Cushioning structure for article of footwear

Truss structures with oblique struts and composite materials in footwear sole structures address the stiffness issue of conventional cushioning, providing enhanced comfort and fit by converting compressive loads to bending loads, thus improving the underfoot feel and cushioning performance.

US20260165421A1Pending Publication Date: 2026-06-18NIKE INC
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
US · United States
Patent Type
Applications(United States)
Current Assignee / Owner
NIKE INC
Filing Date
2026-02-12
Publication Date
2026-06-18

AI Technical Summary

⚠Technical Problem

Conventional cushioning elements in footwear sole structures exhibit a direct relationship between displacement and load, leading to increased stiffness with compression, resulting in a stiffer underfoot feel during activities like running or jumping, and lack improved comfort and fit.

⚗Method used

The use of truss structures with obliquely oriented struts that convert compressive loads into bending loads, allowing for greater deflection without continuous increases in loading, combined with a composite structure of varying densities for the outer sheath and core materials, providing structural integrity and reduced weight.

🎯Benefits of technology

This design offers improved underfoot feel and tunable cushioning properties across a wide range of displacements, maintaining energy storage while minimizing loading increases, enhancing comfort and fit in footwear.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

A sole structure includes a first support extending along a first axis transverse to a ground-engaging surface of the sole structure and having a first outer sheath including a first sheath material and a first core including a first core material. The sole structure further includes a second support extending along a second axis transverse to the ground-engaging surface of the sole structure and having a second outer sheath including a second sheath material and a second core including a second core material.
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