Footwear apparatus

Abstract

A footwear apparatus is disclosed. In at least one such embodiment, a sole portion provides a structurally reinforced heel cavity positioned within a midsole of the sole portion, proximal to a heel area of the sole portion. The heel cavity provides a cavity frame constructed out of a material having a Shore A durometer of approximately 45-60A, with a substantially centrally located apex of an upper surface of the cavity frame positioned so as to be located substantially underneath a heel of the wearer's foot during use of the apparatus. The cavity frame defines at least one lateral channel therewithin, the at least one lateral channel extending laterally from a left side wall of the midsole to an opposing right side wall of the midsole, such that the at least one lateral channel is exposed to, and is in fluid communication with, a surrounding environment external to the midsole.

Description

FOOTWEAR APPARATUSRELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority and is entitled to the filing date of U.S. provisional application serial number 63 / 716,873, filed on November 6, 2024. The contents of the aforementioned application are incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND

[0002] The subject of this patent application relates generally to footwear, and more particularly to a footwear apparatus configured for preventing liquid from accumulating within an upper portion of the apparatus while also improving energy return, compression and stability during use of the apparatus.

[0003] Applicant hereby incorporates herein by reference any and all patents and published patent applications cited or referred to in this application.

[0004] By way of background, people often wear footwear (e.g., shoes, boots, sandals, etc.) in or near water to protect their feet. For example, some people wear footwear at the beach or in rivers and streams so that their feet are protected from cuts and abrasions from rocks or other environmental hazards. Similarly, some people wear footwear in public showers so that their feet are protected from biological hazards, such as fungus. While footwear may protect the user’s foot from contact with undesirable surfaces, they may accumulate water, which can be uncomfortable and lead to other potential issues.

[0005] Footwear for use in or around water have, therefore, been provided with drainage capabilities. Known instances of such prior art footwear typically provide a perforated sole that defines a plurality of apertures and corresponding channels extending from the insole (i.e., the interior of the footwear) to exterior surfaces of the outer sole, thereby facilitating airflow and drainage within the footwear. Such apertures are typically positioned on either the bottom surface of the outer sole (i.e., the surface of the footwear that contacts the ground) or a sidewall of the outer sole. However, depending on the thickness of the outer sole of any given footwear, the outer sole may not be thick enough to accommodate apertures on the sidewall thereof. Furthermore, apertures positioned on the bottom surface of the outer sole can suffer from being obstructed by the ground on which the user is walking, or by debris that may become lodged within the apertures while the user is walking, thereby hindering the drainage functionality of the apertures.

[0006] Accordingly, there remains a need for footwear having a draining sole that is less susceptible to failure, while also providing added support to the user’s foot. Aspects of the present invention solve these problems and provide further related advantages as described in the following summary.

[0007] It should be noted that the above background description includes information that may be useful in understanding aspects of the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.SUMMARY

[0008] Aspects of the present invention teach certain benefits in construction and use which give rise to the exemplary advantages described below.

[0009] The present invention solves the problems described above by providing a footwear apparatus configured for improving energy return, compression and stability during use of the apparatus. In at least one such embodiment, an upper portion is engaged with a sole portion, with the sole portion comprising an insole positioned to form a lower surface of the upper portion for supporting a foot of a wearer thereon, a midsole positioned below the insole, and an outsole positioned below the midsole. The sole portion provides a structurally reinforced heel cavity positioned within the midsole of the sole portion, proximal to a heel area of the sole portion. The heel cavity provides a cavity frame constructed out of a material having a Shore A durometer of approximately 45-60A, the cavity frame forming a rigid, upwardly oriented, substantially semi-circular shaped structure in cross-section, with a substantially centrally located apex of an upper surface of the cavity frame positioned so as to be located substantially underneath a heel of the wearer’s foot during use of the apparatus. The cavity frame defines an at least one lateral channel therewithin, the at least one lateral channel extending laterally from a left side wall of the midsole to an opposing right side wall of the midsole, such that the at least one lateral channel is exposed to, and is in fluid communication with, a surrounding environment external to the midsole.

[0010] In at least one alternate embodiment, the footwear apparatus is configured for preventing liquid from accumulating within an upper portion of the apparatus while also improving energy return, compression and stability during use of the apparatus. In at least one such embodiment, an upper portion is engaged with a sole portion, with the sole portion comprising an insole positioned to form a lower surface of the upper portion, a midsole positioned below the insole, and an outsole positioned below the midsole. The sole portionprovides a structurally reinforced heel cavity positioned within the midsole of the sole portion, proximal to a heel area of the sole portion. The heel cavity provides a cavity frame that defines an at least one lateral channel extending laterally from a left side wall of the midsole to an opposing right side wall of the midsole, such that the at least one lateral channel is exposed to, and is in fluid communication with, a surrounding environment external to the midsole. The sole portion further provides an at least one heel channel positioned substantially within the heel area of the sole portion and extending between the insole and the at least one lateral channel of the cavity frame, such that the upper portion of the apparatus is in fluid communication with the at least one lateral channel of the cavity frame and, in turn, the surrounding environment external to the midsole, via the at least one heel channel. A first end of the at least one heel channel provides an at least one heel inlet aperture positioned within the insole proximal to the heel area of the sole portion. An opposing second end of the at least one heel channel provides an at least one heel outlet aperture positioned within an upper surface of the cavity frame. Accordingly, any liquids present within the upper portion of the apparatus are able to freely exit the upper portion via the at least one heel channel, thereby preventing liquid from accumulating within the upper portion.

[0011] In at least one further alternate embodiment, the footwear apparatus is configured for preventing liquid from accumulating within an upper portion of the apparatus while also improving energy return, compression and stability during use of the apparatus. In at least one such embodiment, an upper portion is engaged with a sole portion, with the sole portion comprising an insole positioned to form a lower surface of the upper portion, a midsole positioned below the insole, and an outsole positioned below the midsole. The sole portion provides a structurally reinforced heel cavity positioned within the midsole of the sole portion, proximal to a heel area of the sole portion. The heel cavity provides a cavity frame that defines an at least one lateral channel extending laterally from a left side wall of the midsole to an opposing right side wall of the midsole, such that the at least one lateral channel is exposed to, and is in fluid communication with, a surrounding environment external to the midsole. The sole portion further provides an at least one heel channel positioned substantially within the heel area of the sole portion and extending between the insole and the at least one lateral channel of the cavity frame, such that the upper portion of the apparatus is in fluid communication with the at least one lateral channel of the cavity frame and, in turn, the surrounding environment external to the midsole, via the at least one heel channel. A first end of the at least one heel channel provides an at least one heel inlet aperture positioned within the insole proximal to the heel area of the sole portion. An opposing second end of the at least one heel channel provides an at least one heel outlet aperture positioned within an upper surface of the cavity frame. The sole portion further provides an at least one ball channel positioned substantially within a ball area of the sole portion and extending between the insole and at least one of the left side walland right side wall of the midsole, such that the upper portion of the apparatus is in further fluid communication with the surrounding environment external to the midsole via the at least one ball channel. A first end of the at least one ball channel provides an at least one ball inlet aperture positioned within the insole proximal to the ball area of the sole portion. An opposing second end of the at least one ball channel provides an at least one ball outlet aperture positioned within one of the left side wall or right side wall of the midsole. Accordingly, any liquids present within the upper portion of the apparatus are able to freely exit the upper portion via one or more of the at least one heel channel and at least one ball channel, thereby preventing liquid from accumulating within the upper portion.

[0012] Other features and advantages of aspects of the present invention will become apparent from the following more detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of aspects of the invention.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] The accompanying drawings illustrate aspects of the present invention. In such drawings:

[0014] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary footwear apparatus, in accordance with at least one embodiment;

[0015] Figure 2 is a side elevational view thereof, in accordance with at least one embodiment;

[0016] Figure 3 is a detailed side elevational view of a cavity frame of the apparatus, in accordance with at least one embodiment;

[0017] Figure 4 is a top plan view of an insole of the apparatus, in accordance with at least one embodiment;

[0018] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of a sole portion of the apparatus, taken along line 5-5 of Fig. 2;

[0019] Figure 6 is a further cross-sectional view of the sole portion taken along line 6-6 of Fig. 2;

[0020] Figure 7 is a front elevational view of the apparatus, in accordance with at least one embodiment; and

[0021] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the sole portion taken along line 8-8 of Fig. 7.

[0022] The above described drawing figures illustrate aspects of the invention in at least one of its exemplary embodiments, which are further defined in detail in the following description. Features, elements, and aspects of the invention that are referenced by the same numerals in different figures represent the same, equivalent, or similar features, elements, or aspects, in accordance with one or more embodiments.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] Turning now to Figs. 1 and 2, there is shown an exemplary embodiment of a footwear apparatus 20 configured for preventing liquid from accumulating within an upper portion 22 of the apparatus 20 (i.e., the portion of the apparatus 20 in which a foot of a wearer is positioned during use of the apparatus 20) while also improving energy return, compression and stability during use of the apparatus 20. In at least one embodiment, the apparatus 20 provides an upper portion 22 engaged with a sole portion 24, with the sole portion 24 comprising an insole 26 positioned to form a lower surface of the upper portion 22 (on which the wearer’s foot is positionable), a midsole 28 positioned below the insole 26, and an outsole 30 positioned below the midsole 28. At the outset, it should be noted that the apparatus 20 can take on any configuration and / or type of footwear, now known or later developed (e.g., shoes, boots, sandals, flip flops, etc.). Thus, while certain types of footwear and upper portions 22 might be shown for illustrative purposes, the apparatus 20 should not be read as being so limited. Similarly, the specific size, shape, dimensions, and configurations of the sole portion 24 of the apparatus 20 shown and described herein is merely an exemplary embodiment of the apparatus 20. In further embodiments, the sole portion 24 may take on any other sizes, shapes, dimensions and / or configurations, now known or later developed, while the various components of the sole portion 24 shown and described herein may similarly take on any other sizes, shapes, dimensions, configurations, quantities and / or relative positions, now known or later developed, so long as the apparatus 20 is capable of substantially carrying out the functionality described herein.

[0024] In at least one embodiment, the sole portion 24 provides a structurally reinforced heel cavity 32 positioned within the midsole 28 of the sole portion 24, proximal to a heel area 34 of the sole portion 24. In at least one embodiment, as best illustrated in Figs. 2 and 3, the heel cavity 32 provides a cavity frame 36 that defines an at least one lateral channel 38 extending laterally from a left side wall 40 of the midsole 28 to an opposing right side wall 42 of themidsole 28, such that the at least one lateral channel 38 is exposed to, and is in fluid communication with, a surrounding environment external to the midsole 28. In at least one embodiment, the cavity frame 36 forms a rigid, upwardly oriented, substantially semi-circular shaped structure in cross-section, within which is positioned the at least one lateral channel 38. In at least one such embodiment, a substantially centrally located apex 44 of an upper surface 46 of the upwardly oriented, substantially semi-circular shaped structure of the cavity frame 36 is positioned so as to be located substantially underneath a heel of the wearer’s foot during use of the apparatus 20 (i.e., while the apparatus 20 is worn on the wearer’s foot). In further embodiments, the cavity frame 36, along with the heel cavity 32, may take on any other sizes, shapes, dimensions and / or configurations, now known or later developed, so long as the apparatus 20 is capable of substantially carrying out the functionality described herein. In at least one embodiment, the cavity frame 36 has a frame height 48 (as measured from a lower surface 50 of the cavity frame 36 to the apex 44 of the cavity frame 36) of approximately 10-15 millimeters. However, in at least one alternate embodiment, the cavity frame 36 may have a frame height 48 of less than 10 millimeters or greater than 15 millimeters - dependent, at least in part, on the size and type of footwear in which the apparatus 20 is incorporated - so long as the apparatus 20 is capable of substantially carrying out the functionality described herein. Additionally, in at least one embodiment, the cavity frame 36 has a frame width 52 (as measured from a lower front corner 54 of the cavity frame 36 to an opposing lower rear corner 56 of the cavity frame 36) of approximately 30-40 millimeters. However, in at least one alternate embodiment, the cavity frame 36 may have a frame width 52 of less than 30 millimeters or greater than 40 millimeters - dependent, at least in part, on the size and type of footwear in which the apparatus 20 is incorporated - so long as the apparatus 20 is capable of substantially carrying out the functionality described herein. In at least one embodiment, the cavity frame 36 has a cavity volume (i.e., the volume of the entire heel cavity 32, from the left side wall 40 of the midsole 28 to the opposing right side wall 42 of the midsole 28) of approximately 10-20 cubic centimeters. However, in at least one alternate embodiment, the cavity frame 36 may have a cavity volume of less than 10 cubic centimeters or greater than 20 cubic centimeters - dependent, at least in part, on the size and type of footwear in which the apparatus 20 is incorporated - so long as the apparatus 20 is capable of substantially carrying out the functionality described herein. In at least one embodiment, the lower surface 50 of the cavity frame 36 (and, in turn, the at least one lateral channel 38) is positioned a cavity distance 58 above a bottom surface 60 of the outsole 30 of the sole portion 24, such that the lower surface 50 of the cavity frame 36 is located a distance above the ground upon which the wearer is positioned. In at least one embodiment, the cavity distance 58 is approximately 1.5-3 millimeters. However, in at least one alternate embodiment, the cavity distance 58 may be less than 1 .5 millimeters or greater than 3 millimeters - dependent, at least in part, on the size andtype of footwear in which the apparatus 20 is incorporated - so long as the apparatus 20 is capable of substantially carrying out the functionality described herein.

[0025] In at least one embodiment, where the cavity frame 36 defines a plurality of lateral channels 38, the cavity frame 36 provides an at least one support wall 62 positioned within the cavity frame 36 and configured for defining two or more lateral channels 38 within the cavity frame 36. In at least one such embodiment, the at least one support wall 62 extends from the left side wall 40 to the right side wall 42 of the midsole 28; however, in at least one alternate embodiment, one or more of the at least one support wall 62 spans less than an entire distance between the left side wall 40 and right side wall 42 of the midsole 28. In at least one embodiment, the at least one support wall 62 has a wall thickness 64 of approximately 2-3 millimeters. However, in at least one alternate embodiment, one or more of the at least one support wall 62 may have a wall thickness 64 of less than 2 millimeters or greater than 3 millimeters - dependent, at least in part, on the size and type of footwear in which the apparatus 20 is incorporated - so long as the apparatus 20 is capable of substantially carrying out the functionality described herein.

[0026] In at least one embodiment, where the cavity frame 36 forms a rigid, upwardly oriented, substantially semi-circular shaped structure in cross-section, the cavity frame 36 defines a primary lateral channel 66 positioned at the apex 44 of the substantially semi-circular shaped structure, along with a pair of relatively smaller secondary lateral channels 68 positioned at the lower front corner 54 and lower rear corner 56, respectively, of the substantially semi-circular shaped structure. In at least one such embodiment, the primary lateral channel 66 has a downwardly oriented, substantially semi-circular shape in crosssection, while each of the secondary lateral channels 68 has an upwardly oriented, substantially semi-circular shape in cross-section, such that each of the support walls 62 has a wall angle 70 of approximately 45 degrees relative to the lower surface 50 of the cavity frame 36. In at least one such embodiment, the at least one primary lateral channel 66 has a primary channel height 72 of approximately 3-5 millimeters. However, in at least one alternate embodiment, one or more of the at least one primary lateral channel 66 may have a primary channel height 72 of less than 3 millimeters or greater than 5 millimeters - dependent, at least in part, on the size and type of footwear in which the apparatus 20 is incorporated, along with a quantity of lateral channels 38 defined by the cavity frame 36 - so long as the apparatus 20 is capable of substantially carrying out the functionality described herein. Additionally, in at least one embodiment, the at least one primary lateral channel 66 has a primary channel width 74 of approximately 5-10 millimeters. However, in at least one alternate embodiment, one or more of the at least one primary lateral channel 66 may have a primary channel width 74 of less than 5 millimeters or greater than 10 millimeters - dependent, at least in part, on the size and type offootwear in which the apparatus 20 is incorporated, along with a quantity of lateral channels 38 defined by the cavity frame 36 - so long as the apparatus 20 is capable of substantially carrying out the functionality described herein. Similarly, in at least one such embodiment, the at least one secondary lateral channel 68 has a secondary channel height 76 of approximately 2-4 millimeters. However, in at least one alternate embodiment, one or more of the at least one secondary lateral channel 68 may have a secondary channel height 76 of less than 2 millimeters or greater than 4 millimeters - dependent, at least in part, on the size and type of footwear in which the apparatus 20 is incorporated, along with a quantity of lateral channels 38 defined by the cavity frame 36 - so long as the apparatus 20 is capable of substantially carrying out the functionality described herein. Additionally, in at least one embodiment, the at least one secondary lateral channel 68 has a secondary channel width 78 of approximately 4-8 millimeters. However, in at least one alternate embodiment, one or more of the at least one secondary lateral channel 68 may have a secondary channel width 78 of less than 4 millimeters or greater than 3 millimeters - dependent, at least in part, on the size and type of footwear in which the apparatus 20 is incorporated, along with a quantity of lateral channels 38 defined by the cavity frame 36 - so long as the apparatus 20 is capable of substantially carrying out the functionality described herein.

[0027] In at least one embodiment, each of the secondary lateral channels 38 has substantially the same semi-circular shape in cross-section as the cavity frame 36 itself. In at least one alternate embodiment, one of more of the at least one support wall 62 may have a wall angle 70 that is less than or greater than 45 degrees relative to the lower surface 50 of the cavity frame 36. Additionally, in at least one embodiment, each of the lateral channels 38 have substantially the same size, shape and dimensions; however, in at least one alternate embodiment, one or more of the lateral channels 38 has a different size, shape and / or dimensions as compared to the other lateral channels 38. Thus, in further embodiments, the cavity frame 36, along with the at least one lateral channel 38 and corresponding at least one support wall 62, may take on any other sizes, shapes, dimensions, configurations, quantities and / or relative positions, now known or later developed, so long as the apparatus 20 is capable of substantially carrying out the functionality described herein.

[0028] In at least one embodiment, the cavity frame 36 is constructed out of a relatively stiffer material than the surrounding midsole 28 itself so as to create a load-bearing component within the relatively softer midsole 28. In at least one embodiment, the midsole 28 is constructed out of foam material, such as ethylene-vinyl acetate (“EVA”), thermoplastic polyurethane (“TPU”), a supercritical foam, etc. having a density range of approximately 0.18-0.28 g / cm3to balance cushioning and rebound, for example. However, in at least one alternate embodiment, any other suitable material (or combination of materials), now known or later developed, may besubstituted, so long as the apparatus 20 is capable of substantially carrying out the functionality described herein. In at least one embodiment, the insole 26 is constructed out of the same material as the midsole 28. However, in at least one alternate embodiment, any other suitable material (or combination of materials), now known or later developed, may be substituted, so long as the apparatus 20 is capable of substantially carrying out the functionality described herein. In at least one embodiment, the outsole 30 is constructed out of a rubber compound or other traction-enhancing elastomer having a Shore A durometer of approximately 55-65A, for example. However, in at least one alternate embodiment, any other suitable material (or combination of materials), now known or later developed, may be substituted, so long as the apparatus 20 is capable of substantially carrying out the functionality described herein. Additionally, in at least one embodiment, the cavity frame 36 material has a Shore A durometer of approximately 45-60A. However, in at least one alternate embodiment, the cavity frame 36 material may have a Shore A durometer of less than 45A or greater than 60A - dependent, at least in part, on the size and type of footwear in which the apparatus 20 is incorporated - so long as the apparatus 20 is capable of substantially carrying out the functionality described herein. In at least one embodiment, the cavity frame 36 is constructed out of a polymer material exhibiting high stiffness and low deformation characteristics, such as EVA, TRU, or fiber- reinforced polymer for example. However, in further embodiments, any other suitable material (or combination of materials), now known or later developed, may be substituted, so long as the apparatus 20 is capable of substantially carrying out the functionality described herein. In at least one embodiment, the cavity frame 36 is integrally molded within the midsole 28 during manufacture of the apparatus 20. In at least one alternate embodiment, the cavity frame 36 is formed as a separate piece that is subsequently positioned within the heel cavity 32 of the midsole 28.

[0029] Accordingly, in at least one embodiment, the cavity frame 36 is positioned and configured to interact with the natural biomechanics of the foot of the wearer during use of the apparatus 20, by compressing vertically and expanding laterally under load from the wearer’s foot, thereby functioning as an energy-return element, providing both stability and responsiveness upon impact. In at least one embodiment, during use of the apparatus 20, when the wearer’s heel strikes the ground, the cavity frame 36 compresses slightly, absorbing kinetic energy; and upon the subsequent transition to a ball of the wearer’s foot, the cavity frame 36 releases the stored energy, propelling the wearer forward and promoting a more efficient gait cycle. In at least one embodiment, the above-discussed characteristics of the cavity frame 36 also help to distribute forces more evenly across the wearer's foot, reducing peak impact loads during heel strikes, which can lead to less stress on joints and lower injury risk. In at least one embodiment, the above-discussed characteristics of the cavity frame 36 also provide a stable platform that helps guide the wearer’s foot into a natural gait cycle, which can enhance overallbalance and reduce the risk of the wearer rolling or twisting their ankle. In at least one embodiment, the above-discussed characteristics of the cavity frame 36 and midsole 28 also creates a plush yet supportive feel, which can improve comfort while also redistributing weight more effectively throughout the foot, during prolonged wear or high-impact activities. Thus, in at least one embodiment, the cavity frame 36 is capable of significantly enhancing footwear performance through improved energy efficiency, comfort, stability, and injury prevention.

[0030] In at least one embodiment, as illustrated in Figs. 4-8, the sole portion 24 of the apparatus 20 further provides strategically positioned drainage channels configured for urging any liquids present within the upper portion 22 of the apparatus 20 to exit the upper portion 22, thereby preventing liquid from accumulating within the upper portion 22. In that regard, it should be noted that, in at least one embodiment, the apparatus 20 provides no such drainage channels. In at least one embodiment, as best illustrated in Figs. 4, 6 and 8, the sole portion 24 provides an at least one heel channel 80 positioned substantially within the heel area 34 of the sole portion 24 and extending between the insole 26 of the apparatus 20 and the at least one lateral channel 38 of the cavity frame 36, such that the upper portion 22 of the apparatus 20 is in fluid communication with the at least one lateral channel 38 of the cavity frame 36 (and, in turn, the surrounding environment external to the midsole 28) by virtue of the at least one heel channel 80. In at least one embodiment, where the sole portion 24 provides two or more heel channels 80, two or more of the heel channels 80 may be in fluid communication with one another. In at least one such embodiment, a first end of the at least one heel channel 80 provides an at least one heel inlet aperture 82 positioned within the insole 26 proximal to the heel area 34 of the sole portion 24, while an opposing second end of the at least one heel channel 80 provides an at least one heel outlet aperture 84 positioned within the upper surface 46 of the relatively larger, structurally reinforced cavity frame 36. Accordingly, any liquid present within the upper portion 22 of the apparatus 20 is able to drain down into the at least one heel inlet aperture 82, move through the at least one heel channel 80, into the at least one lateral channel 38 of the cavity frame 36 from the at least one heel outlet aperture 84, and exit the left side wall 40 or right side wall 42 of the midsole 28 into the surrounding environment via the open ends of the at least one lateral channel 38. Furthermore, given the relatively large and open nature of the at least one lateral channel 38 of the cavity frame 36 in at least one embodiment, any liquid that drains from the upper portion 22 of the apparatus 20 and remains in the at least one lateral channel 38 (i.e., fails to exit the left side wall 40 or right side wall 42 of the midsole 28 into the surrounding environment via the open ends of the at least one lateral channel 38) will ultimately evaporate within the at least one lateral channel 38. In at least one embodiment, the lower surface 50 of the cavity frame 36 (and, in turn, the at least one lateral channel 38) is downwardly angled toward one or both of the left side wall 40 and right side wall 42 of the midsole 28 so as to urge liquid to move toward, and exit the at least one lateralchannel 38 from, one or both of the left side wall 40 and right side wall 42 of the midsole 28. In at least one embodiment, because the at least one heel outlet aperture 84 is positioned within the at least one lateral channel 38 of the cavity frame 36, the cavity frame 36 ensures that the at least one heel outlet aperture 84 remains substantially unobstructed during use of the apparatus 20, thereby preventing liquid from accumulating within the upper portion 22.

[0031] In at least one embodiment, the at least one heel inlet aperture 82 is positioned so as to be located substantially underneath the heel of the wearer’s foot during use of the apparatus 20. Additionally, in at least one embodiment, as discussed further below, the at least one heel channel 80 is configured for temporarily compressing and collapsing under load from the wearer’s foot in order to accelerate draining of any liquid within the upper portion 22 of the apparatus 20, then regaining its shape once that load has been removed. Accordingly, in at least one such embodiment, during use of the apparatus 20, when the wearer’s heel contacts the ground, the at least one heel channel 80 temporarily compresses and collapses, forcing a volume of liquid in the upper portion 22 of the apparatus 20 through the corresponding at least one heel inlet aperture 82, through the at least one heel channel 80, and out the corresponding at least one heel outlet aperture 84; and upon the subsequent transition to the ball of the wearer’s foot (or upon the wearer’s heel simply being lifted off the ground), the at least one heel channel 80 expands and regains its shape, which assists in drawing a further volume of liquid in the upper portion 22 of the apparatus 20 down through the at least one heel inlet aperture 82 and into the at least one heel channel 80, with said further volume of liquid being ejected through the at least one heel outlet aperture 84 upon the next step taken by the wearer. Thus, in such embodiments, the positioning of the at least one heel inlet aperture 82, coupled with the compressible / collapsible nature of the corresponding at least one heel channel 80, creates a pump effect and repeating cycle that actively facilitates drainage of any liquid from the upper portion 22 of the apparatus 20. Additionally, in at least one such embodiment, as the at least one heel channel 80 expands and regains its shape during use of the apparatus 20, air from the surrounding environment external to the midsole 28 can be drawn into the at least one heel channel 80 through the at least one heel outlet aperture 84 by virtue of suction from the heel of the wearer’s foot being in contact with the at least one heel inlet aperture 82, thereby providing a cooling and / or drying effect for the at least one heel channel 80 along with the upper portion 22 of the apparatus 20.

[0032] In at least one embodiment, the at least one heel inlet aperture 82 has a heel inlet diameter 86 of approximately 3-5 millimeters. However, in at least one alternate embodiment, one or more of the at least one heel inlet aperture 82 may have a heel inlet diameter 86 of less than 3 millimeters or greater than 5 millimeters - dependent, at least in part, on the size and type of footwear in which the apparatus 20 is incorporated, along with a quantity of heelchannels 80 provided by the sole portion 24 - so long as the apparatus 20 is capable of substantially carrying out the functionality described herein. Similarly, in at least one embodiment, the at least one heel outlet aperture 84 has a heel outlet diameter 88 of approximately 3-5 millimeters. However, in at least one alternate embodiment, one or more of the at least one heel outlet aperture 84 may have a heel outlet diameter 88 of less than 3 millimeters or greater than 5 millimeters - dependent, at least in part, on the size and type of footwear in which the apparatus 20 is incorporated, along with a quantity of heel channels 80 provided by the sole portion 24 - so long as the apparatus 20 is capable of substantially carrying out the functionality described herein. In at least one such embodiment, the at least one heel channel 80 has a heel channel height 90 of approximately 2-4 millimeters. However, in at least one alternate embodiment, one or more of the at least one heel channel 80 may have a heel channel height 90 of less than 2 millimeters or greater than 4 millimeters - dependent, at least in part, on the size and type of footwear in which the apparatus 20 is incorporated, along with a quantity of heel channels 80 provided by the sole portion 24 - so long as the apparatus 20 is capable of substantially carrying out the functionality described herein. Additionally, in at least one embodiment, the at least one heel channel 80 has a heel channel width 92 of approximately 5-10 millimeters. However, in at least one alternate embodiment, one or more of the at least one heel channel 80 may have a heel channel width 92 of less than 5 millimeters or greater than 10 millimeters - dependent, at least in part, on the size and type of footwear in which the apparatus 20 is incorporated, along with a quantity of heel channels 80 provided by the sole portion 24 - so long as the apparatus 20 is capable of substantially carrying out the functionality described herein.

[0033] In at least one embodiment, as best illustrated in Figs. 4, 5 and 8, the sole portion 24 further provides an at least one ball channel 94 positioned substantially within a ball area 96 of the sole portion 24 and extending between the insole 26 of the apparatus 20 and the left side wall 40 or right side wall 42 of the midsole 28, such that the upper portion 22 of the apparatus 20 is in fluid communication with the surrounding environment external to the midsole 28 by virtue of the at least one ball channel 94. In at least one such embodiment, a first end of the at least one ball channel 94 provides an at least one ball inlet aperture 98 positioned within the insole 26 proximal to the ball area 96 of the sole portion 24, while an opposing second end of the at least one ball channel 94 provides an at least one ball outlet aperture 100 positioned within the left side wall 40 or right side wall 42 of the midsole 28. In at least one embodiment, where the sole portion 24 provides two or more ball channels 94, two or more of the ball channels 94 may be in fluid communication with one another. Accordingly, any liquid present within the upper portion 22 of the apparatus 20 is able to drain down into the at least one ball inlet aperture 98, move through the at least one ball channel 94, and exit the left side wall 40 or right side wall 42 of the midsole 28 from the at least one ball outlet aperture 100 into thesurrounding environment. In at least one embodiment, the at least one ball channel 94 is downwardly angled toward one or both of the left side wall 40 and right side wall 42 of the midsole 28 so as to urge liquid to move toward, and exit the at least one ball channel 94 from, one or both of the left side wall 40 and right side wall 42 of the midsole 28 from the at least one ball outlet aperture 100. In at least one embodiment, the at least one ball outlet aperture 100 is positioned an outlet distance 102 above the bottom surface 60 of the outsole 30 of the sole portion 24, such that the at least one ball outlet aperture 100 is located a distance above the ground upon which the wearer is positioned. In at least one embodiment, the outlet distance 102 is approximately 1.5-3 millimeters. However, in at least one alternate embodiment, the outlet distance 102 may be less than 1 .5 millimeters or greater than 3 millimeters - dependent, at least in part, on the size and type of footwear in which the apparatus 20 is incorporated - so long as the apparatus 20 is capable of substantially carrying out the functionality described herein. Accordingly, in at least one embodiment, the outlet distance 102 ensures that the at least one ball outlet aperture 100 remains substantially unobstructed during use of the apparatus 20, thereby preventing liquid from accumulating within the upper portion 22.

[0034] In at least one embodiment, the at least one ball inlet aperture 98 is positioned so as to be located substantially underneath the ball of the wearer’s foot during use of the apparatus 20. Additionally, in at least one embodiment, as discussed further below, the at least one ball channel 94 is configured for temporarily compressing and collapsing under load from the wearer’s foot in order to accelerate draining of any liquid within the upper portion 22 of the apparatus 20, then regaining its shape once that load has been removed. Accordingly, in at least one such embodiment, during use of the apparatus 20, when the ball of the wearer’s foot contacts the ground, the at least one ball channel 94 temporarily compresses and collapses, forcing a volume of liquid in the upper portion 22 of the apparatus 20 through the corresponding at least one ball inlet aperture 98, through the at least one ball channel 94, and out the corresponding at least one ball outlet aperture 100; and upon the subsequent transition to the heel of the wearer’s foot (or upon the ball of the wearer’s foot simply being lifted off the ground), the at least one ball channel 94 expands and regains its shape, which assists in drawing a further volume of liquid in the upper portion 22 of the apparatus 20 down through the at least one ball inlet aperture 98 and into the at least one ball channel 94, with said further volume of liquid being ejected through the at least one ball outlet aperture 100 upon the next step taken by the wearer. Thus, in such embodiments, the positioning of the at least one ball inlet aperture 98, coupled with the compressible / collapsible nature of the corresponding at least one ball channel 94, creates a pump effect and repeating cycle that actively facilitates drainage of any liquid from the upper portion 22 of the apparatus 20. Additionally, in at least one such embodiment, as the at least one ball channel 94 expands and regains its shape during use of the apparatus 20, air from the surrounding environment external to the midsole 28 can bedrawn into the at least one ball channel 94 through the at least one ball outlet aperture 100 by virtue of suction from the ball of the wearer’s foot being in contact with the at least one ball inlet aperture 98, thereby providing a cooling and / or drying effect for the at least one ball channel 94 along with the upper portion 22 of the apparatus 20.

[0035] In at least one embodiment, the at least one ball inlet aperture 98 has a ball inlet diameter 104 of approximately 3-5 millimeters. However, in at least one alternate embodiment, one or more of the at least one ball inlet aperture 98 may have a ball inlet diameter 104 of less than 3 millimeters or greater than 5 millimeters - dependent, at least in part, on the size and type of footwear in which the apparatus 20 is incorporated, along with a quantity of ball channels 94 provided by the sole portion 24 - so long as the apparatus 20 is capable of substantially carrying out the functionality described herein. Similarly, in at least one embodiment, the at least one ball outlet aperture 100 has a ball outlet diameter 106 of approximately 3-5 millimeters. However, in at least one alternate embodiment, one or more of the at least one ball outlet aperture 100 may have a ball outlet diameter 106 of less than 3 millimeters or greater than 5 millimeters - dependent, at least in part, on the size and type of footwear in which the apparatus 20 is incorporated, along with a quantity of ball channels 94 provided by the sole portion 24 - so long as the apparatus 20 is capable of substantially carrying out the functionality described herein. In at least one such embodiment, the at least one ball channel 94 has a ball channel height 108 of approximately 2-4 millimeters. However, in at least one alternate embodiment, one or more of the at least one ball channel 94 may have a ball channel height 108 of less than 2 millimeters or greater than 4 millimeters - dependent, at least in part, on the size and type of footwear in which the apparatus 20 is incorporated, along with a quantity of ball channels 94 provided by the sole portion 24 - so long as the apparatus 20 is capable of substantially carrying out the functionality described herein. Additionally, in at least one embodiment, the at least one ball channel 94 has a ball channel width 110 of approximately 5-10 millimeters. However, in at least one alternate embodiment, one or more of the at least one ball channel 94 may have a ball channel width 110 of less than 5 millimeters or greater than 10 millimeters - dependent, at least in part, on the size and type of footwear in which the apparatus 20 is incorporated, along with a quantity of ball channels 94 provided by the sole portion 24 - so long as the apparatus 20 is capable of substantially carrying out the functionality described herein.

[0036] In at least one embodiment, each of the at least one heel channel 80 and at least one ball channel 94 is integrally molded within the sole portion 24. In such embodiments, each of the at least one heel channel 80 and at least one ball channel 94 is constructed out of the same materials as the sole portion 24. However, in further embodiments, any other suitable material (or combination of materials), now known or later developed, may be substituted for one ormore of the at least one heel channel 80 and at least one ball channel 94, so long as the apparatus 20 is capable of substantially carrying out the functionality described herein. In at least one embodiment, an inner surface 112 and 114 of one or more of the at least one heel channel 80 and at least one ball channel 94 provides a coating or an insert that is configured for enhancing durability and / or hydrophobic performance of said at least one heel channel 80 or ball channel 94. In at least one such embodiment, the coating or insert is constructed out of a TPU material. However, in further embodiments, any other suitable material (or combination of materials), now known or later developed, may be substituted, so long as the apparatus 20 is capable of substantially carrying out the functionality described herein.

[0037] Aspects of the present specification may also be described as the following embodiments:

[0038] 1. A footwear apparatus comprising: an upper portion engaged with a sole portion, the sole portion comprising an insole positioned to form a lower surface of the upper portion for supporting a foot of a wearer thereon, a midsole positioned below the insole, and an outsole positioned below the midsole; the sole portion providing a structurally reinforced heel cavity positioned within the midsole of the sole portion, proximal to a heel area of the sole portion; the heel cavity providing a cavity frame constructed out of a material having a Shore A durometer of approximately 45-60A, the cavity frame forming a rigid, upwardly oriented, substantially semicircular shaped structure in cross-section, with a substantially centrally located apex of an upper surface of the cavity frame positioned so as to be located substantially underneath a heel of the wearer’s foot during use of the apparatus; and the cavity frame defining an at least one lateral channel therewithin, the at least one lateral channel extending laterally from a left side wall of the midsole to an opposing right side wall of the midsole, such that the at least one lateral channel is exposed to, and is in fluid communication with, a surrounding environment external to the midsole.

[0039] 2. The footwear apparatus according to embodiment 1 , wherein the cavity frame has a frame height of approximately 10-15 millimeters.

[0040] 3. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1 -2, wherein the cavity frame has a frame height of less than 10 millimeters or greater than 15 millimeters.

[0041] 4. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-3, wherein the cavity frame has a frame width of approximately 30-40 millimeters.

[0042] 5. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1 -4, wherein the cavity frame has a frame width of less than 30 millimeters or greater than 40 millimeters.

[0043] 6. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1 -5, wherein the cavity frame has a cavity volume of approximately 10-20 cubic centimeters.

[0044] 7. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1 -6, wherein the cavity frame has a cavity volume of less than 10 cubic centimeters or greater than 20 cubic centimeters.

[0045] 8. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1 -7, wherein a lower surface of the cavity frame along with the at least one lateral channel is positioned a cavity distance of less than 1 .5 millimeters or greater than 3 millimeters above a bottom surface of the outsole of the sole portion.

[0046] 9. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1 -8, wherein: the cavity frame defines a plurality of lateral channels; and the cavity frame provides an at least one support wall positioned within the cavity frame and configured for defining two or more lateral channels within the cavity frame.

[0047] 10. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1 -9, wherein the at least one support wall extends laterally from the left side wall of the midsole to the opposing right side wall of the midsole.

[0048] 11 . The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1 -10, wherein one or more of the at least one support wall spans less than an entire distance between the left side wall of the midsole and the opposing right side wall of the midsole.

[0049] 12. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-11 , wherein the at least one support wall has a wall thickness of approximately 2-3 millimeters.

[0050] 13. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-12, wherein the at least one support wall has a wall thickness of less than 2 millimeters or greater than 3 millimeters.

[0051] 14. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-13, wherein: the cavity frame defines a primary lateral channel positioned at the apex of the cavity frame, along with a pair of relatively smaller secondary lateral channels positioned at a lower front corner and an opposing lower rear corner, respectively, of the cavity frame; the primary lateral channel has a downwardly oriented, substantially semi-circular shape in cross-section; each of the secondary lateral channels has an upwardly oriented, substantially semi-circular shape in cross-section; and each of the support walls has a wall angle of approximately 45 degrees relative to a lower surface of the cavity frame.

[0052] 15. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-14, wherein the at least one primary lateral channel has a primary channel height of approximately 3-5 millimeters.

[0053] 16. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-15, wherein the at least one primary lateral channel has a primary channel height of less than 3 millimeters or greater than 5 millimeters.

[0054] 17. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-16, wherein the at least one primary lateral channel has a primary channel width of approximately 5-10 millimeters.

[0055] 18. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-17, wherein the at least one primary lateral channel has a primary channel width of less than 5 millimeters or greater than 10 millimeters.

[0056] 19. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-18, wherein the at least one secondary lateral channel has a secondary channel height of approximately 2-4 millimeters.

[0057] 20. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-19, wherein the at least one secondary lateral channel has a secondary channel height of less than 2 millimeters or greater than 4 millimeters.

[0058] 21 . The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-20, wherein the at least one secondary lateral channel has a secondary channel width of approximately 4-8 millimeters

[0059] 22. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-21 , wherein the at least one secondary lateral channel has a secondary channel width of less than 4 millimeters or greater than 8 millimeters.

[0060] 23. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1 -22, wherein each of the secondary lateral channels has substantially the same semi-circular shape in cross-section as the cavity frame.

[0061] 24. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1 -23, wherein the midsole is constructed out of a foam material having a density range of approximately 0.18-0.28 g / cm3.

[0062] 25. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1 -24, wherein the midsole is constructed out of at least one of an ethylene-vinyl acetate (“EVA”) material, a thermoplastic polyurethane (“TPU”), and a supercritical foam material.

[0063] 26. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1 -25, wherein the insole is constructed out of the same material as the midsole.

[0064] 27. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-26, wherein the outsole is constructed out of an elastomer material having a Shore A durometer of approximately 55-65A.

[0065] 28. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-27, wherein the cavity frame is constructed out of a material having a Shore A durometer of less than 45A or greater than 60A.

[0066] 29. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-28, wherein the cavity frame is constructed out of at least one of an ethylene-vinyl acetate (“EVA”) material, a thermoplastic polyurethane (“TPU”), and a fiber-reinforced polymer material.

[0067] 30. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-29, wherein a lower surface of the cavity frame along with the at least one lateral channel is positioned a cavity distance of approximately 1 .5-3 millimeters above a bottom surface of the outsole of the sole portion.

[0068] 31 . The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-30, wherein a lower surface of the cavity frame along with the at least one lateral channel is positioned a cavity distance of less than 1 .5 millimeters or greater than 3 millimeters above a bottom surface of the outsole of the sole portion.

[0069] 32. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1 -31 , wherein: the sole portion provides an at least one heel channel positioned substantially within the heel area of the sole portion and extending between the insole and the at least one lateral channel of the cavity frame, such that the upper portion of the apparatus is in fluid communication with the at least one lateral channel of the cavity frame and, in turn, a surrounding environment external to the midsole, via the at least one heel channel; a first end of the at least one heel channel provides an at least one heel inlet aperture positioned within the insole proximal to the heel area of the sole portion; and an opposing second end of the at least one heel channel provides an at least one heel outlet aperture positioned within the upper surface of the cavity frame; whereby, any liquids present within the upper portion of the apparatus are able to freely exit the upper portion via the at least one heel channel, thereby preventing liquid from accumulating within the upper portion.

[0070] 33. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-32, wherein a lower surface of the cavity frame is downwardly angled toward one or both of the left side wall and right side wall of the midsole so as to urge liquid to move toward, and exit the at least one lateral channel from, one or both of the left side wall and right side wall of the midsole.

[0071] 34. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-33, wherein the at least one heel inlet aperture is positioned so as to be located substantially underneath a heel of the wearer’s foot during use of the apparatus.

[0072] 35. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-34, wherein the at least one heel channel is configured for temporarily compressing and collapsing under load from the wearer’s foot so as to accelerate draining of any liquid from within the upper portion.

[0073] 36. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-35, wherein the at least one heel inlet aperture has a heel inlet diameter of approximately 3-5 millimeters.

[0074] 37. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-36, wherein the at least one heel inlet aperture has a heel inlet diameter of less than 3 millimeters or greater than 5 millimeters.

[0075] 38. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-37, wherein the at least one heel outlet aperture has a heel outlet diameter of approximately 3-5 millimeters.

[0076] 39. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-38, wherein the at least one heel outlet aperture has a heel outlet diameter of less than 3 millimeters or greater than 5 millimeters.

[0077] 40. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-39, wherein the at least one heel channel has a heel channel height of approximately 2-4 millimeters.

[0078] 41 . The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-40, wherein the at least one heel channel has a heel channel height of less than 2 millimeters or greater than 4 millimeters.

[0079] 42. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-41 , wherein the at least one heel channel has a heel channel width of approximately 5-10 millimeters.

[0080] 43. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-42, wherein the at least one heel channel has a heel channel width of less than 5 millimeters or greater than 10 millimeters.

[0081] 44. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-43, wherein the at least one heel channel is integral with and constructed out of the same material as the sole portion.

[0082] 45. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-44, wherein an inner surface of the at least one heel channel provides a hydrophobic material.

[0083] 46. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1 -45, wherein: the sole portion provides an at least one ball channel positioned substantially within a ball area of the sole portion and extending between the insole and at least one of the left side wall and right side wall of the midsole, such that the upper portion of the apparatus is in fluid communication with a surrounding environment external to the midsole via the at least one ball channel; a first end of the at least one ball channel provides an at least one ball inlet aperture positioned withinthe insole proximal to the ball area of the sole portion; and an opposing second end of the at least one ball channel provides an at least one ball outlet aperture positioned within one of the left side wall or right side wall of the midsole; whereby, any liquids present within the upper portion of the apparatus are able to freely exit the upper portion via the at least one ball channel, thereby preventing liquid from accumulating within the upper portion.

[0084] 47. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-46, wherein the at least one ball channel is downwardly angled toward one or both of the left side wall and right side wall of the midsole so as to urge liquid to move toward, and exit the at least one lateral channel from, one or both of the left side wall and right side wall of the midsole.

[0085] 48. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-47, wherein the at least one ball outlet aperture is positioned an outlet distance of approximately 1 .5-3 millimeters above a bottom surface of the outsole of the sole portion.

[0086] 49. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-48, wherein the at least one ball outlet aperture is positioned an outlet distance of less than 1 .5 millimeters or greater than 3 millimeters above a bottom surface of the outsole of the sole portion.

[0087] 50. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-49, wherein the at least one ball inlet aperture is positioned so as to be located substantially underneath a ball of the wearer’s foot during use of the apparatus.

[0088] 51 . The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-50, wherein the at least one ball channel is configured for temporarily compressing and collapsing under load from the wearer’s foot so as to accelerate draining of any liquid from within the upper portion.

[0089] 52. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-51 , wherein the at least one ball inlet aperture has a ball inlet diameter of approximately 3-5 millimeters.

[0090] 53. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-52, wherein the at least one ball inlet aperture has a ball inlet diameter of less than 3 millimeters or greater than 5 millimeters.

[0091] 54. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-53, wherein the at least one ball outlet aperture has a ball outlet diameter of approximately 3-5 millimeters.

[0092] 55. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-54, wherein the at least one ball outlet aperture has a ball outlet diameter of less than 3 millimeters or greater than 5 millimeters.

[0093] 56. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-55, wherein the at least one ball channel has a ball channel height of approximately 2-4 millimeters.

[0094] 57. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-56, wherein the at least one ball channel has a ball channel height of less than 2 millimeters or greater than 4 millimeters.

[0095] 58. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-57, wherein the at least one ball channel has a ball channel width of approximately 5-10 millimeters.

[0096] 59. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-58, wherein the at least one ball channel has a ball channel width of less than 5 millimeters or greater than 10 millimeters.

[0097] 60. The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-59, wherein the at least one ball channel is integral with and constructed out of the same material as the sole portion.

[0098] 61 . The footwear apparatus according to embodiments 1-60, wherein an inner surface of the at least one ball channel provides a hydrophobic material.

[0099] 62. A footwear apparatus comprising: an upper portion engaged with a sole portion, the sole portion comprising an insole positioned to form a lower surface of the upper portion, a midsole positioned below the insole, and an outsole positioned below the midsole; the sole portion providing a structurally reinforced heel cavity positioned within the midsole of the sole portion, proximal to a heel area of the sole portion; the heel cavity providing a cavity frame that defines an at least one lateral channel extending laterally from a left side wall of the midsole to an opposing right side wall of the midsole, such that the at least one lateral channel is exposed to, and is in fluid communication with, a surrounding environment external to the midsole; the sole portion further providing an at least one heel channel positioned substantially within the heel area of the sole portion and extending between the insole and the at least one lateral channel of the cavity frame, such that the upper portion of the apparatus is in fluid communication with the at least one lateral channel of the cavity frame and, in turn, the surrounding environment external to the midsole, via the at least one heel channel; a first end of the at least one heel channel providing an at least one heel inlet aperture positioned within the insole proximal to the heel area of the sole portion; and an opposing second end of the at least one heel channel providing an at least one heel outlet aperture positioned within an upper surface of the cavity frame; whereby, any liquids present within the upper portion of the apparatus are able to freely exit the upper portion via the at least one heel channel, thereby preventing liquid from accumulating within the upper portion.

[0100] 63. A footwear apparatus comprising: an upper portion engaged with a sole portion, the sole portion comprising an insole positioned to form a lower surface of the upper portion, amidsole positioned below the insole, and an outsole positioned below the midsole; the sole portion providing a structurally reinforced heel cavity positioned within the midsole of the sole portion, proximal to a heel area of the sole portion; the heel cavity providing a cavity frame that defines an at least one lateral channel extending laterally from a left side wall of the midsole to an opposing right side wall of the midsole, such that the at least one lateral channel is exposed to, and is in fluid communication with, a surrounding environment external to the midsole; the sole portion further providing an at least one heel channel positioned substantially within the heel area of the sole portion and extending between the insole and the at least one lateral channel of the cavity frame, such that the upper portion of the apparatus is in fluid communication with the at least one lateral channel of the cavity frame and, in turn, the surrounding environment external to the midsole, via the at least one heel channel; a first end of the at least one heel channel providing an at least one heel inlet aperture positioned within the insole proximal to the heel area of the sole portion; an opposing second end of the at least one heel channel providing an at least one heel outlet aperture positioned within an upper surface of the cavity frame; the sole portion further providing an at least one ball channel positioned substantially within a ball area of the sole portion and extending between the insole and at least one of the left side wall and right side wall of the midsole, such that the upper portion of the apparatus is in further fluid communication with the surrounding environment external to the midsole via the at least one ball channel; a first end of the at least one ball channel providing an at least one ball inlet aperture positioned within the insole proximal to the ball area of the sole portion; and an opposing second end of the at least one ball channel providing an at least one ball outlet aperture positioned within one of the left side wall or right side wall of the midsole; whereby, any liquids present within the upper portion of the apparatus are able to freely exit the upper portion via one or more of the at least one heel channel and at least one ball channel, thereby preventing liquid from accumulating within the upper portion.

[0101] In closing, regarding the exemplary embodiments of the present invention as shown and described herein, it will be appreciated that a footwear apparatus is disclosed and configured for preventing liquid from accumulating within an upper portion of the apparatus while also improving energy return, compression and stability during use of the apparatus. Because the principles of the invention may be practiced in a number of configurations beyond those shown and described, it is to be understood that the invention is not in any way limited by the exemplary embodiments, but is generally directed to a footwear apparatus and is able to take numerous forms to do so without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It will also be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to the particular geometries and materials of construction disclosed, but may instead entail other functionally comparable structures or materials, now known or later developed, without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0102] Certain embodiments of the present invention are described herein, including the best mode known to the inventor(s) for carrying out the invention. Of course, variations on these described embodiments will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the foregoing description. The inventor(s) expect skilled artisans to employ such variations as appropriate, and the inventor(s) intend for the present invention to be practiced otherwise than specifically described herein. Accordingly, this invention includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Moreover, any combination of the above-described embodiments in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the invention unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.

[0103] Groupings of alternative embodiments, elements, or steps of the present invention are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member may be referred to and claimed individually or in any combination with other group members disclosed herein. It is anticipated that one or more members of a group may be included in, or deleted from, a group for reasons of convenience and / or patentability. When any such inclusion or deletion occurs, the specification is deemed to contain the group as modified thus fulfilling the written description of all Markush groups used in the appended claims.

[0104] Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing a characteristic, item, quantity, parameter, property, term, and so forth used in the present specification and claims are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the terms “about” and “approximately.” As used herein, the terms “about” and “approximately” mean that the characteristic, item, quantity, parameter, property, or term so qualified encompasses a range of plus or minus ten percent above and below the value of the stated characteristic, item, quantity, parameter, property, or term. Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth in the specification and attached claims are approximations that may vary. At the very least, and not as an attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the scope of the claims, each numerical indication should at least be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques. Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and values setting forth the broad scope of the invention are approximations, the numerical ranges and values set forth in the specific examples are reported as precisely as possible. Any numerical range or value, however, inherently contains certain errors necessarily resulting from the standard deviation found in their respective testing measurements. Recitation of numerical ranges of values herein is merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate numerical value falling within the range. Unless otherwise indicated herein, each individual value of a numerical range is incorporated into thepresent specification as if it were individually recited herein. Similarly, as used herein, unless indicated to the contrary, the term “substantially” is a term of degree intended to indicate an approximation of the characteristic, item, quantity, parameter, property, or term so qualified, encompassing a range that can be understood and construed by those of ordinary skill in the art, or at least encompassing a range of plus or minus ten percent above and below the value of the stated characteristic, item, quantity, parameter, property, or term.

[0105] Use of the terms “may” or “can” in reference to an embodiment or aspect of an embodiment also carries with it the alternative meaning of “may not" or “cannot.” As such, if the present specification discloses that an embodiment or an aspect of an embodiment may be or can be included as part of the inventive subject matter, then the negative limitation or exclusionary proviso is also explicitly meant, meaning that an embodiment or an aspect of an embodiment may not be or cannot be included as part of the inventive subject matter. In a similar manner, use of the term “optionally” in reference to an embodiment or aspect of an embodiment means that such embodiment or aspect of the embodiment may be included as part of the inventive subject matter or may not be included as part of the inventive subject matter. Whether such a negative limitation or exclusionary proviso applies will be based on whether the negative limitation or exclusionary proviso is recited in the claimed subject matter.

[0106] The terms “a,” “an,” “the” and similar references used in the context of describing the present invention (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. Further, ordinal indicators - such as “first,” “second,” “third,” etc. - for identified elements are used to distinguish between the elements, and do not indicate or imply a required or limited number of such elements, and do not indicate a particular position or order of such elements unless otherwise specifically stated. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided herein is intended merely to better illuminate the present invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention otherwise claimed. No language in the present specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element essential to the practice of the invention.

[0107] When used in the claims, whether as filed or added per amendment, the open-ended transitional term “comprising” (along with equivalent open-ended transitional phrases thereof such as “including,” “containing” and “having”) encompasses all the expressly recited elements, limitations, steps and / or features alone or in combination with un-recited subject matter; the named elements, limitations and / or features are essential, but other unnamed elements,limitations and / or features may be added and still form a construct within the scope of the claim. Specific embodiments disclosed herein may be further limited in the claims using the closed- ended transitional phrases “consisting of” or “consisting essentially of” in lieu of or as an amendment for “comprising.” When used in the claims, whether as filed or added per amendment, the closed-ended transitional phrase “consisting of” excludes any element, limitation, step, or feature not expressly recited in the claims. The closed-ended transitional phrase “consisting essentially of” limits the scope of a claim to the expressly recited elements, limitations, steps and / or features and any other elements, limitations, steps and / or features that do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristic(s) of the claimed subject matter. Thus, the meaning of the open-ended transitional phrase “comprising” is being defined as encompassing all the specifically recited elements, limitations, steps and / or features as well as any optional, additional unspecified ones. The meaning of the closed-ended transitional phrase “consisting of” is being defined as only including those elements, limitations, steps and / or features specifically recited in the claim, whereas the meaning of the closed-ended transitional phrase “consisting essentially of” is being defined as only including those elements, limitations, steps and / or features specifically recited in the claim and those elements, limitations, steps and / or features that do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristic(s) of the claimed subject matter. Therefore, the open-ended transitional phrase “comprising” (along with equivalent open-ended transitional phrases thereof) includes within its meaning, as a limiting case, claimed subject matter specified by the closed-ended transitional phrases “consisting of’ or “consisting essentially of.” As such, embodiments described herein or so claimed with the phrase “comprising” are expressly or inherently unambiguously described, enabled and supported herein for the phrases “consisting essentially of” and “consisting of.”

[0108] Any claims intended to be treated under 35 U.S.C. §112(f) will begin with the words “means for,” but use of the term “for” in any other context is not intended to invoke treatment under 35 U.S.C. §11 (f). Accordingly, Applicant reserves the right to pursue additional claims after filing this application, in either this application or in a continuing application.

[0109] It should be understood that any methods disclosed herein, along with the order in which the respective elements of any such method are performed, are purely exemplary. Depending on the implementation, they may be performed in any order or in parallel, unless indicated otherwise in the present disclosure.

[0110] All patents, patent publications, and other publications referenced and identified in the present specification are individually and expressly incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for the purpose of describing and disclosing, for example, the compositions and methodologies described in such publications that might be used in connection with the presentinvention. These publications are provided solely for their disclosure prior to the filing date of the present application. Nothing in this regard should be construed as an admission that the inventors are not entitled to antedate such disclosure by virtue of prior invention or for any other reason. All statements as to the date or representation as to the contents of these documents are based on the information available to the applicants and does not constitute any admission as to the correctness of the dates or contents of these documents.

[0111] While aspects of the invention have been described with reference to at least one exemplary embodiment, it is to be clearly understood by those skilled in the art that the invention is not limited thereto. Rather, the scope of the invention is to be interpreted only in conjunction with the appended claims and it is made clear, here, that the inventor(s) believe that the claimed subject matter is the invention.

[0112] All of the material in this patent document issue subject to copyright protection under the copyright laws of the United States and other countries. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in official governmental records but, otherwise, all other copyright rights whatsoever are reserved.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A footwear apparatus comprising: an upper portion engaged with a sole portion, the sole portion comprising an insole positioned to form a lower surface of the upper portion for supporting a foot of a wearer thereon, a midsole positioned below the insole, and an outsole positioned below the midsole; the sole portion providing a structurally reinforced heel cavity positioned within the midsole of the sole portion, proximal to a heel area of the sole portion; the heel cavity providing a cavity frame constructed out of a material having a Shore A durometer of approximately 45-60A, the cavity frame forming a rigid, upwardly oriented, substantially semi-circular shaped structure in cross-section, with a substantially centrally located apex of an upper surface of the cavity frame positioned so as to be located substantially underneath a heel of the wearer’s foot during use of the apparatus; and the cavity frame defining an at least one lateral channel therewithin, the at least one lateral channel extending laterally from a left side wall of the midsole to an opposing right side wall of the midsole, such that the at least one lateral channel is exposed to, and is in fluid communication with, a surrounding environment external to the midsole.

2. The footwear apparatus of claim 1 , wherein: the cavity frame defines a plurality of lateral channels; and the cavity frame provides an at least one support wall positioned within the cavity frame and configured for defining two or more lateral channels within the cavity frame.

3. The footwear apparatus of claim 2, wherein: the cavity frame defines a primary lateral channel positioned at the apex of the cavity frame, along with a pair of relatively smaller secondary lateral channels positioned at a lower front corner and an opposing lower rear corner, respectively, of the cavity frame; the primary lateral channel has a downwardly oriented, substantially semi-circular shape in cross-section; each of the secondary lateral channels has an upwardly oriented, substantially semi-circular shape in cross-section; and each of the support walls has a wall angle of approximately 45 degrees relative to a lower surface of the cavity frame.

4. The footwear apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the midsole is constructed out of a foam material having a density range of approximately 0.18-0.28 g / cm3.

5. The footwear apparatus of claim 4, wherein the midsole is constructed out of at least one of an ethylene-vinyl acetate (“EVA”) material, a thermoplastic polyurethane (“TPU”), and a supercritical foam material.

6. The footwear apparatus of claim 5, wherein the insole is constructed out of the same material as the midsole.

7. The footwear apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the outsole is constructed out of an elastomer material having a Shore A durometer of approximately 55-65A.

8. The footwear apparatus of claim 7, wherein the cavity frame is constructed out of at least one of an ethylene-vinyl acetate (“EVA”) material, a thermoplastic polyurethane (“TPU”), and a fiber-reinforced polymer material.

9. The footwear apparatus of claim 1 , wherein: the sole portion provides an at least one heel channel positioned substantially within the heel area of the sole portion and extending between the insole and the at least one lateral channel of the cavity frame, such that the upper portion of the apparatus is in fluid communication with the at least one lateral channel of the cavity frame and, in turn, a surrounding environment external to the midsole, via the at least one heel channel; a first end of the at least one heel channel provides an at least one heel inlet aperture positioned within the insole proximal to the heel area of the sole portion; and an opposing second end of the at least one heel channel provides an at least one heel outlet aperture positioned within the upper surface of the cavity frame; whereby, any liquids present within the upper portion of the apparatus are able to freely exit the upper portion via the at least one heel channel, thereby preventing liquid from accumulating within the upper portion.

10. The footwear apparatus of claim 9, wherein a lower surface of the cavity frame is downwardly angled toward one or both of the left side wall and right side wall of the midsole so as to urge liquid to move toward, and exit the at least one lateral channel from, one or both of the left side wall and right side wall of the midsole.11 . The footwear apparatus of claim 9, wherein the at least one heel inlet aperture is positioned so as to be located substantially underneath a heel of the wearer’s foot during use of the apparatus.

12. The footwear apparatus of claim 11 , wherein the at least one heel channel is configured for temporarily compressing and collapsing under load from the wearer’s foot so as to accelerate draining of any liquid from within the upper portion.

13. The footwear apparatus of claim 12, wherein an inner surface of the at least one heel channel provides a hydrophobic material.

14. The footwear apparatus of claim 1 , wherein: the sole portion provides an at least one ball channel positioned substantially within a ball area of the sole portion and extending between the insole and at least one of the left side wall and right side wall of the midsole, such that the upper portion of the apparatus is in fluid communication with a surrounding environment external to the midsole via the at least one ball channel; a first end of the at least one ball channel provides an at least one ball inlet aperture positioned within the insole proximal to the ball area of the sole portion; and an opposing second end of the at least one ball channel provides an at least one ball outlet aperture positioned within one of the left side wall or right side wall of the midsole; whereby, any liquids present within the upper portion of the apparatus are able to freely exit the upper portion via the at least one ball channel, thereby preventing liquid from accumulating within the upper portion.

15. The footwear apparatus of claim 14, wherein the at least one ball channel is downwardly angled toward one or both of the left side wall and right side wall of the midsole so as to urge liquid to move toward, and exit the at least one lateral channel from, one or both of the left side wall and right side wall of the midsole.

16. The footwear apparatus of claim 14, wherein the at least one ball inlet aperture is positioned so as to be located substantially underneath a ball of the wearer’s foot during use of the apparatus.

17. The footwear apparatus of claim 16, wherein the at least one ball channel is configured for temporarily compressing and collapsing under load from the wearer’s foot so as to accelerate draining of any liquid from within the upper portion.

18. The footwear apparatus of claim 17, wherein an inner surface of the at least one ball channel provides a hydrophobic material.

19. A footwear apparatus comprising: an upper portion engaged with a sole portion, the sole portion comprising an insole positioned to form a lower surface of the upper portion, a midsole positioned below the insole, and an outsole positioned below the midsole; the sole portion providing a structurally reinforced heel cavity positioned within the midsole of the sole portion, proximal to a heel area of the sole portion; the heel cavity providing a cavity frame that defines an at least one lateral channel extending laterally from a left side wall of the midsole to an opposing right side wall of the midsole, such that the at least one lateral channel is exposed to, and is in fluid communication with, a surrounding environment external to the midsole; the sole portion further providing an at least one heel channel positioned substantially within the heel area of the sole portion and extending between the insole and the at least one lateral channel of the cavity frame, such that the upper portion of the apparatus is in fluid communication with the at least one lateral channel of the cavity frame and, in turn, the surrounding environment external to the midsole, via the at least one heel channel; a first end of the at least one heel channel providing an at least one heel inlet aperture positioned within the insole proximal to the heel area of the sole portion; and an opposing second end of the at least one heel channel providing an at least one heel outlet aperture positioned within an upper surface of the cavity frame; whereby, any liquids present within the upper portion of the apparatus are able to freely exit the upper portion via the at least one heel channel, thereby preventing liquid from accumulating within the upper portion.

20. A footwear apparatus comprising: an upper portion engaged with a sole portion, the sole portion comprising an insole positioned to form a lower surface of the upper portion, a midsole positioned below the insole, and an outsole positioned below the midsole; the sole portion providing a structurally reinforced heel cavity positioned within the midsole of the sole portion, proximal to a heel area of the sole portion; the heel cavity providing a cavity frame that defines an at least one lateral channel extending laterally from a left side wall of the midsole to an opposing right side wall of the midsole, such that the at least one lateral channel is exposed to, and is in fluid communication with, a surrounding environment external to the midsole; the sole portion further providing an at least one heel channel positioned substantially within the heel area of the sole portion and extending between the insole and the at least one lateral channel of the cavity frame, such that the upper portion of the apparatus is in fluid communication with the at least one lateral channel of the cavity frame and, in turn, the surrounding environment external to the midsole, via the at least one heel channel;a first end of the at least one heel channel providing an at least one heel inlet aperture positioned within the insole proximal to the heel area of the sole portion; an opposing second end of the at least one heel channel providing an at least one heel outlet aperture positioned within an upper surface of the cavity frame; the sole portion further providing an at least one ball channel positioned substantially within a ball area of the sole portion and extending between the insole and at least one of the left side wall and right side wall of the midsole, such that the upper portion of the apparatus is in further fluid communication with the surrounding environment external to the midsole via the at least one ball channel; a first end of the at least one ball channel providing an at least one ball inlet aperture positioned within the insole proximal to the ball area of the sole portion; and an opposing second end of the at least one ball channel providing an at least one ball outlet aperture positioned within one of the left side wall or right side wall of the midsole; whereby, any liquids present within the upper portion of the apparatus are able to freely exit the upper portion via one or more of the at least one heel channel and at least one ball channel, thereby preventing liquid from accumulating within the upper portion.

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