Shoes

Abstract

Shoe, comprehensive: a sole (2); and a shoe upper (10), wherein the shoe upper (10) comprises a shoe upper body (11), wherein the shoe upper body (11) comprises the following: an ankle opening (12) through which a foot of a wearer of the shoe (1) can be inserted into the shoe (1); and a stretchable section (15) made of a stretchable material, wherein the ankle opening (12) is arranged, viewed from the side, above a section corresponding to an imaginary line forming an upper section of a calcaneus (HL) of the foot of the wearer and upper sections of a tibial malleolus (MM) and a fibular malleolus (LM) of a tibia and connects one fibula to the other, wherein the stretchable section (15) forms a region of the shoe upper body (11) which includes a section corresponding to a center point of the tibial malleolus (MM) and a center point of the fibula malleolus (LM) of the wearer's foot and a position of the ankle opening (12), and wherein the stretchable section (15) is designed such that it can be deformed from an unstretched state to a stretched state and elastically returns from the stretched state to the unstretched state.

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

[0001] The present invention relates to a shoe. STATE OF THE ART

[0002] Shoes such as those disclosed in patent document 1 were proposed as shoes to support the movements of a person wearing the shoes (hereinafter referred to as the wearer), such as walking and running.

[0003] Patent document 1 discloses a shoe comprising a sole, a shoe upper body with an ankle opening, and an upper layer element made of an elastic material, which is provided on an outer surface of the shoe upper body near the ankle opening. The upper layer element has an elastic area located on a rear section of the shoe upper body and a rotation area located on a section of the shoe upper body that is closer to the front end than the elastic area. The elastic area and the rotation area are arranged on the shoe upper body corresponding to an ankle section of a wearer's foot. The elastic area extends in a (vertical) direction in which the Achilles tendon of the wearer's foot runs. The position of the rotation area corresponds to the upper ankle joint of the wearer's foot. PRINTED TYPE PATENT DOCUMENT cited Patent document 1: US 2010 / 0 319 215 A1 Patent Document 2: JP 2008-194 071 A; Patent document 3: US 2013 / 0 247 415 A1 SUMMARY TECHNICAL TASK

[0004] During everyday walking and running movements in sports, the ankle joint (hereinafter referred to simply as the ankle joint) is generally moved first to bring the instep and the corresponding shinbone closer together and to stretch the Achilles tendon and the gastrocnemius muscle in opposite directions (so-called dorsiflexion). Then, the ankle joint is moved to rotate a portion of the ankle bone towards the sole of the foot, so that the instep and the corresponding shinbone move further apart and the Achilles tendon and the gastrocnemius muscle move closer together (so-called plantarflexion). Plantarflexion is a particularly important movement for achieving a sufficiently high running speed.

[0005] To meet this requirement, the elastic section of the shoe, according to patent document 1, is designed to rotate vertically around the rotation area, which serves as an imaginary axis extending transversely to the foot, and to stretch and return to its original position. This design allows the elastic section to stretch vertically in response to dorsiflexion, for example, during walking or running. This stretching causes a concentration of strain energy within the elastic section. The plantar flexion that follows dorsiflexion releases the strain energy concentrated in the elastic section. The elastic section then returns to its unstretched state. As can be seen, the shoe disclosed in patent document 1 is designed, in particular, to support plantar flexion.This facilitates walking and running movements and can provide a sufficiently high movement speed when running.

[0006] However, the elastic and rotational areas of the shoe according to patent document 1 are not designed for suitable positioning relative to the wearer's foot. Therefore, it is possible that the elastic and rotational areas are not aligned with points corresponding to the relevant sections of the wearer's foot in the region of the wearer's ankle. If the position of the rotational area does not correspond to the position of the wearer's ankle, the elastic area is particularly difficult to stretch and return to its original position. Consequently, the shoe according to patent document 1 may not adequately support dorsiflexion and plantarflexion.

[0007] The ankle joint of the human foot can generally perform movements other than dorsiflexion and plantarflexion (e.g., abduction, adduction, inversion, eversion, supination, pronation, and other movements). While the shoe according to patent document 1 is designed to support dorsiflexion and plantarflexion, it is not designed to adequately support the aforementioned movements other than dorsiflexion and plantarflexion. In other words, the shoe according to patent document 1 is not suitable for adequately supporting movements other than dorsiflexion and plantarflexion.

[0008] Against this background, a main objective of the present invention is to adequately support various movements of an ankle joint of a wearer. SOLUTION TO THE TASK

[0009] To solve the aforementioned problem, a first aspect of the present invention relates to a shoe comprising a sole and a shoe upper. The shoe upper comprises a shoe upper body. The shoe upper body includes an ankle opening through which the foot of a wearer of the shoe can be inserted into the shoe; and a stretchable section made of a stretchable material. Viewed from the side, the ankle opening is arranged above a section corresponding to an imaginary line connecting the upper portion of the calcaneus of the wearer's foot and the upper portions of the tibial and fibular malleoli of the tibia and fibula. The stretchable section forms a region of the shoe upper body comprising a section corresponding to the midpoint of the tibial malleolus and the midpoint of the fibular malleolus of the wearer's foot and a position of the ankle opening.The stretchable section is designed in such a way that it can be deformed from an unstretched state to a stretched state and elastically returns from the stretched state to the unstretched state.

[0010] According to the first aspect, the elastic section comprises the area of ​​the shoe upper body that corresponds to the midpoint of the tibial and fibulae of the wearer's foot and includes the ankle opening. In other words, the elastic section is positioned at a location corresponding to the wearer's ankle joint. Thus, the elastic section can stretch and return to its original position in response to various movements of the wearer's ankle joint (e.g., dorsiflexion, plantarflexion, abduction, adduction, inversion, eversion, supination, pronation, and other movements).

[0011] The flexible section is designed to deform from an unstretched state to a stretched state and to elastically return to its unstretched state. Specifically, when the support's ankle joint moves in a predetermined direction, the flexible section deforms in that direction. In other words, the flexible section deforms from its unstretched state to its stretched state. This stretching process concentrates strain energy within the flexible section. When the support's ankle joint, having moved in the predetermined direction, subsequently moves in the opposite direction, the strain energy concentrated in the flexible section is released. This movement generates an elastic restoring force in the flexible section in the opposite direction.In other words, the stretchable section elastically returns from the stretched state to the unstretched state. This design makes it easier for the wearer's foot, especially the foot below the ankle, to return to its original position. As can be seen, according to the first aspect, various movements of the wearer's ankle can be adequately supported. Furthermore, these various ankle movements can be controlled and, in particular, adapted to the movements required for different sports. Thus, according to the first aspect, various movements of the wearer's ankle can be adequately supported.

[0012] A second aspect of the present invention is an embodiment of the first aspect. In the second aspect, the ankle opening is arranged near the upper side of the section that corresponds to the imaginary line when viewed from the side.

[0013] In the second aspect, the ankle opening is positioned near the top of the section that, viewed from the side, corresponds to the imaginary line. As can be seen, even if the stretchable section occupies a minimal area, as in this aspect, it can be located on a section of the shoe upper body that corresponds to the tibial and fibula malleoli of the wearer's foot. This allows for adequate support of various ankle movements, as in the first aspect. The second aspect enables a lighter shoe and can provide greater wearing comfort.

[0014] A third aspect of the present invention is an embodiment of the second aspect. In the third aspect, the extendable section extends continuously from a section corresponding to the tibia of the wearer's foot, through a section corresponding to the back of the heel of the foot, to a section corresponding to the fibula of the foot.

[0015] In the third aspect, the stretchable section extends continuously from a section corresponding to the tibia of the wearer's foot, across a section corresponding to the back of the heel, to a section corresponding to the fibula. In other words, the stretchable section is designed to cover an area corresponding to the wearer's ankle joint from the sides and back. Such a design can adequately support various movements of the wearer's ankle joint.

[0016] A fourth aspect of the present invention is an embodiment of one of aspects one to three. In the fourth aspect, the shoe upper further comprises a reinforcement section provided on an outer and / or an inner side of the stretchable section.

[0017] In the fourth aspect, the reinforcement section provided on the inside of the stretchable section can support movements of the ankle joint of the wearer's foot (especially dorsiflexion and plantarflexion) together with the stretchable section.

[0018] A fifth aspect of the present invention is an embodiment of the first aspect. In the fifth aspect, the shoe upper further comprises an anchor section located at a position corresponding to a section of the wearer's foot, including an ankle section above the tibial malleolus and above the fibula. The shoe upper body is designed to cover an area extending from a toe section of the wearer's foot to the ankle section. The shoe upper body comprises a first section whose position corresponds to the ankle section of the wearer's foot; a second section whose position corresponds to the upper ankle joint of the wearer's foot; and a third section whose position corresponds to the Chopart joint of the wearer's foot. The anchor section is designed to align the first section of the shoe upper body with the ankle section of the wearer.The elastic section is located at a point on the shoe upper body that encompasses an area corresponding to the calcaneus and talus of the wearer's foot, and an area corresponding to the ankle joint, extending from the first section through the second section to the third section. When the anchor section aligns the first section of the shoe upper body with the ankle section of the wearer's foot, the elastic section deforms from the unstretched state to the stretched state and elastically returns to its unstretched state.

[0019] In this fifth aspect, the stretchable section is formed from the stretchable material and positioned at a location that encompasses the area of ​​the shoe upper body corresponding to the ankle joint. In other words, the stretchable section is designed to cover the entire ankle joint of the wearer. With this design, the stretchable section expands and contracts in response to various movements of the wearer's ankle joint (i.e., dorsiflexion, plantarflexion, abduction, adduction, inversion, eversion, supination, pronation, and other movements).

[0020] The anchor section is designed to align the first section of the shoe upper body with the ankle section of the wearer. With this design, the stretchable section, located at a point on the shoe upper body corresponding to the ankle joint, can be adequately adapted to the relevant sections of the wearer's foot in the ankle region. In other words, the stretchable section can be securely positioned by the anchor section at the relevant points on the wearer's foot in the ankle region.

[0021] When the anchor section aligns the first section of the shoe upper body with the ankle section of the wearer, the elastic section can deform from the unstretched state to the stretched state and elastically return to the unstretched state. Specifically, when the wearer's ankle moves in a predetermined direction, the elastic section will deform in that predetermined direction. In other words, the elastic section is deformed from the unstretched state to the stretched state. This stretching results in a concentration of strain energy in the elastic section. When the wearer's ankle, which has been moving in the predetermined direction, next moves in the opposite direction, the strain energy concentrated in the elastic section is released.This causes the stretchable section to generate an elastic restoring force from the position of the anchor section (the first section) in the opposite direction. In other words, the stretchable section elastically returns from the stretched state to the unstretched state. This design facilitates the return of the wearer's foot, particularly the foot below the ankle, to its original position. As can be seen, according to the fifth aspect, various movements of the wearer's ankle can be adequately supported. Furthermore, these various ankle movements can be controlled and, in particular, adapted to the movements required for different sports.

[0022] Thus, according to the fifth aspect, various movements of the wearer's ankle can be adequately supported.

[0023] A sixth aspect of the invention is an embodiment of the fifth aspect. In the sixth aspect, the shoe upper further comprises a first reinforcing section, which is provided on an outer and / or an inner side of the stretchable section and is made of a stretchable material. The first reinforcing section is arranged at a location on the shoe upper body that lies below the first section and corresponds to an area behind the tibial and fibula malleoli of the wearer's foot.

[0024] In the sixth aspect, the first reinforcement section can, in particular, support movements of the Achilles tendon located behind the tibial and fibulae of the wearer's foot (i.e., dorsiflexion and plantarflexion). In response to dorsiflexion, for example, during walking or running, the first reinforcement section stretches, especially in the upward direction. Due to this stretching, tensile energy is concentrated in the first reinforcement section. The plantarflexion that follows dorsiflexion releases the tensile energy concentrated in the first reinforcement section. The first reinforcement section then returns to its unstretched state. This design facilitates the return of the wearer's Achilles tendon to its original state, particularly during plantarflexion.Thus, in the sixth aspect, the stretchable section and the first reinforcement section can adequately support movements of the Achilles tendon of the wearer's foot.

[0025] A seventh aspect of the invention is an embodiment of the fifth or sixth aspect. In the seventh aspect, the shoe upper further comprises a second reinforcing section, which is provided on an outer and / or inner side of the stretchable section and is made of a stretchable material. The second reinforcing section is arranged on a medial side of the shoe upper body at a location below the first section and corresponds to a section that extends from the tibia and calcaneus to a Chopart joint of the wearer's foot.

[0026] According to the seventh aspect, the second reinforcing section can, in particular, support eversion of the wearer's ankle. In response to the eversion, the second reinforcing section stretches, specifically by bending primarily in the upward direction. Due to this stretching, strain energy is concentrated in the second reinforcing section. By attempting to return the ankle to its original state after eversion, the strain energy concentrated in the second reinforcing section can be released. The second reinforcing section then returns to its unstretched state. This design facilitates the return of the wearer's ankle to its original state, especially during eversion. Thus, according to the seventh aspect, the stretchable section and the second reinforcing section can, in particular, adequately support the eversion of the wearer's ankle.

[0027] An eighth aspect of the invention is an embodiment of one of aspects five to seven. In the eighth aspect, the shoe upper further comprises a third reinforcing section, which is provided on an outer and / or inner side of the stretchable section and is made of a stretchable material. The third reinforcing section is arranged on a lateral side of the shoe upper body at a location below the first section and corresponds to a section that extends from the fibula and calcaneus to a Chopart joint of the wearer's foot.

[0028] According to the eighth aspect, the third reinforcing section can, in particular, support an inversion of the wearer's ankle. In response to the inversion, the third reinforcing section stretches, primarily curving in the vertical direction. Due to this stretching, strain energy is concentrated in the third reinforcing section. By attempting to return the ankle to its original state after the inversion, the strain energy concentrated in the third reinforcing section can then be released. The third reinforcing section then returns to its unstretched state. This design facilitates the return of the wearer's ankle to its original state, especially during inversion. Thus, according to the eighth aspect, the stretchable section and the third reinforcing section can, in particular, adequately support the inversion of the wearer's ankle.

[0029] A ninth aspect of the invention is an embodiment of one of aspects five to eight. In the ninth aspect, the extendable section is essentially tubular and comprises a section corresponding to the first section, wherein the circumference of the section corresponding to the first section is smaller than the circumference of the ankle section of the support. The extendable section is designed such that it extends from the unstretched state in a circumferential direction when the section of the extendable section corresponding to the first section is in close contact with the ankle section of the support.

[0030] In the ninth aspect, the extendable section is designed to extend circumferentially from its unstretched state when the section of the extendable section corresponding to the first section is in close contact with the ankle section of the wearer. This design allows the section of the extendable section corresponding to the first section to be adapted to the ankle section of the wearer and attached at a point corresponding to the ankle section. Due to this design and the action of the anchor section, the extendable section can be stably positioned at the respective locations of the wearer's foot in the area of ​​the ankle joint.

[0031] A tenth aspect of the invention is an embodiment of the ninth aspect. In the tenth aspect, the shoe upper body comprises an ankle opening, which is formed as a section of the first section, wherein the ankle opening is open upwards from the second section to the first section; an opening associated with the ankle opening, which is formed in the manner of a straight cut in a part of the shoe upper body and extends downwards from the first section; and an openable section, which is configured for opening or closing the opening.

[0032] According to the tenth aspect, even if the section of the stretchable section corresponding to the first section, as described in the fifth aspect, lies snugly against the wearer's ankle, the opening can still be opened by the openable section, thus making it easier for the wearer to remove the shoe. Furthermore, by closing the opening with the openable section, the section of the stretchable section corresponding to the first section can easily be brought into close contact with the wearer's ankle.

[0033] An eleventh aspect of the invention is an embodiment of the tenth aspect. In the eleventh aspect, the openable section is designed as a zipper, which is arranged at a point on the upper body of the shoe that corresponds to a medial side of the wearer's foot. A longitudinal extension of the zipper runs along the upper body of the shoe from a section corresponding to a medial longitudinal arch of the wearer's foot, via a section in front of a section corresponding to the tibial malleolus, to the first section.

[0034] According to the eleventh aspect, the longitudinal extension of the zipper mechanism on the medial side of the shoe upper runs from a section corresponding to the medial longitudinal arch of the wearer's foot, through a section in front of the section corresponding to the tibial malleolus, to the first section. This prevents the zipper mechanism from coming into direct contact with the tibial malleolus of the wearer's foot. Therefore, even when the zipper mechanism is used as an openable section, it is less likely that the wearer will experience pain in the foot when operating the zipper mechanism. The zipper mechanism, which is located in a section corresponding to a relatively small range of motion of the wearer's ankle, does not restrict the wearer's ankle during various movements.

[0035] A twelfth aspect of the invention is an embodiment of the tenth or eleventh aspect. In the twelfth aspect, the extendable section, using a ground contact surface of a section of the sole corresponding to the calcaneus of the wearer as a horizontal reference surface, has a section that extends from the second section to the first section in a direction inclined backwards with respect to a vertical direction running transversely to the reference surface.

[0036] In sports, for example during sprinting and jumping, a running and a starting motion are performed in which the sole of the shoe makes contact with the ground while the toe of the wearer's foot is pointed downwards (i.e., in a position where the ankle joint is in plantar flexion). During such a running or starting motion, the ground contact area of ​​the section of the shoe sole corresponding to the heel bone of the wearer's foot does not make contact with the ground, or if it does, the area in contact is extremely small.To more effectively concentrate the strain energy resulting from the dorsiflexion of the wearer's ankle during such a running or starting movement within the stretchable section, it is recommended that a plantarflexion state of the wearer's ankle be defined as the reference position. Therefore, the stretchable section of the twelfth aspect includes a segment extending from the second section to the first section in a direction inclined relative to the vertical direction perpendicular to the reference surface. This design allows the plantarflexion state of the wearer's ankle to be defined as the reference position. Consequently, the strain energy resulting from the dorsiflexion of the wearer's ankle can be more effectively concentrated within the stretchable section. As a result, the twelfth aspect enables the wearer to perform a running or starting movement suitable for the sprinting and jumping described above.

[0037] A thirteenth aspect of the invention is an embodiment of one of aspects one to twelve. In the thirteenth aspect, the stretchable section is deformable from the unstretched state to the stretched state when the foot of the support moves from a backward-tilting position to an upright position.

[0038] According to the thirteenth aspect, the flexible section can be deformed from its unstretched to its stretched state when the wearer's foot moves from its backward-tilted position to its upright position. With this design, the flexible section generates stretching energy when the wearer's ankle joint moves from plantar flexion to dorsiflexion. This stretching energy is then concentrated in the flexible section. This means that, in particular, a movement in which the wearer's ankle joint moves from plantar flexion to dorsiflexion can be adequately supported.

[0039] A fourteenth aspect of the invention is an embodiment of one of aspects one to thirteen. In the fourteenth aspect, an inner surface of the stretchable section is provided with a heel extension section which covers the heel of the wearer's foot and the area surrounding it from the sides and from behind, wherein the heel extension section projects rearward in a cross-section extending along the longitudinal direction of the foot from a section corresponding to the rear of the heel of the wearer's foot.

[0040] According to the fourteenth aspect, by including the heel extension section on the inner side of the stretchable section, the length of the stretchable section in the longitudinal direction of the wearer's foot is comparatively increased. This comparatively enlarges the total surface area of ​​the inner side of the stretchable section in the longitudinal direction of the foot compared to the stretchable section without the heel extension section. In other words, the area in which the stretchable section stretches in the longitudinal direction of the foot is comparatively large when the heel extension section is included. Therefore, when the stretchable section deforms from its unstretched to its stretched state, a large amount of tensile energy is concentrated within the stretchable section. This enhances the supportive properties of the stretchable section in assisting plantar flexion of the wearer's ankle. ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION

[0041] As can be seen from the preceding description, according to the present invention various movements of the wearer's ankle joint can be adequately supported. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [ Fig. 1] Fig. Figure 1 shows a side view of a shoe according to a first embodiment with a skeletal structure of a foot from the lateral side. [ Fig. 2] Fig. Figure 2 shows a side view of the shoe according to the first embodiment with the skeletal structure of the foot from the medial side. [ Fig. 3] Fig. Figure 3 shows a perspective view of the shoe according to the first embodiment from behind. [ Fig. 4] Fig. 4 corresponds Fig. 1 and shows the shoe according to the first embodiment in a situation in which a wearer's foot has moved from its backward-tilting position to its upright position. [ Fig. 5] Fig. Figure 5 shows a side view of a shoe according to a first variant of the first embodiment with a skeletal structure of a foot from the lateral side. [ Fig. 6] Fig. Figure 6 shows a perspective view of the shoe according to the first variant of the first embodiment from behind. [ Fig. 7] Fig. Figure 7 shows a side view of a shoe according to a second variant of the first embodiment with a skeletal structure of a foot from the lateral side. [ Fig. 8] Fig. Figure 8 shows a top view of a shoe according to a second embodiment. [ Fig. 9] Fig. Figure 9 shows a side view of the shoe according to the second embodiment with a skeletal structure of a foot from the lateral side. [ Fig. 10] Fig. Figure 10 shows a side view of the shoe according to the second embodiment with the skeletal structure of the foot from the medial side. [ Fig. 11] Fig. Figure 11 shows a cross-sectional view along line XI-XI in Fig. 8. [ Fig. 12] Fig. Figure 12 shows a cross-sectional view along line XII-XII in Fig. 8. [ Fig. 13] Fig. Figure 13 shows a side view of a shoe according to a third embodiment from the lateral side. [ Fig. 14] Fig. Figure 14 shows a side view of the shoe according to the third embodiment from the medial side. [ Fig. 15] Fig. Figure 15 shows a side view of a shoe according to a fourth embodiment from the lateral side. [ Fig. 16] Fig. Figure 16 shows a side view of the shoe according to the fourth embodiment from the medial side. [ Fig. 17] Fig. 17 corresponds Fig. Figure 11 shows an embodiment of the shoe according to the fourth embodiment in a vertical cross-section. [ Fig. 18] Fig. Figure 18 shows a side view of a shoe according to a fifth embodiment from the lateral side. [ Fig. 19] Fig. Figure 19 shows a schematic side view of a state in which a Fig. 18 The anchor section shown is detached from a shoe upper body. [ Fig. 20] Fig. Figure 20 shows a side view of a shoe according to a sixth embodiment from the lateral side. [ Fig. 21] Fig. 21 corresponds Fig. Figure 11 shows an embodiment of the shoe according to the sixth embodiment in a vertical cross-section. DESCRIPTION OF EXECUTION FORMS

[0042] In the following, embodiments of the present invention are described in more detail with reference to the drawings. However, the following description of the embodiments is merely exemplary and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or usefulness of the present invention. [First embodiment]

[0043] Fig. Figures 1 to 4 show an overall view of a shoe 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. A pair of shoes 1 can, for example, be used primarily as sports shoes for running and for various sports. However, the pair of shoes 1 can also be used as everyday shoes or as therapeutic shoes.

[0044] The drawings merely represent an example of a left shoe 1. Since the right shoe is symmetrical to the left shoe, only the left shoe will be described in the following description, and a description of the right shoe will be omitted.

[0045] In the following description, the terms "above," "upwards," "on," "below," "under," and "downwards" refer to the vertical relationship of the relevant components of shoe 1. The terms "front," "anterior," "forwards," "anterior," "rear," "backwards," "backwards," and "posterior" refer to the longitudinal relationship of the relevant components of shoe 1. The terms "medial side" and "lateral side" refer to the transverse relationship of the relevant components of shoe 1. (Sole)

[0046] How Fig. Figures 1 to 4 show that the shoe 1 has a sole 2. In this embodiment, the sole 2 comprises an outsole 3 and lug sections 4, 4, ...

[0047] The outsole 3 extends from the forefoot to the rearfoot of a wearer's foot. The outsole 3 is a hard-elastic element of relatively high rigidity. A thermoplastic resin, such as a polyether block amide (PEBA) or polyamide, is suitable for the outsole 3.

[0048] In this embodiment, a ground contact surface of a section of the sole 2, whose position corresponds to the calcaneus HL of the wearer's foot, is defined as the reference surface S, which runs horizontally to the ground or the road surface (see dotted line in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2). (shoe upper)

[0049] How Fig. Figures 1 to 4 show that the shoe 1 also has a shoe upper 10 that covers the wearer's foot. (Shoe upper body)

[0050] The shoe upper 10 has a shoe upper body 11. The shoe upper body 11 is designed to cover an area from a toe section of the wearer's foot to an ankle section that lies at least above the tibial malleolus MM and the fibula malleolus LM of the tibia and fibula of one leg of the wearer (hereinafter referred to as ankle section). (Ankle opening)

[0051] How Fig. 1 and Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the shoe upper body 11 includes an ankle opening 12. Viewed from the side, the ankle opening 12 is located above a section corresponding to an imaginary line or dashed line C, which connects an upper section of the calcaneus HL of the wearer's foot and the upper sections of the tibial malleolus MM and the fibula malleolus LM of the tibia and fibula. In this embodiment, the ankle opening 12 is located near the top of the section corresponding to the imaginary line or dashed line C when viewed from the side.

[0052] The imaginary line or dashed line C is defined here as a line which represents the upper section of the calcaneus HL and the upper sections of line circles (see reference symbol B in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2) connects, each having a radius corresponding to the distance from the center A of the tibial malleolus MM and the center A of the fibula malleolus LM to a point approximately 2 cm away from center A. The size of the in Fig. 1 and Fig. The circle B shown in Figure 2 is determined with reference to the tibial malleolus MM and the fibula malleolus LM of the foot of an average adult male. (Extendable section)

[0053] How Fig. As shown in Figures 1 to 4, the upper body 11 comprises a stretchable section 15 and a non-stretchable section 16. The stretchable section 15 is made of a stretchable material. In particular, the stretchable section 15 is, for example, made of a stretchable textile material. The non-stretchable section 16, on the other hand, is made of a material that is less stretchable than the stretchable section 15. The upper body 11 is, for example, made of a textile, such as woven or knitted fabric, non-woven fabric, synthetic leather, imitation leather, or natural leather. Fig. 1 to 4 is an area in which the stretchable section 15 is located, marked and highlighted by a grid.

[0054] The stretchable section 15 forms a region of the shoe upper body 11 that includes a section corresponding to the midpoint A of the tibial malleolus MM and the midpoint A of the fibular malleolus LM of the wearer's foot, and a position of the ankle opening 12. The stretchable section 15 extends continuously from a section of the shoe upper body 11 corresponding to the tibial malleolus MM of the wearer's foot, across a section corresponding to the posterior aspect of the heel HL of the foot, to a section corresponding to the fibular malleolus LM of the foot. The non-stretchable section 16, on the other hand, forms a region of the shoe upper body 11 outside the stretchable section 15. The stretchable section 15 and the non-stretchable section 16 are joined to each other by sewing or another method.

[0055] If the wearer is not wearing shoe 1 or is wearing shoe 1 in a relaxed state, the ankle opening 12 is as shown in Fig. Shown in 1 to 3, open towards the rear in the longitudinal direction of the foot (see Fig. 3) and the stretchable section 15 in an unstretched state. The shoe upper body 11 is designed in particular such that the ankle joint in the region of the upper ankle joint of the wearer's foot (hereinafter referred to simply as the ankle joint) is in a plantar flexion position when the wearer wears the shoe 1 in a relaxed state.

[0056] Plantar flexion is understood to mean a state in which the ankle portion of the wearer's foot extends in a direction that is inclined 5° to 50° backwards relative to a vertical upward direction which, in a preferred embodiment, extends orthogonally to the reference surface S of the sole 2 (see angle 0 in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2) when the wearer wears shoe 1 in a relaxed state.

[0057] The stretchable section 15 is designed such that it deforms from the unstretched state to a stretched state and elastically returns from the stretched state to the unstretched state. How Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the stretchable section 15 is designed in particular such that it deforms from the unstretched state to the stretched state when the foot of the support moves from its backward-leaning position to its upright position. [Advantages of the first embodiment]

[0058] As can be seen from the preceding description, the stretchable section 15 forms a portion of the shoe upper body 11 that includes a section corresponding to the midpoint A of the tibial malleolus MM and the midpoint A of the fibula LM of the wearer's foot, and a position of the ankle opening 12. In other words, the position of the stretchable section 15 corresponds to the wearer's ankle joint. The stretchable section 15 can thus deform and return to its original position in response to various movements of the wearer's ankle joint (e.g., dorsiflexion, plantarflexion, abduction, adduction, inversion, eversion, supination, pronation, and other movements).

[0059] The stretchable section 15 is designed such that it deforms from the unstretched state to the stretched state and elastically returns to its unstretched state. When the ankle joint of the support moves in a predetermined direction, the stretchable section 15 deforms, in particular, in a stretching motion in the predetermined direction. In other words, the stretchable section 15 deforms from the unstretched state to the stretched state. This stretching results in a concentration of strain energy in the stretchable section 15. When the ankle joint of the support, which has moved in the predetermined direction, moves in the opposite direction, the strain energy concentrated in the stretchable section 15 is released. This movement generates an elastic restoring force in the stretchable section 15 in the opposite direction.In other words, the stretchable section 15 elastically returns from the stretched state to the unstretched state. This design makes it easier for the wearer's foot, particularly the foot below the ankle, to return to its original position. As can be seen, the shoe 1 according to the first embodiment can adequately support various movements of the wearer's ankle. Furthermore, the various movements of the wearer's ankle can be controlled and, in particular, adapted to the movements required for different sports.

[0060] Thus, according to the first embodiment, the shoe 1 can adequately support various movements of the wearer's ankle.

[0061] The ankle opening 12 of the shoe 1 according to the first embodiment is located near the top of the section that, viewed from the side, corresponds to the imaginary line or dashed line C. Even if the stretchable section 15 occupies a minimal area, as in this example, it can be located on a section of the shoe upper body 11 that corresponds to the tibial malleolus MM and the fibula malleolus LM of the wearer's foot. Thus, the shoe 1 can adequately support various ankle movements of the wearer described above.

[0062] The shoe described above according to patent document 1, for example, is provided with an element that is arranged above the tibial and fibula malleoli of the wearer's foot and covers the wearer's foot (see the in Fig. (Collar yoke 104 shown in patent document 1). In contrast, the ankle opening 12 of the shoe 1 according to the first embodiment is arranged near the top of the section that, viewed from the side, corresponds to the imaginary line or dashed line C. Thus, there is no element covering the ankle above the tibial malleolus MM and the fibula LM of the wearer's foot. This design allows the shoe 1 according to the first embodiment to be lighter and provide greater wearing comfort than the shoe according to patent document 1.

[0063] The stretchable section 15 extends continuously from a section of the shoe upper body 11 corresponding to the tibial malleolus MM of the wearer's foot, across a section corresponding to the back of the heel HL of the foot, to a section corresponding to the fibula LM of the foot. In other words, the stretchable section 15 is designed to cover an area corresponding to the wearer's ankle joint from the sides and rear. Such a design can adequately support various movements of the wearer's ankle joint.

[0064] The stretchable section 15 is designed to deform from its unstretched to its stretched state when the wearer's foot moves from its posteriorly inclined position to its upright position. This design allows the stretchable section 15 to generate stretching energy when the wearer's ankle joint moves from plantar flexion to dorsiflexion. This stretching energy is then concentrated in the stretchable section 15. This means that the shoe 1 is primarily capable of adequately supporting a movement in which the wearer's ankle joint moves from plantar flexion to dorsiflexion. (First variant of the first embodiment)

[0065] In a variant of shoe 1 according to the first embodiment, which is in Fig. 5 and Fig. As shown in Figure 6, the upper part of the shoe 10 can further comprise a reinforcement section 17, which is provided on the outside and / or the inside of the stretchable section 15. In the first variant, the reinforcement section 17 provided on the inside of the stretchable section 15 is shown as an example.

[0066] In the first variant, the reinforcement section 17 is, for example, designed as a layer. The reinforcement section 17 is made of a stretchable material. Examples of materials suitable for the reinforcement section 17 include a resin material, such as thermosetting polyurethane, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), and styrene elastomer, a rubber material, and a stretchable textile material.

[0067] The reinforcement section 17 is primarily arranged corresponding to the heel HL, the tibial malleolus MM, and the fibular malleolus LM of the wearer's foot. Furthermore, viewed from the lateral side, the reinforcement section 17 divides into two branches extending upwards in two different directions from a section corresponding to the heel HL of the wearer's foot. Specifically, one of the two branches of the reinforcement section 17 is located on a section of the stretchable section 15 near the ankle opening 12 and extends from the section corresponding to the heel HL of the wearer's foot to a section corresponding to the fibular malleolus LM. The other branch of the reinforcement section 17 is located on a section of the non-stretchable section 16 beneath the stretchable section 15.The reinforcing section 17 is attached to the inside of the stretchable section 15 and the inside of the non-stretchable section 16 by a process such as sewing, gluing, heat sealing, or impregnation. Although not shown, the reinforcing section 17 is appropriately shaped when viewed from the medial side.

[0068] In the shoe 1 described above, according to the first variant, the reinforcement section 17 provided on the inside of the stretchable section 15 can support movements of the wearer's ankle joint (in particular dorsiflexion and plantarflexion) together with the stretchable section 15. Since the reinforcement section 17 is arranged on both the stretchable section 15 and the non-stretchable section 16, both the stretchable section 15 and the non-stretchable section 16 can be better adapted to the wearer's foot (in particular the heel HL, the tibial malleolus MM and the fibula LM) and adhere better to it. (Second variant of the first embodiment)

[0069] In the first embodiment, the extendable section 15 extends continuously from a section corresponding to the tibial malleolus MM of the wearer's foot, across a section corresponding to the back of the heel HL of the foot, to a section corresponding to the fibula LM of the foot. However, this embodiment is merely a non-limiting example.

[0070] During a Fig. In the second variant shown in Figure 7, for example, two separate stretchable sections 15 can be arranged at locations corresponding to the tibial malleolus MM and the fibula LM of the wearer's foot, respectively, without extending over a section corresponding to the back of the heel HL of the foot. In this second variant as well, the stretchable sections 15 can be arranged at locations on the shoe upper 11 corresponding to the tibial malleolus MM and the fibula LM of the wearer's foot. Thus, the shoe 1 according to the second variant, as in the first embodiment, can adequately support various movements of the wearer's ankle.

[0071] The shoe upper 10, like the shoe 1 according to the second variant, can also have a tongue-shaped section 9 and a shoelace 50. A plurality of linear reinforcement sections 18, 18, ... can be provided on the outside of the stretchable section 15. [Second embodiment]

[0072] Fig. Figures 8 to 12 show a shoe 1 according to a second embodiment of the present invention. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the design of the shoe upper 10. The remaining design of the shoe 1 according to the second embodiment corresponds to that of the shoe 1 of the first embodiment. Therefore, the same elements are designated as those described in Figure 8 to 12. Fig. Figures 1 to 4 are shown, the same reference symbols are used, and a detailed description of them is omitted.

[0073] A shoe upper body 11 comprises a first, a second, and a third section 11a to 11c. The position of the first section 11a corresponds to an ankle section of a wearer. The position of the second section 11b corresponds to the upper ankle joint of a wearer's foot. The position of the third section 11c corresponds to the Chopart joint (articulatio tarsi transversum) of the wearer's foot. (Ankle opening)

[0074] How Fig. As shown in Figures 8 to 10, the upper body of the shoe 11 includes an ankle opening 12. In this embodiment, the ankle opening 12 is arranged on the first section 11a of the upper body of the shoe 11. The ankle opening 12 is open upwards from the second section 11b to the first section 11a. However, the ankle opening 12 can also be arranged above the first section 11a of the upper body of the shoe 11. (Opening)

[0075] The shoe upper body 11 includes an opening 13. The opening 13 serves to enlarge the opening area of ​​the ankle opening 12. The opening 13 is connected to the ankle opening 12. The opening 13 is located on the shoe upper body 11 at a point corresponding to the medial side of the wearer's foot. The opening 13 is formed as a straight cut in a portion of the shoe upper body 11 and extends downwards from the first section 11a. Specifically, the longitudinal extension of the opening 13 runs from a section corresponding to the medial longitudinal arch of the wearer's foot, across a section in front of a point corresponding to the tibial malleolus (MM), to the first section 11a.

[0076] The medial longitudinal arch generally corresponds to a section (the so-called plantar arch) of the foot of the bearer, which includes the metatarsal bone MT1 of the great toe, the medial cuneiform bone CM, the navicular bone NB, the talus bone TB and the calcaneus HL (see Fig. 10). (Openable section)

[0077] How Fig. Figures 8 to 10 show that the shoe upper body 11 includes an openable section 14. The openable section 14 serves to open or close the opening 13. In this embodiment, the openable section 14 is designed as a zipper mechanism.

[0078] The zipper mechanism comprises two elements 14a and 14a and a slider 14b. The elements 14a and 14a are arranged opposite each other in the opening 13. The slider 14b can be operated such that the elements 14a and 14a can be moved towards each other and separated from each other by sliding the slider 14b.

[0079] The zipper mechanism is located on the upper body 11 corresponding to the medial side of the wearer's foot. A longitudinal extension of the zipper mechanism runs along the upper body 11 from the section corresponding to the medial longitudinal arch of the wearer's foot, across the section in front of the section corresponding to the tibial malleolus MM, to the first section 11a. (Anchor section)

[0080] How Fig. 11 and Fig. As shown in Figure 12, the shoe upper 10 has an anchor section 20. Examples of materials suitable for the anchor section 20 include a resin material, such as thermosetting polyurethane, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and styrene elastomer, a rubber material and a stretchable textile material.

[0081] The anchor section 20 is, for example, designed as a layer. The anchor section 20 is arranged on the inside of the shoe upper body 11. The anchor section 20 is attached to the inside of the shoe upper body 11 by a method such as sewing, gluing, heat sealing or impregnation.

[0082] The anchor section 20 is arranged on a section that includes the first section 11a of the shoe upper body 11. In other words, the anchor section 20 is arranged on a section of the shoe upper body 11 (the stretchable section 15 described below) that corresponds to the ankle section of the wearer. When the wearer is wearing the shoe 1 and the opening 13 is closed by the openable section 14, the anchor section 20 surrounds the ankle section of the wearer. In other words, the anchor section 20 is designed to align the first section 11a of the shoe upper body 11 with the ankle section of the wearer when the wearer is wearing the shoe 1. (First reinforcement section)

[0083] How Fig. 11 and Fig. As shown in Figure 12, the shoe upper 10 has a first reinforcement section 21. The first reinforcement section 21 is made of a stretchable material. Examples of materials suitable for the first reinforcement section 21 include, in particular, a resin material such as thermosetting polyurethane, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), and styrene elastomer, a rubber material, and a stretchable textile material. The first reinforcement section 21 can be made of the same material as the anchor section 20 or of a different material.

[0084] The first reinforcement section 21 is, for example, designed as a layer. The first reinforcement section 21 is arranged on the inside of the shoe upper body 11 (of the stretchable section 15 described below). The first reinforcement section 21 is attached to the inside of the shoe upper body 11 (of the stretchable section 15 described below) in particular by a method such as sewing, gluing, heat sealing or impregnation.

[0085] The first reinforcement section 21 can be arranged below the first section 11a of the shoe upper body 11. The first reinforcement section 21 is arranged on the shoe upper body 11 corresponding to a region of the wearer's foot behind the tibial malleolus MM and the fibular malleolus LM. In particular, the first reinforcement section 21 is arranged on the shoe upper body 11 such that it corresponds to a region of the wearer's foot that extends from the posterior end of the calcaneus HL, located behind the tibial malleolus MM and the fibular malleolus LM, to the Achilles tendon (not shown). (Second and third reinforcement sections)

[0086] How Fig. 11 and Fig. As shown in Figure 12, the shoe upper 10 has a second and a third reinforcement section 22 and 23. Like the first reinforcement section 21, the second and third reinforcement sections 22 and 23 are made of a stretchable material and are, for example, formed as layers. Like the first reinforcement section 21, the second and third reinforcement sections 22 and 23 are arranged on the inside of the shoe upper body 11 (the stretchable section 15 described below).

[0087] The second reinforcement section 22 is located below the first section 11a on the medial side of the shoe upper body 11. The second reinforcement section 22 is positioned to correspond to a section of the wearer's foot that extends from the tibial malleolus MM and the calcaneus HL to the Chopart joint.

[0088] The third reinforcement section 23 is located below the first section 11a on the lateral side of the shoe upper body 11. The third reinforcement section 23 is positioned such that, on the lateral side of the shoe upper body 11, it corresponds to a section of the wearer's foot that extends from the fibula LM and the calcaneus HL to the Chopart joint. (Extendable section)

[0089] How Fig. As shown in Figures 8 to 12, the stretchable section 15 is designed to cover an area encompassing the wearer's ankle. In particular, the stretchable section 15 according to the second embodiment forms an area of ​​the shoe upper body 11 corresponding to the ankle. The non-stretchable section 16, on the other hand, forms an area of ​​the shoe upper body 11 outside the area corresponding to the ankle.

[0090] The area corresponding to the ankle joint comprises a section of the shoe upper body 11 that corresponds to the calcaneus HL and the talus TB of the wearer's foot and extends from the first section 11a through the second section 11b to the third section 11c. In other words, the shoe upper body 11 is designed such that the flexible section 15 follows the movements of some of the joints of the wearer's foot located in the section corresponding to the ankle joint.

[0091] The stretchable section 15 is essentially tubular and comprises a section corresponding to the first section 11a. The circumference of the section corresponding to the first section 11a is shorter than the circumference of the ankle section of the wearer. The stretchable section 15 is designed such that it extends in the circumferential direction from its unstretched state when a section corresponding to the first section 11a is in close contact with the ankle section of the wearer. In a preferred embodiment, the stretchable section 15 is particularly designed such that it stretches by at least 3% from its unstretched state when the shoe 1 is worn by the wearer and the section corresponding to the first section 11a is in close contact with the ankle section of the wearer.

[0092] How Fig. As shown in Figures 9 to 12, the stretchable section 15 has a section that extends from the second section 11b to the first section 11a in a direction inclined backwards with respect to the vertical direction perpendicular to the reference surface S of the sole 2. In other words, the shoe upper body 11 is designed such that the wearer's ankle is in a plantarflexed position when the wearer wears the shoe 1.

[0093] When a human foot performs plantar flexion, the foot is typically inclined backwards by 5° to 50° relative to the longitudinal direction (i.e., the vertical direction) of the fibula and tibia of the leg in a neutral position with normal contact with the ground. As can be seen from the foregoing description, in a preferred embodiment, the extendable section 15 has a section that extends from the second section 11b to the first section 11a in a direction inclined backwards by 5° to 50° relative to the vertical direction (see angle θ in Figure 1). Fig. 9).

[0094] The stretchable section 15 is designed such that it deforms from the unstretched state to the stretched state in the area corresponding to the ankle joint and elastically returns from the stretched state to the unstretched state when the anchor section 20 aligns the first section 11a of the shoe upper body 11 with the ankle section of the wearer. [Advantages of the second embodiment]

[0095] The stretchable section 15 of the shoe 1 according to the second embodiment is formed from a stretchable material as described above and forms the area of ​​the shoe upper body 11 corresponding to the ankle joint. In other words, the stretchable section 15 is designed to cover the entire ankle joint of the wearer. In such a configuration, the stretchable section 15 stretches and returns to its original position in response to various movements of the wearer's ankle joint (e.g., dorsiflexion, plantarflexion, abduction, adduction, inversion, eversion, supination, pronation, and other movements).

[0096] The anchor section 20 is designed to align the first section 11a of the shoe upper body 11 with the ankle section of the wearer. This design allows the stretchable section 15, located at a point on the shoe upper body 11 corresponding to the ankle joint, to be adequately adapted to the relevant sections of the wearer's foot in the ankle region. In other words, the stretchable section 15 can be stably positioned by the anchor section 20 at the relevant points on the wearer's foot in the ankle region.

[0097] The stretchable section 15 is designed to deform from the unstretched state to the stretched state and elastically return to its unstretched state when the anchor section 20 aligns the first section 11a of the shoe upper body 11 with the ankle section of the wearer. When the wearer's ankle moves in a predetermined direction, the stretchable section 15 deforms, in particular, in a stretching motion in that predetermined direction. In other words, the stretchable section 15 deforms from the unstretched state to the stretched state. This stretching process results in a concentration of strain energy in the stretchable section 15. When the wearer's ankle, which has moved in the predetermined direction, moves in the opposite direction, the strain energy concentrated in the stretchable section 15 is released.This causes the stretchable section 15 to generate an elastic restoring force from the position of the anchor section 20 (of the first section 11a) in the opposite direction. In other words, the stretchable section 15 elastically returns from the stretched state to the unstretched state. This design makes it easier for the wearer's foot, particularly the foot below the ankle, to return to its original state. As described above, the shoe 1 according to the second embodiment can adequately support various movements of the wearer's ankle. Furthermore, the various movements of the wearer's ankle can be controlled and, in particular, adapted to the movements required for different sports.

[0098] Thus, according to the second embodiment, shoe 1 can adequately support various movements of the wearer's ankle.

[0099] The shoe described above according to patent document 1 is designed such that the elastic and rotational areas rotate near the ankle opening. This tends to concentrate stress, particularly near the ankle opening, making the shoe easily damaged. Furthermore, the elastic and rotational areas of the shoe described above according to patent document 1 are comparatively elongated. This complicates the manufacture of the shoe itself and reduces production efficiency. In contrast, the shoe 1 according to the second embodiment has the stretchable section 15, which forms the area of ​​the shoe upper body 11 corresponding to the ankle joint. Thus, a concentration of stress near the ankle opening 12 and damage to the shoe 1 are less likely. Moreover, the shoe 1 itself is easy to manufacture, which improves production efficiency.

[0100] In the shoe 1 according to the second embodiment, the first reinforcing section 21 can, in particular, support movements of the Achilles tendon located behind the tibial malleolus MM and the fibula LM of the wearer's foot (i.e., dorsiflexion and plantarflexion). The first reinforcing section 21 stretches in response to dorsiflexion, especially in the upward direction. This stretching leads to a concentration of strain energy in the first reinforcing section 21. The plantarflexion that follows dorsiflexion then releases the strain energy 21 concentrated in the first reinforcing section. The first reinforcing section 21 then returns to its unstretched state. This design, in particular, facilitates the return to its initial state of the Achilles tendon of the wearer's foot, which performs plantarflexion.Thus, the stretchable section 15 and the first reinforcement section 21 can adequately support, in particular, movements of the Achilles tendon of the wearer's foot.

[0101] The second reinforcing section 22 of the shoe 1 according to the second embodiment can, in particular, support the eversion of the wearer's ankle. In response to the eversion, the second reinforcing section 22 stretches, in particular, so that it is primarily curved in the upward direction. Due to the stretching, strain energy is concentrated in the second reinforcing section 22. By attempting to return the ankle to its initial state after the eversion, the strain energy concentrated in the second reinforcing section 22 can then be released. The second reinforcing section 22 then returns to its unstretched state. This design, in particular, facilitates the return to the initial state of the wearer's ankle, which is performing the eversion. Thus, the stretchable section 15 and the second reinforcing section 22 can, in particular, adequately support the eversion of the wearer's ankle.

[0102] The third reinforcing section 23 of the shoe 1 according to the second embodiment can, in particular, support the inversion of the wearer's ankle. In response to the inversion, the third reinforcing section 23 stretches, in particular, such that it curves primarily in the vertical direction. Due to this stretching, strain energy is concentrated in the third reinforcing section 23. By attempting to return the ankle to its initial state after the inversion, the strain energy concentrated in the third reinforcing section 23 can then be released. The third reinforcing section 23 then returns to its unstretched state. This design makes it easier for the wearer's ankle, which performs the inversion, to return to its initial state. Thus, the stretchable section 15 and the third reinforcing section 23 can, in particular, adequately support the inversion of the wearer's ankle.

[0103] The extendable section 15 is designed such that it extends in the circumferential direction from its unstretched state when the section corresponding to the first section 11a is in close contact with the ankle section of the wearer. This design allows the section of the extendable section 15 corresponding to the first section 11a to adapt to the ankle section of the wearer and be attached at a location corresponding to the ankle section. This design, in conjunction with the action of the anchor section 20, allows the extendable section 15 to be stably positioned on the relevant sections of the wearer's foot in the region of the wearer's ankle.

[0104] In the second embodiment of the shoe 1, the opening 13 can also be opened by the openable section 14 even when the section of the stretchable section 15 corresponding to the first section 11a is in close contact with the ankle section of the wearer, thus allowing the wearer to easily remove the shoe 1. Furthermore, by closing the opening 13 with the openable section 14, the section of the stretchable section 15 corresponding to the first section 11a can be easily brought into close contact with the ankle section of the wearer.

[0105] The longitudinal extension of the zipper mechanism runs along the medial side of the shoe upper body 11 from a section corresponding to the medial longitudinal arch of the wearer's foot, through a section in front of the section corresponding to the tibial malleolus MM, to the first section 11a. This prevents the zipper mechanism from coming into direct contact with the tibial malleolus MM of the wearer's foot. Therefore, even when the zipper mechanism is used as an openable section 14, it is less likely that the wearer will experience foot pain when operating the zipper mechanism. The zipper mechanism, located in a section where the range of motion of the wearer's ankle is relatively small, does not restrict the wearer's ankle during various movements.

[0106] In sports, for example during sprinting and jumping, a running and a starting movement are performed in which the sole 2 of the shoe 1 comes into contact with the ground, while a toe section of the wearer's foot is pointing downwards (i.e., in a position where the ankle joint is in plantar flexion). During such a running or starting movement, the ground contact area of ​​a section of the sole 2 of the shoe 1 corresponding to the calcaneus HL of the wearer's foot does not come into contact with the ground, or, if the ground contact area does come into contact with the ground, the area in contact with the ground is extremely small.In order to concentrate the stretching energy resulting from the dorsiflexion of the wearer's ankle more effectively in the extensible section 15 during such a running or starting movement, it is recommended that a plantarflexion state of the wearer's ankle be defined as the reference position.

[0107] Against this background, the stretchable section 15 of the shoe 1 according to the second embodiment has a section extending from the second section 11b to the first section 11a in a direction inclined relative to the vertical direction perpendicular to the reference surface S. This design allows the plantar flexion state of the wearer's ankle to be defined as the reference position. Thus, the tensile energy resulting from the dorsiflexion of the wearer's ankle can be concentrated more effectively in the stretchable section 15. Consequently, the shoe 1 according to the second embodiment enables the wearer to perform a running or starting movement suitable for the sprinting and jumping described above. [Third embodiment]

[0108] Fig. 13 and Fig. Figure 14 shows a shoe 1 according to a third embodiment of the present invention. The third embodiment differs from the second embodiment partly in the design of the shoe upper 10. The remaining design of the shoe 1 according to the third embodiment corresponds to that of the shoe 1 of the second embodiment. Therefore, the same elements as those described in Figure 1 are referred to as... Fig. Figures 8 to 12 are shown, the same reference symbols are used, and a detailed description of them is omitted.

[0109] How Fig. 13 and Fig. As shown in Figure 14, the entire outer surface of the shoe upper body 11 is provided with a first outer reinforcement section 31. The first outer reinforcement section 31 is, for example, made of polyurethane and applied to the outer surface of the shoe upper body 11 by impregnation or another method. The first outer reinforcement section 31 has a honeycomb structure comprising a multitude of seamlessly connected hexagonal sections.

[0110] The first outer reinforcement section 31 of the shoe 1 according to the third embodiment can increase the durability of the shoe upper body 11. The first outer reinforcement section 31 is arranged such that it has sections on the shoe upper body 11 (the stretchable section 15) that face the anchor section 20 and the first, second, and third reinforcement sections 21 to 23. This can further enhance the benefits of the anchor section 20 and the first, second, and third reinforcement sections 21 to 23 described in the second embodiment. [Fourth embodiment]

[0111] Fig. Figures 15 to 17 show a shoe 1 according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. The fourth embodiment differs from the second embodiment in the design of the shoe upper 10. The remaining design of the shoe 1 according to the fourth embodiment corresponds to that of the shoe 1 of the second embodiment. Therefore, the same elements are designated as those described in Figures 15 to 17. Fig. Figures 8 to 12 are shown, the same reference symbols are used, and a detailed description of them is omitted.

[0112] In the second embodiment, the stretchable section 15 forms a region of the shoe upper body 11 corresponding to the ankle. However, this embodiment is merely a non-limiting example. In other words, as in the third embodiment, the stretchable section 15 can be arranged throughout the entire shoe upper body 11, including the region corresponding to the ankle. The stretchable section 15 arranged in this way also provides a similar benefit to the stretchable section 15 described in the first embodiment. In the fourth embodiment, the shoe upper body 11 corresponds to the stretchable section 15. Unlike the second embodiment, this eliminates the need for the stretchable section 15. Fig. 15 to 17 a gridded area.

[0113] How Fig. Figure 17 shows that, according to the fourth embodiment, the inner side of the upper body 11 of the shoe 1 is provided with an inner reinforcing section 40. The inner reinforcing section 40 is, for example, made of polyurethane and is designed as a layer. The inner reinforcing section 40 is applied to the inner side of the upper body 11, for example, by impregnation. The inner reinforcing section 40 comprises a plurality of band-like sections that intersect each other in the longitudinal and vertical directions of the foot. The inner reinforcing section 40 can be designed not only as a layer, but also as a solid structure, foam, film, printed material, or other object.

[0114] The inner reinforcement section 40 can increase the durability of the shoe upper body 11. The inner reinforcement section 40 is arranged on the shoe upper body 11 (the stretchable section 15) such that it corresponds to sections facing the anchor section 20 and the first, second, and third reinforcement sections 21 to 23 of the first embodiment. Thus, similar benefits to those of the anchor section 20 and the first, second, and third reinforcement sections 21 to 23 described in the second embodiment can be achieved.

[0115] How Fig. 15 and Fig. As shown in Figure 16, the outer surface of the upper body 11 of the shoe 1, according to the fourth embodiment, is further provided with a second and a third outer reinforcement section 32 and 33. The second and third outer reinforcement sections 32 and 33 are, for example, made of polyurethane and designed as solid structures. The second and third outer reinforcement sections 32 and 33 are applied to the outer surface of the upper body 11, for example, by impregnation. The second outer reinforcement section 32 comprises a plurality of needle-like sections spaced apart from one another in the longitudinal direction of the foot. The third outer reinforcement section 33 is essentially ribbon-shaped and extends in the longitudinal direction of the foot. The second and third outer reinforcement sections 32 and 33 can be designed not only as solid structures but also as layers, foams, films, printed materials, or other materials.

[0116] The second and third outer reinforcement sections 32 and 33 can increase the durability of the shoe upper body 11. The second and third outer reinforcement sections 32 and 33 are arranged on the outside of the shoe upper body 11 (the stretchable section 15) such that they face the first, second, and third reinforcement sections 21 to 23 described in the second embodiment. This can further enhance the benefit of the inner reinforcement section 40. In particular, a suitable combination of the reinforcement sections, as in the shoe 1 according to the fourth embodiment, can support various movements of the wearer's ankle even more effectively. [Fifth embodiment]

[0117] Fig. 18 and Fig. Figure 19 shows a shoe 1 according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. The fifth embodiment differs from the second embodiment in the design of the shoe upper 10. The remaining design of the shoe 1 according to the fifth embodiment corresponds to that of the shoe 1 of the second embodiment. Therefore, the same elements are designated as those described in Figure 1. Fig. Figures 8 to 12 use the same reference numerals and omit a detailed description. The opening 13 and the openable section 14, described in the second embodiment, are not present in the shoe 1 according to the fifth embodiment.

[0118] How Fig. 18 and Fig. Figure 19 shows that a shoe upper 10 according to the fifth embodiment comprises a shoelace 50, an eyelet reinforcement 51 and support devices 52, 52, ...

[0119] The eyelet reinforcement 51 is provided on the outside of a shoe upper body 11. The eyelet reinforcement 51 is arranged on the front of a third section 11c of the shoe upper body 11. The eyelet reinforcement 51 has a plurality of holes for guiding the shoelace 50 through.

[0120] The support elements 52, 52, ... are provided on the outside of the shoe upper body 11. Each support element 52 extends upwards from a circumferential section of the sole 2. The support elements 52, 52, ... are spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the foot. Each support element 52, although not shown, is essentially ring-shaped when viewed from the front and allows the shoelace 50 to pass through it.

[0121] The shoelace 50 is designed to tighten the shoe upper body 11, being guided through the support elements 52 and the holes of the eyelet reinforcement 51. This design allows the shoe upper body 11 to be adapted to the shape of the wearer's foot, so that it conforms to the shape of the wearer's foot.

[0122] The anchor section 20 and the first, second and third reinforcement sections 21 to 23 of the shoe 1 according to the fifth embodiment are provided on the outside of the shoe upper body 11.

[0123] The anchor section 20 and the first, second, and third reinforcement sections 21 to 23 are connected to each other and formed as layers. The anchor section 20 and the first, second, and third reinforcement sections 21 to 23 can be formed as solid structures, foams, films, printed materials, or other objects.

[0124] The anchor section 20 and an upper section of the first reinforcement section 21 are not attached to the outside of the shoe upper body 11. A lower section of the first reinforcement section 21 is attached to the outside of the shoe upper body 11. The second and third reinforcement sections 22 and 23 are attached to the outside of the shoe upper body 11. The second reinforcement section 22, although not shown, has essentially the same design as the one shown in Fig. 18 and Fig. 19, the third reinforcement section 23 is shown.

[0125] The anchor section 20 of the fifth embodiment is essentially ribbon-shaped. At a point corresponding to the boundary between the anchor section 20 and the first reinforcement section 21 (see double-dash line in Fig. 18 and Fig. 19) the anchor section 20 has a rear end section which is connected to a front end section of the first reinforcement section 21.

[0126] The anchor section 20 is designed to be attachable to and detachable from the shoe upper body 11 (the stretchable section 15). In particular, a first engagement section 20a, which is a hook-and-loop fastener, is attached to a section of the shoe upper body 11 that includes the first section 11a. A second engagement section 20b, which is also a hook-and-loop fastener, is attached to the back of the anchor section 20.

[0127] The first and second engagement sections 20a and 20b, which engage with each other, enable the anchor section 20 to be attached to the shoe upper body 11 (the stretchable section 15) (see arrow in Fig. 19) A change in the point at which the first and second intervention sections 20a and 20b engage with each other allows for an adjustment of the tightening force of the anchor section 20 on the first section 11a of the shoe upper body 11.

[0128] As can be seen, the shoe 1 according to the fifth embodiment, like the shoe 1 according to the second embodiment, can stably fix the position of the stretchable section 15 to the sections by means of the anchor section 20, which correspond to the relevant sections of the foot of the wearer in the area of ​​the ankle of the wearer. [Sixth embodiment]

[0129] Fig. 20 and Fig. Figure 21 shows a shoe 1 according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention. The sixth embodiment differs from the second embodiment in that a further element is provided on the inside of the stretchable section 15. The remaining design of the shoe 1 according to the sixth embodiment corresponds to that of the shoe 1 of the second embodiment. Therefore, the same elements as those described in Figure 21 are referred to as: Fig. Figures 8 to 12 use the same reference numerals and omit a detailed description. The opening 13 and the openable section 14, described in the second embodiment, are not present in the shoe 1 according to the sixth embodiment.

[0130] How Fig. As shown in Figure 20, the inner side of the stretchable section 15 is provided with a heel extension section 60, which covers the heel HL of the wearer's foot and the area surrounding it from the sides (the medial and lateral sides) and from the back. Fig. Figure 21 shows that the heel extension section 60 projects rearward in a cross-section running along the longitudinal direction of the foot from a section corresponding to the rear of the heel HL of the foot of the wearer. Viewed in cross-section, the distance (thickness) from a surface of the heel extension section 60 facing the heel HL of the foot of the wearer to a surface facing the inside of the extendable section is, particularly preferably, 5 mm or more. More preferably, the distance is 10 mm or more.

[0131] By providing the heel extension section 60 on the inner side of the stretchable section 15, as described above, the length of the stretchable section 15 in the longitudinal direction of the wearer's foot is comparatively increased. This results in a comparatively larger total surface area on the inner side of the stretchable section 15 in the longitudinal direction of the foot compared to the stretchable section 15 without the heel extension section 60. In other words, the area in which the stretchable section 15 stretches in the longitudinal direction of the foot is comparatively large when the heel extension section 60 is included. Therefore, when the stretchable section 15 is deformed from its unstretched state to its stretched state, a large amount of strain energy is concentrated within the stretchable section 15.Thus, according to the sixth embodiment, the shoe 1 can increase the support properties of the stretchable section 15 to support the plantar flexion of the wearer's ankle joint.

[0132] This embodiment describes the shoe upper body 11 without a heel counter (not shown) for protecting the heel HL of the wearer's foot. If a heel counter is provided, the heel extension section 60 connected to the heel counter can be located on the inside of the stretchable section 15. [Other embodiments]

[0133] In the first embodiment described above, the sole 2 comprises the outsole 3 and the lug sections 4, 4, ... However, this embodiment is merely a non-limiting example. The lug sections 4, 4, ... can, for example, be omitted, and a midsole (not shown) can be arranged on the outsole 3. This also applies to embodiments two to six.

[0134] In the second embodiment described above, a zipper mechanism is used as the openable section 14. However, this embodiment is merely a non-limiting example. Instead of the zipper mechanism, for example, a shoelace (not shown) can also be used as the openable section 14. If a shoelace is used as the openable section 14, the shoelace can be arranged in a different location than the zipper mechanism described in the first embodiment.

[0135] In the second embodiment described above, the stretchable section 15 has a section that extends from the second section 11b to the first section 11a in a direction inclined backwards with respect to a vertical direction perpendicular to the reference surface S. However, this embodiment is merely a non-limiting example. If, for example, the shoe 1 according to the second embodiment is not used for sprinting or jumping as described above, the stretchable section 15 need not be configured as described in the second embodiment. In other words, the stretchable section 15 can have a section that extends from the second section 11b to the first section 11a in the vertical direction perpendicular to the reference surface S.

[0136] In the second embodiment described above, the anchor section 20 and the first, second, and third reinforcement sections 21 to 23 are formed as layers. However, this embodiment is merely a non-limiting example. The anchor section 20 and the first, second, and third reinforcement sections 21 to 23 can, for example, also be formed as solid structures, foams, films, printed materials, or other objects. This also applies to the third embodiment.

[0137] In the second embodiment described above, the anchor section 20 and the first, second, and third reinforcement sections 21 to 23 are separate from one another. However, this embodiment is merely a non-limiting example. In other words, the anchor section 20 and the first, second, and third reinforcement sections 21 to 23 can also be connected to one another. This also applies to the third embodiment.

[0138] The second embodiment describes the shoe upper body 11 without a heel counter to protect the heel HL of the wearer's foot. If a heel counter (not shown) is provided, the stretchable section 15 is preferably arranged so that it leaves out the area where the heel counter is provided.

[0139] Although not specifically described in embodiments one to six, a seam of the shoe upper body 11 can be arranged at a rear end section of the shoe upper body 11.

[0140] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above; rather, numerous changes and modifications are possible without deviating from the scope of the present invention. INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

[0141] The present invention is industrially applicable, for example, to sports shoes for running and for various sports, sneakers for everyday use and therapeutic shoes. REFERENCE MARK 1 shoe 2 soles 10 shoe shaft 11 Shoe upper body 11a first section 11b second section 11c third section 12 Ankle opening 13 Opening 14 openable section 15 stretchable section 16 non-stretchable section 17, 18 Reinforcement section 20 Anchor section 21 first reinforcement section 22 second reinforcement section 23 third reinforcement section 31 first outer reinforcement section 32 second outer reinforcement section 33 third outer reinforcement section 40 inner reinforcement section 50 shoelaces 51 Eyelet reinforcement 52 Support device 60 Heel Extension Section S Reference area MM tibial malleolus LM fibula TB Sprungbein HL calcaneus

Claims

[1] Shoe, encompassing: a sole (2); and a shoe upper (10), wherein the shoe upper (10) comprises a shoe upper body (11), wherein the shoe upper body (11) comprises the following: an ankle opening (12) through which a foot of a wearer of the shoe (1) can be inserted into the shoe (1); and a stretchable section (15) made of a stretchable material, wherein the ankle opening (12) is arranged, viewed from the side, above a section corresponding to an imaginary line forming an upper section of a calcaneus (HL) of the foot of the wearer and upper sections of a tibial malleolus (MM) and a fibular malleolus (LM) of a tibia and connects one fibula to the other, wherein the stretchable section (15) forms a region of the shoe upper body (11) which includes a section corresponding to a center point of the tibial malleolus (MM) and a center point of the fibula malleolus (LM) of the wearer's foot and a position of the ankle opening (12), and wherein the stretchable section (15) is designed such that it can be deformed from an unstretched state to a stretched state and elastically returns from the stretched state to the unstretched state. [2] Shoe according to claim 1, wherein the ankle opening (12) is arranged near an upper side of the section which corresponds to the imaginary line when viewed from the side. [3] Shoe according to claim 2, wherein the stretchable section (15) extends continuously from a section corresponding to the tibial malleolus (MM) of the wearer's foot, over a section corresponding to the back of a heel of the foot, to a section corresponding to the fibula malleolus (LM) of the foot. [4] Shoe according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the upper of the shoe (10) further comprises a reinforcement section (17, 18) which is provided on an outside and / or an inside of the stretchable section (15). [5] Shoe according to claim 1, wherein the shoe shaft (10) further comprises an anchor section (20) which is arranged at a location corresponding to a section of the wearer's foot, which includes an ankle section above the tibial malleolus (MM) and above the fibular malleolus (LM), wherein the shoe upper body (11) is designed to cover an area from a toe section of the wearer's foot to the ankle section, wherein the shoe upper body (11) comprises the following: a first section (11a) whose position corresponds to the ankle section of the wearer's foot; a second section (11b), the position of which corresponds to an upper ankle joint of the wearer's foot; and a third section (11c), the position of which corresponds to a Chopart joint of the wearer's foot, wherein the anchor section (20) is designed to align the first section of the shoe upper body (11) with the ankle section of the wearer, wherein the stretchable section (15) is arranged at a point on the shoe upper body (11) which includes an area corresponding to the calcaneus (HL) and talus (TB) of the wearer's foot, and an area corresponding to an ankle joint extending from the first section (11a) through the second section (11b) to the third section (11c), and the stretchable section (15) is deformed from the unstretched state to the stretched state and elastically returns from the stretched state to the unstretched state when the anchor section (20) aligns the first section (11a) of the shoe upper body (11) with the ankle section of the wearer. [6] Shoe according to claim 5, wherein the shoe upper (10) further comprises a first reinforcement section (21) which is provided on an outside and / or an inside of the stretchable section (15) and consists of a stretchable material, and the first reinforcement section (21) is located at a point on the shoe upper body (11) that lies below the first section (11a) and corresponds to an area behind the tibial malleolus (MM) and the fibula malleolus (LM) of the wearer's foot. [7] Shoe according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the shoe upper (10) further comprises a second reinforcement section (22) which is provided on an outside and / or an inside of the stretchable section (15) and consists of a stretchable material, and the second reinforcement section (22) is located on a medial side of the shoe upper body (11) at a point below the first section (11a) and corresponds to a section encompassing an area from the tibial malleolus (MM) and calcaneus (HL) to a Chopart joint of the wearer's foot. [8] Shoe according to one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the shoe upper (10) further comprises a third reinforcement section (23) which is provided on an outside and / or an inside of the stretchable section (15) and consists of a stretchable material, and the third reinforcement section (23) is located on a lateral side of the shoe upper body (11) at a point below the first section (11a) and corresponds to a section encompassing an area from the fibula (LM) and calcaneus (HL) to a Chopart joint of the wearer's foot. [9] Shoe according to any one of claims 5 to 8, wherein the extendable section (15) is essentially tubular and comprises a section corresponding to the first section (11a), wherein the circumference of the section corresponding to the first section (11a) is less than the circumference of the ankle section of the carrier, and the stretchable section (15) is designed such that it extends from the unstretched state in a circumferential direction when the section of the stretchable section (15) corresponding to the first section (11a) lies close to the ankle section of the wearer. [10] Shoe according to claim 9, wherein the shoe upper body (11) comprises: an ankle opening (12) which is formed as a section of the first section (11a), wherein the ankle opening (12) is open upwards from the second section (11b) to the first section (11a); an opening (13) connected with the ankle opening (12), which is formed in the manner of a straight cut in a part of the shoe upper body (11) and extends downwards from the first section (11a); and an openable section (14) designed to open or close the opening (13). [11] Shoe according to claim 10, wherein the openable section (14) is designed as a zipper which is arranged at a point on the shoe upper body (11) corresponding to a medial side of the wearer's foot, and a longitudinal extension of the zipper on the shoe upper body (11) from a section corresponding to a medial longitudinal arch of the wearer's foot, over a section in front of a section corresponding to the tibial malleolus (MM), to the first section (11a). [12] Shoe according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the stretchable section (15) has a section which extends from the second section (11b) to the first section (11a) in a direction which is inclined backwards with respect to a vertical direction perpendicular to the reference surface (S). [13] Shoe according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the stretchable section (15) is deformable from the unstretched state to the stretched state when the wearer's foot moves from a backward inclined position to an upright position. [14] Shoe according to any one of claims 5 to 13, wherein an inner side of the stretchable section (15) is provided with a heel extension section (60) that covers the heel of the wearer's foot and the area surrounding it from the sides and from behind, and the heel extension section (60) projects posteriorly in a cross-section extending along the longitudinal direction of the foot from a section corresponding to the back of the heel of the wearer's foot.

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