Footwear midfoot support system

Abstract

To provide footwear (e.g., a golf shoe) comprising a midfoot support system.SOLUTION: An article of footwear comprises: an upper; a sole assembly comprising a midsole and an outsole; an insole component; a support system; and a securement system. The support system comprises a medial side support extending under and along an inner midfoot region of the upper, and a lateral side support extending under the insole component and over the inner midfoot region of the upper. The securement system comprises: (i) a first cable configured to (a) pull the insole component up against a plantar surface of a foot and (b) draw the foot towards the lateral side surface; and (ii) a second cable configured to (a) adjustably secure the upper around the foot and (b) pull the foot down towards the heel.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1D

Description

[Background technology]

[0001] The sport of golf involves various motions performed by a golfer, such as the golf swing, walking on the golf course, crouching to putt, and other golfing motions. Wearing the proper equipment when playing the sport of golf can be a factor in how well a golfer performs these motions. Footwear is one example of equipment that affects a golfer's performance. For example, when a golfer swings the club and transfers their weight to their feet, a large force is applied to the golfer's feet. Although the shoes need to provide a stable platform for the golfer to swing, the foot also needs to flex to a certain extent. Shoe flex is important when a golfer is walking, crouching, and performing other golfing motions.

[0002] With respect to the swing of a golf club, research has revealed that providing lateral support to specific areas of a golfer's foot (e.g., rather than providing lateral support along the entire length of the foot) provides sufficient lateral stability to the golfer's foot to improve the efficiency and quality of the golf swing. By way of example, the area of ​​a golfer's midfoot between the ball and lateral malleolus is a critical area for providing lateral support and stability in the golf swing.

[0003] It is with respect to these and other general considerations that the aspects disclosed herein have been made, and although relatively specific problems are sometimes discussed, it should be understood that these examples are not limited to solving the specific problems identified in the background or other parts of this disclosure. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Some examples of the present disclosure describe footwear (e.g., golf shoes) having a midfoot support system. The midfoot support system may include an outer side (also called lateral) strap that extends from the sole of the foot over the midfoot region and an inner side (also called medial) strap that extends from the sole of the foot inside the upper over the midfoot region. The inner side strap may extend outwardly from the upper material and may be slidably engaged through a free end of the outer side strap. The free end of the inner side strap may engage an adjustable closure system to tightly tighten the outer side strap and the inner side strap around the midfoot. In some examples, the outer side strap includes a rigid support structure. The midfoot support system stabilizes the foot within the shoe and reduces foot movement within the shoe. This additional stability and prevention of movement is helpful during golf swings and shots.

[0005] Some examples include a golf shoe having: an upper; and a sole connected to the upper at a bite line, the sole having an outsole and an insole, the upper and the sole each having a forefoot, a midfoot, and a heel, a lateral side side, a medial side side, a front end, and a rear end, the golf shoe further having a midfoot support system including an lateral side strap and a medial side strap; the lateral side strap is fixedly attached to the medial side side of the outsole under the wearer's foot, the medial side strap is fixedly attached to the lateral side side of the insole under the wearer's foot, the lateral side strap and the medial side strap are wrapped around and connected to the wearer's midfoot, tension in the midfoot support system can be increased or decreased, and when tension in the midfoot support system is increased, the medial support system asymmetrically supports the wearer's foot by pulling the lateral side side of the foot toward the lateral side of the golf shoe.

[0006] Further, some examples include a golf shoe comprising: an upper; a sole connected to the upper by a bite line; an outer side strap having a first end fixedly attached to an inner side surface of the sole, the outer side strap being connected to the sole from its first end to an outer side surface of the sole, the outer side strap extending from the outer side surface of the sole outwardly of the bite line, upwardly along the outer side surface of the upper, and past at least a portion of a midfoot region of the upper to a second end, the second end of the outer side strap having a ring; and an inner side strap, the inner side strap having a first end and a second end. an inner side strap having a first end fixedly attached to an outer side surface of the sole, the inner side strap extending from the first end thereof upwardly along an inner side surface of the midfoot region of the upper, under the wearer's foot, to the inner side surface of the sole, and the second end of the inner side strap extending from the upper, through a ring of the outer side strap, and toward the outer inner side surface of the upper; and a tension adjustment element coupled to the second end of the inner side strap, adjustment of the tension adjustment element creating a pulling force on the second end of the inner side strap to draw the outer side surface of the foot toward the outer side surface of the shoe, thereby providing asymmetric support of the wearer's foot.

[0007] Further, some examples include a golf shoe comprising: an upper; a sole connected to the upper at a bite line; an exterior side strap made from a first material, the exterior side strap having a first end attached along at least a portion of an interior side of the sole and a second end extending upwardly from the bite line past an exterior side of a midfoot region of the shoe; a support structure located within the exterior side strap and made from a second material harder than the first material, the support structure having a lower portion extending to the exterior side of the sole proximate the first end of the exterior side strap; an outer side strap having an upper portion extending upward from the outer side of the sole along a portion of the outer side of the upper; and an inner side strap having a first end and a second end, the first end being attached to the outer side of the sole and the second end extending upward along an inner surface of the inner side of the midfoot region of the shoe from under the wearer's foot to the inner side of the sole of the sole, passing the second end of the outer side strap and returning toward the inner side of the midfoot region.

[0008] In one aspect, the disclosure provides an article of footwear comprising: an upper; a sole assembly connected to the upper, the sole assembly having a midsole and an outsole; an insole component configured to support a foot of a wearer wearing the footwear; (i) a medial side support extending beneath or along an interior surface of the upper, the medial side support having (a) an elongated section that resists stretch in one or more directions and (b) a plurality of extensible sections disposed along the elongated section; and (ii) a lateral side support extending beneath the insole component and above or above the interior surface of the upper. and a fastening system extending between the medial side support and the lateral side support, the fastening system having (i) a first cable configured to actuate the medial side support and the lateral side support to (a) pull the insole component up toward a plantar surface of the foot and (b) draw the foot toward a lateral side of the upper, the sole assembly, or the insole component, and (ii) a second cable configured to adjustably secure the upper around the foot and (b) pull the foot down and back toward a heel region of the upper, the sole assembly, or the insole component.

[0009] In some embodiments, the elongate section has a neck portion or a tapered portion disposed at or near the arch region of the foot. In some embodiments, the extensible sections are directly adjacent to the neck portion or the tapered portion. In some embodiments, the extensible sections are disposed opposite the neck portion or the tapered portion. In some embodiments, the extensible sections have a multi-way stretch structure that conforms to the shape or contour of the arch region of the foot. In some embodiments, the extensible sections comprise elastane.

[0010] In some embodiments, the elongate section is configured as a spine-like structure or overlay that is substantially inelastic or inextensible in the one or more directions. In some embodiments, the elongate section comprises polyurethane (PU) or thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).

[0011] In some embodiments, the elongate section includes a fastener configured to engage one or more replaceable or interchangeable arch supports, hi some embodiments, the fastener is disposed at a neck or tapered portion of the elongate section between the extendable sections.

[0012] In some embodiments, the footwear further comprises one or more replaceable or interchangeable arch supports configured to accommodate a lateral arch shape or profile of the foot, the one or more replaceable or interchangeable arch supports being removably coupled to the medial side support.

[0013] In some embodiments, the medial side support is removably coupled to the insole component. In some embodiments, the medial side support has a first end removably coupled to the insole component and a second end extending around the medial side of the foot. In some embodiments, the second end has a plurality of looped or folded extensions for engaging the fastening system.

[0014] In some embodiments, the lateral side support comprises a flat plate. In some embodiments, the lateral side support comprises a curved plate. In some embodiments, the lateral side support comprises a composite plate. In some embodiments, the lateral side support comprises a carbon fiber plate. In some embodiments, the lateral side support may have a harder, stiffer, and / or tensile strength than the upper.

[0015] In some embodiments, the lateral side support is configured to extend beneath the insole component. In some embodiments, the lateral side support is configured to extend to or from a bite line formed between the upper and the sole assembly.

[0016] In some embodiments, the lateral side supports are disconnected or decoupled from the upper and are independently movable relative to the upper, hi some embodiments, the lateral side supports are configured to move along, over or across the upper in response to changing levels of tension in the fastening system.

[0017] In some embodiments, the lateral side support is disposed within and movable through a pocket or sleeve integral with the upper, hi some embodiments, the lateral side support is configured to be free-floating and move within the pocket or sleeve integral with the upper.

[0018] In some embodiments, the outer side support has a slot configured to receive a webbing material for connecting the outer side support to the fastening system.

[0019] In some embodiments, the fastening system may include a first cable and a second cable. In some embodiments, the first cable and the second cable of the fastening system are adjustable independently of each other.

[0020] In some embodiments, the footwear may include a shroud configured to separate the first cable and the second cable, hi some embodiments, the shroud is disposed between the first cable and the second cable to minimize interference between the first cable and the second cable.

[0021] In some embodiments, the footwear can include a side mounted dial configured to adjust or control the first cable. In some embodiments, the footwear can include a heel mounted dial configured to adjust or control the second cable.

[0022] In another aspect, the disclosure provides an article of footwear comprising: an upper; a sole assembly connected to the upper, the sole assembly having a midsole and an outsole; an insole component configured to support a foot of a wearer wearing the footwear, the insole component having a footbed or insole board; a support system having (i) a medial side support extending below and along an interior surface of the upper and (ii) a lateral support extending below the insole component and above or above the interior surface of the upper; and a fastening system extending between the medial side support and the lateral side support, the fastening system comprising: (i)(a) a support member connected to the upper; the fastening system having a first cable configured to adjustably fasten a first side support around the foot and (b) pull the foot downward and rearward toward a heel region of the upper, the sole assembly, or the insole component; (ii) a second cable configured to actuate the medial side support and the lateral side support to (a) lift the insole component against a plantar surface of the foot and (b) pull the foot toward a lateral side of the upper, the sole assembly, or the insole component; and a cable management system having a multi-layer structure forming a first guide through which the first cable is configured to extend and a second guide through which the second cable is configured to extend. In some embodiments, the first guide is disposed above, on top of, and / or beyond the second guide. In some embodiments, the second guide is disposed below or below the first guide. In some embodiments, the first guide is formed by a first set of layers of a multi-layer structure and the second guide is formed by a second set of layers of a multi-layer structure. In some cases, the first layer set and the second layer set may comprise one or more of the same layers of a multi-layer structure. In some cases, the first layer set and the second layer set may comprise one or more different layers of a multi-layer structure.

[0023] In some embodiments, the multi-layer structure includes a shroud or panel disposed between the first and second cables to separate the first and second cables. In some embodiments, the multi-layer structure includes a first layer and a second layer attached or bonded to the first layer to form the first guide.

[0024] In some embodiments, the first guide corresponds to a path extending between separated portions or sections of the first and second layers. In some embodiments, the first layer is configured to cover or conceal a portion of the first cable. In some embodiments, the second layer is configured to cover or conceal a portion of the second cable.

[0025] In some embodiments, the footwear may include a third layer attached or coupled to the second layer to form the second guide. In some embodiments, the second guide corresponds to a passageway extending between a separate portion or section of the second layer and the third layer. In some embodiments, the third layer is configured as an upper cover for a tongue assembly.

[0026] In some embodiments, the footwear may include a fourth layer attached or coupled to the third layer to form a tongue assembly, hi some embodiments, the fourth layer is configured as an inner liner or lining of the tongue assembly.

[0027] In some embodiments, the footwear may include one or more multi-directional guides for controlling a position, orientation, or movement of the first cable. In some embodiments, the one or more multi-directional guides may include a housing including two or more channels extending in different directions therethrough. In some embodiments, the two or more channels may include a set of diagonal channels arranged in an X-shaped configuration.

[0028] In some embodiments, the footwear may include a sheath or panel that may extend across an instep region of the foot to cover or conceal a portion of the first cable and / or the second cable.

[0029] In some embodiments, the footwear may include a webbing overlay structure or a tongue overlay structure that may be configured to guide or control a position, orientation, or movement of the first cable or the second cable.

[0030] In some embodiments, the footwear may include a heel mounted dial configured to adjust or control the first cable and a side mounted dial configured to adjust or control the second cable. In some embodiments, the side mounted dial is attached to or coupled with the lateral side support. In some embodiments, the side mounted dial is configured to pass through the lateral side support. In some embodiments, the side mounted dial and the lateral side support are configured to maintain a fixed spatial relationship when the side mounted dial is manipulated to engage or disengage the medial side support or the lateral side support. In some embodiments, the side lateral support and the side mounted dial may move synchronously along, across, or over the upper when the side chamfer dial is manipulated to engage or disengage the medial side support or the lateral side support.

[0031] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are more fully described in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter. Additional aspects, features and / or advantages of the examples will be set forth in part in the description that follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the disclosure. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0032] Non-limiting and non-exhaustive examples and embodiments of the present disclosure are described with reference to the following figures.

[0033] [Figure 1A] FIG. 1A illustrates a medial side view of a golf shoe in which a midfoot support system may be implemented according to one example. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1B illustrates a lateral side view of the golf shoe of FIG. 1A according to one example. [Figure 1C] FIG. 1C illustrates a rear view of the golf shoe of FIG. 1A according to an example. [Figure 1D] FIG. 1D illustrates a top view of the golf shoe of FIG. 1A according to an example. [Figure 1E] FIG. 1E illustrates a rear perspective view of the golf shoe of FIG. 1A according to one example. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 illustrates a rear perspective view of a midfoot support system according to an example. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 shows a bottom view of the medial side strap of the midfoot support system of FIG. [Figure 4A] FIG. 4A shows a schematic front view of the midfoot support system shown in FIG. [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B illustrates a front schematic view of a midfoot support system according to another example. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary golf shoe with medial side support, according to some embodiments. [Figure 6]FIG. 6 illustrates an inner side support having an elongated section and one or more extensible sections, according to some embodiments. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 illustrates a medial side support having fasteners for engaging one or more removable or replaceable arch supports, according to some embodiments. [Figure 8A] FIG. 8A illustrates an example of a connection strap that can be used to connect the medial side support to an insole component, according to some embodiments. [Figure 8B] FIG. 8B illustrates an example of a connection strap that can be used to connect the medial side support to the insole component, according to some embodiments. [Figure 8C] FIG. 8C illustrates an example of a connection strap that can be used to connect the medial side support to the insole component, according to some embodiments. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 illustrates a schematic of a lateral side support that may be integrated into a shoe, according to some embodiments. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 illustrates a schematic of a lateral side support that may be integrated into a shoe, according to some embodiments. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 illustrates a schematic of a fastening system for securing a wearer's foot within a shoe during movement or exercise, according to some embodiments. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 illustrates a schematic of a fastening system for securing a wearer's foot within a shoe during movement or exercise, according to some embodiments. [Figure 13A] FIG. 13A illustrates various examples of cable management systems having different form factors. [Figure 13B] FIG. 13B illustrates various examples of cable management systems having different form factors. [Figure 14] 14A and 14B show additional examples of cable management systems according to embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 15A]FIG. 15A is a schematic diagram illustrating a cable management system including a multi-layer structure, according to some embodiments. [Figure 15B] FIG. 15B is a schematic diagram illustrating a cable management system including a multi-layer structure, according to some embodiments. [Figure 15C] FIG. 15C illustrates a schematic of a tongue assembly having a tongue top cover and a tongue liner, according to some embodiments. [Figure 15D] FIG. 15D illustrates diagrammatically a cable management system configured to manage a first cable and a second cable to avoid or minimize interference or interaction between the first cable and the second cable. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a bottom view of the toe of an exemplary golf shoe with a cable management system, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 illustrates a schematic of an example golf shoe with a cable adjustment mechanism attached to the lateral side support of the shoe. [Figure 18] 18A, 18B and 18C illustrate schematic diagrams of outer side supports having support structures with openings for receiving and / or engaging cable adjustment mechanisms. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 illustrates diagrammatically one or more cable guides that may be used to manage or control the positioning or movement of one or more cable segments of the cable systems disclosed herein. [Figure 20] 20A, 20B, and 20C are schematic diagrams illustrating various exemplary cable guides that can be used to organize the cable systems described herein. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 illustrates generally an exemplary cable system that can be actuated using a cable adjustment mechanism attached to the lateral side support of the shoe. Detailed Description

[0034] The present technology will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, which show examples of the technology. However, the technology should not be construed as being limited to the examples described herein. Rather, these examples are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the technology to those skilled in the art. In the drawings, like numbers refer to like elements throughout.

[0035] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing specific embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the technology. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0036] When an element is described as being "attached," "coupled," or "connected" to another element, it is understood that the element may be directly attached, coupled, or connected to the other element, and that intervening elements may be present. In contrast, when an element is described as being "directly attached," "directly coupled," or "directly connected" to another element, there are no intervening elements present.

[0037] It should be noted that one or more aspects or features described with respect to one embodiment may be incorporated in other embodiments even if not specifically described therein. That is, features of all embodiments and / or any embodiment may be combined in any manner and / or combination. Applicant reserves the right to modify the originally filed claims or to submit new claims accordingly, including the right to amend the originally filed claims to depend on or incorporate features of other claims even if not originally so claimed. These and other objects and / or aspects of the present technology are described in detail in the specification set forth below.

[0038] During walking and playing golf, the forces acting on various parts of the foot and the golfer's footwear (e.g., shoe) are numerous and varied. Examples of the present disclosure describe golf shoes with a midfoot support system that provides additional stability. For example, a reinforcing structure can assist the shoe in retaining and supporting the medial and lateral sides of the golfer's foot as the weight is transferred during a golf shot. Thus, the golfer can obtain a stable platform to drive the power of the golf swing while maintaining balance during the follow-through of the golf swing. The midfoot support system provides stability for various types of biomechanical movements. For example, the biomechanics of swinging a golf club require a rapid transfer of weight from the rear foot to the forefoot. Both feet are subjected to shear forces during the swing. During the backswing, the rear foot must be stable. Improper weight transfer to the rear foot can result in improper contact with the ball. Additionally, biomechanics can cause the rear foot to roll outward toward the lateral side or to shift from the initial foot position. This can result in reduced weight transfer and loss of rotation. On the downswing, weight is transferred to the forefoot, which must remain relatively stable. Increased foot stability can improve the efficiency and quality of the golf swing.

[0039] According to an example, when the midfoot support system of the shoe is activated, the wearer's foot is further secured within the respective shoe and prevented from shifting while swinging the golf club. Thus, when the midfoot support system is activated, the foot is more easily secured in place. During the backswing, the midfoot support system stabilizes the trail foot by reducing abduction and external rotation. By reducing the abduction and external rotation of the back foot, the user is able to further load the rear hip leg muscles and increase the distance between the hips and shoulders before the downswing.

[0040] It is believed that the midfoot support system can stabilize desired portions of the foot for a variety of activities, and is not intended to limit the usefulness of the present disclosure, for example, the midfoot support system can stabilize at least a portion of the medial midfoot for a variety of activities.

[0041] 1A-1E include various views illustrating an exemplary golf shoe 100, sometimes referred to herein generally as a shoe, in which aspects of a midfoot support system 111 may be implemented. Various views of the exemplary midfoot support system 111 are further illustrated in FIGS. 2, 3, 4A, and 4B. FIG. 1A is a medial (inner side, e.g., inner) side view of the exemplary shoe 100, FIG. 1B is a lateral (outer side, e.g., outer) side view of the exemplary shoe 100, FIG. 1C is a rear view of the exemplary shoe 100, FIG. 1D is a top view of the exemplary shoe 100, and FIG. 1E is an exemplary rear perspective view. The shoe 100 may generally include a shoe upper 104 and a sole 106. As shown in FIG. 1A, the shoe 100 includes a heel region 105, a midfoot region 135, a forefoot region 125, and a midfoot support system 111. According to an example, the midfoot support system 111 includes a closure system, a first closure system 133. In some examples, the shoe 100 includes a composite closure system that includes the first closure system 133 of the midfoot support system 111 and further includes a second closure system 122.

[0042] Heel region 105 generally corresponds to the rear of the wearer's foot, i.e., around and under the Achilles tendon, behind the heel, and the talus and calcaneus. Forefoot region 125 generally corresponds to the front of the wearer's foot, i.e., the toes, metatarsals, phalanges, and sesamoids. Midfoot region 135 generally corresponds to the middle of the wearer's foot, i.e., the arch, and the navicular, cuboid, and cuneiform bones. It is understood that heel region 105, midfoot region 135, and forefoot region 125 are intended to represent general areas of the footwear and are not intended to delineate precise regions.

[0043] The shoe 100 includes a medial side extending from the forefoot region 125 to the heel region 105 and a lateral side extending from the forefoot region 125 to the heel region 105. The lateral side and the medial side are opposite one another. In some examples, the lateral side and the medial side are generally parallel to one another. The lateral side generally corresponds to the lateral region of the wearer's foot and the surface facing away from the other part of the wearer's foot. The medial side generally corresponds to the medial region of the wearer's foot and the surface facing the other part of the wearer's foot. In examples, the medial side and the lateral side may be applied to the entire shoe 100, and the medial side and the lateral side may be applied to each of the upper 104, the sole 106, and other relevant regions relative to or in relation to a general longitudinal centerline C of the shoe 100.

[0044] As described herein, heel region 105 is considered to be the rear end of shoe 100, and conversely, forefoot region 125 is considered to be the front end of shoe 100. For example, front end and rear end may apply to shoe 100 generally, and front end and rear end may apply to each of upper 104, sole 106, and other relevant regions with reference to or in relation to a forward or rearward orientation of shoe 100.

[0045] The upper 104 may include an interior surface 145 (shown in FIG. 1E ) and an exterior surface 155 (also shown in FIG. 1E ). The interior surface 145 may partially define an area configured to receive a wearer's foot. The upper 104 may be configured to extend over the wearer's foot, along the medial and lateral sides of the foot, and around the forefoot and heel regions of the foot. The area configured to receive a wearer's foot may be accessed through an ankle opening (referred to herein as a throat opening or throat 114) formed by a collar 118. In some examples, the upper 104 includes an eyestay 107 having eyelets defined therein through which a lacing system may pass. In some examples, a tongue 109 is included and disposed beneath the eyestay 107 and the lacing system. For example, the tongue 109 may contact the instep of the wearer's foot.

[0046] Upper 104 may be constructed from any suitable material now known or later developed, including, but not limited to, one or a combination of leather, suede, fabric, canvas, woven fabric, knit, man-made polymer fibers, nylon, polyester, or cotton. In some examples, upper 104 may be elastic. Alternatively, at least a portion of upper 104 may be elastic. In other examples, upper 104 may be inelastic. In other examples, at least a portion of upper 104 may be inflexible, rigid, or semi-rigid.

[0047] In some examples, the upper 104 may further include a heel counter 103 in the heel region 105. The heel counter 103 may reinforce the upper 104 and limit movement of the wearer's heel. The heel counter 103 may wrap around the heel region 105 and extend forward along both the lateral and medial sides of the shoe 100.

[0048] The sole 106 may include an outsole 116, a midsole 115, and an insole 117 (shown in FIGS. 1D and 1E). The sole 106 may be coupled to the upper 104 at a bite line 165. The sole 106 may be configured to attenuate forces or provide support or cushioning. In some embodiments, the midsole 115 may be formed from a compressible material that provides cushioning. In other embodiments, the midsole 115 may include a structural support structure or be formed from a high density material to enhance stability.

[0049] The outsole 116 underlies the midsole 115 and is designed to interact with the ground. The outsole 116 is designed to provide traction. In some examples, as shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B , traction members 175 (such as spikes, cleats, or other devices for additional traction) are coupled to the outsole 116. Such traction members 175 are removably coupled to the outsole 116. In other examples, such traction members 175 are fixedly coupled to the outsole 116. In some examples, the outsole 116 includes a plurality of pads or ridges.

[0050] The insole 117 is designed to provide cushioning and comfort to the wearer. The insole 117 may be removable and may overlie the midsole 115 when in use. In some examples, the insole 117 is designed to provide support. The insole 117 may be flexible, semi-rigid, or rigid.

[0051] In some implementations, the midfoot support system 111 may be utilized to secure the upper 104 around the wearer's foot, at least in part, by pulling up slack in the material of the upper 104 to encircle and compress the wearer's foot and secure the foot to the lateral side edge of the shoe 100. According to an embodiment, in addition to the first closure system 133, the midfoot support system 111 further includes two adjustment straps, namely, the lateral side strap 108 (shown in FIGS. 1B, 1D, 1E, 2, 4A, and 4B) and the medial side strap 110 (shown in FIGS. 1A, 1D, 1E, 2, 4A, and 4B). The lateral side strap 108 and the medial side strap 110 may be formed from one or more combinations of materials, such as leather, suede, fabric, canvas, woven fabric, knit, man-made polymer fibers, nylon, polyester, cotton, carbon fiber, thermoset, thermoplastic, or any suitable material now known or hereafter developed.

[0052] As best shown in FIG. 4A , according to an embodiment, the lateral side strap 108 is fixedly attached to the sole 106 (e.g., between the midsole 115 and the insole 117 of the sole 106). In some examples, a first end (referred to herein as a connecting end 128) of the lateral side strap 108 may be connected to or near a medial side edge of the insole 117 and / or the midsole 115. From the connecting end 128, the lateral side strap 108 may extend from below the medial-lateral width of the midfoot region 135 to the lateral side of the bite line 165. In some examples, the lateral side strap 108 may be fixedly attached to the insole 117 and / or the midsole 115 along the entire medial-lateral width or substantially along the medial-lateral width of the insole 117 and / or the midsole 115. In other examples, the lateral side straps 108 may be fixedly attached to the insole 117 and / or midsole 115 only along the medial side edges of the insole 117 and / or midsole 115. In yet other examples, portions of the lateral side straps 108 may be embedded in the midsole 115.

[0053] The lateral side strap 108 may further extend upward from the bite line 165 on the lateral side of the shoe 100, along the lateral lateral side of the upper 104, and over at least a portion of the midfoot region 135 of the upper 104. In some examples, the connection end 128 of the lateral side strap 108 is attached to the insole 117 or midsole 115 by stitching, adhesive, or other suitable means and techniques for fastening the lateral side strap 108. The lateral side strap 108 also includes a second end, referred to herein as a free end 131, configured to engage with the medial side strap 110. As described in more detail below, this engagement allows the lateral side of the wearer's foot to be tightened and pulled against the lateral side of the shoe 100, reducing movement and improving stability. This asymmetry of the shoe 100 may be desirable in the sport of golf, for example. In particular, securing the wearer's foot to the outer side edge of the shoe 100 is ideal for swinging a golf club, as the stability of the outer side is beneficial to the efficiency and quality of the golf swing.

[0054] According to an embodiment, a first end (referred to herein as a connecting end 138) of the medial side strap 110 is secured to the shoe 100 at an anchor point under the lateral side of the wearer's foot. In some examples, the anchor point of the medial side strap 110 may be located along the lateral side of the insole 117 or midsole 115. In some examples, the anchor point of the medial side strap 110 may be located at or near the lateral side edge of the insole 117 or midsole 115 (e.g., at or near the bite line 165). In some examples, the connecting end 138 of the medial side strap 110 is attached to the insole 117 or midsole 115 by stitching, adhesive, or other suitable means and techniques for securing the medial side strap 110.

[0055] The medial side strap 110 extends from its connecting end 138 under the midfoot region 135, crosses the wearer's arch on the medial side at the medial side of the insole 117 or midsole 115, wraps upward along the wearer's arch on the medial side, runs upward along the medial side of the upper 104 across the top of the wearer's foot (e.g., over the midfoot) and connects with the lateral side strap 108. In some examples, the medial side strap 110 is secured to the shoe 100 only at the lateral side end of the insole 117 or midsole 115, and the portion of the medial side strap 110 that extends under the midfoot region 135 may be free floating. In some examples, the medial side strap 110 wraps upward along the medial side inside the upper 104, and then wraps outward from the upper 104 to connect with the lateral side strap 108. In another example, the medial side strap 110 wraps upwardly from the medial side bite line 165 of the shoe 100 along the exterior of the medial side of the upper 104 and connects with the lateral side strap 108. According to an example, tensioning the medial side strap 110 causes the medial side strap 110 to pull around the wearer's foot and press against the wearer's arch. Thus, the midfoot support system 111 allows the wearer's foot to adjust 360 degrees within the shoe 100 to accommodate support asymmetries that are beneficial in golf (e.g., by fixing the wearer's foot against the lateral side of the shoe 100). For example, the 360 ​​degree adjustment may include tightening and pulling the wearer's foot against the lateral side of the shoe 100 to reduce foot movement and improve stability. In some examples, the wearer's foot movement within the shoe 100 may be reduced by 5-6 mm. In other examples, the midfoot support system 111 may be configured to allow adjustment for different asymmetries (eg, securing the wearer's foot against the medial side of the shoe 100).

[0056] In some examples, the second end (referred to herein as free end 141) of the inner side strap 110 is slidably received via at least one ring 123a, 123b (collectively rings 123) formed on or attached to the free end 131 of the outer side strap 108. Each ring 123 may be sized to receive at least a portion of the inner side strap 110 through an opening, which passes through the ring 123 and folds back onto itself.

[0057] According to some examples, the free end 141 of the medial side strap may be engaged by a first closure system 133. The first closure system 133 may include one of various types of closure systems that operate to engage the free end 141 of the medial side strap 110 and apply tension to pull the medial side strap 110 towards the medial side of the shoe 100. For example, when tension is applied and the free end 141 of the medial side strap 110 is pulled, the medial side strap 110 engages the lateral side strap 108 and creates a clamping action to stabilize areas of the shoe 100 and distribute the applied pressure to desired areas of the shoe 100. 1A-1D and described below as an adjustable lacing system (e.g., the BOA closure system of BOA Technologies, Inc., described in U.S. Pat. No. 10,070,695, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety), in other examples, the first closure system 133 may be implemented using another type of closure system, such as a lace, a buckle, a ratchet, a hook-and-loop fastener, or other system. Although the first closure system 133 is depicted as applying a pulling force to the medial side strap 110 toward the medial side of the shoe 100, in other examples (not shown), the first closure system 133 may be configured to apply a pulling force to the medial side strap 110 toward the lateral side of the shoe 100. For example, the medial side strap 110 may be engaged by the first closure system 133 at the lateral side of the shoe 100.

[0058] 1A, 1D, 1E, and 2, a first hole or slit 137 is formed in a free end 141 of the inner side strap 110. The first slit 137 divides a portion of the inner side strap 110 into a front sub-strap 112 and a rear sub-strap 113. For example, the front sub-strap 112 and the rear sub-strap 113 of the inner side strap 110 may be configured to move somewhat independently of one another in response to different pulling forces when the inner side strap 110 is engaged.

[0059] In some examples, a lace receiving element 121 may be formed or attached to each of the free ends 141 of the front and rear sub-straps 112 and 113. For example, the lace receiving element 121 may be sized to receive the first race 152 of the first closure system 133 through an opening or may be sized to allow the first race 152 to pass through the lace receiving element 121. In some examples, the opening of the lace receiving element 121 is low friction. As shown in FIG. 1A, in some examples, a portion of the first race 152 may overlie the upper 104 and may be configured to interact with an exterior surface of the upper 104. In some examples, the lace receiving element 121 of the medial side strap 110 may be configured such that the first race 152 does not directly contact the upper 104 at the location of the lace receiving element.

[0060] In some examples, and in the exemplary shoe 100 shown in FIG. 1D , a second slit 127 can be formed in the free end 131 of the lateral side strap 108. The second slit 127 divides a portion of the lateral side strap 108 into a front extension 142 and a rear extension 143. For example, the front extension 142 and the rear extension 143 of the lateral side strap 108 can be configured to move somewhat independently of one another in response to different pulling forces and angles caused in part by engagement with the front sub-strap 112 and rear sub-strap 113 of the medial side strap 110 at the ring 123.

[0061] According to some examples, the lateral side straps 108 can be of various shapes. According to one example, the connection end 128 of the lateral side straps 108 can be molded to the general contour of the midfoot, i.e., the arch. In some examples, the lateral side straps 108 can include two rings 123 configured to receive and allow the front and rear sub-straps 112, 113 of the medial side straps 110 to pass through. In some examples, each of the front and rear sub-straps 112, 113 can be received from the bottom side of the rings 123, folded laterally over its length, and attached to the first closure system 133.

[0062] In some of the illustrated examples, the ring 123 is shown positioned significantly above the throat of the shoe 100 when the first closure system 133 is under low or no tension. In other examples, the lengths of the lateral side straps 108 and medial side straps 110 can be configured differently such that the ring 123 is positioned at different locations around the circumference of the shoe 100. For example, the lateral side straps 108 can have a shorter length than shown and the ring 123 can be positioned on a more lateral side of the shoe 100. Positioning the ring 123 in this manner changes the direction of the closure or pulling force when the medial side straps 110 are tightened. For example, the pulling force can be more vertical. In other examples, the lateral side straps 108 can be longer than shown and the ring 123 can be positioned on a medial side of the shoe 100. This different positioning also changes the pulling force.

[0063] In some examples, the first closure system 133 may include the first lace 152, the first adjustable dial 154, and the first lace guide 156 described above. In other examples, the first closure system 133 may not utilize the first adjustable dial 154 to control the tension of the first lace 152, and the tension may be increased, decreased, and / or secured by other means, such as knotted lace, elastic lace, buckles, ratchets, hook and loop fasteners, or other methods now known or later developed. Increasing the tension may tighten the first lace 152, and decreasing the tension may loosen the first lace 152. In some examples, the first lace 152 may be a tension lace. In other examples, the first lace 152 may be a wire.

[0064] The first lace guide 156 may be coupled to the upper 104 at a location that allows the wearer to secure the upper 104 to the foot. The first lace guide 156 may be strategically positioned such that the first lace 152 does not cause discomfort to the user when tightened. The placement of the first lace guide 156 may help stabilize the foot. In some examples, the placement of the first closure system 133 and the first lace guide 156 may reduce forces acting on the wearer's foot, such as pressure, shear forces, ground forces, or the ability to flex or move. The first lace guide 156 may be an opening that allows the first lace 152 to slide therethrough when tension is increased or decreased using, for example, the first adjustable dial 154. In some examples, the first lace guide 156 is low friction. For example, the inner surface of the first lace guide 156 that contacts the first race 152 may be made of a material that has less friction than the outer surface that does not contact the first race 152. A first lace guide 156 may be attached to the shoe 100 on the medial side of the upper 104 .

[0065] In the example shown in FIG. 1A , the first lace guide 156 is disposed between the eyestay 107 and the bite line 165. In some examples, the first lace 152 may be coupled to the lace anchor 158 at a first end and to the first adjustable dial 154 at a second end. The lace anchor 158 may be coupled to the shoe 100 at or near the eyestay 107. In the example shown, the lace anchor 158 is disposed on a forward medial side of the eyestay 107. In some examples, the lace anchor 158 is fixedly coupled to the shoe 100. According to some examples, the first lace guide 156 may be generally disposed along a medial side of the upper 104 and guide the first lace 152 to the rear of the first adjustable dial 154.

[0066] According to some examples, the first lace guide 156 may be positioned such that, when the first lace 152 is tightened, an increase in tension in the first lace 152 exerts a pulling force on the free end 141 of the medial side strap 110 (e.g., the free ends of the front sub-strap 112 and the rear sub-strap 113). As described above, the medial side strap 110 engages the free end 131 of the lateral side strap 108, wraps around the arch of the wearer, and is secured to the lateral side edge of the shoe 100 under the wearer's foot. Further, in some examples, the medial side strap 110 may be attached only to the lateral side edge of the bite line 165, with the remainder of the medial side strap 110 being free-floating. Thus, as tension in the medial side strap 110 increases, the medial side strap 110 may be pulled around the wearer's foot and up against the arch of the foot. Additionally, the lateral side strap 108 is wrapped under the wearer's foot and attached to the upper surface of the midsole 115 of the shoe 100. Thus, as tension in the first lace 152 increases, tension in the medial side strap 110 increases, which in turn engages the lateral side strap 108, pulling the lateral side strap 108 inward toward the medial side of the shoe 100 and wrapping it tightly around the midfoot region 135 to secure the upper 104 around the wearer's foot. In some instances, engaging the lateral side strap 108 can prevent the foot from sliding linearly in a medial-lateral direction within the shoe 100. In some instances, a pulling force applied to the medial side strap 110 by the first closure system 133 compresses the midfoot support system 111 around the wearer's foot, which in turn indexes the lateral side strap 108 against the wearer's foot, thereby securing the wearer's foot to the lateral side edge of the shoe 100 and stabilizing and reducing horizontal movement of the foot. As described in more detail below, in some embodiments, the lateral side strap 108 includes a support structure 102 for providing additional support and stability to the lateral side of the midfoot support system 111.For example, a first tensile force vector may be applied to the medial side of the shoe 100, the wearer's foot may be moved to the lateral side of the upper 104, and a second tensile force vector may intersect the first tensile force vector. The second tensile force vector may be applied by the rigid support structure 102 to the lateral side of the wearer's foot.

[0067] In some instances, a pulling force applied to the medial side strap 110 may cause the midfoot support system 111 to pull the insole 117 closer to the foot, thereby absorbing additional slack or air space under the wearer's foot. For example, the pulling force may cause the midfoot support system 111 to absorb air space or volume within the shoe 100. Some of the volume may result from an enlarged opening in the throat 114 to facilitate placement of the foot within the upper 104 of the shoe 100. In some instances, some shoes 100 may have increased volume due to increased width, but this is due to the increased width to accommodate a wider range of foot sizes.

[0068] As shown in FIG. 1A, in some examples, a portion of the first lace 152 is on the upper 104 and is configured to interact with an outer surface of the upper 104. In other examples, the first lace guide 156 may be positioned such that the first lace 152 does not directly contact the upper 104. In some examples, the first lace 152 may be at least partially visible. In some examples, a portion of the first lace 152 may be between an outer surface of the upper 104 and an inner surface of the upper 104. In such an embodiment, a lace groove may be present between the outer surface and the inner surface of the upper 104. As shown in FIGS. 1A-1C, in some examples, the first adjustable dial 154 may be at a rear end of the shoe 100 in the heel region 105. In some examples, the first adjustable dial 154 may be approximately midway between the collar 118 and the bite line 165.

[0069] According to an exemplary implementation, as shown in FIG. 1A , the first race 152 is attached to the race anchor 158 and slidably received via the first-to-first race guide 156. The first-to-first race guide 156 can be disposed below and rearward of the race anchor 158. The first race 152 can be further slidably received via a first race receiving element 121 disposed on the front sub-strap 112 of the inner side strap 110. The first race receiving element 121 can be disposed above and rearward of the first race guide 156. The race 152 can be further slidably received via a second first race guide 156. The second first race guide 156 can be disposed rearward of the first-to-first race guide 156. In some examples, the second first race guide 156 can be disposed above the first first race guide 156 and below the first race receiving element 121. The first race 152 may be further slidably received via a second race receiving element 121 disposed on the rear sub-strap 113 of the inner side strap 110. The second race receiving element 121 may be disposed above and rearward of the first race receiving element 121. The first race 152 may be further slidably received via a third first race guide 156 disposed rearward of the second first race guide 156. In some examples, the third first race guide 156 may be disposed above the second first race guide 156 and below the second race receiving element 121. The first race 152 is further attached to a first adjustable dial 154 at a second end. In other examples, the positions of the first race guide 156 and the race anchor 158 may be changed.

[0070] Although in the illustrated example, a single adjustment element (e.g., a first adjustment dial 154) is shown for tensioning or adjusting the tension of the rear sub-straps 113 and the front sub-straps 112, in other examples, the tension of the rear sub-straps 113 and the front sub-straps 112 may be separately controlled or adjusted by additional tension adjustment elements (not shown). In such examples, a first adjustment element is provided for adjusting the tension of the rear sub-straps 113 and a second adjustment element is provided for adjusting the tension of the front sub-straps 112. The adjustment elements may be of the same type or different types. For example, the adjustment dial 154 is used to adjust the tension of one sub-strap and a second type of adjustment element is used to adjust the tension of the other sub-strap. In some examples, a first ratchet is used to adjust the tension of the front sub-straps 112 and a second ratchet is used to adjust the tension of the rear sub-straps 113. In yet another example, one of the rear sub-strap 113 and the front sub-strap 112 is fixed to the exterior / outer surface 155 of the upper 104, and the tension of the other sub-strap is adjusted. In such an example, the fixed sub-strap may be at least partially elastic to assist the golfer in putting on the shoe 100.

[0071] In some embodiments, as best shown in FIGS. 1B, 1E, and 2, the lateral side strap 108 may include a support structure 102. The support structure 102 may be rigid or semi-rigid. For example, the support structure 102 may be stiffer than the material used for the lateral side strap 108. The degree of stabilization provided by the support structure 102 varies depending on its stiffness, with increased stiffness potentially providing a greater stabilizing effect. In some examples, the support structure 102 is secured to the sole 106 (e.g., the midsole 115) and is generally L-shaped. For example, the support structure 102 may be disposed within the lateral side strap 108 such that a lower portion 164 of the support structure 102 is disposed at or near the connection end 128 of the lateral side strap 108, extends below the midfoot region 135 and to the lateral side end of the insole 117, and then extends upwardly along a portion of the lateral side surface of the upper 104. In some examples, the upper portion 162 of the support structure 102 curves inwardly toward the medial side of the shoe 100. For example, the medial curvature of the upper portion 162 of the support structure 102 may be shaped to generally match the contour of the lateral lateral side of the wearer's midfoot. The support structure 102 may have a generally uniform width throughout the support structure 102. Alternatively, the support structure 102 may have a variable width to enhance stability. In some examples, the width of the support structure 102 may be wider near the bite line 165 and narrower as it extends toward the top of the upper portion 162. According to an example, the support structure 102 may provide a higher level of stiffness to the lateral side strap 108 and, therefore, to the midfoot support system 111 and the shoe 100. For example, when the midfoot support system 111 is engaged and the wearer is in a stance, the wearer's foot is secured and locked to the rigid lower and upper portions 164, 162 of the support structure 102.

[0072] The support structure 102 may be formed from carbon fiber, thermosets, thermoplastics, or any suitable material now known or later developed having suitable stiffness. In some embodiments, the support structure 102 comprises a self-reinforced polymer composite. Self-reinforced polymer composites are commonly known in the composites industry and refer to fiber-reinforced composites that include reinforcing fibers and a polymer matrix, where the highly oriented reinforcing fibers are made from the same polymer from which the matrix is ​​made. For example, a polypropylene matrix may be reinforced with polypropylene fibers.

[0073] In some examples, the support structure 102 may be pre-formed into one of a variety of sizes and shapes. For example, one or a combination of the width, length, and height and curvature of the lower portion 164 and upper portion 162 of the support structure 102 may vary based on shoe size, whether the shoe 100 is designed for a male, female, or youth foot, whether the shoe 100 is designed for a narrow, normal, or wide foot, and other factors. In some examples, the curvature of the upper portion 162 of the support structure 102 may be custom fit / molded to the wearer's foot. In some examples, the support structure 102 may be made of a heat moldable or thermoformable material that allows the wearer to custom fit or mold the support structure 102 to the wearer's foot after purchase.

[0074] The support structure 102 may be attached to the lateral side straps 108 by stitching, adhesives, or other suitable means and techniques for incorporating the support structure 102 into the lateral side straps 108. The support structure 102 may be further attached to the midsole 115 by adhesives, insert molding, or other suitable means and techniques for attaching the support structure 102 to the midsole 115.

[0075] In some examples, the medial side strap 110 may include a low friction material disposed on at least the back surface 167 of the front sub-strap 112 and the rear sub-strap 113 of the medial side strap 110 to improve the sliding action of the medial side strap 110 when the first lace 152 of the first closure system 133 is tightened. For example, the low friction material may allow the medial side strap 110 to slide against the outer surface 155 of the upper 104 to prevent the outer surface material from bunching up and causing discomfort to the wearer. When the first lace 152 of the first closure system 133 is tightened, the medial side strap 110 and the lateral side strap 108 may be tightened and secured to the upper 104 in an engaged position, which may improve stability of the lateral side. Alternatively, when the first lace 152 is loose, the medial side strap 110 and / or the lateral side strap 108 may arc outward from the upper 104 to the lateral side.

[0076] As mentioned above, in some embodiments, the shoe 100 may include a second closure system 122 that may further secure the wearer's foot within the upper 104. The second closure system 122 may be near the eyestay 107, as seen in FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1D. The second closure system 122 may be utilized at least in part to secure the upper 104 around the wearer's foot by controlling the closure of the throat 114 around the wearer's foot. For example, the second closure system 122 may enlarge the opening of the throat 114 to facilitate placement of the wearer's foot within the upper 104 of the shoe 100 and then close around the wearer's foot. The second closure system 122 may also be referred to herein as a throat closure system. In some examples, the second closure system 122 is implemented as an adjustable lacing system, such as the BOA closure system described above. For example, in some instances, the shoe 100 includes two adjustable lacing systems, with the first closure system 133 being a first adjustable lacing system and the second closure system 122 being a second adjustable lacing system.

[0077] In some examples, the second closure system 122 can include an adjustable lacing system using at least one lace (e.g., the second lace 172), an adjustable dial (e.g., the second adjustable dial 174), and a lace guide (e.g., the second lace guide 176). The second lace 172 can be selectively adjusted using the second adjustable dial 174. Increasing tension can tighten the second lace 172 and decreasing tension can loosen the second lace 172. The tension of the second lace 172 can be decreased using the second adjustable dial 174 to allow the wearer to place the foot at least partially within the upper 104. The wearer can increase the tension of the second lace 172 using the second adjustable dial 174 to tighten the second lace 172 and secure the upper 104 around the wearer's foot. The second lace 172 can be secured by any method now known or later developed. In some examples, the second lace 172 can be secured by tying ends of the second lace 172 together. The second lace 172 can be a tensioned lace. In some examples, the second lace 172 is a wire. As the tension in the second lace 172 increases, the second lace 172 can help secure the upper 104 around the wearer's foot.

[0078] The second lace guide 176 may be a loop that allows the second lace 172 to slide through the loop when tension is increased or decreased using the second adjustable dial 174. In some examples, the second lace guide 176 is low friction. The second lace guide 176 may be coupled to the upper 104 at strategic points to help secure the upper 104 to the wearer's foot. The second lace guide 176 may be strategically positioned such that the second lace 172 does not cause discomfort to the wearer when tightened. The positioning of the second lace guide 176 may help stabilize the foot. In some examples, the positioning of the second closure system 122 and the second lace guide 176 may attenuate forces acting on the wearer's foot, such as pressure, shear forces, ground forces, or flexion or athletic ability.

[0079] 1A, 1B, and 1C, in some examples, the second race 172 may be on the upper 104 and configured to interact with the outer / external surface 155 of the upper 104, such as the outer / external surface of the eyestay 107. The second race 172 may be fully or partially visible from the outside. In other examples, the second race 172 may be between the outer surface 155 of the upper 104 and the inner surface 145 of the upper 104. In such examples, a channel for the second race 172 may exist between the outer surface 155 of the upper 104 and the inner surface 145 of the upper 104. A second race guide 176 may be disposed between the outer surface 155 of the upper 104 and the inner surface 145 of the upper 104.

[0080] In some examples, a portion of the second lace 172 is between the exterior surface 155 of the upper 104 and the interior surface 145 of the upper 104, and another portion of the second lace 172 is located above the exterior surface 155 of the upper 104. In examples in which at least a portion of the second lace 172 is located above the exterior surface 155 of the upper 104, the upper 104 may optionally include a groove (not shown) to facilitate positioning of the second lace 172 when the second adjustment dial 174 is tightened. The groove secures the second lace 172 when the second adjustment dial 174 is tightened, preventing the second lace 172 from slipping or tightening in an undesirable location that may affect the forces acting on the shoe 100 or the wearer's foot. The groove may also provide a secure position for the second lace 172, eliminating the need for the wearer to readjust the second lace 172.

[0081] In some examples, the second adjustable dial 174 may be coupled to the upper 104 near the eyestay 107. As shown in FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1D, in some examples, the second adjustable dial 174 may be coupled to the tongue 109. In other examples, the second adjustable dial 174 may be coupled to the upper 104 on a front side, medial side, or lateral side of the eyestay 107.

[0082] 1A, 1B, and 1D, at least one second race guide 176 may be attached to or disposed near the eyestay 107. In some examples, at least one second race guide 176 may be attached to or near an inner side of the eyestay 107 and at least one second race guide 176 may be attached to or near an outer side of the eyestay 107. In some examples, another second race guide 176 may be attached to or near a front side of the eyestay 107, as shown in FIG. 1D. The second race 172 may be coupled to a second adjustable dial 174 on both ends.

[0083] It will be appreciated that in other examples, the second closure system 122 may include a variety of alternative fastening mechanisms, such as tied laces, elastic laces, bands with hook and loop closures, elastic buckles, buttons, hooks, snaps, or any other fastening devices now known or later developed. Additionally, it will be appreciated that in other examples, the shoe 100 may not include the second closure system 122.

[0084] As shown in FIG. 4B , the medial side strap 110 extends laterally under the midfoot region 135 under the insole 117 and then extends upwardly along the lateral / exterior surface 155 of the medial side of the upper 104 to engage the lateral side strap 108 and further engage the first closure system 133. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, rather than extending upwardly along the interior surface 145 of the medial side of the upper and then extending outwardly from the upper 104, the medial side strap 110 may be configured to interact with the exterior surface of the upper 104 from the bite line 165. This allows the free end of the lateral side strap 108 to be pulled inwardly toward the medial side of the shoe 100, over the top of the midfoot region 135, and downwardly over the medial side of the upper 104. Thus, the angle at which the pulling force of the lateral side strap 108 acts may be altered.

[0085] [Midfoot support] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides footwear articles configured to conform to the shape or contour of a wearer's foot. In some cases, the footwear may be configured to conform to the shape or contour of the arch region of the wearer's foot to provide a 360 degree fit around the wearer's foot. In some cases, the footwear may be configured to control the position and / or movement of the wearer's foot in or relative to the shoe (e.g., during golf-related movements). In some cases, the footwear may be configured or adjustable to (i) secure the wearer's foot downward and backward toward the heel while (ii) lifting the insole relative to the bottom surface of the foot and (iii) seating the lateral side edge of the foot against the lateral side edge of the footwear. The footwear may be configured to minimize relative movement of the wearer's foot within the footwear (e.g., during a golf swing) to provide a secure, locked-in feel that can add power and control to the wearer's golf swing.

[0086] 5, in some embodiments, the footwear may include a shoe 500 having an upper and a sole assembly connected to the upper, as described in detail above. In some cases, the sole assembly may include a midsole and an outsole, as described elsewhere herein.

[0087] In some embodiments, the footwear may include an insole component 510 configured to support the foot of a wearer wearing the footwear. In some cases, the insole component 510 may include an insole board or a footbed. In some embodiments, the insole component 510 may be designed to support the foot of a wearer (e.g., when the wearer applies force to the insole while walking, running, kneeling, crouching, or performing a swing). The insole component 510 may be flexible, semi-rigid, or rigid. In some cases, the insole component 510 may be a removable insert that can be placed within the shoe 100. In some cases, the insole component 510 may be designed to provide cushioning or comfort to a wearer wearing the shoe 100.

[0088] [Support System] In some embodiments, the footwear may include a support system. In some cases, the support system may include (i) a medial side support extending beneath and along an interior surface of the upper, and (ii) a lateral side support extending beneath the insole component and upon or above the interior surface of the upper.

[0089] In some cases, the interior surface of the upper may correspond to a surface area of ​​the upper that faces medially, toward the wearer's foot. In some cases, the interior surface of the upper may correspond to a surface area of ​​the upper that is directly adjacent to the wearer's foot. In some cases, the interior surface of the upper may correspond to a surface area of ​​the upper that may directly or indirectly contact a portion of the wearer's foot.

[0090] [Inner side support] As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, in some embodiments, the shoe 500 may include a support system having a medial side support 520. In some cases, the medial side support 520 may be removably coupled to the insole component 510. In some cases, the medial side support 520 may have a first end 521 that may be removably coupled to the insole component 510 and a second end 522 that may extend around or along the medial side of the foot. In some cases, the second end 522 may have one or more extensions 540 that are looped or folded to engage with a fastening system (e.g., as described in more detail below). In other cases, the second end 522 may have one or more extensions 540 with fixed length loops. In some cases, the fixed length loops may have loop ends formed from a single continuous piece of material. In some cases, the single continuous piece of material may be non-removably fastened to itself to form the fixed length loop ends. In some cases, the size and / or shape of the fixed length loop ends may not or need not be adjustable.

[0091] In some embodiments, the medial side support 520 may be optimized to provide uniform compression of the midfoot / arch. In some cases, the height, width, or length of the medial side support 520 may be adjustable based on the shape or dimensions of the wearer's foot. In other cases, the height, width, and / or length of the medial side support 520 may be fixed to maintain a low profile that does not interfere with throat closure. In some cases, the medial side support 520 may be replaced or substituted with other medial side supports having appropriate shapes, profiles, and / or dimensions to fit a particular wearer's foot. In any of the embodiments described herein, the medial side support 520 may be configured to adjust or conform to the shape or profile of the wearer's foot. In some embodiments, the medial side support 520 may be configured to accommodate the height, width, and / or length of the arch of the wearer's foot.

[0092] 6, in some embodiments, the medial side support 520 can include an elongated section 525 that resists stretching in one or more directions. In some embodiments, the medial side support 520 can include multiple extensible sections 530 disposed along the elongated section 525.

[0093] [Long Section] In some cases, the elongated section 525 may be comprised of a piece, panel, or layer of material that extends between a first location under the wearer's foot and a second location on the side or top of the wearer's foot. In some cases, the elongated section 525 may have a first end 521 that can be removably coupled to the insole component 510 at or near the first location and a second end 522 that can be positioned at or near the second location. In some cases, the elongated section 525 may be configured to extend around the medial side of the wearer's foot between the first and second locations. In some cases, a portion of the elongated section 525 may be configured to extend under and / or along an interior surface of the upper (i.e., the surface of the upper that faces medially toward the wearer's foot).

[0094] In some embodiments, the elongated section 525 can have a neck or tapered portion 515. The neck or tapered portion 515 can be configured to accommodate the shape or profile of the wearer's longitudinal arch. In some cases, the neck or tapered portion 515 can be disposed between the first end 521 and the second end 522 of the elongated section 525. In some cases, the neck or tapered portion 515 can be positioned at or near the arch region of the wearer's foot.

[0095] In some cases, the width of the necked or tapered portion of the long section 525 can be smaller than the width of one or more other portions of the long section 525. In some cases, the width of the necked or tapered portion of the long section 525 can be smaller than the width of the first end 521 or the second end 522 of the long section 525. In some cases, the width of the long section 525 can gradually increase from the necked or tapered portion toward the first end 521 or the second end 522 of the long section 525.

[0096] In some cases, the width of the long section 525 may increase at a first rate (i.e., a first rate of change in width per unit longitudinal distance or length) from the neck or tapered portion toward the first end 521 of the long section 525. In some cases, the width of the long section 525 may increase at a second rate (i.e., a second rate of change in width per unit longitudinal distance or length) from the neck or tapered portion toward the second end 522 of the long section 525. In some cases, the first rate and the second rate may be the same. In other cases, the first rate and the second rate may be different. In some cases, the first rate may be greater than the second rate. In other cases, the second rate may be greater than the first rate.

[0097] In some cases, the elongated section 525 may be configured as a spinal structure or overlay that is substantially inelastic or non-extensible in one or more directions. In some cases, the spinal structure or overlay may be configured to support the medial side of the wearer's foot (e.g., when the wearer is performing a golf-related motion or movement). In some cases, the elongated section 525 may be configured to resist stretch or deformation in or along one or more directions. In some cases, the elongated section 525 may be constructed of a polyurethane (PU) or thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material. In some cases, the elongated section 525 may be constructed of a hot melt TPU material.

[0098] [Extendable section] In some cases, the plurality of extensible sections 530 may be directly adjacent to the neck or tapered portion 515 of the medial side support 520. The plurality of extensible sections 530 may be configured to conform to the arch of the wearer and provide support in the front-to-rear direction. In some cases, the plurality of extensible sections 530 may be disposed opposite the neck or tapered portion 515 of the elongate section 525. In some cases, the plurality of extensible sections 530 may include a multi-directional stretch structure that conforms to the shape or profile of the arch region of the foot. In some cases, the multi-directional stretch structure may be configured to conform to the longitudinal and / or lateral arch shape or profile associated with the wearer's foot. In some cases, the plurality of extensible sections 530 may include elastane. In some cases, the plurality of extensible sections 530 may include a four-way stretch material. In some cases, the four-way stretch material may include an air mesh material having one or more three-dimensional knitted or woven structures.

[0099] [Fastener] 6 and 7, in some embodiments, the elongated section 525 of the medial side support 520 can include a fastener 535 configured to engage with one or more replaceable or interchangeable arch supports 600. In some cases, the fastener 535 can be located in or near a neck or tapered portion 515 of the elongated section 525 between the extendable sections 530. In some cases, the fastener 535 can include a hook or loop fastener (e.g., Velcro, etc. "Velcro" is a registered trademark). Other types of mechanical or electromechanical fasteners can also be used, including, for example, snap-fit ​​or magnetic fasteners.

[0100] [Arch support] In some embodiments, footwear may be configured to receive or accommodate one or more interchangeable or interchangeable arch supports 600, as shown, for example, in FIGURE 7. In some cases, the interchangeable arch supports 600 may be configured to accommodate the lateral and / or vertical arch shapes or profiles of the wearer's foot. In some cases, the interchangeable arch supports 600 may include different arch heights to accommodate variations in arch heights among different wearers.

[0101] In some cases, one or more of the replaceable or interchangeable arch supports 600 may be removably coupled to the medial side support 520. In some cases, one or more of the replaceable or interchangeable arch supports 600 may be secured to the long section 525 of the medial side support 520. In some cases, one or more of the replaceable or interchangeable arch supports 600 may be attached or coupled to fasteners 535 disposed on the medial side support. In some cases, one or more of the replaceable or interchangeable arch supports 600 may be attached or coupled to a neck or tapered portion 515 of the long section 525 of the medial side support 520. In some cases, one or more of the replaceable or interchangeable arch supports 600 may be attached or coupled to a portion of the long section 525 located between the multiple extendable sections 530 of the medial side support 520.

[0102] 8A-8C, in some embodiments, the medial side support 520 can include a first end 521 and a second end 522. The first end 521 can include a fastener for coupling the medial side support 520 to an insole component of a footwear. In some cases, the fastener can include a hook fastener or a loop fastener. In some cases, the fastener can be configured to couple the first end 521 of the medial side support 520 to a connection strap 701 attached to the insole component. In some cases, the connection strap 701 can be attached to an underside or bottom of the insole component. In other cases, the connection strap 701 can be attached to a top surface of the insole component. In some cases, the connection strap 701 can be attached to an inner side of the insole component. In other cases, the connection strap 701 can be attached to an outer side of the insole component. In some implementations, the connection strap 701 may include a corresponding hook or loop fastener configured to engage with a fastener provided on the first end 521 of the inner side support 520 .

[0103] In some embodiments, the second end 522 of the inner side support 520 can have one or more extensions that can be folded to form a closed loop that can engage a fastener or cable. In some cases, each of the one or more extensions can be folded and the folded end secured using one or more fasteners 536 disposed on the extension. In some cases, the folded end can include one or more corresponding fasteners 536 for securing the folded end to the fasteners 536 disposed on the extension.

[0104] [Outer side support] 9 and 10, in some embodiments, the support system can include a lateral side support 950. In some embodiments, the lateral side support 950 can include a support structure configured to extend along at least a portion of a lateral side of the article of footwear. In some cases, the lateral side support 950 can include a curved plate. In some cases, the lateral side support 950 can include a carbon fiber plate. In some embodiments, the lateral side support 950 can have a harder, stiffer, or tensile strength than the upper of the article of footwear. In some embodiments, the lateral side support 950 can have a harder, stiffer, or tensile strength than the sole assembly of the article of footwear.

[0105] In some cases, a portion of the lateral side support 950 may be configured to extend under or along an insole component of the article of footwear. In some cases, a portion of the lateral side support 950 may be configured to extend between a medial side surface and a lateral side surface of the article of footwear. In some cases, a portion of the lateral side support 950 may be configured to extend to or from a lateral side bite line formed between the upper and the sole assembly. In some cases, a first portion of the lateral side support 950 may be configured to extend under the wearer's foot, between the lateral side bite line and the medial side of the article of footwear. In some cases, a second portion of the lateral side support 950 may be configured to cover around or over the lateral side of the wearer's foot. In some cases, the second portion of the lateral side support 950 may be configured to cover an interior surface of the upper. In some cases, the second portion of the lateral side support 950 may be configured to cover an exterior or outward facing surface of the upper. The exterior or outward-facing surface of the upper may correspond to the surface of the upper that is directly exposed to the external environment surrounding the footwear.

[0106] In some cases, a portion of the lateral side support 950 may be coupled to a top or bottom surface of a sole component of the footwear. In some cases, the sole component may include a midsole and / or an insole component of the footwear. In some cases, a portion of the lateral side support 950 may be coupled to an upper surface of a midsole. In some cases, a portion of the lateral side support 950 may be coupled to a bottom surface of an insole component. In some cases, the lateral side support 950 may be coupled to a medial side surface of an insole component or midsole. In other cases, the lateral side support 950 may be coupled to a lateral side surface of an insole component or midsole. In alternative cases, the lateral side support 950 may be coupled to a portion of an insole component or midsole that is located between a medial side surface and a lateral side surface of an insole component or midsole.

[0107] In some cases, the lateral side support 950 may be detached or separate from the upper, free-floating, and / or independently movable relative to the upper. In some cases, the lateral side support 950 may be configured to wrap around the upper or move along, over, or across the upper depending on the level of tension in the fastening system of the article of footwear. In some cases, the lateral side support 950 may be configured to rotate about the bite line of the shoe (e.g., toward and / or away from the lateral side surface of the upper).

[0108] [sleeve] In some cases, the lateral side support 950 may be disposed within a pocket or sleeve 960 that is integral with the upper. In some cases, the pocket or sleeve 960 may be disposed on or above an interior surface of the upper. In some cases, the pocket or sleeve 960 may be disposed on or within an exterior surface of the upper. In some cases, the lateral side support 950 may be sleeved into the upper to minimize bulk and improve aesthetics. In some cases, the body or surface of the lateral side support 950 is not or need not be attached to the upper. In some cases, the lateral side support 950 may be configured to be free-floating and move within the pocket or sleeve 960 relative to the exterior side surface of the upper.

[0109] In some cases, the lateral side support 950 may be sleeved into the upper in a visible configuration. For example, in some cases, the sleeve 960 may have a window 970 to reveal or expose the lateral side support 950 disposed within the sleeve 960. The window may be a cutout or may include a transparent material. In other cases, the lateral side support 950 may be sleeved into the upper in a non-visible configuration. For example, the sleeve 960 may or may not have a window, opening, or transparent material to reveal or expose the lateral side support contained within the sleeve.

[0110] 10, in some embodiments, the lateral side support 950 can have a slot 951 configured to receive a webbing 952 for connecting the lateral side support 950 to a fastening system or a cable 1010 of a fastening system (e.g., as described in more detail below). The slot 951 can be located at an end of an lateral side strap that is positioned along the lateral side of the wearer's foot.

[0111] In some embodiments, a portion of the webbing 952 can be configured to extend through an interior region or volume of the upper. For example, as shown in FIG. 11, in some cases, a portion of the webbing 952 can extend through a sleeve toward the throat of the shoe and engage with a cable 1010 of the fastening system.

[0112] [Fixed system] In some embodiments, the footwear may include a fastening system extending between a medial side and a lateral side of the footwear. The fastening system may be configured to tighten the support system around the wearer's foot while securing the wearer's foot downward and backward toward the heel region of the footwear. The fastening system may be optimized to provide a more direct link between the medial and lateral side supports of the support system, thereby drawing the medial and lateral side supports tighter in tension, further enhancing lateral stiffness. The fastening system may be configured to operate with minimal friction losses.

[0113] In some cases, the fastening system may be comprised of one or more cables. In some cases, the one or more cables may be comprised of two or more cables that are independently adjustable. In some cases, the two or more cables are not or do not need to be directly connected. In some cases, changing the amount of tension in one of the two or more cables does not or does not need to change the amount of tension in the other cables of the fastening system.

[0114] 11 and 12 show schematic diagrams of fastening systems for fastening the foot of a wearer. In some embodiments, the fastening system can include a first fastening system having a first cable 1010. In some embodiments, the fastening system can include a second fastening system having a second cable 1020.

[0115] In some embodiments, the fastening system may include a first cable 1010 configured to (a) pull the insole component up against the plantar surface of the foot and (b) pull the foot toward the lateral side of the footwear. In some cases, the first cable 1010 may be configured to secure the medial and lateral side supports around the wearer's foot to provide a 360 degree fit. As shown in FIG. 11 , in some cases, the first cable 1010 may be configured to engage the lateral side support 950 via a webbing 952 inserted or threaded through a slot in the lateral side support 950. In some cases, the first cable 1010 may engage a looped second end 522 of the medial side support. The looped second end 522 of the medial side support may be located on the opposite side of the webbing 952 extending from the lateral side support 950.

[0116] In some cases, the first cable 1010 can be configured to engage with an additional webbing 1222 on the same side as the webbing 952 extending from the inner side support's second looped end 522 or the outer side support 950. In other cases, the first cable 1010 can be configured to engage with an additional webbing 1222 on a different side than the webbing 952 extending from the inner side support's second looped end 522 or the outer side support 950.

[0117] In some embodiments, the looped second end 522 of the medial side support, the webbing 952 extending from the lateral side support 950, and the additional webbing 1222 can be configured to route the first cable 1010 around the entire tongue or upper of the shoe. In some non-limiting embodiments, the side mounted dial 1110 can be used to actuate the first cable 1010 (e.g., to increase or decrease tension in the first cable 1010, moving the medial and lateral side supports toward or away from each other).

[0118] 12, in some embodiments, the fastening system can include a second cable 1020 configured to (a) adjustably fasten the upper about the foot and (b) pull the wearer's foot downward and rearward toward the heel region of the article of footwear. In some embodiments, the second cable 1020 can be configured as or include a slow lace of the article of footwear. In some cases, the slow lace can extend across the top of the upper and / or across the tongue of the article of footwear. In some non-limiting embodiments, a heel mounted dial 1120 can be used to actuate the second cable 1020 (e.g., to tighten the laces above the throat and / or to pull the wearer's foot downward and rearward toward the heel region of the article of footwear).

[0119] [Shroud] With continued reference to FIG. 12 , in some embodiments, the article of footwear can include a shroud 1050 configured to separate the first cable 1010 and the second cable 1020. In some cases, the shroud 1050 can include a panel or layer of material. In some cases, the shroud 1050 can be disposed between the first cable 1010 and the second cable 1020 to minimize interference between the first cable 1010 and the second cable 1020 (e.g., when manipulating the fastening system or adjusting the midfoot support system around the wearer's foot). In some cases, the first cable 1010 can be disposed over the shroud 1050 and / or the second cable 1020. In other cases, the second cable 1020 can be disposed over the shroud 1050 and / or the first cable 1010.

[0120] In some embodiments, the shroud 1050 can include one or more race guides 1060. In some cases, the one or more race guides 1060 can be configured to receive one or more segments of the second cable 1020 and guide or direct the one or more segments to one or more eyelets disposed along the upper. In some cases, the one or more race guides 1060 can be configured to extend along a longitudinal length of the shroud 1050.

[0121] [Dial] 9, 11, and 12, in some embodiments, an article of footwear can include one or more dials configured to adjust or control one or more cables of the fastening system. In some cases, the one or more dials can include a side-mounted dial 1110 configured to adjust or control the first cable 1010 and / or the second cable 1020 of the fastening system. In some cases, the one or more dials can include a heel-mounted dial 1120 configured to adjust or control the first cable 1010 and / or the second cable 1020 of the fastening system.

[0122] In some embodiments, the side mounted dial 1110 can be configured to adjust or control the first cable 1010. In some cases, the side mounted dial 1110 can be used to accommodate the shape or profile of the wearer's lateral arch. In some cases, the side mounted dial 1110 can be used to accommodate variations in arch height.

[0123] In some embodiments, the heel mounted dial 1120 can be configured to adjust or control the second cable 1020. In some cases, the heel mounted dial 1120 can be configured to position or move the wearer's foot downward and backward toward the heel region of the footwear, as described in more detail above.

[0124] [Cable Management] In some embodiments, a golf shoe may include a cable management system. In some cases, the cable management system may be configured to reduce or prevent interaction or interference between two or more cable systems. In some cases, the cable management system may enhance the aesthetics of the shoe by hiding portions or segments of two or more cable systems to avoid a cluttered or distracting visual presentation.

[0125] [Cable guide] In some cases, the cable management system can include one or more cable guides or race guides. In some cases, one or more portions or segments of the cable system can be routed through one or more cable guides or race guides. In some cases, one or more cable guides or race guides can be configured to control or manage the position, orientation, and / or movement of one or more portions or segments of the cable system.

[0126] In some cases, the one or more cable or lace guides may include a guide with a housing and one or more enclosed or partially enclosed channels extending through the housing. In some cases, the guide may include a plurality of channels configured to control or manage the position, orientation, and / or movement (e.g., when the laces or cables are loosened or tightened) of one or more laces or cables extending across the throat of the shoe.

[0127] In some cases, one or more of the cables or lace guides may have a webbing or shroud that extends over and hides one or more of the cables used to control the stability flaps on the lateral and / or medial side of the shoe. In some cases, the webbing or shroud may be removable. In other cases, the webbing or shroud may be integrally formed with or removably secured to another portion of the shoe.

[0128] In some cases, the cable management system may include a layered tongue that extends over and conceals one or more cables used to control the lateral and / or medial side stability flaps of the shoe. In some cases, the layered tongue may include two or more layers with one or more cable or lace guides formed between the layers of the layered tongue. In some cases, the cables or laces of the shoe may extend through the cable or lace guides formed between the layers of the layered tongue.

[0129] In some cases, the layered tongue may have three or more layers. In some cases, the three or more layers may have multiple sets of cables or lace guides for different cables or different sets of cables. In some cases, the layered tongue may have layers that separate (i) the cables for controlling the slow race and (ii) the cables for controlling the stability flaps on the lateral and / or medial side of the shoe.

[0130] In some cases, the cable management system may include a sheathed tongue assembly that extends over and conceals one or more cables used to control the lateral and / or medial stability flaps of the shoe. In some cases, the sheathed tongue assembly may include one or more sheaths attached to the tongue of the shoe. In some cases, the sheathed tongue assembly may include a tongue assembly with one or more layers configured as a sheath for the laces or cables of the shoe. In some cases, the sheathed tongue assembly may include a tongue assembly with at least one layer that separates (i) the cables for controlling the slow lace and (ii) the cables for controlling the lateral and / or medial stability flaps of the shoe.

[0131] In some cases, the sheathed tongue assembly may include a relatively hard, smooth material, such as a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) or nylon material, through which the laces or cables may slide easily. In some cases, a portion of the tongue assembly may be constructed from an interior liner or backing material for improved comfort or enhanced moisture or climate control. In some cases, the sheathed tongue assembly may be configured to conform or adapt to the shape of the wearer's foot when the laces or cables are tightened while resisting deformation or kinking due to lace pressure.

[0132] In some cases, the sheathed tongue assembly may be used in combination with other cables or race guides, as described elsewhere herein, In other cases, the sheathed tongue assembly may be used without or in conjunction with other cables or race guides.

[0133] In some cases, the flat panel or extension may be attached to or integral with an underlying tongue-facing portion or surface of the cable or race guide. The flat panel or extension may be configured as a sheath. In some cases, the cable or race guide and sheath form an integral structure that (i) guides a first cable or first set of cables through the cable or race guide portion while (ii) covers or conceals a second cable or second set of cables, and (iii) isolates the first cable or first set of cables or the second cable or second set of cables using the sheath portion.

[0134] In some cases, an integrated sheath and cable or lace guide assembly may be used to guide an external cable across the throat area of ​​the shoe. In some cases, the integrated sheath and cable or lace guide assembly may hide or cover an internal cable that has a different fit-related function than the external cable. In some cases, the integrated sheath and cable or lace guide assembly may be configured to physically separate the external cable from the internal cable to avoid interaction or interference between the internal cable and the external cable.

[0135] In some cases, one or more separate panels or sheaths may be attached to the tongue of the shoe to form one or more laces or cable guides. In some cases, the internal and / or external cables may be configured to extend under or between the panels and / or tongue of the shoe. In some cases, the internal and / or external cables may be configured to extend through one or more laces or cable guides, as described elsewhere herein.

[0136] 13A-13B generally illustrate one or more cables 1320 that may be used to secure a shoe around a wearer's foot. In some cases, the one or more cables 1320 may be arranged in a lacing pattern over a portion of the shoe. In some cases, the lacing pattern may be formed using one or more cable guides 1305. In some cases, the one or more cable guides 1305 may include one or more lugs, loops, or hooks. In some cases, the lacing pattern may be formed using one or more eyelets or openings located in or near the eyestay region of the upper.

[0137] 13A , a conventional article of footwear may include one or more tube guides 1310. Cables 1320 of a cable system are routed through the tube guide 1310 that extends laterally across or along the throat of the shoe. In some cases, the tube guide 1310 may clamp the cables 1320 at or near the ends of the tube guide 1310 to manage the position, orientation, or movement of one or more cables 1320 routed through the tube guide 1310.

[0138] In some cases, the cables 1320 may be tensioned when the cable system is actuated (e.g., to tighten the upper around the wearer's foot, to secure the wearer's foot in the shoe, or to direct the wearer's foot to a target area in the shoe). In some cases, the tension (T1,2) of the cables 1320 may have an X component (TX) and / or a Y component (TY). In some cases, the X component (TX) may be aligned along the length or width of the tube guide 1310. In some cases, the Y component (TY) may be aligned along a direction perpendicular to the length or width of the tube guide 1310.

[0139] Because the X component (TX) acts along the length or width of the tube guide 1310, there is minimal (or no) friction between the inner surface of the tube guide 1310 and the portion of the cable 1320 that extends through the tube guide 1310. There is also no (or no) stress on the length or width of the tube guide 1310 due to the X component (TX).

[0140] However, the Y component (TY) may cause the cables 1320 to move in the opposite direction (e.g., perpendicular to the length or width of the tube guide 1310) such that the cables 1320 act to spread the ends of the tube guide 1310 when tensioned. The contact points between the cables 1320 and the ends of the tube guide 1310 may create friction and interfere with the functionality of the cable system. In some cases, the contact points may change or affect how tightening or loosening the cable system affects (i) the actual or perceived fit of various portions of the shoe around the wearer's foot and / or (ii) the fixation or biasing of the position of the wearer's foot within the shoe.

[0141] 13B, in some embodiments, a shoe of the present disclosure may utilize one or more multi-directional cable guides 1350 to prevent or minimize contact points between the cable system and the cable guide 1350. In some cases, the multi-directional cable guide 1350 may have multiple channels configured to receive and direct various cable segments across the throat area of ​​the shoe.

[0142] In some cases, the multi-directional cable guide 1350 can include a butterfly guide. The butterfly guide can include a housing with two or more diagonal channels extending through the housing. In some cases, the two or more diagonal channels can be arranged in an X-shaped configuration. In some cases, one or more cables 1320 of the cable system can be configured to extend through diagonal channels of the butterfly guide. The diagonal channels can be oriented along a direction in which the cables 1320 are positioned, oriented, or configured to move, to minimize friction between a surface of the butterfly guide and the cables 1320 of the cable system.

[0143] In some cases, the multi-directional cable guide may be constructed from a low friction material, which may be constructed from, for example, a plastic material or a thermoplastic material.

[0144] In some cases, the multi-directional cable guide can be constructed from a three-dimensional (3D) printed part. In some cases, the 3D printed part can be constructed from a plastic or thermoplastic material. In some cases, the 3D printed part can be constructed from a composite material.

[0145] With continued reference to FIG. 13B, in some embodiments, a shoe of the present disclosure may alternatively or additionally utilize a sheathing structure 1360. In some cases, the sheathing structure 1360 may include a flat or substantially flat panel or layer of material. In some cases, one or more portions of the sheathing structure 1360 may be secured or coupled to another portion or component of the shoe at one or more attachment points. In some cases, one or more other portions of the sheathing structure 1360 may be detached from the remainder of the shoe. In some cases, the sheathing structure 1360 may be configured to organize or manage the position or spatial arrangement of one or more cables 1320 of the cable system (e.g., by controlling or limiting the range of movement of the cables 1320 when the cable system is loosened or tightened). In some cases, the sheathing structure 1360 may constrain the cables 1320 to generally remain within a selected boundary area defined by one or more connection points (or a subset thereof).

[0146] In some cases, the sheath structure 1360 can be constructed from a low friction material. In some cases, the sheath structure 1360 can be constructed from a low stretch or non-stretch material. In some non-limiting embodiments, the sheath structure 1360 can be constructed from a plastic material.

[0147] 14A and 14B show further examples of cable management systems. In some cases, the cable management systems may include or utilize one or more cable guides 1400. In some cases, the one or more cable guides 1400 may include one or more multi-directional cable guides. In some cases, the multi-directional cable guides may include at least one or more X-shaped cable guides, as described elsewhere herein.

[0148] In some cases, the cable management system may include a webbing overlay 1401 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 14A). The webbing overlay 1401 may be configured to act as a lace or cable guide and control or manage the position, orientation, or movement of one or more cables that extend across the throat area of ​​the shoe. In some cases, the webbing overlay 1401 may conceal one or more portions or segments of the one or more cables. In some cases, the one or more cables may include (i) cables for the throat lacing and / or (ii) cables for activating or deactivating lateral and / or medial side support straps of the shoe.

[0149] In some cases (e.g., as shown in FIG. 14B ), the cable management system may include two or more layers of tongue. In some cases, the two or more layers of tongue may form a tongue overlay structure 1402 that may be configured to function as a lacing or cable guide and control the position, orientation, or movement of one or more cables that extend across the throat region of the shoe. In some cases, the tongue overlay structure 1402 may cover or hide one or more cables that extend across the shoe. In some cases, the one or more cables may include (i) cables for the throat lacing and / or (ii) cables for activating or deactivating lateral and / or medial side support straps of the shoe.

[0150] 15A-15B, in some embodiments, a cable management system can have a multi-layer structure. In some cases, the multi-layer structure can include a first layer 1510 attached to a second layer 1520. In some cases, the first layer 1510 and / or the second layer 1520 can include a synthetic material (e.g., polyurethane).

[0151] In some cases, the first layer 1510 and the second layer 1520 may be sewn together at one or more attachment points 1515. In some cases, one or more portions or sections of the first layer 1510 and the second layer 1520 may be separated from one another to form one or more partially enclosed or covered areas between the first layer and the second layer. In some cases, the partially enclosed or covered areas may extend across the length or width of the first layer and / or the second layer. In some cases, the one or more partially enclosed or covered areas may be configured as one or more guides 1530. In some cases, one or more laces or cables of the shoe may be configured to extend through the partially enclosed or covered areas forming the guides 1530. In some cases, one or more laces or cables of the shoe may be configured to extend along a path through the partially enclosed or covered areas forming the guides 1530. In some cases, guides 1530 formed between the first layer 1510 and the second layer 1520 may be configured to organize or control the position, orientation, and / or movement of one or more laces or cables used to (i) tighten or loosen the throat of the shoe, or (ii) engage or disengage the lateral and / or medial side support straps of the shoe.

[0152] In some cases, the second layer 1520 is attached to the tongue top cover (also referred to herein as tongue top cover 1540). In some cases, the second layer 1520 and the tongue top cover may be sewn together at one or more attachment points 1525. In some cases, one or more portions or sections of the second layer 1520 and the tongue top cover may be separated from one another to form one or more partially enclosed or covered areas between the second layer 1520 and the tongue top cover. In some cases, the partially enclosed or covered areas may extend across the length or width of the second layer 1520 or the tongue top cover. In some cases, the one or more partially enclosed or covered areas may be configured as one or more guides 1535. In some cases, one or more laces or cables of the shoe may be configured to extend through the partially enclosed or covered areas that form the guides 1535. In some cases, one or more laces or cables of the shoe may be configured to extend along a path that extends through the partially enclosed or covered areas that form the guides 1535. In some cases, the guides 1535 formed between the second layer 1520 and the tongue top cover may be configured to organize or control the position, orientation, and / or movement of a cable or lace used to (i) tighten or loosen the throat area of ​​the shoe, or (ii) engage or release the lateral and / or medial side support straps of the shoe.

[0153] In some cases, a set of stitches can be used to attach the first layer 1510 and the second layer 1520 to the tongue top cover and / or tongue liner. The set of stitches can be configured to attach the first and second layers together and / or to other portions of the tongue assembly to form one or more cable or race guides as described herein, as needed. In some cases, a row of stitches can be used to attach the second layer 1520 to the bottom of the tongue top cover and / or the tongue liner (e.g., to provide sufficient clearance for cables running through guides at or near the bottom of the tongue).

[0154] 15C, in some cases, the tongue top cover 1540 may be assembled with a tongue liner 1545. In some cases, the tongue liner 1545 may extend beyond the top edge of the tongue top cover. In some cases, the tongue top cover 1540 may be attached to the tongue liner 1545 at one or more attachment points 1550. In some cases, the first layer 1510, the second layer 1520, the tongue top cover 1540, and the tongue liner 1545 may form a tongue assembly. In some cases, the tongue assembly including the first layer 1510, the second layer 1520, the tongue top cover 1540, and the tongue liner 1545 may be attached or bonded to the remainder of the shoe. For example, in some cases, the bottom or lower portion of the tongue assembly may be sewn to a portion of the upper (e.g., at one or more attachment points 1555).

[0155] 15D, in some cases, a first cable 1571 and a second cable 1572 may be used to secure the wearer's foot. In some cases, the first cable 1571 may correspond to a cable system connected to a heel mounted dial of the shoe to control the slow race of the shoe. In some cases, the second cable 1572 may correspond to a cable system connected to a side mounted dial to control the lateral side support (also referred to herein as the lateral side stability flap) and / or the medial side support (also referred to herein as the medial side strap) of the shoe.

[0156] In some cases, the first cable 1571 can be configured to extend across or over a portion of the first layer 1510 and / or the second layer 1520 of the multi-layer structure. In some cases, the first cable 1571 can be configured to extend across or over a portion of the tongue top cover 1540 and / or the tongue liner 1545.

[0157] In some cases, the first cable 1571 can extend through one or more openings disposed along an upper portion of the shoe. In some cases, the first cable 1571 can extend through one or more tubular guides or loop structures configured to control the position, orientation, and / or movement of one or more segments of the first cable 1571.

[0158] In some cases, the first cable 1571 may extend through one or more guides formed between the first layer 1510 and the second layer 1520 of the multi-layer structure. In some cases, the first cable 1571 may cross itself as it extends through the guides formed between the first layer 1510 and the second layer 1520. As described above, the guides may correspond to portions or sections of the first layer 1510 and the second layer 1520 that are separated from one another to form one or more partially enclosed or covered areas extending between the first layer 1510 and the second layer 1520. In some cases, the partially enclosed or covered areas may be bounded by one or more connection points that join the first layer 1510 and the second layer 1520. In some cases, one or more partially enclosed or covered areas formed between the first layer 1510 and the second layer 1520 may be configured as one or more guides for the first cable 1571.

[0159] In some cases, the second cable 1572 may be configured to extend across or over a portion of the tongue top cover 1540. In some cases, the second cable 1572 may be configured to extend under the first layer 1510 and / or the second layer 1520. In some cases, the second cable 1572 may be configured to extend through one or more tubular guides or loop structures. In some cases, the loop structure may correspond to a loop end of the second end 522 of the medial side support 520 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8A-8C). In some cases, the loop structure may include one or more loop structures formed by webbing material extending from the lateral side stability flap (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11). In some cases, the loop structure may include one or more loop structures formed by additional webbing material provided along the throat region of the shoe (e.g., as shown in FIG. 11).

[0160] In some cases, the second cable 1572 can extend through one or more guides formed between the second layer 1520 and the tongue top cover 1540 of the multi-layer structure. In some cases, two or more segments of the second cable 1572 can cross as they extend through the guides formed between the second layer 1520 and the tongue top cover 1540. As described above, the guides correspond to portions or sections of the second layer 1520 and the tongue top cover 1540 and can be separated from one another to form one or more partially enclosed or covered areas extending between the second layer 1520 and the tongue top cover 1540. In some cases, the partially enclosed or covered areas can be bounded by one or more connection points joining the second layer 1520 and the tongue top cover 1540. In some cases, one or more partially enclosed or covered areas formed between the second layer 1520 and the tongue top cover 1540 can be configured as one or more guides for the second cable 1572.

[0161] 16 is a bottom toe view of an exemplary golf shoe 1600 of the present disclosure. The golf shoe 1600 may include a cable management system 1610, as described elsewhere herein. In some cases, the cable management system 1610 may be configured to manage or organize multiple cables to minimize interaction or interference between multiple cables. In some cases, the cable management system 1610 may be configured to cover or hide at least a portion of the multiple cables to provide a more aesthetically pleasing aesthetic.

[0162] In some cases, the plurality of cables may include a first cable 1620 that can be tightened or loosened using a first dial 1621. In some cases, the plurality of cables may include a second cable 1630 that can be tightened or loosened using a second dial 1631. In some cases, tightening or loosening the first cable 1620 may tighten or loosen the slow lace. In some cases, tightening or loosening the second cable 1630 may tighten or loosen the lateral side support 1650 and / or the medial side support 1660 of the shoe. The lateral side support 1650 may be detachable from the upper and / or may be sleeved over a portion of the upper to extend around the lateral side of the wearer's foot. The medial side support 1660 may extend under and around the medial side of the wearer's foot to encase the medial side of the wearer's foot. As described elsewhere herein, the lateral side support 1650 and the medial side support 1660 may be indirectly coupled via one or more cables extending between the lateral side support 1650 and the medial side support 1660 and may be drawn under tension (e.g., by using one or more tightening mechanisms operatively coupled to the one or more cables) to secure the wearer's foot within the shoe.

[0163] In some non-limiting embodiments, the second dial 1631 can be attached to or coupled to the lateral side support 950. In some embodiments, the second dial 1631 can be attached to or coupled to a layer or panel of the shoe that is directly or indirectly attached to the lateral side support 950.

[0164] In some non-limiting embodiments, the second dial 1631 can extend through a portion of the outer side support 950. In some embodiments, the outer side support 950 can have an opening, aperture, or channel configured to accommodate the second dial 1631. In some cases, the second dial 1631 can be configured to extend through an opening, aperture, or channel in the outer side support 950.

[0165] In some non-limiting embodiments, the second dial 1631 can have a fixed spatial relationship with respect to the lateral side support 950. In some cases, the second dial 1631 and the lateral side support 950 can move synchronously along or across the upper when the second dial 1631 is manipulated to engage the lateral side support 950 and / or the medial side support.

[0166] In other non-limiting examples, the second dial 1631 and the lateral side support 950 may not or need not maintain a fixed spatial relationship. For example, in some cases, the second dial 1631 may be fixed and the lateral side support 950 may be configured to move along or across the upper when the second dial 1631 is manipulated to engage or disengage the lateral side support 950 and / or the medial side support. In other words, the relative spatial relationship between the lateral side support 950 and the second dial 1631 may change or vary when the second dial 1631 is manipulated to engage or disengage the lateral side support and / or the medial side support.

[0167] [Additional Examples] 17, in some embodiments, a golf shoe 1700 can include a support. In some cases, the support can include a medial side support and / or a lateral side support. In some cases, the support can include a support structure. In some cases, the support structure can include a molded support structure, a composite support structure, or a molded composite support structure. In some cases, the support structure can include a plate (e.g., a support plate, a molded plate, a composite plate, a carbon plate, etc.). In some cases, the support structure can include a support strap, a support flap, a stability strap, a stability flap, or other support structure that can (i) manage loads during golf-related movements or movements, and / or (ii) control the position and / or movement of the wearer's foot during golf-related movements or movements.

[0168] In some embodiments, the support structure may include a composite material. In some cases, the composite material may include one or more fibers (e.g., one or more bicomponent fibers or one or more carbon fibers). In some cases, the composite material may include one or more thermoset materials and / or one or more thermoplastic materials. In some embodiments, the support structure may include a polymer-based composite material. In some cases, the polymer-based composite material may include a polymer matrix with one or more reinforcing fibers. In some cases, the polymer-based composite material may include, for example, a polypropylene matrix reinforced with one or more polypropylene fibers.

[0169] In some cases, the support structure may include an outer side support structure, which may be configured as an outer side support against which the wearer's foot may be positioned for increased stability and / or control during golf-related movements or motions.

[0170] In some cases, the golf shoe 1700 may further include a medial side support structure. In some cases, the medial side support structure may be configured as a medial side support against which the wearer's foot may be positioned for increased stability and / or control during golf-related actions or movements. In some cases, the lateral side support structure and the medial side support structure may be secured around the wearer's foot using a cable system. In some cases, the cable system, the lateral side support structure, and the medial side support structure may be configured to function as an internal 360-degree support system or a 360-degree internal support system of the shoe described herein.

[0171] [Support structure] In some cases, the shoe can include a lateral side support 1710. In some cases, the lateral side support 1710 can include a first end, a second end, and a body extending between the first end and the second end. In some cases, the body of the lateral side support 1710 can be configured to extend along a lateral side of the wearer's foot. The lateral side support can include, for example, a support plate, a support strap, a stability flap, or any of the other support structures described elsewhere herein.

[0172] In some cases, the lateral side support 1710 may be configured to extend partially underneath the insole component of the shoe. In some cases, the lateral side support 1710 may not or need not extend underneath the insole component of the shoe. In some cases, the lateral side support 1710 may be disposed completely above the insole component of the shoe.

[0173] In some cases, the first end of the lateral side support 1710 may be secured to a lateral side surface of the shoe. In other cases, the first end of the lateral side support 1710 may be secured to a medial side surface of the shoe. In other cases, the first end of the lateral side support 1710 may be secured to a portion of the shoe located between the medial and lateral side surfaces of the shoe.

[0174] In some cases, the first end of the lateral side support 1710 can be secured to a portion or component of the shoe. In some cases, the portion or component can be disposed adjacent or proximate to a bite line of the shoe. In some cases, the bite line can correspond to an area of ​​the shoe where the upper and sole assembly meet, intersect, or converge. In some cases, the bite line can extend along at least the lateral side surface and / or the medial side surface of the shoe.

[0175] In some cases, the body of the lateral side support 1710 can extend from a first end to a second end disposed along the top of the shoe. In some cases, a cable adjustment mechanism 1720 can be disposed or attached to the second end of the lateral side support 1710 for activating or deactivating one or more cable systems of the shoe. The one or more cable systems can include a cable system for controlling a 360 degree interior support system as described herein. The cable adjustment mechanism 1720 can include, for example, a dial and spool assembly for organizing the cable system of the shoe.

[0176] In some cases, the cable adjustment mechanism 1720 can be operated to adjust the tension in the cable system to tighten the lateral and / or medial side supports of the shoe around the wearer's foot. In some cases, the cable adjustment mechanism 1720 can be operated to adjust the tension in the cable system to loosen the lateral and / or medial side supports of the shoe around the wearer's foot.

[0177] In some cases, a separate heel mounted cable adjustment mechanism 1730 can be provided to control another cable system of the shoe. In some cases, the heel mounted cable adjustment mechanism 1730 can be operated independently of the cable adjustment mechanism 1720 attached to the second end of the lateral side support 1710. In some cases, the heel mounted cable adjustment mechanism 1730 can be used to control the slow trace of the shoe without affecting the tension of the cable system of the 360 ​​degree internal support system.

[0178] [Flat Support] In some embodiments, the lateral side support 1710 has a flat or substantially flat section or segment that extends through a slit along the upper of the shoe. In some cases, the flat or substantially flat section or segment can be detached and free floating along the upper of the shoe. In some cases, the section or segment of the plate that extends through the slit can be configured to wrap around or cover the lateral side of the upper of the shoe when the cable adjustment mechanism 1720 is operated to tighten the cable system of the internal 360 degree support system.

[0179] In some cases, the flat or substantially flat section or segment can have an end with an opening to receive a dial component of a cable adjustment mechanism. In some cases, the dial component can be configured to extend through the opening and interface with a receptacle component disposed opposite the opening on the opposite side of the dial component. In some cases, the dial component and the receptacle component can be assembled together to form a cable adjustment mechanism that can be manipulated to activate or deactivate the internal 360 degree support system.

[0180] [Flexion support] As shown in FIGS. 18A-18C, in some optional or alternative embodiments, the lateral side support 1810 may have a curved section or segment. In some cases, the curved section or segment may have a first end that extends into the shoe (e.g., between the liner and shell of the shoe) and / or under an insole component of the shoe. In some cases, the curved section or segment may have a second end with an opening 1830 for receiving the dial component 1820. In some cases, the dial component 1820 may be configured to extend through the opening 1830 and interface with a receptacle component 1825 disposed opposite the opening 1830 on the opposite side of the dial component 1820. In some cases, the dial component 1820 and the receptacle component 1825 may be assembled together to form a cable adjustment mechanism that can be manipulated to activate or deactivate the internal 360-degree support system of the shoe.

[0181] In some cases, a portion of the curved portion or segment of the lateral side support 1810 may extend through a slit 1815 disposed along the upper portion of the shoe. In some cases, the curved portion or segment may be detached and free-floating along the upper portion of the shoe. In some cases, the curved portion or segment extending through the slit may be configured to wrap around or cover the lateral side of the upper portion of the shoe when the cable adjustment mechanism 1720 is operated to tighten the cable system of the internal 360 degree support system.

[0182] In some cases, the outer side support 1810 can be reinforced using a curved reinforcement layer 1850. In some cases, the curved reinforcement layer 1850 can be configured to reinforce a base of the outer side support 1810. In some cases, the curved reinforcement layer 1850 can be configured to reinforce a curved portion or segment of the outer side support 1810. In some cases, the curved reinforcement layer 1850 can include a composite or laminate layer that is integrated with the outer side support 1810 before or after the outer side support 1810 is fully formed (e.g., molded, printed, etc.). In some cases, the curved reinforcement layer 1850 can have a curved shape or profile that corresponds to the curvature of the curved portion or segment of the outer side support 1810.

[0183] 17 and 19, in some embodiments, a shoe 1700 can include one or more cable guides for organizing one or more cable systems of the shoe. In some cases, the one or more cable guides can include one or more floating guides 1741 extending from an upper portion of the shoe toward the throat. In some cases, the one or more cable guides can include one or more X-shaped cable guides 1742, as an option or alternative, as described elsewhere herein.

[0184] 20A-20C, in some embodiments, a shoe can have one or more cable guides 2010 having a multi-layered fabric piece. In some cases, the multi-layered fabric piece can have an upper portion, a lower portion, and a folded edge 2011 extending between the upper portion and the lower portion. In some cases, the multi-layered fabric piece can have one or more side openings configured to receive one or more cables or cable segments.

[0185] In some embodiments, the cable guide 2010 may have two ends opposite the fold edge 2011. The two ends may include (i) an end at a top of the multi-layered textile piece and (ii) an end at a bottom of the multi-layered textile piece. In some cases, the two ends opposite the fold edge 2011 may be attached or secured to one another to form a partially enclosed interior region that extends between the top and bottom of the multi-layered textile piece. The partially enclosed interior region may be configured to control or guide the positioning and / or movement of one or more cables or cable segments of the cable system (e.g., when a wearer manipulates a cable adjustment mechanism to engage or disengage the cable system).

[0186] In some non-limiting embodiments, the multi-layered fabric may comprise a synthetic material. In some embodiments, the synthetic material may comprise, for example, a polyurethane-based material. In other embodiments, the synthetic material may comprise a nylon-based or polyester-based material. In some alternative embodiments, the multi-layered fabric may comprise a natural material (e.g., cotton, linen, silk, wool, etc.).

[0187] FIG. 21 illustrates an example shoe with a cable adjustment mechanism 2120 attached to a support structure of a lateral side support of the shoe. In some cases, the cable adjustment mechanism 2120 can be configured to control the amount of tension in the cable system extending between the medial and lateral side supports of the shoe. In some cases, the cable system can extend through (i) a loop end at the second end 522 of the medial side support of the shoe and (ii) a housing of the cable adjustment mechanism 2120 attached to the lateral side support, indirectly coupling the lateral and medial side supports to one another. In some cases, when a wearer manipulates the cable adjustment mechanism 2120 to tighten the internal 360 degree support system of the shoe, the cable adjustment mechanism 2120 can tension the cable system to draw the lateral and medial side supports of the shoe around the wearer's foot and secure the wearer's foot in a desired position and / or orientation.

[0188] As described elsewhere herein, in some cases, one or more cable guides 2130 may be used to control or guide the positioning and / or movement of one or more cables or cable segments of the cable system. In some cases, the one or more cable guides 2130 may include one or more internal cable guides. In some cases, the one or more cable guides 2130 may include webbing secured to an upper portion of the shoe. In some cases, the webbing may be secured along an eyestay region or throat region of the shoe. In some cases, the webbing may be secured to a liner component in the throat or collar region of the shoe.

[0189] Where lower and upper numerical limits are set forth herein, it is contemplated that any combination of these values ​​may be used. Unless otherwise indicated in the implementation examples or expressly specified, all numerical ranges, amounts, values, and percentages, such as amounts of materials herein, are to be read as if preceded by the word "about," even if the word "about" is not expressly stated in the value, amount, or range. Thus, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth in this specification and the appended claims are approximations that may vary depending on the desired properties sought to be obtained by the present technology.

[0190] It should also be understood that terms such as "first," "second," "third," "fourth," "fifth," "sixth," "seventh," "eighth," "ninth," "tenth," "eleventh," "twelfth," "top," "bottom," "upper," "lower," "upper," "lower," "right," "left," "center," "middle," "proximal," "distal," "fore," "rear," "forefoot," "midfoot," "rearfoot," and the like are arbitrary terms used to refer to one location of an element based on one perspective and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the technology.

[0191] All patents, publications, test procedures, and other references cited herein, including priority documents, are fully incorporated by reference to the extent such disclosure is not inconsistent with the present technology and in all jurisdictions where such incorporation is permitted. It is understood that the shoe materials, designs, structures, shoe components, shoe assemblies, and subassemblies described and illustrated herein represent only some embodiments of the present technology. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications and additions can be made to such products and materials without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. All such embodiments are intended to be covered by the appended claims.

Claims

1. In footwear, Upper and a sole assembly connected to the upper, the sole assembly having a midsole and an outsole; An insole component configured to support a foot of a wearer wearing the footwear; a support system including: (i) a medial side support extending beneath or along an interior surface of the upper, the medial side support having (a) an elongate section that resists stretch in one or more directions and (b) a plurality of extensible sections disposed along the elongate section; and (ii) a lateral side support extending beneath the insole component and above or over the interior surface of the upper; and a fastening system extending between the medial side support and the lateral side support, the fastening system having (i) a first cable configured to actuate the medial side support and the lateral side support to (a) pull the insole component up toward a plantar surface of the foot and (b) draw the foot toward a lateral side of the upper, the sole assembly, or the insole component, and (ii) a second cable configured to adjustably secure the upper around the foot and (b) pull the foot down and back toward a heel region of the upper, the sole assembly, or the insole component.

2. 2. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the elongated section has a necked or tapered portion disposed at or near the arch region of the foot.

3. 3. The article of footwear of claim 2, wherein the plurality of extensible sections are disposed on opposite sides of the neck portion or the tapered portion.

4. 10. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the plurality of extensible sections have a multi-directional stretch structure that conforms to the shape or contours of the arch area of ​​the foot.

5. 2. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the elongate section is configured as a spine-like structure or overlay that is substantially inelastic or inextensible in the one or more directions.

6. 10. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the elongate section has a fastener configured to engage one or more replaceable or interchangeable arch supports.

7. 7. The article of footwear of claim 6, wherein the fastener is disposed at a neck or tapered portion of the elongated section between the extensible sections.

8. 10. The footwear of claim 1, further comprising one or more replaceable or interchangeable arch supports configured to accommodate a lateral arch shape or profile of the foot, the one or more replaceable or interchangeable arch supports being removably coupled to the medial side support.

9. 2. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the medial side support is removably connected to the insole component.

10. 2. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the medial side support has a first end removably connected to the insole component and a second end extending around the medial side surface of the foot.

11. 11. The article of footwear of claim 10, wherein the second end has a plurality of looped or folded extensions for engaging the fastening system.

12. The article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein the lateral side support is configured to extend beneath the insole component.

13. 2. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the lateral side support is configured to extend to or from a bite line formed between the upper and the sole assembly.

14. 10. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the lateral side support is disconnected or decoupled from the upper and is independently movable relative to the upper.

15. 10. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the lateral side support is configured to move along, over or across the upper in response to a tension level or changes in tension level of the fastening system.

16. Footwear according to claim 1 , wherein the lateral side support is disposed inside a pocket or sleeve that is integral with the upper and is movable through the pocket or sleeve.

17. 10. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the lateral side support has a slot configured to receive a webbing material for connecting the lateral side support to the fastening system.

18. 2. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the first cable and the second cable of the fastening system are independently adjustable.

19. 2. The footwear of claim 1, further comprising a shroud configured to separate the first cable and the second cable, the shroud being disposed between the first cable and the second cable to minimize interference between the first cable and the second cable.

20. 10. The article of footwear of claim 1, further comprising a side-mounted dial configured to adjust or control the first cable and a heel-mounted dial configured to adjust or control the second cable.

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