Sole comprising reinforcing frame

Abstract

To provide a sole for a shoe that enables a safer running, supports the wearer during longer distances, reveals a high degree of cushioning, provides a large energy return to the wearer, and that is light weight.SOLUTION: The present disclosure relates to a sole 101 for a shoe, in particular for a sports shoe, such as a running shoe, the sole 101 comprising: a midsole 110; and a reinforcing frame 130, wherein at least a first part of the reinforcing frame 130 substantially surrounds an outer boundary 111 of the midsole 110 in one or more of: a lateral side region 115, a medial side region 116, a heel region 117, and a toe region 118 of the midsole 110 thereby defining an open space 112, wherein a part of the midsole 110 is received in the open space 112.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to soles for shoes, particularly sports shoes such as running shoes. The present disclosure also relates to shoes provided with such soles, particularly sports shoes such as running shoes.

Background Art

[0002] Soles for shoes, particularly soles for sports shoes such as running shoes, are generally known and have various purposes and use cases.

[0003] Shoe soles generally perform several different functions, such as reducing or cushioning the impact force generated when the foot touches the ground and providing traction to prevent the wearer's foot from slipping. In addition, shoe soles generally provide a certain degree of stability to the wearer's foot so as to reduce the risk of sprains or other types of injuries to the wearer's ankle, such as injuries to the plantar fascia or muscle overload. Moreover, a further function of shoe soles for performance footwear such as running shoes in particular is to improve the athlete's performance by facilitating good force transmission from the athlete's leg through the foot to the ground and an efficient running gait.

[0004] Some of the particularly relevant needs in this context are to provide a shoe sole that enables safer running, supports the wearer over longer distances, exhibits high cushioning, provides a high energy return to the wearer, and is lightweight.

[0005] In this context, reference can be made to the following exemplary prior art documents.

[0006] Prior art document European Patent Application Publication No. 3868242 discloses a sole for shoes, particularly running shoes, comprising at least two reinforcing members extending in the front half of the sole, wherein at least the first reinforcing member of the reinforcing members further extends rearward into the heel region beyond the midfoot region of the sole and wraps around the rear part of the ankle region.

[0007] Prior art document US Patent No. 10842224 discloses a plate for a footwear article having a sole structure, the sole structure including a foremost point disposed in the forefoot region of the sole structure, a rearmost point disposed closer to the heel region of the sole structure than the foremost point, and a recess extending between the foremost point and the rearmost point. The recess includes a constant radius of curvature from the foremost point of the sole structure to the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) point. In use, the MTP point faces the MTP joint of the foot.

[0008] Prior art document European Patent No. 1002473 discloses a device for enhancing the motion stability of shoes for tennis or similar sports, comprising a substantially Y-shaped plate-like support having a first curved portion configured to follow the contour of the heel region and a second portion configured to follow the outer contour of the foot. The second portion extends laterally together with a third portion so as to affect the inner midfoot bone region of the foot. The support is coupled in a lower region to a midsole formed of a cushioning material to disperse the load transmitted by the moving foot.

[0009] The prior art document Korean Patent No. 102097381 relates to a shoe sole having functions of buffering and walking propulsion, and a shoe including the shoe sole. This document discloses a first midsole that supports the rear foot portion with respect to the arch portion of the foot, a second midsole that supports the front foot portion with respect to the arch portion of the foot, a first support portion attached to the upper surface of the first midsole, a second support portion attached to a predetermined portion of the lower surface of the second midsole, and a buffer and walking propulsion plate including a third support portion attached between the first midsole and the second midsole. The buffer and walking propulsion plate is characterized in that when a load is applied to the rear foot portion, the first support is elastically bent and deformed, so that the first midsole can absorb the impact, and when a load is applied to the front foot portion, after the second support portion is elastically bent and deformed and then returns to its original state, the propulsion is transmitted to the front portion of the second support portion, so that the second midsole can have a repulsive elasticity.

[0010] The prior art document US Patent No. 7263788 relates to a footwear article having a stabilizing element incorporated into the sole structure. The stabilizing element is mainly disposed in the midfoot region of the footwear, but extends to both the forefoot region and the heel region. In one embodiment, the stabilizing element includes five stabilizing members extending from a connecting member. The function of the stabilizing member is to provide support along the longitudinal length of the foot, limit non-axial vertical flexion in the midfoot region and the heel region, enable the forefoot to flex axially with respect to the heel, and allow flexion of the forefoot. Further prior art is disclosed in particular in US Patent No. 8984775 and US Patent Application Publication No. 2022 / 0061457.

[0011] The proposed solutions still have some drawbacks with regard to meeting the above requirements. For example, many of the known solutions provide a reinforcing element disposed under the wearer's foot and heel. This can stiffen the sole and thereby potentially provide a certain amount of energy return, but the feel on the wearer's sole is quite hard. This is particularly undesirable when performing sports activities. Therefore, there is still room for improvement.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0012]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Patent Document 3

Patent Document 4

Patent Document 5

Patent Document 6

Patent Document 7

Patent Document 8

Patent Document 9

Patent Document 10

Summary of the Invention

[0013] In view of this background, an object of the present invention is to provide an improved shoe sole that at least partially overcomes the drawbacks of the prior art. In particular, an object of the present invention is to provide a sole that enhances performance characteristics such as energy return to the wearer without including other characteristics such as providing sufficient cushioning. The general object is to reduce the cost of providing such a shoe sole and to provide a lightweight sole.

[0014] The above object is at least partially achieved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Preferred embodiments are the subject matter of the dependent claims, and other suitable aspects of the invention are described throughout the disclosure of this application. It should be noted that the headings of this disclosure are presented merely to assist in grasping the overview when reading. The headings do not mean that the features of each embodiment cannot be combined.

[0015] Shoe sole In one aspect, the object is a sole for shoes, particularly sports shoes such as running shoes, the sole comprising a midsole and a reinforcing frame, at least a first part of the reinforcing frame substantially surrounding the outer boundary of the midsole in one or more of the outer region, inner region, heel region, and toe region of the midsole, thereby defining an open space, and a part of the midsole being received in the open space, which is solved by the sole.

[0016] In this way, the sole for shoes, particularly sports shoes, provides improved stability, comfort, and energy return to the wearer. Overall, it can thereby provide high performance characteristics. This makes the sole particularly useful for sports activities. Thereby, the sole can bring about significant improvements when used in running shoes, particularly long-distance running shoes. However, the wearers of such shoes can also benefit from these advantages when not running. The sole according to the present disclosure is quite lightweight, enabling safer running, and the midsole can provide an additional advantage of being able to provide an advantageous cushioning effect, particularly when provided with a foam as described elsewhere in this specification.

[0017] In many prior art solutions, a fairly rigid reinforcing element is provided that covers the large bottom of the midsole, for example, the sole of the midsole (or also called the insole of the midsole). Without wishing to be bound by theory, this is considered undesirable as it gives a very hard feel to the wearer's sole and may also have an adverse effect on the cushioning of the wearer's sole. According to the sole proposed herein, these drawbacks of the prior art can be overcome while still providing sufficient stability to the wearer.

[0018] A further advantage of the reinforcing frame having the shape of a frame and surrounding the outer boundary of the midsole is that the reinforcing frame is provided at the most required dedicated position and removed from positions that are not favorable for the desired cushioning effect. By the reinforcing frame surrounding the outer boundary of the midsole in one or more of the outer region, inner region, heel region, and toe region of the midsole, it can be understood that the large insole region of the foot can be left open and an open space can be defined. Thereby, since the cushioning effect is not particularly impaired by the interference of the reinforcing frame in the portion where cushioning is desired, the cushioning effect of the midsole can be improved. For example, the reinforcing frame does not substantially obstruct, block, and / or interfere with the midsole in the region of the foot where cushioning is desired, such as the sole. Thus, the sole according to the present disclosure can direct the impact force of the wearer without adversely affecting the cushioning of the sole. In particular, considering the general walking cycle of a runner during running, the sole starts to act during the loading phase, and when the runner moves towards the thumb and kicks off, for example, enters toe-off, it enables the dynamic stiffening of the midsole by the reinforcing frame.

[0019] The term "midsole" as used in the present disclosure can refer to a layer of material that can be disposed between the outsole of a shoe, for example, the bottom of the sole that contacts the ground, and the upper of the shoe, for example, the part of the shoe that covers the upper part of the wearer's foot.

[0020] The term "reinforcing frame" as used in the present disclosure can refer to a structural element that can provide a reinforcing function. The structural element has the shape of a frame. Although possible, the reinforcing frame does not necessarily have to form a closed loop or a closed frame. For example, the reinforcing frame can have two separate ends. For example, the frame can be regarded as an open frame such as a paper clip. The reinforcing frame can be understood as something that borders, for example, surrounds.

[0021] The "outer boundary" of the midsole used in the present disclosure can refer to the boundary facing the outside of the midsole. For example, the outer boundary of the midsole may be the outermost part of the midsole. As an exemplary example, the inner boundary is the boundary directed towards the central part of the midsole. Thereby, the inner boundary can be regarded as the opposite of the outer boundary. The outer boundary of the midsole may be one or more of the surface, edge, line, outer perimeter, etc. of the midsole. As derivable from the term "boundary", the "outer boundary" can indicate a limit, etc. For example, the outer boundary may be free with respect to the environment, etc. The outer boundary of the midsole can provide a recognizable boundary line between the midsole and other parts of the shoe and / or between the midsole and the environment. Thereby, beyond the outer boundary of the midsole in the outer direction, the midsole may not exist. Nevertheless, it is quite possible that the midsole is formed such that a part of the midsole protrudes more greatly outside the "outer boundary" of the midsole. Such a part can also be regarded as having the outer boundary of the midsole, but still, the "outer boundary" of the midsole that protrudes less outside can be regarded as the outer boundary of the midsole.

[0022] At least a first portion of the reinforcement frame substantially surrounds the outer boundary of the midsole in one or more of the outer region, inner region, heel region, and toe region, but it should be noted that this does not necessarily mean that all of the reinforcement frame surrounds the outer boundary of the midsole, and it may or may not surround it. In the present invention, it is included that a second portion of the reinforcement frame different from the first portion does not surround the outer boundary of the midsole. For example, the reinforcement frame can include a second portion such as a substantially linear midfoot segment described elsewhere in this specification, and the second portion cannot surround the outer boundary of the midsole in one or more of the outer region, inner region, heel region, and / or toe region of the midsole. Of course, in the present disclosure, it is included that the reinforcement frame includes further portions that can or cannot surround the outer boundary of the midsole. Further, the first portion of the reinforcement frame, the second portion of the reinforcement frame, and / or any further portion of the reinforcement may be integrally formed as one part. Alternatively, these may be formed as separate parts and connected to each other.

[0023] As described elsewhere in this specification, the first portion of the reinforcement frame that substantially surrounds the outer boundary of the midsole in one or more of the outer region, inner region, heel region, and / or toe region of the midsole can be, for example, one or more of a substantially linear outer segment, a curved heel segment, a substantially linear inner segment, and a curved toe segment.

[0024] As will be understood by those skilled in the art, since at least the first part of the reinforcement frame "surrounds the outer boundary" of the midsole, the outer boundary of the midsole can be at least partially covered by the reinforcement frame and thus does not have to be fully exposed to the environment. Further, the outer boundary of the midsole does not have to be completely visible from the outside due to the reinforcement frame. In one example, the term "surround" means to completely enclose something. In one example, the term "surround" means to extend around an edge or the edge portion of something.

[0025] The reinforcement frame substantially surrounds the outer boundary of the midsole in one or more of the "outer region, inner region, heel region, and toe region" of the midsole, which can be understood as these regions being substantially wrapped, surrounded, etc. by the reinforcement frame. In other words, as will be described in more detail elsewhere in this specification, the reinforcement frame can be substantially arranged around these regions of the midsole. As implied by the term "surround", it may be insufficient for the reinforcement frame to form a flat shape on one plane, such as a horizontal plane simply located on the flat heel region of the midsole, of the flat surface of the midsole. In such a situation, the flat heel region of the midsole cannot be considered to be surrounded by the reinforcement frame. However, the term "surround" does not exclude any of the "sandwich" type arrangements described herein. The term "substantially surround" the outer boundary can mean that the reinforcement frame surrounds at least 60%, preferably at least 70%, more preferably at least 80%, and most preferably at least 90% of the outer boundary of the midsole.

[0026] As used herein, the term "open space" can refer to a three-dimensional volume. Further, a portion of the midsole is received within the open space. This can mean that the open space is not empty. Further, it is not excluded that the open space can be at least partially filled with one or more additional parts, components, elements, etc. However, as will be understood by those skilled in the art, the open space cannot be filled with a reinforcing frame. Otherwise, the reinforcing frame would not be able to define the open space. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, the open space can be a macroscopic space, i.e., a space that can be readily recognized as such by those skilled in the art.

[0027] The "outer region" and / or "inner region" of the midsole can refer to the side and / or edge of the midsole that extends from the heel region at least to the midfoot bone region. For example, the "outer region" and / or "inner region" of the midsole can extend from the heel region to the little toe region.

[0028] The sole for shoes described herein can be particularly useful when combined with and / or applied to sports shoes such as running shoes, particularly long-distance running shoes. However, it should be noted that the sole can also be used with any type of footwear product including, but not limited to, football shoes, hiking boots, sneakers, basketball shoes, rugby shoes, baseball shoes, golf shoes, tennis shoes, cross-training shoes. Further, the sole can be used in combination with shoes for any type of sports activity.

[0029] The term "athletic activity" is understood to include one or more and / or any combination of at least the following non-exhaustive list, namely, aerobics, exercise practice, running, hiking, mountain climbing, group fitness classes, walking, cycling, yoga, soccer, tennis, football, basketball, exercise, volleyball, gymnastics, weightlifting, cross-training, baseball, softball, rugby, field hockey, wrestling, squash, track and field (sprinting, long jump, high jump, etc.), cross-country skiing.

[0030] Furthermore, the reinforcing frame that provides the additional advantages described herein may also or alternatively be used in clothing and / or devices used in athletic activities. That is, the reinforcing frame is not necessarily limited to the example of a shoe sole. It may be possible to transfer the concept of the reinforcing frame to any type of activity or athletic activity where stability, comfort, or generally any support for the wearer is required.

[0031] Nevertheless, the advantages of the reinforcing frame described herein have been found to be particularly prominent when applied to shoe soles such as shoes used during athletic activities.

[0032] As used herein, a "wearer" may be any type of person capable of wearing footwear items. The term "wearer" can be used synonymously with terms such as "user", "athlete", "human", etc.

[0033] Surround In a preferred embodiment of the shoe sole described herein, a portion of the outer boundary of the midsole substantially surrounded by the reinforcing frame faces the outer side and / or the inner side of the sole.

[0034] This can be understood such that the reinforcing frame surrounds the outer boundary, and the outer boundary can face the side, for example, can face the horizontal direction as opposed to the vertical direction.

[0035] This has the advantage that the reinforcing frame can act as a shield that substantially supports the midsole from the outside to the inside, so that the mechanical support and / or stability of the midsole can be improved. This arrangement can also be considered self-standing due to the presence of the reinforcing frame on the outside.

[0036] In a preferred embodiment of the sole for shoes described herein, the open space is substantially arranged in a plane defined by the heel-to-toe axis and the medial-to-lateral axis of the sole.

[0037] This has the advantage that the open space is substantially provided in a horizontal plane where cushioning for the wearer is more important, as opposed to a plane arranged along the vertical axis. In particular, since there is substantially no reinforcing frame in the open space, the reinforcing frame does not interfere with the midsole on this horizontal plane where it is necessary to cushion the wearer's foot.

[0038] Midsole sandwich structure and shape fitting In a preferred embodiment of the sole for shoes described herein, the midsole includes an upper midsole layer and a lower midsole layer, and the reinforcing frame is sandwiched between the upper midsole layer and the lower midsole layer.

[0039] This has the advantage that different materials can be provided for the upper midsole layer and the lower midsole layer. For example, the rigidity of the material of the upper midsole layer may be different from that of the material of the lower midsole layer. This has the additional advantage of providing specific functions to these layers.

[0040] In addition, the fact that the reinforcement frame is sandwiched between the upper midsole layer and the lower midsole layer can provide additional support to the reinforcement frame between the upper midsole layer and the lower midsole layer. For example, gravity can already substantially maintain the reinforcement frame in that position and prevent it from substantially changing its position when a pressure load is applied.

[0041] As will be understood by those skilled in the art, the upper midsole layer can be disposed upward with respect to the reinforcement frame (e.g., along the vertical axis from the ground to the sky as seen during normal use of the shoe). Further, the lower midsole layer can be disposed downward with respect to the reinforcement frame (e.g., along the vertical axis from the sky to the ground as seen during normal use of the shoe).

[0042] Alternatively, in light of the present disclosure, it may be possible for the upper midsole layer and the lower midsole layer to be formed as one integral part. In such an alternative form, the upper midsole layer and the lower midsole layer are not separate, and one midsole can be formed.

[0043] In a preferred embodiment of the sole for a shoe described herein, the reinforcement frame is disposed substantially flat in a sandwich configuration between the surface of the upper midsole layer and the surface of the lower midsole layer.

[0044] In a preferred embodiment of the sole for a shoe described herein, the upper midsole layer and the lower midsole layer are engaged with each other by a shape-fitting connection, thereby defining the outer boundary of the upper midsole layer substantially surrounded by the reinforcement frame.

[0045] Being engaged can be understood as being accommodated and / or received.

[0046] This has the advantage that the upper midsole layer and the lower midsole layer can be easily assembled and a robust configuration can be provided. Although possible, the robust configuration does not necessarily require another means for attachment such as an adhesive. Thus, this arrangement can be regarded as at least partially self - standing.

[0047] It can be understood that a shape - fitting connection can be formed or designed such that the upper midsole layer and the lower midsole layer fit into each other. Furthermore, a reinforcing frame can be formed or designed to fit in a sandwich - like arrangement between the surfaces formed by the upper midsole layer and the lower midsole layer. The various parts involved in the sandwich - like arrangement fit into each other due to their substantially complementary geometries. This can result in a tight and reliable fit without the need for additional fasteners or adhesives, although the use of additional fasteners or adhesives is not necessarily excluded. The connection can rely on the geometries of the upper midsole layer and the lower midsole layer to produce a strong and stable attachment. In various examples, it should be noted that the use of additional fasteners or adhesives is preferred. For example, an adhesive or the like may be used to improve the fit between the upper midsole layer and the lower midsole layer.

[0048] It should be noted that as an alternative means of arranging the upper midsole layer and the lower midsole layer, co - molding may be used. Co - molding can also be referred to as over - molding or two - shot molding. Co - molding can be a manufacturing process for making parts or products formed from two or more different materials. This process can include injecting two or more materials into a mold in sequence to produce a single integral part that includes separate layers or parts. The materials used in co - molding can differ with respect to color, texture, hardness, and even chemical properties.

[0049] The outer boundary of the midsole, which is substantially surrounded by the reinforcing frame, can be defined by such engagement and shape - fitting connections. This has the advantage that the outer boundary of the midsole so defined can be covered by the reinforcing frame. This has the potential to establish a smooth outer boundary for the sole.

[0050] In one example, the reinforcing frame can at least partially fill a gap provided between an upper midsole layer and a lower midsole layer when viewed along a vertical axis.

[0051] In a preferred embodiment of the sole for shoes described herein, the upper midsole layer is at least partially received in an opening formed by the lower midsole layer.

[0052] This further contributes to a tight and secure fit without the need for additional fasteners or adhesives. However, the use of additional fasteners or adhesives does not necessarily have to be excluded solely by the shape - fitting arrangement.

[0053] This embodiment can be understood such that the upper midsole layer can include extensions, protrusions, projections, etc. These are at least partially received in an opening formed by the lower midsole layer, or more generally, in a recess formed by the lower midsole layer. Thereby, the outer surfaces of the extensions, protrusions, projections, etc. of the upper midsole layer can at least partially contact the inner surface of the recess of the lower midsole layer.

[0054] The opening formed by the lower midsole layer can substantially correspond to the insole of the midsole. In particular, the opening can substantially correspond to the size of the open space when viewed in a horizontal plane.

[0055] In a preferred embodiment of the sole for shoes described in this specification, the lower midsole layer has a notch arranged such that the reinforcing frame is at least partially visible from below the lower midsole layer, and the notch preferably has an elongated shape aligned along the heel-to-toe axis of the sole.

[0056] This has the advantage that a person can evaluate the state of the reinforcing frame such as solidity and firmness.

[0057] This may further have the advantage that the appearance of the sole and / or the shoe can be adjusted to show the wearer that a visible reinforcing frame can have certain functions. Thereby, this can correspondingly affect the adaptation of the wearer's performance. Further, such visibility can, firstly, affect the wearer's performance, confidence, and / or motivation to participate in sports activities.

[0058] The fact that the reinforcing frame is at least partially visible from below the lower midsole layer can be understood such that a person can recognize the reinforcing frame from below the lower midsole layer during normal use of the sole. In the present disclosure, it is fully encompassed that a part of the reinforcing frame is not visible from below the lower midsole layer.

[0059] The notch can be understood as a through-hole, an opening, a recess, etc. The notch can be implemented by one or more of a groove, a slit, a cut, and / or a vent hole, etc. For example, the notch can form a space without the material of the lower midsole layer.

[0060] The term "elongated" means that the dimension along one axis of the notch can be larger than one dimension, preferably both dimensions, along the remaining axis, and the remaining axis is substantially perpendicular to the one axis. It should be understood that when dimensions are described in this specification, manufacturing tolerances usually have to be taken into account. Therefore, the dimensions described in this specification can vary slightly.

[0061] The elongated shape of the notch aligned along the heel-to-toe axis of the sole can substantially maintain the rigidity and / or stability of the lower midsole layer and / or this is at least substantially not impaired, and further the reinforcing frame can be visible from below the lower midsole layer.

[0062] It is fully encompassed by the present disclosure that the lower midsole layer can include one or more, particularly a plurality of notches. Nevertheless, not all notches necessarily have to be configured such that the reinforcing frame is at least partially visible from below the lower midsole layer.

[0063] In a preferred embodiment of the sole for shoes described herein, the notch in the lower midsole layer is arranged such that the midfoot segment of the reinforcing frame (described in more detail elsewhere in this specification) is at least partially visible from below the lower midsole layer.

[0064] Open space In a preferred embodiment of the sole for shoes described herein, the midsole includes a polymeric foam material.

[0065] This has the advantage that the polymeric foam material can provide the desired cushioning effect. This is particularly useful in combination with an open space through which the midsole, particularly the upper midsole layer, can at least partially protrude. In addition, since there is substantially no reinforcing frame in the open space, the midsole, particularly the upper midsole layer, is not obstructed by any structural components when the sole is deformed by a pressure load being applied thereto. Thereby, the cushioning effect is improved.

[0066] In a preferred embodiment of the sole for shoes described herein, the open space is arranged in at least one of the heel region, midfoot region, and toe region of the sole.

[0067] This provides sufficient energy return while further contributing to the advantages described elsewhere in this specification in a cushioning context. In particular, the open space according to this embodiment can include a fairly large area of the sole's insole. And in these fairly large areas, the reinforcement frame does not substantially impede, block, and / or interfere with the midsole. Accordingly, the midsole can appropriately provide a cushioning effect.

[0068] In a preferred embodiment of the shoe sole described herein, the open space extends over at least 10%, preferably at least 20%, more preferably at least 30%, more preferably at least 40%, more preferably at least 50%, more preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, most preferably at least 80%, and / or up to 99%, preferably up to 95%, most preferably up to 90% of the insole area of the sole. The open space may be a three-dimensional space. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, the term "extends" in this context can mean that the two-dimensional projection of the three-dimensional open space onto the two-dimensional insole area extends over the indicated percentage of the insole area.

[0069] This provides sufficient energy return while further contributing to the advantages described elsewhere in this specification in a cushioning context.

[0070] The open space should not extend into the insole area of the sole to such an extent as to adversely affect the stability of the sole. Therefore, an upper limit for the extension should be provided. Nevertheless, the open space should extend into the insole area to such an extent that the advantages of the open space, such as providing a fairly large area where, for example, the deformation of the midsole is not prevented and / or not impaired by any structural components such as the reinforcement frame, become apparent. In addition, a larger extension of the open space into the insole area of the sole can have the potential to reduce material consumption.

[0071] Therefore, although not desiring to be bound by theory, it is believed that the values defined herein can achieve an optimal balance of these conflicting requirements.

[0072] Arm of the reinforcement frame In a preferred embodiment of the sole for shoes described herein, the reinforcement frame includes an arm, and the arm includes a flat profile in a cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the arm. The flat profile can have a substantially rectangular cross-section.

[0073] The flat profile has the advantage of providing a minimum volume and / or a minimum physical presence to the reinforcement frame, and can further provide advantages regarding high energy return. In addition, the flat profile reduces material consumption. The arm can be understood as a structural element that substantially forms the reinforcement frame. Additionally or alternatively, the "arm" can be referred to as a leg portion or the like. The longitudinal axis of the arm can be easily recognized as an axis that substantially follows the range of the maximum dimension of the arm.

[0074] In a preferred embodiment of the sole for shoes described herein, the flat profile has a width in a plane defined by the heel-to-toe axis and the medial-to-lateral axis of the substantially sole of at least 3 mm, preferably at least 5 mm, more preferably at least 8 mm, still more preferably at least 10 mm, still more preferably at least 12 mm, still more preferably at least 15 mm, most preferably at least 20 mm, and / or at most 70 mm, preferably at most 60 mm, more preferably at most 50 mm, still more preferably at most 45 mm, still more preferably at most 40 mm, still more preferably at most 35 mm, still more preferably at most 30 mm, most preferably at most 25 mm.

[0075] The width of the flat contour defined in this embodiment can achieve an optimal balance between two different and conflicting requirements. On the one hand, sufficient stiffening, improved reinforcement, and high energy return are desired, for which a larger width is advantageous. On the other hand, it should be ensured that there is substantially no interference with the midsole and that improved cushioning characteristics and improved assemblability are enabled. For this, a smaller width is advantageous.

[0076] In a preferred embodiment of the sole for shoes described herein, the flat contour has a thickness that is substantially perpendicular to the plane defined by the heel-to-toe axis and the medial-to-lateral axis of the sole of at least 0.2 mm, preferably at least 0.5 mm, more preferably at least 0.8 mm, still more preferably at least 1.0 mm, still more preferably at least 1.2 mm, most preferably at least 1.5 mm, and / or at most 3 mm, preferably at most 2.5 mm, more preferably at most 2.0 mm, still more preferably at most 1.8 mm, most preferably at most 1.5 mm.

[0077] The thickness of the flat profile should not be so large that it may require more material and lead to a bulky configuration of the reinforcement frame. The smaller the thickness, the more it can contribute to a more minimal configuration of the reinforcement frame. This has the advantage that the reinforcement frame does not act and / or feel like a large foreign part or object. Rather, the reinforcement frame can be smoothly incorporated into the sole, which is evaluated by the wearer. Furthermore, it can thereby reduce the use of materials, which has economic and environmental advantages. Additionally, a reinforcement frame with a smaller thickness and / or width has the further advantage of reducing the total weight of the shoe by reducing the weight of the sole, which is particularly advantageous when the shoe is used for sports activities such as running. Therefore, an upper limit for the thickness of the flat profile should be set. Nevertheless, the thickness of the flat profile should have at least a minimum value such that the advantages of the reinforcement frame, such as providing sufficient energy return to the wearer, become apparent. Therefore, although not wishing to be bound by theory, it is considered that the values defined herein can achieve an optimal balance of these conflicting requirements.

[0078] In a preferred embodiment of the sole for a shoe described herein, the reinforcement frame has a substantially uniform thickness.

[0079] As will be understood by those skilled in the art, although the reinforcement frame has a substantially uniform thickness, it is also possible for the reinforcement frame to have certain portions where the thickness is slightly different from other portions. For example, it may be necessary to take into account manufacturing tolerances that can cause such differences. Further, along the width direction of one portion of the reinforcement frame, the thickness may vary, for example, at the center, it may be larger or smaller compared to the outside of said portion. In one example, the surface of the reinforcement frame can be structured, for example, embossed, so that there can be a slight difference in thickness. Such a structure can assist in the stock fitting of the reinforcement frame. Additionally, a structure may be provided that thereby provides a design visual that is engraved.

[0080] First end, second end, three-dimensional shape In a preferred embodiment of the sole for shoes described herein, the reinforcing frame is formed to define a three-dimensional shape such that it is disposed in at least two substantially parallel planes defined by the heel-to-toe axis and the medial-to-lateral axis of the sole, and the two planes are separated by at least 1 cm, preferably at least 1.5 cm, more preferably at least 2 cm, still more preferably at least 2.5 cm, still more preferably at least 3 cm, still more preferably at least 3.5 cm, most preferably at least 3.6 cm, and / or at most 5 cm, preferably at most 4.5 cm, more preferably at most 4.2 cm, most preferably at most 4.0 cm.

[0081] Being separated means that there can be a distance between at least two planes, and the distance is measured substantially perpendicular to the at least two planes. In one example, the distance can be recognizable by one of ordinary skill in the art without a specific device.

[0082] The three-dimensional shape has the advantage that the reinforcing frame is not only placed in one plane defined by the heel-to-toe axis and the medial-to-lateral axis of the sole. Rather, the reinforcing frame can be provided in the plane and / or region of the sole where such reinforcement is desired and / or where such reinforcement is most effective. The three-dimensional shape can help reconstruct natural shapes such as anatomical shapes, which can help place the reinforcing frame more accurately in a dedicated position. The three-dimensional shape can also facilitate the stock fitting of the reinforcing frame in the sole. For example, the reinforcing frame can be more easily stock-fitted between the upper midsole layer and the lower midsole layer. This provides a synergistic effect of the three components of the sole, namely, the upper midsole layer, the lower midsole layer, and the reinforcing frame.

[0083] In the prior art, usually, in order to achieve this effect, a plurality of separate reinforcing portions or reinforcing elements are required. The inventors of the present invention have opened up a way to overcome this problem with the reinforcing frame proposed herein.

[0084] The fact that at least two substantially parallel planes are spaced apart can be understood as these planes being spaced apart along a vertical axis.

[0085] The reinforcing frame should not be arranged in two planes spaced apart to such an extent that the arrangement of the reinforcing frame on the sole is hindered. Therefore, the inventors have found that an upper limit should be provided. Nevertheless, the reinforcing frame should be arranged in two planes spaced apart at least to such a minimum extent that the advantages of the reinforcing frame, such as providing sufficient energy return to the wearer, become apparent. Therefore, although not wishing to be bound by theory, it is considered that the values defined herein can achieve an optimal balance of these conflicting requirements.

[0086] The plane defined by the heel-to-toe axis and the medial-lateral axis of the sole can also be referred to as a horizontal plane parallel to the ground, for example, when a shoe provided with the sole stands on the ground.

[0087] In a preferred embodiment of the sole for a shoe described herein, the heel segment of the reinforcing frame extends upward more greatly compared to any other segment of the reinforcing frame.

[0088] The extension of this heel segment has the advantage of further contributing to increasing the energy return to the wearer during the walking cycle, particularly during the toe-off phase. Further, when viewed along the vertical axis, since the heel segment can surround the heel portion of the midsole at a higher position, this can have the additional advantage of stopping shear forces and / or vibrations. This can also meet the needs of heel-striking athletes, that is, athletes who first contact the ground with the heel of the shoe.

[0089] In a preferred embodiment of the sole for shoes described in this specification, the reinforcing frame includes an open frame structure having a first end and a second end, and the first end and the second end are spaced apart from each other.

[0090] The open frame structure has the advantage of providing a dynamic and active reinforcing frame. The open frame structure of the reinforcing frame, that is, a structure without a closed frame or a non-closed connection, allows the reinforcing frame to guide the wearer's foot while adapting it with respect to the torsional ability of the wearer's foot. This is particularly applicable when dynamic forces are transmitted from the outer side to the inner side of the wearer's foot. Such transmission of dynamic forces can exist, for example, during the walking cycle or when the wearer turns.

[0091] It should be noted that the open structure can be more adaptable to such dynamic forces compared to a closed structure, such as a plate commonly applied in the prior art. Such a plate can be arranged in only one plane parallel to the inner-outer axis and the heel-to-toe axis of the sole (not arranged in a plurality of such parallel and spaced-apart planes), and in addition, it may include a large insole area of the sole, which may injure the wearer. Without wishing to be bound by theory, such a plate is considered to equally reduce torsion and adaptability. The open frame structure of the reinforcing frame proposed in this specification can give freedom of torsional ability and at the same time can advance the wearer forward by energy return.

[0092] In a preferred embodiment of the sole for shoes described in this specification, the first end and the second end are separated from each other by at least 10% of the length of the sole, preferably at least 20% of the length of the sole, more preferably at least 30% of the length of the sole, still more preferably at least 40% of the length of the sole, most preferably at least 50% of the length of the sole, and / or at most 80% of the length of the sole, preferably at most 70% of the length of the sole, more preferably at most 60% of the length of the sole, most preferably at most 50% of the length of the sole.

[0093] The separation between the first end and the second end allows for greater design freedom and facilitates a more dynamic behavior of the reinforcement frame. In particular, the first end and the second end can be placed at positions where such energy return can be most or at least highly desired. Nevertheless, the first end and the second end should not be separated to such an extent that the reinforcement frame itself may lose some of its desired rigidity. Therefore, although not wishing to be bound by theory, it is considered that the values defined in this specification can achieve an optimal balance of these conflicting requirements.

[0094] Note that the length of the sole can generally be measured along the heel-to-toe axis of the sole.

[0095] In a preferred embodiment of the sole for shoes described in this specification, the first end is located in the toe region, preferably in the little toe region.

[0096] This further contributes to the advantage of the reinforcement frame in providing a high energy return to the wearer. In particular, it enables the support of the toe region, which can be useful during the toe-off phase of the walking cycle.

[0097] In a preferred embodiment of the sole for shoes described in this specification, the second end is located in the midfoot region of the sole.

[0098] This can provide more energy return to the midfoot area of the sole, thereby having the advantage of being able to provide it to the midfoot area of the wearer's foot. This is particularly important at the toe-off stage.

[0099] In a preferred embodiment of the shoe sole described herein, the reinforcing frame has, in this order, a substantially linear outer segment, a curved heel segment, a substantially linear inner segment, a curved toe segment, and a substantially linear midfoot segment from a first end to a second end.

[0100] This has the advantage of being able to ensure higher rigidity and a higher reinforcing effect at substantially all positions where it is desired.

[0101] The midfoot segment can extend from the toe part to the central part of the midfoot area. The midfoot segment can have a longitudinal shape. The midfoot segment has the additional advantage of being able to provide sufficient rigidity for the toe-off stage. This can be particularly advantageous at the end of a person's walking cycle at the toe-off stage. Further, due to the stiffening of the midfoot - forefoot area, a high energy return for the wearer occurs.

[0102] In a preferred embodiment of the shoe sole described herein, the width of the midfoot segment, particularly the width of the second end, is larger than any other width of the reinforcing frame, and the width is in a plane defined by the heel - toe axis and the inner - outer axis of the substantially sole.

[0103] The midfoot generally requires more support and / or stabilization and is an important part where the energy return to the wearer can significantly improve the performance of the athlete. Therefore, this embodiment has the advantage that the wider the width of the frame, that is, the wider the base of the frame, the more it can meet these requirements and help support the wearer's midfoot.

[0104] In a preferred embodiment of the shoe sole described herein, the width of the reinforcement frame decreases from the second end along the midfoot segment towards the toe segment, and the width is within a plane defined by the substantially sole heel-to-toe axis and the medial-lateral axis.

[0105] This has the advantage that, as described elsewhere herein, it can improve the stock fitting of the reinforcement frame. In addition, since the width of the reinforcement frame decreases towards the toe segment, it serves the purpose of being able to provide more foam material in the midfoot and / or forefoot of the sole. This can improve the cushioning properties for the wearer's foot. This can be particularly useful in the forefoot of the sole.

[0106] In a preferred embodiment of the shoe sole described herein, the midfoot segment, particularly the second end, extends downwardly more greatly compared to any other segment of the reinforcement frame.

[0107] This has the advantage that it can support and / or stabilize the midfoot of the wearer's foot more greatly. Thus, this embodiment further improves the sole and makes it particularly useful for sports activities.

[0108] Outsole In a preferred embodiment of the shoe sole described herein, the sole comprises an outsole disposed below the lower midsole layer.

[0109] The outsole may be the bottom of the sole that at least partially contacts the ground directly. This means that it is not necessarily the case that the entire outsole has to contact the ground, although this is often the case. The outsole can provide several advantages that contribute to the overall performance, comfort, grip, durability, stability, support, water resistance, and weather resistance of the sole.

[0110] Visibility In a preferred embodiment of the sole for shoes described in this specification, the outsole has a notch arranged such that the reinforcing frame is at least partially visible from below the outsole, and the notch preferably has an elongated shape aligned along the heel-to-toe axis of the sole.

[0111] This has the advantage that a person can evaluate the state of the reinforcing frame, such as its solidity, firmness, etc.

[0112] This can further have the advantage that it can adjust the appearance of the sole and / or the shoe so as to show the wearer that the visible reinforcing frame can have a certain function. Thereby, this can correspondingly affect the adaptation of the wearer's performance. Furthermore, such visibility can, firstly, affect the wearer's performance, confidence, and / or motivation to participate in sports activities.

[0113] It can be understood that the fact that the reinforcing frame is at least partially visible means that a person can recognize the reinforcing frame from below the outsole during normal use of the sole. The notch in the outsole may be substantially similar or identical to the notch in the lower midsole layer described in more detail elsewhere in this specification.

[0114] When used in the context of the notch in the outsole, the term "elongated" can be understood in the same way as when used in the context of the notch in the lower midsole layer described in more detail elsewhere in this specification.

[0115] The elongated shape of the notch in the outsole aligned along the heel-to-toe axis of the sole can have the advantage of substantially maintaining the firmness and / or stability of the outsole and / or that it is at least substantially not impaired, and further that the reinforcing frame is visible from below the outsole.

[0116] The present disclosure fully encompasses that the outsole can include one or more, particularly a plurality of, cutouts. Nevertheless, not necessarily all cutouts need to be configured such that the reinforcement frame is at least partially visible from below the outsole.

[0117] In a preferred embodiment of the shoe sole described herein, the cutouts are arranged such that the midfoot segment of the reinforcement frame is at least partially visible from below the outsole.

[0118] This further contributes to the advantages described elsewhere in this specification in the context of the cutouts. The visibility of the midfoot segment can be particularly important since this segment can be highly involved in energy return. Thereby, it can be advantageous that the condition of the midfoot segment, such as solidity, firmness, etc., can be easily evaluated.

[0119] In one example, the lower midsole layer can have cutouts arranged such that the reinforcement frame is at least partially visible from below the outsole. The cutouts of the lower midsole layer preferably have an elongated shape aligned along the heel-to-toe axis of the sole. The cutouts of the lower midsole layer can be arranged such that the midfoot segment of the reinforcement frame is at least partially visible from below the outsole. The cutouts of the lower midsole layer can be shaped to substantially correspond to the cutouts of the outsole. In one example, the cutouts of the lower midsole layer and the cutouts of the outsole can form one integral cutout.

[0120] The same features and advantages described for the cutouts of the outsole also apply to the cutouts of the lower midsole layer.

[0121] In a preferred embodiment of the sole for shoes described in this specification, the reinforcing frame is at least partially visible from the outside of the shoe, and preferably the reinforcing frame is visible from the inner side, the heel side, and / or the outer side.

[0122] Although not wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that this can have the additional advantage of lateral stability and / or prevention of ankle sprains. This may apply because the visibility means that the reinforcing frame can extend to or even slightly beyond the outermost boundary of the midsole, for example a foam material. This provides the said additional advantage. In addition, visibility from the inner side, the heel side, and / or the outer side can have the further advantage of improving the appearance of the sole and / or the shoe. In particular, this visibility can easily show the wearer that the sole has a certain function. This visibility can, firstly, affect the wearer's performance, confidence, and / or motivation to participate in sports activities.

[0123] In a preferred embodiment of the sole for shoes described in this specification, the reinforcing frame extends from the heel region of the sole to the toe region of the sole.

[0124] This further contributes to providing the wearer with the advantages of the reinforcing frame described elsewhere in this specification, such as high energy return. In particular, according to this embodiment, the reinforcing frame is provided in a rather large area of the sole and still defines an open space as described elsewhere in this specification. Thus, the impact received during any stage of the wearer's walking cycle can be stored in the reinforcing frame in the form of energy, and this energy can be returned to the wearer to support the wearer with a propulsive force in the moving direction. Thereby, the performance can be improved.

[0125] This embodiment can be useful to an athlete even when deviating from an optimal running form due to fatigue that can occur, for example, during high-speed running and / or long-distance endurance running. The large area surrounded by the reinforcing frame allows the wearer to benefit from the reinforcing frame in substantially any type of running form, whether at the start, when the wearer is still very energetic, or even closer to the end, or when the wearer has a different running form due to fatigue.

[0126] Material In a preferred embodiment of the sole for shoes described herein, the upper midsole layer includes a first material, the lower midsole layer includes a second material, and the first material preferably has a lower rigidity compared to the second material.

[0127] This has the advantage that the upper midsole layer can improve the cushioning for the wearer's foot. This can be the case when the upper midsole layer can at least indirectly contact the wearer's foot. Further, the lower midsole layer having a higher-rigidity material can improve the dispersion of forces against the outsole of the sole and / or the ground.

[0128] Note that the first material, i.e., the material of the upper midsole layer, may be lighter compared to the second material and still provide a higher energy return to the wearer.

[0129] As used herein, "rigidity" can be understood as hardness or modulus of elasticity. Rigidity can refer to the ability of a material to resist deformation when a force is applied. Rigidity can explain how much a material bends or stretches in response to an applied load. A higher-rigidity material may be less likely to deform under the same load compared to a lower-rigidity material. Rigidity is measured by Young's modulus, which quantifies the relationship between stress (force per unit area) and strain (deformation). Rigidity can often be associated with the ability of a material to maintain its shape and resist bending or buckling.

[0130] In a preferred embodiment of the sole for shoes described in this specification, the reinforcing frame comprises or consists of one or more of thermoplastic polyurethane, TPU, and / or polyamide, particularly nylon polyamide, and / or carbon fiber, and / or carbon fiber composite material, and / or glass fiber composite material. Additionally or alternatively, the reinforcing frame can include a foam, particularly a high-density foam such as ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) foam.

[0131] These materials have the advantage of providing sufficient rigidity and can contribute to high energy return. Additionally, these materials are relatively readily available, cost-effective, and widely accepted in the field of shoe soles.

[0132] Furthermore, one or more materials from the following more general exemplary group of materials, namely, biopolymers, fiber-reinforced polymers, reinforced polymer composites, and biofibers, can be used for the reinforcing frame.

[0133] The reinforcing frame can be manufactured by a double injection process. Such a process involves injecting the same material or different materials into the same mold, and for example, the different materials have different properties such as different hardnesses. This can have the advantage of providing a reinforcing frame with different material properties such as different hardnesses in different regions of the reinforcing frame.

[0134] In a preferred embodiment of the sole for shoes described in this specification, the midsole comprises or consists of a particulate foam material, particularly a particulate foam material including one or more of expanded thermoplastic polyurethane (eTPU), expanded polyamide (ePA), expanded polyether block amide (ePEBA), expanded polylactic acid (ePLA), expanded polyethylene terephthalate (ePET), expanded polybutylene terephthalate (ePBT), expanded thermoplastic polyester ether elastomer (eTPEE).

[0135] The foam particles are preferably composed of or contain a foamable thermoplastic material, in particular, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), polylactic acid (PLA), polyamide (PA), polyether block amide (PEBA), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), or thermoplastic polyester ether elastomer (TPEE). The foam particles may be beads containing a plurality of polymer types in one foam particle, or the foam particles may be a mixture of different particles of different foam polymers, or a combination thereof. The foam particles preferably constitute 90% by weight of one or a mixture of these materials. These foam particles are particles containing so-called bead foams, which are also known as pellet / particle foams in the art. In many cases, the foam obtained by using the bonded foam particles is designated with the letter "e" to indicate the bead form of the polymer foam component, for example, eTPU.

[0136] The particle foam is particularly useful for providing cushioning and further an energy return effect. This is because such materials can have good elastic and cushioning properties. Furthermore, softer or harder materials can be used depending on the desired degree of cushioning, support, stability, and / or solidity. Thereby, the reaction of the midsole under the pressure load applied to the sole can be finely adjusted. The selection of the midsole material may be determined by the material of the upper and / or outsole. This can have advantages regarding the attachment of each part.

[0137] Further advantages of the materials usable according to the present disclosure can be found in European Patent Application Publication No. 2649896, International Publication No. 2016 / 030026 pamphlet, and International Publication No. 2016 / 030333 pamphlet, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0138] Expanded thermoplastic polyurethane (eTPU) foam can be a versatile material that offers several advantages due to its ability to provide comfort, cushioning, and insulation, and is relatively lightweight. Expanded thermoplastic polyurethane (eTPU) particles provide excellent elastic and cushioning properties. Thus, for example, when the sole hits the ground, it can cushion the external impact that occurs and achieve good wearing comfort.

[0139] Expanded polyamide (ePA) foam is also a material advantageous for the midsole. Polyamide foam is lightweight and maintains even higher cushioning, energy return, and comfort.

[0140] In a preferred embodiment of the shoe sole described herein, the midsole comprises or is composed of a foam material produced in one foaming step. Such foams are often referred to as "homogeneous foams", "block foams", or "integral foams".

[0141] These foams are produced using a blowing agent in one foaming step, and these foams do not have a recognizable granular structure, i.e., unlike bead foams, they do not have any distinguishable particles within the finished foam and have only a single internal cell structure. Bead foams contain a plurality of beads each containing an internal cell structure and include the intersections of the individual foamed beads that create the granular structure.

[0142] Homogeneous foams or block foams can be formed from well-known prior art polymers such as ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), thermoplastic polyester ether elastomer (TPEE), polyether block amide (PEBA), polyurethane (PU).

[0143] In a preferred embodiment of the shoe sole described herein, the reinforcement frame includes a second portion that does not surround the outer boundary of the midsole.

[0144] In a preferred embodiment of the sole for shoes described in this specification, the second part includes a substantially linear midfoot segment of the reinforcement frame.

[0145] Shoes In a further aspect of the present disclosure, the object is solved by a shoe, in particular a sports shoe such as a running shoe, comprising a sole according to any one of the embodiments described herein and an upper attached to the sole.

[0146] Needless to say, the technical features illustrated or described for the sole, the advantages and improvements compared to the prior art are equally applicable to shoes, in particular sports shoes. The reverse is also true.

[0147] The upper can be attached to the sole by any suitable means of attachment. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, attaching the upper of a shoe to the sole can involve various methods and techniques depending on the type of shoe, the materials used, and / or the desired level of durability and robustness of the upper.

[0148] Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the following drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0149]

Figure 1

Figure 2-1

Figure 2-2

Figure 2-3

Figure 3-1

Figure 3-2

Figure 3-3

Figure 3-4

Figure 4

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0150] Hereinafter, only some possible embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and many other embodiments are applicable without departing from the scope of the present invention. The presented embodiments can be modified in several ways, can be combined with each other whenever applicable, and a feature can be omitted as long as it is considered unimportant. In particular, the disclosed embodiments can be modified by combining a feature of one embodiment with one or more features of another embodiment.

[0151] It should be understood that not all features of the described aspects / embodiments need to be present in order to realize the technical advantages presented by the disclosure as defined by the subject matter of the claims. The disclosed aspects / embodiments can be modified by combining a feature of one aspect / embodiment with one or more features of another aspect / embodiment. Specifically, one of ordinary skill in the art will understand that features and / or functional elements of one aspect / embodiment can be combined with technically compatible features and / or functional elements of any other aspect / embodiment of the present disclosure, provided that the resulting combination is included within the definition of the present disclosure.

[0152] The following embodiments will be described mainly in relation to soles for shoes, particularly sports shoes, but one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the disclosure according to the present invention can be equally applied to a plurality of different technical fields and / or use cases.

[0153] Throughout this specification and the drawings, the same reference numerals refer to the same elements. For clarity and conciseness, certain aspects of the components or steps of an embodiment are presented without more detail than necessary. Such details are apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in light of the teachings of this specification and / or such details would obscure the understanding of more relevant aspects of the embodiment.

[0154] As will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art and / or to avoid redundancy, reference is also made to the description of the foregoing paragraphs, which also applies to the following detailed description. Further, for brevity and clarity, not all features, parts, elements, aspects, components, and / or steps are explicitly indicated by reference numerals. This is particularly true when one of ordinary skill in the art recognizes that there are multiple such features, parts, elements, aspects, components, and / or steps.

[0155] Definitions As used herein, the "medial", "medial side", "medial side region", and / or "medial side portion" of the sole / midsole can refer to the inner side and / or inner edge of the sole / midsole. This side and / or edge may be closest to the center line of the wearer's body when the shoe with the sole is worn. This side and / or edge can extend from the big toe area to the heel region. The term "medial side portion" can further include a small area extending from the medial side of the sole towards the heel-to-toe center line. The "medial side" and / or "medial side portion" are typically positioned opposite the arch of the foot and / or big toe.

[0156] As used herein, the "lateral", "lateral side", "lateral side region", and / or "lateral side portion" of the sole / midsole can refer to the outer side and / or outer edge of the sole / midsole. This side and / or edge may be away from the center line of the wearer's body when the shoe with the sole is worn. This side and / or edge can extend from the little toe area to the heel region. The term "lateral side portion" can further include a small area extending from the lateral side of the sole towards the heel-to-toe center line.

[0157] As used herein, the terms "heel part" and / or "heel region" of the sole / midsole can refer to the back part of the sole / midsole, for example, the rear part of the sole, and this part typically provides support and cushioning to the heel of the wearer's foot when worn. The front end of the wearer's foot can be received in the said heel part and / or heel region of the sole. In particular, the "calcaneal region" of the wearer's foot can be received. The calcaneus is the large bone that forms the heel of the foot.

[0158] As used herein, the terms "toe portion" and / or "toe region" of a sole / midsole can refer to the front portion of the sole / midsole that can receive the toes of the wearer's foot when worn, e.g., the forefoot portion of the sole / midsole. The toes of the wearer's foot can include the big toe and / or the big toe joint. The toe portion and / or toe region can include the front end portion of the foot when worn. Further, the toe portion and / or toe region can include the distal phalanx, middle phalanx, and proximal phalanx of the wearer's foot when worn. The toe portion and / or toe region can further include the front portion of the midfoot bone of the wearer's foot when worn.

[0159] As used herein, the term "forefoot" of a sole can refer to the front portion of the outsole. The forefoot portion of an outsole shoe can cover the area of the foot corresponding to the toes and the bases of the toes. In one example, the forefoot can cover less than about the front half of the bottom of the foot, or less than about one-third of the front of the sole.

[0160] As used herein, the term "sole area" of a sole can be determined, for example, in a plane defined by the heel-to-toe axis and the medial-lateral axis of the sole. In other words, the sole area of the sole can be measured in a horizontal plane perpendicular to the substantially vertical axis. The sole area of the sole can be the area where the bottom of the wearer's foot contacts (ignoring the presence of the upper and / or insole) when a shoe having such a sole is worn.

[0161] As used herein, the term "upward" can be a direction from the bottom of the upper towards the top of the upper. For example, the upward direction can be a direction from the bottom of the upper towards the top of the upper. The upward direction can be substantially parallel to the vertical axis.

[0162] As used herein, the term "downward" can be substantially opposite to the upward direction.

[0163] As used herein, the term "vertical axis" may generally correspond to the main body axis of the wearer from head to toe when the wearer is standing on the ground.

[0164] Unless otherwise specified, the term "substantially" as used in this context can be understood as considerably or significantly, or mostly or essentially. In particular, minor tolerances and / or variations such as manufacturing tolerances are included in this term. Thus, any value or arrangement described by using this term may deviate slightly from the described value or arrangement.

[0165] The term "and / or" is simply an associative relationship that describes related objects and indicates that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent three states: only A exists, both A and B exist, and only B exists. In addition, the character " / " in the present disclosure typically indicates that the previous and next related objects form an "or" relationship. As a further example, in the case described herein where at least a first portion of the reinforcement frame substantially surrounds the outer boundary of the midsole in the outer side region, inner side region, heel region, and / or toe region of the midsole, this means that the outer side region, inner side region, heel region, and toe region are all connected by the respective associative "and / or". Alternatively, this expression can mean that at least a first portion of the reinforcement frame substantially surrounds the outer boundary of the midsole in one or more of the outer side region, inner side region, heel region, and toe region of the midsole.

[0166] Terms such as "bottom", "top", "one end", "the other end", "outer side", "up", "above", "inner side", "down", "below", "horizontal", "coaxial", "center", "end", "portion", "length", "outer end", etc., which indicate orientation or positional relationship, are based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the drawings.

[0167] Terms such as "upper", "above", "lower", "below", etc. used in the present invention to indicate relative positions in space are used for the purpose of facilitating the description of the shoe sole, elements, parts, objects, and / or features shown in the drawings with respect to the relationship with another shoe sole, element, part, object, and / or feature.

[0168] Description of the Drawings FIG. 1 is an exploded view of a shoe 100, particularly a sole 101 for a sports shoe 100, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0169] The sole 101 includes a midsole 110 and a reinforcing frame 130. At least a first portion 136, 137, 138, 139 (shown in FIGS. 2 to 2C) of the reinforcing frame 130 substantially surrounds the outer boundary 111 of the midsole 110 in one or more of the outer region 116, inner region 115, heel region 117, and toe region 118 of the midsole 110, thereby defining an open space 112 (the underline of the reference numeral 112 in FIG. 1 indicates that the open space includes at least the region / space surrounded by the reinforcing frame 130). The outer boundary 111 is shown and described in more detail with reference to FIG. 4.

[0170] Furthermore, as can be derived from the exploded view of FIG. 1, a part of the midsole 110 is received in the open space 112.

[0171] As can be best seen in FIGS. 2 to 2C, the first portions 136, 137, 138, 139 of the reinforcement frame 130 that substantially surround the outer boundary 111 of the midsole 110 may be one or more of a substantially linear outer segment 136, a curved heel segment 137, a substantially linear inner segment 138, and a curved toe segment 139. Correspondingly, the reinforcement frame 130 can include a second portion such as a substantially linear midfoot segment 140. As can be derived from FIGS. 1 and 2 to 2C, this second portion cannot surround the outer boundary 111 of the midsole 110 in one or more of the outer side region 116, the inner side region 115, the heel region 117, and the toe region 118 of the midsole 110.

[0172] As can be seen, a part of the outer boundary 111 of the midsole 110 substantially surrounded by the reinforcement frame 130 faces the outer side 102 and / or the inner side 103 of the sole 101. Thereby, the outer boundary 111 can have a normal (such as a surface normal) that at least partially faces the outer side 102 and / or the inner side 103 of the sole 101. The normal of the outer boundary 111 is understood as a line perpendicular to the surface formed by the outer boundary 111.

[0173] The open space 112 is substantially arranged in a plane defined by the heel-toe axis HT and the inner-to-outer ML axis of the sole. As can be understood, since the open space 112 can be three-dimensional, it includes more than the said plane, but as can be seen in FIG. 1, it can at least extend through the said plane.

[0174] The midsole 110 includes an upper midsole layer 120 and a lower midsole layer 125, and the reinforcement frame 130 is sandwiched between the upper midsole layer 120 and the lower midsole layer 125. From the exemplary embodiment shown in the exploded view of FIG. 1, it can be derived that a part of the upper midsole layer 120 is received in the open space 112. However, it is not excluded that a further part of the midsole 110, for example a part of the lower midsole layer 125, is also received within the open space 112.

[0175] As described elsewhere in this specification, alternatively, it may be possible that the upper midsole layer 120 and the lower midsole layer 125 are formed as one integral part and are not separated. In such an alternative form, the reinforcement frame 130 can be at least partially received in the midsole 110 by means of grooves, latches, notches, etc. formed in the midsole 110. The upper midsole layer 120 and the lower midsole layer 125 engage with each other by a shape - fitting connection, thereby defining an outer boundary 111 that is substantially surrounded by the reinforcement frame 130. In particular, the upper midsole layer 120 can be at least partially received in an opening 126 formed by the lower midsole layer 125, and the opening 126 is substantially filled by the upper midsole layer 120 after reception (best seen in FIG. 4). As can be inferred from the exploded view of FIG. 1, the reinforcement frame 130 is disposed between the upper midsole layer 120 and the lower midsole layer 125, and the peripheral surface 129 of the lower midsole layer 125 (also shown in FIG. 4) substantially abuts against the reinforcement frame 130 and presses the reinforcement frame 130 against the peripheral surface 121 of the upper midsole layer 120. The peripheral surfaces 129, 121 of the lower midsole layer 125 and the upper midsole layer 120 are substantially opposed to each other with the reinforcement frame 130 disposed therebetween. This can be seen in more detail with reference to FIGS. 3, 3A, 3B, and 4 as well.

[0176] The midsole 110 can include a polymeric foam material. Thus, the respective advantages regarding the cushioning and energy return of the physical arrangement of the reinforcement frame 130 as well as the midsole 110, particularly the upper midsole layer 120 and the lower midsole layer 125, are further enhanced by the good cushioning properties of the foam material.

[0177] As can be seen in FIG. 1, the open space 112 is disposed in at least one of the heel region 112a, the midfoot region 112b, and the toe region 112c of the sole 101.

[0178] The open space can extend over at least 10%, preferably at least 20%, more preferably at least 30%, more preferably at least 40%, more preferably at least 50%, more preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, most preferably at least 80%, and / or up to 99%, preferably up to 95%, most preferably up to 90% of the sole area 104 of the sole 101. The sole area 104 of the sole 101 is exemplarily shown in FIG. 1. The sole area 104 can be defined by the heel region 112a, the midfoot region 112b, and the toe region 112c of the sole 101. In other words, the sole area 104 can be the area where the bottom of the wearer's foot contacts (ignoring the presence of the upper 160 and / or the insole) when the wearer wears the shoe 100 provided with such a sole 101.

[0179] As can further be seen in FIG. 1, the reinforcement frame 130 extends from the heel region 112a of the sole 101 to the toe region 112c of the sole 101.

[0180] It should be noted that the frame-like design of the reinforcement frame 130 provides rigidity and stability to the part under the foot where rigidity and stability are most required, and further provides a minimal design. Thereby, the advantage of weight reduction can also be realized.

[0181] The reinforcing frame 130 described in this specification can function to enhance the overall stability of the midsole 110, for example, without substantially impairing the cushioning and elastic properties of other components of the midsole 110, and can significantly increase the energy return to the wearer. Therefore, the reinforcing frame 110 adds an additional possibility of affecting the stability characteristics of the sole 101.

[0182] These advantages are particularly prominent during many sports activities. This is because the athlete can perform a plurality of different movement patterns including, but not limited to, the contact of the wearer's foot with the ground by heel strike, medial heel strike, lateral heel strike, or medial forefoot strike. These different impact patterns may cause different pressure loads on the sole 101 and the wearer's foot. With the sole 101 proposed in this specification, these different pressure loads can be advantageously returned to the wearer, and higher cushioning is guaranteed.

[0183] Figures 2, 2A, 2B, and 2C are four different perspective views of the reinforcing frame 130 of the sole 101 for the shoe 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2D shows a schematic cross-section 131b (shown in Figure 2) of the reinforcing arm 131 of the reinforcing frame 130 used in the sole 101 for the shoe 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The features shown in these figures are applicable to all other embodiments of the sole 101 for the shoe 100 described elsewhere in this specification. For the sake of brevity, not all features of the sole 101 are illustrated and / or described.

[0184] The reinforcing frame 130 includes an arm 131, and the arm 131 includes a flat contour 132 in a cross-sectional plane 131b perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 131a of the arm 131. The flat contour 132 has a width w_fp (best seen in FIG. 2D) in a plane defined by the heel-to-toe axis HT and the medial-lateral axis ML of the sole 101 of at least 3 mm, preferably at least 5 mm, more preferably at least 8 mm, still more preferably at least 10 mm, still more preferably at least 12 mm, still more preferably at least 15 mm, most preferably at least 20 mm, and / or up to 70 mm, preferably up to 60 mm, more preferably up to 50 mm, still more preferably up to 45 mm, still more preferably up to 40 mm, still more preferably up to 35 mm, still more preferably up to 30 mm, most preferably up to 25 mm.

[0185] Furthermore, the flat contour 132 has a thickness t_fp that is substantially perpendicular to the plane defined by the heel-to-toe axis HT and the medial-lateral axis ML of the sole 101 of at least 0.2 mm, preferably at least 0.5 mm, more preferably at least 0.8 mm, still more preferably at least 1.0 mm, still more preferably at least 1.2 mm, most preferably at least 1.5 mm, and / or up to 3 mm, preferably up to 2.5 mm, more preferably up to 2.0 mm, still more preferably up to 1.8 mm, most preferably up to 1.5 mm. The reinforcing frame 130 can have a substantially uniform thickness. However, as can be derived particularly from FIGS. 2, 2A, and 2B, the reinforcing frame 130 can be provided with structures such as raised structures and / or embossed structures. These structures can have any shape and can serve the purpose of reinforcing a part of the reinforcing frame 130. In one example, these structures can also be provided in a substantially regular pattern along the length of the arm 131. For example, as can be seen from FIG. 2A, such structures can be provided along at least the outer segment 136 (further described below) of the arm 131 of the reinforcing frame 130, along the heel segment 137, and / or along the medial segment 138.

[0186] The reinforcing frame 130 is formed to define a three-dimensional shape and is arranged to be disposed in at least two substantially parallel planes 142, 143 defined by the heel-to-toe axis HT and the medial-lateral axis ML of the sole 101. The two planes 142, 143 are separated by at least 1 cm, preferably at least 1.5 cm, more preferably at least 2 cm, still more preferably at least 2.5 cm, still more preferably at least 3 cm, still more preferably at least 3.5 cm, most preferably at least 3.6 cm, and / or up to 5 cm, preferably up to 4.5 cm, more preferably up to 4.2 cm, most preferably up to 4.0 cm (indicated by the term s). The two substantially parallel planes 142, 143 are shown by dashed lines in FIG. 2C and are understood to project into the horizontal infinite space.

[0187] As best seen in FIG. 2C, the heel segment 137 of the reinforcing frame 130 extends more in the upward direction UD compared to any other segments 136, 138, 139, 140 of the reinforcing frame 130.

[0188] As derivable from FIGS. 2, 2A, 2B, and 2C, the reinforcing frame 130 includes an open frame structure having a first end 135 and a second end 141, and the first end 135 and the second end 141 are spaced apart from each other. The first end 135 and the second end 141 may be spaced apart from each other by at least 10%, preferably at least 20%, more preferably at least 30%, still more preferably at least 40%, most preferably at least 50%, and / or up to 80%, preferably up to 70%, more preferably up to 60%, most preferably up to 50% of the length of the sole 101 (best seen in FIG. 1). It should be understood that the length of the sole 101 can be measured along the heel-to-toe axis HT of the sole 101.

[0189] The first end portion 135 can be disposed in the toe region 112c of the sole 101, preferably in the little toe region of the sole 101. The second end portion 141 can be disposed in the midfoot region 112b of the sole 101.

[0190] The reinforcing frame 130 can have the following segments 136, 138, 139, 140, namely, a substantially linear outer segment 136, a curved heel segment 137, a substantially linear inner segment 138, a curved toe segment 139, and a substantially linear midfoot segment 140, in this order, from the first end portion 135 to the second end portion 141.

[0191] It should be noted that the midfoot region 112b of the sole 101 and / or the toe region 112c of the sole 101 part may be subject to various movements and / or pressures during physical activities. Therefore, the improvement of these regions 112b, 112c contributes to a more comfortable and strengthened sole 101.

[0192] It should be noted that although the reinforcing frame 130 includes the midfoot segment 140, the reinforcing frame 130 can define an open space 112 in the midfoot region 112b of the sole 101. This can be particularly derived from FIGS. 2B and 2C.

[0193] As can be particularly derived from FIGS. 2 and 2A, the width w_se of the midfoot segment 140, particularly the width w_se of the second end portion 141, is greater than any other width of the reinforcing frame 130 (the width w_ts of the toe segment 139 and the width w_ls of the outer segment 138 are exemplarily shown in FIG. 2A), and the width w_se is substantially along the plane defined by the heel-toe axis HT and the inner-outer axis ML of the sole 101.

[0194] Furthermore, the width w_se of the reinforcing frame 130 decreases from the second end portion 141 along the midfoot segment 140 towards the toe segment 139, and the width w_se is within the plane defined by the substantially sole heel-toe axis and the inner-outer axis.

[0195] As can be derived from FIG. 2C, for example, the midfoot segment 140, particularly the second end 141, extends more downwardly DD than any other segments 136, 138, 139, 140 of the reinforcement frame 130.

[0196] In one example, it can be understood that the three-dimensional shape can form the reinforcement frame 130 so as to define a helical shape. The helical shape may be a shape similar to a helix or a spiral. A helix is a curve that wraps around a central axis. In one example, the helix can wrap around the central axis in a certain way to create a spiral pattern. In another example, the distance to the central axis may vary, which can be a preferred shape to adapt to the shape of the midsole 110.

[0197] In one example, the reinforcement frame 130 shown in FIGS. 2, 2A, 2B, and 2C can be understood to be configured to form a slingshot that generally begins under the little finger of the wearer, wraps around the wearer's heel, extends under the wearer's thumb, and returns under the wearer's midfoot. This has the advantage that the reinforcement frame 130 provides a rigid configuration, can store a large amount of energy when the sole contacts the ground, provides a large energy return to the wearer, and increases the propulsive force in the running direction.

[0198] This configuration facilitates midfoot-to-toe stiffening, provides a high energy return, further stabilizes the wearer's stance phase, and supports the wearer. This can be useful when the wearer's gait cycle is not ideal and / or varies according to the wearer's fatigue.

[0199] As can be inferred from FIG. 2, exemplary dashed frames 130a and exemplary dashed frames 130b are shown, which can represent a first portion 130a of the reinforcement frame 130 and a second portion 130b of the reinforcement frame 130.

[0200] When the sole 101 is in an assembled state (derivable from the exploded view of FIG. 1), the first portion 130a of the reinforcement frame 130 may be covered by and / or embedded in the midsole 110. It should be noted that this first portion 130a may be different from the second portion of the reinforcement frame 130, such as the substantially linear midfoot segment 140 (which cannot surround the outer boundary 111 of the midsole 110). This means that, as will be described in more detail elsewhere in this specification, the first portion 130a of the reinforcement frame 130 is considered to surround the outer boundary 111 of the midsole 110.

[0201] When the sole 101 is in an assembled state (derivable from the exploded view of FIG. 1), the second portion 130b of the reinforcement frame 130 may be exposed externally. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, the sizes of the first portion 130a and / or the second portion 130b may vary. In particular, the first portion 130a and / or the second portion 130b may extend along one or more of the substantially linear outer segment 136, the curved heel segment 137, the substantially linear inner segment 138, and the curved toe segment 139. Further, as will be understood by those skilled in the art, the widths of the first portion 130a and / or the second portion 130b may also vary depending on the particular arrangement of the sole 101. Thus, the sizes of the first portion 130a and / or the second portion 130b are merely shown as examples in FIG. 2.

[0202] FIGS. 3, 3A, and 3B are three different perspective views of a shoe 100 comprising an upper 160, particularly a sports shoe 100, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The features shown in these figures are applicable to all other embodiments of the sole 101 for the shoe 100 described elsewhere in this specification. For the sake of brevity, not all features of the sole 101 are illustrated and / or described.

[0203] The sole 101 includes an outsole 150 disposed below the lower midsole layer 125. The outsole 150 has a notch 151 (best seen in FIG. 3B) arranged such that the reinforcing frame 130 is at least partially visible from below the outsole 150. The notch 151 can have an elongated shape aligned along the heel-to-toe axis HT of the sole 101.

[0204] The notch 151 is arranged such that the midfoot segment 140 of the reinforcing frame 130 is at least partially visible from below the outsole 150.

[0205] In addition, the lower midsole layer 125 has a notch 127 arranged such that the reinforcing frame 130 is at least partially visible from below the outsole 150. This notch 127 can have an elongated shape aligned along the heel-to-toe axis HT of the sole 101. The notch 127 of the lower midsole layer 125 can be arranged such that the midfoot segment 140 of the reinforcing frame 130 is at least partially visible from below the outsole 101. The notch 127 of the lower midsole layer 125 can be shaped to substantially correspond to the notch 151 of the outsole 150. Such notches 151, 127 have the advantage, on the one hand, of requiring less material for manufacturing. On the other hand, the notches 151, 127 can indicate to the wearer and / or operator to evaluate the state of the reinforcing frame 130. In addition, the notches 151, 127 can allow for breathability, for example, allow for air circulation and moisture absorption, and reduce overheating and sweat accumulation. In addition, the notches 151, 127 can have the further advantage of extending the life of the shoe by reducing moisture. Furthermore, the notches 151, 127 can have the further advantage of reducing the total weight of the sole 101 and the shoe 100 by reducing the weight of the midsole. The lightweight shoe 101 is particularly advantageous when used for sports activities such as running.

[0206] One or both of the cutouts 151, 127 can have a longitudinal length of at least 2 cm, preferably at least 4 cm, more preferably at least 6 cm, even more preferably at least 8 cm, even more preferably at least 10 cm, even more preferably at least 12 cm, even more preferably at least 15 cm, even more preferably at least 20 cm, even more preferably at least 25 cm, and most preferably at least 30 cm along the heel-to-toe axis HT or the like of the outsole 150 and / or the midsole 110.

[0207] One or both of the cutouts 151, 127 can have a tapered shape along the heel-to-toe axis HT. Further, as can be derived from FIGS. 3 and 3A, the reinforcement frame 130 is at least partially visible from the outside of the shoe 100. For example, the reinforcement frame 130 is preferably visible from the inner side 103, the heel side, and / or the outer side 102 of the sole 101.

[0208] Further, one or more recesses 128 can be provided in the outer region 116 of the midsole 110 and / or the inner region 115 of the midsole 110, in other words, on the side wall of the midsole 110. In FIG. 3A, four recesses 128 are shown. One or more recesses 128 can have an elongated shape. One or more recesses 128 are angled with respect to the upward UD and downward DD directions, and the angle increases from the recess 128 arranged at the front of the midsole 110 to the recess 128 at the rear. The increase in the angle can be substantially continuous. As shown in FIG. 3A, one or more recesses 128 can be formed substantially continuously across the upper midsole layer 120 and the lower midsole layer 125. Further, since one or more recesses 128 provide space for the material of the midsole 110, the reinforcement frame 130 is more visible in these recesses 128.

[0209] One or more recesses 128 can have the advantage that the reinforcing frame 130 does not fully contact the lower peripheral surface 121 of the upper midsole layer 120 and / or the upper peripheral surface 129 of the lower midsole layer 125. Thereby, some variation and fine adjustment can be possible with respect to the energy return to the wearer.

[0210] One or more recesses 128 do not have to be through holes. One or more recesses 128 can have the shape of one of a slit, a groove, a cut, or a vent hole. These shapes can have the possibility of imparting certain functional characteristics to the midsole 110. For example, it can thereby significantly affect the dispersion of pressure load. This can be recognized by athletes performing sports activities. In addition, the shape can be described as follows and can have the following advantages.

[0211] A slit can be a fairly long and narrow opening and / or cut in a material such as the material of the midsole 110. A slit generally has a length greater than its width, and in some cases, its length is significantly greater than its width. For example, its length can be at least 2 times, at least 3 times, at least 4 times, at least 5 times, at least 6 times, at least 7 times, at least 8 times, at least 9 times, at least 10 times, or more than its width. A slit can be straight or curved and can be composed of one or more straight segments and one or more curved segments. Furthermore, one or more recesses 128 in the shape of a slit can be designed together with one or more remaining portions of the sole 101 to be crushable and / or to facilitate the deformation of the sole 101.

[0212] The groove may be a long and narrow channel and / or recess that can be cut into a material such as the material of the midsole 110. The groove can be useful for various purposes such as guiding the flow of liquid. This can help remove moisture such as sweat. And this can also improve the smell. The groove may be shallow and / or deep. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, this can depend on the thickness of the midsole 110. The groove may be wide or narrow. The groove can occur in various shapes including one or more of a straight segment, a curved segment, an angular segment, a regular segment, or an irregular segment.

[0213] The cut can refer to a separation line or a dividing line formed in a material such as the material of the midsole 110. The cut can be provided by applying a sharp blade or tool to the material. The cut may be straight or angled and can be used for various purposes including the formation of an opening, the shaping of a material, or the modification of the structure of an object such as the midsole 110. The cut can occur in various shapes including one or more of a straight segment, a curved segment, an angular segment, a regular segment, or an irregular segment.

[0214] The vent hole is an opening or passage in a material such as the material of the midsole 110. A gas or liquid such as air can move through the vent hole. The vent hole can be useful for adjusting the temperature of the wearer's foot. The vent hole can be implemented in various different shapes and / or sizes including one or more of a straight segment, a curved segment, an angular segment, a regular segment, or an irregular segment.

[0215] The upper 160 can be attached to the sole 101 by any suitable means for attachment. For example, the attachment can include joining / adhering, which is a common method of applying, for example, a strong adhesive to one or both of the upper 160 and the sole 101. Thereafter, the upper 160 and the sole 101 can be pressed against each other and joined. This method can be used for sports shoes, casual shoes, etc. Further, the attachment can include sewing the upper 160 to the sole 101. Such a method can include stitching the upper 160 and the sole 101 together. The stitching may be fully or at least partially visible or may be fully or at least partially hidden within the sole 101. Further, the attachment can include injection molding. Such a method can include injecting a molten material into a mold that forms both the lower part of the sole 101 and the upper 160, either separately or together. When the parts are substantially cooled and / or solidified, the upper 160 and the sole 101 can be fused to each other. This can be done for some types of sports shoes. Further, the attachment can include direct injection molding. In such a method, the material of the sole 101 can be directly injected around the upper 160. And thereby, a strong seam-free bond between the upper 160 and the sole 101 can be produced. This is often used for sports and / or outdoor footwear products. Further, the attachment can include attaching a sole sheet that includes sole material (such as rubber and / or EVA), which is cut and shaped and then attached to the sole 101 and the upper 160 using an adhesive and / or heat bonding. Further, the attachment can include Strobel stitching, which is often done in athletic shoes and / or casual shoes. In such a method, the upper 160 is sewn to the insole 101 and then attached to the sole 101 using an adhesive or joining. Further, the attachment can include crimping, using a crimp that includes metal and / or plastic, to join the upper 160 and the sole 101 to each other.Furthermore, the attachment can include lasting. Such a lasting method can include stretching the upper 160 over a shoe form (i.e., a shoe-shaped form) and securing it to the sole 101 by basting, sewing, and / or bonding. Additionally, the attachment can include vulcanization. In such a method, a rubber sole 101 that is cured to bond to the upper 160 can be used. This is often used in some types of athletic shoes. Further, the upper 160 can be attached to the sole 101 by heat fusion, thermal bonding, ultrasonic bonding, etc.

[0216] Figure 3C is a bottom perspective view of a shoe 100 comprising an upper 160, particularly an athletic shoe 100, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The features shown in these figures are applicable to all other embodiments of the sole 101 for the shoe 100 described elsewhere in this specification. For the sake of brevity, not all features of the sole 101 are illustrated and / or described. As can be seen, the lower midsole layer 125 has a notch 127 arranged such that the reinforcement frame 130 is at least partially visible from below the outsole 150. This notch 127 has a different shape compared to Figure 3B. The notch 127 extends from the heel region 117 of the lower midsole layer 125 towards the midfoot portion of the lower midsole layer 125. The notch 127 of the lower midsole layer 125 can be shaped to substantially correspond to the notch 151 of the outsole 150. The same advantages of the notches 151, 127 described with respect to Figure 3B also apply to this embodiment. It is possible that the configuration of the notches 127, 151 of the embodiment shown in Figure 3C is preferable compared to the embodiment shown in Figure 3B.

[0217] FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a midsole sole 110 used in a sole 101 for a shoe 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The schematic cross-sectional view of this figure is shown by the cutting plane B-B of FIGS. 3B and 3C. The features shown in this figure are applicable to all other embodiments of the sole 101 for the shoe 100 described elsewhere in this specification. For the sake of brevity, not all features of the sole 101 are illustrated and / or described.

[0218] As can be seen in FIG. 4, the outer boundary 111 of the midsole 110 may be the surface of the midsole 110, and its normal is substantially perpendicular to the upward direction UD and the downward direction DD.

[0219] Furthermore, the outer boundary 111 of the midsole 110 can at least partially define the outer shape of the midsole 110. The outer boundary 111 of the midsole 110 can refer to a visible portion when the midsole 110 is viewed from the outside, for example, from the side portions of the sole 101 such as the inner side and / or the outer side. As will be understood, since the reinforcing frame 130 substantially surrounds the outer boundary 111 of the midsole 110, the outer boundary 111 may not be completely visible from the outside of the shoe 100.

[0220] In addition, FIG. 4 shows an open space 112 defined by the reinforcing frame 130 and without the reinforcing frame 130. Since FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the midfoot region 112b of the sole 101, the midfoot region 112b included in the open space 112 is also shown. A part of the midsole 110 is received in the open space 112. In the example of FIG. 4, it is shown that a part of the upper midsole layer 120 is received in the open space 112. In other words, the upper midsole layer 120 at least partially fills the open space 112 so as to engage with the lower midsole layer 125.

[0221] As can be further inferred from FIG. 4, the reinforcement frame 130 has a midfoot segment 140 that is further spaced downward in the DD direction compared to the inner segment 138 and / or the outer segment 136 at the cutting plane.

[0222] In any of the embodiments of the sole 101 for the shoe 100 described herein, the upper midsole layer 120 includes a first material, the lower midsole layer 125 includes a second material, and the first material preferably has a lower rigidity compared to the second material.

[0223] In any of the embodiments of the sole 101 for the shoe 100 described herein, the reinforcement frame 130 includes or is composed of one or more of thermoplastic polyurethane, TPU, polyamide, particularly nylon polyamide, carbon fiber, carbon fiber composite material, and glass fiber composite material.

[0224] In any of the embodiments of the sole 101 for the shoe 100 described herein, the midsole 110 includes or is composed of a particulate foam material, particularly a particulate foam material including one or more of expanded thermoplastic polyurethane (eTPU), expanded polyamide (ePA), expanded polyether block amide (ePEBA), expanded polylactic acid (ePLA), expanded polyethylene terephthalate (ePET), expanded polybutylene terephthalate (ePBT), and expanded thermoplastic polyester ether elastomer (eTPEE).

[0225] In any of the embodiments of the sole 101 for the shoe 100 described herein, the foam particles used in the midsole 110 can be composed of or include a foamed thermoplastic material, particularly thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), polylactic acid (PLA), polyamide (PA), polyether block amide (PEBA), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), or thermoplastic polyester ether elastomer (TPEE). In any of the embodiments of the sole 101 for the shoe 100 described herein, the foam particles used in the midsole 110 can be beads containing multiple polymer types in one foam particle, or the foam particles can be a mixture of different particles of different foam polymers, or these combinations. In any of the embodiments of the sole 101 for the shoe 100 described herein, the foam particles constitute 90% by weight of one or a mixture of these materials. Particles will be described in more detail elsewhere in this specification.

[0226] In any of the embodiments of the sole 101 for the shoe 100 described herein, the midsole 110 contains or is composed of a foam material produced in one foaming step. As will be described in more detail elsewhere in this specification, such foams are often referred to as "homogeneous foams", "block foams", or "integral foams".

[0227] As will be described in more detail elsewhere in this specification, in any of the embodiments of the sole 101 for the shoe 100 described herein, these foams that can be used as the material of the midsole 110 are produced using a blowing agent in one foaming step, and these foams do not have a recognizable granular structure, that is, unlike bead foams, they do not have any distinguishable particles in the finished foam and have only a single internal cell structure. Bead foams include a plurality of beads each containing an internal cell structure and include the intersections of the individual foamed beads that create the granular structure.

[0228] A homogeneous foam or a block foam can be formed from well-known prior art polymers such as ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), thermoplastic polyester ether elastomer (TPEE), polyether block amide (PEBA), polyurethane (PU), etc.

[0229] On the other hand, a particulate foam material or a particulate foam is different compared to a homogeneous foam. To manufacture a particulate foam, in a first step, foam particles (or beads) are made from a foamed particulate substrate. Next, in a second step, these foam beads can be collected to form an agglomerated structure where individual particle boundaries can be recognized, i.e., clearly visible, in the finished foam. Foaming in this context means that each individual particle has a core of a foamed material containing many small foam cells, i.e., the particles cannot be composed of a dense solid material.

[0230] As will be understood by those skilled in the art, any one or more of the embodiments and / or examples described herein can be combined with further aspects described herein, and it should be noted that details of the embodiments and / or examples may be omitted. The scope of protection is determined by the claims and is not limited by the embodiments and / or examples disclosed in the above drawings.

[0231] Furthermore, the present application discloses the following embodiments.

[0232] [1] A sole (101) for shoes (100), particularly sports shoes such as running shoes, wherein the sole (101) comprises a midsole (110), and a reinforcing frame (130) and is provided with At least a first portion of the reinforcing frame (130) defines an open space (112) by substantially surrounding the outer boundary (111) of the midsole (110) in one or more of the outer region (116), inner region (115), heel region (117), and toe region (118) of the midsole (110), and a part of the midsole (110) is received in the open space (112).

[0233] [2] The sole (101) according to [1], wherein a part of the outer boundary (111) of the midsole (110) substantially surrounded by the reinforcing frame (130) faces the outer side (102) of the sole (101) and / or the inner side (103) of the sole (101).

[0234] [3] The sole (101) according to [1] or [2], wherein the open space (112) is substantially disposed in a plane defined by the heel-to-toe axis (HT) and the medial-lateral axis (ML) of the sole (101).

[0235] [4] The sole (101) according to any one of [1] to [3], wherein the midsole (110) includes an upper midsole layer (120) and a lower midsole layer (125), and the reinforcing frame (130) is sandwiched between the upper midsole layer (120) and the lower midsole layer (125).

[0236] [5] The sole (101) according to [4], wherein the upper midsole layer (120) and the lower midsole layer (125) are engaged with each other via a shape-fitting connection, thereby defining the outer boundary (111) of the upper midsole layer (120) substantially surrounded by the reinforcing frame (130).

[0237] [6] The sole (101) according to [4] or [5], wherein the upper midsole layer (120) is at least partially received in an opening (126) formed by the lower midsole layer (125).

[0238] [7] The lower midsole layer (125) has a notch (127) arranged such that the reinforcing frame (130) is at least partially visible from below the lower midsole layer (125). The sole (101) according to any one of [4] to [6], wherein the notch (127) preferably has an elongated shape aligned along the heel-to-toe axis (HT) of the sole (101).

[0239] [8] The sole (101) according to any one of [1] to [7], wherein the midsole (110) contains a polymer foam material.

[0240] [9] The sole (101) according to any one of [1] to [8], wherein an open space (112) is arranged in at least one of the heel region (117), midfoot region (112b), and toe region (118) of the sole (101).

[0241]

[10] The open space (112) is at least 10%, preferably at least 20%, more preferably at least 30%, more preferably at least 40%, more preferably at least 50%, more preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, most preferably at least 80% of the insole area (104) of the sole (101), and / or The sole (101) according to any one of [1] to [9], which extends up to a maximum of 99%, preferably a maximum of 95%, and most preferably a maximum of 90% of the insole area (104) of the sole (101).

[0242]

[11] The sole (101) according to any one of [1] to

[10] , wherein the reinforcing frame (130) includes an arm (131), and the arm (131) includes a flat contour (132) in a cross-section (131b) perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (131a) of the arm (131).

[0243]

[12] The flat profile (132) is at least 3 mm, preferably at least 5 mm, more preferably at least 8 mm, still more preferably at least 10 mm, still more preferably at least 12 mm, still more preferably at least 15 mm, most preferably at least 20 mm, and / or has a width in the plane defined by the heel-to-toe axis (HT) and the medial-lateral axis (ML) of the sole (101) of up to 70 mm, preferably up to 60 mm, more preferably up to 50 mm, still more preferably up to 45 mm, still more preferably up to 40 mm, still more preferably up to 35 mm, still more preferably up to 30 mm, most preferably up to 25 mm, of the sole (101) according to

[11] .

[0244]

[13] The flat profile (132) is at least 0.2 mm, preferably at least 0.5 mm, more preferably at least 0.8 mm, still more preferably at least 1.0 mm, still more preferably at least 1.2 mm, most preferably at least 1.5 mm, and / or has a thickness substantially perpendicular to the plane defined by the heel-to-toe axis (HT) and the medial-lateral axis (ML) of the sole (101) of up to 3 mm, preferably up to 2.5 mm, more preferably up to 2.0 mm, still more preferably up to 1.8 mm, most preferably up to 1.5 mm, of the sole (101) according to

[11] or

[12] .

[0245]

[14] The sole (101) according to any one of [1] to

[13] , wherein the reinforcing frame (130) has a substantially uniform thickness.

[0246]

[15] The reinforcement frame (130) is formed to define a three-dimensional shape such that it is disposed in at least two substantially parallel planes (142, 143) defined by the heel-to-toe axis (HT) and the medial-lateral axis (ML) of the sole (101), and the two planes (142, 143) are separated by at least 1 cm, preferably at least 1.5 cm, more preferably at least 2 cm, still more preferably at least 2.5 cm, still more preferably at least 3 cm, still more preferably at least 3.5 cm, most preferably at least 3.6 cm, and / or, are separated by a maximum of 5 cm, preferably a maximum of 4.5 cm, more preferably a maximum of 4.2 cm, most preferably a maximum of 4.0 cm, the sole (101) according to any one of [1] to

[14] .

[0247]

[16] The heel segment (137) of the reinforcement frame (130) extends more in the upward direction (UD) compared to any other segment of the reinforcement frame (130), the sole (101) according to any one of [1] to

[15] .

[0248]

[17] The reinforcement frame (130) includes an open frame structure having a first end (135) and a second end (141), and the first end (135) and the second end (141) are spaced apart from each other, the sole (101) according to any one of [1] to

[16] .

[0249]

[18] The first end (135) and the second end (141) are at least 10% of the length of the sole (101), preferably at least 20% of the length of the sole (101), more preferably at least 30%, still more preferably at least 40%, most preferably at least 50%, and / or, a maximum of 80% of the length of the sole (101), preferably a maximum of 70%, more preferably a maximum of 60%, most preferably a maximum of 50% spaced apart from each other, the sole (101) according to

[17] .

[0250]

[19] The sole (101) according to

[17] or

[18] , wherein the first end portion (135) is disposed in the toe region (118) of the sole (101), preferably in the little toe region of the sole (101).

[0251]

[20] The sole (101) according to any one of

[17] to

[19] , wherein the second end portion (141) is disposed in the midfoot region (112b) of the sole (101).

[0252]

[21] The reinforcing frame (130) has the following segments (136, 138, 139, 140) from the first end portion (135) to the second end portion (141), namely, a substantially linear outer segment (136), a curved heel segment (137), a substantially linear inner segment (138), a curved toe segment (139), and a substantially linear midfoot segment (140), in this order. The sole (101) according to any one of

[17] to

[20] , wherein the first portion of the reinforcing frame preferably includes one or more of the substantially linear outer segment (136), the curved heel segment (137), the substantially linear inner segment (138), and the curved toe segment (139).

[0253]

[22] The sole (101) according to

[21] , wherein the width of the midfoot segment (140), particularly the width (w_se) of the second end portion (141), is greater than any other width (w_ts, w_ls) of the reinforcing frame (130), and the widths (w_se, w_ts, w_ls) are in a plane defined by the heel-to-toe axis (HT) and the medial-lateral axis (ML) of the substantially sole (101).

[0254]

[23] The sole (101) according to

[21] or

[22] , wherein the widths (w_se, w_ts, w_ls) of the reinforcing frame (130) decrease along the midfoot segment (140) from the second end portion (141) toward the toe segment (139), and the widths are in a plane defined by the heel-to-toe axis (HT) and the medial-lateral axis (ML) of the substantially sole (101).

[0255] The sole (101) according to any one of

[21] to

[23] , wherein the midfoot segment (140), particularly the second end portion (141), extends downward (DD) more significantly compared to any other segment (136, 138, 139, 140) of the reinforcement frame (130).

[0256] The sole (101) according to any one of [1] to [3], [5] to

[24] , and further 4, wherein the sole (101) includes an outsole (150) disposed below the lower midsole layer (125).

[0257]

[26] The outsole (150) has a notch (151) arranged such that the reinforcement frame (130) is at least partially visible from below the outsole (150). The sole (101) according to

[25] , wherein the notch (151) preferably has an elongated shape aligned along the heel-to-toe axis (HT) of the sole (101).

[0258]

[27] The sole (101) according to

[21] or

[26] , wherein the notch (151) is arranged such that the midfoot segment (140) of the reinforcement frame (130) is at least partially visible from below the outsole (150).

[0259]

[28] The sole (101) according to any one of [1] to

[27] , wherein the reinforcement frame (130) is at least partially visible from the outside of the shoe (100).

[0260]

[29] The sole (101) according to

[28] , wherein the reinforcement frame (130) is preferably visible from the inner side (103), the heel side, and / or the outer side (102).

[0261]

[30] The upper midsole layer (120) contains a first material, the lower midsole layer (125) contains a second material, and it is preferable that the first material has a lower rigidity compared to the second material. The sole (101) according to any one of [1] to [3] and [5] to

[29] and further 4.

[0262]

[31] The reinforcing frame (130) contains or is composed of one or more of thermoplastic polyurethane, TPU, polyamide, particularly nylon polyamide, carbon fiber, carbon fiber composite material, glass fiber composite material, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA). The sole (101) according to any one of [1] to

[30] .

[0263]

[32] The midsole (110) contains or is composed of a particulate foam material, particularly a particulate foam material containing one or more of expanded thermoplastic polyurethane (eTPU), expanded polyamide (ePA), expanded polyether block amide (ePEBA), expanded polylactic acid (ePLA), expanded polyethylene terephthalate (ePET), expanded polybutylene terephthalate (ePBT), expanded thermoplastic polyester ether elastomer (eTPEE). The sole (101) according to any one of [1] to

[31] .

[0264]

[33] The midsole (110) contains or is composed of a homogeneous foam material. The sole (101) according to any one of [1] to

[32] .

[0265]

[34] The reinforcing frame (130) contains a second portion that does not surround the outer boundary (111) of the midsole (110). The sole (101) according to any one of [1] to

[33] .

[0266]

[35] The second portion contains a substantially linear midfoot segment (140) of the reinforcing frame (130). The sole (101) according to

[34] and further

[21] .

[0267]

[36] A shoe (100), particularly a sports shoe such as a running shoe, comprising: The sole (101) according to any one of [1] to

[35] , and an upper (160) attached to the sole (101). The shoe (100).

Explanation of symbols

[0268] 100 Shoe, particularly a sports shoe 101 Sole for a shoe 102 Outer side of the sole 103 Inner side of the sole 104 Insole area of the sole 110 Midsole 111 Outer boundary of the midsole 112 Open space 112a Heel area of the sole 112b Midfoot area of the sole 112c Toe area of the sole 115 Inner side area of the midsole 116 Outer side area of the midsole 117 Heel area of the midsole 118 Toe area of the midsole 120 Upper midsole layer 121 Peripheral surface of the upper midsole layer 125 Lower midsole layer 126 Opening formed by the lower midsole layer 127 Notch / opening of the lower midsole layer 128 One or more recesses 129 Peripheral surface of the lower midsole layer 130 Reinforcement frame 130a First part of the reinforcement frame 130b Second part of the reinforcement frame 131 Arm of the reinforcement frame 131a Longitudinal axis of the arm 131b Cutting plane 132 Flat contour w_fp Width of the flat contour t_fp Thickness of the flat contour s Spacing between two different planes defined by the heel-to-toe axis and the medial-to-lateral axis of the sole 135 First end of the reinforcement frame 136 Substantially linear outer segment of the reinforcement frame 137 Curved heel segment of the reinforcement frame 138 Substantially linear inner segment of the reinforcement frame 139 Curved toe segment of the reinforcement frame 140 Substantially linear midfoot segment of the reinforcement frame 141 Second end of the reinforcement frame 142 First plane defined by the heel-to-toe axis and the medial-to-lateral axis of the sole 143 Second plane defined by the heel-to-toe axis and the medial-to-lateral axis of the sole w_se Width of the second end of the reinforcement frame w_ts Width of the toe segment of the reinforcement frame w_ls Width of the outer segment of the reinforcement frame 150 Outsole 151 Notch / aperture of the outsole 160 Upper HT Heel-to-toe axis (longitudinal direction) of the sole ML Medial-to-lateral axis of the sole UD Upward direction DD Downward direction

Claims

1. A sole for a shoe, in particular a sports shoe such as a running shoe, comprising: The midsole and Reinforcement frame and Equipped with A sole, wherein at least a first portion of the reinforcing frame substantially surrounds an outer boundary of the midsole in one or more of the lateral region, medial region, heel region, and toe region of the midsole, thereby defining an open space, and a portion of the midsole is received in the open space.

2. 2. The sole according to claim 1, wherein a part of the outer boundary of the midsole that is substantially surrounded by the reinforcing frame faces towards the outer side of the sole and / or towards the inner side of the sole.

3. The sole according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the open space is disposed approximately in a plane defined by a heel-toe axis (HT) and a medial-lateral axis (ML) of the sole.

4. The sole according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the midsole comprises an upper midsole layer and a lower midsole layer, the reinforcing frame being sandwiched between the upper midsole layer and the lower midsole layer.

5. The sole of claim 4 , wherein the upper midsole layer and the lower midsole layer are engaged with one another via a form-fit connection, thereby defining an outer boundary of the upper midsole layer substantially surrounded by the reinforcing frame.

6. The sole of claim 4 , wherein the upper midsole layer is at least partially received in an opening formed by the lower midsole layer.

7. the lower midsole layer has a cutout disposed such that the reinforcing frame is at least partially visible from below the lower midsole layer; Sole according to claim 4, wherein the cutout preferably has an elongated shape aligned along the heel-toe axis (HT) of the sole.

8. The sole of claim 1 or 2, wherein the midsole comprises a polymer foam material.

9. The sole according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the open space is disposed in at least one of the heel region, the midfoot region, and the toe region of the sole.

10. an open space of at least 10%, preferably at least 20%, more preferably at least 30%, more preferably at least 40%, more preferably at least 50%, more preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, most preferably at least 80% of the plantar area of ​​the sole; and / or 3. Sole according to claim 1 or 2, which extends over at most 99%, preferably at most 95%, most preferably at most 90% of the plantar area of ​​the sole.

11. 3. Sole according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the reinforcing frame comprises arms, the arms comprising a flat profile in a cut plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the arms.

12. a flat profile of at least 3 mm, preferably at least 5 mm, more preferably at least 8 mm, even more preferably at least 10 mm, even more preferably at least 12 mm, even more preferably at least 15 mm, most preferably at least 20 mm; and / or 12. The sole according to claim 11, having a width in the plane defined approximately by the heel-toe axis (HT) and the medial-lateral axis (ML) of the sole of at most 70 mm, preferably at most 60 mm, more preferably at most 50 mm, even more preferably at most 45 mm, even more preferably at most 40 mm, even more preferably at most 35 mm, even more preferably at most 30 mm, and most preferably at most 25 mm.

13. a flat profile of at least 0.2 mm, preferably at least 0.5 mm, more preferably at least 0.8 mm, even more preferably at least 1.0 mm, even more preferably at least 1.2 mm, and most preferably at least 1.5 mm; and / or 12. The sole according to claim 11, having a thickness, approximately perpendicular to the plane defined by the heel-toe axis (HT) and the medial-lateral axis (ML) of the sole, of at most 3 mm, preferably at most 2.5 mm, more preferably at most 2.0 mm, even more preferably at most 1.8 mm, and most preferably at most 1.5 mm.

14. The sole according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the reinforcing frame has a substantially uniform thickness.

15. the reinforcing frame is formed to define a three-dimensional shape that is disposed in at least two substantially parallel planes defined by the heel-toe axis (HT) and the medial-lateral axis (ML) of the sole, the two planes being spaced apart from each other by at least 1 cm, preferably at least 1.5 cm, more preferably at least 2 cm, even more preferably at least 2.5 cm, even more preferably at least 3 cm, even more preferably at least 3.5 cm, and most preferably at least 3.6 cm; and / or 3. A sole according to claim 1 or 2, which is spaced at most 5cm, preferably at most 4.5cm, more preferably at most 4.2cm, most preferably at most 4.0cm apart.

16. The sole according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the heel segment of the reinforcing frame extends more in the upward direction (UD) compared to any other segment of the reinforcing frame.

17. The sole according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the reinforcing frame comprises an open frame structure having a first end and a second end, the first end and the second end being spaced apart from each other.

18. The first end and the second end are at least 10% of the length of the sole, preferably at least 20% of the length of the sole, more preferably at least 30%, even more preferably at least 40%, and most preferably at least 50%. and / or spaced apart from each other by at most 80%, preferably at most 70%, more preferably at most 60%, most preferably at most 50% of the length of the sole.

19. 18. Sole according to claim 17, wherein the first end is arranged in the toe region of the sole, preferably in the little toe region of the sole.

20. The sole of claim 17, wherein the second end is disposed in a midfoot region of the sole.

21. the stiffening frame having, from a first end to a second end, the following segments, in that order: a generally straight lateral segment, a curved heel segment, a generally straight medial segment, a curved toe segment, and a generally straight midfoot segment; 18. The sole according to claim 17, wherein the first portion of the reinforcing frame preferably comprises one or more of a substantially straight lateral segment, a curved heel segment, a substantially straight medial segment, and a curved toe segment.

22. 22. Sole according to claim 21, wherein the width of the midfoot segment, in particular the width of the second end (w_se), is greater than any other width (w_ts, w_ls) of the reinforcing frame, the widths (w_se, w_ts, w_ls) being approximately in the plane defined by the heel-toe axis (HT) and the medial-lateral axis (ML) of the sole.

23. 22. The sole of claim 21, wherein the width (w_se, w_ts, w_ls) of the reinforcing frame decreases from the second end along the midfoot segment towards the toe segment, the width being approximately in a plane defined by the heel-toe axis (HT) and the medial-lateral axis (ML) of the sole.

24. Sole according to claim 21, wherein the midfoot segment, in particular the second end, extends more in the downward direction (DD) compared to any other segment of the reinforcing frame.

25. The sole according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the sole comprises an outsole arranged below the lower midsole layer.

26. the outsole has a cutout disposed such that the reinforcing frame is at least partially visible from below the outsole; Sole according to claim 25, wherein the cutout preferably has an elongated shape aligned along the heel-toe axis (HT) of the sole.

27. 22. The sole of claim 21, wherein the cutouts are positioned such that the midfoot segment of the reinforcing frame is at least partially visible from beneath the outsole.

28. 3. Sole according to claim 1 or 2, in which the reinforcing frame is at least partially visible from the outside of the shoe.

29. Sole according to claim 28, wherein the reinforcing frame is preferably visible from the medial side, the heel side and / or the lateral side.

30. 3. The sole according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the upper midsole layer comprises a first material and the lower midsole layer comprises a second material, the first material preferably having a lower stiffness compared to the second material.

31. 3. Sole according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the reinforcing frame comprises or consists of one or more of the following: thermoplastic polyurethane, TPU, polyamide, in particular nylon polyamide, carbon fibre, carbon fibre composites, glass fibre composites, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA).

32. 3. Sole according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the midsole comprises or consists of a particle foam material, in particular a particle foam material comprising one or more of the following: expanded thermoplastic polyurethane (eTPU), expanded polyamide (ePA), expanded polyether block amide (ePEBA), expanded polylactic acid (ePLA), expanded polyethylene terephthalate (ePET), expanded polybutylene terephthalate (ePBT), expanded thermoplastic polyester ether elastomer (eTPEE).

33. The sole according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the midsole comprises or consists of a homogeneous foam material.

34. The sole according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the reinforcing frame comprises a second portion that does not surround the outer boundary of the midsole.

35. The sole of claim 34, wherein the second portion comprises a substantially straight midfoot segment of the reinforcing frame.

36. A shoe, in particular a sports shoe such as a running shoe, A sole according to claim 1 or 2; The upper attached to the sole and Shoes that are equipped with:

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