Footwear products with a closure system

Abstract

This relates to the field of footwear equipped with closure systems and flaps for stability. [Solution] The footwear product comprises a flexible upper, sole, bite line, heel area, forefoot area, medial side, lateral side, and flap. The flap can be formed from leather, fabric, carbon fiber, thermosetting resin, thermoplastic resin, or self-reinforcing polymer composite material. The footwear product is secured using a closure system that can be tightened or loosened. The flap is attached to the footwear product in close proximity to the bite line and is configured to interact with the closure system. The closure system secures the flap to the upper when the closure system is tightened.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to the field of footwear. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to the field of footwear with a closure system (closure system) and a flap for stability.

Background Art

[0002] The prior art of this invention includes the following.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Patent Document 3

Patent Document 4

Summary of the Invention

[0004] The following presents a simplified summary of the present disclosure in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the present disclosure. This summary is not an extensive overview of the disclosure. It is not intended to identify key elements of the disclosure or to delineate the scope of the disclosure. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of the disclosure in a simplified form as a prelude to a more detailed description presented elsewhere.

[0005] In one embodiment, the footwear product may have a sole comprising a flexible upper, an outsole and a midsole, a bite line, a heel area, and a forefoot area. The footwear product may have a medial side extending from the forefoot area to the heel area. The footwear product may have a lateral side extending from the forefoot area to the heel area, the lateral side being opposite to the medial side and generally parallel to the medial side. The footwear product may further have a closure system for securing the footwear, which can be tightened or loosened. The footwear product may further have at least one flap coupled to the footwear product adjacent to the bite line. The closure system may be configured to interact with the flap, and when tightened, the closure system may be configured to secure the flap to the upper.

[0006] In other embodiments, the footwear product may have a sole comprising a flexible upper, an outsole and a midsole, a bite line, a heel area, and a forefoot area. The footwear product may have an inner side extending from the forefoot area to the heel area. The footwear product may have an outer side extending from the forefoot area to the heel area, the outer side being opposite to the inner side and generally parallel to the inner side. The footwear product may further have a closure system having laces and lace guides, the laces being passed through at least one lace guide positioned close to the bite line. The footwear product may further have at least one flap attached to the footwear product close to the bite line.

[0007] In further embodiments, the footwear product may have a sole comprising a flexible upper, outsole and midsole, a bite line, a heel region, and a forefoot region. The footwear product may have an inner side extending from the forefoot region to the heel region. The footwear product may have an outer side extending from the forefoot region to the heel region, the outer side being opposite to the inner side and generally parallel to the inner side. The footwear product may further have an adjustable closure system and a flap. The flap may have a forefoot end, a heel end, and a top point. The flap may be coupled to the footwear product adjacent to the bite line. The flap may be variable between an engaged position and a relaxed position. In the engaged position, the flap may provide lateral support to the midfoot region of the footwear product. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] The novel techniques characterizing this invention are shown in the appended claims. However, preferred embodiments of this invention, along with other objects and incidental effects, are best understood by referring to the following detailed description associated with the appended drawings. [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a side view of a footwear product according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a side view of the footwear product of Figure 1 according to another embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a side view of the footwear product of Figure 1 according to another embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a side view of the footwear product of Figure 1 according to another embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a bottom view of the footwear product shown in Figure 1, according to one embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a side view of the opposite side of a footwear product according to one embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a side view of the footwear product of Figure 1, but opposite, according to another embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a top perspective view of a footwear product according to one embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a top perspective view of a footwear product according to another embodiment. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a rear view of a footwear product according to one embodiment. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is an exploded perspective view of a footwear product according to one embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] This invention is more fully described with reference to the accompanying drawings illustrating embodiments of the invention. However, this invention should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments described herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided to fully convey the scope of this invention to those skilled in the art, ensuring that this disclosure is sufficient and complete. In the drawings, similar figures refer to similar elements throughout. The thickness and dimensions of some elements may be exaggerated for clarity.

[0010] The terms used herein are for the sole purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the invention. Where used herein, singular forms ("a," "an," and "the") are intended to include plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0011] When an element is said to be “attached,” “coupled,” or “connected” to another element, it may be directly attached, coupled, or connected to the other element, or there may be an intermediary element. In contrast, when an element is said to be “directly attached,” “directly coupled,” or “directly connected” to another element, there is no intermediary element.

[0012] Note that any one or more aspects or features described with respect to an embodiment, although not specifically described in relation thereto, may be incorporated into different embodiments. That is, all aspects and / or features of any embodiment can be combined in any manner and / or combination. The applicant reserves the right to amend the originally filed claims or to file new claims accordingly. This includes the right to amend the originally filed claims to depend on and / or incorporate the functions of other claims, even though they were not originally claimed in that manner. These and other objects and / or aspects of this invention are described in detail in the specification set forth below.

[0013] The footwear product 10 is shown in FIGS. 1 - 10 and includes a flexible upper 100 and a sole 110. As shown in FIG. 1, the footwear product 10 may further include a heel region 130, a forefoot region 140, a closure system 150, and a flap 160.

[0014] The heel region 130 generally corresponds to the rear part of the foot, i.e., the area around and under the Achilles tendon, the rear part of the heel, and the talus and calcaneus bones. The forefoot region 140 generally corresponds to the front part of the foot, i.e., the toes and the midfoot bones, phalanges, and sesamoid bones. The midfoot region 135 generally corresponds to the center of the foot, i.e., the arch and the navicular, cuboid, and cuneiform bones. Note that the heel region 130, the midfoot region 135, and the forefoot region 140 are intended to represent general regions of the footwear and are not intended to distinguish exact regions.

[0015] The footwear product 10 may include a medial side extending from the forefoot region 140 to the heel region 130 and a lateral side extending from the forefoot region 140 to the heel region 130. The lateral side and the medial side may be opposite to each other. In some embodiments, the lateral side and the medial side may generally be parallel to each other. The lateral side may generally correspond to a surface facing the outer region of the foot and the side opposite to the user's other foot. The medial side may generally correspond to a surface facing the inner region of the foot and the side facing the user's other foot.

[0016] The upper 100 may include an inner surface 102 and an outer surface 104. The inner surface 102 may partially form a region configured to receive the user's foot. The upper 100 may be configured to extend over the user's foot, along the inner and outer sides of the foot, and around the forefoot and heel regions of the foot. The region configured to receive the user's foot may be accessed from the ankle opening formed by the collar 106.

[0017] The upper 100 can be constructed from any suitable material known currently or developed later, which includes, but is not limited to, leather, suede, fabric, canvas, woven fabric, knit, artificial polymer fibers, nylon, polyester, or cotton. The upper 100 may be elastic. Alternatively, at least a part of the upper 100 may be elastic. In other embodiments, the upper 100 may be non-elastic. At least a part of the upper 100 may be non-flexible, rigid or semi-rigid.

[0018] The upper 100 may further include a heel counter 132 in the heel region 130. The heel counter 132 can reinforce the upper 100 and limit the movement of the user's heel. The heel counter 132 may wrap around the heel region 130 and extend forward along both the lateral side and the medial side.

[0019] The sole 110 may include an outsole 112, a midsole 114, and an insole 116. The sole 110 may be bonded to the upper 100 by a bite line 105. The sole 110 may be configured to dampen forces or to provide support or cushioning. In some embodiments, the midsole 114 may be formed from a compressible material that provides cushioning. In other embodiments, the midsole 114 may include a plate or be formed from a high-density material to enhance stability.

[0020] The outsole 112 may be located beneath the midsole 114 and may be designed to interact with the ground. The outsole 112 may be designed to provide traction. In some embodiments, spikes, cleats, or other devices for additional traction may be attached to the outsole 112. Such devices may be detachably attached to the outsole 112. In other embodiments, such devices may be permanently attached to the outsole 112. In some embodiments, the outsole 112 may consist of a plurality of pads or protrusions, as shown in Figure 5.

[0021] The insole 116 may be designed to provide cushioning or comfort to the user. The insole 116 may be removable and may be positioned above the midsole 114 during use. In some embodiments, the insole 116 may be designed to provide support. The insole 116 may be flexible, semi-rigid, or rigid.

[0022] The footwear product 10 may include a closure system 150. The closure system 150 may be any suitable closure system known in the art or to be developed later. In one embodiment, the closure system 150 may include a shoelace for securing the upper 100 around the user's foot. In another embodiment, the closure system 150 may further include at least one elastic gore, as a result, the user can pull the upper 100 close to the bump 120 and collar 106 to enlarge the ankle opening and facilitate the positioning of the foot within the upper 100 of the footwear product 10.

[0023] In further embodiments, the closure system 150 may include an adjustable lacing system using at least one lace 152, an adjustable dial 154, and a lace guide 156. For example, the closure system 150 may be a shoelacing system such as that described in U.S. Patent No. 10,070,695, which is incorporated herein by reference. In other embodiments, the closure system 150 does not utilize the adjustable dial 154 to control the tension of the lace 152, and such tension may be increased or decreased by other means. Increasing the tension may tighten the lace 152, and decreasing the tension may loosen the lace 152. The lace 152 can be fastened in any way currently known or to be developed later. In some embodiments, the lace 152 may be fastened by tying the ends of the lace 152 together.

[0024] The lace 152 may be an elastic lace. In some embodiments, the lace 152 is a wire. As the tension of the lace 152 increases, the lace 152 can secure the upper 100 around the user's foot. The lace 152 can be selectively adjusted using an adjustable dial 154. The tension of the lace 152 can be decreased using the adjustable dial 154 to allow the user to position their foot at least partially inside the upper 100. The user can increase the tension on the lace 152 using the adjustable dial 154 to tighten the lace 152 and secure the upper 100 around the user's foot.

[0025] The lace guide 156 may be a loop that allows the lace 152 to slide through the loop when tension is increased or decreased using an adjustable dial 154. In some embodiments, the lace guide 156 is low friction. The lace guide 156 may be attached to the upper 100 at strategic points that allow the user to secure the upper 100 to their foot. The lace guide 156 may be strategically positioned so that the lace 152 does not cause discomfort to the user when tightened. The placement of the lace guide 156 may help stabilize the foot. In some embodiments, the placement of the closure system 150 and the lace guide 156 may dampen forces acting on the user's foot, such as pressure, shear force, ground force, etc., or flexion or movement performance.

[0026] As shown in Figures 1-4, in some embodiments, the race 152 may be located on the upper 100 and configured to interact with the outer surface 104 of the upper. The race 152 may be visible in whole or in part. In other embodiments, a race guide 156 may be positioned so that the race 152 does not come into direct contact with the upper 100.

[0027] In other embodiments, the lace 152 may be located between the outer surface 104 and the inner surface 102 of the upper. In such embodiments, there may be a channel for the lace between the outer surface 104 and the inner surface 102 of the upper. The lace guide 156 may also be located between the outer surface 104 and the inner surface 102 of the upper.

[0028] In some embodiments, a portion of the lace 152 may be located between the outer surface 104 of the upper and the inner surface 102 of the upper, and a portion of the lace 152 may be located above the outer surface 104 of the upper.

[0029] In embodiments in which at least a portion of the lace 152 is above the outer surface 104 of the upper, the upper 100 may optionally be provided with grooves (not shown) to facilitate the positioning of the lace 152 when the adjustable dial 154 is tightened. The grooves secure the lace 152 when the adjustable dial 154 is tightened, and the grooves secure the lace 152, preventing the lace 152 from slipping or being tightened in an undesirable place that could affect the force acting on the footwear product or the user's foot. The grooves may also provide a reliable position for the lace 152 so that the user does not need to readjust the lace 152.

[0030] As shown in Figure 10, the adjustable dial 154 may be located at the rear of the footwear product 10 in the heel region 130. In some embodiments, the adjustable dial may generally be located midway between the collar 106 and the bite line 105. The rearward position of the adjustable dial 154 of the footwear product 10 is beneficial because force is applied when adjusting the tension of the laces 152. Placing the adjustable dial 154 in the heel region 130 may improve the stability of the footwear product 10.

[0031] The placement of the adjustable dial 154 may provide increased stability when downward pressure is applied to the sole 110. The placement of the adjustable dial 154 may also increase the degree of freedom of movement when downward pressure is lifted. The strategic placement of the lace guide 156 can enhance stability when downward pressure is applied to the sole 110 and increase the degree of freedom of movement when downward pressure is lifted. In some embodiments, the laces 152 may cross in an X pattern close to the forefoot area. The X pattern configuration may provide greater mechanical advantages. In some embodiments, the combination of the adjustable dial 154 and the strategic placement of the lace guide 156 in the heel area 130 can improve stability when downward pressure is applied to the sole and increase the degree of freedom of movement when downward pressure is lifted or when the forefoot area 140 is flexed. The flexion of the forefoot area 140 may be dorsal flexion.

[0032] When downward pressure is lifted, slack is introduced in the laces 152 if there is flexion in the forefoot region 140. In some embodiments, slack can be introduced without further adjustment of the tension of the closure system 150. Thus, the lace configuration can be automatically adjusted so that slack is introduced when there is flexion in the forefoot region 140 and the laces 152 become taut when downward pressure is applied to the sole 110. When the user puts their foot in, the airtightness of the laces 152 increases, thereby further stabilizing the footwear product 10. The taut laces 152 engage with the flap 160 as will be further described below, thereby adding stability against lateral loads. This will result in a footwear product 10 with improved stability when the user's foot is put in and improved freedom of movement when downward pressure is lifted and the forefoot is flexed. Such a footwear product 10 can be comfortable for the user to walk or engage in other walking activities while improving stability when the user's foot is put in.

[0033] In some embodiments, the adjustable dial 154 may be coupled to the upper 100 in a position close to the eye stay 122. In other embodiments, the adjustable dial may be coupled to the upper 100 at the quarter of the footwear product 10.

[0034] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 8, at least one race guide 156 may be positioned near the eye stay 122.

[0035] The lace 152 may be coupled to an adjustable dial 154 at a first end and to a lace anchor 158 at a second end. The lace anchor 158 may be coupled to the footwear product 10 adjacent to the bite line 105. In some embodiments, the lace anchor 158 is fixedly coupled to the footwear product 10. In some embodiments, the lace guide 156 may be coupled to the bite line 105 adjacent to the flap 160. In some embodiments, the lace guide 156 and / or the lace anchor 158 can be coupled to the flap 160 anywhere. For example, the lace guide 156 and the lace anchor 158 may be coupled to the flap 160 in the upper, middle, or lower region of the flap. The positions of the lace guide 156 and the lace anchor 158 are independent of each other and do not need to be in the same region.

[0036] The footwear product 10 may include at least one flap 160. In some embodiments, each shoe of a pair of shoes may be equipped with a flap 160. The flap 160 may benefit the user by further stabilizing at least a portion of the footwear product 10 and reducing the effects of shear forces when worn. When engaged, the flap 160 stabilizes a region of the footwear product 10 and creates a tightening effect that distributes applied pressure to a desired region of the footwear.

[0037] The flap 160 may be rigid or semi-rigid. The amount of stabilization provided by the flap 160 may vary depending on its rigidity, with increased rigidity providing a greater stabilization effect. In some embodiments, the flap 160 may have non-uniform rigidity. For example, the flap 160 may have regions of increased rigidity, such as the bite line and the region near it. In some embodiments, the flap may have a rigidity gradient, where the point of highest rigidity is near the bite line and the point of lowest rigidity is at the uppermost point 162. The rigidity may be varied by increasing the thickness of the material where increased rigidity is desired (e.g., by adding an additional layer of material). In some embodiments, the flap 160 may be flexible.

[0038] The flap 160 can be formed from leather, fabric, carbon fiber, thermosetting resin, thermoplastic resin, or any suitable material currently known or to be developed that has optimal rigidity. In some embodiments, the flap 160 has a self-reinforcing polymer composite material. Self-reinforcing polymer composite materials are commonly known in the composite materials industry and refer to fiber-reinforced composite materials having reinforcing fibers and a polymer matrix, where the highly oriented reinforcing fibers are manufactured from the same polymer from which the matrix is ​​made. For example, a polypropylene matrix can be reinforced with polypropylene fibers. Different thermoplastic polymers can be used, for example, including polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polymethyl methacrylate, liquid crystal polymers, polylactic acid, and polyamides. Self-reinforcing polymer composites are commercially available and sold under trademarks such as Pure® (DITBV and MillikenUSA (formerly Lankhorst Pure Composites, Netherlands)), Armordon® (Don & Low, Ltd., Scotland, UK), and Curv® (Propex Furnishing Solutions GmbH & Co. KG (Gronau, Germany)).

[0039] Self-reinforced composite materials can be manufactured using a variety of techniques, including hot compression and co-extrusion. Generally, hot compression refers to a method of heating a highly oriented polymer tape. Heating causes a small portion of the polymer tape to melt. When pressure is applied, this molten polymer flows through the lattice structure of the tape, forming a continuous matrix. The sheet is then cooled under pressure to solidify the matrix. The fiber drawing process achieves higher stiffness as the surface of the fibers melts. The molten skin recrystallizes to form a polymer matrix, producing a very hard and smooth composite sheet. This stiff sheet can then be thermoformed to form flaps constructed according to one or more embodiments described herein.

[0040] In a co-extrusion process, a highly oriented polymer tape is extruded using a high-melting-point grade polymer. During this process, a low-melting-point grade of the same polymer family is extruded onto the surface of the tape. These tapes can then be woven to form a fabric. During post-processing into molded parts and articles, the outer layer of the tape melts before the inner core of the oriented polymer. Under pressure, the low-melting-point grade polymer flows throughout the fabric. Upon cooling, this low-melting-point polymer re-solidifies to form a composite matrix, producing a composite sheet.

[0041] These self-reinforced composite materials are lightweight and possess high strength. Other advantageous properties include, for example, high rigidity, high tensile strength, and outstanding impact resistance. Because the reinforcing fibers and matrix are made of the same polymer, they are chemically compatible and less prone to interfacial fracture.

[0042] Specifically, these self-reinforced composite materials have a low density, preferably about 1.0 g / cm³. 3 Less than, more preferably 0.95 g / cm³ 3 It is less than (when measured according to ISO 1183). The combination of highly oriented tape and matrix made from the same polymer helps to provide a lightweight material with excellent physical properties such as strength, toughness, and modulus of elasticity.

[0043] Composite materials also possess high impact strength. The Charpy impact strength is 90 kJ / m². 2 More preferably, exceeding 100 kJ / m³ 2 More preferably, exceeding 110 kJ / m³ 2 The tensile strain to fracture (measured according to EN ISO 179 / 2) is preferably at least 10%. The compressive strength (flatwise) (measured according to EN ISO 604) is preferably greater than 200 MPa, and preferably greater than 250 MPa.

[0044] Composite materials are ductile materials that maintain their ductility at low temperatures. This means they retain their toughness and do not become brittle at low temperatures. Furthermore, these composite materials are easily recyclable because the reinforcing materials are made of the same polymer as the polymer matrix. Since composite materials are entirely made of thermoplastic plastic, their components can be disassembled, remelted, and then re-granulated for use in creating new parts.

[0045] These self-reinforcing polymer composite materials and methods for manufacturing them are described, for example, in U.S. Patents 9,873,239; 8,871,333; 8,268,439; 8,052,913; and 8,021,592 (Ward et al., Propex); U.S. Patent 7,318,961 (Loos et al., Lankhurst); U.S. Patent 7,960,024 (Nair et al.); and U.S. Patent 7,300,691 (Callaway, Milliken).

[0046] Curv®, a polypropylene self-reinforced composite material available from Propex Furnishing Solughes GmbH & Co.KG (Gronau, Germany), is a particularly preferred material. Curv® composites are based on highly stretched tapes made of polypropylene homopolymer. A precisely controlled heating process heats the polypropylene tape, melting only the thin outer layer. The outer molten material binds the tape, maintaining its orientation for most of its thickness. Curv® composites can be molded using a thermoforming process to form a base. Because Curv® composites have relatively high rigidity even at molding temperatures, moderate pressure is required to form the material. In one process, a sheet of Curv® composite is heated to a moderate temperature that keeps the sheet's shrinkage low. Curv® composites are formed by compression molding under moderate pressure. Because Curv® composites are highly rigid, vacuum thermoforming is not used.

[0047] The flap 160 may have any shape. As shown in Figures 1-4, the flap 160 may have a substantially semicircular shape. The flap 160 is intended to be substantially semicircular, triangular, oval, or rectangular. In some embodiments, it is expected that the flap 160 may have an irregular shape. The flap 160 may have rounded or sharp edges. The flap 160 may have a top point 162, a heel end 164, and a forefoot end 166. In some embodiments, the flap 160 is entirely within the midfoot region 135. In other embodiments, the heel end 164 may extend into the heel region 130 or the forefoot end 166 may extend into the forefoot region 140. In other embodiments, the forefoot end 166 is generally located behind the forefoot flexion region. The flap 160 may have a width that is generally uniform throughout the flap. Alternatively, the flap 160 may have a variable width to enhance stability. In some embodiments, the width of the flap 160 may be thicker near the bite line 105 and tapered towards the uppermost point 162. The flap 160 may have grooves to facilitate proper placement of the race 152.

[0048] The flap 160 may be configured to provide lateral support when downward pressure is applied to the sole 110. The closure system 150 can engage with the flap 160 by pushing or pulling it toward the center of the footwear product 10. When the flap 160 is engaged internally, the closure system 150 can push or pull the flap 160 inward toward outward. When the flap 160 is engaged externally, the closure system 150 can push or pull the flap inward toward inward. Engaging the flap 160 prevents the upper 100 from twisting around the user's foot and prevents the foot from sliding linearly inward and outward within the footwear product 10.

[0049] Flap 160 can provide stability for various types of biomechanical movements. For example, in the biomechanics related to a golf club swing, weight needs to shift rapidly from the back foot to the front foot. Shear forces are applied to both feet throughout the swing. During the backswing, the back foot needs to be stable. Improper weight shifting on the back foot can result in improper contact with the ball. Furthermore, biomechanics can cause the back foot to roll outward or deviate from its initial position. This can reduce weight transfer and lead to a loss of rotation. During the downswing, weight shifts to the front foot. The front foot needs to be relatively stable. Increasing foot stability can improve the effectiveness and quality of the golf swing.

[0050] When the flaps 160 of the pair of shoes are engaged, the feet remain further secured within each shoe, preventing them from moving while swinging the golf club. Thus, when the flaps 160 are engaged, the feet are also more easily positioned. During the backswing, the flaps 160 stabilize the trailing foot by reducing abduction and external rotation. By reducing abduction and external rotation of the rear foot, the user can place more load on the leg muscles of the rear hip, thereby increasing the separation between the hip and shoulder before the downswing.

[0051] The flap 160 is thought to be able to stabilize desired parts of the foot for various activities, and there is no intention to limit the usefulness of the current disclosure. For example, the flap 160 can stabilize at least a portion of the medial metatarsal region.

[0052] As shown in Figure 11, the flap 160 may be attached to the footwear product 10 at the bite line 105. In these embodiments, by adding lateral rigidity to the bite line region when the flap 160 is engaged, the flap 160 reduces the effect of mid-lateral shear forces that occur between the footwear traction system and the base layer when worn by the user. In some embodiments, the flap 160 may be attached to the upper 100. In some embodiments, the flap 160 is configured to be attached to the side of the rear foot as described above. In some embodiments, the lace 152 may cover the flap 160.

[0053] The flap 160 does not necessarily have to be attached to the upper 100. In some embodiments, when the flap 160 is attached only to the bite line 105, the attachment point may be a hinge connection, and the flap 160 can rotate partially outward and downward. In other embodiments, as shown in Figure 11, the flap 160 can rotate partially outward and downward around the bite line 105 by coupling it to the bite line 105, so a hinge connection may not be necessary. However, in alternative embodiments, the flap 160 can be attached near the upper 100 using various means known in the art, including sewing or bonding. For example, the flap 160 may be a rigid layer wrapped around the upper 100, but the topmost point 162 of the upper is still freely stretched across the upper 100.

[0054] The flap 160 may be variable between two common positions. The flap 160 may have a relaxed position in which the flap is not firmly held or pulled to the upper 100, as shown in Figure 1. The flap 160 may be in a relaxed position when downward pressure is released from the sole 110, when there is flexion in the forefoot area 140, or when the closure system 150 is not tightened. The flap 160 may also have an engaged position in which the flap 160 is not fixed to the upper.

[0055] In the relaxed position, a portion of the flap 160 does not need to be in contact with the upper 100. The flap 160 may be configured to slide relative to the upper 100, as opposed to applying continuous support. In some embodiments, the closure system 150 crosses the flap 160. When the laces 152 of the closure system are tightened, the flap 160 may be held firmly and fixed to the upper 100 in the engaged position. This may improve lateral stability. However, if the flap 160 is always intended to provide increased stability, the footwear product 10 may be stiff and uncomfortable. Performing prolonged walking movements with the flap 160 in the engaged position may be painful. Therefore, when the laces 152 are loose, the flap 160 can arc laterally outward from the upper 100. Releasing the flap 160 can increase the comfort and improve the flexibility of the footwear product 10.

[0056] In some embodiments, as seen in Figures 2, 4, 7, and 9, there may be a secondary closure system 170 adjacent to the bump 120. The secondary closure system may include a shoelace 172 and a tongue 174. There may be an eyelet 176 on an eyelet adjacent to an eye stay configured to receive the shoelace 172. The shoelace 172 may be inelastic or elastic. The shoelace 172 may have a first end and a second end, each end may further have an aglet. The shoelace 172 can be threaded through the eyelet 176 such that when pulled taut, the upper 100 and tongue 174 secure the user's foot inside the upper 100.

[0057] It will be understood that the secondary closure system may also include a variety of fastening mechanisms, such as bands with hook and loop closures, buckles, buttons, hooks, snaps, or any other fastening devices currently known or to be developed later.

[0058] The footwear product 10 may have three general embodiments that provide varying levels of stability and ease of use. The first embodiment may relate to a footwear product 10 having a flap 160 and a closure system 150. The first embodiment may also have a secondary closure system 170. The flap 160 may be attached to the footwear product 10 at a bite line 105. Otherwise, however, it is movable and configured to be adjustablely fastened to the upper 100 using the closure system 150. The lace guide 156 in the forefoot area may be adjacent to the bite line 105 or on the bite line 105, on the outer surface 104 of the upper. The laces may be concealed using a fabric tube channel or other means. In some embodiments, the laces 152 may cross in an X pattern at the bump 120 of the forefoot area 140. Alternatively, the laces 152 may cross in an X pattern at the midfoot area 135. This enhances stability, strength, and tension due to the length of the closure system, which extends from the forefoot area (140mm) to the heel area (130mm).

[0059] The lateral load on the foot may be relatively small and close to the bite line 105. The lace guide 156 may be coupled to or close to the bite line 105. A lacing configuration using a lace guide 156 close to the bite line 105 reduces excessive pressure in the bump 120 and midfoot region 135. In contrast, typical closure systems such as shoelaces and eyelets apply excessive downward pressure, leading to lace bite. Even if the lateral load is stable above the bite line 105, the foot may still roll or get misplaced. Therefore, if the lateral load is stabilized at the bite line 105, it provides increased stability. When the flap 160 is in the engaged position, the lateral load is stabilized at the bite line 105. In some embodiments, the lace guide 156 and / or lace anchor 158 may be coupled to other areas of the flap 160. For example, the lace guide 156 and / or lace anchor 158 may be coupled to and positioned on the upper part of the flap 160 to position the flap 160 under tension along the lower / upper length of the footwear product 10. In these embodiments, the flap 160 preferably remains pivotably attached to the bite line 105.

[0060] The X pattern can further facilitate the increase or decrease of tension in the lace 152. When a downward force is applied to the sole 110, the lace 152 can be tightened. The tightened lace 152 can secure the flap 160 in close proximity to the upper 100. Thus, the tension in the lace 152 may be activated automatically. If there is flexion in the forefoot area 140, the footwear product 10 may be moved so that slack can be introduced into the lace 152. The slack in the lace 152 may allow the flap 160 to move from an engaged position to a relaxed position.

[0061] A second embodiment may relate to a footwear product 10 having a flap 160 and a closure system 150. The closure system 150 may more closely resemble a typical shoelace system, and at least one lace guide 156 may be close to the eye stay 122. Although the tension of the laces 152 may be automatically actuated, the footwear product 10 is less stable than a lacing configuration employing an X pattern, because this lacing configuration does not require the flap 160 to be tightly held to the upper 100.

[0062] A third embodiment may relate to a footwear product 10 having a flap 160, a closure system 150, and a secondary closure system 170. The secondary closure system 170 may function as a primary closure system, and the closure system 150 may be designed to adjust and tighten so that the flap 160 provides improved stability before improved stability is desired. For example, during use, the user can manually increase the tension before swinging a golf ball to increase lateral support for the foot. The closure system 150 can actuate the flap 160, although the footwear product 10 may be secured in other ways. When improved stability is no longer desired, the closure system 150 can be adjusted to reduce the tension of the laces 152 so that the flap 160 does not tighten against the upper. For example, after completing a golf swing and anticipating walking to the next shot, the user can release the tension before starting to walk. In some embodiments, the slack in the laces 152 may not be automatically transmitted to the sole 110 even when downward pressure is released. Therefore, whenever an increase or decrease in stability from the flap 160 is desired, it may be necessary to adjust the closing system 150.

[0063] Many different arrangements of various components shown in the illustrations, as well as many different arrangements of components not shown, are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure. The embodiments of this disclosure have been described to be illustrative rather than restrictive. Alternative embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope. Those skilled in the art may develop alternative means to implement the improvements described above without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0064] It will be understood that the specified features and subcombinations are useful and can be used without reference to other features and subcombinations, and that this is intended to be within the scope of the claims.

[0065] The technical features described here are listed below. [Technical Feature 1] In footwear products, Flexible upper, A sole comprising an outsole and a midsole, Bite line and, heel area and forefoot area, The medial side extending from the forefoot region to the heel region, The outer side extends from the forefoot region to the heel region, is opposite to the medial side, and is generally parallel to the medial side, A closure system for securing the footwear product, which can be tightened or loosened, The closing system comprises at least one flap attached to the footwear product adjacent to the bite line, wherein the closing system is configured to engage with the flap, The above-described closure system is characterized in that, when a shear force that increases the stress on the closure system is applied to the footwear, the flap is fixed to the upper, thereby stabilizing at least a portion of the upper. [Technical Feature 2] The footwear product according to technical feature 1, wherein the above closing system further comprises at least one lace and a lace guide. [Technical Feature 3] The above flap is a footwear product as described in technical feature 1, extending outward from the above bite line. [Technical Feature 4] The footwear product according to technical feature 3, wherein the flap described above is movable in an arc shape from the connection point of the bite line described above. [Technical Feature 5] The above closing system is a footwear product according to technical feature 2, further comprising an adjustable dial. [Technical Feature 6] The footwear product according to technical feature 5, wherein the adjustable dial described above is coupled to the footwear product in the heel area. [Technical Feature 7] A footwear product according to technical feature 1, further comprising a secondary closure system. [Technical Feature 8] The footwear product described in technical feature 5, in which the above-mentioned lace is taut and the above-mentioned flap is in the engaged position. [Technical Feature 9] When in the above-mentioned engagement position, the flap supports the outer-inner region, as described in technical feature 8 of the footwear product. [Technical Feature 10] The footwear product according to technical feature 1, wherein the flap is configured to switch between an engaged position and a relaxed position. [Technical Feature 11] The footwear product described in technical feature 2, wherein when downward pressure is applied, the tension of the lace pulls the lace taut and stabilizes the footwear product. [Technical Feature 12] The footwear product according to technical feature 11, wherein when the downward pressure described above is lifted and there is flexion in the forefoot region, slack is introduced into the laces. [Technical Feature 13] In footwear products, Flexible upper, A sole comprising an outsole and a midsole, Bite line and, heel area and forefoot area, The medial side extending from the forefoot region to the heel region, The outer side extends from the forefoot region to the heel region, is opposite to the medial side, and is generally parallel to the medial side, A closure system comprising one race and multiple race guides, wherein the race is passed through at least one race guide positioned adjacent to the bite line, A footwear product characterized by having at least one flap attached to the footwear product in close proximity to the bite line. [Technical Feature 14] The above lace guide is for footwear products described in technical feature 13, which is a loop. [Technical Feature 15] Footwear product according to technical feature 13, further having at least one second lace guide adjacent to the eye stay. [Technical Feature 16] Footwear product according to technical feature 13, further having at least one lace guide adjacent to the forefoot area. [Technical Feature 17] The footwear product according to technical feature 13, wherein the above-mentioned lace guides are located in the forefoot area, and the above-mentioned laces are located close to the above-mentioned upper and cross the above-mentioned upper in the above-mentioned X pattern. [Technical Feature 18] The footwear product according to technical feature 17, wherein when downward pressure is applied, tension in the laces pulls the laces taut, and when the downward pressure is lifted and the forefoot area is bent, slack is introduced. [Technical Feature 19] In footwear products, Flexible upper, A sole comprising an outsole and a midsole, Bite line and, heel area and forefoot area, The medial side extending from the forefoot region to the heel region, The outer side extends from the forefoot region to the heel region, is opposite to the medial side, and is generally parallel to the medial side, Adjustable closure system, A footwear product characterized by having a flap comprising a forefoot end, a heel end, and an uppermost point, wherein the flap is coupled to the footwear product in close proximity to the bite line, the flap is variable between an engaged position and a relaxed position, and in the engaged position, the flap provides lateral support to the midfoot region of the footwear product. [Technical Feature 20] The footwear product according to technical feature 19, wherein the closure system has one lace, and the lace crosses itself over the upper. [Explanation of symbols]

[0066] 10 Footwear Products 100 Upper 102 Inner surface 104 Outer surface 105 byte lines 106 Colors 110 sole 112 Outsole 114 Midsole 116 Insoles 120 Bump 122 Ice Stay 130 Heel area 132 counters 135 Midfoot area 140 Forefoot area 150 Closed Systems 152 Races 154 Adjustable Dial 156 Race Guide 158 Race Anchor 160 Flap 170 Secondary Closure System 174 Tang 176 Eyelets

Claims

1. In footwear products, The upper and, The sole and Bite line and, The heel region, midfoot region, and forefoot region, The medial and lateral sides extending between the forefoot region and the heel region, A flap positioned over the entire midfoot region of the inner or outer side of the footwear product, the flap comprising an upper region and a lower region having a different thickness or hardness from the upper region, (i) A closure system having a race having a first end connected to an adjustable dial in the heel region and a second end connected to the flap, wherein the race is configured to cross over the outer surface portion of the flap and engage with a race guide or race anchor provided on the outer surface portion of the flap, The above-described closure system is configured to (i) secure the flap to the inner or outer side of the upper when the lace is tightened, and (ii) release the flap from the inner or outer side of the upper when the lace is loosened.

2. The footwear product according to claim 1, wherein the flap has one or more layers made of a rigid or semi-rigid material.

3. The footwear product according to claim 2, wherein the flap includes one or more additional material layers along or near the bite line to increase the rigidity or firmness of the lower region of the flap.

4. The footwear product according to claim 2, wherein the flap includes an area to which an additional material layer is attached in order to achieve a greater stabilizing effect.

5. The footwear product according to claim 1, wherein the lower region of the flap is thicker and / or more rigid than the upper region of the flap.

6. The footwear product according to claim 1, wherein the flap has a most rigid position in or near the lower region of the flap, and a least rigid position in or near the upper region of the flap.

7. The footwear product according to claim 6, wherein the flap has a thickness that increases from the upper region of the flap to the lower region of the flap.

8. The footwear product according to claim 1, wherein the flap is movable between a released position and an engaged position.

9. The footwear product according to claim 8, wherein the flap is configured to transition to the engagement position when the lace is stretched taut.

10. The footwear product according to claim 9, wherein the laces are tightened when downward pressure is applied to the sole or when the forefoot area is not in a flexed state.

11. The footwear product according to claim 8, wherein the flap is configured to transition to the released position when the lace loosens.

12. The footwear product according to claim 11, wherein the laces loosen when downward pressure is applied from the sole or when there is flexion in the forefoot area.

13. The footwear product according to claim 8, wherein when the flap transitions from the engaged position to the released position, the flap is configured to bend in an arc shape outward and away from the upper.

14. The footwear product according to claim 1, wherein the lace is configured to engage with both the lace guide and the lace anchor.

15. The footwear product according to claim 14, wherein the above-mentioned lace guide and the above-mentioned lace anchor are mounted on different parts of the flap.

Images