Improved stretchable shoes that can grow with the wearer's / user's foot by 3 or more sizes

Abstract

An improved stretchable shoe that can grow with a wearer's / user's foot by more than three sizes. The stretchable shoe (01) can grow with a wearer's / user's foot, automatically adjusting and comfortably adapting to the wearer's foot, enhancing comfort, ease of use, and retarding obsolescence, and includes an expandable sole (16) and an upper (18), the sole (16) having a plurality of flaps (14) growing upward from the bottom surface of the sole (16) around its periphery, the shoe (01) including an adjustment mechanism including a plurality of cuts located at different positions in the sole (16) with some and / or equal and / or greater distances between the flaps (14), the cuts effectively changing the length and width of the shoe (01) and varying the interior size of the shoe (01) to provide a comfortable fit for the wearer / user.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to footwear in general. In particular, the present invention relates to footwear for humans, such as children. More specifically, the present invention relates to an improved stretchable shoe that can grow in at least three or more sizes with a human foot and related methods. A single shoe organically expands to multiple sizes, improving ease of use and product life.

Background Art

[0002] Foot shapes are individual to each person. Conventional shoes are made considering an average size and are intended for all and any users to fit into a specific size. As a result, the fitting is general and common so as to accommodate most foot shapes of that size.

[0003] Shoe sizes vary for men, women, and children. Foot size changes with age and changes up to a certain age. Off-the-shelf shoes on the market are made in various sizes to accommodate such various sizes. These sizes are 3.5 to 15 for men, 5 to 13.5 for women, and 5 to 13 for children. To better fit conventional shoes, they are sold in half sizes and quarter sizes such as size 9, 9.5, 10, etc.

[0004] It does not provide a custom and perfect fit. Conventional new shoes either break or it means that time is given for the user's foot to adapt and adjust to it.

[0005] Shoe manufacturers produce shoes in all of the above sizes to find a reasonable appearance tailored to customers. This increases inventory, increases production costs, produces more shoes, and ultimately ends up in landfills, which is harmful to the environment apart from the increased cost / price for the manufacturer and the end consumer.

[0006] Despite the availability of shoes in various sizes, wearers often cannot find a perfectly suitable pair. This is due to the fact that the tolerance of shoes is determined not only by foot length but also by width.

[0007] In the case of children, as their feet grow with overall development, it is difficult for parents to find a perfectly fitting pair of shoes, and they often become frustrated. Therefore, it is necessary to frequently change to larger-sized shoes.

[0008] Furthermore, existing shoes, considering a slightly oversized foot inside the shoe, may or may not have stretchable elasticity among other similar components, regardless of the presence or absence of fasteners such as laces, straps, belts, zippers, etc. Such fasteners only tighten / allow space by loosening one area. They do not grow or tighten organically and evenly in all areas. Conventional shoes do not accommodate size changes. When the shoes have grown to fit the feet, they simply need to be replaced. Basically, for each shoe size of the foot, shoes of a size adapted to existing footwear technology are required. This gives these conventional shoes a very short service life and makes them useless to the user after they have grown.

[0009] If the shoes do not fit properly, they can impact the sensory nerves and particularly impede a child's growth. Additionally, in the case of children, the number of pairs required from the age of 1 to 12 is approximately 15 / 16. To avoid repeated frequent purchases, parents tend to buy larger sizes for durability or wear them longer than intended, which can cause discomfort and lead to outward or inward rotation of the feet. This can potentially lead to lifelong disabilities.

[0010] Furthermore, many parents around the world cannot afford this frequent purchase of children's shoes. This gives rise to three possibilities: "inheriting" old shoes from older siblings / relatives, making do with scraps of shoes, or not wearing shoes at all. In any of the above cases, especially when not wearing footwear, a child's feet are exposed to soil contamination, and worms can enter the child's stomach, causing various related diseases and nutritional disorders. Also, the feet are more prone to cuts by touching sharp objects in the soil.

[0011] To address the above problems, conventional shoes need to be "broken in", and the user's feet adapt to their shape and fit. However, this can damage the natural shape of the user's feet and may cause foot problems such as hammertoe, bunions, claw toes, and other related foot deformities.

[0012] Among existing sandals with adjustable straps, some claim to stretch by five sizes. Such sandals need to be manually adjusted for the five - size stretch, and their expansion is not organic and not finely tuned to provide a comfortable fit. Such sandals have adjustable straps in three parts: at the foot, on the sides, and in front and behind the heel. However, this adjusted growth is not organic and automatic compared to the present invention. Furthermore, being sandals, they have gaps and cuts, so they do not provide good all - round foot protection. This also leads to exposure to soil and other elements that can potentially have an adverse effect on the user's feet and overall health.

[0013] While conventional shoes follow the principle of "the foot conforms to the shoe", the present invention works on the principle of "the shoe conforms to the leg" and appropriately addresses all of the above problems. The shoes of the present invention expand sufficiently to accommodate multiple ranges of foot sizes, as it is expected that several sizes of shoes will be required for all age groups and both genders.

[0014] Since the shoes of the present invention expand organically, all users with feet different from others will have shoes that can be comfortably adjusted to their own feet. The shoes of the present invention are provided with a stretchable sole that can automatically adjust and comfortably adapt to the feet of the wearer, and an elastic upper. Therefore, the expansion is automatically performed and there is no need to manually operate to accommodate the enlarged foot size.

Summary of the Invention

[0015] The present invention relates to an improved stretchable and adjustable shoe that can grow the feet of a human, i.e., wearers with a plurality of different sizes, particularly at least three or more sizes. According to this concept, the shoes are expandable when the wearer's feet grow and can have a lifespan three times that of conventional shoes with one pair of shoes. Thereby, one pair of shoes expands organically over a plurality of sizes, providing improved usability and product lifespan.

[0016] Therefore, the present invention provides shoes that expand and adapt according to each individual's feet and their growth. Adapted and adjusted to all users, ultimately providing maximum comfort to the feet, it provides a custom fit and made-to-order experience to all users. Stretchable shoes save the cost of purchasing new shoes every few months. With stretchable shoes, users can get 3 to 5 pairs of shoes at the price of one pair.

[0017] Therefore, one aspect of the present invention is a stretchable shoe provided with a stretchable sole and an upper that can automatically adjust to fit the feet of the wearer, comfortably adapt, and bring about comfort, usability, and extension of deterioration. The sole has a plurality of flaps extending upward from the bottom surface of the sole around the sole (16), and the shoe is provided with an adjustment mechanism including a plurality of cuts arranged at different positions of the sole where the distance between the flaps is a certain degree and / or equal and / or more. The cuts effectively change the length and width of the shoe, change the internal size of the shoe, and can grow with the feet of the wearer / user to provide a comfortable fit for the wearer / user.

[0018] The upper has a stretchable annular part with omnidirectional expansion characteristics and an annular tongue, an upper topline, an upper bump that is inseparably sewn / connected to the stretchable annular part, a lower bump that is inseparably sewn / connected to the upper bump, and a stretchable thick and rigid knitted pattern that is inseparably sewn / connected to the lower bump. The stretchable thick and rigid knitted pattern is inseparably sewn / connected to the lateral stability and bottom stability for the foot. The stretchable lower bump has a plurality of ventilation holes to assist in wicking away sweat from the foot when the user is wearing the stretchable shoe. A pull strap is inseparably attached to the upper at the back of the shoe.

[0019] The upper is made of a stretchable mesh elastic knitted fabric material that is attached to the inside of the sole and is inseparable from the flap that wraps around the upper.

[0020] The sole has a sole topline configured to pass through the entire upper perimeter of the sole having the same width such that the sole topline extends at different depths on the left and right sides of the sole compared to the front and back of the sole. The sole topline has a greater height at the front and back of the sole compared to the left and right heights of the sole. The sole has a uniform thickness with a tapered end towards the topline of the sole. Further, the sole has rib-shaped structural reinforcements on the inside and outside of the sole.

[0021] Also, the sole has an elastomer layer / stretchable elastic midsole in the midsole part of the sole that is attached or sandwiched between the insole of the sole and the upper.

[0022] The cut provided in the flap of the sole is an inverted Y-shaped cut with rounded vertices having a shape like a circle in order to avoid tearing or snagging of the flap.

[0023] The cuts provided on the sole flap include "V" - shaped cuts with rounded vertices, straight cuts with at least one rounded vertex, star cuts with at least four rounded vertices, wave cuts with one rounded vertex, pen - tip cuts with one rounded vertex, at least two micro - cuts on the top line of the sole, and at least one slit - cut on the wall of the sole, etc., and other alternative - shaped cuts are included.

[0024] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a shoe mold for manufacturing stretchable shoes. The shoe mold has a last top, a wide - toe box in front of the last top that conforms to the natural foot shapes of adults and children, a straight - base line without a toe spring and with a heel lift of 0, and a sole edge line without an end fillet. The shoe mold has a round profile that includes a contour, cross - section, curve, etc. inspired by the human foot and designed with reference to the anatomical structure of the human foot.

[0025] Yet another aspect of the present invention relates to a manufacturing method related to stretchable shoes.

[0026] The first objective and advantage of the present invention is to provide a stretchable shoe improved for the human, i.e., the wearer's foot.

[0027] Another objective and advantage of the present invention is to provide a stretchable shoe that can grow with the wearer's foot in at least three or more sizes.

[0028] Another objective and advantage of the present invention is to provide a shoe that can be easily and comfortably worn and enables the healthy development of the foot.

[0029] Another objective and advantage of the present invention is to provide a shoe designed to expand and automatically adjust according to the shape of the wearer's foot, provide an accurate fit according to the growth of the wearer's foot, and as a result, bring about comfort, usability, and an extension of obsolescence.

[0030] Another object and advantage of the present invention is to provide a stretchable shoe that can vary the length of the shoe, includes an adjustment mechanism that can vary the internal size of the shoe to provide a comfortable fit, and is a unisex design that can be used by anyone, but is not limited to this.

[0031] A further object and advantage of the present invention is to provide a pair of stretchable shoes for infants from 0 months to 26 months and children up to 9 years old, each with an adjustment mechanism to accommodate foot growth and differences in the size of infants' or children's feet.

[0032] Another object and advantage of the present invention is to provide a stretchable shoe made of a flexible but durable material, such as lyocell, merino wool, or other such strong and flexible materials for the upper and rubber, bio-TPU, or other such durable materials for the sole, which can withstand wear and tear from long-term use and provide comfort and protection.

[0033] Another object and advantage of the present invention is to provide a non-slip sole for a stretchable shoe that allows the wearer to feel the ground both indoors and outdoors. The sole not only provides foot protection but also activates the nerve endings on the sole of the foot by feeling the ground and has an optimal thickness that leads to brain development.

[0034] Another object and advantage of the present invention is to provide a stretchable shoe that addresses and contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically the following items: (a) SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-being; (b) SDG 12 - Responsible Consumption and Production; (c) SDG 9 - Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure; and (d) SDG 17 - Partnerships for the Goals.

[0035] Yet another object and advantage of the present invention is to provide a shoe that provides expansion in the upward, vertical, and lateral directions of the foot to give a comfortable fit.

[0036] These and other objects of the present invention will become readily apparent by further examining the following description.

[0037] The present invention will be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0038]

Figure 1

Figure 2A

Figure 2B

Figure 2C

Figure 2D

Figure 2E

Figure 2F

Figure 3A

Figure 3B

Figures 4A-D

Figure 4E

Figure 4F

Figure 5A

Figure 5B

Figure 6

Figure 6A

Figure 6B

Figure 6C

Figure 6D

Figure 6E

Figure 6F

Figure 6G

Figure 6H

Figure 6I

Figure 6J

Figure 6K

Figure 6L(i)

Figure 6L(ii)

Figure 6M(i)

Figure 6M(ii)

Figure 6N(i)

Figure 6N(ii)

Figure 6O(i)

Figure 6O(ii)

Figure 6P(i)

Figure 6P(ii)

Figure 6Q(i)

Figure 6Q(ii)

Figure 6R(i)-(iii)

Figure 7A

Figure 7B

Figure 8A

Figure 8B

Figure 9(1)

Figure 9(2)

Figure 9(3)

Figure 9(4)

Figure 9(5)

Figure 10

Figure 11A

Figure 11B

Figure 12

Figure 12A

Figure 12B

Figure 12C

Figure 12D

Figure 12E

Figure 12F

Figure 12G

Figure 12H

Figure 12I

Figures 13A-B

Figures 13C-D

Figures 13E-F

Figures 13G-H

Figures 13I-K

Figure 14A

Figure 14B

Figure 14C

Figure 14D

Figure 14E

Figures 15A-B

Figure 16

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0039] Here, specific embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, it should be understood that such embodiments are merely examples of numerous possible specific embodiments that can represent the application of the principles of the present invention and are merely illustrative. Various changes and modifications that are obvious to those skilled in the art related to the present invention are considered to be within the spirit, scope, and contemplation of the present invention.

[0040] As shown in Figure 1, traditional shoes have a space that traditionally takes into account the growth of the foot beyond the toe. This space and the overall construction of traditional shoes create many voids 106 within the shoe. As can be seen, the voids 106 are visibly present in all directions: front, back, side, top, and bottom. The voids 106 impede the wearer / user's performance by allowing the foot to move within the shoe when the wearer / user engages in activities such as running. Using fasteners such as strings or straps does not completely solve the problem. Since the shapes of both feet are not the same and traditional shoes are made to fit an average size, there are still voids 106 in each wearer / user's shoes.

[0041] Refer to Figure 2A, which shows a top view of the stretchable shoe 01 according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 2B, which shows a side view of the stretchable shoe 01 of Figure 2A, Figures 2C and 2D, which show a rear view and a front view of the stretchable shoe 01 of Figure 2A respectively, Figure 2E, which shows a schematic view of the stretchable shoe 01 of Figure 2A, and Figure 2F, which shows an exploded view of the structure of the stretchable shoe 01 of Figure 2A.

[0042] As seen in Figures 2A through 2F, the stretchable shoe 01 is basically composed of two main components: a sole 16 that protects the bottom of the foot from the ground and an upper 18 that covers the upper part of the foot.

[0043] The sole 16 is designed taking into account a plurality of flaps 14 that extend upward from the bottom surface of the sole 16 around the perimeter of the sole 16. These flaps 14 are configured to wrap around the wearer / user's foot from all sides. The flaps 14 are separated by a plurality of flap cuts 110 disposed at different positions on the sole 16 such that there is a certain and / or equal and / or greater distance between the flap 14 and the flap cut 110. The sole 16 has a sole topline 16A (Figure 2E) and comprises a baseline with a sole grip 10.

[0044] The upper 18 is made of a stretchable elastic knitted fabric inseparably attached to the inside of the sole 16, and the flap 14 wraps around the upper 18. The upper 18 and the sole 16 are assembled as one shoe 01 by known means and methods such as a strobel structure or a cold cement structure process. The upper 18 has the characteristic of expanding in all directions, and has a stretchable annular part 18A with an annular tongue part 18A1 (as shown in FIGS. 2B and 2E) and an upper topline 18F, a stretchable upper bump 18B inseparably sewn / connected to the stretchable annular part 18A, a stretchable lower bump 18C inseparably sewn / connected to the stretchable upper bump 18B, and a stretchable thick and firm knit pattern 18D inseparably sewn / connected to the stretchable lower bump 18C. The stretchable thick and firm knit pattern 18D is inseparably sewn / connected to the lateral stability and bottom stability with respect to the foot 18E, so that the upper 18 is knitted and prepared to form its shape. The stretchable lower bump 18C is provided with a plurality of ventilation holes 18C1, which makes it easier to wipe the sweat off the feet when the user wears the stretchable shoe 01.

[0045] As shown in FIGS. 2B, 2C and 2E, a pull strap 22 is inseparably attached to the upper 18 at the back of the shoe 01. The pull strap 22 helps the wearer / user to put on the shoe 01.

[0046] Next, as shown in FIG. 2G, the upper 18 is placed on the foot / shoe mold 44, and using a strobel structure, a cloth insole is sewn under the upper 18 with the shoe mold 44 inside. An insole 26 is placed inside the upper 18. The "sock" of the completed upper 18 with the shoe mold 44 inside is fixed inside the molded sole 36 with an adhesive and press. This process is called a cold cement structure.

[0047] The sole 16 and the upper 18 move in conjunction. The sole 16 with expandable features has a robust structure and is configured to provide comfort to the wearer / user. The sole 16 has a stretchable shoe 01 and a sole topline 16A (as shown in FIGS. 2C, 2E, 2F) configured to protect the wearer / user. The sole topline 16A passes through the entire upper circumference of the sole 16 with the same width such that the sole topline 16A extends to different depths on the left and right sides of the sole 16 compared to the front and rear of the sole 16. In this way, the height of the front and rear of the sole 16 is greater than the height of the left and right sides of the sole 16. In another embodiment, the topline 16A of the sole can have various widths, for example, it can have a greater width front and rear compared to the side of the stretchable shoe 01. When a large-sized foot enters the stretchable shoe 01, the flap 14 around the sole opens outward like a flower petal to support the foot, increasing the surface area of the sole 16, and the upper 18 also stretches to accommodate the foot inside the stretchable shoe 01. The stretchability of the knitted upper 18 returns the stretchable shoe 01 to its original shape after the foot is removed from the shoe. This feature not only makes the stretchable shoe 01 more comfortable according to the wearer's foot but also enables the use value of multiple sizes and extends the lifespan, becoming a sustainable alternative to conventional shoes.

[0048] As can be seen, the flap 14 of the sole 16 has unique and new design features in addition to the conventional sole design. These flaps 14 can open anywhere as needed according to the shape of the wearer's foot. Each flap 14 opens at different levels according to the different foot shapes of different wearers / users.

[0049] Even if two people have feet of the same length, their widths and thicknesses are different. Conventionally, the same size shoes are provided to both people, and one of them may not fit properly. The shapes of the left and right feet may also be slightly different. The stretchable shoe 01 of the present invention adapts to the individual dimensions and characteristics of all feet, and the flap 14 opens and closes accordingly. This makes the user very comfortable.

[0050] As shown in FIG. 2F, the stretchable shoe upper 18 of the breathable and mesh knitted fabric of the stretchable shoe 01 is stretchable and gentle on the skin. While protecting the entire circumference of the foot, the upper 18 maintains the lightness of the stretchable shoe 01. The material of the upper 18 absorbs moisture and sweat and evaporates it to the outside, keeping the user's foot dry and maintaining breathability. By combining the stretchable and elastic upper 18 with the stretchable sole 16, all fasteners such as laces, straps, and zippers become completely optional.

[0051] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 2F, the insole 26 is provided on the upper strobel board 18G having the upper sock stop stitch 18H, and this is received by the inner surface 12 of the sole 16. The topline 16A of the sole 16 has a tapered end 24A, which is seamlessly joined to the upper 18 of the stretchable shoe 01 as shown in FIG. 2E in the finished form. The flap 14 of the sole 16 is partitioned by a plurality of flexible inverted "Y" - shaped cuts 110 with rounded vertices. The flap 14 is pushed outwards from the flap and then expands outwards 14A, and the curved wall of the flap 14 bends outwards to fit the exact foot that enlarges the footprint of the sole 16. However, the cut 110 is not limited to the inverted Y - shape and can be configured in any other shape to achieve the intended expansion of the sole 16. These cuts 110 enhance the movement and expansion of the flap 14 and can further fine - tune to the shape of the foot.

[0052] Next, referring to FIGS. 3A and 3B, there are shown schematic views from the side of a stretchable shoe 01 according to another embodiment of the present invention. The stretchable shoe 01 includes a sole 16 having a baseline with a sole grip 10 having a flap 14 with a plurality of reverse Y-cuts 110 having rounded vertices 110A. The flap 14 is pushed outwards from the flap and then expands outwards, and the curved wall of the flap 14 bends outwards to fit exactly to the foot, increasing the wetted area of the sole 16. However, the cut 110 is not limited to a reverse Y-shape and can be configured in any other shape to achieve the expansion of the sole 16 in the intended manner. The sole 16 also has a top line 16A of the sole and a flexible V-cut 16B. The V-cut 16B of the sole enhances the flexibility of the sole and helps the natural bending of the foot while moving.

[0053] An upper 18 of a stretchable elastic knitted fabric material inseparably attached to the inside of the sole 16 includes a flap 14 that wraps around the upper 18. The upper 18 and the sole 16 are assembled as one shoe 01. The upper 18 is composed of an annular portion 18A where the upper 18 is stretchable, a stretchable band 21, a tongue 19, and a stretchable bump 19A, each of which is inseparably sewn and connected. The stretchable bump 19A is inseparably sewn and connected to a stretchable thick and firm knitted pattern 18D having lateral stability and bottom stability with respect to the foot 18E.

[0054] A pull strap 22 is inseparably attached to the stretchable annular portion 18A at the front of the shoe 01, and another pull strap 22 is attached to the upper 18 at the back. The pull strap 22 helps the wearer / user to put on the shoe 01. The stretchable bump 19A is provided with a plurality of ventilation holes 18C1, which helps the foot to sweat when the user is wearing the stretchable shoe 01. The expansibility and processability of the flexible reverse Y-cut 110 are the same as those of the embodiment of the reverse Y-cut 110 described above with respect to FIGS. 2A-2F.

[0055] Figures 4A through 4F show orthographic views including top, side, front, and sectional views of the sole 16 and its flap 14 according to an embodiment of the present invention. As seen in FIG. 4D depicting the section 24 of the sole, the thickness of the sole 16 is uniform throughout most of the section 24, but a taper 24A is provided towards the upper edge of the sole 16. The flap 14 is separated by a plurality of flexible V-cuts 27 made in the flap 14. The sole 16 has a sole inner surface 12 thereon for receiving the foot of the wearer / user. The flexible V-cuts 27 can be arranged in an equidistant manner on the sole 16 or in a manner that varies the distance between such V-cuts 27. By having such flexible V-cuts 27, when a foot of a larger size enters the stretchable shoe 01, the flap 14 around the sole 16 acts like the petals of a flower and opens outward to support the foot, and by increasing the surface area of the sole 16, the wearer / user can comfortably fit their foot inside the stretchable shoe 01. The feature of the sole 16 having these flexible V-cuts 27 not only makes the stretchable shoe 01 more comfortable to fit the foot of the wearer, but also enables the use value for multiple sizes and extends the lifespan, providing a sustainable alternative to conventional shoes.

[0056] Referring now to FIG. 4F, a schematic view of a sole 16 and its flap 14 according to another embodiment of the present invention is shown in that the flap 14 is separated by a plurality of flexible reverse Y-cuts 110 instead of the flexible V-cut 27. The sole 16 has a sole topline 16A and a sole inner surface 12 on which the foot of the wearer / user is received. By having such flexible Y-cuts 110, when a foot of a larger size enters the stretchable shoe 01, the flap 14 around the sole 16 acts like a petal of a flower and opens outward to support the foot, increases the surface area by enhancing the expansion ability of the Y-cuts 110 of the sole 16, and enables the wearer / user to comfortably fit the foot inside the stretchable shoe 01. The feature of the sole 16 with such flexible Y-cuts 110 not only makes the stretchable shoe 01 more comfortable according to the wearer's foot, but also enables the use value of multiple sizes, extends the lifespan, and makes it a sustainable alternative to conventional shoes.

[0057] Furthermore, as shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, the sole 16 of the present invention can have a structural reinforcement such as a rib 25 added to the inside and outside of the sole 16. The rib 25 is a thin protrusion that widens in the vertical direction from a wall or plane, adding rigidity and strength to the sole 16. As shown in FIG. 5A, the rib 25 further has a break / cut on the inside of the sole 16 to support the expansion of the flap 14. Similarly, as shown in FIG. 5B, the rib 25 is provided on the outside of the sole 16 to support the expansion of the flap 14. The rib 25 smoothly merges with the wall cross-section taper 24AA of the sole 16 toward its edge. The rib 25 increases the strength of the sole 16 without thickening the wall of the sole 16, reduces the weight of the sole 16, requires less material, and secures the sole 16 from other defects in the manufacturing process. These ribs 25 help the sole 16 to maintain its original shape and the outsole 23 in the non-expanded state. Thus, the rib 25 provides sufficient additional support to enable the expansion of the sole 16 and its flap 14. However, holding in the non-expanded state is not inevitable and depends on factors such as its dimensions, the material composition of the sole 16, and other such manufacturing factors. Support such as the rib 25 of the sole 16 functions like the skeletal structure of the sole 16, helps hold the flap 14 upward, and enables free and smooth expansion. Considering this, the position and workability of the rib can be changed based on the width of the flap 14 for stability.

[0058] FIG. 6 shows the sole 16 and its flap 14 in a schematic view according to the present invention. As can be seen, both the expanded and non-expanded positions of the sole 16 with the flap 14 are depicted. The flap 14 of the sole 16 is partitioned by a plurality of flexible inverted "Y"-shaped cuts 110 with rounded vertices. When the wearer / user's foot is received within the sole 16, a force acts outward on the wall of the sole 16, causing the flexible inverted Y-cut 110, which was originally in the non-expanded position, to expand due to the enlargement of the rounded vertex 110A of the inverted Y-cut, expanding the flap 14 to the expanded flap 14AA.

[0059] Further referring to FIGS. 6 and 6A - 6H, it shows that the flap 14 of the sole 16 expands from the unexpanded state to the expanded state by opening and expanding 14A. As can be seen, the sole 16 of the stretchable shoe 01 goes through the gradual expansion of the sole 16 in FIG. 6B without the expansion of the flap 14A and reaches FIG. 7D where the expansion of the flap 14 is maximized. This expansion of the flap 14 depends on the size of the wearer's foot or how the size grows in the case of a child. As seen in FIGS. 6A - 6H, the cross - section of the sole in this particular embodiment has a taper 24A towards the top line 16A of the sole 16. This taper 24A is seamlessly joined to the upper 18 of the stretchable shoe 01 as shown in FIG. 6E.

[0060] As shown in FIGS. 6, 6A - 6H, 8, the flap 14 of the sole 16 is partitioned by a plurality of flexible inverted "Y" - shaped cuts 110 with rounded vertices. The flap 14 is pushed outwards from the flap and expands outwards, and the curved wall of the flap 14 bends outwards to fit exactly to the foot, increasing the occupied area of the sole 16. However, the cut 110 is not limited to the inverted "Y" shape and can be configured in any other shape to achieve the expansion of the sole 16 in the intended way. These cuts 110 strengthen the movement and expansion of the flap 14 and can further fine - tune to the shape of the foot. As can be further seen in FIGS. 6A - 6H, the thickness of the sole 16 is uniform throughout most of the sole cross - section 24A. However, to enhance the flexibility of the sole 16, the thickness of the sole 16 tapers towards the end of the top line 16A of the sole 16. The outer surface of the sole 16 is provided with sole grips 10.

[0061] From FIGS. 6I to 6Q, the reverse "Y" cut 110 gradually expands, and the flap 14 shows that the gap between them gradually begins to increase in various figures. When entering the shoe 01 with a stretchable foot, the flap 14 is moved by the wearer's foot and adapts to the shape of the user's sole and the shape of the foot. This adaptation of the sole 16 to accommodate various sizes / increases in size is possible up to 3 sizes. The flap 14 is pushed outwards from its original non-expanded state, and the curved wall of the flap 14 bends outwards to fit exactly to the foot that enlarges the occupied area of the sole 16. Also, in the case of a child, the sole 16 expands gradually every day in accordance with growth. The sole 16 has the flexibility to accommodate this growth up to 3 sizes and does not limit the shape, growth, or health of the child's foot. The rounded apex of the cut 110A helps prevent the cut from splitting along the sole 16.

[0062] The step-by-step and stable shape of the sole 16 and the expansion of the flap 14 can be seen in FIG. 6R. In step 1, there is no or minimal expansion of the flap, in step 2, there is medium-sized or up to 2-size expansion, and in step 3, there is full-size or up to 3-size expansion of the sole 16.

[0063] As shown in FIGS. 7A, 7B, 8A, and 8B, the reverse Y cut 110 can smoothly expand each individual flap 14 from its original non-expanded state to an expanded state due to the rounded apex of the cut 110A. The reverse Y cut 110 also enables the three-dimensional movement of each individual flap 14, providing a better fit and comfort. In reality, it is the wearer's foot that determines the movement, spread, and degree of spread of each flap 14 according to the structure and shape of each left and right foot. Thus, the arrangement of the sole 16 with the flap 14 having the reverse Y cut 110 always gives the wearer a made-to-order fit. The apex of the cut is rounded 110A, in the shape of a circle, to avoid tears and catches in the flap 14. This design feature realizes the long life and ease of use of the sole 16.

[0064] Referring to FIG. 8B, the sole 16 includes an elastomer layer 710 in the midsole portion of the sole. This stretchable and elastic midsole 710 is either adhered or sandwiched between the lining of the sole 16 and the upper 18. When the sole 16 expands and the reverse Y-shaped cut 110 opens, the elastic midsole extends into the reverse Y-shaped cut gap 710A, and a protective layer is formed between the sole 16 and the upper 18. The stretchable and elastic midsole 710 is also considered to provide additional strength and complete protection to the stretchable shoe 01. This elastomer layer 710 can have various other material properties such as being non-punchable, having memory, and holding the shape of the user's foot.

[0065] The elastomer intermediate layer 710 between the insole 16 and the upper 18 can be combined with any of the other embodiments of the above-described "Y" cut and is not limited to FIGS. 9.1 to 9.5.

[0066] One of the attachment techniques used for the elastomer intermediate layer 710 is as follows: (i) An adhesive is applied to the sole 16 and the inner surface of the flap 14 cut 110, and the same mark of the flap 14 cut 110 is placed on the upper 18. Then, the elastomer layer 710 is attached between the sole 16 and the upper 18. The extended "Y" cut line / region 110A is reliably left without adhesive for the elastomer 710. This allows the expandable Y cut region 110A to expand freely. (ii) Another joining method for the elastomer layer 710 is to sew the sole 16, the midsole elastomer 710, and the upper 18 along the contour of the "Y" cut 110. Such a coupling arrangement enables the enlarged region of the midsole elastomer 710A to move freely with the "Y" cut expansion 110A.

[0067] This concept and its workability described above can be applied to any shaped cut vertex other than the reverse "Y" cut 110, for example, the alternative cuts shown in FIGS. 9.1, 9.2, 9.3, 9.4 and 9.5. Each of these variously shaped cuts effectively supports the gradual expansion of the sole 16 according to the size of the wearer / user's foot and provides a comfortable use experience. In FIG. 9.1, there is a straight cut 210 with a single round vertex 210A and another variation of a "star" cut 310 with four round vertices 310A. FIG. 9.5 details the expansion characteristics of a "star" cut with four round vertices from its original unexpanded state to an expanded state. In FIG. 9.2, the sole 16 comprises a "wave" cut 410 with a single round vertex 410A from its original unexpanded state to an expanded state. In FIG. 9.3, there is a "pen tip" cut 510 with a single round vertex 510A.

[0068] Referring to FIG. 9.4, two micro-cuts 610A on the top line 16A of the sole 16 and a cut of a slit 610 on the wall of the sole 16 are depicted. This slit 610 expands with the help of the micro-cuts 610A on the top line 16A, expanding the sole 16 of the stretchable shoe 01.

[0069] Referring now to FIG. 10, it can be seen that a plurality of flap cut positions 14B are arranged in consideration of the anatomical structure of the human foot with respect to the extension of the sole 16. The flap 14 is arranged at the front 14C, side 14D, and rear 14E of the sole 16. The front flap 14C helps the extension of the front part of the foot, and the side flap 14D helps the flat and wide area of the foot and the width extension, corresponding to a wider foot. The back flap 14E ensures that the heel grows in a natural shape without obstacles. The flap 14 is arranged and designed to bring about growth that is supported without hindering the wearer's foot. The stretchable shoe 01 is designed to assist and amplify the natural and unrestricted growth of the foot. When enlarged, the sole 16 should provide sufficient protection even when the cut gap is increasing. Therefore, the cut position is determined by the curve of the foot. A plurality of flap 14 cuts 110 (such as in FIGS. 6A - 6R) are arranged to accommodate a foot of a grown size without compromising protection.

[0070] The flap cut position 14B is essential for the proper extension of the sole 16 and the shoe 01. The cut 110 (as shown in FIGS. 6A - 6R for example) is at a minimum width and extends up to the sole topline 16A. In this embodiment, the number of flaps 14 is not limited and is from 10 to 14. The number of flap cuts 110 may vary for different shoes and other footwear. The flap 14 can have a fillet, chamfer, or protective support at the end.

[0071] Figures 11A and 11B show a stretchable shoe 01 that accommodates a natural foot-shaped shoe form 44 of size 22 and size 24, respectively, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The mint green portion is the upper 18, and the black portion is the sole 16 with a flap 14 having stretchable features. The flap 14 has a plurality of flexible V-cuts 27. There is an annular portion 18AA formed through a mouth stitching 21B through which the user's foot passes in the upper 18 of the shoe 01. On the rear surface of the upper 18 of the shoe 01, there are a heel counter 21A and a bump 19AA on the front portion of the upper 18. The extensibility and processability of the flexible V-shaped cut 27 are the same as those of the cut embodiments described herein. It can be seen that the extended sole 16 with the stretched upper 18 and flap 14 is open to accommodate a larger size foot form / shoe form 44.

[0072] Referring to FIG. 12, a conventional shoe form is depicted as having a typical forefoot shape, heel shape, toe spring, and heel drop. However, such a conventional shoe form has the drawback that it is not a natural foot shape that actually conforms to the natural profile of the foot. Such drawbacks cause discomfort to the wearer / user.

[0073] Next, referring to FIGS. 12A - 12I, the shoe form 44 (as shown in FIG. 3B) used in the stretchable shoe 01 of the present invention is illustrated in various positions. The shoe form is in a mechanical form shaped like a human foot. This is a foot-shaped form / shoe form 44 that defines the final manufactured form of the shoe 01. The name shoe form 44 is derived from a general operation in shoe manufacturing known as last removal / lasting at the end. In this operation, the foot form / shoe form 44 is removed from the shoe 01, and the shoe 01 is completed.

[0074] Therefore, the shoe form 44 is used by shoemakers in the manufacture and repair of shoes 01. Shoe forms 44 usually come in pairs and are made of various materials such as hardwood, cast iron, and high-density plastic. There are many styles and sizes of shoe forms 44 depending on the precise job they are designed for. Shoe forms 44 are made to approximate the shape of a human foot, but the exact shape is made according to the type of footwear to be made. For example, the shoe form 44 for formal shoes is designed with a narrow toe box for aesthetic reasons.

[0075] Historically, shoe forms 44 were typically made of hardwood and cast iron. This is because these materials can withstand the mechanical stress of coming into contact with wet materials (such as leather) and stretching or shaping shoes on them while maintaining their shape. Today, wooden shoe forms are generally only used for made-to-order shoe production, especially in Europe and North America.

[0076] The materials used for modern shoe forms are selected to be strong enough to withstand the forces of mass production machinery such as those applied by pull-over machines when attaching soles to the bottom, and they must also be able to hold the tacks (known as "lasting tacks") used to temporarily hold the parts of the shoe together before adding the sole. Hardwoods meet these criteria, but modern shoe forms, especially those used in mass production factories such as in China, are often made of high-density polyethylene plastic (HMW-HDPE), which allows for many tack holes before repair is needed. Such plastics also have the advantage of being recyclable and reusable when worn out.

[0077] As can be seen in FIGS. 12A - 12I, the shoe form 44 (as shown in FIG. 3B) required for the present invention is specially designed with the primary focus on maintaining foot comfort and health. The shoe form 44 in FIGS. 12A - 12I has a wide toe box 82 at the front, which is different from the top 88 of the shoe form and the most common and general shoe form in that, as shown in FIG. 12, it is formed with a narrow front, i.e., a narrow toe box. The wide toe box 82 is provided to conform to the natural shape of the feet of both adults and children. It allows for unobstructed growth of the large area. Since the shoe form 44 dominates the overall shape, size, fit, and appearance of the shoe 01, it is important to incorporate this at the "shoe form level". Further, the shoe form 44 in FIGS. 12A - 12I has a straight baseline 10, no toe spring, and a heel lift 86 or drop 84 of zero. The shoe form 44 of the present invention does not have a sole edge line, nor does it have a filleted end to the shoe form 92 as shown in FIGS. 12G and 12H. The shoe form 44 is designed to manufacture shoes that resemble the anatomical structure of the human foot as much as possible, rather than a fashionable aesthetic style. The design of the shoe form 44 of this invention prioritizes foot comfort, health, and functionality over the aesthetics of modern shoes, for example, having a wide rather than narrow toe box 82, zero drop, no toe rise, and no heel height. The shoe form 44 has a rounded profile 90 as shown in FIG. 12D.

[0078] The shoe form 44 shown in FIG. 12I is designed with reference to the anatomical structure 94D, shape, features, and the variations found therein of the human foot shown in FIGS. 13A - K. The shoe form 44 has contours, cross - sections 94B, 94C, and curves drawn to image the human foot. The bottom / sole of the shoe form is rounded 90 and, unlike conventional shoe forms, has no distinct edge line. Thus, the shoe form 44 of the present invention resembles the natural shape of the foot and the sole of the human foot 94D. The shoe form 44 of the present invention also varies depending on the age group of the user for whom the shoe 01 is being made.

[0079] Referring to FIG. 14A, there is depicted a stretchable shoe 01 having a sole 16, an annular portion 18AA, and stretchable upper bumps 18B inseparably attached to a hatched area for showing a thicker and stiffer stitch pattern 18D for the fabric upper 18 structure according to one embodiment of the present invention. This pattern 18D is intended to provide lateral and bottom stability to the foot by its robustness.

[0080] FIG. 14B shows a sole 16, an annular portion 18AA, and a cross-hatched area showing a thinner and stretchable pattern than the previous FIG. 14A for the fabric upper 18 structure, the thinner and stretchable pattern comfortably covering the foot and having stretchable upper bumps 18B of a thinner and stretchable pattern that sucks in moisture and provides ventilation according to another embodiment of the present invention, and is highly stretchable for expansion to accommodate larger sizes.

[0081] FIG. 14C shows a stretchable shoe 01 having a sole 16, an annular portion 18AA, and stretchable upper bumps 18B with a hatched area showing a very thin, light, and stretchable stitch pattern for the fabric upper 18 structure, this pattern being located in the annular portion area of the shoe 01 and having high stretchability so that the foot can be easily and comfortably inserted into the shoe according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0082] FIG. 14D shows a stretchable shoe 01 having a sole 16, an annular portion 18AA, and stretchable upper bumps 18B with a hatched area showing a thicker and stiffer stitch pattern 18D for the fabric upper 18 structure according to another embodiment of the present invention, and having different hatched areas for showing a different stitch pattern.

[0083] Figure 14E shows a stretchable shoe 01 having an insole 26 with a width shown by a cross-section 24 inserted after manufacturing a shoe 01 having a sole 16 with a taper 24A, an annular portion 18AA, and stretchable upper bumps 18B inseparably attached to a hatched area showing a thicker and stiffer stitch pattern 18D for the fabric upper 18 structure according to the present invention.

[0084] For example, to illustrate the above object of the present invention, the growth pattern of children mapped with respect to age is shown in the following table. [Table 1] Table 1 [Table 2] Table 2

[0085] Referring to FIGS. 15A and B and from Tables 1 and 2 above, it can be seen that the expansion study 102 of the sole 16 shows that most of the growth occurs in the forefinger area and the growth of width and length is not proportional. Thereby, the inventor was able to group the sizes at 102A and create different series of stretchable shoes 01 of the present invention. Based on this study, a custom foot scale for mapping the user's foot size, series, and actual length was also created and used for the stretchable shoe 01 of the present invention.

[0086] The unique structure and design of the sole 16 and the upper 18 hold the user's foot and provide a perfect shape fit. The adaptability of the sole 16 and the upper 18 of the stretchable shoe 01 fits like a glove to any shape of foot inserted. For example, feet of sizes such as 9, 9.5, 10 and all sizes in between these sizes can be accommodated with a perfect fit with just one size of the stretchable shoe 01 having an adaptable design. The stretchable shoe adapts to each foot, not vice versa as in conventional shoes.

[0087] Thus, referring to FIG. 16, the expandable shoe 01 of the present invention replaces multiple conventional pairs of shoes with only one pair to do their job as it expands. Most normal shoes are mainly made of materials such as plastics or plastic-like. These petroleum-derived plastics (polyester, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA)) have a high carbon consumption. Furthermore, only 5% of the world's used shoes are recycled, and 95% are ultimately discarded in landfills. The plastic / petroleum-derived substances used in most sneakers do not decompose and remain in landfills for hundreds of years. For example, as shown in FIG. 16, a 1- to 9-year-old child needs 15 pairs of conventional shoes. On the other hand, the same child only needs 5 pairs of the expandable shoes 01 of the present invention between the ages of 1 and 9. As a result, this invention is sustainable and environmentally friendly, reducing the number of shoes manufactured and, consequently, significantly reducing carbon consumption. The expandable shoe 01 and its package are made of environmentally considerate materials. Also, it can save money and resources for users on Earth. Therefore, with the expandable shoes 01 of the present invention, the number of shoes ultimately landfilled is reduced. The environmentally friendly expandable shoe 01 is more sustainable, usable, and cost-effective.

[0088] The present invention focuses on the expandable shoe 01 for use by showing examples for infants and children, but the principles of the present invention can also be incorporated into slippers / sandals worn by children over 24 months or adults. Since the term "children's slippers / sandals" can be replaced with the term "baby shoes", it will be understood that all of the unique features of the present invention are also incorporated into expandable slippers for children.

[0089] The above embodiments illustrate various design features of the concept of the present invention. It is understood that the stretchable shoe 01 of the present invention can be made in any number of styles in shoes for men, women, or children. The shoe 01 can be laced or have a non-slip surface as depicted. The concept of the present invention is not limited to the exemplary shoe 01 as depicted, but relates to various components that enable expansion from an unextended relaxed version in two or more shoe sizes with respect to the length, width, and height necessary to accommodate feet of various sizes, and is provided only for the purpose of defining the unique structure of the shoe 01.

[0090] Here, the embodiments herein and their various features and advantages will be described with reference to the non-limiting embodiments in the description. Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques are omitted so that the embodiments herein are not unnecessarily obscured. The disclosure herein is merely intended to facilitate understanding of how the embodiments herein are practiced and to enable those skilled in the art to further practice the embodiments herein.

[0091] The description of the specific embodiments above sufficiently reveals the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and / or adapt such specific embodiments for various applications without departing from the general concept, and thus such adaptations and modifications should be understood to be within the equivalent meaning and scope of the disclosed embodiments and are so intended. It should be understood that the terms used herein are for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Accordingly, the embodiments herein are described from the perspective of preferred embodiments, but those skilled in the art will recognize that modifications can be made and practiced within the spirit and scope of the embodiments described herein.

Description of Reference Numerals

[0092] 01 Stretchable shoe 10 Sole grip / base line Inner surface of the sole Flap Flap before expansion Expanded flap Flap cut position Front flap Side flap 2 Back flap Sole Sole topline Flexible V-cut of the sole Upper Expandable annular part Annular part Omnidirectional expansion part Annular tongue Expandable upper bump Expandable lower bump Vent hole Expandable thick and hard knit pattern Lateral stability and bottom stability for the foot Upper topline Upper strobel board Upper sock stitch Tongue Expandable bump Bump Elastic band Heel counter Stitch Pull strap Outsole Sole cross-section Sole cross-section taper / taper Cross-section taper Rib Insole Flexible V-cut flap Shoe shape of natural foot shape Wide toe box Zero-drop straight sole 86 Zero stack heel 88 Boot-shaped top 90 Round profile 92 Boot-shaped / soled without end fillet 94A Cross-section around the ball 94B Cross-section of the instep 94C Cross-section of the heel 94D Anatomical structure of the human foot / Natural foot shape / Sole of the human foot 102 Profile of a child's foot in sizes 19 to 34 102A Foot measurement scale 104A Conventional shoes from 1 to 9 years old 104B Shoes of the present invention from 1 to 9 years old 106 Gap in conventional shoes 110 Reverse Y cut 210 Straight cut 210a Round apex of the straight cut 310 Star cut 310A Round apex of the star cut 410 Wave cut 410A Round apex of the wave cut 510 Pen tip cut 510A Round apex of the pen tip cut 610 Slit cut 610A Micro cut 710 Elastic midsole / Elastomer layer 710A Elastic midsole extension

Claims

1. The present invention provides an expandable sole and upper that can automatically adjust and comfortably adapt to the wearer's foot, thereby increasing comfort, usability, and retarding obsolescence; the sole having a plurality of flaps extending upwardly from a bottom surface of the sole around a periphery of the sole; the shoe includes an adjustment mechanism including a plurality of cuts disposed at different locations on the sole with some and / or equal and / or greater distances between the flaps; The cuts can grow with the wearer's / user's foot, effectively varying the length and width of the shoe and changing the internal size of the shoe to provide a comfortable fit for the wearer / user; the cut in the flap of the sole is an inverted "Y" cut with a rounded apex shaped like a circle to avoid tears or snagging of the flap; or the cut in the flap of the sole is a straight cut with at least one rounded apex, or the cut in the flap of the sole is a star cut having at least four rounded apexes; or the cut in the flap of the sole is a wave cut having at least one rounded apex, or the cut in the flap of the sole is a nib cut having at least one rounded apex; or A stretchable shoe, wherein the cuts in the flap of the sole include at least two micro cuts in a top line of the sole and at least one slit cut in a wall of the sole.

2. the upper having an omnidirectional expansion feature and a stretchable annular portion having an annular tongue; Upper top line and an upper bump inseparably sewn / connected to the stretchable loop and stretchable; a stretchable lower bump inseparably stitched / connected to said stretchable upper bump; a stretchable thick stiff stitch pattern inseparably stitched / connected to said stretchable lower bump; the stretchable thick stiff knit pattern is inseparably stitched / connected to the lateral and plantar stability of the foot; the stretchable lower vamp includes a plurality of ventilation holes that aid in foot sweating when the user is wearing the stretchable shoe; 2. The stretchable shoe of claim 1, wherein a pull strap is inseparably attached to said upper at the rear of said shoe.

3. 2. The stretchable shoe of claim 1, wherein the upper is made of a stretchable mesh elastic knit material attached to the inside of the sole inseparable from the flap encasing the upper.

4. the sole has a sole topline configured to extend at different depths on the left and right sides of the sole compared to the front and back of the sole, thereby passing through the entire upper circumference of the sole having the same width; The stretchable shoe according to claim 1 , wherein the sole top line has a greater front-to-back height than the left-to-right height of the sole.

5. The stretchable shoe of claim 1 , wherein the sole has a uniform thickness with a tapered end toward a top line of the sole.

6. The stretchable shoe of claim 1 , wherein the sole includes structural reinforcements in the form of ribs on the medial and lateral sides of the sole.

7. 2. The stretchable shoe of claim 1, wherein the sole comprises an elastomer layer / stretchable elastic midsole in a midsole portion that is attached or sandwiched between the sole liner and the upper.

8. The stretchable shoe of claim 1 , wherein the cut in the flap of the sole further comprises a "V" shaped cut with a rounded apex.

9. The stretchable shoe of claim 1 , wherein the flaps are disposed on the front, sides and rear of the sole.

10. The stretchable shoe of claim 1 , wherein the sole further comprises a flexible V-cut.

11. 2. The stretchable shoe of claim 1, wherein the upper comprises a stretchable loop, an elastic band, a tongue, and a stretchable vamp, each of which is inseparably sewn and connected, and the stretchable vamp is inseparably sewn and connected to a stretchable thick stiff knit pattern having lateral and plantar stability to the foot.

12. The stretchable shoe of claim 11 , wherein a pull strap is inseparably attached to the stretchable loop at a front side and another pull strap is attached to the upper at a rear side of the shoe.

13. The stretchable shoe of claim 11 , wherein the stretchable vamp comprises a plurality of ventilation holes to aid in perspiration of the feet when the user is wearing the stretchable shoe.

14. The stretchable shoe of claim 1 , wherein the sole comprises a baseline with a sole grip.

15. The stretchable shoe of claim 1 , wherein the stretchable shoe can grow with the wearer's foot over at least three or more sizes.

16. 10. The stretchable shoe of claim 1, wherein the shoe is made of flexible yet durable materials such as lyocell, merino wool, or other such strong flexible materials for the upper and rubber, bio-TPU, or other such durable materials for the sole, to withstand wear and tear over time and provide comfort and protection.

17. 10. The stretchable shoe of claim 1, wherein the shoe provides upward, vertical and lateral expansion of the foot to provide a comfortable fit.

18. 10. The stretchable shoe of claim 9, wherein the flaps are separated by a plurality of flap cuts arranged with consideration of the anatomy of the human foot with respect to the expansion of the sole.

19. A shoe mold for manufacturing an expandable shoe according to any one of claims 1 to 18, comprising: A shoe mold top; The wide toe box in front fits closely to the natural shape of the foot of both adults and children, A straight baseline with no toe spring and zero heel lift or drop.

1. A shoe last having a rounded profile, comprising: a shoe last without end fillets that has no edge lines of a sole, the shoe last being designed with reference to the anatomical structure of the human foot, including the contours, cross sections, and curves of the anatomical structure of the human foot that are inspired by the human foot;

Images