footwear

Abstract

The footwear closure system includes a track, a knob, and a lace configured to operably engage with an upper of the footwear, the lace being attached to the knob, and the knob being configured to be movable within the track to tighten or loosen the footwear.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates generally to footwear having a fastening or closure system. [Background technology]

[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 interior space, i.e., a cavity or void, formed by the upper and the inner surface of the sole to receive the user's foot before the shoe is secured to the foot. The sole is attached to the underside or border of the upper and is located between the upper and the ground. As a result, the sole typically provides the user with stability and cushioning while wearing the shoe. In some embodiments, the sole may include multiple components, such as an outsole, a midsole, and a top portion. The outsole may provide traction to the bottom surface of the sole, and the midsole may be attached to the inner surface of the outsole and provide cushioning or added stability to the sole. For example, the sole may include certain foam materials that may increase stability at one or more desired locations along the sole, or foam materials that may reduce stress or impact energy on the foot or leg when the user runs, walks, or engages in another activity. The sole may also include additional components, such as a plate embedded in the sole to increase the overall stiffness of the sole and reduce energy loss during use.

[0003] The upper generally extends upward from the sole and defines an interior cavity that completely or partially encases the foot. Often, the upper extends across the instep and toe areas of the foot, as well as the medial and lateral sides. Many footwear also include a tongue that extends across the instep to fill the gap between the medial and lateral edges of the upper, the tongue defining an opening to the cavity. The tongue may also be located below the lacing system and between the medial and lateral sides of the upper to allow adjustment of the tightness of the shoe. The tongue may further be operable by the user to allow the foot to move in and out of the interior space or cavity. Additionally, the lacing system allows the user to adjust certain dimensions of the upper and sole, thereby allowing the upper to accommodate a wide variety of foot types having different sizes and shapes.

[0004] Many shoe uppers may be constructed from a wide variety of materials that are utilized to form the upper and may be selected based on one or more intended uses of the shoe. The upper may also include sections of various materials that are specialized to specific areas of the upper. For example, it may be desirable to add stability adjacent to the front or heel area of ​​the upper to provide greater resistance or stiffness. In contrast, other parts of the shoe may include softer woven fabrics to provide properties such as stretch resistance, flexibility, breathability, and moisture wicking.

[0005] However, in many cases, footwear having uppers with improved comfort and fit is desired along with improved closure mechanisms. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The footwear described herein may have a variety of configurations. The footwear may have an upper and a sole structure coupled to the upper.

[0007] In some embodiments, a closure system for footwear includes a track, a knob, and a lace configured to operatively engage an upper of the footwear, the lace attached to the knob, and the knob configured to be movable within the track to tighten or loosen the footwear.

[0008] In some embodiments, the laces operably engage a plurality of guides that define a winding region of the footwear. In other embodiments, the track has a first end that is located closer to the winding region than the second end. In another embodiment, the footwear is tightened when the knob is located at the second end of the track. In yet other embodiments, the knob is configured to translate and rotate within a channel defined by the track. In still other embodiments, the track extends along the upper in the heel region. In some embodiments, the track extends across the upper and the sole.

[0009] In some embodiments, a closure system for a footwear includes a track having a first end opposite a second end, with an engagement wall extending from the first end to the second end. The closure system also includes a knob configured to be received within the track. Additionally, the closure system also includes a lace configured to be operably received by the knob, with the lace inserted through an opening formed in the track and the knob configured to be moved from the first end to the second end of the track to tighten the footwear.

[0010] In some embodiments, the engagement wall defines a slot, a mounting hole, and a throat. In other embodiments, the mounting hole is located adjacent the second end of the track. In yet other embodiments, the slot extends linearly between the first end and the second end. In a different embodiment, the engagement wall is located between an upper end and a lower end of the side wall of the track. In some embodiments, the engagement wall defines a slot having a pit located adjacent the second end, the pit being separated from the slot by a bumper. In yet other embodiments, the engagement wall defines a plurality of pits at the second end.

[0011] In some embodiments, a closure system for a footwear includes a track having a first end and a second end, with an engagement wall extending from the first end to the second end. The closure system also includes a knob configured to be received within the track. The closure system further includes a lace configured to be operably received by the knob, with the lace inserted through an opening formed in the track, and the knob configured to rotate within the track to tighten the footwear.

[0012] In some embodiments, the knob includes a head and a shaft. In other embodiments, the shaft of the knob includes a first portion defining a first diameter and a second portion defining a second diameter. In yet other embodiments, the shaft of the knob includes an annular gasket disposed thereon. In yet other embodiments, the knob includes a head having an upper disk and a lower disk configured to rotate relative to one another. In a different embodiment, the knob is configured to translate within the track to tighten or loosen the footwear.

[0013] Other aspects of the footwear, including features and advantages of the footwear, will become apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon review of the figures and detailed description herein, and all such aspects of the footwear are intended to be included in the detailed description and this summary. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a bottom and medial side of an article of footwear configured as a right shoe including an upper and a sole structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a top view of the footwear of FIG. 1. [Diagram 3] 2 is a top view of the footwear of FIG. 1 with the upper removed and the skeletal structure of a user's foot superimposed thereon. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a side view of a footwear having a closure system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of the track and knob of the closure system of FIG. 4, with the knob positioned in a relaxed configuration. [Figure 6] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of the track and knob of the closure system of FIG. 4, with the knob positioned in a clamped configuration. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of the knob of FIG. 6. [Figure 8] 1 is a schematic diagram of a side view of another embodiment of a knob of a footwear closure system. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of a top view of another embodiment of a track of the knob closure system of FIG. 8. [Figure 10] 1 is a schematic diagram of a side view of yet another embodiment of a knob for a footwear closure system. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of a top view of another embodiment of a track of the knob closure system of FIG. [Figure 12] 1 is a schematic diagram of a side view of yet another embodiment of a knob for a footwear closure system. [Figure 13] 1 is a schematic diagram of a side view of another embodiment of a knob of a footwear closure system. [Figure 14] 1 is a schematic diagram of a cross-sectional view of a track of a footwear closure system. [Figure 15] 1 is a schematic diagram of a plan view of yet another embodiment of a track of a footwear closure system. [Figure 16] 1 is a schematic diagram of a plan view of yet another embodiment of a track of a footwear closure system. [Figure 17] 1 is a schematic diagram of a plan view of yet another embodiment of a track of a footwear closure system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0015] Various embodiments or configurations of shoes and sole structures are disclosed in the following discussion and accompanying figures. Although the embodiments of the shoes or sole structures are disclosed with reference to sports shoes, such as running shoes, tennis shoes, basketball shoes, etc., the concepts related to the embodiments of the shoes or sole structures can be applied to a wide range of footwear and footwear styles, such as, for example, cross-training shoes, football 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 and sole structures can also be applied to non-athletic footwear, such as dress shoes, sandals, loafers, slippers, heels, etc. In addition to footwear, certain concepts described herein may also be applied to and incorporated into other types of apparel or other athletic equipment, including helmets, padding or protective padding, shin guards, and gloves. Furthermore, certain concepts described herein can be incorporated into cushions, backpack straps, golf clubs, or other consumer or industrial products. Thus, the concepts described herein can be utilized in a variety of products.

[0016] The term "about" as used herein refers to variations in numerical quantities that may occur, for example, through typical measuring and manufacturing procedures used in molding footwear or other articles of manufacture that may include embodiments disclosed herein, through inadvertent errors in these procedures, through differences in manufacture, source or purity of ingredients used to make a composition or mixture or to practice a method, etc. Throughout this disclosure, the terms "approximately" and "about" refer to a range of values ​​of ±5% of the numerical value that the term precedes.

[0017] The present disclosure is directed to footwear and / or specific components of the footwear, such as the upper and / or sole or sole structure. The upper may be comprised of knitted, woven, and / or nonwoven fabrics. Knitted fabrics can be produced by knitting yarns, woven fabrics by weaving yarns, and nonwoven fabrics by producing a unitary nonwoven web. Knitted fabrics include fabrics formed by warp knitting, weft knitting, flat knitting, circular knitting, and / or other suitable knitting operations. Knitted fabrics can have, for example, a plain knit construction, a mesh knit construction, and / or a rib knit construction. Woven fabrics include, but are not limited to, textiles formed by any of a number of weaving configurations, such as, for example, plain weave, twill weave, satin weave, dobbin weave, jacquard weave, double weave, and / or double cloth weave. Nonwoven fabrics include, for example, textiles made by airlaid and / or spunlaid processes. The upper may be constructed from different materials, such as the first yarns, second yarns, and / or third yarns, which may have different properties or different visual characteristics.

[0018] 1-3 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of footwear 100 including an upper 102 and a sole structure 104. The upper 102 is attached to the sole structure 104, which together define an interior cavity 106 (see FIGS. 2 and 3) into which a foot may be inserted. For reference, footwear 100 defines a forefoot region 108, a midfoot region 110, and a heel region 112 (see FIGS. 2 and 3). The forefoot region 108 generally corresponds to the portion of footwear 100 that encases the portions of the foot including the toes, the ball of the foot, and the joints connecting the metatarsals to the toes or phalanges. The midfoot region 110 is closely adjacent to the forefoot region 108 and generally corresponds to the portion of footwear 100 that encases the arch of the foot and the bridge of the foot. Heel region 112 is proximate and adjacent to midfoot region 110 and generally corresponds to that portion of footwear 100 that encases the rear portion of the foot, including the heel or calcaneus, ankle, and / or Achilles tendon.

[0019] Many conventional footwear uppers are formed from multiple elements, such as textiles, polymer foams, polymer sheets, leather, and synthetic leather, which are joined by gluing or stitching at seams. In some embodiments, the upper 102 of the footwear 100 is formed from a knitted structure or knitted components. In various embodiments, the knitted components can incorporate different types of yarns that can provide different properties to the upper. For example, one region of the upper 102 may be formed from a first type of yarn that imparts a first set of properties, and another region of the upper 102 may be formed from a second type of yarn that imparts a second set of properties. With this configuration, the properties of the upper 102 can be varied throughout the upper 102 by selecting specific yarns for different regions of the upper 102.

[0020] With regard to the material(s) that comprise the upper 102, the particular properties that a particular type of yarn imparts to an area of ​​the knitted component may depend, at least in part, on the materials that form the various filaments and fibers of the yarn. For example, cotton can impart a soft effect, biodegradability, or natural aesthetics to the knitted material. Elastane and stretch polyester can provide the desired stretch and recovery properties to the knitted material, respectively. Rayon can provide a high shine and moisture wicking material, wool can provide a material with enhanced moisture wicking, nylon can provide a durable material that is abrasion resistant, and polyester can provide a hydrophobic and durable material.

[0021] Other aspects of the knitted component can also be varied to affect the properties of the knitted component and provide desired properties. For example, the yarns forming the knitted component can include monofilament or multifilament yarns, or the yarns can include filaments each formed of two or more different materials. Additionally, the knitted component may be formed using a particular knitting process to impart specific properties to regions of the knitted component. Thus, both the materials forming the yarns and other aspects of the yarns can be selected to impart different properties to specific regions of the upper 102.

[0022] In some embodiments, the elasticity of the knit structure may be measured based on a comparison of the width or length of the knit structure in a first, unstretched state to the width or length of the knit structure in a second, stretched state after a force is applied laterally to the knit structure. In further embodiments, the upper 102 may also include additional structural elements. For example, in some embodiments, a heel region plate or cover (not shown) may be provided in the heel region 112 to provide additional support to the heel of the user. In some embodiments, other elements, such as plastic materials, logos, trademarks, etc., may also be applied and secured to the exterior surface using adhesives or a thermoforming process. In some embodiments, properties associated with the upper 102, such as stitch type, yarn type, or properties associated with different stitch types or yarn types, such as elasticity, aesthetic appearance, thickness, breathability, or abrasion resistance, may be varied.

[0023] Referring again to FIG. 1 , the sole structure 104 is connected or secured to the upper 102 and extends between the user's foot and the ground when the footwear 100 is worn by the user. The sole structure 104 may include one or more components, which may include an outsole, a midsole, a heel region, a vamp, and / or an insole. For example, in some embodiments, the sole structure may include an outsole that provides traction to the user and structural integrity to the sole structure, a midsole that provides a cushioning system, and an insole that supports the user's arch. Furthermore, the insole may be a strobel board, a forefoot board, a lasting board, or the like, or a combination thereof, and the insole may be provided between the upper 102 and the sole structure 104, or the insole may be provided as part of the upper 102.

[0024] Additionally, the insole may be disposed within the interior cavity 106 of the upper 102 and may be in direct contact with the user's foot while the footwear 100 is worn. Additionally, the upper 102 may also include a liner (not shown) that may enhance comfort, for example, by reducing friction between the user's foot and the upper 102, sole 104, insole, etc., and / or by providing moisture wicking properties. The liner may cover the entire interior cavity 106 or only a portion of it. In some embodiments, a bond (not shown) may surround the opening of the interior cavity 106 to secure the liner to the upper 102 and / or to provide an aesthetic element to the footwear 100.

[0025] 2 and 3, footwear 100 also defines a lateral side 116 and a medial side 118. The lateral side 116 corresponds to an exterior-facing portion of footwear 100 while the medial side 118 corresponds to an interior-facing portion of footwear 100 when the shoe is worn by a user. Thus, footwear 100 has opposing lateral and medial sides 116 and 118. The medial and lateral sides 118 are adjacent to one another along a longitudinal center plane or axis 120 of footwear 100 that is coplanar with longitudinal axis L of FIG. 1. As discussed further herein, the longitudinal center plane or axis 120 may define a central mid-axis between the medial and lateral sides 118 and 116 of footwear 100. Stated another way, the longitudinal plane or axis 120 may extend between a rear proximal end 122 of the footwear 100 and a front distal end 124 of the footwear 100 and continuously define the middle of the insole 126, sole structure 104, and / or upper 102 of the footwear 100; i.e., the longitudinal plane or axis 120 is a linear axis that extends through the rear proximal end 122 of the heel region 112 to the front distal end 124 of the forefoot region 108.

[0026] Unless otherwise specified and without reference to Figures 2 and 3, footwear 100 may be defined by a forefoot region 108, a midfoot region 110, and a heel region 112. Forefoot region 108 may generally correspond to a portion of footwear 100 that encases a portion of foot 128 including toes or phalanges 130, ball of foot 132, and one or more of joints 134 connecting metatarsals 136 of foot 128 to toes or phalanges 130. Midfoot region 110 is proximate to and adjacent to forefoot region 108. Midfoot region 110 generally corresponds to a portion of footwear 100 that encases the arch of foot 128 as well as the instep of foot 128. Heel region 112 is proximate to and adjacent to midfoot region 110. Heel region 112 generally corresponds to that portion of footwear 100 that wraps around the rear of foot 128, including the heel or calcaneus 138, the ankle (not shown), and / or the Achilles tendon (not shown).

[0027] 2 and 3, the forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, heel region 112, medial surface 118, and lateral surface 116 are intended to define boundaries or regions of footwear 100. To that end, the forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, heel region 112, medial surface 118, and lateral surface 116 generally characterize portions of footwear 100. Certain aspects of the present disclosure may refer to portions or elements coextensive with one or more of the forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, heel region 112, medial surface 118, and / or lateral surface 116. Additionally, both the upper 102 and sole structure 104 may be characterized as having portions within the forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, heel region 112, and / or along the medial surface 118 and / or lateral surface 116. Thus, the upper 102 and sole structure 104, and / or individual portions of the upper 102 and sole structure 104, may include portions located within the forefoot region 108, the midfoot region 110, the heel region 112, and / or along the medial surface 118 and / or the lateral surface 116.

[0028] 2 and 3, the forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, heel region 112, medial surface 118, and lateral surface 116 are shown in detail. The forefoot region 108 extends from the toe end 140 to a widest portion 142 of the footwear 100. The widest portion 142 is defined or measured along a first line 144 that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 120 that extends from a distal portion of the toe end 140 to a distal portion of the heel end 146 opposite the toe end 140. The midfoot region 110 extends from the widest portion 142 to a narrowest portion 148 of the footwear 100. The narrowest portion 148 of the footwear 100 is defined as the narrowest portion of the footwear 100 measured across a second line 150 that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 120. Heel region 112 extends from thinnest portion 148 to heel end 146 of footwear 100 .

[0029] In light of the foregoing description, it should be understood that numerous variations will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art, and that individual components thereof may be incorporated into numerous articles of footwear. Accordingly, while the aspects of footwear 100 and its components may be described with reference to general areas or portions of footwear 100, it should be understood that the boundaries of forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, heel region 112, medial surface 118, and / or lateral surface 116 described herein may vary between footwear molded articles. However, the aspects of footwear 100 and its individual components may also be described with reference to precise areas or portions of footwear 100, and the appended claims herein may incorporate limitations related to these boundaries of forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, heel region 112, medial surface 118, and / or lateral surface 116 described herein.

[0030] Still referring to Figures 2 and 3, the medial surface 118 begins distally, at the toe end 140, and bows outward along the medial side of the footwear 100, along the forefoot region 108, toward the midfoot region 110. The medial surface 118 reaches a first line 144, at which point the medial surface 118 bows inward toward the central longitudinal axis 120. The medial surface 118 extends from the first line 144, or widest portion 142, toward a second line 150, or narrowest portion 148, at which point the medial surface 118 enters the midfoot region 110, i.e., upon crossing the first line 144. Upon reaching the second line 150, the medial surface 118 bows outward, away from the central longitudinal axis 120, at which point the medial surface 118 extends into the heel region 112, i.e., upon crossing the second line 150. The medial surface 118 then curves outwardly and then inwardly towards the heel end 146 , terminating at a point where the medial surface 118 meets the central longitudinal axis 120 .

[0031] The lateral surface 116 also curves outwardly along the lateral side of the footwear 100, beginning distally at the toe end 140, along the forefoot region 108 and toward the midfoot region 110. The lateral surface 116 reaches a first line 144, at which point the lateral surface 116 curves inwardly toward the central longitudinal axis 120. The lateral surface 116 extends from the first line 144, i.e., widest portion 142, to a second line 150, i.e., narrowest portion 148, at which point the lateral surface 116 enters the midfoot region 110, i.e., across the first line 144. Upon reaching the second line 150, the lateral surface 116 curves outwardly, away from the central longitudinal axis 120, at which point the lateral surface 116 extends into the heel region 112, i.e., across the second line 150. The lateral surface 116 then curves outwardly and then inwardly towards the heel end 146 , terminating at a point where the lateral surface 116 meets the central longitudinal axis 120 .

[0032] 2 and 3, the upper 102 extends along a lateral surface 116 and a medial surface 118, and across the forefoot region 108, the midfoot region 110, and the heel region 112 to accommodate and encase the user's foot. When fully assembled, the upper 102 also includes an interior surface 162 and an exterior surface 164. The interior surface 162 faces inwardly and generally defines the interior cavity 106, and the exterior surface 164 of the upper 102 faces outwardly and generally defines the periphery or boundary of the upper 102. The upper 102 also includes an opening 166 located at least partially in the heel region 112 of the footwear 100, which provides access to the interior cavity 106 and through which the foot can be passed. In some embodiments, the upper 102 can also include an instep region 168 that extends from the opening 166 in the heel region 112 over an area corresponding to the instep of the foot to an area proximate the forefoot region 108. The upper region 168 can be configured as a region similar to the region in which the tongue 170 of the present embodiment is disposed. In some embodiments, the upper 102 does not include the tongue 170, i.e., the upper 102 is tongueless.

[0033] In the illustrated embodiment, the sole structure 104 includes a midsole 172 and an outsole 174. The outsole 174 may define a bottom end or surface 176 of the sole structure 104 across the heel region 112, the midfoot region 110, and the forefoot region 108. Additionally, the outsole 174 may be a ground-engaging portion of the sole structure 104, may include a ground-engaging surface, or may be the opposite side of an insole. As shown in FIG. 1, the bottom surface 176 of the outsole 174 may include a tread pattern 178, which may include a variety of shapes and configurations. The outsole 174 may be formed from one or more materials to impart durability, wear resistance, abrasion resistance, or traction to the sole structure 104. In some embodiments, the outsole 174 may be formed from any type of elastomeric material, such as rubber, including thermoset or thermoplastic elastomers, or a thermoplastic material, such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). In some embodiments, the outsole 174 may define a Shore A hardness of up to 95. Additionally, the outsole 174 may be manufactured by processes including injection molding, vulcanization, layer-by-layer printing, additive manufacturing systems or methods, and the like.

[0034] Further, with reference to FIG. 1 , the midsole 172 can be individually constructed of a thermoplastic material, such as polyurethane (PU), and / or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), its copolymers, or similar types of materials. In other embodiments, the midsole 172 can be an EVA-Solid-Sponge ("ESS") material, an EVA foam (e.g., PUMA® ProFoam Lite™, IGNITE foam), a polyurethane, a polyether, an olefin block copolymer, an organosheet, a thermoplastic material (e.g., thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoplastic elastomer, thermoplastic polyolefin, etc.), or a supercritical foam. The midsole 172 can be a single polymeric material or a mixture of materials, such as EVA copolymers, thermoplastic polyurethanes, polyether block amide (PEBA) copolymers, and / or olefin block copolymers. An example of a PEBA material is PEBAX®. In some embodiments, the midsole 172 is manufactured by a process that includes injection molding, vulcanization, layer-by-layer printing, i.e., an additive manufacturing system or method, or the like.

[0035] In embodiments in which the midsole 172 is formed from a supercritical foaming process, the supercritical foam may be comprised of a microporous or particulate foam such as TPU, EVA, PEBAX®, or mixtures thereof, produced using a process carried out in an autoclave, injection molding apparatus, or a sufficiently heated / pressurized vessel capable of handling the mixing of a supercritical fluid (e.g., CO2, N2, or mixtures thereof) with a material (e.g., TPU, EVA, PEBAX®, or mixtures thereof) that is preferably molten. During an exemplary process, a solution of supercritical fluid and molten material is pumped into a pressurized vessel, after which the pressure in the vessel is released, causing the molecules of the supercritical fluid to rapidly convert to gas forming small pockets within the material, which expands into a foam. In further embodiments, the midsole 172 may be formed using alternative methods known in the art, including the use of an expansion press, an injection apparatus, a pellet expansion process, a cold foaming process, a compression molding technique, die cutting, or any combination thereof. For example, the midsole 172 may be formed using a process that includes an initial foaming process in which a supercritical gas is used to foam the material, followed by compression molding or stamping to a particular shape.

[0036] FIG. 4 illustrates a schematic diagram of footwear 200 similar to footwear 100 of FIGS. 1-3. Accordingly, like reference numerals are used to indicate like elements. As shown in FIG. 4, footwear 200 includes a fastening or closure system 204 for tightening or loosening upper 102 and / or sole 104 around a user's foot. In the illustrated embodiment, closure system 204 includes a track 208 and a knob 212. Track 208 is disposed on a side of footwear 200 and extends from upper 102 to sole 104. Additionally, footwear 200 includes a winding region 216 on upper 102. Closure system 204 further includes laces 220 operably engaged, e.g., threaded, with a plurality of guides 224 or eyes disposed in winding region 216 of upper 102. In some embodiments, the guides 224 are arranged in a wrapping pattern 228 such that the laces 220 can be threaded around the upper 102 and / or sole 104 to tighten or loosen them around the user's foot. As such, the guides 224 are spaced apart from one another and arranged on the lateral side 116 and medial side 118. The laces 220 extend in a serpentine or wrapping pattern 228 across the upper 102 from the lateral side 116 to the medial side 118 such that, when the laces 220 are tightened, the laces 220 pull the guides 224 closer together, thereby tightening the upper 102 and / or sole 104 around the user's foot. Similarly, when the laces 220 are loosened, the guides 224 spread apart relative to one another, allowing the upper 102 and / or sole 104 to loosen around the user's foot. Laces 220 and guides 224 may be hidden from view by a cover (not shown) or by embedding laces 220 and guides 224 within a layer of upper 102. Additionally, guides 224 may be coupled to or formed into sole 104 on both lateral and medial sides 116, 118 such that, when laces 220 are tightened, guides 224 wrap sole 104 around the user's foot by drawing lateral side 116 and medial side 118 toward one another, e.g., upward and inward relative to the foot.It is contemplated that the guides 224 may be located in various areas of the footwear 200, such as in the heel region 112 and the forefoot region 108, among other configurations.

[0037] 4, the track 208 has a first end 232 located on the upper 102 and generally within the midfoot region 110 of the footwear 200, while a second end 236 is located on the sole 104 and generally within the heel region 112 of the footwear 200. As such, the first end 232 of the track 208 is located closer to the winding region 216 than the second end 236 of the track 208. Turning to FIGS. 5 and 6, the track 208 is formed with a pair of openings 240 into which a portion of the lace 220 is inserted, and the track 208 is formed with a channel 244 in which a portion of the lace 220 is operably received, e.g., fixedly or movably attached thereto. Additionally, the channel 244 receives the knob 212 for sliding and / or rotational movement therein. In the illustrated embodiment, the track 208 is attached to both the upper 102 and the sole 104 and may be attached by being adhered, glued, fastened, or otherwise coupled to both the upper 102 and the sole 104 .

[0038] 4, the channel 244 extends from the first end 232 to the second end 236 of the track 208 such that the knob 212 can be selectively moved, e.g., by sliding, within the channel 244 from the first end 232 to the second end 236. Thus, when a user desires to tighten the footwear 200, the knob 212 can be moved from the first end 232 to the second end 236 by sliding within the channel 244 of the track 208, i.e., by moving the knob 212 away from the winding region 216. In this manner, more lace 220 is drawn through the opening 240 and into the channel 244, such that the lace 220 exerts a tightening force within the winding region 216 to draw the guide 224 closer, thus tightening the upper 102 and / or sole 104 around the user's foot. Additionally, lace 220 is coupled to knob 212 to provide additional tightening and loosening capabilities, such as by causing a portion of lace 220 to wrap around a portion of knob 212 upon rotation of knob 212. When a user desires to loosen footwear 200, knob 212 can be moved from second end 236 to first end 232 by sliding through channel 244 of track 208, i.e., by moving knob 212 toward winding region 216. In this manner, less lace 220 is pulled through opening 240 and into channel 244, which results in lace 220 relaxing within winding region 216 and allowing guides 224 to widen, which results in upper 102 and / or sole 104 becoming loose around the user's foot.

[0039] Footwear 200 of FIG. 4 also depicts a collar 248 extending from upper 102, which may be formed of a fabric / elastic material to expand around the ankle of a user. Additionally, medial surface 118 of sole 104 includes a cushioning element 252 in forefoot region 108. Cushioning element 252 may include a recess formed in sole 104 to enhance bending and torsional flexibility of forefoot region 108. For example, a recess extending from medial surface 118 toward lateral surface 116 in sole 104 may provide a reaction force similar to a trampoline, causing a user to experience dampening upon impact and a spring-like reaction force after impact. It is further contemplated that cushioning element 252 may be configured as a bladder that is pressurized to enhance the dampening and / or stiffness characteristics of sole 104. In some embodiments, cushioning element 252 is filled with a fluid, gas, or solid particles, or some combination thereof, to further enhance the shock attenuation and / or stiffness characteristics of sole 104.

[0040] 5, which is a schematic diagram of the track 208 of FIG. 4, the track 208 is shown in more detail. The track 208 includes a slot 256 and a mounting hole 260 formed in an engagement wall 264. In the illustrated embodiment, the slot 256 extends linearly along the track 208 parallel to a translational axis X defined by the track 208. A sidewall 268 of the track 208 surrounds the channel 244 and includes a first end 232 located opposite the mounting hole 260 and a second end 236 located adjacent the mounting hole 260. The slot 256 extends at least partially from the first end 232 to the second end 236. In the illustrated embodiment, the track 208 has a retaining feature in the form of a pair of protrusions 272 that extend inwardly toward one another and define a narrowed throat 276 between the mounting hole 260 and the slot 256 that is narrower than the mounting hole 260 and the slot 256. As shown in FIG. 5, the throat 276 and protrusions 272 are located closer to the second end 236 than to the first end 232.

[0041] In the illustrated embodiment, the knob 212 includes a ridge 280 on its outer periphery and a curved member 282 to enhance a user's grip of the knob 212. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 5, the knob 212 is disposed at the first end 232. In FIGS. 4 and 6, the knob 212 is disposed at the second end 236 that is retained in the mounting hole 260. To accomplish this, the knob 212 translates along the translation axis X of the track in the slot 256 through the throat 276 formed by the protrusion 272 until the knob 212 is secured within the mounting hole 260, as indicated by the phantom central arrow provided for clarity. To do so, a portion of the string 220 is drawn through an opening 240 formed in the side wall 268 of the track 208 and into the channel 244, as indicated by the outer arrow. The opening 240 is preferably located equidistant from the second end 236 and closer to the first end 232 than to the second end 236.

[0042] In another embodiment, the knob 212 is configured to rotate within the track 208 for further adjustment of the lace 220 to tighten or loosen the footwear 200 around the foot of the user. As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 , the knob 212 defines an axis of rotation R about which the knob 212 rotates in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction. Upon rotation in either direction, the lace 220 wraps a portion of the knob 212 within the channel 244, thereby drawing more of the lace 220 through the opening 240 and into the channel 244 of the track 208, thus exerting a greater tightening force on the guide 224 to tighten the footwear 200 around the foot of the user. In this manner, the knob 212 and the track 208 are configured to provide multiple means of tightening and loosening the footwear 200 around the foot of the user. In particular, knob 212 and track 208 allow for coarse adjustments, i.e., larger increments, for tightening or loosening footwear 200, like a slide, and fine adjustments, i.e., smaller increments, for tightening or loosening footwear 200, like a turn.

[0043] FIG. 8 shows a schematic diagram of a knob 284 similar to knob 212 of FIGS. 4-7. Knob 284 includes a head 288 having fins 292 extending outwardly from a top surface 296 thereof. In the illustrated embodiment, fins 292 and top surface 296 are curved, although other configurations are possible. Additionally, head 288 further includes radially spaced ridges 300 about its periphery to assist a user in gripping head 288 of knob 284. Head 288 is connected to spool 304 by an upper ramp 308. As shown in FIG. 8, upper ramp 308 is depicted as a conical surface extending from head 288 to spool 304, although upper ramp 308 may be of different sizes and shapes. Additionally, a lower ramp 312 connects the spool 304 to a flange 316 and is also a frustoconical surface similar to the upper ramp 308, but in an inverted orientation relative thereto. The spool 304 also includes a passage 320 extending transversely to the axis of rotation R, allowing a portion of the string 220 to pass through the passage 320 for attachment to the knob 284. The passage 320 in the spool 304 allows a portion of the string 220 to be wound onto the spool 304 as the knob rotates about the axis of rotation R.

[0044] 8, the flange 316 is an annular, disk-like component that separates the spool 304, and any portion of the lace 220 wound thereon, from the stepped shaft 324. The stepped shaft 324 extends from the flange 316 opposite the spool 304 and is concentric with the head 288, the spool 304, and the flange 316 relative to the axis of rotation R. The stepped shaft 324 includes a first portion 328 that extends between the flange 316 and a second portion 332 of the stepped shaft 324, the second portion 332 extending between the first portion 328 and a base 336 of the knob 212. The first portion 328 of the stepped shaft 324 defines a first diameter D1, the second portion of the stepped shaft 324 defines a second diameter D2, and the base 336 defines a third diameter D3. The first diameter D1 is smaller than both the second diameter D2 and the third diameter D3. As shown in FIG. 8, the second diameter D2 is smaller than the third diameter D3 and larger than the first diameter D1. As described below, the stepped shaft 324 is configured to allow the knob 284 to slide within the track 344, as depicted in FIG. 9. Referring back to FIG. 8, the second portion 332 of the stepped shaft 324 is provided as a generally cylindrical shaft having a smooth outer surface, although other configurations are possible. Additionally, a tab 340 extends from the base 336 toward the flange 316, i.e., vertically upward from the base 336. Although one tab 340 is depicted in the illustrated embodiment, it is contemplated that multiple tabs 340 may be disposed on the base 336. It will be appreciated that the tabs 340 of the stepped shaft 324 and the base 336 cooperate as a locking feature for the knob 284.

[0045] 8 and 9, the knob 284 and the track 344 together constitute another embodiment of a closure system for the footwear 200. In the illustrated embodiment, the track 344, which is similar to the track 208 of FIGS. 4-7, includes a mounting hole 260, a throat 276, and a slot 256 configured to correspond to the knob 284 of FIG. 8. To that end, the mounting hole 260 and the slot 256 define a dimension corresponding to the second diameter D2, and the throat 276 defines a dimension corresponding to the first diameter D1. Thus, when the knob 284 is engaged with the track 344 in a locked configuration, i.e., when the knob 284 is received within the mounting hole 260 at the second end 236 of the track 344, the knob 284 is configured to be rotatably secured within the mounting hole 260 by engaging the second portion 332 of the stepped shaft 324 within the mounting hole 260. This can be accomplished by a user lifting the knob 284 away from the track 344 until the base 336 contacts the track 344. The knob 284 can then be rotated about the axis of rotation R, winding the string 220 onto the spool 304 and locking the tab 340 into an opening 348 formed through the engagement wall 264 of the track 344 adjacent the mounting hole 260 to prevent the string 220 from unwinding from the spool 304. The tab 340 is further configured to fit within the opening 348 via an interference fit to couple the base 336 to the track 344. When a user wishes to rotate the knob 284, a downward pressure can be applied to the head 288 of the knob 284 to disengage the tab 340 from the opening 348. Because the mounting hole 260 and the second portion 332 of the stepped shaft 324 have the same diameter D2, rotational and vertical movement of the second portion 332 within the mounting hole 260 is resisted by friction between the second portion 332 and the engagement wall 264 of the track 344. In other embodiments, rotational and vertical translation of the second portion 332 within the mounting hole is unaffected, or substantially unaffected, by frictional resistance between the second portion 332 and the engagement wall 264. Rather, it has been found that the pulling force pulling a portion of the knob 284 from the string 220 prevents substantial vertical and / or rotational displacement of the knob 284 without user intervention.

[0046] 8 and 9, the track 344, like the track 208, has a slot 256 extending generally linearly between the first end 232 and the second end 236. Thus, to move the knob 284 from the second end 236 to the first end 232, thereby loosening the footwear 200, a user can press down on the head 288 of the knob 284 to move the second portion 332 out of engagement within the mounting hole 260, such that the first portion 328 of the stepped shaft 324 is disposed within the mounting hole 260 and the flange 316 rests against the engagement wall 264 of the track 344. Because the first diameter D1 of the first portion 328 is smaller than the second diameter D2 of the second portion 332 and is also smaller than the diameter D2 of the mounting hole 260, the first portion 328 of the stepped shaft 324 is free to move within the mounting hole 260. Further, in the tightened configuration, i.e., where the knob 284 is located at the second end 236 of the track 344, tension applied to the knob 284 by the string 220 can pull the first portion 328 toward the throat 276 of the track 344. It is also contemplated that a user can depress the head 288 of the knob 284 and manually push the knob 284 toward the throat 276 of the track 344, with or without the assistance of the pulling force applied by the string 220. The first portion 328 is then configured to move through the throat 276 of the track 344 and into the slot 256, as the first diameter D1 corresponds to the dimension of the throat 276. Once the first portion 328 is positioned within the slot 256, the user can move the knob 284 toward the first end 232 to completely release the tension on the lace 220, eliminating the clamping force of the guide 224 in the winding region 216 and allowing the footwear 200 to relax or loosen for the user to move their foot in and out.

[0047] The user can selectively move, e.g., slide, the knob 284 back toward the second end 236 by sliding the first portion 328 through the slot 256 and into the throat 276. The knob 284 is then pulled or pushed to move the first portion 328 of the stepped shaft 324 through the throat 276 and into the mounting hole 260. The user then pulls the head 288 of the knob 284 upward to lift the first portion 328 out of the mounting hole 260 and bring the second portion 332 into position within the mounting hole 260 for engagement with the engagement wall 264 of the track 344. In doing so, the knob 284 is moved to a semi-locked configuration. In this semi-locked configuration, the movement of the knob 284 away from the winding region 216, i.e., toward the second end of the track 344, causes the footwear 200 to be substantially tightened around the user's foot by the tension or pulling force transmitted by the lace 220 to the guide 224 of the winding region 216. Thus, in the semi-locked configuration, the knob 284 is secured within the mounting hole 260 from translation along the track 344, at least in part, by the engagement between the projection 272 of the throat 276 and the second diameter D2 of the second portion 332 of the stepped shaft 324. To further move the knob 284 to the locked configuration, the user aligns the tab 340 of the base 336 on the knob 284 with one of the openings 348 on the engagement wall 264 of the track 344, such as by rotating the knob 284 about the rotation axis R. This includes wrapping a portion of the lace 220 around the spool 304 indicated by the upper ramp 308 and the lower ramp 312, thereby providing fine adjustments to the tension applied to the footwear 200. In this manner, the knob 284 and the track 344 are configured to operate by rotation and translation to selectively tighten or loosen the footwear 200.

[0048] 10 and 11 depict an alternative embodiment of the knob 354 and the track 356, which together constitute yet another embodiment of a closure system similar to the system described in connection with FIGS. 8 and 9. As such, like reference numerals are used to indicate like structures. As shown in FIG. 10, the knob 354 has substantially the same structure as the knob of FIG. 8, but the spool 304 is connected between the head 288 and the shaft 360 with the annular gasket 364 fitted around and coupled to the shaft 360 between the base 336 and the flange 316. In particular, the annular gasket 364 is configured to be compressed by the engagement wall 264 of the track 356. As such, the annular gasket 364 is made of an elastomeric or flexible material, such as rubber or polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or a thermoplastic elastomer, among other suitable materials. The annular gasket 364 defines an outer diameter equal to the dimension of the mounting hole 260, such as a second diameter D2. In this manner, the annular gasket 364 is configured to engage the engagement wall 264 of the track 356 when positioned within the mounting hole 260 at the second end 236 of the track 356, thereby acting as a locking feature for the knob 354 to resist dislodging or translation within the track 356. Additionally, the annular gasket 364 may be sufficiently rotated within the mounting hole 260 to allow a portion of the lace 220 to wrap around the spool 304 as desired by the user to more finely adjust the tightening force of the footwear 200. At the same time, due to the elastomeric properties, the frictional resistance between the annular gasket 364 and the engagement wall 264 of the track 356 is adjusted sufficiently to hold or secure the knob 354 against rotation when released by the user. Additionally, the elastomeric properties of the annular gasket 364 allow the shaft 360 to be pushed or translated through the throat 276 of the track 356, compressing the annular gasket 364 until the shaft 360 is positioned within the slot 256, which can then return to its original shape, i.e., decompress. In this manner, the knob 354 provides the same function as the knob 284 of FIG. 8, but with a shorter height, i.e., the distance from the head 288 to the base 336.

[0049] 12 illustrates another embodiment of the knob 376 including a locking feature in the form of a modified head 380 having an upper disk 384 and a lower disk 388. The upper disk 384 of the head 380 includes a bottom surface 392 having a plurality of angled teeth 396 extending therefrom in a radially symmetrical fashion. A shaft 400 is connected to the bottom surface 392 of the upper disk 384, and a rotation axis R passes therethrough. Additionally, the lower disk 388 of the head 380 includes a top surface 404 having a plurality of opposing angled teeth 408 extending therefrom in a radially symmetrical fashion. The angled teeth 396 are configured to engage, e.g., interlock, with the opposing angled teeth 408 to secure the upper disk 384 to the lower disk 388 such that rotation of the upper disk 384 and / or the lower disk 388 relative to one another is prevented when secured together. Additionally, a passageway 412 is disposed within the upper disc 384 such that rotation thereof causes a substantial portion of the string 220 to wrap around the upper disc 384. It is contemplated that a portion of the string 220 may be wound around the shaft 400 between the upper disc 384 and the lower disc 388 within an annular space 416 surrounding the shaft 400, which further allows for compression between and / or between the angled teeth 396 and the opposing angled teeth 408 due to the resiliently flexible material of the string 220.

[0050] Additionally, similar to knob 354 of FIG. 10, knob 376 has an axis 420 with an annular gasket 424 disposed about and coupled to axis 420 between base 428 and lower disk 388. In some embodiments, upper disk 384 includes elongated fins 438 for improving a user's grip. In some embodiments, upper disk 384 is configured to be rotatably attached to shaft 400, while lower disk 388 is configured to be fixedly attached to shaft 400. For example, shaft 400 can be threaded onto bottom surface 392 of upper disk 384 such that partially removing upper disk 384 from shaft 400 disengages upper disk 384 from lower disk 388 such that angled teeth 396 and opposing angled teeth 408 no longer engage. In some embodiments, upper disk 384 is configured to be fixedly attached to shaft 400, and both upper disk 384 and shaft 400 are configured to rotate relative to lower disk 388. For example, shaft 400 is concentrically disposed within axis 420 and secured to base 428 by nut 436 such that shaft 400 can rotate relative to axis 420 and base 428. Additionally, shaft 400 has a dimension, e.g., height, that allows for vertical movement relative to base 428 and axis 420 such that nut 436 contacts base 428 when upper disk 384 is lifted away from lower disk 388. Nut 436 then moves away from base 428 when upper disk 384 is lowered toward lower disk 388. Knob 376 can be used in conjunction with engagement walls 264 of tracks 344, 356 of FIGS. 9 and 11, respectively, to provide another embodiment of a closure system for footwear 200.

[0051] FIG. 13 illustrates yet another embodiment of a knob 440 that is most similar to knob 354 of FIG. 10, but in which spool 304 and axle 360 ​​are relocated relative to head 288. As shown in FIG. 13, axle 360, with annular gasket 364 disposed thereon, extends between flange 316 and head 288, and spool 304 extends below axle 360 ​​between flange 316 and base 336. In this manner, knob 440 of FIG. 13 is configured to guide lace 220 around spool 304 and down flange 316 and axle 360 ​​as lace 220 is threaded through passageway 320. Knob 354 may be used with engagement walls 264 of tracks 344, 354 of FIGS. 9 and 11, respectively, to form yet another embodiment of a closure system for footwear 200.

[0052] 14, a schematic diagram of a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a track 452 shows a sidewall 456 including an outwardly extending lip 460 at an upper end 464. The sidewall 456 extends from the upper end 464 to a bottom wall 468 at a lower end 472. Additionally, an engagement wall 476 extends inwardly from the sidewall 456 at a distance from the bottom wall 468 and is closer to the upper end 464 than the lower end 472. As a result, the engagement wall 476 forms a chamber 480 within the track 452 between the bottom wall 468 and the engagement wall 476. It will be appreciated that the engagement wall 476 forms the slot 256, the mounting hole 260, and the throat 276 of the track 344. It is contemplated that when the knob 440 is used with the track 452, the spool 304 of the knob 440 may be disposed within the chamber 480. Thus, lace 220 can be wound onto spool 304 within chamber 480 while being concealed by engagement wall 476 and therefore hidden from view and protected from the environment surrounding footwear 200.

[0053] 15, an alternative embodiment of the track 484 includes an engagement wall 488 that defines a linear slot 492 having a ramp 496 that extends diagonally toward a pit 500. The slot 492 extends from the first end 232 toward the second end 236 of the track 484, with the ramp 496 and pit 500 disposed at or adjacent the second end 236 of the track 484, i.e., away from the winding region 216 when installed in the footwear 200. It will be appreciated that any of the knobs 212, 284, 354, 376, 440 described above may travel within the slot 492, pass through the ramp 496, and seat within the pit 500. Pit 500 is located at second end 236 of track 484 and is offset from slot 492 and separated therefrom by bumper 504 such that any of knobs 212, 284, 354, 376, 440 remain held in place within pit 500 with the aid of tension or clamping force applied to knobs 212, 284, 354, 376, 440 by laces 220. Track 484 can be used in conjunction with any of knobs 212, 284, 354, 376, 440 to form a closure system for footwear 200.

[0054] FIG. 16 depicts another embodiment of a track 512 similar to that of FIG. 14, except that it includes a plurality of pits 516a, 516b, 516c arranged consecutively in a row. In the illustrated embodiment, the ramp 496 is adjacent to an innermost or first pit 516a, which is partially defined by a first bumper 520a. A central or second pit 516b is adjacent to the innermost pit 516a and separated from the innermost pit 516a by a second bumper 520b facing the first bumper 520a. An outermost or third pit 516c is adjacent to the central pit 516b and separated from the central pit 516b by a third bumper 520c facing the second bumper 520b. In this manner, a user can move any of the knobs 212, 284, 354, 376, 440 into and out of secure engagement with any of the pits 516a, 516b, 516c while being held in place with the aid of the tension or tightening force applied to the knobs 212, 284, 354, 376, 440 by the lace 220. Furthermore, because the central pit 516b is positioned an incrementally greater distance from the winding region 216 than the innermost pit 516a, and the outermost pit 516c is positioned an incrementally greater distance from the winding region 216 than the central pit 516b and the innermost pit 516a, a user can selectively adjust the tension or tightening force applied to the footwear 200 by the lace 220 by positioning the knobs 212, 284, 354, 376, 440 in any of the pits 516a, 516b, 516c. The track 512 can be used in conjunction with any of the knobs 212 , 284 , 354 , 376 , 440 to form a closure system for the footwear 200 .

[0055] 17 depicts yet another embodiment of a track 524 having an engagement wall 528 that defines a linear raceway 532 including a plurality of corrals 536a, 536b, 536c, 536d extending from the first end 232 to the second end 236 and spaced therealong. Each of the corrals 536a, 536b, 536c, 536d is defined at least in part by a narrow bar 540 in the form of an L-shaped member rotated 180 degrees, although other configurations are possible. Each bar 540 extends from the engagement wall 528 and partially separates a respective corral 536a, 536b, 536c, 536d from the raceway 532. The first corral 536a is located near the first end 232 and the fourth corral 536d is located near the second end 236, while the second and third corrals 536b, 536c are sequentially spaced therebetween, as shown in FIG. 17. It will be appreciated that any of the knobs 212, 284, 354, 376, 440 can be moved along the raceway 532 into any of the corrals 536a, 536b, 536c, 536d to adjust the amount of tension or clamping force on the footwear 200. Because the corrals 536a, 536b, 536c, 536d are spaced along the raceway 532 between the first end 232 and the second end 236, the track 524 provides a wide range of adjustment of tension on the footwear 200. Track 524 can be used in conjunction with any of knobs 212 , 284 , 354 , 376 , 440 to form a closure system for footwear 200 .

[0056] Nos. 5,325,613, 5,600,875, 5,638,588, 5,651,191, 5,651,198, and 5,669,116 are all commonly assigned to PUMA SE and are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. It is contemplated that knobs 212, 284, 354, 376, 440 may be modified to include a closure mechanism instead of or in addition to the head to provide additional tightening functionality when used with laces 220 and attached to footwear 200 of the present disclosure.

[0057] The knobs 212, 284, 354, 376, 440 and the tracks 208, 344, 356, 452, 484, 512, 524 may be made of a thermoplastic material, such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), although it will be understood that other suitable materials may be used. In some embodiments, the tracks 208, 344, 356, 452, 484, 512, 524 are each manufactured as a single piece or, alternatively, as separate pieces that are welded, fused, glued, or secured together. In some embodiments, any of the tracks 208, 344, 356, 452, 484, 512, 524 may be coupled to the footwear 200 by adhesives, fasteners, such as stitching or rivets, welding, fusing, or otherwise suitably attaching to one or both of the upper 102 and the sole 104.

[0058] In other embodiments, other configurations are possible. For example, certain features and combinations of features presented with respect to certain embodiments in the above discussion can be utilized in other embodiments and other combinations, as appropriate. Additionally, any of the embodiments described herein may be modified to include any of the structures or methodologies disclosed in connection with other embodiments. Additionally, the disclosure is not limited to the types of articles of footwear specifically illustrated. Additionally, aspects of the articles of footwear of any of the embodiments disclosed herein may be modified to work with any type of footwear, apparel, or other athletic equipment.

[0059] As previously mentioned, although the present invention has been described above with reference to specific embodiments and examples, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention is not necessarily so limited, and that numerous other embodiments, examples, uses, modifications, and departures from the embodiments, examples, and uses are intended to be encompassed by the claims appended hereto. The entire disclosure of each patent and publication cited herein is incorporated by reference as if each such patent or publication were individually incorporated by reference herein. Various features and advantages of the present invention are set forth in the following claims. [Industrial Applicability]

[0060] Numerous variations on the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the foregoing description. Accordingly, this description is to be construed as illustrative only and is presented to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the invention. The exclusive rights to all modifications that come within the scope of the appended claims are reserved.

[0061] (CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS) This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 292,280, filed December 21, 2021, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

Claims

1. Footwear having an upper, a sole, and a closure system, The closure system comprises: Trucks and Knob and laces configured to operatively engage an upper of the footwear; The laces are attached to the knobs, which are used to tighten or loosen the footwear. configured to move translationally and rotationally within the track; the knob is translatable along a linear axis X and rotatable about a rotation axis R that intersects the linear axis X; the track extends across the upper and the sole of the footwear; footwear.

2. the laces operably engage a plurality of guides that define a winding region of the footwear; Footwear according to claim 1.

3. The track extends along the upper in the heel region. Footwear according to claim 1.

4. the track having a first end located closer to the winding region than a second end; Footwear according to claim 2.

5. The knob is configured to translate and rotate within a channel defined by the track. It is made Footwear according to claim 2.

6. When the knob is located at the second end of the track, the footwear is tightened. Footwear according to claim 4.

7. Footwear having an upper, a sole, and a closure system, comprising: The closure system comprises: a track having a first end opposite a second end, the engagement wall extending from the first end to the second end; a knob configured to be received within the track; a string configured to be operably received by the knob; The string is inserted through an opening formed in the track; the knob is configured to be moved from a first end to a second end of the track to tighten the footwear; the track includes a slot extending linearly along the track and at least one pit offset from the slot; The pit is configured to receive a knob. footwear.

8. the engagement wall defines the slot, the mounting hole, and the throat; 8. Footwear according to claim 7.

9. the mounting hole is located adjacent the second end of the track. Footwear according to claim 8.

10. The slot extends linearly between the first end and the second end. Footwear according to claim 8.

11. the engagement wall is disposed between the upper and lower ends of the side walls of the track; Footwear according to claim 8.

12. the engagement wall defines the slot with the pit located adjacent a second end, the pit separated from the slot by a bumper; 8. Footwear according to claim 7.

13. The engagement wall defines a plurality of pits at a second end thereof. Footwear according to claim 12.

14. Footwear having an upper, a sole, and a closure system, comprising: The closure system comprises: a track having a first end and a second end, the track extending across the upper and sole of the footwear, an engagement wall extending from the first end to the second end, and a protrusion at one end narrowing the track; a knob configured to be received within the track and engage the protrusion during assembly; a lace configured to be operably received by the knob, the lace being inserted through an opening formed in the track, and the knob configured to tighten the footwear as it rotates and translates within the track. footwear.

15. the knob including a head and a shaft; Footwear according to claim 14.

16. the knob shaft includes a first portion defining a first diameter and a second portion defining a second diameter; Footwear according to claim 15.

17. the shaft of the knob including an annular gasket disposed thereon; Footwear according to claim 15.

18. the knob includes a head having an upper disk and a lower disk configured to rotate relative to one another; Footwear according to claim 14.

19. Footwear having an upper, a sole, and a closure system, comprising: The closure system comprises: a track having a first end and a second end, the track extending across the upper and the sole, an engagement wall extending from the first end to the second end; a knob configured to be received within the track; a lace configured to be operably received by the knob, the lace being inserted through an opening formed in the track, and the knob configured to tighten the footwear as it rotates and translates within the track. footwear.

Images