sole for a cycling shoe

Abstract

Sole (10, 110) for a cycling shoe (12, 112), which includes: a midsole (34, 134); a sole (38, 138) which includes: a ground contact surface (38a, 138a) designed to be in contact with a ground; and a projecting surface (38c, 138c) defining a recess (68, 168) above the ground when the ground contact surface (38a, 138a) is in contact with the ground, wherein the projecting surface (38c, 138c) has a vertex (78, 178), an intermediate element (36, 136) that is stiffer than both the midsole (34, 134) and the outsole (38, 138); and wherein the intermediate element (36, 136) is arranged in an assembled state of the bicycle shoe (12, 112) in a longitudinal direction (L) of the bicycle shoe (12, 112) between a toe end (12c, 112c) of the bicycle shoe (12, 112) and the vertex (78, 178).

Description

[0001] This disclosure relates generally to a sole for a cycling shoe. More specifically, the present invention relates to a sole for a cycling shoe which has an intermediate element that is stiffer than both a midsole and an outsole.

[0002] Generally, most cycling shoes have an upper and a sole. The upper is stitched or glued to the sole to form an inner foot pocket that securely holds the foot. The upper is typically made of one or more flexible materials, such as woven fabric, leather, and / or synthetic leather, which are stitched or glued together. The upper may also include rigid reinforcements if needed and / or desired. The upper defines an ankle opening for inserting and removing the wearer's foot from the inner foot pocket. Additionally, the upper includes lacing or another closure mechanism that tightens the shoe around the wearer's foot to hold it more securely within the inner foot pocket.The sole can consist of a single layer of a suitable material or be made of several layers of different materials. Some cycling shoes are equipped with a cleat nut for attaching a cleat to the bottom of the shoe.

[0003] In general, the present invention relates to various features of a sole for a bicycle shoe, wherein the sole can be adapted to control a power transmission from the bicycle shoe to the pedal in a state in which a rider is riding a bicycle.

[0004] Taking into account the prior art and according to a first aspect of the present invention, a sole for a cycling shoe is provided, comprising essentially a midsole, an outsole, and an intermediate element. The outsole comprises a ground contact surface and a projecting surface. The ground contact surface is designed to be in contact with the ground. The projecting surface defines a recess above the ground when the ground contact surface is in contact with the ground. The projecting surface has an apex. The intermediate element is stiffer than the midsole and the outsole. In an assembled state of the cycling shoe, the intermediate element is arranged longitudinally in the cycling shoe between a toe end of the cycling shoe and the apex.

[0005] With the sole for a cycling shoe according to the first aspect, it is possible to ensure power transmission from the cycling shoe to a pedal and to improve cushioning when walking.

[0006] According to a second aspect of the present invention, the sole for a cycling shoe according to the first aspect is designed such that the intermediate element is a plastic shaft. With the sole for a cycling shoe according to the second aspect, it is possible to provide a rigid structure that can transmit power from the cycling shoe to a pedal.

[0007] According to a third aspect of the present invention, the sole for a cycling shoe according to the first or second aspect is designed such that the intermediate element has a laminated structure. With the sole for a cycling shoe according to the third aspect, it is possible to provide a rigid structure that can transmit power from the cycling shoe to a pedal.

[0008] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the sole for a cycling shoe according to one of the preceding aspects is designed such that the projecting surface extends from the midfoot to the heel of the cycling shoe when the shoe is assembled. The sole for a cycling shoe according to the fourth aspect makes it possible to improve the cushioning properties of the sole when walking.

[0009] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the sole for a cycling shoe according to one of the preceding aspects is designed such that the intermediate element, in the assembled state of the cycling shoe, extends from the forefoot of the cycling shoe to the midfoot of the cycling shoe. With the sole for a cycling shoe according to the fifth aspect, it is possible to provide precise positioning of the intermediate element in order to provide power transmission from the cycling shoe to the pedal.

[0010] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the sole of a cycling shoe according to one of the preceding aspects is designed such that the projecting surface forms an ascending convex shape from a footplate area of ​​the cycling shoe to the heel of the cycling shoe. With the sole of a cycling shoe according to the sixth aspect, it is possible to provide a structure that exhibits increased cushioning while walking.

[0011] According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the sole for a cycling shoe according to one of the preceding aspects is designed such that the projecting surface slopes downwards in the longitudinal direction from the center of the heel of the cycling shoe to the heel end of the cycling shoe. With the sole for a cycling shoe according to the seventh aspect, it is possible to provide a precise structure that enables cushioning while walking.

[0012] According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, the sole for a cycling shoe according to one of the preceding aspects is designed such that a rear end of the intermediate element is adjacent to the apex of the projecting surface. With the sole for a cycling shoe according to the eighth aspect, it is possible, using the intermediate element, to provide a structure that enables power transmission from the cycling shoe to a pedal during cycling while simultaneously offering sufficient and improved cushioning when walking.

[0013] According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, the sole for a cycling shoe according to one of the preceding aspects is designed such that the midsole includes a foam material and the foam material is arranged over the projecting surface in the assembled state of the cycling shoe. With the sole for a cycling shoe according to the ninth aspect, it is possible to provide an additional cushioning structure for comfort.

[0014] According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, the sole for a cycling shoe according to one of the preceding aspects is designed such that the thickness of the intermediate element decreases in the longitudinal direction from the midfoot to the heel of the cycling shoe. With the sole for a cycling shoe according to the tenth aspect, it is possible to provide the correct stiffness of the intermediate element for power transmission to the pedal of a bicycle while simultaneously maintaining adequate cushioning of the shoe when walking.

[0015] According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, the sole for a cycling shoe according to one of the preceding aspects is designed such that the recess extends longitudinally from a pedaling area of ​​the cycling shoe to the heel of the cycling shoe. With the sole for a cycling shoe according to the eleventh aspect, it is possible to provide a shoe structure that offers improved cushioning while walking.

[0016] According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, the sole for a cycling shoe according to one of the preceding aspects is designed such that the intermediate element at the midfoot has a thickness that is between approximately 33% and 50% of the length from the toe end of the cycling shoe to the heel end of the cycling shoe. With the sole for a cycling shoe according to the twelfth aspect, it is possible to provide a more precise structure for the shoe in order to achieve improved cushioning while walking.

[0017] According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the sole for a cycling shoe according to one of the preceding aspects is designed such that the projecting surface includes a section that extends 65% or more in a rearward direction along a length from the toe end of the cycling shoe to the heel end, and that the section is located directly beneath the midsole and has a constant thickness of approximately 1.5 mm. With the sole for a cycling shoe according to the thirteenth aspect, it is possible to provide a more precise structure for the shoe in order to achieve improved cushioning while walking.

[0018] According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, the sole for a cycling shoe according to one of the preceding aspects is designed such that the outsole includes an opening and a cleat is arranged within the opening, the cleat being designed to be coupled to a bicycle pedal. With the sole for a cycling shoe according to the fourteenth aspect, it is possible to provide a click mechanism so that the shoe can be attached to the bicycle pedal.

[0019] According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, the sole for a cycling shoe according to one of the preceding aspects is designed such that the intermediate element includes an opening and the cleat is arranged within the opening in the intermediate element. With the sole for a cycling shoe according to the fifteenth aspect, it is possible to provide a click mechanism that allows the shoe to be attached to the bicycle pedal.

[0020] According to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, the sole for a cycling shoe according to any of the first to twelfth, fourteenth, and fifteenth aspects is designed such that the projecting surface includes a section that extends 50% or more in a rearward direction along a length from the toe end of the cycling shoe to the heel end, wherein the section is located directly under the intermediate element in at least a portion of the midfoot and a portion of the heel, and the section of the projecting surface has a constant thickness of approximately 1.5 mm. With the sole for a cycling shoe according to the sixteenth aspect, it is possible to provide a more precise structure for the shoe in order to achieve improved cushioning while walking.

[0021] According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, a cycling shoe is provided comprising an upper and a sole for a cycling shoe according to one of the previous aspects.

[0022] With the cycling shoe according to the seventeenth aspect, it is possible to provide a cycling shoe which, using the intermediate element, allows power transmission from the cycling shoe to a pedal while cycling, and at the same time provides sufficient and improved cushioning when walking.

[0023] Further tasks, features, aspects and advantages of the disclosed sole for a bicycle shoe will become apparent to the person skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, discloses preferred embodiments of the sole for a bicycle shoe.

[0024] With reference to the accompanying drawings, which form part of this original disclosure, illustrative embodiments are shown, wherein: Fig. 1 shows a side view of a bicycle shoe which includes a sole, according to one embodiment; Fig. 2. A view of the underside of the sole of a cycling shoe, which is in Fig. 1 is shown; Fig. 3 is a bottom view of the sole of a cycling shoe, which is in Fig. 1 is shown with the top material removed; Fig. 4 is a side view of the sole of a cycling shoe, which is in Fig. 2 is shown with the top material removed; Fig. 5 is an exploded view of the sole of a cycling shoe, which is in Fig. 2 is shown with the top material removed; Fig. 6 is a top view of the sole of a cycling shoe, which is in Fig. 2 is shown with the midsole removed; Fig. Figure 7 shows a perspective view of the sole of a cycling shoe, which is shown in Fig. 2 is shown with the outsole removed; Fig. Figure 8 is a perspective view of the underside of the sole of a cycling shoe, which is shown in Fig. 7 is shown, with the intermediate element removed; Fig. 9 a sectional view along lines 9-9 in Fig. 3 is; Fig. 10 a sectional view along lines 10-10 in Fig. 9 is; Fig. 11 a sectional view along lines 11-11 in Fig. 3 is; Fig. 12 a cross-sectional view similar to that in Fig. 11 with a groove in the midsole for the intermediate element; Fig. 13 A bottom view of the sole for a cycling shoe, which is in Fig. 1 is shown according to a second embodiment; Fig. 14 is a bottom view of the sole for a cycling shoe, which is in Fig. 13 is shown; Fig. Figure 15 is an exploded view of the sole of a cycling shoe, which is shown in Fig. 13 is shown; Fig. Figure 16 is a perspective top view of the sole of a cycling shoe, which is shown in Fig. 13 is shown, with the midsole removed; Fig. 17 a perspective view of the underside of the in Fig. 13 shown is the sole for a cycling shoe, with the outsole removed; Fig. 18 a cross-sectional view along lines 18-18 in Fig. 14 is; and Fig. 19 a cross-sectional view along lines 19-19 in Fig. 18.

[0025] Selected embodiments will now be explained with reference to the drawings. Those skilled in the art of shoemaking will recognize from this disclosure that the following descriptions of the embodiments serve only for illustration and not to limit the invention as defined by the attached claims and their equivalents.

[0026] With reference to the Fig. Figures 1 to 5 depict a sole 10 for a shoe 12 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The shoe 12 is the left shoe of a pair of left-right symmetrical shoes, with the right shoe omitted. The right shoe is identical to the shoe 12 (the left shoe), except that the right shoe is a mirror image of the shoe 12 (the left shoe). Accordingly, the description of the shoe 12 applies equally to the right shoe. Therefore, only one of the shoes (the left shoe 12) is described. The shoe 12 is particularly suitable for cycling or other human-powered pedal vehicles. However, the shoe 12 can also be used for activities other than cycling and pedaling human-powered vehicles.

[0027] It is clear from the drawings and the description in this application that the terms "inside" and "inside" refer to the right side of a shoe for the left foot and the left side of a shoe for the right foot, respectively. In other words, the inside or the inside is the side of the shoe facing the shoe on the wearer's other foot. Similarly, the terms "outside" and "outside" refer to the left side of the shoe for the left foot and the right side of the shoe for the right foot, respectively. The outside or outside is the side of the shoe facing away from the shoe on the other foot. Likewise, the terms "inside" and "inside" are used synonymously with regard to the present invention. Likewise, the terms "outside" and "outside" are used synonymously with regard to the description of the present invention.The term "outer instep" refers to the left side of the shoe in the instep area for the left foot and the right side of the shoe in the instep area for the right foot. Similarly, the term "inner instep" refers to the right side of the shoe in the instep area for the left foot and the left side of the shoe in the instep area for the right foot.

[0028] Basically, the shoe 12 comprises the sole 10 and an upper 14. In other words, the shoe 12 comprises the sole 10 and also the upper 14, which is coupled to the sole 10. The shoe 12 comprises a first lateral (outer) side 12a, a second lateral (inner) side 12b, a toe end 12c, and a heel end 12d. The sole 10 supports the upper 14. In particular, the sole 10 is attached to the upper 14. For example, the sole 10 can be firmly attached to the upper 14 in a conventional manner, such as by sewing, gluing, and / or embedding sections of the upper 14 into the sole 14. Thus, the upper 14 and the sole 10 are connected to each other. In the illustrated embodiment, the sole 10 is particularly useful for cycling. Therefore, if required and / or desired, the shoe 12 can alternatively include a shoe plate attachment structure (shoe plate nut 30) for attaching a shoe plate C.The shoe plate nut 30 and the shoe plate C are described in more detail below.

[0029] Here, Upper 14 is a low-cut upper. However, Upper 14 is not limited to the low-cut style and can be any style. Upper 14 is made of suitable natural or polymeric materials. Upper 14 can be made of a stretchable or non-stretchable material. For example, Upper 14 can be made of leather, nylon fabric, and / or another material used for conventional uppers. Alternatively, Upper 14 can be made of a stretchable material or fabric that can stretch and elastically return to its original, unstretched state.For example, the stretchable material may consist partly of elastic fibers such as Lycra, Spandex or Elastane and / or be a knitted fabric that stretches due to a series of interlocking loops formed during the manufacture of the upper material 14.

[0030] As in the Fig. As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the upper material 14 includes a foot opening 16 formed between the first lateral side 12a and the second lateral side 12b. The upper material 14 also includes a tongue 18 between the first lateral side 12a and the second lateral side 12b. Furthermore, the upper material 14 includes a fastening structure 20 (for example, a shoelace 20a) for securing the shoe 12 to the wearer's foot. Additionally, the fastening structure 20 can include at least one strap tensioner and at least one shoe strap 20b extending between the first lateral side 12a and the second lateral side 12b. The strap 20b can include one or more fastening straps with a hook-and-loop fastener using fabric hook-and-loop materials.Since fastening structures for attaching a shoe to a wearer's foot are conventional and well-known structures, a detailed description of these fastening structures is omitted for the sake of brevity. As the present invention is applicable to a wide variety of different shoe models, designs, and configurations, the illustrated embodiment shows a basic shoe design consisting of several textile materials sewn or stitched together to form the shape shown. However, the present invention is not limited to the shape shown, as will be evident from the following description of the present invention.

[0031] The sole 10 comprises a forefoot or toe section 22, a tread area 24, a midfoot 26, and a heel 28. The bones of the human foot can be broadly divided into three groups: the toes, the metatarsal bones, and the tarsal bones. In the description of the sole 10, the terms "forefoot or toe section" and "tread area" refer to the portion of the sole that supports the toe and metatarsal bones of the human foot, while the terms "midfoot" and "heel" refer to the portion of the sole that supports the tarsal bones. The tarsal bones are divided into three groups: proximal, middle, and distal. The proximal group includes the tarsal bones, which include the talus and the calcaneus. The middle group includes the navicular bone. The distal group includes the cuboid and the three cuneiform bones.The term "midfoot" here refers to the section or part of the sole that supports the navicular, cuboid, and cuneiform bones of a person's foot, while the term "heel" here refers to the section or part of the sole that supports the talus and calcaneus bones of a person's foot. The "heel" can also be referred to as the hindfoot.

[0032] As in the Fig. 2, Fig. 3 and Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the sole 10 has a plate nut 30 for a plate C. The plate C is attached to the plate nut 30 of the sole 10 by fasteners F. Here, the plate nut 30 includes a plurality of plate openings 32. More precisely, in the illustrated embodiment, the plate nut 30 includes two plate openings 32. The plate openings 32 are preferably threaded sections designed to receive the fasteners F for attaching the plate C to the shoe 12. The plate openings 32 are generally arranged such that the positions of the fasteners F are in a laterally adjacent configuration. As shown in Figure 5, the plate openings 32 are arranged such that the positions of the fasteners F are in a laterally adjacent configuration. Fig. As can be seen in Figure 5, the cleat nut 30 is arranged within the upper material 14 and overlaps a surface of the sole 10 in the tread area 24 of the sole 10. The cleat nut 30 is positioned such that the threaded cleat openings 32 of the cleat nut 30 are accessible through the sole 10, as explained in more detail below. In this way, the cleat C is attached to the cleat nut 30 of the sole 10 by screwing the fasteners F into the cleat openings 32 of the cleat nut 30.

[0033] As in the Fig. As shown in Figures 5 to 11, the sole 10 consists of at least three layers. In particular, the sole 10 essentially comprises a midsole (a first layer) 34, an intermediate element (a second layer) 36, and an outsole (third layer) 38. The midsole 34, the intermediate element 36, and the outsole 38 are each a single, integrated element. The midsole 34, the intermediate element 36, and the outsole 38 are integrated together as a unit. Generally, the intermediate element 36 is stiffer than the midsole 34 and / or the outsole 38. Preferably, the intermediate element 36 is a rigid element that does not deform, or does not deform significantly, under normal use. On the other hand, the midsole 34 is preferably made of a deformable material that can bend. The outsole 38 is also preferably made of a deformable material that can bend.Preferably, the material of the outsole 38 is a different material than the material of the midsole 34.

[0034] In the illustrated embodiments, the midsole 34 comprises a foam material. Preferably, the foam material comprises an ethylene-vinyl acetate foam. Alternatively, the foam material comprises a polyurethane foam. Because the midsole 34 is made of a foam material, it can flex when walking. The midsole 34 can be manufactured by molding. The midsole 34 is a cushioning layer of the sole 10. Preferably, the midsole 34 is compressible. For example, the midsole 34 can be compressed between the wearer's foot and the ground when the sole 10 impacts the ground during walking or running. The midsole 34 has a first surface 34a and a second surface 34b, which faces in the opposite direction to the first surface 34a. Here, the first surface 34a is a top surface and the second surface 34b is a bottom surface.The second surface 34b is provided with a recess 34c for receiving the intermediate element 36.

[0035] The midsole 34 includes a forefoot or toe section 40, a striking area 42, a midfoot 44, and a heel 46. The forefoot or toe section 40 corresponds to the forefoot or toe section 22 of the shoe 12. The striking area 42 corresponds to the striking area 24 of the shoe 12. The midfoot 44 corresponds to the midfoot 26 of the shoe 12. The heel 46 corresponds to the heel 28 of the shoe 12. The midsole 34 includes a space 48. The space 48 is formed by the recess 34c. The recess 34c generally extends from the forefoot or toe part 40 of the midsole 34 to the heel 46 of the midsole 34. While the recess 34c does not necessarily extend over the entire length of the midsole 34, it does extend over a substantial part of its length. The space 48 is dimensioned such that the intermediate element 36 and part of the outsole 38 can be arranged within the recess 34c.Thus, the depth of the space 48 at the heel 46 is greater than at the forefoot or toe part 40.

[0036] As in the Fig. 8 and Fig. As shown in Figure 9, the recess 34c extends in a longitudinal direction L from the forefoot or toe section 40 of the midsole 34 to the heel 46 of the midsole 34. The recess 34c has a length L1 and a width W1. The width W1 of the forefoot or toe section 40 is wider in the lateral direction WD than the tread area 42. The forefoot or toe section 40 and the tread area 42 are wider in the lateral direction WD than the midfoot 44. The midfoot 44 is wider in the lateral direction WD than the heel 46. That is, the thickness (in the lateral direction WD) of the recess 34c decreases in the longitudinal direction L from the midfoot 44 to the heel 46 of the midsole 34. The height of the forefoot or toe area 40 is less than that of the tread area 42. The height of the forefoot or toe area 40 and the tread area 42 is less than that of the midfoot 44. The height of the midfoot 44 is less than that of the heel 46.This means that the height (in the vertical direction H) of the recess 34c increases in the longitudinal direction L from the forefoot or toe part 40 to the heel 46 of the midsole 34. As in . Fig. As shown in Figure 9, the height of the recess 34c is greatest at the heel 46. The recess 34c then curves downwards in the longitudinal direction L towards the heel end 12d of the shoe 12.

[0037] In the illustrated embodiments, the intermediate element 36 is a shaft made of plastic. Preferably, the plastic material comprises a polyamide material. Preferably, the plastic material also comprises a fiber material. The fiber material comprises, for example, a plurality of carbon fibers. Alternatively, the fiber material comprises, for example, a plurality of glass fibers. In other words, the material of the intermediate element 36 can be a fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) (for example, carbon fibers, glass fibers, etc.). Furthermore, the intermediate element 36 can have a laminated structure.

[0038] Due to the rigid design of the intermediate element 36, it does not deform (for example, it does not bend) when the sole 10 is bent, for example, when walking, jogging, running, etc. It should be noted that in some embodiments the intermediate element 36 may be somewhat flexible and bend; however, the intermediate element 36 is not as flexible as the midsole 34 and / or the outsole 38. The intermediate element 36 can be manufactured by molding. The intermediate element 36 has a first surface 36a and a second surface 36b, which faces in the opposite direction to the first surface 36a. Here, the first surface 36a is a top surface and the second surface 36b is a bottom surface.

[0039] The intermediate element 36 has a forefoot or toe section 50, a tread area 52, a midfoot 54, and a heel 56. The forefoot or toe section 50 corresponds to the forefoot or toe section 22 of the shoe 12. The tread area 52 corresponds to the tread area 24 of the shoe 12. The midfoot 54 corresponds to the midfoot 26 of the shoe 12. The heel 56 corresponds to the heel 28 of the shoe 12. The intermediate element 36 has a length L in the longitudinal direction, which extends between the forefoot section 50 and the midfoot 54. The intermediate element 36 has a width W2 perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L. The forefoot section 50 is wider in the lateral direction WD than the tread area 52. The forefoot section 50 and the tread area 52 are wider in the lateral direction WD than the midfoot 54. The midfoot 54 is wider in the lateral direction WD than the heel 56.This means that the thickness (in width W2) of the intermediate element 36 decreases in the longitudinal direction L from the midfoot 54 to the heel 56 of the bicycle shoe 12. In one embodiment, the intermediate element 36 has a thickness at the midfoot 54 that is between approximately 33% and 50% of the length from the toe end 12c of the bicycle shoe 12 to the heel end 12d of the bicycle shoe 12.

[0040] The intermediate element 36 is shorter in the longitudinal direction L than the midsole 34. Furthermore, the intermediate element 36 is shorter than the recess 34c in the midsole 34. The midfoot 52 of the intermediate element 36 is designed to be at least partially accommodated in the space 48 defined by the recess 34c.

[0041] The intermediate element 36 incorporates a ribbed or grid-like structure 36c on its first surface 36a. The grid structure 36c comprises a multitude of raised sections 36d to form the grid structure 36c. The raised sections 36d of the grid structure 36c form a series of generally rectangular openings or recessed areas 36e. This grid structure 36c allows the intermediate element 36 to maintain a rigid structure and provide a lightweight element. As can be seen, the grid structure 36c offers a predetermined thickness with a predetermined stiffness.

[0042] Preferably, the intermediate element 36 includes at least one first opening 58 arranged on the tread area 52. Preferably, the intermediate element 36 also includes at least one second opening 58 adjacent to the at least one first opening 58. In this case, the intermediate element 36 includes a plurality of openings 58 arranged on the tread area 52. The first opening 58 and the second opening 58 can be slots extending in the longitudinal direction L. The first and second openings 58 are arranged in a rectangular recessed area 59. The rectangular recessed area 59 can be an opening arranged on the first surface 36a of the intermediate element 36 and can be a receiving area for the shoe plate nut 30. Thus, the recessed area 59 can be dimensioned and configured to receive the shoe plate nut 30.As can be seen, when the shoe plate nut 30 is arranged in the rectangular recessed area 59, the first and second openings 58 can be arranged and designed such that the shoe plate nut 30 is accessible through them. The shoe plate nut 30 allows the shoe plate C to be attached to it using the fasteners F. Thus, the intermediate element 36 includes an opening 59, and a shoe plate C is arranged within the opening 59 in the intermediate element 36. The intermediate element 36 can be made of any suitable material. For example, the intermediate element 36 can be made of polyamide resin, carbon fiber reinforced plastic, glass fiber reinforced plastic, polyurethane, polyethylene, or any combination thereof.

[0043] The outsole 38 preferably comprises a rubber material. The rubber material of the outsole 38 can be natural rubber, synthetic rubber, or a mixture of natural and synthetic rubber. Here, the outsole 38 comprises an elastic polymer material such as synthetic rubber or polyurethane (for example, a thermoplastic polyurethane). The outsole 38 can be manufactured by injection molding. The outsole 38 has a ground contact surface 38a. The ground contact surface 38a preferably includes a profile to provide traction to the sole 10 during use. The outsole 38 has an attachment surface 38b, which is attached to the midsole 34 and the intermediate element 36 as described below.

[0044] The outsole 38 includes a forefoot or toe section 60, a tread area 62, a midfoot 64, and a heel 66. The forefoot or toe section 60 corresponds to the forefoot or toe section 22 of the shoe 12. The tread area 62 corresponds to the tread area 24 of the shoe 12. The midfoot 64 corresponds to the midfoot 26 of the shoe 12. The heel 66 corresponds to the heel 28 of the shoe 12.

[0045] The outsole 38 also includes a projecting surface 38c that defines a recess 68 above the ground when the ground contact surface 38a is in contact with the ground. The projecting surface 38c is arranged on or is part of a plate section 38d of the ground contact surface 38a. As can be understood, the plate section 38d can be a relatively thin rubber plate that is part of or connected to the outsole 38. In one embodiment, the plate section 38d is molded simultaneously and is an integral part of the outsole 38.

[0046] In one embodiment, the plate section 38d corresponds to the projecting surface 38c. In the assembled state of the bicycle shoe 12, the projecting surface 38c extends from the midfoot 26 of the bicycle shoe 12 to the heel 28 of the bicycle shoe 12. In one embodiment, the projecting surface 38c includes a section 38c1 that extends 65% or more in a rearward direction along a length from the toe end 12c of the bicycle shoe 12 to the heel end 12d of the bicycle shoe 12, and the section 38c1 is located directly beneath the midsole 34 and has a constant thickness of approximately 1.5 mm. That is, the section 38c1 of the outsole can have a relatively constant thickness of approximately 1.5 mm.

[0047] In one embodiment, the projecting surface 38c includes the section 38c1, which is arranged for 50% or more in a rearward direction of a length from the toe end 12c of the bicycle shoe 12 to the heel end 12d of the bicycle shoe 12, wherein the section 38c1 is arranged directly below the intermediate element 36 in at least a part of the midfoot 26 and a part of the heel 28, and the section 38c1 of the intermediate element 36 is arranged in at least a part of the midfoot 26 and a part of the heel 28, and the section 38c1 of the projecting surface 38c has a constant thickness of about 1.5 mm.

[0048] As in the Fig. 6 and Fig. As shown in Figure 9, the projecting surface 38c is formed by a raised section 70 in the outsole 38, which extends upward and longitudinally backward with respect to the shoe 12. The raised section 70 thus forms the recess 68 in the outsole 38 of the sole 10 of the shoe 12. The projecting surface 38c has a generally curved or arcuate configuration, with the ground contact surface 38a limiting the projecting surface 38c (and the recess 68) on the left and right sides 72 and 74, and on the rear 76 of the projecting surface 38c. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the recess 68 extends in the longitudinal direction L from the tread area 24 of the bicycle shoe 12 to the heel 28 of the bicycle shoe 12. In particular, the projecting surface 38c extends in the longitudinal direction L from the tread area 24 of the shoe 12 to a center 28a of the heel 28 of the shoe 12. In one embodiment, the outsole 38 has a rear padded section 28b that surrounds the projecting surface 38c to increase the cushioning effect of the shoe 12.

[0049] Since the projecting surface 38c can have a curved or arc-shaped configuration, the projecting surface 38c has a vertex 78, as shown in Fig. Figure 9 shows the apex 78 being located in the heel 28 of the shoe 12 and extending in a longitudinally posterior direction relative to the intermediate element 36. The apex 78 can be positioned such that it generally extends in the lateral direction WD of the shoe 12. The projecting surface 38c has a first section 80 extending from the midfoot 26 of the shoe 12 and posteriorly in an upward direction to the apex 78. The projecting surface 38c has a second section 82 extending posteriorly in a downward direction to the heel end 12d. That is, the projecting surface 38c slopes in the longitudinal direction L from a center 28a of the heel 28 of the bicycle shoe 12 to the heel end 12d of the bicycle shoe 12. The second section 82 has a steeper slope than the first section 80.In one embodiment, the protruding surface 38c forms an ascending convex shape from the footbed 24 of the bicycle shoe 12 to the heel 28 of the bicycle shoe 12.

[0050] In the illustrated embodiments, the midsole 34, the intermediate element 36 and the outsole 38 are connected to each other as an integrated unit, which is attached to the upper material 14. Thus, the sole 10 for a bicycle shoe 12 in the assembled configuration comprises a midsole 34, an outsole 38 which includes a ground contact surface 38a designed to be in contact with the ground, and a projecting surface 38c which defines a recess 68 above the ground when the ground contact surface 38a is in contact with the ground, wherein the projecting surface 38c has an apex 78, and an intermediate element 36 which is stiffer than both the midsole 34 and the outsole 38, wherein the intermediate element 36 is arranged in an assembled state of the bicycle shoe 12 in a longitudinal direction L of the bicycle shoe 12 between a toe end 12c of the bicycle shoe 12 and the apex 78.Furthermore, the cycling shoe 12 includes an upper 14 and the sole 10, which includes a midsole 34, an outsole 38, which includes a ground contact surface 38a designed to be in contact with the ground, and a projecting surface 38c defining a recess 68 above the ground when the ground contact surface 38c is in contact with the ground, wherein the projecting surface 38c has an apex 78, and an intermediate element 36 which is stiffer than the midsole 34 and the outsole 38, wherein the intermediate element 36 is arranged in a longitudinal direction L of the cycling shoe 12 between a toe end 12c of the cycling shoe 12 and the apex 78 in the assembled state of the cycling shoe 12.

[0051] Basically, the intermediate element 36 is arranged between the midsole 34 and the outsole 38. In particular, the midsole 34 overlaps the intermediate element 36. In the first illustrated embodiment, the midsole 34 completely overlaps the first surface 36a of the intermediate element 36. In an embodiment as shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 12, the intermediate element 36 has an inner sidewall 100 and an outer sidewall 102, each of the inner and outer sidewalls 100, 102 being arranged in a concave groove 104 in the foam material of the midsole 34. The concave groove can control the direction of deformation during landing to improve walking stability.

[0052] The intermediate element 36 overlaps the outsole 38 on the shoe 12 in its assembled state. Preferably, the intermediate element 36 is coupled to the midsole 34. In particular, the intermediate element 36 is bonded to the midsole 34. In the assembled state of the bicycle shoe 12, the intermediate element 36 extends from the forefoot 22 of the bicycle shoe 12 to the midfoot 26 of the bicycle shoe 12. A rear end 36f of the intermediate element 36 is adjacent to the apex 78 of the projecting surface 38c.

[0053] Preferably, the outsole 38 is connected to the midsole 34. In one embodiment, the foam material of the midsole 34 is arranged over the projecting surface 38c of the outsole 38 when the bicycle shoe 12 is assembled. Preferably, the outsole 38 is also connected to the intermediate element 36. In the illustrated embodiments, the outsole 38 is connected to the intermediate element 36. The midsole 34, the intermediate element 36, and the outsole 38 can be attached by bonding with an adhesive or by joining them using a molding process. Of course, other joining techniques can also be used as needed and / or desired. For example, the second surface 34b of the midsole 34 can be molded or glued to the first surface 36a of the intermediate element 36.The second surface 38b of the outsole 38 can be glued to the second surface 34b of the midsole 34 and glued to the second surface 36b of the intermediate element 36.

[0054] The outsole 38 can have an opening 38e therein. The opening 38e can be a rectangular opening located in the forefoot or toe area 60 or in the tread area 62. The opening 38e in the outsole 38 can overlap the first and second openings 58 in the intermediate element 36 and is designed such that the cleat C can be attached to the cleat nut 30. Thus, the outsole 38 includes an opening 38e, and a cleat C is arranged within the opening 38e, the cleat C being designed to be coupled to a bicycle pedal. As can be understood, the openings are merely examples, and in this embodiment, any type or size of opening in the outsole 38 and the intermediate element 36 can be used.

[0055] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 6, the midsole 34 and the outsole 38 each have an outer shape formed in the shape of a foot. The outer shape of the midsole 34 is slightly smaller than the outer shape of the outsole 38. The intermediate element 36 is positioned between the midsole 34 and the outsole 38. The circumference of the intermediate element 36 is completely enclosed by the midsole 34.

[0056] As can be seen, the sole 10 has a three-layer design. The mounting surface 38b of the sole 38 is attached to the second surface 34a, with the intermediate element 36 positioned between them. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 9, the intermediate element 36 is arranged in front of the vertex 78 of the projecting surface 38c. The projecting surface 38c is arranged in the space 48 formed by the recess 34c.

[0057] By providing a sole for a cycling shoe, as described here, power transfer from the cycling shoe to a pedal is provided while cycling using the intermediate element, while at the same time providing sufficient and improved cushioning while walking.

[0058] With reference to the Fig. Sections 13 to 19 now describe a sole 110 for a bicycle shoe 112 according to a second embodiment. For the sake of brevity, the descriptions of the parts of the second embodiment that are identical to the parts of the first embodiment may be omitted.

[0059] As in the Fig. As shown in Figures 13 to 19, the sole 110 consists of at least three layers. In particular, the sole 110 essentially comprises a midsole (a first layer) 134, an intermediate element (a second layer) 136, and an outsole (a third layer) 138. The midsole 134, the intermediate element 136, and the outsole 138 are each a single, integrated element. The midsole 134, the intermediate element 136, and the outsole 138 are integrated as a unit. Generally, the intermediate element 136 is stiffer than the midsole 134 and / or the outsole 138. Preferably, the intermediate element 136 is a rigid element that does not deform or deforms only slightly under normal use. On the other hand, the midsole 134 is preferably made of a deformable material that can bend. The outsole 138 is also preferably made of a deformable material that can bend.Preferably, the material of the outsole 138 is a different material than the material of the midsole 134.

[0060] In the illustrated embodiments, the midsole 134 comprises a foam material. Preferably, the foam material comprises an ethylene-vinyl acetate foam. Alternatively, the foam material comprises a polyurethane foam. Because the midsole 134 is made of a foam material, it can flex when walking. The midsole 134 can be manufactured by molding. The midsole 134 is a cushioning layer for the sole 110. Preferably, the midsole 134 is compressible. For example, the midsole 134 can be compressed between the wearer's foot and the ground when the sole 110 impacts the ground during walking or running. The midsole 134 has a first surface 134a and a second surface 134b, which faces in the opposite direction to the first surface 134a. Here, the first surface 134a is a top surface and the second surface 134b is a bottom surface.The second surface 134b is provided with a recess 134c for receiving the intermediate element 136.

[0061] The midsole 134 includes a forefoot or toe section 140, a striking area 142, a midfoot 144, and a heel 146. The forefoot or toe section 140 corresponds to the forefoot or toe section 122 of the shoe 112. The striking area 142 corresponds to the striking area 124 of the shoe 112. The midsole 134 includes a space 148. The space 148 is formed by the recess 134c. The recess 134c generally extends from the forefoot or toe section 140 of the midsole 134 to the heel 146 of the midsole 134. While the recess 134c does not necessarily extend over the entire length of the midsole 134, it does extend over a substantial portion of its length. The space 148 is dimensioned such that the intermediate element 136 and part of the outsole 138 can be positioned within the recess 134c. Thus, the depth of the space 148 is greater at the heel 146 than at the forefoot or toe section 140.

[0062] As in the Fig. 17 and Fig. As shown in Figure 18, the recess 134c extends in the longitudinal direction L from the forefoot or toe section 140 of the midsole 134 to the heel 146 of the midsole 134. The recess has a length L2 and a width W3. The width W3 of the forefoot or toe section 140 is wider in the lateral direction WD than the tread area 142. The forefoot or toe section 140 and the tread area 142 are wider in the lateral direction WD than the midfoot 144. The midfoot 144 is wider in the lateral direction WD than the heel 146. That is, the thickness (in the lateral direction WD) of the recess 134c decreases in the longitudinal direction L from the midfoot 144 to the heel 146 of the midsole 134. The height of the forefoot or toe area 140 is less than that of the tread area 142. The height of the forefoot or toe area 140 and the tread area 142 is less than that of the midfoot 144. The height of the midfoot 144 is less than that of the heel 146.This means that the height (in the vertical direction H) of the recess 134c increases in the longitudinal direction L from the forefoot or toe part 140 to the heel 146 of the midsole 134. As in . Fig. As shown in Figure 18, the height of the recess 134c is greatest at the heel 146. The recess then extends downwards in the longitudinal direction L towards the heel end 112d of the shoe 112.

[0063] In the illustrated embodiments, the intermediate element 136 is a shaft made of plastic. Preferably, the plastic material comprises a polyamide material. Preferably, the plastic material also comprises a fiber material. For example, the fiber material comprises a plurality of carbon fibers. Alternatively, the fiber material comprises, for example, a plurality of glass fibers. In other words, the material of the intermediate element 136 can be a fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) (for example, carbon fibers, glass fibers, etc.). Furthermore, the intermediate element 136 can have a laminated structure.

[0064] Due to the rigid design of the intermediate element 136, it does not deform (for example, it does not bend) during the bending of the sole 110, such as when walking, jogging, running, etc. It should be noted that in some embodiments the intermediate element 136 may be somewhat flexible and bend, but it is not as flexible as the midsole 134 and / or the outsole 138. The intermediate element 136 can be manufactured by molding. The intermediate element 136 has a first surface 136a and a second surface 136b, which faces in the opposite direction to the first surface 136a. Here, the first surface 136a is the top and the second surface 136b is the bottom.

[0065] The intermediate element 136 has a forefoot or toe section 150, a tread area 152, a midfoot 156, and a heel 156. The forefoot or toe section 150 corresponds to the forefoot or toe section 122 of the shoe 112. The tread area 152 corresponds to the tread area 124 of the shoe 112. The midfoot 154 corresponds to the midfoot 126 of the shoe 112. The heel 156 corresponds to the heel 128 of the shoe 112. The intermediate element 136 has a length L in the longitudinal direction that extends between the forefoot section 150 and the midfoot 152. The intermediate element 136 has a width W4 perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L. The forefoot section 150 is wider in the lateral direction WD than the tread area 152. The forefoot section 150 and the tread area 152 are wider in the lateral direction WD than the midfoot 154. The midfoot 154 is wider in the lateral direction WD than the heel 156.This means that the thickness (the width W4) of the intermediate element 136 decreases in the longitudinal direction L from the midfoot 154 to the heel 156 of the bicycle shoe 112. In one embodiment, the intermediate element 136 has a thickness at the midfoot 154 that is between approximately 33% and 50% of the length from the toe end 112c of the bicycle shoe 112 to the heel end 112d of the bicycle shoe 112.

[0066] The intermediate element 136 is shorter in the longitudinal direction L than the midsole 134. Furthermore, the intermediate element 136 is shorter than the recess 134c in the midsole 134. The midfoot 152 of the intermediate element 136 is designed to be at least partially accommodated in the space 148 defined by the recess 134c.

[0067] The intermediate element 136 incorporates a ribbed or grid-like structure 136c on its first surface 136a. The grid structure 136c comprises a multitude of raised sections 136d to form the grid structure 136c. The raised sections 136d of the grid structure 136c form a series of generally rectangular openings or recessed areas 136e. This grid structure 136c allows the intermediate element 136 to maintain a rigid structure and provide a lightweight element. As can be seen, the grid structure 136c offers a predetermined thickness with a predetermined stiffness.

[0068] The intermediate element 136 can be made of any suitable material. For example, the intermediate element 136 can be made of polyamide resin, carbon fiber reinforced plastic, glass fiber reinforced plastic, polyurethane, polyethylene, or any combination thereof.

[0069] The outsole 138 preferably comprises a rubber material. The rubber material of the outsole 138 can be natural rubber, synthetic rubber, or a mixture of natural and synthetic rubbers. Here, the outsole 138 comprises an elastic polymer material such as synthetic rubber or polyurethane (for example, a thermoplastic polyurethane). The outsole 138 can be manufactured by injection molding. The outsole 138 has a ground contact surface 138a. The ground contact surface 138a preferably includes a profile to provide traction to the sole 110 during use. The outsole 138 has an attachment surface 138b, which, as described below, is attached to the midsole 134 and the intermediate element 136.

[0070] The outsole 138 includes a forefoot or toe section 160, a heel area 162, a midfoot 164, and a heel 166. The forefoot or toe section 160 corresponds to the forefoot or toe section 122 of the shoe 112. The heel area 162 corresponds to the heel area 124 of the shoe 112. The midfoot 164 corresponds to the midfoot 126 of the shoe 112. The heel 166 corresponds to the heel 128 of the shoe 112.

[0071] The outsole 138 also includes a projecting surface 138c that defines a recess 168 above the ground when the ground contact surface 138a is in contact with the ground. The projecting surface 138c is arranged on or is part of a plate section 138d of the ground contact surface 138a. As can be seen, the plate section 138d can be a relatively thin rubber plate that is part of or connected to the outsole 138. In one embodiment, the plate section 138d is simultaneously molded and is an integral part of the outsole 138.

[0072] In one embodiment, the plate section 138d corresponds to the projecting surface 138c. The projecting surface 138c extends from the midfoot 126 of the bicycle shoe 112 to the heel 128 of the bicycle shoe 112 in the assembled state of the bicycle shoe 112. In one embodiment, the projecting surface 138c includes a section 138c1 that extends 65% or more in a rearward direction along a length from the toe end 112c of the bicycle shoe 112 to the heel end 112d of the bicycle shoe 112, and the section 138c1 is located directly beneath the midsole 134 and has a constant thickness of approximately 1.5 mm. That is, the section 138c1 of the outsole can have a relatively constant thickness of approximately 1.5 mm.

[0073] In one embodiment, the projecting surface 138c includes the section 138c1, which is arranged for 50% or more in a backward direction along a length from the toe end 112c of the bicycle shoe 112 to the heel end 112d of the bicycle shoe 112, wherein the section 138c1 is located directly under the intermediate element 136 in at least a part of the midfoot 126 and a part of the heel 128, and the section 138c1 of the projecting surface 138c has a constant thickness of about 1.5 mm.

[0074] As in the Fig. 15, Fig. 16 and Fig. As shown in Figure 18, the projecting surface 138c is formed by a raised section 170 in the outsole 138, which extends upwards and longitudinally backwards with respect to the shoe 112. The raised section 170 thus forms the recess 168 in the outsole 138 of the sole 110 of the shoe 112. The projecting surface 138c has a generally curved or arcuate configuration, with the ground contact surface 138a bounding the projecting surface 138c (and the recess 168) on the left and right sides 172 and 174, and on the rear 176 of the projecting surface. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 17, the recess 168 extends in the longitudinal direction L from the tread area 124 of the cycling shoe to the heel 128 of the cycling shoe 112. In particular, the projecting surface 138c extends in the longitudinal direction L from the tread area 124 of the shoe 112 to a center 128a of the heel 128 of the shoe 112. In one embodiment, the outsole has a rear padded section 128b that surrounds the projecting surface 138c to increase the cushioning effect of the shoe 112.

[0075] Since the projecting surface 138c can have a curved or arc-shaped configuration, the projecting surface 138c has a vertex 178, as shown in Fig. Figure 17 shows the apex 178. The apex 178 can be located in the heel 128 of the shoe 112 and in a longitudinally posterior direction relative to the intermediate element 136. The apex 178 can be positioned such that it generally extends in the lateral direction WD of the shoe 112. The projecting surface 138c has a first section 180 that extends posteriorly from the midfoot 126 of the shoe 112 in an upward direction to the apex 178. The projecting surface 138c has a second section 182 that extends posteriorly in a downward direction to the heel end 112d. That is, the projecting surface 138c slopes in the longitudinal direction L from a center 128a of the heel 128 of the bicycle shoe 112 to the heel end 112d of the bicycle shoe 112. The second section 182 has a steeper gradient than the first section 180.In one embodiment, the protruding surface 138c forms an ascending convex shape from the pedaling area 124 of the bicycle shoe 112 to the heel 128 of the bicycle shoe 112.

[0076] In the illustrated embodiments, the midsole 134, the intermediate element 136 and the outsole 138 are connected to form an integrated unit that is attached to the upper material 114. Thus, the sole 110 for a bicycle shoe 112 in the assembled arrangement comprises a midsole 134, an outsole 138 which includes a ground contact surface 138a designed to be in contact with the ground, and a projecting surface 138c which defines a recess 168 above the ground when the ground contact surface 138a is in contact with the ground, wherein the projecting surface 138c has an apex 178, and an intermediate element 136 which is stiffer than the midsole 134 and the outsole 138, wherein the intermediate element 136 in an assembled state of the bicycle shoe 112 is arranged in a longitudinal direction L of the bicycle shoe 112 between a toe end 112c of the bicycle shoe 112 and the apex 178.Furthermore, the cycling shoe 112 includes an upper 114 and the sole 110, which includes a midsole 134, an outsole 138, which includes a ground contact surface 138a designed to be in contact with the ground, and a projecting surface 138c defining a recess 168 above the ground when the ground contact surface 138c is in contact with the ground, wherein the projecting surface 138c has an apex 178, and an intermediate element 136 which is stiffer than the midsole 134 and the outsole 138, wherein the intermediate element 136 is arranged in an assembled state of the cycling shoe 112 in a longitudinal direction L of the cycling shoe 112 between a toe end 112c of the cycling shoe 112 and the apex 178.

[0077] In principle, the intermediate element 136 is arranged between the midsole 134 and the outsole 138. Specifically, the midsole 134 overlaps the intermediate element 136. In the first illustrated embodiment, the midsole 134 completely overlaps the first surface 136a of the intermediate element 136. Similar to the embodiment described above, the intermediate element 136 can have an inner sidewall and an outer sidewall, each of which can be arranged in a concave groove in the foam material of the midsole 134.

[0078] The intermediate element 136 overlaps the outsole 138 in an assembled state on the shoe 112. Preferably, the intermediate element 136 is coupled to the midsole 134.

[0079] In particular, the intermediate element 136 is bonded to the midsole 134. When the bicycle shoe 112 is assembled, the intermediate element 136 extends from the forefoot 122 of the bicycle shoe 112 to the midfoot 126 of the bicycle shoe 112. A rear end 136f of the intermediate element 136 abuts the apex 178 of the projecting surface 138c.

[0080] Preferably, the outsole 138 is coupled to the midsole 134. In one embodiment, the foam material of the midsole 134 is arranged over the projecting surface 138c of the outsole 138 when the bicycle shoe 112 is assembled. Preferably, the outsole 138 is also coupled to the intermediate element 136. In the illustrated embodiments, the outsole 138 is coupled to the intermediate element 136. The attachment of the midsole 134, the intermediate element 136, and the outsole 138 can be achieved by bonding them using an adhesive or by a molding process. Of course, other joining techniques can also be used as needed and / or desired. For example, the second surface 134b of the midsole 134 can be molded or glued to the first surface 136a of the intermediate element 136.The second surface 138b of the outsole 138 can be glued to the second surface 134b of the midsole 134 and to the second surface 136b of the intermediate element 136.

[0081] As in the Fig. 13 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 14, the midsole 134 and the outsole 138 each have an outer shape formed in the shape of a foot. The outer shape of the midsole 134 is slightly smaller than the outer shape of the outsole 138. The intermediate element 136 is positioned between the midsole 134 and the outsole 138. The circumference of the intermediate element 136 is completely enclosed by the midsole 134.

[0082] As can be seen, the sole 110 forms a three-layer sole. The attachment surface 138b of the outsole 138 is attached to the second surface 134a, with the intermediate element 136 positioned between them. As shown in the Fig. 15 and Fig.As shown in Figure 16, the intermediate element 136 is arranged in front of the vertex 178 of the projecting surface 138c. The projecting surface 138c is arranged in the space 148 formed by the recess 134c.

[0083] By providing a sole for a cycling shoe, as described here, power transfer from the cycling shoe to a pedal is provided while cycling using the intermediate element, while at the same time providing sufficient and improved cushioning while walking.

[0084] For the purposes of understanding the scope of the present invention, the term "comprise" and its derivatives, as used herein, are to be understood as open terms that specify the presence of the indicated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps, but do not exclude the presence of other, unspecified features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps. The foregoing also applies to words with similar meanings, such as the terms "include," "have," and their derivatives. Furthermore, the terms "part," "section," "subsection," "element," or "component," when used in the singular, may have the dual meaning of a single part or a plurality of parts, unless otherwise specified.

[0085] As used here, the following directional terms "frame-facing side", "frame-away side", "forward", "backward", "front", "back", "above", "below", "above", "below", "upwards", "downwards", "above", "below", "laterally", "vertically", "horizontally", "perpendicular", and "transversely", as well as all other similar directional terms, refer to the directions of a human-powered vehicle (for example, a bicycle) in an upright riding position, equipped with the *. Accordingly, these directional terms, as used to describe the *, should be interpreted in relation to a human-powered vehicle (for example, a bicycle) in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface and equipped with the *.The terms "left" and "right" are used to indicate "right" when viewing the right side from the rear of the human-powered vehicle (for example, bicycle), and "left" when viewing the left side from the rear of the human-powered vehicle (for example, bicycle).

[0086] The phrase “at least one” used in this revelation means “one or more” of a desired choice. For example, the phrase “at least one” in this revelation means “only a single choice” or “both of two choices” when the number of choices is two. Furthermore, the term “and / or” used in this revelation means “either one or both.” For example, the expression “at least one of A and B” includes (1) A alone, (2) B alone, and (3) both A and B. The expression “at least one of A, B, and C” includes (1) A alone, (2) B alone, (3) C alone, (4) both A and B, (5) both B and C, (6) both A and C, and (7) all A, B, and C.In other words, the expression “at least one of A and B” in this revelation does not mean “at least one of A and at least one of B”.

[0087] It is also understood that the terms "first" and "second," used here to describe different components, are not intended to restrict these components. These terms are used only to distinguish one component from another. For example, a first component described above could be referred to as a second component, and vice versa, without deviating from the teachings of the present invention.

[0088] The term "attached" or "attached," as used here, encompasses configurations in which one element is directly attached to another by being directly affixed to the other; configurations in which the element is indirectly attached to the other by being attached to the intermediate element(s), which in turn are attached to the other element; and configurations in which one element is integrally connected to another, that is, one element is essentially part of the other. This definition also applies to words of similar meaning, for example, "connected," "coupled," "mounted," "glued," "fastened," and their derivatives. Finally, terms such as "essentially," "about," and "approximately," as used here, signify a variation of the modified term that does not substantially alter the final result.

[0089] Although only selected embodiments have been chosen to illustrate the present invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. Unless expressly stated otherwise, for example, the size, shape, position, or orientation of the various components can be changed as needed and / or desired, provided that the changes do not substantially impair their intended function. Unless expressly stated otherwise, components that are directly connected to or in contact with each other can have intermediate elements, provided that the changes do not substantially impair their intended function. The functions of one element can be performed by two elements and vice versa, unless expressly stated otherwise.The structures and functions of one embodiment may be adopted in another embodiment. It is not necessary for all advantages to be present simultaneously in a particular embodiment. Any feature that differs from the prior art, alone or in combination with other features, should also be considered a separate description of further inventions of the applicant that include the structural and / or functional concepts embodied by that feature or features. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of embodiments according to the present invention serve only for illustration and not to limit the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. REFERENCE MARK 10 sole 12 (bicycle) shoe 12a first lateral (outer) side 12b second lateral (inner) side 12c Toe end 12d Heel end 14 Upper material 16 Foot opening 18 Tongue 20 Mounting structure 20a Shoelaces 20b Shoelaces 22 Forefoot or toe part 24 step area 26 midfoot 28 heel 28a Middle 28b rear padded section 30 shoe plate nuts 32 Shoe plate opening 34 Midsole (first layer) 34a first area 34b second area 34c Exclusion 36 Intermediate element (a second layer) 36a first area 36b second area 36c grooved or lattice-like structure / lattice structure 36d elevated section 36e recessed area 36f rear end 38 Outsole (third layer) 38a Ground contact area 38b Mounting area 38c projecting area Section 38c1 38d plate section 38e opening 40 Forefoot or toe part 42 Footwell 44 Midfoot 46 heel 48 Room 50 Forefoot or toe part 52 Footwell 54 Midfoot 56 heel 58 (first and second) openings 59 rectangular recessed area (opening) 60 Forefoot or toe part 62 Footwell 64 Midfoot 66 heel 68 Exclusion 70 elevated section 72 left side 74 right side 76 reverse 78 Vertex 80 first section 82 second section 100 inner side wall 102 outer side wall 104 concave nuts 110 sole 112 (bicycle) shoe 112a first lateral (outer) side 112b second lateral (inner) side 112c Toe end 112d Heel end 114 Upper material 116 Foot opening 118 Tongue 120 fastening structure 120a Shoelaces 120b shoe strap 122 Forefoot or toe part 124 Footwell 126 midfoot 128 heel 128a Middle 128b rear padded section 134 Midsole (first layer) 134a first area 134b second area 134c Exclusion 136 Intermediate element (a second layer) 136a first area 136b second area 136c ribbed or lattice-like structure / lattice structure 136d elevated sections 136e in-depth areas 136f rear end 138 Outsole (third layer) 138a Ground contact area 138b Mounting area 138c projecting area Section 138c1 138d plate section 140 Forefoot or toe part 142 Footwell 144 midfoot 146 heel Room 148 150 Forefoot or toe part 152 Footwell 154 midfoot 156 heel 160 Forefoot or toe part 162 Footwell 164 midfoot 166 heel 168 Exclusion 170 elevated section 172 left side 174 right side 176 reverse 178 Vertex 180 first section 182 second section C shoe plate F Fasteners H Altitude L Longitudinal direction L1 length L2 length W1 width W2 width W3 width W4 width WD width direction

Claims

[1] Sole (10, 110) for a cycling shoe (12, 112) comprising: a midsole (34, 134); a sole (38, 138) which includes: a ground contact surface (38a, 138a) designed to be in contact with a ground; and a projecting surface (38c, 138c) defining a recess (68, 168) above the ground when the ground contact surface (38a, 138a) is in contact with the ground, wherein the projecting surface (38c, 138c) has a vertex (78, 178), an intermediate element (36, 136) that is stiffer than both the midsole (34, 134) and the outsole (38, 138); and wherein the intermediate element (36, 136) is arranged in an assembled state of the bicycle shoe (12, 112) in a longitudinal direction (L) of the bicycle shoe (12, 112) between a toe end (12c, 112c) of the bicycle shoe (12, 112) and the vertex (78, 178). [2] Sole (10, 110) according to claim 1, wherein the intermediate element (36, 136) is a shaft made of plastic. [3] Sole (10, 110) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the intermediate element (36, 136) has a laminated structure. [4] Sole (10, 110) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the projecting surface (38c, 138c) extends from a midfoot (26, 126) of the bicycle shoe (12, 112) to a heel (28, 128) of the bicycle shoe (12, 112) in the assembled state of the bicycle shoe (12, 112). [5] Sole (10, 110) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the intermediate element (36, 136) extends from a forefoot (22, 122) of the bicycle shoe (12, 112) to the midfoot (26, 126) of the bicycle shoe (12, 112) in the assembled state of the bicycle shoe (12, 112). [6] Sole (10, 110) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the projecting surface (38c, 138c) forms an ascending convex shape from a footbed area (24, 124) of the bicycle shoe (12, 112) to the heel (28, 128) of the bicycle shoe (12, 112). [7] Sole (10, 110) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the projecting surface (38c, 138c) slopes down in the longitudinal direction (L) from a center (28a, 128a) of the heel (28, 128) of the cycling shoe (12, 112) to the heel end (12d, 112d) of the cycling shoe (12, 112). [8] Sole (10, 110) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a rear end (36f, 136f) of the intermediate element (36, 136) is adjacent to the vertex (78, 178) of the projecting surface (38c, 138c). [9] Sole (10, 110) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the midsole (34, 134) comprises a foam material, and the foam material is arranged over the projecting surface (38c, 138c) in the assembled state of the bicycle shoe (12, 112). [10] Sole (10, 110) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the thickness of the intermediate element (36, 136) decreases in the longitudinal direction (L) from the midfoot (26, 126) to the heel (28, 128) of the cycling shoe (12, 112). [11] Sole (10, 110) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the recess (68, 168) extends in the longitudinal direction (L) from a footbed area (24, 124) of the bicycle shoe (12, 112) to the heel (28, 128) of the bicycle shoe (12, 112). [12] Sole (10, 110) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the intermediate element (36, 136) at the midfoot (26, 126) has a thickness that is between about 33% and 50% of a length from the toe end (12c, 112c) of the cycling shoe (12, 112) to the heel end (12d, 112d) of the cycling shoe (12, 112). [13] Sole (10, 110) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the projecting surface (38c, 138c) includes a section (38c1, 138c1) which extends 65% or more in a rearward direction of a length from the toe end (12c, 112c) of the cycling shoe (12, 112) to the heel end (12d, 112d) of the cycling shoe (12, 112), and the section (38c1, 138c1) is located directly under the midsole (34, 134) and has a constant thickness of about 1.5 mm. [14] Sole (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the outsole (38) includes an opening (38e) and a shoe plate (C) is arranged within the opening (38e), and the shoe plate (C) is designed to be coupled to a pedal of a bicycle. [15] Sole (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the intermediate element (36) includes an opening (59) and the shoe plate (C) is arranged within the opening (59) in the intermediate element (36, 136). [16] Sole (10, 110) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, 14 and 15, wherein the projecting surface (38c, 138c) includes a section (38c1, 138c1) which is arranged for 50% or more in a rearward direction of a length from the toe end (12c, 112c) of the cycling shoe (12, 112) to the heel end (12d, 112d) of the cycling shoe (12, 112), the section (38c1, 138c1) being arranged directly below the intermediate element (36, 136) in at least a part of the midfoot (26, 126) and a part of the heel (28, 128), and the section (38c1, 138c1) of the projecting surface (38c, 138c) having a constant thickness of about 1.5 mm exhibits. [17] Bicycle shoe (12, 112), comprising: an upper material (14, 114); and a sole (10, 110) according to any one of claims 1 to 16.

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