Shoe

Abstract

To provide a technique to improve shock-absorbing properties while stability maintenance in a midsole is contrived.SOLUTION: In a midsole 22, there is provided at least one linear notch having a depth from a first height position to a second height position in the thickness direction. The notch is constituted so that the one notch part has no contact point with other notch parts. The notch is provided with a V shape in the deepest part in a cross section in a state where oppositely facing inner walls are apart from each other.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to shoes, and more particularly to a sole structure. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, the running shoe market has seen increased development of midsole and outsole materials, and there is a demand for shoes with better shock absorption and a more comfortable running experience.

[0003] Here, in order to increase the flexibility of the sole, a technique is known in which grooves are provided in the midsole to form voids (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 to 4). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] US Patent Publication 2020 / 0237049A1 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2-271804 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-63491 [Patent Document 4] US Patent Publication 2015 / 0223560A1 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, as technological innovations in recent years have made midsole materials lighter, an increasing number of shoes are being made with thicker soles to improve shock absorption. However, the thicker the sole, the greater the distance from the ground to the body's center of gravity, so carelessly increasing the thickness of the sole can lead to a decrease in stability. Therefore, from the perspective of preventing injuries and maintaining performance, even greater stability is required of shoes.

[0006] However, the technologies of Patent Documents 1 to 4 are not desirable from the perspective of improving stability because the volume of the foam material, which is supposed to contribute to resilience and stability, is reduced by the amount of voids provided.

[0007] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and its object is to provide a technique for improving shock absorption while maintaining stability in the midsole. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] To solve the above problems, one embodiment of the present invention provides a shoe comprising a sole including a midsole and an upper joined to the sole. The midsole is provided with at least one linear cut having a depth extending from a first height position to a second height position in the thickness direction, the cut being configured so that some cut portions do not contact other cut portions, and the cut has a V-shaped deepest portion in a cross section when the opposing inner walls are spaced apart.

[0009] Here, the "sole" may include components such as an outsole in addition to the midsole. The "midsole" may be a midsole composed of a single, integrally molded component, or may be a midsole composed of multiple laminated layers of components. The "midsole" may be formed from a resin foam such as polyolefin resin, polyurethane resin, nylon resin, or ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer. The "notch" may be cut perpendicular to the ground from the first height position to the second height position, or may be cut diagonally at a predetermined angle to the ground.

[0010] According to this embodiment, when a load is applied to the midsole, shear deformation of the midsole can be promoted at the boundary of the cut, and shock absorption can be further improved compared to a midsole without a cut. Also, by forming the cut so that its deepest part is V-shaped, gaps are minimized, and volume loss of the foam material is minimized compared to a midsole without a cut, improving resilience and stability.

[0011] The cuts may be provided in at least one of the forefoot region, midfoot region, and heel region of the midsole, depending on which region the cuts are provided in. In this way, shock absorption can be promoted or specific movements can be suppressed according to the direction of impact when landing and the characteristics of foot movement.

[0012] The cuts may be provided in a region that is biased toward either the lateral foot region or the medial foot region of the midsole. In this way, by biasing the cuts toward either the lateral foot region or the medial foot region, it is possible to promote shock absorption or suppress specific movements in accordance with the direction of impact applied upon landing and characteristics of foot movement.

[0013] The cuts may be provided in areas where the load applied when worn is relatively small compared to other areas, or in areas excluding areas where the load is relatively large. By excluding areas where the load is small, the processing range for the cuts can be reduced, simplifying the manufacturing process. Furthermore, by excluding areas where the load is large, stability can be improved.

[0014] The cuts may be provided in a plurality of discrete linear positions of a predetermined shape. By forming the cuts in a predetermined pattern, shock absorption can be improved, and by spacing the pattern apart at predetermined intervals, stability can be improved.

[0015] The notches may be provided at multiple locations spaced apart from one another so that the density differs between the concentrated area and the other areas. By providing the notches at different densities in different areas, it is possible to improve the shock absorption of specific areas while also improving the stability of specific areas.

[0016] The cuts may be formed to have different depths depending on the distance to the end of the midsole. By varying the depth of the cuts depending on the position, for example, by gradually changing from shallow cuts to deeper cuts, it is possible to promote smooth weight transfer.

[0017] The cuts may be formed diagonally from the front of the medial foot to the rear of the lateral foot, or from the front of the lateral foot to the rear of the medial foot, thereby suppressing or promoting movement in a specific direction and suppressing inward or outward twisting of the foot.

[0018] The cuts may be formed on at least one of the upper and lower surfaces of the midsole. Depending on whether the cuts are formed on the upper or lower surface of the midsole, it is possible to change the sensation of shear deformation of the midsole or improve shock absorption. [Effects of the Invention]

[0019] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a technique for improving shock absorption while maintaining stability in the midsole. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0020] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of a shoe according to a first embodiment, seen from diagonally front left. [Figure 2] 1A and 1B are schematic top and cutaway end views of a midsole; [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is an enlarged end view showing the shape of the cuts in the midsole. [Figure 4]10A and 10B are top views schematically showing positions of cuts in first and second modified examples of the first embodiment. [Figure 5] 10A and 10B are a top view and a cross-sectional end view schematically showing a midsole according to a second embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a top view schematically showing the positions of the cuts in the first and second modified examples of the second embodiment. [Figure 7] 10A and 10B are a top view and a cross-sectional end view schematically showing a midsole according to a third embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a top view schematically showing the positions of the cuts in the first to fourth modified examples of the third embodiment. [Figure 9] 10A and 10B are a top view and a cross-sectional end view schematically showing a midsole according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a top view schematically showing the positions of the notches in the first to fourth modified examples of the fourth embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 13 is an end view schematically showing a cut region in the fifth embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a shoe according to a sixth embodiment, seen from diagonally front left. [Figure 13] FIG. 20 is an end view schematically showing a cut region in a first example of the sixth embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 20 is an end view schematically showing a cut region in a second example of the sixth embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 23 is an end view schematically showing a cut region in a third example of the sixth embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 20 is an end view schematically showing a cut region in a fourth example of the sixth embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 20 is a top view schematically showing the positions of the notches in the first and second examples of the seventh embodiment. [Figure 18] 13A and 13B are top views schematically showing positions of cuts in third and fourth examples of the seventh embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 13 is a top view schematically showing the positions of the incisions in fifth to eighth examples of the seventh embodiment. [Figure 20]13A and 13B are a top view and a cross-sectional end view schematically showing a midsole in a first example of the eighth embodiment. [Figure 21] 13A and 13B are a top view and a cross-sectional end view schematically showing a midsole in a second example of the eighth embodiment. [Figure 22] FIG. 13 is a top view schematically showing the positions of the notches in the ninth embodiment. [Figure 23] 13A to 13C are top views schematically showing the shapes and arrangements of the notches in first and second examples of the tenth embodiment. [Figure 24] 13A to 13C are top views schematically showing the shapes and arrangements of the notches in third and fourth examples of the tenth embodiment. [Figure 25] 13A to 13C are top views schematically showing the shapes and arrangements of the notches in fifth to eighth examples of the tenth embodiment. [Figure 26] 13A to 13C are top views schematically showing the shapes and arrangements of the notches in 9th to 12th examples of the tenth embodiment. [Figure 27] 23A to 23C are top views schematically showing first to fourth examples of cut patterns in the eleventh embodiment. [Figure 28] 16A to 16C are top views schematically showing fifth to tenth examples of cut patterns in the eleventh embodiment. [Figure 29] FIG. 23 is an end view schematically showing the incident angles of the notches in first and second examples of the twelfth embodiment. [Figure 30] FIG. 23 is an end view schematically showing the incident angles of the notches in third and fourth examples of the twelfth embodiment. [Figure 31] FIG. 23 is a top view schematically showing the incident angle of the notch in a fifth example of the twelfth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] The present invention will be described below based on preferred embodiments with reference to the drawings. In the embodiments and modifications, identical or equivalent components and members are designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations will be omitted where appropriate. The dimensions of the members in each drawing are enlarged or reduced as appropriate to facilitate understanding. Some members that are not important for explaining the embodiments in each drawing are omitted.

[0022] In each embodiment and each modification, various types of "incisions" and their respective functions are described. However, the incision type of a certain embodiment may be compatible with the incision type of other embodiments or modifications within a single shoe, but may not necessarily be compatible. The incision type of a certain embodiment may have the opposite effect or benefit to the incision type of other embodiments or modifications. The reason that the multiple embodiments and modifications cover all types of "incisions" in all directions is due to the variety of human foot anatomy, characteristics, running style, landing style, running ability, shoe uses, etc. Therefore, one or more "incision" types can be selected from the multiple embodiments and modifications depending on the shoe specifications to be realized as a product, and one or more "incision" types from the multiple embodiments and modifications can be adopted as shoe specifications so that the wearer can choose from multiple shoe specifications based on their own characteristics and needs.

[0023] In the following, the first and second embodiments exemplify a mode in which one incision does not intersect with other parts of the same incision or other incisions, and the third and subsequent embodiments exemplify a mode in which one incision may intersect with other parts of the same incision or other incisions. Also, the first to fifth embodiments exemplify a midsole formed of a single-layer member, and the sixth embodiment exemplifies a midsole formed of multiple-layer members.

[0024] (First embodiment) Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a shoe according to a first embodiment, seen diagonally from the front left. The configuration of a shoe 10 according to this embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. Unless otherwise specified, the following figures, including Fig. 1, show shoes or parts thereof for the left foot, but the description in this specification applies equally to shoes or parts thereof for the right foot.

[0025] The shoe 10 of this embodiment is a lace-up shoe for use in sports such as running and walking. The shoe 10 includes an upper 12, shoelaces 14, a tongue 16, and a sole 20.

[0026] The upper 12 has its bottom joined to the sole 20 to form an internal space for accommodating the wearer's foot. The upper 12 encases the entire upper part of the foot when the wearer wears the shoe 10. The upper 12 and the sole 20 are joined by a method such as adhesion.

[0027] The shoe tongue 16 is provided on the back side of the upper 12, i.e., from the side of the internal space, so as to close the instep opening, and covers the area from the front of the wearer's ankle to the instep. The shoelaces 14 are passed through multiple eyelets and crossed over the shoe tongue 16, and when tightened, the tightening force generates a downward pressing force that is applied to the wearer's instep via the shoe tongue 16, causing the shoe tongue 16 to fit snugly around the wearer's instep.

[0028] The sole 20 is mainly composed of a midsole 22 and an outsole 28. More specifically, the midsole 22 is placed on top of and glued to the outsole 28, which is the part that comes into contact with the ground. Furthermore, the midsole 21 is placed on top of and glued to the midsole 22. Furthermore, a heel counter 29 is glued to the heel position. The midsole 21 and heel counter 29 are shown by dashed lines in the figure because they are located inside the upper 12 and cannot be seen from the outside. In an actual product, an insole (not shown) is inserted into the internal space and placed on the bottom, i.e., on top of the midsole 21. Note that the midsole 21 and heel counter 29 are not essential components and may be omitted from the sole 20 as appropriate.

[0029] The midsole 22 is formed of a sponge material for cushioning impact upon landing, such as a resin foam made of polyolefin resin, polyurethane resin, nylon resin, ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer, etc. The midsole 22 of this embodiment is composed of an integrally molded single-layer member.

[0030] FIG. 2 is a top view and a cross-sectional end view of the midsole 22. In the top view shown in the center of the figure, the foot region 30, where the wearer's foot rests, is indicated by a dashed line, and the heel region 32, where the wearer's heel rests, is also indicated by a dashed line. A first cross-section line 50 connecting the center of the toe and the center of the heel is indicated by a dashed line, and a heel axis 54 connecting the center of the heel and the center of the midfoot is indicated by a dashed line. The right side of the first cross-section line 50 in the figure is referred to as the "medial side of the foot," and the left side of the first cross-section line 50 in the figure is referred to as the "lateral side of the foot." In a shoe for a right foot, the medial side and lateral side of the foot are reversed. An arrow W pointing left to right in the figure indicates the foot width direction of the shoe 10 or the midsole 22, and an arrow L pointing up and down in the figure indicates the front-to-rear direction of the shoe 10 or the midsole 22.

[0031] The heel axis 54 is not parallel to the first cutting line 50 but is angled outward from the first cutting line 50, i.e., tilted from the heel toward the lateral side of the foot. The heel region 32 is elliptical, with its major axis aligned with the heel axis 54, and at least one linear incision 40 is provided along the major axis. In the example shown in the figure, the heel region 32, where the incision 40 is provided, is shown as an ellipse. However, this is merely a convenient shape that generally covers the heel, and the shape of the region where the incision 40 is actually provided is not limited to an ellipse. In the following figures, the shapes indicated by dashed lines as the region where the incision 40 is provided are merely convenient shapes for illustration and do not limit the shape of the region where the incision 40 is actually provided.

[0032] In this embodiment, the number of incisions 40 is one. Furthermore, the incision 40 in this embodiment is formed linearly in a top view, with some of the incisions not forming contact points with other incisions. In other words, some of the incisions do not form loops due to intersections or contact with other incisions. Note that a single linear incision 40 may be formed not only by a solid line but also by a dashed or chained line, in which short linear incisions are connected at regular intervals, and this may be included as essentially a single linear incision 40. Furthermore, the linear incision 40 is not limited to a straight line, and may also be curved. In the following figures, the linear incisions may be solid, dashed, chained, straight, or curved.

[0033] An end view of the A-A' section taken along the first cutting line 50 is shown on the left. An end view of the B-B' section taken along the short axis of the heel region 32 is shown on the right. In the end view of the A-A' section, the notch 40 itself does not appear on the end surface, but the position where the notch 40 would be projected is indicated by a dashed diagonal line. The depth of the notch 40 is less than half the thickness of the midsole 22, for example, approximately one-third the thickness of the midsole 22. In the end view of the B-B' section, the notch 40 is shown slightly shifted from the first cutting line 50 toward the lateral side of the foot.

[0034] Figure 3 is an enlarged end view showing the shape of the notch 40 in the midsole 22. Figure 3(a) shows a state in which the midsole 22 is not deformed, such as when the shoe 10 is not being worn. Arrow D indicates the thickness direction of the midsole 22. An inner sole 21 is bonded onto the midsole 22.

[0035] The midsole 22 is provided with a cut 40 having a depth extending from a first height position (start position 42) to a second height position (deepest position 44) in the thickness direction. In a modified example, the start position 42 does not have to be on the upper surface of the midsole 22; for example, the start position 42 and the deepest position 44 may both be located below the upper surface and above the lower surface in the thickness direction D. In other words, the cut 40 may be provided deep enough not to be visible on the upper or lower surfaces of the midsole 22. Alternatively, the cut 40 may be provided so as to penetrate from the upper surface to the lower surface of the midsole 22.

[0036] The notch 40 has a V-shaped deepest part in a cross section when the opposing inner walls are spaced apart. However, in a normal state, the gap between the inner walls is very small, or less than 1 millimeter (for example, about 0.5 millimeters), and they may even come into contact with each other, so the shape of the deepest part is barely visible in the cross section in a normal state. In this respect, it differs from a groove, slit, or sipe, which are based on the premise that the inner walls are separated at a predetermined gap, and which have a gap all the way to the bottom and form a narrow inner bottom surface.

[0037] When the incision 40 is formed by cutting a portion of the midsole 22 with a tool such as a cutting blade, the volume of the midsole 22 is not reduced because the incision is simply a cut of material. On the other hand, when the incision 40 is formed in a portion of the midsole 22 by short-pulse laser processing such as a nanosecond laser, the material may melt slightly, resulting in a reduction in the volume of the midsole 22 equivalent to a gap less than 1 millimeter wide. Note that when the incision 40 is formed by ultrashort-pulse laser processing such as a femtosecond laser, the material melts less than when processed by a short-pulse laser. Alternatively, the incision 40 may be formed in an internal position away from the outer surface of the midsole 22 and not exposed by focusing an ultrashort-pulse laser on the interior of the midsole 22 to perform localized three-dimensional processing. With such internal processing technology, it is possible to form the incision 40 after the shoe 10, to which the outsole 28, insole 21, upper 12, etc. have been bonded, by irradiating a specific position of the midsole 22 with an ultrashort-pulse laser. In this case, the cuts 40 may be made in the midsole 22 in a manner optimized for the wearer based on data relating to the wearer's feet and running style at a store or the like, thereby realizing personalized cut processing.

[0038] 3(b) shows the state in which a foot is put into shoe 10 and a load is applied. Here, when a load of foot 60 is applied toward the lower right of the figure, as indicated by arrow 62 indicating the load direction, for example by landing, the inner walls of slit 40 move slightly apart, opening up slit 40 and creating a gap, which can result in a V-shaped cross section appearing at the bottom of slit 40 as shown in the figure.

[0039] In this embodiment, by providing one notch 40 in the foot length direction in the heel region 32, shear deformation of the midsole 22 can be promoted across the notch 40 when a load is applied in the medial or lateral direction of the foot, such as when landing. This further improves shock absorption compared to a midsole 22 without the notch 40. Furthermore, by forming the deepest part of the notch in a V-shape, the gap is minimized, minimizing volumetric loss of the foam material compared to a midsole without a notch, improving resilience and stability.

[0040] In a modified example, one linear cut 40 may be provided in the heel region 32 in a direction other than the foot length direction. For example, if the cut 40 is provided in the foot width direction along the second cutting line 52 in FIG. 2, shear deformation of the midsole 22 can be promoted across the cut 40 when a load is applied from the rear side to the front side during heel strike. This further improves shock absorption compared to a midsole 22 without a cut 40. Furthermore, two or more non-intersecting linear cuts 40 may be provided in the heel region 32. Below, a modified example in which two non-intersecting cuts are provided will be described, but in another modified example, three or more non-intersecting cuts may be provided.

[0041] 4 is a top view schematically showing the positions of the incisions in first and second modified examples of the first embodiment. In the modified examples shown in this figure, two incisions are provided in the heel region 32 of the midsole 22 in various ways.

[0042] 4(a), two incisions (first incision 40a and second incision 40b) are provided parallel to the longitudinal axis of the heel region 32. The first incision 40a and second incision 40b do not have to be parallel as long as they do not intersect with each other.

[0043] The first cuts 40a are formed linearly in top view, with some cuts not making contact with other cuts, i.e., some cuts do not intersect or contact with other cuts to form loops.

[0044] The second cuts 40b are also formed linearly in top view, with some cuts not making contact with other cuts, i.e., they do not form loops by intersecting or contacting with other cuts.

[0045] In the first variant of the first embodiment, by providing two notches 40 in the foot length direction in the heel region 32, the shear deformation of the midsole 22 when a load is applied in the medial or lateral direction of the foot, such as when landing, can be further promoted than when a single notch is provided, thereby further improving impact absorption.

[0046] In a second modified example shown in Figure 4(b), two incisions (first incision 40a and second incision 40b) are provided parallel to the minor axis of the heel region 32. The first incision 40a and the second incision 40b do not have to be parallel as long as they do not intersect with each other.

[0047] The first cuts 40a are formed linearly in top view, with some cuts not making contact with other cuts, i.e., some cuts do not intersect or contact with other cuts to form loops.

[0048] The second cuts 40b are also formed linearly in top view, with some cuts not making contact with other cuts, i.e., they do not form loops by intersecting or contacting with other cuts.

[0049] In the second variant of the first embodiment, by providing two notches 40 in the foot width direction in the heel region 32, the shear deformation of the midsole 22 when a load is applied from the rear to the front, such as when landing, can be further promoted than when a single notch is provided, thereby further improving impact absorption.

[0050] (Second embodiment) This embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that a single linear incision 40 is provided in the forefoot region. The following description will focus on the differences from the first embodiment, and will omit a description of the commonalities.

[0051] 5 is a top view and a cross-sectional end view of a midsole 22 according to a second embodiment. In the top view shown in the center of the figure, a forefoot region 34, which corresponds to the wearer's forefoot, is indicated by a dashed line. A forefoot axis 56, which connects the center of the toe to the center of the midfoot, is indicated by a dashed line.

[0052] Forefoot axis 56 is not parallel to first cutting line 50, but is angled outward from first cutting line 50, i.e., tilted from the toes toward the lateral side of the foot. Forefoot region 34 is elliptical in shape with its major axis aligned with forefoot axis 56, and at least one linear incision 40 is provided along the major axis. As described above, the shape of forefoot region 34 in which incision 40 is provided is not limited to an elliptical shape.

[0053] The number of notches 40 in this embodiment is also one. Furthermore, the notches 40 in this embodiment are formed linearly when viewed from above, and some of the notches are configured in a way that they do not have contact with other notches. In other words, some of the notches do not form loops due to intersections or contact with other notches.

[0054] The left side shows an end view of the A-A' section taken along the first cutting line 50. The right side shows an end view of the C-C' section taken along the C-C' line connecting the forefoot region 34 from slightly rearward on the lateral side to slightly forward on the medial side. In the A-A' end view, the incision 40 itself does not appear on the end surface, but the position where the incision 40 would be projected is indicated by a dashed diagonal line. The depth of the incision 40 is less than half the thickness of the midsole 22, for example, approximately one-third the thickness of the midsole 22. In the C-C' end view, the incision 40 is shown slightly offset toward the lateral side of the foot from the first cutting line 50.

[0055] In this embodiment, by providing one cut 40 in the foot length direction in the forefoot region 34, shear deformation of the midsole 22 can be promoted across the cut 40 when a load is applied in the medial or lateral direction of the foot, such as when landing. This further improves shock absorption compared to a midsole 22 without the cut 40.

[0056] In a modified example, a single linear incision 40 may be provided in the forefoot region 34 along a direction other than the foot length direction. For example, if the incision 40 is provided in the foot width direction along the third cutting line 53 in FIG. 5 , shear deformation of the midsole 22 can be promoted across the incision 40 when a load is applied from the rear side to the front side during forefoot strike or when a load is applied from the front side to the rear side during push-off. This further improves shock absorption compared to a midsole 22 without the incision 40. Furthermore, two or more non-intersecting linear incisions 40 may be provided in the forefoot region 34. Below, a modified example in which two non-intersecting incisions are provided will be described, but in another modified example, three or more non-intersecting incisions may be provided.

[0057] 6 is a top view schematically showing the positions of the incisions in first and second modified examples of the second embodiment. In the modified examples shown in this figure, two incisions are provided in the forefoot region 34 of the midsole 22 in various ways.

[0058] In a first modified example shown in Figure 6(a), two incisions (first incision 40a and second incision 40b) are provided parallel to the long axis of forefoot region 34. Note that first incision 40a and second incision 40b do not have to be parallel as long as they do not intersect with each other.

[0059] The first cuts 40a are formed linearly in top view, with some cuts not making contact with other cuts, i.e., some cuts do not intersect or contact with other cuts to form loops.

[0060] The second cuts 40b are also formed linearly in top view, with some cuts not making contact with other cuts, i.e., they do not form loops by intersecting or contacting with other cuts.

[0061] In the first variant of the second embodiment, by providing two notches 40 in the foot length direction in the forefoot region 34, the shear deformation of the midsole 22 when a load is applied in the medial or lateral direction of the foot, such as when landing, can be further promoted than when a single notch is provided, thereby further improving impact absorption.

[0062] In a second modified example shown in Figure 6(b), two parallel incisions (first incision 40a and second incision 40b) are provided along an axis connecting slightly rearward on the lateral side of the foot to slightly forward on the medial side of the foot in the forefoot region 34. The first incision 40a and the second incision 40b do not have to be parallel as long as they do not intersect with each other.

[0063] The first cuts 40a are formed linearly in top view, with some cuts not making contact with other cuts, i.e., some cuts do not intersect or contact with other cuts to form loops.

[0064] The second cuts 40b are also formed linearly in top view, with some cuts not making contact with other cuts, i.e., they do not form loops by intersecting or contacting with other cuts.

[0065] In the second variant of the second embodiment, by providing two notches 40 in the foot width direction in the forefoot region 34, the shear deformation of the midsole 22 when a load is applied from the rear side to the front side, such as when landing, can be further promoted than when a single notch is provided, thereby further improving impact absorption.

[0066] (Third embodiment) This embodiment differs from the first and second embodiments in that it has multiple intersecting linear incisions 40. The following description will focus on the differences from the first and second embodiments, and will omit a description of the commonalities.

[0067] 7 is a top view and a cross-sectional end view schematically illustrating a midsole 22 according to a third embodiment. The number of incisions 40 in this embodiment is two. One linear first incision 40a is provided along the major axis of the heel region 32, and another linear second incision 40b is provided along the minor axis of the heel region 32. The first incision 40a and the second incision 40b are each linearly formed in a top view and intersect at the center of the heel region 32.

[0068] The left side shows an end view of the A-A' section taken along the first cutting line 50. The right side shows an end view of the B-B' section taken along the minor axis of the heel region 32. In the A-A' end view, the second incision 40b is shown at the position of the second cutting line 52, and although the first incision 40a itself does not appear on the end view, the position where the first incision 40a would be projected is indicated by a dashed diagonal line. In the B-B' end view, the first incision 40a is shown slightly shifted toward the lateral side of the foot from the first cutting line 50, and although the second incision 40b itself does not appear on the end view, the position where the second incision 40b would be projected is indicated by a dashed diagonal line.

[0069] In this embodiment, by providing one first incision 40a in the foot length direction in the heel region 32, shear deformation of the midsole 22 can be promoted across the first incision 40a when a load is applied in the medial or lateral direction of the foot, such as when landing. Furthermore, by providing one second incision 40b in the heel region 32 in the foot width direction, shear deformation of the midsole 22 can be promoted across the second incision 40b when a load is applied from the rear to the front, such as when the heel strikes the ground. This further improves shock absorption compared to a midsole 22 without the incision 40.

[0070] 8 is a top view schematically showing the positions of the incisions in first to fourth modified examples of embodiment 3. In the modified examples shown in this figure, three to four incisions are provided in various patterns in the heel region 32 of the midsole 22.

[0071] 8(a), one incision (first incision 40a) is provided along the major axis of the heel region 32, and two incisions (second incision 40b, third incision 40c) are provided so as to intersect with each other and are parallel to the minor axis of the heel region 32. The second incision 40b and the third incision 40c do not have to be parallel as long as they do not intersect with each other.

[0072] In the first variant, by providing two notches 40 in the foot width direction in the heel region 32, the shear deformation of the midsole 22 when a load is applied from the rear side to the front side during heel strike can be further promoted than when a single notch is provided, thereby further improving impact absorption.

[0073] 8(b), one incision (first incision 40a) is provided along the major axis of the heel region 32, and three incisions (second incision 40b, third incision 40c, fourth incision 40d) are provided so as to intersect with each other and are parallel to the minor axis of the heel region 32. The second incision 40b, third incision 40c, and fourth incision 40d do not have to be parallel as long as they do not intersect with each other.

[0074] In the second variant, by providing three notches 40 in the foot width direction in the heel region 32, the shear deformation of the midsole 22 when a load is applied from the rear side to the front side during heel strike can be further promoted than when one or two notches are provided, thereby further improving impact absorption.

[0075] 8(c), two incisions (first incision 40a, second incision 40b) parallel to the major axis of the heel region 32 and one incision (third incision 40c) along the minor axis of the heel region 32 are provided so as to intersect with each other. The first incision 40a and the second incision 40b do not have to be parallel as long as they do not intersect with each other.

[0076] In the third variant, by providing two notches 40 in the foot length direction in the heel region 32, the shear deformation of the midsole 22 when a load is applied in the medial or lateral direction of the foot, such as when landing, can be further promoted than when a single notch is provided, thereby further improving impact absorption.

[0077] 8(d), three incisions (first incision 40a, second incision 40b, third incision 40c) parallel to the major axis of the heel region 32 are provided so as to intersect with one incision (fourth incision 40d) along the minor axis of the heel region 32. The first incision 40a, second incision 40b, and third incision 40c do not have to be parallel as long as they do not intersect with each other.

[0078] In the fourth variant, by providing three notches 40 in the foot length direction in the heel region 32, the shear deformation of the midsole 22 when a load is applied in the medial or lateral direction of the foot, such as when landing, can be further promoted than when one or two notches are provided, thereby further improving impact absorption.

[0079] (Fourth embodiment) This embodiment differs from the first and second embodiments in which non-intersecting incisions 40 are provided and the third embodiment in which intersecting incisions 40 are provided in the heel region in that multiple intersecting linear incisions 40 are provided in the forefoot region. The following description will focus on the differences from the first to third embodiments, and will omit a description of the commonalities.

[0080] FIG. 9 is a top view and a cross-sectional end view schematically illustrating a midsole 22 according to a fourth embodiment. The number of incisions 40 in this embodiment is two. One linear first incision 40a is provided along the longitudinal axis of the forefoot region 34, and one linear second incision 40b is provided along an axis connecting the forefoot region 34 from slightly rearward on the lateral side to slightly forward on the medial side. The incisions 40 in this embodiment are linear in top view, with some incisions not connecting with other incisions. In other words, some incisions do not form loops due to intersections or contact with other incisions.

[0081] The left side shows an end view of the A-A' section taken along the first cutting line 50. The right side shows an end view of the C-C' section taken along the C-C' line connecting the forefoot region 34 from slightly behind the lateral side to slightly forward on the medial side. In the A-A' end view, the second incision 40b is shown at the position of the third cutting line 53, and although the first incision 40a itself does not appear on the end view, the position where the first incision 40a would be projected is indicated by a dashed diagonal line. In the C-C' end view, the first incision 40a is shown slightly shifted toward the lateral side from the first cutting line 50, and although the second incision 40b itself does not appear on the end view, the position where the second incision 40b would be projected is indicated by a dashed diagonal line.

[0082] In this embodiment, by providing one first incision 40a in the foot length direction in the forefoot region 34, shear deformation of the midsole 22 can be promoted across the first incision 40a when a load is applied in the medial or lateral direction, such as when landing. Furthermore, by providing one second incision 40b in the forefoot region 34 in the foot width direction, shear deformation of the midsole 22 can be promoted across the second incision 40b when, for example, a load is applied from the rear to the front when the forefoot strikes or when a load is applied from the front to the rear when the foot is tossed off. This further improves shock absorption compared to a midsole 22 without the incision 40.

[0083] 10 is a top view schematically showing the positions of the incisions in first to fourth modified examples of the fourth embodiment. In the modified examples shown in this figure, three to four incisions are provided in various patterns in the forefoot region 34 of the midsole 22.

[0084] 10(a), one incision (first incision 40a) along the longitudinal axis of the forefoot region 34 is provided so as to intersect with two incisions (second incision 40b, third incision 40c) parallel to the foot width direction of the forefoot region 34. The second incision 40b and the third incision 40c do not have to be parallel as long as they do not intersect with each other.

[0085] In the first variant, by providing two notches 40 in the foot width direction in the forefoot region 34, the shear deformation of the midsole 22 when a load is applied from the rear side to the front side when landing can be further promoted than when a single notch is provided, thereby further improving impact absorption.

[0086] 10(b), one incision (first incision 40a) along the longitudinal axis of the forefoot region 34 is provided so as to intersect with three incisions (second incision 40b, third incision 40c, fourth incision 40d) parallel to the foot width direction in the forefoot region 34. The second incision 40b, third incision 40c, and fourth incision 40d do not have to be parallel as long as they do not intersect with each other.

[0087] In the second variant, by providing three notches 40 in the width direction of the foot in the forefoot region 34, the shear deformation of the midsole 22 when a load is applied from the rear side to the front side when landing can be further promoted than when one or two notches are provided, thereby further improving impact absorption.

[0088] In the third modified example shown in Figure 10(c), two cuts (first cut 40a, second cut 40b) parallel to the long axis of the forefoot region 34 and one cut (third cut 40c) in the foot width direction of the forefoot region 34 are arranged so as to intersect.

[0089] In the third variant, by providing two notches 40 in the foot length direction in the forefoot region 34, the shear deformation of the midsole 22 when a load is applied in the medial or lateral direction of the foot, such as when landing, can be further promoted than when a single notch is provided, thereby further improving impact absorption.

[0090] In the fourth modified example shown in Figure 10(d), three cuts (first cut 40a, second cut 40b, third cut 40c) parallel to the long axis of the forefoot region 34 and one cut (fourth cut 40d) in the foot width direction of the forefoot region 34 are arranged so as to intersect.

[0091] In the fourth variant, by providing three notches 40 in the foot length direction in the forefoot region 34, the shear deformation of the midsole 22 when a load is applied in the medial or lateral direction of the foot, such as when landing, can be further promoted than when providing one or two notches, thereby further improving impact absorption.

[0092] (Fifth embodiment) This embodiment differs from the first to fourth embodiments in that the notches 40 are provided on the bottom surface of the midsole 22. The following description will focus on the differences from the first to fourth embodiments, and will omit a description of the commonalities.

[0093] Fig. 11 is an end view schematically showing the cutout regions in the fifth embodiment. Fig. 11(a) is an end view of the midsole 22 in the foot length direction, and Fig. 11(b) is an end view of the midsole 22 in the foot width direction. The cutout regions 35 are provided on the underside of the midsole 22, i.e., on the adhesive side with the outsole 28. In this case, it is possible to improve shock absorption when running on uneven ground or a road surface with large irregularities. As with the first to fourth embodiments, there are multiple embodiments for the position, size, shape, angle of incidence, depth, number of cuts, etc. of the cutout regions 35 on the underside of the midsole 22.

[0094] In the first to fifth embodiments, an example has been described in which the notches are provided on either the upper surface or the lower surface of the midsole 22. In a modified example, notches may be provided on both the upper surface and the lower surface of the midsole 22. In this case, there are multiple aspects of the position, size, shape, angle of incidence, depth, number of notches, etc. of the notches on the upper surface and the lower surface of the midsole 22, and various combinations are possible on the upper surface and the lower surface.

[0095] (Sixth embodiment) In this embodiment, the midsole 22 is constructed of multiple layers, an upper layer and a lower layer, and the notch 40 is provided in at least one of the upper surface of the upper layer, the lower surface of the upper layer, the upper surface of the lower layer, and the lower surface of the lower layer, which is different from the first to fifth embodiments in which the notch 40 is provided in the upper or lower surface of the midsole 22 constructed of a single layer. The following description will focus on the differences from the first to fifth embodiments, and a description of the commonalities will be omitted.

[0096] 12 is a perspective view of a shoe according to a sixth embodiment, viewed from the left front. The midsole 22 of this embodiment is formed by stacking and bonding multiple layers, including a first layer 24, which is an upper sponge member, and a second layer 26, which is a lower sponge member. The midsole 22 may also be formed by sandwiching a plate member made of carbon fiber or the like (not shown) between the first layer 24 and the second layer 26 to enhance resilience.

[0097] Fig. 13 is an end view schematically showing the cut-out region in a first example of the sixth embodiment. Fig. 13(a) is an end view of the midsole 22 in the foot length direction, and Fig. 13(b) is an end view of the midsole 22 in the foot width direction. The cut-out region 35 is provided on the upper surface of the first layer 24, i.e., on the adhesive side with the midsole 21. In this case, shock absorption can be improved as in the first to fourth embodiments. As in the first to fifth embodiments, there are multiple variations in the position, size, shape, angle of incidence, depth, number of cuts, etc. of the cut-out region 35 on the upper surface of the first layer 24.

[0098] Fig. 14 is an end view schematically showing the cutout region in a second example of the sixth embodiment. Fig. 14(a) is an end view of the midsole 22 in the foot length direction, and Fig. 14(b) is an end view of the midsole 22 in the foot width direction. The cutout region 35 is provided on the underside of the first layer 24, i.e., on the adhesive side with the upper surface of the second layer 26. In this case, by providing the cutout at a position away from the sole of the wearer's foot, it is possible to improve shock absorption without impairing the stability of the sole. As with the first to fifth embodiments, there are multiple variations in the position, size, shape, angle of incidence, depth, number of cutouts, etc. of the cutout region 35 on the underside of the first layer 24.

[0099] FIG. 15 is an end view schematically illustrating a cutout region in a third example of the sixth embodiment. FIG. 15(a) is an end view of the midsole 22 in the foot length direction, and FIG. 15(b) is an end view of the midsole 22 in the foot width direction. The cutout region 35 is provided on the upper surface of the second layer 26, i.e., on the adhesive side with the lower surface of the first layer 24. In this case, by providing the cutout at a position away from the sole of the wearer's foot, shock absorption can be improved without impairing the stability of the sole of the foot. Furthermore, when a plate member is sandwiched between the first layer 24 and the second layer 26, the applied pressure is dispersed, facilitating deformation directly below the plate, which is difficult to compress and deform. As with the first to fifth embodiments, there are multiple variations in the position, size, shape, angle of incidence, depth, number of cutouts, and so on of the cutout region 35 on the upper surface of the second layer 26.

[0100] FIG. 16 is an end view schematically illustrating a cutout region in a fourth example of the sixth embodiment. FIG. 16(a) is an end view of the midsole 22 in the foot length direction, and FIG. 16(b) is an end view of the midsole 22 in the foot width direction. The cutout region 35 is provided on the underside of the second layer 26, i.e., on the adhesive side with the outsole 28. In this case, by providing the cutouts at a position away from the sole of the wearer's foot, shock absorption can be improved without impairing the stability of the sole of the foot, and shock absorption can be improved when running on uneven ground or a road with large irregularities, for example. As with the first to fifth embodiments, there are multiple variations in the position, size, shape, angle of incidence, depth, number of cutouts, etc. of the cutout region 35 on the underside of the second layer 26.

[0101] In the first to fourth examples, the notches are provided on one of the upper surface of the first layer 24, the lower surface of the first layer 24, the upper surface of the second layer 26, and the lower surface of the second layer 26. In another modified example, the notches may be provided on more than one of the upper surface of the first layer 24, the lower surface of the first layer 24, the upper surface of the second layer 26, and the lower surface of the second layer 26. In this case, there are multiple embodiments for the position, size, shape, angle of incidence, depth, number of notches, etc. of the notches on each surface, and various combinations are possible between the multiple surfaces. Furthermore, not only on the upper and lower surfaces, but also on at least one of the first layer 24 and the second layer 26, the notches may be provided deep in a position not visible on the surface, or may be provided so as to penetrate the layer vertically.

[0102] (Seventh embodiment) In this embodiment, the shape of the area where the incisions 40 are provided differs from the first to sixth embodiments. The following description will focus on the differences from the first to sixth embodiments, and will omit a description of the commonalities. Note that the seventh and subsequent embodiments will be described using an example in which the incisions 40 are provided mainly on the upper surface of the single-layer midsole 22, as in the first to fourth embodiments. However, incisions 40 as described below can also be provided on the lower surface of the single-layer midsole 22 as in the fifth embodiment, or on at least one of the upper surface, lower surface, upper surface, and lower surface of the upper layer of the multi-layer midsole 22 as in the sixth embodiment.

[0103] 17 is a top view schematically showing the positions of the incisions in the first and second examples of the seventh embodiment. In the example shown in this figure, incisions are provided in the region from the heel to the midfoot of the midsole 22 in various ways similar to the first to sixth embodiments.

[0104] 17(a), one or more notches 40 are provided in a tapered fan-shaped notched region 35a that extends from the region supporting the entire heel toward the lateral side of the midfoot. By providing notches 40 in such a region that is biased toward the heel and lateral side of the midfoot, in addition to the effect of providing notches 40 in the heel, it is expected that the effect of suppressing pronation while improving shock absorption when landing can be expected.

[0105] 17(b), one or more notches 40 are provided in a tapered fan-shaped notched region 35b that extends from the region supporting the entire heel toward the medial side of the midfoot. By providing notches 40 in such a region that is biased toward the heel and medial side of the midfoot, in addition to the effect of providing notches 40 in the heel, it is expected that the effect of suppressing supination while improving shock absorption when landing can be expected.

[0106] 18 is a top view schematically showing the positions of the incisions in the third and fourth examples of the seventh embodiment. In the examples shown in the figures, the incisions are provided in the midsole 22 in the region from the forefoot to the midfoot in various ways similar to the first to sixth embodiments.

[0107] 18(a), one or more notches 40 are provided in the notched region 35a that supports the region from the lateral side of the forefoot to the lateral side of the midfoot. By providing the notches 40 in such regions that are biased toward the lateral side of the forefoot and the lateral side of the midfoot, it is possible to further improve shock absorption, particularly when the forefoot or the midfoot strikes.

[0108] 18(b), one or more notches 40 are provided in the cut-out region 35b that supports the region from the medial forefoot side to the medial midfoot side. By providing the notches 40 in such regions that are biased toward the medial forefoot side and the medial midfoot side, shear deformation of the ball of the foot is further promoted, particularly during push-off, and a smoother shift in the center of gravity can be expected.

[0109] 19 is a top view schematically showing the positions of the incisions in fifth to eighth examples of the seventh embodiment. In the examples shown in the figure, incisions are provided in the midsole 22 in the region from the forefoot to the midfoot in various ways similar to those in the first to sixth embodiments.

[0110] 19(a), one or more notches 40 are provided in a notched region 35a extending from the region supporting the entire forefoot toward the lateral side of the midfoot. By providing notches 40 in such a region that is biased toward the lateral side of the midfoot and the entire forefoot, it is possible to further improve shock absorption, particularly when the forefoot or midfoot strikes.

[0111] 19(b), one or more notches 40 are provided in cut-out region 35b, which is the region obtained by cutting out the area on the little toe side from cut-out region 35a in the fifth example. By cutting out the area on the little toe side, where the load is lighter, in this way, the processing area of ​​the midsole 22 for the notches 40 can be reduced, simplifying the manufacturing process.

[0112] In the seventh example shown in Figure 19(c), one or more notches 40 are provided in the cutout region 35c, which is the region obtained by cutting out the area around the ball of the foot from the cutout region 35a of the fifth example. By cutting out the area around the ball of the foot, where the load during kicking is heavy, it is possible to further improve kicking stability or insert a separate cushioning member directly below the ball of the foot. Furthermore, the processing area of ​​the cutouts 40 in the midsole 22 can be reduced, simplifying the manufacturing process.

[0113] 19(d), one or more cuts 40 are provided in cut-out region 35d, which is a region obtained by cutting both the area on the little finger side and the area near the ball of the foot from cut-out region 35a of the fifth example. In this way, by cutting the area on the little finger side, which has a lighter load, and the area near the ball of the foot, which has a heavier load when pushing off, it is possible to obtain the effects of both the sixth and seventh examples.

[0114] (Eighth embodiment) This embodiment differs from the first to seventh embodiments in that the depth of the cuts 40 varies depending on the position. The following description will focus on the differences from the first to seventh embodiments, and a description of the commonalities will be omitted.

[0115] 20 is a top view and a cross-sectional end view schematically illustrating a midsole 22 in a first example of the eighth embodiment. In the modification shown in this figure, the depth of the incision 40 varies depending on the position, i.e., varies depending on the distance to the end of the midsole 22, and relatively deep and shallow portions are mixed.

[0116] The depth of the first cut 40a projected by the dashed diagonal lines in the A-A' cross-sectional end view is shallowest at the front and rear ends and is sloped at the bottom so that it is deepest where it intersects with the central second cut 40b. The depth of the second cut 40b projected by the dashed diagonal lines in the B-B' cross-sectional end view is also sloped at the bottom so that it is shallowest at the front and rear ends and is deepest where it intersects with the central first cut 40a.

[0117] The deeper the cuts 40, the greater the shock absorption effect, while the shallower the cuts 40, the greater the contribution to stability. By varying the depth of the cuts 40 in the foot lengthwise and widthwise directions from shallow to deep, and then from deep to shallow, it is possible to promote smooth weight transfer.

[0118] 21 is a top view and a cross-sectional end view schematically illustrating a midsole 22 in a second example of the eighth embodiment. In the modification shown in this figure, the depth of the incision 40 varies depending on the position, i.e., varies depending on the distance to the end of the midsole 22, and relatively deep and shallow portions are mixed.

[0119] The depth of the first cut 40a projected by the dashed diagonal lines in the A-A' cross-sectional end view is shallowest at the front and rear ends and deepest where it intersects with the central second cut 40b, with a slope formed at the bottom of the first cut 40a. The depth of the second cut 40b projected by the dashed diagonal lines in the C-C' cross-sectional end view is also shallowest at the front and rear ends and deepest where it intersects with the central first cut 40a, with a slope formed at the bottom of the second cut 40b.

[0120] The deeper the cuts 40, the greater the shock absorption effect, while the shallower the cuts 40, the greater the contribution to stability. By varying the depth of the cuts 40 in the foot lengthwise and widthwise directions from shallow to deep, and then from deep to shallow, it is possible to promote smooth weight transfer.

[0121] (Ninth embodiment) This embodiment differs from the first to eighth embodiments in that a large number of oblique notches 40 are provided in a striped pattern in the notch region 35. The following description will focus on the differences from the first to eighth embodiments, and will omit a description of the commonalities.

[0122] FIG. 22 is a top view schematically illustrating the position of the incisions in the ninth embodiment. In the example of FIG. 22(a), nine parallel incisions 40a-i are provided in a diagonal stripe pattern across the entire surface of an elliptical incision region 35 provided in the forefoot, diagonally from the upper right to the lower left, i.e., from the front medial side of the foot to the rear lateral side of the foot. In this case, stability in the diagonal direction of the incisions 40 is maintained while promoting shear deformation in the direction intersecting the diagonal line, thereby suppressing inward twisting of the foot. As mentioned above, the shape of the incision region 35 in which the incisions 40 are provided is not limited to an elliptical shape.

[0123] In the example of Figure 22(b), nine parallel cuts 40a-i are provided in a diagonal stripe pattern across the entire surface of an elliptical cut region 35 provided in the forefoot, diagonally from the upper left to the lower right, i.e., from the front outer foot side to the rear inner foot side. In this case, stability in the diagonal direction of the cuts 40 is maintained while promoting shear deformation in the direction intersecting the diagonal line, thereby suppressing outward twisting of the foot. As mentioned above, the shape of the cut region 35 in which the cuts 40 are provided is not limited to an elliptical shape.

[0124] In a modified example, the incisions 40 may be formed in a diagonal stripe pattern as shown in Figure 22 in an area other than the forefoot area. In another modified example, the incisions may be formed in a vertical or horizontal stripe pattern instead of the diagonal stripe pattern. Furthermore, the stripe lines do not have to be parallel as long as they do not intersect, and may be curved rather than straight.

[0125] (Tenth embodiment) This embodiment differs from the first to ninth embodiments in that one or more incisions 40 are provided to form a predetermined shape on the upper surface of the midsole 22. The following description will focus on the differences from the first to ninth embodiments, and will omit a description of the commonalities.

[0126] FIG. 23 is a top view schematically showing the shape and arrangement of cuts in first and second examples of the tenth embodiment. In the modification shown in this figure, a hexagonal cut pattern 41 is provided on the upper surface of the midsole 22. FIG. 23(a) shows a single cut pattern 41. The cut pattern 41 is formed by six cuts whose end points meet to form a hexagon. FIG. 23(b) shows a first example in which nine cut patterns 41a-i are arranged in close contact with each other to form a collective shape. FIG. 23(c) shows a second example in which nine cut patterns 41a-i are arranged at intervals from each other to form a discrete shape.

[0127] By forming the cuts in a hexagonal shape, it is possible to achieve shock absorption against loads from all directions. Furthermore, by forming multiple hexagonal shapes in a clustered shape, it is possible to further improve shock absorption. Furthermore, by forming multiple hexagonal shapes in a discrete shape, it is possible to achieve both shock absorption and stability.

[0128] FIG. 24 is a top view schematically showing the shape and arrangement of incisions in third and fourth examples of the tenth embodiment. In the modification shown in this figure, a circular incision pattern 41 is provided on the upper surface of the midsole 22. FIG. 24(a) shows a single incision pattern 41. The incision pattern 41 is formed by looping a single incision and connecting it to form a circle. FIG. 24(b) shows a third example in which nine incision patterns 41a-i are arranged in close contact with each other to form a collective shape. FIG. 24(c) shows a fourth example in which nine incision patterns 41a-i are arranged at intervals from each other to form a discrete shape.

[0129] By forming the notches in a circular shape, it is possible to exhibit shock absorption properties against loads from all directions. Furthermore, by forming multiple circular shapes in a collective shape, it is possible to further improve shock absorption properties. Furthermore, by forming multiple circular shapes in a discrete shape, it is possible to achieve both shock absorption and stability. Note that the circular shape does not have to be a perfect circle, but may also be an ellipse.

[0130] Fig. 25 is a top view schematically showing the shape and arrangement of the incisions in examples 5 to 8 of the tenth embodiment. In the modified example shown in this figure, an inverted Y-shaped incision pattern 41 is provided on the upper surface of the midsole 22. Fig. 25(a) shows a single incision pattern 41. The incision pattern 41 is formed by arranging three incisions such that one end of each incision meets at a single point and radiates outward to form an inverted Y shape.

[0131] Figure 25(b) shows a fifth example in which a group shape is formed by a total of 12 notch patterns 41a-l, each of which is made up of three rows of four notch patterns 41 connected vertically. Figure 25(c) shows a sixth example in which a group shape is formed by a total of 12 notch patterns 41a-l, each of which is made up of three rows of four notch patterns 41 connected vertically, each of which is arranged with their vertical positions shifted horizontally. Here, the vertical positions are shifted alternately between even-numbered and odd-numbered rows.

[0132] Figure 25(d) shows a seventh example in which a discrete shape is formed by a total of nine notch patterns 41a-i, where three notch patterns 41 are arranged at regular intervals in the vertical direction and three rows are arranged at regular intervals in the horizontal direction. Figure 25(e) shows an eighth example in which a discrete shape is formed by a total of nine notch patterns 41a-i, where three notch patterns 41 are arranged at regular intervals in the vertical direction and three rows are arranged at regular intervals in the horizontal direction with their vertical positions shifted. Here, the vertical positions are shifted alternately between even-numbered and odd-numbered rows.

[0133] By forming the cuts in an inverted Y-shape, it is possible to achieve shock absorption against loads from all directions. Also, by forming multiple inverted Y-shapes in a collective shape, it is possible to further improve shock absorption. Also, by forming multiple inverted Y-shapes in a discrete shape, it is possible to achieve both shock absorption and stability.

[0134] Fig. 26 is a top view schematically showing the shape and arrangement of the incisions in examples 9 to 12 of the tenth embodiment. In the modification shown in this figure, an inverted V-shaped incision pattern 41 is provided on the upper surface of the midsole 22. Fig. 26(a) shows a single incision pattern 41. The incision pattern 41 is formed by joining one end of each of two incisions at one point and arranging them to form an inverted V shape.

[0135] Figure 26(b) shows a ninth example in which a group shape is formed by a total of ten incision patterns 41a-j, where rows each consisting of three incision patterns 41 connected horizontally and rows each consisting of four incision patterns 41 connected horizontally are alternately connected in three rows vertically. Here, the horizontal positions of the even-numbered rows and odd-numbered rows are alternately shifted so that they contact each other. Figure 26(c) shows a tenth example in which a group shape is formed by a total of nine incision patterns 41a-i, where rows each consisting of three incision patterns 41 connected horizontally are arranged in three rows vertically at regular intervals.

[0136] Figure 26(d) shows an eleventh example in which discrete shapes are formed by a total of ten incision patterns 41a-j, where rows of three incision patterns 41 arranged at regular intervals in the horizontal direction and rows of four incision patterns 41 arranged at regular intervals in the horizontal direction are alternately arranged in three rows in the vertical direction at regular intervals. Here, the horizontal positions of the even-numbered rows and odd-numbered rows are alternately shifted. Figure 26(e) shows a twelfth example in which discrete shapes are formed by a total of nine incision patterns 41a-i, where rows of three incision patterns 41 arranged at regular intervals in the horizontal direction and rows of three incision patterns 41 arranged at regular intervals in the vertical direction are alternately arranged in three rows in the vertical direction.

[0137] By forming the cuts in an inverted V-shape, it is possible to achieve shock absorption against loads from all directions. Also, by forming multiple inverted V-shapes in a collective shape, it is possible to further improve shock absorption. Also, by forming multiple inverted V-shapes in a discrete shape, it is possible to achieve both shock absorption and stability.

[0138] (Eleventh embodiment) This embodiment differs from the first to tenth embodiments in that the incisions are multiplexed to form an incision pattern. The following description will focus on the differences with the first to tenth embodiments, and a description of the commonalities will be omitted.

[0139] FIG. 27 is a top view showing schematic diagrams of first to fourth examples of the incision pattern in the eleventh embodiment. FIG. 27(a), showing the first example, shows an incision pattern 41 in which three circular incisions 40a-c are nested concentrically. While this figure shows the incision pattern 41 in which perfect circles are nested, variations include nesting elliptical, polygonal, or other loop-shaped incisions, or multiple straight or curved lines that are not loop-shaped. By arranging the incisions in a nested or multiple pattern, it is possible to enhance shock absorption by providing incisions in areas where deformation is particularly desired. By changing the shape and arrangement of such an incision pattern, as in the following second to tenth examples, it is possible to distribute the incisions unevenly in areas where deformation is particularly desired.

[0140] In the second example shown in FIG. 27(b), a tapered fan-shaped cut pattern 41 is provided from the region supporting the entire heel to the region supporting the lateral side of the midfoot, extending from the entire heel toward the lateral side of the midfoot. The cut pattern 41 in the second example is a pattern in which three identical fan-shaped cuts 40 of different sizes (large, medium, and small) are nested. Specifically, a smaller second cut 40b is provided within a fan-shaped first cut 40a, and a smaller third cut 40c is provided within the second cut 40b, thereby forming the cut pattern 41. In the cut pattern 41, the first cut 40a, second cut 40b, and third cut 40c are each positioned slightly toward the lateral side of the foot, so that the cut effect is particularly enhanced toward the lateral side of the foot. The spacing between the cuts on the lateral side is narrower than the spacing between the cuts on the medial side. Furthermore, the spacing between the first cut 40a, the second cut 40b, and the third cut 40c on the outer foot side does not have to be equal, and the spacing between the first cut 40a and the second cut 40b may be narrower than the spacing between the second cut 40b and the third cut 40c.

[0141] Note that the lines of the incisions shown in this and subsequent figures do not necessarily indicate the position or shape of the incisions themselves. They may instead indicate the distribution or unevenness of the incisions, the number of incisions, the narrowness of the spacing, the shading, and so on, to indicate the distribution or unevenness of the incisions, the number of incisions, the density of the incisions, and so on. For example, the number and density of incisions of various shapes or incision patterns as in the tenth embodiment may be increased toward the lateral side of the foot, and the number and density of incisions of various shapes or incision patterns may be decreased toward the medial side of the foot. Furthermore, the shape, depth, and angle of incidence of the incisions and incision patterns may be changed so that the deformation of the midsole 22 increases toward the lateral side of the foot and decreases toward the medial side of the foot. As mentioned above, in this and subsequent figures, all linear incisions may be solid, dashed, chain, linear, or curved. This allows for increased incision density in areas where deformation is particularly desired, thereby improving impact absorption.

[0142] In the third example shown in Figure 27(c), a tapered fan-shaped cut pattern 41 is provided in the same region as in Figure 27(b), extending from the entire heel toward the lateral side of the midfoot. However, unlike the second example, the cut pattern 41 in the third example has only the outermost first cut 40a fan-shaped, and the inner second cut 40b and third cut 40c only have a partial curved shape on the lateral side of the fan-shaped cut, excluding the curved portion on the medial side. In this way, the cuts 40 are arranged so that the difference in effect between the cuts on the lateral and medial sides in the cut pattern 41 of the third example is greater than the difference in effect between the cuts on the lateral and medial sides in the cut pattern 41 of the second example.

[0143] In the fourth example shown in Figure 27(d), a cut pattern 41 is provided from the entire heel toward the lateral side of the midfoot in the same region as in Figures 27(b) and (c). However, unlike the third example, the outermost first cut 40a of the cut pattern 41 in the fourth example is not fan-shaped either. Like the inner second cut 40b and third cut 40c, the cut pattern in the fourth example has only a partial curved shape on the lateral side of the fan, excluding the curved portion on the medial side. In this way, the cuts 40 are arranged so that the difference in effect between the cuts on the lateral and medial sides in the cut pattern 41 of the fourth example is greater than the difference in effect between the cuts on the lateral and medial sides in the cut pattern 41 of the third example.

[0144] FIG. 28 is a top view schematically showing fifth to tenth examples of the cut pattern in the eleventh embodiment.

[0145] In the fifth example shown in FIG. 28(a), an oval incision pattern 41 is provided extending from the entire forefoot toward the lateral side of the midfoot, from the region supporting the entire forefoot to the region supporting the lateral side of the midfoot. The incision pattern 41 of the fifth example is a pattern in which three identical oval incisions 40 of different sizes (large, medium, and small) are nested. That is, a smaller second incision 40b is provided within an oval first incision 40a, and a smaller third incision 40c is provided within the second incision 40b, thereby forming the incision pattern 41. In the incision pattern 41, the first incision 40a, the second incision 40b, and the third incision 40c are each positioned slightly toward the lateral side, so that the spacing between the incisions on the lateral side is narrower than the spacing between the incisions on the medial side, so that the effect of the incisions is particularly enhanced toward the lateral side. Furthermore, the spacing between the first cut 40a, the second cut 40b, and the third cut 40c on the outer foot side does not have to be equal, and the spacing between the first cut 40a and the second cut 40b may be narrower than the spacing between the second cut 40b and the third cut 40c.

[0146] In the sixth example shown in Figure 28(b), an oval incision pattern 41 is provided in the same region as in Figure 28(a), extending from the entire forefoot toward the lateral side of the midfoot. However, unlike the fifth example, the sixth example's incision pattern 41 has only the outermost first incision 40a in an oval shape, while the inner second incision 40b and third incision 40c are oval in shape, with only the partially curved oval shape on the lateral side, excluding the curved portion on the medial side. In this way, the incisions 40 are arranged so that the difference in effect between the incisions on the lateral and medial sides in the sixth example's incision pattern 41 is greater than the difference in effect between the incisions on the lateral and medial sides in the fifth example's incision pattern 41.

[0147] In the seventh example shown in Figure 28(c), incision pattern 41 is provided in the same region as in Figures 28(a) and 28(b), extending from the entire forefoot toward the lateral side of the midfoot. However, unlike in the sixth example, incision pattern 41 in the seventh example, the outermost first incision 40a is not oval, but, like the inner second incision 40b and third incision 40c, is oval in shape, with only a partial curve on the lateral side of the oval, excluding the curve on the medial side. In this way, incisions 40 are arranged so that the difference in effect between the incisions on the lateral and medial sides in incision pattern 41 of the seventh example is greater than the difference in effect between the incisions on the lateral and medial sides in incision pattern 41 of the sixth example.

[0148] In the eighth example shown in FIG. 28(d), an incision pattern 41 is provided in a curved, arched shape extending from the center of the midfoot to the medial side. The incision pattern 41 of the eighth example includes three parallel, curved incisions—first incisions 40a, second incisions 40b, and third incisions 40c—in the longitudinal direction on the medial side of the midfoot, each with a curved incision shape that bulges toward the center of the midfoot. That is, the three incisions—first incisions 40a, second incisions 40b, and third incisions 40c—have ends located on the medial side of the midfoot, and their centers curve toward the center, avoiding the medial side of the midfoot. The medial side of the midfoot primarily corresponds to the wearer's arch. In the eighth example, the incision density is higher at the central side than at the medial side, resulting in greater rigidity at the medial side than at the central side. This is expected to suppress the collapse of the wearer's arch and pronation.

[0149] In the ninth example shown in FIG. 28(e), a curved incision pattern 41 is provided in the same region as in FIG. 28(d) from the center of the midfoot to the medial side. The incision pattern 41 of the ninth example includes one more incision than the incision pattern 41 of the eighth example. The incision pattern 41 of the ninth example includes four parallel, curved incisions (first incision 40a, second incision 40b, third incision 40c, and fourth incision 40d) arranged longitudinally along the medial side of the midfoot. The first incision 40a, second incision 40b, third incision 40c, and fourth incision 40d each have an incised shape with their center portions raised toward the center of the midfoot, and the spacing of the curves is narrower toward the center than toward the medial side. In the ninth example, the central side has more incisions and narrower spacing than the medial side, resulting in a relatively higher density and greater rigidity on the medial side than the central side. This is expected to suppress the collapse of the wearer's arch and pronation.

[0150] In the tenth example shown in Figure 28(f), an incision pattern 41 with an arched curve is provided from the center of the midfoot to the medial side in the same region as Figures 28(d) and (e). The incision pattern 41 of the tenth example has one more incision than the incision pattern 41 of the ninth example, and includes five parallel curved incisions in the longitudinal direction on the medial side of the midfoot: a first incision 40a, a second incision 40b, a third incision 40c, a fourth incision 40d, and a fifth incision 40e. The third incision 40c, the fourth incision 40d, and the fifth incision 40e each have an arched shape with their center portions raised toward the center of the midfoot, and the first incision 40a is provided on the medial side closer to the forefoot, and the second incision 40b is provided on the medial side closer to the heel. In the case of Example 10, the incisions are spaced farther apart and fewer in number on the medial side than on the central side, and there are fewer incisions than on the forefoot and heel sides, so the medial side is relatively more rigid. This is expected to have the effect of suppressing collapse of the wearer's arch and pronation.

[0151] (Twelfth embodiment) This embodiment differs from the first to eleventh embodiments in that the angle of incidence of the notches provided in the midsole 22 is oblique, in that the angle of incidence of the notches is perpendicular to the upper or lower surface of the midsole 22. The following description will focus on the differences from the first to eleventh embodiments, and a description of the commonalities will be omitted.

[0152] 29 is an end view schematically showing the angle of incidence of the incisions in the first and second examples of the twelfth embodiment, and is an end view of the midsole 22 in the foot width direction.

[0153] 29(a), three notches 40a-c are provided at an angle that starts from the medial side of the foot and slopes diagonally downward toward the lateral side in the foot width direction. In this case, when a load is applied to the medial side of the foot as shown by the arrows, shear deformation of the midsole 22 is promoted, thereby improving shock absorption.

[0154] 29(b), three notches 40a-c are provided at an angle that starts from the lateral side of the foot and slopes diagonally downward toward the medial side in the foot width direction. In this case, when a load is applied to the lateral side of the foot as shown by the arrows, shear deformation of the midsole 22 is promoted, thereby improving shock absorption.

[0155] 30 is an end view schematically showing the incidence angles of the cuts in third and fourth examples of the twelfth embodiment, and is an end view of the midsole 22 in the foot length direction.

[0156] 30(a), three notches 40a-c are provided at an angle that starts from the rear and slopes diagonally downward toward the front in the foot length direction. In this case, when a load is applied to the rear side as shown by the arrows, shear deformation of the midsole 22 is promoted, thereby improving shock absorption.

[0157] 30(b), three notches 40a-c are provided at an angle that starts from the front and slopes downward obliquely toward the rear in the foot length direction. In this case, when a load is applied to the front as shown by the arrows, shear deformation of the midsole 22 is promoted, thereby improving shock absorption.

[0158] Fig. 31 is a top view schematically showing the angle of incidence of the incisions in a fifth example of the twelfth embodiment. In the fifth example, incisions 40 are provided in the incision region 35a, which is the region from the outer forefoot portion to the outer midfoot portion of the midsole 22, at an angle of incidence that enters from the front side in the foot length direction and slopes diagonally downward toward the rear side, as in the fourth example of Fig. 30(b). This promotes shear deformation of the midsole 22 on the outer side when a load is applied in the direction of load at the time of landing, i.e., toward the front side as indicated by arrow 62, and improves shock absorption.

[0159] Meanwhile, in the cut region 35b, which is the region from the medial forefoot to the medial midfoot of the midsole 22, the cut 40 is provided at an angle that enters from the rear in the foot length direction and slopes diagonally downward toward the front, as in the third example of Fig. 30(a). This promotes shear deformation of the midsole 22 on the medial side when a load is applied in the direction of the load at the time of kicking off, i.e., toward the rear as indicated by arrow 64, and improves shock absorption.

[0160] The present invention has been described above based on an embodiment. This embodiment is merely an example, and it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications are possible in the combination of each component and each treatment process, and that such modifications are also within the scope of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0161] 10 shoes, 12 uppers, 20 soles, 22 midsoles, 32 heel areas, 34 forefoot areas, 40 notches, 60 feet.

Claims

1. a sole including a midsole made of a resin member and having a bottom surface that serves as a ground contact portion; an upper joined to the sole, a plurality of linear cuts having a depth from a first height position to a second height position in a thickness direction are provided on an upper surface of the midsole, and both the first height position and the second height position of the plurality of linear cuts are located above the bottom surface; The notch has a deepest portion in a V-shape in a cross section when the opposing inner walls are spaced apart, The shoe is characterized in that the cuts are configured in a collective shape by connecting multiple patterns of a predetermined shape horizontally and multiple rows vertically on the upper surface of the midsole, and the patterns are arranged alternately horizontally in even-numbered rows and odd-numbered rows so that they are in contact with each other.

2. 2. The shoe according to claim 1, wherein the cutouts are provided in at least one of a forefoot region, a midfoot region, and a heel region of the midsole, the region being biased toward the forefoot region.

3. 3. The shoe according to claim 1, wherein the cutout is provided in a region biased toward either the lateral foot region or the medial foot region of the midsole.

4. The shoe according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the cuts are provided in an area where the load applied when worn is relatively small compared to other areas, or in an area excluding areas where the load is relatively large.

5. 4. The shoe according to claim 2, wherein the cuts are provided at a plurality of locations spaced apart from one another so that the density differs between the concentrated area and the other area.

6. 6. The shoe according to claim 1, wherein the cuts are formed to have different depths depending on the distance to the end of the midsole.

7. 7. The shoe according to claim 1, wherein the cut is formed obliquely from the front of the medial foot part to the rear of the lateral foot part, or from the front of the lateral foot part to the rear of the medial foot part.

Images