Footwear sole structure

Abstract

To improve running performance during a race.SOLUTION: A sole structure for an article of footwear includes an upper, an outsole, a sole plate, and a midsole structure. An exposed forefoot region has a bottom wall of the sole plate uncovered by the outsole or midsole structure. A forward position and a rearward position are located along the bottom wall of the sole plate. The forward position is located at the front of the forefoot region and a rearward position is located farthest away from the forward position in the heel region. The forward position and the rearward position form a main axis line. The deepest position is the point located on the exterior of the outsole in the midfoot region that is not obstructed by a midsole structure or outsole that can extend to form an inclination line to the forward position with respect to the main axis line at the highest angle. That angle is between 2 and 30 degrees.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to footwear including a sole plate with spikes, and more particularly to a sole plate having spikes in the toe region that improves performance at various stages of a runner's foot strike.

Background Art

[0002] Many conventional shoes or other footwear generally consist of an upper and a sole attached to the lower end of the upper. Conventional shoes further include an internal space for receiving the user's foot before securing the shoe to the foot, i.e., a void or cavity formed by the inner surfaces of the upper and the sole. The sole is attached to the lower surface or boundary of the upper and is disposed between the upper and the ground. As a result, the sole typically provides stability and cushioning to the user when the shoe is being worn. In some examples, the sole may include multiple components such as an outsole, a midsole, and an insole. The outsole provides traction on the bottom surface of the sole, and the midsole is attached to the inner surface of the outsole and may provide cushioning or additional stability to the sole. For example, the sole may include a specific foaming material that may enhance stability at one or more desired positions along the sole, or a foaming material that may reduce the stress or impact energy applied to the foot or leg when the user is running, walking, or engaged in another activity. The sole may also include additional components such as a plate embedded in the sole to increase the overall rigidity of the sole and reduce energy loss during use.

[0003] The upper generally extends upward from the sole and defines an internal cavity that completely or partially encloses the foot. Often, the upper extends across the instep and toe areas, and across the medial and lateral sides. Many footwear also include a tongue that extends across the instep area and fills the gap between the medial and lateral edges of the upper, defining an opening to the cavity. The tongue may also be positioned between the medial and lateral sides of the upper, below the lacing system, to allow adjustment of the shoe's tightness. The tongue may further be operated by the user to allow the foot to enter and exit the internal space or cavity. Furthermore, the lacing system allows the user to adjust the upper and sole to specific dimensions, thereby enabling the upper to accommodate various foot types with varying sizes and shapes.

[0004] The upper of many shoes may consist of a wide variety of materials used to form the upper and selected for use based on one or more intended uses of the shoe. The upper may also include parts made of various materials specific to certain areas of the upper. For example, it may be desirable to add stability adjacent to the forefoot or heel portion of the upper to provide greater resistance or rigidity. On the other hand, other parts of the shoe may include softly woven fabrics to provide areas with stretch resistance, flexibility, breathability, or moisture-wicking properties. [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0005] Many runners experience energy loss or inefficiency due to their shoes during runs. Energy can be lost when the midsole at the front of the shoe compresses as the shoe first makes contact with the ground. Energy can also be lost when the shoe loses traction while in contact with the ground. Energy can be lost when the shoe is in full contact with the ground if the contact is not strong enough. Additionally, a runner's shoes can affect their incline, which can also lead to energy loss.

[0006] However, in many cases, footwear can benefit from having a sole plate with spikes that protrude from the exposed portion of the shoe's front or toe area. The exposed portion of the shoe's toe area can reduce energy loss when the runner's shoe first makes contact with the ground. The exposed portion of the shoe's toe area can also facilitate a greater forward lean angle, improving the runner's energy efficiency. Spikes can reduce energy loss by increasing the contact between the shoe and the ground and preventing loss of traction. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The footwear described herein may have a variety of configurations. The footwear includes an upper and a sole structure connected to the upper.

[0008] In some embodiments, the disclosure can provide a sole structure for footwear having an upper, a toe area, a midfoot area, a heel area, an inner surface, and an outer surface. The sole structure comprises an outsole having an outsole wall positioned along the outside of the outsole, configured to be a surface that engages with the ground. The sole structure is positioned adjacent to the upper and comprises a bottom wall, a front end, an exposed toe area, a front section, a plurality of spikes, and a midsole structure positioned between the sole plate and the outsole. The front end is positioned in the toe area at the point furthest from the heel area. The front section is positioned at the front end, with its anterior point positioned along the bottom wall and located in the front section. The posterior point is positioned along the bottom wall and is the point furthest from the anterior point. The principal axis is defined as the line where the anterior and posterior points intersect. The exposed toe area is the area located in the toe area and not covered by the outsole or midsole structure.

[0009] The outsole wall has its deepest point in the midfoot region. The deepest point is defined as the point that forms the largest angle between the principal axis and the inclination line. The inclination line is defined as the line that intersects the anterior position and the position on the outsole wall that is not obstructed by the midsole structure or outsole. The inclination angle is defined as the angle formed between the principal axis and the inclination line, and this angle is between 2 and 30 degrees. In some embodiments, the inclination angle is between 3 and 20 degrees, or between 4 and 15 degrees, or between 5 and 10 degrees, or between 6 and 8 degrees.

[0010] In some embodiments, the sole structure of footwear comprises an upper, a toe area, a midfoot area, a heel area, an inner surface, and an outer surface. The sole structure includes an outsole having an outsole wall positioned along the outside of the outsole, which is configured to be the surface in contact with the ground. The sole structure includes a sole plate positioned adjacent to the upper, which has a bottom wall, a front end, an exposed toe area, a front portion, a plurality of spikes, and a midsole structure positioned between the sole plate and the outsole. The exposed toe area is positioned in the toe area and is not covered by the outsole or midsole structure. The plurality of spikes are positioned in the exposed toe area.

[0011] The exposed toe area defines the boundary between the exposed toe region and the midsole structure or outsole. The anterior portion is located in the toe region and is furthest from the heel region. The anterior portion is located at the anterior portion, and the forward position is located along the bottom wall and is situated at the anterior portion. At least one of the multiple spikes is located adjacent to the medial surface and the exposed toe area, at least one of the multiple spikes is located adjacent to the lateral surface and the exposed toe area, and at least one of the multiple spikes is located adjacent to the anterior position. In some embodiments, the multiple spikes include a first spike, a second spike, a third spike, and a fourth spike.

[0012] In some embodiments, the third and fourth spikes are positioned adjacent to each other in an anterior position. In some embodiments, the exposed toe area has a plurality of barbs, each barb being shorter than each of the plurality of spikes. In some embodiments, the forefoot extends away from the sole wall and protrudes toward the upper. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of spikes protrudes from the sole wall and has an embossment that concentrically surrounds each of the plurality of spikes. In some embodiments, the midfoot or heel area has a cutout portion where the sole wall is not covered by the midsole structure or outsole.

[0013] In some embodiments, the sole structure of footwear comprises an upper, a toe region, a midfoot region, a heel region, an inner surface, and an outer surface. The sole structure includes an outsole having an outsole wall positioned along the outside of the outsole, which is configured to be the surface in contact with the ground. The sole structure includes a sole plate positioned adjacent to the upper, which has a bottom wall, a front end, an exposed toe region, a front section, a plurality of spikes, and a midsole structure positioned between the sole plate and the outsole. The exposed toe region is located in the toe region and is not covered by the outsole or midsole structure. The exposed toe defines the end between the exposed toe region and the midsole structure or outsole. The front end is located in the toe region and is furthest from the heel region. The front section is located in the front end, with its anterior position positioned along the bottom wall and located in the front section. The posterior position is located along the bottom wall and is furthest from the anterior position.

[0014] The principal axis is defined as the line that intersects the anterior position and the posterior position. The outsole wall has the deepest point in the midfoot region. The deepest point is defined as the point that forms the largest angle between the principal axis and the inclination line, which is defined as the line that intersects the anterior position and a point on the outsole wall that is not obstructed by the midsole structure or outsole. The transition line protrudes perpendicularly to the principal axis along the sole wall, extends from the lateral surface to the medial surface, and is closest to the deepest point. The undulation is defined as the region enclosed by the transition line and the exposed toe box, extending from the medial surface to the lateral surface. The sole structure within the undulation is inclined toward the sole wall.

[0015] In some embodiments, the front portion detaches from the bottom wall and protrudes toward the upper. In some embodiments, the exposed toe is a continuous wavy line. In some embodiments, multiple spikes are integrally formed with the sole plate. In some embodiments, the first spike is positioned adjacent to the exposed toe and outer surface, and the second spike is positioned adjacent to the exposed toe and inner surface. In some embodiments, the third and fourth spikes are positioned adjacent to each other in anterior positions.

[0016] Other embodiments of footwear, including their features and advantages, will be apparent to those skilled in the art by examining the figures and detailed description herein. Therefore, all such embodiments of footwear are intended to be included in the detailed description and this abstract. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0017] [Figure 1] This is a side view of a footwear device configured as a left shoe, including an upper and sole structure, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is an internal view of the shoe. [Figure 3] Figure 1 is a view of the bottom of the shoe. [Figure 4] This is a bottom view showing a second embodiment of the shoe in Figure 1. [Figure 5] Figure 1 is a top view of the footwear, showing the upper removed and the skeletal structure of the user's foot superimposed on top of it. [Figure 6] Figure 1 is a bottom perspective view showing the underside of the shoe. [Figure 7] Figure 1 is a side view showing the underside of the shoe. [Figure 8] This graph shows the average vertical and horizontal force vectors of a group of runners, based on the inclination angle of each runner in that group. [Figure 9] This image shows the runner's sequence during the first stage of stepping in place. [Figure 10] It is an image in the sequence of the runner in the second stage of the footstep. [Figure 11] It is an image in the sequence of the runner in the third phase of the footstep. [Figure 12] It is a diagram showing various phases of the footstep performed by a runner or a walker. [Figure 13] It shows various zones of the sole of the shoe of FIG. 1 for the first, second, and third stages of the footstep. [Figure 14] It is a cross-sectional view obtained through line 14-14 of FIG. 3. [Figure 15] It is a cross-sectional view obtained through line 15-15 of FIG. 3.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0018] The following discussion and the accompanying figures disclose embodiments of various shoes or footwear, such as running shoes, tennis shoes, basketball shoes, etc., and the concepts related to the shoes and their sole structures can be applied to a wide range of footwear and footwear styles, such as cross-training shoes, soccer shoes, lifestyle shoes, golf shoes, hiking shoes, hiking boots, ski and snowboard boots, soccer shoes and cleats, walking shoes, track cleats, etc. The concepts of the shoes or sole structures described herein can also be applied to footwear considered non-sports, including dress shoes, sandals, loafers, slippers, and heels.

[0019] As used herein, the term “about” means a variation in numerical quantity, such variation may occur, for example, through typical measurements and manufacturing procedures used in footwear or other manufactured products, which may include embodiments disclosed herein, through careless errors in these procedures, through differences in the purity of materials used to produce or manufacture a product, raw material, or composition or mixture. Throughout this disclosure, the terms “approximately” and “about” mean a range of ±5% of the numerical value preceding the term.

[0020] As used herein, the terms “weight percentage,” “wt-%,” “percentage by weight,” and “% by weight,” and their variations, refer to the concentration of the substance or component, and are referred to as the weight of the substance or component divided by the total weight, for example, the total weight of the composition or a particular component of the composition, multiplied by 100. As used herein, “percent,” “%,” etc., are understood to be synonymous with “weight percentage” and “wt-%.”

[0021] This disclosure covers, for example, footwear and / or specific components of footwear, such as uppers and / or soles or sole structures. Uppers may consist of knitted components, woven fabrics, and / or nonwoven fabrics. Knitted components may be produced by knitting yarn, woven fabrics by weaving yarn, and nonwoven fabrics by producing a single nonwoven web. Woven fabrics include fabrics formed by warp knitting, weft knitting, plain knitting, circular knitting, and / or other suitable knitting methods. Woven fabrics may have, for example, plain knit structures, mesh knit structures, and / or rib knit structures. Woven fabrics include, but are not limited to, fabrics formed by a number of weaving methods, such as plain weave, twill weave, satin weave, dobbin weave, jacquard weave, double weave, and / or double cloth weave. Nonwoven fabrics include, for example, fabrics made by airlaid and / or spunlaid methods. The upper may be composed of various materials such as a first yarn, a second yarn, and / or a third yarn, which may have various properties or various visual properties.

[0022] As used herein, the term “runner” should not be interpreted narrowly, but encompasses activities including, but not limited to, shuffling, walking, hopping, jumping, leaping, skipping, jogging, running, and sprinting. In this specification, “runner” is defined, for example, as a person who marches in place, regardless of horizontal speed. Marching begins, for example, when the shoe makes contact with the ground and ends when the shoe leaves contact with the ground. The runner then takes a stride, moves the shoe forward, and begins the next march.

[0023] Figures 1 and 2 show one embodiment of footwear or shoe 30 configured as a left shoe, including an upper 32 and a sole structure 34. The upper 32 is attached to the sole structure 34 and together define an internal cavity 36 into which the foot can be inserted. The footwear 30 also includes an outer surface 38 as shown in Figure 1 and an inner surface 40 as shown in Figure 2. When a user is wearing the footwear 30, the outer surface 38 corresponds to the portion of the footwear 30 that faces outward. In other words, the outer surface 38 is the side of one shoe 30 that is furthest from the other shoe 30. The inner surface 40 corresponds to the portion of the footwear 30 that faces inward. In other words, the inner surface 40 is the side of one shoe that faces the other shoe. Thus, the left and right footwear have opposing outer and inner surfaces, with the inner surfaces 40 being closest to each other when the user is wearing the footwear 30, while the outer surfaces 38 are defined as the surfaces that are furthest apart from each other while being worn. The inner surfaces 40 and outer surfaces 38 are adjacent to each other at the opposing distal ends of the footwear 30.

[0024] Although only a single footwear 30, i.e., a shoe worn on the user's left foot, is shown, the concepts disclosed herein are applicable to a pair of shoes (not shown) including a left shoe and a right shoe, which are sized and shaped to accommodate the user's left and right feet, respectively. For ease of understanding, aspects of the disclosure will be described with reference to a single shoe 30. The disclosure shown below with reference to footwear 30 is applicable to both left and right shoes. However, in some embodiments, there may be differences between the left and right shoes other than the left / right configuration. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the left shoe may include one or more additional elements not included in the right shoe, or vice versa.

[0025] Figure 5 shows a schematic view of the upper surface of footwear 30 defining the toe region 42, the metatarsal region 44, and the heel region 46. The toe region 42 roughly corresponds to the portion of footwear 30 that encloses the part of the foot 48 including a pair of toes or phalanges 50, the ball of the foot 48 52, and a pair of metatarsals 56 with the joints 54 connecting the pair of toes 50. The metatarsal region 44 is adjacent to the toe region 42 and roughly corresponds to the portion of footwear 30 that encloses the arch 58 of the foot 48 together with the bridge 60 of the foot 48. The heel region 46 is adjacent to the metatarsal region 44 and generally roughly corresponds to the portion of footwear 30 that encloses the posterior part of the foot 48 including the heel or calcaneus 62, the ankle (not shown), and / or the Achilles tendon (not shown).

[0026] Unless otherwise specified, the toe area 42, midfoot area 44, heel area 46 (see Figure 5), medial surface 40, and lateral surface 38 (see Figures 1 and 2) are intended to define boundaries or regions of the footwear 30. To that end, the toe area 42, midfoot area 44, heel area 46, medial surface 40, and lateral surface 38 generally characterize sections of the footwear 30. Furthermore, both the upper 32 and the sole structure 34 can be characterized as having portions within the toe area 42, midfoot area 44, heel area 46, and on the medial surface 40 and lateral surface 38. Thus, the upper 32 and the sole structure 34 (see Figures 1 and 2), and / or individual portions of the upper 32 and the sole structure 34, may include portions located within the toe area 42, midfoot area 44, heel area 46, and on the medial surface 40 and lateral surface 38.

[0027] Referring again to Figures 1 and 2, the sole structure 34 includes an outsole 64, a midsole structure 66, and a sole plate 68 having a plurality of spikes 70. In some embodiments, an insole (not shown) is placed between the midsole structure 66 and the upper 32. The outsole 64 has an outer wall or bottom wall 72 that is positioned on the outer surface of the outsole 64 and configured to contact the ground or running surface. In some embodiments, the midsole structure 66 may include a first midsole member 74 adjacent to the outsole 64 and a second midsole member 76 adjacent to the first midsole member 74 and the sole plate 68. The sole plate 68 is generally located between the midsole structure 66 and the upper 32 and is adjacent to the upper 32. In some embodiments, the insole is placed between the sole plate 68 and the upper 32. In some embodiments, the upper 32 may be fixed in whole or in part to the insole.

[0028] The uppers of many conventional footwear are formed from multiple elements (e.g., fabrics, polymer foams, polymer sheets, leather, and synthetic leather) joined together by seams or stitching. In some embodiments, the upper 32 of the footwear 30 is formed from a knitted structure or knitted components. In various embodiments, the knitted components can incorporate various types of yarn that can provide different properties to the upper. For example, one area of ​​the upper 32 may be formed from a first type of yarn that imparts a first set of properties, and another area of ​​the upper 32 may be formed from a second type of yarn that imparts a second set of properties. Using this configuration, the properties of the upper 32 can be varied throughout the upper 32 by selecting specific yarns for different areas of the upper 32. In another example, the upper mesh layer may be warp-knitted, and the mesh backing layer may be circular-knitted.

[0029] Furthermore, referring to Figures 1 and 2, the upper 32 can be fixed in whole or in part to the sole plate 68. The sole plate 68 in Figure 1 further includes a rounded fore end 78 (see Figures 1 and 4) that projects toward the upper 32 at the fore end 80 of the sole plate 68 in the toe area 42. The fore end 80 is the position (or point) furthest from the heel area. In other words, the fore end 80 is the portion of the sole plate 68 furthest from the heel area 46 and can consist of a point, edge, end, or one or more regions. The first midsole member 74 may be made of a thermoplastic material such as polyurethane (PU) plastic, and the second midsole member 76 may be made of ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), its copolymer, or a similar type of material. In other embodiments, each of the first midsole member 74 and the second midsole member 76 may be constructed from the same material. In other embodiments, the first midsole member 74 and / or the second midsole member 76 are made of EVA-Solid-Sponge ("ESS") material, EVA foam (e.g., PUMA® ProFoam Lite) TM The materials may be IGNITE Foam, polyurethane, polyether, olefin block copolymer, thermoplastic material (e.g., thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoplastic elastomer, thermoplastic polyolefin, etc.) or supercritical foam. The first midsole member 74 and / or the second midsole member 76 may be a single polymer material, or a blend of materials such as EVA copolymer, thermoplastic polyurethane, polyether block amide (PEBA) copolymer, and / or olefin block copolymer.

[0030] Continuing with reference to Figures 1 and 2, in some embodiments, the sole plate 68 includes a polyurethane (PU) plastic, such as a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material. The sole plate 68 may also be a fiber-reinforced thermoplastic made of other thermoplastic elastomers or block copolymers. In other embodiments, the sole plate 68 may include, for example, carbon fibers. In some embodiments, these and other rigid, semi-rigid, or spring-like materials and combinations thereof may constitute the sole plate 68. The sole plate 68 may have varying rigidity and shape along its length. For example, the rigidity of the toe region 42 of the sole plate 68 (the toe region 42, midfoot region 44, and heel region 46 are shown in Figures 3-5 for clarity) may be approximately more flexible than the midfoot region 44 of the sole plate 68 and approximately more flexible than the heel region 46 of the sole plate 68. Alternatively, the sole plate 68 may have uniform rigidity. Furthermore, the sole plate 68 may include additional or alternative geometric shapes such as notches, curves, protrusions, cavities, angled edges, and cutouts. In some embodiments, the sole plate 68 may be configured as a shock plate to provide impact protection, promote muscle tension in the legs, and thereby alleviate stress on the user's heel, ankle, shin, knee, hip, and / or back. Due to the spring-like properties of the material selected to make the sole plate 68, the sole plate 68 is suitable for providing a return or rebound force between each step, as the sole plate 68 is initially compressed and then released from the impact of stepping.

[0031] The sole plate 68 provides a rigid sole that can facilitate faster takeoff during running. In particular, the shape and rigidity of the sole plate 68 act as a propulsion lever between the wearer's midfoot area 44 and heel area 46, allowing the wearer to accelerate faster and create a toe-off motion in the wearer's toe area 42 that propels the wearer forward. Furthermore, embodiments of the sole structure described herein can provide a training aid or tool that can be used to adjust the running posture to a forward-leaning position that strengthens the entire leg and foot muscles of the wearer and promotes a constant muscle tone.

[0032] Furthermore, referring to Figures 1 and 2, the sole structure 34 is connected to or fixed to the upper 32 and extends between the user's foot and the ground when the footwear 30 is worn by the user. The sole structure 34 may include one or more components, which may include an outsole 64, a midsole structure 66, a heel (not shown), a vamp (not shown), and / or an insole (not shown). For example, in some embodiments, the sole structure 34 may include an outsole 64 that provides structural integrity to the sole structure 34 along with the user's traction, a midsole structure 66 that provides a cushioning system, and an insole that supports the user's arch 58 (see Figure 5). As further described herein, the sole structure 34 of this embodiment includes one or more components that provide the sole structure 34 with preferred spring and damping properties. Furthermore, the sole structure 34 of this embodiment comprises a sole plate 68 having multiple spikes 70 for better traction and structure in order to improve the inclination angle of the runner while stepping.

[0033] Figures 3 and 4 show first and second embodiments of the sole plate 68 of the footwear 30, and therefore the sole structure 34. Figure 4 illustrates the rounded forefoot portion 78 at the front end 80 of the sole plate 68. The rounded forefoot portion 78 extends in the direction of the upper 32 (see Figure 7) and is separated from the bottom wall 82 of the sole plate 68. The anterior position 84 is defined as the position along the bottom wall 82 closest to the rounded forefoot portion 78. In other words, the anterior position 84 is generally located at the foremost point of the bottom wall 82 in the toe area 42. The posterior position 86 is defined as the point on the bottom wall 82 of the sole plate 68 that is located furthest from the anterior position 84, or furthest distal to it. In other words, the posterior position is generally located at the posterior point of the bottom wall 82 in the heel area 46.

[0034] Figure 3 shows a pointed forefoot 88. The pointed forefoot 88 in Figure 3 and the rounded forefoot 78 in Figure 4 are each integrally formed with the sole plate 68. The main axis 90 is defined as the line that intersects the anterior position 84 and the posterior position 86 (see Figure 3). The pointed forefoot 88 is suitable for races with few curves or turns, while the rounded forefoot 78 is more suitable for races with many curves or turns. Referring to Figures 3 and 4, the midsole structure 66 and outsole 64 generally cover the sole plate 68 along the bottom wall 82 in the midfoot region 44 and heel region 46. In some embodiments, the midfoot region 44, the heel region 46, or both regions may have a cutout portion 92 where the bottom wall 82 of the sole plate 68 is not covered by the midsole structure 66 or outsole 64. The midsole structure 66 defines the cutout portion 92. The bottom wall 82 of the sole plate 68 is exposed at the cutout portion 92. The outsole 64 may be formed from one or more materials to impart durability, abrasion resistance, wear resistance, or traction to the sole structure 34. In some embodiments, the outsole 64 may be formed from, for example, rubber.

[0035] Referring to Figures 3, 4, and 7, the bottom wall 72 has its deepest position 94 in the midfoot region 44. The deepest position 94 is defined as the position on the bottom wall 72 of the midfoot region 44 that forms the largest angle with respect to the anterior position 84 with respect to the principal axis 90, is the furthest from the anterior position 84, and is not obstructed by the midsole structure 66 or outsole 64 along the line formed between the deepest position 94 and the anterior position 84 (see Figure 15). The deepest position 94 may also be the lowest point on the bottom wall 72 of the midfoot region 44, but in this embodiment, the deepest position 94 is shown to be adjacent to the lowest point on the bottom wall 72. The bottom wall 82 of the sole plate 68 is not limited to being a flat surface and may include contours, undulations or other configurations.

[0036] Referring to Figures 3 and 4, the bottom wall 82 of the sole plate 68 is not covered by the midsole structure 66 or the outsole 64 from the rounded or pointed front 78 or the pointed front 88 to at least a portion of the toe area 42. This exposed area of ​​the bottom wall 82 of the sole plate 68 in the toe area 42 is defined as the exposed toe area 96. The boundary where the exposed toe area 96 ends and the bottom wall 82 of the sole plate 68 begins to be covered by either the outsole 64, the midsole structure 66, or both is defined as the exposed toe 98. The exposed toe 98 may be a straight line, a wavy line, a jagged line, a contour line, or any form of continuous line extending from the inner surface 40 of the shoe 30 to the outer surface 38 of the shoe 30. The transition line 100 extends along the bottom wall 82 of the sole plate 68 from the inner surface 40 to the outer surface 38 of the shoe 30, protruding perpendicularly to the main axis 90 and positioned closest to the deepest point 94. In other words, when viewed from above, the transition line 100 extends from the outer surface 38 to the inner surface 40 of the shoe 30, passing through the deepest point 94.

[0037] The metatarsal region 44 and the toe region 42 are further defined by the transition zone 102. The transition zone 102 is a region bounded by the exposed toe 98 at the first end and by the transition line 100 at the second end. In Figure 3, the transition zone 102 near the outer surface 38 has the exposed toe 98 far from the position 84 anterior to the transition line 100. However, the transition zone 102 near the inner surface 40 has the exposed toe 98 closer to the position 84 anterior to the transition line 100. In other words, the transition zone 102 can have various segments, each segment inclined toward the bottom wall 82 of the sole plate 68. The transition zone 102 extends from the inner surface 40 of the shoe 30 to the outer surface 38 of the shoe 30. The deepest position 94 is a point along the bottom wall 72 of the outsole 64 in the midfoot region 44 (relative to a line drawn from the anterior position 84), and since the anterior position 84 is located on the bottom wall 82 of the sole plate 68, the sole structure 34 in the transition zone 102 is inclined toward the bottom wall 82 (up or down, depending on the figure) to define the undulating portion 104 at the front end of the outsole 64 and midsole structure 66.

[0038] Comparing Figure 4 with Figure 3, the deepest position 94 is further from the anterior position 84 in Figure 4 than in Figure 3. This difference in the position of the deepest position 94 results in the difference in the respective transition zones 102 in Figure 3 versus Figure 4. In Figure 4, the transition zone 102 is a single segment bounded laterally by the outer surface 38 and inner surface 40, with the transition line 100 being closer to the anterior position 84 than it is at the anterior position 84. Here again, the transition zone 102 slopes toward the bottom wall 82 of the sole plate 68 along the undulating portion 104. Figures 3 and 4 illustrate how the position of the deepest position 94 can affect the size and shape of the transition zone 102.

[0039] Referring to Figures 1-5, the undulating section 104 and the multiple spikes 70 (see Figures 3 and 4) are useful in that they can improve the runner's movement. The footwear 30 shown in Figure 1 has characteristics designed to help runners run faster, especially during high-speed races (e.g., during a 10-kilometer race). First, the multiple spikes 70 in the toe area 42 improve grip to the ground at different phases of the runner's stride, as will be explained in more detail when describing Figures 6-13. The position of each of the multiple spikes 70 is selected or specified to improve the runner's movement at different phases of the runner's stride. Second, because the sole plate 68 has a shallower depth than the sole structure 34 in the midfoot area 44, the shoe 30 naturally promotes an increase in the runner's inclination angle, which also improves running performance. Generally speaking, the faster a runner moves, the higher the inclination angle within a certain range, which improves the runner's acceleration and speed (see the explanation of Figure 8 below).

[0040] Referring specifically to Figures 3 and 4, the multiple spikes 70 are positioned in the exposed toe area 96 of the toe area 42. The multiple spikes 70 project away from the upper 32 along the bottom wall 82 of the sole plate 68. The multiple spikes 70 are projections having a deep tapered or spiked shape, and may be integrally formed with the sole plate 68, or overmolded into a plurality of corresponding openings (not shown), and may have threaded ends (not shown) that are fixed to corresponding threads (not shown) within the plurality of corresponding openings. The multiple spikes 70 can be made of a rigid plastic material or a metallic material. In some embodiments, the multiple spikes 70 include a first spike 106, a second spike 108, a third spike 110, and a fourth spike 112. In some embodiments, each of the multiple spikes 70 is identical. In other embodiments, one, some, or all of the multiple spikes 70 can be varied from one another in shape, size, or material.

[0041] Furthermore, referring to Figures 3 and 4, in addition to the multiple spikes 70 on the exposed toe area 96, the exposed toe area 96 may have multiple barbs 114 (see Figures 6 and 7), or alternatively, multiple tooth-like structures (not shown). The multiple barbs 114 are integrally formed with the bottom wall 82 of the sole plate 68. Each of the multiple barbs 114 is shorter in height than each of the multiple spikes 70, thereby enhancing the overall grip and traction against the ground. The multiple barbs 114 have a generally circular cross-section taken parallel to the bottom wall 82, while the multiple tooth-like structures have a generally elliptical cross-section.

[0042] As shown in Figure 3, the sole plate 68 extends at least partially through the midfoot region 44. In some embodiments, the sole plate 68 is exposed not only in the exposed toe region 96 of the toe region 42 but also in the cutout portion 92. In some embodiments, the sole plate 68 is positioned adjacent to the arched portion 116 of the footwear 30. In other embodiments, the surface in contact with the ground is not continuous along the inner surface 40 of the midfoot region 44 of the footwear 30. For example, as shown in Figure 3, the outsole 64 partially surrounds the arched portion 116, and the midsole structure 66 partially defines the arched portion 116. The arched portion 116 can be considered a transition region from the cutout portion 92 to the bottom wall 72.

[0043] In Figure 6, the entire toe area 42 is shown, along with a portion of the midfoot area 44. The exposed toe area 96 and exposed toe 98 expose or do not cover the bottom wall 82 of the sole plate 68. The anterior position 84, the deepest position 94, and the transition line 100 are all shown. The transition line 100, the exposed toe 98, the medial surface 40, and the lateral surface 38 collectively define the transition zone 102. In Figure 6, the transition line 100 is further from the anterior position 84 than from the medial surface 40 to the lateral surface 38 of the shoe 30 at the exposed toe 98. Multiple spikes 70, including the first spike 106, second spike 108, third spike 110, and fourth spike 112, are shown to be located along or within the bottom wall 82. In this embodiment, the exposed toe 98 is not a straight line, but rather a wavy line having two curves to accommodate the first spike 106 and the second spike 108. The wavy line defines three inflection points, but may define two, four, five, six, or more inflection points. The first spike 106 is located on the outer surface 38 of the shoe 30 and adjacent to the exposed toe 98. The second spike 108 is located on the inner surface 40 of the shoe 30 and adjacent to the exposed toe 98. The third spike 110 and the fourth spike 112 are located adjacent to the forward position 84. The fourth spike 112 is closer to the outer surface 38 of the shoe 30 than to the inner surface 40 of the shoe 30 (see Figures 3, 4, and 6).

[0044] Continuing with Figure 6, each of the multiple spikes 70 protrudes slightly from the base wall 82 and has an emboss 118 concentrically surrounding each of the multiple spikes 70. In some embodiments, the multiple spikes 70 do not have a corresponding emboss 118. In some embodiments, the emboss 118 may be circular, square, hexagonal, diamond-shaped, star-shaped, or another shape. The emboss 118 does not protrude more than any of the multiple spikes 70. The base wall 82 also has a plurality of barbs 114 that protrude away from the base wall 82 and away from the upper 32 (see Figure 1), but not as much as any of the protrusions of the multiple spikes 70. Each of the multiple barbs 114 has a generally circular cross-section in a plane parallel to the base wall 82. In some embodiments, the base wall 82 has a plurality of teeth (not shown) that protrude away from the upper 32 and away from the base wall 82, but not as much as any of the protrusions of any of the multiple spikes 70. Each of the multiple toothed sections has a generally elliptical cross-section in a plane parallel to the bottom wall 82. The multiple barbs 114 and / or multiple toothed sections, if present, are integrally formed with the bottom wall 82 of the sole plate 68. The multiple barbs 114 and / or multiple toothed sections, if present, are configured to improve traction with the ground. In some embodiments, neither the multiple barbs 114 nor the multiple toothed sections are present. In some embodiments, the multiple spikes 70 extend beyond the deepest position 94, and in some embodiments, the multiple spikes 70 do not extend beyond the deepest position 94.

[0045] Referring to Figure 7, the entire toe area 42 is shown, along with a portion of the midfoot area 44. The exposed toe area 96 and exposed toe 98 expose or do not cover the bottom wall 82 of the sole plate 68. Both the anterior position 84 and the deepest position 94 are shown. The rounded forefoot portion 78 is shown projecting toward the upper 32 (see Figure 1) near the anterior position 84. Two of the multiple barbs 114 and multiple spikes 70, namely the second spike 108 and the third spike 110, are shown. Furthermore, the main axis 90 projects from the anterior position 84 and intersects with the anterior position 84. The inclined line 120 intersects with the deepest position 94 and the anterior position 84 (see Figures 7 and 15). The inclination angle 122 is located between the inclined line 120 and the main axis 90 at the anterior position 84.

[0046] The inclination angle 122 provides a method for measuring the extent to which the shoe 30 is configured to facilitate an increase in the runner's inclination angle. Because the sole structure 34 of the exposed toe area 96 (see Figure 1) is not as deep as the sole structure 34 of the midfoot area 44 and the outsole 64, the shoe 30 is structured to facilitate the runner leaning forward during stride. In other words, the structure and shape of the shoe 30 tend to increase the runner's inclination angle. When the deepest point 94 is anterior to the midfoot area 44 and the exposed toe area 96 is small, the inclination angle 122 is large. When the deepest point 94 is posterior to the midfoot area 44 and the exposed toe area 96 is large, the inclination angle 122 is small. The inclination angle 122 provides a method for manipulating the runner's inclination angle. The inclination angle 122 can be between approximately 2 degrees and 30 degrees, or between approximately 3 degrees and 20 degrees, or between approximately 4 degrees and 15 degrees, or between approximately 5 degrees and 10 degrees, or between approximately 6 degrees and 8 degrees. The inclination angle 122 also provides an indicator of the amount of exposed toe area 96 present. The absence of the outsole 64 and midsole structure 66 in the exposed toe area 96 also helps reduce losses during foot movement (see Figure 9 and the discussion of Figure 9 below).

[0047] Figure 8 is a graph showing the average force vectors of a group of runners in the vertical and horizontal directions, depending on the inclination angle of the runners in a specific group. Four groups of runners were observed and measured. The first group of runners 124, the second group 126, the third group 128, and the fourth group 130, each shown as a force vector line, represent groups of runners measured while running at different inclination angles. For example, the first group 124 is the group of runners whose measured inclination angle is 0.2 degrees. This means that the runners in the first group 124 had almost no forward lean during running compared to the other groups 126, 128, and 130. The horizontal X-axis represents the magnitude of the horizontal force generated, and the vertical Y-axis represents the magnitude of the vertical force generated by the various groups 124, 126, 128, and 130. The amount of horizontal force generated by the first group 124, i.e., the amount of force moving forward, is compared with the amount of vertical force generated by the first group 124, i.e., the amount of force moving up and down. The ratio of the generated vertical force to the generated horizontal force is shown in Figure 8 as a vector representing the first group 124.

[0048] Group 2, 126, has a measured inclination angle of 0.5 degrees, Group 3, 128, has a measured inclination angle of 0.8 degrees, and Group 4, 130, has a measured inclination angle of 1.1 degrees. This means that Group 2, 126, is more forward-leaning than Group 1, 124, but less forward-leaning than Group 3, 128, and Group 4, 130. For each group, the greater the forward lean, the greater the amount of horizontal force generated compared to the amount of vertical force generated. As a result, in the graph of Figure 8, the force vector of Group 1, 124, is shown furthest to the left, and the force vector of Group 4, 130, is shown furthest to the right. This indicates that as the runner's inclination angle increases, horizontal force, and therefore velocity, is generated more efficiently. Thus, the graph shown in Figure 8 supports the general conclusion that runners with a greater inclination angle generally run more efficiently. The inclination angle 122 (see Figures 7 and 15) of the shoe 30 (see Figure 1) provides a method that helps increase the inclination angle of the runner.

[0049] Figures 9 to 11 show a sequence of images of the runner during the first stage 132 (Figure 9), second stage 134 (Figure 10), and third stage 136 (Figure 11) of stepping. Referring to Figure 9, the first or landing stage 132 shows the runner stepping, with the shoe 30 making initial contact with the ground. When the shoe 30 first makes contact with the ground, energy from the runner is spent compressing the shoe 30. During the first stage 132, the runner does not move faster horizontally, but instead decelerates. This deceleration reduces the runner's momentum. Consequently, any configuration of the shoe 30 that can reduce this energy loss during the first stage 132 will improve the runner's performance during the race.

[0050] The footwear 30 in Figure 1 has four features that reduce the amount of momentum lost from the first stage 132. Firstly, the outsole 64 and midsole structure 66 are not present in the exposed toe area 96, thus reducing the amount of compression the midsole structure 66 and outsole 64 receive. Secondly, the sole plate 68 absorbs most of the first stage 132 when the shoe 30 contacts the ground at the toe area 42. Because the sole plate 68 is relatively rigid, it springs back after compression. Much of the compressive force experienced by the sole plate 68 at the toe area 42 is returned when the sole plate 68 springs back (see the description of the material of the sole plate 68 above in the descriptions of Figures 1 and 2). Thirdly, the inclination angle 122 of the shoe 30 (see Figures 7 and 15) facilitates an increase in the runner's inclination angle. As mentioned with respect to Figure 8 above, such an increase in the runner's inclination angle leads to a reduction in wasted vertical force and the generation of more valuable horizontal force. Fourth, the multiple spikes 70 in the toe area 42 (see Figure 3) concentrate the force of the first stage 132 in order to ensure that the multiple spikes 70 make firm contact with the ground, thereby providing stronger contact between the shoe 30 and the ground during the first stage 132. Ensuring that the multiple spikes 70 make firm contact with the ground is also beneficial in stages after the first stage.

[0051] In Figure 10, the second or propulsion phase 134 shows the runner stepping with the shoe 30 in contact with the ground, propelling the runner forward relative to the position of the shoe 30. The majority of the horizontal force, and therefore the majority of the velocity, generated during stepping occurs in the second phase 134. Comparing Figure 9 and Figure 10, the shoe 30 starts in the first phase 132, positioned in front of the runner's body, but during the second phase 134, the shoe 30 ends up behind the runner's body. The shoe 30 does not move from the first phase 132 to the second phase 134. Instead, the runner's body moves forward relative to the shoe 30. The runner's body moves forward during the second phase 134 due to a combination of forward momentum and the additional horizontal force generated by the runner during the second phase 134. As a result, any configuration of the shoe 30 that increases the additional horizontal force during the second phase 134 improves the runner's motion.

[0052] The footwear 30 in Figure 1 has several features that increase the additional horizontal force that occurs during the second stage 134 (see Figure 10). Firstly, the multiple spikes 70 and multiple barbs 114 (see Figure 3) ensure strong contact with the ground. Thus, the runner can push as hard as he desires without losing traction. Secondly, the inclination angle 122 (see Figures 7 and 15) concentrates most of the contact during the second stage 134 on the exposed toe area 96 of the shoe 30, thereby reducing contact with the heel area 46 and midfoot area 44. Because contact with the heel area 46 and midfoot area 44 is reduced, the amount of the midsole structure 66 that is compressed is reduced. Furthermore, during this second stage 134, the sole plate 68 bounces back to its original shape before compression, and its energy is used to help propel the runner forward. Thirdly, the incline angle 122 also helps encourage the runner to naturally have a larger incline angle during the second stage 134, resulting in more valuable horizontal force and less wasted vertical force (see explanation in Figure 8 above). Fourthly, because the sole of the shoe 30 is effectively inclined due to the incline angle 122, the stride length of the second stage 134 is slightly extended at the end of the second stage 134, providing an opportunity to generate more horizontal force.

[0053] Referring to Figure 11, the third stage, or toe-off stage 136, shows the runner stepping in place and the shoe 30 beginning to lose contact with the ground. The runner continues to propel their body forward relative to the position of the shoe 30 until the moment the shoe 30 loses contact with the ground. Although the third stage 136 is a relatively short stage, it is an excellent opportunity to maximize the horizontal force generated during stepping. When, or if, the shoe 30 loses traction with the ground, energy can be lost. Furthermore, if the shoe 30 loses traction, the runner's next step may be affected by a slight loss of balance, along with a loss of forward momentum. In a race where 0.1 seconds can make the difference between first and last place, a decrease in the traction of the shoe 30 in the third stage 136 can be that difference. As a result, maintaining good traction throughout the third stage 136 can significantly improve the runner's movement.

[0054] The shoe 30 begins in a second phase 134 (see Figure 10) where it is positioned behind the runner's body, and remains positioned behind the runner's body during the third phase 136. The shoe 30 remains in contact with the ground. The movement of the shoe 30 between the second phase 134 and the third phase 136 is related to the pivot or rotation of the shoe 30 as it rises to break contact with the ground (see Figure 11). As a result, any configuration of the shoe 30 that helps to avoid the loss of traction force in the third phase 136 and increase the horizontal force generated during the third phase 136 will improve the runner's movement during the race.

[0055] The footwear 30 in Figure 1 has several features that generate good traction with the ground during the third stage 136 (see Figure 11) and increase the horizontal force generated during the third stage 136. Firstly, the multiple spikes 70 and multiple barbs 114 (see Figure 3) ensure strong contact with the ground so that the runner is less likely to slip and lose contact with the ground and can push as hard as the runner desires. Secondly, the inclination angle 122 (see Figures 7 and 15) concentrates most of the contact during the third stage 136 on the exposed toe area 96 of the shoe 30. The sole plate 68 either bounces back to its original (pre-compression) shape during the third stage 136, or is already bounced back, and the multiple spikes 70 are positioned to maintain strong contact with the ground as much as possible. Thirdly, the inclination angle 122 also facilitates the runner to utilize a larger inclination angle during the third stage 136, which generates more valuable horizontal forces and reduces more wasted vertical forces (see explanation of Figure 8 above).

[0056] Figure 12 shows the various stages of stepping. The foot shown in Figure 12 is a typical foot and not the same as the shoe 30 in Figure 1. The beginning of the first stage 132 for a runner in a race differs from the beginning of the first stage 132 for a walker taking a leisurely stroll at a slow pace. At slower speeds, the first contact may be the first or heel point 138. At faster speeds, the first contact may be the second or midfoot point 140, and at the fastest speeds, the first contact may be the third or forefoot point 142. This is partly related to the runner maintaining balance. The faster the runner moves horizontally, the more they can lean forward while maintaining balance. However, at slower speeds, the horizontal force generated by the runner is smaller, and the angle of inclination of the runner naturally decreases to maintain balance. Therefore, the first contact of a fast-moving runner is generally further forward than that of a slow-moving walker. Figure 12 shows the angle of the foot during the second stage 134, reinforcing the fact that during the first stage 132 the runner's body is behind the shoe 30 (and therefore the foot), but during the latter half of the second stage 134 it is in front of the shoe 30. As the foot rotates during the third stage 136, the foot begins to lift vertically. Based on the orientation of the foot during the third stage 136, one or more spikes 70 (see Figure 3) improve the contact between the ground and the shoe 30 during the third stage 136.

[0057] Figure 13 shows the zones for the first stage 132 (see Figure 12), the second stage 134 (see Figure 12), and the third stage 136 (see Figure 12) on the bottom surface of the shoe 30 (left) in Figure 1. These zones collectively suggest where each of the multiple spikes 70 should be positioned to produce the desired result. First, on the outer surface 38 of the toe area 42, a landing zone 144 is identified where the first stage 132 makes the most contact with the shoe 30. To prevent the shoe 30 from receiving excessive traction (i.e., excessive braking force) during the first stage 132, this landing zone 144 operates optimally by having fewer spikes present to provide sufficient traction to generate sufficient contact with the ground during the first stage 132 without generating excessive traction or braking force. Secondly, a propulsion zone 146 is identified on the inner surface 40 of the toe area 42, where the second stage 134 generates the most forward force. The traction force in this propulsion zone 146 needs to be kept relatively high so that the maximum horizontal force is generated during the second stage 134. This increased traction force can be created by the presence of at least one of the multiple spikes 70 in the propulsion zone 146. Thirdly, the contact zone 148 with the most contact during the third stage 136 is identified in the anterior part of the toe area 42, near the anterior position 84. The traction force in this contact zone 148 should be kept relatively high so that sufficient contact between the ground and the shoe 30 is maintained during the third stage 136, otherwise the horizontal force generated during the third stage 136 may again decrease. This increased traction force can be generated by the presence of at least one of the multiple spikes 70 in the contact zone 148.

[0058] Referring to Figures 3 and 13, based on these findings, the placement of the multiple spikes 70 in at least one embodiment is directed to ensure that the propulsion zone 146 and the contact zone 148 have sufficient traction, and that the landing zone 144 has sufficient traction during the first stage 132 without excessive force. The first spike 106 is positioned on the outer surface 38 of the shoe 30, adjacent to the exposed toe 98. This position corresponds to the landing zone 144 of the first stage 132 described above. The first spike 106 provides sufficient traction to maintain contact between the shoe 30 and the ground during the first stage 132 without generating an excessive amount of traction by placing many of the multiple spikes 70 in the landing zone 144. The second spike 108 is positioned on the inner surface 40 of the shoe 30, adjacent to the exposed toe 98. This corresponds to the propulsion zone 146 of the second stage 134 described above. The second spike 108 ensures that the propulsion zone 146 has sufficient traction so that the second stage 134 can generate as much horizontal force as possible. The third spike 110 and the fourth spike 112 are positioned adjacent to the forward position 84. This corresponds to the contact zone 148 of the third stage 136 described above. The third spike 110 and the fourth spike 112 provide as much traction as possible to help create strong contact between the shoe 30 and the ground during the third stage 136, thereby providing as much horizontal force as possible.

[0059] Figure 14 is a cross-section obtained through line 14-14 in Figure 3, and Figure 15 is a cross-section obtained through line 15-15 in Figure 3. Both Figures 14 and 15 show the bottom wall 72, outsole 64, first midsole member 74, second midsole member 76, sole plate 68, bottom wall 82 of sole plate 68, rounded forefoot 78, and the toe area 42, midfoot area 44, heel area 46 (see Figure 15 for the latter three elements) and exposed toe area 96. Furthermore, Figures 14 and 15 show the anterior position 84, posterior position 86, deepest position 94, undulation 104 and transition zone 102. Additionally, the principal axis 90, transition line 100 (see Figure 6 for clarity), inclination line 120 (see Figure 15) and inclination angle 122 (see Figure 15) are also shown. Figures 14 and 15 also show that the deepest position 94 is not necessarily the lowest point, and depending on the shape of the slope of the transition zone 102, it may be a short point not obstructed by the first midsole member 74, the second midsole member 76, or the outsole 64. The second spike 108 and the third spike 110 are shown in Figure 14, and the first spike 106 is shown in Figure 15. The fourth spike 112 is omitted in Figure 15 to make the inclination angle 122 clearer (see Figure 3 for a clearer illustration of all four spikes 106, 108, 110, and 112).

[0060] Figures 14 and 15 summarize how the position and inclination angle 122 (see Figure 15) of the multiple spikes 70 in the exposed toe area 96 contribute to the advantages that the shoe 30 can offer. As a result of the increased inclination angle facilitated by the inclination angle 122 (see Figure 15), the position of the multiple spikes 70, and the rebound characteristics of the sole plate 68 (see Figure 3), a runner wearing the shoe 30 disclosed herein can lose less energy during the first stage 132 (see Figure 9) and gain more energy or a faster speed during the second stage 134 (see Figure 10). Furthermore, the position of the multiple spikes 70 helps to provide a way to generate more horizontal force in the third stage 136 (see Figure 11). Also, the reduction of the midsole structure 66 and outsole 64 in the exposed toe area 96 similarly reduces the weight of the shoe 30. For all these reasons, all embodiments of the shoe 30 disclosed herein offer improved running performance during races.

[0061] Any of the embodiments described herein may be modified to include any of the structures or methodologies disclosed in relation to different embodiments. Furthermore, this disclosure is not limited to the types of footwear specifically shown. Any aspect of footwear in any of the embodiments disclosed herein may be modified to work in conjunction with any type of footwear, apparel, or other athletic equipment.

[0062] As stated above, the present invention has been described in relation to specific embodiments and examples, but it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention is not necessarily limited in this way, and that a number of other embodiments, examples, uses, modifications, and departures from embodiments, examples, and uses are intended to be encompassed in the claims herein. The entire disclosures of each patent and publication cited herein are incorporated by reference, just as each such patent or publication is incorporated herein by individual reference. Various features and advantages of the present invention are described in the following claims. [Industrial applicability]

[0063] Various modifications to the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art, given the foregoing description. Therefore, this description should be interpreted as illustrative only and is presented for the purpose of enabling those skilled in the art to manufacture and use the invention. Exclusive rights to all modifications contained in the appended claims are reserved.

Claims

1. A sole structure for footwear having an upper, a forefoot region, a midfoot region, a heel region, a medial surface, and a lateral surface, The sole structure of the footwear further comprises: an outsole having an outer wall disposed along an outer side of the outsole configured to be a surface that contacts the outer side of the outsole and the ground; a sole plate configured to be positioned adjacent to the upper, the sole plate having a bottom wall, a forehead, an exposed forefoot area, a forepart, and a plurality of spikes; a midsole structure disposed between the sole plate and the outsole; Including, the front end is disposed at an end within the forefoot region furthest from the heel region; the front portion is disposed at the front end, a forward location is disposed along the bottom wall at the front portion; a rearward location disposed along the bottom wall and furthest from the forward location; a main axis is defined as a line intersecting said front location and said rear location; the exposed forefoot area is disposed in the forefoot area and is not covered by the outsole or the midsole structure; the outer wall has a deepest position in the midfoot region; the deepest point is defined as the point that forms the largest angle between the main axis and a tilt line, the tilt line being defined as a line that intersects the forward point with a point on the outer wall that is not obstructed by the midsole structure or the outsole; The tilt angle is defined as the angle formed between the main axis and the tilt line; the tilt angle is between 2 and 30 degrees; a ground-contacting surface of the outsole in the midfoot region is spaced and separated from a ground-contacting surface of the outsole in the heel region on each of the medial and lateral sides of the sole structure; A sole structure for footwear.

2. The sole structure of claim 1 , wherein the inclination angle is between 3 and 20 degrees.

3. The sole structure of claim 1 , wherein the inclination angle is between 4 and 15 degrees.

4. The sole structure of claim 1 , wherein the inclination angle is between 5 and 10 degrees.

5. The sole structure of claim 1 , wherein the inclination angle is between 6 and 8 degrees.

6. A sole structure for footwear having an upper, a forefoot region, a midfoot region, a heel region, a medial surface, and a lateral surface, The sole structure of the footwear further comprises: an outsole having an outer wall disposed along an outer side of the outsole configured to be a surface that contacts the outer side of the outsole and the ground; a sole plate configured to be positioned adjacent to the upper, the sole plate having a bottom wall, a forehead, an exposed forefoot area, a forepart, and a plurality of spikes; a midsole structure disposed between the sole plate and the outsole; Including, the exposed forefoot area is disposed in the forefoot area and is not covered by the outsole or the midsole structure; the plurality of spikes are disposed in the exposed forefoot area; an exposed forefoot defines an edge between the exposed forefoot area and the midsole structure or the outsole; At least one of the plurality of spikes is disposed adjacent the medial surface and the exposed toe; At least one of the plurality of spikes is disposed adjacent the lateral surface and the exposed toe; At least one of the plurality of spikes is disposed adjacent a forward end; the exposed toe includes at least two inflection points; When the sole structure is in contact with the ground, a portion of the sole plate in the forefoot region is directly exposed to the ground. A sole structure for footwear.

7. The sole structure of claim 6 , wherein the plurality of spikes includes a first spike, a second spike, a third spike, and a fourth spike.

8. The sole structure of claim 7 , wherein the third spike and the fourth spike are located adjacent the forward location.

9. the exposed forefoot area comprises a plurality of barbs, each of the plurality of barbs being shorter than each of the plurality of spikes; the plurality of barbs include a circular cross-section in a plane parallel to the bottom wall; The sole structure according to claim 6.

10. The sole structure of claim 6 , wherein the front portion projects away from the bottom wall toward the upper.

11. The sole structure of claim 6 , wherein each of the plurality of spikes has an embossment protruding from the bottom wall and concentrically surrounding each of the plurality of spikes.

12. The sole structure of claim 6 , wherein the midfoot region or the heel region has a cut-out portion where the bottom wall is not covered by the midsole structure or the outsole.

13. A sole structure for footwear having the upper, the forefoot region, the midfoot region, the heel region, an inner surface, and an outer surface, The sole structure of the footwear further comprises: an outsole having an outer wall disposed along an outer side of the outsole configured to be a surface that contacts the ground; a sole plate configured to be positioned adjacent to the upper, the sole plate having a bottom wall, a forehead, an exposed forefoot area, a forepart, and a plurality of spikes; a midsole structure including a first midsole member and a second midsole member, the midsole structure extending between the midfoot region and the heel region; Including, the exposed forefoot area is disposed in the forefoot area and is not covered by the outsole or the midsole structure; an exposed forefoot defines an edge between the exposed forefoot area and the midsole structure or the outsole; the front end is disposed at an end within the forefoot region furthest from the heel region; the front portion is disposed at the front end, a forward location is disposed along the bottom wall at the front portion; a rearward location disposed along the bottom wall and furthest from the forward location; a main axis is defined as a line intersecting said front location and said rear location; the outer wall has a deepest position in the midfoot region; the deepest point is defined as the point that forms the largest angle between the main axis and a tilt line, the tilt line being defined as a line that intersects the forward point with a point on the outer wall that is not obstructed by the midsole structure or the outsole; a transition line disposed along the bottom wall, protruding perpendicular to the major axis, extending from the outer surface toward the inner surface, and closest to a deepest point; a relief portion is defined as an area bounded by the transition line and the exposed toe and extending from the medial surface to the lateral surface; The sole structure in the relief portion is inclined toward the bottom wall, the first midsole member in direct contact with the outsole in the heel region and the second midsole member in direct contact with the sole plate; When the footwear is in contact with the ground, the first midsole member is positioned completely below the second midsole member in the heel region. A sole structure for footwear.

14. The sole structure of claim 13 , wherein the front portion projects away from the bottom wall toward the upper.

15. The sole structure according to claim 13 , wherein the exposed forefoot shape is a wavy continuous line shape.

16. The sole structure of claim 13 , wherein the plurality of spikes are integrally formed with the sole plate.

17. The sole structure of claim 13 , wherein the plurality of spikes includes a first spike, a second spike, a third spike, and a fourth spike.

18. 20. The sole structure of claim 17, wherein the first spike is disposed adjacent the exposed forefoot and the lateral side, and the second spike is disposed adjacent the exposed forefoot and the medial side.

19. The sole structure of claim 18 , wherein the third spike and the fourth spike are located adjacent the forward location.

20. The tilt angle is defined as the angle formed between the main axis and the tilt line; 20. The sole structure of claim 19, wherein the inclination angle is between 2 and 30 degrees.

Images