Sole support plate and sole structure comprising same

Abstract

A sole support member (100) and a sole structure comprising the sole support member (100). The sole support member (100) is used in the sole structure and is sequentially divided into a heel region (124), a midfoot region (123), a forefoot region (122) and a toe region (121) from back to front in the longitudinal direction. The sole support member (100) comprises: a head portion (101) located in the toe region (121); a bearing plate (103) located in the heel region (124); a pair of side strips (102), wherein each side strip (102) has a bottom end that forms an arc-shaped fulcrum; a raised portion (104), wherein the raised portion (104) is force-transmittingly connected to the pair of side strips (102) so as to apply lateral tilting forces to the pair of side strips (102); and first deformation units (111) having mechanical non-reciprocity and located in the midfoot region (123), wherein the first deformation units (111) are configured to redirect the lateral tilting forces acting on the side strips (102) to a jacking force that lifts the bearing plate (103) upwards. In this way, an additional boosting force or propulsion force can be provided to a runner independently of the seesaw effect, thereby enhancing the athletic performance of the runner.

Description

Shoe sole support plate and sole structure with it Technical Field

[0001] The technology described in this invention relates to the field of athletic footwear. More specifically, aspects of the invention relate to sole support plates that dynamically change the deformability and / or other properties, including propulsion performance, of athletic footwear under the wearer's weight. Another aspect of the invention also relates to footwear articles (e.g., athletic shoes) having such sole support plates. Background Technology

[0002] Footwear, commonly known and including athletic shoes, generally comprises two main parts: the upper and the sole structure. The upper provides coverage for the wearer's foot, securely housing, wrapping, and positioning it relative to the sole structure. Furthermore, the upper can protect the foot and provide satisfactory breathability, keeping the foot cool and wicking away sweat. The sole structure is attached to the underside of the upper and is typically positioned between the foot and the surrounding ground. In addition to mitigating ground reaction forces and absorbing energy, the sole structure also provides forward propulsion and controls potentially harmful foot movements such as overpronation.

[0003] The sole structure typically comprises multiple layers commonly referred to as the "insole," "midsole," and "outsole." The insole (which can also form the insole) is a thin component located inside the upper and adjacent to the sole surface of the foot to enhance the comfort of the athletic shoe (e.g., wicking away moisture and providing a soft, comfortable feel). The midsole, traditionally attached to the upper along its entire length, forms the middle layer of the sole structure and serves various purposes, including controlling foot movement and damping impact. The outsole forms the ground contact element of the footwear and is typically made of durable, abrasion-resistant materials that include textures or other features to improve traction.

[0004] For athletic shoe consumers, it would be beneficial if the shoes could provide a certain amount of propulsion during activities such as running, thereby reducing the wearer's energy expenditure or delaying fatigue. To this end, major athletic shoe manufacturers are working to improve the design of the sole structure to achieve this. Currently, it has been proposed to embed a relatively rigid support plate, such as one made of carbon fiber, into the midsole to enhance the propulsion of the athletic shoe.

[0005] Figure 1 of this application shows an athletic shoe 10 with such a support plate design, wherein the athletic shoe 10 includes, from top to bottom, an upper 11 and a sole structure located below the upper 11, wherein the sole structure includes an insole (not shown), a midsole 12, and a ground contact outsole 13. Here, a support plate 14, for example made of carbon fiber material, is embedded in the midsole 12 in the forefoot area of ​​the athletic shoe 10. As can be observed in the left view of Figure 1, the spoon-shaped black line within the midsole 12 is the support plate 14 with considerable rigidity. This spoon shape of the support plate 14 creates a fulcrum at its bottom end that forms a seesaw effect during movement, and the front end of the support plate 14 is designed to be upward-sloping, thereby creating a rolling characteristic during movement.

[0006] This support plate design has proven to be quite effective in improving the wearer's running performance. When the wearer or runner's center of gravity shifts forward, the forefoot generates a forward and downward force (as shown by the downward arrow on the right in the left image). At this time, the rear end of the support plate 14 (approximately located at the heel) generates an upward reaction force (as shown by the upward arrow on the left in the left image), which helps the runner lift their heel. Due to the upward curve design of the forefoot of the sole, the runner's forefoot can roll forward naturally without bending, and the seesaw effect of the support plate 14 continues, allowing the heel to receive a forward and upward rebound force (as shown by the upward arrow in the right image), thereby obtaining more power feedback, improving long-distance running performance, and making the wearer's thighs and calves more energy-efficient during exercise.

[0007] Major athletic shoe manufacturers have proposed numerous designs for support plates that create a seesaw effect. For example, the applicant of this application has disclosed different types of support plate designs for creating a seesaw effect in previously filed Chinese invention patent applications CN114343288A, CN115281418A, and CN114668226A, the contents of which are included in the scope of discussion and disclosure herein. Although these disclosed support plates are effective in improving athletic performance, the new competition rules established by the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) stipulate that the midsole thickness of road running shoes must not exceed 40 mm. This limits the propulsion performance provided by previously designed support plates to the thickness of the midsole.

[0008] In summary, there remains an unmet technical need in this field to improve the propulsion or boost performance of athletic shoes by optimizing the design of the sole support plate, while meeting current rules and regulations. Summary of the Invention

[0009] Therefore, the objective of this invention is to provide a shoe sole support plate that at least partially overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art described above.

[0010] To accomplish the above-mentioned tasks, the present invention provides a sole support member for use in a sole structure, which is divided into a heel region, a midfoot region, a forefoot region, and a toe region sequentially from back to front along the longitudinal direction. The sole support member includes: a head located in the toe region, extending a certain width in the lateral direction; a support plate located in the heel region; and paired side strips for bridging the head and the support plate, extending at least partially through the forefoot and midfoot regions in the longitudinal direction to form a hollow space between the head and the support plate. The portion includes a pair of side strips having an arc-shaped fulcrum at the bottom of the forefoot region; a raised portion located within a hollow portion in the forefoot region, wherein the raised portion is forcefully connected to the pair of side strips to convert the vertically downward force applied to the raised portion into a force that causes the pair of side strips to tilt laterally; and a mechanically non-reciprocal first deformation unit of the pair of side strips located in the midfoot region, configured to redirect the lateral tilting force acting on the side strips into a lifting force that lifts the support plate upward.

[0011] Unlike existing technologies, the sole support component of the present invention can not only achieve a seesaw effect to provide a boost to the runner, but also transform the downward force acting on the raised part into a lifting force that causes the support plate to rise through the mechanical linkage feedback between the raised part, the side strip and the first deformation unit. Thus, it can provide additional boost or propulsion to the runner independently of the seesaw effect to improve the runner's athletic performance.

[0012] As a preferred aspect of the invention, the first deformation unit is designed as a thinned portion of the side strip that extends longitudinally in a twisted manner for a length of 3 mm to 12 mm. The ratio of the thickness of the thinned portion to the thickness of the unthinned side strip is in the range of 4:16 to 10:16, and the thinned portion has an inclination angle in the range of 20 degrees to 70 degrees relative to the transverse direction. Thus, without being limited by theory, such a first deformation unit can provide better deformation performance and a satisfactory boosting effect.

[0013] As a preferred aspect of the invention, it further includes a first transverse bar located within the hollow portion of the midfoot region for bridging the paired side strips in the lateral direction, wherein the first transverse bar also has a generally centrally located, mechanically non-reciprocal second deformation unit to deform inward when the first transverse bar is subjected to a lateral tilting force from the side strips. Thus, without being limited by theory, geometrically it facilitates the deformation of the first deformation unit, thereby improving the conversion efficiency of the downward force acting on the bulge into a lifting force that causes the support plate to tilt upward.

[0014] As a preferred aspect of the invention, it further includes a second horizontal bar located within a hollow portion in the forefoot region for bridging the paired side strips in the lateral direction, wherein the second horizontal bar also has a generally centrally located, mechanically non-reciprocal fourth deformation unit for inward deformation when the fourth horizontal bar is subjected to a lateral tilting force from the side strips, wherein the second horizontal bar is preferably generally parallel to the first horizontal bar. Thus,

[0015] In a preferred aspect of the invention, the paired side strips further include a mechanically non-reciprocal third deformation unit located between the first and second transverse strips. The third deformation unit is designed as a thinned portion extending 3 mm to 12 mm in length along the longitudinal direction of the side strip, with the twisting direction opposite to that of the first deformation unit. The ratio of the thickness of the thinned portion of the third deformation unit to the thickness of the unthinned side strip is in the range of 4:16 to 10:16, and the thinned portion of the third deformation unit has an inclination angle in the range of 20 to 70 degrees relative to the transverse direction. This allows a larger or higher proportion of the force to be transferred to the first deformation unit, thereby improving the conversion efficiency of the downward force acting on the raised portion into a lifting force that causes the support plate to tilt upwards.

[0016] As a preferred aspect of the invention, the paired side strips further include a mechanically non-reciprocal fifth deformation unit located in the metatarsophalangeal joint region of the forefoot area, which is designed to cause the tilting deformation of the third deformation unit of the side strip when the side strip is subjected to lateral tilting, wherein the fifth deformation unit is designed as a thinned portion of the side strip extending 3 mm to 12 mm in the longitudinal direction and the thinned portion is substantially non-twisted relative to the side strip.

[0017] In a preferred aspect of the invention, the forefoot region of the sole support has an upward tilt angle between 20 and 40 degrees relative to the horizontal line passing through the bottom of the arcuate fulcrum, and the midfoot region has an upward flexion angle between 10 and 30 degrees relative to the horizontal line passing through the bottom of the arcuate fulcrum, wherein the forefoot region and the midfoot region are in a continuous transition. This allows for torsional movement during shoe landing and avoids energy loss around the metatarsal joints. Simultaneously, it provides a reasonable trade-off between the required stiffness and sufficient flexibility.

[0018] As a preferred aspect of the invention, the raised portion is located within the metatarsophalangeal joint region of the forefoot area and rises vertically upwards by 5 to 15 millimeters relative to the side strip, wherein the raised portion is forcefully connected to a pair of side strips via multiple struts.

[0019] As a preferred aspect of the invention, the head is provided with a generally centrally located groove, wherein the groove extends generally longitudinally rearward for a length of 10 to 20 millimeters.

[0020] As another aspect of the invention, a sole structure is also provided, comprising a midsole joined together with each other, a sole support embedded in the midsole, and an outsole, wherein the sole structure has a heel-to-toe difference in the range of 4 to 10 millimeters, and wherein the sole support is the sole support described above. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Figure 1 schematically illustrates the working principle of a sole structure with a sole support plate as known from the prior art, illustrating how the sole support plate achieves a seesaw effect;

[0022] Figure 2 shows a perspective front view of a feasible embodiment of the shoe sole support plate according to the present invention;

[0023] Figure 3 shows a side view of a possible embodiment of the shoe sole support plate according to the present invention;

[0024] Figure 4 shows a perspective front view of another feasible embodiment of the shoe sole support plate according to the present invention;

[0025] Figure 5 shows a side view of a possible embodiment of the shoe sole support plate according to the present invention;

[0026] Figure 6 shows a side view of another feasible embodiment of the sole support plate according to the present invention;

[0027] Figures 7 to 11 show more detailed front views of the sole support plate according to the present invention.

[0028] Figure 12 shows a front view of a feasible embodiment of the sole support plate according to the present invention, wherein more details of the head are shown;

[0029] Figure 13 shows a schematic diagram of the working method of the shoe sole support plate according to the present invention;

[0030] Figure 14 shows a front view of an embodiment of the sole support plate according to the present invention, in which more details of the deformation unit are shown.

[0031] Reference numerals used repeatedly in this specification and drawings are intended to denote the same or similar elements of the invention.

[0032] Figure Labeling Explanation: 10-Sports Shoe; 11-Upper; 12-Midsole; 13-Outsole; 14, 100-Sole Support Plate; 101-Toe; 101A-Groove; 102-Side Strip; 103-Support Plate; 103A-Slit; 104-Raised Section; 105-Support Rod; 106-First Horizontal Strip; 107-Second Horizontal Strip; 111-First Deformation Unit; 112-Second Deformation Unit; 113-Third Deformation Unit; 114-Fourth Deformation Unit; 115-Fifth Deformation Unit; 121-Toe Area; 122-Forefoot Area; 122A-Metatarsophalangeal Joint Area; 122B-Metatarsal Area; 123-Midfoot Area; 124-Heel Area; a-Upturn Angle; b-Flexion Angle; H-Raised Height; C - Total length; W - Width; X - Longitudinal; Y - Lateral; Z - Vertical; F1 - Downward force; F2 - Diagonal force; F3 - Lifting force; h1 - Height; h2 - Height. Detailed Implementation

[0033] Those skilled in the art will understand that the following detailed description of embodiments is merely an illustration of exemplary models and is not intended to limit the broader aspects of this disclosure.

[0034] Terminology Definition

[0035] In this paper, "mechanical non-reciprocity" refers to the asymmetric transmission of mechanical quantities between two points in space. Unlike materials that are generally "mechanically reciprocal," whose deformation patterns or responses are largely the same under the action of two forces acting in opposite directions, materials or mechanical structures that are "mechanically non-reciprocal" exhibit substantially different deformation patterns or responses when subjected to forces of equal magnitude in two different directions. As an example, some research has been conducted by those skilled in the art on the design of mechanically non-reciprocal structures. For instance, the paper "Corentin C, Dimitrios S, Andrea A. Static non-reciprocity in mechanical meta materials.[J].Nature,2017,542(7642):461-464." designed a fishbone non-reciprocal structure, breaking the reciprocity of nonlinear static systems and achieving asymmetric displacement output. The paper "Xiang W, Zhihao L, Shuxu W, et al. Mechanical nonreciprocity in a uniform composite material.[J]. Science (New York, NY), 2023, 380(6641):192-198" designs a nonreciprocal hydrogel structure with an asymmetric response to shear force. This material exhibits an elastic modulus that is more than 60 times higher in one direction than in the opposite direction when sheared. The above content is included in the scope of this paper. Due to the structural design of "mechanical nonreciprocity", it is possible to efficiently convert the force applied in one direction into the force in another direction, thereby achieving force redirection.

[0036] In this document, the terms "first deformation unit," "second deformation unit," "third deformation unit," and so on up to "fifth deformation unit" are used only to distinguish deformation units located in different positions. This designation does not imply that these deformation units must have the same or different structures. An embodiment may have a fourth deformation unit (as described below), but this is not mandatory and does not mean that a second and / or third deformation unit must also be present. This fully discloses and includes embodiments that, for example, have a first and a fourth deformation unit, but, for example, do not have a second deformation unit.

[0037] In this article, the term "athletic shoes" can be applied to a wide range of footwear suitable for various everyday or sporting occasions, including but not limited to: walking shoes, running shoes, casual shoes, tennis shoes, soccer shoes, American soccer shoes, basketball shoes, cross-training shoes, spiked shoes, golf shoes, etc.

[0038] The term "longitudinal" refers to the direction in which a component extends a certain length. For example, the longitudinal direction of an athletic shoe extends between the forefoot and heel areas. The terms "forward" or "forward-facing" are used to refer to the general direction from the heel area toward the forefoot area, and the terms "backward" or "rearward-facing" are used to refer to the opposite direction, i.e., from the forefoot area toward the heel area. In some cases, a component can be identified by a longitudinal axis and the forward and backward longitudinal directions along that axis. The longitudinal direction or axis can also be referred to as the fore-rear direction or axis.

[0039] The term "lateral" refers to the direction in which a component extends a certain width. For example, the lateral direction of an athletic shoe extends between the outer and inner sides of the shoe. The lateral direction or axis can also be referred to as the lateral direction or axis, or the mid-outer direction or axis.

[0040] The term "vertical" or "upright" refers to a direction that is approximately perpendicular to both the horizontal and vertical directions. For example, in the case where the sole structure is laid flat on the ground surface, the vertical direction can extend upwards from the ground surface. It will be understood that each of these directional adjectives can be applied to an individual component of the sole structure. The term "upwards" or "facing upwards" refers to a vertical direction pointing towards the top of the component. The term "downwards" or "facing downwards" refers to a vertical direction opposite to the upwards direction, pointing towards the bottom of the component, and can generally point towards the bottom of the sole structure of the athletic shoe.

[0041] Furthermore, for consistency and convenience, directional adjectives may be used throughout this detailed description corresponding to the illustrated embodiments. Those skilled in the art will recognize that terms such as “above,” “below,” “upward,” “downward,” “top,” and “bottom” may be used descriptively with respect to the drawings without implying a limitation on the scope of the invention as defined by the claims. The term “horizontal” refers to a plane extending in both the longitudinal and transverse directions and perpendicular to the vertical direction.

[0042] Unless the context explicitly or clearly indicates otherwise, all numerical values ​​of parameters (e.g., quantities or conditions) in this specification and claims should be understood to be modified in all cases by the terms “about” or “approximately”, regardless of whether “about” or “approximately” actually precedes the numerical value. “About” implies that the stated numerical value allows for some slight imprecision (approximately close to the exact value; approximately or moderately close to the value; almost). If the imprecision provided by “about” or “approximately” is not understood in this ordinary sense in the art, then “about” or “approximately” as used herein at least indicates variations that may arise from ordinary methods of measuring and using these parameters.

[0043] Shoe sole support plate

[0044] The basic structure of the sole support plate of various embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The sole support plate 100 according to the present invention is preferably designed as a plate-like structure made of carbon fiber reinforced composite material and disposed within the midsole of the sole structure of an athletic shoe. One of the main functions of the sole support plate is to provide higher propulsion force compared to existing technologies during exercise while wearing athletic shoes, while also possessing considerable stability to disperse the pressure and impact forces experienced during exercise, further reducing sole deformation and wear. Furthermore, it is believed that the elasticity and resilience of the sole support plate 100 of the present invention can help runners better control the direction and force of their movement, thereby achieving better performance in athletic competitions.

[0045] It is generally accepted that the feet of consumers or runners wearing athletic shoes can typically be roughly divided into at least four regions: the toes, forefoot, midfoot, and hindfoot. Based on functional anatomical analysis of the foot during exercise, the forefoot region includes two important foot structures: the transverse arch and the metatarsophalangeal joints. The transverse arch is formed by the first to fifth metatarsal heads. During walking, running, jumping, and changes of direction, the transverse arch and metatarsophalangeal joints are crucial weight-bearing and force transmission areas. Research indicates that during the braking phase of movement, the transverse arch and metatarsophalangeal joints absorb and withstand the impact of ground reaction forces; during the push-off phase, the force generated by the hip, knee, and ankle is transmitted from the hindfoot to the transverse arch region and released there, propelling the body off the ground.

[0046] Figures 2 and 3 schematically illustrate the various components of the sole support plate 100 according to the present invention. As shown in Figures 2-3, the sole support plate 100 can be divided sequentially from back to front along the longitudinal direction into a heel region 124, a midfoot region 123, a forefoot region 122, and a toe region 121. Furthermore, the forefoot region 122 of the sole support plate 100 can be further subdivided along the longitudinal direction into a metatarsophalangeal joint region 122A and a metatarsal region 122B.

[0047] More specifically, as shown in Figures 2-3, the sole support plate 100 has a total length L in the longitudinal direction, for example, approximately 20 to 30 centimeters, and a maximum width W in the transverse direction, for example, approximately 10 to 15 centimeters. As an example, for instance, in Figure 2, the toe region 121 may extend rearward from the foremost point of the sole support plate 100 for a certain length, which accounts for 5-10% of the total length in the longitudinal direction (X direction). Subsequently, the forefoot region 122 of the sole support plate 100, located behind the toe region 121, extends rearward for approximately 25-30% of the total length in the longitudinal direction (X direction), wherein the metatarsophalangeal joint region 122A accounts for approximately 40% of the length of the forefoot region 122 and the metatarsal region 122B accounts for approximately 60% of the length of the forefoot region 122.

[0048] As shown in Figures 3 and 5, in order to create the seesaw effect illustrated in Figure 1, the sole support plate 100 has a bottom point that can be arc-shaped within the midsole in the forefoot region 122, so that the forefoot region 122 forms a certain angle α relative to the ground plane or horizontal surface. That is, the sole support plate 100 extends slightly arc-shaped from the toe 101 to the bottom point in the forefoot region 122, wherein the angle between this extension line and the ground plane is the angle α.

[0049] As a feasible approach, the sole support plate 100 can be pre-bent in its forefoot region 122, preferably pre-bent at an angle between 20° and 40° compared to a horizontal line passing through the bottommost edge of the sole structure (as shown in Figure 5). In other words, in a static state without any bending or flexing forces, the forefoot region 122 of the sole support plate 100 can be bent upwards at an angle (between 20° and 40°). Preferably, the starting point for measuring the lift angle α is located within the metatarsophalangeal joint region 122A. It is believed that this can improve the flexural stiffness of the sole support plate 100. This is because the lift angle α within this region and range is physiologically and anatomically positioned to meet the optimal needs of long-distance runners for the sole support plate 100. This allows for torsional movement during shoe strike and avoids energy loss around the metatarsophalangeal joint.

[0050] Furthermore, it has been found advantageous to design the lift angle α to be between 20° and 40°, more preferably between 25° and 35°. This provides a reasonable trade-off between the required stiffness (for the runner's performance during push-off—especially when attempting to bend the sole support plate 100 to a certain angle) and sufficient flexibility (to provide adequate wearing comfort during shoe landing). Here, push-off refers to the action in which the runner needs to push his (or her) foot off the ground with each step; while landing refers to the action in which the runner lands on the ground with his (or her) foot at the end of each step.

[0051] Further, as shown in Figure 2, the heel region 124 extends forward from the rear of the sole support plate 100 for a certain length, where this length accounts for 30-40% of the total length in the longitudinal direction (X direction). The midfoot region 123 extends directly between the heel region 124 and the forefoot region 122, such that the length of the midfoot region 123 in the longitudinal direction constitutes the remaining portion of the total length, particularly from 20% to 30% of the total length.

[0052] As better illustrated in Figure 5 or Figure 6, the forefoot region 122 bridges the toe region 121 and the midfoot region 123, which are respectively upturned, in a continuous transition, thereby forming the aforementioned upturn angle α between the forefoot region 122 and the toe region 121 and a bending angle b between the forefoot region 122 and the midfoot region 123. Here, the bending angle b can be the angle between the extension direction of the midfoot region 123 itself and the horizontal line extending through the bottom of the sole support 100, wherein the angle can be between 10° and 30°, and more preferably between 20° and 25° is advantageous.

[0053] Here, in Figure 5, the transition from the upturn angle a to the flex angle b within the forefoot region 122 is relatively gentle, while in Figure 6, the transition is steeper. It is believed that the curvature design of the forefoot region 122 shown in Figure 5 is more favorable for the overall stress distribution in the forefoot region, while the curvature design shown in Figure 6 is more beneficial for the deformation effect of the sole support 100.

[0054] Unconstrained by theoretical limitations, computer simulation tests and actual comparative experiments have revealed that within the range of the aforementioned upturn angle α and bending angle β, when the shoe support plate 100 is placed in the midsole of the shoe sole structure and deforms due to the user's push-off, it applies an upward and forward elastic force to the user. Moreover, it can apply a large force in the early stage of deformation and maintain the stability of this force, helping the user to exert force in a more effortless and efficient manner, thereby enabling the user to achieve faster speed.

[0055] As shown in Figure 2, the sole support plate 100 according to the invention includes a head 101 located in the toe region 121, wherein the head 101 extends generally laterally from the inside out over 70% to 80% of the entire width W of the sole support plate 100, corresponding to the toes or metatarsal portion of the runner when the runner's foot is supported by the sole support plate 100. The sole support plate 100 also includes a support plate 103 located in the heel region 124, wherein the support plate 103 corresponds to the heel of the runner when the runner's foot is supported by the sole support plate 100, to return the assist or propulsive force generated by the sole support plate 100 to the runner. Here, the support plate 103 extends generally laterally from the inside out over 45% to 55% of the entire width W of the sole support plate 100. Preferably, as shown in Figures 2 and 4, a slot 103A of a certain width is provided forward from the rear end of the support plate 103. The slot 103A is arranged in a generally central position in the area of ​​the support plate 103. It is believed that such a slot 103A has a certain promoting effect on adjusting the deformation of the support plate 103.

[0056] To bridge the head 101 located in the toe region 121 and the support plate 103 located in the heel region 124, the sole support plate 100 of the present invention has a pair of side strips 102 extending longitudinally (X direction) through most of the forefoot region 122 and midfoot region 123, respectively located on the outer and inner sides in the lateral direction. That is, unlike the known single-plate carbon fiber structure, the sole support plate 100 according to the present invention is hollow or perforated throughout most of the forefoot region 122 and midfoot region 123. The paired side strips 102 are designed to have an undulating arc shape (as shown in FIG. 3), thus having the upturn angle α and bending angle b described in detail above. Because the widths of the head 101 and the support plate 103 that they bridge are different in the lateral direction, the width of the paired side strips 102 in the forefoot region 122 is greater than the width in the midfoot region 123, so that the paired side strips 102 and the support plate 103 are generally Y-shaped.

[0057] Furthermore, to ensure the sole support plate 100 has ideal rigidity to prevent torsional deformation under stress, the paired side strips 102 preferably have an orientation in the forefoot region 122 such that the vertical height of the side strip 102 is significantly greater than its lateral width. For example, as shown in Figure 3, the side strips extend vertically in the forefoot region 122. In order to connect with the generally plate-shaped support plate 103, the side strip 102 has at least an orientation in the midfoot region 123 such that the vertical height and lateral width of the side strip 102 are approximately equal. In this case, as shown in Figure 3, the side strip 102 twists to one side in the midfoot region 123 to reduce its vertical height until it connects with the plate-shaped support plate 103.

[0058] In this embodiment, to ensure the sole support plate 100 possesses ideal physical properties, it can be made of carbon fiber material. This is because carbon fiber material has a certain degree of elasticity while possessing sufficient rigidity, which can better meet the needs of runners. Alternatively, the sole support plate 100 can be made of bamboo or wood. In a preferred embodiment, the sole support plate 100 may additionally include reinforcing fibers to increase stiffness and thus increase the energy available for pressure relief. These can be selected, for example, from glass fiber mixed with carbon fiber, bamboo fiber, hemp fiber, cellulose fiber, palm fiber, and mixtures thereof.

[0059] As can be seen from the above, the sole support plate 100 can form an arcuate fulcrum (e.g., the bottommost point mentioned above) in the area below the anterior part of the metatarsophalangeal joint via paired side strips 102 with undulating variations. During the runner's push-off, this arcuate fulcrum can act as a fulcrum to achieve a seesaw effect, thereby improving the leverage and rolling efficiency between the forefoot and mid / rear foot during the push-off process. It also converts the downward force applied to the forefoot by the runner into an upward and forward thrust or propulsion force applied to the runner's heel at the support plate 103, thus providing propulsion assistance to conserve the runner's energy.

[0060] As shown in Figure 2, to further improve the propulsion effect and / or stability of the sole support plate 100, the sole support plate 100 according to the present invention is further provided with an elliptical disc-shaped bulge 104, which is raised vertically upward by a certain height H by a pair of side strips 102 within the hollow portion of the forefoot region 122. This bulge 104 is at least largely, preferably entirely, located near the metatarsophalangeal joint region 122A or the transverse arch of the forefoot region 122 and is force-transmittingly connected to the pair of side strips 102 by means of, for example, four support rods 105. Specifically, when the bulge 104 is subjected to a downward force applied by the runner, it distributes or evenly distributes the force via the support rods 105 to the pair of side strips 102 and even the support plate 103 connected to it, thereby improving the stability of the sole support plate 100. Specifically, by means of multiple support rods 105, the vertical downward force from the raised portion 104 can be converted into a lateral tilting force acting on the paired side strips 102 in the lateral direction.

[0061] As described above, the paired side strips 102 are twisted to one side in the mid-foot region 123 to connect with the plate-shaped support plate 103. As shown in Figure 2, each of the twisted sections of the paired side strips 102 in the mid-foot region 123 is provided with a first deformation unit 111 having mechanical non-reciprocity. Here, the first deformation unit 111 is configured to redirect the force acting on the side strips 102 to tilt laterally in the lateral direction into a lifting force that lifts the support plate 103 upward. As a result, during the runner's push-off, the sole support plate 100 of the present invention not only achieves a seesaw effect to provide propulsion to the runner, but also, through the mechanical linkage feedback between the raised portion 104, multiple support rods 105, side strips 102, and the first deformation unit 111, especially the deformation of the first deformation unit 111 which has mechanical non-reciprocity, transforms the downward force acting on the raised portion 104 into a lifting force that causes the support plate 103 to tilt upward. This provides additional propulsion or boosting force to the runner independently of the seesaw effect, thereby improving the runner's athletic performance. Preferably, the support plate 103 has a thickness of approximately 2 mm.

[0062] Figures 7-8 illustrate a feasible embodiment of the first deformation unit 111, which may be a weak portion or thinned portion of the side strip 102 extending a certain length L along the longitudinal direction (X direction). This weak portion or thinned portion is designed such that its thickness is approximately in the range of 4:16 to 10:16 compared to the thickness (in the transverse direction) of the unthinned portion of the side strip 102. Feasibly, the length L of the weak portion or thinned portion is in the range of 3 mm to 12 mm, as shown in Figure 8. Further, as shown in Figure 14, the weak portion and thinned portion of the first deformation unit 111 have an acute angle c relative to the transverse direction (Y direction), where the acute angle is in the range of 20 degrees to 70 degrees, preferably in the range of 25 degrees to 50 degrees, and most preferably 45 degrees.

[0063] According to the results of computer simulation and physical deformation experiments conducted by the inventors, the length, thinning ratio and tilt angle of the weak part or thinning part of the first deformation unit 111 will have a certain impact on its mechanical non-reciprocity, that is, affect the efficiency or proportion of converting the downward force acting on the raised part 104 into the lifting force that makes the support plate 103 tilt upward.

[0064] In general, the longer the weak or thinned portion, the more the first deformation unit 111 allows the sole support plate 100 to provide a greater or more powerful boosting force or an upward lifting force acting on the support plate 103. Simultaneously, the thinner the weak or thinned portion is designed, i.e., the smaller the thinning ratio (e.g., 4:16), the more the first deformation unit 111 can provide a greater or more powerful boosting force or an upward lifting force acting on the support plate 103. Furthermore, the smaller the tilt angle of the weak or thinned portion relative to the lateral direction, for example, at a tilt angle of 25 degrees, the more the first deformation unit 111 allows the sole support plate 100 to provide better deformation performance and a more satisfactory boosting effect.

[0065] As a preferred aspect of the invention, a first horizontal strip 106 for bridging the paired side strips 102 in the lateral direction may be provided in the hollow portion within the midfoot region 123, wherein the thickness of the first horizontal strip 106 may be substantially the same as the thickness of the side strips 102. In FIG. 2, the first horizontal strip 106 is substantially perpendicular to the paired side strips 102 to which it is connected, thereby believed to help improve the integrity of the sole support plate 100. Here, since the first horizontal bar 106 is arranged adjacent to the first deformation unit 111, in order to promote the deformation of the first deformation unit 111, a second deformation unit 112 preferably having mechanical non-reciprocity can be provided in the generally central section of the first horizontal bar 106. The second deformation unit 112 is designed to be more prone to inward deformation when subjected to lateral tilting force from the side bar 102. This deformation is believed to geometrically help to promote the deformation of the first deformation unit 111, thereby improving the conversion efficiency of converting the downward force acting on the raised portion 104 into a lifting force that causes the support plate 103 to tilt upward.

[0066] Figure 9 shows a magnified view of the second deformation unit 112, providing further details. Here, the second deformation unit 112 can be a thinned or weakened portion extending a certain length of the first horizontal bar 106 along the transverse direction (Y direction). The cross-section of the unthinned portion of the first horizontal bar 106 is designated S1, and the thinned or weakened portion extending a certain length is considered the second deformation unit 112, with its cross-section designated S2. The inventors, through experimentation, found that the second deformation unit 112, implemented as a thinned or weakened portion, is designed such that its thickness or cross-sectional area S2 is approximately in the range of 4:16 to 10:16 compared to the thickness or cross-sectional area S1 of the unthinned portion of the first horizontal bar 106, with a most preferably ratio of approximately 5:16 to 8:16. Unconstrained by theoretical limitations, through computer simulation tests and actual comparative experiments, it was found that when the ratio of S1 to S2 is designed to be approximately 5:16, the auxiliary effect of the second deformation unit 112 on the deformation of the first deformation unit 111 is the most significant. And when the ratio of S1 to S2 is designed to be approximately 8:16, the overall stress effect of the sole support plate 100 is the most satisfactory.

[0067] As a further improvement, to facilitate the deformation of the second deformation unit 112, as shown in FIG2, a support rod 105 is provided for bridging the raised portion 104 and the first crossbar 106. This allows the first crossbar 106 to receive forces directly transmitted from the raised portion 104 in addition to the forces from the side strip 102, making it easier for the first crossbar 106 and its second deformation unit 112 to deform as needed. It should be noted that the support rod 105 for bridging the raised portion 104 and the first crossbar 106 is not essential; for example, feasible embodiments without such a support rod 105 are shown in FIG3 and 4.

[0068] Furthermore, a second horizontal bar 107 for bridging the paired side strips 102 in the lateral direction can be provided in the hollow portion within the forefoot region 122, wherein the second horizontal bar 107 is also generally perpendicular to the paired side strips 102 to which it is connected. Similarly, a fourth deformation unit 114 preferably having mechanical non-reciprocity can be provided in the generally central section of the second horizontal bar 107, wherein the fourth deformation unit 114 is designed to be more prone to inward deformation when subjected to lateral tilting forces from the side strips 102. This deformation is believed to geometrically contribute to the deformation of the first deformation unit 111, thereby providing conversion efficiency in transforming the downward force acting on the bulge 104 into a lifting force that causes the support plate 103 to tilt upward.

[0069] It should be noted that although the first horizontal bar 106 and the second horizontal bar 107 are both designed to be substantially perpendicular to the paired side bars 102 connected to them, i.e., a vertical connection design is adopted, it is also possible to adopt an inclined connection method in which the first horizontal bar 106 and the second horizontal bar 107 are deflected from the vertical position at a certain angle. Here, the certain angle is an angle in the range of approximately 8 to 15 degrees, preferably in the range of 10 to 12 degrees.

[0070] Furthermore, the second deformation unit 112 and the fourth deformation unit 114 can have a substantially similar design, which can be a weak or thinned portion extending the first crossbar 106 and the second crossbar 107 along the transverse direction (Y direction) for a certain length. This weak or thinned portion is designed such that its thickness is approximately in the range of 4:16 to 10:16 compared to the thickness of the unthinned segments of the first and second crossbars, preferably a thickness ratio of approximately 6:16. Feasibly, the length of the weak or thinned portion is in the range of 3 mm to 12 mm.

[0071] More preferably, a third deformation unit 113, preferably mechanically non-reciprocal, is provided in the section of the side strip 102 located between the first horizontal strip 106 and the second horizontal strip 107. The third deformation unit 113 is designed to geometrically facilitate the tilting deformation of the side strip 102 when subjected to a force from the support rod 105, thereby transferring a larger or higher proportion of the force to the first deformation unit 111. This can provide conversion efficiency in transforming the downward force acting on the raised portion 104 into a lifting force that causes the support plate 103 to tilt upward.

[0072] As best shown in Figures 7 and 8, the tilt direction of the third deformation unit 113 can be opposite to that of the first deformation unit 111, thus creating a twisted design for the side strip 102 between the two. The structure of the third deformation unit 113 is substantially the same as that of the first deformation unit 111, and it is also designed to extend the side strip 102 along the longitudinal direction (X direction) by a certain length as a weak or thinned portion, wherein the thickness of this weak or thinned portion is designed to be approximately in the range of 4:16 to 10:16 compared to the thickness (in the transverse direction) of the unthinned portion of the side strip 102. Feasibly, the length of the weak or thinned portion is in the range of 3 mm to 12 mm, preferably selected as approximately 6 mm, as shown in Figure 8. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 14, the weak part and the thinned part, which serve as the third deformation unit, have an acute angle c relative to the transverse direction (Y direction). Here, the acute angle is in the range of 20 degrees to 70 degrees, preferably in the range of 25 degrees to 45 degrees, and most preferably about 30 degrees.

[0073] As a further preferred aspect of this application, the paired side strips 102 may also be provided with a fifth deformation unit 115 preferably having mechanical non-reciprocity in the metatarsophalangeal joint region 122A, wherein the fifth deformation unit 115 is designed to geometrically contribute to the tilting deformation of the third deformation unit 113 (and thus the first deformation unit 111) of the side strip 102 when the region of the side strip 102 is subjected to a force from the support rod 105, thereby transferring a larger or higher proportion of the force to the first deformation unit 111, thereby providing conversion efficiency in converting the downward force acting on the bulge 104 into a lifting force that causes the support plate 103 to tilt upward.

[0074] The structure of the fifth deformation unit 115 is most clearly shown in Figure 4. Here, the fifth deformation unit 115 is also designed as a weak or thinned portion extending a certain length of the side strip 102 along the longitudinal direction (X direction), wherein the thickness of the weak or thinned portion is designed to be approximately in the range of 4:16 to 10:16 compared to the thickness (along the transverse direction) of the unthinned portion of the side strip 102. It is feasible that the length of the weak or thinned portion is in the range of 3 mm to 12 mm. Unlike the first deformation unit 111 and the third deformation unit 113, the weak and thinned portions used here as the fifth deformation unit 115 are substantially perpendicular to the transverse direction (Y direction), that is, the fifth deformation unit 115 is substantially not twisted or deflected relative to the side strip 102, and most preferably is at a 90-degree right angle relative to the transverse direction (see Figure 14).

[0075] As a further preferred aspect of this application, as shown in FIG12, a generally centrally located groove 101A may be provided in the head 101 region of the toe region 121. This groove 101A extends generally backward in the longitudinal direction from the foremost point of the head 101 for a certain length. The length of the groove 101A can be, for example, in the range of 10 to 20 mm, and preferably approximately 15 mm. Without being limited by theory, computer simulation tests and actual comparative experiments have shown that such a groove 101A has a certain promoting effect on improving the deformation effect of the sole support plate 100. Preferably, in the head 101 region, the sole support plate 100 has a thickness of approximately 1.5 mm.

[0076] As shown in Figure 10, the height H of the raised portion 104 also has a certain influence on the deformation effect of the sole support 100 and the resulting propulsive or boosting effect. Without being limited by theory, computer simulation tests and actual comparative experiments have shown that the height H of the raised portion 104 can be in the range of 5 to 15 mm. The smaller the value of the height H (i.e., the lower the height of the raised portion 104), the more satisfactory the deformation performance of the sole support 100 under the same external force conditions. From the perspective of converting the single-point force applied to the raised portion 104 into an equivalent stress applied to the sole support 100, a height H of approximately 10 mm is optimal. In short, from the perspective of overall effect, selecting the height H of the raised portion 104 within the range of 5 to 10 mm is a suitable choice. Most preferably, the inventors found it advantageous to select the area of ​​the spring piece of the raised portion 104 as 700 to 900 square millimeters and to select the raised height H as about 10 millimeters.

[0077] The operation of various embodiments and variations of the present invention will be exemplarily described below with reference to FIG13:

[0078] Taking the sole support component 100 used in jogging shoes or professional running shoes as an example, if the ground level is taken as the reference, the sole support component 100 located in the sole structure of the running shoe will be in a "spoon shape" with a lower front and higher back, as shown in Figure 13. When a runner wears such a running shoe and uses the forefoot of their foot to strike the ground for support, the forefoot will exert a forward and downward force at least in the toe area 121 and the forefoot area 122. Since the sole support component 100 is designed as a single piece with a certain arc-shaped drop from front to back, a bend is formed in the forefoot area 122 that can be used as a fulcrum. As a result, the rear part 101 of the sole support plate 100 sinks as shown by the arrow in Figure 13, which causes the support plate 103 near its rear end (approximately located at the heel) to tilt up to a certain height h1 (approximately 20 to 40 mm), thereby helping the runner's heel to lift up. Meanwhile, the upward-curved design at the front allows the runner's forefoot to roll forward naturally without bending, continuing the seesaw effect of the support plate 100, giving the heel a forward and upward rebound force, thus obtaining more power feedback. The above-mentioned propulsion or assistive effects are well known to those skilled in the art.

[0079] In addition, during the runner's subsequent forceful push-off from the ground, the runner's forefoot applies a downward force F1 to at least most, preferably entirely, the metatarsophalangeal joint region 122A or the ridge 104 near the transverse arch of the forefoot in the forefoot region 122. This downward force F1 is then transmitted via multiple struts 105 to the paired side strips 102 to which it is force-transmitting. These forces are then sequentially transmitted to the fifth deformation unit 115 (if any), the third deformation unit 113 (if any), and the second crossbar 106 (if any) and the first crossbar 107 (if any) connecting the paired side strips 102. Due to the non-reciprocity of these deformation units and their geometric and interlocking mechanisms, the downward force F1 from the runner is ultimately redirected into an inward and upward force F2 acting on the first deformation unit 111. Furthermore, the non-reciprocity of the first deformation unit 111 redirects this upward force F2 into a lifting force F3 that causes the support plate 103 connected to the first deformation unit 111 to rise further to a height h2 (approximately 20 to 40 mm) from its initial height h1. As a result, this design can provide the runner with additional boost or propulsion independently of the seesaw effect to enhance their athletic performance.

[0080] Through computer simulations and physical experiments conducted by the inventors, it was discovered that in designs incorporating the first to fifth deformation units, when the length of the weak or thinned portion is selected to be approximately 6 millimeters, the tilt angle c is designed as an acute angle of 25 to 40 degrees, and the thinning ratio is designed as 5:16, and the height H of the raised portion 104 is designed to be 10 millimeters, the aforementioned additional lift height h2 can reach approximately 40 millimeters. With this lift height h2, it can be calculated that it can provide the runner with approximately 6 to 8 Newtons of propulsion.

[0081] Sole structure

[0082] In this invention, the sole structure is used to fix and bond with the upper to form a footwear article. The sole structure consists of at least three main parts: a midsole, a sole support, and an outsole, which are bonded together using a specific adhesive. In this invention, the overall shape of the sole structure is that of a conventional running shoe sole, with a lower forefoot and higher heel, and the heel-to-toe difference is generally between 4 and 10 millimeters.

[0083] In the sole structure of this invention, the main function of the midsole is to provide cushioning, protection, and rebound. The midsole can be a single sheet component, with its upper surface close to the sole of the foot and its contour shape covering the projected shape of the sole, while the lower surface of the midsole is close to the ground. The midsole can also be multi-layered, typically consisting of two layers bonded together; the lower layer can be a single piece or two separate components: the forefoot and the heel. Furthermore, this application does not impose any special limitations on the structural design of the sides and other areas of the midsole.

[0084] The main materials used in the shoe midsole can be foamed materials such as ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA), polyurethane (PU), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), or thermoplastic polyethylene (TPE). If the shoe midsole is composed of multiple layers, the materials of the components in the two layers do not necessarily have to be the same; any one or more of the above-mentioned materials can be used. For example, the hardness of the shoe midsole is 35-50 degrees (Shore C); the material density is less than 0.2 g / cm3. Preferably, the shoe midsole in the shoe sole structure of the present invention is composed of upper and lower layers and a sole support component located between the two layers. If the shoe midsole is a single sheet component, the sole support component described above can be independently embedded in its upper and lower surfaces.

[0085] In addition, the outsole structure also includes the outsole, which is composite with the midsole near the ground. The outsole primarily serves to resist wear and improve the shoe's durability. The outsole is generally made of wear-resistant materials, such as rubber or other abrasion-resistant materials. The outsole can be a single piece or divided into two sections: a forefoot section and a heel section, with each section potentially composed of multiple pieces. The outsole's hardness can be 60-70 degrees (Shore A); its slip resistance performance is: dry friction coefficient ≥0.7; wet friction coefficient ≥0.5.

[0086] In this preferred sole structure, which is composed of a midsole, a sole support component, and a sole, the forefoot has a higher pitch than that of traditional running shoes. The overall shape of the sole conforms to the shape of the sole support component, and the forefoot forms an arc to facilitate the transition when pushing off. The thickness of the inner edge of the entire sole does not exceed 40 mm.

[0087] sneakers

[0088] Building upon this, the present invention also provides an athletic shoe, comprising the aforementioned running shoe sole and an upper fixedly connected thereto. Such an athletic shoe can also be called a racing or slow running shoe, etc. The present invention, taking into account the biomechanical characteristics of human running, designs a midsole-embedded sole support component with non-reciprocal deformation units, thereby maximizing the running economy of the shoe while ensuring cushioning. In the aforementioned running shoe sole structure that improves running efficiency, the athletic shoe can use conventional uppers and other components without special limitations.

[0089] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, but those skilled in the art should understand that various modifications, omissions, and additions can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It should not be understood as limited to the specific embodiments described herein, but encompasses all possible embodiments embodied within the scope and equivalents of the features described in the appended claims.

[0090] The dimensions and values ​​disclosed herein should not be construed as strictly limited to the precise numerical values ​​stated. Rather, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to represent the value and a functionally equivalent range around that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as “40 mm” is intended to represent “approximately 40 mm”.

[0091] All documents referenced in the “Detailed Description” section are incorporated herein by reference in the relevant sections; any reference to any document should not be construed as an admission that it is prior art concerning the invention. In the event of any conflict between the meaning or definition of any term in this written document and any meaning or definition of a term in the incorporated documents, the meaning or definition assigned to the term in this written document shall prevail.

[0092] While specific embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, the appended claims are intended to cover all such changes and modifications within the scope of the invention.

[0093] When describing elements of the present invention or preferred embodiments thereof, the articles “a,” “an,” “the,” and “the” are intended to indicate the presence of at least one element. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” are intended to be inclusive and mean that additional elements may be present in addition to those listed. Many modifications and variations can be made to the invention without departing from its spirit and scope. Therefore, the above embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A sole support component, used in the sole structure and capable of being sequentially divided into a heel area, a midfoot area, a forefoot area, and a toe area along the longitudinal direction from back to front, characterized in that: The sole support component includes: The head, located in the toe area and extending laterally; Support plate located in the heel area; Paired side strips, extending at least partially in the longitudinal direction through the forefoot and midfoot regions, for bridging the head and support plate, to form a hollow portion between the head and support plate, wherein the paired side strips have a bottom end with an arcuate fulcrum in the forefoot region. A raised portion located in the hollow portion of the forefoot region, wherein the raised portion is force-transmittingly connected to the paired side strips to convert the vertically downward force applied to the raised portion into a force causing the paired side strips to tilt laterally; and The first deformation unit of the paired side strips in the midfoot region, which is mechanically non-reciprocal, is configured to redirect the lateral tilting force acting on the side strips into a lifting force that raises the support plate upward.

2. The sole support member as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first deformation unit is designed as a thinned portion of the side strip that is twisted and extended in the longitudinal direction for a length of 3 mm to 12 mm. The ratio of the thickness of the thinned portion to the thickness of the unthinned side strip is in the range of 4:16 to 10:16, and the thinned portion has an inclination angle in the range of 20 degrees to 70 degrees relative to the lateral direction.

3. The sole support member as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, wherein... It also includes a first transverse bar located in the hollow portion of the midfoot region for bridging the pairs of side strips in the lateral direction, wherein the first transverse bar also has a mechanically non-reciprocal second deformation unit arranged generally in the center to deform inward when the first transverse bar is subjected to a lateral tilting force from the side strips.

4. The sole support member as described in claim 3, characterized in that, wherein... It also includes a second horizontal bar located in the hollow portion of the forefoot region for bridging the pair of side strips in the lateral direction, wherein the second horizontal bar also has a generally centrally located, mechanically non-reciprocal fourth deformation unit to deform inward when the fourth horizontal bar is subjected to a lateral tilting force from the side strip, wherein the second horizontal bar is preferably generally parallel to the first horizontal bar.

5. The sole support member as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The paired side strips also include a mechanically non-reciprocal third deformation unit located between the first and second horizontal strips. The third deformation unit is designed as a thinned portion of the side strip that extends 3 to 12 millimeters in length along the longitudinal direction and the direction of the twist of the third deformation unit is opposite to that of the first deformation unit. The ratio of the thickness of the thinned portion of the third deformation unit to the thickness of the unthinned side strip is in the range of 4:16 to 10:16, and the thinned portion of the third deformation unit has an inclination angle in the range of 20 to 70 degrees relative to the transverse direction.

6. The sole support member as described in claim 5, characterized in that it is in pairs. The side strip also includes a fifth deformation unit located in the metatarsophalangeal joint region of the forefoot area, which is mechanically non-reciprocal. It is designed to cause the third deformation unit of the side strip to tilt and deform when the side strip is subjected to lateral tilting. The fifth deformation unit is designed as a thinned portion of the side strip extending 3 mm to 12 mm in length along the longitudinal direction and the thinned portion is substantially non-twisted relative to the side strip.

7. The sole support member as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The forefoot area of ​​the sole support has an upward tilt angle of 20 to 40 degrees relative to the horizontal line passing through the bottom of the arc-shaped fulcrum, and the midfoot area has an upward bending angle of 10 to 30 degrees relative to the horizontal line passing through the bottom of the arc-shaped fulcrum, wherein the forefoot area and the midfoot area are in a continuous transition.

8. The sole support member as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The raised portion is located within the metatarsophalangeal joint region of the forefoot area and rises vertically upwards by 5 to 15 millimeters relative to the side strip, wherein the raised portion is forcefully connected to the paired side strips via multiple struts.

9. The sole support member as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The head has a generally centrally located groove that extends longitudinally backward for a length of 10 to 20 millimeters.

10. A sole structure comprising a midsole joined to each other, a sole support embedded in the midsole, and an outsole, wherein the sole structure has a heel-to-toe difference in the range of 4 to 10 millimeters, characterized in that, The sole support is the sole support according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

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