Article of footwear having a sole structure

Abstract

To provide an article of footwear having an upper with improved comfort and a better fit.SOLUTION: The sole structure comprises a widest section, a narrowest section, a toe end, a heel end, a lateral side, a medial side, a top midsole directly coupled to the upper, a sole plate directly coupled to the top midsole, a front midsole directly coupled to the top midsole and the sole plate, a rear midsole directly coupled to the top midsole and the sole plate between the heel end of the sole structure and the narrowest section of the sole structure, and an outsole directly coupled to the front midsole and the rear midsole. The front midsole is spaced forward from the rear midsole to form a void, and a lower surface of the sole plate is exposed in the void.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates generally to footwear that includes a sole structure. [Background technology]

[0002] Many conventional shoes or other footwear generally include an upper and a sole attached to the lower end of the upper. Conventional shoes also include an internal space, i.e., a void or cavity, formed by the interior surfaces of the upper and the sole to accommodate the user's foot before fastening the shoe to the foot. The sole is attached to the underside or boundary of the upper and is positioned between the upper and the ground. As a result, the sole typically provides stability and cushioning to the user when the shoe is worn. In some cases, the sole may include multiple components, such as an outsole, a midsole, and an insole. The outsole can provide traction to the bottom surface of the sole, and the midsole can be attached to the interior surface of the outsole and provide cushioning or additional stability to the sole. For example, the sole may include a foam material that can increase stability at one or more desired locations along the sole or that can reduce stress or impact energy on the foot or leg when the user is running, walking, or engaging in another activity. The sole may also include additional components, such as a plate embedded in the sole, to increase the overall rigidity of the sole and reduce energy loss during use.

[0003] The upper generally defines an internal cavity that extends upward from the sole and completely or partially encases the foot. In most cases, the upper extends across the instep and toe areas and across their medial and lateral sides. Many footwear articles also include a tongue that extends across the instep area and bridges the gap between the medial and lateral edges of the upper, defining an opening into the cavity. The tongue may also be positioned between the medial and lateral sides of the upper under a lacing system to allow adjustment of the shoe's tightness. The tongue may also be operable by the user to allow entry or exit of the foot from the internal space or cavity. In addition, the lacing system may allow the user to adjust certain dimensions of the upper or sole, thereby allowing the upper to accommodate a wide variety of foot types having different sizes and shapes. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in many cases, footwear having uppers with improved comfort and a better fit, along with soles with improved cushioning systems or sole plate structural characteristics, is desired. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] Footwear having a sole structure and an upper, the sole structure including a widest section, a narrowest section, a toe end, a heel end, a lateral side, and a medial side. The sole structure further includes a top midsole directly connected to the upper, a soleplate directly connected to the top midsole, a front midsole directly connected to the top midsole and the soleplate between the toe end of the sole structure and the widest section of the sole structure, a rear midsole directly connected to the top midsole and the soleplate between the heel end of the sole structure and the narrowest section of the sole structure, and an outsole defining a ground-engaging surface and directly connected to the front and rear midsole. The front midsole is spaced lateral and forward from the rear midsole to provide a gap between the front and rear midsole, and a lower surface of the soleplate is exposed in the gap between the front and rear midsole.

[0006] Footwear having a sole structure and an upper, the sole structure including a widest section, a narrowest section, a toe end, a heel end, a lateral side, and a medial side. The sole structure further includes a top midsole directly connected to the upper, a sole plate directly connected to the top midsole, a front midsole directly connected to the top midsole and the sole plate between the toe end of the sole structure and the widest section of the sole structure, a rear midsole directly connected to the top midsole and the sole plate between the heel end of the sole structure and the narrowest section of the sole structure, and an outsole defining a ground-engaging surface and directly connected to the front midsole and the rear midsole. The narrowest section of the sole structure is defined by the narrowest section of the top midsole.

[0007] Footwear having a sole structure and an upper, the sole structure including a widest section, a narrowest section, a toe end, a heel end, an outer side, and an inner side. The sole structure further includes a top midsole directly connected to an underside of the upper, a sole plate directly connected to the underside of the top midsole, a front midsole directly connected to an underside of the top midsole and an underside of the sole plate between the toe end of the sole structure and the widest section of the sole structure, a rear midsole directly connected to an underside of the top midsole and an underside of the sole plate between the heel end of the sole structure and the narrowest section of the sole structure, and an outsole defining a ground-engaging surface and directly connected to an underside of the front midsole and an underside of the rear midsole. The outsole includes a first outsole section directly connected to an underside of the front midsole, a second outsole section directly connected to an underside of the rear midsole on an outer side of the sole structure, and a third outsole section directly connected to an underside of the rear midsole on an inner side of the sole structure. The second outsole section is longer than the third outsole section.

[0008] In some embodiments, the sole plate includes a plurality of ridges and a plurality of valleys on the outer side of the outer edge of the sole plate between the widest section of the sole plate and the toe end of the sole plate. In some embodiments, the plurality of ridges of the sole plate include at least three ridges, and the plurality of valleys of the sole plate include at least two valleys. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the outsole includes a first outsole section, a second outsole section, and a third outsole section. The first outsole section is directly connected to an underside of the front midsole, the second outsole section is directly connected to an outer side of an underside of the rear midsole, and the third outsole section is directly connected to an inner side of an underside of the rear midsole. In some embodiments, the front midsole includes a notch, the first outsole section includes a notch, and the sole plate includes a first opening. The notch in the front midsole, the notch in the first outsole section, and the first opening in the sole plate are aligned with one another.

[0009] In some embodiments, the second outsole section and the third outsole section are directly coupled to an underside of the rear midsole. In some embodiments, the second outsole section is positioned on an outer side of an underside of the rear midsole, and the third outsole section is positioned on an inner side of an underside of the rear midsole, and the rear midsole includes a gap disposed between the second outsole section and the third outsole section. In some embodiments, the top midsole includes a plurality of ribs, the soleplate includes a plurality of ribs, and the front midsole includes a plurality of recesses. The plurality of recesses of the front midsole receive the plurality of ribs of the soleplate, and the plurality of ribs of the soleplate receive the plurality of ribs of the top midsole. In some embodiments, the toe end of the outsole surrounds the toe end of the front midsole, the toe end of the front midsole surrounds the toe end of the soleplate, and the toe end of the soleplate, the toe end of the front midsole, and the toe end of the outsole extend forward of the toe end of the top midsole.

[0010] In some embodiments, the front midsole includes a convex portion and a concave portion on the medial side and a convex portion on the lateral side. The concave portion on the medial side is located closer to the toe end of the sole structure than the convex portion on the medial side, and a point on the rear midsole is formed where the convex curve on the lateral side and the concave curve on the medial side meet. The point on the rear midsole extends farther toward the toe end of the sole structure than the remainder of the rear midsole, and the point on the rear midsole is located primarily on the lateral side of the sole structure. In some embodiments, the lateral side of the top midsole includes a depression, the medial side of the top midsole includes a depression, and the rear midsole includes a lip on the lateral edge of the rear midsole. The lateral depression of the top midsole receives the lip of the rear midsole, and the medial depression of the top midsole receives the lip of the rear midsole.

[0011] In some embodiments, the outsole includes a first outsole section, the first outsole section being directly connected to an underside of the front midsole. In some embodiments, the underside of the front midsole includes an inner exposed section and an outer exposed section, the inner exposed section and the outer exposed section being sections of the underside of the front midsole that are not directly connected to the first outsole portion. In some embodiments, the soleplate includes a first rib and a second rib. The front ends of the first rib and the second rib each extend to a point between the widest section of the sole structure and the toe end of the sole structure, and the rear ends of the first rib and the second rib each extend to a point between the narrowest section of the sole structure and the heel end of the sole structure. In some embodiments, the soleplate includes a third rib, the third rib being completely disposed between the widest section of the sole structure and the toe end of the sole structure. In some embodiments, the heel end of the soleplate is generally aligned with the heel end of the outsole. In some embodiments, the top midsole includes a plurality of medial ridges and a plurality of lateral ridges, and the rear midsole includes a plurality of medial ridges and a plurality of lateral ridges. In some embodiments, the toe end of the sole structure extends beyond the toe end of the upper.

[0012] In some embodiments, the medial outer edge of the rear midsole includes a convex portion and a concave portion, the lateral outer edge of the rear midsole includes a convex portion, the second outsole section is curved, and the third outsole section is curved. In some embodiments, the curvature of the second outsole section is substantially the same as the convex portion of the lateral outer edge of the rear midsole, and the curvature of the third outsole section is substantially the same as the convex portion of the medial outer edge of the rear midsole. In some embodiments, the medial outer edge of the rear midsole includes a transition point, and the third outsole section is positioned entirely between the transition point and the heel end of the sole structure. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1]FIG. 1 is a front isometric view of an article of footwear shown as a sports shoe including an upper and a sole structure attached to the upper. [Figure 2] 2 is an exploded view of the shoe of FIG. 1, including the top midsole, plate, front midsole, rear midsole, and outsole. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a top isometric view of the top midsole of FIG. 2. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a bottom isometric view of the top midsole of FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 4 is a bottom view of the top midsole of FIG. 3. [Figure 6] FIG. 3 is a top isometric view of the plate of FIG. 2. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a bottom isometric view of the plate of FIG. 6. [Figure 8] FIG. 7 is a side view of the plate of FIG. 6. [Figure 9] FIG. 7 is a bottom view of the plate of FIG. 6. [Figure 10] FIG. 7 is a top view of the plate of FIG. 6. [Figure 11] FIG. 3 is a top isometric view of the front midsole of FIG. 2. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a bottom isometric view of the front midsole of FIG. [Figure 13] FIG. 12 is a top view of the front midsole of FIG. 11. [Figure 14] FIG. 3 is a top isometric view of the rear midsole of FIG. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a bottom isometric view of the rear midsole of FIG. [Figure 16] FIG. 15 is a top view of the rear midsole of FIG. [Figure 17] FIG. 15 is a bottom view of the rear midsole of FIG. [Figure 18] FIG. 15 is a front view of the rear midsole of FIG. 14. [Figure 19] FIG. 15 is a rear view of the rear midsole of FIG. 14. [Figure 20] FIG. 3 is a top isometric view of an outsole of the sole structure of FIG. 2. [Figure 21]FIG. 21 is a top view of the outsole of FIG. [Figure 22] FIG. 2 is a top isometric view of the sole structure of FIG. 1 in an assembled configuration. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a bottom isometric view of the sole structure of FIG. [Figure 24] FIG. 23 is a medial elevation view of the sole structure of FIG. 22. [Figure 25] FIG. 23 is a side view of the sole structure of FIG. [Figure 26] FIG. 23 is a front view of the sole structure of FIG. 22. [Figure 27] FIG. 23 is a rear view of the sole structure of FIG. 22. [Figure 28] FIG. 23 is a bottom view of the sole structure of FIG. [Figure 29] FIG. 23 is a top view of the sole structure of FIG. [Figure 30] 30 is a side cross-sectional view of the sole structure taken along line 30-30 of FIG. 28. [Figure 31] 31 is a rear cross-sectional view of the structure taken along line 31-31 of FIG. 28. [Figure 32] 32 is a rear cross-sectional view of the sole structure taken along line 32-32 of FIG. 28. [Figure 33] 33 is a rear cross-sectional view of the sole structure taken along line 33-33 of FIG. 28. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014] The following description and accompanying drawings disclose various embodiments or configurations of shoes and sole structures. While shoe or sole structure embodiments are disclosed with respect to athletic shoes, such as running shoes, tennis shoes, and basketball shoes, the concepts related to shoe or sole structure embodiments may be applied to a wide range of footwear and footwear styles, including, for example, cross-training shoes, football shoes, golf shoes, hiking shoes, hiking boots, ski and snowboard boots, soccer shoes and cleats, walking shoes, and track cleats. The shoe or sole structure concepts may also be applied to footwear considered non-athletic, including dress shoes, sandals, loafers, slippers, and heels. In addition to footwear, certain concepts described herein may also be applied to and incorporated into other types of apparel or other athletic equipment, including helmets, padding or protective padding, shin guards, and gloves. Furthermore, certain concepts described herein may be incorporated into cushions, backpack straps, golf clubs, or other consumer or industrial products. Accordingly, the concepts described herein may be utilized in a variety of products.

[0015] The term "about," as used herein, refers to variation in a numerical quantity that may occur, for example, through typical measuring and manufacturing procedures used for footwear or other products that may include embodiments of the disclosures herein, through inadvertent errors in these procedures, through differences in manufacture, source, or purity of raw materials used to make a composition or mixture or to carry out a method, etc. Throughout this disclosure, the terms "about" and "approximately" refer to a range of values ​​of ±5% of the numerical value that the term precedes.

[0016] The present disclosure is directed to footwear and / or specific components of footwear, such as uppers, soles or sole structures, and / or sole structures. Uppers may include knitted components, woven fabrics, and / or nonwoven fabrics. Knitted components may be made by knitting yarns, weaving yarns, and nonwoven fabrics by producing a single nonwoven web. Knitted fabrics include fabrics formed by warp knitting, weft knitting, flat knitting, circular knitting, and / or other suitable knitting operations. Knitted fabrics may have, for example, plain knit, mesh knit, and / or rib knit structures. Woven fabrics include fabrics formed by any of a number of weaving configurations, such as, but not limited to, plain weave, twill weave, satin weave, dobbin weave, jacquard weave, double weave, and / or double cloth weave. Nonwoven fabrics include, for example, fabrics produced by airlaid and / or spunlaid processes. The upper may comprise different materials, such as first threads, second threads, and / or tertiary threads, which may have different properties or different visual characteristics.

[0017] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of footwear 60 including an upper 62 and a sole structure 64. The upper 62 is attached to the sole structure 64 and defines an internal cavity into which a foot can be inserted. The sole structure 64 is connected to or secured to the upper 62 and extends between a user's foot and the ground when the footwear 60 is worn by a user. The sole structure 64 may include one or more components, which may include a top midsole, a sole plate, a front midsole, a rear midsole, and an outsole. For example, in some embodiments, the sole structure 64 may include an outsole that provides traction for the user and structural integrity to the sole structure, one or more midsoles that provide a cushioning system, and a sole plate that provides additional durability, stability, and propulsion. As discussed further herein, the sole structure 64 of this embodiment of the present disclosure includes one or more components that provide favorable spring and damping characteristics to the sole structure 64.

[0018] Referring to FIG. 2 , the sole structure 64 includes a first midsole or top midsole 70, a sole plate 72, a second midsole or front midsole 74, a third midsole or rear midsole 76, and an outsole 78. The top midsole 70 is directly connected to the upper 62 and disposed below the upper 62, and is directly connected to the sole plate 72 and disposed above the sole plate 72. The sole plate 72 is disposed directly on top of and connected to the front midsole 74 and the rear midsole 76, respectively. The front midsole 74 is disposed forward and lateral and spaced apart from the rear midsole 76. The front midsole 74 and the rear midsole 76 are also disposed directly on top of and connected to spaced apart portions of an outsole 78, respectively. In some embodiments, the outsole 78 includes multiple sections or portions spaced apart from one another. In some embodiments, the front midsole 74 and the rear midsole 76 are directly connected to different sections of the outsole 78.

[0019] In some embodiments, the top midsole 70, the front midsole 74, and the rear midsole 76 are individually constructed from a thermoplastic material such as, for example, polyurethane (PU), and / or ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), copolymers thereof, or similar types of materials. In other embodiments, the top midsole 70, the front midsole 74, and / or the rear midsole 76 are individually constructed from an EVA-Solid-Sponge ("ESS") material, EVA foam (e.g., PUMA® ProFoam Lite TM, IGNITE foam), polyurethane, polyether, olefin block copolymer, thermoplastic material (e.g., thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoplastic elastomer, thermoplastic polyolefin, etc.), or supercritical foam. In some embodiments, the top midsole 70, the front midsole 74, and / or the rear midsole 76 are a single polymer material. In some embodiments, the top midsole 70, the front midsole 74, and / or the rear midsole 76 are a blend of materials such as EVA copolymer, thermoplastic polyurethane, polyether block amide (PEBA) copolymer, and / or olefin block copolymer. One example of a PEBA material is PEBAX®.

[0020] In embodiments in which the top midsole 70, front midsole 74, and / or rear midsole 76 are formed from a supercritical foaming process, the supercritical foam may include a microporous or particle foam, such as TPU, EVA, PEBAX®, or a mixture thereof, produced using a process carried out in an autoclave, an injection molding apparatus, or a sufficiently heated / pressurized vessel capable of processing a mixture of a supercritical fluid (e.g., CO, N, or a mixture thereof) and a material (e.g., TPU, EVA, a polyolefin elastomer, or a mixture thereof), preferably in a molten state. During an exemplary process, a solution of supercritical fluid and molten material is pumped into a pressurized vessel, after which the pressure in the vessel is released, resulting in the molecules of the supercritical fluid rapidly converting to a gas to form small pockets within the material, expanding the material into a foam, which is used as the top midsole 70, front midsole 74, and rear midsole 76. In further embodiments, the top midsole 70, front midsole 74, and rear midsole 76 are formed using alternative methods known in the art, including the use of an expansion press, an injection machine, a pellet expansion process, a cold foam process, compression molding techniques, die cutting, or any combination thereof. For example, the top midsole 70, front midsole 74, and / or rear midsole 76 are formed using a process that includes an initial foaming step in which supercritical gas is used to foam a material that is then compression molded or die cut to a specific shape.

[0021] In some embodiments, the sole plate 72 comprises a PU plastic, such as a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material. Other thermoplastic elastomers, such as block copolymers, are also possible. In some embodiments, the sole plate 72 can include, for example, carbon fiber. In some embodiments, the outsole 78 defines the bottom edge or surface of the sole structure 64. Additionally, in some embodiments, the outsole 78 is the ground-engaging portion or includes the ground-engaging surface of the sole structure 64, opposite its insole (not shown). The outsole 78 is formed from one or more materials to impart durability, degradation resistance, abrasion resistance, or traction to the sole structure 64, and the outsole 78 of the sole structure 64 can include multiple sections in some embodiments.

[0022] As shown in FIG. 2 , footwear 60 defines a forefoot region 90, a midfoot region 92, and a heel region 94. Forefoot region 90 generally corresponds to the portion of the article of footwear 60 that encases the portion of the foot, including the toes, ball of the foot, and the joints connecting the metatarsals to the toes or phalanges. Midfoot region 92 is closely adjacent to forefoot region 90 and generally corresponds to the portion of footwear 60 that encases the arch of the foot along with the bridge of the foot. Heel region 94 is closely adjacent to midfoot region 92 and generally corresponds to the portion of footwear 60 that encases the rear of the foot, including the heel or calcaneus, ankle, and / or Achilles tendon.

[0023] Footwear 60 also includes a medial side 96 and a lateral side 98. In particular, lateral side 98 corresponds to the outer portion of footwear 60, and medial side 96 corresponds to the inner portion of footwear 60. Thus, the left and right footwear pieces have opposite lateral and medial sides, such that the medial sides are closest to each other when a user is wearing the footwear, while the lateral sides are defined as the sides farthest from each other while wearing the footwear. Medial side 96 and lateral side 98 abut each other at opposite distal ends of footwear 60.

[0024] Unless otherwise specified, the forefoot region 90, midfoot region 92, heel region 94, medial side 96, and lateral side 98 are intended to define boundaries or regions of footwear 60. To that end, the forefoot region 90, midfoot region 92, heel region 94, medial side 96, and lateral side 98 generally characterize sections of footwear 60. Furthermore, both upper 62 and sole structure 64 are characterized as having portions within forefoot region 90, midfoot region 92, heel region 94, and on medial side 96 and lateral side 98. Thus, upper 62 and sole structure 64, and / or individual portions of upper 62 and sole structure 64, can include portions disposed within forefoot region 90, midfoot region 92, heel region 94, and on medial side 96 and lateral side 98. Furthermore, the distal end of footwear 60 in forefoot region 90 is intended to define the toe end of footwear 60, and the distal end of footwear 60 in heel region 94 is intended to define the heel end of footwear 60.

[0025] The upper 62 and sole structure 64, and / or individual portions of the upper 62 and sole structure 64, can include portions defined as the toe end or heel end of said components. Furthermore, a central longitudinal plane extends from the toe end of the footwear 60 to the heel end of the footwear 60. The widest section of the footwear 60 is defined or measured along a first line perpendicular to the central longitudinal plane. Additionally, the narrowest section of the footwear 60 is defined as the narrowest section of the footwear 60, measured across a second line perpendicular to the central longitudinal plane. The upper 62 and sole structure 64, and / or individual portions of the upper 62 and sole structure 64, also define a central longitudinal plane, a widest section, and a narrowest section. Finally, "upper," "top," "lower," and "lower" refer to the directions as viewed when footwear 60 is assembled and in a use position on a surface, with upper referring to a direction away from the surface and lower referring to a direction toward the surface. As such, upper refers to a direction relatively farther from the surface and lower refers to a direction relatively closer to the surface. Furthermore, the upper side of upper 62 and sole structure 64, and / or individual portions of upper 62 and sole structure 64, is defined as the side of the component farthest from the surface, and the lower side of a component is the side of the component closest to the surface.

[0026] Turning to FIG. 3 , the top midsole 70 of the sole structure 64 is shown in detail. The central longitudinal plane 118 of the top midsole 70 is shown. The widest section of the top midsole 70 is measured across a first top midsole line 120, and the narrowest section of the top midsole 70 is measured across a second top midsole line 122. An outer edge 124 of the top midsole 70 extends upwardly beyond the remainder of the top midsole 70, forming a lip 126 on the outside of the top midsole 70. The lip 126 of the top midsole 70 is thickest, i.e., extends upwardly the greatest amount, at a heel end 128 of the top midsole 70. The thickness of the lip 126 of the top midsole 70 generally decreases from the heel end 128 of the top midsole 70 toward the midfoot region 92, having zero thickness along the second top midsole line 122. The lip 126 of the top midsole 70 at the toe end 130 of the top midsole 70 defines a non-zero thickness, but the lip 126 at the toe end 130 of the top midsole 70 is less thick than the lip 126 at the heel end 128 of the top midsole 70. The thickness of the lip 126 of the top midsole 70 generally decreases from the toe end 130 of the top midsole 70 toward the midfoot region 92, and has a zero thickness along the second top midsole line 122.

[0027] 3 , the upper side 136 of the top midsole 70 is relatively flat except for the lip 126 of the top midsole 70. The lateral side 98 of the top midsole 70 includes a plurality of ridges 138 that continue from the toe end 130 of the top midsole 70 toward the second top midsole line 122. In some embodiments, the ridges 138 do not extend all the way to the toe end 130 of the top midsole 70, and the ridges 138 do not extend all the way to the second top midsole line 122. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the ridges 138 extend from a point between the toe end 130 of the top midsole 70 and the first top midsole line 120 to a point between the first top midsole line 120 and the second top midsole line 122. In some embodiments, the lateral side 98 of the top midsole 70 in the heel region 94 includes a lateral depression 140. The lateral recess 140 is of consistent depth throughout and is relatively triangular in shape. The lateral recess 140 is located entirely between the second top midsole line 122 and the heel end 128 of the top midsole 70.

[0028] Continuing to refer to FIG. 3 , the top midsole 70 has a varying thickness. More specifically, the thickness of the top midsole 70 decreases between the first top midsole line 120 and the toe end 130 of the top midsole 70. The top midsole 70 is thickest between the first top midsole line 120 and the second top midsole line 122. More specifically, the thickest section of the top midsole 70 is located closer to the first top midsole line 120 than to the second top midsole line 122. The thickness of the top midsole 70 is substantially constant between the second top midsole line 122 and the heel end 128 of the top midsole 70.

[0029] FIG. 4 shows the underside 142 of the top midsole 70. The underside 142 of the top midsole 70 of the sole structure 64 includes a first rib 144, a second rib 146, and a third rib 148. The first rib 144 and the second rib 146 extend from the forefoot region 90 through the midfoot region 92 and into the heel region 94. The first rib 144 and the second rib 146 do not extend completely to the toe end 130 of the top midsole 70. The first rib 144 and the second rib 146 extend at one end to a point between the first top midsole line 120 and the toe end 130 of the top midsole 70. The first rib 144 and the second rib 146 extend at the other end to a point between the second top midsole line 122 and the heel end 128 of the top midsole 70. The third rib 148 is disposed primarily in the forefoot region 90. In some embodiments, the third rib 148 is disposed entirely between the first top midsole line 120 and the toe cap 130 of the top midsole 70. In some embodiments, the first rib 144, the second rib 146, and the third rib 148 are generally curved in shape. The first rib 144, the second rib 146, and the third rib 148 extend downward and outward from the underside 142 of the top midsole 70.

[0030] Similar to the lateral side 98 of the top midsole 70, the medial side 96 (not shown) of the top midsole 70 includes a plurality of ridges that continue from the toe end 130 of the top midsole 70 toward the second top midsole line 122. In some embodiments, the medial ridges do not extend all the way to the toe end 130 of the top midsole 70, and the medial ridges do not extend all the way to the second top midsole line 122. Further, in some embodiments, the medial ridges extend from a point between the toe end 130 of the top midsole 70 and the first top midsole line 120 to a point between the first top midsole line 120 and the second top midsole line 122. In some embodiments, the medial side 96 of the top midsole 70 in the heel region 94 includes a depression. The depression is of a consistent depth throughout and is relatively triangular in shape. The depression is located entirely between the second top midsole line 122 and the heel end 128 of the top midsole 70. In some embodiments, the ridge on the medial side 96 of the top midsole 70 is substantially the same as the ridge on the lateral side 98 of the top midsole 70. Additionally, in some embodiments, the medial depression is substantially the same as the lateral depression 140.

[0031] Turning to FIG. 5 , the first rib 144, the second rib 146, and the third rib 148 of the top midsole 70 are shown in more detail. In some embodiments, the first rib 144 and the second rib 146 are the same shape. In some embodiments, the first rib 144 and the second rib 146 are different shapes. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 5 , the underside profile of the heel end 128 of the top midsole 70 includes a first heel crest 154 and a second heel crest 156 separated by a heel valley 158. Additionally, the lip 126 of the top midsole 70 extends upwardly and outwardly at the heel end 128, resulting in a protrusion 160 at the heel end 128 of the top midsole 70.

[0032] Referring to FIG. 6 , the sole plate 72 is shown in more detail. The sole plate 72 includes a plurality of ribs 180 and a plurality of openings 182. The plurality of ribs 180 continue longitudinally along the sole plate 72 from the forefoot region 90 to the heel region 94. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of ribs 180 do not extend completely to the toe end 184 of the sole plate 72 or to the heel end 186 of the sole plate 72. However, in some embodiments, the plurality of ribs 180 extend completely to the toe end 184 and / or the heel end 186. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of ribs 180 extend radially downward. In some embodiments, the plurality of ribs 180 extend radially upward. In the illustrated embodiment, the sole plate 72 includes a first rib 188 and a second rib 190. In some embodiments, the sole plate 72 has more or fewer ribs. In some embodiments, the ribs 180 vary in length or shape, the ribs 180 are positioned differently, or the ribs 180 are different sizes.

[0033] 6 , a first opening 196 of the plurality of openings 182 is disposed partially in the forefoot region 90 and partially in the midfoot region 92. The first opening 196 is generally rounded and tapers at a fore end 198 of the first opening 196. A second opening 200 of the plurality of openings 182 is generally disposed in the midfoot region 92 and the heel region 94. The second opening 200 is irregularly shaped. In some embodiments, the first opening 196 and the second opening 200 are the same shape, in different positions, or different sizes. In some embodiments, there are more or fewer openings. The openings 182 are advantageous in allowing the medial side 96 and lateral side 98 of the sole plate 72 to flex independently of one another.

[0034] Referring now to FIG. 7 , the plurality of ribs 180 of the soleplate 72 includes a third rib 204 disposed along the lateral side 98 of the soleplate 72. The third rib 204 continues longitudinally along a portion of the lateral side 98 of the forefoot region 90 of the soleplate 72. The third rib 204 has a slightly curved shape, with a concave portion near the toe end 184 of the soleplate 72 and a convex portion near the heel end 186 of the soleplate 72. The third rib 204 generally follows the shape of the outer edge 208 of the soleplate 72 on the lateral side 98 of the forefoot region 90 of the soleplate 72. In some embodiments, the third rib 204 extends radially downward, i.e., by defining a generally cylindrical or spherical profile. In some embodiments, the third rib 204 extends radially downward the same amount as the first rib 188 and the second rib 190 extend radially downward. In some embodiments, the third rib 204 extends radially downward a different distance than the first rib 188 and the second rib 190. In some embodiments, the third rib 204 is not included in the sole plate 72.

[0035] 8, the soleplate 72 includes a curved portion 212 and a rearward portion 214. The rearward portion 214 is relatively flat. The curved portion 212 is a forward curved portion and includes one or more radii of curvature. The toe end 184 of the soleplate 72 curves upward, and an apex 216 of the curved portion 212 is located in the forefoot region 90. The midfoot region 92 includes a transition point 218. The transition point 218 defines the point where the soleplate 72 transitions from the curved portion 212 to the rearward portion 214. In some embodiments, the soleplate 72 has a uniform thickness.

[0036] 9, a bottom view of the soleplate 72 is shown. The soleplate 72 generally widens in the forefoot region 90, narrows in the midfoot region 92, and maintains a consistent width in the heel region 94. A first soleplate line 222 defines the widest section of the soleplate 72. In some embodiments, the first soleplate line 222 is located in the forefoot region 90. A second soleplate line 224 defines the narrowest section of the soleplate 72. In some embodiments, the second soleplate line 224 is located in the midfoot region 92.

[0037] Continuing with reference to FIG. 9 , the soleplate 72 defines an outer edge 208. The outer edge 208 of the soleplate 72 in the forefoot region 90 on the lateral side 98 defines a plurality of peaks 230 and a plurality of valleys 232. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer edge 208 defines three peaks and two valleys on the lateral side 98 of the forefoot region 90, although in some embodiments, more or fewer peaks and valleys are present. A first peak 234 of the plurality of peaks 230 is located at the toe end 184 of the soleplate 72. A second peak 236 of the plurality of peaks 230 is located on the lateral side 98 of the forefoot region 90. A first valley 238 separates the first peak 234 and the second peak 236. The first valley 238 defines a first radius of curvature. A third peak 240 is located on the lateral side 98 of the forefoot region 90. The third peak 240 is farther from the toe tip 184 than the second peak 236. A second valley 242 separates the second peak 236 and the third peak 240. The second valley 242 defines a second radius of curvature. In some embodiments, the second radius of curvature is smaller than the first radius of curvature. In some embodiments, the second radius of curvature is the same as the first radius of curvature. In some embodiments, the second radius of curvature is greater than the first radius of curvature. The first peak 234, the second peak 236, the third peak 240, the first valley 238, and the second valley 242 are disposed on the outer side 98 of the sole plate 72 between the toe tip 184 of the sole plate 72 and the first sole plate line 222, i.e., the first peak 234, the second peak 236, the third peak 240, the first valley 238, and the second valley 242 are disposed on the outer side 98 of the sole plate 72 between the toe tip 184 of the sole plate 72 and the first sole plate line 222.

[0038] With further reference to the lateral side 98 of the sole plate 72, as shown in FIG. 9 , the outer edge 208 of the sole plate 72 generally curves toward the medial longitudinal plane 220 between the third crest 240 and the midfoot region 92. Thus, the sole plate 72 narrows between the forefoot region 90 and the midfoot region 92. The outer edge 208 is generally straight through the midfoot region 92 and the heel region 94. At the heel end 186 of the sole plate 72, the outer edge 208 defines a first heel crest 244 and a second heel crest 246. The first heel crest 244 is on the lateral side 98 of the sole plate 72. The second heel crest 246 is on the medial side 96 of the sole plate 72. A first heel valley 248 separates the first heel crest 244 and the second heel crest 246. The first heel valley 248 defines a heel radius of curvature. In some embodiments, the heel radius of curvature is greater than the first and second radii of curvature of the first valley 238 and the second valley 242, respectively. The outer edge 208 of the medial side 96 of the sole plate 72 is generally straight through the heel region 94. The outer edge 208 of the medial side 96 of the sole plate 72 generally curves toward the medial longitudinal plane 220 of the midfoot region 92. Thus, the sole plate 72 narrows in the midfoot region 92. The outer edge 208 of the medial side 96 of the sole plate 72 curves away from the medial longitudinal plane 220 between the midfoot region 92 and the forefoot region 90 on the medial side 96. Thus, the outer edge 208 of the medial side 96 defines a medial valley 250 within the midfoot region 92.

[0039] In some embodiments, the medial valley 250 is located entirely between the heel end 186 of the sole plate 72 and the first sole plate line 222. In some embodiments, the medial valley 250 is located between the first sole plate line 222 and the second sole plate line 224. In some embodiments, the medial valley 250 is located on the second sole plate line 224. Additionally, the sole plate 72 widens between the midfoot region 92 and the forefoot region 90. Within the forefoot region 90, the lateral edge 208 transitions from curving away from the medial longitudinal plane 220 to curving toward the medial longitudinal plane 220. Thus, the lateral edge 208 of the medial side 96 defines a medial crest 254. The medial crest 254 is located substantially in the forefoot region 90. In some embodiments, the medial crest 254 is located on the first sole plate line 222. In some embodiments, the inner ridge 254 is located between the toe tip 184 of the sole plate 72 and the first sole plate line 222 .

[0040] As shown in FIG. 9 , the first rib 188 and the second rib 190 extend from the forefoot region 90 through the midfoot region 92 and into the heel region 94. In some embodiments, the first rib 188 and the second rib 190 do not extend completely to the toe end 184 of the sole plate 72. The first rib 188 and the second rib 190 extend at one end to a point between the first sole plate line 222 and the toe end 184 of the sole plate 72. The first rib 188 and the second rib 190 extend at the other end to a point between the second sole plate line 224 and the heel end 186 of the sole plate 72. The first rib 188 and the second rib 190 do not extend completely to the heel end 186 of the sole plate 72. The third rib 204 is shown primarily in the forefoot region 90. In some embodiments, the third rib 204 is located completely between the first sole plate line 222 and the toe end 184 of the sole plate 72. In some embodiments, the third rib 204 follows the shape of the outer edge 208 of the sole plate 72. More specifically, the third rib 204 follows the first radius of curvature of the first valley 238 and the second radius of curvature of the second valley 242.

[0041] As shown in FIG. 9 , the first opening 196 is located substantially within the forefoot region 90 of the sole plate 72. In some embodiments, a majority of the first opening 196 is located between the first sole plate line 222 and the heel end 186 of the sole plate 72. In some embodiments, the first opening 196 is located completely between the first sole plate line 222 and the heel end 186 of the sole plate 72. In some embodiments, a minor section of the first opening 196 is located between the first sole plate line 222 and the second sole plate line 224. The second opening 200 is located within the midfoot region 92 and the heel region 94. In some embodiments, the second opening 200 is located completely between the first sole plate line 222 and the heel end 186 of the sole plate 72. In some embodiments, a majority of the second opening 200 is located between the second sole plate line 224 and the heel end 186 of the sole plate 72. In some embodiments, the first opening 196 is disposed between the first rib 188 and the second rib 190. In some embodiments, the second opening 200 is disposed between the first rib 188 and the second rib 190. In some embodiments, the first opening 196 and the second opening 200 are disposed substantially forward of the aft-most point 256 of the first rib 188, with forward being defined as closer to the toe end 184 of the sole plate 72. In some embodiments, the first opening 196 and the second opening 200 are disposed substantially forward of the aft-most point 258 of the second rib 190. In some embodiments, the first rib 188 and the second rib 190 are generally curved. In some embodiments, the first rib 188 and the second rib 190 are generally straight. In some embodiments, the first rib 188 and the second rib 190 are positioned differently relative to the first opening 196 and the second opening 200. Turning to Figure 10, a top view of the sole plate 72 is shown. Similar to Figure 9, the outer edge 208 of the sole plate 72, the first rib 188, the second rib 190, the third rib 204, the first opening 196, and the second opening 200 are shown.

[0042] As shown in FIG. 11 , the upper side 300 of the front midsole 74 includes a plurality of depressions 302. The first depression 304 of the front midsole 74 has a thickness substantially equal to the thickness of the sole plate 72. The second depression 306 has a thickness substantially equal to the thickness of the first rib 188 of the sole plate 72. Similarly, the third depression 308 has a thickness substantially equal to the thickness of the second rib 190 of the sole plate 72. The first depression 304 and the second depression 306 extend from a rear end 310 of the front midsole 74 toward a toe end 312 of the front midsole 74. The second depression 306 and the third depression 308 are generally curved in shape, and the depressions 306, 308 of the front midsole do not have a constant depth throughout. An outer edge 314 of the front midsole 74 extends upward from the upper side 300 of the front midsole 74 to form a front midsole lip 316. The front midsole lip 316 is located only on the lateral side 98, medial side 96, and toe end 312 of the front midsole 74. The rear end 310 of the front midsole 74 does not include the front midsole lip 316.

[0043] Turning to FIG. 12 , the underside 320 of the front midsole 74 is generally smooth. The underside 320 of the front midsole 74 is slightly thicker in the medial section 322 and the lateral section 324. In some embodiments, the front midsole 74 does not have any ridges on the lateral side 98 or the medial side 96. Referring to FIG. 13 , the front midsole 74 includes a notch 326. The notch 326 extends from the rear end 310 of the top midsole 70 toward the toe end 312 of the front midsole 74. The notch 326 continues generally along a central longitudinal plane 328, continuing between the second depression 306 of the front midsole 74 and the third depression 308 of the front midsole 74. The notch 326 is thickest at the rear end 310 of the top midsole 70 and tapers as it extends toward the toe end 312. Additionally, the outer edge 329 of the first recess 304 includes a plurality of peaks 330 and a plurality of valleys 332 on the outer side 98 of the first recess 304. The plurality of peaks 330 and the plurality of valleys 332 of the first recess 304 are generally the same as the plurality of peaks 230 (see FIG. 9 ) and the plurality of valleys 232 (see FIG. 9 ) of the sole plate 72.

[0044] 14 , the rear midsole 76 is shown in detail. The rear midsole 76 includes a plurality of medial ridges 400 on the medial side 96. The medial ridges 400 generally extend from a heel end 402 of the rear midsole 76 toward a fore end 404 of the rear midsole 76, the fore end 404 of the rear midsole 76 being defined as the distal end opposite the heel end 402 of the rear midsole 76. In some embodiments, the medial ridges 400 do not extend all the way to the heel end 402 of the rear midsole 76. In some embodiments, the medial ridges 400 do not extend all the way to the fore end 404 of the rear midsole 76. In some embodiments, the medial ridges 400 are different shapes and lengths from one another.

[0045] 14 , the outer edge 406 of the rear midsole 76 on the medial side 96, heel end 402, and lateral side 98 is raised upward relative to the remainder of the upper side 408 of the rear midsole 76, resulting in a lip 410 on the medial side 96, heel end 402, and lateral side 98 of the rear midsole 76. The front end 404 of the rear midsole 76 does not include the lip 410 of the rear midsole 76. The lip 410 of the rear midsole 76 is thickest on the lateral side 98 and medial side 96 of the rear midsole 76. In some embodiments, the medial section 412 of the rear midsole lip 410 is approximately the same as the lateral section 414 of the rear midsole lip 410.

[0046] Referring now to FIG. 15 , the underside 420 of the rear midsole 76 is shown. The underside 420 of the rear midsole 76 defines a gap 422. The gap 422 continues substantially along a central longitudinal plane 430 and extends upward and inward from the underside 420 of the rear midsole 76. The gap 422 of the rear midsole 76 extends completely from the heel end 402 of the rear midsole 76 to the fore end 404 of the rear midsole 76. The depth and width of the gap 422 vary. The gap 422 is widest at the fore end 404 and generally narrows toward the heel end 402. The underside 420 of the rear midsole 76 includes a first indentation 424 on the medial side 96 of the gap 422 and a second indentation 426 on the lateral side 98 of the gap 422.

[0047] As shown in FIG. 16 , the lower side 420 of the rear midsole 76 (see FIG. 15 ) is wider than the upper side 408 of the rear midsole 76 because the lateral side 98 of the lip 410 of the rear midsole 76 and the medial side 96 of the lip 410 of the rear midsole 76 taper inward as the lip 410 extends upward. The upper side 408 of the top midsole 70 includes a first recess 432, a second recess 434, and a third recess 436. The first recess 432 continues from the fore end 404 of the rear midsole 76 toward the heel end 402 of the rear midsole 76 but does not extend all the way to the heel end 402 of the rear midsole 76. A rear end 438 of the first recess 432 curves forward. The second recess 434 in the rear midsole 76 also continues from the fore end 404 of the rear midsole 76 toward the heel end 402 of the rear midsole 76, but does not extend all the way to the heel end 402 of the rear midsole 76. Furthermore, the rear end 440 of the second recess 434 does not extend beyond the rear end 438 of the first recess 432. The second recess 434 is deeper than the first recess 432 and has a generally curved shape. The third recess 436 extends from the fore end 404 toward the heel end 402 of the rear midsole 76. The third recess 436 does not extend all the way to the first recess 432 or the second recess 434. Furthermore, the third recess 436 is deeper than the first recess 432 and shallower than the second recess 434. Both the second recess 434 and the third recess 436 are disposed within the first recess 432, and both the second recess 434 and the third recess 436 have varying thicknesses.

[0048] 16 , the front end 404 of the rear midsole 76 extends to a point 446. The point 446 is located near the lateral side 98 of the rear midsole 76. The lateral side 98 of the rear midsole 76 is defined by a convex curve 448, and the medial side 96 of the rear midsole 76 is defined by a convex curve 450 and a concave curve 452. The point where the convex curve 450 of the medial side 96 meets the concave curve 452 of the medial side 96 defines an inflection point 454 of the rear midsole 76. Furthermore, the point where the convex curve 448 of the lateral side 98 meets the concave curve 452 of the medial side 96 defines the point 446 of the front end 404 of the rear midsole 76. In some embodiments, the point 446 of the rear midsole 76 defines the forward-most point of the rear midsole 76.

[0049] 16 , the heel end 402 of the rear midsole 76 includes a first heel crest 456, a second heel crest 458, and a heel valley 460 disposed between the first heel crest 456 and the second heel crest 458. The first heel crest 456 and the second heel crest 458 have generally the same shape. The radius of curvature of the first heel crest 456 and the second heel crest 458 are generally the same. The radius of curvature of the heel valley 460 is generally greater than the radius of curvature of the first heel crest 456 and the second heel crest 458.

[0050] 17 shows the underside 420 of the rear midsole 76. As previously mentioned, the underside 420 of the rear midsole 76 includes two indentations, a first indentation 424 and a second indentation 426. The first indentation 424 and the second indentation 426 are generally crescent-shaped. The first indentation 424 curves toward the lateral side 98 of the sole structure 64, and the second indentation 426 curves toward the lateral side 98 of the sole structure 64. In some embodiments, the second indentation 426 is more curved than the first indentation 424; i.e., the radius of curvature defined by the inner corner of the second indentation 426 is smaller than the radius of curvature defined by the outer corner of the first indentation 424. In some embodiments, the first indentation 424 is longer than the second indentation 426, the length being the maximum distance measured in a straight line from a first corner of the indentation to a second corner of the indentation, where the first corner is the corner located closest to the fore end 404 of the rear midsole 76 and the second corner is the corner located closest to the heel end 402 of the rear midsole 76. The first indentation 424 is disposed between the gap 422 and the lateral side 98 of the rear midsole 76, and the second indentation 426 is disposed between the gap 422 and the medial side 96 of the rear midsole 76. The first indentation 424 and the second indentation 426 do not extend all the way to the heel end 402 of the rear midsole 76 or all the way to the fore end 404 of the rear midsole 76.

[0051] Turning to FIG. 18 , a front view of the rear midsole 76 is shown. As previously described, the medial side 96 of the rear midsole 76 includes a plurality of medial ridges 400. Similarly, the lateral side 98 of the rear midsole 76 also includes a plurality of lateral ridges 466. The plurality of medial ridges 400 on the medial side 96 are substantially the same as the plurality of lateral ridges 466 on the lateral side 98. However, in some embodiments, the medial ridges 400 are different from the lateral ridges 466. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the lateral ridges 466 and the medial ridges 400 of the rear midsole 76 do not extend all the way to the front end 404 or the heel end 402 of the gap 422. The lip 410, gap 422, first indentation 424, second indentation 426, first indentation 424, and second indentation 426 of the rear midsole 76 are shown in more detail. As mentioned above, in some embodiments, the lip 410 of the rear midsole 76 curves inward toward the central longitudinal plane 430 as it extends upward. Figure 19 shows a rear view of the rear midsole 76. Like Figure 18, Figure 19 shows the medial ridge 400, lateral ridge 466, gap 422, first indentation 424, second indentation 426, first depression 432, and lip 410 of the rear midsole 76 in more detail.

[0052] As shown in FIG. 20 , the outsole 78 includes multiple sections 500. The first section 502 of the outsole 78, the second section 504 of the outsole 78, and the third section 506 of the outsole 78 are not directly connected to one another. Each of the sections 500 includes multiple openings 508. In some embodiments, the first section 502 of the outsole 78 is larger than the second section 504 of the outsole 78 and the third section 506 of the outsole 78. In some embodiments, the first section 502 of the outsole 78 includes more openings than the second section 504 of the outsole 78 and the third section 506 of the outsole 78. The toe end 510 of the outsole 78 curves upward, and the top of the toe end 510 of the outsole 78 curves backward.

[0053] 20 , the openings 508 in the first outsole section 502 are generally the same shape as the openings 508 in the second outsole section 504 and the third outsole section 506. In some embodiments, the openings 508 are tri-projection shaped. The openings 508 are not evenly distributed throughout the sections 502, 504, and 506. In some embodiments, the second outsole section 504 and the third outsole section 506 include a single row of openings 508. The second outsole section 504 includes more openings 508 than the third outsole section 506. The second outsole section 504 is larger than the third outsole section 506. The front end 518 of the second outsole section 504 is closer to the first outsole section 502 than the front end 520 of the third outsole section 506. Second outsole section 504 and third outsole section 506 are generally crescent shaped.

[0054] FIG. 21 shows a bottom view of the outsole 78. The first outsole section 502, the second outsole section 504, and the third outsole section 506 are shown in more detail. Additionally, the central longitudinal plane 522 of the outsole 78 is shown. The second outsole section 504 is disposed entirely on the lateral side 98 of the central longitudinal plane 522, and the third outsole section 506 is disposed entirely on the medial side 96 of the central longitudinal plane 522. Additionally, the first section 502 of the outsole 78 includes a notch 524 that extends generally along the central longitudinal plane 522 of the outsole 78. The notch 524 of the first section 502 extends from a rear end 526 of the first section 502 toward a toe end 528 of the first section 502, which is the same as the toe end 510 of the outsole 78. The notch 524 does not extend all the way to the toe end 528 of the first section 502. The notch 524 is thicker toward the rear end 526 of the first section 502 and tapers as it extends toward the toe end 528. In some embodiments, the notch 524 in the first section 502 of the outsole 78 is the same shape as the notch 326 in the front midsole 74.

[0055] 22 , which illustrates the entire sole structure 64, the top midsole 70 is disposed above the front midsole 74, with the toe tip 312 of the front midsole 74 extending beyond the toe tip 130 of the top midsole 70. Furthermore, the front midsole 74 is disposed above the outsole 78, with the toe tip 510 of the outsole 78 extending farther than the toe tip 312 of the front midsole 74. Additionally, as mentioned above, the toe tip 510 of the outsole 78 is the same as the toe tip 528 of the first section 502 of the outsole 78 and extends upward and rearward, such that the toe tip 510 of the outsole 78 surrounds the toe tip 312 of the front midsole 74. The top midsole 70 is disposed above the rear midsole 76. The lateral side 98 of the rear midsole 76 extends upwardly and surrounds some, but not all, of the lateral side 98 of the top midsole 70. More specifically, the lateral recess 140 of the top midsole 70 receives the lateral section 414 of the lip 410 of the rear midsole 76.

[0056] As shown in FIG. 23 and as described above, the outsole 78 includes multiple sections 500. The sections 500 of the outsole 78 are directly coupled to the front midsole 74 and the rear midsole 76. More specifically, the first section 502 of the outsole 78 is coupled to the front midsole 74, and the second section 504 and the third section 506 of the outsole 78 are coupled to the rear midsole 76. The medial side 96 of the rear midsole 76 is substantially the same as the lateral side 98 of the rear midsole 76 and extends upward to surround some, but not all, of the medial side 96 of the top midsole 70. More specifically, a recess on the medial side of the top midsole 70 receives the medial section 412 of the lip 410 of the rear midsole 76. Furthermore, the upper side 408 of the heel end 402 of the rear midsole 76 and the lower side 142 of the heel end 128 of the top midsole 70 are substantially aligned with each other. However, as previously mentioned, the upper side 136 of the heel end 128 of the top midsole 70 extends upwardly and outwardly from the lower side 142 of the heel end 128 of the top midsole 70. Thus, the upper side 136 of the heel end 128 of the top midsole 70 is not aligned with the heel end 128 of the lower side 142 of the top midsole 70 or the heel end 402 of the upper side 408 of the rear midsole 76.

[0057] 23 , the sole plate 72 is directly coupled to the rear midsole 76 and the front midsole 74, and the front midsole 74 is spaced apart from the rear midsole 76 to form a gap 600 between the front midsole 74 and the rear midsole 76. An underside 602 of the sole plate 72 is exposed in the gap 600 between the front midsole 74 and the rear midsole 76.

[0058] FIG. 24 further illustrates the medial side 96 of the sole structure 64. The ridge 150 of the top midsole 70 and the medial ridge 400 of the rear midsole 76 are shown in greater detail. Additionally, the toe end portion 510 of the outsole 78 is shown surrounding the toe end portion 312 of the front midsole 74. The outsole 78 is shown interfacing with the front midsole 74 and the rear midsole 76, with the sole plate 72 extending between the front midsole 74 and the rear midsole 76. Similar to FIG. 24, FIG. 25 illustrates the lateral side 98 of the sole structure 64. The lateral side 98 of the sole structure 64 is substantially the same as the medial side 96 of the sole structure 64.

[0059] Referring to FIG. 26 , a front view of the sole structure 64 is shown. The lateral portion of the front midsole 74 is directly bonded to the lower surface 142 of the top midsole 70. Additionally, as previously described, the first section 502 of the outsole 78 is bonded to the underside 320 of the front midsole 74. In some embodiments, the first section 502 of the outsole 78 does not cover the medial section 322 and the lateral section 324 of the front midsole 74. In some embodiments, the front midsole 74 includes two exposed sections. In some embodiments, the sections 322, 324 of the front midsole 74 are positioned toward the toe end 312 of the front midsole 74. The exposed sections 322, 324 of the front midsole 74 are positioned on the medial 96 and lateral 98 of the front midsole 74, respectively.

[0060] Turning to FIG. 27 , the top midsole 70 is directly coupled to the rear midsole 76. As previously described, the second outsole section 504 and the third outsole section 506 are directly coupled to the underside 420 of the rear midsole 76. In some embodiments, the second section 504 of the outsole 78 is disposed between the gap 422 and the lateral side 98 of the rear midsole 76, and the third section 506 of the outsole 78 is disposed between the gap 422 and the medial side 96 of the rear midsole 76. The second section 504 of the outsole 78 and the third section 506 of the outsole 78 do not cover all of the underside 420 of the rear midsole 76. The second section 504 of the outsole 78 and the third section 506 of the outsole 78 do not extend all the way to the heel end 402 of the rear midsole 76. In some embodiments, the first recess 424 of the rear midsole 76 receives the second section 504 of the outsole 78, and the second recess 426 of the rear midsole 76 receives the third section 506 of the outsole 78. In some embodiments, at some points in the heel region 94, the width of the top midsole 70 is smaller than the width of the rear midsole 76.

[0061] Referring now to FIG. 28 , the notch 326 in the front midsole 74 is the same as the notch 524 in the first section 502 of the outsole 78. Furthermore, apart from the exposed sections 322, 324 of the front midsole 74, the first section 502 of the outsole 78 and the front midsole 74 have substantially the same contours. Still referring to FIG. 28 , the sole plate 72 is disposed in the forefoot region 90, the midfoot region 92, and the heel region 94 of the sole structure 64. The first opening 196 in the sole plate 72 has the same shape as the notch 524 in the first section 502 of the outsole 78 and the notch 326 in the front midsole 74 and is fully positioned. The first opening 196 in the sole plate 72 exposes the underside 142 of the top midsole 70. In some embodiments, the second opening 200 in the sole plate 72 is disposed near a point 446 of the rear midsole 76.

[0062] In some embodiments, the second opening 200 of the sole plate 72 is disposed completely within the point 446 of the rear midsole 76. In some embodiments, the second opening 200 of the sole plate 72 is disposed partially within the point 446 of the rear midsole 76. In some embodiments, the second opening 200 of the sole plate 72 is not disposed entirely within the point 446 of the rear midsole 76. The second opening 200 is disposed closer to the toe end 606 of the sole structure 64 than any portion of the second section 504 of the outsole 78 and any portion of the third section 506 of the outsole 78. The forward-most end 608 of the second opening 200 of the sole plate 72 is disposed closer to the toe end 606 of the sole structure 64 than the forward-most end of the point 446 of the rear midsole 76. The heel end 186 of the sole plate 72 extends generally toward the heel end 612 of the sole structure 64, to the heel end 614 of the second section 504 of the outsole 78 and the heel end 616 of the third section 506 of the outsole 78. The toe end portion 184 of the sole plate 72 does not extend all the way to the toe end portion 510 of the outsole 78. As such, the toe end portion 184 of the sole plate 72 does not extend all the way to the toe end portion 528 of the first section 502 of the outsole 78 and the toe end portion 312 of the front midsole 74. The underside 602 of the sole plate 72 is exposed between the rear end 310 of the front midsole 74 and the forward end of the rear midsole 76.

[0063] 28 , the top midsole 70 is disposed within the forefoot region 90, the midfoot region 92, and the heel region 94 of the sole structure 64. The second top midsole line 122 defines the narrowest section 620 of the sole structure 64. The narrowest section 620 of the sole structure 64 is disposed within the midfoot region 92. In some embodiments, the top midsole 70 has generally the same shape as the front midsole 74 in the forefoot region 90, except for the notch 326 in the front midsole 74. In the midfoot region 92, the top midsole 70 generally defines the contours of the sole structure 64. To this end, the top midsole 70 is wider than the sole plate 72 in the midfoot region 92. At points where the top midsole 70 is joined to the rear midsole 76, the top midsole 70 is also wider than the rear midsole 76. At such points, the top midsole 70 defines the contours of the sole structure 64. At other points where the top midsole 70 is joined to the rear midsole 76, the rear midsole 76 is wider than the top midsole 70, and the top midsole 70 does not define the contours of the sole structure 64 at these points. Thus, the top midsole 70 does not define the contours of the sole structure 64 throughout the heel region 94. Furthermore, the top midsole 70 does not define the contours of the sole structure 64 throughout the area between the narrowest section 620 of the sole structure 64 and the heel end 612 of the sole structure 64.

[0064] 28 , the second section 504 of the outsole 78 is directly coupled to the rear midsole 76. The second section 504 of the outsole 78 is disposed on the lateral side 98 of the sole structure 64 and is primarily disposed in the heel region 94 of the sole structure 64. In some embodiments, the second section 504 of the outsole 78 is disposed between the narrowest section 620 of the sole structure 64 and the heel end 612 of the sole structure 64. The third section 506 of the outsole 78 is also directly coupled to the rear midsole 76. Furthermore, the third section 506 of the outsole 78 is primarily disposed on the medial side 96 of the sole structure 64 and in the heel region 94 of the sole structure 64. In some embodiments, the third section 506 of the outsole 78 is disposed between the narrowest section 620 of the sole structure 64 and the heel end 612 of the sole structure 64. The first indentation 424 of the rear midsole 76 receives the second section 504 of the outsole 78, and the second indentation 426 of the rear midsole 76 receives the third section 506 of the outsole 78. To this end, the first indentation 424 of the rear midsole 76 and the second section 504 of the outsole 78 have substantially the same shape. Similarly, the second indentation 426 of the rear midsole 76 and the third section 506 of the outsole 78 have substantially the same shape.

[0065] 28 , the third section 506 of the outsole 78 generally follows the convex curve 450 of the medial side 96 of the rear midsole 76. Additionally, in some embodiments, the third section 506 of the outsole 78 is positioned entirely rearward of the inflection point 454 of the medial side 96 of the rear midsole 76.

[0066] 29 , the contour of the upper side 136 of the top midsole 70 is shown. As previously mentioned, the top midsole 70 has the same lateral contour as the front midsole 74 in the forefoot region 90. The top midsole 70 is the widest component in the midfoot region 92, and as a result, the top midsole 70 defines the contour of the sole structure 64 in that region. In some respects, the rear midsole 76 is wider than the top midsole 70. In these respects, the rear midsole 76 defines the contour of the sole structure 64. In some embodiments, most of the contour of the sole structure 64 between the narrowest section 620 of the sole structure 64 and the heel end 612 of the sole structure 64 is defined by the rear midsole 76. Finally, as previously mentioned, the contour of the upper side 136 of the top midsole 70 is disposed closer to the central longitudinal plane 598 of the sole structure 64 than the contour of the lower side 142 of the top midsole 70.

[0067] FIG. 30 shows a side cross-sectional view of the sole structure 64 along the medial longitudinal plane 598, i.e., along line 30-30 in FIG. 28. As previously mentioned, the upper 62 is directly bonded to the upper side 136 of the top midsole 70. The lip 126 of the top midsole 70 surrounds the toe end portion 640 of the upper 62 and the heel end portion 642 of the upper 62. The sole plate 72 is shown bonded to the lower surface 142 of the top midsole 70. The toe end portion 184 of the sole plate 72 extends beyond the toe end portion 130 of the top midsole 70. The heel end portion 186 of the sole plate 72 does not extend to the heel end 128 of the top midsole 70. Additionally, the toe end portion 312 of the front midsole 74 extends farther than the toe end portion 184 of the sole plate 72 and the toe end portion 130 of the top midsole 70. Finally, the toe end portion 528 of the first section 502 of the outsole 78 extends farther than the toe end portion 312 of the front midsole 74, the toe end portion 184 of the sole plate 72, and the toe end portion 130 of the top midsole 70. Additionally, the sole plate 72 is disposed substantially within the front midsole 74 in the forefoot region 90, and the sole plate 72 is disposed substantially within the rear midsole 76 in the heel region 94. Thus, the first recess 304 of the front midsole 74 receives the sole plate 72, and the first recess 432 of the rear midsole 76 receives the sole plate 72.

[0068] FIG. 31 shows a rear cross-sectional view of the sole structure 64 in the forefoot region 90. Along line 31-31 in FIG. 28, the sole plate 72 is positioned substantially within the front midsole 74. In some embodiments, the sole plate 72 is positioned off-center toward the medial side 96 of the sole structure 64. The top midsole 70 is generally flat but includes a first rib 144 and a second rib 146 that result in a plurality of curved sections 644 of the top midsole. Similarly, the sole plate 72 is generally flat, and the sole structure 64 includes a plurality of ribs 180 that result in a plurality of curved sections 646 of the sole plate. Thus, the first rib 188 of the sole plate 72 receives the first rib 144 of the top midsole 70, and the second rib 190 of the sole plate 72 receives the second rib 146 of the top midsole 70. Additionally, although not shown, the third rib 204 of the sole plate 72 receives the third rib 148 of the top midsole 70. Additionally, the second recess 306 of the front midsole 74 and the third recess 308 of the front midsole 74 form a plurality of front midsole curved sections 648 that align the soleplate curved section 646 of the soleplate 72 and the top midsole curved section 644 of the top midsole 70. Thus, the second recess 306 of the front midsole 74 receives the first rib 188 of the soleplate 72, and the third recess 308 of the front midsole 74 receives the second rib 190 of the soleplate 72. The top midsole 70, the front midsole 74, and the first section 502 of the outsole 78 extend from the medial side 96 to the lateral side 98 of the sole structure 64.

[0069] FIG. 32 shows another rear cross-sectional view of sole structure 64 in the forefoot region 90. Top midsole 70 extends from medial side 96 to lateral side 98 along line 32-32 in FIG. 28 . Sole plate 72 is disposed within front midsole 74. Top midsole 70 is generally flat but includes first rib 144 and second rib 146, which result in a plurality of top midsole curved sections 650. Similarly, sole plate 72 is generally flat but includes a plurality of sole plate curved sections 652 formed by first rib 188 and second rib 190 of sole plate 72. Front midsole 74 is also generally flat but includes a plurality of front midsole curved sections 654 formed by second depressions 306 and third depressions 308. Sole plate 72 and front midsole 74 are discontinuous along a central longitudinal plane 598 of sole structure 64. The depth of the top midsole ribs 144, 146 of the top midsole 70 along line 32-32 in Figure 28 is greater than the depth of the top midsole ribs 144, 146 of the top midsole 70 along line 31-31 in Figure 28. As a result, the curved top midsole sections 650 of the top midsole 70 caused by the top midsole ribs 144, 146 along line 32-32 have a smaller radius of curvature than the curved top midsole sections 644 of the top midsole 70 along line 31-31 (see Figure 31). Therefore, the depth of the sole plate ribs 180 along line 32-32 in Figure 28 is greater than the depth of the sole plate ribs 180 along line 31-31 in Figure 28. Similarly, the depth of the front midsole recesses 306, 308 along line 32-32 in FIG. 28 is greater than the depth of the front midsole recesses 306, 308 along line 31-31 in FIG.To that end, the curved sections 652 of the sole plate 72 and the curved sections 654 of the front midsole 74 along line 32-32 in FIG. 28 define smaller radii of curvature than the curved sections 646 of the sole plate 72 and the curved sections 648 of the front midsole 74 along line 31-31 (see FIG. 31).

[0070] 32, the sole plate 72 is substantially centered within the front midsole 74 along line 32-32. The front midsole 74 is discontinuous along a central longitudinal plane 598, and the outsole 78 is discontinuous along the central longitudinal plane 598. The lower surface 142 of the top midsole 70-30 is the bottom-most surface of the sole structure 64 at some point along line 32-32 in FIG.

[0071] Figure 33 shows a rear cross-sectional view of sole structure 64 in midfoot region 92. Along line 33-33 in Figure 28, top midsole 70 extends from medial side 96 to lateral side 98. Sole plate 72 is disposed substantially within front midsole 74. Top midsole 70, sole plate 72, and front midsole 74 are generally flat. The depth of the top midsole ribs 144, 146, the depth of the sole plate ribs 180, and the depth of the front midsole recesses 306, 308 along line 33-33 in FIG. 28 is greater than the depth of the top midsole ribs 144, 146, the depth of the sole plate ribs 180, and the depth of the front midsole recesses 306, 308 along line 32-32, and the depth of the top midsole ribs 144, 146, the depth of the sole plate ribs 180, and the depth of the front midsole recesses 306, 308 along line 31-31, respectively. As a result, the curved section 656 of the top midsoles caused by the top midsole ribs 144, 146 along line 33-33 has a smaller radius of curvature than the curved section 650 of the top midsole along line 32-32 (see FIG. 32) and the curved section 644 of the top midsole along line 31-31 (see FIG. 31). Similarly, the curved section 658 of the soleplates caused by the soleplate ribs 180 along line 33-33 has a smaller radius of curvature than the curved section 652 of the soleplate along line 32-32 (see FIG. 32) and the curved section 646 of the soleplate along line 31-31 (see FIG. 31). Finally, the front midsole curved sections 660 caused by the front midsole depressions 306, 308 along line 33-33 have a smaller radius of curvature than the front midsole curved sections 654 along line 32-32 (see FIG. 32) and the front midsole curved sections 648 along line 31-31 (see FIG. 31).

[0072] 33 , the sole plate 72 is substantially centered within the front midsole 74 along line 33-33. The front midsole 74 is discontinuous along a central longitudinal plane 598 of the sole structure 64. The outsole 78 is discontinuous along the central longitudinal plane 598 of the sole structure 64. Because the front midsole 74 and the outsole 78 are discontinuous along the central longitudinal plane 598, the underside 602 of the sole plate 72 is the bottom surface of the sole structure 64 along the central longitudinal plane 598 of the sole structure 64.

[0073] Any of the embodiments described herein can be modified to include any of the structures or methods disclosed in connection with different embodiments. Furthermore, the disclosure is not limited to the types of footwear specifically shown. Furthermore, the footwear aspects of any of the embodiments disclosed herein may be modified to function with any type of footwear, apparel, or other athletic equipment.

[0074] As previously mentioned, while the present disclosure has been described above with reference to particular embodiments and examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present disclosure is not necessarily so limited, and that numerous other embodiments, examples, uses, modifications, and deviations from the embodiments, examples, and uses are intended to be encompassed by the claims appended hereto. The entire disclosure of each patent and publication cited herein is incorporated by reference as if each such patent or publication were individually incorporated by reference. Various features and advantages of the present disclosure are set forth in the following claims. [Industrial Applicability]

[0075] Numerous modifications to the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the foregoing description. Accordingly, this description is to be construed as illustrative only and is presented for the purpose of enabling one skilled in the art to make and use the present disclosure. The exclusive rights to all modifications that come within the scope of the appended claims are reserved.

Claims

1. 1. An article of footwear having a sole structure and an upper, the article defining a widest section, a narrowest section, a toe end, a heel end, a lateral side, and a medial side, The sole structure includes: a top midsole directly bonded to the upper; a sole plate directly connected to the top midsole; a front midsole directly coupled to the top midsole and the sole plate between the toe end of the sole structure and the widest section of the sole structure; a rear midsole directly connected to the top midsole and the sole plate between the heel end of the sole structure and the narrowest section of the sole structure; an outsole defining a ground-engaging surface and directly coupled to the front midsole and the rear midsole; the front midsole is spaced laterally forward from the rear midsole to provide a gap between the front midsole and the rear midsole; An underside of the sole plate is exposed in the gap between the front midsole and the rear midsole.

2. 2. The footwear of claim 1, wherein the soleplate includes a plurality of peaks and a plurality of valleys on the outside of an outer edge of the soleplate between the widest section of the soleplate and the toe end of the soleplate.

3. the plurality of peaks of the sole plate includes at least three peaks; The article of footwear of claim 2 , wherein the plurality of valleys in the sole plate includes at least two valleys.

4. the outsole includes a first outsole section, a second outsole section, and a third outsole section; the first outsole section is directly coupled to an underside of the front midsole; the second outsole section is directly coupled to the outer side of the underside of the rear midsole; 2. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the third outsole section is directly coupled to the medial side of the underside of the rear midsole.

5. the front midsole includes a notch; the first outsole section includes a notch; the sole plate includes a first opening; 5. The article of footwear of claim 4, wherein the notch in the front midsole, the notch in the first outsole section, and the first opening in the sole plate are aligned with one another.

6. the second outsole section and the third outsole section are directly coupled to an underside of the rear midsole; the second outsole section is disposed on the outer side of the underside of the rear midsole; the third outsole section is disposed on the medial side of the underside of the rear midsole; 5. The article of footwear of claim 4, wherein the rear midsole includes a gap disposed between the second outsole section and the third outsole section.

7. the top midsole includes a plurality of ribs; the sole plate includes a plurality of ribs; the front midsole includes a plurality of depressions; the plurality of recesses of the front midsole receive the plurality of ribs of the sole plate; The article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of ribs of the sole plate receive the plurality of ribs of the top midsole.

8. the toe tip of the outsole surrounds the toe tip of the front midsole; the toe tip of the front midsole surrounds the toe tip of the sole plate; 2. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the toe tip of the sole plate, the toe tip of the front midsole, and the toe tip of the outsole extend forward of the toe tip of the top midsole.

9. the front midsole includes a convex portion and a concave portion on the medial side and a convex portion on the lateral side; the medial recess is positioned closer to a toe tip of the sole structure than the medial protrusion, The point of the rear midsole is formed where the convex portion on the lateral side and the concave portion on the medial side meet, the point of the rear midsole extends further toward the toe end than the remainder of the rear midsole; The article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein the point of the rear midsole is located primarily on the lateral side of the sole structure.

10. the outer side of the top midsole includes a recess; The medial side of the top midsole includes a recess; the rear midsole includes a lip on an outer edge of the rear midsole; the recess on the outer side of the top midsole receives the lip of the rear midsole; The article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein the recess on the medial side of the top midsole receives the lip of the rear midsole.

11. 1. An article of footwear having a sole structure and an upper, the article defining a widest section, a narrowest section, a toe end, a heel end, a lateral side, and a medial side, The sole structure includes: a top midsole directly bonded to the upper; a sole plate directly connected to the top midsole; a front midsole directly coupled to the top midsole and the sole plate between the toe end of the sole structure and the widest section of the sole structure; a rear midsole directly connected to the top midsole and the sole plate between the heel end of the sole structure and the narrowest section of the sole structure; an outsole defining a ground-engaging surface and directly coupled to the front midsole and the rear midsole; The narrowest section of the sole structure is defined by the narrowest section of the top midsole.

12. the outsole includes a first outsole section; the first outsole section is directly coupled to an underside of the front midsole; the lower side of the front midsole includes an inner exposed section and an outer exposed section, Footwear according to claim 11, wherein the medial exposed section and the lateral exposed section are the lower sections of the front midsole that are not directly connected to the first outsole.

13. the sole plate includes a first rib and a second rib; a front end of the first rib and a front end of the second rib each extend to a point between the widest section of the sole structure and the toe end of the sole structure; 12. The article of footwear of claim 11, wherein the rear end of the first rib and the rear end of the second rib each extend to a point between the narrowest section of the sole structure and the heel end of the sole structure.

14. the sole plate includes a third rib; 14. The article of footwear of claim 13, wherein the third rib is disposed entirely between the widest section of the sole structure and the toe end of the sole structure.

15. 12. The article of footwear of claim 11, wherein the heel end of the sole plate is generally aligned with the heel end of the outsole.

16. the top midsole includes a plurality of medial ridges and a plurality of lateral ridges; 12. The article of footwear of claim 11, wherein the rear midsole includes a plurality of medial ridges and a plurality of lateral ridges.

17. 12. The article of footwear of claim 11, wherein the toe end of the sole structure extends beyond the toe end of the upper.

18. 1. An article of footwear having a sole structure and an upper, the article defining a widest section, a narrowest section, a toe end, a heel end, a lateral side, and a medial side, The sole structure includes: a top midsole directly bonded to the underside of the upper; a sole plate directly bonded to the underside of the top midsole; a front midsole directly coupled to the underside of the top midsole and the underside of the sole plate between the toe end of the sole structure and the widest section of the sole structure; a rear midsole directly connected to the underside of the top midsole and the underside of the sole plate between the heel end of the sole structure and the narrowest section of the sole structure; an outsole defining a ground-engaging surface and coupled directly to an underside of the front midsole and an underside of the rear midsole; the outsole includes a first outsole section directly connected to the underside of the front midsole, a second outsole section directly connected to the underside of the rear midsole on the lateral side of the sole structure, and a third outsole section directly connected to the underside of the rear midsole on the medial side of the sole structure, The second outsole section is longer than the third outsole section.

19. The inner side of the outer edge of the rear midsole includes a convex portion and a concave portion, an outer side of the outer edge of the rear midsole includes a convex portion; the second outsole section is curved, and the third outsole section is curved; the curvature of the second outsole section is substantially the same as the convex portion on the outer side of the outer edge of the rear midsole, Footwear according to claim 18, wherein the curvature of the third outsole section is substantially the same as the convex portion on the medial side of the outer edge of the rear midsole.

20. the medial side of the outer edge of the rear midsole includes a transition point; 20. The article of footwear of claim 19, wherein the third outsole section is disposed entirely between the transition point and the heel end of the sole structure.

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