the outer peripheral surface of the shoe midsole. In the second configuration, the elastic bands are stretched or broken.
[0011] As a preferred aspect of the present invention, a first groove and a second groove for accommodating at least a portion of the elastic band are respectively formed on the first outer surface of the first shoe midsole and the second outer surface of the second shoe midsole, and the first groove and the second groove are substantially aligned along the vertical direction of the athletic shoe.
[0012] As a preferred aspect of this utility model, a third groove and a fourth groove are respectively formed on the first outer surface and the second outer surface, wherein the depth of the third groove and the fourth groove is greater than the depth of the first groove and the second groove, and the elastic band covers the outer side of the third groove and the fourth groove at intervals. In the second configuration, the portion of the elastic band located outside the third groove and the fourth groove is stretched or broken.
[0013] As a preferred aspect of this utility model, the plurality of elastic bands include a first elastic band and a second elastic band. The first elastic band is evenly and symmetrically arranged on the outer and inner sides of the shoe midsole along the longitudinal direction, and the second elastic band is arranged on the toe and heel of the shoe midsole.
[0014] As a preferred aspect of the present invention, the second elastic band extends from the bottom surface of the second shoe midsole to the side surface of the first shoe midsole, and a protrusion is formed on the second elastic band to limit the displacement of the outsole in the longitudinal direction.
[0015] As a preferred aspect of the present invention, the first shoe midsole and the second shoe midsole are arranged substantially horizontally at intervals along the lateral direction, and wherein the connecting member is an elastic layer that extends substantially horizontally along the surfaces of the first shoe midsole and the second shoe midsole. In the second configuration, the elastic layer is stretched or broken.
[0016] As a preferred aspect of this utility model, the elastic layer forms a limiting portion, and the first shoe midsole and the second shoe midsole respectively form grooves that cooperate with the limiting portion so that the shoe midsole and the elastic layer move synchronously in the first shape.
[0017] As a preferred aspect of this utility model, there is a zigzag interval between the first shoe midsole and the second shoe midsole, and in the second configuration, the portion of the elastic layer covering the zigzag interval is stretched or broken.
[0018] As a preferred aspect of this utility model, a groove is formed on the sidewall of the elastic layer, and sliders are formed on the first shoe midsole and the second shoe midsole, respectively. The sliders slide upward along the groove to change the first shape to the second shape.
[0019] According to another aspect of the present invention, a sports shoe is provided, comprising a sole structure according to any one of the preceding claims and an upper connected to the upper portion of the sole structure.
[0020] Other features and advantages of this invention will partly be apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading this application, and partly will be described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in the detailed description. Attached Figure Description
[0021] The embodiments of this utility model will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:
[0022] Figure 1A This is a diagram illustrating the foot posture in a normal state.
[0023] Figure 1B This is a diagram illustrating the foot's posture when you sprain your ankle.
[0024] Figure 2 This is a bottom view of one embodiment of the shoe sole structure in this utility model;
[0025] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Inner view of the midsole structure;
[0026] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 Outer view of the midsole structure;
[0027] Figure 5 yes Figure 2 Cross-sectional view of the midsole structure AA;
[0028] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 Enlarged view at point I;
[0029] Figure 7 yes Figure 5Enlarged view at point II;
[0030] Figure 8 yes Figure 2 Cross-sectional view of the midsole structure BB;
[0031] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 Enlarged view at point III;
[0032] Figure 10 yes Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of the midsole of the first shoe in China;
[0033] Figure 11 yes Figure 8 Cross-sectional view of the midsole of the second shoe;
[0034] Figure 12 yes Figure 2 A front view of the midsole structure;
[0035] Figure 13 yes Figure 2 Heel view of the midsole structure;
[0036] Figure 14 yes Figure 8 Diagram illustrating the process of the midsole structure transforming from its first form to its second form;
[0037] Figure 15 This is a bottom view of another embodiment of the sole structure in this utility model;
[0038] Figure 16 yes Figure 15 Inner view of the midsole structure;
[0039] Figure 17 yes Figure 15 Outer view of the midsole structure;
[0040] Figure 18 yes Figure 15 Cross-sectional view of the midsole structure AA;
[0041] Figure 19 yes Figure 15 Cross-sectional view of the midsole structure BB;
[0042] Figure 20 yes Figure 15 Cross-sectional view of the midsole structure CC;
[0043] Figure 21 yes Figure 20 Cross-sectional view of the intermediate elastic layer;
[0044] Figure 22 yes Figure 20 Cross-sectional view of the midsole of the second shoe;
[0045] Figure 23 yes Figure 15 A diagram illustrating the process of the midsole structure transforming from its first form to its second form.
[0046] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:
[0047] 10-Midsole; 101-Outer side of midsole; 102-Inner side of midsole; 103-Toe of midsole; 104-Heel of midsole; 11-First midsole; 111-First outer surface; 112-First groove; 113-Third groove; 114-Side of first midsole; 12-Second midsole; 121-Second outer surface; 122-Second groove; 123-Fourth groove; 124-Bottom surface of second midsole; 20-Outsole; 30-Elastic band; 31-First elastic band; 32-Second elastic band; 321-Protrusion; 40-Elastic layer; 41-Limiting part; 50-Zigzag interval; 60-Groove; 70-Slider; 80-Groove; L-Longitudinal; W-Transverse. Detailed Implementation
[0048] The present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to specific embodiments. The embodiments given are only for illustrating the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.
[0049] In the following description, details of the present invention are set forth as preferred embodiments. Those skilled in the art will understand that modifications, including additions and / or substitutions, can be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. Specific details may be omitted so as not to obscure the present invention; however, this disclosure is written to enable those skilled in the art to practice the teachings herein without undue experimentation.
[0050] Terminology Definition
[0051] In this article, the term "athletic shoes" can be applied to a wide range of footwear suitable for various everyday or sporting occasions, including but not limited to: basketball shoes, walking shoes, running shoes, casual shoes, tennis shoes, soccer shoes, American soccer shoes, cross-training shoes, spiked shoes, etc.
[0052] Certain directional terms used in the description of the accompanying drawings below, such as “above,” “below,” and other directional terms, will be understood to have their normal meaning and refer to those directions as normally viewed in the drawings. Unless otherwise specified, the directional terms used in this specification are generally in accordance with the conventional directions understood by those skilled in the art.
[0053] In this invention, the term "inner side" refers to the position between the two feet, and "outer side" refers to the position away from the position between the two feet.
[0054] The term "longitudinal" refers to the direction in which a component extends a certain length. For example, the longitudinal direction of an athletic shoe extends between the forefoot and heel areas. The terms "forward" or "forward-facing" are used to refer to the general direction from the heel area toward the forefoot area, and the terms "backward" or "rearward-facing" are used to refer to the opposite direction, i.e., from the forefoot area toward the heel area. In some cases, a component can be identified by a longitudinal axis and the forward and backward longitudinal directions along that axis. The longitudinal direction or axis can also be referred to as the fore-rear direction or axis.
[0055] The term "lateral" refers to the direction in which a component extends a certain width. For example, the lateral direction of an athletic shoe extends between the outer and inner sides of the shoe. The lateral direction or axis can also be referred to as the lateral direction or axis, or the mid-outer direction or axis.
[0056] The term "vertical" or "upright" refers to a direction that is approximately perpendicular to both the horizontal and vertical directions. For example, in the case where the sole structure is laid flat on the ground surface, the vertical direction can extend upwards from the ground surface. It will be understood that each of these directional adjectives can be applied to an individual component of the sole structure. The term "upwards" or "facing upwards" refers to a vertical direction pointing towards the top of the component. The term "downwards" or "facing downwards" refers to a vertical direction opposite to the upwards direction, pointing towards the bottom of the component, and can generally point towards the bottom of the sole structure of the athletic shoe.
[0057] The terms “first,” “first,” “second,” “second,” and similar terms used in this utility model do not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are used to distinguish one component from other components.
[0058] The terms "joining", "connection" and similar terms used in this utility model include both indirect connection of two components with the aid of an intermediate layer (e.g., adhesive, welding agent, etc.) or intermediate parts (e.g., connector, transition piece, etc.) and direct connection of two components without the aid of any intermediate layer (e.g., adhesive, welding agent, etc.) or intermediate parts (e.g., connector, transition piece, etc.).
[0059] The ankle joint is formed by the lower ends of the tibia and fibula and the trochlea of the talus, and is surrounded by structures such as the medial collateral ligament, lateral collateral ligament, and distal tibiofibular ligament to maintain joint stability. The lateral collateral ligament is relatively weaker than the medial collateral ligament and mainly includes the anterior talofibular ligament, calcaneofibular ligament, and posterior talofibular ligament. Ankle sprains are common injuries in daily life and sports, professionally known as ankle injuries. When the ankle joint is in plantarflexion and subjected to inversion stress, the anterior talofibular ligament is tense. Increased inversion stress can cause tearing of this ligament or avulsion fracture at its attachment point. Excessive inversion then acts on the calcaneofibular ligament, causing it to tear. Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries of the musculoskeletal system and also one of the lower limb injuries with the highest recurrence rate. For example, basketball players are prone to this injury when their foot lands on another person's foot after jumping. Statistics show that ankle injuries account for 15% of all sports injuries, and 85% of these are lateral ligament injuries resulting from inversion sprains.
[0060] When athletes perform a change of direction, their bodies experience significant horizontal forces. According to professional research and competition data monitoring, the horizontal component of this force is roughly 0.8 to 1.5 times the athlete's body weight. When an athlete falls from a height of 20 to 60 centimeters, the vertical force is even more astonishing, reaching 3 to 6 times their body weight.
[0061] Reference Figure 1A When the wearer of the athletic shoe is walking normally, or when it is placed on a flat surface, the talus joint is neutral relative to the forefoot, and the subtalar joint is neutral relative to the heel. The heel does not evert relative to the ankle. (See reference) Figure 1B When the foot strikes the ground with the ankle in an inverted position, the reaction force from the ground shifts inward relative to the inversion of the ankle. This shift creates a lever arm at the center of the ankle joint. The presence of this lever arm generates a torsional torque in the ankle joint, leading to a violent inversion movement. Ultimately, this series of biomechanical changes causes excessive stretching of the lateral ligaments of the ankle joint, resulting in a sprain.
[0062] When an ankle sprain occurs, the foot is often not in a normal vertical landing or horizontal movement state, but rather in an abnormal posture such as inward or outward rotation. Taking the common inward rotation sprain as an example, the foot twists inward at a certain angle. This non-vertical direction of movement causes the ground reaction force to no longer be simply vertically upward, but rather decomposes into two components: a vertical force and a horizontal force. Specifically, when an ankle sprains, because the angle and manner of contact between the foot and the ground change, the ground generates a reaction force on the foot. According to the principles of force, this reaction force is opposite in direction and equal in magnitude to the force exerted by the foot on the ground. When the foot rotates inward or outward, the force exerted on the ground has both a vertically downward component and a horizontal component, so the ground reaction force must also include a horizontal component.
[0063] During normal movement, the ankle joint is primarily responsible for flexion, extension, and a certain degree of rotation. However, when an ankle sprain occurs, especially inversion or eversion, the ankle joint's movement exceeds its normal range. At this time, the ligaments, muscles, and other structures around the ankle joint are subjected to abnormal stretching and torsional forces. These forces are transmitted through the bones and joints to the sole of the foot, causing the sole to experience a horizontal force, thus generating a horizontal component force. For example, in an inversion ankle sprain, the lateral ligaments of the ankle joint are overstretched; this force is transmitted to the foot, causing an inward horizontal component force on the sole.
[0064] Example 1
[0065] Regarding current issues such as basketball shoes, which may cause problems during sports activities due to stepping on other people's feet or foreign objects on the ground, leading to injuries, etc. Figure 1B The inventors of this application, through dedicated research, have discovered that by effectively and ingeniously utilizing the force components in the lateral direction, the possibility of ankle joint injuries during strenuous activities such as jumping can be effectively and innovatively reduced or even eliminated.
[0066] Specifically, the inventors of this application have discovered that during periods of intense activity, such as when wearing basketball shoes and not jumping, there is generally not a sufficiently large lateral force component, and the possibility of ankle injury is generally not present. In other words, the aforementioned lateral force component generally has a substantial causal and temporal relationship with the possibility of ankle injury. Therefore, if the aforementioned lateral force component is used as a trigger signal for ankle protection in sports shoes, such as basketball shoes, and effective measures to cushion or reduce this lateral force component are introduced, the possibility of ankle injury during intense activities such as jumping can be significantly reduced or even eliminated. Based on this concept, the inventors of this application propose the following various feasible implementation methods.
[0067] As a first feasible implementation of this application, refer to Figures 2 to 4 The sole structure of the athletic shoe of this invention has, along a longitudinal direction L, a heel area corresponding to the heel, a midfoot area corresponding to the arch, and a forefoot area corresponding to the front of the foot, and has a transverse direction W extending perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L. It includes a midsole 10 and an outsole 20 arranged from top to bottom and fitted together. The midsole 10 includes a first midsole 11 and a second midsole 12 that are separable from each other, and also includes a connector disposed between the first midsole 11 and the second midsole 12. The midsole 10 has a first form and a second form. In the first form, the first midsole 11 and the second midsole 12 form a force-transmitting connection. In the second form, the force-transmitting connection between the first midsole 11 and the second midsole 12 is released. When the athletic shoe falls and contacts an object, if the force component of the connector in the transverse direction W exceeds a preset value, the midsole 10 changes from the first form to the second form. In the second configuration, the second midsole 12 undergoes relative movement with respect to the first midsole 11 at least along the lateral direction W.
[0068] In this invention, the first midsole 11 and the second midsole 12 are separable and connected by a connector, eliminating the traditional glue-bonding method. When the wearer accidentally steps on someone else's instep or a foreign object, lateral displacement occurs between the first midsole 11 and the second midsole 12, effectively reducing the tilt angle when the foot lands. Simultaneously, the connector deforms, extending the impact duration and enhancing energy absorption. This reduces the risk of sports injuries and alleviates the damage caused by ankle sprains.
[0069] also, Figures 2 to 13 This is one embodiment of the sole structure for the left foot in this utility model. It can be understood that the sole structure is also applicable to the right foot.
[0070] In one embodiment of this utility model, reference is made to Figures 3 to 5 , Figure 12 as well as Figure 13 The first midsole 11 and the second midsole 12 are stacked vertically, and the connecting member is a plurality of elastic bands 30. The plurality of elastic bands 30 are arranged at intervals on the outer peripheral surface of the midsole 10. In the second configuration, the elastic bands 30 are stretched or broken. In a preferred embodiment, the width of the elastic bands 30 in the longitudinal direction L can be 15mm-25mm.
[0071] Reference Figure 10 and Figure 11The first outer surface 111 of the first shoe midsole 11 and the second outer surface 121 of the second shoe midsole 12 are respectively formed with a first groove 112 and a second groove 122 for accommodating at least a portion of the elastic band 30. The first groove 112 and the second groove 122 are substantially aligned along the vertical direction of the athletic shoe. In a preferred embodiment, the first groove 112 and the second groove 122 may have the same depth, both being 0.8mm-1.2mm. In another embodiment, the depth of the first groove 112 and the second groove 122 may be the same as the thickness of the elastic band 30. In one embodiment, the elastic band 30 can be adhered to the first groove 112 and the second groove 122 using an adhesive.
[0072] Figure 8 It shows Figure 2 Cross-sectional view at point BB. Figures 9 to 11 for Figure 8 Cross-sectional view of the first shoe midsole 11 and the second shoe midsole 12. Figures 9 to 11 As can be seen, a third groove 113 and a fourth groove 123 are formed on the first outer surface 111 and the second outer surface 121, respectively. The depths of the third groove 113 and the fourth groove 123 are greater than the depths of the first groove 112 and the second groove 122. The elastic band 30 covers the outer sides of the third groove 113 and the fourth groove 123 at intervals. In the second configuration, the portion of the elastic band 30 located outside the third groove 113 and the fourth groove 123 is stretched or broken. It is understood that the elastic band 30 covers the outer sides of the third groove 113 and the fourth groove 123 at intervals, meaning that part of the elastic band 30 is not connected to the first midsole 11 and the second midsole 12. In a preferred embodiment, the third groove 113 and the fourth groove 123 have the same width in the vertical direction, both being 4mm-6mm.
[0073] like Figures 2 to 4 , Figure 12 as well as Figure 13 As shown, the multiple elastic bands 30 include a first elastic band 31 and a second elastic band 32. The first elastic band 31 is evenly and symmetrically arranged along the longitudinal direction L on the outer side 101 and inner side 102 of the shoe midsole 10, and the second elastic band 32 is arranged on the toe 103 and heel 104 of the shoe midsole 10. Preferably, in one embodiment, three to five first elastic bands 31 are respectively provided at intervals and symmetrically on the inner side 102 and outer side 101 of the athletic shoe.
[0074] Furthermore, Figures 6 to 7 It shows Figure 5Further details of the midsole structure include that the second elastic band 32 extends from the bottom surface 124 of the second midsole 12 to the side surface 114 of the first midsole 11, and that protrusions 321 are formed on the second elastic band 32 to limit the displacement of the outsole 20 in the longitudinal direction L. The protrusions 321 can be of any suitable shape, such as a sphere.
[0075] In summary, as Figure 14 As shown, in Embodiment 1, because a first midsole 11 and a second midsole 12 are stacked vertically, and an elastic band 30 connects the first midsole 11 and the second midsole 12, when the wearer steps on an uneven surface (e.g., the ground or an object in a sports stadium), in response to the lateral force component generated by the shoe acting on the uneven surface during descent, the elastic band 30 will undergo a tensile force along the lateral direction. During this period, the tensile deformation of the elastic band 30 can effectively prolong the impact duration and enhance the energy absorption effect, as can be seen from [examples not provided]. Figure 14 The first three small images from left to right show the elastic band 30 before it breaks. At this point, the first midsole 11 and the second midsole 12 are still in the initial stage of forming a force-transmitting connection, and they have already undergone a roughly horizontal relative displacement in the lateral direction. Subsequently, because the force component has exceeded the preset value, the force from... Figure 14 In the fourth small image from the left, the first shoe midsole 11 and the second shoe midsole 12 are in a second state of disconnection due to the breakage of the elastic band 30. At this time, the second elastic shoe midsole 12 can move relatively horizontally relative to the first shoe midsole 11 in the lateral direction to a position avoiding the uneven ground or foreign object, thereby effectively reducing the tilt angle when the foot lands. In this way, those skilled in the art will understand that the design of Embodiment 1 can reduce the risk of sports injuries and alleviate the damage caused by ankle sprains.
[0076] In the above embodiments, the first midsole 11 and the second midsole 12 can be made of TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer). TPU is commonly used to make shoe soles, especially for athletic and casual shoes. It provides good grip and stability, helping wearers maintain balance during walking, running, and other activities, and reducing the risk of slipping. Simultaneously, the elasticity of the TPU sole effectively absorbs ground reaction forces, reducing the burden on the feet and joints, and providing a comfortable cushioning effect. The elastic band 30 can use MD material. MD is an abbreviation for "Microcellular Urethane" or "Microcellular Rubber," usually referring to a polyurethane or rubber material with a microporous structure, manufactured through a special foaming process, possessing unique performance characteristics. The midsole is the primary application area for MD material. As a key component connecting the sole and upper, the MD midsole provides good support and cushioning for the foot, while also adjusting the overall height and shape of the shoe, resulting in better comfort and functionality. Many athletic shoes, casual shoes, and running shoes use MD midsoles to enhance product performance and quality. It is understandable that the first shoe midsole 11 and the second shoe midsole 12 may use the same material or different materials.
[0077] In addition, the outsole 20 primarily serves abrasion resistance, improving the shoe's durability. Outsole 20 is generally made of abrasion-resistant materials, such as rubber or other wear-resistant materials. The outsole can be a single piece or divided into two sections, such as a forefoot section and a heel section, with each section potentially composed of multiple pieces. The outsole's hardness can be 60-70 degrees (Shore A); its slip resistance performance is: dry friction coefficient ≥0.7; wet friction coefficient ≥0.5.
[0078] Example 2
[0079] like Figures 15 to 22 As shown, in another embodiment of the present invention, the first midsole 11 and the second midsole 12 are arranged substantially horizontally spaced along the lateral direction W, and the connecting member is an elastic layer 40. The elastic layer 40 extends substantially horizontally along the surfaces of the first midsole 11 and the second midsole 12. In the second configuration, the elastic layer 40 is stretched or broken. In this embodiment, the outsole 20 may include four separate parts: an upper left, a lower left, an upper right, and a lower right, as well as a bottom layer connecting these four parts. Furthermore, Figures 15 to 22 This is one embodiment of the sole structure for the left foot in this utility model. It can be understood that the sole structure is also applicable to the right foot.
[0080] like Figure 21 and Figure 22As shown, the elastic layer 40 forms a limiting portion 41, and the first shoe midsole 11 and the second shoe midsole 12 respectively form grooves 60 that cooperate with the limiting portion 41 so that the shoe midsole 10 and the elastic layer 40 move synchronously in the first configuration. In one embodiment, there is a zigzag interval 50 between the first shoe midsole 11 and the second shoe midsole 12, and in the second configuration, the portion of the elastic layer 40 covering the zigzag interval 50 is stretched or broken.
[0081] In another implementation, refer to Figures 16 to 17 The elastic layer 40 has a groove 80 formed on its sidewall, and the first shoe midsole 11 and the second shoe midsole 12 are respectively formed with sliders 70. The sliders 70 slide upward along the groove 80 to change the first shape to the second shape.
[0082] As described above Figure 14 Similarly, such as Figure 23 As shown, in Embodiment 2, since a first midsole 11 and a second midsole 12 are arranged side-by-side, and an elastic layer 40 connects the first midsole 11 and the second elastic band 32, when the wearer steps on an uneven surface (e.g., the foot of another player), in response to the lateral force component generated by the shoe acting on the uneven surface during descent, the elastic layer 40 will undergo a tensile force along the lateral direction. During this period, the tensile deformation of the elastic layer 40 can effectively prolong the impact duration and enhance the energy absorption effect. At this time, the elastic layer 40 has not yet broken, and the first midsole 11 and the second midsole 12 are still in the first state of forming a force transmission connection and have already been displaced relatively horizontally along the lateral direction. Subsequently, since the force component has exceeded the preset value, both the first midsole 11 and the second midsole 12 are in a second state of disconnection due to the breakage of the elastic layer 40. At this time, the second elastic midsole 12 can move relatively horizontally relative to the first midsole 11 in the lateral direction to a position avoiding the uneven ground or foreign object, thereby effectively reducing the tilt angle when the foot lands. In this way, those skilled in the art will understand that the design of Embodiment 2 can also reduce the risk of sports injuries and alleviate the damage caused by ankle sprains.
[0083] In this embodiment, the first midsole 11 and the second midsole 12 may each include a lower layer and an upper layer that fit together, and the slider 70 and the groove 60 are respectively disposed on the upper layer. The upper layer and the elastic layer 40 may be made of TPU material, and the lower layer may be made of MD material. The characteristics of TPU and MD materials have been described above and will not be repeated here.
[0084] sneakers
[0085] In another aspect, this utility model provides a sports shoe, which includes the aforementioned sole structure and an upper connected to the upper part of the sole structure.
[0086] This athletic shoe features a detachable first midsole 11 and second midsole 12 connected by a connector, eliminating the need for traditional glued bonding. When the wearer accidentally steps on someone or an object, lateral displacement occurs between the first and second midsole 11, effectively reducing the foot's angle of inclination upon landing. Simultaneously, the connector deforms, extending impact duration and enhancing energy absorption. This reduces the risk of sports injuries and mitigates the damage caused by ankle sprains.
[0087] The embodiments of this utility model have been illustrated and described herein, but those skilled in the art should understand that various modifications, omissions, and additions can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of this utility model. It should not be understood as limited to the specific embodiments described herein, but encompasses all possible embodiments embodied within the scope and equivalents of the features described in the appended claims.
[0088] The dimensions and values disclosed herein should not be construed as strictly limited to the precise numerical values stated. Rather, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to represent the value and a functionally equivalent range around that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as “40 mm” is intended to represent “approximately 40 mm”.
[0089] All documents referenced in the “Detailed Description” section are incorporated herein by reference in the relevant sections; no reference to any document should be construed as an admission that it is prior art concerning this utility model. In the event of any conflict between the meaning or definition of any term in this written document and the meaning or definition of any term in the referenced documents, the meaning or definition assigned to the term in this written document shall prevail.
[0090] While specific embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, the appended claims are intended to cover all such changes and modifications within the scope of the present invention.
[0091] When describing elements of the present invention or their preferred embodiments(s), the articles “a,” “an,” “the,” and “the” are intended to indicate the presence of at least one element. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” are intended to be inclusive and mean that additional elements may be present in addition to the listed elements. Many modifications and variations may be made to the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope thereof. Therefore, the above embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.
Claims
1. A sole structure for a sports shoe, wherein the sole structure of the sports shoe has, in a longitudinal direction (L) from back to front, a heel region corresponding to the heel, a midfoot region corresponding to the arch of the foot, and a forefoot region corresponding to the front of the foot, and has a transverse direction (W) extending perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (L), comprising a midsole (10) and an outsole (20) arranged from top to bottom and fitting together, wherein the midsole (10) comprises a first midsole (11) and a second midsole (12) that are separable from each other, characterized in that, It also includes a connector disposed between the first midsole (11) and the second midsole (12), which has a first form that forms a force transmission connection between the first midsole (11) and the second midsole (12) and a second form that releases the force transmission connection, wherein the connector is configured to change from the first form to the second form in response to the athletic shoe experiencing a force component exceeding a preset value in the lateral direction (W) during a fall. In the second configuration, the second midsole (12) moves relative to the first midsole (11) at least in the lateral direction (W).
2. The sole structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first shoe midsole (11) and the second shoe midsole (12) are stacked vertically and the connecting member is a plurality of elastic bands (30). The plurality of elastic bands (30) are arranged at intervals on the outer peripheral surface of the shoe midsole (10). In the second configuration, the elastic bands (30) are stretched or broken.
3. The sole structure according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first outer surface (111) of the first shoe midsole (11) and the second outer surface (121) of the second shoe midsole (12) are respectively formed with a first groove (112) and a second groove (122) for accommodating at least part of the elastic band (30), and the first groove (112) and the second groove (122) are generally aligned along the vertical direction of the shoe.
4. The sole structure according to claim 3, characterized in that, A third groove (113) and a fourth groove (123) are formed on the first outer surface (111) and the second outer surface (121), respectively. The depths of the third groove (113) and the fourth groove (123) are greater than the depths of the first groove (112) and the second groove (122), respectively. The elastic band (30) covers the outer side of the third groove (113) and the fourth groove (123) at intervals. In the second configuration, the portion of the elastic band (30) located outside the third groove (113) and the fourth groove (123) is stretched or broken.
5. The sole structure according to claim 2, characterized in that, The multiple elastic bands (30) include a first elastic band (31) and a second elastic band (32). The first elastic band (31) is evenly and symmetrically arranged along the longitudinal direction (L) on the outer (101) and inner (102) sides of the shoe midsole (10). The second elastic band (32) is arranged on the toe (103) and heel (104) of the shoe midsole (10).
6. The sole structure according to claim 5, characterized in that, The second elastic band (32) extends from the bottom surface (124) of the second midsole (12) to the side surface (114) of the first midsole (11), and a protrusion (321) is formed on the second elastic band (32) to limit the displacement of the outsole (20) in the longitudinal direction (L).
7. The sole structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first midsole (11) and the second midsole (12) are arranged generally horizontally along the lateral direction (W) and the connector is an elastic layer (40) that extends generally horizontally along the surface of the first midsole (11) and the second midsole (12). In the second configuration, the elastic layer (40) is stretched or broken.
8. The sole structure according to claim 7, characterized in that, The elastic layer (40) forms a limiting portion (41), and the first shoe midsole (11) and the second shoe midsole (12) respectively form a groove (60) that cooperates with the limiting portion (41) so that the shoe midsole (10) and the elastic layer (40) move synchronously in the first form, and / or, there is a zigzag interval (50) between the first shoe midsole (11) and the second shoe midsole (12), and in the second form, the portion of the elastic layer (40) covering the zigzag interval (50) is stretched or broken.
9. The sole structure according to claim 7, characterized in that, A groove (80) is formed on the sidewall of the elastic layer (40), and sliders (70) are formed on the first shoe midsole (11) and the second shoe midsole (12), respectively. The sliders (70) slide upward along the groove (80) to change the first form to the second form.
10. A type of athletic shoe, characterized in that, It includes a sole structure according to any one of claims 1-9 and an upper connected to the upper part of the sole structure.
Citation Information
Patent Citations
Footwear with counter-supplementing strap
CN102762121A