Article of footwear with closure system

Abstract

The footwear article has a flexible upper, a sole, a bite line, a heel zone, a forefoot zone, a medial portion, a lateral portion, and a flap. The footwear article is secured using a closure system that can be tightened and loosened. The flap is configured to be coupled to the footwear article near the bite line and to interact with the closure system. The closure system secures the flap to the upper when the closure system is tightened.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] Cross-reference regarding related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 115,162, filed on November 18, 2020, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0003] The present disclosure generally relates to the field of footwear. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to the field of footwear having a flap and a closing system for stability.

[0004] (Patent Document 1) Japanese Patent Publication No. 3942690 means of solving the problem

[0005] A simplified summary of the present disclosure is provided below to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the present disclosure. This summary is not a comprehensive overview of the present disclosure. It is not intended to identify important elements of the present disclosure or to explain the scope of the present disclosure. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of the present disclosure in a simplified form as an introduction to more detailed descriptions provided elsewhere.

[0006] In one embodiment, the footwear article may comprise a flexible upper, a sole having an outsole and a midsole, a bite line, a heel area, and a forefoot area. The footwear article may have an inner portion extending from the forefoot area to the heel area. The footwear article may have an outer portion extending from the forefoot area to the heel area, the outer portion being opposite to and generally parallel to the inner portion. The footwear article may further have a closure system for securing the footwear article, which may be tightened and loosened. The footwear article may further comprise at least one flap coupled to the footwear article near the bite line. The closure system may be configured to interact with the flap, and when tightened, the closure system may be configured to secure the flap to the upper.

[0007] In another embodiment, the footwear article may comprise a flexible upper, a sole having an outsole and a midsole, a bite line, a heel area, and a forefoot area. The footwear article may have an inner portion extending from the forefoot area to the heel area. The footwear article may have an outer portion extending from the forefoot area to the heel area, the outer portion being opposite to and generally parallel to the inner portion. The footwear article may further comprise a closure system having a lace and a lace guide, and the lace is threaded through at least one lace guide located near the bite line. The footwear article may further comprise at least one flap coupled to the footwear article near the bite line.

[0008] In another embodiment, the footwear article may comprise a flexible upper, an outsole having an outsole and a midsole, a bite line, a heel area, and a forefoot area. The footwear article may have a medial portion extending from the forefoot area to the heel area. The footwear article may have a lateral portion extending from the forefoot area to the heel area, and the lateral portion is opposite to and generally parallel to the medial portion. The footwear article may further comprise an adjustable closure system and a flap. The flap may have a forefoot end, a heel end, and a top point. The flap may be coupled to the footwear article near the bite line. The flap may be variable between a coupled position and a relaxed position. In the coupled position, the flap may provide lateral support to the midfoot area of ​​the footwear article. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0009] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail below with reference to the configurations of the attached drawings. FIG. 1 is a side view of a footwear article according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 is a side view of the footwear article of FIG. 1 according to another embodiment. FIG. 3 is a side view of the footwear article of FIG. 1 according to another embodiment. FIG. 4 is a side view of the footwear article of FIG. 1 according to another embodiment. FIG. 5 is a bottom view of the footwear article of FIG. 1 according to one embodiment. FIG. 6 is a facing side view of the footwear article of FIG. 1 according to one embodiment. FIG. 7 is a contrasting side view of the footwear article of FIG. 1 according to another embodiment. FIG. 8 is an upper perspective view of the footwear article of FIG. 1 according to one embodiment. FIG. 9 is an upper perspective view of the footwear article of FIG. 1 according to another embodiment. FIG. 10 is a rear view of the footwear article of FIG. 1 according to one embodiment. FIG. 11 is a partially exploded perspective view of the footwear article of FIG. 1 according to one embodiment. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0010] Now, the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which embodiments of the invention are illustrated. However, the present invention should not be interpreted as being limited to the embodiments described herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided to fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art by making the described disclosure thorough and complete. In the drawings, similar numbers refer to similar elements throughout. The thickness and dimensions of some components may be exaggerated for clarity.

[0011] The terms used herein are merely for describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the invention. Additionally, as used herein, the singular form is intended to include the plural form unless otherwise indicated in the context.

[0012] Where one element is referred to as being "attached," "coupled," or "connected" to another element, it will be understood that the element may be directly attached, coupled, or connected to the other element, or that an intervening element may also exist. In contrast, where one element is referred to as being "directly attached," "directly coupled," or "directly connected" to another element, no intervening element exists.

[0013] It is noted that any one or more aspects or features described with respect to one embodiment may be incorporated into different embodiments, although not specifically described therein. That is, all embodiments and / or features of any embodiments may be combined in any manner and / or combination. The applicant reserves the right to modify any originally filed claim or to file any new claim accordingly, which includes the right to amend any originally filed claim to be dependent on any feature of any other claim and / or to incorporate any feature of any other claim that was not originally claimed in such a manner. Such and other objects and / or aspects of the invention are described in detail in the specification set forth below.

[0014] A footwear article (10) is illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 10 and includes a flexible upper (100) and a sole (110). As illustrated in FIG. 1, the footwear article (10) may further include a heel area (130), a forefoot area (140), a closing system (150), and a flap (160).

[0015] The heel area (130) generally corresponds to the posterior part of the foot, namely the area below surrounding the Achilles tendon, the posterior part of the heel, and the talus and calcaneus. The forefoot area (140) generally corresponds to the anterior part of the foot, namely the toes and metatarsals, phalanges, and sesamoid bones. The midfoot area (135) generally corresponds to the midfoot, namely the arch and navicular, cuboid, and cuneiform bones. It is understood that the heel area (130), midfoot area (135), and forefoot area (140) represent general areas of the footwear and are intended not to distinguish precise areas.

[0016] The footwear article (10) may have an inner portion extending from the forefoot area (140) to the heel area (130) and an outer portion extending from the forefoot area (140) to the heel area (130). The outer portion and the inner portion may be opposite each other. In some embodiments, the outer portion and the inner portion may be generally parallel to each other. The outer portion may correspond to a surface generally oriented away from the outer area of ​​the foot and the other foot of the user. The inner portion may correspond to a surface generally oriented toward the inner area of ​​the foot and the other foot of the user.

[0017] The upper (100) may have an inner surface (102) and an outer surface (104). The inner surface (102) may partially form an area configured to accommodate the user's foot. The upper (100) may be configured to extend over the user's foot, along the inner and outer sides of the foot, and around the forefoot and heel areas of the foot. The area configured to accommodate the user's foot may be accessed from an ankle opening formed by a collar (106).

[0018] The upper (100) may be composed of any suitable material currently known or to be developed in the future, including but not limited to leather, suede, fabric, canvas, woven fabric, knitted fabric, synthetic polymer fiber, nylon, polyester, or cotton. The upper (100) may be elastic. Alternatively, at least a portion of the upper (100) may be elastic. In another embodiment, the upper (100) may be inelastic. At least a portion of the upper (100) is non-flexible and rigid or semi-rigid.

[0019] The upper (100) may further include a heel counter (132) in the heel area (130). The heel counter (132) may reinforce the upper (100) and restrict the movement of the user's heel. The heel counter (132) may wrap around the heel area (130) and extend forward along both the outer and inner sides.

[0020] The sole (110) may include an outsole (112), a midsole (114), and an insole (116). The sole (110) may be coupled to the upper (100) at the bite line (105). The sole (110) may be configured to dampen force or provide support or cushioning. In some embodiments, the midsole (114) may be formed of a compressible material that provides cushioning. In other embodiments, the midsole (114) may include a plate or may be formed of a high-density material to increase stability.

[0021] The outsole (112) may be located beneath the midsole (114) and may be designed to interact with the ground surface. The outsole (112) may be designed to provide traction. In some embodiments, spikes, cleats, or other devices for additional traction may be coupled to the outsole (112). These devices may be detachably coupled to the outsole (112). In other embodiments, these devices may be fixedly coupled to the outsole (112). In some embodiments, the outsole (112) may include a number of pads or ridges, as shown in FIG. 5.

[0022] The insole (116) may be designed to provide cushioning or comfort for the user. The insole (116) may be removable and may sit on top of the midsole (114) during use. In some embodiments, the insole (116) may be designed to provide support. The insole (116) may be flexible, semi-rigid, or rigid.

[0023] The footwear article (10) may include a closing system (150). The closing system (150) may be any suitable closing system known in the relevant art or subsequently developed. In one embodiment, the closing system (150) may include a shoelace for securing the upper (100) around the user's foot. In another embodiment, the closing system (150) may further include at least one elastic gore to enlarge the ankle opening so that the user can pull the upper (100) near the forefoot (120) and collar (106) and facilitate foot placement within the upper (100) of the footwear article (10).

[0024] In another embodiment, the closing system (150) may include an adjustable lacing system utilizing at least one string (152), an adjustable dial (154), and a string guide (156). For example, the closing system (150) may be the lacing system disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 10,070,695, the whole of which is incorporated herein by reference. In another embodiment, the closing system (150) does not utilize the adjustable dial (154) to control the tension of the string (152), and such tension may be increased or decreased by other means. Increasing the tension may result in tightening the string (152), and decreasing the tension may result in loosening the string (152). The string (152) may be secured in any manner currently known or subsequently developed. In some embodiments, the string (152) may be secured by tying the ends of the string (152) together.

[0025] The strap (152) may be a tension strap. In some embodiments, the strap (152) is a wire. When the tension of the strap (152) is increased, the strap (152) can secure the upper (100) around the user's foot. The strap (152) can be optionally adjusted using an adjustable dial (154). The tension of the strap (152) can be reduced using the adjustable dial (154) to allow the user to position their foot at least partially within the upper (100). The user can use the adjustable dial (154) to increase the tension on the strap (152) to tighten the strap (152) and secure the upper (100) around the user's foot.

[0026] The lace guide (156) may be a loop, thereby allowing the lace (152) to slide through the loop when tension is increased or decreased using an adjustable dial (154). In some embodiments, the lace guide (156) has low friction. The lace guide (156) may be coupled to the upper (100) at strategic points that allow the user to secure the upper (100) to the user's foot. The lace guide (156) may be strategically positioned so that the user is not uncomfortable when the lace (152) is tightened. The placement of the lace guide (156) may help stabilize the foot. In some embodiments, the placement of the closing system (150) and the lace guide (156) may dampen forces acting on the user's foot, such as pressure, shear force, ground force, or the ability for flexion or movement.

[0027] As illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 4, in some embodiments, the strap (152) may be positioned over the upper (100) and configured to interact with the outer surface (104) of the upper. The strap (152) may be visible in whole or in part. In other embodiments, a strap guide (156) may be positioned so that the strap (152) does not come into direct contact with the upper (100).

[0028] In another embodiment, the strap (152) may be located between the outer surface (104) of the upper and the inner surface (102) of the upper. In such an embodiment, there may be a channel for the strap between the outer surface (104) of the upper and the inner surface (102) of the upper. Additionally, a strap guide (156) may be positioned between the outer surface (104) of the upper and the inner surface (102) of the upper.

[0029] In some embodiments, a portion of the strap (152) may be between the outer surface (104) of the upper and the inner surface (102) of the upper, and a portion of the strap (152) may be on the outer surface (104) of the upper.

[0030] In an embodiment where at least a portion of the lace (152) is on the outer surface (104) of the upper, the upper (100) may optionally have a groove (not shown herein) to facilitate the placement of the lace (152) when the adjustable dial (154) is tightened. The groove may secure the lace (152) when the adjustable dial (154) is tightened and prevent the lace (152) from loosening or tightening in an undesirable position that could affect the force acting on the footwear article or the user's foot. Additionally, the groove may provide a reliable position for the lace (152) so that the user does not need to readjust the lace (152).

[0031] As illustrated in FIG. 10, the adjustable dial (154) may be located at the rear of the footwear article (10) in the heel area (130). In some embodiments, the adjustable dial may be located generally midway between the collar (106) and the bite line (105). Due to the force applied when adjusting the tension of the strap (152), it may be advantageous to place the adjustable dial (154) at the rear of the footwear article (10). The placement of the adjustable dial (154) in the heel area (130) may provide increased stability of the footwear article (10).

[0032] The placement of the adjustable dial (154) can provide increased stability when downward pressure is applied to the sole (110). Additionally, the placement of the adjustable dial (154) can provide increased freedom of movement when the downward pressure is released. The strategic placement of the strap guide (156) can provide increased stability when downward pressure is applied to the sole (110) and can provide increased freedom of movement when the downward pressure is released. In some embodiments, the strap (152) may cross in an X pattern near the forefoot area. An X pattern configuration may provide greater mechanical advantages. In some embodiments, a combination of the strategic placement of the adjustable dial (154) and the strap guide (156) in the heel area (130) can provide increased stability when downward pressure is applied to the sole and can provide increased freedom of movement when the downward pressure is released and / or when the forefoot area (140) is flexed. The flexion in the forefoot area (140) may be dorsal flexion.

[0033] Lifting of downward pressure can introduce slack into the strap (152) when there is a bend in the forefoot area (140). In some embodiments, slack can be introduced without the need to further adjust the tension of the closing system (150). Thus, tension can be automatically adjusted using a strap tightening configuration so that slack is introduced when there is a bend in the forefoot area (140) and the strap (152) is pulled taut when downward pressure is applied to the sole (110). Downward pressure applied to the sole (110) can increase the tightening of the strap (152), for example, when the user plants the user's foot, thereby further stabilizing the footwear article (10). The taut strap (152) can be combined with a flap (160) as described further below, thereby adding stability against lateral load. As a result, the footwear article (10) may have increased stability when the user's foot is planted and may have increased freedom of movement when downward pressure is released and the forefoot is flexed. Such footwear article (10) may be comfortable for the user to enter or engage in other walking activities while still providing increased stability when the user's foot is planted.

[0034] In some embodiments, the adjustable dial (154) may be coupled to the upper (100) near the eye stay (122). In other embodiments, the adjustable dial may be coupled to the upper (100) at 1 / 4 of the footwear article (10).

[0035] In some embodiments, and as illustrated in FIG. 8, at least one strap guide (156) may be positioned near the eye stay (122). In some embodiments, two strap guides (156) may be positioned near the inner eye stay, and one strap guide (156) may be positioned near the outer eye stay.

[0036] The strap (152) can be coupled to an adjustable dial (154) at the first end and to a strap anchor (158) at the second end. The strap anchor (158) can be coupled to the footwear article (10) near the bite line (105). In some embodiments, the strap anchor (158) is fixedly coupled to the footwear article (10). In some embodiments, the strap guide (156) can be coupled to the bite line (105) adjacent to the flap (160). In some embodiments, the strap guide (156) and / or the strap anchor (158) can be coupled to any location on the flap (160). For example, the strap guide (156) and the strap anchor (158) can be coupled to the flap (160) in an upper section, a middle section, or a lower section of the flap. The locations of the strap guide (156) and the strap anchor (158) are independent of each other and do not need to be in the same section.

[0037] The footwear article (10) may include at least one flap (160). In some embodiments, each shoe in a pair of shoes may have a flap (160). The flap (160) may provide a benefit to the user by further stabilizing at least a portion of the footwear (10) to reduce the effect of shear force during wear. When combined, the flap (160) creates a cinching action that stabilizes a portion of the footwear (10) and distributes applied pressure across the required area of ​​the footwear.

[0038] The flap (160) may be rigid or semi-rigid. The amount of stabilization provided by the flap (160) may vary depending on its rigidity, and increased rigidity may provide a higher stabilization effect. In some embodiments, the flap (160) may have non-uniform rigidity. For example, the flap (160) may have zones of increased rigidity, such as zones of and near the bite line. In some embodiments, the flap may have a rigidity gradient in which the point of maximum rigidity is near the bite line and the point of minimum rigidity is at the top point (162). The rigidity may be changed by increasing the thickness of the material in areas where increased rigidity is required (e.g., by applying an additional layer of material). In some embodiments, the flap (160) may be flexible.

[0039] The flap (160) may be formed from leather, fabric, carbon fiber, thermosetting resin, thermoplastic resin, or any suitable material currently known or subsequently developed having appropriate stiffness. In some embodiments, the flap (160) comprises a self-reinforcing polymer composite material. Self-reinforcing polymer composites are known in the composites industry and refer to fiber-reinforced composites comprising reinforcing fibers and a polymer matrix, wherein the highly oriented reinforcing fibers are made of the same polymer forming the matrix. For example, a polypropylene matrix may be reinforced with polypropylene fibers. For example, different thermoplastic polymers may be used, including polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polymethyl methacrylate, liquid crystal polymers, polylactic acid, and polyamide. Self-reinforcing polymer composites are commercially available and sold under the trade names Pure® (DIT BV and Milliken USA (formerly Lankhorst Pure Composites, Netherlands); Armordon® (Don & Low, Ltd., Scotland, UK); and Curv® (Propex Furnishing Solutions GmbH & Co. KG (Gronau, Germany)).

[0040] Self-reinforcing composites can be manufactured using various techniques, including hot compaction and co-extrusion methods. Generally, hot compaction refers to a method of heating a highly oriented polymer tape. Heating may cause a small percentage of the polymer tape to melt. When pressure is applied, this molten polymer flows through the lattice work of the tape to form a continuous matrix. Subsequently, the sheet is cooled under continued pressure to solidify the matrix. A fiber-drawing process provides higher stiffness as the surface facing of the fibers melts. The molten outer layer recrystallizes to form a polymer matrix, producing a smooth composite sheet with high stiffness. Subsequently, this stiff sheet can be thermoformed into a structured flap according to one or more embodiments described herein.

[0041] In a co-extrusion process, a highly oriented polymer tape is extruded using a high melting point grade polymer. During this process, a low melting point grade of the same polymer family is extruded onto the surface of the tape. This tape can then be woven to form a fabric. During post-processing into molded parts and articles, the outer layer of the tape melts before the inner core of the oriented polymer. Under pressure, the low melting point grade polymer flows throughout the fabric. Upon cooling, this low melting point grade polymer re-solidifies to form a composite matrix, and a composite sheet is produced.

[0042] These self-reinforcing composites are lightweight and possess high strength. Other advantageous properties include, for example, high stiffness, high tensile strength, and excellent impact resistance. Since the reinforcing fibers and the matrix are composed of the same polymer, they are chemically compatible and exhibit minimal interfacial failure.

[0043] In particular, these self-reinforcing composites have a low density (when measured according to ISO 1183) preferably less than about 1.0 g / cm³ and more preferably less than 0.95 g / cm³. The combination of a highly oriented tape and a matrix made of the same polymer helps to provide a lightweight material with good physical properties such as strength, toughness, and modulus.

[0044] In addition, the composite material possesses high impact strength. The Charpy impact strength is 90 kJ / m² (when measured according to EN ISO 179 / 2). 2 Exceeding, more preferably 100 kJ / m² 2 Exceeding, more preferably 110 kJ / m² 2 The tensile strain at break is preferably at least 10% (when measured according to DIN EN ISO 527). The compressive strength (flat-wise) is preferably greater than 200 MPa, more preferably greater than 250 MPa (when measured according to EN ISO 604).

[0045] Composites are ductile materials that maintain ductility at low temperatures. In other words, these composites retain their toughness and do not become embrittled at cold temperatures. Furthermore, because the reinforcing material consists of the same polymer as the polymer matrix, these composites can be easily recycled. Since composites are thermoplastic in their entirety, component parts can be ground, remelted, and regranulated so that they can be used to manufacture new components.

[0046] Such self-reinforcing polymer composite materials and manufacturing methods are described in patent literature including, for example, U.S. Patents 9,873,239, 8,871,333, 8,268,439, 8,052,913 and 8,021,592 of Ward et al. (Propex) and U.S. Patent 7,318,961 of Loos et al. (Lankhurst); and U.S. Patent 7,960,024 of Nair et al. and U.S. Patent 7,300,691 of Callaway (Milliken).

[0047] Curv®, a polypropylene self-reinforcing composite available from Propex Furnishing Solutions GmbH & Co. KG (Gronau, Germany), is a particularly desirable material. The Curv® composite material is based on a highly stretched tape made of polypropylene homopolymer. During a precisely controlled heating process, the polypropylene tape is heated so that only the thin outer layer of the tape melts. The outer molten material bonds the tapes together, maintaining their orientation throughout most of their thickness. The Curv® composite material can be molded to form a base using a thermoforming process. Because the Curv® composite material possesses relatively high stiffness even at molding temperatures, appropriate pressure is required to form the material. In a single process, a sheet of the Curv® composite material is heated to an appropriate temperature, where the shrinkage of the sheet is kept low. The Curv® composite material is molded by appropriate pressure compression molding. Due to the high stiffness of the Curv® composite material, vacuum thermoforming is not used.

[0048] The flap (160) may have any shape. As illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 4, the flap (160) may have a substantially semicircular shape. It is considered that the flap (160) may be substantially semicircular, triangular, elliptical, or rectangular. In some embodiments, it is expected that the flap (160) may have an irregular shape. The flap (160) may have a rounded edge or a sharp edge. The flap (160) may have a top end (162), a heel end (164), and a forefoot end (166). In some embodiments, the flap (160) is entirely within the midfoot area (135). In other embodiments, the heel end (164) may extend into the heel area (130) or the forefoot end (166) may extend into the forefoot area (140). In another embodiment, the forefoot end (166) is generally located at the rear of the forefoot flexion area. The flap (160) may have a generally uniform width over the entire flap. Alternatively, the flap (160) may have a variable width to provide increased stability. In some embodiments, the width of the flap (160) may be thicker near the bite line (105) and tapered as it extends toward the top point (162). The flap (160) may have a groove to facilitate proper placement of the strap (152).

[0049] The flap (160) may be configured to provide lateral support when downward pressure is applied to the sole (110). A closing system (150) may engage with the flap (160) by pushing or pulling the flap (160) toward the center of the footwear article (10). When the flap (160) is coupled to the inner side, the closing system (150) may push or pull the flap (160) inward toward the outer side. When the flap (160) is coupled to the outer side, the closing system (150) may push or pull the flap inward toward the inner side. Engagement of the flap (160) prevents the upper (100) from twisting around the user's foot and prevents the foot from sliding mediolaterally in a linear manner within the footwear (10).

[0050] The flap (160) can provide stability for various types of biomechanical movements. For example, the biomechanics associated with a golf club swing requires a rapid weight transfer from the back foot to the front foot. Shear force is applied to both feet through the swing. During the backswing, the back foot must remain stable. Improper weight transfer from the back foot can result in improper contact with the ball. Additionally, due to biomechanics, the back foot may roll outward or slip from its initial foot position. Consequently, weight transfer may be reduced and rotation may be lost. During the downswing, weight is transferred to the front foot, which must now remain relatively stable. Increasing foot stability can lead to increased efficiency and quality of the golf swing.

[0051] When the flaps (160) of a pair of shoes are joined, the foot is additionally secured and held within each shoe, preventing it from moving while swinging the golf club. Thus, when the flaps (160) are joined, the foot is also more easily planted in place. During the backswing, the flaps (160) stabilize the trail foot by reducing abduction and external rotation. Reducing abduction and external rotation of the back foot allows the user to place more load on the back hip leg muscles, thereby enabling increased separation between the hips and shoulders before the downswing.

[0052] The flap (160) is intended to stabilize the required portion of the foot for various activities and is not intended to limit the usefulness of the present disclosure. For example, the flap (160) can stabilize at least a portion of the medial midfoot area.

[0053] As illustrated in FIG. 11, the flap (160) may be coupled to the footwear article (10) at the bite line (105). In these embodiments, the flap (160) reduces the effect of the inward-outward shear force generated between the footwear traction system and the base layer when worn by the user by adding outward stiffness to the bite line area when the flap (160) is coupled. In some embodiments, the flap (160) may be coupled to the upper (100). In some embodiments, the flap (160) is configured to be coupled to the outer part of the rear foot as described above. In some embodiments, a strap (152) may be overlapped with the flap (160).

[0054] The flap (160) may not be attached to the upper (100). In some embodiments, when the flap (160) is attached only to the bite line (105), the attachment point may be a hinged connection, and the flap (160) may rotate partially outward and downward. In other embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 11, a hinged connection may not be required because the flap (160) may rotate partially outward and downward around the bite line (105) due to the coupling of the flap (160) to the bite line (105). However, in an alternative embodiment, the flap (160) may be attached near the upper (100) using various means known in the relevant art, including sewing or bonding. For example, the flap (160) may be a rigid layer that wraps around the upper (100), and the top point (162) of the upper is still freely pulled across the upper (100).

[0055] The flap (160) can be changed between two general positions. The flap (160) may have a relaxed position where the flap is kept taut against the upper (100) or is not pulled, as shown in FIG. 11. The flap (160) may be in a relaxed position when downward pressure is released from the sole (110), when there is a bend in the forefoot area (140), or when the closing system (150) is not tightened. Additionally, the flap (160) may have a coupled position where the flap (160) is not fixed to the upper.

[0056] In the relaxed position, a portion of the flap (160) may not be in contact with the upper (100). The flap (160) may be configured to slide against the upper (100) in contrast to applying continuous support. In some embodiments, a closure system (150) crosses the flap (160). When the strap (152) of the closure system is tightened, the flap (160) may be kept taut and fixed against the upper (100) in the joined position. This may provide increased lateral stability. However, if the flap (160) always provides increased stability, the footwear article (10) may become rigid and uncomfortable. Walking for a long time with the flap (160) in the joined position may be painful. Therefore, when the strap (152) is loose, the flap (160) may form an lateral arc outward from the upper (100). Release of the flap (160) can provide increased comfort and improve the flexibility of the footwear item (10).

[0057] In some embodiments, as can be seen in FIGS. 2, 4, 7 and 9, a secondary closure system (170) may be present near the forearm (120). The secondary closure system may include a shoelace (172) and a tongue (174). An eyelet (176) may be present in an eyerow near an eyestay configured to receive the shoelace (172). The shoelace (172) may be inelastic or elastic. The shoelace (172) may have a first end and a second end, and each end may further have an aglet. The shoelace (172) may be threaded through the eyelet (176) so that, when pulled taut, the upper (100) and the tongue (174) secure the user's foot within the upper (100).

[0058] It will be understood that the secondary closing system may also include various fastening mechanisms, such as bands, buckles, buttons, hooks, snaps, or any other fastening device currently known or to be developed in the future, having hook and loop closures.

[0059] The footwear article (10) may have three general embodiments that provide varying levels of stability and ease of use. The first embodiment may relate to an article of footwear (10) having a flap (160) and a closing system (150). Additionally, the first embodiment may have a secondary closing system (170). The flap (160) may be coupled to the footwear article (10) at the bite line (105), but otherwise is movable and configured to be adjustablely tightened to the upper (100) using the closing system (150). At least one lace guide (156) may be present near the bite line (105) in the midfoot area (135). Additionally, at least one lace guide (156) may be present within the forefoot area (140). The strap guide (156) within the forefoot area may be located near the bite line (105), or above the bite line (105) and on the outer surface (104) of the upper. The strap may be concealed by the use of fabric tubing channels or other means. In some embodiments, the strap (152) may cross in an X pattern at the forefoot (120) within the forefoot area (140). Alternatively, the strap (152) may cross in an X pattern within the midfoot area (135). This may provide increased stability, strength, and tensile strength due to the length of the closed system from the forefoot area (140) to the heel area (130).

[0060] The lateral load on the foot may be relatively low near the bite line (105). A lace guide (156) may be coupled to or near the bite line (105). A lace-tightening configuration employing a lace guide (156) near the bite line (105) reduces excess pressure in the forefoot (120) and midfoot area (135). In contrast, typical closing systems, such as shoelaces and eyelets, apply excess downward pressure, resulting in a lace bite. If the lateral load is stabilized over the bite line (105), the foot may still roll or misalign. Therefore, if the lateral load is stabilized at the bite line (105), it provides increased stability. The lateral load is stabilized at the bite line (105) when the flap (160) is in the coupled position. In some embodiments, the lace guide (156) and / or lace anchor (158) may be coupled to other areas of the flap (160). For example, a strap guide (156) and / or a strap anchor (158) may be coupled to the upper portion of the flap (160) to provide tension to the flap (160) along the lower / upper length of the footwear article (10). In this embodiment, the flap (160) is preferably still maintained pivotably attached to the bite line (105).

[0061] The X pattern can further facilitate the increase and decrease of tension in the strap (152). The strap (152) can be tightened when a downward force is applied to the sole (110). The tightened strap (152) can secure the flap (160) near the upper (100). Thus, tension within the strap (152) can be automatically activated. When there is a bend in the forefoot area (140), the footwear article (10) can be moved so that looseness can be introduced into the strap (152). Loose strap (152) allows the flap (160) to transition from a joined position to a relaxed position.

[0062] A second embodiment may relate to a footwear article (10) having a flap (160) and a closing system (150). The closing system (150) may be more similar to a typical shoelace system, and at least one lace guide (156) may be located near the eye stay (122). Although tension within the lace (152) may be automatically activated, the footwear article (10) may have reduced stability compared to a lace configuration using an X pattern due to a lace configuration that may not tightly secure the flap (160) to the upper (100).

[0063] A third embodiment may relate to an article of footwear (10) having a flap (160), a closing system (150), and a secondary closing system (170). The secondary closing system (170) may function as a primary closing system, and the closing system (150) may be designed to be adjusted and tightened so that the flap (160) provides increased stability before increased stability is required. For example, in use, the user may manually increase the tension before swinging a golf ball to increase lateral foot support. Although the footwear article (10) may be otherwise secured, the closing system (150) may activate the flap (160). When increased stability is no longer required, the closing system (150) may be adjusted to reduce the tension of the lace (152) so that the flap (160) is not tightened against the upper. For example, when anticipating the completion of a golf swing and the walk toward the next shot, the user may reduce tension before starting the walk. In some embodiments, the loosening of the strap (152) may not be automatically transmitted upon the release of downward pressure on the sole (110). Therefore, whenever increased or decreased stability from the flap (160) is required, the closing system (150) may need to be adjusted.

[0064] Many different arrangements of components not illustrated, as well as components not illustrated, are possible within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. The embodiments of this disclosure are described for the purpose of illustration, not limitation. Alternative embodiments that do not depart from the scope of this disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Those skilled in the art may develop alternative means to implement the improvements described above within the scope of this disclosure.

[0065] It will be understood that certain features and sub-combinations are useful and may be adopted without reference to other features and sub-combinations, and are considered within the scope of the claims.

Claims

Claim 1 A footwear article comprising: a flexible upper; an outsole having an outsole and a midsole; a bite line; a heel zone, a midfoot zone, and a forefoot zone; an inner portion extending from the forefoot zone to the heel zone; an outer portion extending from the forefoot zone to the heel zone, opposite to and generally parallel to the inner portion; a single flap disposed entirely in the midfoot zone of the outer portion of the footwear article, wherein the single flap is movable in an arc between a relaxed position and a coupled position, and the single flap has a stiffness gradient, having a point of maximum stiffness in or near the lower region of the flap and a point of minimum stiffness in or near the upper region of the flap, and the thickness of the flap increases from the upper region of the flap to the lower region to provide the stiffness gradient; A footwear article comprising a single flap secured to an upper and a tension-adjustable closure system, wherein the closure system is configured to engage with a lace guide and a lace anchor provided across the single flap and in a lower area of ​​the flap, wherein the closure system (i) secures the flap to the upper to stabilize at least a portion of the upper against shear force when the tension of the closure system increases, and (ii) releases the forefoot end of the flap when the tension of the closure system decreases so that the flap moves outward from the upper in an arc as looseness is introduced into the closure system, and wherein the closure system comprises a lace having a first end coupled to an adjustable dial located in the heel area and a second end fixedly coupled to a lace anchor provided in a lower area of ​​the flap. Claim 2 In paragraph 1, the single flap extends outward from the bite line, a footwear article. Claim 3 In paragraph 2, the single flap is configured to rotate around a bite line, in a footwear article. Claim 4 In paragraph 1, the single flap is in a combined position to provide lateral support to the midfoot area of ​​the footwear article when the strap is pulled taut. Claim 5 A footwear article according to claim 1, wherein the tension of the closing system increases when downward pressure is applied to the sole, and looseness is introduced into the closing system when the downward pressure is released and there is a bend in the forefoot area. Claim 6 In paragraph 1, the single flap has a thickness that varies between the upper part of the flap and the lower part of the flap, in a footwear article. Claim 7 A footwear article according to claim 1, wherein the single flap has a variable width that is tapered toward the upper portion of the flap. Claim 8 A footwear article according to claim 1, wherein the single flap comprises one or more grooves to facilitate the placement or movement of at least one strap of the closing system. Claim 9 A footwear article according to claim 1, wherein the single flap is configured to rotate outward and downward around a hinged connection at the bite line. Claim 10 A footwear article according to claim 1, wherein the single flap extends horizontally outward from the upper when positioned in a relaxed position or moved toward a relaxed position. Claim 11 A footwear article according to claim 10, wherein when the single flap extends horizontally outward from the upper, the closing system remains attached to or coupled to the flap. Claim 12 A footwear article according to claim 1, wherein the strap is configured to be released and separated from the forefoot end of the flap to release the flap. Claim 13 An article of footwear according to claim 1, wherein the single flap comprises a self-reinforcing polymer composite material or a carbon fiber material, and the single flap has a semicircular shape having a rounded edge portion and a sharp edge portion extending along the forefoot end of the flap. Claim 14 A footwear article, comprising: a flexible upper; a sole having an outsole and a midsole; a bite line; a heel zone, a midfoot zone, and a forefoot zone; an inner portion extending from the forefoot zone to the heel zone; an outer portion extending from the forefoot zone to the heel zone, opposite to and generally parallel to the inner portion; a single flap disposed entirely in the midfoot zone of the outer portion of the footwear article, wherein the single flap is movable in an arc between a relaxed position and a coupled position, the single flap has a stiffness gradient, and has a thickness increasing from the uppermost region of the flap to the lower region to provide said stiffness gradient, and the single flap has a maximum stiffness point in or near the lower region and a minimum stiffness point in or near the upper region; A footwear article comprising a closing system, wherein the closing system is configured to engage with at least one lace guide and lace anchor provided across the flap and in a lower area of ​​the flap, wherein the closing system (i) secures the flap to the upper to stabilize at least a portion of the upper against shear force when the tension of the closing system increases, and (ii) releases the forefoot end of the flap when the tension of the closing system decreases so that the flap moves outward from the upper in an arc as looseness is introduced into the closing system, and the closing system comprises at least one lace having a first end coupled to an adjustable dial located in the heel area and a second end fixedly coupled to a lace anchor provided in a lower area of ​​the flap. Claim 15 An article of footwear according to claim 14, wherein the at least one lace guide comprises two lace guides in the forefoot area, and the at least one lace crosses the upper in an X pattern. Claim 16 A footwear article according to claim 15, wherein at least one strap is pulled taut when downward pressure is applied, and looseness is introduced to at least one strap when downward pressure is released and there is a bend in the forefoot area. Claim 17 A footwear article comprising: a flexible upper; a sole having an outsole and a midsole; a bite line; a heel zone, a midfoot zone, and a forefoot zone; an inner portion extending from the forefoot zone to the heel zone; an outer portion extending from the forefoot zone to the heel zone, opposite to and generally parallel to the inner portion; a single flap disposed entirely in the midfoot zone of the outer portion of the footwear article, wherein the single flap has a forefoot end, a heel end, and a top point and is coupled to the footwear article near the bite line, the single flap is movable along an arc between a relaxed position and a coupled position, wherein at the coupled position the single flap provides lateral support to the midfoot zone of the footwear article, and the single flap has a stiffness gradient having a maximum stiffness point in or near the lower region and a minimum stiffness point in or near the top region, wherein the thickness of the flap increases from the top region of the single flap to the lower region to provide the stiffness gradient; A footwear article comprising an adjustable closure system, wherein the closure system is configured to engage with a lace guide and a lace anchor provided across the flap and in a lower area of ​​the flap, wherein the closure system (i) secures the flap to the upper to stabilize at least a portion of the upper against shear force when the tension of the closure system increases, and (ii) releases the forefoot end of the flap when the tension of the closure system decreases so that the flap moves outward in an arc from the upper as looseness is introduced into the closure system, and the closure system comprises a lace having a first end coupled to an adjustable dial located in the heel area and a second end fixedly coupled to a lace anchor provided in a lower area of ​​the flap. Claim 18 In paragraph 17, the above laces cross over the upper itself, footwear articles.

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