Footwear heel counter for easier entry and removal

Abstract

shoe (12), comprising a heel cap (32); wherein the heel cap (32) comprises a heel cup (52); wherein the heel cup (52) is formed with an upper section (64), a middle section (58) and a lower section (54); the upper section (64) has a shorter mediolateral length than the middle section (58); wherein the thickness of the heel cup (52) decreases from a peripheral section (70) of the heel cup (52) towards a central region of the middle section (58); wherein the central region of the middle section (58) provides flexibility of the heel cup (52), and wherein the rearmost section of the heel cup (52) has a vertical overall cross-sectional shape of an “S” wave.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED REGISTRATIONS

[0001] The present disclosure claims the benefits of the priority of the provisional US patent No. 63 / 256,521, which was filed on October 15, 2021. TECHNICAL AREA

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to a heel counter or a component of a heel counter of a shoe and in particular to a heel counter designed to facilitate the wearer's foot entering the shoe. BACKGROUND

[0003] When putting on footwear, e.g. sports shoes, the user often needs to use one or both hands or operate a shoehorn separate from the shoe to properly insert / into the foot and prevent the quarter from collapsing under the heel. BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE REVELATION

[0004] Aspects of this invention relate to a footwear article which has a structure that can deform to facilitate the insertion of the foot.

[0005] In one aspect of the invention, a heel cup can be uniformly formed with an upper section, a middle section, and a lower section, the upper section having a shorter mediolateral length than the middle section. The middle and lower sections can form a concave structure configured to receive the heel. The upper section of the heel cup has a first configuration in its initial state and is able to deform into a second configuration under the load of a user's foot when the user puts on the footwear.In the second configuration, at least part of the upper section is lowered compared to the first configuration, and the upper section is able to return to the first configuration after the user's foot pressure is removed. The middle section can have a peripheral section with a first thickness and a central section with a second thickness, the second thickness being less than the first.

[0006] In another aspect of the invention, the upper section of a heel cup has a first configuration in its original state and is able to deform into a second configuration under the load of a user's foot when the user puts on the footwear, and the heel cup is able to return to the first configuration after the load of the user's foot is removed. In the first configuration, the upper section has a downward incline with a first angle relative to a vertical line perpendicular to a horizontal surface of the floor, and the upper section in the second configuration has an incline with a second angle greater than the first angle.Additionally, in the second configuration, a lower region of a central section of the heel cup extends outwards in a direction away from the shoe opening, causing the shoe opening to widen along the mediolateral direction.

[0007] In another aspect of the invention, an upper part of a footwear comprises a U-shaped, foamed ankle collar, which is essentially tubular and forms the uppermost region of the shoe opening that receives the foot. The foamed ankle collar can extend at least partially around and over the foot opening and can be compressed by the user's heel when the foot is inserted. The ankle collar can exert pressure on the user's ankle once the foot is inserted into the footwear. The ankle collar can also have a flattened region along its length, forming a downward angle from the uppermost region toward (or toward) the front of the footwear article.

[0008] In another aspect of the invention, a heel counter support is arranged on the upper and above the sole structure. The heel counter support can have at least two hollow recesses with rearward angles. Additionally, each of the two hollow recesses receives one end of a compressible component. The compressible component has a first configuration in its initial state, and the compressible component is able to deform into a second configuration under the load of a user's foot when the user puts on the footwear, and is able to automatically return to the first configuration after the user's foot is fully inserted into the footwear. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] The following are selected embodiments and aspects of the present invention described by way of example only. Each description refers to a figure (“Fig.”) illustrating the described subject matter. Some of the figures shown in the drawings or photographs accompanying this description may apply to footwear intended for either the left or the right foot. Each figure includes one or more labels for one or more parts or elements of the invention.

[0010] Various embodiments are described with reference to the drawings, in which: Fig. 1 is a front view of a compressible heel cup. Fig. 2 a perspective view of the compressible heel cup made of Fig. 1 is. Fig. 3 a side view of the compressible heel cup made of Fig. 1 is. Fig. 4A and Fig. 4B each shows a side-by-side perspective front view of the compressible heel cup made of Fig. 1 in its compressed configuration (4A) or its uncompressed configuration (4B). Fig. 4C and Fig. 4D each shows a side-by-side top view of the compressible heel cup made of Fig. 1 in a shoe in its compressed configuration (4C) or its uncompressed configuration (4D). Fig. 5 is a front view of a heel cup designed to have a series of intersecting bars. Fig. 6A a schematic representation of a cross-section of arc lengths of the rearmost section of the heel cup Fig. 1 is. Fig. 6B a cross-sectional view of the heel cup made of Fig. 1 is, recorded on lines 6-6 in Fig. 1. Fig. Figure 7 shows a side view of a heel cap with a heel cup located inside the heel cap. Fig. 8 a top view of the heel cap Fig. 7 is. Fig. 9 a perspective view of the heel cap from Fig. 7 is. Fig. 10 a cross-sectional view of the heel cap made of Fig. 8 is, recorded on lines 10-10 in Fig. 8. Fig. 11 is a perspective view of a shoe with a heel counter that contains a rigid heel cup. Fig. 12 a side view of the shoe from Fig. 11 is. Fig. 13 a rear view of the shoe from Fig. 11 is. Fig. 14 is an underside view of a shoe tongue and an instep support. Fig. 15 is a perspective view of a shoe with a padded lining. Fig. 16 a side view of the padded lining made of Fig. 15 is. Fig. 17 a perspective view of the padded lining made of Fig. 15 is. Fig. 18 a top view of the padded lining made of Fig. 15 is. Fig. 19 a cross-sectional view of the padded lining made of Fig. 18 is, recorded on lines 19-19 in Fig. 18. Fig. 20A is a side view of a shoe with a heel counter support. Fig. Figure 20B is a perspective view of a shoe with a heel counter support. Fig. 20C a rear view of the shoe from Fig. 20A is. Fig. 21 a perspective view of the underside of the upper part of the shoe Fig. 20 is. Fig. Figure 22 is a perspective view of the sole and heel counter support of a shoe. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0011] A shoe can comprise a sole and an upper. The sole can include an outsole, a midsole, and / or an integrally molded outsole and midsole. The upper can include a toe box, a vamp, a tongue, a medial quarter, a lateral quarter, and a heel counter. The shoe comprises a forefoot section, a rear section, a medial side, and a lateral side. The upper can include an outer layer, inner layers or an internal structure, and / or an inner lining. The upper can form a shoe opening capable of accommodating a user's foot when the user puts on the shoe.

[0012] The heel counter or the rear portion of the upper may have one or more structures that facilitate easier insertion of the foot into the shoe opening. The structure(s) may also facilitate easier removal of the foot. The heel counter or the rear portion of the upper may also have a temporary widening when the user puts on or takes off the shoe. This widening of the shoe opening can be triggered by the user applying a load to the heel counter or the rear portion of the upper, which can be exerted by the user's foot with minimal or no assistance from the user's hands. In other embodiments of the invention, the heel counter may be compressible when subjected to a sufficient load and return to its uncompressed state. The lowering of the heel counter may also facilitate easier insertion of the user's foot.Once a foot is inserted into the shoe, the heel counter may have a compressible layer, e.g., a foam component, which secures or improves the security of the foot during normal wear of the shoe by the user.

[0013] Compressible heel cup. With reference to the embodiments of the Fig. 1-10 a heel cap 32 may comprise a compressible heel cup 52, which may be an inner component of the upper 16, a section of the inner lining 46 or an attachment adjacent to the inner lining 46 of the upper 16, such that the heel cup 52 comes into contact with the foot, or with a section of the outer layer 42 of the upper 16 or an attachment of an outer surface of the outer layer 42 of the upper 16.

[0014] In the exemplary embodiment of Fig. 1-4 The heel cup 52 has a shape essentially corresponding to a heel cover and exhibits a profile resembling a pear shape. Near the heel cup collar 84, the heel cup has a mediolateral width that is less than the mediolateral width of the lower section 54, as shown in Fig. Shown 1-2.

[0015] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the inner wall 66 of the upper section 64 of the heel cup can have a downward slope of 0 to 90 degrees relative to a vertical line 86 that runs perpendicular to the horizontal surface 88 of the floor at the rearmost section of the heel cup. In this exemplary embodiment, the upper section 66 can have a downward slope of 30 degrees. The inner wall 66 of the upper section 64 of the heel cup 52 can also have a convex curvature that points towards the shoe opening 48. The upper section of the convex curvature has a downward slope A1 of 30 degrees. The lower section of the convex curvature extends just over the section of the heel cup 52 that receives the heel.The lower portion of the convex curvature may have a lesser downward slope than the downward slope A1 and gradually decreases as it approaches a slope corresponding to the vertical line 86. The heel cup 52 has a concave curvature that surrounds the posterior portion of the heel. The medial and lateral sides of the heel cup 52 may also extend over part of the quarter and even to the instep, providing support for it.

[0016] The thickness of the heel cup 52 can be reduced at various points. The upper edge 88 can have a taper at the inner surface and the outer surface of the heel cup 52. The heel cup 52 can have a greater thickness T1 along the other circumferential edges, e.g., 2 to 3 mm. In another exemplary embodiment, the thickness T1 can be reduced in certain areas to give the heel cup 52 more flexibility when putting on and taking off the shoe 12. In one embodiment, the thickness T1 of the heel cup 52 can gradually decrease from a peripheral section 70, which forms an area at the periphery of the heel cup 52, towards the central section or central region 50 of the central section 58.The minimum thickness T1 in the central region 50 of the midsection 58 can be approximately, but not limited to, 1 / 4 to 1 / 6 of the thickness compared to the thickest sections at the periphery of the heel cup 52, e.g., 0.5 to 1 mm. The thickest region of the upper section can be greater than the thickest region of the lower section. The reduced thickness T1 of the central region of the midsection 58 can allow the heel cup 52 to compress under sufficient load. In an alternative embodiment, the thickness T1 can be reduced over the entire mediolateral section or in several regions, such as in regions of the midsection 58 and / or in regions of the upper section 64.The thinner regions may provide increased flexibility and bending of the heel cup 52, which provides the necessary compressibility under the load of a user's foot, e.g., when putting on a shoe 12. Such compression may allow the upper section 64 and / or the middle section 58 of the heel cup 52 to move posteriorly and widen the shoe opening 48 to facilitate entry of the foot. The heel cup 52 is able to deform from a first configuration in its original state to a second configuration under the load of a user's foot when the user puts on the shoe.For example, the heel cup 52 may be partially compressed so that the upper section 64 and / or the middle section 58 of the heel cup 52 are sufficiently lowered to allow the user's foot to be inserted. See, for example, [reference]. Fig. 9. Once the user's foot is inserted into the shoe 12, the heel cup 52 can return to its uncompressed configuration.

[0017] Continuing with this embodiment, when a user puts on the shoe 12, the upper portion of the convex curvature of the heel cup 52 or the uppermost segment of the heel counter 32 of the shoe 12 can be lowered and extend backwards away from the foot, as the heel counter 32 is compressed, as shown in Fig. 4A shown. In this way, the user's foot can be inserted into the shoe opening 48 with a lesser degree of plantar flexion. During compression of the heel cup 52, sections of the heel cup 52 can move forward toward the forefoot section. The deformation of the heel cup 52 can involve the widening of the attached heel counter 32, with the medial and lateral sides of the heel cup moving outward and thereby widening the shoe opening. The mediolateral widening of the shoe opening 48 allows for easier entry, e.g., easier insertion of the forefoot section of the user's foot. In one exemplary embodiment, the shoe opening can widen from 7.5 cm by up to 4 cm, or about 50%. See Fig. 4C and Fig. 4D. Depending on the shoe size and the flexibility of the heel cup, the widening may be less or more pronounced. For some shoes, the desired widening may be less or more pronounced, depending on the need for security and use.

[0018] In an exemplary embodiment of the heel cup 52, as in Fig. As shown in Figures 1-4, the thickness T1 of a heel cup 52, which is made of a polymer material such as DuPont Hytrel, can range from 0.4 millimeters to 4 millimeters. The thickness T1 of the heel cup can be thinner or thicker in different regions, depending on the desired elastic and durable properties of the material. For example, the central region can be thinner than the surrounding regions, and in particular, a central section can be thinner, as shown in Figure 1-4. Fig. Shown in Figure 6B. The central section may be spaced away from the medial and lateral edges, with the peripheral edges being thicker. Other suitable materials may be other thermoplastic elastomers or other polymers capable of providing the compressible / compression properties of the heel cup.

[0019] In another exemplary embodiment, the heel cup can be designed to have a series of intersecting beams forming an egg-crate-like configuration. Fig. Figure 5 shows an exemplary embodiment with beams in a diagonal configuration. In an alternative embodiment, the beams can also be arranged in a vertical and lateral configuration. The openings between the beams can be approximately the same size. The beams can be uniform in their dimensions or vary in thickness and width. Thinner or narrower beams can be used to improve flexibility and compressibility at certain points, while thicker or wider beams provide varying degrees of rigid support. For example, the beams in the central section can be thinner, particularly in the central portion of the middle section furthest from the edges. The surrounding beams can be thicker than the central section. The central section can allow greater flexibility to deform under a load.

[0020] In an exemplary embodiment, the rearmost section of the heel cup 52 can have an overall vertical cross-sectional shape that approximately resembles an S-wave, as shown in a cross-sectional diagram of Fig. 6A is shown. The upper and lower sections of the S-wave can be distinguished at point P1 by a horizontal plane, i.e., the midline 90, which runs between the upper and lower arc ends of the S-wave and intersects the heel cap 52 and the inflection point of the S-wave. The amplitude (Au) and width (Wu) of the arc of the upper section of the S-wave can differ from the amplitude (A) L ) and width (W L ) of the lower arc of the lower section of the S-wave. In the exemplary embodiment, Wu is approximately 0.44 times W. L Au is approximately 1 / 3 of A L In one possible embodiment, Wu is approximately 2 centimeters and W Lapproximately 4.5 centimeters. The Au is approximately 3 millimeters and the A L Approximately 9 millimeters. The S-configuration is advantageous both in terms of A U / A L as well as regarding W U / W L in the cross-sections in the areas extending from the cross-section of the heel cup 52 of the rearmost section, and can consist only of the lower section arc along the medial and lateral sides of the heel cup 52. The measurements on the rearmost section of the heel cup 52 of the exemplary embodiment are to be understood as exemplary.

[0021] The central region of the heel cup's midsection can have a single opening or multiple openings. Just as the central region can be constructed with less material than the maximum thickness of the collar and / or the maximum thickness of the base, it can also be made of a more flexible material than the material forming its periphery. The resulting effects of a single opening, multiple openings, reduced thickness, and / or greater flexibility in the central region can facilitate the user's entry and exit from the shoe.

[0022] Further referring to the exemplary embodiment, the heel cup 52 can also be attached to at least one inner foam layer 92, as shown in Fig. 10 shown. The heel cup 52 can be located inside the heel cap 32 of the upper 16, as shown in Fig. Figures 8-10 illustrate the foam layer 92. It can line both the inner wall 66 and the outer wall of the heel cup 52. Around the upper and middle sections, the foam layer 92 can protrude and extend further into the shoe opening 48. The foam layer 92 can be thicker at or near the upper section 64 and the middle section 58 of the heel cup 52, thereby forming part of the cuff of the shoe opening 48. The thicker foam layer 92 can provide support for the user's foot once it is inserted into the shoe 12, as the foam is positioned over the calcaneus bone region of the user's foot and extends at least around portions of the ankle region.Because the foam is compressible, it can be compressed by the heel during insertion or removal of the foot, and will hold the ankle of the user's foot once the foot is inserted.

[0023] Rigid heel cup. In an exemplary embodiment, a shoe 12 can have a heel cup 32 located on the rear section 36 of a shoe upper 16, as shown in the Fig. shown in Figures 11-13. The heel cup 32 can include a heel cup 52, which can be an inner component of the upper 16, a section of the inner lining 46, or an attachment next to the inner lining 46 of the upper 16, such that the heel cup 52 touches the foot, or a section of the outer layer 42 of the upper 16, or an attachment of an outer surface of the outer layer 42 of the upper 16.

[0024] The heel cup can have a lower section forming a heel cup designed to accommodate the heel of the foot. The lower section of the heel cup can also have lateral extensions on both the medial and lateral sides. The heel cup can have a central section located above the lower section of the heel cup, which curves inward over the calcaneus, or it can consist of an opening. The heel cup can have an opening at the rear. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the heel cup can be a rigid heel cup made of a material that is essentially non-compressible under the load of the foot.

[0025] At least one opening can be incorporated into the central section of the rigid heel cup to improve the fit of the shoe around the base of the heel. The upper layers of material covering the opening can include an elastic material, allowing the material to stretch around or along the contours of the heel. The tension created by the elastic material when stretched can improve foot support during normal use of the shoe.

[0026] The upper section of the heel cup may have a gentle curve extending downwards from its upper edge towards the shoe opening 48. The inner wall of the upper section has an overall downward slope extending from the curved upper edge towards the interior of the upper 16. The inner wall of the upper section may have dimensions similar to a shoehorn, so that the smooth curve and the angle of the downward slope of the upper section allow the heel of the foot to slide into the shoe 12 with greater ease. The heel cup may be made of a rigid material that does not compress significantly under the weight of the user's foot.In an alternative embodiment, the heel cup may have some flexibility, so that the upper section of the heel cup has a slight flexibility sufficient to bend downwards and away from the shoe opening and / or to widen / expand the shoe opening 48 to facilitate the insertion and / or removal of the foot.

[0027] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 11, the upper edge 72 of the heel cup 32 can also form a resilient support structure for the posterior heel collar 74. When the heel cup 52 is incorporated into the upper 16, a woven material (or materials) or a suitable material (or materials) known in the art can be used to cover the heel cup 52, thereby forming the outer layer 42 and the inner layers or structures 44 of the upper. The woven material can extend over the heel cup 52, thereby forming an extension of the heel collar 74.

[0028] As the inner, compressible layer of the upper part 16 of the Fig. 11 Foam or any prior art known inner lining material(s) can be used. The foam material 76 can be bonded to the inner surface of the heel cup 52 to provide cushioning against the rigid material of the heel cup. The thickness of the foam can be uniform or vary at specific locations, depending on the desired cushioning or support of the foot. In an exemplary embodiment, thicker foam material can be located on the inner wall 66 of the upper section 64 and extend at least over a section along the mediolateral length of the inner wall 66. The foam material can be configured to bulge around at least a section of the ankle above the heel when the shoe 12 is worn, similar to that described in Fig. The foam configuration shown in Figure 10 is shown. In this embodiment, the user's foot can compress the foam material when the foot is inserted. Following insertion, the foam can expand back to its uncompressed state or partially expand, thereby improving the security of the foot in the shoe 12. A thinner foam can be used to line the other sections of the heel cup 52.

[0029] The rigid heel cup 52 can be used in combination with a shoe upper 16 that has at least one elastic region 78 located on the sides of the upper between the heel cup 52 and the front portion of the foot-receiving shoe opening 48. The elastic region 78 can comprise one or more elastic materials that allow the rear portion of the heel cup 32 to be temporarily moved back to expand / widen the foot-receiving shoe opening 48, thus facilitating the insertion of the foot into the shoe 12. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 11, the elastic material can be a wedge-shaped part 80 configured to be attached in a gap in the upper, for example, in the form of a gusset on the medial quarter or the lateral quarter, or both. The elastic material can be located at any distance between the heel cup 52 and the upper section, which is located at the quarters 30 or the flap 24, or possibly a tongue. The elastic material can also be configured as a series of elastic strips or webbing extending between the heel cup 52 and the medial and lateral sides of the flap 24, or possibly a tongue.

[0030] Instep support. In some embodiments, an instep support can be used to help prevent, in some cases, the instep of the user's foot from pulling part of the instep or tongue into the throat area when the user puts on the shoe.

[0031] In some embodiments with a tongue 126, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 14, the medial side of the upper section 132 of the tongue 126 is attached to the first or proximal end of a medial elastic band 128, and the lateral side of the upper section 132 of the tongue 126 is attached to the first or proximal end of a lateral elastic band 130. The anterior lower section of the tongue is directly connected to the upper. Each of the medial and lateral elastic bands can be attached directly to the inner lining of the upper at its second or distal ends. In an alternative embodiment, the elastic bands can each pass through an opening in the inner lining of the medial quarter and / or the lateral quarter, respectively. The second end of each of the medial and lateral elastic bands can each terminate at the sole, the insole, or a region within the inner lining of the upper.The elastic bands serve to maintain the general positioning of the tongue when the user puts on the shoe.

[0032] In other embodiments, each of the medial and lateral sides of the tongue edge, or an upper section of the tongue, is attached to the inner lining of the upper of the medial and lateral quarters by a gusset, which may be made of elastic material. The gusset may similarly serve to maintain the general positioning of the tongue when the user puts on the shoe. In another embodiment of the tongue, at least one section of the medial and lateral edges of the tongue may be directly attached or sewn to the inner section of the upper and tongue. Furthermore, the tongue may be extended wider than a conventional tongue along the mediolateral direction in the upper section, and the edges or a section of the extended / expanded portion may be attached or sewn to the inner section of the upper.

[0033] In other embodiments, an instep or tongue support, which may be made of a flat material with greater hardness than the tissue of the instep or tongue, can be attached to the outer surface of the tongue or embedded between an outer tongue layer and an inner tongue layer facing the shoe opening. The instep or tongue support can reduce or prevent the instep or tongue from collapsing during foot placement. In one embodiment, Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 14, the tongue support 134 can be a stiffer material, such as a thermoplastic polymer configured to be stiffer than the tongue. In some embodiments, the instep or tongue support can have a thickness of 0.2 mm to 1 mm. The instep support can be coextensive with the instep or tongue, or it can extend beyond the medial or lateral side of the instep or tongue. In the embodiment shown in Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 14, the tongue support 134 can be narrower and shorter than the instep or the tongue.

[0034] In one embodiment, a reinforcing quarter element can extend from the heel counter to the instep or to the eyelet strip. If a gusset, such as the gusset 80 in Fig. 11-12, incorporated, a reinforcing quarter element may extend from the heel cup 52 along the front lower edge of the gusset and around the top edge of the collar to the instep, to a region near the vamp 24, or to an eyelet strip next to the tongue. A reinforcing quarter element may be stiffer than the upper or quarter material. The material of the reinforcing quarter element may be leather, plastic, or a strong woven fabric. The reinforcing quarter element may be attached to the upper by gluing or sewing. The reinforcing quarter element may be designed as an elongated shape, such as a strip extending along the front lower edge of the gusset and collar section. The reinforcing quarter element may be on the outer surface or be an inner layer of the upper, such asA layer embedded in the upper or along a section of the upper's inner lining. A reinforcing quarter element can provide greater stability to the shoe's opening, resisting the quarters and instep area from collapsing or moving inward into the shoe's opening when the foot is inserted and the heel cup pushes backward.

[0035] When the reinforcing quarter element is used in combination with an eyelet last layer in lace-up shoes, the eyelet last can provide additional structural support, resisting sagging of the quarters and instep or inward movement into the shoe's opening. Therefore, when a foot pushes against the heel cup and the gusset stretches backward, the reinforcing quarter element is not pulled significantly backward. Consequently, the shoe opening can be wider when the foot is inserted and the heel cup is pushed backward.

[0036] Compressible lining. In some embodiments, the inner surface of the heel counter and heel / ankle collar may have a section with a compressible layer, such as a foam layer. The compressible layer may extend into the shoe opening. The compressible layer is compressed under load when the shoe is put on and taken off. After the foot is inserted into the shoe, the foam layer may expand fully or partially back to its uncompressed state, and this expansion may improve the securing of the foot within the shoe.

[0037] In an exemplary embodiment, the compressible layer 100 is embedded at least in a section of the ankle collar 140 and the upper region of the heel counter 32. See Fig. 15-19. The compressible layer 100 extends into the opening of the shoe. As the shoe is put on, the foot exerts pressure on the compressible layer, causing the opening of the shoe to widen by temporarily compressing the compressible layer. After the foot is inserted into the shoe, the compressible layer partially or completely expands back to its original shape. The expansion of the compressible layer causes the foam to expand around the foot, which can improve comfort and foot security. In some embodiments, the compressible layer extends over and / or around the calcaneus (heel bone) of the user's foot and around at least portions of the ankle region of the foot.

[0038] The compressible layer can be made of a foam material such as EVA or polyurethane foam. The shape of the compressible layer can be pre-formed by shaping the material and attaching the compressible layer between at least two layers of textile material. The shape of the compressible layer can have at least a partially rounded outer surface that extends into the opening of the shoe and / or the ankle collar of the shoe. The volume of the compressible layer can be larger in the rear section of the heel counter and taper along the longitudinal direction of the inner section of the foam layer on both sides of the shoe, as shown in [reference to illustration]. Fig. Figures 17-18 show that the compressible layer may also taper or be rounded along the vertical axis, and that the compressible layer is larger in / at the upper part of the ankle collar 140 and smaller in / at the lower part of the ankle collar 140. Fig. 18-19. The compressible layer can be used to form the entire heel cup without the need for an additional heel cup or heel counter. Alternatively, the compressible layer can be used in combination with a compressible heel cup, as shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the heel cup can be used. The heel cup can define an outer surface of the upper, the heel cup can define an inner surface of the upper, or the heel cup can define an inner layer, for example, if it is embedded in the compressible layer.

[0039] In the exemplary embodiment, a lower flange 118 can extend downwards from the ankle collar and is designed to be attached to the upper part. The lower flange can be configured in any dimensions necessary to attach the ankle collar to the upper part. The lower flange can also vary in length. In some embodiments, the lower flange can define the portion of the ankle collar that is attached to the upper part without extending downwards from the ankle collar at all. In other embodiments, the lower flange can extend partially or completely to the underside of the upper part. In some embodiments, the lower flange can be designed to form the heel cup. In other embodiments, a heel cup, as shown in Fig. 1 shown, may be partially or completely embedded in the lower flange.

[0040] The compressible layer 100 can be covered with any type of textile. The textile can be elastic and have wicking properties. The textile can be adapted to the outer shape of the compressible layer. In a preferred embodiment, an adhesive, e.g., a thermoplastic-based adhesive, is applied to the compressible layer, after which the compressible layer is inserted into an elastic textile sheath. The resulting product can also be attached by other means, such as adhesive or seams, according to the desired pattern of the ankle collar 140. The textile can also contain thermoplastic material, and after the compressible layer 100 has been inserted into the textile sheath, heat can be applied to fuse the textile to the compressible layer 100.In a preferred embodiment, steam can be applied to allow the textile to conform to the pre-shaped form that constitutes a section of the ankle collar and / or heel cap.

[0041] In the exemplary embodiment, the ankle collar 140 is furthermore free of stitches or seams on its upper section and may have a seam on the bottom section where it is attached to the upper 16. The seamless ankle collar 140 may extend from the medial quarter around the heel to the lateral quarter. When the user's foot is inserted into the footwear, the user's heel presses the compressible layer 100 against the heel cup. The heel cup can preserve the structural integrity of a section of the heel region of the upper 16, preventing it from collapsing when the user's heel presses against the compressible layer 100, thus allowing the user's foot to be more easily inserted into the shoe without the use of the user's hands or an external shoehorn.Once the user's heel is fully inserted into the shoe, the compressible layer can rebound and exert force against the back of the user's heel above the calcaneus and around sections of the ankle region, which can help provide comfort and secure the user's foot in the shoe.

[0042] In the exemplary embodiment, the cross-section of the seamless upper section of the ankle collar 140 is essentially circular. The ankle collar 140 can be divided into an anterior section 142 and a posterior section 144. Both the anterior and posterior sections resemble an approximately circular cross-section 22 or a semicircular cross-section, with the radius of the anterior section being larger than the radius of the posterior section. See Fig. 18-19. The compressible layer can be attached directly to the inner structure of the heel counter or over the textile sheath covering the material of the compressible layer.

[0043] Compressible heel counter with heel counter support. In another exemplary embodiment, the heel counter support 96 can partially form an outer layer of the shoe and extend around the heel section of the upper 16 from the medial quarter of the shoe to the lateral quarter of the shoe, as shown in the Fig. Figures 20-22 show this. In other embodiments, the heel counter support can extend further along a section of the quarter, along the entire quarter, or along the entire quarter and into the vamp section of the shoe. The heel counter support 96 can vary in height in different regions of the shoe. In the exemplary embodiment, the height of the medial and lateral ends of the heel counter support 96 gradually decreases to the base of the upper 16 just above the sole 14. The heel counter support 96 can have a medial region with a maximum height on the medial side of the heel section of the upper and with a maximum height on the lateral side of the heel section of the upper. The heel counter support 96 extends over at least a portion of the height of the upper 16.In the exemplary embodiment, the height of the medial and lateral sides of the heel section 98 of the upper 16 is approximately 5 cm above the lasting surface 116, and the maximum height of the heel cup support 96 on the medial and lateral sides of the heel section is approximately 3 cm above the lasting surface 116. The height of the heel cup support 96 can gradually decrease from the region of its maximum height to a region of approximately uniform height along the posterior side of the heel section 98 of the upper 16. In the exemplary embodiment, the height along the heel section 98 of the upper 16 extends to approximately 3 cm above the lasting surface 116, and the approximately uniform height of the section forming the posterior portion of the heel cup support 96 is approximately 2 cm above the lasting surface 116.

[0044] The heel cup support 96 can partially form an outer surface of the upper part 16. The heel cup support 96 can have an inner surface that is in contact with an outer surface of the heel section 98 of the upper part 16. The heel cup support 96 can have a varying thickness between its outer surface and its inner surface. In the exemplary embodiment, angled strips 102 form sections of increased thickness in the heel cup support 96. The angled strips 102 can provide increased stiffness to the heel cup support 96 and can be designed to accommodate the compressible component 100.

[0045] In the exemplary embodiments, the angled strips 102 have hollow projections on the medial and lateral sides of the shoe 12 in which the ends of the compressible component 100 are secured. The compressible component 100 can be a tube, with each end of the tube secured in the hollow projections 102. A hollow projection of the angled strips 102 can extend partially or completely around the surfaces of the compressible component 100. In the exemplary embodiment, the compressible component 100 can be made of polyoxymethylene or another material with similar durability and sufficient stiffness to bear the load of a foot, and flexibility to bend from the medial to the lateral sides of the heel portion of the shoe 12.The central segment 104 of the compressible component 100 can extend behind the ankle opening and above the heel counter of the shoe 12. In the exemplary embodiment, the angled strips 102 can be designed to receive the compressible component 100 at an angle such that the compressible component 100 extends from the interior of the hollowed-out projections 102 with a rearward inclination A2 toward the rear of the shoe 12. The rearward inclination A2 of the compressible component 100 is approximately 45 degrees with respect to a flat surface of the base 88. See Figure 1. Fig.20A. A foam layer 92, extending above the rear heel section 98 of the upper 16 at the rear of the heel opening, may have a posterior slope A2 that is coextensive with the compressible component 100. The posterior slope A2 of the foam layer 92 may help guide the user's foot into the shoe 12 when putting on the shoe.

[0046] The central segment 104 of the compressible component 100 can extend behind the rearmost section of the upper 16 and can be threaded through one or more guide tunnels 106 in the upper 16. In the exemplary embodiment, strips of leather material are sewn to the foam layer 92 and extend above the upper at the rear section of the heel opening. The ends of the leather strip are sewn together to form guide tunnels 106 through which the compressible component is threaded.

[0047] When putting on the shoe 12, the user's foot can push the compressible component 100 and / or the backward-sloping foam layer 92 downwards and backwards from the shoe opening. Once the user's foot is fully inside the shoe 12, the compressible component 100 and the backward-sloping foam layer 92 return to their original, raised positions.

[0048] The additional inner heel support 114, made of foam material, can be thick enough to improve the securing of the foot to the Achilles tendon, and once the user puts on the shoe 12, the calcaneus can be positioned below the additional inner heel support 114. The inner heel support 114 can also be tall enough to be positioned above the calcaneus once the foot is inserted into the shoe.

[0049] Further referring to the exemplary embodiment, the shoe can also have a heel cup 52 made of a flexible material, designed to accommodate the rear portion of the heel. In one embodiment, the heel cup is a thermoplastic material that provides sufficient support as a heel counter. The inner heel support 114 can be a foam lining to provide the user's heel with the necessary comfort.

[0050] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to certain embodiments, it should be understood that changes and variations can be made to the sole construction without departing from the intended scope of the invention. Set of summary clauses (original English "Consistory Set of Clauses") 1. A footwear item, comprising: an upper and a sole structure; wherein the upper defines a shoe opening to receive a foot; a heel cup attached to the upper and extending from the sole structure to at least a section of the rear heel collar of the upper; wherein the heel cup is uniformly shaped with an upper section, a middle section and a lower section, the upper section having a smaller mediolateral length than the middle section and the middle section and the lower section forming a concave structure designed to receive the heel; wherein the upper section has a first configuration; wherein the upper section is able to deform into a second configuration under the load of a user's foot when the user puts on the footwear; wherein in the second configuration at least part of the upper section is lowered compared to the first configuration; wherein the upper section is able to return to the first configuration after the load on the user's foot has been removed; where the middle section defines a peripheral section and a central section; wherein the peripheral section has a first thickness; and the central section has a second thickness; where the second thickness is less than the first thickness. 2. The footwear article according to clause 1, wherein the first thickness gradually decreases to the second thickness in a direction extending from the peripheral section to the central section. 3. The footwear article according to clause 1, wherein at least one section of the upper section and one section of the lower section have a thickness approximately equal to or greater than the first thickness. 4. The footwear article according to clause 1, wherein a lower region of the central section extends outwards in a direction away from the shoe opening, causing the shoe opening to widen along the mediolateral direction. 5. The footwear article according to clause 1, wherein the upper section in the first configuration has a downward slope with a first angle relative to a vertical line perpendicular to a horizontal surface of the floor, and wherein the upper section in the second configuration has a slope with a second angle, and wherein the second angle is greater than the first angle. 6. The footwear article according to clause 1, wherein in the second configuration an upper region of the central section of the middle section is closer to the front of the footwear article than in the first configuration. 7. The footwear article according to clause 1, wherein in the second configuration the peripheral portion of the middle section extends outwards along the mediolateral width of the footwear article to a greater extent than in the first configuration. 8. The footwear article according to clause 1, wherein the second thickness is at least 1 / 6 of the first thickness. 9. The footwear article according to clause 1, wherein the first thickness is not more than 3.07 mm and the second thickness is at least 0.5 mm. 10. The footwear article according to clause 1, wherein an elastic element is located between the heel cup and a front section of the shoe opening that receives the foot. 11. The footwear article according to clause 1, further comprising a tongue, wherein a support element is attached to the tongue and the support element prevents deformation of the tongue when the user puts on the footwear article. 12. The footwear article according to clause 11, wherein the support element is a connecting piece that joins a section of the tongue to the upper part. 13. The footwear article according to clause 11, wherein the support element is a rigid element that is at least partially coextensive with / extends with the tongue. 14. The footwear article according to clause 1, wherein a foam component is located on at least one inner surface of the upper and middle sections of the heel cup; wherein the foam component is compressed by the user's heel during insertion of the foot; and wherein the foam component is able to exert pressure on the user's ankle once the foot is inserted. 15. The footwear article according to clause 14, wherein the foam component extends from both sides of the upper section of the heel cup along at least one section of the inner surface of the upper to form side parts of the foam component. 16. The footwear article according to clause 15, wherein the foam component tapers at the side sections. 17. The footwear article according to clause 16, wherein the rear section of the foam component curves inwards and tapers vertically downwards along a concave structure of the heel cup. 18. A footwear item, comprising: an upper and a sole structure; wherein the upper defines a shoe opening to receive a foot; a heel cup which is attached to the upper and extends from the sole structure to at least a section of the rear heel collar of the upper; wherein the heel cup is uniformly shaped with an upper section, a middle section and a lower section, the upper section having a smaller mediolateral length than the middle section, and the middle and lower sections forming a concave structure configured to enclose the heel; wherein the upper section has a first configuration; wherein the upper section is able to deform into a second configuration under the load of a user's foot when the user puts on the footwear; wherein the upper section is able to return to its initial configuration after the user's foot load has been removed; and wherein The upper section in the first configuration has a downward slope with a first angle relative to a vertical line that runs perpendicular to a horizontal surface of the ground; the upper section in the second configuration has a slope with a second angle; and the second angle is greater than the first angle; and a lower region of the central section extends outwards in a direction away from the shoe opening, causing the shoe opening to widen along the mediolateral direction. 19. The footwear article according to clause 18, wherein the middle section defines a peripheral section and a central section, the peripheral section having a first thickness and the central section having a second thickness; wherein the second thickness is less than the first thickness of the heel cup. 20. The upper part of a footwear item, comprising: a shoe opening to accommodate a foot; a U-shaped, foamed ankle collar that is essentially tubular; wherein the ankle collar forms the uppermost region of the shoe opening that receives the foot; wherein the foamed ankle collar extends at least partially around and over the shoe opening that receives the foot; wherein the ankle collar is able to be compressed by the user's heel during foot insertion, and wherein the ankle collar can exert pressure on the user's ankle once the foot is inserted; and wherein the ankle collar has a flattened region along its length, forming a downward angle from the uppermost region to the front of the footwear article. 21. The upper part according to clause 20, wherein the lower section of the ankle collar has a fastening part which is attached to the upper part. 22. The upper part according to clause 20, wherein the ankle collar has no stitches or seams on an upper section of the ankle collar. 23. The upper part according to clause 20, wherein the cross-sectional shape of the ankle collar has a first section and a second section; wherein the first section is approximately a semicircle with a first radius; wherein the second section is approximately a semicircle with a second radius; and wherein the first radius is larger than the second radius. 24. The upper according to clause 20, further comprising a heel cup; wherein the heel cup has a first configuration; wherein the heel cup is able to deform into a second configuration under the load of a user's foot when the user puts on the footwear; wherein the heel cup is able to automatically return to the first configuration after a user's foot is fully inserted into the footwear; and wherein the ankle collar is positioned above the heel cup. 25. The upper part of a footwear item, comprising: a shoe opening to accommodate a foot; a U-shaped, foamed ankle collar that is essentially tubular; wherein the ankle collar forms the uppermost region of the shoe opening that receives the foot; wherein the foamed ankle collar extends at least partially around and over the shoe opening that receives the foot; and wherein the ankle collar is able to be compressed by the heel of a user during the insertion of a foot, and wherein the ankle collar can exert pressure on the user's ankle once the foot is inserted; wherein the ankle collar has a flattened region along its length, forming a downward angle from the uppermost region to the front of the footwear article. 26. The upper part according to clause 25, wherein the lower section of the ankle collar has a fastening part which is attached to the upper part. 27. The upper part according to clause 25, wherein the ankle collar has no stitches or seams on an upper section of the ankle collar. 28. The upper part according to clause 25, wherein the cross-sectional shape of the ankle collar has a first section and a second section; wherein the first section is approximately a semicircle with a first radius; wherein the second section is approximately a semicircle with a second radius; and wherein the first radius is larger than the second radius. 29. The upper according to clause 25, further comprising a heel cup; wherein the heel cup has a first configuration; wherein the heel cup is able to deform into a second configuration under the load of a user's foot when the user puts on the footwear; wherein the heel cup is able to automatically return to the first configuration after a user's foot is fully inserted into the footwear; and wherein the ankle collar is positioned above the heel cup. 30. The upper according to clause 25, wherein the heel cup defines a peripheral section and a central section; wherein the peripheral section has a first thickness; wherein the first thickness defines the maximum thickness of the heel cup; wherein the central section has a second thickness; wherein the second thickness defines the minimum thickness of the heel cup; and wherein the first thickness gradually decreases to the second thickness in a direction extending from the peripheral section to the central section. 31. A footwear item, comprising: an upper and a sole structure wherein the upper part defines a shoe opening to accommodate a foot; a heel counter support located on the upper and above the sole structure; wherein the heel counter support has at least two hollow recesses with rearward angles; a compressible component which includes two ends; wherein each of the two hollow recordings captures one end of the compressible component; where the compressible component has an initial configuration; wherein the compressible component is able to deform into a second configuration under the load of a user's foot when the user puts on the footwear; and the compressible component is able to automatically return to the initial configuration after a user's foot has been fully inserted into the footwear. 32. The footwear article according to clause 31, wherein the heel counter support defines an outer layer of the upper. 33. The footwear article according to clause 31, wherein the compressible component is cylindrical. 34. The footwear article according to clause 31, wherein the compressible component extends from the medial quarter above the shoe opening receiving the foot to the lateral quarter. 35. The footwear article according to clause 31, wherein the compressible component extends through a tunnel attached to the upper part. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] US 63 / 256,521

[0001]

Claims

[1] Shoe (12) comprising a heel cap (32); wherein the heel cap (32) comprises a heel cup (52); wherein the heel cup (52) is formed with an upper section (64), a middle section (58) and a lower section (54); the upper section (64) has a shorter mediolateral length than the middle section (58); wherein the thickness of the heel cup (52) decreases from a peripheral section (70) of the heel cup (52) towards a central region of the middle section (58); wherein the central region of the middle section (58) provides flexibility of the heel cup (52), and wherein the rearmost section of the heel cup (52) has a vertical overall cross-sectional shape of an “S” wave. [2] Shoe according to claim 1, wherein the heel cup (52) is a compressible heel cup (52). [3] Shoe according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the heel cup (52) is uniformly shaped with the upper section (64), the middle section (58) and the lower section (54). [4] Shoe according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the central region of the middle section (58) additionally provides a flexibility of the heel cup (52). [5] Shoe according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the upper section (64) of the heel cup (52) has a first configuration and wherein the upper section (64) is configured to deform into a second configuration under a load on a user's foot when the user puts on the shoe, wherein in the second configuration at least a part of the upper section (64) is lowered relative to the first configuration and wherein the upper section (64) is configured to return to the first configuration after the load on the user's foot is removed. [6] Shoe according to claim 5, wherein the deformation of the heel cup (52) into the second configuration comprises widening the heel cap (32), in which medial and lateral sides of the heel cup (52) move outwards and thereby widen an opening of the shoe. [7] Shoe according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the peripheral section (70) forms a region at a periphery of the heel cup (52). [8] Shoe according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the middle section (58) comprises the peripheral section (70) which has a first thickness and a central section which has a second thickness, wherein the second thickness is less than the first thickness. [9] Shoe according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the middle section (58) and the lower section (54) form a concave structure configured to accommodate a heel. [10] Shoe according to one of the preceding claims, wherein an inner wall (66) of the upper section (64) of the heel cup (52) has a convex curvature which faces a shoe opening (48). [11] Shoe according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the heel cup (52) is attached to at least an inner foam layer (92). [12] Shoe according to claim 11, wherein the inner foam layer (92) protrudes and extends into the shoe opening (48) around the upper section (64) and the middle section (58) of the heel cup (52). [13] Shoe according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the inner foam layer (92) forms part of a cuff of the shoe opening (48). [14] Shoe according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the thickness of the heel cup (52) gradually decreases from a peripheral section (70) of the heel cup (52) towards the central region of the middle section (58). [15] Shoe (12) comprising a heel cap (32); wherein the heel cap (32) comprises a heel cup (52); wherein the heel cup (52) is formed with an upper section (64), a middle section (58) and a lower section (54); the upper section (64) has a shorter mediolateral length than the middle section (58); wherein a central region of the heel cup (52) is thinner than the surrounding regions of the heel cup (52), and wherein the rearmost section of the heel cup (52) has a vertical overall cross-sectional shape of an “S” wave. [16] Shoe according to claim 15, wherein the heel cup (52) is a compressible heel cup (52). [17] Shoe according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the heel cup (52) is uniformly shaped with the upper section (64), the middle section (58) and the lower section (54).

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