Stretch linings for articles of footwear

Abstract

An article of footwear may include a stretch lining disposed within an interior region of the article of footwear between a sole and an upper of the article of footwear. A foot receiving region is defined between the stretch lining and the sole. The stretch lining is configured to transition between a relaxed condition wherein the stretch lining is spaced from the upper, and a stretched condition wherein the stretch lining is in tension due to being urged closer to the upper by contact from a foot in the foot receiving region. The stretch lining has specific stretch characteristics that may be tailored to the foot of the wearer to improve the fit of the footwear. In some examples, the stretch lining includes one or more stretch zones, each stretch zone having a different respective stretch characteristic.

Description

[0001] STRETCH LININGS FOR ARTICLES OF FOOTWEAR

[0002] CROSS-REFERENCES

[0003] The following applications and materials are incorporated herein, in their entireties, for all purposes: U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 579,248, filed August 28, 2023.

[0004] FIELD

[0005] This disclosure relates to systems and methods for footwear. More specifically, the disclosed embodiments relate to linings for footwear.

[0006] INTRODUCTION

[0007] Footwear that properly fits the foot of a wearer is essential for comfortability and performance. This is especially true for footwear that is worn during athletic activities. However, as a result of the wide variety of unique foot sizes and shapes of different individuals, it can be difficult for individuals to find footwear that properly fits their feet.

[0008] SUMMARY

[0009] The present disclosure provides systems, apparatuses, and methods relating to stretch linings for footwear.

[0010] In some examples, an article of footwear includes a sole and an upper coupled to the sole and the upper defines an interior region between the sole and the upper. The article of footwear further includes a stretch lining disposed within the interior region and defining a foot receiving region between the stretch lining and the sole. The stretch lining is configured to transition between a relaxed condition wherein the stretch lining is spaced from the upper, and a stretched condition wherein the stretch lining is in tension due to being urged closer to the upper by contact from a foot in the foot receiving region.

[0011] In some examples, a method of manufacturing an upper assembly for an article of footwear includes bonding an upper reinforcement to an interior side of an upper and bonding a stretch lining to the interior side of the upper.

[0012] Features, functions, and advantages may be achieved independently in various embodiments of the present disclosure, or may be combined in yet other embodiments, further details of which can be seen with reference to the following description and drawings.

[0013] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram of an illustrative article of footwear including a stretch lining in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0015] Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a wearer’s foot inserted in the article of footwear of Fig. 1.

[0016] Fig. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exploded view of the article of footwear and the stretch lining of Figs. 1-2.

[0017] Fig. 4 is a schematic diagram depicting an exploded view of the stretch lining of Figs. 1-3.

[0018] Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating the stretch lining of Fig. 4.

[0019] Fig. 6 is a schematic diagram depicting a cross-sectional view of the stretch lining corresponding to line 6-6 of Figs. 4 and 5.

[0020] Fig. 7 is a schematic diagram depicting a first illustrative bonding pattern in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0021] Fig. 8 is a schematic diagram depicting a second illustrative bonding pattern in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0022] Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram depicting an illustrative four-way stretch bonding pattern in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0023] Fig. 10 is a schematic diagram depicting an illustrative two-way stretch bonding pattern in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0024] Fig. 11 is a schematic diagram depicting an example article of footwear including an example stretch lining in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0025] Fig. 12 is a schematic diagram depicting a first exploded view of the article of footwear and stretch lining of Fig. 11 .

[0026] Fig. 13 is a schematic diagram depicting a second exploded view of the article of footwear and stretch lining of Figs. 11-12.

[0027] Fig. 14 is a schematic diagram illustrating a first example of a stretch lining including stretch zones.

[0028] Fig. 15 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example article of footwear including the stretch lining of Fig. 14. Fig. 16 is a schematic diagram illustrating a second example of a stretch lining including stretch zones.

[0029] Fig. 17 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example article of footwear including the stretch lining of Fig. 16.

[0030] Fig. 18 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example slide-on sandal including a stretch lining according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0031] Fig. 19 is a flowchart depicting steps of an illustrative method for manufacturing an upper assembly for an article of footwear in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0032] Fig. 20 is a flowchart depicting steps of an illustrative method for manufacturing a stretch lining for an article of footwear in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0033] Fig. 21 is a perspective view of an illustrative upper formed using the method of Fig. 19.

[0034] Fig. 22 is a perspective view of an illustrative upper reinforcement formed using the method of Fig. 19.

[0035] Fig. 23 is a perspective view of the upper reinforcement of Fig. 22 bonded to the upper of Fig. 21.

[0036] Fig. 24 is a perspective view of a first inner layer bonded to a first outer layer of a stretch lining in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0037] Fig. 25 is a perspective view of a second outer layer and second inner layer stacked on top of the first outer layer and the first inner layer of Fig. 24.

[0038] Fig. 26 is a perspective view of the first outer layer folded around the second outer layer of Figs. 24-25.

[0039] Fig. 27 is a perspective view of the upper reinforcement bonded to the upper of Fig. 22 and the stretch lining of Fig. 26.

[0040] Fig. 28 is a perspective view of the stretch lining of Figs. 25-26 partially bonded to the upper and upper reinforcement of Figs. 21-23.

[0041] Fig. 29 is a perspective view of a sole and an upper assembly including a stretch lining in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0042] Fig. 30 is a perspective view of the upper assembly of Fig. 29 bonded to the sole of Fig. 29. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] Various aspects and examples of footwear linings, as well as related methods, are described below and illustrated in the associated drawings. Unless otherwise specified, a footwear lining in accordance with the present teachings, and / or its various components, may contain at least one of the structures, components, functionalities, and / or variations described, illustrated, and / or incorporated herein. Furthermore, unless specifically excluded, the process steps, structures, components, functionalities, and / or variations described, illustrated, and / or incorporated herein in connection with the present teachings may be included in other similar devices and methods, including being interchangeable between disclosed embodiments. The following description of various examples is merely illustrative in nature and is in no way intended to limit the disclosure, its application, or uses. Additionally, the advantages provided by the examples and embodiments described below are illustrative in nature and not all examples and embodiments provide the same advantages or the same degree of advantages.

[0044] This Detailed Description includes the following sections, which follow immediately below: (1 ) Definitions; (2) Overview; (3) Examples, Components, and Alternatives; (4) Advantages, Features, and Benefits; and (5) Conclusion. The Examples, Components, and Alternatives section is further divided into subsections, each of which is labeled accordingly.

[0045] Definitions

[0046] The following definitions apply herein, unless otherwise indicated.

[0047] “Comprising,” “including,” and “having” (and conjugations thereof) are used interchangeably to mean including but not necessarily limited to, and are open-ended terms not intended to exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps.

[0048] Terms such as “first”, “second”, and “third” are used to distinguish or identify various members of a group, or the like, and are not intended to show serial or numerical limitation.

[0049] “AKA” means “also known as,” and may be used to indicate an alternative or corresponding term for a given element or elements.

[0050] “Elongate” or “elongated” refers to an object or aperture that has a length greater than its own width, although the width need not be uniform. For example, an elongate slot may be elliptical or stadium-shaped, and an elongate candlestick may have a height greater than its tapering diameter. As a negative example, a circular aperture would not be considered an elongate aperture.

[0051] “Coupled” means connected, either permanently or releasably, whether directly or indirectly through intervening components.

[0052] “Resilient” describes a material or structure configured to respond to normal operating loads (e.g., when compressed) by deforming elastically and returning to an original shape or position when unloaded.

[0053] “Rigid” describes a material or structure configured to be stiff, non-deformable, or substantially lacking in flexibility under normal operating conditions.

[0054] “Elastic” describes a material or structure configured to spontaneously resume its former shape after being stretched or expanded.

[0055] “Providing,” in the context of a method, may include receiving, obtaining, purchasing, manufacturing, generating, processing, preprocessing, and / or the like, such that the object or material provided is in a state and configuration for other steps to be carried out.

[0056] In this disclosure, one or more publications, patents, and / or patent applications may be incorporated by reference. However, such material is only incorporated to the extent that no conflict exists between the incorporated material and the statements and drawings set forth herein. In the event of any such conflict, including any conflict in terminology, the present disclosure is controlling.

[0057] Overview

[0058] In general, a stretch lining (AKA stretch liner) for an article of footwear in accordance with the present teachings is configured to be suspended within an interior region of the article of footwear between an upper and a sole of the article of footwear. A wearer’s foot is inserted between the stretch lining and the sole and the stretch lining is configured to stretch toward the upper or away from the sole when contacted by the wearer’s foot (e.g., the top of the foot). The stretch lining is configured to apply a pressure on the wearer’s foot to improve the fit and feel of the article of footwear. In some examples, different regions of the stretch lining may have distinct stretch characteristics from other regions of the stretch lining, such as different directional stretching capabilities and / or elasticities. The stretch lining is configured to accommodate and / or conform to the size and shape of the wearer’s foot to a greater degree than the upper does, to improve the fit and feel of the article of footwear for the wearer.

[0059] In some examples, the stretch lining comprises an inner lining and an outer lining coupled to each other by an adhesive. The inner lining and / or the outer lining may comprise an elastic material. In some examples, one of the inner lining or the outer lining may comprise a relatively inelastic material. The inner and outer linings may be coupled together via adhesive bonding (e.g., using a stretch adhesive, dot matrix adhesive, non-woven spray adhesive), thermal bonding, stitching, and / or the like. In some examples, the inner lining and the outer lining are coupled to each other by a plurality of bonds that are arranged in a bonding pattern. For example, a plurality of adhesive bonds, thermal bonds, and / or stitches may couple the inner and outer linings together and the plurality of bonds may be arranged in a grid, matrix, or lattice pattern between the inner and outer linings. Portions of the inner and outer linings at which the bonds are present are directly bonded to each other, while portions of the inner and outer layers where the bonds are absent are not directly coupled to each other. As a result, the specific bonding pattern at least partially determines the specific stretch characteristics of the stretch lining. The stretch lining may have any suitable bonding pattern coupling the inner and outer linings together, depending on the desired stretch characteristics of the stretch lining.

[0060] In some examples, the stretch lining includes a plurality of stretch zones, each stretch zone having respective stretch characteristics. For example, different regions, areas, or zones of the stretch lining may comprise inner and outer linings that are coupled to each other utilizing different bonding patterns, such that the different regions have distinct stretch characteristics from other regions of the stretch lining. The different bonding patterns may facilitate varying degrees of stretchability (e.g., higher or lower elasticity) of the different regions of the stretch lining. As an example, the stretch lining may comprise a forward region and a rearward region and the forward region may have a higher or a lower degree of elasticity than the rearward region. In some examples, the different bonding patterns may facilitate different directional stretching capabilities of the different regions of the stretch lining. For example, certain regions of the stretch lining may be stretchable in one direction, in two directions, in four directions, and / or certain regions may be relatively inelastic. Alternatively, in some examples, the stretch lining may have different directional stretching capabilities across an entirety of the stretch lining. For example, an entirety of the stretch lining may be configured to stretch in only one direction, in two directions, and / or in four directions. In some examples, the stretch lining may have uniform elasticity across an entirety of the stretch lining.

[0061] The stretch lining may have any suitable number and arrangement of the different zones, regions, or areas that have the respective stretch characteristics. In some examples, the layout of the stretch zones and the different stretch characteristics of the different stretch zones are tailored to the individual wearing the footwear (or to an expected user of the footwear, or in accordance with an expected use case). This facilitates a precision fit of the article footwear on the foot of the wearer and may mitigate fatigue and injury caused by poor fitting footwear.

[0062] The outer lining and the inner lining of the stretch lining may have any suitable shape and / or size configured to receive the foot of the wearer between the stretch lining and the sole of the article of footwear. In some examples, some or all of the stretch lining is sized substantially smaller than the upper of the article of footwear, such that the stretch lining is configured to stretch towards the upper when contacted by the user’s foot. The stretch lining is configured to hug, conform to, and / or provide pressure on the user’s foot as a result of the elasticity of the stretch lining. In this manner, the stretch lining is configured to stretch around and accommodate the specific foot of the wearer.

[0063] The stretch lining may be suspended in the article of footwear utilizing any suitable method. In some examples, portions of the stretch lining are affixed to portions of the upper and / or portions of the sole of the article of footwear by stitching, thermal bonding, adhesive bonding, fasteners, and / or the like. In some examples, the stretch lining is only coupled to portions of the sole and is completely independent of the upper. In some examples, the stretch lining is only coupled to portions of the upper and is completely independent of the sole. In some examples, one or more portions of the stretch lining are coupled to the upper and one or more portions of the stretch lining are coupled to the sole.

[0064] In some examples, the stretch lining comprises stretch zones to create multiple stretch profiles within the lining. This allows the lining to have different stretch profiles depending on the region of the foot. As a result, this stretch lining is able to limit or eliminate muscle fatigue associated with poor fitting footwear. In some examples, the stretch lining is sized substantially smaller than the upper in various regions to reduce the internal volume encapsulated by the lining. When a foot is inserted into the shoe, the lining is stretched, applying a pressure on the foot. The pressure on the foot varies depending on the stretch profile of the lining and the volume of the user’s foot.

[0065] Examples, Components, and Alternatives

[0066] The following sections describe selected aspects of illustrative footwear linings as well as related systems and / or methods. The examples in these sections are intended for illustration and should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of the present disclosure. Each section may include one or more distinct embodiments or examples, and / or contextual or related information, function, and / or structure.

[0067] A. Illustrative Stretch Lining for Footwear

[0068] As shown in Figs. 1-10, this section describes an illustrative article of footwear 100 having an illustrative stretch lining 112. Article of footwear 100 and stretch lining 112 form an example of the articles of footwear and stretch linings, described above.

[0069] In the example of Figs. 1-3, article of footwear 100 is illustrated as a shoe, but stretch lining 112 may be utilized in any suitable articles of footwear including boots, athletic shoes, dress shoes, sandals, slippers, slides, and / or the like.

[0070] As shown in Figs. 1-2, article of footwear 100 includes an upper 104 coupled to a sole 106. Sole 106 may include any suitable structure(s) configured to support a user’s foot 116. In some examples, sole 106 includes an outsole and / or a midsole. In some examples, article of footwear 100 may include an internal sockliner, an insole, a Strobel board, and / or any other suitable components. Upper 104 includes a foot opening 108 configured to receive user’s foot 116 into an interior region 110 of article of footwear 100 defined between upper 104 and sole 106. Upper 104 may be configured to receive and cover the user’s foot. In some examples, upper 104 is configured as a slip-on upper that does not require laces or fastening members to secure footwear 100 to the foot of the wearer. In some examples, upper 104 includes one or more components for tightening or otherwise fastening upper 104 and footwear 100 to the foot of the wearer. For example, upper 104 may include a plurality of lace receiving members, such as a plurality of eyelets, that are configured to receive a lace. In some examples, footwear 100 may include a lace or otherfastening member, e.g., straps, Velcro fastener, zipper, snap fasteners, button, etc., that is used to adjust the size of opening 108 and therefore the fit of upper 104 around the foot of the wearer. Stretch lining 112 (AKA stretch liner) is disposed within interior region 110 of article of footwear 100. Stretch lining 112 may comprise an elastic membrane which is configured to stretch when contacted by a user’s foot. Stretch lining 112 is positioned within interior region 110, such that at least a portion of stretch lining 112 is spaced above a portion of sole 106. A foot receiving region 114 is defined between stretch lining 112 and sole 106 and at least a portion of user’s foot 116 is configured to be received in foot receiving region 114 (as shown in Fig. 2). Stretch lining 112 is configured to transition between a relaxed condition and a stretched condition in response to the user’s foot 116 being received in foot receiving region 114. For example, when no foot is contacting stretch lining 112, stretch lining 112 is in the relaxed condition (as shown in Fig. 1) and when the user’s foot is received in foot receiving region 114, stretch lining transitions to the stretched condition (as shown in Fig. 2).

[0071] In some examples, as shown in Fig. 1 , stretch lining 112 is disposed in a front portion of interior region 110 forward of foot opening 108. This facilitates receiving user’s foot 116 through foot opening 108 and into foot receiving region 114 disposed between stretch lining 112 and sole 106. Stretch lining 112 may be sized and shaped to at least partially surround the portion of the wearer’s foot that is received in foot receiving region 114. For example, stretch lining 112 may extend around an upper side of user’s foot 116 (e.g. , in an instep region) but may not extend beneath the user’s foot. In some examples, stretch lining 112 may extend only in a portion of the front portion of interior region 110, e.g., only in a forefoot region 154 and not in a toe region 156. In some examples, stretch lining 212 is configured to extend in a heel region 158 and / or ankle region 162 of article of footwear 100 (e.g., as a bootie). For example, stretch lining 212 may extend out of foot opening 108 and may be configured to receive the user’s foot.

[0072] Stretch lining 112 may have any suitable shape and / or size configured to define foot receiving region 114 between stretch lining 112 and sole 106. In some examples, as shown in Fig. 1 , stretch lining 112 is sized smaller than upper 104 in at least one dimension, such that stretch lining 112 is suspended in interior region 110 between upper 104 and sole 106. For example, a width of stretch lining 112 as measured laterally across article of footwear 100, a length of stretch lining 112 as measured longitudinally across article of footwear 100, and / or a height of stretch lining 112 above sole 106 may be smaller than a corresponding width, length, and / or height of upper 104. In some examples, a perimeter of stretch lining 112 as measured around an edge of stretch lining 112 is sized smaller than a corresponding perimeter of upper 104. In some examples, a surface area of stretch lining 112 is smaller than a corresponding surface area of upper 106 at least when stretch lining 112 is in the relaxed condition. As a result, when stretch lining 112 is in the relaxed condition, a volume of foot-receiving area 114 defined between stretch lining 112 and sole 106 is smaller than a volume of interior region 110 defined between upper 104 and sole 106. In some examples, stretch lining 112 may have a width as measured laterally across article of footwear 100, a length as measured longitudinally across article of footwear 100, and / or a height above sole 106 that is at least 10% smaller and / or at most 60% smaller than the corresponding width, length, and / or height of upper 106 dependent on the desired stretch characteristics (e.g., elasticity) of stretch lining 112. In some examples, the surface area of stretch lining 112 is at least 10% smaller and / or at most 60% smaller than the surface area of upper 104 when stretch lining 112 is in the relaxed condition. In some examples, stretch lining 112 has a width, length, height, and / or surface area that is approximately 50% smaller than the corresponding portion of upper 312.

[0073] In some examples, stretch lining 112 can be sized to be 5%-50% smaller or 5% - 25% smaller or 10% - 50% smaller than upper 104 depending on the stretch characteristics (e.g., elasticity) of the material of the stretch lining 112. For example, if stretch lining is sized 10% smaller than upper 104, stretch lining may provide more resistance to stretch and therefore require greater force to stretch than if stretch lining 112 is sized 50% smaller than upper 104. For example, stretch lining 112 may require at least 5% or at least 10% more force to stretch (e.g., as measured by standard test ASTM D4964-96) dependent on the dimensions of stretch lining 112 in comparison to corresponding dimensions of upper 104. In some examples, at least a portion of stretch lining 112 does not contact portions of upper 104 when in a relaxed condition (AKA unstretched position), as shown in Fig. 1. In some examples, stretch lining 112 includes one or more cutouts, apertures, perforations and / or openings 113. Opening(s) 113 may be configured to provide or enhance specific stretch characteristics of stretch lining 112, such as the force that is required to stretch the stretch lining.

[0074] Stretch lining 112 may be coupled to article of footwear 100 at any suitable position and in any suitable manner. For example, stretch lining 112 may be affixed to portions of sole 106 and / or portions of upper 104 by stitching, adhesive bonding, thermal bonding, fasteners, and / or the like. In some examples, stretch lining 112 is only coupled to portions of sole 106 and is completely independent of upper 104. In some examples, stretch lining 112 is affixed to an inner surface of sole 106 around a perimeter of at least a portion of the front portion of sole 106 or is sandwiched between parts of the sole 106 (e.g., between midsole and outsole or between midsole and insole). In some examples, at least a portion of the perimeter of stretch lining 112 is coupled to at least a portion of (e.g., the perimeter of) upper 104. In some examples, stretch lining 112 is only coupled to portions of upper 104 and is completely independent of sole 106. For example, one or more edge regions of stretch lining 112 may be fixed to upper 104, such that a middle portion of stretch lining 112 extending between the one or more edge regions is suspended from upper 104 within interior region 110.

[0075] As shown in Fig. 2, one or more portions of stretch lining 112 are configured to stretch when user’s foot 116 is received in foot receiving region 114. For example, one or more portions of stretch lining 112 may be stretched toward upper 104 when contacted by user’s foot 116. In some examples, portions of stretch lining 112 are configured to stretch to a position contacting upper 104 and / or a position proximate upper 104. Explained in another way, stretch lining 112 is configured to stretch outward and / or upward away from sole 106 when contacted by user’s foot 116. Stretch lining 112 is configured to be held in tension by the user’s foot (e.g., in an at least partially stretched condition or stretched condition), and therefore to apply pressure on an upper portion and or medial / lateral portions of user’s foot 116 due to the elasticity of the stretch lining. The stretch lining is configured to accommodate the specific size and shape of the user’s foot and the pressure applied by stretch lining 112 on user’s foot 116 facilitates improved fit and feel of article of footwear 100 on user’s foot 116.

[0076] In some examples, all or one or more portions of stretch lining 112 include a wicking material or the like and are configured to prevent the accumulation of moisture and facilitate evaporation of perspiration through the upper to keep the foot of the wearer dry. In some examples, stretch lining 112 may have one or more perforations configured to improve the breathability and / or thermal comfort for the wearer’s foot. Stretch lining 112 may comprise any suitable elastic material (e.g., an elastane material) or combination of materials configured to provide the desired stretch characteristics. In some examples, stretch lining 112 comprises a knit material that is knit to stretch according to the desired stretch characteristics (e.g., to comprise uniform directional stretch and / or one or more stretch zones). In some examples, stretch lining 112 may comprise a woven or a non-woven textile.

[0077] Fig. 3 schematically illustrates an exploded view of article of footwear 100 including an embodiment of stretch lining 112. As shown in Fig. 3, in some examples, stretch lining 112 of stretch lining 112 includes an inner lining 118 and an outer lining 120. Outer lining 120 forms at least a portion of an exterior of stretch lining 112 and may include a cutout or opening 124 through a front portion of the outer lining (e.g., in an upper toe box region). In the example of Fig. 3, inner lining 118 forms at least a portion of an interior of stretch lining 112 and does not include an opening. However, in some examples, inner lining 118 includes one or more perforations configured to facilitate improved thermal comfort for the wearer of the article of footwear. Outer lining 120 may comprise openings of any suitable shape and / or size and the openings may be disposed at any suitable positions of the linings. The shape, size, and / or position of the openings in the outer linings may facilitate different stretch characteristics of stretch lining 112.

[0078] Outer and inner linings 120, 118 of stretch lining 112 may be made from a separate textile. In some examples, the textiles forming outer lining 120 and / or inner lining 118 may have 2-way stretch capabilities, 4-way stretch capabilities, moisture wicking properties, quick drying characteristics, and / or any suitable combinations thereof. In some examples, outer lining 120 and / or inner lining 118 are made from a knit textile. In some examples, the textile of outer lining 120 may be different from the textile of inner lining 118. For example, outer lining 120 may be made from a textile that has a greater amount or percentage of stretch resistant fibers or yarns than inner lining 118 (e.g., elastane or similar fibers / yarns). In some examples, inner lining 118 has 4-way stretch capability and outer lining 120 comprises a material having greater stretch resistance (e.g., 2-way or 4-way stretch material having lower stretch capability or elasticity than inner lining 118). This may facilitate outer lining 118 providing support and pressure on the wearer foot when footwear 100 is worn.

[0079] In some examples, the outer lining 120 comprises an auxetic material. As disclosed herein, auxetic refers to a material having a negative Poisson’s ratio, such that when the material is stretched or elongated along a first axis, a dimension of the material along a second axis is also increased. In some examples, outer lining 120 and inner lining 118 comprise the same textile as each other. Outer lining 120 and inner lining 118 may comprise any suitable textile, including combinations of different textiles. Outer lining 120 includes a first face 117 (see Fig. 6) on the exterior of membrane 112 and an opposite second face 119 facing inwards towards inner lining 118. Second face 119 of outer lining 120 faces toward a third face 129 of inner lining 118 when inner lining 118 and outer lining 120 are joined together to form stretch lining 112. Inner lining 118 also includes a fourth face 131 opposite third face 129 that faces towards the foot of the wearer when footwear 100 is worn.

[0080] Stretch lining 112 may also comprise a bonding layer 122 which is configured to secure inner lining 118 to outer lining 120. Bonding layer 122 may comprise any suitable structures and / or materials configured to secure inner lining 118 to outer lining 120. For example, bonding layer 122 may comprise a polymeric adhesive, a thermally bonded layer, or the like. The bonding layer may have elastomeric properties. The bonding layer may be applied using a printing process, a spray process, an extrusion process, may be brushed on to one or more surfaces, and / or the like. In some examples, bonding layer 122 includes a plurality of bonds which are configured to bond inner lining 118 to outer lining 120. The plurality of bonds may be arranged in a random pattern. The plurality of bonds may be arranged in a regular pattern, e.g., a grid, lattice, or matrix pattern (see Fig. 5). The pattern of the bonds may be configured to provide specific stretch characteristics of stretch lining 112. For example, different bonding patterns may facilitate varying degrees of stretching (e.g., higher or lower elasticity) of stretch lining 112 and / or different directional stretching capabilities (see Figs. 7-10). The plurality of bonds of bonding layer 122 may comprise stitching, thermal bonds, and / or adhesive bonds connecting inner lining 118 to outer lining 120. Alternatively, or additionally, bonding layer 122 may be an intermediate layer comprising an elastic liner or foam structure sandwiched between inner lining 118 and outer lining 120 and bonded to the inner and outer linings. The foam structure may have specific stretch characteristics and may be configured to provide the specific stretch characteristics to the stretch lining.

[0081] The bonding layer 122 may provide an engineered support structure that allows stretch lining 112 to have zones of varying support (e.g., stretch resistance) in different areas of the stretch lining 112. In some examples, the engineered support structure may be formed by the plurality of bonds arranged in the pattern. For example, the engineered support structure may be formed by selectively applying different patterns of adhesive, e.g., by applying drops or dots of adhesive in between the linings 118, 120 in different patterns to create the zones of varying stretch resistance. When the linings forming the stretch lining 112 are joined, the pattern of the bonds facilitates the stretch lining stretching to varying degrees or amounts, depending on the separation distance between the bonds forming each zone.

[0082] Fig. 5 depicts a schematic view of stretch lining 112. As shown in Fig. 5, stretch lining 112 of stretch lining 112 includes inner lining 118 and outer lining 120 coupled to each other by any suitable materials and / or structures. For example, as described above, inner lining 118 may be coupled to outer lining 120 by a plurality of bonds (e.g., adhesive bonds, thermal bonds, and / or stitching) that are arranged in a pattern, e.g., a grid pattern. Outer lining 120 may include opening 124 and inner lining 118 may not include an opening, such that inner lining 118 spans across opening 124 of outer lining 120 on an interior side of outer lining 120.

[0083] Stretch lining 112 may include one or more stretch zones 126 and 127. Fig. 4 depicts one possible number and arrangement of the stretch zones, but stretch lining 112 may have any suitable number and arrangement of stretch zones (see Fig. 4). Stretch zones 126, 127 may each have specific stretch characteristics and each stretch zone 126, 127 may have different stretch characteristics than the other stretch zones of stretch lining 112. As an example, one or more stretch zones of stretch lining 112 may be one-way stretch zones, two-way stretch zones, four-way stretch zones, and / or may allow stretching in any suitable number of directions. In some examples, different stretch zones 126, 127 have different degrees of stretchability (e.g., different elasticities).

[0084] In some examples, the particular stretch characteristics of each stretch zone 126, 127 are determined by the specific pattern of the bonds (e.g., adhesive) utilized to couple the inner and outer linings together at the position of the stretch zone. For example, a first bonding pattern may be utilized to couple inner lining 118 to outer lining 120 at the position of stretch zone 126 and a different second bonding pattern may couple the linings together at the position of stretch zone 127. As a result, stretch zone 126 may have different stretch characteristics than stretch zone 127.

[0085] In some examples, the plurality of bonds bonding inner lining 118 to outer lining 120 are formed by adhesive. In such examples, two or more adhesive layers may be applied on top or over another layer or beneath or below another layer so as to create a multi-layered adhesive (e.g., dot matrix) pattern. In some examples, the adhesive dot pattern in each layer of the multi-layered adhesive dot pattern may be the same or different than the pattern underneath and / or above it. The multiple layers of the multi-layered adhesive dot patterns may partially or completely overlap to create zones with varying properties throughout different areas or regions of stretch lining 112.

[0086] Fig. 6 depicts a schematic cross-sectional view of stretch lining 112. As shown in Fig. 6, stretch lining 112 is formed by outer lining 120 coupled to inner lining 118 by a plurality of bonds 125 arranged in a bonding pattern 123. The plurality of bonds 125 may comprise a plurality of adhesive dots arranged in bonding pattern 123, a plurality of thermal bonds arranged in bonding pattern 123, and / or stitching arranged in bonding pattern 123. Plurality of bonds 121 bond second face 119 of outer lining 120 with third face 129 of inner lining 118. In the example of Fig. 6, bonding pattern 123 includes a greater density of bonds 125 on a first side 133 of stretch lining 112 than on a second side 135 of stretch lining 112. In other words, bonding pattern 123 includes a non-uniform density of bonds 125 connecting inner lining 118 and outer lining 120. The greater density of bonds 125 on first side 133 may facilitate lower elasticity of stretch lining 112 on first side 133 in comparison to second side 135 having the lower density of bonds 125. An example bonding pattern having a non-uniform density of bonds is shown in Fig. 8 and described further below. In some examples, bonding pattern 123 includes a uniform density of bonds 125 from first side 133 to second side 135. An example bonding pattern having uniform density of the bonds is shown in Fig. 7 and described further below.

[0087] Fig. 7 depicts a first example bonding pattern 130 and Fig. 8 depicts a second example bonding pattern 132 . First and second bonding patterns 130, 132 may be utilized to couple one or more regions of inner lining 118 to outer lining 120 to form stretch lining 112. For example, first or second bonding patterns 130, 132 may couple inner lining 118 to outer lining 120 at one of stretch zones 126 or 127, shown in Figs. 4 and 5. Bonding patterns 130, 132 are each configured to at least partially determine the specific stretch characteristics of stretch lining 112.

[0088] As shown in Fig. 7, first bonding pattern 130 includes a plurality of bonds 134 (e.g., adhesive dots, thermal bonds, and / or stitching) arranged in a grid pattern having two rows and three columns. Bonds 134 are configured to couple inner lining 118 to outer lining 120. First bonding pattern 130 includes spaces or openings 136 between bonds 134 that correspond to regions at which inner lining 118 is not directly coupled or bonded to outer lining 120. At these regions the inner and outer linings are allowed to stretch freely. As a result, the degree of elasticity of stretch lining 112 may be changed by changing the number and / or size of openings 136 in the bonding pattern and / or the number and arrangement of bonds 134 in the bonding pattern.

[0089] Fig. 8 depicts second bonding pattern 132. Second bonding pattern 132 includes a second plurality of bonds 138. Bonds 138 are arranged, such that a greater density of bonds 138 are disposed on a first side 140 of second bonding pattern 132 than a second side 142. The greater density of bonds 138 may facilitate lower elasticity of stretch lining 112 at first side 140 in comparison to second side 142. First bonding pattern 130 and second bonding pattern 132 depict examples of possible bonding patterns, but any suitable bonding pattern may be utilized to couple inner lining 118 to outer lining 120 depending on the desired stretch characteristics of stretch lining 112. Bonds 134, 138 may comprise adhesive bonds formed by adhesive dots, thermal bonds, and / or stitching coupling inner lining 118 to outer lining 120.

[0090] Fig. 9 depicts an illustrative four-way stretch bonding pattern 144 configured to be utilized to couple inner lining 118 to outer lining 120 and facilitate four-way directional stretching of stretch lining 112 (i.e., two-axis elasticity). As shown in Fig. 9, four-way stretch bonding pattern 144 includes a plurality of bonds 148 (e.g., adhesive dots) arranged in a grid pattern. A first longitudinal distance 149 between adjacent bonds 148 that are in the same column is the same as a second latitudinal distance 151 between adjacent bonds 148 in the same row. This facilitates stretch lining 112 being able to stretch along latitudinal axis 153 and longitudinal axis 155. By changing the longitudinal 149 and latitudinal 151 distances between bonds 148, the degree of elasticity of stretch lining 112 may be changed. For example, shortening the longitudinal and latitudinal distances (149, 151 ) may decrease the elasticity of stretch lining 112, whereas increasing the distances may increase the elasticity of stretch lining 112.

[0091] Fig. 10 depicts an illustrative two-way stretch bonding pattern 146 configured to be utilized to couple inner lining 118 to outer lining 120 and facilitate two-way directional stretching of stretch lining 112 (i.e., one-axis elasticity). As shown in Fig. 10, bonding pattern 146 includes a plurality of bonds 152 (e.g., adhesive dots) arranged in a grid pattern. A longitudinal distance 157 between adjacent bonds 152 that are in the same column is less than a latitudinal distance 159 between bonds 148 in the same row. This facilitates stretch lining 112 being able to stretch along latitudinal axis 160, but not being able to stretch along longitudinal axis 163 and / or to be able to stretch along longitudinal axis 163 to a lesser degree than along latitudinal axis 160. By changing the longitudinal 157 and latitudinal 159 distances between bonds 152, the degree of elasticity of stretch lining 112 may be changed in the longitudinal and latitudinal directions. In some examples, dependent on longitudinal distance 157 between adjacent adhesive dots 148 in the same column, two-way stretch bonding pattern 146 is configured to facilitate relative inelasticity of stretch lining 112 along longitudinal axis 163. The greater latitudinal distance 159 between bonds 152 in adjacent rows may facilitate a greater degree of elasticity along latitudinal axis 160.

[0092] B. Illustrative Article of Footwear including Stretch Lining

[0093] As shown in Figs. 11-13, this section describes an illustrative article of footwear 200 having an illustrative stretch lining 212. Article of footwear 200 and stretch lining 212 form an example of article of footwear 100 and stretch lining 112, described above with reference to Figs. 1-10.

[0094] As shown in Fig. 11 , article of footwear 200 includes an upper 204 bonded to a sole 206. Sole 206 may include any suitable structure(s) configured to support a user’s foot. In some examples, sole 206 includes an outsole and / or a midsole. Upper 204 includes a foot opening 208 configured to receive a user’s foot into an interior region of article of footwear 200 defined between upper 204 and sole 206. Upper 204 may be configured to receive and cover the user’s foot. In the example of Figs. 11-13, upper 204 is configured as a slip-on upper that does not require laces or fastening members to secure footwear 200 to the foot of the wearer.

[0095] Figs. 12-13 illustrate schematic exploded views of article of footwear 200. As shown in Fig. 12, article of footwear 200 includes stretch lining 212. Stretch lining 212 is configured to be bonded to upper 204 by bonding members 243A and 243B. Bonding members 243A-B are schematically depicted in Figs. 12 and 13 and may include any suitable structures and / or materials configured to bond stretch lining 212 to upper 204. For example, bonding members 243A-B may comprise an adhesive (e.g., wet adhesive), stitching, one or more fasteners, and / or the like. Bonding members 243A-B are configured to bond portions of the perimeter of stretch lining 212 to a perimeter of upper 204. In some examples, a central portion of stretch lining 212 is not directly bonded to upper 204.

[0096] As shown in Figs. 12-13, a first bonding member 243A is positioned to bond stretch lining 212 to upper 204 proximate foot opening 208 and a second bonding member 243B is positioned to bond a toe portion of stretch lining 212 to upper. In some examples, stretch lining 212 is sized and shaped smaller than the upper (e.g., having a smaller perimeter), such that bonding the perimeter of stretch lining 212 to the perimeter of upper 204 requires stretching stretch lining 212. The required stretching of stretch lining 212 applies a tension on the stretch lining and may form a gap or space between upper 204 and the central portion of the stretch lining that is not bonded directly bonded to the upper. The gap between upper 204 and the central portion of stretch lining 212 facilitates stretch lining 212 stretching towards upper 204 when contacted by the foot of the wearer.

[0097] As shown in Fig. 13, stretch lining 212 includes an inner lining 218 bonded to an outer lining 220. Inner lining 218 and outer lining 220 may each comprise an elastic material having any suitable degree of elasticity. In some examples, inner lining 218 comprises an elastic material having a higher elasticity than outer lining 220. This may facilitate improved fit and feel of article of footwear 200 on the foot of the wearer.

[0098] In some examples, inner lining 218 is bonded to outer lining 220 by a bonding layer 222. Bonding layer 222 may be substantially similar to bonding layer 122, described above. For example, bonding layer 222 may comprise a plurality of bonds, e.g., adhesive dots, stitching, and / or thermal bonds, arranged in a matrix or grid pattern (e.g., see Figs. 7-10). Any suitable bonding pattern may be utilized to bond inner lining 218 to outer lining 220 depending on the desired stretch characteristics of stretch lining 212. For example, different bonding patterns may be utilized to provide 2- way stretch characteristics, 4-way stretch characteristics, and / or different degrees of elasticity of stretch lining 212. In some examples, different bonding patterns are utilized to bond different portions of inner lining 218 to outer lining 220 to form zones of stretch lining 212 having different stretch characteristics.

[0099] As shown in Fig. 13, in some examples, upper 204 includes an upper reinforcement 261 configured to be bonded to an interior side of upper 204. Upper reinforcement 261 may comprise any suitable structure(s) configured to provide support to upper 204 and prevent upper 204 from collapsing during wear and / or when not in wear, e.g., while on display. As shown in Fig. 13, in some examples, upper reinforcement 261 comprises a first portion that is configured to support a toe region of upper 204 and a second portion that is configured to support a medial portion of upper 204 proximate foot opening 208. Upper 204 including upper reinforcement 261 and stretch lining 212 bonded to upper 204 is configured to be bonded to sole 206 to form article of footwear 200. Upper 204 may be bonded to sole 206 using adhesive, stitching, one or more fasteners, and / or the like. Article of footwear 200 is configured to receive a user’s foot in foot opening 208. When in a relaxed condition (i.e. , when no foot is received in the article of footwear), stretch lining 212 is spaced from upper 204. Stretch lining 212 is configured to transition to a stretched condition when a user’s foot is received in the article footwear. In the stretched condition, stretch lining 212 is in tension due to being urged closer to upper 204 by contact from the user’s foot. Stretch lining 212 is configured to hug, conform to, and / or provide pressure on the user’s foot as a result of the elasticity of the elastic membrane. In this manner, the stretch lining is configured to stretch around and accommodate the specific foot of the wearer. In some examples, stretch lining 212 is configured to secure article of footwear 200 to the foot of the wearer, such that article of footwear 200 does not require laces or other fastening members.

[0100] C. Illustrative Stretch Lining including Stretch Zones

[0101] As shown in Figs. 14-17, this section describes an illustrative stretch lining 303 for an article of footwear 300. Stretch lining 303 is an example of stretch linings 112 and 212 described above with reference to Figs. 1-13.

[0102] Fig. 14 schematically illustrates a stretch lining 303 installed on a first example article of footwear 300. Fig. 15 illustrates a side view of footwear 300. As shown in Figs. 14 and 15, stretch lining 303 includes a first stretch zone 304 and a second stretch zone 306. First stretch zone 304 is disposed proximate a closed toe region 314 of article of footwear 300 and second stretch zone 306 extends rearward from first stretch zone 304 towards a heel region 310 of article of footwear 300. Second stretch zone 306 has a lesser degree of elasticity than first stretch zone 304 and is configured to prevent stretch lining 303 from collapsing within article of footwear 300 and / or to prevent upper 312 of footwear 300 from collapsing.

[0103] In the example of Figs. 14 and 15, article of footwear 300 comprises a mule style shoe 301 which includes an open heel region 310 having no heel constraining portion. Article of footwear 300 comprises an upper 312 which forms closed toe region 314 and which extends rearward to a heel region 310 of footwear 300. A sole 313 is fixed to upper 312 in any suitable manner and an internal region 320 is defined between upper 312 and sole 313. In some examples, sole 313 comprises a midsole 315 and internal region 320 is defined between midsole 315 and upper 312. Upper 312 forms a foot opening 316 which provides access for a user’s foot into internal region 320.

[0104] In the example of Figs. 14 and 15, stretch lining 303 extends from a forward most portion of upper 312 to a rearward most portion of upper 312. First stretch zone 304 of stretch lining 303 is fixed to the forward most portion of upper 312 which forms closed toe region 314, e.g., a forward most portion of a vamp 322 of upper 312. Second stretch zone 306 extends on each side of foot opening 316 of article of footwear 300 and is fixed to upper 312 proximate foot opening 316. Stretch lining 303 may be fixed to upper 312 in any suitable manner, e.g., using adhesive, stitching, fasteners, etc. In some examples, one or more portions of stretch lining 303 may additionally or alternatively be fixed to sole 313.

[0105] A portion of stretch lining 303 is not coupled to upper 312 and is suspended within internal region 320 between upper 312 and sole 313. For example, stretch lining 303 is uncoupled with respect to at least a portion of vamp 322 of upper 312 which extends from foot opening 316 to closed toe region 314. A foot-receiving volume 326 (AKA foot receiving region) is defined between stretch lining 303 and sole 313 which is configured to receive the user’s foot during use. The portion of stretch lining 303 that is not coupled to upper 312 is sized smaller than upper 312 in at least one dimension, such that when stretch lining 303 is in a relaxed condition (e.g., when stretch lining 303 is not being stretched by a user’s foot), the portion of stretch lining 303 that is not coupled to upper 312 is suspended from upper within internal region 320. For example, a width of stretch lining 303 as measured laterally across article of footwear 300, a length of stretch lining 303 as measured longitudinally across article of footwear 300, and / or a height of stretch lining 303 above sole 313 may be smaller than a corresponding width, length, and / or height of upper 312. In some examples, a surface area of stretch lining 303 is smaller than a corresponding area of upper 312 when stretch lining 303 is in the relaxed condition. As a result, when stretch lining 303 is in the relaxed condition, the portion of stretch lining 303 that is uncoupled to upper 312 is spaced from upper 312. In other words, a gap is formed between stretch lining 303 and upper 312, when stretch lining 303 is in the relaxed condition. Additionally, as a result, when stretch lining 303 is in the relaxed condition, footreceiving volume 326 defined between stretch lining 303 and sole 313 is smaller than a volume of internal region 320 defined between upper 320 and sole 313. In some examples, the portion of stretch lining 303 that is not coupled to upper 312 may have a width as measured laterally across article of footwear 300, a length as measured longitudinally across article of footwear 300, and / or a height above sole 313 that is at least 10% less and / or at most 60% less than the corresponding width, length, and / or height of upper 312 dependent on the desired stretch characteristics (e.g., elasticity) of stretch lining 303. In some examples, the surface area of stretch lining 303 is at least 10% smaller and / or at most 60% smaller than the surface area of upper 312 when stretch lining 303 is in the relaxed condition. In some examples, the portion of stretch lining 303 that is not coupled to upper has a width, height, length, and / or surface area that is approximately 50% smaller than the corresponding portion of upper 312.

[0106] Stretch lining 303 is configured to transition from the relaxed condition to a stretched condition in response to being contacted by the user’s foot. When stretch lining 303 is in the stretched condition, stretch lining 303 is urged closer to upper 312 and is placed into tension. As a result of the tension, stretch lining 303 applies pressure on the user’s foot which improves the fit and feel of article of footwear 300. In some examples, stretch lining 303 is configured to contact upper 312 when in the stretched condition. In some examples, stretch lining 303 is urged closer to upper 312 without contacting upper 312 when in the stretched condition.

[0107] In some examples, the portions of stretch lining 303 that are fixed to upper 312 are sized approximately the same as the corresponding portions of upper 312 prior to being fixed to upper 312. For example, the portion of stretch lining 303 (e.g., a portion of second stretch zone 306) that is fixed to upper 312 proximate foot opening 316 has a width and / or height that is approximately the same as upper 312 at foot opening 316 prior to being fixed to upper 312. In other words, the portion of stretch lining 303 that is fixed to upper 312 proximate foot opening 316 is not required to be stretched when the portion is fixed to upper 312. In some examples, the portion of stretch lining 303 (e.g., a portion of first stretch zone 304) that is fixed to the forward most portion of upper 312 in closed toe region 314 has a width and / or height that is approximately the same as upper in closed toe region 314. In such examples, as shown in Fig. 14, only the portion of stretch lining 303 that is not coupled to upper 312 may be sized smaller than upper 312, whereas the portions of stretch lining 303 that are fixed to upper 312 may have a same size as upper 312. Alternatively, each portion of stretch lining 303 may be sized smaller than upper 312, such that the different portions are stretched to be fixed to the different portions of upper 312.

[0108] Second stretch zone 306 is stiffer than first stretch zone 304. In other words, second stretch zone 306 has a lesser degree of elasticity than first stretch zone 304. Second stretch zone 306 is stiffer than first stretch zone 304 to prevent stretch lining 303 from collapsing within internal region 320 of article of footwear 300. This ensures that when stretch lining 303 is in the relaxed condition, stretch lining 303 does not collapse and maintains the form of foot receiving volume 326. First stretch zone 304 has a greater degree of elasticity than second stretch zone 306 to facilitate accommodating the user’s foot and improving the fit of article of footwear 300. Second stretch zone 306 may require at least 5% more force to stretch than first stretch zone 306 and / or at most 50% more force to stretch than first stretch zone 306.

[0109] First stretch zone 304 and second stretch zone 306 may have any suitable shapes and / or sizes dependent on the desired stretch characteristics of stretch lining 303. In some examples, in addition to having different stiffnesses or degrees of elasticity, first stretch zone 304 and second stretch zone 306 may have different directional stretching capabilities and / or any other suitable characteristics that are described herein with regard to stretch linings. For example, first stretch zone 304 and / or second stretch zone 306 may have one or more openings or cutouts which affect the stretch characteristics of stretch lining 303.

[0110] Stretch lining 303 may comprise any suitable elastic material (e.g., an elastane material) or combination of materials configured to provide the desired stretch characteristics and different stretch zones. In some examples, stretch lining 303 comprises a single integral piece of elastic material having different stretch characteristics in the different zones. Alternatively, first stretch zone 304 and second stretch zone 306 of stretch lining 303 may comprise two different sections of elastic material which are fixed to each other using any suitable method (e.g., stitching, adhesive, etc). The different stretch characteristics of stretch lining 303 may be achieved in any suitable manner described herein with reference to Figs. 1-10. For example, stretch lining 303 may include different adhesive patterns in first stretch zone 304 and second stretch zone 306 which provide different degrees of elasticity in the different zones. Additionally, or alternatively, the different zones of stretch lining 303 may comprise different materials having different degrees of elasticity. Figs. 16 and 17 schematically illustrate a second example article of footwear 300 including stretch lining 303. In the second example shown in Figs. 16 and 17, article of footwear 300 comprises a slide-on sandal 305 having an open toe region 324. Upper 312 of slide-on sandal 305 only extends over a medial portion of sole 313 and does not extend to the forward most portion of sole 313 or a rearward most portion of sole 313. In other words, upper 312 of slide-on sandal is configured to extend over at least the instep region of a foot of a wearer, but not fully over top of toes of a wearer. As a result, stretch lining 303 does not extend to the forward most portion of sole 313 or to the rearward most portion of sole 313.

[0111] In the example of Figs. 16 and 17, stretch lining 303 is fixed to upper 312 proximate a forward most portion of upper 312 and proximate a rearward most portion of upper 312 which defines a foot opening 316. A portion of stretch lining 303 extending between the rearward most portion of upper 312 and the forward most portion of upper 312 is not fixed to upper 312. The portion of stretch lining 303 that is not fixed to upper 312 is sized smaller than upper 312, such that stretch lining 303 is suspended between upper 312 and sole 313 within internal region 320. A foot-receiving area 326 is defined between stretch lining 303 and sole 313. As described above, stretch lining 303 comprises second stretch zone 306 which is stiffer than first stretch zone 304 to prevent stretch lining 303 from collapsing.

[0112] In the example of Figs. 16 and 17, the transition between first stretch zone 304 and second stretch zone 306 is nonlinear. In other words, the boundary between first stretch zone 304 and second stretch zone 306 includes portions of first stretch zone 304 extending rearward toward second stretch zone 306 and portions of second stretch zone 306 extending forward toward first stretch zone 304. In this example, this forms a wave shaped boundary between first stretch zone 304 and second stretch zone 306 in which peaks of first stretch zone 304 correspond to troughs of second stretch zone 306 and vice versa. Explained in other words, the transition between first stretch zone 304 and second stretch zone 306 is non-uniform with respect to an axis that is 90 degrees offset from an axis along which the user’s foot is inserted into foot receiving region 326.

[0113] A nonlinear transition between first stretch zone 304 and second stretch zone 306 facilitates a gradual transition between the different stretch characteristics (e.g., powers, elasticities) of first stretch zone 304 and second stretch zone 306. In other words, due to the boundary between the first stretch zone 304 and the second stretch zone 306 being non-linear with respect to the axis along which a user’s foot enters the interior region of the article of footwear, the transition between the lesser elasticity of second stretch zone 306 and the greater elasticity of first stretch zone 304 is not abrupt. As a result, the degree of elasticity of stretch lining 303 in the boundary region between first stretch zone 304 and second stretch zone 306 may be between the greater degree of elasticity of first stretch zone 304 and the lesser degree of elasticity of second stretch zone 306.

[0114] In some examples, having a gradual transition between the different degrees of elasticity of stretch lining 303 facilitates stretch lining 303 pulling more evenly on the forward and rearward portions of upper 312 to which stretch liner 303 is attached. This prevents stretch lining 303 from collapsing upper 312. Additionally, this may improve the feel of stretch lining 303 on the user’s foot. In some examples, as a result of the gradual transition between the different elasticities of first stretch zone 304 and second stretch zone 306, article of footwear 300 is not required to have an upper reinforcement (e.g., upper reinforcement 261 described above), and the upper may be free of an upper reinforcement 261 .

[0115] Figs. 14-17 illustrate two different examples of articles of footwear (e.g., slide- on sandal 305 and mule 301) which include stretch lining 312. However, stretch lining 303 having first stretch zone 304 and the stiffer second stretch zone 306 may be utilized in any other suitable article of footwear including any suitable boots, athletic shoes, dress shoes, sandals, slippers, slides, and / or the like.

[0116] D. Illustrative Sandal with Stretch Lining

[0117] As shown in Fig. 18, this section describes an illustrative slide-on sandal 400 including a stretch lining 403. Stretch lining 403 is an example of stretch linings 112, 212, and 303, described above with reference to Figs. 1-17.

[0118] As shown in Fig. 18, slide-on sandal 400 comprises a sole 404 and a frame 406 that is coupled to sole 404. Frame 406 comprises a rigid structure which extends upward from sole and supports a stretch lining 403 above sole 404. For example, frame 406 may comprise a pair of upward extending arches 407 which extend upward from a medial portion of sole 404. In some examples, in contrast to other uppers (e.g., upper 312) described herein, frame 406 does not extend over stretch lining 403. Instead, frame 406 only supports edges of stretch lining 403 which are fixed to frame 406. In some examples, frame 406 may form a portion of an upper of article of footwear 400. In other words, frame 406 may be a component of an upper of any type of article of footwear including but not limited to sandals. For example, frame 406 may be disposed on the interior side of an upper and form a supporting structure for stretch lining 403 within the upper. Alternatively, as shown in Fig. 18, article of footwear 400 may not comprise any upper structures other than frame 406. Frame 406 may comprise any suitable rigid materials that are configured to support stretch lining 403, e.g., metal, leather, a rigid polymer, etc.

[0119] Stretch lining 412 has edges that are fixed to frame 406, such that stretch lining 403 is suspended from frame 406 above sole 404. A foot receiving volume 410 (AKA foot receiving region) is defined between stretch lining 403 and sole 404. Stretch lining 412 may be substantially similar to stretch linings 112, 212, and / or 312, described above. For example, stretch lining 403 may have a single stretch zone, e.g., uniform elasticity throughout stretch lining 403, or stretch lining 403 may have multiple different stretch zones, e.g., zones having different elasticities and / or zones permitting different directional stretching. Stretch lining 403 may have any suitable characteristics of the stretch linings described herein, such as one or more cut-outs or apertures formed in stretch lining 403. In some examples, stretch lining 403 is similar to stretch lining 303 described above having a first stretch zone disposed forward of a stiffer second stretch zone which is configured to prevent stretch lining 403 from collapsing.

[0120] In some examples, stretch lining 403 is sized smaller than frame 406 prior to being fixed to frame 406, such that stretch lining 403 is required to be stretched to be fixed to frame 406. Stretch lining 403 may be fixed to frame in any suitable manner, e.g., using stitching, adhesive, fasteners, and / or the like.

[0121] When no user’s foot is present, stretch lining 403 is in a relaxed condition. When the user’s foot is inserted between stretch lining 403 and sole 404, stretch lining 403 is configured to be transitioned into a stretched condition in which stretch lining 403 is forced upward and / or outward away from sole 404. When in the stretched condition, stretch lining 403 exerts a pressure on the user’s foot, as a result of the elasticity of stretch lining 403. This pressure is configured to maintain footwear 400 on the user’s foot and provide a comfortable and secure fit of footwear 400.

[0122] E. Illustrative Method of Manufacturing Upper Assembly Having Stretch Lining and an Article of Footwear Having the Upper Assembly This section describes steps of an illustrative method 500 of manufacturing an upper assembly for an article of footwear, the upper assembly having a stretch lining; see Fig. 19. This section further describes an illustrative method 700 of manufacturing an article of footwear including the upper assembly manufactured using method 500. Aspects of the stretch linings (112, 212, 312, 412) and articles of footwear (100, 200, 300, 400) described above may be utilized in the method steps described below. Where appropriate, reference may be made to components and systems that may be used in carrying out each step. These references are for illustration, and are not intended to limit the possible ways of carrying out any particular step of the method.

[0123] Fig. 19 is a flowchart illustrating steps performed in illustrative methods 500 and 700, and may not recite the complete process or all steps of the method. Although various steps of methods 500 and 700 are described below and depicted in Fig. 19, the steps need not necessarily all be performed, and in some cases may be performed simultaneously or in a different order than the order shown.

[0124] Step 502 of method 500 includes forming an upper of the article of footwear, e.g., upper 104 or 204 described above. The upper may be formed in any suitable manner. For example, the upper may be formed by applying a layer of a material that comprises the upper over a mold and compressing the layer of material on the mold, e.g., with a pneumatic press. In some examples, the layer of material is preheated and / or heated tooling is utilized. After compressing the layer of material on the mold to form the general shape of the upper, the layer of material may be cut to size. The upper may comprise any suitable material configured to retain the user’s foot in the article of footwear when the upper is coupled to the sole.

[0125] The upper is configured to receive and cover the user’s foot. Fig. 21 depicts an example upper 505 that may be constructed in step 502. As shown in Fig. 21 , in some examples, upper 505 comprises a slip on upper that does not require laces orfastening members to secure the footwear to the foot of the wearer. In some examples, the upper includes one or more components for tightening or otherwise fastening the upper and therefore the article of footwear to the foot of the wearer. For example, the upper may include a plurality of lace receiving members (e.g., a plurality of eyelets) that are configured to receive a lace. In some examples, the article of footwear may include a lace or other fastening member that is used to adjust the fit of the upper around the foot of the wearer. In some examples, as shown in Fig. 21 , upper 505 comprises a mule style upper which does not have any heel constraining structures.

[0126] Step 504 of method 500 includes forming an upper reinforcement. The upper reinforcement may comprise any suitable structures which are configured to support the upper and prevent the upper from collapsing. The upper reinforcement may be formed in a substantially similar manner to the upper in step 502. The upper reinforcement may comprise any suitable material configured to support the upper and prevent the upper from collapsing. In some examples, no upper reinforcement is included in the article of footwear and step 504 is omitted from method 500.

[0127] Fig. 22 depicts an example upper reinforcement 561 that may be formed in step 504. As shown in Fig. 22, in some examples, upper reinforcement 561 includes a first reinforcing member 564A configured to support a toe box of the upper and a second reinforcement member 564B configured to support a midfoot portion of the upper. In some examples, the upper reinforcement includes only a single member and / or three or more members.

[0128] Step 506 of method 500 includes bonding the upper reinforcement to an interior side of the upper. The upper reinforcement may be bonded to the interior side of the upper using any suitable adhesive. In some examples, a wet glue is utilized to bond the upper reinforcement to the interior side of the upper. Fig. 23 illustrates an example of upper reinforcement 561 bonded to the interior side of upper 505.

[0129] Step 508 of method 500 includes forming the stretch lining of the article of footwear. The steps of forming the stretch lining of the article of footwear are described further below with reference to Fig. 20 and method 600. Figs. 24-26 depict example steps in the method of forming the stretch lining of the article of footwear.

[0130] Step 510 of method 500 includes bonding the stretch lining to the upper to form an upper assembly including the upper, the upper reinforcement, and the stretch lining. The stretch lining may be bonded to the upper and / or the upper reinforcement in any suitable manner, such that at least a portion of the stretch lining is spaced from the upper and the upper reinforcement. In some examples, the stretch lining is bonded to the upper using any suitable adhesive (e.g., wet adhesive) applied to the perimeter of the stretch lining. All or portions of the stretch lining may be sized and shaped smaller than a corresponding portion of the upper in at least one dimension (e.g., having a smaller latitudinal width, longitudinal length, surface area, perimeter, and / or planform), such that bonding the perimeter of the stretch lining to the perimeter of the upper requires stretching the stretch lining. The required stretching of the stretch lining applies a tension on the stretch lining and may form a gap between the upper and the central portion of the stretch lining that is not directly bonded to the upper.

[0131] Figs. 27-28 illustrate an example of stretch lining 503 being bonded to upper 505 and / or upper reinforcement 561 . As shown in Figs. 27-28, a portion 565 of stretch lining 503 is sized smaller than a corresponding portion 566 of upper 505. As a result, the stretch lining 503 is required to stretch when the perimeter of portion 565 of stretch lining 503 is bonded to the perimeter of corresponding portion 566 of upper 505. The stretching of the stretch lining results in a gap formed between the upper and the central portion of stretch lining 503 that is not directly bonded to the upper. Collectively, upper 505, upper reinforcement 561 , and stretch lining 503 form upper assembly 568. After step 510, the upper assembly including the stretch lining is manufactured and method 500 is completed. In some examples, a method 700 of forming an article of footwear includes steps 502-510 of method 500 described above to form an upper assembly including a stretch lining. Method 700 may further comprise a step 702 which includes coupling the upper assembly formed in method steps 502- 510 including the upper, the upper reinforcement, and the stretch lining to a sole of the article of footwear. The sole may include a midsole, an outsole, and / or any other suitable structures configured to support the foot of the wearer. Fig. 29 depicts upper assembly 568 and sole 507. Fig. 30 depicts upper assembly 568 bonded to sole 507 to form article of footwear 501 . Upper assembly 568 may be bonded to sole 507 in any suitable manner, e.g., using stitching, adhesive, fasteners, and / or the like.

[0132] F. Illustrative Method of Manufacturing a Stretch Lining for an Article of Footwear

[0133] This section describes steps of an illustrative method of manufacturing a stretch lining for an article of footwear; see Fig. 20. Aspects of the stretch linings (112, 212, 312, 412) and articles of footwear (100, 200, 300, 400) described above may be utilized in the method steps described below. Where appropriate, reference may be made to components and systems that may be used in carrying out each step. These references are for illustration, and are not intended to limit the possible ways of carrying out any particular step of the method.

[0134] Fig. 20 is a flowchart illustrating steps performed in an illustrative method 600, and may not recite the complete process or all steps of the method. Although various steps of method 600 are described below and depicted in Fig. 20, the steps need not necessarily all be performed, and in some cases may be performed simultaneously or in a different order than the order shown.

[0135] Step 602 of method 600 includes laminating a first inner layer of the stretch lining to a first outer layer of the stretch lining. The first inner layer may be laminated to the first outer layer using any suitable adhesive, stitching, fasteners, and / or the like. In some examples, the first inner layer is bonded to the first outer layer using an adhesive. In some examples, the first outer layer may comprise any suitable knit material which is configured to provide a comfortable surface for contacting the foot of a wearer. In some examples, the first inner layer may comprise any suitable elastic material which is configured to have predetermined stretch characteristics. For example, the first inner layer may have any suitable degree of elasticity. In some examples, the first inner layer comprises an elastane material.

[0136] An example illustration of a first inner layer 570 laminated to a first outer layer 572 is shown in Fig. 24. As shown in Fig. 24, first inner layer 570 may be laminated to a first side of first outer layer 572 and portions of first outer layer 572 may be folded to cover portions of the first inner layer 570 laminated to the first side.

[0137] Step 604 of method 600 includes laminating a second inner layer to a second outer layer. The second inner layer may be laminated to the second outer layer using any suitable adhesive, stitching, fasteners, and / or the like. In some examples, the second inner layer comprises a same material as the first inner layer, e.g., any suitable elastic material. In some examples, the second inner layer comprises a different material than the first inner layer that has different elastic properties than the first inner layer. The second outer layer may comprise a same material as the first outer layer, e.g., any suitable knit material or a woven or non-woven fabric material that is configured to provide a comfortable surface for contacting the user’s foot.

[0138] Step 606 of method 600 includes bonding the first inner layer to the second inner layer. In some examples, bonding the first inner layer to the second inner layer comprises forming a plurality of bonds between the first inner layer and the second inner layer. In some examples, the plurality of bonds are arranged in a grid, matrix, and / or lattice pattern (e.g., as shown in Figs. 6-10. The plurality of bonds may comprise adhesive bonds, thermal bonds, stitching, and / or the like. The plurality of bonds may be arranged in any suitable pattern dependent on the desired stretch characteristics of the stretch lining. In some examples, step 606 further includes bonding portions of the second inner layer and / or the second outer layer to portions of the first outer layer. An example illustration of the second inner layer bonded to the first inner layer is shown in Fig. 25. When the first and second inner layers are bonded to each other, the first and second inner layers are sandwiched between second outer layer 576 and first outer layer 572. In some examples, second inner layer and second outer layer 576 are sized smaller than first outer layer 572, such that first outer layer 572 may be folded around second outer layer 576 in step 608.

[0139] Step 608 of method 600 includes enclosing the first and second inner layers within the first and second outer layers. In some examples, enclosing the first and second inner layers includes folding the first outer layer around the second outer layer. Fig. 24 depicts an example illustration of first outer layer 572 folded around second outer layer 576. When the first outer layer is folded around the second outer layer, the first and second inner layers are enclosed within the first and second outer layers.

[0140] Step 610 of method 600 includes bonding the first outer layer to the second outer layer to form a stretch lining (AKA stretch liner). The first outer layer may be bonded to the second outer layer in any suitable manner, e.g., using an adhesive and applying heat and pressure. When the first outer layer is bonded to the second outer layer the first and second inner layers are enclosed in the first and second outer layers. The stretch lining including the first and second outer layers and first and second inner layers may be bonded to an upper assembly of an article of footwear, as described above in step 510 of method 500.

[0141] The first and second outer layers of the stretch lining are configured to provide a comfortable surface for contacting the foot of the wearer. The first and second inner layers enclosed in the first and second outer layers are configured to provide the specific stretch characteristics of the stretch lining. In some examples, the first and second outer layers are not configured to provide the specific stretching characteristics of the stretch lining. In other words, the outer layers may be generally compliant with the stretching provided by the first and second inner layers.

[0142] G. Selected Embodiments and Claim Concepts

[0143] This section describes additional aspects and features of a stretch lining for an article of footwear, presented without limitation as a series of paragraphs, some or all of which may be alphanumerically designated for clarity and efficiency. Each of these paragraphs can be combined with one or more other paragraphs, and / or with disclosure from elsewhere in this application, including materials listed in the Cross- References, in any suitable manner. Some of the paragraphs below may expressly refer to and further limit other paragraphs, providing without limitation examples of some of the suitable combinations.

[0144] AO. An article of footwear comprising: a sole; an upper coupled to the sole and defining an interior region between the sole and the upper; and a stretch lining disposed within the interior region and defining a foot receiving region between the stretch lining and the sole; wherein the stretch lining is configured to transition between a relaxed condition wherein the stretch lining is spaced from the upper, and a stretched condition wherein the stretch lining is in tension due to being urged closer to the upper by contact from a foot in the foot receiving region.

[0145] A1. The article of footwear of paragraph AO, wherein the stretch lining includes one or more stretch zones (or two or more stretch zones), each of the stretch zones having a different respective stretch characteristic.

[0146] A1 .1 The article of footwear of paragraph A1 , wherein the respective stretch characteristic includes a degree of elasticity of the stretch lining at the stretch zone.

[0147] A1 .2. The article of footwear of paragraph A1 or A1 .1 , wherein the respective stretch characteristic includes a directional stretching capability of the stretch zone.

[0148] A2. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs A0-A1 .2, wherein the stretch lining comprises an inner lining coupled to an outer lining.

[0149] A2.1. The article of footwear of paragraph A2, wherein the inner lining is coupled to the outer lining by a plurality of bonds.

[0150] A2.2. The article of footwear of paragraph A2.1 , wherein the plurality of bonds are arranged in a bonding pattern.

[0151] A2.3. The article of footwear of paragraph A2.2, wherein the bonding pattern comprises a grid pattern.

[0152] A2.4. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs A2.1 -A2.3, wherein one or more of the bonds of the plurality of bonds are formed by stitching.

[0153] A2.5. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs A2.1 -A2.3, wherein one or more of the bonds of the plurality of bonds are formed using adhesive.

[0154] A2.6. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs A2.1 -A2.3, wherein one or more of the bonds of the plurality of bonds comprise thermal bonds. A3. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs A0-A2.4, wherein the stretch lining comprises an elastic material.

[0155] A4. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs A0-A3, wherein the stretch lining comprises a knit material.

[0156] A5. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs A0-A4, wherein the stretch lining is affixed to a portion of the sole.

[0157] A5.1 The article of footwear of paragraph A5, wherein attachment of the stretch lining to the article of footwear is independent of the upper.

[0158] A5.2. The article of footwear of paragraph A5 or A5.1 , wherein the stretch lining is affixed to the sole around a perimeter of the sole forward of a foot opening of the upper.

[0159] A6. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs A0-A4, wherein the stretch lining is affixed to a portion of the upper.

[0160] A6.1 The article of footwear of paragraph A6, wherein the attachment of the stretch lining to the article of footwear is independent of the sole.

[0161] A6.2. The article of footwear of paragraph A6 or A6.1 , wherein the upper comprises a foot opening configured to receive the user’s foot into the interior region, and wherein the stretch lining is affixed to the upper proximate the foot opening.

[0162] A6.3. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs A6-A6.2, wherein the stretch lining is fixed to the upper proximate a toe region of the upper.

[0163] A7. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs A0-A6, wherein at least a portion of the stretch lining is spaced above the sole and below the upper within the interior region.

[0164] A8. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs A0-A7, wherein one or more portions of the stretch lining are sized smaller than a corresponding portion of the upper in at least one dimension, such that the foot receiving region is smaller than the interior region when the stretch lining is in the relaxed condition.

[0165] A8.1. The article of footwear of paragraph A8, wherein the at least one dimension comprises a width of the stretch lining as measured laterally across the article of footwear.

[0166] A8.2. The article of footwear of paragraph A8 or A8.1 , wherein the at least one dimension comprises a length of the stretch lining as measured longitudinally across the article of footwear. A8.3. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs A8-A8.2, wherein the stretch lining has a surface area that is less than a surface area of the upper when the stretch lining is in the relaxed condition.

[0167] A8.4. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs A8-A8.3, wherein the one or more dimensions of the stretch lining comprise a height of the stretch lining above the sole.

[0168] A9. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs A0-A8, wherein the stretch lining is disposed within the interior region forward of a foot receiving opening of the upper.

[0169] A10. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs A0-A9, wherein the stretch lining includes one or more openings.

[0170] A11 . The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs A0-A10, wherein the upper supports the stretch lining independently of the sole and above the sole within the interior region.

[0171] A12. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs A0-A11 , wherein the sole is configured to provide underfoot support and cushioning for the foot.

[0172] A13. The article of footwear of any one or paragraphs A0-A12, further comprising an upper reinforcement bonded to an interior side of the upper, wherein the upper reinforcement is configured to prevent the upper from collapsing when the article of footwear is worn and when the article of footwear is in an unworn state.

[0173] A14. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs A0-A13, wherein the stretch lining comprises a first stretch zone and a second stretch zone, and wherein the first stretch zone is disposed forward of the second stretch zone.

[0174] A14.1 The article of footwear of paragraph A14, wherein a portion of the first stretch zone of the stretch lining is fixed to the upper proximate a toe region of the upper, and wherein a portion of the second stretch zone of the stretch lining is fixed to the upper proximate a foot opening of the upper.

[0175] A14.2. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs A14-A14.1 , wherein a portion of the first stretch zone and a portion of the second stretch zone are suspended from the upper within the interior region.

[0176] A14.3. The article of footwear of paragraph A14.2, wherein the portions of the first stretch zone and the second stretch zone that are suspended from the upper are sized smaller in at least one dimension than a corresponding portion of the upper. A14.4. The article of footwear of paragraph A14.3, wherein the portions of the first stretch zone and the second stretch zone are at least 5% smaller in the at least one dimension than the corresponding portion of the upper and at most 60% smaller in the at least one dimension than the corresponding portion of the upper.

[0177] A14.5. The article of footwear of paragraph A14.3 or A14.4, wherein the portions of the first stretch zone and the second stretch zone are approximately 50% smaller in the at least one dimension than the corresponding portion of the upper.

[0178] A14.6. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs A14.3-A14.5, wherein the at least one dimension comprises a width of the portions of the first stretch zone and the second stretch zone as measured laterally across the article of footwear.

[0179] A14.7. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs A14.3-A14.6, wherein the at least one dimension comprises a length of the portions of the first stretch zone and the second stretch zone as measured longitudinally across the article of footwear.

[0180] A14.8. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs A14.3-A14.7, wherein the at least one dimension comprises a height of the portions of the first stretch zone and second stretch zone above the sole of the article of footwear.

[0181] A14.9. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs A14-A14.8, wherein the second stretch zone has a lesser degree of elasticity than the first stretch zone.

[0182] A14.10. The article of footwear of paragraph A14.9, wherein the second stretch zone is configured to prevent the stretch lining from collapsing within the interior region.

[0183] A14.11 . The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs A14-14.10, wherein a boundary between the first stretch zone and the second stretch zone is nonlinear.

[0184] A14.12. The article of footwear of paragraph A14.11 , wherein the boundary is wave shaped.

[0185] A15. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs A0-A14.7, wherein the stretch lining is suspended from the upper within the interior region.

[0186] A15.1 . The article of footwear of paragraph A15, wherein one or more portions of the stretch lining are fixed to the upper and one or more portions of the stretch lining are unfixed to the upper or the sole.

[0187] A16. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs A0-A15.1 , wherein the article of footwear comprises an athletic shoe, a boot, a mule-style shoe, or a sandal, including a slide-on sandal. A17. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs A0-A16, wherein a surface area of the stretch lining is smaller than a surface area of the upper.

[0188] A17.1. The article of footwear of paragraph A17, wherein the surface area of the stretch lining is at least 10% and at most 50% smaller than the surface area of the upper.

[0189] A18. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs A0-A17.1 , wherein a width of at least a portion of the stretch lining as measured laterally across article of footwear is smaller than a width of a corresponding portion of the upper.

[0190] A18.1. The article of footwear of paragraph A18, wherein the width of at least the portion of the stretch lining is at least 10% and at most 50% smaller than the width of the corresponding portion of the upper.

[0191] A19. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs A0-A18.1 , wherein the stretch lining comprises an elastic membrane.

[0192] BO. An article of footwear comprising: a sole; an upper coupled to the sole; and a stretch lining suspended between the upper and the sole, wherein a foot receiving region is defined between the stretch lining and the sole; wherein the stretch lining is configured to transition between a relaxed condition in which the stretch lining is unstretched, and a stretched condition in which the stretch lining is urged away from the sole by contact from a foot in the foot receiving region.

[0193] B1. The article of footwear of paragraph BO, wherein the stretch lining is suspended from the upper.

[0194] B1 .1 The article of footwear of paragraph B1 , wherein a portion of the stretch lining is fixed to the upper.

[0195] B2. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs B0-B1.1 , wherein a portion of the stretch lining is fixed to the sole.

[0196] B3. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs B0-B2, wherein a portion of the stretch lining is unfixed to the upper or the sole.

[0197] B4. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs B0-B3, wherein the stretch lining includes one or more stretch zones (or two or more stretch zones), each of the stretch zones having a different respective stretch characteristic.

[0198] B4.1 The article of footwear of paragraph B4, wherein the respective stretch characteristic includes a degree of elasticity of the stretch lining at the stretch zone. B4.2. The article of footwear of paragraph B4 or B4.1 , wherein the respective stretch characteristic includes a directional stretching capability of the stretch zone.

[0199] B5. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs B0-B4.2, wherein the stretch lining comprises an inner lining coupled to an outer lining.

[0200] B5.1. The article of footwear of paragraph B5, wherein the inner lining is coupled to the outer lining by a plurality of bonds.

[0201] B5.2. The article of footwear of paragraph B2.1 , wherein the plurality of bonds are arranged in a bonding pattern.

[0202] B5.3. The article of footwear of paragraph B2.2, wherein the bonding pattern comprises a grid pattern.

[0203] B5.4. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs B2.1 -B2.3, wherein one or more of the bonds of the plurality of bonds are formed by stitching.

[0204] B5.5. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs B2.1-B2.3, wherein one or more of the bonds of the plurality of bonds are formed using adhesive.

[0205] B5.6. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs B2.1 -B2.3, wherein one or more of the bonds of the plurality of bonds comprise thermal bonds.

[0206] B6. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs B0-B5.6, wherein one or more portions pf the stretch lining comprise an elastic material.

[0207] B7. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs B0-B6, wherein one or more portions of the stretch lining comprise a knit material.

[0208] B8. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs B0-B7, wherein the stretch lining comprises a first stretch zone and a second stretch zone, wherein the first stretch zone is disposed forward of the second stretch zone.

[0209] B8.1. The article of footwear of paragraph B8, wherein a portion of the first stretch zone is fixed to the upper proximate a toe region of the upper, and wherein a portion of the second stretch zone is fixed to the upper proximate a foot opening of the upper.

[0210] B8.2. The article of footwear of paragraph B8 or B8.1 , wherein one or more portions of the first stretch zone and the second stretch zone are unfixed to the upper or the sole.

[0211] B8.3. The article of footwear of paragraph B8.2., wherein the one or more portions of the first stretch zone and the second stretch zone are sized smaller than the upper. B8.4. The article of footwear of paragraph B8.3, wherein the one or more portions of the first stretch zone and the second stretch zone are at least 10% smaller than the upper and at most 60% smaller than the upper.

[0212] B8.5. The article of footwear of paragraph B8.3 or B8.4, wherein the one or more portions of the first stretch zone and the second stretch zone are approximately 50% smaller than the upper.

[0213] B8.6. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs B8-B8.5, wherein the second stretch zone has a lesser degree of elasticity than the first stretch zone.

[0214] B8.7. The article of footwear of paragraph B8.6, wherein the second stretch zone is configured to prevent the stretch lining from collapsing within the interior region.

[0215] B8.8. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs B8-B8.7, wherein a boundary between the first stretch zone and the second stretch zone is non-uniform across an axis that extends 90 degrees offset from an axis along which the user’s foot is be received into the foot receiving region.

[0216] B8.9. The article of footwear of paragraph B8.8, wherein the boundary is wave shaped.

[0217] B9. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs B0-B8.9, wherein the upper comprises a frame extending upward from the sole.

[0218] B9.1 . The article of footwear of paragraph B9, wherein the frame comprises a pair of arches extending upward from the sole, wherein the stretch lining is fixed to the pair of arches and suspended from the pair of arches above the sole.

[0219] B9.2. The article of footwear of paragraph B9.1 , wherein the stretch lining extends between the pair of arches.

[0220] B9.3. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs B9-B9.2, wherein the frame comprises leather.

[0221] B9.4. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs B9-B9.3, wherein the frame comprises a rigid polymer.

[0222] B10. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs B0-B9.4, wherein one or more portions of the stretch lining are sized smaller in at least one dimension than a corresponding dimension of the upper, such that the foot receiving region is smaller than an interior region defined between the upper and the sole. B10.1. The article of footwear of paragraph B10, wherein the at least one dimension comprises a width of the stretch lining as measured laterally across the article of footwear.

[0223] B10.2. The article of footwear of paragraph B10 or B10.1 , wherein the at least one dimension comprises a length of the stretch lining as measured longitudinally across the article of footwear.

[0224] B10.3. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs B10-B10.2, wherein the at least one dimension comprises a height of the stretch lining above the sole.

[0225] B10.4. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs B10-B10.3, wherein the stretch lining is at least 10% and at most 50% smaller than the corresponding portion of the upper in the at least one dimension.

[0226] B11 . The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs B0-B10.4, wherein a surface area of the stretch lining is smaller than a surface area of the upper.

[0227] B11 .1 . The article of footwear of paragraph B11 , wherein the surface area of the stretch lining is at least 10% and at most 50% smaller than the surface area of the upper.

[0228] B12. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs B0-B11.1 , wherein the stretch lining comprises an elastic membrane.

[0229] CO. A method of manufacturing an upper assembly for an article of footwear, the method comprising: bonding an upper reinforcement to an interior side of an upper; and bonding a stretch lining to the interior side of the upper.

[0230] C1 . The method of paragraph CO, further comprising forming the upper.

[0231] C1.1. The method of paragraph C1 , wherein forming the upper comprises applying a layer of material over a mold and compressing the layer of material on the mold.

[0232] C1 .2. The method of paragraph C1 .1 , further comprising preheating the layer of material prior to applying the layer of material over the mold.

[0233] C2. The method of any one of paragraphs C0-C1.2, further comprising forming the upper reinforcement.

[0234] C3. The method of any one of paragraphs C0-C2, wherein the upper reinforcement is bonded to the interior side of the upper using an adhesive. C4. The method of any one of paragraphs C0-C3, wherein the stretch lining is sized smaller than the upper in at least one dimension, such that bonding the stretch lining to the upper comprises stretching the stretch lining.

[0235] C4.1. The method of paragraph C4, wherein the at least one dimension is a perimeter of the stretch lining.

[0236] C4.2. The method of paragraph C4 or C4.1 , wherein a surface area of the stretch lining is smaller than a surface area of the upper.

[0237] C5. The method of any one of paragraphs C0-C4.2, further comprising forming the stretch lining.

[0238] C5.1. The method of paragraph C5, wherein forming the stretch liner comprises: bonding a first inner layer to a first outer layer; bonding a second inner layer to a second outer layer; bonding the first inner layer to the second inner layer, such that the first and second inner layers are sandwiched between the first and second outer layers; and enclosing the first and second inner layers within the first and second outer layers.

[0239] C5.2. The method of paragraph C5.1 , wherein bonding the first inner layer to the first outer layer, bonding the second inner layer to the second outer layer, and bonding the first inner layer to the second outer layer comprises using one or more of stitching, an adhesive, and / or fasteners.

[0240] C5.3. The method of paragraph C5.1 or C5.2, wherein bonding the first inner layer to the second inner layer comprises forming a plurality of bonds between the first inner layer and the second inner layer.

[0241] C5.4. The method of paragraph C5.3, wherein the plurality of bonds are arranged in a matrix pattern.

[0242] C5.5. The method of paragraph C5.3 or C5.4, wherein one or more of the bonds of the plurality of bonds includes dots of adhesive.

[0243] C5.6. The method of any one of paragraphs C5.3-C5.5, wherein one or more of the bonds of the plurality of bonds includes thermal bonds.

[0244] C5.7. The method of any one of paragraphs C5-C5.6, wherein enclosing the first and second inner layers comprises folding the first outer layer around the second outer layer. C5.8. The method of any one of paragraphs C5-C5.7, wherein the first and second inner layers comprise an elastic material.

[0245] C5.9. The method of any one of paragraphs C5-C5.8, wherein the first and second outer layers comprise a knit material.

[0246] C6. The method of any one of paragraphs C0-C5.9, wherein the stretch lining is sized smaller than the upper in at least one dimension, such that bonding the stretch lining to the interior side of the upper comprises stretching the stretch lining.

[0247] C6.1. The method of paragraph C6, wherein bonding the stretch lining to the upper comprises bonding at least a portion of a perimeter of the stretch lining to the upper.

[0248] C6.2. The method of paragraph C6 or C6.1 , wherein bonding the stretch lining to the upper comprises using an adhesive.

[0249] C7. The method of any one of paragraphs C0-C6.2, further comprising forming a gap between a central portion of the stretch lining and the upper when the stretch lining is bonded to the upper.

[0250] C8. The method of any one of paragraphs C0-C7, further comprising: coupling the upper assembly including the upper, the upper reinforcement, and the stretch lining to a sole to form an article of footwear.

[0251] C9. A method of manufacturing an article of footwear comprising: manufacturing the upper assembly according to any one of paragraphs C0-C7; and coupling the upper assembly to a sole of the article of footwear.

[0252] C10. An upper assembly formed according to the method of any one of paragraphs C0-C7.

[0253] DO. A method of manufacturing an article of footwear, the method comprising: bonding at least a portion of a perimeter of a stretch lining to an upper to form an upper assembly, the stretch lining having a respective stretch characteristic; and coupling the upper assembly to a sole of the article of footwear.

[0254] D1. The method of paragraph DO, further comprising forming the stretch lining comprising an elastic membrane, wherein forming the stretch lining comprises: bonding a first inner layer to a first outer layer; bonding a second inner layer to a second outer layer; bonding the first inner layer to the second inner layer, such that the first and second inner layers are sandwiched between the first and second outer layers; and enclosing the first and second inner layers within the first and second outer layers.

[0255] D1 .1 . The method of paragraph D1 , wherein bonding the first inner layer to the first outer layer, bonding the second inner layer to the second outer layer, and bonding the first inner layer to the second outer layer comprises using one or more of stitching, an adhesive, and / or fasteners.

[0256] D1.2. The method of paragraph D1 or D1.1 , wherein bonding the first inner layer to the second inner layer comprises forming a plurality of bonds between the first inner layer and the second inner layer.

[0257] D1.3. The method of paragraph D1.2, wherein the plurality of bonds can include dot-shaped bonds.

[0258] D1.4. The method of paragraph D1.2 or D1.3, wherein the plurality of bonds are arranged in a matrix pattern.

[0259] D1 .5. The method of any one of paragraphs D1 .2-D1 .4, wherein one or more of the bonds of the plurality of bonds include adhesive bonds.

[0260] D1 .6. The method of any one of paragraphs D1 .2-D1 .5, wherein one or more of the bonds of the plurality of bonds include thermal bonds.

[0261] D1 .7. The method of any one of paragraphs D1 .2-D2.6, wherein one or more of the bonds of the plurality of bonds include stitching.

[0262] D1.8. The method of any one of paragraphs D1-D1.7, wherein enclosing the first and second inner layers comprises folding the first outer layer around the second outer layer.

[0263] D1.9. The method of any one of paragraphs D1-D1.8, wherein the first and second inner layers comprise an elastic material.

[0264] D1.10.The method of any one of paragraphs D1-D1.9, wherein the first and second outer layers comprise a knit material.

[0265] D2. The method of any one of paragraphs D0-D1.10, wherein the perimeter of the stretch lining is sized smaller than the upper, such that bonding at least the portion of the perimeter of the stretch lining to the upper comprises stretching the stretch lining.

[0266] D2.1 . The method of paragraph D2, wherein bonding at least the portion of the perimeter of the stretch lining to the upper comprises using an adhesive. D3. The method of any one of paragraphs D0-D2.1 , further comprising forming a gap between a central portion of the stretch lining and the upper when the stretch lining is bonded to the upper.

[0267] D4. The method of any one of paragraphs D0-D3, further comprising forming the upper and an upper reinforcement.

[0268] D4.1. The method of paragraph D4, further comprising bonding the upper reinforcement to an interior side of the upper.

[0269] D5. An article of footwear formed according to the method of any one of paragraphs D0-D4.1 .

[0270] EO. An article of footwear comprising: a sole; an upper coupled to the sole and defining an interior region between the sole and the upper; and a stretch lining disposed within the interior region and defining a foot receiving region between the stretch lining and the sole, the stretch lining including a first stretch zone and a second stretch zone; wherein a boundary between the first stretch zone and the second stretch zone is non-uniform across an axis that extends 90 degrees offset from an axis along which a user’s foot is to be received into the foot receiving region.

[0271] E1. The article of footwear of paragraph EO, wherein the stretch lining is suspended from the upper.

[0272] E1 .1 The article of footwear of paragraph E1 , wherein a portion of the stretch lining is fixed to the upper.

[0273] E2. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs E0-E1.1 , wherein a portion of the stretch lining is fixed to the sole.

[0274] E3. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs E0-E2, wherein a portion of the stretch lining is unfixed to the upper or the sole.

[0275] E4. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs E0-E3, wherein the first stretch zone and the second stretch zone each have a different respective stretch characteristic.

[0276] E4.1 The article of footwear of paragraph E4, wherein the respective stretch characteristic includes a degree of elasticity of the stretch lining at the stretch zone.

[0277] E4.2. The article of footwear of paragraph E4 or E4.1 , wherein the respective stretch characteristic includes a directional stretching capability of the stretch zone. E5. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs E0-E4.2, wherein the stretch lining comprises an inner lining coupled to an outer lining.

[0278] E5.1. The article of footwear of paragraph E5, wherein the inner lining is coupled to the outer lining by a plurality of bonds.

[0279] E5.2. The article of footwear of paragraph E5.1 , wherein the plurality of bonds are arranged in a bonding pattern.

[0280] E5.3. The article of footwear of paragraph E5.2, wherein the bonding pattern comprises a grid pattern.

[0281] E5.4. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs E5.1 -E5.3, wherein one or more of the bonds of the plurality of bonds are formed by stitching.

[0282] E5.5. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs E5.1-E5.3, wherein one or more of the bonds of the plurality of bonds are formed using adhesive.

[0283] E5.6. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs E5.1 -E5.3, wherein one or more of the bonds of the plurality of bonds comprise thermal bonds.

[0284] E6. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs E0-E5.6, wherein one or more portions of the stretch lining comprise an elastic material.

[0285] E7. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs E0-E6, wherein one or more portions of the stretch lining comprise a knit material.

[0286] E8. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs E0-E7, wherein the first stretch zone is disposed forward of the second stretch zone relative to a foot opening of the article of footwear.

[0287] E9. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs E0-E8, wherein a portion of the first stretch zone is fixed to the upper proximate a toe region of the upper, and wherein a portion of the second stretch zone is fixed to the upper proximate the foot opening of the upper.

[0288] E10. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs E0-E9, wherein one or more portions of the first stretch zone and the second stretch zone are unfixed to the upper or the sole.

[0289] E11 . The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs E0-E10, wherein one or more portions of the stretch lining are sized smaller in at least one dimension than a corresponding dimension of the upper, such that the foot receiving region is smaller than an interior region defined between the upper and the sole. E11.1. The article of footwear of paragraph E11 , wherein the at least one dimension comprises a width of the stretch lining as measured laterally across the article of footwear.

[0290] E11.2. The article of footwear of paragraph E11 or E11.1 , wherein the at least one dimension comprises a length of the stretch lining as measured longitudinally across the article of footwear.

[0291] E11 .3. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs E11 -E11 .2, wherein the at least one dimension comprises a height of the stretch lining above the sole.

[0292] E11 .4. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs E11 -E11 .3, wherein the stretch lining is at least 10% and at most 50% smaller than the corresponding portion of the upper in the at least one dimension.

[0293] E12. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs E0-E11.4, wherein the second stretch zone has a lesser degree of elasticity than the first stretch zone.

[0294] E13. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs E0-E12, wherein the second stretch zone is configured to prevent the stretch lining from collapsing within the interior region.

[0295] E14. The article of footwear of any one of paragraphs E0-E13, wherein the boundary is wave shaped.

[0296] Advantages, Features, and Benefits

[0297] The different embodiments and examples of the stretch lining for footwear described herein provide several advantages over known solutions for footwear linings. For example, illustrative embodiments and examples described herein allow interior stretch linings for an article of footwear that are configured to stretch when contacted by a foot of the wearer and apply a pressure on the wearer’s foot as a result of the elasticity of the stretch lining. In this manner, the stretch lining accommodates the specific foot of the wearer and improves the fit and feel of the article of footwear.

[0298] Additionally, and among other benefits, illustrative embodiments and examples described herein allow interior linings that have a variety of different stretch characteristics that may be tailored to the specific foot of the wearer. For example, different portions of interior linings may have different elasticities or directional stretching capabilities. No known system or device can perform these functions. However, not all embodiments and examples described herein provide the same advantages or the same degree of advantage.

[0299] Conclusion The disclosure set forth above may encompass multiple distinct examples with independent utility. Although each of these has been disclosed in its preferred form(s), the specific embodiments thereof as disclosed and illustrated herein are not to be considered in a limiting sense, because numerous variations are possible. To the extent that section headings are used within this disclosure, such headings are for organizational purposes only. The subject matter of the disclosure includes all novel and nonobvious combinations and subcombinations of the various elements, features, functions, and / or properties disclosed herein. The following claims particularly point out certain combinations and subcombinations regarded as novel and nonobvious. Other combinations and subcombinations of features, functions, elements, and / or properties may be claimed in applications claiming priority from this or a related application. Such claims, whether broader, narrower, equal, or different in scope to the original claims, also are regarded as included within the subject matter of the present disclosure.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . An article of footwear comprising: a sole; an upper coupled to the sole and defining an interior region between the sole and the upper; and a stretch lining disposed within the interior region and defining a foot receiving region between the stretch lining and the sole; wherein the stretch lining is configured to transition between a relaxed condition wherein the stretch lining is spaced from the upper, and a stretched condition wherein the stretch lining is in tension due to being urged closer to the upper by contact from a foot in the foot receiving region.

2. The article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein the stretch lining includes one or more stretch zones, each of the stretch zones having a different respective stretch characteristic.

3. The article of footwear of claim 2, wherein the respective stretch characteristic includes a degree of elasticity of the stretch zone.

4. The article of footwear of any one of claims 2 through 3, wherein the respective stretch characteristic includes a directional stretching capability of the stretch zone.

5. The article of footwear of any one of claims 1 through 4, wherein the stretch lining comprises an inner lining coupled to an outer lining by a plurality of bonds.

6. The article of footwear of claim 5, wherein the plurality of bonds are arranged in a grid pattern.

7. The article of footwear of any one of claims 1 through 6, wherein one or more portions of the stretch lining comprise an elastic material.

8. The article of footwear of any one of claims 1 through 7, wherein one or more portions of the stretch lining comprise a knit material.

9. The article of footwear of any one of claims 1 through 8, wherein the stretch lining is sized smaller than the upper in at least one dimension, such that the foot receiving region is smaller than the interior region.

10. The article of footwear of any one of claims 1 through 9, wherein the at least one dimension comprises a width as measured laterally across the article of footwear.

11. The article of footwear of any one of claims 1 through 10, wherein the stretch lining comprises a first stretch zone and a second stretch zone, wherein the first stretch zone is disposed forward of the second stretch zone.

12. The article of footwear of claim 11 , wherein the second stretch zone has a lesser degree of elasticity than the first stretch zone, such that the second stretch zone is configured to prevent the stretch lining from collapsing within the interior region.

13. An article of footwear comprising: a sole; an upper coupled to the sole; and a stretch lining suspended between the upper and the sole, wherein a foot receiving region is defined between the stretch lining and the sole; wherein the stretch lining is configured to transition between a relaxed condition in which the stretch lining is unstretched, and a stretched condition in which the stretch lining is urged away from the sole by contact from a foot in the foot receiving region.

14. The article of footwear of claim 13, wherein the stretch lining is suspended from the upper.

15. The article of footwear of any one of claims 13 through 14, wherein a portion of the stretch lining is fixed to the sole.

16. The article of footwear of any one of claims 13 through 15, wherein the stretch lining includes one or more stretch zones, each of the stretch zones having a different respective stretch characteristic.

17. A method of manufacturing an upper assembly for an article of footwear, the method comprising: bonding an upper reinforcement to an interior side of an upper; and bonding a stretch lining to the interior side of the upper.

18. The method of manufacturing of claim 17, further comprising forming the stretch lining, wherein forming the stretch lining comprises: bonding a first inner layer to a first outer layer; bonding a second inner layer to a second outer layer; bonding the first inner layer to the second inner layer, such that the first and second inner layers are sandwiched between the first and second outer layers; and enclosing the first and second inner layers within the first and second outer layers.

19. The method of manufacturing of claim 17 or 18, wherein the stretch lining is sized smaller than a corresponding portion of the upper in at least one dimension, such that bonding the stretch lining to the interior side of the upper comprises stretching the stretch lining.

20. The method of manufacturing of any one of claims 17-19, further comprising: coupling the upper assembly including the upper, the upper reinforcement, and the stretch lining to a sole to form an article of footwear.

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