Synthetic leather component, footwear article comprising such a component, and method for manufacturing a synthetic leather component

Abstract

The present invention relates to a leather component comprising from a first end face to a second end face: - a knitted textile layer A comprising one or more yarn(s) of polyolefin(s) and / or olefinic thermoplastic elastomer(s); and - a polymeric facing layer B comprising one or more polymer(s) selected from: polyolefins, olefinic thermoplastic elastomers, styrenic thermoplastic elastomers, vulcanized thermoplastic elastomers selected from: a mixture of a vulcanized olefinic elastomer and a polyolefin, and a mixture of a vulcanized olefinic elastomer and a styrenic thermoplastic elastomer, and a mixture of the latter. The present invention also relates to a footwear article comprising such a synthetic leather component, as well as a method for manufacturing such a footwear article. Figure for the abstract: 1

Description

Title of the invention: Synthetic leather component, footwear article comprising such a component, and method for manufacturing a synthetic leather component technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of synthetic leather components, and footwear articles comprising such synthetic leather components.

[0002] The present invention relates to the technical field of manufacturing processes for footwear articles comprising such synthetic leather components. Previous technique

[0003] Synthetic leather components, also known as imitation leather, are used as a replacement for natural leather or to provide a particular aesthetic appearance. These components are used in many fields, including furniture, clothing, and transportation, for example in automobiles for seat and headrest upholstery.

[0004] Synthetic leather components can have different compositions and constructions defined according to their implementation.

[0005] Generally, a synthetic leather component comprises a flexible backing, for example a polyethylene terephthalate textile, possibly a cross-linked polyethylene foam, and a coating layer disposed on the flexible backing, for example PVC (polyvinyl chloride) or polyurethane.

[0006] However, synthetic leathers made from polyester and PVC are not recyclable. Indeed, the composite material resulting from recycling has limited technical qualities and meets few market needs compared to the raw materials taken separately. Furthermore, PVC is highly toxic when burned. PVC also has the disadvantage of being a heavy material and is therefore unsuitable for articles where weight is a priority, such as shoes.

[0007] With regard to synthetic leathers based on polyester and polyurethane, these two materials cannot be separated and are not compatible with each other to be transformed into a single reusable thermoplastic material.

[0008] Moreover, polyurethane has poor lightfastness and yellows over time, and is also susceptible to hydrolysis.

[0009] In order to improve the lifespan of synthetic leathers, particularly their abrasion resistance, it is known to add a thermosetting polyurethane surface coating, which modifies the surface properties and therefore the adhesion to another substrate. This arrangement contributes to limiting recyclability.

[0010] There is therefore a need for an improved synthetic leather component, i.e. non-yellowing, resistant to abrasion, hydrolysis, lightweight, and recyclable.

[0011] There is a need for a synthetic leather component suitable for a shoe so that it is recyclable and lightweight.

[0012] There is also a need for a footwear item, particularly a sports shoe, comprising at least one synthetic leather component, meeting the usual criteria inherent in a shoe (upper flexibility, comfort, resistance to delamination, lightness, improved proprioception, etc.) and whose recyclability is improved. Description of the invention

[0013] The present invention relates, according to a first aspect, to a synthetic leather component, in particular having substantially opposite first and second end faces, comprising from a first end face to a second end face:

[0014] - optionally an inner textile layer C, in particular comprising (or is in) a non-woven fabric; - optionally at least one intermediate textile layer D, in particular comprising (or is in) a non-woven fabric;

[0015] - optionally at least one reinforcing component E; in particular a plate po Lymeric reinforcement E; - a knitted textile layer A comprising one or more yarn(s) of polyolefin(s) and / or olefinic thermoplastic elastomer(s); and - a polymeric facing layer B comprising one or more polymer(s) selected from polyolefins, olefinic thermoplastic elastomers, styrenic thermoplastic elastomers, and vulcanized thermoplastic elastomers selected from: a mixture of a vulcanized olefinic elastomer and a polyolefin, and a mixture of a vulcanized olefinic elastomer and a styrenic thermoplastic elastomer; and a mixture of the latter; and - optionally an external protective layer F, in particular a protective varnish layer, more particularly resistant to abrasion.

[0016] Advantageously, the synthetic leather component comprises a knitted textile layer A based on polyolefin(s) and / or olefinic thermoplastic elastomer(s) chemically compatible with the polymer facing layer B so that these two layers A and B can be recycled together without being separated.

[0017] In particular, layers A and B, especially the synthetic leather component, are transformed into particles, notably on the order of a few millimeters, and then optionally washed and heated to be transformed, alone or with a mixture of compatible polymer material(s), in particular virgin and / or recycled, into granules that can be transformed in processes for transforming thermoplastic materials known in the state of the art, for example and without limitation: injection molding process, extrusion molding process, for example extrusion blow molding, thermocompression molding process, or a combination thereof.

[0018] Advantageously, the knitted layer A inherently exhibits better elasticity than a fabric and is more resistant to deformation and tearing than a nonwoven. Advantageously, the knitted layer A thus follows the movements of the polymer facing layer B, which improves resistance to delamination between layers A and B. Advantageously, the combination of a knitted textile layer A with a coating layer B, both being made of compatible polymer materials, improves resistance to delamination between layers A and B compared to synthetic leathers in which layer A is a nonwoven; it also improves the bonding strength of the synthetic leather component with another element—also made of polymer materials chemically compatible with those of the inventive synthetic leather.In particular, there is improved resistance to delamination between the inventive synthetic leather component and said element, especially in the case of a sole as described below, compared to a synthetic leather comprising, instead of the textile layer A: a non-woven fabric.

[0019] Advantageously, the synthetic leather component is bonded to the sole by heat-bonding layer B to a sole, in particular as described below in this text.

[0020] Advantageously, at least a part of layer B and at least a part of the sole are heat-bonded to each other.

[0021] Advantageously, a thermoplastic polymeric portion of layer B is mixed with at least one thermoplastic polymeric portion of a sole, in particular as described in this text.

[0022] Preferably, the synthetic leather component is intended to form one or more portions of the visible outer face of an article such as a backpack, a footwear item (sports shoe, boot), a clothing item (for example a glove), a furniture item (for example camping equipment), or any sports item (i.e. any equipment for practicing a sport: clothing items, footwear items, fitness accessories, etc.), or a bicycle bag.

[0023] Preferably, the synthetic leather component is intended to form one or more portions of the visible outer face of a footwear item, in particular a sports shoe, for example a hiking shoe.

[0024] Preferably, the synthetic leather component forms one or more portion(s) of the upper of a footwear article.

[0025] Preferably, the polymeric facing layer B comprises a first and a second face substantially opposite.

[0026] Preferably, the knitted textile layer A comprises a first and a second face that are substantially opposite. Preferably, the second face of the knitted textile layer A is in direct contact with the first face of the polymer facing layer B.

[0027] In embodiments, the second face of the polymeric facing layer B is the second end face of the synthetic leather component.

[0028] In embodiments, the first face of the knitted textile layer A forms the first end face of the synthetic leather component.

[0029] Preferably, the outer protective layer F comprises first and second opposite faces.

[0030] In embodiments, the outer protective layer F forms the second end face of the synthetic leather component. Knitted textile layer A

[0031] Preferably, the knitted textile layer A is a knit, in particular a picked-stitch knit or a dropped-stitch knit, more particularly a picked-stitch knit.

[0032] Advantageously, a knit with picked stitches is more deformable, stretchable, than a knit with discarded stitches, which improves resistance to delamination between layers A and B since layer A follows the deformation movements of layer B.

[0033] Preferably, the knitted textile layer A is made up essentially of one or more polyolefin yarn(s).

[0034] Preferably, at least 80% by mass, more preferably at least 90% by mass, preferably at least 95% by mass, of the total mass of the knitted textile layer A comprises one or more yarn(s) in one or more polyolefin(s) and / or in one or more olefinic thermoplastic elastomer(s).

[0035] Preferably, the yarn(s) in one or more polyolefin(s), and / or in one or more olefinic thermoplastic elastomer(s) is / are chosen from spun fiber yarns, multifilament yarns, monofilament yarns, preferably multifilament yarns and monofilament yarns.

[0036] Preferably, the multifilament yarn(s) each have a linear mass greater than or equal to 10 dtex and less than or equal to 500 dtex, in particular greater than or equal to 10 dtex and less than or equal to 150 dtex, for example from 70 dtex to 90 dtex.

[0037] Preferably, the or each of the multifilamentary wire(s) comprises / include at less than 5 filaments, preferably at least 10 filaments, preferably from 10 to 100 filaments, for example from 30 to 80 filaments.

[0038] Preferably, the monofilamentary wire(s) each have a diameter greater than or equal to 0.10 mm and less than or equal to 2 mm, more preferably less than or equal to 1 mm.

[0039] Preferably, the knitted textile layer A has a surface mass greater than or equal to 30 g / m2, more preferably greater than or equal to 50 g / m2.

[0040] Preferably, the knitted textile layer A has a surface mass less than or equal to 200 g / m2, more preferably less than or equal to 150 g / m2.

[0041] Preferably, the knitted textile layer A has a surface mass ranging from 80 g / m2 to 120 g / m2, for example in the order of 100 g / m2 to within + / - 10 g / m2.

[0042] Preferably, the knitted textile layer A has a thickness greater than or equal to 0.10 mm, more preferably greater than or equal to 0.20 mm, preferably greater than or equal to 0.30 mm.

[0043] Preferably, the knitted textile layer A has a thickness less than or equal to 2 mm, more preferably less than or equal to 1 mm, preferably less than or equal to 0.80 mm.

[0044] Preferably, the knitted textile layer A has a thickness greater than or equal to 0.10 mm and less than or equal to 0.60 mm, in particular about 0.40 mm to within + / - 0.10 mm. Polymer facing layer B

[0045] Preferably, the polymeric facing layer B has a surface mass greater than or equal to 100 g / m2, more preferably greater than or equal to 200 g / m2, preferably greater than or equal to 300 g / m2.

[0046] Preferably, the polymeric facing layer B has a surface mass less than or equal to 700 g / m2, more preferably less than or equal to 600 g / m2, preferably less than or equal to 500 g / m2.

[0047] Preferably, the polymeric facing layer B has a surface mass greater than or equal to 350 g / m2 and less than or equal to 450 g / m2, for example about 405 g / m2 to within + / - 20 g / m2.

[0048] Preferably, the polymeric facing layer B has a thickness greater than or equal to 0.10 mm, more preferably greater than or equal to 0.20 mm, preferably greater than or equal to 0.30 mm.

[0049] Preferably, the polymeric facing layer B has a thickness less than or equal to 2 mm, more preferably less than or equal to 1 mm, preferably less than or equal to 0.80 mm.

[0050] Preferably, the knitted textile layer A has a thickness greater than or equal to 0.10 mm and less than or equal to 0.60 mm, in particular about 0.45 mm + / - 0.10 mm close.

[0051] Preferably, the polymer facing layer B is hot laminated or extruded or glued onto the knitted textile layer A.

[0052] Preferably, the polymeric facing layer B is a polymeric film.

[0053] Preferably, the polymeric facing layer B impregnates the textile layer knitted A, in particular the polymer coating layer B penetrates into the thickness of the knitted textile layer A.

[0054] Preferably, a portion of the yarn(s) of the knitted textile layer A, in particular opening onto the second face of layer A, is coated with the polymeric facing layer B.

[0055] Preferably, the polymeric facing layer B comprises, in particular consists essentially of, one or more polymer(s) selected from polyolefins and olefinic thermoplastic elastomers, again preferably selected from polyolefins.

[0056] Preferably, the polymeric facing layer B comprises at least 30% by mass, more preferably at least 40% or 50% or 60% by mass, more preferably at least 70% or 80% or 90% by mass, of one or more polymer(s) selected from polyolefin(s) and olefinic thermoplastic elastomers, more preferably selected from polyolefins.

[0057] Preferably, the polymeric facing layer B comprises less than 80% or 70% or 60% or 50% by mass, more preferably less than 40% or 30% or 20% by mass, preferably less than 10% or 5% by mass, of one or more polymer(s) selected from ethylene, propylene, and diene terpolymers (EPDM), in particular selected from olefinic thermoplastic elastomers.

[0058] In one embodiment, the second face (or outer face) of the polymer facing layer B comprises at least a portion of a micro-embossed or micro-printed surface. Preferably, at least 50%, or at least 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 95%, or substantially 100%, of the surface area (cm²) of the second face of the polymer facing layer B is micro-embossed or comprises micro-embossed patterns.

[0059] In this text, a micro-embossed surface portion is understood to mean any surface portion that has undergone a micro-embossing step consisting of imparting indentations and bumps / peaks according to a predetermined arrangement, for example, determined according to the engraving pattern of a micro-embossing roller. Advantageously, the second surface being made of one or more thermoplastic materials, its controlled heating (for example, to around the glass transition temperature of layer B) softens layer B and thus facilitates the embossing of its surface; cooling layer B then sets the imparted embossing.

[0060] The inventors have found, surprisingly, that in addition to selecting a knit fabric to improve delamination resistance between layers A and B, arranging a specific print pattern on the second side of layer B, particularly according to a specific selection, improves the delamination resistance of the synthetic leather complex according to the invention with a chemically compatible sole without an adhesive intermediary. In other words, the bonding strength between the synthetic leather component and the sole is improved. This arrangement promotes adhesion between compatible materials for recycling.

[0061] Advantageously, the polymer material(s) of the polymeric facing layer B is / are determined to be resistant to cutting, impact, and abrasion.

[0062] Advantageously, at least 50% by mass, preferably at least 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, or 95% by mass, and even more preferably substantially all, of said synthetic leather component is capable of being softened and / or melted by heating and of being transformed in a process for transforming a thermoplastic polymer material, for example, by injection or extrusion molding, injection or extrusion blow molding, injection or extrusion calendering, or by thermocompression. Inner textile layer C

[0063] Preferably, the inner textile layer C is a nonwoven textile, in particular a nonwoven comprising one or more layers of spunbond (melt-bonded) nonwoven fibers and / or one or more layers of meltbown (melt-blown) nonwoven fibers and / or several layers of spunlaid (spun-laid) type, for example of SMS type (for a spunbond layer / a meltblown layer / a spunbond layer).

[0064] Preferably, the inner textile layer C comprises fibers in one or more polyolefin(s).

[0065] Preferably, at least 80% by mass, more preferably at least 90% or 95% by mass, of the total mass of the inner layer C, comprises polyolefin fiber(s).

[0066] Preferably, the inner textile layer C has a surface mass greater than or equal to 100 g / m2, more preferably greater than or equal to 150 g / m2.

[0067] Preferably, the inner textile layer C has a surface mass less than or equal to 500 g / m2, more preferably less than or equal to 400 g / m2, preferably less than or equal to 300 g / m2.

[0068] Preferably, the inner textile layer C has a surface mass greater than or equal to 180 g / m2 and less than or equal to 270 g / m2, for example of about 230 g / m2 to within + / - 15 g / m2.

[0069] Preferably, the inner textile layer C has a thickness less than or equal to 2 mm, preferably less than or equal to 1.5 mm.

[0070] Preferably, the inner textile layer C has a thickness greater than or equal to 0.20 mm, more preferably greater than or equal to 0.50 mm, preferably greater than or equal to 0.80 mm.

[0071] Preferably, the inner textile layer C has a thickness of approximately 1 mm to within + / - 0.15 mm.

[0072] Advantageously, the internal textile layer C allows the total thickness of the synthetic leather component to be adjusted, in particular to adjust its positioning in the mold assembly during the molding of the sole, and to avoid projections of molten polymer material onto the upper.

[0073] Advantageously, the inner textile layer C also contributes to improving the mechanical resistance of the synthetic leather component (tear resistance for example). Intermediate textile layer D

[0074] Preferably, the intermediate textile layer D is a nonwoven textile, in particular a nonwoven comprising one or more layers of spunbond (melt-bonded) nonwoven fibers and / or one or more layers of meltbown (melt-blown) nonwoven fibers and / or several layers of spunlaid (spun-laid) type, for example of SMS type (for a spunbond layer / a meltblown layer / a spunbond layer).

[0075] Preferably, the inner textile layer D comprises polyolefin fiber(s).

[0076] Preferably, at least 80% by mass, even more preferably at least 90% or 95% by mass, of the total mass of the intermediate layer D, comprises polyolefin fibers.

[0077] Preferably, the intermediate textile layer D has a surface mass greater than or equal to 30 g / m2, more preferably greater than or equal to 50 g / m2, preferably greater than or equal to 70 g / m2.

[0078] Preferably, the intermediate textile layer D has a surface mass less than or equal to 250 g / m2, more preferably less than or equal to 200 g / m2, preferably less than or equal to 150 g / m2.

[0079] Preferably, the intermediate textile layer D has a surface mass greater than or equal to 60 g / m2 and less than or equal to 120 g / m2, for example of about 100 g / m2 to within + / - 15 g / m2.

[0080] Preferably, the intermediate textile layer D has a thickness less than or equal to 2 mm, more preferably less than or equal to 1.50 mm, preferably less than or equal to 1 mm, in particular less than or equal to 0.80 mm.

[0081] Preferably, the intermediate textile layer D has a thickness greater than or equal to 0.20 mm.

[0082] Preferably, the intermediate textile layer D has a thickness of approximately 0.50 mm at + / - 0.15 mm to the nearest.

[0083] In embodiments, the synthetic leather component, particularly intended to be in the heel or backfoot area of ​​an upper of a footwear item or in the forefoot area of ​​a footwear item, more particularly to form a heel counter or a rigid toe cap of an upper of a footwear item, comprises two intermediate textile layers D, in particular the surface mass of the two intermediate textile layers D is greater than or equal to 180 g / m2 and less than or equal to 250 g / m2. For example, the synthetic leather component comprises a first layer D made of a polypropylene fiber nonwoven, and a second layer D made of a polypropylene fiber nonwoven, which are superimposed.

[0084] In some embodiments, the synthetic leather component is a heel counter.

[0085] In some embodiments, the synthetic leather component is a hard front toe or mud-protective member of a shaft.

[0086] Said at least one intermediate textile layer D provides rigidity to the synthetic leather component while maintaining good drape. This arrangement prevents the upper, which includes one or more inserts in the synthetic leather component, from collapsing after the sole is overmolded onto the lower edge of the upper. Reinforcement component E

[0087] Depending on the use of the synthetic leather component, the latter may include one or more reinforcement component(s) E.

[0088] The reinforcement component E is preferably a polymer plate optionally reinforced by at least one textile reinforcement E, more preferably the polymer plate comprises one or more polymer(s) selected from polyolefins, in particular polyethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), olefinic thermoplastic elastomers, vulcanized thermoplastic elastomers and their mixtures, more particularly from polyolefins, in particular polyethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), olefinic thermoplastic elastomers, more preferably from polyolefins, in particular polyethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0089] Preferably, the textile reinforcement E is a fabric, a knit, a braid, a nonwoven, or a combination thereof.

[0090] Preferably, the textile reinforcement E comprises (in particular is essentially made of) one or more yarns and / or fibers of polyolefins and / or polyesters (PET, PBT), in particular of PET (polyethylene terephthalate), of PBT (polybutylene terephthalate), phthalate), in PE (polyethylene), or in PP (polypropylene).

[0091] In embodiments, the reinforcing component E has a surface mass greater than or equal to 300 g / m2, preferably greater than or equal to 400 g / m2. Preferably, the reinforcing component E has a surface mass less than or equal to 800 g / m2, more preferably less than or equal to 700 g / m2, in particular less than or equal to 600 g / m2.

[0092] In embodiments, the reinforcement component E has a thickness greater than or equal to 0.10 mm and less than or equal to 0.80 mm, preferably less than or equal to 0.60 mm.

[0093] In embodiments the reinforcement component E has a thickness of approximately 0.40 mm to within + / - 0.15 mm.

[0094] Preferably, the reinforcement component E comprises at least 30% by mass, more preferably at least 40% or 50% or 60% by mass, more preferably at least 70% or 80% or 90% by mass, of one or more polymer(s) selected from polyolefin(s) and olefinic thermoplastic elastomers, more preferably selected from polyolefins.

[0095] In one embodiment, the reinforcement component E comprises a polymer plate, in particular in the form of a film, comprising EVA and a polyolefin and a textile reinforcement E, in particular the textile reinforcement E is made of PET.

[0096] Preferably, the film comprises a mixture of EVA and polyethylene, in particular low density (LDPE).

[0097] The mass fraction of the textile reinforcement E in the reinforcement component E is greater than or equal to 3% and less than or equal to 10%;

[0098] The mass fraction of the polymer plate E in the reinforcement component E is greater than or equal to 50% or 60% or 70%, preferably greater than or equal to 80% or 90%. Outer protective layer F

[0099] Preferably, the outer protective layer F is a polymer layer for abrasion protection of layer B.

[0100] Preferably, the outer protective layer F comprises one or more polymer(s) selected from abrasion-resistant polymers, for example selected from polyurethanes and polyamides.

[0101] Preferably, the outer protective layer F has a thickness less than or equal to 0.1 mm.

[0102] Preferably, the outer protective layer F has a thickness greater than or equal to 10 pm and less than or equal to 300 pm.

[0103] Preferably, the synthetic leather component does not include an external protective layer F. Synthetic leather component

[0104] In embodiments, the synthetic leather component has a surface mass greater than or equal to 400 g / m2 and less than or equal to 600 g / m2. Preferably, the synthetic leather component consists essentially of layers A and B.

[0105] In some embodiments, the synthetic leather component has a surface mass greater than or equal to 900 g / m² and less than or equal to 2000 g / m², in particular approximately 1700 g / m² ± 200 g / m². Preferably, the synthetic leather component is in this case a heel counter.

[0106] In some embodiments, the synthetic leather component has a surface mass greater than or equal to 800 g / m² and less than or equal to 1600 g / m², in particular approximately 1200 g / m² to within + / - 200 g / m². Preferably, the synthetic leather component is in this case a rigid toe cap or a protective element of an upper against mud and / or dust.

[0107] In embodiments, the synthetic leather component has a surface mass greater than or equal to 300 g / m² and less than or equal to 700 g / m², preferably greater than or equal to 400 g / m² and less than or equal to 600 g / m², for example, 500 g / m² to within + / - 50 g / m². Advantageously, the synthetic leather component consists essentially of layers A and B. Advantageously, the synthetic leather component is used in one or more panels of an upper for a football shoe.

[0108] In embodiments, the synthetic leather component has a thickness greater than or equal to 1 mm and less than or equal to 10 mm, preferably less than or equal to 5 mm.

[0109] Preferably, the synthetic leather component comprises less than 80% or 70% or 60% or 50% by mass, more preferably less than 40% or 30% or 20% by mass, preferably less than 10% or 5% by mass, of one or more polymer(s) selected from ethylene, propylene, and diene terpolymers (EPDM), in particular selected from olefinic thermoplastic elastomers.

[0110] Advantageously, the different materials of the synthetic leather component are compatible with each other so that they can adhere to each other by heat bonding, i.e. by heating them so as to melt and / or fuse them locally enough so that the layers adhere to each other by contact and pressure. Advantageously, the synthetic leather component does not contain any exogenous adhesive agent, which simplifies manufacturing and avoids the use of an adhesive that acts as a pollutant during recycling.

[0111] Possibly, heat sealing (for example by ultrasound), or an agent adhesive (e.g. neoprene-based) can be used to hold the different layers of the synthetic leather component together while a reinforcing seam is being made. Definitions Polyolefins

[0112] The polyolefin(s) mentioned in this text; in particular that includes (or of which is / are essentially made): the yarn(s) of the knitted layer A, and / or the yarn(s) and / or fiber(s) of the textile layer C, and / or the yarn(s) and / or fiber(s) of the textile layer D, and / or the polymer(s) and / or yarn(s) / fiber(s) of the reinforcing component E, and / or the polymer(s) of the facing polymer layer B, and / or the polymer(s) of the sole of the footwear described below, and / or the yarn(s) of the textile insert(s) of the upper as described below (in particular other than the synthetic leather component); is / are chosen from among polyolefin homopolymers, possibly grafted, polyolefin copolymers or terpolymers, possibly grafted.

[0113] Polyolefin copolymers comprise two olefin repeat units, optionally grafted.

[0114] Polyolefin terpolymers comprise three or more olefin repeat units, optionally grafted.

[0115] The olefinic repeating units preferably include units derived from alkenes, in particular from ethylene or propylene.

[0116] The polyolefin(s) used in the present invention is / are by definition thermoplastic(s).

[0117] Preferably, the term grafted means one or more grafted functions or groups which may be one or more alkyl groups, linear or branched, comprising from 1 to 10 carbon atoms, preferably from 1 to 5 carbon atoms, for example a methyl group, an ethyl or propyl group, or one or more ester functions, for example an alkyl ester whose alkyl group comprises from 1 to 5 carbon atoms, or one or more acrylate (RO-CO-CH=CH2) or acryloyl (H2C=CH-CO-R) functions, in particular R is an alkyl group comprising from 1 to 10 carbon atoms.

[0118] The polyolefin(s) mentioned in this text; in particular, which comprises (or of which is / are essentially made): the yarn(s) of the knitted layer A, and / or the yarn(s) and / or fiber(s) of the textile layer C, and / or the yarn(s) and / or fiber(s) of the textile layer D, and / or the polymer(s) of the reinforcing component E, and / or the polymer(s) of the facing polymer layer B, and / or the polymer(s) of the sole of the footwear described herein. after; is / are preferably chosen from a list I comprising (in particular consisting of) polypropylene; polyethylene, in particular high-density polyethylene, very high-density polyethylene, low-density polyethylene, and very low-density polyethylene (LLDPE); polymethylpentene (PMP), polybutene-1 (PB-1), polyisobutene; preferably from polypropylenes and polyethylenes, in particular polyethylene is chosen from high-density polyethylene, very high-density polyethylene, low-density polyethylene, and very low-density polyethylene (LLDPE).

[0119] The polyolefin(s) cited in this text; in particular which comprises (or of which is / are essentially made): the yarn(s) of the knitted layer A, and / or the yarn(s) and / or the fiber(s) of the textile layer C, and / or the yarn(s) and / or the fiber(s) of the textile layer D, and / or the polymer(s) of the reinforcement component E, and / or the polymer(s) of the facing polymer layer B, and / or the polymer(s) of the sole of the footwear described below; may also be chosen from a list II including (in particular consisting of) poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate) (EVA) (in particular from the copolymerization of ethylene and vinyl acetate, it is an olefin copolymer), in particular non-crosslinked; and ethylene-polyvinyl alcohol.

[0120] The polyolefin(s) referred to in this text; in particular which comprises (or of which is / are essentially made): the yarn(s) of the knitted layer A, and / or the yarn(s) and / or the fiber(s) of the textile layer C, and / or the yarn(s) and / or the fiber(s) of the textile layer D, and / or the polymer(s) of the reinforcing component E, and / or the polymer(s) of the polymeric facing layer B; may be selected from olefin-based mineral oils, such as poly-alpha-olefins, in particular which are plasticizers of styrenic thermoplastic elastomers.

[0121] The polyolefin(s) and / or the olefinic thermoplastic elastomer(s) mentioned in this text (in particular in a yarn or in a layer A or B or C or D or E or F), may be bio-based or petroleum-based, in particular bio-based, i.e. derived from renewable material(s), for example in the case of polyethylene it may be a bio-based polyethylene derived from sugar cane.

[0122] Bio-based material is understood to mean any material derived from renewable material(s), as opposed to petroleum-based material.

[0123] The bio-based polyolefin or olefinic thermoplastic elastomer may have a so-called direct origin, i.e. that it is derived directly from renewable material(s), or an indirect origin, i.e. that it is derived from a mixture of renewable material(s) and petroleum-based material(s) and / or material(s) recycled(s). In the latter case, the olefinic thermoplastic polyolefin / elastomer is defined by obtaining a certificate established according to the "mass balance approach" principle defining the proportion of recycled and / or bio-based material(s) used for its production.

[0124] The polyolefin(s) and / or olefinic thermoplastic elastomer(s) referred to in this text (in particular in a yarn or in a layer A or B), may be virgin or recycled. Olefin thermoplastic elastomers

[0125] One or more olefinic thermoplastic elastomers mentioned in this text; in particular that comprise (or are essentially made up of): the yarn(s) of the knitted layer A, and / or the yarn(s) and / or fiber(s) of the textile layer C, and / or the yarn(s) and / or fiber(s) of the textile layer D, and / or the polymer(s) and / or yarn(s) / fiber(s) of the reinforcement component E, and / or the polymer(s) of the facing polymer layer B, and / or the polymer(s) of the sole of the footwear described below, and / or the yarn(s) of the textile insert(s) of the upper as described below (in particular other than the synthetic leather component); is / are preferred from: - polyisobutylenes (PIB); and / or - ethylene, propylene, and diene terpolymers (EPDM); ethylene and propylene copolymers; ethylene and alpha-olefin copolymers, for example ethylene and butene copolymers or ethylene and octene copolymers, and a mixture thereof; preferably EPDM and / or ethylene and propylene copolymers; and / or - mixtures of a polyolefin (in particular as defined in this text), in particular polypropylene, with one or more olefinic thermoplastic elastomer(s), in particular non-vulcanized, and possibly one or more plasticizers (for example mineral or naphthenic or paraffinic oil(s)), the said olefinic thermoplastic elastomer(s) may be copolymers of ethylene and propylene, terpolymers of ethylene, propylene and diene, copolymers of ethylene and alpha-olefin(s) (for example ethylene and butene copolymers or ethylene and octene copolymers). Vulcanized thermoplastic elastomers

[0126] One or more vulcanized thermoplastic elastomers (TPE-V) referred to in this text, in particular comprising (or essentially consisting of): the polymer(s) and / or the yarn(s) / fiber(s) of the reinforcing component E, and / or the polymer(s) of the facing polymer layer B, and / or the polymer(s) of the sole of the footwear described below; is / are of preference : - a mixture of a vulcanized olefinic elastomer (in particular forming the rubber phase) and a polyolefin (in particular as defined in this text, more particularly forming the thermoplastic phase), in particular polypropylene, or - a mixture of a vulcanized olefinic elastomer (in particular as defined in this text and vulcanized, more particularly forming the rubber phase) and a styrenic thermoplastic elastomer (in particular as defined in this text, more particularly forming the thermoplastic phase), in particular SEBS or SBS.

[0127] Vulcanization generally takes place during the extrusion-granulation step. Preferably, the highly vulcanized rubber phase is dispersed within the thermoplastic phase. This elastomer has the advantage of exhibiting good adhesion to olefin polymers, such as polypropylene and polyethylene. This vulcanization is known in the prior art as dynamic vulcanization, during which the elastomer is vulcanized while being mixed in the molten state with a suitable thermoplastic polyolefin.

[0128] Said vulcanized olefinic elastomer is preferably selected from ethylene, propylene, and diene ter-polymers (EPDM); ethylene and propylene copolymers; ethylene and alpha-olefin(s) copolymers, for example ethylene and butene copolymers or ethylene and octene copolymers, and a mixture of the latter; preferably EPDM and ethylene and propylene copolymers. In this text, polyurethanes are not considered to be vulcanized thermoplastic elastomers. Styrenic thermoplastic elastomers

[0129] One or more styrenic thermoplastic elastomers referred to in this text, in particular which comprise (or of which is / are essentially made): the polymer(s) and / or the yarn(s) / fiber(s) of the reinforcement component E, and / or the polymer(s) of the facing polymer layer B, and / or the polymer(s) of the sole of the footwear article described below; is / are preferably chosen from thermoplastic elastomers comprising styrenic repeating motifs (TPE-S) (in particular a styrene group: -CH(C6H5)-CH2), more preferably from thermoplastic elastomers comprising one or more styrenic block(s) and optionally one or more olefin block(s) (possibly grafted), preferably from poly(styrene-ethylene-butylene-styrene) (SEBS); poly(styrene-butadiene-styrene) (SBS); poly(styrene-butadiene) (SBC); poly(styrene-isoprene-styrene) (SIS);poly(styrene-ethylene-propylene-styrene) (SEPS), for example marketed under the brand name Septon SEPS® by the company; Kuraray, or Kraton G® by the Kraton company.

[0130] A styrenic thermoplastic elastomer according to the invention can be grafted, for example SEBS can be grafted, for example with one or more acid anhydride(s), such as maleic anhydride, and / or one or more carboxylic acid(s) and / or one or more vinyl function(s).

[0131] The grafting of the styrenic thermoplastic elastomer has the function of improving the adhesion of the sole, for example of the outsole, to another sole, for example an intermediate sole, and / or to the upper when the sole is injected directly onto the upper.

[0132] Advantageously, the thermoplastic elastomers selected within the framework of the present invention have better processability and a lower associated energy cost than thermosetting elastomers by conventional thermoplastic processes such as injection molding, extrusion, thermoforming, blow molding, etc.

[0133] The knitted textile layer A is also referred to in this text as layer A.

[0134] The polymeric facing layer B is also referred to in this text as layer B.

[0135] In this text, "polymer" means any homopolymer or copolymer consisting of at least two or three different monomers.

[0136] Advantageously, the measurement of resistance to delamination measured between the upper and the sole of a footwear article in this text comprising said synthetic leather component and said sole bonded to said synthetic leather component, is carried out with the standard EN ISO 17708 dating from 2018, and entitled "Footwear - Test methods for whole - Upper sole adhesion".

[0137] The features and embodiment variants with reference to the second aspect of the invention can be combined independently of each other, and with any of the embodiment variants with reference to the first or third aspect of the invention.

[0138] In one embodiment, the mass fraction of polymer(s) selected from polyolefins, olefinic thermoplastic elastomers, vulcanized thermoplastic elastomers and styrenic elastomers, and a mixture of the latter, preferably selected from polyolefins and thermoplastic elastomers, and a mixture of the latter, in said synthetic leather component is greater than or equal to 70%, preferably greater than or equal to 80%, more preferably greater than or equal to 85%, possibly greater than or equal to 90% or 95%.

[0139] The mass fraction is calculated by relating the mass (g) in said polymer(s) to the total mass of said synthetic leather component (g) multiplied by 100.

[0140] Advantageously, a large majority by mass of the synthetic leather component is made of chemically compatible thermoplastic materials, so that the synthetic leather component can be recycled without separating its constituent layers, and the plastic particles from the synthetic leather component can be used in plastics processing methods (blowing extrusion, injection molding, calendering extrusion, etc.). Indeed, the synthetic leather component can be recycled as a new plastic material and not as a filler mixed with other virgin polymer(s).

[0141] In one embodiment, the synthetic leather component comprises at most 15% by mass, preferably at most 10% by mass, of one or more thermosetting material(s) and / or one or more material(s) not selected from polyolefins, olefinic thermoplastic elastomers, vulcanized thermoplastic elastomers, styrenic thermoplastic elastomers, and a mixture of the latter (as defined with reference to layer B).

[0142] The inventors have determined that a mass fraction of pollutants is acceptable but that it must be reduced and controlled so as not to exceed a certain amount so that the synthetic leather component can be recycled in the manufacture of plastic particles usable in conventional plastics processing methods.

[0143] In one embodiment, the melting or softening temperature (TfA) of at least a portion of a yarn selected from the yarn(s) of the knitted textile layer A is greater than the melting or softening temperature (TfB) of at least a portion of the polymer facing layer B, and the melting or softening temperature of at least a portion of the polymer facing layer B is greater than or equal to 120°C and less than or equal to 220°C.

[0144] Preferably, the melting or softening temperature TfA of at least a portion of a yarn selected from the yarn(s) of the knitted textile layer A, in particular of at least a part or substantially all of the knitted textile layer (A), is greater than or equal to 100°C, preferably greater than or equal to 150°C, even more preferably greater than or equal to 160°C.

[0145] Preferably, the melting or softening temperature TfA of at least a portion of a yarn selected from the yarn(s) of the knitted textile layer A, in particular of at least a part or substantially all of the knitted textile layer (A), is less than or equal to 200°C, preferably less than or equal to 185°C, more preferably greater than or equal to 160°C and less than or equal to 180°C.

[0146] Preferably, TfA is greater than or equal to TfB by at least 10°C, more preferably by at least 20°C, preferably by at least 30°C, more preferably tiellily of at least 40°C, in particular of at least 50°C (notably TfA > TfB + 10°C or 20°C or 30°C or 40°C or 50°C).

[0147] Advantageously, during the heat-bonding of layers A and B, only layer B is activated and thinned towards layer A, so that the knitted structure of layer A remains substantially intact. The mechanical strength provided by layer A is therefore preserved, which helps to improve resistance to delamination between layers A and B, and with the sole of a footwear item.

[0148] In one embodiment, the delamination resistance measured between the knitted textile layer A and said polymeric facing layer B is greater than or equal to 2 N / mm, preferably greater than or equal to 3 N / mm. Advantageously, the implementation of knitted layer A allows for good resistance to delamination.

[0149] Advantageously, the measurement of the resistance to delamination measured between the knitted textile layer A and the polymer facing layer B is carried out with the standard NF EN 1392 dating from 2006 and entitled "Adhesives for leather and footwear materials - Solvent-based or dispersion-based adhesives - Test method for measuring bond strength under certain specific conditions".

[0150] In one embodiment, said synthetic leather component includes at least one reinforcing seam, in particular made with at least one thread comprising one or more polymer(s) selected from polyolefin(s) and / or olefinic thermoplastic elastomer(s), extending through said synthetic leather component from its first end face to its second end face.

[0151] This arrangement improves the delamination resistance of the synthetic leather component.

[0152] Advantageously, the delamination resistance measured between the knitted textile layer A and said polymeric facing layer B is greater than or equal to 3 or 4 or 5 N / mm, preferably greater than or equal to 6 N / mm. Furthermore, the use of a reinforcing yarn comprising one or more polymers selected from polyolefins and / or olefinic thermoplastic elastomers improves heat-bonding compatibility with the sole of footwear containing, for example, SEBS, compared to a polyester yarn. This enhances the delamination resistance of the synthetic leather component when used with a sole made of, for example, SEBS.

[0153] In one embodiment, the reinforcing seam comprises one or more line(s) of stitching, continuous or discontinuous, extending over at least one of the first and second end faces of the synthetic leather component with a width greater than or equal to 3 mm.

[0154] It has been determined that this particular stitching allows for the best results resistance to delamination for the synthetic leather component intrinsically and for its bonding with a chemically compatible sole.

[0155] Preferably, the reinforcing seam comprises a zig-zag seam, in particular having a height greater than or equal to 3 mm and a distance between two adjacent vertices greater than or equal to 2 mm.

[0156] Alternatively, the reinforcing seam comprises at least two substantially co-parallel lines of stitching.

[0157] In one embodiment, the polymeric facing layer B comprises a first face and a second face substantially opposite, said first face being oriented towards the first end face, and a portion of the second face of said polymeric facing layer B comprises a multitude of micro-projections and / or micro-hollows, said micro-projections and / or said micro-hollows comprising micro-projections and / or micro-hollows spaced apart from each other.

[0158] Advantageously, the portion of the second face of said polymeric facing layer B is a portion of the second end face of the synthetic leather component.

[0159] Preferably, the micro-embossed pattern(s) is / are allocated to all or part of the second face (or outer face) of layer B after the heat-sealing of layer B with layer A so as not to alter said patterns.

[0160] Advantageously, the second face of layer B is embossed, which increases the contact area with the sole and improves resistance to delamination.

[0161] A second smooth surface of layer B has the disadvantage of being shiny, which is not a desirable aesthetic effect. Furthermore, a second smooth surface generates significant friction, possibly with the user's skin, which is a source of discomfort.

[0162] In one embodiment, the micro-projections and / or micro-hollows comprise micro-projections and / or micro-hollows each having a cylindrical shape.

[0163] The preceding arrangements make it possible to obtain the best resistance to delamination compared to a smooth, i.e. unprinted surface and other printing patterns.

[0164] In one embodiment, the portion of the second face of the polymeric facing layer B has an average surface roughness Ra, in particular measured along a direction Fl, greater than or equal to 3 pm and less than or equal to 50 pm or 40 pm or 30 pm.

[0165] Preferably, Ra, in particular measured along a direction Fl, is greater than or equal to 4 pm, more preferably greater than or equal to 5 pm, more preferably greater than or equal to 6 pm or 10 pm or 1 pm or 3 pm.

[0166] Preferably, Ra, in particular measured along a direction Fl, is less than or equal to 25 pm, more preferably less than or equal to 20 pm, preferably less than or equal to 18 pm.

[0167] Preferably, the portion of the second face of the polymeric facing layer B has an average surface roughness Ra, measured along a direction F2 substantially perpendicular to the direction Fl, greater than or equal to 3 pm and less than or equal to 50 pm or 40 pm or 30 pm or 25 pm.

[0168] Preferably, Ra, measured in the direction F2 substantially perpendicular to the direction Fl, is similar to Ra measured in the direction Fl.

[0169] For the measurement of roughness, a tip of the roughness tester moves over a finite length of the tested surface, in a direction Fl (length) or F2 (width), and measures the displacement of the sensor as a function of the surface irregularities.

[0170] Ra is the arithmetic mean roughness, that is, the average difference between peaks and troughs measured over a finite length.

[0171] In one embodiment, the portion of the second face of the polymeric facing layer B has a maximum surface roughness Rz greater than or equal to 30 pm or 40 pm or 50 pm or 60 pm or 70 pm or 95 pm, in particular measured in a direction Fl (ex: length).

[0172] Preferably, the maximum surface roughness Rz is less than or equal to 200 pm or 160 pm or 140 pm or 130 pm or 120 pm, in particular measured in a direction Fl (e.g., length).

[0173] Preferably, the maximum surface roughness Rz of the portion of the second face of the polymeric facing layer B measured in a direction F2 substantially perpendicular to the direction Fl is similar to that measured in the direction Fl (ex: length).

[0174] In an embodiment, the portion of the second face of the polymeric facing layer B has a surface roughness RSm, in particular referred to as the average width of the finite elements, greater than or equal to 100 pm or 150 pm or 200 pm or 250 pm or 300 pm, in particular measured in a direction Fl (ex: length).

[0175] Preferably, the maximum surface roughness RSm is less than or equal to 1000 pm or 800 pm or 700 pm, in particular measured in a direction Fl (e.g., length).

[0176] Preferably, the maximum surface roughness RSm of the portion of the second face of the polymeric facing layer B measured in a direction F2 substantially perpendicular to the direction Fl is similar to that measured in the direction Fl.

[0177] In a preferred embodiment, RSm is greater than or equal to 300 pm, or 400 pm, or 500 pm, or 600 pm, and less than or equal to 1000 pm, or 800 pm, or 700 pm. This RSm value makes it possible to significantly improve the resistance to delamination between a shoe upper, for example, including polyolefins, and layer B.

[0178] Roughness measurements are carried out with the ISO 21920-3:2021 standard entitled "Geometric product specification (GPS) - Surface finish: Profile - Part 3: Specification operators".

[0179] Preferably, the roughness values ​​of which Ra, Rz, and RSm are measured with the Mitutoyo SJ-210 device.

[0180] Rz defines the regularity in the recorded measurements, and is the average between the five largest total deviations recorded.

[0181] As discussed above, the preceding arrangements allow for the best resistance to delamination.

[0182] The present invention relates, according to a second aspect, to a footwear article, comprising: - an upper forming at least partially, or possibly totally, a volume to receive the foot and comprising at least one insert in a synthetic leather component according to any one of the embodiments referred to in the first aspect of the invention, the upper further comprising a lower edge comprising at least a portion of said at least one synthetic leather insert; and - a molded thermoplastic sole comprising a portion of the sole molded directly onto said at least a portion of said at least one synthetic leather insert, and said molded sole comprises one or more polymer(s) selected from styrenic thermoplastic elastomers, polyolefins, olefinic thermoplastic elastomers, and vulcanized thermoplastic elastomers selected from: a mixture of a vulcanized olefinic elastomer and a polyolefin, and a mixture of a vulcanized olefinic elastomer and a styrenic thermoplastic elastomer; the second end face of said at least a portion of said synthetic leather insert is opposite said portion of molded sole, and optionally the first end face of the synthetic leather insert is opposite the receiving volume of the foot.

[0183] Advantageously, the insert in the synthetic leather component is chemically compatible with the molded sole so that they can be thermo-bonded together or the sole can be directly (over)molded onto the upper with good resistance to delamination in both cases.

[0184] Advantageously, since the sole and upper are made of polymer materials belonging to closely related chemical families, i.e., olefin-based, recycling the footwear is facilitated: it is not necessary to separate the different components. The footwear can, in fact, be reduced to particles, which, possibly in mixture with other polymer materials, can be transformed in an extrusion granulation process to obtain thermoplastic granules suitable for use in a plastics processing method (e.g. injection or extrusion molding, injection or extrusion blow molding), not limited to a thermocompression processing method.

[0185] Preferably, the footwear article comprises a front edge and a rear edge between which extends a longitudinal axis (L).

[0186] Preferably, the footwear article comprises a medial edge and a lateral edge between which extends a transverse axis (T).

[0187] Preferably, the transverse axis (T) is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (L). Stem

[0188] Preferably, the stem comprises a forefoot region, a rearfoot or heel region, a medial region, a lateral region and an instep region.

[0189] In some embodiments, the upper covers all or part of the top of the foot, and possibly all or part of the bottom of the foot. In the latter case, the upper includes a sole region opposite the bottom of the foot of the wearer of the footwear.

[0190] In embodiments, at least 50%, preferably at least 60% or 70% or 80% or 90%, of the outer surface (cm2) of the upper comprises (in particular is made up essentially of) one or more insert(s) in a synthetic leather component according to the invention.

[0191] Advantageously, the upper includes one or more additional insert(s), in particular textile insert(s).

[0192] Advantageously, the upper comprises one or more insert(s) (each) in a synthetic leather component.

[0193] Advantageously, an insert in a synthetic leather component comprises a first end face corresponding to the first end face of the synthetic leather component, and a second end face corresponding to the second end face of the synthetic leather component.

[0194] Advantageously, the upper comprises an outer face and an inner face that are substantially opposite, in particular the inner face is opposite the volume of the foot receiving and / or the outer face is opposite the outside of the footwear article.

[0195] Advantageously, the outer face of a portion of the upper comprising a portion of a synthetic leather insert is the second end face of said insert in a synthetic leather component (or the second end face of the synthetic leather component of said insert).

[0196] Advantageously, the inner face of a portion of the stem comprising a portion of a synthetic leather insert corresponds to the first end face of said synthetic leather insert (or the first end face of the synthetic leather component of said insert), or corresponds to the inner face of another insert, in particular of a textile insert as defined in this text.

[0197] Advantageously, the upper comprises one or more inserts in a synthetic leather component, in particular each in a synthetic leather component according to the invention, and optionally one or more other inserts, in particular textile and / or functional (plastic reinforcement plate,...

[0198] In embodiments, the upper comprises a textile insert which is a tubular textile element, in particular a textile sock, more particularly knitted, possibly at least partly heat-fusible.

[0199] In the previous case, the stem is three-dimensional.

[0200] In preferred embodiments, the upper is two-dimensional and shaped in three dimensions, in particular with seams and / or welds and / or by bonding with the sole.

[0201] In embodiments, the other insert(s) is / are one or more textile insert(s), in particular knitted and / or woven and / or non-woven and / or braided.

[0202] In embodiments, the textile insert(s) each comprise one or more yarn(s), in particular one or more multifilamentary yarn(s) and / or one or more monofilamentary yarn(s) and / or one or more spun yarn(s) of fibers.

[0203] Preferably, the yarn(s) of the textile insert(s) each comprise (in particular is / are made up essentially of) one or more polymer(s) selected from polyolefins and olefinic thermoplastic elastomers. These different polymers being as defined above in the definition section with reference to the first aspect of the invention.

[0204] In embodiments, the upper includes a peripheral lower border attached to the sole, in particular the contour of which corresponds substantially to all or part of the contour of the sole, of which at least 30% of the surface (cm2), in particular of which at least 40% or 50% or 60% or 70% or 80% or 90% of the surface (cm2), includes one or more portion(s) of synthetic leather insert(s), of which said portion includes at least one synthetic leather component.

[0205] Advantageously, the synthetic leather component allows for bonding by heat-bonding to the sole via the peripheral lower edge. Sole

[0206] Preferably, the sole comprises a substantially opposite inner and outer face. Preferably, the inner face of the sole is oriented with respect to the volume receiving the foot formed in whole or in part by the stem.

[0207] Preferably, the external face of the sole is oriented towards the ground, in particular includes one or more portion(s) of engagement directly with the ground.

[0208] Preferably, said molded sole is a wear sole.

[0209] In embodiments, the footwear article includes a removable or glued insole and / or midsole(s) and arranged in the volume receiving the foot after the upper has been joined to the sole, in particular to the outsole.

[0210] Preferably, said molded sole comprises one or more polymer(s) selected from styrenic thermoplastic elastomers, and optionally one or more polymer(s) selected from polyolefins, olefinic thermoplastic elastomers, and vulcanized thermoplastic elastomers selected from: a mixture of a vulcanized olefinic elastomer and a polyolefin, and a mixture of a vulcanized olefinic elastomer and a styrenic thermoplastic elastomer. These different polymers being as defined above in the definition section with reference to the first aspect of the invention.

[0211] In embodiments, said molded sole comprises at least 30% by mass, more preferably at least 40% or 50% by mass, preferably at least 60% by mass, of one or more styrenic thermoplastic polymer(s). Preferably, said molded sole comprises at most 80% by mass, more preferably at most 70% by mass, of one or more styrenic thermoplastic polymer(s).

[0212] In embodiments, said molded sole comprises at least 30% by mass, more preferably at least 40% or 50% by mass, preferably at least 60% or 70% or 80% by mass, of one or more polymer(s) selected from polyolefins, in particular polypropylene.

[0213] In one embodiment, the stem comprises a first end face and a second end face substantially opposite, and at least one reinforcing seam extending between said first and second end faces of the stem and in the thickness of the stem, preferably said at least one reinforcing seam at least one yarn comprising one or more polymer(s) selected from polyolefin(s) and / or olefinic thermoplastic elastomer(s).

[0214] This provision improves the resistance to delamination of the synthetic leather insert relative to the sole.

[0215] Furthermore, the use of a reinforcing yarn comprising one or more polymer(s) selected from polyolefin(s) and / or olefinic thermoplastic elastomer(s) improves compatibility by heat bonding with a sole of a footwear article comprising, for example, SEBS compared to a single polyester thread.

[0216] In one variant, said portion of said synthetic leather insert includes at least a part of said reinforcing seam, and said part of the reinforcing seam is covered at least partially by said at least portion of molded sole, in particular substantially totally by said at least one portion of molded sole.

[0217] This arrangement improves resistance to delamination since a portion of the sole is heat-bonded to at least part of the reinforcing seam.

[0218] In one embodiment, the reinforcing seam (in particular extending from an inner face to the outer face of the upper or from a first end face to a second end face of the yoke in a synthetic leather component) comprises one or more line(s) of stitching, continuous or discontinuous, extending over at least one of the first and second end faces of the upper, or over at least one of the first and second end faces of the yoke in the synthetic leather component), with a width greater than or equal to 3 mm.

[0219] In embodiments, the seam line(s) includes (is / are) a zig-zag seam, in particular having a height greater than or equal to 3 mm and a distance between two adjacent vertices greater than or equal to 2 mm.

[0220] In embodiments, the seam line(s) comprises / include (is / are) two parallel seam lines, spaced apart from each other, in particular extending over a width of at least 3 mm.

[0221] It has been determined that these particular seams provide the best resistance to delamination for the synthetic leather component intrinsically and for its bonding with a chemically compatible sole.

[0222] In one embodiment, said portion of said synthetic leather insert includes at least a part of said reinforcing seam, and said part of the reinforcing seam is covered at least partially by said at least portion of molded sole, in particular substantially totally by said at least a portion of molded sole.

[0223] This arrangement improves resistance to delamination between the sole and the upper.

[0224] In one embodiment, the stem comprises a first end face and a second end face substantially opposite, and the stem comprises at least one reinforcing seam extending between said first and second end faces of the stem and into the thickness of the stem.

[0225] In one embodiment, said portion of the molded sole has a melting or softening temperature range TfS that overlaps with the melting or softening temperature range TfB of at least a portion of the layer po Lymeric facing B of said synthetic leather insert.

[0226] Advantageously, the melting or softening temperature TfB of at least a portion of the polymeric facing layer B is greater than or equal to 120°C and less than or equal to 220°C.

[0227] Advantageously, the melting or softening temperature TfS of at least a portion of the sole is greater than or equal to 120°C and less than or equal to 220°C.

[0228] In one embodiment, the delamination resistance measured between the upper and the thermoplastic molded sole is greater than or equal to 2 N / mm, preferably greater than or equal to 3 N / mm.

[0229] In embodiments, the upper and / or said insert in a synthetic leather component includes at least one reinforcing seam, and the delamination resistance measured between the upper and the thermoplastic molded sole is greater than or equal to 3 N / mm, preferably greater than or equal to 5 N / mm, more preferably greater than or equal to 6 N / mm.

[0230] In one embodiment, the upper comprises at least 50% by mass of one or more polymer material(s) selected from polyolefins, olefinic thermoplastic elastomers, and vulcanized thermoplastic elastomers selected from: a mixture of a vulcanized olefinic elastomer and a polyolefin, and a mixture of a vulcanized olefinic elastomer and a styrenic thermoplastic elastomer, preferably selected from polyolefins and olefinic thermoplastic elastomers, and the sole (or the sole mixture introduced below) comprises at least 50% by mass of one or more polymer material(s) selected from polyolefins, styrenic thermoplastic elastomers, and vulcanized thermoplastic elastomers selected from: a mixture of a vulcanized olefinic elastomer and a polyolefin, and a mixture of a vulcanized olefinic elastomer and a styrenic thermoplastic elastomer.

[0231] In embodiments, the upper comprises at least 60% by mass, preferably at least 70% by mass, and even more preferably at least 80% by mass, of one or more polymer material(s) selected from polyolefins and olefinic thermoplastic elastomers, and the sole (or the sole compound introduced below) comprises at least 60% by mass, preferably at least 70% by mass, and even more preferably at least 80% by mass, of one or more polymer material(s) selected from polyolefins, styrenic thermoplastic elastomers, and vulcanized thermoplastic elastomers selected from: a mixture of a vulcanized olefinic elastomer and a polyolefin, and a mixture of a vulcanized olefinic elastomer and a thermoplastic elastomer styrenic, in particular chosen from polyolefins, and styrenic thermoplastic elastomers.

[0232] In one embodiment, the upper and the sole are connected by means of at least the lower peripheral border of the upper, said lower peripheral border of the upper comprising one or more reinforcing seam(s), in particular with one or more polyolefin yarn(s), and being totally or partially covered by an overmolded portion of the sole.

[0233] The present invention relates, according to a third aspect, to a method for manufacturing a footwear item, in particular according to any of the embodiments referred to in the second aspect of the invention, comprising the following steps: - the provision of an upper comprising a synthetic leather insert in a synthetic leather component according to any one of the embodiments referred to in the first aspect of the invention, the upper further comprising a peripheral lower edge comprising at least a portion of said synthetic leather insert; and - a molding step, in particular by injection, of a molded thermoplastic sole so as to mold at least a portion of the sole directly onto the lower peripheral edge of the upper comprising at least a portion of said synthetic leather insert, the molding step comprising the molding of a sole mixture comprising one or more polymer(s) selected from styrenic thermoplastic elastomers, olefinic thermoplastic elastomers, polyolefins, and vulcanized thermoplastic elastomers selected from: a mixture of a vulcanized olefinic elastomer and a polyolefin, and a mixture of a vulcanized olefinic elastomer and a styrenic thermoplastic elastomer.

[0234] Advantageously, the footwear article, particularly according to a second aspect of the invention or obtained by the process according to a third aspect of the invention, is reduced to particles, particularly having a size less than or equal to 50 mm, 40 mm, 30 mm, or 20 mm, and then optionally said particles are washed and dried, and their size is optionally further reduced. Said particles undergo an extrusion granulation step to obtain thermoplastic granules. Preferably, the extrusion granulation step (in particular referred to as the regeneration step in the technical field) comprises heating the particles to a temperature greater than or equal to 150°C and less than or equal to 250°C, preferably less than or equal to 220°C, and even more preferably greater than or equal to 170°C, for example greater than or equal to 190°C and less than or equal to 210°C.

[0235] Preferably, the extrusion granulation speed is greater than or equal to 10 rpm and less than or equal to 500 rpm or 400 rpm or 300 rpm or 200 rpm. Description of the drawings

[0236] The invention will be better understood upon reading the following description of embodiments of the invention given by way of non-limiting examples, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0237] [Fig-1] [Fig.1] is a schematic side view representation of a first example of a synthetic leather component according to the invention, in particular for forming a hard front toe piece of a footwear article;

[0238] [Fig.2] [Fig.2] is a schematic side view representation of a second example of a synthetic leather component according to the invention, in particular for forming a back hard toe piece, also referred to as a heel reinforcement, of a footwear article;

[0239] [Fig.3] [Fig.3] is a schematic, flat, top-view representation of a first example of an upper for a footwear item according to the invention, said upper comprising several synthetic leather inserts according to the invention;

[0240] [Fig.4] [Fig.4] is a schematic representation seen in perspective and from the side of a first example of a footwear article according to the invention comprising the first example of a shaft shown in [Fig.3];

[0241] [Fig.5] [Fig.5] is a photograph taken under a microscope of a first example surface condition of the second face of a polymeric facing layer B of a synthetic leather insert according to the invention;

[0242] [Fig.6] [Fig.6] is a photograph taken under a microscope of a first example surface condition of the second face of a polymeric facing layer B of a synthetic leather insert according to the invention;

[0243] [Fig.7] [Fig.7] is a photograph taken under a microscope of a first example comparative surface condition of the second layer of a polymeric facing layer B of a comparative synthetic leather insert. Description of the implementation methods

[0244] Figure 1 schematically represents, viewed from the side, a first example of a synthetic leather component 10 according to the invention comprising, from its first end face 12 to its second end face 14, the following layers: - optionally a layer C 20 in a nonwoven of polyolefin fiber(s) having a first face 22 and a second face 24, in this specific example a nonwoven of polypropylene fibers having a thickness ec of about 1.00 mm and a surface mass of about 230 g / m2;

[0245] - optionally a D 30 layer in at least one nonwoven of po- fibres lyolefin(s), said layer D 30 having a first face 32 and a second face 34, in this specific example layer D comprises a first nonwoven made of poly- fibers propylene having a surface mass of approximately 112g / m2 and a thickness of approximately 1.00 mm and a second non-woven of approximately 89 g / m2 and with a thickness of approximately 0.40 mm, the resulting layer D having a thickness eDd' of approximately 1.40 mm; - a knitted textile layer A 40 having a first face 42 and a second face 44 and comprising one or more polyolefin yarn(s), in particular a knit comprising multifilament polypropylene yarns and having a surface mass of approximately 105 g / m2 and a thickness eA of approximately 0.40 mm; and - a polymeric facing layer B 50, having a first face 52 and a second face 54, comprising one or more polymer(s) selected from poly-olefins, olefinic thermoplastic elastomers, and vulcanized thermoplastic elastomers; preferably having a surface mass of about 405 g / m2 and comprising at least 95% by mass of polypropylene and about 5% by mass of ethylene-vinyl-acetate, and having a thickness eB of about 0.45 mm.

[0246] The second face 54 of layer B 50 preferably forms the second end face 14 of the synthetic leather component 10.

[0247] In an alternative, not preferred, the synthetic leather component 10 further comprises a layer F 60 forming an abrasion-resistant protective varnish (for example, polyurethane) of the layer B 50. The layer F 60 then comprises a first face 62 and a second face 64, which second face 64 then forms the second end face 14.

[0248] Advantageously, the second face 54 of layer B, also referred to herein as the external face, comprises at least a portion of its surface which is embossed, that is to say, which is embossed, in particular micro-embossed.

[0249] Advantageously, the various layers A, B, and optionally C, D, are assembled by heat bonding. Layer B can, however, be applied to layer A by coating—calendering layer B onto layer A, with layer A possibly having been previously heat-bonded to layers C and D.

[0250] Advantageously, the various layers A, B, and optionally C and / or D and / or F, can be reinforced by a reinforcing stitch (not shown in [Fig. 1]) around the perimeter of the synthetic leather component 10. This reinforcing stitch extends from the first end face 12 to the second end face 14, and through the thickness eCs of the synthetic leather component 10. The stitch also extends over the first end face 12 and the second end face 14. This stitch improves the delamination resistance of the layers to each other. Preferably, the yarn for the reinforcing stitch is chosen from polyolefins to improve bonding with the sole of a footwear item. The inventors have observed that using a PP yarn, for example, provides better delamination resistance between the synthetic leather component 10 and a sole comprising one or more styrenic thermoplastic polymer(s).

[0251] Advantageously, the synthetic leather component 10 comprising layers A, B, C and D, and optionally F, can be used to form a rigid toe cap in an upper and / or a lateral or medial protective band for the upper. The synthetic leather component 10 with layers A to D thus has a surface mass of approximately 950 g / m² and a thickness eCsd' of approximately 2.85 mm.

[0252] The presence of layers C and / or D, and optionally F, depends on the final application of the synthetic leather component 10.

[0253] Figure 2 schematically represents, in side view, a second example of a synthetic leather component 110 according to the invention comprising, from its first end face 112 to its second end face 114, the following layers: - optionally a layer C 120 in a nonwoven of polyolefin fiber(s) having a first face 122 and a second face 124, in this specific example a nonwoven of polypropylene fibers having a thickness ec of about 1.00 mm and a surface mass of about 230 g / m2;

[0254] - optionally a D 130 layer in at least one nonwoven of po- fibres lyolefin(s), said layer D 130 having a first face 132 and a second face 134, in this specific example the layer D comprises a first nonwoven made of polypropylene fibres having a surface mass of about 112g / m2 and a thickness of about 1.00 mm and a second nonwoven of about 89 g / m2 with a thickness of about 0.40 mm, the resulting layer D 130 having a thickness eDd' of about 1.40 mm;

[0255] - optionally a reinforcing layer E 170, in particular a reinforcing plate polymer comprising a mixture of low-density polyethylene with ethylene vinyl acetate reinforced by a polyethylene terephthalate textile, in particular having a surface mass of about 520 g / m2 and a thickness eE of about 0.40 mm, - a knitted textile layer A 140 having a first face 142 and a second face 144 and comprising one or more polyolefin yarn(s), in particular a knit comprising multifilament polypropylene yarns and having a surface mass of approximately 105 g / m2 and a thickness eA of approximately 0.40 mm; and - a polymeric facing layer B 150, having a first face 152 and a second face 154, comprising one or more polymer(s) selected from poly-olefins, olefinic thermoplastic elastomers, and vulcanized thermoplastic elastomers; preferably having a surface mass of about 405 g / m2 and comprising about 95% by mass of polypropylene and about 5% by mass of ethylene-vinyl-acetate, and having a thickness eB of about 0.45 mm.

[0256] The second face 154 of layer B 150 preferably forms the second end face 114 of the synthetic leather component 110.

[0257] In a non-preferred alternative, the synthetic leather component 110 comprises In addition, a layer F 160 forms a protective varnish resistant to the abrasion of layer B 150 (for example, made of polyurethane). Layer F 160 then comprises a first face 162 and a second face 164, which second face 164 then forms the second end face 114.

[0258] Advantageously, the second 154 of layer B 150, also referred to herein as the outer face, comprises at least a portion of its surface which is embossed, that is to say, which is embossed, in particular micro-embossed.

[0259] Advantageously, the different layers A, B, and optionally C and / or D and / or E, can be consolidated by making a reinforcing seam (not shown in [Fig.1]) around the perimeter of the synthetic leather component 110 in a similar manner to the synthetic leather component 10.

[0260] Advantageously, the synthetic leather component 110 comprising layers A, B, C, D, and optionally E and / or F, can be used to form a rear hard toe, also referred to as a heel reinforcement, in an upper.

[0261] Figure 3 schematically represents a flat, two-dimensional upper 200 before its three-dimensional shaping and assembly to a sole. The upper 200 comprises several pieces, and in particular a synthetic leather piece 210 forming a rigid front toe, a synthetic leather piece 220 bordering the opening in the instep area into which a tongue can be attached, and medial synthetic leather pieces 230 and lateral pieces 240. The upper 200 may also include a synthetic leather piece forming a heel reinforcement 250 shown in the footwear article 300 of Figure 4.

[0262] The upper 200 may also include at least one textile insert 260, for example, a complex comprising one or more superimposed knitted and / or nonwoven layers. The synthetic leather inserts 210, 220, 230, and 240 (and 250 in [Fig. 4]) are preferably superimposed with at least the textile insert 260 and arranged so as to substantially cover the entire peripheral lower edge 205 of the upper 200. The upper 200 comprises a first end face 202, or inner face, and a second end face 204, or outer face. The upper 200 is shaped in three dimensions as shown in [Fig. 4]. A reinforcing seam comprising a stitch line 270 extends advantageously all around the peripheral lower border 205, in particular by forming zig-zag stitches whose height Hz is for example about 3 mm and the distance dz between two adjacent vertices is for example about 2 mm.The reinforcing seam improves resistance to delamination between the different layers, and therefore the upper panels in the lower border 205. The reinforcing seam thus extends advantageously over a width corresponding to the height Hz.

[0263] Alternatively, the reinforcing seam may comprise at least two substantially parallel lines of stitching extending along the peripheral lower edge 205, while extending over a width of at least 3 mm.

[0264] The footwear article 300, shown in [Fig.4], comprises the upper 200 and a sole 400 molded directly onto the upper 200. Advantageously, the sole 400 is molded, preferably from a mixture comprising one or more styrenic thermoplastic elastomer(s) and / or one or more polyolefin(s), for example a mixture comprising 65% by mass of SEBS with about 20% by mass of polypropylene(s) (the remainder being formed for example of filler (CaCO3) and plasticizer(s)), or 90% by mass of polypropylene(s) (the remainder being formed of filler(s) and / or plasticizer(s)). The sole 400 is overmolded onto the upper 200 and in particular onto the lower peripheral edge 205. The lower peripheral edge 205 thus forms an intermediate junction zone between the rest of the upper 200 and the sole 400. The lower edge 205 is not visible on the footwear item 300 of [Fig.4] because it is covered by a molded portion of the sole 400.

[0265] Advantageously, the stitching line 270 is made with one or more polyolefin threads, thus improving resistance to delamination between the sole 400 and the upper 200 (especially compared to PET threads).

[0266] The delamination resistance measured between a synthetic leather insert of the type of synthetic leather insert 210 comprising layers A, B, C and D, with a sole, of the type of sole 400, is greater than or equal to 3 N / mm, in particular greater than or equal to 4 or 5 N / mm with a reinforcing seam while the delamination resistance for a similar insert but in which layer A is replaced by a 100 g / m2 PP nonwoven, having a thickness of 0.40 mm, is less than 3 N / mm.

[0267] The use of a knit for layer A improves resistance to delamination.

[0268] The inventors also determined that the micro-embossing of the second face or outer face of layer B impacts the resistance to delamination between the synthetic leather insert of the upper and the sole.

[0269] Fig. 5 is a photograph taken under a microscope of a first example of surface micro-embossing according to the invention allocated to the external face or second face 54 of layer B 50 of the synthetic leather component 10. The measured roughness values ​​are as follows: average Ra is 12.01 pm in a first direction Fl (in particular the length) and 8.91 pm in a second direction F2 (in particular the width), perpendicular to Fl, Rz is 59.75 pm in the Fl direction and 35.00 pm in the F2 direction.

[0270] Fig. 6 is a photograph taken under a microscope of a second example of micro- surface embossing according to the invention allocated to the external face or second face 54 of layer B 50 of the synthetic leather component 10. The measured roughness values ​​are as follows: average Ra is 16.31 pm in a first direction Fl (in particular the length) and 21.41 pm in a second direction F2 (in particular the width), perpendicular to Fl, Rz is 81.44 pm in the Fl direction and 91.96 pm in the F2 direction, and RSm is 694.2 pm in the Fl direction and 669.2 pm in the F2 direction.

[0271] Fig. 7 is a photograph taken under a microscope of an example of comparative surface micro-embossing applied to the outer face or second face 54 of layer B 50 of the synthetic leather component 10. The measured roughness values ​​are as follows: average Ra is 19.47 pm in a first direction Fl (in particular the length) and 19.39 pm in a second direction F2 (in particular the width), perpendicular to Fl, Rz is 109.89 pm in the Fl direction and 114.25 pm in the F2 direction, and RSm is 231.3 pm in the Fl direction and 233.2 pm in the F2 direction.

[0272] The delamination resistance measured between the sole 400 and a synthetic leather insert 10, layer B of which includes the micro-embossing shown in [Fig. 5] or 6, is greater, in particular twice as greater, compared to the delamination resistance measured between the sole 400 and a synthetic leather insert 10, layer B of which includes the comparative micro-embossing shown in [Fig. 7]. In particular, the delamination resistance without reinforcing stitching and with the micro-embossing shown in [Fig. 5] or 6 is approximately 1.48 N / mm² compared to 0.62 N / mm² for the pattern shown in [Fig. 7]. The delamination resistance with the micro-embossing of Figures 5 or 6 increases to 4.2 N / mm² when a reinforcing stitching thread made of polypropylene is used, compared to 3.40 N / mm² when this thread is made of polyethylene terephthalate.

Claims

Demands

1. Synthetic leather component (10,110) characterized in that it comprises from a first end face (12, 112) to a second end face (14, 114): - a knitted textile layer A (40, 140) comprising one or more yarn(s) of polyolefin(s) and / or olefinic thermoplastic elastomer(s); and - a polymeric facing layer B (50, 150) comprising one or more polymer(s) selected from: polyolefins, olefinic thermoplastic elastomers, styrenic thermoplastic elastomers, vulcanized thermoplastic elastomers selected from: a mixture of a vulcanized olefinic elastomer and a polyolefin, and a mixture of a vulcanized olefinic elastomer and a styrenic thermoplastic elastomer, and a mixture of the latter.

2. Synthetic leather component (10, 110) according to claim 1, characterized in that the mass fraction of polymer(s) selected from polyolefins and olefinic thermoplastic elastomers in said synthetic leather component is greater than or equal to 70%.

3. Synthetic leather component (10, 110) according to either of claims 1 and 2, characterized in that the melting or softening temperature (TfA) of at least a portion of a yarn selected from the yarn(s) of the knitted textile layer A (40, 140) is greater than the melting or softening temperature (TfB) of at least a portion of the polymeric facing layer B (50, 150), and in that the melting or softening temperature of at least a portion of the polymeric facing layer B (50, 150) is greater than or equal to 120°C and less than or equal to 220°C.

4. Synthetic leather component (10, 110) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the delamination resistance measured between the knitted textile layer A (40, 140) and said polymeric facing layer B (50, 150) is greater than or equal to 2 N / mm.

5. Synthetic leather component (10, 110) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that said synthetic leather component (10, 110) comprises at least one reinforcing seam, in particular made with at least one yarn of polyolefin(s) and / or olefinic thermoplastic elastomer(s), extending through said synthetic leather component (10, 110) from its first end face (12, 112) towards its second end face (14, 114).

6. Synthetic leather component (10, 110) according to claim 5, characterized in that the reinforcing seam comprises one or more continuous or discontinuous seam line(s) (270), extending over at least one of the first (12, 112) and second faces (14, 114) of ends with a width greater than or equal to 3 mm.

7. Synthetic leather component (10, 110) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the polymer facing layer B (50, 150) comprises a first face (52, 152) and a second face (54, 154) substantially opposite, said first face (52, 152) being oriented towards the first end face (12, 112), and a portion of the second face (54, 154) of said polymer facing layer B (50, 150) comprises a multitude of micro-projections and / or micro-hollows, said micro-projections and / or said micro-hollows comprising micro-projections and / or micro-hollows spaced apart from each other.

8. Synthetic leather component (10, 110) according to claim 7, characterized in that the micro-projections and / or micro-hollows comprise micro-projections and / or micro-hollows each having a cylindrical shape.

9. Synthetic leather component (10, 110) according to either of claims 7 and 8, characterized in that said portion of the second face (54, 154) of the polymeric facing layer B (50, 150) has an average surface roughness Ra greater than or equal to 3 pm and less than or equal to 50 pm.

10. Synthetic leather component (10, 110) according to any one of claims 7 to 9, characterized in that said portion of the second face (54, 154) of the polymeric facing layer B (50, 150) has a maximum surface roughness Rz greater than or equal to 30 pm.

11. Footwear article (300), characterized in that said article (300) comprises: - an upper (200) forming at least partially a foot-receiving volume and comprising at least one synthetic leather insert (210, 220, 230, 240, 250) in a synthetic leather component (10, 110) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, in that the upper (200) comprises a lower edge (205) comprising at least a portion of said at least one synthetic leather insert (210, 220, 230, 240, 250); and - a molded thermoplastic sole (400) comprising at least one portion of the sole molded onto said at least one portion of said at least one synthetic leather insert (210, 220, 230, 240, 250), in that said molded sole (400) comprises one or more polymer(s) selected from styrenic thermoplastic elastomers, polyolefins, olefinic thermoplastic elastomers, and vulcanized thermoplastic elastomers selected from: a mixture of a vulcanized olefinic elastomer and a polyolefin, and a mixture of a vulcanized olefinic elastomer and a styrenic thermoplastic elastomer, and in that the second end face (12, 112) of said at least one portion of said at least one synthetic leather insert (210, 220, 230, 240, 250) is opposite said portion of molded sole (400).

12. Footwear article (300) according to claim 11, characterized in that the upper (200) comprises a first end face (204) and a second end face (202) substantially opposite, and in that the upper (200) comprises at least one reinforcing seam (270) extending between said first and second end faces (202, 204) of the upper (200) and in the thickness of the upper (200).

13. Footwear article (300) according to claim 12, characterized in that said portion of said synthetic leather insert (210, 220, 230, 240, 250) comprises at least a part of said reinforcing seam (270), and in that said part of the reinforcing seam (270) is covered at least partially by said at least portion of molded sole (400), in particular substantially totally by said at least one portion of molded sole (400).

14. Footwear article (300) according to any one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that said molded sole portion (400) has a melting or softening temperature range TfS which overlaps with the melting or softening temperature range TfB of at least a portion of the polymer facing layer B (50, 150) of said synthetic leather component (10, 110).

15. Footwear article (300) according to any one of claims 11 to 14, characterized in that the resistance to delamination measured between the upper (200) and the thermoplastic molded sole (400) is greater than or equal to 2 N / mm.

16. Footwear article (300) according to any one of claims 11 to 15, characterized in that the upper (200) comprises at least 50% by mass of one or more polymer material(s) selected from polyolefins, olefinic thermoplastic elastomers, and in that the sole (400) comprises at least 50% by mass of one or more polymer material(s) selected from polyolefins, styrenic thermoplastic elastomers, and vulcanized thermoplastic elastomers selected from: a mixture of a vulcanized olefinic elastomer and a polyolefin, and a mixture of a vulcanized olefinic elastomer and a styrenic thermoplastic elastomer.

17. A method for manufacturing a footwear article (300), in particular according to any one of claims 11 to 16, characterized in that it comprises the following steps: - the supply of an upper (200) comprising at least one synthetic leather insert (210, 220, 230, 240, 250) in a synthetic leather component (10, 110) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, the upper (200) further comprising a lower edge (205) comprising at least a portion of said synthetic leather insert (210, 220, 230, 240, 250); and - a molding step, in particular by injection, of a molded thermoplastic sole (400) so as to mold at least a portion of the sole directly onto the lower edge (205) of the upper (200) comprising at least a portion of said synthetic leather insert (210, 220, 230, 240, 250), the molding step comprising the molding of a sole compound comprising one or more polymer material(s) selected from styrenic thermoplastic elastomers, olefinic thermoplastic elastomers, polyolefins, and vulcanized thermoplastic elastomers selected from: a mixture of a vulcanized olefinic elastomer and a polyolefin, and a mixture of a vulcanized olefinic elastomer and a styrenic thermoplastic elastomer.

18. The method according to claim 17, characterized in that the upper (200) comprises at least 50% by mass of one or more polymer material(s) selected from polyolefins and olefinic thermoplastic elastomers, and in that the sole compound comprises at least 50% by mass of one or more polymer material(s) selected from polyolefins, styrenic thermoplastic elastomers, and vulcanized thermoplastic elastomers selected from: a mixture of a vulcanized olefinic elastomer and a polyolefin, and a mixture of a vulcanized olefinic elastomer and a styrenic thermoplastic elastomer.

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