Article of footwear with enhanced durability features

EP4757657A1Pending Publication Date: 2026-06-17NIKE INNOVATE CV
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
EP · EP
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
NIKE INNOVATE CV
Filing Date
2024-08-12
Publication Date
2026-06-17

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing footwear uppers, particularly knitted ones, experience high rates of abrasion during activities like skateboarding, leading to tearing, holes, and reduced structural integrity, which shortens the lifespan of the footwear.

Method used

The article of footwear features a knitted upper with distinct knit zones, including a first knit zone with a thermoformed layer created by melting inlaid thermoplastic yarns between two knit layers, and additional knit zones with exposed inlaid yarns for enhanced durability and tactile feedback.

Benefits of technology

The solution significantly enhances the durability of the knitted upper by reducing abrasion and preventing yarn degradation, while also providing a water-resistant barrier and improved wearer comfort through tactile feedback.

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  • Figure US2024041895_20022025_PF_FP_ABST
    Figure US2024041895_20022025_PF_FP_ABST
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Abstract

Aspects herein are directed to, among other things, a knitted upper for an article of footwear. The knitted upper includes different knit zones including a first knit zone which may be located in a toe and forefoot region of the article of footwear. The first knit zone includes a first knit layer forming an outer-facing surface of the knitted upper, a second knit layer forming an inner-facing surface of the knitted upper, and a third thermoformed layer substantially contained between the first knit layer and the second knit layer. The third thermoformed layer acts as a barrier, reducing the likelihood of abrasion forces that may occur from contact between the knitted upper and a ground or other surface from contacting yarns that form the second knit layer, thereby increasing the structural integrity of the knitted upper.
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