A type of footwear product

Abstract

This utility model discloses a footwear product, including: a sole and an upper. On the side view projection surface of the footwear product: the lower surface of the sole forms a continuous, upward-curving, arc-shaped rolling profile extending to the front of the sole in the forefoot area, and a ground-contacting plane in the heel area; a sole reference plane is defined by the lowest point of the arc-shaped rolling profile and the ground-contacting plane; the lowest point of the arc-shaped rolling profile corresponds to the posterior side of the metatarsal region of the foot; the ratio of the distance from the forefoot of the arc-shaped rolling profile to the sole reference plane to the projected length of the arc-shaped rolling profile on the sole reference plane is 1:1.4 to 1:1.6; the upper surface of the upper forms a continuous, upward-curving arc-shaped profile extending to the front of the shoe in the toe area, curving upwards to its highest point and then downwards; the lowest point of the arc-shaped curved profile at the toe is parallel to the sole reference plane, defining a toe reference plane, and the lowest point of the toe corresponds to the toe-heel area of ​​the foot. This footwear product can improve the adverse effects of long-distance running on runners' toes.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of footwear product technology, specifically to a footwear product. Background Technology

[0002] Long-distance running, especially in the latter half or downhill sections of a marathon, can cause runners to experience a decline in core strength and fatigue, leading to changes in gait. This causes the feet to repeatedly lunge forward inside the shoe, resulting in the toes repeatedly hitting the inner wall of the shoe. This can cause the capillaries under the nail to rupture, forming "running black toenails." In severe cases, it can even lead to the toenail falling off, causing great pain to the runner and affecting athletic performance. Utility Model Content

[0003] The purpose of this invention is to overcome the aforementioned defects or problems in the prior art and to provide a footwear product that can improve the adverse effects of long-distance running on a runner's toes.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0005] Technical Solution 1: A footwear product, comprising: a sole, the upper surface of which extends continuously to form a footbed, and the lower surface of which is adapted to contact the ground at least in the forefoot and heel regions; and an upper attached above the sole and defining a cavity for receiving a foot; the portion of the upper prior to its tongue forms a toe region; wherein, on a side view projection of the footwear product: the lower surface of the sole forms a continuously extending, upwardly curved arcuate rolling profile in the forefoot region, extending to the forefoot end, and forming a ground-contacting plane in the heel region; a sole reference plane is defined by the lowest point of the arcuate rolling profile and the ground-contacting plane; the lowest point of the arcuate rolling profile is a forefoot low point, the forefoot low point corresponding to the posterior side of the metatarsal region of the foot, and the arcuate rolling profile is tangent at a quarter position longitudinally from the forefoot end. The angle between the line and the sole reference plane is greater than 140° and less than 150°; the ratio of the distance from the foremost point of the arc-shaped rolling profile to the sole reference plane to the projected length of the arc-shaped rolling profile on the sole reference plane is 1:1.4 to 1:1.6; and the upper surface of the shoe upper forms an arc-shaped curved profile in the toe area that extends continuously to the front of the shoe and curves upward to the highest point before curving downward; the lowest point of the arc-shaped curved profile closer to the tongue is the toe low point, the toe low point is parallel to the sole reference plane and defines a toe reference plane, and the toe low point corresponds to the toe and heel area of ​​the foot; the highest point of the arc-shaped curved profile is the toe high point, and the angle between the line connecting the toe high point and the toe low point and the toe reference plane is greater than 10° and less than 20°.

[0006] Based on technical solution one, in technical solution two, on the side view projection surface of the footwear product, the upper surface of the sole forms a continuous arc-shaped footbed contour that extends to the front end of the sole and curves upward in the forefoot area; the vertical distance between the arc-shaped footbed contour and the arc-shaped curved contour gradually increases from front to back.

[0007] According to technical solution three based on technical solution two, on the side view projection surface of the footwear product, the ratio of the vertical distance from the highest point of the toe to the contour of the curved footbed to the vertical distance from the lowest point of the toe to the contour of the curved footbed is 1:1.4 to 1:1.6.

[0008] Based on technical solution 2, in technical solution 4, on the side view projection surface of the footwear product, the ratio of the vertical distance from the highest point of the toe to the contour of the arc-shaped footbed to the width of the transverse section corresponding to the highest point of the toe is 1:1.5 to 1:2.

[0009] Based on technical solution five (either technical solution three or four), the high point of the shoe toe is deviated from the longitudinal symmetrical center line of the footwear product in the lateral direction and is closer to the inner side of the footwear product.

[0010] Based on technical solution six of technical solution three or four, on the side view projection surface of the footwear product, the highest point of the toe is located in the longitudinal direction within the range of 10% to 20% starting from the front end of the shoe.

[0011] Based on technical solution 7 of technical solution 3 or 4, the low point of the shoe toe is located in the longitudinal range of the footbed defined by the sole, within the range of 20% to 30% starting from the front end of the footbed.

[0012] Based on technical solution one, technical solution eight is an arc-shaped rolling profile with a gradually changing curvature, and its radius of curvature gradually decreases from the low point of the forefoot toward the front end of the sole.

[0013] Based on technical solution one, technical solution nine, the forefoot low point is located within the range of 25% to 40% of the longitudinal range of the footbed defined by the sole, starting from the front end of the footbed.

[0014] Based on technical solution one, technical solution ten, the sole includes a midsole and an outsole, the outsole is attached to the bottom surface of the midsole and extends upward at the front end of the sole to form a toe cap, the upper end of the toe cap is higher than the midpoint of the vertical line connecting the high point of the toe cap to the outline of the arc-shaped footbed.

[0015] As can be seen from the above description of this utility model, compared with the prior art, this utility model has the following beneficial effects:

[0016] Technical Solution 1 provides a footwear product comprising a sole and an upper. Through improvements in shape and structure and synergistic cooperation, the sole and upper mitigate the adverse effects on runners' toes during long-distance running in existing technologies. The physical root of the adverse effects on runners' toes during long-distance running in existing technologies lies in the forward horizontal momentum generated within the shoe cavity due to inertia when the runner is fatigued. This momentum is ultimately absorbed by the rigid collision between the toes and the inner wall of the toe box. Traditional footwear soles have a relatively flat forefoot area, which cannot effectively manage or convert this horizontal momentum; simultaneously, the internal vertical space of the toe box area of ​​the upper is limited. This combination leads to repeated, high-frequency compression and impact between the toes and the front and upper inner wall of the toe box during forward impact, resulting in subungual tissue damage.

[0017] The footwear products provided in this solution feature an upwardly curved rolling profile on the sole. This profile has a lowest point, the forefoot low point, positioned behind the metatarsal region of the foot. This ensures that the rolling effect occurs before the core area of ​​the body's push-off force, providing sufficient distance for subsequent rolling. The rolling performance of this curved rolling profile is precisely defined by shape parameters: at a quarter-length point from the forefoot of the sole, the angle between its tangent and the sole reference plane is limited to between 140° and 150°. This angle is significantly lower than the slope angle of conventional running shoe sole profiles, ensuring a sufficiently steep lift rate at the forefoot, generating strong rolling guidance force during gait transitions. Furthermore, the overall curvature of this profile is constrained by its height-to-length ratio: the ratio of the distance from its forefoot to the sole reference plane to the projected length of the profile on the sole reference plane is limited to a range of 1:1.4 to 1:1.6. This proportional relationship ensures that the entire rolling structure has sufficient geometric dimensions to smoothly accommodate and convert the runner's forward momentum. As a result, the curved rolling profile of the sole can smoothly and effectively convert the forward horizontal momentum of the body into the forward and upward rolling motion of the foot around the forefoot support point when the runner's gait transitions from the mid-support phase to the push-off phase, thereby actively changing the foot's trajectory within the shoe cavity.

[0018] Meanwhile, the upper of this footwear product features an upwardly arched, curved profile in the toe area. This curved profile has a highest point, the toe high, and a lowest point, the toe low. The toe low is positioned corresponding to the heel area of ​​the foot, providing a reasonable starting point for the upward arch. The overall elevation of this profile is quantified by the angle between the line connecting the toe high and low points and the toe reference plane, which is limited to a range of 10° to 20°. This angle is significantly higher than the curvature of the upper in the toe area of ​​conventional running shoes, thus creating a significant upward bulge in the toe area and pre-constructing a three-dimensional accommodating space with sufficient vertical height in the upper part of the shoe cavity.

[0019] More importantly, the combined shape of the sole and upper plays an unexpected role in preventing toe injuries. The sole's rolling profile, defined by the low point of the forefoot, tangent angle, and height-to-length ratio, actively alters the direction of toe movement, guiding and decomposing the originally forward impact force into an upward movement along the curved profile. Simultaneously, the upper's warping profile, defined by the angle between the low point and the line connecting the high and low points of the toe, provides a cushioning zone in this altered direction of movement. Together, these two elements allow the toes, guided upwards by the sole, to precisely enter a pre-set, sufficiently voluminous cushioning space. This process fundamentally reduces the conditions for rigid collisions and compression between the toes and the inner wall of the toe box. Therefore, this design, through the coordinated action of the sole and upper, achieves dynamic guidance of the runner's gait. It not only provides more space for the toes but, more importantly, changes the way the toes move within that space, effectively improving toe injuries caused by long-distance running and enhancing the comfort and protection of footwear products.

[0020] In technical solution two, the upper surface of the sole, i.e., the footbed, is further defined, forming an upwardly curved arched footbed profile in the forefoot area. The vertical distance between this arched footbed profile and the arched profile of the upper gradually increases from front to back. This structure allows the geometry of the front of the shoe cavity to better match the overall rolling function of the sole, and creates a wedge-shaped internal space that is narrower at the front and wider at the back. When the foot rolls forward and upward under the guidance of the arched rolling profile, the toes do not rise vertically upwards, but are accompanied by the flexion of the metatarsophalangeal joint. This wedge-shaped space can precisely accommodate the dynamic shape of the toes during this movement, providing ample room for movement that better conforms to the toes' natural trajectory.

[0021] In technical solution three, a specific proportional relationship is used—the ratio of the vertical distance from the highest point of the toe to the curved footbed contour to the vertical distance from the lowest point of the toe to the curved footbed contour is 1:1.4 to 1:1.6—to quantitatively define the fullness of the internal space of the shoe cavity. This ensures that the space not only has sufficient height at its highest point but also sufficient overall volume. This proportional relationship guarantees that the height of the shoe cavity increases gradually and sufficiently from its initial rising point to its highest point, forming a rounded, full dome structure, rather than a sharp, cramped arch. This structure provides a pressure-free environment for all the user's toes, not just the big toe, especially when the toes are raised and naturally spread out, effectively avoiding contact and compression from above the shoe upper.

[0022] In technical solution four, a specific proportional relationship is used—the ratio of the vertical distance from the highest point of the toe to the contour of the curved footbed to the width of the corresponding transverse section is between 1:1.5 and 1:2—to define the internal space of the shoe cavity in the transverse dimension. This proportional relationship ensures that the shoe cavity space has sufficient vertical height as well as a matching, ample transverse width. This prevents the toe area from forming a tall but narrow structure, which would still compress the toes from the side. Therefore, this solution ensures that the constructed internal space can simultaneously accommodate the upward lifting and lateral expansion of the toes during push-off, thus achieving toe protection in three dimensions.

[0023] In technical solution five, the highest point of the toe is further positioned laterally, deviating from the longitudinal symmetry center line of the footwear and closer to the inner side. In most people's foot structure, the big toe is the highest and longest, and also the most impact-sensitive part during running. This solution precisely places the highest point of this space—the area with the largest volume—directly above the big toe, which requires the most protection. This design maximizes space utilization, providing the most effective and targeted protection for the most vulnerable area without unnecessarily increasing the overall size of the shoe.

[0024] Technical Solution Six further defines the longitudinal position of the highest point of the toe box, placing it within 10% to 20% of the range starting from the front of the shoe. This positioning ensures that the highest point of the shoe cavity is precisely located in the critical area where the toenail and joint are located. If the highest point is too far forward, it will not effectively protect the toe joints; if it is too far back, it will lose protection for the toenail.

[0025] Technical Solution 7 further specifies the exact location of the low point of the toe box within the longitudinal range of the footbed, specifically within the 20% to 30% range starting from the front of the footbed. When the foot rolls forward and upward under the guidance of the curved rolling profile, the metatarsophalangeal joints flex, and the phalanges rise upward. Because this solution positions the low point of the toe box in the phalanx region, the entire rising phalanx can fully enter the protective space formed by the curved profile, thus further enhancing the protection for the runner's toes. If the low point of the toe box is too far forward (less than 20%), the starting point of the arched space is too early and may not provide sufficient coverage for the phalanx joints; if the position is too far back (more than 30%), the front of the phalanx may first contact the low-lying upper portion before it begins to rise, significantly reducing the effectiveness of the protective space.

[0026] Technical Solution 8 further defines the arc-shaped rolling profile as a profile with a gradually decreasing curvature, the radius of curvature of which gradually decreases from the low point of the forefoot towards the front of the sole. Compared to a simple arc with a constant radius, the kinematic characteristics of a profile with a gradually decreasing curvature are closer to those of a natural gait. In the initial stage of rolling, the larger radius of curvature provides stable support; as the center of gravity shifts forward, the gradually decreasing radius of curvature accelerates the rolling process. This structure makes the transition from mid-support to push-off smoother, more natural, and more efficient, reducing energy loss during gait transitions and further enhancing the rolling structure's ability to guide foot movement and convert horizontal momentum.

[0027] In technical solution nine, the specific location of the forefoot low point within the longitudinal range of the footbed is further defined, namely, within the range of 25% to 40% starting from the front of the footbed. By precisely defining the starting point of rolling within a geometric range, a high degree of consistency and predictability in the occurrence point of the rolling effect is ensured among different users.

[0028] Technical Solution Ten further defines the sole as including a midsole and an outsole, with the outsole extending upwards at the forefoot to form a toe cap. The upper end of this toe cap is higher than the midpoint of the vertical line connecting the highest point of the toe cap to the contour of the curved footbed. The toe cap, formed by the outsole material, possesses physical properties of abrasion resistance and impact resistance. It provides the first layer of external physical protection for the toe area, resisting direct impacts from road obstacles. Simultaneously, its defined height ensures it covers the critical toe area and positively enhances the structural stability of the forefoot upper, thereby maintaining the stability of the shoe cavity structure constructed from the upper and sole, preventing excessive deformation during long-distance running, and further reducing the impact between the runner's toes and the upper. Attached Figure Description

[0029] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this utility model, the drawings used in the following description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0030] Figure 1 This is a side view diagram of a footwear product in the prior art;

[0031] Figure 2 This is a comparative schematic diagram of the toe of the footwear product involved in the embodiments of this utility model and the footwear product in the prior art;

[0032] Figure 3 This is a side view of the footwear product involved in an embodiment of the present utility model.

[0033] Explanation of key figure labels:

[0034] Outsole 100; Forefoot area 101; Heel area 102; Ground contact plane 103; Midsole 104; Outsole 105; Toe cap 106; Arch area 107; Curved rolling profile 110; Forefoot low point 111; Forefoot tangent point 112; Curved footbed profile 120; Outsole reference plane 130;

[0035] Upper 200; Toe area 201; Curved profile 210; Low point of toe 211; High point of toe 212; Upper reference plane 220. Detailed Implementation

[0036] The technical solutions of the present utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are preferred embodiments of the present utility model and should not be considered as excluding other embodiments. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of the present utility model without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present utility model.

[0037] Unless otherwise expressly defined, the use of terms such as "first," "second," or "third" in the claims, description, and drawings of this utility model is for distinguishing different objects and not for describing a specific order.

[0038] Unless otherwise expressly defined, in the claims, description, and accompanying drawings of this utility model, the use of directional terms such as "center," "lateral," "longitudinal," "horizontal," "vertical," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "clockwise," and "counterclockwise" to indicate orientation or positional relationships is based on the orientation and positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings and is only for the convenience of describing this utility model and simplifying the description. It does not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as limiting the specific protection scope of this utility model.

[0039] Unless otherwise expressly defined, the terms "fixed connection" or "fixed connection" used in the claims, description and drawings of this utility model shall be interpreted broadly to refer to any connection in which there is no displacement or relative rotation relationship between the two parties, including non-removable fixed connection, detachable fixed connection, integral connection and fixed connection through other devices or components.

[0040] In the claims, description and accompanying drawings of this utility model, the terms "comprising," "having," and variations thereof are used to mean "including but not limited to."

[0041] Example

[0042] Reference Figure 1 It shows a side view of a running shoe in the prior art.

[0043] Reference Figure 2 ,in Figure 2 The left side is a schematic diagram of the toe section of a footwear product according to an embodiment of this utility model, and the right side is a schematic diagram of the toe section of a running shoe in the prior art. Figure 2 As can be seen, the toe of the footwear product involved in this utility model embodiment has a more upright shape and structure compared to the toe of running shoes in the prior art.

[0044] Next refer to Figure 3This illustration shows a footwear product according to an embodiment of the present invention, comprising a sole 100 and an upper 200. The upper 200 is attached to the sole 100, and the attachment method can be heat fusion, bonding, sewing, etc. The upper 200 can be a one-piece woven upper 200, such as an engineered mesh upper 200 or a flyknit upper 200 made of yarn. The upper 200 can achieve different functions in different areas by changing the weaving density and structure; for example, large mesh openings can be set in areas requiring breathability, while denser weaving can be used in areas requiring support. The upper 200 can also be made of multiple pieces of material spliced ​​together, with heat-fused or TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) bonded reinforcements in key areas to provide additional support and stability. The sole 100 includes a midsole 104 and an outsole 105, wherein the midsole 104 can be a cushioning layer made of elastic foam material. Specifically, the elastic foam material can be selected from blends of ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), polyether block amide (PEBA), or any combination thereof. To achieve lightweight and high rebound performance, the foam material is preferably manufactured using a supercritical fluid foaming process (e.g., nitrogen foaming). The outsole 105 can be an abrasion-resistant layer attached to the underside of the midsole 104, typically made of rubber. To achieve lightweight while ensuring durability and grip, the outsole 105 can employ a segmented or perforated design, i.e., abrasion-resistant rubber patches are only placed in high-wear areas of the outsole 100 (e.g., the outer heel and forefoot extension area) and key grip areas, while the midsole 104 material is exposed in other areas.

[0045] Reference Figure 3 This is a side view of the footwear product. Its outer contour can be regarded as the side view projection surface of the footwear product. Here, the side view projection surface refers to the projection surface that is parallel to the longitudinal vertical plane of the footwear product.

[0046] The upper surface of the sole 100 extends continuously to form a footbed, and its lower surface is adapted to contact the ground at least in the forefoot region 101 and the heel region 102. The upper surface of the midsole 104 forms the upper surface of the sole 100, and the upper surface of the sole 100 is backed by a continuous support structure whose shape conforms to the shape of the foot, thereby providing a support platform for direct contact with the foot. Of course, in practical applications, an insole can also be placed above this footbed. Furthermore, based on the shape of the midsole 104, corresponding to the foot, the sole 100 can be longitudinally divided into a forefoot region 101, an arch region 107, and a heel region 102. This division of regions is not a detailed distinction of the sole 100 at specific locations, but rather a rough division corresponding to various parts of the foot, a method of division well known to those skilled in the art. Meanwhile, the lower surface of the sole 100 can contact the ground in both the forefoot region 101 and the heel region 102, indicating that at least at some moment, the portion of the lower surface of the sole 100 in the forefoot region 101 and the portion in the heel region 102 can simultaneously contact the ground. Therefore, a reference plane for the sole 100 can be constructed using the lower surface of the sole 100.

[0047] Specifically, on the side view projection surface of the footwear product: the lower surface of the sole 100 forms a continuously extending and upwardly curved arcuate rolling profile 110 in the forefoot region 101, and a ground contact plane 103 in the heel region 102; the lowest point of the arcuate rolling profile 110 and the ground contact plane 103 together define a reference plane of the sole 100. The heel region 102 has a substantially planar ground contact plane 103, which can be in full contact with the ground. Meanwhile, the lower surface of the sole 100 forms an arc-shaped rolling profile 110 with a curved structure in the forefoot region 101. This arc-shaped rolling profile 110 extends from back to front to the front end of the sole 100 and curves upward. The arc-shaped rolling profile 110 forms a lowest point in the forefoot region 101, namely the forefoot low point 111. The plane containing the ground contact plane 103 formed by the heel region 102 ensures that the forefoot low point 111 is located within this plane. In other words, when the sole 100 is placed on the ground, regardless of whether its heel region 102 is in contact with the ground, its forefoot low point 111 is always located within the plane containing the ground contact plane 103, even if the ground contact plane 103 has an angle with the ground.

[0048] The forefoot low point 111 corresponds to the posterior side of the metatarsal region of the foot. Specifically, the metatarsal region refers to the area formed by the five long bones (metatars) connecting the tarsal bones of the hindfoot and the phalanges of the forefoot, along with their associated soft tissues, in human foot anatomy. This region functionally constitutes the main body of the midfoot and extends forward to what is commonly referred to as the forefoot. Therefore, the "posterior side of the metatarsal region" refers to the area near the base of the metatarsals close to the tarsal bones, while its anterior end is the metatarsal head region, which connects to the phalanges and serves as the pivot point for push-off movement. Furthermore, the forefoot low point 111, within the longitudinal range of the footbed defined by the sole 100, is located between 25% and 40% of the length of the footbed, starting from the anterior end. Specifically, the forefoot low point 111 is the geometrically lowest point of the arcuate rolling profile 110, and functionally, it plays the role of a key fulcrum when the runner's center of gravity transitions from the middle of the foot to the forefoot. Limiting the position of the fulcrum to the range of 25% to 40% of the forefoot ensures optimal matching between the initiation timing of the rolling effect and the push-off phase of the natural gait cycle. If the forefoot low point 111 is positioned too far back (e.g., less than 25%), the rolling initiation will be too early, potentially leading to insufficient stability during the midfoot support phase and an unnatural, premature forward leaning sensation. Conversely, if the position is too far forward (e.g., greater than 40%), the rolling initiation will be too late, at which point the metatarsophalangeal joints of the foot have already begun to flex and exert force, and the rolling structure of the sole 100 will not be able to effectively guide the gait and convert energy, resulting in a dull shoe feel and indistinct rolling sensation. Therefore, this range is an optimized geometric range that ensures the rolling structure functions fully and effectively. Preferably, the forefoot low point 111 is set at 32% of the forefoot position.

[0049] In this embodiment, the angle between the tangent line of the arc-shaped rolling profile 110 at a quarter-length position (starting from the front end of the sole 100) and the reference plane of the sole 100 is greater than 140° and less than 150°. Specifically, the tangent line refers to the instantaneous direction line at a certain point on the curve of the arc-shaped rolling profile 110, which objectively reflects the inclination of the profile at that point. The tangent point at the quarter-length position of the arc-shaped rolling profile 110 is the forefoot tangent point 112. The tangent line of the forefoot tangent point 112 intersects the reference plane of the sole 100 and forms an angle, which is an obtuse angle formed by the two straight lines. The angle of this angle is preferably between 140° and 150°, and is set to 145° in this embodiment. The shape of this tangent angle, combined with the longitudinal position of the forefoot low point 111, structurally makes the arc-shaped rolling profile 110 form an extremely steep upward slope. This specific geometry is one of the core structural features that distinguishes it from the relatively flat profile of the forefoot of traditional running shoe soles. It is this steep slope that allows the point of contact between the sole and the ground to move rapidly forward and upward when the runner's foot rolls to this point, physically guiding the foot to accelerate off the ground and shortening the contact time. If the slope shape defined by this angle is too gentle (angle less than 140°), its guiding effect will be insignificant; if the shape is too steep and close to horizontal (angle greater than 150°), it will create a structural "plateau," which will actually interrupt the continuity of rolling. Therefore, the specific slope shape defined by this angle range is the structural basis for achieving a rapid gait transition.

[0050] Furthermore, the ratio of the distance from the foremost point of the arc-shaped rolling profile 110 to the reference plane of the sole 100 to the projected length of the arc-shaped rolling profile 110 on the reference plane of the sole 100 is 1:1.4 to 1:1.6. Specifically, the "distance from the foremost point to the reference plane of the sole 100" refers to the maximum vertical dimension of the arc-shaped rolling profile 110, which can be called the total height; the "projected length on the reference plane of the sole 100" refers to the horizontal range of the arc-shaped rolling profile 110, which can be called the horizontal span. This ratio is preferably 1:1.4 to 1:1.6, and is set to 1:1.5 in this embodiment. This height-to-length ratio defines a full and expansive arc-shaped geometry, forming a harmonious proportional relationship between its vertical height and horizontal span. This specific geometric shape is one of the core structural features that distinguishes it from the overly flat or overly abrupt forefoot profiles of traditional running shoes. It is this harmonious geometric structure that ensures the sole 100 provides both sufficient lift to generate effective rolling leverage and sufficient operational length to guarantee a smooth and stable transition. If the shape defined by this ratio is too flat (ratio less than 1:1.6, such as 1:2.0), its rolling guidance lever arm and effect will be insufficient; if the shape is too short and steep (ratio greater than 1:1.4, such as 1:1.2), it will disrupt the smoothness of rolling and may lead to structural instability. Therefore, the overall shape defined by this range of proportions is the structural carrier for achieving efficient and stable gait transitions.

[0051] In this embodiment, the arc-shaped rolling profile 110 is a profile with a gradually decreasing curvature, and its radius of curvature gradually decreases from the forefoot low point 111 towards the front end of the sole 100. Specifically, the radius of curvature is a term describing the degree of curvature of a curve, and its value is inversely proportional to the degree of curvature of the curve; that is, a large radius of curvature corresponds to a gentle curve shape, while a small radius of curvature corresponds to a rapid curve shape. In this design, the arc-shaped rolling profile 110 is not a simple circular arc with constant curvature, but a non-uniform radius curve structure with continuously changing curvature. The shape limitation of this gradually decreasing curvature structurally creates a composite curve that starts gently and ends tightly. It is this composite curve structure that gives the sole 100 a gentle, open arc shape in the area near the forefoot low point 111, providing a stable support platform for the foot transition; while in the area near the front end of the sole 100, it has a rapidly curving arc shape to provide a stronger acceleration rolling effect. If the curvature of the entire contour is too small (the shape is too flat), the rolling sensation will be not obvious; if the curvature of the entire contour is too large (the shape is too curved), the stability will decrease.

[0052] Reference Figure 3On the side view projection surface of the footwear product: the upper surface of the shoe upper 200 forms a continuous, curved profile 210 extending to the front of the shoe upper 200 in the toe region 201, curving upwards to its highest point and then downwards. This curved profile 210 is the most prominent external geometric feature of the shoe upper 200 in the toe region 201. It structurally encloses a three-dimensional accommodating space within the shoe cavity, directly above the toes, through a continuous, smooth curved surface. This profile begins to rise gently near the tongue, reaches a highest point, and then descends with a certain curvature to the front of the shoe upper 200. The core function of this specific arched or dome-shaped structure is to provide a pre-defined, non-contact margin of movement for the toes during the gait cycle, especially during the push-off phase, thus functionally cooperating with the curved rolling profile 110 of the sole 100.

[0053] Specifically, the lowest point of the curved, warped profile 210, closer to the tongue, is the toe low point 211. Furthermore, the toe low point 211, parallel to the reference plane of the sole 100, defines a toe reference plane, and the toe low point 211 corresponds to the toe-heel region of the foot. Geometrically, the toe low point 211 is the starting point where the curved, warped profile 210 begins to rise significantly, providing a stable reference for subsequent angle and height measurements. The toe reference plane, constructed through the toe low point 211 and parallel to the reference plane of the sole 100, ensures that the measurement of the upper 200 profile is not affected by the tilt of the sole 100 itself, possessing objectivity and repeatability. Anatomically, the toe-heel region refers to the metatarsophalangeal joint region connecting the toes to the main body of the foot. Furthermore, the low point 211 of the toe is preferably located within a 20% to 30% range of the longitudinal extent of the footbed defined by the sole 100, starting from the front end of the footbed; in this embodiment, it is set to 25%. This range ensures that the arched space formed by the curved profile 210 accurately covers the entire toe area, particularly the metatarsophalangeal joint, from its starting point. If the starting point is too far back (greater than 30%), the front end of the toes may contact the low upper 200 first when the foot is lifted; if it is too far forward (less than 20%), the protective space cannot cover the base joint of the toes.

[0054] The highest point of the arc-shaped curved profile 210 is the toe high point 212. The angle between the line connecting the toe high point 212 to the toe low point 211 and the toe reference plane is greater than 10° and less than 20°. Specifically, the toe high point 212 is the maximum vertical point of the arc-shaped curved profile 210, and the line connecting it to the toe low point 211 objectively reflects the overall upward trend of the profile from its beginning to its apex. The angle formed by this line and the toe reference plane quantifies the steepness of this upward trend. The angle is preferably between 10° and 20°, and is set to 15° in this embodiment. The shape limitation of this angle range structurally makes the upper 200 form a significant, rather than flat, arched or dome-shaped structure. It is this arched structure that creates sufficient vertical space inside the shoe cavity to accommodate the toes that move upward guided by the rolling profile of the sole 100. If the arched structure defined by this angle is too gentle (angle less than 10°), the vertical space it provides will be insufficient to prevent the toes from contacting and rubbing against the 200mm lining of the upper, resulting in ineffective protection. If the shape is too abrupt (angle greater than 20°), it will create excessive space in the shoe cavity, affecting the forefoot's fit and lockdown, and potentially creating unnecessary aesthetic redundancy. (Refer to...) Figure 2 It can be visually observed that, compared to the toe of running shoes in the prior art, the toe of the footwear product involved in this embodiment has a steeper upward trend.

[0055] Furthermore, on the side view projection surface of the footwear product, the highest point 212 of the toe is located longitudinally within a range of 10% to 20% of the area starting from the front end of the upper 200. In this embodiment, it is set to 15%. This range setting ensures that the highest point of the shoe cavity is precisely located in the critical area where the toenail and joint are located. If the highest point is too far forward, it will not effectively protect the toe joint; if it is too far back, it will lose protection for the toenail.

[0056] Furthermore, the toe high point 212 is laterally offset from the longitudinal symmetry center line of the footwear product and is closer to the inner side of the footwear product. Specifically, the "longitudinal symmetry center line" here refers to the central baseline that divides the footwear product into inner and outer sides along its length when viewed from above. In most people's foot structure, the big toe is usually significantly larger than the other four toes in both length and height. At the same time, during the final stage of running push-off, the big toe is also the part that bears the greatest pressure and has the most significant upward lift. Therefore, by purposefully placing the toe high point 212, the widest point of the shoe cavity's internal space, near the inner side, i.e., directly above the big toe, space utilization efficiency can be maximized. This asymmetrical structural design can provide targeted and ample space for the big toe, which needs the most protection and has the greatest range of motion, without unnecessarily increasing the overall outline and volume of the shoe. Compared to symmetrical arched structures, this asymmetrical design better conforms to the asymmetrical shape of the foot, providing excellent protection while ensuring precise wrapping of the outer side of the foot (little toe side), avoiding the problem of reduced wrapping due to excessive space. Furthermore, the offset distance of the toe height 212 relative to the longitudinal center line of symmetry in the lateral direction is preferably 5% to 15% of the lateral cross-sectional width corresponding to that point. This proportion range ensures that the asymmetry is significantly effective, while avoiding aesthetic imbalance or excessive compression of the outer toes caused by excessive inward bias.

[0057] Furthermore, on the side view projection surface of the footwear product, the upper surface of the sole 100 forms a continuously extending and upwardly curved arcuate footbed profile 120 in the forefoot region 101, extending to the front end of the sole 100. Specifically, the "arcuate footbed profile 120" here refers to the upper surface of the sole 100, i.e., the plane supporting the user's foot, which also has an upwardly curved geometric shape in the toe region 201 that matches the arcuate rolling profile 110 on the lower surface of the sole 100. This structure, together with the arcuate curved profile 210 of the upper 200, encloses the internal space of the shoe cavity. The vertical distance between the arcuate footbed profile 120 and the arcuate curved profile 210 gradually increases from front to back, structurally creating a wedge-shaped internal space profile that gradually "opens" from the front end of the upper 200 to the rear. As the foot rolls forward and upward guided by the rolling profile of the sole 100, the toes bend upward around the metatarsophalangeal joint, their movement tracing an arc. This wedge-shaped space, gradually increasing from front to back, provides ample, uninterrupted range of motion for the toes throughout this arc, ensuring that the dynamic movement guided by the sole 100 can occur smoothly within the shoe cavity, resulting in more comprehensive and effective overall protection.

[0058] On the side view projection surface of the footwear product, the ratio of the vertical distance from the highest point 212 of the toe to the curved footbed contour 120 to the vertical distance from the lowest point 211 of the toe to the curved footbed contour 120 is 1:1.4 to 1:1.6. Specifically, the "vertical distance from the highest point 212 of the toe to the curved footbed contour 120" refers to the net height of the shoe cavity at its highest point; while the "vertical distance from the lowest point 211 of the toe to the curved footbed contour 120" refers to the initial net height where the wedge-shaped space begins to rise. A ratio of 1:1.4 to 1:1.6, preferably 1:1.5, ensures that the internal height of the shoe cavity increases sufficiently and gradually from its starting point of rise (lowest point 211 of the toe) to its highest point (highest point 212 of the toe). Structurally, this creates a rounded and well-volume internal dome, rather than a sharp or cramped arch. This full, geometric shape provides a comfortable, uncompressed environment for the user's entire toes, especially when they are raised and naturally spread out, thus avoiding contact and pressure from above the 200mm lining of the upper. If this ratio is too small (less than 1:1.4), the internal space is not sufficiently raised, and the protective effect is not obvious; if the ratio is too large (greater than 1:1.6), the spatial shape is too abrupt and may affect the fit.

[0059] On the side-view projection surface of the footwear product, the ratio of the vertical distance from the toe height 212 to the arcuate footbed contour 120 to the width of the transverse section corresponding to the toe height 212 is 1:1.5 to 1:2. Specifically, the "width of the transverse section" here refers to the horizontal width inside the shoe cavity at the longitudinal position where the toe height 212 is located. The ratio of the two is preferably 1:1.8. Compared with the toe of existing running shoes, this structure further increases the height space of the toe section, thereby better accommodating the upward lifting movement of the toes. At the same time, this proportional relationship ensures that the shoe cavity space has sufficient vertical height and a matching sufficient transverse width. This prevents the toe area 201 from forming a structure that is high but narrow, which would still compress the toes from the side. Therefore, this solution ensures that the constructed internal space can simultaneously accommodate the upward lifting and lateral expansion of the toes during the push-off process, so that the protection of the toes is achieved in three dimensions.

[0060] Furthermore, the outsole 105 extends upward at the front end of the sole 100 to form a toe cap 106. The upper end of the toe cap 106 is higher than the midpoint of the vertical line connecting the toe high point 212 to the curved footbed contour 120. Specifically, the toe cap 106 refers to a structure formed by bending and extending the rubber material of the outsole 105 upward in the front area of ​​the sole 100 through an integrated molding or injection molding process to cover and fit the lower front area of ​​the upper 200. The core function of this structure is to provide a strong, wear-resistant external physical barrier for the toe. The upper edge of the toe cap 106 extends upward beyond 50% of the net height inside the shoe cavity. Therefore, the toe cap 106 is a functional protective wall with considerable coverage area and height. It effectively protects the lower front part of the upper 200, which is most vulnerable to wear and impact, and provides additional structural support at the junction of the midsole 104 and the upper 200.

[0061] The footwear product involved in this embodiment includes a sole 100 and an upper 200. Through improvements in shape and structure and synergistic cooperation, the sole 100 and upper 200 mitigate the adverse effects on runners' toes during long-distance running in existing technologies. In existing technologies, the adverse effects on runners' toes during long-distance running stem from the physical root cause: when a runner is fatigued, the foot generates forward horizontal momentum within the shoe cavity due to inertia. This momentum is ultimately absorbed by the rigid collision between the toes and the inner wall of the toe box. In traditional footwear, the forefoot area 101 of the sole 100 is relatively flat, failing to effectively manage or convert this horizontal momentum; simultaneously, the internal vertical space of the toe box area 201 of the upper 200 is limited. This collectively leads to repeated, high-frequency compression and impact between the toes and the front and upper inner wall of the toe box during forward impact, resulting in subungual tissue damage.

[0062] In this footwear product, the sole 100 has an upwardly curved rolling profile 110 with a lowest point, namely the forefoot low point 111, located on the posterior side corresponding to the metatarsal region of the foot. This ensures that the rolling effect occurs before the core area of ​​the body's push-off force, providing sufficient distance for subsequent rolling. The rolling performance of this curved rolling profile 110 is precisely defined by shape parameters: at a quarter-length point from the forefoot of the sole 100, the angle between its tangent and the reference plane of the sole 100 is limited to between 140° and 150°. This angle is significantly lower than the tilt angle of the sole 100 profile in conventional running shoes, ensuring that the forefoot of the sole 100 has a sufficiently steep lift rate to generate strong rolling guidance force during gait transitions. Furthermore, the overall warp of this profile is constrained by the ratio of its height to its length: the ratio of the distance from its foremost point to the reference plane of the sole 100 to the projected length of the profile on the reference plane of the sole 100 is limited to the range of 1:1.4 to 1:1.6. This proportional relationship ensures that the entire rolling structure has sufficient geometric dimensions to smoothly accommodate and convert the runner's forward momentum. Thus, the arcuate rolling profile 110 of the sole 100 can smoothly and effectively convert the forward horizontal momentum of the body into the forward and upward rolling motion of the foot around the forefoot support point when the runner's gait transitions from the mid-support phase to the push-off phase, thereby actively changing the foot's trajectory within the shoe cavity.

[0063] Meanwhile, the upper 200 of this footwear product has an upwardly arched, curved profile 210 in its toe area 201. This curved profile 210 has a highest point, namely the toe high point 212, and a lowest point, namely the toe low point 211. The position of the toe low point 211 is set corresponding to the toe-heel area of ​​the foot, which provides a reasonable starting reference for the upward arched structure. The overall elevation of this profile is quantified by the angle between the line connecting the toe high point 212 to the toe low point 211 and the toe reference plane, which is limited to the range of 10° to 20°. This angle is significantly higher than the curvature of the upper 200 in the toe area 201 of conventional running shoes, thus forming a significant upward bulge in the toe area 201, pre-constructing a three-dimensional accommodating space with sufficient vertical height in the upper part of the shoe cavity.

[0064] More importantly, the shapes of the sole 100 and upper 200 work together to unexpectedly prevent toe injuries. The rolling profile of the sole 100, defined by the position of the forefoot low point 111, the tangent angle, and the height-to-length ratio, actively changes the direction of toe movement, guiding and decomposing the originally direct forward impact force into an upward movement trend along the arc profile. At the same time, the warped profile of the upper 200, defined by the toe low point 211 and the angle of the line connecting the high and low points, provides a cushioning area in this changed direction of movement. Together, these two elements allow the toes, guided upward by the sole 100, to precisely enter a pre-set, sufficiently large cushioning space. This process fundamentally reduces the conditions for rigid collisions and compression between the toes and the inner wall of the toe box. Therefore, this solution achieves dynamic guidance of the runner's gait through the coordinated action of the sole 100 and the upper 200. It not only provides more space for the toes, but more importantly, it changes the way the toes move within that space, thereby effectively improving the toe injury problem caused by long-distance running and enhancing the wearing comfort and protection of footwear products.

[0065] The foregoing description of the specifications and embodiments is intended to explain the scope of protection of this utility model, but does not constitute a limitation on the scope of protection of this utility model. Modifications, equivalent substitutions, or other improvements to the embodiments of this utility model or a portion thereof that can be obtained by those skilled in the art through logical analysis, reasoning, or limited experimentation, based on the teachings of this utility model or the foregoing embodiments, should all be included within the scope of protection of this utility model.

Claims

1. A footwear product, characterized by comprising: The sole (100) has an upper surface that extends continuously to form a footbed, and a lower surface that is adapted to contact the ground at least in the forefoot region (101) and the heel region (102); and, An upper (200) is attached above the sole (100) and defines a cavity for receiving the foot; the portion of the upper (200) prior to its tongue forms a toe area (201); Specifically, on the side view projection surface of the footwear product: The lower surface of the sole (100) forms a continuous, upward-curving arcuate rolling profile (110) extending to the front of the sole (100) in the forefoot region (101) and a ground-contacting plane (103) in the heel region (102); the lowest point of the arcuate rolling profile (110) and the ground-contacting plane (103) together define a reference plane for the sole (100); the lowest point of the arcuate rolling profile (110) is the forefoot low point (111), and the forefoot low point (111) Corresponding to the posterior side of the metatarsal region of the foot, and the angle between the tangent of the arc-shaped rolling profile (110) at a quarter position from the front end of the sole (100) in the longitudinal direction and the reference plane of the sole (100) is greater than 140° and less than 150°; the ratio of the distance from the front end of the arc-shaped rolling profile (110) to the reference plane of the sole (100) to the projected length of the arc-shaped rolling profile (110) on the reference plane of the sole (100) is 1:1.4 to 1:1.6; and, The upper surface of the shoe upper (200) forms a curved profile (210) in the toe area (201) that extends continuously to the front end of the shoe upper (200) and curves upward to the highest point before curving downward. The lowest point of the curved profile (210) closer to the location of the tongue is the toe low point (211). The toe low point (211) is parallel to the reference plane of the sole (100) and defines a toe reference plane. The toe low point (211) corresponds to the toe heel area of ​​the foot. The highest point of the curved profile (210) is the toe high point (212). The angle between the line connecting the toe high point (212) and the toe low point (211) and the toe reference plane is greater than 10° and less than 20°.

2. The footwear product as described in claim 1, characterized in that, On the side view projection surface of the footwear product, the upper surface of the sole (100) forms an arcuate footbed profile (120) that extends continuously to the front end of the sole (100) and curves upward in the forefoot area (101); the vertical distance between the arcuate footbed profile (120) and the arcuate curved profile (210) gradually increases from front to back.

3. A footwear product as described in claim 2, characterized in that, On the side view projection surface of the footwear product, the ratio of the vertical distance from the high point (212) of the toe to the arcuate footbed contour (120) to the vertical distance from the low point (211) of the toe to the arcuate footbed contour (120) is 1:1.4 to 1:1.

6.

4. A footwear product as described in claim 2, characterized in that, On the side view projection surface of the footwear product, the ratio of the vertical distance from the toe high point (212) to the arc-shaped footbed contour (120) to the width of the transverse section corresponding to the toe high point (212) is 1:1.5 to 1:

2.

5. A footwear product as described in claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, The toe high point (212) is laterally offset from the longitudinal symmetrical center line of the footwear product and close to the inside of the footwear product.

6. A footwear product as described in claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, On the side view projection surface of the footwear product, the toe high point (212) is located in the longitudinal direction within the range of 10% to 20% starting from the front end of the upper (200).

7. A footwear product as described in claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, The low point of the toe (211) is located within a range of 20% to 30% of the longitudinal range of the footbed defined by the sole (100), starting from the front end of the footbed.

8. A footwear product as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The arc-shaped rolling profile (110) is a profile with a gradually changing curvature, and its radius of curvature gradually decreases from the forefoot low point (111) toward the front end of the sole (100).

9. A footwear product as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The forefoot low point (111) is located in the longitudinal range of the footbed defined by the sole (100), within the range of 45% to 60% starting from the front end of the footbed.

10. A footwear product as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The sole (100) includes a midsole (104) and an outsole (105). The outsole (105) is attached to the bottom surface of the midsole (104) and extends upward at the front end of the sole (100) to form a toe cap (106). The upper end of the toe cap (106) is higher than the midpoint of the vertical line connecting the toe high point (212) to the arcuate footbed contour (120).

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