Article of footwear with securable tongue

Abstract

Articles of footwear having securable tongues may comprise foldable tongues configured to be secured in a retracted position without the use of a wearer's hands. In some examples, articles of footwear having securable tongues comprise tongues having hinges configured to provide a fold point. In some examples, articles of footwear having securable tongues comprise a length of activator material coupled to the securable tongue, such that a user pulling on a pull portion of the length of activator material folds the tongue into a retracted position. In some examples, articles of footwear having securable tongues further comprise guides and / or locks configured to facilitate folding and / or securing of the tongue in a retracted position.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCES

[0001] The following applications and materials are incorporated herein by reference, in their entireties, for all purposes: U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 63 / 683,137, filed Aug. 14, 2024.FIELD

[0002] This disclosure relates to systems and methods for footwear. More specifically, the disclosed embodiments relate to adaptive footwear.INTRODUCTION

[0003] Various people may have difficulty putting on and removing shoes for a variety of reasons, such as missing appendages, reduced control of body movements, limited ankle flexibility, limited grip strength, and / or the like. For example, ankle flexibility limitations may make it difficult to insert the foot into a shoe, while grip strength limitations may increase the difficulty of putting on shoes and / or securing shoes.

[0004] Traditional adaptive shoes have aesthetic and performance limitations when compared with shoes available for the general public. For example, shoes having zipper openings differ in appearance from lace-up shoes. Often, features that increase ease of putting on shoes decrease security of the footwear. Decreased security of footwear is particularly relevant to para-athletes, who require footwear that does not interfere with their athletic endeavors. Examples of existing solutions that decrease performance include shoes with split midsoles, facilitating bending the sole of the shoe to increase a size of the foot opening. Splitting the midsole of a shoe decreases the stability of the shoe, negatively affecting the performance of a para-athlete. Similarly, existing shoes may have a collapsable heel. However, collapsable heels may not be feasible for all types of shoes (e.g., boots), and laces or other closures are still required for securing the shoe.SUMMARY

[0005] The present disclosure provides systems, apparatuses, and methods relating to articles of footwear having securable tongues.

[0006] In some embodiments, an article of footwear according to the present teachings comprises: an upper; a tongue pivotably coupled to the upper; and a securing mechanism configured to selectively toggle the tongue between a retracted configuration and a foot-engaging configuration.

[0007] In some embodiments, a tongue for an article of footwear according to the present teachings comprises: a tongue having a width and a length, a hinge extending across a width of the tongue, such that the tongue is foldable along the hinge, and a securing mechanism configured to selectively toggle the tongue between a retracted configuration and a foot-engaging configuration, wherein the tongue is configured to be pivotably coupled to an upper for an article of footwear.

[0008] In some embodiments, an article of footwear according to the present teachings comprises: an upper defining a foot receiving cavity; a tongue pivotably coupled to the upper and comprising a hinge extending across a width of the tongue, such that the tongue is foldable along the hinge; and a securing mechanism defining one or more tongue apertures and being configured to selectively toggle the tongue between a retracted configuration and a foot-engaging configuration, the securing mechanism comprising a length of actuator material received by the one or more tongue apertures, wherein the length of actuator material extends along a length of the tongue and is configured such that pulling on a pull portion of the length of activator material causes the tongue to fold along the hinge.

[0009] Features, functions, and advantages may be achieved independently in various embodiments of the present disclosure, or may be combined in yet other embodiments, further details of which can be seen with reference to the following description and drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of an illustrative article of footwear in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, depicted in a closed position.

[0011] FIG. 2 is an isometric view of the illustrative article of footwear of FIG. 1, depicted with the tongue extended.

[0012] FIG. 3 is an isometric view of the illustrative article of footwear of FIG. 1, depicted in a retracted position.

[0013] FIG. 4 is a schematic view of an illustrative tongue suitable for use in the article of footwear of FIG. 1.

[0014] FIG. 5 is a plan view of a front of the tongue of FIG. 4.

[0015] FIG. 6 is a plan view of a back of the tongue of FIG. 4.

[0016] FIG. 7 is a side view of the tongue of FIG. 4, depicted in a retracted (i.e., open, activated, curled, folded) position.

[0017] FIG. 8 is a plan view of an exterior side of a first illustrative front panel of the tongue of FIG. 4.

[0018] FIG. 9 is a plan view of an interior side of an illustrative back panel of the tongue of FIG. 4.

[0019] FIG. 10 is a schematic view of an illustrative tongue suitable for use in the article of footwear of FIG. 1, including a knitted guide.

[0020] FIG. 11 is a sectional view of the illustrative tongue of FIG. 10.

[0021] FIG. 12 is an orthogonal view of an illustrative guide suitable for use in the tongue of FIG. 4.

[0022] FIG. 13 is an orthogonal view of an illustrative lock suitable for use in the article of footwear of FIG. 1.

[0023] FIG. 14 is a plan view of a front of the tongue of FIG. 4.

[0024] FIG. 15 is a side view of the tongue of FIG. 4, depicted in a retracted (i.e., open, activated, curled, folded) position.

[0025] FIG. 16 is a plan view of an interior side of an illustrative back panel of the tongue of FIG. 4.

[0026] FIG. 17 is a plan view of an interior side of an illustrative back panel of the tongue of FIG. 4.

[0027] FIG. 18 is a flow chart depicting steps of an illustrative method of operating an article of footwear according to the present teachings.

[0028] FIG. 19 is a flow chart depicting steps of an illustrative method of manufacturing an article of footwear according to the present teachings.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] Various aspects and examples of an article of footwear having a securable tongue, as well as related methods, are described below and illustrated in the associated drawings. Unless otherwise specified, an article of footwear having a securable tongue in accordance with the present teachings, and / or its various components, may contain at least one of the structures, components, functionalities, and / or variations described, illustrated, and / or incorporated herein. Furthermore, unless specifically excluded, the process steps, structures, components, functionalities, and / or variations described, illustrated, and / or incorporated herein in connection with the present teachings may be included in other similar devices and methods, including being interchangeable between disclosed embodiments. The following description of various examples is merely illustrative in nature and is in no way intended to limit the disclosure, its application, or uses. Additionally, the advantages provided by the examples and embodiments described below are illustrative in nature and not all examples and embodiments provide the same advantages or the same degree of advantages.

[0030] This Detailed Description includes the following sections, which follow immediately below: (1) Definitions; (2) Overview; (3) Examples, Components, and Alternatives; (4) Advantages, Features, and Benefits; and (5) Conclusion. The Examples, Components, and Alternatives section is further divided into subsections, each of which is labeled accordingly.Definitions

[0031] The following definitions apply herein, unless otherwise indicated.

[0032] “Comprising,”“including,” and “having” (and conjugations thereof) are used interchangeably to mean including but not necessarily limited to, and are open-ended terms not intended to exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps.

[0033] Terms such as “first,”“second,” and “third” are used to distinguish or identify various members of a group, or the like, and are not intended to show serial or numerical limitation.

[0034] “AKA” means “also known as,” and may be used to indicate an alternative or corresponding term for a given element or elements.

[0035] The terms “medial,”“lateral,”“anterior,”“posterior,”“dorsal,”“plantar,” and the like are intended to refer to anatomical directions corresponding to a human foot. For example, “medial” refers to a relative position disposed toward the center of the human body, while “lateral” refers to a relative position disposed away from the center of the human body. “Anterior” refers to a relative position closer to the toe of a wearer and “posterior” refers to a relative position closer to the heel of the wearer. “Dorsal” refers to a relative position closer to the top of a wearer's foot and “plantar” refers to a relative position closer to the sole of a wearer's foot. In the absence of a wearer, the same directional terms may be used as if the article of footwear is being worn in its expected configuration.

[0036] “Elongate” or “elongated” refers to an object or aperture that has a length greater than its own width, although the width need not be uniform. For example, an elongate slot may be elliptical or stadium-shaped, and an elongate candlestick may have a height greater than its tapering diameter. As a negative example, a circular aperture would not be considered an elongate aperture.

[0037] “Coupled” means connected, either permanently or releasably, whether directly or indirectly through intervening components.

[0038] “Resilient” describes a material or structure configured to respond to normal operating loads (e.g., when compressed) by deforming elastically and returning to an original shape or position when unloaded.

[0039] “Rigid” describes a material or structure configured to be stiff, non-deformable, or substantially lacking in flexibility under normal operating conditions.

[0040] “Elastic” describes a material or structure configured to spontaneously resume its former shape after being stretched or expanded.

[0041] Directional terms such as “up,”“down,”“vertical,”“horizontal,” and the like should be understood in the context of the particular object in question. For example, an object may be oriented around defined X, Y, and Z axes. In those examples, the X-Y plane will define horizontal, with up being defined as the positive Z direction and down being defined as the negative Z direction.

[0042] “Providing,” in the context of a method, may include receiving, obtaining, purchasing, manufacturing, generating, processing, preprocessing, and / or the like, such that the object or material provided is in a state and configuration for other steps to be carried out.

[0043] In this disclosure, one or more publications, patents, and / or patent applications may be incorporated by reference. However, such material is only incorporated to the extent that no conflict exists between the incorporated material and the statements and drawings set forth herein. In the event of any such conflict, including any conflict in terminology, the present disclosure is controlling.Overview

[0044] In general, articles of footwear having securable tongues according to the present disclosure are configured to hold the tongue of the article of footwear in a retracted position, such that a foot of the user can be inserted. The tongue of the article of footwear may subsequently be released to secure the foot in the shoe. In some examples, releasing the tongue of the article of footwear returns the tongue to a foot-engaging position, wherein the tongue of the article of footwear contacts a dorsal portion of the foot of the user. Securable tongues according to the present teachings facilitate the insertion of a foot within the article of footwear. In some examples, a foot can be inserted within the article of footwear with the use of a single hand. In some examples, the securable tongues can facilitate the insertion of a foot within the article of footwear by a wearer and can allow the inserted foot to be easily secured within the article of footwear and / or released from the article of footwear by a separate user. In some examples, a user may secure the tongue of the article of footwear in the retracted position using a single hand, such that a single hand is all that is required to place the foot within the article of footwear. In some examples, a user having a lower appendage with limited flexibility, such as due to the use of a prosthetic or due to limited ankle flexibility, may secure the article of footwear in the retracted position, such that the foot can be placed within the article of footwear without bending the ankle. In some examples, a user may secure the article of footwear in the retracted position, such that the user does not need to hold the tongue open to insert the foot within the shoe, or allowing a user with limited grip strength to easily secure the article of footwear.

[0045] In general, an article of footwear having a securable tongue in accordance with the present teachings may include a securable tongue configured to be automatically held in a retracted position so that a foot can be inserted without the use of a user's hands. In other words, the tongue is held open without any external force exerted by a user. Such an article of footwear includes one or more of the following components: a securing mechanism, a tongue, a guide (e.g., an actuator material guide, a cable guide, etc.), and a lock (e.g., a securing mechanism lock, a cable lock, etc.).

[0046] In some examples, a securing mechanism in accordance with the present disclosure is configured to transition the tongue of the article of footwear between a foot engaging position and a retracted position. The securing mechanism is coupled to the tongue of the article of footwear, such that activating (i.e., exerting force on, instructing, fastening, unfastening, etc.) the securing mechanism folds the tongue of the article of footwear. In some examples, the securing mechanism is or includes a length of an actuator material, such as a cord, a cable, a strand, a lace, a tape, a braid, or any combination thereof. The actuator material can be or include a material having sufficient tensile strength and dimensions (e.g., length and width) to be pulled by the user. The length of actuator material includes a pull portion, such as a pull cord or pull cable, configured to be pulled by a user in order to move the tongue to the retracted position. The pull portion of the length of activator material can consist of the actuator material, or the pull portion can further comprise a separate handle, loop, tab, button, or the like. The length of actuator material can have an adjustable length, including an adjustable length configured to be manipulated with one hand, in order to move the tongue to the retracted position. Accordingly, in some examples, the securing mechanism including the length of actuator material is coupled to the tongue of the article of footwear, such that pulling on the pull portion of the length of actuator material retracts the length of actuator material to cause the tongue to fold. When the actuator material is elastic, pulling on the pull portion of the length of actuator material can extend the length of actuator material and fold the tongue of the article of footwear. In some examples, a tongue in accordance with the present disclosure has a hinge point, which facilitates folding or pivoting of the tongue into the retracted position. In some examples, the tongue has an articulated pattern providing a fold line for the tongue. Accordingly, extending and / or retracting the length of actuator material folds the tongue along the fold line and / or hinge point.

[0047] In some examples, a guide (AKA cable guide) in accordance with the present disclosure couples the length of actuator material to the tongue. In some examples, the length of actuator material is coupled to the tongue by the guide such that the length of actuator material forms a loop between the two ends of the actuator material coupled to the tongue. In some examples, the loop forms the pull portion of the actuator. In these examples, the guide may separate the two ends of the actuator material from each other, allowing the tongue to fold instead of scrunching or collapsing when the pull portion of the actuator is pulled by a user. In some examples, an article of footwear in accordance with the present teachings includes a lock configured to hold the tongue in a retracted position by securing the length of actuator material in an extended and / or retracted position. In some examples, the lock may subsequently be released to allow movement of the length of actuator material in order for the tongue to be moved to a closed position, such that the foot of a user may be secured within the article of footwear. In some examples, the lock automatically secures the length of actuator material (e.g., by securing the length of actuator material) in the extended position upon pulling of the pull portion of the length of activator material by a user. In some examples, the user manually activates the lock to secure the length of actuator material in the extended and / or retracted position.

[0048] In some examples, a method of operating an article of footwear having a securable tongue comprises activating a securing mechanism such that the tongue is folded over at the fold point, securing the tongue in a retracted position using the lock, inserting a foot into the article of footwear, releasing the lock, and folding the tongue back such that the user's foot is retained by the article of footwear. In some examples, activating the securing mechanism comprises exerting force on a length of actuator material by exerting force on a pull portion of the length of actuator material, such as a pull cable or pull cord or a handle.Examples, Components, and Alternatives

[0049] The following sections describe selected aspects of illustrative articles of footwear having securable tongues as well as related systems and / or methods. The examples in these sections are intended for illustration and should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of the present disclosure. Each section may include one or more distinct embodiments or examples, and / or contextual or related information, function, and / or structure.

[0050] The following reference numerals may be utilized in the accompanying drawings:

[0051] 100 article of footwear

[0052] 102 interior region

[0053] 110 tongue

[0054] 112 anterior end of tongue

[0055] 114 hinge point

[0056] 116 long axis

[0057] 118 anterior wings

[0058] 120 upper

[0059] 122 sole

[0060] 124 foot opening

[0061] 126 closure mechanism

[0062] 130 securing mechanism

[0063] 132 front panel

[0064] 134 posterior apertures

[0065] 136 hinge apertures

[0066] 138 back panel

[0067] 139 release

[0068] 140 actuator material

[0069] 141 back panel apertures

[0070] 142 pull portion

[0071] 150 guide

[0072] 152 guide strips

[0073] 154 guide loops

[0074] 156 reinforcement(s)

[0075] 157 reinforcement gap

[0076] 158 knit channels

[0077] 160 lock

[0078] 161 lock attachment

[0079] 162 tubular body

[0080] 164 translatable clasp

[0081] 166 distal aperture

[0082] 168 proximal aperture

[0083] 200 method of operating article of footwear

[0084] 202 step

[0085] 204 step

[0086] 206 step

[0087] 208 step

[0088] 300 method of manufacturing an article of footwear

[0089] 302 step

[0090] 304 step

[0091] 306 step

[0092] 308 step

[0093] 310 step

[0094] 312 stepA. Illustrative Article of Footwear

[0095] As shown in FIGS. 1-17, this section describes an illustrative article of footwear 100. Article of footwear 100 is an example of articles of footwear having securable tongues, described above.

[0096] In the example of FIGS. 1-17, article of footwear 100 is illustrated as a boot, but securable tongue 110 may be utilized in any suitable articles of footwear including athletic shoes, cleated shoes, dress shoes, and / or the like.

[0097] As depicted in FIGS. 1-17, article of footwear 100 includes an upper 120 coupled to a sole 122. Sole 122 may include any suitable structure(s) configured to support a user's foot. In some examples, sole 122 includes an outsole, a midsole, and / or an insole. Upper 120 includes a foot opening 124 configured to receive the user's foot into an interior region 102 of article of footwear 100. Interior region 102 is defined between upper 120 and sole 122. Upper 120 may be configured to receive and cover the user's foot. In some examples, article of footwear 100 includes an internal sockliner, a Strobel board, and / or any other suitable components.

[0098] Upper 120 includes a tongue 110 extending from a dorsal portion of upper 120. Tongue 110 may comprise any flap, panel, or other piece of material extending from upper 120, such that tongue 110 is coupled to upper 120 at an anterior end 112 of tongue 110. In some examples, tongue 110 is detached from upper 120 along its medial and lateral edges, such that tongue 110 is freely pivotal about anterior end 112. In some examples, tongue 110 is coupled to upper 120 at portions of its medial and lateral edges; for example, at least a portion of tongue 110 may be gusseted along its medial edges or lateral edges or along both its medial and lateral edges.

[0099] Tongue 110 is secured to upper 120 and against the foot of a wearer by any suitable closure mechanism 126. In some examples, upper 120 includes a plurality of lace receiving members, such as a plurality of eyelets, that are configured to receive a lace. The lace may comprise any suitable lace, such as a flat lace, a round lace, an elastic lace, a no-tie lace, and / or the like. In examples wherein the lace comprises a no-tie lace, the lace may comprise an elastic cord, a drawstring, a cable tie, include a locking system, and / or the like. In some examples, closure mechanism 126 is configured to be securable using a single hand and, accordingly, comprises a no-tie lace, hook-and-loop fasteners, snaps, zippers, and / or the like. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, closure mechanism 126 can include a retention member that can position and / or hold the lace, cord, drawstring or the like against tongue 110. In further embodiments, as shown in FIG. 5, closure mechanism 126 can include a pull tab or similar feature attached to a portion of tongue 110. The pull tab can be used to aid in the tightening of the closure mechanism 126.

[0100] As shown in FIG. 2, tongue 110 includes a securing mechanism 130 configured to secure tongue 110 so that tongue 110 is held in a retracted position without the use of a wearer's hands. As shown in the figures, securing mechanism 130 includes a length of actuator material 140 coupled to tongue 110 by a guide 150. In some examples, securing mechanism 130 includes a lock 160 coupled to actuator material 140, configured to hold the actuator material 140 in an extended and / or retracted configuration. Other or additional securing mechanisms known in the art can be used.

[0101] Tongue 110 comprises a flap of material having any suitable geometry configured to allow the tongue to be held in a retracted position. In other words, tongue 110 is articulated. Accordingly, tongue 110 is configured to include a hinge (AKA hinge point or pivot point) 114 disposed transverse to a long axis 116 of tongue 110. Tongue 110 is pivotable about hinge 114 between a foot-engaging configuration, wherein the tongue is generally aligned with adjacent portions of upper 120, and a retracted configuration, wherein at least a portion of tongue 110 is spaced apart from upper 120. Accordingly, securing mechanism 130 is configured to selectively toggle tongue 110 between the retracted configuration and the foot-engaging configuration. In some examples, tongue 110 is pivotable to an intermediate configuration, such as a configuration wherein tongue 110 is disposed at a position between the retracted configuration and the foot-engaging configuration. Similarly, securing mechanism 130 can be configured to selectively toggle tongue 110 between the retracted configuration, the foot-engaging configuration, and the intermediate configuration. Hinge 114 may comprise a living hinge. In other words, hinge 114 comprises a fold line extending from a medial edge of tongue 110 to a lateral edge of tongue 110. In some examples, hinge 114 is oriented substantially orthogonal to long axis 116.

[0102] In various examples, one or more reinforcements 156 can be positioned in tongue 110 to aid in the pivoting around hinge 114. For example, as shown in FIGS. 15-17, tongue 110 can include one or more distal reinforcements 156a and one or more proximal reinforcements 156b. The bottom of distal reinforcement(s) 156a can be separated from the top of proximal reinforcement(s) 156b to allow for pivoting of tongue 110 around hinge 114 without needing to bend reinforcement(s) 156a or reinforcement(s) 156b.

[0103] In some examples, hinge 114 is disposed at a portion of the article of footwear corresponding to a posterior (AKA top) point of closure mechanism 126. Accordingly, in some examples, laces, elastic cords, and / or the like of closure mechanism 126 terminate at hinge 114. For example, closure mechanism 126 may extend from a portion of the article of footwear corresponding to the metatarsophalangeal joint of a wearer to a portion of the article of footwear corresponding to the front of a wearer's ankle. In some examples, hinge 114 is disposed at a region of the tongue corresponding to a posterior lace receiving member of upper 120. In some examples, closure mechanism is configured to be released, open, and / or otherwise in an unsecured position when tongue 110 is folded. In these examples, hinge 114 may be at any suitable portion of tongue 110, based on a desired size of foot opening 124 when the tongue is in the retracted position. In some examples, hinge 114 is disposed at a halfway point of the tongue, approximately one-third of the distance from anterior end 112, at anterior end 112, and / or the like.

[0104] Tongue 110 may comprise any suitable material having any suitable form, such as fabrics, films, molded components, and / or the like. In some examples, suitable fabrics include woven fabrics, knitted fabrics, crocheted fabrics, non-woven fabrics, such as felts, and / or the like. In some examples, suitable films include cut films, shaped films, thermoformed films, and / or the like. In some examples, suitable molded components include molded foams, molded composites, molded solid resins, and / or the like. Suitable molded components may be manufactured using any suitable process, such as injection molding, compression molding, blow molding, rotational molding, additive manufacturing, resin infusion, and / or the like. Tongue 110 may comprise any suitable material having any suitable composition, such as natural materials (e.g., natural rubber, wool, plant-based fibers such as cotton, linen, etc.), synthetic materials, synthetic polymers, including thermoplastic and / or thermoset polymers, and / or the like. In some examples, tongue 110 comprises a flexible material, such as polymers, fabrics, and / or the like, and a foam reinforcement configured to help the tongue hold its shape (e.g., so that the tongue folds instead of collapsing when tension is applied by the cord). In some examples, tongue 110 comprises a material that may be turned inside out, facilitating easy assembly and insertion of components of securing mechanism 130. In some examples, tongue 110 comprises a foam, composite, and / or fabric, and tongue 110 is vacuum formed and / or molded to form hinge 114. Tongue 110 is generally flexible, such that the tongue can slide up and down underneath the laces, facilitating the movement of hinge 114 along a long axis of the foot based on a user's preferences. In some examples, tongue 110 includes padding and / or ventilation. In some examples, tongue 110 is stitched with elastic, such that the tongue is biased or pre-tensioned (i.e., pre-sprung). Similarly, in some examples, tongue 110 is molded in such a way that the tongue is pre-sprung (e.g., tongue 110 is molded and / or knitted to have a slight curve in addition to hinge 114).

[0105] In some examples, tongue 110 has any suitable construction, including any suitable number of layers. In some examples, tongue 110 comprises a single panel (e.g., piece) of material, folded to provide a pocket configured to receive securing mechanism 130. In some examples, tongue 110 comprises two pieces of material, secured together at edges of the pieces of material. In some examples, tongue 110 comprises a fully fashioned knit piece of material, including a pocket integrally knit into the tongue. Tongue 110 may be manufactured utilizing any suitable system and / or method, such as a flat knit machine, a whole garment machine, injection molding, blown foam, casting, and / or the like.

[0106] In examples wherein tongue 110 is knitted, a shape of tongue 110 may be achieved by adding and removing needles of a knitting machine. Tongue 110 may be knit with any suitable yarns comprising any suitable fibers, or fiber combinations, such as polyester, cotton, wool, nylon, elastane, and / or any suitable combinations thereof. In some examples, tongue 110 is knit with thermoformable fibers, filaments or yarns, facilitating molding to further shape the tongue. In some examples, tongue 110 is manufactured to have two separate walls by utilizing the front and back bed of a knitting machine. In some examples, tongue 110 has two separate walls connected at hinge 114. In some examples, tongue 110 comprises knitted zones of padding utilized to cushion the tongue. In some examples, tongue 110 comprises knitted holes formed utilizing transfer stitches to provide ventilation to the foot of a wearer.

[0107] An illustrative shape of tongue 110 is depicted in FIG. 4. As seen in FIG. 4, tongue 110 comprises a substantially rectangular body and anterior wings 118 extending from anterior end 112 of tongue 110. Anterior wings are covered by upper 120, securing tongue 110 within interior region 102. In some examples, as depicted in FIG. 4, hinge point 114 is disposed at an intersection of the rectangular body and anterior wings 118.

[0108] In some examples, as depicted in FIGS. 6 and 14-17, tongue 110 includes a release 139 coupled to tongue 110. Release 139 can be or include any suitable flap, tab, loop, pocket, or other integrated structure; an elongate, flexible, strip of material, such as a strap, cord, cable, string, yarn, wire, webbing, fabric, and / or the like; and / or a resilient material, such as an elasticated strand or cord, and / or the like which may be pulled by a user to release actuator material 140 from the extended position. For example, as depicted by FIG. 6, in some examples, release 139 can be a flap and, as depicted by FIGS. 14-17, in some examples, release 139 can be a loop. In various examples where release 139 is or includes a flap, the flap can be a pocket formed in back panel 138 of tongue 110 and / or can be formed by affixing a piece of material to tongue 110. In further examples, the release 139 can include a channel for receiving a portion of actuator material 140.

[0109] In use, a user can pull release 139, extending tongue 110 so that a foot may be secured within the article of footwear. In various embodiments, release 139 can be used to release lock 160 (e.g., open lock 160 to allow actuator material 140 to move). For example, release 139 can be connected to distal aperture 166. Pulling on release 139 can cause translatable clasp 164 to move relative to tubular body 162, making proximal aperture 168 larger and allowing actuator material 140 to move through proximal aperture 168. Actuator material 140 moving through aperture 168 can allow actuator material 140 to be released from the extended position (e.g., as shown in FIG. 3) such that tongue 110 can be moved to a foot-engaging configuration (e.g., as shown in FIG. 1). In some examples, as shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, release 139 is connected to distal aperture 166 directly. In further examples, as shown in FIG. 9, release 139 is connected to distal aperture 166 via actuator material 140.

[0110] Hinge 114 may be formed utilizing any suitable method. As stated above, in some examples, tongue 110 is molded to form hinge 114. In these examples, tongue 110 may comprise any suitable moldable material, such as synthetic and biologically-derived polymers, including thermoplastic and / or thermoset polymers, including polyesters, polyethers, polyimides, polyamides, polyacrylics, polyolefins, and the like. In some examples, one or more layers of tongue 110 are constructed using one or more thermoformable yarns, films, or tapes, and the one or more layers are thermoformed to form hinge 114. In some examples, as stated above, tongue 110 is knitted with thermoformable fibers, filaments or yarns, facilitating thermoforming of the knitted article to form hinge 114. In some examples, hinge 114 is integrally knitted into tongue 110. In some examples, tongue 110 comprises two or more regions having different numbers of layers of material. In some examples, tongue 110 has fewer layers in regions of the tongue corresponding to hinge 114 when compared with adjacent portions (i.e., non-hinge portions) of tongue 110. In some examples, portions of tongue 110 corresponding to hinge 114 comprise thinner material when compared with adjacent portions (i.e., non-hinge portions) of tongue 110. In some examples, tongue 110 comprises an engineered fabric, such as a knitted or non-woven fabric, and a pattern of the engineered fabric is configured to be thinner in portions of tongue 110 corresponding to hinge 114 when compared with adjacent portions (i.e., non-hinge portions) of tongue 110. In some examples, portions of tongue 110 corresponding to hinge point 114 comprise yarns having a smaller diameter than adjacent portions (i.e., non-hinge portions) of tongue 110, such as yarns having lower deniers per filament, yarns having fewer filaments, and / or the like. In some examples, portions of tongue 110 corresponding to hinge point 114 comprise yarns that are more elastic than yarns in adjacent portions (i.e., non-hinge portions) of tongue 110. In some examples, portions of tongue 110 corresponding to hinge point 114 have a lower fabric density than adjacent portions (i.e., non-hinge portions) of tongue 110, such as having knitted courses of looser tension, non-woven fabrics of lower fiber density, knitted and / or crochet fabrics having fewer stitches, and / or the like. In some examples, portions of tongue 110 corresponding to hinge point 114 comprise yarns having a lower melting and / or thermoforming temperature than adjacent portions (i.e., non-hinge portions) of tongue 110, such that heating the tongue to a temperature greater than a thermoforming temperature of yarns disposed in portions of the tongue corresponding to the hinge point forms the hinge by softening, melting and / or thermoforming the yarns disposed in portions of the tongue corresponding to the hinge point. In some examples, tongue 110 comprises a knitted fabric including courses of tuck or miss stitches within a portion of the tongue corresponding to hinge point 114, forming the hinge. In some examples, tongue 110 comprises two separate panels of material connected, by sewing, knitting, adhesive, and / or the like at a perimeter of the tongue and at hinge point 114.

[0111] As stated above, tongue 110 includes a securing mechanism 130 configured to secure the tongue in a retracted position. As depicted in FIGS. 1-3, tongue 110 is transitionable between three positions: a closed position, depicted in FIG. 1, wherein the tongue is disposed in a foot contacting (i.e., not folded) position, and wherein a user's foot is securable within the article of footwear; an extended position, depicted in FIG. 2, wherein force is exerted on actuator material 140 of securing mechanism 130; and an open position, depicted in FIG. 3, wherein tongue 110 is secured in a retracted (e.g., folded) position by lock 160. Similarly, FIGS. 5-6 depict tongue 110 in a foot contacting (i.e., not folded position), and FIG. 7 depicts tongue 110 in a retracted position.

[0112] Securing mechanism 130 is integrated within tongue 110 such that manipulating securing mechanism 130 causes tongue 110 to be folded into a retracted position, increasing a size of foot opening 124. Securing mechanism 130 includes a length of actuator material 140 coupled to a single side of tongue 110, such that exerting force (e.g., pulling) on actuator material 140 causes the tongue to fold. In various embodiments, securing mechanism 130 can include guide 150 and lock 160.

[0113] In the example of FIGS. 5-9, tongue 110 comprises two pieces of material, coupled together at their peripheral edges. In some examples, front panel 132 defines six apertures: two posterior apertures 134 disposed at a posterior edge of tongue 110, and four hinge apertures 136 disposed such that two apertures are disposed at a posterior side of hinge 114 and that two apertures are disposed at an anterior side of hinge 114. Apertures 134 and 136 are substantially symmetrical with respect to long axis 116. In further examples, back panel 138 can include one or more back panel apertures 141. Back panel apertures 141 can allow actuator material 140 to extend from an interior of tongue 110 through back panel 138 to release 139. In some examples, back panel apertures 141 can be laterally spaced apart from one another. The actuator material 140 extending between spaced apart back panel apertures 141 can allow a user to more easily pull the actuator material. In further examples, the actuator material 140 is integrated into a flap that a user may more easily grasp

[0114] In various examples, some or all of actuator material 140 can be positioned outside of tongue 110 (e.g., a portion of the actuator material 140 can extend from the interior of tongue 110 to the exterior of tongue 110 through apertures 134 and / or 136). However, in some examples, actuator material 140 is configured to remain internal to tongue 110, and apertures 136 are replaced by interior channels (e.g., knitted channels, channels provided by webbing, etc.).

[0115] In some examples, tongue 110 comprises a single panel of material, defining six apertures configured to receive actuator material 140. In some examples, guide 150 and lock 160 are coupled to a front side or a back side of the single panel of material. For example, guide 150 may be coupled to a back side of the singe panel of material, while lock 160 may be coupled to a front side of the single panel of material. In further examples, tongue 110 comprises multiple pieces of material (e.g., front panel 132 and / or back panel 138). Some or all of securing mechanism 130 can be coupled to front panel 132 and / or back panel 138. For example, as shown in FIGS. 9, 16 and 17, guide 150 and lock 160 are coupled to an interior surface of back panel 138.

[0116] A length of actuator material 140 is inserted through apertures 134, 136, back panel apertures 141, guide 150, and lock 160, such that actuator material 140 may slide through the remaining portions of securing mechanism 130. In some examples, actuator material 140 comprises a pull portion 142 extending from actuator material 140, such as a loop, tab, button, cord stop, aglet, and / or the like. In some embodiments, the pull portion 142 consists of the actuator material 140. In other embodiments, the pull portion 142 comprises the actuator material 140 along with a separate component such as a loop, tab, handle, or the like configured to allow a user to apply a pulling force to the actuator material 140 of the pull portion 142. In some examples, pull portion 142 is disposed at an end of actuator material 140. In some examples, pull portion 142 is spaced apart from ends of actuator material 140, such that two lengths of actuator material 140 extend from pull portion 142. In the example of FIGS. 5-9, actuator material 140 forms a loop at a posterior end of tongue 110 forming pull portion 142. The loop is spaced apart from both ends of actuator material 140, such that both ends of actuator material 140 are free to couple to tongue 110. Both ends of actuator material 140 are then inserted through apertures 134 and, subsequently, inserted through posterior and anterior hinge apertures 136. Accordingly, exerting force on (i.e., pulling on) pull portion 142 causes tongue 110 to fold along hinge 114 when actuator material 140 is coupled to back panel 138. In some examples, actuator material 140 is coupled to back panel 138 by guide 150. In some examples, actuator material 140 is coupled directly to back panel 138. In some examples, tongue 110 consists of a single panel of material, and actuator material 140 is coupled to a back side of tongue 110 or to a front side of tongue 110. In some examples, ends of actuator material 140 are coupled to tongue 110 at anterior end 112 by any suitable coupling mechanism, such as sewing, adhesive bonding, taping, thermally fusing, and / or the like.

[0117] Actuator material 140 comprises any suitable piece of material which can be manipulated to fold tongue 110. In various embodiments, actuator material 140 can be or include one or more types of material. For example, a first portion of actuator material 140 can be a first type of material and a second portion of actuator material 140 can be a second type of material 140. Accordingly, actuator material 140 comprises an elongate, flexible, strip of material, such as a strap, cord, cable, string, yarn, wire, webbing, fabric, and / or the like. As stated above, a length of actuator material 140 is coupled to a single side of tongue 110, such that exerting force on pull portion 142 extends actuator material 140, folding tongue 110 at hinge 114. In some examples, actuator material 140 has an adjustable length. Accordingly, in some examples, actuator material 140 comprises a resilient material, such as an elasticated yarn, cord, and / or the like, which is configured to stretch as a user exerts force on pull portion 142. In some examples, actuator material 140 comprises a single length of material, and a user exerts force on a single end of actuator material 140. In some examples, actuator material 140 comprises two or more discrete lengths of material coupled together by any suitable connecting mechanism, such as a connector, clasp, toggle, and / or the like.

[0118] Actuator material 140 comprises any suitable material, having any suitable form, such as a strap, braided cord, woven cord, yarn, webbing, lace, cable, wire, and / or the like. Actuator material 140 comprises any suitable material having any suitable configuration. Examples of suitable materials include natural materials as well as synthetic materials. Specific examples of suitable natural and naturally-derived materials include regenerated cellulosic materials, partially and fully biologically-derived polymers, and protein-based materials, as well as metals, and the like. Examples of synthetic materials include synthetic polymers, fiberglass, and the like. The synthetic polymers and biologically-derived polymers can be thermoplastic or thermoset. The synthetic polymers and biologically-derived polymers can be elastomers. The synthetic polymers and biologically-derived polymers can have specific properties such as shape memory. In some examples, the actuator material can comprise alloys having properties such as shape memory. A combination of natural, naturally-derived, and synthetic materials can be used, such as a blend of polyester and cotton fibers and / or the like. In some examples, actuator material 140 has a substantially circular cross-section, a substantially rectangular cross-section, a substantially oval cross-section, and / or the like. In some examples, actuator material 140 is configured to be received by apertures of guide 150 and lock 160.

[0119] In some examples, actuator material 140 is subsequently inserted into guide 150. In the example of FIGS. 9, 16 and 17, guide 150 is coupled to an interior surface of back panel 138. However, in some examples, guide 150 is coupled to a back surface or a front surface of a single-layered tongue. Guide 150 is configured to provide a pathway through which a length of actuator material 140 moves during extension and retraction. In examples wherein actuator material 140 is looped or comprises two distinct lengths, guide 150 separates two lengths of actuator material 140 from each other at a set width. Separating lengths of actuator material 140 from each other facilitates folding of the tongue instead of scrunching the tongue, as actuator material 140 moves through guide 150 in a controlled manner.

[0120] Guide 150 may have any suitable width, which may be determined by a material of the actuator material or tongue, a size of the tongue, a type of lock 160, and / or a type of guide 150. In some examples, guide 150 comprises guide strips 152 having guide loops 154 at each end of each guide strip 152. In further examples, guide 150 includes one or more guide loops 154 attached to reinforcement(s) 156 and / or back panel 138 (e.g., without being attached to guide strips 152). Guide 150 comprises any suitable number of guide strips 152, such as one guide strip, two guide strips, three guide strips, five guide strips, and / or the like, distributed along tongue 110. In some examples, guide strips 152 extend from a medial side of tongue 110 to a lateral side of tongue 110. In some examples, guide strips extend from a medial side of the rectangular body of tongue 110 to a lateral side of the rectangular body of tongue 110. Guide strips 152 are generally vertically aligned, such that guide 150 provides linear channels through which actuator material 140 may pass. FIG. 12 depicts an example of guide strips 152. In some examples, guide strips 152 are coupled to one or more reinforcements 156, which are coupled to tongue 110.

[0121] Guide loops 154 can include one or more segments for receiving actuator material 140. For example, as shown in FIG. 9, guide loops 154 include multiple segments and as shown in FIGS. 16 and 17 guide loops 154 include one segment. Guide loops 154 can be or include a material that allows actuator material to more easily move within guide loops 154. For example, guide loops 154 can be or include a material with a coefficient of friction lower than the coefficient of friction of the material of reinforcement(s) 156. In various examples, guide loops 154 can be spaced apart to keep two lengths of actuator material 140 separate from one another. For example, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 16, a first length of actuator material 140a can be positioned in a first guide loop 154a and kept separate from a second length of actuator material 140b positioned in a separate guide loop 154b. In some examples, as shown in FIG. 17, first and second lengths of actuator material 140a, 140b can be positioned in the same guide loop 154.

[0122] Reinforcement(s) 156 can be or include one or more pieces of material coupled to tongue 110 at various positions. For example, FIGS. 15-17 show distal reinforcements 156a and proximal reinforcements 156b. In various examples, reinforcement(s) 156 can be separated by reinforcement gap 157. Reinforcement gap 157 can allow for tongue 110 to move between the foot-engaging configuration and the retracted configuration without bending the reinforcement(s) 156. For example, as shown in FIG. 15, reinforcement gap 157 can allow tongue 110 to be pivoted around hinge 114 to the retracted position without bending distal reinforcement 156a or proximal reinforcement 156b. In further embodiments, reinforcement gap 157 can be used to aid in positioning of actuator material 140. For example, as shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, a top portion of distal reinforcement 156a can include reinforcement gap 157 to allow actuator material 140 to extend from lock 160 without being interfered with by distal reinforcement 156a.

[0123] Reinforcement 156 may comprise any suitable material having any suitable form. In various embodiments, reinforcement 156 can be or include one or more of the following forms of webbings, foam, batting, fabrics (e.g., knitted fabrics, crocheted fabrics, woven fabrics, and / or non-woven fabrics), molded materials (e.g., molded foams, molded composites, etc.), and / or the like. Reinforcement 156 may comprise any suitable material having any suitable composition. In various embodiments, reinforcement 156 can be or include one or more of the following compositions of natural and naturally-derived materials (e.g., natural rubber, metals, protein-based polymers such as wool, naturally-derived and regenerated cellulosic polymers such as rayon, partially and fully biologically-derived polymers, plant-based fibers including cotton, linen, etc.), synthetic materials, such as synthetic polymers, fiberglass, metallic alloys, and / or the like. In some examples, as depicted in FIGS. 10-11, guide 150 is integrally knit into tongue 110. Accordingly, in some examples, the actuator material 140 is received by integrally knit channels 158. FIG. 11 is a cross-section of an example of tongue 110 having integrally knit channels 158. In further embodiments, integrally knit channels 158 can include guide loops 154.

[0124] In some examples, securing mechanism 130 further comprises a lock 160 configured to lock actuator material 140 in an extended position and, accordingly, tongue 110 in a retracted position. FIGS. 5 and 14 depict tongue 110 in a resting configuration, with actuator material 140 retracted and stowed within tongue 110. In contrast, FIGS. 7 and 15 depict tongue 110 in a folded configuration, with actuator material 140 extended and locked by lock 160. Lock 160 may comprise any suitable mechanism that can be locked and unlocked to retain actuator material 140 in an extended configuration. Lock 160 holds tongue 110 in a retracted position when in a locked configuration, and allows tongue 110 to return to a relaxed position when in an unlocked position, so that the foot of a wearer may be secured. Lock 160 comprises any suitable lock, such as a locking toggle, an electrically driven or controlled lock, robotic regulated fibers or motors, a software regulated lock, a voice regulated lock, a gesture regulated lock, a sound regulated lock, an impact activated lock, a heat activated lock, a multidirectional fit and release system (e.g., a ratchet-based locking system such as a BOA closure system (BOA Technology Inc., Denver. CO, USA)), a button activated lock, a magnet activated lock, and / or the like.

[0125] Lock 160 may be coupled to any suitable portion of tongue 110. In various examples, lock 160 can be coupled to tongue 110 with lock attachment 161. Lock attachment 161 can be or include a cord, strap, or any other suitable coupling mechanism In some examples, lock 160 is coupled to an interior surface of back panel 138. In some examples, lock 160 is coupled to reinforcement 156. In some examples, lock 160 is coupled to a front or a back surface of a single-layered tongue. In some examples, as depicted in FIGS. 9, 13, 16 and 17, lock 160 comprises a toggle lock including a tubular body 162 and a translatable clasp 164 configured to translate relative to tubular body 162. Tubular body 162 is coupled to back panel 138 of tongue 110 via one or more lock attachments 161. Translatable clasp 164 is at least partially received by tubular body 162, and defines two apertures: a distal aperture 166 and a proximal aperture 168. In various examples, distal aperture 166 is connected to release 139 (e.g., via actuator material 140). In further embodiments, a first end of release 139 can be coupled with distal aperture 166 via actuator material 140 and a second end of release 139 can be attached to tongue 110.

[0126] Pulling on release 139 pulls on distal aperture 166, translating clasp 164 relative to tubular body 162, such that the size of proximal aperture 168 is increased. Actuator material 140 is received by proximal aperture 168. Accordingly, actuator material 140 moves freely only when force is exerted on distal aperture 166 by a user, increasing the size of proximal aperture 168. When the force is removed by the user, the size of proximal aperture 168 decreases and holds the actuator material 140 in place. Increasing the size of proximal aperture 168 and allowing actuator material 140 to move freely can allow a user to move tongue 110 from the retracted position to the foot-engagement position. For example, increasing the size of proximal aperture 168 can allow tongue 110 to be pulled towards the foot of a wearer by allowing the actuator material 140 to move through the proximal aperture 168. The actuator material 140 moving through proximal aperture 168 while the tongue 110 is being pulled toward the foot of a wearer can also move pull portion 142 from an extended position to a retracted position.

[0127] Relative positions of components of securing mechanism 130 are described in each position of tongue 110. A length of actuator material 140 can feed through securing mechanism 130 in the following steps, however, actuator material 140 need not perform every step and / or need not be in the order described: (1) length of actuator material 140 forms pull portion 142 (e.g., a loop) at a posterior end of tongue 110, (2) length of actuator material 140 feeds through posterior apertures 134, (3) length of actuator material 140 feeds through proximal aperture 168 of lock 160, (4) length of actuator material 140 feeds through guide 150, (5) length of actuator material 140 is secured to tongue 110. In some examples, after (1) actuator material 140 is fed through proximal aperture 168 and before (4) length of actuator material 140 is fed through guide 150, (6) actuator material 140 feeds through posterior hinge apertures 136, and (7) length of actuator material 140 feeds through anterior hinge apertures 136. Accordingly, length of actuator material 140 is disposed exterior to tongue 110 at positions (1) and (6), and interior to tongue 110 at positions (2), (3), (4), and (7) in examples wherein tongue 110 comprises two panels of material (i.e., back panel 138 and front panel 132). In examples wherein tongue 110 comprises a single panel of material, length of actuator material 140 is exposed on a front surface of tongue 110 at positions (1) and (6) and at on a back surface of tongue 110 at positions (2), (3), (4), and (7). When tongue 110 is in a starting position, as depicted in FIG. 1, length of actuator material 140 is received by and stowed within tongue 110. When tongue 110 is in an extended position, as depicted in FIG. 2, length of actuator material 140 is extended through posterior apertures 134, and translated through proximal aperture 168 of cord lock 160. Tongue 110 folds at hinge 114. Accordingly, length of actuator material 140 is secured in the locking position by proximal aperture 168 of lock 160.

[0128] To return tongue 110 to a resting position, a user pulls back on release 139, which is coupled to distal aperture 166 of lock 160. Pulling on release 139 allows a user to pull tongue 110 back towards the foot of the wearer by increasing the size of proximal aperture 168 and freeing actuator material 140 to return to a stowed position.

[0129] In some examples, article of footwear 100 has any suitable alternative configuration. In some examples, tongue 110 or securing mechanism 130 or both tongue 110 and securing mechanism 130 may be disposed in a heel of the article of footwear, or at a medial or lateral side of the article of footwear, allowing for dynamic entry. In some examples, tongue 110 is knitted or woven to incorporate components of securing mechanism 130. For example, the guide, any foam padding, the hinge point, and / or the like may be incorporated into a woven and / or knitted tongue.B. Illustrative Method of Operating an Article of Footwear

[0130] This section describes steps of an illustrative method 200 for operating an article of footwear; see FIG. 18. Aspects of article of footwear 100 may be utilized in the steps of method 200 described below. Where appropriate, reference may be made to components and systems that may be used in carrying out each step, however, additional and alternative components may be used with method 200. These references are for illustration, and are not intended to limit the possible ways of carrying out any particular step of the method 200.

[0131] FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating steps performed in an illustrative method, and may not recite the complete process or all steps of the method. Although various steps of method 200 are described below and depicted in FIG. 18, the steps need not necessarily all be performed, and in some cases two or more steps may be performed simultaneously and / or steps may be performed in a different order than the order shown.

[0132] Step 202 of method 200 includes exerting force on pull portion 142. In some examples, exerting force on pull portion 142 includes pulling upward on pull portion 142. In some examples, exerting force on pull portion 142 includes pulling pull portion 142 in a direction parallel to a plane generally defined by tongue 110. Pull portion 142 may be disposed in any suitable location, such as at a distal end of tongue 110, at a medial edge of tongue 110, at a lateral edge of tongue 110, at an intersection between tongue 110 and upper 120 of the article of footwear 100 and / or the like. Ends of actuator material 140 extending from pull portion 142 feed through posterior apertures 134 disposed at a distal end of tongue 110, and through a locking portion of lock 160. In some examples, ends of actuator material 140 subsequently feed out of a front of tongue 110 at first apertures 136 disposed distal to hinge point 114 of tongue 110, and back into tongue 110 at second apertures 136 disposed proximal to hinge point 114 of tongue 110. In some examples article of footwear 100 further includes guide 150 configured to separate ends of length of actuator material 140.

[0133] Pulling upward on pull portion 142 folds tongue 110 at hinge point 114, increasing the size of foot opening124 of the article of footwear 100, such that a foot may be inserted into the article of footwear 100. Increasing the size of foot opening 124 can make insertion of the foot into the article of footwear 100 easier than it would be if the size of foot opening 124 was not increased, and may allow insertion of the foot without flexing at the ankle.

[0134] In some examples, step 204 of method 200 includes optionally activating lock 160 of article of footwear 100, securing tongue 110 in the retracted position. In some examples, lock 160 must be activated by a user. In some examples, lock 160 automatically activates upon pulling upward on pull portion 142, such as when lock 160 is a toggle lock. For example, actuator material 140 can be held in place by proximal aperture 168 after the user stops pulling on the pull portion 142. Lock 160 can hold tongue 110 in the retracted position, so that the article of footwear 100 is held in an open position (e.g., the size of the foot opening 124 is increased) without the user needing to hold the tongue in the retracted position (e.g., without the use of a user's hands). For example, aperture 168 can hold the actuator material 140 in place causing the tongue 110 to remain in the retracted position. A wearer may then insert the foot into the article of footwear 100.

[0135] Step 206 of method 200 includes releasing lock 160, such that tongue 110 is free to move back to a stowed position. In some examples releasing lock 160 includes pulling on release 139, such that lock 160 is released. In examples when lock 160 is a toggle lock, pulling on release 139 can increase the size of proximal aperture 168, allowing the actuator material 140 to move through the proximal aperture 168. In some examples, such as when lock 160 is activated by a user, the user must release lock 160 with software, voice command, gesture, action, and / or the like.

[0136] In some examples, optional step 208 of method 200 includes securing the foot of a wearer within article of footwear 100. Securing the foot of the wearer may include activating closure mechanism 126 (e.g., laces, elastic cords, draw strings, hook-and-loop fasteners, zippers, and / or the like).C. Illustrative Method of Manufacturing an Article of Footwear

[0137] This section describes steps of an illustrative method 300 for manufacturing an article of footwear (e.g., article of footwear 100); see FIG. 19. Aspects of article of footwear 100 may be utilized in steps of method 300 described below. Where appropriate, reference may be made to components and systems that may be used in carrying out each step, however, additional and alternative components may be used with method 300. These references are for illustration, and are not intended to limit the possible ways of carrying out any particular step of the method.

[0138] FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating steps performed in an illustrative method, and may not recite the complete process or all steps of the method. Although various steps of method 300 are described below and depicted in FIG. 19, the steps need not necessarily all be performed, and in some cases two or more steps may be performed simultaneously and / or steps may be performed in a different order than the order shown.

[0139] In some examples, step 302 of method 300 optionally includes manufacturing a front panel of tongue 110 of article of footwear 100. In some examples, manufacturing the front panel 132 of tongue 110 of article of footwear 100 includes cutting, punching, and / or otherwise shaping front panel 132. In some examples, front panel 132 is manufactured as a unit. For example, front panel 132 may be woven and shaped as a unit or knitted and shaped as a unit, such as by skipping needles, transferring yarn between needles and / or between needle beds, and / or the like. In some examples, manufacturing front panel 132 of tongue 110 of article of footwear 100 includes punching holes and / or apertures (e.g., apertures 134, 136) configured to receive actuator material 140.

[0140] In some examples, step 304 of method 300 optionally includes manufacturing guide 150 of the article of footwear 100. In some examples, guide 150 includes integrated reinforcement 156 configured to cushion tongue 110 of the article of footwear 100. The reinforcement 156 may comprise any suitable material, such as foam, fabric, batting, and / or the like. In some examples, manufacturing guide 150 includes coupling guide strips 152 and / or guide loops 154 to reinforcement 156 (e.g., padding). In some examples, manufacturing guide 150 includes coupling guide strips 152 and / or guide loops 154 to reinforcement 156 utilizing any suitable method, such as sewing, adhering, adhesively bonding, thermally fusing, and / or the like.

[0141] In some examples, step 306 of method 300 optionally includes manufacturing back panel 138 of tongue 110 of an article of footwear 100. In some examples, manufacturing back panel 138 includes cutting, punching, and / or otherwise shaping back panel 138. In some examples, back panel 138 is manufactured as a unit, for example by weaving and shaping back panel 138 as a unit, or knitting and shaping back panel 138 as a unit, for example by skipping needles, transferring yarn between needles and / or between needle beds, and / or the like. In some examples, manufacturing back panel 138 includes coupling lining to back panel 138, so that a material (e.g., actuator material 140) inserted through back panel 138 does not cause back panel 138 to tear. In some examples, manufacturing back panel 138 includes forming, for example by punching holes, posterior apertures and / or back panel apertures 141 configured to receive actuator material 140. In some examples, manufacturing back panel 138 includes coupling guide 150 to back panel 138 using any suitable method such as sewing, adhesively bonding, fusing, and / or the like. In some examples, back panel 138 is knit as a unit, and guide 150 is integrally knit with back panel 138. For example, guide 150 is integrally knit with back panel 138 forming knit channels 158. In some examples, manufacturing back panel 138 includes coupling reinforcement 156 (e.g., foam) to the back panel to provide cushioning and foot protection.

[0142] In some examples, manufacturing back panel 138 includes forming a release 139 in the back panel of tongue 110. As discussed above, release 139 can be or include any suitable flap, tab, loop, pocket, or other integrated structure; an elongate, flexible, strip of material, such as a strap, cord, cable, string, yarn, wire, webbing, fabric, and / or the like; and / or a resilient material, such as an elasticated strand or cord, and / or the like which may be pulled by a user to release actuator material 140 from the extended position. In examples wherein release 139 comprises a pocket, forming release 139 in back panel 138 includes rolling back panel 138 to form the pocket. In some examples, forming release 139 in back panel 138 includes affixing another piece of material to back panel 138 to form a pocket, such as by sewing, adhesively bonding, or thermally fusing. In some examples, manufacturing back panel 138 includes creating a channel in the release (e.g., pocket) configured to receive an actuator material 140 configured to couple to distal aperture 166 of lock 160. In some examples, manufacturing back panel 138 includes feeding actuator material 140 through the channel and apertures (e.g., back panel apertures 141), and coupling actuator material 140 to distal aperture 166. In some examples, manufacturing back panel 138 includes coupling tubular body 162 of lock 160 to the back panel 138 using lock attachment 161.

[0143] In some examples, steps 302 and 306 can be performed simultaneously, as tongue 110 is a single-layer structure (i.e., includes a single panel of material). Accordingly, in some examples, manufacturing a single panel of tongue 110 includes cutting, punching, and / or otherwise shaping the single panel. In some examples, the single panel is manufactured as a unit, such as by knitting, and may include shaping by skipping needles, transferring yarn between needles and / or between needle beds, and / or the like. In some examples, manufacturing a single panel of tongue 110 includes coupling lining to the panel, so that a textile material (e.g., actuator material 140) inserted through the single panel of the tongue does not cause the single panel to tear. In some examples, manufacturing a single panel of tongue 110 includes forming apertures (e.g., apertures 134, 136) configured to receive actuator material 140, for example by punching holes. In some examples, manufacturing a single panel of tongue 110 includes coupling guide 150 to the single panel using any suitable method such as sewing, adhesively bonding, thermally fusing, and / or the like. In some examples, the single panel is knit as a unit, and guide 150 is integrally knit with the single panel. In some examples, manufacturing a single panel of tongue 110 includes coupling reinforcement 156 (e.g., foam) to the single panel to provide cushioning and foot protection.

[0144] In some examples, manufacturing a single panel of tongue 110 of an article of footwear includes forming a pocket in the single panel of tongue 110. In some examples, forming a pocket in the single panel of tongue 110 includes rolling the single panel to form the pocket. In some examples, forming a pocket in the single panel of tongue 110 includes affixing another piece of material to the single panel to form the pocket, such as by sewing, adhesively bonding, or thermally fusing. In some examples, manufacturing a single panel of tongue 110 includes sewing, adhesively bonding or fusing a channel in the pocket configured to receive actuator material 140 to couple to distal aperture 166 of lock 160. In some examples, manufacturing the single panel includes feeding the actuator material 140 through the channel and back panel apertures 141, and coupling the actuator material 140 to distal aperture 166 of lock 160. In some examples, manufacturing the single panel includes coupling tubular body 162 of lock 160 to the single panel using lock attachment 161.

[0145] Step 308 of method 300 includes assembling tongue 110. In some examples, assembling tongue 110 includes stitching back panel 138 to front panel 132.

[0146] Step 310 of method 300 includes feeding actuator material 140 through apertures (e.g., apertures 134, 136) of tongue 110. In some examples, step 310 of method 300 includes feeding actuator material 140 through apertures 134, 136 of front panel 132, guide 150, and lock 160. In further examples, step 310 includes feeding actuator material 140 through back panel apertures 141. In some examples, feeding actuator material 140 through apertures 134, 136 of front panel 132, guide 150, and lock 160 includes feeding actuator material 140 through posterior apertures 134, distal aperture 166 of lock 160, through hinge apertures 136 adjacent hinge 114, and through guide 150. In further examples, feeding actuator material 140 through apertures 134 of front panel 132, guide 150, and lock 160 includes feeding actuator material 140 through posterior apertures 134, distal aperture 166 of lock 160, and through guide 150. In some examples, step 310 of method 300 includes feeding actuator material 140 through apertures 134, 136 of the single panel, guide 150, and lock 160. In some examples, feeding actuator material 140 further comprises stitching or otherwise adhering actuator material 140 to an anterior end of tongue 110.

[0147] In some examples, optional step 312 of method 300 includes coupling tongue 110 to an article of footwear.D. Illustrative Combinations and Additional Examples

[0148] This section describes additional aspects and features of articles of footwear having securable tongues presented without limitation as a series of paragraphs, some or all of which may be alphanumerically designated for clarity and efficiency. The letter “I” is intentionally omitted for clarity. Each of these paragraphs can be combined with one or more other paragraphs, and / or with disclosure from elsewhere in this application, including any attached Appendices, in any suitable manner. Some of the paragraphs below may expressly refer to and further limit other paragraphs, providing without limitation examples of some of the suitable combinations.

[0149] A0. An article of footwear comprising:

[0150] an upper;

[0151] a tongue pivotably coupled to the upper; and

[0152] a securing mechanism configured to selectively toggle the tongue between a retracted configuration and a foot-engaging configuration.

[0153] A1. The article of footwear of paragraph A0, wherein the tongue further comprises a hinge extending across a width of the tongue, such that the tongue is foldable along the hinge.

[0154] A1.1. The article of footwear of paragraph A1, wherein the hinge is an integrally formed hinge within the tongue; optionally wherein the integrally formed hinge is an integrally knitted hinge within the tongue.

[0155] A1.2. The article of footwear of paragraph A1 or A1.1, wherein the hinge is a molded hinge.

[0156] A2. The article of footwear of any of paragraphs A1 through A1.2, wherein the tongue further comprises a length of actuator material received by one or more tongue apertures; and

[0157] wherein the length of actuator material extends along a length of the tongue, such that the tongue is configured to fold along the hinge when the length of actuator material is pulled.

[0158] A2.1 The article of footwear of paragraph A2, wherein the length of actuator material comprises a pull portion extending from a distal end of the tongue, wherein the tongue is configured to fold along the hinge when the pull portion is pulled.

[0159] A2.1.1. The article of footwear of paragraph A2.1, wherein the pull portion comprises a loop formed by the length of actuator material.

[0160] A2.2. The article of footwear of any of paragraphs A2 through A2.1.1, wherein the tongue apertures comprise a pair of proximal tongue apertures disposed at a proximal end of the tongue, and wherein the tongue apertures comprise four hinge apertures disposed adjacent the hinge.

[0161] A2.3. The article of footwear of any of paragraphs A2 through A2.2, wherein the length of actuator material comprises a length of cable.

[0162] A2.3.1. The article of footwear of paragraph A2.3, wherein the length of cable is elastomeric; optionally wherein the length of cable comprises a length of elastic cord.

[0163] A2.4. The article of footwear of any of paragraphs A2 through A2.3.1, wherein the length of actuator material comprises two or more discrete lengths of actuator material coupled together.

[0164] A2.4.1. The article of footwear of paragraph A2.4, wherein the two or more discrete lengths of actuator material are coupled together by a handle.

[0165] A3. The article of footwear of any of paragraphs A2 through A3, wherein the tongue further comprises a guide configured to receive the length of actuator material.

[0166] A3.1. The article of footwear of paragraph A3, wherein the guide defines two parallel channels, each configured to receive a respective end of the length of actuator material

[0167] A3.2. The article of footwear of paragraph A3.1, wherein the guide comprises two or more guide strips, each defining a pair of guide loops configured to receive the length of actuator material.

[0168] A4. The article of footwear of any of paragraphs A2 through A3.2, wherein the tongue further comprises a lock configured to secure the length of actuator material, such that the tongue is secured in the retracted configuration when the lock is engaged.

[0169] A4.1. The article of footwear of paragraph A4, wherein the lock comprises a toggle lock.

[0170] A4.2. The article of footwear of paragraph A4 or A4.1, wherein the lock comprises a tubular body, and a translatable clasp configured to be at least partially received by the tubular body and to translate relative to the tubular body.

[0171] A4.3. The article of footwear of paragraph A4.2., wherein the translatable clasp comprises an exposed distal aperture and a partially obscured proximal aperture.

[0172] A4.4. The article of footwear of paragraph A4.3, wherein the exposed distal aperture is coupled to an outer back surface of the tongue, and wherein the length of actuator material extends through the partially obscured proximal aperture, such that the securing mechanism is configured to increase a size of an exposed portion of the partially obscured proximal aperture when the tongue is pulled back towards the foot of a wearer, and to facilitate movement of the length of actuator material through the partially obscured proximal aperture.

[0173] A4.5. The article of footwear of any of paragraphs A4 through A4.4, wherein the lock is configured to secure the length of actuator material in an extended position.

[0174] A5. The article of footwear of any of paragraphs A0 through A4.4, wherein the upper defines a foot-receiving cavity, and wherein the tongue comprises a back panel facing the foot-receiving cavity and a front panel positioned opposite the back panel, with the front panel forming an externally-facing surface of the tongue, and wherein the securing mechanism is disposed at least partially between the front panel and the back panel.

[0175] A5.1. The article of footwear of any of paragraphs A0 through A4.4, wherein the tongue comprises a single panel of material.

[0176] A6. The article of footwear of any of paragraphs A0 through A5.1, wherein the tongue is padded.

[0177] A7. The article of footwear of any of paragraphs A0 through A6, wherein the securing mechanism is configured to selectively toggle the tongue between the retracted configuration, the foot-engaging configuration, and an intermediate configuration disposed between the retracted configuration and the foot-engaging configuration.

[0178] B0. A method for operating an article of footwear, the method comprising:

[0179] exerting force on a pull portion of an activating material of a securing mechanism of the article of footwear, such that the pull portion is extended with respect to the tongue;

[0180] and releasing a lock of the securing mechanism of the article of footwear.

[0181] B1. The method of paragraph B0, further comprising activating the lock to secure the pull portion in an extended position.

[0182] B2. The method of paragraph B0, wherein the lock is automatically activated upon pulling upward on the pull portion.

[0183] B2.1. The method of paragraph B0 or B2, wherein the lock is configured to retain the pull portion in an extended position until the lock is released.

[0184] B3. The method of any of paragraphs B0 through B2.1, wherein the tongue comprises a hinge, such that exerting force on the pull portion folds the tongue along the hinge.

[0185] B4. The method of any of paragraphs B0 through B3, further comprising securing a foot of a wearer within the article of footwear.

[0186] B5. The method of any of paragraphs B0 through B4, wherein exerting force on the pull portion includes pulling upward on the pull portion.

[0187] B5.1. The method of any of paragraphs B0 through B4, wherein exerting force on the pull portion includes pulling the pull portion in a direction parallel to a plane generally defined by the tongue.

[0188] B6. The method of any of paragraphs B0 through B5.1, wherein the pull portion is disposed at a distal end of the tongue.

[0189] B6.1. The method of any of paragraphs B0 through B5.1, wherein the pull portion is disposed at a medial edge of the tongue.

[0190] B6.2. The method of any of paragraphs B0 through B5.1, wherein the pull portion is disposed at a lateral edge of the tongue.

[0191] B6.3. The method of any of paragraphs B0 through B5.1, wherein the pull portion is disposed at an intersection between the tongue and an upper of the article of footwear.

[0192] C0. A method for manufacturing an article of footwear, the method comprising: coupling a front panel of a tongue of an article of footwear to a back panel of the tongue of the article of footwear; and feeding a length of actuator material of a securing mechanism through an aperture of the front panel or the back panel, or both the front and back panel.

[0193] C1. The method of paragraph C1, further comprising coupling a guide to an interior surface of the back panel.

[0194] C1.1. The method of paragraph C1, wherein coupling the guide to the interior surface of the back panel comprises adhering guide strips including corresponding guide loops to the interior surface of the back panel.

[0195] C1.2 The method of paragraph C1 or C1.1, wherein coupling the guide to the interior surface of the back panel comprises knitting the back panel to include a plurality of channels configured to receive the length of actuator material.

[0196] C2. The method of any of paragraphs C0 through C1.3, wherein one or more of the apertures of the tongue are disposed at a posterior end of the tongue.

[0197] C2.1. The method of any of paragraphs C0 through C2, wherein one or more of the apertures of the tongue are disposed adjacent a hinge of the tongue.

[0198] C3. The method of any of paragraphs C0 through C2.1, further comprising incorporating a hinge in the front panel, incorporating a hinge in the back panel, or incorporating a hinge in both the front panel and the back panel, such that a hinge is incorporated in the tongue of the article of footwear.

[0199] C4. The method of any of paragraphs C0 through C3, further comprising feeding the length of actuator material through the guide.

[0200] C5. The method of any of paragraphs C0 through C4, further comprising feeding the length of actuator material through a lock configured to retain the length of actuator material, such that the length of actuator material is configured to retain the tongue of the article of footwear in a retracted position.

[0201] C5.1. The method of any of paragraphs C0 through C4, further comprising feeding the length of actuator material through a lock configured to retain the length of actuator material in an extended position.

[0202] C6. The method of any of paragraphs C0 through C5, further comprising coupling the tongue to an article of footwear.

[0203] D0. A tongue for an article of footwear, the tongue comprising:

[0204] a tongue having a width and a length, and

[0205] a securing mechanism configured to selectively toggle the tongue between a retracted configuration and a foot-engaging configuration, wherein the tongue is configured to be pivotably coupled to an upper for an article of footwear.

[0206] D1. The tongue of paragraph D0, further comprising a hinge extending across a width of the tongue, such that the tongue is foldable along the hinge.

[0207] D1.1. The tongue of paragraph D1, wherein the hinge is integrally formed with the tongue; optionally wherein the hinge is integrally knitted with the tongue.

[0208] D1.2. The tongue of paragraph D1 or D1.1, wherein the hinge is molded.

[0209] D2. The tongue of any of paragraphs D1 through D1.2, the securing mechanism further comprising a length of actuator material received by one or more tongue apertures; and

[0210] wherein the length of actuator material extends along a length of the tongue, and the tongue is configured to fold along the hinge when the length of actuator material is pulled.

[0211] D2.1 The tongue of paragraph D2, wherein the length of actuator material comprises a pull portion extending from a distal end of the tongue, wherein the tongue is configured to fold along the hinge when the pull portion is pulled.

[0212] D2.1.1. The tongue of paragraph D2.1, wherein the pull portion comprises a loop formed by the length of actuator material.

[0213] D2.2. The tongue of any of paragraphs D2 through D2.1.1., wherein the tongue apertures comprise a pair of proximal tongue apertures disposed at a proximal end of the tongue, and wherein the tongue apertures comprise four hinge apertures disposed adjacent the hinge.

[0214] D2.3. The tongue of any of paragraphs D2 through D2.2, wherein the length of actuator material comprises a length of cable.

[0215] D2.3.1. The tongue of paragraph D2.3, wherein the length of cable is elastomeric; optionally wherein the length of cable comprises a length of elastic cord.

[0216] D3. The tongue of any of paragraphs D2 through D3, further comprising a guide configured to receive the length of actuator material.

[0217] D3.1. The tongue of paragraph D3, wherein the guide defines two parallel channels, each configured to receive a respective end of the length of actuator material.

[0218] D3.2. The tongue of paragraph D3.1, wherein the guide comprises two or more guide strips, each defining a pair of guide loops configured to receive the length of actuator material.

[0219] D4. The tongue of any of paragraphs D2 through D3.2, further comprising a lock configured to secure the length of actuator material, such that the tongue is configured to be secured in the retracted configuration when the lock is engaged.

[0220] D4.1. The tongue of paragraph D4, wherein the lock comprises a toggle lock.

[0221] D4.2. The tongue of paragraph D4 or D4.1, wherein the lock comprises a tubular body, and a translatable clasp configured to be at least partially received by the tubular body and to translate relative to the tubular body.

[0222] D4.3. The tongue of paragraph D4.2., wherein the translatable clasp comprises an exposed distal aperture and a partially obscured proximal aperture.

[0223] D4.4. The tongue of paragraph D4.3, wherein the exposed distal aperture is coupled to an outer back surface of the tongue, and wherein the length of actuator material extends through the partially obscured proximal aperture, and the securing mechanism is configured to pull the tongue back towards a foot of a wearer and increase a size of an exposed portion of the partially obscured proximal aperture, and to facilitate movement of the length of actuator material through the partially obscured proximal aperture.

[0224] D4.5. The tongue of any of paragraphs D4 through D4.4, wherein the lock is configured to secure the length of actuator material in an extended position.

[0225] D5. The tongue of any of paragraphs DO through D4.4, further comprising a back panel and a front panel positioned opposite the back panel, with the front panel forming an externally-facing surface of the tongue, and wherein the tongue securing mechanism is disposed at least partially between the front panel and the back panel.

[0226] D6. The tongue of any of paragraphs DO through D5, wherein the tongue is padded.

[0227] E0. A method of manufacturing a tongue, the method comprising:

[0228] coupling a front panel to a back panel; and

[0229] feeding a length of actuator material of a securing mechanism through an aperture of the front panel or the back panel, or both the front and back panel.

[0230] E1. The method of paragraph E1, further coupling a guide to an interior surface of the back panel.

[0231] E1.1. The method of paragraph E1, wherein coupling the guide to the interior surface of the back panel comprises affixing guide strips including corresponding guide loops to the interior surface of the back panel.

[0232] E1.2 The method of paragraph E1 or E1.1, wherein coupling the guide to the interior surface of the back panel comprises manufacturing the back panel to include a plurality of channels configured to receive the length of actuator material; optionally wherein the manufacturing the back panel comprises knitting the back panel.

[0233] E2. The method of any of paragraphs E0 through E1.3, wherein one or more of the apertures of the front panel and / or the back panel are disposed at a posterior end of the front panel and / or the back panel.

[0234] E3. The method of any of paragraphs E0 through E2, further comprising incorporating a hinge in the front panel, incorporating a hinge in the back panel, or incorporating a hinge in both the front panel and the back panel, such that a hinge is incorporated in the tongue.

[0235] E3.1. The method of paragraphs E2 and E3, wherein or more of the apertures of the front panel and / or the back panel are disposed adjacent the hinge.

[0236] E4. The method of any of paragraphs E0 through E3, further comprising feeding the length of actuator material through the guide.

[0237] E5. The method of any of paragraphs E0 through E4, further comprising feeding the length of actuator material through a lock configured to retain the length of actuator material, such that the tongue is configured to be retained in a retracted position.

[0238] E5.1. The method of any of paragraphs E0 through E4, further comprising feeding the length of actuator material through a lock configured to retain the length of actuator material in an extended position.

[0239] E6. The method of any of paragraphs C0 through C5, further comprising coupling the tongue to an article of footwear.

[0240] F0. A method for manufacturing a tongue, the method comprising:

[0241] feeding a length of actuator material through an aperture of a panel of material forming the tongue.

[0242] F1. The method of paragraph F1, further coupling a guide to an interior surface and / or an exterior surface of the panel of material.

[0243] F1.1. The method of paragraph F1, wherein coupling the guide to the panel of material comprises affixing guide strips including corresponding guide loops to the panel of material.

[0244] F1.2 The method of paragraph F1 or F1.1, wherein coupling the guide to the panel of material comprises manufacturing the panel of material to include a plurality of channels configured to receive the length of actuator material; optionally wherein the manufacturing the panel of material comprises knitting the panel of material.

[0245] F2. The method of any of paragraphs F0 through F1.3, wherein one or more of the apertures of the panel of material are disposed at a posterior end of the panel of material.

[0246] F2.1. The method of any of paragraphs F0 through F2, wherein one or more of the apertures of the panel of material are disposed adjacent a hinge of the panel of material.

[0247] F3. The method of any of paragraphs F0 through F2.1, further comprising incorporating a hinge in the panel of material.

[0248] F4. The method of any of paragraphs F0 through F3, further comprising feeding the length of actuator material through the guide.

[0249] F5. The method of any of paragraphs F0 through F4, further comprising feeding the length of actuator material through a lock configured to retain the length of actuator material, such that the tongue of the article of footwear is retained in a retracted position.

[0250] F5.1. The method of any of paragraphs F through F4, further comprising feeding the length of actuator material through a lock configured to retain the length of actuator material in an extended position.

[0251] F6. The method of any of paragraphs F0 through F5, further comprising coupling the tongue to an article of footwear.

[0252] G0. A method of manufacturing an upper for an article of footwear, the method comprising:

[0253] affixing a tongue according to any of paragraphs D0 through F6 to an upper.

[0254] H0. A method of manufacturing an article of footwear comprising affixing a midsole or midsole / outsole unit to an upper comprising the tongue of any of paragraphs DO through F6

[0255] J0. A product comprising any feature described herein, either individually or in combination with any other such feature, in any configuration.

[0256] K0. A process for operating an article of footwear, the process comprising any process step described herein, in any order, using any modality.

[0257] L0. A process for manufacturing an article of footwear, the process comprising any process step described herein, in any order, using any modality.Advantages, Features, and Benefits

[0258] The different embodiments and examples of the articles of footwear having securable tongues described herein provide several advantages over known adaptive footwear. For example, illustrative embodiments and examples described herein may be manufactured using tooling (e.g., molds, lasts) suitable for use in non-adaptive footwear. Accordingly, manufacturing adaptive footwear having securable tongues involves minimal extra expense, and adaptive footwear having securable tongues closely resemble non-adaptive footwear.

[0259] Additionally, and among other benefits, illustrative embodiments and examples described herein do not require zippers to function, although zippers can optionally be included. Zippers change the aesthetics of an article of footwear, and are less durable than alternative closure mechanisms. Performance footwear, including performance adaptive footwear, is often subject to heavy use, and durability is therefore of high importance.

[0260] Additionally, and among other benefits, illustrative embodiments and examples described herein may be incorporated into both casual and performance footwear.

[0261] Additionally, and among other benefits, illustrative embodiments and examples described herein are cost effective when compared with prior adaptive footwear.

[0262] Additionally, and among other benefits, illustrative embodiments and examples described herein maintain the structural integrity of the article of footwear, resulting in footwear suitable for high-performance situations, such as athletics, outdoor activities, and / or work.

[0263] Additionally, and among other benefits, illustrative embodiments and examples described herein facilitate an adjustable fit to accommodate the user's preferences.

[0264] No known system or device can perform these functions. However, not all embodiments and examples described herein provide the same advantages or the same degree of advantage.CONCLUSION

[0265] The disclosure set forth above may encompass multiple distinct examples with independent utility. Although each of these examples has been disclosed in its preferred form(s), the specific embodiments thereof as disclosed and illustrated herein are not to be considered in a limiting sense, because numerous variations are possible. The subject matter of the example(s) includes all novel and nonobvious combinations and subcombinations of the various elements, features, functions, and / or properties disclosed herein.

[0266] Certain combinations and subcombinations regarded as novel and nonobvious are particularly pointed out throughout this disclosure. Other combinations and subcombinations of features, functions, elements, and / or properties may be claimed, with or without variation in scope, in applications claiming priority from this or a related application.

[0267] Explicit reference is hereby made to all examples, embodiments, inventions, labels, terms, descriptions, and illustrative measurements shown in the drawings and / or in any included appendices, whether or not described further herein. To the extent that section headings are used within this disclosure, such headings are for organizational purposes only.

Claims

1. An article of footwear comprising:an upper;a tongue pivotably coupled to the upper; anda securing mechanism configured to selectively toggle the tongue between a retracted configuration and a foot-engaging configuration.

2. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the tongue further comprises a hinge extending across a width of the tongue, such that the tongue is foldable along the hinge.

3. The article of footwear of claim 2, wherein the securing mechanism comprises a length of an actuator material received by one or more tongue apertures; andwherein the length of actuator material extends along a length of the tongue and is configured such that pulling on a pull portion of the length of activator material causes the tongue to fold along the hinge.

4. The article of footwear of claim 3, wherein the securing mechanism comprises the pull portion extending from a distal end of the tongue.

5. The article of footwear of claim 3, wherein the tongue further comprises a guide configured to receive the length of actuator material.

6. The article of footwear of claim 5, wherein the guide defines two parallel channels, each configured to receive a respective end of the length of actuator material.

7. The article of footwear of claim 3, wherein the securing mechanism further comprises a lock configured to secure the length of actuator material, such that the tongue is secured in the retracted configuration when the lock is engaged.

8. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the upper defines a foot-receiving cavity, and wherein the tongue comprises a back panel facing the foot-receiving cavity and a front panel positioned opposite the back panel, with the front panel forming an externally-facing surface of the tongue, and wherein the securing mechanism is disposed at least partially between the front panel and the back panel.

9. A tongue for an article of footwear, the tongue comprising:a tongue having a width and a length,a hinge extending across a width of the tongue, such that the tongue is foldable along the hinge, anda securing mechanism configured to selectively toggle the tongue between a retracted configuration and a foot-engaging configuration, wherein the tongue is configured to be pivotably coupled to an upper for an article of footwear.

10. The tongue of claim 9, the securing mechanism comprising a length of actuator material received by one or more tongue apertures; andwherein the length of actuator material extends along a length of the tongue, wherein the tongue is configured to fold along the hinge by pulling on a pull portion of the length of actuator material.

11. The tongue of claim 10, wherein the securing mechanism comprises the pull portion extending from a distal end of the tongue; andwherein the tongue is configured to fold along the hinge by pulling on the pull portion.

12. The tongue of claim 11, wherein the pull portion is disposed at a distal end of the tongue.

13. The tongue of claim 11, wherein the pull portion is disposed at a medial edge of the tongue.

14. The tongue of claim 11, wherein the pull portion is disposed at a lateral edge of the tongue.

15. The tongue of claim 10, further comprising a guide configured to receive the length of actuator material.

16. The tongue of claim 15, wherein the guide defines two parallel channels, each configured to receive a respective end of the length of actuator material.

17. The tongue of claim 10, further comprising a lock configured to secure the length of actuator material such that the tongue is secured in the retracted configuration when the lock is engaged.

18. The tongue of claim 17, wherein the lock comprises a toggle lock having a tubular body, and a translatable clasp, and the translatable clasp is configured to be at least partially received by the tubular body and to translate relative to the tubular body.

19. The tongue of claim 9, further comprising a back panel and a front panel positioned opposite the back panel, with the front panel forming an externally-facing surface of the tongue, and wherein the securing mechanism is disposed at least partially between the front panel and the back panel.

20. An article of footwear comprising:an upper defining a foot receiving cavity;a tongue pivotably coupled to the upper and comprising a hinge extending across a width of the tongue, such that the tongue is foldable along the hinge; anda securing mechanism defining one or more tongue apertures and being configured to selectively toggle the tongue between a retracted configuration and a foot-engaging configuration, the securing mechanism comprising a length of actuator material received by the one or more tongue apertures, wherein the length of actuator material extends along a length of the tongue and is configured such that pulling on a pull portion of the length of activator material causes the tongue to fold along the hinge.

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