Support element for improved foot shank alignment

Abstract

To provide a support element (100) which is configured to be arranged in a sole structure of a shoe.SOLUTION: The support element (100) may include a first portion (101a) associated with a lateral side of the sole structure and a second portion (101b) associated with a medial side of the sole structure. The first portion (101a) may include a first segment (110a) exhibiting a wave structure. The second portion (101b) may include a second segment (110b) exhibiting a uniform structure.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1A

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a support element configured to be disposed within a sole structure of a shoe to improve the alignment of the foot and the tibia when performing a cutting operation by producing a banking effect.

Background Art

[0002] Many types of sports and various training exercises require a cutting operation, i.e., an operation involving a rapid change in direction. Common examples of cutting operations are the V-cut in basketball, the skater's jump in coordination and endurance training, and more generally the side shuffle movement.

[0003] The performance of the cutting operation is mainly limited for the mechanism of preventing injuries. Specifically, the cutting operation may lead to an excessive inversion moment at the ankle joint caused by an unfavorable deviation between the foot and the tibia segment, and when the ankle joint is close to the limit of its movement range, there is a risk that the foot ligaments are easily injured. See, for example, “The effect of lateral banking on the kinematics and kinetics of the lower extremity during lateral cutting movements”, Human Movement Science, 33, 97-107 (2014).

[0004] Such deviation can be canceled by causing banking, which leads to improved alignment of the foot and shin, keeps the ankle joint outside of a dangerous position, thereby improving performance and reducing the risk of injury. This protective mechanism is called the banking effect and leads to improved performance during cutting operations. The impact of the banking effect on performance during cutting operations has been evaluated by using wooden wedges of various angles attached to the floor. See, for example, “The effect of lateral banking on the kinematics and kinetics of the lower extremity during lateral cutting movements”, Human Movement Science, 33, 97-107 (2014).

[0005] The implementation of the banking effect inside footwear has been realized in the form of insoles. Here, a lateral banking element is incorporated into the footwear with the aim of lifting the lateral part of the foot relative to the medial part of the foot. See, for example, “The influence of lateral wedged insoles on performance and ankle joint biomechanics of lateral movements”, Footwear Science, 15, 146-147 (2023). However, in such an implementation, the banking of the sole persists over time and thus also exists in situations where no lateral movement is performed. This permanence of the banking can be obstructive when performing linear movements and may also impair the wearing comfort. Linear movements are movements without a lateral component, such as moving forward or backward, and more generally movements involving a straight rotation of the foot. Furthermore, permanent banking can lead to poor postures that harm the knee joint and thigh.

[0006] European Patent Application Publication No. 3174419 relates to a footwear article having a sole structure, the sole structure having a midsole and one or more plates embedded in the midsole. Each of the one or more plates has a downwardly concave side and an upwardly concave side. The downwardly concave side may be located on the inner side of the footwear, and the upwardly concave side may be located on the lateral side of the footwear.

[0007] US Patent Application Publication No. 2021 / 337925 describes a sole structure for a footwear article having a sole plate. The sole plate may have a foot-facing surface with raised lines, the raised lines extending longitudinally in the midfoot region and at least one of the forefoot region or the heel region. The sole plate may have a ground-facing surface with grooves extending longitudinally corresponding to the raised lines. The raised lines and the grooves may be configured such that the thickness of the sole plate from the foot-facing surface to the ground-facing surface varies in a transverse cross-section of the sole plate passing through the raised line, or varies along the length of at least one of the raised lines, or varies in both the transverse cross-section and the length of at least one of the raised lines.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0008]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Non-Patent Documents

[0009]

Non-Patent Document 1

Non-Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

[0010] Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide the implementation of a banking effect within footwear, the banking being present only when a lateral movement is performed.

[0011] This object is met by a support element configured to be arranged within the sole structure of a shoe, the support element comprising a first part related to the lateral side of the sole structure and comprising a first segment exhibiting a corrugated structure, and a second part related to the inner side of the sole structure and comprising a second segment exhibiting a uniform structure.

[0012] The support element according to the present invention creates a banking effect during lateral movement due to its inner uniform structure and its lateral corrugated structure. When the support element is embedded in a foam - made part of a shoe, such as the midsole of a shoe, the lateral corrugated structure allows less compression of the foam than the inner uniform structure. This creates a compression gradient, and as a result, a banking posture occurs when lateral movement is performed. This combination leads to an optimal angle between the foot and the tibia segment when the athlete changes direction or performs cutting and dynamic movements. Further, the corrugated structure of the first segment related to the lateral side contributes to a more responsive and controlled feel when performing rapid lateral movements. As a result, the support element helps maintain a stable base, allowing the athlete to change direction with higher precision and confidence. This makes the force transmission more effective. The improved performance can include a higher take - off speed, an increased jump distance, and a shortened contact time.

[0013] It should be noted that the support element according to the present invention is not necessarily a single piece. For example, the first segment and the second segment may be separated.

[0014] The corrugated structure of the first segment comprises at least one peak and at least one valley. Generally, the number of peaks and the number of valleys may be different. In some embodiments, at least one peak and at least one valley may be smoothly connected to each other. Specifically, the first segment may have a smooth surface. Additionally or alternatively, the corrugated structure may comprise discontinuously connected peaks and / or valleys. For example, the discontinuous connection may be a zig - zag connection. Specifically, the connection may be configured to form a saw - tooth wave, a triangular wave, and / or a rectangular wave. Generally, the corrugated structure is not necessarily periodic. The uniform structure may comprise fewer peaks and / or fewer valleys than the corrugated structure. Specifically, the uniform structure may comprise at most one peak or one valley.

[0015] Specifically, the distance between two consecutive peaks of the waveform structure may be at least 0.5 cm. Additionally or alternatively, the distance between two consecutive peaks of the waveform structure may be at least 0.8 cm. Additionally or alternatively, the distance between two consecutive peaks of the waveform structure may be at least 1.1 cm. Additionally or alternatively, the distance between two consecutive peaks of the waveform structure may be at least 1.4 cm. Additionally or alternatively, the distance between two consecutive peaks of the waveform structure may be at least 1.7 cm.

[0016] Additionally or alternatively, the distance between two consecutive peaks of the waveform structure may be at most 8 cm. Additionally or alternatively, the distance between two consecutive peaks of the waveform structure may be at most 7 cm. Additionally or alternatively, the distance between two consecutive peaks of the waveform structure may be at most 6 cm. Additionally or alternatively, the distance between two consecutive peaks of the waveform structure may be at most 5 cm. Additionally or alternatively, the distance between two consecutive peaks of the waveform structure may be at most 4 cm.

[0017] Additionally or alternatively, the height of the peaks of the waveform structure may be at least 0.1 cm. Additionally or alternatively, the height of the peaks of the waveform structure may be at least 0.3 cm. Additionally or alternatively, the height of the peaks of the waveform structure may be at least 0.6 cm. Additionally or alternatively, the height of the peaks of the waveform structure may be at least 0.9 cm. Additionally or alternatively, the height of the peaks of the waveform structure may be at least 1.2 cm.

[0018] Additionally or alternatively, the height of the peaks of the waveform structure may be at most 4 cm.

[0019] Additionally or alternatively, the height of the peaks of the corrugated structure may be at most 3.5 cm. Additionally or alternatively, the height of the peaks of the corrugated structure may be at most 3 cm. Additionally or alternatively, the height of the peaks of the corrugated structure may be at most 2.5 cm. Additionally or alternatively, the height of the peaks of the corrugated structure may be at most 2 cm.

[0020] Additionally or alternatively, the depth of the valleys of the corrugated structure may be at least 0.1 cm.

[0021] Additionally or alternatively, the depth of the valleys of the corrugated structure may be at least 0.3 cm. Additionally or alternatively, the depth of the valleys of the corrugated structure may be at least 0.6 cm. Additionally or alternatively, the depth of the valleys of the corrugated structure may be at least 0.9 cm. Additionally or alternatively, the depth of the valleys of the corrugated structure may be at least 1.2 cm.

[0022] Additionally or alternatively, the depth of the valleys of the corrugated structure may be at most 4 cm. Additionally or alternatively, the depth of the valleys of the corrugated structure may be at most 3.5 cm. Additionally or alternatively, the depth of the valleys of the corrugated structure may be at most 3 cm. Additionally or alternatively, the depth of the valleys of the corrugated structure may be at most 2.5 cm. Additionally or alternatively, the depth of the valleys of the corrugated structure may be at most 2 cm.

[0023] A peak height of at least 0.1 cm of the corrugated structure and / or a valley depth of at least 0.1 cm of the corrugated structure enables a substantially constant bending stiffness of the support element and at the same time ensures an increase in compression. Thus, the above configuration of the peaks and / or valleys of the corrugated structure contributes to the improvement and optimization of the banking effect.

[0024] Generally, the peak height may decrease along the corrugated structure of the first segment. For example, the peak height may decrease along the corrugated structure of the first segment from the central part of the sole structure towards the front part of the sole structure.

[0025] Additionally or alternatively, the depth of the valley may decrease along the waveform structure. For example, the depth of the valley may decrease from the central portion of the sole structure towards the front portion of the sole structure along the waveform structure of the first segment.

[0026] Additionally or alternatively, the distance between two consecutive peaks may decrease along the waveform structure of the first segment. For example, the distance between two consecutive peaks may decrease from the central portion of the sole structure towards the front portion of the sole structure along the waveform structure of the first segment.

[0027] Additionally or alternatively, the distance between two consecutive valleys may decrease along the waveform structure of the first segment. For example, the distance between two consecutive valleys may decrease from the central portion of the sole structure towards the front portion of the sole structure along the waveform structure of the first segment.

[0028] Generally, the decrease in the height of the peak, and / or the depth of the valley, and / or the distance between two consecutive peaks, and / or the distance between two consecutive valleys may be based on a decreasing function. Specifically, the decreasing function may consist of a linear function. Additionally or alternatively, the decreasing function may consist of a polynomial function, for example, a quadratic function. Additionally or alternatively, the decreasing function may consist of an exponential function and / or a logarithmic function.

[0029] For example, the first peak may have a first height. The first peak may be located at a position related to the central portion of the sole structure within the waveform structure of the first segment. In some embodiments, the first peak may have a maximum height, for example, the maximum height among the remaining peaks of the waveform structure. Additionally, the first peak may be located at a first distance from the second peak. Specifically, the second peak may be shifted relative to the first peak in a direction from the heel portion of the sole element towards the front portion and / or the toe portion of the sole element. Generally, the second peak may have a second height. For example, the second height may be smaller than the first height. In some embodiments, the waveform structure of the first segment may include a third peak. For example, the third peak may be shifted relative to the second peak in a direction from the heel portion of the sole element towards the front portion and / or the toe portion of the sole element. Specifically, the second peak and the third peak may be separated by a second distance. For example, the second distance may be smaller than the first distance. In some embodiments, the first distance and the second distance may be substantially equal. Additionally, the third peak may have a third height. The third height may be smaller than the second height. Generally, the height of the first peak and / or the second peak and / or the third peak may be based on a height function. For example, the first height and / or the second height and / or the third height may be based on a height function. For example, the first height, the second height, and the third height may be selected to substantially follow a height function.

[0030] The support element may be configured such that the waveform structure of the first segment extends in the longitudinal axis direction of the sole structure and / or such that the uniform structure of at least one segment extends in the longitudinal axis direction of the sole structure.

[0031] The wavy structure of the first segment extending in the longitudinal axis direction of the sole structure and / or the uniform structure of the second segment extending in the longitudinal axis direction of the sole structure increases the banking effect when performing lateral movement. Further, extending in the longitudinal axis direction of the sole structure maintains the flexibility of the support element regarding linear movement, thereby enhancing the performance of linear movement.

[0032] The first segment and / or the second segment may be configured to be located at the front part of the sole structure, preferably the first half of the sole structure, most preferably the first third of the sole structure.

[0033] The first segment and / or the second segment being located at the front part of the sole structure improves the banking effect because the front part of the foot is wider than the central and rear parts, and thus exerts the greatest force on the support element in the case of lateral movement. Further, during lateral movement, usually more pressure is applied to the front foot than the rear foot, making the banking effect more prominent. This particularly improves the performance of lateral movement accompanied by plantar flexion, i.e., extension at the ankle.

[0034] The first part related to the lateral side may exhibit torsion, and / or the second part related to the medial side may exhibit torsion.

[0035] The torsion of the first part and / or the second part leads to the adaptation of the support element to the foot, and improves the performance of linear movement to facilitate the rotation of the foot.

[0036] The first part may comprise at least one component forming the first segment, this component is preferably elongated, most preferably this element forms a finger and / or a rod, and / or the second part may comprise at least one component forming the second segment, this component is preferably elongated, most preferably this element forms a finger and / or a rod.

[0037] At least one component constituting the first segment and at least one component constituting the second segment are most preferably fingers or rods, and as a result, improve the flexibility of the support element during linear operation. In addition, using two or more components for at least one part enables more accurate positioning and the implementation of various specific configurations. Furthermore, the gaps between the fingers or rods make the support element lightweight, thereby improving performance during operation.

[0038] There may be a subset of components that includes components not connected to each other.

[0039] The presence of a subset of components not connected to each other enables the strengthening of the operation of the components of the support element relative to each other, especially with respect to vertical movement. This makes the support element more flexible. Furthermore, since there is no connection between the components in the subset, the support element becomes lightweight, thereby improving performance during operation.

[0040] The components may be such that the number of components in the first part is different from the number of components in the second part. Preferably, the first part comprises at least one component and / or a maximum of six components, and / or the second part comprises at least one component and / or a maximum of four components. Most preferably, the first part comprises three components and / or the second part comprises two components.

[0041] The difference in the number of components between the first part and the second part enables a precise configuration of the components, which leads to an improvement and optimization of the banking effect. If there are more elements in the first part than in the second part, this results in different stabilities on the lateral side and the inner side.

[0042] The distance between the first part and the second part leads to a reduction in the weight of the support element. Further, this distance ensures that the first segment showing a corrugated structure and the second element showing a uniform structure are sufficiently spatially separated to enable banking.

[0043] The components may be such that there is a space between the components of the first part, and the space depends on the number of components in the first part and / or the second part. Most preferably, the spaces are equidistant, and / or there is a space between the components of the second part, and the space depends on the number of components in the second part and / or the first part. Most preferably, the spaces are equidistant.

[0044] Leaving a space between the components of the first part and / or the second part leads to a more localized banking of the support components while maintaining the stability of the support element, particularly with respect to linear movement. Equidistant spaces allow for uniform banking across the entire width of the sole and / or the shoe sole.

[0045] The fact that the space depends on the number of components guarantees that it can be adapted to a sole of a specific size.

[0046] The waveform structure of at least one segment comprises at least one peak and at least one valley. The height of the peaks may be configured to increase from the first peak to the last peak, and / or the height of the peaks may be configured to decrease from the first peak to the last peak, and / or the height of the peaks may be configured to increase from the first peak to the peak at the inflection point and decrease from the peak at the inflection point to the last peak, and / or the height of the peaks may be configured to decrease from the first peak to the peak at the inflection point and increase from the peak at the inflection point to the last peak. Further, the depth of the valleys may be configured to increase from the first valley to the last valley, and / or the depth of the valleys may be configured to decrease from the first valley to the last valley, and / or the depth of the valleys may be configured to increase from the first valley to the valley at the inflection point and decrease from the valley at the inflection point to the last valley, and / or the depth of the valleys may be configured to decrease from the first valley to the valley at the inflection point and increase from the valley at the inflection point to the last valley.

[0047] The number of peaks and / or valleys, and / or the height of the peaks and / or the depth of the valleys may be maximum at the outermost elements, and / or may decrease for those elements in the first part that are closer to the second part.

[0048] The configuration of the waveform structure of at least one segment may depend on the position of that at least one segment in the first part. The configuration of the waveform structure may include the number of peaks, the number of valleys, the height of each peak, the depth of each valley, the spacing between the peaks and / or valleys, and / or the pattern of the peaks and valleys. For example, the waveform structure configuration of at least one segment of the outermost component may be different from the waveform structure configuration of at least one segment of the component in the first part that is closer to the second part. Specifically, the height of the peaks and / or the depth of the valleys in the waveform structure configuration of at least one segment may decrease as the segment gets closer to the second part / inner part.

[0049] The configuration of the waveform structure of at least one segment of the first part being dependent on the position of at least one segment in the first part enables a smooth transition from the waveform structure to the uniform structure of the second element included in the second part. This smooth transition improves the banking effect and the performance during lateral movement.

[0050] Providing the maximum number of peaks and / or valleys and / or the height of the peaks and / or the depth of the valleys in the most lateral component allows for the least compression of the foam in the most lateral part of the sole structure, which improves the generation of the banking posture. The corresponding reduction in the component within the first part closer to the second part results in a smooth increase in the compression of the foam towards the part with components showing a uniform structure.

[0051] The first part and / or the second part may include at least one of the materials of polyamide, glass fiber reinforced polyamide, carbon fiber, thermoplastic polyurethane, carbon fiber reinforced thermoplastic polyurethane.

[0052] Such materials can contribute to the flexibility and elasticity of the first part and / or the second part, elements and / or fingers and / or rods, resulting in optimal toughness. This contributes to the adjustment of the support elements for linear movement and smooth banking, and as a result, the performance of linear movement and lateral movement is improved.

[0053] The support element may comprise a first component and a second component connected to each other, where the first component is part of the first part, the second component is part of the second part, or the first component and the second component are part of the first part, or the first component and the second component are part of the second part.

[0054] The support element connecting the first component and the second component is easy to align, for example, within the sole structure during the manufacturing process, thus reducing the risk of misalignment between the sole structure / shoe and the support element. Further, the connection enables better distribution of the forces acting during lateral movement, so it contributes to the stability of the sole structure. Specifically, considering that the first component is part of the first portion and the second component is part of the second portion, this improves the banking effect and the performance during lateral movement.

[0055] The first component and / or the second component may be configured to be disposed at the edge portion of the sole structure. Preferably, the first component, which is part of the first portion, is configured to be disposed at the lateral edge of the sole structure, and / or the second component belonging to the second portion is configured to be disposed at the inner edge of the sole structure.

[0056] Disposing the first component, which is part of the first portion, at the edge portion and / or the second component, which is part of the second portion, at the edge portion leads to banking extending across the entire width of the sole structure. In such an arrangement, the first component and the second component are spaced apart by the maximum distance, which further results in the maximum possible banking.

[0057] The components of the first portion may be connected to each other, and / or the elements of the second portion may be connected to each other, and / or the elements of the first portion and the elements of the second portion may be connected to each other. Preferably, the components are connected in the region related to the central part of the sole structure. Additionally or alternatively, the components may be connected in the region related to the rear part of the sole structure. In some embodiments, the components may be connected in the region related to the heel of the foot.

[0058] Connecting the components of the first part and / or the second part to each other increases the stability of the support element. If all components are connected in a region related to the central part of the sole structure, the support element provides stability at the central part and maintains the flexibility of the components at the front for banking. This improves the performance of the lateral movement, especially when the lateral movement includes a bottom bend. In addition, this facilitates the alignment of the support element and the sole structure during the manufacturing process.

[0059] The support element may further comprise a portion related to the central part of the sole structure, preferably related to the midfoot part, which portion comprises at least one opening, preferably at least one opening is related to the first part and / or at least one part is related to the second part.

[0060] In some embodiments, the portion related to the central part may comprise a first opening located within the first part and a second opening located within the second part. Further, the first opening and the second opening may be symmetrically arranged within the support element. For example, the axis of symmetry may be related to the transition from the first part to the second part of the support element. Specifically, the portion related to the central part may further comprise an intermediate section separating the first opening from the second opening. Further, the intermediate section may comprise a portion divided into at least two parts. In detail, the intermediate section may have a "Y" shape.

[0061] The portion of the support element related to the central part of the sole structure brings about an additional improvement in the stability of the support element and thus of the sole structure. Furthermore, this portion can be used to integrate different components from the first portion and / or the second portion. The openings reduce the weight of the support element. By associating the openings with the first portion and the second portion, the portion of the support element related to the central part of the sole structure has stability with respect to the lateral side as well as the inner side. The openings of the support element also allow ventilation when disposed within the sole structure. Ventilation of the shoe and thus of the foot leads to cooling and a reduction in sweating, thereby improving the wearing comfort and also potentially improving performance during training.

[0062] The support element may further comprise a portion related to the rear part of the sole structure, preferably related to the heel of the foot, which portion comprises at least one opening, preferably, which opening is surrounded.

[0063] The portion related to the rear part provides additional stability to the sole structure and to the shoe including the support structure. The at least one opening leads to better compressibility of the foam located at the rear part of the sole structure, thus contributing to an improved wearing comfort.

[0064] The support element is preferably configured to be disposed within the midsole of the shoe such that the central part of the support element has a gap from the top component of the midsole but is connected to the bottom component of the midsole.

[0065] The placement of the support element within the midsole of the shoe facilitates implementing the support element within the sole structure. This is particularly relevant when the midsole comprises a top / upper component as well as a bottom / lower component and the support element is implemented between this top / upper component and the bottom / lower component. Furthermore, the gap between the top component and the bottom component results in a reduction in the weight of the sole component and of the shoe.

[0066] Generally, the midsole of a shoe can be made of a foam. For example, the top component and / or the bottom component of the midsole can be made of a foam. Further, the hardness of the foam of the top component can be different from the hardness of the foam of the bottom component.

[0067] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a shoe comprising a support element as described herein. The technical properties, advantages and improvements over the prior art shown or described with respect to the support element are equally applicable to shoes, especially sports shoes. The same is also true vice versa. The shoe may be a tennis shoe, a football shoe, a basketball shoe, or a training shoe.

[0068] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention are described below with reference to the figures.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0069]

Figure 1A

Figure 1B

Figure 1C

Figure 2A

Figure 2B

Figure 2C

Figure 3A

Figure 3B

Figure 3C

Figure 4A

Figure 4B

Figure 4C

Figure 5

[0070] Only some possible embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below. It should be understood that these exemplary embodiments can be changed in many ways, combined with each other if compatible, and certain features may be omitted as long as they are not considered essential. Specifically, the disclosed embodiments may be modified by combining certain features of one embodiment with one or more features of another embodiment.

[0071] It should be understood that not all features of the described aspects / embodiments need to be present to achieve the technical advantages provided by the present disclosure as defined by the subject matter of the claims. The disclosed aspects / embodiments may be modified by combining certain features of one aspect / embodiment with one or more features of another aspect / embodiment. Specifically, those skilled in the art will understand that they can combine the features and / or functional elements of one aspect / embodiment with the technically compatible features and / or functional elements of any other aspect / embodiment of the present disclosure, provided that the resulting combination falls within the definition of the present disclosure.

[0072] Throughout the drawings and the specification of the present invention, the same reference numerals refer to the same elements. For the sake of clarity and conciseness, when such details are considered to be obvious to those skilled in the art in light of the teachings of this specification and / or when such details would obscure a better understanding of the more relevant aspects of the embodiments, certain aspects of the components or steps of an embodiment are presented without more detail than necessary.

[0073] As will be understood by those skilled in the art and / or to avoid duplication, reference may be made to the description of the preceding items, which also applies to the following detailed description. Further, for the sake of brevity and clarity, not all features, parts, elements, aspects, components, and / or steps are necessarily explicitly indicated by reference numerals. This is particularly relevant when those skilled in the art recognize the existence of multiple such features, parts, elements, aspects, components, and / or steps.

[0074] In some of the figures, a coordinate system is added to assist in the description with particular reference to a specific direction. Thus, when the "x-axis", "y-axis", or "z-axis" is referred to, it should be understood that such terms are based on the depicted coordinate system.

[0075] FIG. 1A shows a top view of an embodiment of a support element 100 according to the present disclosure. The support element 100 is configured to be disposed within a sole structure, which may belong to a shoe used in any athletic activity. For example, the shoe may be used in soccer, basketball, volleyball, rugby, football, tennis, training, etc.

[0076] The support element 100 includes a first component forming a finger 110a related to the lateral side 101a of the sole structure, and a second component forming a finger 110b related to the inner side 101b of the sole structure. The first finger 110a and the second finger 110b extend in the direction of the longitudinal axis related to the sole structure. This longitudinal axis may be parallel to the z-axis. Further, the first finger 110a and the second finger 110b are located at the front part 102a of the support element 100 related to the front part of the sole structure. The first finger 110a and the second finger 110b may define an opening 120, and the opening 120 may not be completely surrounded by the fingers. The two fingers converge as they approach the central part 102b of the support element. The central part 102b may include two openings 130a and 130b, which may have the same shape. The two openings 130a and 130b are separated by an intermediate section 140.

[0077] The intermediate section 140 includes a portion 145 divided into two components 146a, 146b, where one component 146a transitions to the first finger 110a and the second component 146b transitions to the second finger 110b. By being divided into the two components 146a, 146b, the intermediate section 140 has a "Y" shape.

[0078] In other embodiments, the central part may not include an opening or may include three or more openings separated by three or more intermediate sections. Further, the different openings can have different shapes. The rear part 102c is an extension of the central part 102b and includes an opening 150 completely surrounded by the material. The opening is configured to be placed in a sole element and / or a part of the shoe related to the heel or the heel of the foot. The shape of the opening 150 can be arbitrary or symmetric with respect to the axis of symmetry. The shape of the opening 150 is related to the shape of the heel of the foot. In different embodiments, the rear part may not include an opening or may have two or more openings having independent shapes.

[0079] Figure 1B shows an inner side view of the support element 100 of Figure 1A, particularly the second finger 110b. The second finger 110b shows a uniform structure. For this embodiment, the uniform structure can be described as appearing through the cross-section of the first finger 110b with respect to the y-z plane and / or a plane derived from the longitudinal axis of the support element 100. This cross-section of the second finger 110b has at most one extreme point. The extreme point of the second finger 110b is realized by a depression / groove 210, and the depression / groove 210 separates a portion 220b where the y-component of the cross-section of the second finger increases from a portion 220a where the y-component of the cross-section of the second finger decreases. Thus, in this embodiment, the second finger 110b shows torsion, and this torsion bends the second finger 110b out of the x-z plane.

[0080] The middle section 140 of the central part 102b separating the two openings 130a and 130b is bent downward and is configured to define a parabolic cross-section of the middle element with respect to the y-z plane. The downward bend of the middle section 140 in combination with the openings 130a, 130b results in a spacing 230 with respect to the y-z plane.

[0081] Figure 1C shows a side view of the support element 100 of Figure 1A, particularly the first finger 110a. The first finger 110a shows a corrugated structure. In this embodiment, the corrugated structure is characterized by two valleys 310a and 310b and one peak 320. The corrugated structure starts from a first valley 310a that is deeper than the second valley 310b. The first valley 310a is separated from the second valley 310b by the peak 320. Further, the first finger shows torsion, and this torsion bends the finger out of the x-z plane, and the corrugated structure is configured to follow this torsion. This torsion and the depth of the valleys 310a and 310b are configured such that the minimum inflection point of the first valley 310a has a smaller y-component than the minimum inflection point of the second valley 310b. The torsion of the first finger 110a and the torsion of the second finger 110b may be similar.

[0082] The first finger 110a and the second finger 110b are further bent inwardly, i.e., the first finger 110a is bent towards the inner side 101b and the second finger 110b is bent towards the side 101a.

[0083] In other embodiments, the uniform structure and the wavy structure may be defined relative to each other. For example, the uniform structure of the second element may have fewer extreme points than the wavy structure. Further, the number of extreme points of the wavy structure may vary, for example, the wavy structure may have more valleys or fewer valleys and / or more peaks. Further, at least one of the fingers may not exhibit torsion or may not exhibit an inward bend.

[0084] FIG. 2A shows an inner side view of a sports shoe 400 in which an exemplary embodiment of a support element 100 according to the present invention is embedded. In this embodiment, the support element 100 is located inside the midsole 410 of the shoe 400, and the midsole 410 comprises a lower part 410a and an upper part 410b. The support element 100 may be located between the lower part 410a and the upper part 410b. The lower part 410a may be connected to the outer sole 420, and the upper part 410b may be connected to the upper 430. Two openings 130a and 130b define a spacing 230 together with an intermediate element 140 that bends downward, resulting in a spacing between the lower part 410a of the midsole and the upper part 410b of the midsole. This spacing 230 reduces the weight of the shoe, which improves the wearing comfort and further improves the responsiveness of the shoe when performing movements.

[0085] The torsion of the second finger 110b at the front part 102a is adapted to follow the torsion of the lower part 410a and / or the upper part 410b of the midsole. Thereby, the sole structure and the shoe 400 itself become more flexible with respect to movements including rotation of the foot.

[0086] Figure 2B shows an inner side view of the sports shoe 400 of Figure 2A, where the support element 100 is embedded between the lower part 410a and the upper part 410b of the midsole 410. In this embodiment of the support element, the corrugated structure of the first finger includes, in addition to the peak 310, a second peak 510 at the very front part 102a of the sole structure or the shoe 400. Similar to the second finger 110b with a uniform structure, the twist of the first finger 110a is also adapted to follow the twist of the lower part 410a and the upper part 410b of the midsole 410.

[0087] The support element is configured such that the first element 110a is located at the lateral edge of the sole structure and / or the shoe 400, and the second element 110b is located at the inner edge of the sole structure and / or the shoe 400.

[0088] In the embodiment shown in Figures 2A and 2B, the support element 100 is disposed between the lower part 410a and the upper part 410b of the midsole 410, and thus, the first finger 110a and the second finger 110b are embedded in the midsole 410. Specifically, the lower part 410a and the upper part 410b of the midsole 410 can be made of foam. In this case, the sole structure, particularly the first finger 110a and the second finger 110b, will be embedded in the foam.

[0089] When the midsole 410 is made of foam, the support element 100 is configured to support the lower part 410a of the midsole 410, specifically the lower foam part of the midsole 410. Further, the support element 100 may follow the shape of the foam. In some embodiments, the support element 100 may be disposed within the midsole 410 to be located 1 mm inside the foam.

[0090] The corrugated structure of the first finger 110a on the lateral side 101a allows less compression of the midsole foam during lateral movement, particularly extreme lateral movement, compared to the compression of the foam allowed by the uniform structure of the second finger 110b on the medial side 101b. This leads to a gradient of foam compression from the lateral side 101a to the medial side 101b, thus creating a banking posture of the foot during lateral movement. However, it should be noted that the midsole may not be made of foam, but rather of different materials, preferably materials that provide compressibility favorable for creating banking.

[0091] This banking effect improves the adverse misalignment between the foot and the tibial segment, thus resulting in improved performance of movements involving a change in direction. Further, the corrugated structure of the lateral first finger contributes to a more responsive, controlled sensation when making sudden lateral movements, helping the support elements to maintain a stable base and enabling the athlete to change direction with greater precision and confidence. This makes the force transmission more effective. The performance improvement can be quantified by a higher takeoff speed, increased jump distance, or reduced contact time.

[0092] FIG. 2C shows the arrangement of the support elements within the sole structure, particularly within the midsole 410, as viewed from the side. Specifically, the support element 100 is located between the lower part 410a and the upper part 410b of the midsole 410. In some embodiments, the lower part 410a and / or the upper part 410b of the midsole 410 can be made of foam. Further, the intermediate section 140 is in direct contact with the lower midsole 410a due to the parabolic shape of the intermediate section 140 that defines the spacing 230. This direct contact between the intermediate section 140 and the lower midsole 410a supports the midfoot area.

[0093] Figures 3A, 3B, and 3C show another embodiment of the support element 600 according to the present disclosure from various perspectives. The support element 600 includes a front portion 602a, a central portion 602b, and a rear portion 602c. The front portion 602a is configured to be disposed in a portion related to the sole structure and / or in the shoe in the forefoot region, for example, a region including at least one of the midfoot bones and phalanges. The front portion 602a includes five fingers 610a - 610e. The fingers 610a - 610e are bent inwardly, that is, a subset 610a, 610b of the fingers on the lateral side 601a are bent towards the medial side 601b, and the fingers 610d, 610e on the medial side 601b are bent towards the lateral side 601a. Further, the finger 610d belonging to the lateral side 601a is bent towards the lateral side 601a. Further, the width of the fingers increases from the start of the front portion 602a to the middle of the front portion 602a and then decreases to the end of the front portion 602a. The fingers 610a - 610e converge as they approach the central portion 602b. The central portion 602b of the structural element 600 is continuous without one or more openings and smoothly extends from the front portion 602a. The central portion is configured to be disposed in a portion related to the arch of the foot in the sole structure and / or in the shoe. The rear portion 602c smoothly extends from the central portion 602b and may be configured to be disposed in a portion related to the heel or the heel of the foot in the sole structure and / or in the shoe. The rear portion 602c includes an opening 620 that is not surrounded by material. The shape of the opening can be arbitrary or symmetric with respect to an axis. In this embodiment, the shape of the opening 620 relates to the shape of the heel or the heel of the foot.

[0094] The fingers 610a - 610c belonging to the lateral side 601a exhibit a corrugated structure. The configuration of the corrugated structure is different for each of the three fingers 610a - 610c. The fingers 610d and 610e belonging to the inner side 601b of the support element 600 exhibit a uniform structure. Here, the uniform structure can be represented by the paths of the fingers 610d and 610e, which bend equally in the y - direction, that is, the paths do not exhibit peaks or valleys. In another embodiment such as embodiment 100, at least one finger on the inner side 601b may exhibit a valley.

[0095] The configuration of the corrugated structure of the fingers 610a - 610c on the lateral side 601a includes properties such as the number of peaks, the number of valleys, the height of the peaks, the depth of the valleys, and the arrangement of these properties. In embodiment 600, each finger 610a - 610c has three peaks and three valleys. Specifically, finger 610a has peaks 710a, 730a, 750a, and valleys 720a, 740a, 760a. Finger 610b has peaks 710b, 730b, 750b, and valleys 720b, 740b, 760b, and finger 610c has peaks 710c, 730c, 750c, and valleys 720c, 740c, 760c. The characteristics of the corrugated structure may depend on the positions of the corresponding fingers 610a - 610c in the first part related to the lateral side 601a. For example, the height of the peaks and the depth of the valleys may be maximum in the most lateral finger 610a and may decrease as the finger approaches the inner side 601b. For the support element 600, the height of the peaks and the depth of the valleys of finger 610a are greater than those of fingers 610b and 610c. Similarly, the height of the peaks and the depth of the valleys of finger 610b are greater than those of finger 610c.

[0096] As best seen in Figure 3C, the fingers 610a - 610e exhibit a twist that bends the fingers out of the x - z plane. The corrugated structure of the fingers 610a - 610c is configured to follow the twist of each respective finger. In another embodiment, only a subset of the fingers may exhibit a twist.

[0097] Figures 4A - 4C show further exemplary embodiments of support element 800 according to the present invention. The support element 800 is configured to be disposed within a sole structure. For example, the sole structure may belong to a shoe used in any athletic activity. Specifically, the shoe may be used in soccer, basketball, volleyball, rugby, football, tennis, training, etc.

[0098] The support element 800 includes a first portion 810a associated with the lateral side 801a of the sole structure. The first portion 810a has a finger shape. In addition, the support element 800 includes a second portion 810b associated with the inner side 801b of the sole structure. The first portion 810a and the second portion 810b extend in the direction of the longitudinal axis associated with the sole structure. The first portion 810a and the second portion 810b are located at the front portion 802a of the support element 800. The front portion 802a of the support element 800 may be associated with the front of the sole structure. The first portion 810a and the second portion 810b define an opening 820. The opening 820 is not completely surrounded by the first portion 810a and the second portion 810b. Specifically, the first portion 810a and the second portion 810b define the hole of the opening 820 at the front portion 802a of the support element 800. In other words, the first portion 810a and the second portion 810b define the opening 820 such that the opening 820 has a U - shaped configuration.

[0099] The second portion 810b includes a portion that is substantially flat, for example flat with respect to a horizontal plane associated with the support element. The diameter of the first portion 810a substantially corresponds to the diameter of the second portion 810b. For example, the diameter of the first portion 810a and / or the second portion 810b may be at least 1 cm. For example, the diameter of the first portion 810a and / or the second portion 810b may be 1.5 cm, and / or 1.7 cm, and / or 2 cm.

[0100] The first part 810a of the support element 800 has a zigzag structure. The zigzag structure of the first part has a plurality of peaks and valleys. For example, the zigzag structure has peaks 860b, 860d, 860f. In addition, the zigzag structure has valleys 860a, 860c, 860e. Specifically, the peaks and valleys of the zigzag structure alternate. For example, peak 860b follows valley 860a, and valley 860c follows peak 860b. In addition, peak 860d follows valley 860c, and valley 860e follows peak 860d.

[0101] Valley 860a has a first depth, valley 860c has a second depth, and valley 860e has a third depth. Specifically, the first depth of valley 860a is deeper than the second depth of valley 860c. Similarly, the first depth of valley 860a and the second depth of valley 860c may be deeper than the third depth of valley 860e. For example, the first depth of valley 860a may be at least 0.4 cm. Alternatively, the first depth of valley 860a may be at least 0.6 cm. In some embodiments, the first depth of valley 860a may be substantially 1 cm.

[0102] Peak 860b has a first height, peak 860d has a second height, and peak 860f has a third height. Specifically, the first height of peak 860b is higher than the second height of peak 860d. Similarly, the first height of peak 860b and the second height of peak 860d may be higher than the third height of peak 860f.

[0103] The peak 860b of the zigzag structure of the first portion 810a is disposed at a first distance from the peak 860d. Similarly, the peak 860d is disposed at a second distance from the peak 860f. For example, the first distance may be greater than the second distance. In other words, the distance between two consecutive peaks, such as peaks 860b, 860d, and peaks 860d, 860f, may decrease in a direction facing from the rear portion 802c towards the front portion 802a. Similarly, the trough 860a of the zigzag structure of the first portion 810a is disposed at a first distance from the trough 860c. Similarly, the trough 860c is disposed at a second distance from the trough 860e. For example, the first distance may be greater than the second distance. In other words, the distance between two consecutive troughs, such as troughs 860a, 860c, and troughs 860c, 860e, may decrease in a direction facing from the rear portion 802c towards the front portion 802a.

[0104] The first portion 810a and the second portion 810b converge as they approach the central portion 802b of the support element 800. The central portion 802b includes two openings 830a and 830b. For example, the opening 830a is located in the lateral portion 801a of the central portion 802b, and the opening 830b is located in the inner portion 801b of the central portion 802b. In some embodiments, the support element 800 may include only one opening. Alternatively, the support element 800 may include three or more openings in the central portion 802b. For example, the support element 800 may include at least three, preferably at least four, openings 830a, 830b in the central portion 802b. The openings 830a, 830b are substantially symmetric. Specifically, the openings 830a, 830b are substantially symmetric with respect to the portion 845 separating and / or defining the two openings 830a, 830b. In some embodiments, the openings 830a, 830b may be asymmetric. For example, the opening 830a may have a first geometric shape and / or a first size. The second opening 830b may have a second geometric shape and / or a second size. Specifically, the first geometric shape may be different from the second geometric shape, and / or the first size may be different from the second size.

[0105] The portion 845 is divided into two components 846a and 846b. The component 846a transitions to the first portion 810a on the lateral side 801a, and the component 846b transitions to the second portion 810b on the inner side 801b. Specifically, the first component 846a and the second component 846b have a curvature. For example, the first component 846a and the second component 846b may be divided from the portion 845 such that the first component 846a and the second component 846b have a C-shaped geometry.

[0106] The first portion 810a is divided into two components. Specifically, the first portion 810a is divided into the component 846a and the component 847a. For example, the component 846a and the component 847a may be divided from the first portion 810a at substantially the same location. Specifically, the component 846a and the component 847a may be divided from the first portion at the transition from the front foot portion 802a to the middle foot portion 802b of the support element 800. The diameter of the component 846a and the diameter of the component 847a may be smaller than the diameter of the first portion 810a. For example, the diameter of the component 846a and the diameter of the component 847a may be such that the sum of the diameter of the component 846a and the diameter of the component 847a substantially corresponds to the diameter of the first portion 810a.

[0107] Similarly, the second portion 810b is divided into two components. Specifically, the second portion 810b is divided into the component 846b and the component 847b. For example, the component 846b and the component 847b may be divided from the second portion 810b at substantially the same location. Specifically, the component 846b and the component 847b may be divided from the second portion at the transition from the front foot portion 802a to the middle foot portion 802b of the support element 800. The diameter of the component 846b and the diameter of the component 847b may be smaller than the diameter of the second portion 810b. For example, the diameter of the component 846b and the diameter of the component 847b may be such that the sum of the diameter of the component 846b and the diameter of the component 847b substantially corresponds to the diameter of the second portion 810b.

[0108] Component 847a substantially follows and / or defines a part of the lateral boundary of support element 800. For example, component 847a substantially defines a part of the lateral boundary of support element 800 within the midfoot portion 802b and heel portion 802c of support element 800. Component 847a has a twist. Specifically, component 847a has a twist such that the upper surface of component 847a bends towards the lateral boundary of support element 800.

[0109] Similarly, component 847b substantially follows and / or defines a part of the inner boundary of support element 800. For example, component 847b substantially defines a part of the inner boundary of support element 800 within the midfoot portion 802b and heel portion 802c of support element 800. Component 847b has a twist. Specifically, component 847b has a twist such that the upper surface of component 847b bends towards the inner boundary of support element 800.

[0110] Support element 800 has an opening 850 in the heel portion 850. For example, opening 850 may be at least partially defined by component 848a and component 848b. Opening 850 opens in the heel area 802c. For example, opening 850 is not completely surrounded by component 848a and component 848b. Specifically, opening 850 may be at least partially defined by component 848a and component 848b such that opening 850 has a U-shaped geometry.

[0111] Figure 5 shows an exemplary illustration of a shoe 900 from the side. The shoe 900 includes a midsole 910 and an upper 920. The midsole 910 includes a lower portion 910a and an upper portion 910b. The shoe 900 further includes a support element 800. The support element 800 is disposed between the lower portion 910a of the midsole and the upper portion 910b of the midsole within the shoe. The support element 800 may be disposed between the lower portion 910a and the upper portion 910b of the midsole such that at least a portion of the support element forms a part of the outer surface of the midsole. Specifically, the support element 800 may be disposed such that the surface of the component 847a forms a part of the lateral outer surface of the midsole 910. For example, the twist of the component 847a may be such that the component 847a substantially follows the twist of the midsole 910. Additionally, the openings 830a, 830b, and the portion 845 may be such that the midsole 910 has a gap 930. For example, the gap 930 may extend through the midsole 910 from the lateral side of the midsole 910 to the inner side of the midsole 910. In other words, the gap 930 in the midsole 910 may be such that it is possible to see from the lateral side of the midsole through the gap 910 to the inner side of the midsole.

[0112] Further embodiments of the present invention: Embodiment 1: A support element (100, 600) configured to be disposed within a sole structure (410) of a shoe (400), the support element comprising a first portion (101a) associated with the lateral side of the sole structure (410), the first portion (101a) comprising a first segment (110a) showing a corrugated structure, and a second portion (101b) associated with the inner side of the sole structure (410), the second portion (101b) comprising a second segment (110b) showing a uniform structure.

[0113] Embodiment 2: The support element (100, 600) according to Embodiment 1, wherein the corrugated structure comprises at least one peak and at least one valley, preferably, at least one peak and at least one valley are smoothly connected to each other, and the uniform structure comprises fewer peaks and / or fewer valleys than the corrugated structure, preferably, the uniform structure comprises at most one peak or one valley.

[0114] Embodiment 3: The support element according to Embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the corrugated structure comprises discontinuously connected peaks and / or valleys, preferably, the discontinuous connection is a zigzag connection.

[0115] Embodiment 4: The support element (100, 600) according to Embodiment 1, wherein the corrugated structure of the first segment (110a) extends in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the sole structure (410), and / or the uniform structure of the second segment (110b) extends in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the sole structure (410).

[0116] Embodiment 5: The support element (100, 600) according to one of Embodiments 1 to 4, wherein the first segment (110a) and / or the second segment (110b) are configured to be located at the front portion (102a) of the sole structure (410), preferably the first half of the sole structure, most preferably the first third of the sole structure.

[0117] Embodiment 6: The support element (100, 600) according to one of Embodiments 1 to 5, wherein the first portion (101a) exhibits torsion and / or the second portion (101b) exhibits torsion.

[0118] Embodiment 7: A support element (100, 600) according to one of Embodiments 1 to 6, wherein the first part (101a) comprises at least one component (110a, 610a to 610c) constituting the first segment, the component (110a, 610a to 610c) is preferably elongated, most preferably the component forms a finger and / or a rod, and / or the second part (101b) comprises at least one component (110b, 610d, 610e) constituting the second segment, the component (110b, 610d, 610e) is preferably elongated, most preferably the component forms a finger and / or a rod.

[0119] Embodiment 8: A support element (100, 600) according to Embodiment 7, wherein a subset of the components includes components that are not connected to each other.

[0120] Embodiment 9: A support element (100, 600) according to Embodiment 7, comprising a first component (110a) and a second component (110b) connected to each other, the first component (110a) being part of the first part (101a) and the second component (110b) being part of the second part (101b), or the first component (110a) and the second component (110b) being part of the first part (101a), or the first component (110a) and the second component (110b) being part of the second part (101b).

[0121] Embodiment 10: A support element (100, 600) according to Embodiment 9, wherein the first component (110a) and / or the second component (110b) is configured to be disposed at an edge portion of the sole structure (410), preferably, the first component (110a) which is part of the first part (101a) is configured to be disposed at a lateral edge portion of the sole structure (410), and / or the second component (110b) belonging to the second part (101b) is configured to be disposed at an inner edge portion of the sole structure (410).

[0122] Embodiment 11: The components (110a, 610a to 610c) of the first part (101a, 601a) are connected to each other, and / or the components (110b, 610d, 610e) of the second part (101b, 601b) are connected to each other, and / or the components (110a, 110b, 610a to 610e) of the first part (101a, 601a) and the second part (101b, 601b) are connected to each other. Preferably, the components (110a, 110b, 610a to 610e) are connected in a region related to the central part (102b) of the sole structure (410), and / or the components (110a, 110b, 610a to 610e) are connected in a region related to the rear part (102c) of the sole structure (410). Most preferably, the components (110a, 110b, 610a to 610e) are connected in a region related to the heel part of the foot. The support element (100, 600) according to one of Embodiments 1 to 10.

[0123] Embodiment 12: It includes a part related to the central part (102b) of the sole structure (410), preferably related to the midfoot part. The above part includes at least one opening (130a, 130b). Preferably, the at least one opening is related to the first part (101a), and / or the at least one part is related to the second part (101b). The support element (100, 600) according to one of Embodiments 1 to 11.

[0124] Embodiment 13: The above part related to the central part includes a first opening (130a) located within the first part (101a) and a second opening (130b) located within the second part (101b). Preferably, the first opening (130a) and the second opening (130b) are symmetrically arranged within the support element (100, 600). The support element (100, 600) according to Embodiment 12.

[0125] Embodiment 14: The above part related to the central part further includes an intermediate section (140) that separates the first opening (130a) from the second opening (130b), preferably, the intermediate section (140) includes a portion (145) that is divided into at least two parts (146a, 146b), and most preferably, the intermediate section is in a Y shape (145, 146a, 146b), the support element (100, 600) according to Embodiment 13.

[0126] Embodiment 15: A portion related to the rear part (102c) of the sole structure (410), preferably related to the heel part of the foot, the above part includes at least one opening (150), preferably the opening is surrounded, the support element (100, 600) according to one of Embodiments 1 to 14.

[0127] Embodiment 16: The support element is configured to be disposed within the midsole (410), preferably, the support element (100, 600) is disposed between the top component (410b) of the sole structure and the bottom component (410a) of the sole structure, the support element (100, 600) according to one of Embodiments 1 to 15.

[0128] Embodiment 17: The intermediate section (140) is connected to the bottom component (410a) of the sole structure, the central part (102b) of the support element has a gap (230) from the top component (410b) of the midsole (410), but is connected to the bottom component (410a) of the midsole (410), the support element according to Embodiment 16.

[0129] Embodiment 18: A shoe (400) provided with the support element (100, 600) according to one of Embodiments 1 to 17, preferably a sports shoe.

[0130] Furthermore, the present application discloses the following embodiments.

[0131] [1] A support element (100, 600) configured to be disposed within the sole structure (410) of a shoe (400), A first portion (101a) related to the lateral side of the sole structure (410), the first portion (101a) comprising a first segment (110a) showing a corrugated structure. A second portion (101b) related to the inner side of the sole structure (410), the second portion (101b) comprising a second segment (110b) showing a uniform structure. A support element (100, 600) comprising the above.

[0132] [2] The corrugated structure comprises at least one peak and at least one valley, preferably, at least one peak and at least one valley are smoothly connected to each other, and / or The uniform structure comprises fewer peaks and / or fewer valleys than the corrugated structure, preferably, the uniform structure comprises at most one peak or one valley, the support element (100, 600) according to [1].

[0133] [3] The corrugated structure comprises discontinuously connected peaks and / or valleys, preferably, the discontinuous connection is a zigzag connection, the support element according to [1] or [2].

[0134] [4] The distance between two consecutive peaks of the corrugated structure is at least 0.5 cm, preferably at least 0.8 cm, more preferably at least 1.1 cm, still more preferably at least 1.4 cm, most preferably at least 1.7 cm, and / or The distance between two consecutive peaks of the corrugated structure is at most 8 cm, preferably at most 7 cm, more preferably at most 6 cm, still more preferably at most 5 cm, most preferably at most 4 cm, and / or The height of the peak of the corrugated structure is at least 0.1 cm, preferably at least 0.3 cm, more preferably at least 0.6 cm, still more preferably at least 0.9 cm, most preferably at least 1.2 cm, and / or The height of the peaks of the corrugated structure is at most 4 cm, preferably at most 3.5 cm, more preferably at most 3 cm, still more preferably at most 2.5 cm, and most preferably at most 2 cm, and / or, The depth of the valleys of the corrugated structure is at least 0.1 cm, preferably at least 0.3 cm, more preferably at least 0.6 cm, still more preferably at least 0.9 cm, and most preferably at least 1.2 cm, and / or, The depth of the valleys of the corrugated structure is at most 4 cm, preferably at most 3.5 cm, more preferably at most 3 cm, still more preferably at most 2.5 cm, and most preferably at most 2 cm, the support element according to [2] or [3].

[0135] [5] The height of the peaks decreases along the corrugated structure of the first segment (110a) from the central part (102b) of the sole structure (410) towards the front part (102a) of the sole structure (410), and / or, The depth of the valleys decreases along the corrugated structure of the first segment (110a) from the central part (102b) of the sole structure (410) towards the front part (102a) of the sole structure (410), and / or, The distance between two consecutive peaks decreases along the corrugated structure of the first segment (110a) from the central part (102b) of the sole structure (410) towards the front part (102a) of the sole structure (410), and / or, The distance between two consecutive valleys decreases along the corrugated structure of the first segment (110a) from the central part (102b) of the sole structure (410) towards the front part (102a) of the sole structure (410), the support element (100, 600) according to one of [1] to [4].

[0136] [6] The support element (100, 600) according to one of [1] to [5], wherein the waveform structure of the first segment (110a) extends in the longitudinal axis direction of the sole structure (410), and / or the uniform structure of the second segment (110b) extends in the longitudinal axis direction of the sole structure (410), and / or the first segment (110a) and / or the second segment (110b) is configured to be located at the front portion (102a) of the sole structure (410), preferably the first half of the sole structure, most preferably the first third of the sole structure.

[0137] [7] The first portion (101a) comprises at least one component (110a, 610a - 610c) constituting the first segment, the component (110a, 610a - 610c) is preferably elongated, most preferably the component forms a finger and / or a rod, and / or The second portion (101b) comprises at least one component (110b, 610d, 610e) constituting the second segment, the component (110b, 610d, 610e) is preferably elongated, most preferably the component forms a finger and / or a rod, the support element (100, 600) according to one of [1] to [6].

[0138] [8] Comprising a first component (110a) and a second component (110b) connected to each other, The first component (110a) is part of the first portion (101a), the second component (110b) is part of the second portion (101b), or, The first component (110a) and the second component (110b) are part of the first portion (101a), or, The first component (110a) and the second component (110b) are part of the second portion (101b), the support element (100, 600) according to [7].

[0139] [9] The first component (110a) and / or the second component (110b) is configured to be arranged at the edge portion of the sole structure (410), preferably, A first component (110a) that is part of the first portion (101a) is configured to be disposed at a lateral edge of the sole structure (410), and / or A support element (100, 600) according to [8], wherein a second component (110b) belonging to the second portion (101b) is configured to be disposed at an inner edge of the sole structure (410).

[0140]

[10] The components (110a, 610a - 610c) of the first portion (101a, 601a) are connected to each other, and / or The components (110b, 610d, 610e) of the second portion (101b, 601b) are connected to each other, and / or The components (110a, 110b, 610a - 610e) of the first portion (101a, 601a) and the second portion (101b, 601b) are connected to each other, preferably The components (110a, 110b, 610a - 610e) are connected in a region related to the central portion (102b) of the sole structure (410), and / or The components (110a, 110b, 610a - 610e) are connected in a region related to the rear portion (102c) of the sole structure (410), and most preferably, the components (110a, 110b, 610a - 610e) are connected in a region related to the heel of the foot. A support element (100, 600) according to one of [1] to [9].

[0141]

[11] Further comprising a portion related to the central portion (102b) of the sole structure (410), wherein the portion related to the central portion (102b) A first opening (130a) located within the first portion (101a), and A second opening (130b) located within the second portion (101b) And comprising Preferably, the first opening (130a) and the second opening (130b) are symmetrically disposed within the support element (100, 600). A support element (100, 600) according to one of [1] to

[10] .

[0142]

[12] The above-mentioned part related to the central part is further provided with an intermediate section (140) separating the first opening (130a) from the second opening (130b), preferably, the intermediate section (140) is provided with a portion (145) divided into at least two parts (146a, 146b), and most preferably, the intermediate section is in a Y shape (145, 146a, 146b), the support element (100, 600) according to

[11] .

[0143]

[13] A support element (100, 600) according to one of [1] to

[12] , including a portion related to the rear part (102c) of the sole structure (410), preferably related to the heel part of the foot, and this portion is provided with at least one opening (150).

[0144]

[14] The intermediate section (140) is connected to the bottom part (410a) of the sole structure, The central part (102b) of the support element has a gap (230) from the top part (410b) of the midsole (410), but is connected to the bottom part (410a) of the midsole (410), the support element according to

[12] .

[0145]

[15] A shoe (400), preferably a sports shoe, provided with a support element (100, 600) according to one of [1] to

[14] .

Description of Signs

[0146] 100, 600, 800 Support element 101a Lateral side, the first part 101b Inner side, the second part 110a, 110b, 610a~610e Finger, segment, component 102a Front part 102b Central part 102c Rear part 120, 130a, 130b, 150, 820, 830a, 830b, 850 Opening 140 Intermediate section Parts 145, 220a, 220b, 810a, 810b, 845 Components 146a, 146b, 846a, 846b, 847a, 847b, 848a, 848b Depressions 210, valleys Intervals 230, 930 Valleys 310a, 310b, 720a, 740a, 760a, 720b, 740b, 760b, 720c, 740c, 760c, 860a, 860c, 860e Mountains 310, 320, 510, 710a, 730a, 750a, 710b, 730b, 750b, 710c, 730c, 750c, 860b, 860d, 860f Boots 400, 900 Midsoles 410, sole structures Lower parts 410a, bottom components Upper parts 410b, top components Outer soles 420 Uppers 430 Front parts 602a Central parts 602b Rear parts 602c Lateral sides 801a, lateral parts Inner sides 801b, inner parts Front parts 802a, front foot areas Central parts 802b, mid foot areas Rear parts 802c, heel areas Heel parts 850 Midsoles 910 Lower parts 910a Upper parts 910b Uppers 920

Claims

**Claim 1** A support element configured to be disposed within a sole structure of a shoe, a first portion associated with a lateral side of the sole structure, the first portion comprising a first segment exhibiting a corrugated structure, a second portion associated with an inner side of the sole structure, the second portion comprising a second segment exhibiting a uniform structure, and the support element comprising the above. **Claim 2** The corrugated structure comprises at least one peak and at least one valley, preferably, at least one peak and at least one valley are smoothly connected to each other, and / or, The uniform structure comprises fewer peaks and / or valleys than the corrugated structure, preferably, the uniform structure comprises at most one peak or one valley. The support element according to claim 1. **Claim 3** The corrugated structure comprises discontinuously connected peaks and / or valleys, preferably, the discontinuous connection is a zigzag connection. The support element according to claim 1 or 2. **Claim 4** The distance between two consecutive peaks of the corrugated structure is at least 0.5 cm, preferably at least 0.8 cm, more preferably at least 1.1 cm, still more preferably at least 1.4 cm, and most preferably at least 1.7 cm, and / or, The distance between two consecutive peaks of the corrugated structure is at most 8 cm, preferably at most 7 cm, more preferably at most 6 cm, still more preferably at most 5 cm, and most preferably at most 4 cm, and / or, The height of the peak of the corrugated structure is at least 0.1 cm, preferably at least 0.3 cm, more preferably at least 0.6 cm, still more preferably at least 0.9 cm, and most preferably at least 1.2 cm, and / or, The height of the peak of the corrugated structure is at most 4 cm, preferably at most 3.5 cm, more preferably at most 3 cm, still more preferably at most 2.5 cm, and most preferably at most 2 cm, and / or, The depth of the valley of the corrugated structure is at least 0.1 cm, preferably at least 0.3 cm, more preferably at least 0.6 cm, still more preferably at least 0.9 cm, and most preferably at least 1.2 cm, and / or, The depth of the trough of the corrugated structure is at most 4 cm, preferably at most 3.5 cm, more preferably at most 3 cm, still more preferably at most 2.5 cm, and most preferably at most 2 cm, for the support element according to claim 2 or claim 3.

5. The height of the peak decreases along the corrugated structure of the first segment from the central part of the sole structure towards the front part of the sole structure, and / or, The depth of the trough decreases along the corrugated structure of the first segment from the central part of the sole structure towards the front part of the sole structure, and / or, The distance between two consecutive peaks decreases along the corrugated structure of the first segment from the central part of the sole structure towards the front part of the sole structure, and / or, The distance between two consecutive troughs decreases along the corrugated structure of the first segment from the central part of the sole structure towards the front part of the sole structure, for the support element according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The corrugated structure of the first segment extends in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the sole structure, and / or, the uniform structure of the second segment extends in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the sole structure, and / or, the first segment and / or the second segment are configured to be located at the front part of the sole structure, preferably the first half of the sole structure, and most preferably the first third of the sole structure, for the support element according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The first part comprises at least one component forming the first segment, the component is preferably elongated, and most preferably the component forms a finger and / or a rod, and / or, The second part comprises at least one component forming the second segment, the component is preferably elongated, and most preferably the component forms a finger and / or a rod, for the support element according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. Comprising a first component and a second component connected to each other, The first component is part of the first part, the second component is part of the second part, or, The first component and the second component are part of the first part, or, The first component and the second component are part of the second part, for the support element according to claim 7.

9. The first component and / or the second component are configured to be arranged at the edge part of the sole structure, preferably, A first component, which is part of the first portion, is configured to be disposed at a lateral edge of the sole structure and / or A second component belonging to the second portion is configured to be disposed at an inner edge of the sole structure, the support element according to claim 8. **Claim 10** The components of the first portion are connected to each other and / or The components of the second portion are connected to each other and / or The components of the first portion and the second portion are connected to each other, preferably The components are connected in a region related to the central portion of the sole structure and / or The components are connected in a region related to the rear portion of the sole structure, and most preferably, the components are connected in a region related to the heel of the foot, the support element according to any one of claims 1 to 9. **Claim 11** Further comprising a portion related to the central portion of the sole structure, the portion related to the central portion being A first opening located within the first portion and A second opening located within the second portion and comprising Preferably, the first opening and the second opening are symmetrically arranged within the support element, the support element according to any one of claims 1 to 10. **Claim 12** The portion related to the central portion is Further comprising an intermediate section separating the first opening from the second opening, Preferably, the intermediate section comprises a portion divided into at least two parts, and most preferably, the intermediate section is Y-shaped, the support element according to claim 11. **Claim 13** Comprising a portion related to the rear portion of the sole structure, preferably related to the heel of the foot, this portion comprising at least one opening, the support element according to any one of claims 1 to 12. **Claim 14** The intermediate section is connected to the bottom component of the sole structure, The central part of the support element has a gap from the top component of the midsole but is connected to the bottom component of the midsole, the support element according to claim 12. **Claim 15** A shoe, preferably a sports shoe, comprising the support element according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

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