Footwear

Abstract

The article of footwear includes an upper and a plate, the plate having a top surface facing the upper and a bottom surface formed opposite the top surface, the plate extending from a first end in a forefoot region to a second end in a heel region. A first cushioning element is attached to the bottom surface of the plate in the forefoot region and a second cushioning element is attached to the bottom surface of the plate in the heel region, the second cushioning element being separated from the first cushioning element by a first gap formed in the midfoot region. One or more fluid-filled bladders each have a top surface at least partially surrounded by the first cushioning element in the forefoot region and attached to the bottom surface of the plate.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] (Reference to Related Application) This PCT international application claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17 / 115,768, filed December 8, 2020, which claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 62 / 945,826, filed December 9, 2019. The disclosures of these prior applications are considered part of the disclosure of this application and are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

[0002] (Technical field) FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates generally to sole structures for articles of footwear. [Background technology]

[0003] This section provides background information related to the present disclosure that is not necessarily prior art.

[0004] An article of footwear traditionally includes an upper and a sole structure. The upper may be formed from any suitable material to receive, secure, and support the sole structure. The upper may cooperate with laces, straps, or other fasteners to adjust the fit of the upper around the foot. A bottom portion of the upper, adjacent the bottom surface of the foot, is attached to the sole structure.

[0005] The sole structure generally includes a layered configuration extending between the ground and the upper. One layer of the sole structure includes an outsole (outsole), which provides abrasion resistance and traction with the ground. The outsole may be formed from rubber or other materials that impart durability, abrasion resistance, and enhance traction with the ground. Another layer of the sole structure includes a midsole (inner sole), which is disposed between the outsole and the upper. The midsole provides cushioning for the foot and is generally formed at least in part from a polymer foam material that resiliently compresses under an applied load to provide cushioning to the foot by attenuating ground reaction forces. The midsole may define a bottom surface on one side opposite the outsole and a footbed on the opposite side, which may be contoured to match the profile of the bottom surface of the foot. The sole structure may also include a comfort-enhancing insole and / or sockliner disposed in a void adjacent the bottom portion of the upper.

[0006] High-intensity interval training (HIIT) workouts alternate between periods of all-out effort and periods of rest for recovery. Movements are varied—burpees, kettlebell swings, lunges, mountain climbers, push-ups, squats, etc.—and sequenced to maximize benefits from maximal effort. In HIIT workout classes, athletes typically wear footwear optimized for cushioning or footwear optimized for support. Unfortunately, such footwear, while adequate for its intended purpose (i.e., cushioning or support), is not designed to provide both benefits simultaneously and, as a result, does not perform optimally during HIIT movements. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The drawings described herein are for purposes of illustrating selective configurations only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a bottom perspective view of an article of footwear according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0009] [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a lateral side elevational view of the article of footwear of FIG. 1.

[0010] [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a medial side elevational view of the article of footwear of FIG. 1.

[0011] [Figure 4] 2 is an exploded top perspective view of the article of footwear of FIG. 1.

[0012] [Figure 5] 2 is an exploded bottom perspective view of the article of footwear of FIG. 1.

[0013] [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a bottom plan view of the article of footwear of FIG. 1.

[0014] [Figure 7] 7 is a cross-sectional view of the article of footwear of FIG. 1 taken along section line 7-7 of FIG. 6.

[0015] [Figure 8] 8 is a cross-sectional view of the article of footwear of FIG. 1 taken along section line 8-8 of FIG. 6.

[0016] [Figure 9] 9 is a cross-sectional view of the article of footwear of FIG. 1 taken along section line 9-9 of FIG. 6.

[0017] [Figure 10] 1 taken along section line 10-10 of FIG. 6. FIG.

[0018] [Figure 11] 1 taken along line 11-11 of FIG. 6. FIG.

[0019] [Figure 12] 1 taken along line 12-12 of FIG. 6. FIG.

[0020] [Figure 13] FIG. 1 is a lateral side elevational view of another example of an article of footwear according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0021] [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a medial side elevational view of the article of footwear of FIG. 13.

[0022] [Figure 15] FIG. 14 is a bottom plan view of the article of footwear of FIG.

[0023] [Figure 16] FIG. 1 is a lateral side elevational view of another example of an article of footwear according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0024] [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a medial side elevational view of the article of footwear of FIG. 16.

[0025] [Figure 18] FIG. 17 is a bottom plan view of the article of footwear of FIG. 16.

[0026] [Figure 19] FIG. 17 is a top plan view of the article of footwear of FIG. 16. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0027] Corresponding reference numbers indicate corresponding parts throughout the drawings.

[0028] The exemplary configurations will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The exemplary configurations are provided so that this disclosure will be comprehensive and will fully convey the scope of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art. Specific details, such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, are shown to provide a comprehensive understanding of the configurations of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need not be used, that the exemplary configurations may be embodied in many different forms, and that the specific details and exemplary configurations should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure.

[0029] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular example configurations only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, singular forms may be intended to include the plural unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The terms "comprise," "comprising," "including," and "having" are inclusive and thus identify the presence of structures, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other structures, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or group(s). The method steps, processes, and operations described herein should not be construed as necessarily requiring their performance in the particular order discussed or illustrated, unless specifically identified as an order of performance. Additional or alternative steps may be employed.

[0030] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on," "engaged," "connected," "attached," or "coupled" to another element or layer, it may be directly on, engaged with, connected to, attached to, or coupled to the other element or layer, or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly on," "directly engaged with," "directly connected," "directly attached," or "directly coupled" to another element or layer, there may be no intervening elements or layers present. Other terms used to describe relationships between elements should be construed in a similar manner (e.g., "between" vs. "directly between," "adjacent" vs. "directly adjacent," etc.). As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0031] Terms such as first, second, and third may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections. These elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be used only to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or section from another region, layer, or section. Terms such as "first," "second," and other numerical terms do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer, or section discussed below could be referred to as a second element, component, region, layer, or section without departing from the teachings of the example configurations.

[0032] One aspect of the present disclosure includes an article of footwear. The article of footwear includes an upper. The article of footwear also includes a plate, the plate having a top surface facing the upper and a bottom surface formed opposite the top surface. The plate extends from a first end in the forefoot region to a second end in the heel region. The article of footwear also includes a first cushioning element, the first cushioning element having a top surface attached to the bottom surface of the plate in the forefoot region, a first side shield extending from the top surface along a medial side of the upper, and a second side shield extending from the top surface along a lateral side of the upper. The article of footwear also includes one or more fluid-filled bladders, each fluid-filled bladder being at least partially surrounded by the first cushioning element in the forefoot region and having a top surface attached to the bottom surface of the plate.

[0033] This aspect of the disclosure may include one or more of the following optional configurations: In some examples, the one or more fluid-filled bladders include a first fluid-filled bladder disposed on the inner side and a second fluid-filled bladder disposed on the outer side; In some implementations, the first end of the plate includes an outer portion and an inner portion separated from the outer portion by a gap; In some configurations, the first cushioning element includes one or more apertures, each aperture configured to receive a corresponding one of the one or more fluid-filled bladders.

[0034] In some examples, each of the plate and upper is received between the first and second side shields. In some configurations, one or more fluid-filled bladders are disposed between the first and second side shields. In some implementations, the first and second side shields include arches extending from a first end to a second end along each side of the article of footwear.

[0035] Optionally, the article of footwear may include a second cushioning element disposed in the heel region and separated from the first cushioning element by a gap in the mid-foot region of the footwear article, wherein the article of footwear may include an outsole having a first fragment attached to the first cushioning element, a second fragment attached to the second cushioning element, and a third fragment attached to one or more fluid-filled bladders. In some examples, the plate includes one or more upper sockets, each upper socket receiving a first end of one of the one or more bladders, and the outsole includes one or more lower sockets, each lower socket receiving a second end of one of the one or more bladders.

[0036] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides an article of footwear including an upper and a plate, the plate having a top surface facing the upper and a bottom surface formed opposite the top surface. The plate extends from a first end in the forefoot region to a second end in the heel region. The article of footwear includes a first cushioning element having an upper surface attached to the bottom surface of the plate in the forefoot region, the first cushioning element including a first side shield defining a first opening formed in a lateral side of the first cushioning element and a second side shield defining a second opening formed in a medial side of the first cushioning element. The article of footwear further includes one or more fluid-filled bladders, each fluid-filled bladder at least partially surrounded by the first cushioning element in the forefoot region and having a top surface attached to the bottom surface of the plate.

[0037] This aspect of the present disclosure may include one or more of the following optional configurations: In some examples, the one or more fluid-filled bladders include a first fluid-filled bladder disposed on the inner side and a second fluid-filled bladder disposed on the outer side; In some implementations, the first end of the plate includes an outer portion and an inner portion separated from the outer portion by a gap; In some configurations, the first cushioning element includes one or more holes, each hole configured to receive a corresponding one of the one or more fluid-filled bladders.

[0038] In some configurations, each of the plate and upper is received between the first side shield and the second side shield. In some examples, one or more fluid-filled bladders are disposed between the first side shield and the second side shield. In some implementations, each of the first side shield and the second side shield includes an arch extending from a first end to a second end along a respective side of the article of footwear.

[0039] In some examples, the article of footwear further includes a second cushioning element disposed in the heel region and spaced from the first cushioning element by a gap in a midfoot region of the footwear article. In some examples, the article of footwear includes an outsole having a first segment attached to the first cushioning element, a second segment attached to the second cushioning element, and a third segment attached to the one or more fluid-filled bladders. Optionally, the plate includes one or more upper sockets, each upper socket receiving a first end of one of the one or more bladders, and the outsole includes one or more lower sockets, each lower socket receiving a second end of one of the one or more bladders.

[0040] With reference to FIG. 1 , an article of footwear 10 includes an upper 100 and a sole structure 200. Footwear 10 may further include an anterior end 12 associated with a forward-most point of footwear 10 and a posterior end 14 corresponding to a rearward-most point of footwear 10. As shown in FIG. 6 , a longitudinal axis A10 of footwear 10 extends parallel to the ground along the length of footwear 10 from the forward end 12 to the rear end 14 and generally divides footwear 10 into a medial side 16 and a lateral side 18. Thus, medial side 16 and lateral side 18 correspond to opposite sides of footwear 10 and extend from the forward end 12 to the rear end 14. As used herein, a longitudinal direction refers to a direction extending from the forward end 12 to the rear end 14, while a lateral direction refers to a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction extending from the medial side 16 to the lateral side 18.

[0041] The article of footwear 10 may be divided into one or more regions. The regions may include a forefoot region 20, a midfoot region 22, and a heel region 24. The forefoot region 20 may be subdivided into a toe portion 20T, which corresponds to the phalanges, and a ball portion 20B, which is associated with the metatarsals of the foot. The midfoot region 22 may correspond to the arch region of the foot, and the heel region 24 may correspond to the rear portion of the foot, including the calcaneus.

[0042] Upper 100 includes interior surfaces that define an interior void 102 configured to receive and secure a foot for support in sole structure 200. Upper 100 may be formed from one or more materials that are stitched or bonded together to form interior void 102. Suitable materials for upper 100 include, but are not limited to, mesh, woven fabric, foam, leather, and synthetic leather. Materials may be selected and arranged to impart properties of durability, air-permeability, wear-resistance, flexibility, and comfort.

[0043] Referring to FIG. 5 , in some examples, upper 100 includes a strobel having a bottom surface facing sole structure 200 and an opposite top surface that defines a footbed of interior void 102. Stitching or adhesive may secure strobel to upper 100. The footbed may be contoured to fit the profile of the bottom surface of the foot (e.g., plantar). Optionally, upper 100 may include an additional layer, such as an insole or sockliner, positioned over strobel and residing within interior void 102 of upper 100 to receive the bottom surface of the foot to enhance comfort of footwear article 10. An ankle opening 104 in heel region 24 may provide access to interior void 102. For example, the ankle opening 104 may receive a foot and secure the foot within the void 102, facilitating entry and removal of the foot from the interior void 102. In some examples, one or more fasteners 106 extend along the upper 100 to adjust the fit of the interior void 102 around the foot and accommodate entry and removal of the foot from the interior void.

[0044] 4 , sole structure 200 includes a midsole 202 configured to provide cushioning and responsiveness properties and an outsole 204 configured to provide a ground-engaging surface for article of footwear 10. Unlike traditional midsoles formed from a single slab of material, midsole 202 in this example is formed as a composite structure and includes various subcomponents configured to impart desired properties to article of footwear 10. For example, midsole 202 includes a rigid or semi-rigid plate 206, a forefoot cushioning element 208, a heel cushioning element 210, and a fluid cushioning arrangement 212 having one or more fluid-filled bladders 214. Similarly, outsole 204 includes a composite structure, including a toe section 216 attached to forefoot cushioning element 208 at its forward end 12, a forefoot section 218 disposed in forefoot region 20 and attached to fluid cushioning arrangement 212, and a heel section 220 attached to heel cushioning element 210 at its rear end 14.

[0045] Continuing to refer to FIG. 4 , plate 206 includes an elastomeric material, such as polyether block amide (PEBA) (e.g., Pebax® brand elastomer manufactured by Arkema SA). Plate 206 extends from a first end 222 disposed in forefoot region 20 to a second end 224 disposed in rear end 14. Plate 206 includes a top surface 225a attached to the strobel of upper 100 and a bottom surface 225b formed on plate 206 opposite top surface 225a. The distance from top surface 225a to bottom surface 225b defines a thickness of plate 206. As shown, first end 222 of plate 206 may include a fork-like configuration, with a gap or split 226 extending from first end 222 partially along the length of plate 206 through the thickness of plate 206. Thus, gap 226 separates first end 222 into inner and outer tabs 228a, 228b that can flex independently of one another. As shown in FIG. 5, inner and outer tabs 228a, 228b may include sockets 229a, 229b on bottom surface 225b for engaging and securing bladder 214 of fluid cushioning arrangement 212.

[0046] The forefoot cushioning element 208 and the heel cushioning element 210 each comprise a resilient polymer material, such as foam or rubber, to provide cushioning, responsiveness, and energy distribution properties to the wearer's foot. The forefoot cushioning element 208 and the heel cushioning element 210 may comprise the same or different materials to provide desired performance characteristics to each region of the sole structure 200. Exemplary resilient polymer materials for the cushioning elements 208, 210 may include those based on foaming or molding one or more polymers, such as one or more elastomers (e.g., thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs)). The one or more polymers may include an aliphatic polymer, an aromatic polymer, or a mixture of both, and may include a homopolymer, a copolymer (including a terpolymer), or a mixture of both.

[0047] In some embodiments, the one or more polymers may comprise an olefin homopolymer, an olefin copolymer, or a blend thereof. Examples of olefin polymers include polyethylene, polypropylene, and combinations thereof. In other embodiments, the one or more polymers may comprise one or more ethylene copolymers, such as ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymers, EVOH copolymers, ethylene ethyl acrylate copolymers, ethylenically unsaturated mono-fatty acid copolymers, and combinations thereof.

[0048] In further embodiments, the one or more polymers may include one or more polyacrylates, such as polyacrylic acid, esters of polyacrylic acid, polyacrylonitrile, polyacrylic acid, polymethyl acrylate, polyethyl acrylate, polybutyl acrylate, polymethyl methacrylate, and polyvinyl acetate, including derivatives thereof, copolymers thereof, and any combination thereof.

[0049] In yet another embodiment, the one or more polymers may include one or more ionomeric polymers. In these embodiments, the ionomeric polymers may include polymers having carboxylic acid functional groups, sulfonic acid functional groups, salts thereof (e.g., sodium, magnesium, potassium, etc.), and / or anhydrides thereof. For example, the ionomeric polymers may include one or more fatty acid-modified ionomeric polymers, polystyrene sulfonates, ethylene methacrylic acid copolymers, and combinations thereof.

[0050] In further embodiments, the one or more polymers may comprise one or more styrene block copolymers, such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene block copolymers, styrene acrylonitrile block copolymers, styrene ethylene butylene styrene block copolymers, styrene ethylene butadiene styrene block copolymers, styrene ethylene propylene styrene block copolymers, styrene butadiene styrene block copolymers, and combinations thereof.

[0051] In further embodiments, the one or more polymers may include one or more polyamide copolymers (e.g., polyamide-polyether copolymers) and / or one or more polyurethanes (e.g., crosslinked polyurethanes and / or thermoplastic polyurethanes). Examples of suitable polyurethanes include those described above for the barrier layer. Alternatively, the one or more polymers may include one or more natural and / or synthetic rubbers, such as butadiene and isoprene.

[0052] When the resilient polymeric material is a foamed polymeric material, the foamed material may be foamed using a physical blowing agent that undergoes a phase transition to a gas based on a change in temperature and / or pressure, or a chemical blowing agent that forms a gas when heated above its activation temperature. For example, the chemical blowing agent may be an azo compound such as addicarbonamide, sodium bicarbonate, and / or an isocyanate.

[0053] In some embodiments, the foamed polymeric material may be a cross-linked foamed material. In these embodiments, a peroxide-based cross-linking agent, such as dicumyl peroxide, may be used. Additionally, the foamed polymeric material may include one or more fillers, such as pigments, modified or natural clays, modified or unmodified synthetic clays, talc, glass fiber, powdered glass, modified or natural silica, calcium carbonate, mica, paper, wood chips, and the like.

[0054] The resilient polymer material may be formed using a molding process. In one example, when the resilient polymer material is a molded elastomer, the uncured elastomer (e.g., rubber) may be mixed with optional fillers and a cure package, such as a sulfur-based or peroxide-based cure package, in a Banbury mixer, calendared, formed into a shape, placed in a mold, and vulcanized.

[0055] In another example, when the resilient polymeric material is a foam material, the material may be foamed during a molding process, such as an injection molding process, in which a thermoplastic polymeric material is melted in the barrel of an injection molding system, combined with a physical or chemical blowing agent and an optional crosslinking agent, and then injected into a mold under conditions that activate the blowing agent to form a molded foam.

[0056] Optionally, when the resilient polymeric material is a foam material, the foam material may be a compression molded foam. Compression molding may be used to modify the physical properties (e.g., density, stiffness, and / or durometer) of the foam, or to modify the physical appearance of the foam (e.g., to fuse two or more pieces of foam together, to mold the foam, etc.), or both.

[0057] The compression molding process desirably begins by forming one or more foam preforms, for example, by injection molding and expanding a polymeric material, by forming foam particles or beads, by cutting foam sheet stock, and the like. A compression-molded foam may then be made by placing one or more preforms formed from an expanded polymeric material into a compression mold and applying sufficient pressure to the one or more preforms to compress the one or more preforms within the closed mold. Once the mold is closed, sufficient heat and / or pressure is applied to the one or more preforms within the closed mold for a duration sufficient to modify the preforms by forming a skin on the exterior of the compression-molded foam, fusing individual foam particles together, permanently increasing the density of the foam, or any combination thereof. Following application of heat and / or pressure, the mold is opened and the molded foam article is removed from the mold.

[0058] 1-5 , forefoot cushioning element 208 extends from a first end 230 at forward end 12 to a second end 232 disposed in midfoot region 22. Forefoot cushioning element 208 includes a top surface 233a attached to bottom surface 225b of plate 206 and a bottom surface 233b disposed on the opposite side. The distance from top surface 233a to bottom surface 233b defines the thickness of forefoot cushioning element 208. Forefoot cushioning element 208 includes one or more apertures 234a, 234b formed throughout its entire thickness (i.e., from top surface 233a to bottom surface 233b), and one or more apertures 234a, 234b are configured to receive each of bladders 214 therein. Thus, when sole structure 200 is assembled, bladders 214 of fluid cushioning arrangement 212 are surrounded by forefoot cushioning element 208.

[0059] Forefoot cushioning element 208 further includes a pair of shields 235a, 235b extending upward from opposite sides of forefoot cushioning element 208 between first end 230 and second end 232. Here, each of shields 235a, 235b is configured to extend upward along one of medial side 16 and lateral side 18 of upper 100 in a portion of forefoot region 20 associated with the ball of the foot, thereby providing lateral reinforcement and stability to the side of upper 100 in that region. In the illustrated example, each of shields 235a, 235b is formed as an arched structure extending from first end 236a, 236b to second end 237a, 237b along the side of forefoot cushioning element 208. Here, the arched structure provides desired lateral stability while still allowing sole structure 200 to flex appropriately across ball portion 20B of forefoot region 20. 2 and 3, shields 235a-235b define outer openings 238a, 238b that extend from the periphery of forefoot cushioning element 208 and intersect with holes 234 formed through the thickness of forefoot cushioning element 208. Thus, when sole structure 200 is assembled, bladder 214 may be exposed through holes 238a, 238b formed through forefoot cushioning element 208.

[0060] 1-5 , heel cushioning element 210 is attached to the bottom surface of plate 206 and extends from a first end 239 at midfoot region 22 to a second end 240 at rear end 14 of sole structure 200. As best shown in FIGS. 1-3 , first end 239 of heel cushioning element 210 faces or opposes second end 232 of forefoot cushioning element 208. However, first end 239 of heel cushioning element 210 is separated from second end 232 of forefoot cushioning element 208 by a gap 242 in midfoot region 22, where the bottom surface of plate 206 is exposed along gap 242. The gap provides stability in movements commonly associated with HIIT training exercises, such as the plank position, and allows the foot to flex naturally when launching into mountain climbers. The first end 239 of the heel cushioning element 210 may include a notch 244 extending along the length of the article of footwear 10 such that the first end 239 is separated into medial and lateral fingers 246a, 246b that can move independently of one another.

[0061] Fluid cushioning arrangement 212 of the illustrated example includes a pair of bladders 214 defining respective chambers for containing pressurized fluid. A first of bladders 214 is disposed on medial side 16 of sole structure 200 in forefoot region 20, and a second of bladders 214 is disposed on lateral side 18 of sole structure 200 in forefoot region 20. As described above, each of bladders 214 extends through one of holes 234 formed through forefoot cushioning element 208 such that a top surface of each bladder 214 is received within one of sockets 229 a, 229 b and is attached to bottom surface 225 b of plate 206, and a bottom surface of each bladder 214 is received in a socket of forefoot section 218 of outsole 204.

[0062] Each of the bladders 214 may include a first barrier element 248a and a second barrier element 248b formed from an elastomeric material. The chamber of each bladder 214 may receive a tension element 250 (FIG. 8) therein. Each tension element 250 may include a series of tension strands 252 extending between an upper tension sheet 254 and a lower tension sheet 254. The upper tension sheet 254 may be attached to the first barrier element 248a, while the lower tension sheet 254 may be attached to the second barrier element 248b. In this manner, when the bladders 214 receive pressurized fluid, the tension strands 252 of the tension element 250 are placed in tension. Because the upper tension sheet 254 is attached to the first barrier element 248a and the lower tension sheet 254 is attached to the second barrier element 248b, the tension strands 252 maintain the desired shape of the bladders 214 when pressurized fluid is injected into the chamber.

[0063] Continuing to refer to FIG. 4 , toe section 216 of outsole 204 is formed of a resilient elastomeric material and is disposed at forward end 12 of sole structure 200. Forefoot section 218 is disposed in forefoot region 20 and is formed independently of each of toe section 216 and heel section 220. As shown, forefoot section 218 includes one or more sockets 256 a, 256 b formed in a top surface configured to receive and secure a corresponding lower portion of bladder 214. Forefoot section 218 thus provides a bottom structure for securing bladder 214. In some examples, forefoot section 218 may be formed of a material having greater stiffness than the other sections 216, 220 to provide stability between the independent bladders 214.

[0064] Heel segment 220 extends around heel region 24 and includes a first segment 258a extending along medial side 16, a second segment 258b extending along lateral side 18, and an arcuate third segment 258c extending around posterior end 14. As shown, second segment 258b may be longer than first segment 258a.

[0065] 13-15 , footwear article 10a is provided and includes upper 100a and sole structure 200a attached to upper 100a. Given the substantial similarity in structure and function of components related to footwear article 10 with respect to footwear article 10a, like reference numerals will be used below and in the drawings to identify like components, while like reference numerals including letter extensions will be used to identify modified components.

[0066] In the article of footwear of Figures 13-15, the sole structure 200a includes a unitary midsole 202a including a single cushioning element comprising a foam material extending from the forward end 12 to the rear end 14. Here, the sole structure 200a does not include a separate cushioning element or bladder. The midsole 202a includes medial and lateral side shields 235c and 235d having narrower profiles than the side shields 235a and 235b of the previous example. In this example, the side shields 235c and 235d are formed as solid (i.e., aperture-free) elements along the sides of the midsole 202a. Optionally, the midsole 202a may include arcuate relief channels 270a-270d formed in the periphery of the midsole 202a at either end of the side shields 235c and 235d to allow the midsole 202a to flex around the side shields 235c and 235d. Thus, sole structure 200a is configured as a simplified, lightweight alternative to sole structures 200a, 200b, 200c, 200d, 200e, 200f, 200f, 200fh ...

[0067] Upper 100a of footwear article 10a may include arcuate flex zones 130a, 130b that partially surround side shields 235c, 235d. As shown, flex zones 130a, 130b extend from a first one of relief channels 130a, 130c at the forward end of one of side shields 235c, 235d to a second one of relief channels 130b, 130d formed at the forward end of side shields 235c, 235d. Thus, upper 100a, in cooperation with relief channels 170a-170d, provides flexibility along the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joints.

[0068] 16-19, footwear article 10b is provided and includes upper 100b and sole structure 200b attached to upper 100b. Given that components related to footwear article 10 are substantially similar in structure and function with respect to footwear article 10b, like reference numerals will be used below and in the drawings to identify like components, while like reference numerals including letter extensions will be used to identify modified components.

[0069] 16-19, another example article of footwear 10b according to the principles of the present disclosure is configured for use with a bicycle. Upper 100b includes a translucent mesh material that extends along midfoot region 22, along lateral side 18, and beyond forefoot region 20. Upper 100b further includes a forefoot strap 108 and a midfoot strap 110, each extending across upper 100b from medial side 16 to lateral side 18.

[0070] Forefoot strap 108 includes a medial forefoot band 112 attached to a bite line formed between upper 100b and sole structure 200b at medial side 16, and a lateral forefoot band 114 attached to the bite line at lateral side 18. Forefoot bands 112, 114 each include a fixed end 116, 118 attached at the bite line and a free end operable to adjustably attach to the free end of the other forefoot band 112, 114. As shown, fixed ends 116, 118 of forefoot bands 112, 114 are flared (i.e., increase in width in a direction toward the bite line) and include an arcuate reinforcing strip 120 attached to or embedded in fixed ends 116, 118. Thus, the fixed ends 116, 118 of the forefoot strap 108 may function similarly to the shields 235a, 235b described above, providing lateral stability along the ball of the foot while also allowing the upper to flex or bend along the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint.

[0071] The midfoot strap 110 includes a medial midfoot band 122 and a lateral midfoot band 124 that cooperate to extend across the upper 100b adjacent the ankle opening 104. The medial midfoot band 122 is integrally formed with the upper 100b, as shown in FIGS. 17 and 19 . Thus, the medial midfoot band 122 extends along the medial side of the footwear, defining a medial quarter panel and a medial heel panel. When the medial midfoot band 122 is attached to the lateral midfoot band 124, the medial midfoot band 122 can be pulled over the instep region to adjust the size of the upper 100b and the ankle opening 104. Here, the lateral midfoot band 124 includes a fixed end 126 that is attached to the upper 100b at the lateral side 18 of the ankle opening 104 and a second end configured to adjustably attach to the medial midfoot band 122.

[0072] Sole structure 200b includes a forefoot plate 260 and a heel plate 262 attached to upper 100b. Forefoot plate 260 includes a coupler 264 having SPD and delta cleats. Forefoot plate 260 includes a plurality of vents 266 formed through the thickness of forefoot plate 260 and communicating with interior void 102 of upper 100 to provide ventilation to the plantar surface within upper 100b. Forefoot plate 260 and heel plate 262 each include resilient studs 268 that provide traction during walking.

[0073] The use of a fluid-filled bladder with tensile members in the forefoot not only creates a dynamic aesthetic, but also helps provide impact protection and responsiveness. The fluid-filled cushioning system, a two-unit system under the forefoot, doesn't work alone. A plate running from heel to forefoot helps propel the foot forward and position it well for the majority of upright HIIT movements. The upper is engineered to support lateral movements like skateboarding and side lunges.

[0074] The following clauses provide exemplary configurations for the sole structures and articles of footwear described above.

[0075] Clause 1: An article of footwear comprising: an upper; a plate having a top surface facing the upper and a bottom surface formed opposite the top surface, extending from a first end in the forefoot region to a second end in the heel region; a first cushioning element having an upper surface attached to the bottom surface of the plate in the forefoot region and including a first side shield extending from the upper surface along an inner side of the upper and a second side shield extending from the upper surface along an outer side of the upper; and one or more fluid-filled bladders, each fluid-filled bladder at least partially surrounded by the first cushioning element in the forefoot region and having a top surface attached to the bottom surface of the plate.

[0076] Clause 2: The footwear article described in Clause 1, wherein the one or more fluid-filled bladders include a first fluid-filled bladder positioned on the medial side and a second fluid-filled bladder positioned on the lateral side.

[0077] Clause 3: The article of footwear of clause 1 or 2, wherein the first end of the plate includes an inner portion and an outer portion, the inner portion being separated from the outer portion.

[0078] Clause 4: An article of footwear described in any of clauses 1 to 3, wherein the first cushioning element includes one or more holes, each hole configured to receive a corresponding one of one or more fluid-filled bladders.

[0079] Clause 5: An article of footwear described in any of clauses 1 to 4, wherein each of the plate and the upper is received between the first side shield and the second side shield.

[0080] Clause 6: An article of footwear described in any of clauses 1 to 5, wherein one or more fluid-filled bladders are positioned between the first side shield and the second side shield.

[0081] Clause 7: An article of footwear described in any of clauses 1 to 6, wherein the first side shield and the second side shield each include an arch extending from a first end to a second end along a respective side of the article of footwear.

[0082] Clause 8: A footwear article described in any of clauses 1 to 7, further comprising a second cushioning element positioned in the heel region and spaced from the first cushioning element by a gap in the midfoot region of the footwear article.

[0083] Clause 9: The footwear article of clause 8, further comprising an outsole having a first segment attached to the first cushioning element, a second segment attached to the second cushioning element, and a third segment attached to one or more fluid-filled bladders.

[0084] Clause 10: An article of footwear as described in Clause 9, wherein the plate includes one or more upper sockets, each upper socket receiving a first end of one of the one or more fluid-filled bladders, and the outsole includes one or more lower sockets, each lower socket receiving a second end of one of the one or more fluid-filled bladders.

[0085] Clause 11: An article of footwear comprising: an upper; a plate having a top surface facing the upper and a bottom surface formed opposite the top surface, extending from a first end in the forefoot region to a second end in the heel region; a first cushioning element having an upper surface attached to the bottom surface of the plate in the forefoot region, the first cushioning element including a first side shield defining a first opening formed in an outer side of the first cushioning element and a second side shield defining a second opening formed in an inner side of the first cushioning element; and one or more fluid-filled bladders, each fluid-filled bladder being at least partially surrounded by the first cushioning element in the forefoot region and having a top surface attached to the bottom surface of the plate.

[0086] Clause 12: The article of footwear described in Clause 11, wherein the one or more fluid-filled bladders include a first fluid-filled bladder positioned on the medial side and a second fluid-filled bladder positioned on the lateral side.

[0087] Clause 13: The article of footwear of clause 11 or 12, wherein the first end of the plate includes an inner portion and an outer portion, the inner portion being separated from the outer portion by a gap.

[0088] Clause 14: An article of footwear described in any of clauses 11 to 13, wherein the first cushioning element includes one or more holes, each hole configured to receive a corresponding one of one or more fluid-filled bladders.

[0089] Clause 15: An article of footwear according to any of clauses 11 to 14, wherein each of the plate and the upper is received between the first side shield and the second side shield.

[0090] Clause 16: An article of footwear described in any of clauses 11 to 15, wherein one or more fluid-filled bladders are positioned between the first side shield and the second side shield.

[0091] Clause 17: An article of footwear described in any of clauses 11 to 16, wherein the first side shield and the second side shield each include an arch extending from a first end to a second end along a respective side of the article of footwear.

[0092] Clause 18: A footwear article described in any of clauses 11 to 17, further comprising a second cushioning element positioned in the heel region and spaced from the first cushioning element by a gap in the midfoot region of the footwear article.

[0093] Clause 19: The article of footwear described in Clause 18, further including an outsole having a first segment attached to the first cushioning element, a second segment attached to the second cushioning element, and a third segment attached to one or more fluid-filled bladders.

[0094] Clause 20: An article of footwear as described in Clause 19, wherein the plate includes one or more upper sockets, each upper socket receiving a first end of one of the one or more fluid-filled bladders, and the outsole includes one or more lower sockets, each lower socket receiving a second end of one of the one or more fluid-filled bladders.

[0095] The foregoing description has been provided for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present disclosure. Individual elements or components of a particular configuration are generally not limited to that particular configuration, but, where applicable, can be compatible and used in selected configurations even if not specifically shown or described. The same may be modified in many ways. Such modifications are not considered a departure from the present disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. Upper and a plate having a top surface facing the upper and a bottom surface opposite the top surface, the plate extending from a first end in the forefoot region to a second end in the heel region; a first cushioning element having a top surface attached to the bottom surface of the plate in the forefoot region, the first side shield extending from the top surface along a medial side of the upper and a second side shield extending from the top surface along a lateral side of the upper; one or more fluid-filled bladders, each fluid-filled bladder at least partially surrounded by the first cushioning element in the forefoot region and having a top surface attached to the bottom surface of the plate.

1. An article of footwear comprising: each of the first side shield and the second side shield includes an arch extending from a first end to a second end along the respective side of the article of footwear; Footwear items.

2. The article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein the one or more fluid-filled bladders include a first fluid-filled bladder disposed on an inner side and a second fluid-filled bladder disposed on an outer side.

3. The article of footwear of claim 1 or 2, wherein the first end of the plate includes an inner portion and an outer portion, the inner portion being separated from the outer portion.

4. The article of footwear of claim 1 or 2, wherein the first cushioning element includes one or more apertures, each aperture configured to receive a corresponding one of the one or more fluid-filled bladders.

5. The article of footwear of claim 1 or 2, wherein the plate and the upper are each received between the first side shield and the second side shield.

6. The article of footwear of claim 1 or 2, wherein the one or more fluid-filled bladders are disposed between the first side shield and the second side shield.

7. The article of footwear of claim 1 or 2, further comprising a second cushioning element disposed in the heel region and spaced from the first cushioning element by a gap in a midfoot region of the footwear article.

8. 8. The article of footwear of claim 7, further comprising an outsole having a first piece attached to the first cushioning element, a second piece attached to the second cushioning element, and a third piece attached to the one or more fluid-filled bladders.

9. 9. The article of footwear of claim 8, wherein the plate includes one or more upper sockets, each upper socket receiving the top surface of one of the one or more fluid-filled bladders, and the outsole includes one or more lower sockets, each lower socket receiving the bottom surface of one of the one or more fluid-filled bladders.

10. Upper and a plate having a top surface facing the upper and a bottom surface opposite the top surface, the plate extending from a first end in the forefoot region to a second end in the heel region; a first cushioning element having a top surface attached to the bottom surface of the plate in the forefoot region, the first cushioning element including: a first side shield extending from the top surface along a medial side of the upper and defining a first opening formed in the medial side of the first cushioning element; and a second side shield extending from the top surface along a lateral side of the upper and defining a second opening formed in the lateral side of the first cushioning element; one or more fluid-filled bladders, each fluid-filled bladder at least partially surrounded by the first cushioning element in the forefoot region and having a top surface attached to the bottom surface of the plate. Footwear items.

11. The article of footwear of claim 10 , wherein the one or more fluid-filled bladders include a first fluid-filled bladder disposed on an inner side and a second fluid-filled bladder disposed on an outer side.

12. 12. The article of footwear of claim 10 or 11, wherein the first end of the plate includes an inner portion and an outer portion, the inner portion separated from the outer portion by a gap.

13. 12. The article of footwear of claim 10 or 11, wherein the first cushioning element includes one or more apertures, each aperture configured to receive a corresponding one of the one or more fluid-filled bladders.

14. The article of footwear recited in claim 10, wherein the plate and the upper are each received between the first side shield and the second side shield.

15. The article of footwear of claim 10 or 11, wherein the one or more fluid-filled bladders are disposed between the first side shield and the second side shield.

16. 12. The article of footwear of claim 10 or 11, wherein the first side shield and the second side shield each include an arch that extends from a first end to a second end along the respective side of the article of footwear.

17. 12. The article of footwear of claim 10 or 11, further comprising a second cushioning element disposed in the heel region and spaced from the first cushioning element by a gap in a midfoot region of the footwear article.

18. 18. The article of footwear of claim 17, further comprising an outsole having a first piece attached to the first cushioning element, a second piece attached to the second cushioning element, and a third piece attached to the one or more fluid-filled bladders.

19. 19. The article of footwear of claim 18, wherein the plate includes one or more upper sockets, each upper socket receiving the top surface of one of the one or more fluid-filled bladders, and the outsole includes one or more lower sockets, each lower socket receiving the bottom surface of one of the one or more fluid-filled bladders.

Images