Sports shoe intended to be connected to a sports device

Abstract

Sports shoe designed to cooperate alternately with a first type of binding and a second type of binding, each of these bindings allowing the shoe to rotate around a transverse axis, the shoe comprising a sole equipped with: - a first connection element with the first type of binding, the first connection element comprising a guide member, in the form of a metal bar, the guide member comprising a free length suitable for interacting with the first type of binding, - a second connection element with the second type of binding, the second connection element comprising interfaces, respectively at the lateral and medial front edges of the sole. The sports shoe is characterized by the fact that - either the first and second connection elements form a single unit,- either the first and second connecting elements are two distinct components assembled directly together along a common contact surface.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a sports shoe designed to be mechanically connected to a sports device, in particular, a sliding device. More specifically, it relates to a shoe which, once connected to the sports device, allows rotation around a transverse axis at the front of the sole.

[0002] The invention will find particularly advantageous application in multidisciplinary use among the following activities: cross-country skiing, ski touring, road skiing, snowshoeing, or cycling.

[0003] In all these disciplines, the boot is connected to the sports equipment in such a way as to allow the boot to rotate around an axis transverse to the longitudinal axis of the equipment. For each of these activities, the binding that enables this connection is often specific. Thus, a boot designed for one of these activities—in other words, to be compatible with a type of binding specific to that activity—is rarely compatible with another type of binding designed for a different activity. For example, in cross-country skiing, the ski width is relatively narrow, which requires a binding with a short guide length, on the order of 2 to 3 cm. In backcountry skiing, the ski width is greater, allowing the use of a binding with a wider guide length, on the order of 6 to 7 cm.This has the advantage of significantly increasing the pivoting precision and torsional stability of the boot. In this case, due to the difference in the type of bindings, the user will not be able to use the same pair of boots if they want to practice both disciplines.

[0004] Document EP3108944 describes a shoe construction to which different removable interfaces can be attached, each designed for a specific type of binding for a particular sporting activity. Here, the interfaces are attached to the sole in the same location. To change the activity, the interface must be changed. Document EP3935984 describes a shoe construction to which two different removable interfaces can be attached, each designed for a specific type of binding for a particular sliding activity. Here, the interfaces, independent of each other, are attached to the sole in two separate locations. The document suggests attaching only the interface suited to the appropriate binding, depending on the desired activity.

[0005] The aim of the invention is to offer an improved sports shoe.

[0006] One aim of the invention is to offer a shoe compatible with two types of binding without having to add or change an interface part.

[0007] Another goal is to offer a shoe compatible with two types of bindings with a reduced number of assembled parts.

[0008] Another goal is to offer a shoe where the interfaces with two types of binding are directly interconnected.

[0009] To this end, the invention relates to a sports shoe designed to cooperate alternately with a first type of fastening and a second type of fastening so as to connect the shoe to a piece of sports equipment, each of these fastenings allowing the rotation of the shoe around an axis transverse to the longitudinal axis of the piece of sports equipment, the shoe comprising a sole equipped with: of a first connection element with the first type of fastening, the first connection element comprising a guide member, in the form of a metal bar, defining a first axis of rotation of the shoe and extending in a transverse direction over at least part of the width of the sole, the guide member comprising a free length suitable for interacting with the first type of fastening, of a second connection element with the second type of fastening, the second connection element comprising interfaces, respectively at the level of the lateral and medial front edges of the sole, defining a second axis of rotation of the shoe.

[0010] The sports shoe is characterized by the fact that either the first and second connecting elements form a single piece, or the first and second connecting elements are two separate components assembled directly together along a common contact surface.

[0011] Thus, because the first and second connecting elements form a single unit or are two distinct components assembled directly together via a common contact surface, this allows for a shoe equipped simultaneously with both connecting elements and a precise arrangement between these two components. This enables multidisciplinary use without any modifications to the shoe. The user can therefore use the same pair of shoes with either the first or second type of binding, depending on the discipline they wish to practice, which greatly simplifies use. Furthermore, this construction reduces the number of parts required to create a shoe compatible with different types of bindings. In addition, it allows for a more precise arrangement between the first and second connecting elements.It is then possible to use both connecting elements for the proper functioning of a given type of binding. One connecting element can be used to position the boot relative to the binding, facilitating the connection between the binding's attachment points and the other connecting element. A connecting element can also be used to actuate the binding's mechanism, ensuring the connection between the binding's attachment points and the other connecting element. The precise alignment between the two connecting elements can also prevent the boot from rotating when each connecting element engages simultaneously with its respective attachment points on the binding.

[0012] Optionally, the invention may have any one of the following optional features, taken alone or in combination: The first and second connecting elements are overmolded to the same support. The first and / or second connecting element is / are overmolded in a plastic matrix by an injection molding process. The first and second connecting elements are formed within a pad that is removably attached to a sole body. A connecting element, distinct from the other connecting element, is at least partially interposed between a lower surface of a sole component and the other connecting element. The guiding element is a transverse shaft. The interfaces of the second connecting element form, respectively: a first lateral recess located at the front lateral edge of the sole, and a second medial recess located at the front medial edge of the sole.

[0013] The first and second recesses are aligned along an axis transverse to the longitudinal axis of the sowing. The first axis of rotation is closer to the underside of the seeding unit than the second axis of rotation. The first connecting element includes an actuation generator that is offset downwards by a distance of between four and fifteen millimeters relative to the second axis of rotation, along the longitudinal direction, this distance being preferably between ten and twelve millimeters. The distance between the second axis of rotation and the front end of the seeding unit, along a horizontal direction, is between 10 and 20 millimeters. The first axis of rotation is offset rearwards relative to the second axis of rotation by a distance of between 0 and 70 millimeters. The first axis of rotation is offset rearwards relative to the front end of the seeding unit by a distance greater than five millimeters.The free length of the guide element is housed in a lower recess of the sole or the removable sole pad located in the front part of the sole, allowing access to the metal bar from below the sole to connect the guide element to the first type of binding. The free length of the metal bar is positioned solely between the lateral edges of the sole, without any lateral extension beyond the lateral and medial edges of the sole. The connecting element is fixed to the sole in such a way that there is no movement between the connecting element and any part of the sole when the boot is assembled but not connected to the first type of binding. The boot is intended for cross-country skiing, ski touring, or road skiing.

[0014] The invention will be better understood upon reading the following description and the accompanying drawings, in which: [Fig. 1 ] There figure 1 is a front perspective view from below of a shoe for the right foot according to one embodiment of the invention. Fig. 2 ] There figure 2 is a view from below of the shoe's sole figure 1 . [ Fig. 3 ] There figure 3 is a side view, lateral view, of the sowing of the figure 2 . [ Fig. 4 ] There figure 4 is a cross-sectional view along IV-IV of the figure 2 . [ Fig. 5 ] There figure 5 is an exploded view of a shoe sole according to another embodiment of the invention. Fig. 6 ] There figure 6 is a view from below of the sowing of the figure 5 . [ Fig. 7 ] There figure 7 is a cross-sectional view along VII-VII of the figure 6 . [ Fig. 8 ] There figure 8 is an exploded view of the components of a shoe sole according to a first embodiment. Fig. 9 ] There figure 9 is a perspective view of assembled components of the sole according to the first embodiment. Fig. 10 ] There figure 10 is an exploded view of the components of a shoe sole according to a second embodiment. Fig. 11 ] There figure 11 is a perspective view of assembled components of the sole according to the second embodiment. Fig. 12 ] There figure 12 is an exploded view of the components of a shoe sole according to a third embodiment. Fig. 13 ] There figure 13 is a perspective view of assembled components of the sole according to the third embodiment. Fig. 14 ] There figure 14 is an exploded view of the components of a shoe sole according to a variant of the third embodiment. Fig. 15 ] There figure 15 is a perspective view of assembled components of the sole according to the variant of the third embodiment. Fig. 16 ] There figure 16 is a perspective view of a component of the sowing system according to a fourth embodiment. Fig. 17 ] There figure 17 is a perspective view of a component of the sowing system according to a fifth embodiment. Fig. 18 ] There figure 18 is a view of detail XVIII of the figure 3 illustrating an initial arrangement of sowing components. Fig. 19 ] There figure 19 is a view of detail XVIII of the figure 3 illustrating a second arrangement of sowing components. Fig. 20 ] There figure 20 is an exploded view of the components of a shoe sole according to a sixth embodiment. Fig. 21 ] There figure 21 is a view from below of the sowing of the figure 20 . [ Fig. 22 ] There figure 22 is a cross-sectional view along XXII-XXII of the figure 20 .

[0015] In the following description, terms such as "horizontal," "vertical," "transverse," "upper," "lower," "top," "bottom," "right," "left," "front," "back," "in front of," "behind," "anterior," and "posterior" will be used. These terms should be interpreted in relation to the position the shoe occupies on the foot of a user in a normal posture and the user's normal direction of forward movement. The terms "lateral" and "medial" are conventionally understood as facing outward and inward, respectively. Thus, the medial side of one foot or shoe faces the medial side of the user's other foot or shoe. The term "longitudinal" refers to a heel-to-toe direction, while the term "transverse" refers to a lateral-medial direction and is therefore essentially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0016] We will also use a reference frame whose rear / front direction corresponds to the X axis, the transverse or right / left direction corresponds to the Y axis and the vertical or bottom / up direction corresponds to the Z axis.

[0017] In the description, a "shoe" is defined by a "sole" and an "upper." The "sole" is the lower part of the shoe, between the foot and the ground. The "upper" is the upper part of the shoe, covering the foot and possibly part of the ankle. The upper is attached to the outer edge of the sole. Note that some elements of the shoe can form both part of the sole and part of the upper.

[0018] The description refers to a "monobloc" part, meaning that the part is a single piece made from a single unit with continuous material. It also refers to a "unit" part, meaning that the part is either "monobloc" or composed of elements joined together in a permanent way, for example, by overmolding an insert in a die, or by assembling components using press fitting, crimping, bonding, welding, etc.

[0019] THE figure 1 Describes a sports shoe 1 for the right foot according to the invention. The shoe 1 comprises, in a conventional manner, an upper 2 and a sole 3. The upper 2 is conventional and will not be described in detail. It is connected to the peripheral edge of the sole 3 in a conventional manner.

[0020] The invention relates more specifically to different embodiments of the sole 3. These fall into two main categories: a first category of sole comprising a unit body 33a and a second category of sole comprising a removable pad 34b fixed to a body 33b. All these soles incorporate at least two connecting elements 31, 32 with two different types of attachment for a piece of sports equipment. Subsequently, we will describe different constructions of these connecting elements that can be applied interchangeably to either the first or second category of sole mentioned above.

[0021] The sole 3 is delimited vertically, along the vertical direction Z, by a lower face 3D, intended to be in contact with the ground or a piece of sports equipment, and an upper face 3U, opposite the lower face, and intended to face the underside of the foot. The sole 3 is delimited longitudinally, along the longitudinal direction X, by an anterior edge 3F and a posterior edge 3R. The sole 3 is delimited transversely, along the vertical direction Y, by a medial edge 3M and a lateral edge 3L.

[0022] In its anterior portion, the sole carries a first connecting element 31 comprising a guide member 311 defining a first axis of rotation Y1 of the shoe. For the purposes of the invention, this means that the guide member 311 is continuously fixed to the sole of the shoe, either at the level of the main body 33a or at the level of the removable pad 34b, even when the shoe is no longer connected to the first type of fastening. In other words, this fixed connection means that there is no degree of mobility between the connecting element 311 and the main body 33a or the removable pad 34b when the shoe is assembled and not connected to the first type of fastening. The guide member 311 extends along a transverse direction Y over at least a portion of the width W3 of the sole. In one embodiment, the connecting guide member 311 is a metal bar.Advantageously, the bar 311 is a cylindrical shaft with a diameter between 3.5 and 6 millimeters. Its free length, i.e., the length available to interact with the fastener, is between 30 and 50 millimeters. In this example, the free length of the metal bar is housed in a lower recess of the sole or the removable foot of the sole located in the front part of the sole, so as to allow access to the metal bar from below the sole to enable the connection between the guide member 311 and the first type of fastener. Advantageously, the free length of the metal bar is only located between the lateral edges 3L and 3M of the sole 3, without any lateral extension beyond the lateral edge 3L and medial edge 3M of the sole. In this example, the metal bar is offset rearward relative to the front edge 3F of the sole, preferably by a distance greater than five millimeters along the longitudinal direction X.In one embodiment, the guide element 311 is positioned flush with or recessed from the lower surface 3D of the sole. Alternatively, the guide element 311 can be positioned in front of the sole, at the level of the anterior edge 3F. Document FR2626448 illustrates examples of embodiments of this guide element 311. The guide element 311 is suitable for use with a first type of binding on a piece of sports equipment such as skis, for example, cross-country or touring skis, or snowshoes. For this type of activity, this connection allows the boot to be secured to the sports equipment while also allowing the boot to rotate relative to the equipment around a transverse axis Y1 of the boot, positioned at the front of the boot. The mechanism of this first type of binding allows the boot to be alternately secured to and unsecured from the sports equipment.Such a mechanism is, for example, described in document FR2638974. This first type of fastening generally includes one or more hooks or jaws intended to hook the metal bar 311.

[0023] The first connecting element 31 forms a unit part comprising the guide member 311 and a support for holding the guide member 311 in place within the sole or within a removable sole pad. The support may consist of the angled ends 3113 of the bar forming the guide member, these angled ends being overmolded into a plastic die by an injection molding process. The die may be the body 33a of the unit sole or the body 341b of the removable pad 34b. To ensure proper grip in the die, the angled ends 3113 may include suitable gripping features such as raised areas, recesses, etc. The support is thus formed by the angled ends 3113 and the plastic die. In an alternative solution, these angled ends are assembled to a separate attachment element 312 from the guide element 311, in a non-removable manner, for example by fitting, crimping, gluing, welding...The attachment element 312 is then overmolded into a plastic die by an injection molding process. The die can be the body 33a of the single sole or the body 341b of the removable pad 34b. The purpose of the attachment element 312 is to ensure the attachment and retention of the guide member 311 in the die during overmolding. The attachment element thus includes features enabling such attachment. These can be through holes, raised features, recesses, surface roughness, etc. The support is thus formed by the angled ends 3113, the attachment element 312, and the plastic die. According to another example, the first connecting element 31 comprises a guide member and an attachment element forming, together, a single piece, manufactured in one piece, overmolded into a plastic die by injection molding. The matrix can be the body 33a of the unit sole or the body 341b of the removable pad 34b.The support is thus formed by the attachment element 312 and the plastic matrix. Other support solutions for the guiding element can be considered.

[0024] In its anterior portion, the sole includes a second connecting element 32 defining a second axis of rotation Y2 of the shoe. This second connecting element 32 comprises interfaces 32L and 32M located respectively at the lateral 3L and medial 3M front edges of the sole 3. These interfaces 32L and 32M are aligned along a transverse direction Y, perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X of the sole, thus defining the second axis of rotation Y2 of the shoe. These interfaces 32L and 32M are designed to cooperate with the binding elements of a second type of attachment worn by a piece of sports equipment such as skis, for example, cross-country or touring skis, or snowshoes.For this type of activity, this system allows the shoe to be secured to the sports equipment while also permitting the shoe to rotate relative to the equipment around a transverse axis Y2 located at the front of the shoe. The mechanism of this second type of attachment allows the shoe to be alternately secured and unsecured from the sports equipment.

[0025] According to a first embodiment, interfaces 32L and 32M are lateral recesses arranged on either side of the sole, respectively at the lateral edge 3L and medial edge 3M of the sole. These lateral recesses open onto the faces defining the lateral edge 3L and medial edge 3M of the sole. These lateral recesses are designed to receive lateral and medial pins, respectively, of the second type of binding mechanism. The pins can be cylindrical, hemispherical, or conical. These pins form the attachment elements of the binding. Thus, the two pins of the mechanism define the transverse rotation axis Y2 of the shoe when they engage with the lateral recesses 32L and 32M of the sole. Such a system is, for example, described in documents EP0199098 or US4348036.

[0026] According to a second embodiment, the interfaces 32L and 32M are two lateral pins extending transversely, along a transverse direction Y, from the faces defining the lateral edge 3L and medial edge 3M of the sole 3, respectively. The pins can be cylindrical or conical. These lateral pins are designed to engage lateral and medial recesses, respectively, of the mechanism of the second type of binding. These recesses form the attachment elements of the binding. Thus, the two recesses of the mechanism define the transverse axis of rotation Y2 of the shoe when they are engaged with the lateral pins 32L and 32M of the sole. The pins can be retractable to slide inside the sole. Such a system is, for example, described in documents DE3141425 or DE102009059968.

[0027] The second connecting element 32 is a unit part comprising interfaces 32L and 32M, arranged respectively on either side of the front portion of the sole, and a rigid connecting member 321 linking the interfaces 32L and 32M to allow for the retention and positioning of the interfaces 32L and 32M within the sole or within a removable sole pad, and in particular, the alignment between the interfaces 32L and 32M. Advantageously, the interfaces 32L and 32M and the connecting member 321 form a single piece, manufactured in one continuous unit. This single piece can be overmolded in a plastic die by an injection molding process. The die can be the body 33a of the unit sole or the body 341b of the removable pad 34b. To ensure proper cohesion between the matrix and the connecting element 321, the latter incorporates appropriate attachment means as described previously (holes, reliefs, recesses, roughness...).

[0028] The first connecting element 31 and the second connecting element 32 can be interconnected to form a single part. They can thus share the same support / connecting element and / or the same matrix.

[0029] The invention lies in the fact that the first 31 and second 32 connecting elements are arranged relative to each other by a direct connection, either by forming a unit sub-assembly or by being directly joined together along a common contact surface. This means that the location of one connecting element relative to the other is precise.

[0030] This precise arrangement between these two connecting elements allows for the use of both elements when connecting to a specific type of binding. For example, one connecting element can position the boot relative to the other and / or actuate the binding mechanism. Furthermore, when these two elements form a single sub-assembly, this design reduces the number of parts required for assembly, as the two connecting elements can be interconnected. Another advantage is the ability to obtain a boot that is directly compatible with multiple binding types without having to modify the boot by adding or changing an interface part.

[0031] The first 31 and second 32 connecting elements are not directly assembled with each other via a common contact surface when the first connecting element 31 is attached, in a removable manner, to a component and when the second connecting element 31 is attached, in a removable manner, to the same component. Indeed, in this case, the first 31 and second 32 connecting elements do not have a direct relationship with each other but an indirect one, via the common component; the arrangement between the parts is therefore less precise.

[0032] According to a first embodiment, illustrated in figures 8 et 9 The first connecting element 31 comprises a first insert 310 forming a unit part consisting of a guide member 311 having angled ends 3113 and a mounting element 312 to which the angled ends 3113 are permanently attached by any suitable means (fitting, welding, bonding, etc.). In this example, the guide member 311 is made up of a shaft comprising a straight cross-section. Furthermore, each angled end 3113 of the guide member 311 fits tightly into a cylinder 3121 formed in the hooking element 312. Moreover, the second connecting element 32 includes a second insert 320 forming a single unit piece composed of interfaces 32L, 32M connected by a linking member 321. In this example, the first 310 and second inserts 320 are separate parts, without direct contact between these two components.These two inserts 310, 320 are then overmolded in a common plastic matrix constituting the body 33a of the unit sole or the body 341b of the removable pad 34b. To ensure good cohesion between the inserts and the matrix, the attachment element 312 and the connecting member 321 incorporate appropriate attachment means as described previously (holes, reliefs, recesses, roughness...).

[0033] The first connecting element 31 includes the first insert 310 and the matrix 33a, 341b. The second connecting element 32 includes the second insert 320 and the matrix 33a, 341b. Thus, the two connecting elements 31, 32 share the same common matrix 33a, 341b.

[0034] In this example, the two inserts 310 and 320 are made of metal, and the body 33a and 341b is made of plastic. To create the subassembly incorporating the two connecting elements 31 and 32, the two inserts 310 and 320 are placed independently in a mold. Then, the body 33a and 341b is injected, directly joining the two inserts 310 and 320 to each other. The precise positioning of the two inserts within the mold ensures a precise alignment between the two connecting elements.

[0035] According to an unrepresented variant of the first embodiment, the first insert 310 does not include a separate hooking element 312. In this case, the hooking of the insert is achieved directly by the guiding member 311, and more specifically by its angled ends 3113.

[0036] The second embodiment, illustrated in figures 10 et 11 This embodiment is analogous to the first embodiment, except that the two inserts 310 and 320 are directly interconnected to form a single subassembly defining a connecting insert 30. Thus, the hook element 312 of the first insert 310 is directly attached to the connecting member 321 of the second insert 320 by any suitable means. In this example, rivets 302 were used. However, other means of attachment can be considered, for example, welding, bonding, etc. Once the two inserts have been pre-assembled to form the connecting insert 30, this single subassembly 30 is placed in the mold. Then, the body 33a of the single sole or the body 341b of the removable pad 34b is injected, which will attach the connecting insert 30 to the die forming the body 33, 341b. Here, it is the connection insert 30 which allows for a precise arrangement between these two connection elements.

[0037] The third embodiment is a variant of the second embodiment. Here, the attachment element 312 of the first insert 310 and the connecting member 321 of the second insert 320 are not separate components but form a single, one-piece unit defining a common support 301. The guide member 311 is then fixed to the common support 301, which incorporates the interfaces 32L, 32M, to form a connecting insert 30. This unit subassembly 30, composed of the common support 301 and the guide member 311, is then overmolded in a plastic matrix constituting the body 33a of the unit sole or the body 341b of the removable pad 34b.

[0038] According to a first example of this third embodiment, illustrated in figures 12 et 13 , the guide member 311 is provided with angled ends 3113 intended to fit tightly into a cylinder 3121 provided in the common support 301.

[0039] According to a second example of this third embodiment, illustrated in figures 14 et 15 The common support 301 comprises two lateral flanges 3011, each incorporating a through bore 3012. The axes of these bores 3012 are aligned along a transverse direction Y corresponding to the first axis of rotation Y1 of the shoe. These bores 3012 are designed to receive a straight shaft 311 forming the guide element.

[0040] According to a fourth embodiment, illustrated in figures 16 The guide element 311 and the interfaces 32L, 32M form a single, one-piece unit defining a connecting insert 30b. Advantageously, this connecting insert 30b includes adaptations to allow this component to be attached to a die. The connecting insert 30b is then overmolded into a plastic die constituting the body 33a of the unit sole or the body 341b of the removable pad 34b.

[0041] The fifth embodiment, illustrated in figures 17 This is a variant of the fourth embodiment. The distinctive feature of this embodiment is that the guide element 311 and the interfaces 32L, 32M, defining a connecting insert 30b, are arranged so that the rotation axes Y1 and Y2 are coaxial. The connecting insert 30b may include adaptations to allow this component to be attached to a die. The connecting insert 30b is then overmolded into a plastic die constituting the body 33a of the unit sole or the body 341b of the removable pad 34b.

[0042] In all these examples, the two connecting elements 31, 32 share the same common matrix 33a, 341b and sometimes other components. Therefore, in these examples, the two connecting elements 31, 32 are not two separate components but form a single unit.

[0043] According to these embodiments, this unit part is non-removable, that is to say, not removable without damaging the sub-assembly.

[0044] According to these embodiments, the guide element 311 and the interfaces 32L, 32M are made of metal. The one-piece unit parts 30b, 301 described above can be produced by injection molding, casting, sintering, or stamping.

[0045] According to the preceding embodiments, the sole 3 can form a single, one-piece unit or an assembly of a body 33b and an attached pad 34b. In the first case, illustrated in figures 1 à 4 The single-piece unit comprises a body 33a in which are overmolded the guide member 311 and its support 3113, 312, the interfaces 32L, 32M and its connecting member 321. In the second case, illustrated in figures 5 à 7 The body 341b of the skid 34b incorporates the guide element 311 and its support 3113, 312, the interfaces 32L, 32M, and its connecting element 321. The skid 34b is attached to the body 33b of the sole by any suitable means. Preferably, the skid 34b is mounted with a removable mechanism, allowing for replacement in case of damage / wear or the need for compatibility with other types of attachment.

[0046] According to an alternative embodiment, the two connecting elements 31, 32 are separate components but are assembled directly together on a common contact surface, in order to obtain precise positioning between the guiding member 311 and the interfaces 32L, 32M.

[0047] According to a sixth embodiment, illustrated in figures 20 à 22 , the sole 3 is composed of at least three components, a 33c plate, a second 320c insert and a 34c pad.

[0048] The 33c plate is designed to be positioned opposite the underside of the foot. Vertical medial and / or lateral and / or posterior and / or anterior walls may extend upwards from the peripheral edge of the plate. The plate may be made of plastic or composite material, for example, carbon-based. The plate includes a lower surface, 33cD, which is substantially horizontal.

[0049] The second insert 320c comprises the interfaces 32L, 32M, and the connecting member 321. In this example, the second insert 320c is a single-piece, one-piece unit made of metal. The connecting member 321 is a plate of thickness E321, delimited by an upper surface 321U and a lower surface 321D. The second insert 320c is designed to be attached to the lower surface 33cD of the plate 33c, at the front of the sole 3. It is preferably removably attached to the plate by a suitable means, for example, screws 35. In this example, the upper surface 321U is substantially horizontal. It is intended to face the lower surface of the plate 33c once the second insert 320c is attached to the plate. The second insert 320c forms the second connection element 32.

[0050] The skate 34c is a separate part from the second insert 320c. It comprises, on the one hand, a first insert 310c consisting of the guide member 311 and optionally a hook element 312, and, on the other hand, a die forming the body 341c of the skate 34c. The first insert 310c is preferably overmolded to the body 341c of the skate. The skate 34c is designed to be fixed to the lower surface 33cD of the plate 33c. It is preferably removably assembled to the plate by a suitable means, for example, screws 35. In this example, the body 341c of the skate includes a substantially horizontal upper surface 341U, intended to face the plate 33c once the skate 34c is assembled to the plate. The upper surface 341U includes a recess 342 dimensioned and arranged to receive part of the connecting member 321 of the insert 320c.The recess 342 is delimited by an interface surface 342U set back from the upper surface 341U, with a depth E342 corresponding to the thickness E321 of the connecting member 321. The interface surface 342U is substantially parallel to the upper surface 341U. The pad 34c forms the first connecting element 31.

[0051] According to this embodiment, the second insert 320c is designed to fit at least partially between the pad 34c and the plate 33c, fitting at least partially into the recess 342. Once these components are assembled, the interface surface 342U of the recess 342 comes into contact with at least a portion of the lower surface 321D of the connecting member 321. The upper surface 321U of the connecting member 321 comes into contact with the lower surface 33cD of the plate 33c. Furthermore, the upper surface 341U of the body 341c of the pad 34c will also be in contact with the lower surface 33cD of the plate 33c. This assembly therefore allows for direct contact between the interface surface 342U of the step 342 and at least part of the lower surface 321D of the connecting member 321. In other words, it allows for a direct common contact surface between the first and second connecting elements 31, 32.This allows for precise positioning between the two connecting elements.

[0052] Advantageously, the same fastening means 35 is used to fix the pad 34c and the second insert 320c to the plate 33c. For example, the same screws 35 can be used.

[0053] According to one variant, the second insert 320c is fixed in a non-removable manner to the plate 33c, for example by gluing, welding... In this case, the pad 34c is attached to the sub-assembly by any suitable means of fixing so that there is a direct common contact surface between the pad 34c and the second insert 320c.

[0054] Other alternative solutions can be considered when the first and second connection elements are two distinct components assembled directly together along a common contact surface.

[0055] According to an advantageous embodiment, the first connecting element 31 is designed and arranged so that it can interact with an actuator of the fastening elements of the second type of binding to ensure cooperation between the fastening elements (pin or recess) of the mechanism of the second type of binding and the second connecting element 31 when the user lowers the front of the shoe. This advantage is achieved through this design, which allows for precise positioning between the two connecting elements due to the direct dimensional relationship between them. A second type of binding with such an actuator is illustrated, for example, in document EP0199098.

[0056] According to an advantageous embodiment, the first connecting element 31 is designed and arranged, particularly in relation to the second connecting element 32, so that it can cooperate with the second type of fastener to position the first connecting element 31 opposite the attachment elements (e.g., pin or recess) of the mechanism of the second type of fastener. This longitudinal indexing can be achieved thanks to this construction, which allows for precise positioning between the two connecting elements due to the direct dimensional relationship between them. A second type of fastener with longitudinal indexing is illustrated, for example, in document EP2319596.

[0057] In the preceding embodiments, and as illustrated in figures 18 et 19 The first axis of rotation Y1 can advantageously be closer to the 3D lower face of the sowing than the second axis of rotation Y2. The first axis of rotation Y1 can thus be offset downwards by a distance Z12 between two and twelve millimeters relative to the second axis of rotation Y2, along the longitudinal direction Z.

[0058] Positioning the guide element 311 lower than that of the interfaces 32L and 32M facilitates the two functions described previously: the longitudinal positioning of the first connecting element 31 opposite the attachment points (pin or recess) of the second type of binding mechanism, and the actuation of the second type of binding mechanism. For longitudinal positioning, being lower, the guide element is more accessible, allowing it to interact more easily with a component of the second type of binding without interfering with the lower part of the boot. For actuation, being lower, the guide element provides a sufficiently low and unobstructed contact area to allow it to interact with a component of the second type of binding mechanism without interfering with the lower part of the boot.

[0059] To ensure the actuation of the mechanism of the second type of fastening, the first connecting element 31 may include, for example, an actuation generator 3112 in the form of a contact line extending in a transverse direction Y. The actuation generator 3112 is offset downwards by a distance Z3112 of between four and fifteen millimeters relative to the second axis of rotation Y2, in the longitudinal direction Z. In the case where the guiding member 311 of the first connecting element 31 is a shaft, the generator 3112 may be the lowest generator of the cylinder forming the shaft 31 in a vertical direction Z.

[0060] In the preceding embodiments, and as illustrated in figures 18 et 19 The first axis of rotation Y1 can advantageously be positioned longitudinally relative to the second axis of rotation Y2, within a specific interval to facilitate the actuation of the second type of fastener via the guide member 311. The interval can be delimited by a first rear terminal LRY1 where the first axis of rotation Y1 is offset rearward by a distance X12 of 70 millimeters relative to the first axis of rotation Y1, along the longitudinal direction X and, a second front terminal LFY1 where the first axis of rotation Y1 is offset forward by a distance X12 of 10 millimeters relative to the first axis of rotation Y1, along the longitudinal direction X.

[0061] It can be advantageous to shift the first axis of rotation Y1 rearward to bring the pivot point closer to the metatarsal areas of the foot. Ideally, the axis should be located between the front of the metatarsals and the front of the foot, and as close to the metatarsals as possible, to improve the efficiency of the push on the sports equipment. The front of the metatarsals is located approximately 60 to 80 millimeters from the front of the foot.

[0062] In the preceding embodiments, and as illustrated in figures 18 et 19 The distance X2 between the second axis of rotation Y2 and the front end 3F of the sole, along a horizontal direction X, is preferably between 10 and 20 millimeters. The further forward the second axis of rotation Y2 is positioned, the greater the range of rotation when the boot is engaged with the second type of binding, without risk of interference between the binding and another part of the boot. Furthermore, advantageously, the distance Z2 between the second axis of rotation Y2 and the lower surface 3D of the sole, along a horizontal direction Z, is preferably between 10 and 17 millimeters.

[0063] Furthermore, positioning the guide element 311 further forward than the interfaces 32L and 32M allows for greater clearance of the guide element from the boot. This facilitates the use of the guide element to achieve longitudinal positioning of the first connection element 31 opposite the attachment elements (pin or recess) of the second type of binding mechanism. Indeed, the guide element is then closer to the front end of the boot, which allows for easier interaction with a component of the second type of binding without risk of interference with the front of the boot. Moreover, for the user, it is more ergonomic to quickly achieve longitudinal indexing when approaching the binding with their boot, reducing the uncertainty of having missed the indexing step during the boot-wear process.

[0064] To ensure this longitudinal positioning, the first connecting element 31 may include, for example, an indexing generatrix 3111 in the form of a contact line extending in a transverse direction Y. In the case where the guiding member 311 of the first connecting element 31 is a shaft, the indexing generatrix 3111 may be the most forward generatrix of the cylinder forming the shaft 31 in a vertical direction X. It may be another generatrix of the cylinder, depending on the design of the second type of fastening.

[0065] According to one embodiment, the guide element 311 is positioned longitudinally with respect to the interfaces 32L, 32M such that the longitudinal position of the actuating generator 3112 is within a range defined by a first rear position LRY1 where the actuating generator 3112 is offset rearward by two millimeters with respect to the second axis of rotation Y2, along the longitudinal direction X, and a second front position LFY1 where the actuating generator 3112 is offset forward by five millimeters with respect to the second axis of rotation Y2, along the longitudinal direction X. Furthermore, the guide element 311 is positioned vertically with respect to the interfaces 32L, 32M such that the actuating generator 3112 is offset downward by a distance Z3112 of between 10 and 12 millimeters with respect to to the second axis of rotation Y2, along the longitudinal direction Z.By respecting these dimensional constraints, it is possible to comply with the recommendations required for the use of the vast majority of ski touring bindings on the market, and more specifically for the "step-in" function of these models. This allows for the design of a boot that is compatible, without any modifications, with these ski touring bindings available on the market.

[0066] In one embodiment, the guide element 311 is positioned rearward relative to the rotation axis Y2, beyond the limit LRY1. In this case, this design likely requires a modified design of the compatible touring bindings if a "step-in" function via the guide element 311 is desired—that is, the automatic activation of the binding mechanism when putting on the binding. Alternatively, the "step-in" function can be achieved by a different component of the boot than the guide element 311.

[0067] Furthermore, the second connecting element 32 can be used to immobilize the rotation of the front of the boot when the boot is engaged with the first type of binding via the first connecting element 31. Thus, the first type of binding may include a locking mechanism designed to cooperate with the second connecting element 32 to ensure this locking. This locking mechanism may be similar to the mechanism of the second type of binding. This locking can be useful if the user wishes to restrict the boot's mobility, for example, during the downhill phase to have better control over the ski or snowboard. This angular locking can be achieved thanks to this design, which allows for precise positioning between the two connecting elements due to the direct dimensional relationship between them.

[0068] To ensure this immobilization, the first Y1 and second Y2 axes of rotation must be precisely positioned relative to each other. The dimensioning between the two axes can advantageously be that defined previously.

[0069] The invention is not limited to the few embodiments described above by way of example, but aims to protect any equivalent configuration. It is therefore possible to combine these embodiments.

[0070] The invention is not limited to the embodiments described above but extends to all embodiments covered by the attached claims. REFERENCES

[0071] 1. Shoe 2. Upper 3. Sole 30. Connecting insert 301. Common support 3011. Lateral strap 3012. Through bore 302. Rivet 31. First connecting element 310. First insert 311. Guide element 3111. Indexing generator 3112. Actuation generator 3113. Angled ends 312. Hooking element 3121. Cylinder 32. Second connecting element 320. Second insert 32L. Lateral interface 32M. Medial interface 321. Connecting element 321U. Upper surface 321D. Lower surface 33a. Body of the unit sole 33b. Body of the sole 34b. Pad 341b. Body 33c. Plate 33cD. Lower surface 34c. Pad 341c. Body 341U. Upper surface 342. Recess 342U. Interface surface

Claims

1. Sports shoe (1) intended to cooperate alternately with a first type of binding and a second type of binding so as to connect the shoe to a sports device, these bindings each allowing the rotation of the shoe around an axis (Y) transverse to the longitudinal axis (X) of the sports device, the shoe comprising a sole assembly (3) provided with: - a first connection element (31) with the first type of binding, the first connection element comprising a guide member (311), in the form of a metal bar, defining a first axis of rotation (Y1) of the shoe and extending in a transverse direction over at least part of the width of the sole assembly, the guide member comprising a free length capable of interacting with the first type of binding, - a second connection element (32) with the second type of binding, the second connection element comprising interfaces (32L, 32M),respectively at the level of the lateral (3L) and medial (3M) front edges of the sole, defining a second axis of rotation (Y2) of the shoe, , characterized in that - either the first and second connection elements form a unitary part (33a, 34b), - or the first and second connection elements are two separate components assembled directly together along a common contact surface (342U, 321D).

2. Sports shoe (1) according to claim 1 characterized in that the first and second connection elements are overmolded to the same support (33a, 34b).

3. Sports shoe (1) according to one of the preceding claims characterized in that the first connection element (31) and / or the second connection element (32) is / are overmolded in a plastic matrix, by an injection process.

4. Sports shoe (1) according to one of the preceding claims characterized in thatthe first and second connection elements are arranged in a pad (34b) attached, in a removable manner, to a body (33b) of the sole assembly.

5. Sports shoe (1) according to claim 1 characterized in that a connection element (31, 32), distinct from the other connection element (32, 31), is at least partially interposed between a lower surface (33cD) of a component (33c) of the sole assembly (3) and the other connection element (32, 31).

6. Sports shoe (1) according to one of the preceding claims characterized in that the interfaces of the second connection element respectively form - a first lateral recess (32L) arranged at the level of the front lateral edge (3L) of the sole assembly, - a second medial recess (32M) arranged at the level of the front medial edge (3M) of the sole assembly, the first and second recesses being aligned along an axis transverse (Y2) to the longitudinal axis (X) of the sole assembly.

7. Sports shoe (1) according to one of the preceding claims characterized in that the first axis of rotation (Y1) is closer to the lower face (3D) of the sole than the second axis of rotation (Y2).

8. Sports shoe (1) according to one of the preceding claims characterized in that the first connection element (31) comprises an actuation generator (3112) which is offset downwards by a distance (Z3112) of between four and fifteen millimeters relative to the second axis of rotation (Y2), in the longitudinal direction (Z), this distance (Z3112) preferably being between ten and twelve millimeters.

9. Sports shoe (1) according to one of the preceding claims characterized in that the distance (X2) between the second axis of rotation (Y2) and the front end (3F) of the sole, in a horizontal direction (X), is between 10 and 20 millimeters.

10. Sports shoe (1) according to one of the preceding claims characterized in that the first axis of rotation (Y1) is offset backwards relative to the second axis of rotation (Y2) by a distance (X12) of between 0 and 70 millimeters.

11. Sports shoe (1) according to one of the preceding claims characterized in that the first axis of rotation (Y1) is offset rearward relative to the front end (3F) of the sole by a distance greater than five millimeters.

12. Sports shoe (1) according to one of the preceding claims characterized in that the free length of the guide member (311) is housed in a lower recess of the sole assembly or of the removable pad of the sole assembly located in the front part of the sole assembly so as to allow access to the metal bar from below the sole assembly in order to allow the connection between the guide member (311) and the first type of fixing.

13. Sports shoe (1) according to one of the preceding claims characterized in that the free length of metal bar is only arranged between the lateral edges (3L, 3M) of the sole assembly (3), without any lateral extension beyond the lateral (3L) and medial (3M) edges of the sole assembly.

14. Sports shoe (1) according to one of the preceding claims characterized in that the connecting member (311) is secured to the sole assembly (3) so that there is no degree of mobility between the connecting member (311) and an element (33a, 34b) of the sole assembly when the shoe is assembled and not connected to the first type of binding.

15. Sports shoe (1) according to one of the preceding claims characterized in that The shoe is intended for cross-country skiing, ski touring or road skiing.

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