Footwear having a closure system

Abstract

The closure system for the footwear includes a closure mechanism, a fastening element, and a cord configured to operatively engage an upper of the footwear, the closure mechanism configured to actuate to adjust the footwear from a loosened configuration to a tightened configuration, and the fastening element configured to engage the closure mechanism to secure the footwear in the tightened configuration.

Description

[Technical field]

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

[0002] Many conventional shoes or other footwear generally include an upper and a sole attached to the lower end of the upper. Conventional shoes further include an interior space, i.e., a void or cavity formed by the interior surfaces of the upper and the sole, that receives the user's foot before the shoe is secured to the foot. 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 worn. In some cases, the sole may include multiple components, such as an outsole, a midsole, and a top. 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 additional 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 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 plates embedded in the sole to increase the overall stiffness of the sole and reduce energy loss during use.

[0003] The upper generally defines an interior cavity that extends upward from the sole and completely or partially encases the foot. In most cases, the upper extends across the instep and toe regions of the foot, as well as across its medial and lateral sides. Many footwear items may also include a tongue that extends across the instep region and bridges the gap between the medial and lateral edges of the upper, defining an opening into the cavity. The tongue may also be located under 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 entry or exit of the foot from the interior space or cavity. In addition, the lacing system may allow the user to adjust certain dimensions of the upper or sole, thereby allowing the upper to accommodate a wide variety of foot types having different sizes and shapes.

[0004] Many shoe uppers can include a wide variety of materials that can be utilized to form the upper and selected for use based on one or more intended uses of the shoe. The upper may also include portions that include various materials specific to certain areas of the upper. For example, additional stability may be desired next to the front or heel area of ​​the upper to provide a higher degree of resistance or stiffness. In contrast, other portions of the shoe may include soft woven fabrics to provide areas that are stretch-resistant, flexible, breathable, or moisture-wicking. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, there is often a desire for footwear having uppers with increased comfort and a better fit along with improved closure mechanisms. [Means for solving the problem]

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

[0007] In one aspect, a closure system for footwear includes a closure mechanism, a fastening element, and a cord configured to operatively engage an upper of the footwear, the closure mechanism configured to be actuated to adjust the footwear from a loosened configuration to a tightened configuration, and the fastening element configured to engage the closure mechanism to secure the footwear in the tightened configuration.

[0008] In some implementations, the closure mechanism is attached to the upper on the outside of the footwear in the heel region. The cord operably engages the closure mechanism and extends through a wrap region adjacent the tongue of the footwear. In some embodiments, the fastening element is a strap having a receptacle defined by a fastening surface, the fastening surface configured to releasably engage with the closure mechanism. Further, the fastening element extends across the upper from the medial side to the lateral side of the footwear. In some embodiments, the fastening element is configured to at least partially conceal the cord. In one particular embodiment, the fastening element is formed of an elastic material and is attached to the sole of the footwear at a fixed end.

[0009] In another aspect, a closure system for footwear includes a closure mechanism, a fastening element, and a cord operably coupled to the upper and the closure mechanism, the fastening element including a first segment and a second segment overlapping the first segment, and the closure mechanism is configured to be actuated to fasten or loosen the footwear.

[0010] In some embodiments, the second segment of the fixation element includes a free end configured to be articulated between an unlocked position and a locked position. Further, the second segment of the fixation element releasably engages with the closure mechanism in the locked position, and the second segment is spaced from the closure mechanism in the unlocked position. Further, the first segment of the fixation element engages with the closure mechanism in both the locked and unlocked positions. In some embodiments, the closure mechanism is centrally disposed proximate to the upper and a tongue of the footwear. In some embodiments, the cord is threaded through a plurality of eyelets of the upper and is at least partially concealed by the fixation element.

[0011] In yet another aspect, a closure system for a footwear includes a strap having a first segment and a second segment, a band, and a plurality of retention features disposed on an upper, the band being coupled to at least one of the retention features and to the strap, and the second segment of the strap being configured to be tensioned to tighten the footwear.

[0012] In some implementations, the second segment of the strap is configured to be removably secured to the first segment of the strap. The strap is wrapped around the heel end of the upper and extends from the lateral side to the medial side. In some examples, the first segment of the strap includes a pulley attached to a first end and the second segment of the strap includes a free end, and pulling the free end of the strap causes the first end of the strap to slide along the upper. Further, pulling the free end of the strap exerts a tension force on the band, which exerts a tension force on the upper. In some embodiments, the band is formed of an elastic material. In some embodiments, a user may adjust the tightness of the footwear by adjusting the band relative to the retention feature, the strap, or both.

[0013] Other aspects of the footwear, particularly its features and advantages, will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon review of the drawings 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. 2 is a bottom and medial perspective view of a piece of footwear configured as a right shoe including an upper and 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 a user's skeletal foot structure superimposed on the footwear; FIG. [Figure 4] 1 is a schematic diagram of a lateral side of footwear configured as a left shoe in an unlocked configuration according to one embodiment of the disclosure. [Diagram 5] 5 is a schematic diagram of the footwear of FIG. 4 in a fixed configuration. [Figure 6] 1 is a schematic diagram of a toe end and lateral perspective view of another piece of footwear configured as a left shoe in a fixed configuration according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] 1 is a schematic diagram of a toe-end and lateral perspective view of yet another piece of footwear configured as a left shoe in a fixed configuration according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] 1 is a schematic diagram of a side view of yet another piece of footwear configured as a left shoe in an unlocked configuration according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] 9 is a schematic diagram of the footwear of FIG. 8 in a fixed configuration. [Figure 10] 10 is a schematic diagram of a partial perspective view of a pulley of the footwear of FIGS. 8 and 9; FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0015] The following description and the accompanying drawings disclose various embodiments or configurations of shoes and sole structures. Although the embodiments of the shoes or sole structures are disclosed with respect to sports shoes, such as running shoes, tennis shoes, basketball shoes, etc., the concepts related to the embodiments of the shoes or sole structures may be applied to a wide range of footwear and footwear styles, including, for example, cross-training shoes, football shoes, golf shoes, hiking shoes, hiking boots, ski and snowboard boots, soccer shoes and cleats, walking shoes, and track cleats. The concepts of the shoes or sole structures may also be applied to footwear that is considered to be non-athletic, including dress shoes, sandals, loafers, slippers, and heels. In addition to footwear, certain concepts described herein may also be applied to and incorporated into other types of clothing or other athletic equipment, including helmets, pads or protective pads, shin guards, and gloves. Furthermore, certain concepts described herein may be incorporated into cushions, backpack straps, golf clubs, or other consumer or industrial products. Thus, the concepts described herein may be utilized in a variety of products.

[0016] The term "about," as used herein, refers to variations in numerical quantities that may occur through, for example, typical measuring and manufacturing procedures used for footwear or other products that may include embodiments disclosed herein, inadvertent errors in these procedures, differences in manufacture, source, or purity of ingredients used to make a composition or mixture, and the like. Throughout this disclosure, the terms "about" and "approximately" 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 footwear, such as uppers and / or soles or sole structures. The uppers may include knitted components, woven fabrics, and / or nonwoven fabrics. Knitted components may be made by knitting yarns, weaving yarns, and nonwoven fabrics by producing a single nonwoven web. Knitted fabrics include fabrics formed by warp knitting, weft knitting, flat knitting, circular knitting, and / or other suitable knitting operations. Knitted fabrics may have, for example, a plain knit construction, a mesh knit construction, and / or a rib knit construction. Woven fabrics include fabrics formed by any of a number of weaving configurations, such as, but not limited to, plain weave, twill weave, satin weave, dobbin weave, jacquard weave, double weave, and / or double cloth weave. Nonwoven fabrics include, for example, fabrics produced by airlaid and / or spunlaid processes. The upper may comprise different materials, such as first threads, second threads, and / or third threads, 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 and together define an interior cavity 106 (see FIGS. 2 and 3) into which the 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 portion of the foot, including the toes, the ball of the foot, and the joints that connect 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, along with the bridge of the foot. Heel region 112 is closely adjacent to midfoot region 110 and generally corresponds to that portion of footwear 100 that wraps around the rear 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 10 of the footwear 100 is formed from a knit construction 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. Using 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) making up 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 forming the various filaments and fibers of the yarn. For example, cotton may provide a knitted material with a soft effect, biodegradability, or natural aesthetics. Elastane and oriented polyester may each provide the knitted component with desired elasticity and recovery. Rayon may provide a high shine and moisture wicking material, wool may provide a material with increased moisture wicking, nylon may be a durable material that is abrasion resistant, and polyester may provide a hydrophobic and durable material.

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

[0022] In some embodiments, the stretchability of the knit structure may be measured based on comparing 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 the knit structure has had a force applied to the knit structure on the outside. In further embodiments, the upper 102 may also include additional structural elements. For example, in some embodiments, a heel plate or cover (not shown) may be provided on the heel region 112 to provide additional support to the user's heel. In some examples, 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 types, thread types, or properties associated with different stitch types or thread types, such as elasticity, aesthetic appearance, thickness, breathability, or scuff 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 can include one or more components, which can include an outsole, a midsole, a heel, a vamp, and / or an insole. For example, in some embodiments, the sole structure can include an outsole that provides structural integrity to the sole structure, an outsole that provides traction to the user, a midsole that provides a cushioning system, and an insole that supports the user's arch. Also, the insole can be a strobel board, a forefoot board, a lasting board, or the like, or a combination thereof, and the insole can be provided between the upper 102 and the sole structure 104, or the insole can be provided as part of the upper 102.

[0024] Additionally, an insole can be disposed within the interior cavity 106 of the upper 102, which can be in direct contact with the user's foot while the footwear 100 is worn. Additionally, the upper 102 can also include a liner (not shown), which can 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 line the entire interior cavity 106 or only a portion of it. In some embodiments, a binding (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 on the footwear 100.

[0025] 2 and 3, the footwear 100 also defines a lateral side 116 and a medial side 118. The lateral side 116 corresponds to the portion of the footwear 100 that faces outwardly and the medial side 118 corresponds to the portion of the footwear 100 that faces inwardly when the shoe is worn by a user. Thus, the footwear 100 has opposing lateral sides 116 and 118. The medial side 118 and the lateral side 116 are adjacent to one another along a longitudinal central plane or axis 120 of the footwear 100 that is coplanar with the longitudinal axis L of FIG. 1. As discussed further herein, the longitudinal central plane or axis 120 may define a central mid-axis between the medial side 118 and the lateral side 116 of the footwear 100. In other words, the longitudinal plane or axis 120 may extend between the rear proximal end 122 of the footwear 100 and the front distal end 124 of the footwear 100, and may continuously define the center 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 extending through the rear proximal end 122 of the heel region 112 to the front distal end 124 of the forefoot region 108.

[0026] 2 and 3, unless otherwise noted, footwear 100 may be defined by a forefoot region 108, a midfoot region 110, and a heel region 112. The forefoot region 108 may generally correspond to a portion of footwear 100 that encases a portion of a foot 128 including one or more of the toes or phalanges 130, the ball of the foot 132, and the joints 134 that connect the metatarsals 136 of the foot 128 to the toes or phalanges 130. The midfoot region 110 is proximate and adjacent to the forefoot region 108. The midfoot region 110 generally corresponds to a portion of footwear 100 that encases the arch of the foot 128 along with the bridge of the foot 128. The heel region 112 is proximate and adjacent to the 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 side 118, and lateral side 116 are intended to define boundaries or regions of the footwear 100. To that end, the forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, heel region 112, medial side 118, and lateral side 116 generally characterize sections of the footwear 100. Some embodiments 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 side 118, and / or lateral side 116. Additionally, both the upper 102 and sole structure 104 may be characterized as having portions along the forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, heel region 112, and / or medial side 118 and / or lateral side 116. Thus, the upper 102 and sole structure 104, and / or individual portions of the upper 102 and sole structure 104, may include the forefoot region 108, the midfoot region 110, the heel region 112, and / or portions thereof located along the medial side 118 and / or the lateral side 116.

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

[0029] In view 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 pieces of footwear. Accordingly, aspects of footwear 100 and its components may be described with reference to general areas or portions of footwear 100, with an understanding of the boundaries of forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, heel region 112, medial side 118, and / or lateral side 116, as described herein. However, aspects of footwear 100 and its individual components may also be described with reference to precise areas or portions of footwear 100, and the scope of the appended claims herein may incorporate limitations related to these boundaries of forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, heel region 112, medial side 118, and / or lateral side 116, as discussed herein.

[0030] 2 and 3, the medial side 118 begins at the distal toe tip 140 and curves outward along the medial side of the footwear 100, along the forefoot region 108, and toward the midfoot region 110. The medial side 118 reaches a first line 144, at which point the medial side 118 curves inward toward the central longitudinal axis 120. The medial side 118 extends from the first line 144, i.e., widest portion 142, toward a second line 150, i.e., thinnest portion 148, at which point the medial side 118 enters the midfoot region 110, i.e., crosses the first line 144. Upon reaching the second line 150, the medial side 118 curves outward away from the central longitudinal axis 120, at which point the medial side 118 extends into the heel region 112, i.e., crosses the second line 150. The medial side 118 then curves outward and then inward toward the heel end 146 , terminating at the point where the medial side 118 intersects with the central longitudinal axis 120 .

[0031] The lateral side 116 also begins at the distal toe tip 140 and curves outward along the lateral side of the footwear 100, along the forefoot region 108, and toward the midfoot region 110. The lateral side 116 reaches a first line 144, at which point the lateral side 116 curves inward toward the central longitudinal axis 120. The lateral side 116 extends from the first line 144, i.e., widest portion 142, toward a second line 150, i.e., thinnest portion 148, at which point the lateral side 116 enters the midfoot region 110, i.e., crosses the first line 144. Upon reaching the second line 150, the lateral side 116 curves outward away from the central longitudinal axis 120, at which point the lateral side 116 extends into the heel region 112, i.e., crosses the second line 150. The lateral side 116 then curves outwardly and then inwardly towards the heel end 146 , terminating at the point where the lateral side 116 intersects with the central longitudinal axis 120 .

[0032] 2 and 3, the upper 102 extends along a lateral side 116 and a medial side 118 across the forefoot region 108, the midfoot region 110, and the heel region 112 to contain and encase the user's foot. When fully assembled, the upper 102 also includes an inner surface 162 and an outer surface 164. The inner surface 162 faces medially and generally defines the interior cavity 106, and the outer surface 164 of the upper 102 faces outward 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 through which the foot can be inserted and removed. In some embodiments, upper 102 may also include an instep region 168 that extends from opening 166 in heel region 112, across an area corresponding to the instep of the foot, to an area adjacent forefoot region 108. Instep region 168 may include an area similar to the area in which tongue 170 of this embodiment is located. In some embodiments, upper 102 does not include tongue 170, i.e., 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 or may include a ground-engaging surface, and may be the opposite side of the insole of the sole structure 104. 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, abrasion 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, i.e., additive manufacturing systems or methods, and the like.

[0034] 1, the midsole 172 may be individually constructed from a thermoplastic material, such as, for example, polyurethane (PU), and / or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), copolymers thereof, or similar types of materials. In other embodiments, the midsole 172 may be constructed from an EVA-Solid-Sponge ("ESS") material, EVA foam (e.g., PUMA® ProFoam Lite TM, IGNITE foam), polyurethane, polyether, olefin block copolymer, organic sheet, thermoplastic material (e.g., thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoplastic elastomer, thermoplastic polyolefin, etc.), or supercritical foam. The midsole 172 may be a single polymeric material or may be a blend of materials such as EVA copolymer, thermoplastic polyurethane, polyether block amide (PEBA) copolymer, and / or olefin block copolymer. One example of a PEBA material is PEBAX®. In some embodiments, the midsole 172 is manufactured by a process including injection molding, vulcanization, layer-by-layer printing, i.e., additive manufacturing systems or methods, and the like.

[0035] In embodiments in which the midsole 172 is formed from a supercritical foaming process, the supercritical foam may include microporous or particulate foams such as TPU, EVA, PEBAX®, or mixtures thereof, produced using a process carried out in an autoclave, injection molding machine, or any sufficiently heated / pressurized vessel capable of processing the mixture of a supercritical fluid (e.g., CO2, N2, or mixtures thereof) with a material (e.g., TPU, EVA, polyolefin elastomer, or mixtures thereof) that is preferably molten. In one 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 and expanding the material 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 molding machine, a pellet expansion process, a cold foaming process, compression molding techniques, die cutting, or any combination thereof. For example, the midsole 172 may be formed using a process that includes an initial foaming step in which a supercritical gas is used to foam a material that is then compression molded or die cut into a particular shape.

[0036] 4 and 5 show schematic diagrams of an article of footwear 200 having a fastening system or closure system 204 including a closure mechanism 208 and a cord 212 operably coupled to the upper 102 and the closure mechanism 208 for tightening and / or loosening the footwear 200. Additionally, the closure system 204 includes a fastening element 216 in the form of a strap configured to releasably engage with the closure mechanism 208. If desired, a user can adjust the footwear 200 from a loosened configuration to a tightened configuration by actuating the closure mechanism 208 to apply a pulling force to the cord 212 to tighten the upper 102 and / or sole 104 of the footwear 200 around the user's foot. The user can then secure the footwear 200 in the tightened configuration by articulating the strap 216 into engagement with the closure mechanism 208. Additionally, the user can adjust the footwear 200 from a tightened to a loosened configuration by reversing the steps described above, i.e., by disengaging the strap 216 from the closure mechanism 208 and then actuating the closure mechanism 208 to loosen the cord 212 or allow the cord 212 to loosen. In this manner, the closure system 204 is configured to tighten and loosen the footwear 200.

[0037] In the illustrated embodiment, the closure mechanism 208 is provided in the form of a disk-like rotating ratchet device attached to the outer upper 102 of the footwear 200 and located within the heel region 112. In some embodiments, the closure mechanism 208 includes a rotating ratchet mechanism (not shown) that can be actuated by rotating a portion of the closure mechanism 208 to apply tension to withdraw a length of the cord 212. Additionally, the ratchet mechanism is prevented from rotating in the reverse direction, thus locking into place in radial increments as the footwear is further tightened. As the cord 212 is withdrawn by repeated rotation of the closure system, the upper 102 becomes tightened around the user's foot within the interior cavity 106. It is contemplated that the closure mechanism 208 may be similar to those disclosed in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,325,613, 5,600,875, 5,606,778, 5,638,588, 5,651,198, and 5,669,116, all of which are commonly assigned to Puma SE and are incorporated by reference herein in their entireties. For example, it is contemplated that the closure mechanism 208 may include one or more aspects of such closure mechanisms to provide tightening or loosening functionality when attached to the respective footwear 200 of the present disclosure.

[0038] 4 and 5, the cord 212 extends from the closure mechanism 208 to a wrap region 220 adjacent the tongue 170 of the footwear 200, where the cord 212 is threaded across the tongue 170 in an overlapping pattern formed by a plurality of eyelets 224. The plurality of eyelets 224 includes an outer row 224a and an inner row 224b that extend longitudinally along the upper 102, i.e., parallel to the longitudinal plane L. When the closure system 204 is actuated to fasten the footwear 200, the cord 212 is withdrawn from the wrap region 220 into the closure mechanism 208, which draws the outer row of eyelets 224a and the inner row of eyelets 224b inwardly, relative to the longitudinal plane L, toward one another. In this manner, the cord 212 and eyelets 224 are positioned in the wrap region 220 to tighten the upper 102 around the user's foot, providing a balance between comfort and grip for the user's foot in the footwear 200. It is contemplated that the cord 212 and eyelets 224 may be positioned differently on the footwear 200 to further enhance comfort and / or grip, for example, by tying the cord 212 around the heel end 146 within the heel region 112 of the upper 102, among other configurations. In the illustrated embodiment, the footwear 200 is also provided with a collar 236 formed of an elastic material that stretches around a portion of the user's ankle to further increase the comfort and grip of the footwear 200 on the user's foot while preventing the ingress of debris or water into the opening 166 and interior cavity 106.

[0039] 4 and 5, the strap 216 includes a receptacle 240 in the form of a disk-shaped opening defined by a fixed surface 244. Moreover, the receptacle 240 is located between a free end 248 and a fixed end (not shown) located on the medial side 118 of the footwear 200. In the illustrated embodiment, the strap 216 narrows or tapers from the fixed end (not shown) to the free end 248, such that the strap 216 is narrowest at the free end 248. The strap 216 is believed to be attached to the sole 104 of the footwear 200 at the fixed end (not shown), although other configurations are possible. The free end 248 of the strap 216 is configured to be articulated from an unlocked position (see FIG. 4) in which the free end 248 and the fixed surface 244 are spaced apart from the closure feature 208, to a locked position (see FIG. 5) in which the fixed surface 244 is engaged with the closure feature 208 and the free end 248 is disposed adjacent the upper 102 on the lateral side 116 of the footwear adjacent the closure feature 208. Additionally, the strap 216 includes an outer surface 252 opposite an inner surface 256, the outer surface 252 being configured to face outwardly, away from the upper 102, and the inner surface 256 being configured to face inwardly, towards the upper 102. In the unlocked position, a portion of the inner surface 256 of the strap 216 is spaced apart from the upper 102 (see FIG. 4), and in the locked position, the entire inner surface 256 of the strap 216 is disposed adjacent to and / or in contact with the upper 102 (see FIG. 5). Additionally, the toe end 140 of the footwear 200 is configured to be displaced upwardly, i.e., away from the longitudinal axis L, when the strap 216 is moved from the unlocked position (see FIG. 4) to the locked position (see FIG. 5). The toe end 140 of the footwear 200 is also believed to be displaced upwardly by the footwear 200 being adjusted to a fastened configuration.

[0040] 4 and 5, the strap 216 is configured to move from an unlocked position to a locked position to conceal the cord 212 and secure the closure mechanism 208. To that end, the strap 216 can be formed from any type of elastic and flexible material, such as any of the woven and nonwoven fabrics or any of the elastomeric materials described above that allow the strap 216 to be easily manipulated and conform to the shape of the upper 102. Additionally, the securing surface 244 of the strap 216 can be adapted to removably secure to the closure mechanism 208. For example, the securing surface 244 of the strap 216 can include a rib (not shown) that protrudes into the receptacle 240 for engaging with a rim (not shown) of the closure mechanism 208, whereby the strap 216 can be secured to the closure mechanism 208 in a snap-fit ​​configuration. In some embodiments, the securing surface 244 is formed from a rigid material, such as a thermoset elastomer or a thermoplastic elastomer or a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) composition, among others. To that end, the fastening surface 244 may be comprised of a different material than the remainder of the strap 216. In some embodiments, the fastening surface 244 is inlaid with a number of ribs (not shown) or indentations (not shown) configured to engage with the closure mechanism 208. As such, the fastening surface 244 of the strap 216 is sized and shaped to correspond to the closure mechanism 208.

[0041] It is also contemplated that the upper 102 and / or strap 216 may include fastening means, such as, for example, hook-and-loop fasteners, buckles, zippers, magnetic elements, etc., that serve to hold the strap 216 in a fixed position on the upper 102. In some embodiments, the strap 216 is removably secured to the closure mechanism 208 to secure the closure mechanism 208 against rotation, thereby preventing actuation of the closure mechanism 208 to tighten and / or loosen the footwear 200. Additionally or alternatively, the strap 216 may be formed from a resilient material that biases the strap 216 away from the closure mechanism 208 such that the strap 216 is stretched across the upper 102 into a fixed position in which the fastening surface 244 is pressed in an outward to inward direction against the closure mechanism 208. Thus, the strap 216 may function as a retention mechanism for the closure system 204.

[0042] 5, when the strap 216 is moved to the fixed position, it hides a portion of the cord 212 and surrounds the closure mechanism 208. To that end, the strap 216 is formed of an opaque or translucent material to hide the cord 212 and the underlying portion of the upper 102. Furthermore, when moved to the fixed position, the strap 216 extends across the wrap region 220 to at least partially protect or shield the cord 212 and the eyelet 224 from external forces and / or the outdoor environment. It is contemplated that the strap 216 can be expanded to cover more of the upper 102 and the wrap region 220. Additionally or alternatively, the closure mechanism 208 is exposed through a receptacle 240 of the strap 216. In one example, the closure mechanism 208 is flush with the outer surface 252 of the strap 216. In other embodiments, the closure mechanism 208 is recessed into the receptacle 240 away from the outer surface 252 of the strap 216. In yet other embodiments, the closure mechanism 208 projects outwardly of the receptacle 240, away from the outer surface 252 of the strap 216. In the secured position, the free end 248 of the strap 216 extends in a heel direction toward the heel end 146 of the footwear 200, such that the free end 248 can be easily grasped by the user to release the strap 216 from the closure mechanism 208. In some implementations, the free end 248 is shortened to be flush with or inboard of the heel end 146 of the footwear 200. In other embodiments, the free end 248 can be received in a holder (not shown) in the form of a pocket or slot or loop provided on the upper 102, such that the free end 248 is restricted in movement until selectively and intentionally removed by the user.

[0043] 6 shows a schematic diagram of another embodiment of footwear 300 having a closure system 304. In the illustrated embodiment, the closure system 304 includes a closure mechanism 308 attached to the upper 102 on the lateral side 116 and within the heel region 112. In particular, the closure mechanism 308 includes ridges 310 extending around and exposed around the periphery to improve a user's grip while rotating the closure mechanism 308. Additionally, a cord 312 is operably connected to the upper 102 and the closure mechanism 308 to tighten and / or loosen the footwear 300. To that end, the cord 312 extends through a wrapping region 316 adjacent the tongue 170 of the footwear 300 and is threaded along the wrapping region 316 through an eyelet 320 to distribute a tensile force to the upper 102 to tighten and / or loosen the footwear 300. The closure system 304 operates similarly to the closure system 204 of FIGS.

[0044] Referring again to FIG. 6 , the closure system 304 also includes a strap 324 that includes a first segment 328 and a second segment 332. In the illustrated embodiment, the first segment 328 of the strap 324 extends across the upper 102 from the lateral side 116 to the medial side 118 of the footwear 300. In particular, the first segment 328 has a fixed end 336 that is permanently secured to the upper 102 and to the sole 104 on the lateral side 116 of the footwear 300. The fixed end 336 of the first segment 328 extends into the forefoot region 108 and midfoot region 110, with the first segment 328 narrowing as it extends away from the fixed end 336. The second segment 332 extends across the upper 102 from the medial side 118 to the lateral side 116 of the footwear 300. In the illustrated embodiment, the second segment 332 overlaps a portion of the first segment 328 and extends across the upper 102 to a free end 340 located on the lateral side 116 in the heel region 112. Additionally, the second segment 332 of the strap 324 releasably engages with the closure mechanism 308. In the illustrated embodiment, the first segment 328 of the strap 324 extends obliquely toward the heel side and medial side 118 of the footwear 300, the second segment 332 of the strap 324 extends obliquely toward the heel side and lateral side 116 of the footwear 300, and the first segment 328 and the second segment 332 of the strap 324 overlap the lateral side 116 of the footwear 300 to form a V-shape.

[0045] It is contemplated that the strap 324 is formed from a continuous strip of material such that the first segment 328 and the second segment 332 are integrally formed. In other embodiments, the first segment 328 and the second segment 332 are separate components attached to one another. It is contemplated that the strap 324 is formed from a resilient material, such as a woven or nonwoven material, an elastic material, a thermoplastic material, or the like. It is further contemplated that the first segment 328 of the strap 324 is operatively coupled to the second segment 332 of the strap 324 to at least partially tighten and / or loosen the footwear 300. Additionally, the strap 324 may function as a fastening element for the closure mechanism 308 of the closure system 304 in a manner similar to the strap 324 of FIGS. 4 and 5 . Returning to FIG. 6, the strap 324 may be looped through a buckle (not shown) on the medial side 118 of the footwear 300 such that pulling on the free end 340 of the second segment 332 applies a tensile force to the fixed end 336 of the first segment 328.

[0046] In certain embodiments, the closure mechanism 308 extends outwardly from the second segment 332 of the strap 324, thereby making the ridge 310 accessible to the user even when the second segment 332 of the strap 324 is fastened to the closure mechanism 308. It is contemplated that the closure mechanism 308 may be similar to those disclosed in U.S. Patents Nos. 5,325,613, 5,600,875, 5,606,778, 5,638,588, 5,651,198, and 5,669,116, all of which are commonly assigned to Puma SE and are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. For example, it is contemplated that the closure mechanism 308 may include one or more aspects of such closure mechanisms to provide tightening or loosening functions when attached to the respective footwear 300 of the present disclosure.

[0047] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of yet another embodiment of footwear 400 having a closure system 404. In the illustrated embodiment, the closure system 404 includes a closure mechanism 408 disposed on the upper 102 adjacent to the tongue 170. In particular, the closure mechanism 408 is centrally disposed between the lateral side 116 and the medial side 118 of the footwear 400 and is intersected by a longitudinal plane L. Additionally, a cord 412 is operably connected to the upper 102 and the closure mechanism 408 for tightening and / or loosening the footwear 400. To that end, the cord 412 extends through a wrap region 416 adjacent to the tongue 170 of the footwear 400, threads along the wrap region 416 through an eyelet 420, and distributes a tensile force to the upper 102 for tightening and / or loosening the footwear 400. The closure system 404 operates similarly to the closure system 204 of FIGS. 4 and 5.

[0048] 7, the closure system 404 also includes a strap 424 having a first segment 428 and a second segment 432 that overlaps the first segment 428 and extends across the upper 102 in the midfoot region 110 of the footwear 400. In particular, the first segment 428 extends from a fixed end 436 on the lateral side 116 toward the medial side 118, and the second segment 432 extends from the medial side 118 toward a free end 440 disposed on the lateral side 116. It is contemplated that the strap 424 can be made of any type of elastic and flexible material, such as any of the woven and nonwoven woven materials or any of the elastomeric materials described above. Additionally, it is contemplated that the first segment 428 and the second segment 432 of the strap 424, or portions thereof, may be formed from different or additional materials to modify the functional and / or structural aspects of the strap 424. 7, the second segment 432 overlaps the first segment 428 such that the free end 440 rests on or near the first segment 428. The first segment 428 and the second segment 432 are substantially uniform in width, i.e., measured in a direction parallel to the longitudinal plane L, although other configurations are possible.

[0049] It is contemplated that both the first segment 428 and the second segment 432 of the strap 424 are configured to be removably engaged to the closure mechanism 408 such that both the first segment 428 and the second segment 432 are configured to be moved to tighten and / or loosen the footwear 400. It is further contemplated that the first segment 428 is permanently secured to the closure mechanism 408 and the second segment 432 of the strap 424 is removably secured to the closure mechanism 408 such that only the second segment 432 is configured to be moved to tighten and / or loosen the footwear 400. It is contemplated that the closure mechanism 408 may be similar to those disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,325,613, 5,600,875, 5,606,778, 5,638,588, 5,651,198, and 5,669,116 are all commonly assigned to Puma SE and are incorporated by reference herein in their entireties. For example, it is contemplated that closure mechanism 408 may include one or more aspects of such a closure system to provide tightening or loosening functionality when attached to the respective footwear 400 of the present disclosure.

[0050] 8 and 9 depict schematic diagrams of another embodiment of footwear 500 having a closure system 504. In the illustrated embodiment, the closure system 504 includes a strap 508 having a first segment 512 and a second segment 516. Additionally, the closure system 504 includes a band 520 operatively coupled to the strap 508 and extending across the upper 102. In the illustrated embodiment, the band 520 is provided as a continuous loop of elastic material, e.g., rubber and / or ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) material, and is retained on the tongue 170 by a plurality of retention features 524 in the form of guide projections. The plurality of guide projections 524 are arranged along the tongue 170 and are configured to receive and retain a portion of the band 520.

[0051] 8, a first segment 512 of the strap 508 extends across the upper 102 in a heel direction in the heel region 112 on the lateral side 116 of the footwear 500. Additionally, the first segment 512 of the strap 508 includes a pulley 528 at a first end 532 and wraps around the heel end 146 of the footwear 500 as the footwear 500 extends towards the medial side 118. A second segment 516 of the strap 508 extends in a heel direction in the heel region 112 across the upper 102 on the medial side 118 of the footwear 500. Additionally, the second segment 516 of the strap 508 is configured to wrap around the heel end 146 and overlap the first segment 512 of the strap 508, such that a second or free end 536 of the second segment 516 may be removably secured to the first segment 512 of the strap 508. In some embodiments, the free end 536 of the second segment 516 is provided with a fastening means such as, for example, Velcro, a magnetic element, an adhesive, a zipper, or the like.

[0052] As illustrated in Figures 8 and 9, the first segment 512 and the second segment 516 of the strap 508 are operatively coupled to one another and configured to tighten and / or loosen the footwear 500. In the unlocked position depicted in Figure 8, the free end 536 of the second segment 516 of the strap 508 is not attached to the first segment 512 and is pulled rearwardly of the heel end 146, i.e., in a direction parallel to the longitudinal plane L, causing the pulley 528 of the first segment 512 to be pulled rearwardly across the upper 102 in the heel region 112. Thus, the strap 508, and in particular the first end 532 of the first segment 512, is configured to slide along the upper 102 during operation of the closure system 504. Additionally, the pulley 528 is operatively coupled to the band 520 on the lateral side 116 of the footwear 500 such that movement of the pulley 528 stretches the band 520 in a rearward direction. However, due to the elastic properties of band 520, a biasing force acts on pulley 528 in a forward, i.e., opposite direction to the rearward, bias.

[0053] 9, the free end 536 of the second segment 516 of the strap 508 is attached to the first segment 512 of the strap 508 in the heel region 112. It is contemplated that a user can adjust the tightness of the footwear 500 by varying the location at which the free end 536 of the second segment 516 is attached to the first segment 512. For example, the tightness or fit of the footwear 500 increases as the free end 536 of the second segment 516 is attached to a point further forward along the lateral side 116 and toward the pulley 528. In other words, attaching the free end 536 of the second segment 516 closer to the pulley 528 of the first segment 512 increases the tightness of the footwear 500, and vice versa.

[0054] FIG. 10 shows the pulley 528 at the first end 532 of the strap 508 in detail. The pulley 528 is a disk-shaped component mounted between the outer layer 540 and the inner layer 544 of the strap 508. In the illustrated embodiment, the pulley 528 includes a curved groove 548 extending around the circumference of the pulley 528 and configured to receive a portion of the band 520 for sliding engagement with the pulley. The pulley 528 defines a transverse axis T extending centrally through the pulley 528 and the first end 532 of the first segment 512 of the strap 508. The pulley 528 is secured to the first end 532 of the strap 508 and may be considered fixed against rotation about the transverse axis T. Thus, when the closure system 504 is manipulated by the strap 508, the band 520 slides radially about the lateral axis T within the groove 548 of the pulley 528 to tighten and / or loosen the footwear 500. In other embodiments, the pulley 528 can rotate about the lateral axis T such that movement of the band 520 within the groove 548 causes rotation of the pulley 528 in a clockwise or counterclockwise rotation about the lateral axis T.

[0055] Referring again to FIG. 9 , the band 520 is held by two of the guide projections 524 on the tongue 170. It is contemplated that the band 520 can be held by two different guide projections 524 to adjust the tightness and / or comfort of the footwear 500. For example, by holding the band 520 on the two adjacent forward-most guide projections 524, the user can increase the tightness of the footwear 500 by applying a maximum amount of biasing force to the pulley 528. However, by doing so, the compressive force applied by the band 520 and the strap 508 may be concentrated on a smaller area of ​​the user's foot, i.e., the back of the heel and the upper of the foot, potentially reducing the comfort of the user. In another example, by holding the band 520 on the two adjacent rear-most guide projections 524, the user can decrease the tightness of the footwear 500 by applying a minimum amount of biasing force to the pulley 528. By doing so, the compressive force applied by the band may be concentrated on a higher point on the top of the foot. In yet another example, the band 520 can be held in spaced apart guide projections 524 as shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 to evenly distribute the compression force on the foot while biasing the pulley 528 with a bias force between a minimum and maximum.

[0056] 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. Furthermore, any of the embodiments described herein may be modified to include any of the structures or methods disclosed in connection with other embodiments. In addition, the disclosure is not limited to the type of footwear specifically shown. Furthermore, the footwear aspects of any of the embodiments disclosed herein may be modified to function with any type of footwear, garment, or other athletic equipment.

[0057] As previously mentioned, while the present invention has been described above with reference to certain embodiments and examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention is not necessarily so limited, and that numerous other embodiments, examples, uses, variations, and departures from the embodiments, examples, 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 herein 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]

[0058] In view of the foregoing description, numerous variations on the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, this description is to be construed as illustrative only and is presented for the purpose of enabling those 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.

[0059] [CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS] This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 295,983, filed January 3, 2022, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

1. an upper attached to a sole structure including a forefoot region, a midfoot region, and a heel region and defining an interior cavity; Closure system and Including, The closure system comprises: a closure mechanism; Fixed elements and a cord operatively engaging the upper and the closure mechanism of the footwear; the closure mechanism is actuated to adjust the footwear from a loosened configuration to a tightened configuration, and the securing element is configured to engage the closure mechanism to secure the footwear in the tightened configuration; the fastening element is a strap extending from the medial side to the lateral side of the upper, the strap having a receptacle defined by a fastening surface configured to releasably engage with the closure mechanism, the strap narrowing in width from the lateral side to the medial side, the strap only partially covering a wrap area formed by the cord near the tongue of the footwear when engaged with the closure mechanism, and the strap having fixed ends permanently fixed to the upper and the sole structure.

2. The footwear of claim 1 , wherein the closure mechanism is attached to the upper on the outside of the footwear in a heel region.

3. The article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein the cord operably engages the closure mechanism and extends through the wrapping region adjacent the tongue of the article of footwear.

4. The article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein the fastening element is configured to at least partially conceal the cord.

5. 10. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the fastening element is formed from an elastic material.

6. Footwear having a closure system, comprising: The closure system comprises: The closure mechanism is located in the center of the upper, close to the tongue. Fixed elements and a cord operably coupled to the upper and the closure mechanism; the fixation element includes a first segment and a second segment overlapping the first segment; the closure mechanism is configured to be actuated to tighten or loosen the footwear, and when the fastening element is engaged with the closure mechanism, at least a portion of the wrap area near the tongue is exposed; the fastening element is a strap having a receptacle defined by a fastening surface, the fastening surface configured to releasably engage the closure mechanism; the second segment of the fixation element includes a free end configured to be articulated between an unlocked position in which the second segment is spaced from the closure mechanism and a locked position in which the second segment is releasably engaged with the closure mechanism; The first segment engages the closure mechanism in both the locked position and the unlocked position.

7. 7. The article of footwear of claim 6, wherein the cord is threaded through a plurality of eyelets in the upper and is at least partially hidden by the fastening element.

8. Footwear having a closure system, comprising: The closure system comprises: a strap having a first segment and a second segment; With the band, a plurality of retention mechanisms disposed on the upper; the band is coupled to at least one of the retention mechanisms and to the strap; the second segment of the strap is configured to be pulled to tighten the footwear, the strap is wrapped around a heel end of the upper and extends from the lateral side to the medial side, the second segment of the strap is configured to be removably secured to the first segment of the strap, a free end of the second segment is coupled to the first segment on the lateral side of the footwear at a fixed position, the first segment of the strap includes a pulley attached to a first end thereof, and pulling the free end of the strap causes the first end of the strap to slide along the upper.

9. 9. The article of footwear of claim 8, wherein pulling on the free end of the strap exerts a tensile force on the band, which in turn exerts a tensile force on the upper.

10. 10. The article of footwear of claim 8, wherein the band is formed from an elastic material.

11. The article of footwear of claim 8 , wherein a user can adjust the tightness of the article of footwear by adjusting the band relative to the retention mechanism, the strap, or both.

12. Footwear as described in claim 6, wherein the free end is positioned on the outside of the footwear.

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