Footwear with asymmetrical heel seam

Abstract

An article of footwear, having a first end portion; a second end portion opposite the first end portion; and an upper extending between the first end portion and the second end portion, wherein the second end portion of the upper comprises a medial side and a lateral side opposite the medial side; and a heel portion, comprising: a heel seam coupling the medial side and the lateral side of the upper, the heel seam having an upper portion and a lower portion, wherein the upper portion has an asymmetrical bias. The heel seam may have an asymmetrical bias toward the medial side of the upper to improve the comfort while contouring the article of footwear to a foot of the wearer, creating a tighter fitting article of footwear.

Description

Client Ref.: 240055W001BoMc Ref.: 00323-0154-00304FOOTWEAR WITH ASYMMETRICAL HEEL SEAMCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims benefit of priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 818, 168, filed on August 28, 2024, the entirety of which is incorporated by reference herein. This application additionally claims benefit of priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 818,184, filed on August 28, 2024, the entirety of which is incorporated by reference herein. This application additionally claims benefit of priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 818,197, filed on August 28, 2024, the entirety of which is incorporated by reference herein.FIELD

[0002] The present teachings generally include footwear having an asymmetric heel seam configured to provide a tighter fit around a foot and reduce irritation for the wearer.BACKGROUND

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

[0004] Correct fit is an important consideration with regard to footwear. For example, it is well known that a shoe should be the correct length and width for a wearer’s foot. In many contexts, however, other characteristics that contribute to the “feel” of a shoe can also be quite important. One such characteristic is the degree to which a shoe upper provides the wearer with a sensation of a close fit. In various sports, for example, an athlete may desire a shoe in which one or more portions of the upper provide a snug fitting feel while still being relatively lightweight. Another characteristic may be comfort. A shoe may be close fitting, but uncomfortable for the wearer over long periods of time. Continuing with the previous example, athletes may need to wear the shoe for long periods of time during strenuous activity and therefore comfort should be a carefully considered characteristic when designing a shoe. There remains a need for improved footwear having portions of the upper that provide a close-fitting feel while balancing comfort and weight of the shoe for the wearer.Client Ref.: 240055W001BoMc Ref.: 00323-0154-00304

[0005] One particular portion of the upper that may be improved upon to provide a close-fitting and comfortable feel is the heel seam. Footwear may include a heel seam located on the heel of the shoe where material used for the medial and lateral sides of the upper, such as an overlay, are joined. Conventionally, the heel seam of the shoe has joined the medial and lateral sides of the upper in a straight, vertical line at the back of the heel on the shoe. The heel seam may align with the Achilles tendon of the wearer. Some designs have used a diagonal line, creating a more aesthetic design using the overlay of an upper, and / or shifted the straight vertical line to the medial or lateral side of the shoe for comfort. However, none of these designs consider the contour of the shoe on the foot (e.g., how close or tight fitting the shoe is), comfort, and weight of the shoe. There remains a need for an improved heel seam which provides the wearer with a close-fitting feel while factoring in comfort and weight considerations of the shoe.

[0006] Another particular portion of the upper that may be improved upon to provide a close-fitting and comfortable feel is the tongue and fastening system. Footwear may include a tongue to protect the top of the foot from the fastening system for the shoe. For example, a tongue connects to the vamp of a shoe and disposed under laces, may protect the top of the foot from the laces rubbing against the foot. However, in footwear designed for athletic events, e.g., soccer, baseball, football, or others, the laces may need to be tighter than a person would generally tighten the laces of a shoe. The wearer may try to prevent the foot from being unintentionally removed from the shoe during the event by tightening the laces. This may cause irritation to the top of the foot, regardless of the use of a tongue. Some designs have used tongues with removable inserts or large foam pads to try and prevent this irritation. However, these designs don’t consider the added weight of the shoe inserts or large foam pads add. Further, adding a bulky foam or other barrier may prevent irritation, but the shoe may not be a close-fitting as it was previously. The insert, foam pad, or other barrier may cause the shoe to be loose where it used to be close or tight- fitting. There remains a need for an improved tongue which provides the wearer with protection against irritation from a fastening system without adding aClient Ref.: 240055W001BoMc Ref.: 00323-0154-00304 significant amount of weight to the shoe and allow the shoe to fit tightly around the wearer’s foot.

[0007] Another particular portion of the upper that may be improved upon to provide a close-fitting and comfortable feel is the textile material used to form the upper. Footwear may include materials in the upper to allow stretch and make the shoe more malleable as well as materials to provide support and make the shoe stiffer. Both of these factors contribute to the comfort and fit of the shoe. In some cases, shoes may use layered designs using multiple materials to target different areas of stretch and structure. Generally, stretchy more malleable materials may reduce the overall weight of the shoe while stiffer, more structured materials may increase the weight. Additionally, in an athletic event like soccer, where the shoe is important for protection and performance of the wearer, but also as a tool for the wearer when interacting with the ball, the interaction of the material of the shoe and the ball is an important consideration. There remains a need for a light weight shoe that is stretchy enough to comfortably contour the foot while having enough structure to support the foot and have a tackiness that is useful in athletic events such as soccer, where the shoe is intended to interact with the equipment of the event.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] The embodiments can be better understood with reference to the following drawings and description. The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the embodiments. Moreover, in the figures, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the different views.

[0009] FIG. 1 illustrates an isometric view of an exemplary article of footwear.

[0010] FIG. 2 illustrates a rear view of the exemplary article of footwear including a heel pattern and heel seam configured to provide improved fit and comfort, according to the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1 .

[0011] FIG. 3A illustrates a rear view of the exemplary article of footwear including a wearer and the heel seam with a medial bias, according to the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 2.Client Ref.: 240055W001BoMc Ref.: 00323-0154-00304

[0012] FIG. 3B illustrates a rear view of the exemplary article of footwear including a wearer and the heel seam with a lateral bias, according to the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 2.

[0013] FIG. 4A illustrates an isometric view of a medial side the exemplary article of footwear being worn, according to the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 2.

[0014] FIG. 4B illustrates a right isometric view of a lateral side of the exemplary article of footwear being worn, according to the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 2.

[0015] FIG. 5 illustrates a side view of the medial side of the exemplary article of footwear, according to the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 2.

[0016] FIG. 6 illustrates a front view of a collar portion of the exemplary embodiment of the article of footwear of FIG. 1

[0017] FIG. 7A illustrates a view of a top layer of a collar foam of the collar portion of FIG. 6.

[0018] FIG. 7B illustrates a view of a middle layer of the collar foam of the collar portion of FIG. 6.

[0019] FIG. 7C illustrates a view of a bottom layer of the collar foam of the collar portion of FIG. 6.

[0020] FIG. 8A illustrates a lateral side view of the collar portion of the exemplary embodiment of the article of footwear of FIG. 1 .

[0021] FIG. 8B illustrates a medial side view of the collar portion of the exemplary embodiment of the article of footwear of FIG. 1 .

[0022] FIG. 8C illustrates a rear view of the collar portion of the exemplary embodiment of the article of footwear of FIG. 1.

[0023] FIG. 9 illustrates a top view of the exemplary embodiment of the article of footwear of FIG. 1 including a fastening system and tongue.

[0024] FIG. 10 illustrates a partial view of the tongue of the exemplary embodiment of the article of footwear of FIG. 9.

[0025] FIG. 11A illustrates an isometric view of a sole structure of the exemplary embodiment of the article of footwear of FIG. 1 .

[0026] FIG. 11 B illustrates an isometric view of a sockliner of the sole structure of FIG. 11 A.Client Ref.: 240055W001BoMc Ref.: 00323-0154-00304

[0027] FIG. 12 illustrates a demonstration of the foot of the wearer being inserted or removed from an opening of the exemplary embodiment of the article of footwear of FIG. 1 .

[0028] FIG. 13 illustrates a top and bottom view of the sockliner of FIGS. 11 A-11 B.

[0029] FIG. 14 illustrates an arrangement of layers of an upper of the exemplary embodiment of the article of footwear of FIG. 1 .

[0030] FIG. 15 illustrates an isometric view of the arrangement of layers of the upper of an article of footwear, according to the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1 .

[0031] FIG. 16 illustrates the interaction of the article of footwear and a ball, according to the exemplary embodiment of the article of footwear of FIG. 1 .DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] Example embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. Example embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough, and will fully convey the scope of those who are skilled in the art. Numerous specific details are set forth such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need not be employed, that example embodiments may be embodied in many different forms and that neither should be construed to limit the scope of the disclosure. In some example embodiments, well-known processes, well-known device structures, and well known technologies are not described in detail.

[0033] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular example embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” may be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “including,” and “having,” are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. The method steps, processes, and operations described herein are not to be construed as necessarily requiring their performance in the particularClient Ref.: 240055W001BoMc Ref.: 00323-0154-00304 order discussed or illustrated, unless specifically identified as an order of performance. It is also to be understood that additional or alternative steps may be employed.

[0034] When an element or layer is referred to as being “on,” “engaged to,” “connected to,” or “coupled to” another element or layer, it may be directly on, engaged, connected or coupled to the other element or layer, or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly on,” “directly engaged to,” “directly connected to,” or “directly coupled to” another element or layer, there may be no intervening elements or layers present. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a like fashion (e.g., “between” versus “directly between,” “adjacent” versus “directly adjacent,” etc.). As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0035] Although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numerical terms when used herein do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the example embodiments.

[0036] Spatially relative terms, such as “inner,” “outer,” “beneath,” “below,” “lower,” “above,” “upper,” and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. Spatially relative terms may be intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “above” the other elements or features. Thus, the example term “below” may encompass both an orientation of above andClient Ref.: 240055W001BoMc Ref.: 00323-0154-00304 below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly. In some embodiments, the relative terms are with respect to a shoe worn by a wearer, with the wearer’s foot on a horizontal surface.

[0037] In the discussion that follows, terms “about,” “approximately,” “substantially,” and the like, when used in describing a numerical value, denote a variation of + / - 10% of that value, unless specified otherwise

[0038] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an article of footwear 100. For clarity, the following detailed description discusses an exemplary embodiment, in the form of a soccer shoe, but it should be noted that the present invention could take the form of any article of footwear including, but not limited to football shoes, rugby shoes, baseball shoes as well as other kinds of cleated or non- cleated shoes for use in various sports. As shown in FIG. 1 , article of footwear 100, may also be referred to simply as article 100. Article 100 is intended to be used with a right foot. The description of article 100 and components of article 100, such as upper 102, tongue 110, fastening system 120, sole structure 130, heel portion 140, and / or collar portion 150, may reference the right foot. However, it should be understood that the following discussion may equally apply to a mirror image of article of footwear 100 that is intended for use with a left foot.

[0039] Article of footwear 100 preferably includes upper 102. Generally, upper 102 may be any type of upper. In particular, upper 102 could have any design, shape, size and / or color. Preferably, upper 102 is configured to receive a wearer's foot in a void space created by medial side 104, lateral side 106, and / or intermediate portion 108. In this exemplary embodiment, upper 102 includes opening 103 configured to act as an entry hole to receive a foot of the wearer. The foot of the wearer may be placed in the void space via opening 103.

[0040] In some example embodiments, upper 102 is associated with sole structure 130. Sole structure 130 may include an outsole 1104, midsole 132, and / or insole 1101. For the purposes of illustration, outsole 1104 and insole 1101 are not shown in FIG. 1 . Outsole 1104 is preferably configured to contact a ground surface, including but not limited to natural grass or synthetic grass. The insoleClient Ref.: 240055W001BoMc Ref.: 00323-0154-00304 may be configured to contact the foot of a wearer or receive a sockliner, as discussed with reference to FIG. 12-14. Midsole 132 may connect outsole 1 104 and / or insole 1101 to upper 102. In some example embodiments, the outsole may have a plurality of protrusions, e.g., cleats or spikes that increase traction between article 100 and the ground. The protrusions may extend from the outside toward a ground surface.

[0041] Referring to FIG. 1 , upper 102 includes medial side 104 and lateral side 106. Lateral side 106 disposed opposite of medial side 104 as seen in FIG. 2. Furthermore, upper 102 includes intermediate portion 108 disposed between medial side 104 and lateral side 106. Preferably, intermediate portion 108 corresponds to the instep or vamp of upper 102. In some example embodiments, the vamp corresponding to intermediate portion 108 of upper 102 may include multiple layers, such as an overlay, lining, reinforcement, and / or padding. The layers of the vamp may provide cushion, structure, or grip for the shoe. In a preferred embodiment, intermediate portion 108 may partially coincide with tongue 110 of upper 102.

[0042] In some cases, portions of upper 102 may include one or more pads. Generally, one or more pads may absorb an impact from contact with other objects, including, but not limited to, balls and ground surfaces. A pad could be disposed on any portion of upper 102. In some embodiments, one or more pads could be associated with medial side 104. In other embodiments, one or more pads could be associated with intermediate portion 108. In a preferred embodiment, one or more pads could be associated with lateral side 106. In some example embodiments, pads may be implemented as a foam piece strategically placed to improve fit and comfort, reduce irritation, and / or increase performance while limiting the added weight of the pad. As discussed further throughout the disclosure, this may be achieve based on design of the foam pad, textile material, and / or placement of the foam pad in the shoe.

[0043] In some example embodiments, article of footwear 100 may include a fastening system 120 configured to tighten upper 102. Generally, article of footwear 100 could be associated with any type of fastening system 120 including, but not limited to laces, straps, zippers, hook and loop fasteners, as well as other typesClient Ref.: 240055W001BoMc Ref.: 00323-0154-00304 of fastening systems. In a preferred embodiment, article of footwear 100 may include a lacing system.

[0044] Referring to FIG. 1 , article 100 includes fastening system 120 including a fastening mechanism and tongue 110. In some example embodiments, tongue 110 may coincide with intermediate portion 108. Tongue 1 10 may be coupled to first end portion 123 extend toward second end portion 124. Tongue 110 may end at opening 103. First end portion 123 may be disposed adjacent to toe portion 109. Second end portion 124 may be disposed adjacent to opening 103.

[0045] In some example embodiments, fastening system 120 may also be referred to as lacing system 120 in an exemplary embodiment. Fastening system 120 may be used to tighten medial side 104 and lateral side 106 of upper 102 using the fastening mechanism. When fastening system 120 is implemented as a lacing system, lacing system 120 may include a fastening mechanism in the form of laces 122 disposed over tongue 110 of upper 102. Lacing system 120 is disposed from the first end portion 123 of article 100 to the second end portion 124 of article 100. With this arrangement, laces 122 may tighten lacing system 120 to secure a foot within upper 102.

[0046] Generally, lacing system 120 may be disposed in any manner on upper 102. In some example embodiments, lacing system 120 may be disposed symmetrically on intermediate portion 108.

[0047] Further, the article of footwear includes a heel portion 140 and a collar portion 150. Collar portion 150 may form a perimeter around at least a portion of the opening 103, where the foot is inserted into article 100. Collar portion 150 may provide structure and support in heel portion 140 of article 100. In some example embodiments, collar portion 150 may include an inner collar lining 152, outer collar lining 156, and topline 154. Inner collar lining 152 may extend inside the shoe to sole structure 130. Collar portion may have an asymmetric bias to allow for a tight fit for the wearer and increased ankle movement with reduced irritation.

[0048] For purposes of clarity, only some portions of upper 102 are discussed in this embodiment. It should be understood that upper 102 may include other provisions that are known in the art for assisting in running, kicking, or other athletic maneuvers.Client Ref.: 240055W001BoMc Ref.: 00323-0154-00304

[0049] Referring to FIGS. 2-3, heel portion 140 includes heel seam 220 and a portion of overlay pattern 230 and topline 154 of upper 102. Topline 154 is the top edge of opening 103 or the top edge of upper 102 along opening 103. Heel seam 220 may be configured to connect medial side 104 and lateral side 106 of upper 102. As discussed with reference to FIGS. 15-16, upper 102 may include layers of material selectively arranged to increase comfort and performance of the article 100 while reducing weight of the shoe. Heel seam 220 may be created by the joining of the layers of medial side 104 and lateral side 106 of upper 102. Medial side 104 and lateral side 106 of the layered material of upper 102 may be stitched and / or glued, creating heel seam 220.

[0050] In some example embodiments, heel portion 140, including heel seam 220 and the heel portion 140 of overlay pattern 230, may be asymmetric. The term "asymmetric" as used throughout this detailed description and in the claims refers to any arrangement of a component of the shoe that does not extend symmetrically over the medial side and the lateral side of an upper. For example, heel seam 220 may be asymmetric such that a portion of heel seam is disposed on medial side 104 rather than lateral side 106 or vertically where medial side 104 and lateral side 106 meet in heel portion 140. Overlay pattern 230 in heel portion 140 may be correspondingly shifted to match the asymmetry of heel seam 220.

[0051] Preferably, asymmetric heel seam 220 may provide greater comfort and a better fit for a wearer. The asymmetric heel seam 220 and corresponding pattern may be configured to increase both comfort and tightness of the shoe by accommodating the “natural fit,” e.g., the heel having a wider base at the bottom of the foot and narrowing slightly following the Achilles tendon up the ankle. The asymmetry may have a medial bias that contours this narrowing by wrapping around the medial side of the heel. In some cases, heel seam 220 may be configured with an asymmetric bias to a medial side of an upper. For example, heel seam 220 may include lower portion 222 and upper portion 224. Lower portion 222 may be connected to or adjacent to midsole 132. Lower portion 222 may be vertically aligned and horizontally centered of heel portion 140 when viewing heel portion 140 from the rear. Upper portion 224 may be connected to the top of lower portion 222 and positioned diagonally towardClient Ref.: 240055W001BoMc Ref.: 00323-0154-00304 medial side 104 of upper 102, creating an asymmetric heel seam 220. Upper portion 224 may be positioned diagonally toward medial side 104 of upper 102 connecting medial side 104 and lateral side 106 of upper 102 between lower portion 222 and topline 154.

[0052] As shown in FIG. 2, the diagonal angle, e.g., medial bias, of upper portion 224 may allow upper portion 224 and to meet topline 154 between the medial malleolus bone and Achilles tendon of the foot of the wearer. For example, FIG. 2 includes a vertical axis, horizontally centered at heel portion 140. The diagonal angle of the medial bias, or offset from the vertical axis, may range from 10-45° toward medial side 104. The design of article 100 may have a thick outer collar lining 156. In some embodiments, upper portion 224 of heel seam 220 may extend through outer collar lining 156 to meet topline 154. Additionally, in some embodiments, the angle of upper portion 224 may be dependent on the collar hang of collar portion 150, such that upper portion 224 of heel seam 220 may meet topline 154 and / or outer collar lining 156 between the medial malleolus bone and the Achilles tendon of the wearer. In some example embodiments, the angle may range depending on the wearer and each foot of the wearer, such that the bias of heel seam 220 may be customizable to the individual wearer. In some example embodiments, heel seam 220 may have a lateral bias. Upper portion 224 may have a diagonal offset from the vertical axis shown in FIG. 2, toward lateral side 106 of upper 102.

[0053] In some example embodiments, upper portion 224 of asymmetric heel seam 220 may have a lateral bias, as depicted in FIG. 3B. The lateral bias of upper portion 224 may contour the lateral side of the foot of the wearer. As described with reference to FIG. 3A, lower portion 222 may be connected to or adjacent to midsole 132 and may be horizontally centered on heel portion 140. Upper portion 224 may be connected to lower portion 222 and have a lateral bias. Upper portion 224 may be positioned diagonally toward lateral side 106.

[0054] While described separately as lower portion 222 and upper portion 224, heel seam 220 may be a single piece of material that is stitched or glued to upper 102 to join medial side 104 and lateral side 106. Lower portion 222 and upper portion 224 may transition from symmetrical to asymmetrical with curved edges,Client Ref.: 240055W001BoMc Ref.: 00323-0154-00304 as shown in FIG. 2, or sharp edges. In some example embodiments, heel seam 220 may include aesthetic features, such as design, logos, and / or color.

[0055] As shown in FIGs. 3A and 3B, asymmetric heel seam 220 may be positioned to contour the foot of the wearer. Conventional athletic shoes, such as soccer shoes, may include heel seams that are vertically aligned with the center of the back of the shoe, e.g., a symmetric heel seam with equal parts on the medial and lateral sides of the heel. This position of the heel seam may cause friction and discomfort for the wearer. A tighter fitting shoe may cause increased friction and discomfort in the heel and ankle of the wearer. However, as discussed throughout a tighter fitting shoe may be preferable for the wearer during athletic events, particularly in events such as soccer, where the wearer’s shoe may be in contact with the ball, ground, other people, and therefore likely to be accidentally removed.

[0056] Asymmetric heel seam 220 may contour the wearer’s foot to create a tighter fit while avoiding the increased friction and discomfort. For example, the diagonal position of upper portion 224 connects to collar portion 150 in the gap between medial malleolus bone and Achilles tendon of the wearer’s foot. With this arrangement, the asymmetric bias to medial side 104 preferably provides a better fit that contributes to the finesse capabilities of a wearer of article 100. In an example embodiment, upper portion 224 may have a lateral bias, and connected to collar portion 150 on the lateral side of the foot of the wearer. The lateral bias of upper portion 224 may connect to collar portion 150 between the lateral malleolus bone and the Achilles tendon of the foot of the wearer.

[0057] FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate isometric views of asymmetric heel seam 220. Particularly, FIGS. 4A and 4B show the asymmetry of heel seam 220 between medial side 104 and lateral side 106 of upper 102. Upper portion 224 of heel seam 220 does not align with the Achilles tendon on the back of the wearer’s foot to avoid irritation during various athletic maneuvers. Upper portion 224 of heel seam 220 connects with topline 154 between the medial malleolus bone and Achilles tendon to prevent irritation to both parts of the ankle and foot. Additionally, the asymmetrical bias of upper portion 224 toward medial side 104 may allow the shoe to fit tighter in heel portion 140. This may provide the wearerClient Ref.: 240055W001BoMc Ref.: 00323-0154-00304 with a more securely fitting shoe that also reduces irritation to the foot of the wearer.

[0058] In some example embodiments, topline 154 may have a medial topline edge 157 and lateral topline edge 158. Topline 154 may extend around opening 103 of article 100. In some embodiments, inner collar lining 152 and outer collar lining 156 may meet at topline 154. Topline 154 may be asymmetrical to correspond to heel seam 220. As shown in FIGS. 2-3 and 4A, lateral topline edge 158 may have consistent thickness on lateral side 106 of heel portion 140. Medial topline edge 157 may have varied thickness on medial side 104 to accommodate the asymmetrical bias of upper portion 224 toward medial side 104. For example, medial topline edge 157 may have the same thickness as lateral topline edge 158 at the horizontal center of heel portion 140. As medial topline edge 157 extends toward medial side 104, medial topline edge 157 may be thicker or thinner than lateral topline edge 158. The varied thickness of medial topline edge 157 may allow the heel portion 140 and / or collar portion 150 to contour the foot of the wearer. In some example embodiments, topline 154 may have consistent thickness on both medial side 104 and lateral side 106 of heel portion 140.

[0059] In some example embodiments, heel seam 220 may not be visible. As shown, in FIG. 5, overlay 510 may cover heel seam 220. However, heel seam 220 may still have an asymmetric bias toward medial side 104, even though it is not visible. As discussed above, upper 102 may include an arrangement of layers. The layers of upper 102 may each be joined using heel seam 220, with an asymmetrical bias toward medial side 104. Heel seam 220 having an asymmetrical bias toward medial side 104 at each layer of upper 102 may prevent irritation for the wearer as none of the seams may align with the Achilles tendon of the wearer. In some example embodiments, overlay 510 may be a thin material or film that provides some aesthetic features for the shoe, such as design, logos, or color. The thin layer of overlay 510 may not result in irritation to the wearer if not joined with heel seam 220, as the underlying, thicker layers are joined with asymmetric heel seam 220. In some example embodiments, overlay 510 may be a single piece of material that does not incorporate a heel seam in heel portion 140.Client Ref.: 240055W001BoMc Ref.: 00323-0154-00304

[0060] Referring to FIG. 6, an article of footwear 100 may include an upper having a collar portion 150 having an inner collar lining 152, collar foam 610, attachment points 620, collar cutouts 630, and collar split 640. Inner collar lining 152 may be coupled to the lining of the inside of the shoe and help couple the collar to upper 102. In some example embodiments, collar cutouts 630 may align with skiving in the outsole 1104 of sole structure 130. Both collar cutouts 630 and collar split 640 may allow collar portion 150 to smoothly couple to the inner portion of heel portion 140. Collarfoam 610 may be coupled to inner collar lining 152 via stitching or glue. In some example embodiments, collar foam 610 may have a mesh overlay. For example, the overlay for collar foam 610 may be a woven polyester mesh (e.g., a single jersey textile mesh).

[0061] In some example embodiments, collarfoam 610 may include medial collarfoam 614 and lateral collar foam 612. Medial collar foam 614 and lateral collar foam 612 may be asymmetrical to accommodate the natural fit of the shoe for the wearer. In some example embodiments, “natural fit” may refer to shoe contouring the shape of the back of the heel, e.g., the heel having a wider base at the bottom of the foot and narrowing slightly following the Achilles tendon up the ankle. The asymmetry may have a medial bias that contours this narrowing by wrapping around the medial side of the heel. As discussed with reference to heel seam 220, the term "asymmetric" as used throughout this detailed description and in the claims refers to any arrangement of a component of the shoe that does not extend symmetrically over medial side 104 and the lateral side 106 of upper 102.

[0062] FIG. 6 includes a three dimensional, x, y, and z axis for reference. For the purposes of this disclosure, the x-direction refers to width, the y-direction refers to height, and the z-direction refers to depth or thickness. Medial collar foam 614 may have a greater height or width than lateral collar foam with reference to the y- and x-directions of the reference axis. For example, with reference to FIG. 6, medial collar foam 614 may be larger than lateral collar foam 612 with reference to the y-direction of the reference axis such that the height is greater. In some example embodiments, medial collar foam 614 may also or alternatively may be thicker than lateral collar foam 612 in the z-direction and / or x-direction of the reference axis. Medial collar foam 614 and lateral collar foamClient Ref.: 240055W001BoMc Ref.: 00323-0154-00304612 may have symmetry in the z-direction and / or x-direction of the reference axis. The asymmetrical medial collar foam 614 and lateral collar foam 612 may be configured to accommodate the natural fit of the wearer, allowing the shoe to fit tighter, while increasing comfort for the wearer.

[0063] In some example embodiments, collar foam 610 may include one or more layers configured to increase foam rebound and slow recovery with dual density foam layers and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). The layered foam design may be configured to adapt to the heel geometry of the wearer and provide a natural, semi-custom fit. In some example embodiments, collar foam 610 may include three layers. Each of the three layers, e.g., top foam layer 710, middle foam layer 720, and / or bottom foam layer 730, may have a different thickness and / or material and be described with reference to FIGS. 7A-C, respectively. Further, each of the foam layers 710, 720, and / or 730 may have the same geometry and asymmetry as collar foam 610.

[0064] FIG. 7A illustrates top foam layer 710 including lateral side 712.1 , medial side 714.1 , cutouts 718.1 , and separation 716. Top foam layer 710 may be asymmetrical such that medial side 714.1 extends further in the y-direction than lateral side 712.1 , as described with reference to FIG. 6. In some example embodiments, top foam layer 710 may consist of a low density polyurethane (PU) foam, e.g., a 2 millimeter Pll foam with a hardness between 74-80 and density of 0.05-0.09 pounds per cubic foot (PCF). The PU foam may be a synthetic suede material with a knit base rather than a nonwoven base. The synthetic suede material allows the foam to hold its shape under pressure, rather than flatten as conventional PU foam materials might. The ability of the PU foam layers to hold shape contribute to the semi-custom fit of the shoe. Cutouts 718.1 may be configured to allow collar portion 150 to smoothly couple to the insole of article 100.

[0065] In some example embodiments, top foam layer 710 may also include separation 716. Lateral side 712.1 and medial side 714.1 may be vertically separated at the horizontal center of top foam layer 710. Separating lateral side 712.1 and medial side 714.1 may prevent creasing when inner collar lining 152 is coupled with the insole of article 100. Separation 716 may be formed by first cutting a vertical line in top foam layer 710 at the horizontal center. The lineClient Ref.: 240055W001BoMc Ref.: 00323-0154-00304 may be cut to create a hole in the center of top foam layer 710 and then fully separate lateral side 712.1 and medial side 714.1 .

[0066] FIG. 7B illustrates middle foam layer 720 including lateral side 712.2, medial side 714.2, and cutouts 718.2. Middle foam layer 720 may be asymmetrical such that medial side 714.2 extends further in the y-direction than lateral side712.2, as described with reference to FIG. 6. In some example embodiments, middle foam layer 720 may consist of a thermoplastic polyurethane foam layer (TPU). The TPU material may be configured to melt or activate between 60-75 degrees Celsius with a hardness of 62-77 and density of 0.08-0.12 PCF. The melting point of the TPU material of middle foam layer 720 allows collar foam 610 to hold its shape during wear, which may put increased pressure on heel portion 140. Bottom foam layer 730 and top foam layer 710 provide cushioning to create the semi-custom fit of heel portion 140 and collar portion 150. Cutouts 718.2 may be configured to allow collar portion 150 to smoothly couple to the insole of article 100. In some example embodiments, middle foam layer 720 may include hole 722. Similar to separation 716, hole 722 may allow the layers of collar foam 610 to be laminates and curve around opening 103 and / or heel portion 140 without creasing. Reducing the creasing of collar portion 150 may allow for a tighter fit for the wearer.

[0067] FIG. 7C illustrates bottom foam layer 730 including lateral side 712.3, medial side 714.3, and cutouts 718.3. Bottom foam layer 730 may be asymmetrical such that medial side 714.3 extends further in the y-direction than lateral side712.3, as described with reference to FIG. 6. Bottom foam layer 730 may be made of a high density polyurethane (PU) foam, e.g., a 4 millimeter PU foam with a hardness between 74-80 and density of 0.05-0.09 PCF. The PU foam may be a synthetic suede material with a knit base rather than a nonwoven base. The synthetic suede material allows the foam to hold its shape under pressure, rather than flatten as conventional PU foam materials might. The ability of the PU foam layers to hold shape contribute to the semi-custom fit of the shoe. Cutouts 718.3 may be configured to allow collar portion 150 to smoothly couple to the insole of article 100.

[0068] In addition to the asymmetry of collar foam 610, outer collar lining 156 may have asymmetry with viewing collar portion 150 from the medial, lateral, and heelClient Ref.: 240055W001BoMc Ref.: 00323-0154-00304 portions as shown in FIGS. 8A-C, respectively. The orientation of inner collar lining 152 within the shoe may result in asymmetry in outer collar lining 156. For example, outer collar lining 156 may dip below the medial malleolus bone of the wearer, as shown in FIG. 8B. The asymmetry of collar portion 150 is also shown in FIG. 8C, when viewing heel portion 140 from the rear. Medial collar foam 614 is configured to provide additional cushion around the medial malleolus bone and provide a better fit for the wearer. As a result the medial side of outer collar lining 156 may dip below the medial malleolus bone and asymmetrical compared to the lateral side of outer collar lining 156. Similarly, heel seam 220 may have an asymmetrical bias toward medial side 104. These features may result in asymmetry of outer collar lining 156.

[0069] FIGS. 9 illustrates a top view of the exemplary embodiment of the article of footwear of FIG. 1 including a fastening system and tongue. Tongue 110 may include a tongue foam 910 and fastening system 120. Fastening system 120 may be implemented as lacing system 120 and include laces 122. Lacing system 120 configured with first end portion 123 and second end portion 124. Lacing system 120 may be configured to be tightened to secure a wearer’s foot in upper 102. Lacing system 120 may be tightened such that the wearer’s foot is secure, but first end portion 123 may irritate that top of the wearer’s foot. For example, when laces 122 are tightened and tied at first end portion 123 the laces, knot, or a combination may rub against tongue 110 and irritate the wearer’s foot. Further, during many athletic activities, the wearer may move their ankle causing tongue 110 and first end portion 123 to rub against the top of wearer’s foot.

[0070] In some example embodiments, article 100 may include tongue foam 910 to prevent the irritation caused by lacing system 120. Tongue foam 910 may be disposed on the underside of tongue 110, as shown in FIG. 9. Tongue foam 910 may be coupled to tongue 110 anywhere along tongue 110 and lacing system 120 may cause irritation to the wearer’s foot. For example, to prevent irritation to the wearer’s foot at first end portion 123, tongue foam 910 may be coupled to tongue 110 at first end portion 123. Tongue foam 910 may provide a cushioned buffer between laces 122 and tongue 110 with the top of the wearer’s foot.Client Ref.: 240055W001BoMc Ref.: 00323-0154-00304

[0071] In some example embodiments, fastening system 120 may be a system other than a lacing system, such as a zipper mechanism or hook and loop. Fastening system 120 may also fasten in a location other than first end portion 123, such as second end portion 124 or with a bias toward medial side 104 or lateral side 106. Tongue foam 910 may be coupled to tongue 110 where irritation due to fastening system 120 may occur. In some example embodiments, tongue 1 10 may include multiple instances of tongue foam 910 where fastening system 120 causes multiple points of irritation.

[0072] FIG. 10 illustrates a partial view of tongue foam 910 coupled to tongue 110. Tongue foam 910 may be coupled to tongue 110 on the underside of tongue 110 to adjust the softness of tongue 110. Tongue foam 910 may create a barrier between tongue 110 and the wearer’s foot. In some example embodiments, tongue foam 910 may be tapered. For example, tongue foam 910 may be wider nearer to first end portion 123 and taper to a smaller width near second end portion 124. In some example embodiments, tongue foam 910 may have a uniform thickness, e.g., 6 mm. In other example embodiments, the thickness of tongue foam 910 may taper corresponding to the tapered shape, e.g., 6 mm at first end portion 123 and 2 mm at second end portion 124. The thickness of tongue foam 910 may be adjusted to accommodate the design of tongue 1 10 and fastening system 120. This may allow tongue foam 910 to provide cushion between tongue 110 and the wearer’s foot where fastening system 120 may be most likely to cause irritation, e.g., where the laces are tied at first end portion 123, without adding additional weight to article 100. Tongue foam 910 may take a different size and / or shape, i.e., any regular or irregular shape, to accommodate tongue 110 and fastening system 120 of article 100.

[0073] Some conventional embodiments may add a foam layer to the tongue, however these foam layers may be concentric and cover the entire or a majority of the tongue. T ongue foam 910 may be configured to increase the softness of tongue 110 and provide a barrier for the wearer’s foot, without increasing the weight of the shoe. Additionally, in some embodiments, article 100 may be a soccer cleat designed for high performance play. As a result, a tight fit is important to the performance of the shoe. Traditional large thick foam pieces impede the ability of the shoe to have a tight fit for the wearer.Client Ref.: 240055W001BoMc Ref.: 00323-0154-00304

[0074] Tongue foam 910 may consist of a polyurethane (PU) foam. In some embodiments, the PU foam of tongue foam 910 may partially consist of recycled thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). The PU foam of tongue foam 910 may be configured to stretch with the knit construction of tongue 110 without decoupling from tongue 110 during wear. Additionally, the PU foam may hold its shape without flattening under the pressure of fastening system 120 and increased body heat of the wearer’s foot and / or article 100 during wear and activity. Tongue foam 910 may be coupled to tongue 110 using a thin film with a low melting point, e.g., a hot melt adhesive (HMA) of 95 degrees Celsius. The film may contribute to the ability of tongue foam 910 to bond and stretch with tongue 110 without delaminating. In some embodiments, a vacuum forming process may be used to apply the HMA think film to tongue 110 to attach tongue foam 910.

[0075] FIGS. 11 A-11 B illustrates an isometric view of a sockliner configured for use in the exemplary embodiment of the article of footwear of FIG. 1 . In some example embodiments, sockliner 1102 is configured to be inserted in opening 103 of article 100. In some embodiments, sockliner 1 102 may be used in conjunction with or in place of insole 1101. Sockliner 1102 may be disposed adjacent to the foot of the wearer inserted within article 100 via opening 103.

[0076] The top surface of sockliner 1102 is preferably configured to contact the foot of the wearer within article 100. Likewise, the bottom surface of sockliner 1102 may be associated with the top of insole 1101 or outsole 1104. FIG. 11 B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the top of sockliner 1102 and the bottom of the sock of a wearer. Sockliner 1102 may be configured to increase friction between the bottom of the sock of the wearer 1203 and sockliner 1102. The cross-sectional view illustrates how forward facing hooks and / or spines 1103 of the textured material of sockliner 1102 may attach to the material of the sock of the wearer 1203. Forward facing hooks and / or spines 1103 of sockliner 1 102 may prevent the sock and foot of the wearerfrom easily moving backward while inserted into a fastened shoe.

[0077] As demonstrated in FIG. 12, sockliner 1102 may consist of a material including a rough texture that increases friction when the foot of the wearer 1201 is moving backward within the shoe, e.g., removing the foot from the shoe. TheClient Ref.: 240055W001BoMc Ref.: 00323-0154-00304 forward angled hooks and / or spines 1103 that allow the foot of the wearer 1201 to easily be inserted into the shoe, but catch the texture of the wearer’s sock 1203 to increase friction when the foot is being removed. This texture may be particularly advantageous in athletic shoes, such as soccer shoes, during activities like running or kicking in which the foot may be easily slipped out of the shoe. As described throughout, article 100 is configured to provide a semicustom, tight-fitting shoe that increases the security of the foot in the shoe and comfort for the wearer.

[0078] Accidental or unexpectedly having the foot removed from the shoe may increase the likelihood for injury and decrease performance for the wearer during athletic activities. Sockliner 1102 may provide additional security for the wearer while the foot of the wearer is fastened into the shoe using fastening system 120. When the wearer unfastens the foot from the shoe, the user can easily remove their foot. While the foot is fastened into the shoe, the tight fitting design of the shoe causes the bottom of the sock of the wearer 1203 to press into sockliner 1102. The pressure and forward direction of the texture of sockliner 1102 increase the friction during wear, it is more difficult to remove the foot from the shoe when the foot is not intended to be removed.

[0079] FIG. 13 illustrates a top and bottom view of sockliner 1102. In some example embodiments, sockliner 1102 may include a top surface 1301 and bottom surface 1302. Both top surface 1301 and bottom surface 1302 may consist of the same textured textile material with hooks and / or spines 1103. Similar to the description of the textured material on top surface 1301 with reference to FIGS. 11A-1 1 B and 12, the textured material may increase friction between bottom surface 1302 and the top of insole 1 101. The uniform texture of bottom surface 1302 may be configured to increase the stability of sockliner 1102 within article 100. Hooks and / or spines 1103 of the textured textile material may be backward facing. For example, hooks and / or spines 1103 may extend from bottom surface 1302 of sockliner 1102 toward the back of article 100, e.g., second end portion 124 and / or heel portion 140. This may impede sockliner 1102 from moving backward in article 100 by catching on insole 1101. In some embodiments, sockliner 1102 may prevent backward movement of the foot of the wearer in the shoe while in other embodiments, the backwards movementClient Ref.: 240055W001BoMc Ref.: 00323-0154-00304 may be reduced, depending on the type of sock or covering on the foot of the wearer. In some exemplary embodiments, hooks and / or spines 1103 of the textured textile material on bottom surface 1302 may extend forward, similar to hooks and / or spines 1103 on top surface 1301 .

[0080] FIG. 14 illustrates the arrangements of layers of the upper in the exemplary embodiments of the article of footwear. As discussed throughout, upper 102 may include an arrangement of layers. In some example embodiments, the arrangement of layers may include vamp overlay 1410, vamp 1420, vamp lining 1430, vamp reinforcer 1440, and base vamp lining 1450. The layers of upper 102 may be coupled by means of stitching, glue, heat melting adhesive, molding, or any other suitable method of coupled layered textiles. Additionally, multiple means of coupling may be used between layers, for example, vamp overlay 1410 and vamp 1420 may be coupled using a heat melting adhesive while all five of the layers may be sewn together after each layer has been coupled.In some example embodiments, vamp overlay 1410 may be configured to graphics, logos, or other aesthetic elements of upper 102 of article 100. Vamp overlay 1410 may also provide protection to vamp 1420 and vamp reinforcer 1440. Vamp overlay 1410 may be formed from a mesh or other type of textile material. In some example embodiments, vamp overlay 1410 may be formed of a continuous single elements, e.g., an element cut from a larger sheet of textile material. In addition to the reduction of weight, the textile material may also provide increased grip and stretch.

[0081] Vamp 1420 may be configured to provide grip and stretch to upper 102. Vamp 1420 may be formed of a light weight TPU material. In some embodiments, vamp 1420 may be the outermost layer of article 100 such that it makes contact with the playing surface and / or equipment during athletic play. The material of vamp 1420 may have increased stretch and tackiness or grip which may be advantageous during athletic activities such as soccer. Traditionally, a TPU would have a low enough melting point that it would activate and not be a good candidate for use in a high friction area of the shoe, such as vamp 1420. However, the TPU material of vamp 1420 has a high melting point e g., at or above 110 degrees Celsius. Due to the uncharacteristically high melting pointClient Ref.: 240055W001 BoMc Ref.: 00323-0154-00304 of the TPU material, it may not activate (e.g., melt or soften) from friction during athletic play and deform. This material provides a level of tackiness or grip, e.g., increase friction with the material of a soccer ball or other athletic ball, while still maintaining the shape of vamp 1420 and upper 102.

[0082] The increased grip and stretch of the fabric of vamp 1420 may provide an advantage during athletic activities such as soccer, which require the wearer to use their shoe to interact with the ball. Increased grip with interacting with the ball may provide more control of the ball to the wearer. The stretch of article 100 may allow the wearer to perform athletic maneuvers without being hindered by the structure of the shoe. As shown in FIG. 14, the material of vamp overlay 1410 may have a chevron pattern centered between medial side 104 and lateral side 106 of upper 102.

[0083] In some example embodiments, the material may perform according to Table 1 when tested for elongation to measure stretch. The left column of Table 1 describes the area of elongation testing of the shoe. In some embodiments, the thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material described in Table 1 may be used for vamp overlay 1410 and / or vamp 1420.Client Ref.: 240055W001BoMc Ref.: 00323-0154-00304

[0084] Vamp lining 1430 may be configured to support vamp 1420 and vamp reinforcer 1440. Vamp lining 1430 may be formed of a polyester mesh textile material. In some example embodiments, vamp lining reinforcer may include two layers. A first layer may be used for reinforcement of vamp 1420 and a second layer may be used for reinforcement of vamp reinforcer 1440. The textile material of vamp 1420 and vamp reinforcer 1440 may be configured to reduce the weight of upper 102, increase stretch, and improve malleability of article 100. Vamp lining 1430 may provide a layer of structure for upper 102 to support vamp 1420 and vamp reinforcer 1440. This may increase the lifespan of article 100 and prevent damage to the shoe.

[0085] Vamp reinforcer 1440 may be configured to provide additional support and structure to upper 102. Vamp reinforcer 1440 may be formed of a synthetic suede nonwoven textile material. The textile material of vamp reinforcer 1440 may be thinner than conventional upper materials, allowing the weight of article 100 to be reduced. For example, in some embodiments, the combination of lightweight materials in the layered upper 102 may reduce the weight of article 100 by at least 15 grams. The thinner, lightweight textile material used for vamp reinforcer 1440 may allow wearer to reduce the amount of time required to break in the shoe, e.g., achieve a desired level of comfort for the particular foot of the wearer. Vamp reinforcer 1440 may include cutouts to increase allow airflow in and out of the shoe to reduce the internal heat. Additionally, the cutouts may reduce the weight of upper 102 and article 100 which still providing structure without stretch to the shoe, to accommodate the higher stretch and tacky material of vamp 1420 and / or vamp overlay 1410.

[0086] Base vamp lining 1450 may be configured to be an additional layer of support for vamp reinforcer 1440, as described with reference to vamp lining 1430. In some example embodiments, base vamp lining 1450 may be configured to attach upper 102 to sole structure 130, collar portion 150, and / or tongue 110.

[0087] FIG. 15 illustrates the arrangement of layers of the upper in the exemplary embodiment of the article of footwear. As shown, vamp overlay 1410 may be the outer most layer of upper 102 with vamp 1420, vamp lining 1430, vamp reinforcer 1440, and base vamp lining 1450 preceding. Vamp lining 1430 mayClient Ref.: 240055W001BoMc Ref.: 00323-0154-00304 be arranged between vamp 1420 and vamp reinforcer 1440, but is not shown in FIG. 15 because the textile may be configured to be a transparent material.

[0088] FIG. 16 illustrates the interaction of upper 102 with a ball in the exemplary embodiment of the article of footwear. In some example embodiments, article 100 may be configured for use in athletics such as soccer. The interaction of upper 102 and ball 1600 is an imperative consideration when choosing a textile or textiles for upper 102. The performance of the shoe is at least partially dependent on this interaction. For example, an increased grip or tackiness of upper 102 may provide the wearer with additional control over interactions with ball 1600. Therefore increasing the performance of article 100. Vamp overlay 1410 may be configured to provide increased grip or tackiness for interactions between article 100 and ball 1600 by increasing the coefficient of friction between the two materials.

[0089] In one aspect the footwear may include a tapered tongue foam piece, as described throughout. The article of footwear may comprise a first end portion; a second end portion opposite the first end portion; an upper including a medial side, a lateral side opposite the medial side, and an intermediate portion between the medial side and the lateral side; a fastening system coupled to the medial side and lateral side of the upper, the fastening system configured to tighten the article of footwear around a foot of a wearer; a tongue disposed in the intermediate portion and extending between the first end portion and the second end portion; and a tongue foam piece. The article of footwear may further include wherein the tongue foam piece is disposed on the tongue at the second end portion of the tongue. The article of footwear may further include wherein the tongue foam piece is disposed on an underside of the tongue such that the tongue foam piece is configured to be disposed between the tongue and a foot of a wearer. The article of footwear may further include wherein the tongue foam piece is tapered. The article of footwear may further include wherein a width of the tongue foam piece is tapered to be wider toward the first end portion and narrowed toward the second end portion. The article of footwear may further include wherein the tongue foam piece is at least one of a polyurethane foam or a thermoplastic polyurethane foam. The article ofClient Ref.: 240055W001BoMc Ref.: 00323-0154-00304 footwear may further include wherein the tongue foam piece is coupled to the tongue using a hot melt adhesive.

[0090] In another aspect, an article of footwear may comprise a first end portion; a second end portion opposite the first end portion; an upper including a medial side, a lateral side opposite the medial side, and an intermediate portion between the medial side and the lateral side; a fastening system coupled to the medial side and lateral side of the upper, the fastening system configured to tighten the article of footwear around a foot of a wearer, wherein the fastening system comprises a fastening mechanism, wherein the fastening mechanism is at least one of a zipper, a lace, or a hook and loop mechanism; a tongue disposed in the intermediate portion and extending between the first end portion and the second end portion; and a tongue foam piece, wherein the tongue foam piece has a tapered shape. The article of footwear may further include wherein the tongue foam piece has a uniform thickness configured to prevent irritation by the fastening system. The article of footwear may further include wherein the tongue foam piece is disposed under the tongue such that the tongue foam piece is on the opposite side of the tongue to the fastening mechanism. The article of footwear may further include wherein the tongue foam piece is disposed on an underside of the tongue opposite the fastening mechanism such that the tongue foam piece is configured to contact a foot of a wearer. The article of footwear may further include wherein the tongue foam piece is at least one of a polyurethane foam or a thermoplastic polyurethane foam. The article of footwear may further include wherein the tongue foam piece is coupled to the tongue using a hot melt adhesive. The article of footwear may further include wherein the tongue foam piece has a uniform thickness. The article of footwear may further include wherein the tongue foam piece has a tapered width such that the tongue foam piece is tapered to be wider toward the first end portion to and narrower toward the second end portion. The article of footwear may further include wherein the tongue foam piece has a tapered thickness.

[0091] In another aspect, an article of footwear may comprise a first end portion; a second end portion opposite the first end portion; an upper including a medial side, a lateral side opposite the medial side, and an intermediate portionClient Ref.: 240055W001BoMc Ref.: 00323-0154-00304 between the medial side and the lateral side; a tongue disposed in the intermediate portion and extending between the first end portion and the second end portion; a tongue foam piece, wherein the tongue foam piece has a tapered width; and a fastening system including laces, wherein the laces are coupled to the medial side and lateral side of the upper, wherein the laces are configured to be tightened and tied at the second end portion of the tongue to secure the article of footwear to a foot of a user. The article of footwear may further include wherein the tongue foam piece has a tapered thickness. The article of footwear may further include wherein the tongue foam piece is wider toward the second end portion of the tongue and narrower toward the first end portion of the tongue. The article of footwear may further include wherein the tongue foam piece is disposed under the tongue, on an opposite surface of the tongue and laces, where the laces are configured to be tightened at the second end portion of the tongue.

[0092] In another aspect, an article of footwear may comprise a first end portion and a second end portion opposite the first end portion; a medial side and a lateral side opposite the medial side; a fastening system configured to couple the medial side and the lateral side; a sole structure; and an upper with layers extending between the first end portion and the second end portion, the upper including a void space configured to receive a foot of a wearer, the layers of the upper further comprising: a vamp reinforcer comprising a synthetic suede textile material; and a base vamp lining. The article of footwear may further include one or more cleats coupled to the sole structure. The article of footwear may further include wherein the synthetic suede textile material of the vamp reinforcer is a nonwoven synthetic suede. The article of footwear may further include wherein the synthetic suede textile material of the vamp reinforcer is a light-weight textile material. The article of footwear may further include a vamp overlay; a vamp lining disposed on top of the vamp reinforcer; and a vamp disposed between the vamp lining and the vamp overlay. The article of footwear may further include wherein the vamp consists of a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material. The article of footwear may further include wherein the TPU material has a melting point of at least about 100 degrees Celsius. The article of footwear may further include wherein the vamp consists essentially of aClient Ref.: 240055W001BoMc Ref.: 00323-0154-00304 textile material with an elongation percent of at least: 15% on the medial side, 13% on the lateral side, 8% from the first end portion to the second end portion, and 9% from the medial side to the lateral side, at a load of 40 kgf for each configuration.

[0093] In another aspect, the article of footwear may comprise a first end portion and a second end portion opposite the first end portion; a medial side and a lateral side opposite the medial side; a fastening system configured to couple the medial side and the lateral side; a sole structure; and an upper with layers extending between the first end portion and the second end portion including a void space configured to receive a foot of a wearer, wherein at least one of the layers of the upper comprises a vamp reinforcer consisting of a nonwoven synthetic suede textile material. The article of footwear may further include wherein the nonwoven synthetic suede textile material of the vamp reinforcer is a light weight textile material. The article of footwear may further include a base vamp lining disposed adjacent to the void space of the upper; a vamp lining disposed on top of the vamp reinforcer; a vamp disposed outer to a vamp lining; and a vamp overlay disposed adjacent to the vamp. The article of footwear may further include wherein the vamp consists of a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material. The article of footwear may further include wherein the TPU material has a melting point of at least 100 degrees Celsius. The article of footwear may further include wherein the vamp consists essentially of a textile material with an elongation percent of at least: 11 % on the medial side, 9% on the lateral side, 6% from the first end portion to the second end portion, and 7% from the medial side to the lateral side at a load of 30 kgf for each configuration.

[0094] In another aspect the article of footwear may comprise a first end portion and a second end portion opposite the first end portion; a medial side and a lateral side opposite the medial side; a fastening system configured to couple the medial side and the lateral side; a sole structure; and an upper comprising a nonwoven synthetic suede textile material. The article of footwear may include wherein the vamp consists of a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material. The article of footwear may include wherein the TPU material has a melting point of at least 100 degrees Celsius. The article of footwear may include wherein the vamp consists essentially of a textile material with an elongation percent of atClient Ref.: 240055W001BoMc Ref.: 00323-0154-00304 least: 7% on the medial side, 6% on the lateral side, 4% from the first end portion to the second end portion, and 5% from the medial side to the lateral side at a load of 20 kgf for each configuration. The article of footwear may include wherein the vamp consists of a textile material with an elongation percent of at least: 4% on the medial side, 3% on the lateral side, 2% from the first end portion to the second end portion, and 3% from the medial side to the lateral side at a load of 10 kgf for each configuration.

Claims

Client Ref.: 240055W001BoMc Ref.: 00323-0154-00304CLAIMSWE CLAIM1. An article of footwear, comprising: a first end portion; a second end portion opposite the first end portion; and an upper extending between the first end portion and the second end portion, wherein the second end portion of the upper comprises: a medial side and a lateral side opposite the medial side; and a heel portion, comprising: a heel seam coupling the medial side and the lateral side of the upper, the heel seam having an upper portion and a lower portion, wherein the upper portion has an asymmetrical bias.

2. The article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein the heel seam has the asymmetrical bias toward the medial side of the upper.

3. The article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein the asymmetrical bias of the heel seam is configured to contour to a foot of a wearer of the article of footwear.

4. The article of footwear of claim 1 , further comprising: a collar portion in the second end portion, the collar portion extending from the medial side to the lateral side, wherein the upper portion of the heel seam is coupled to the collar portion on the medial side.

5. The article of footwear of claim 4, wherein the upper portion of the heel seam is configured to couple to the collar portion of the article between a medial malleolus bone and an Achilles tendon of a foot of a wearer.

6. The article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein the lower portion of the heel seam is a vertical seam, and the vertical seam is symmetric between the medial side and the lateral side of the article of footwear.

7. The article of footwear of claim 1 , the upper further comprising:Client Ref.: 240055W001BoMc Ref.: 00323-0154-00304 an overlay comprising a knitted, nonwoven textile material.

8. The article of footwear of claim 7, wherein the overlay has an asymmetrical pattern corresponding to the asymmetrical bias of the heel seam.

9. The article of footwear of claim 1 , further comprising: a sole structure disposed below an upper including an outsole configured to contact a ground surface; and a plurality of protrusions coupled to the outsole configured to provide traction with the ground surface.

10. An article of footwear, comprising: a first end portion; a second end portion opposite the first end portion; and an upper extending between the first end portion and the second end portion, wherein the second end portion of the upper comprises: a medial side and a lateral side opposite the medial side; and a heel portion, comprising: a heel seam having an asymmetrical bias toward the medial side of the upper.11 . The article of footwear of claim 10, wherein the heel seam is coupled to the medial side and the lateral side of the upper.

12. The article of footwear of claim 10, wherein the heel seam further comprises: an upper portion and a lower portion, wherein the upper portion of the heel seam has an asymmetrical bias toward the medial side of the upper.

13. The article of footwear of claim 12, wherein the asymmetrical bias of the heel seam is configured to contour to a foot of a wearer of the article of footwear.

14. The article of footwear of claim 12, further comprising:Client Ref.: 240055W001BoMc Ref.: 00323-0154-00304 a collar portion in the second end portion, the collar portion extending from the medial side to the lateral side, wherein the upper portion of the heel seam is coupled to the collar portion on the medial side.

15. The article of footwear of claim 14, wherein the upper portion of the heel seam is configured to couple to the collar portion of the article between a medial malleolus bone and an Achilles tendon of a foot of a wearer.

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