Article of Footwear with a Stretchable Upper and an Articulated Sole Structure

An article of footwear is disclosed that includes at least one of a stretchable upper and an articulated sole structure. The upper may include an exterior layer and an interior layer. The exterior layer forms at least a portion of an exterior of the upper, and the exterior layer includes a plurality of incisions that extend through the exterior layer. The interior layer is located adjacent an inner surface of the exterior layer, and the interior layer is exposed through the incisions. The sole structure may include a connecting portion and a plurality of discrete sole elements. The connecting portion is positioned adjacent the upper and may extend along a longitudinal length of the upper. The sole elements extend from the connecting portion, and the sole elements are separated by a plurality of sipes that extend upward into the sole structure. 1. A method of manufacturing articles of footwear having a female version and a male version , the method comprising steps of:molding sole structures of the articles of footwear to each include a connecting portion and a plurality of discrete sole elements extending from the connecting portion, the sole elements being separated by a plurality of sipes that extend into the sole structures;structuring the sole structures to have a first thickness in a forefoot region and a second thickness in a heel region; andforming the female version such that a differential between the first thickness and the second thickness is greater than a corresponding differential in the male version.2. The method recited in claim 1 , wherein the step of molding includes forming at least one of the sipes to have a greater width than other sipes.3. The method recited in claim 1 , wherein the step of molding includes forming the female version to include at least two sipes with a greater width than other sipes claim 1 , and forming the male version to include only one sipe with a greater width than other sipes.4. The method recited in claim 1 , wherein ...

Golf Shoe with Natural Motion Structures

Golf shoes include one or more of the following: (a) a foot stabilizer system that interacts with a shoe securing system to securely engage and/or wrap around a foot of a wearer; (b) a natural motion sole, optionally including flex grooves that allow a weight transfer from back-to-front and/or from side-to-side; (c) a six cleat configuration (e.g., four cleats in a forefoot region, two cleats in a heel region, and no cleats located directly under a big toe); (d) a forefoot moderator plate positioned to moderate or reduce user feel of the forefoot cleats; (e) a lateral half heel counter extending from a rear heel area to a lateral midfoot or lateral forward heel area of the shoe; and/or (f) one or more medial, forefoot, sidewall traction elements at or near a big toe area of the sole. 1. A golf shoe , comprising:an upper including a foot stabilizer system that wraps around at least a midfoot and heel area, wherein the foot stabilizer system includes a first plurality of strap portions defining first securing system engagement components along a first side of an instep portion of the upper and a second plurality of strap portions defining second securing system engagement components along a second side of the instep portion of the upper; and a midsole member, wherein the midsole member includes: (a) a first longitudinal flexion groove extending from a forefoot region to a heel region of the sole structure and (b) a first transverse flexion groove extending from a medial side to a lateral side of the sole structure,', 'a first outsole component located on a first side of the first longitudinal flexion groove, and', 'a second outsole component separate from the first outsole component located on a second side of the first longitudinal flexion groove., 'a sole structure engaged with the upper, the sole structure including2. A golf shoe according to claim 1 , further comprising: a first cleat element provided with the first outsole component and a second cleat element ...

Golf Shoe with Natural Motion Structures

Golf shoes include one or more of the following: (a) a foot stabilizer system that interacts with a shoe securing system to securely engage and/or wrap around a foot of a wearer; (b) a natural motion sole, optionally including flex grooves that allow a weight transfer from back-to-front and/or from side-to-side; (c) a six cleat configuration (e.g., four cleats in a forefoot region, two cleats in a heel region, and no cleats located directly under a big toe); (d) a forefoot moderator plate positioned to moderate or reduce user feel of the forefoot cleats; (e) a lateral half heel counter extending from a rear heel area to a lateral midfoot or lateral forward heel area of the shoe; and/or (f) one or more medial, forefoot, sidewall traction elements at or near a big toe area of the sole. 1. A golf shoe , comprising:an upper defining at least a portion of an interior chamber for receiving a foot; and a first longitudinal flexion groove,', 'a first transverse flexion groove,', 'a second transverse flexion groove located on a forefoot side of the first transverse flexion groove,', 'a first medial side outsole component located on a medial side of the first longitudinal flexion groove between the first transverse flexion groove and the second transverse flexion groove, and', 'a first lateral side outsole component located on a lateral side of the first longitudinal flexion groove between the first transverse flexion groove and the second transverse flexion groove,, 'a sole structure engaged with the upper, wherein the sole structure includeswherein the first lateral side outsole component is made from a harder material than a material of the first medial side outsole component.2. A golf shoe according to claim 1 , wherein the sole structure further includes:a second medial side outsole component located on the medial side of the first longitudinal flexion groove and on a forefoot side of the second transverse flexion groove, anda second lateral side outsole component ...

Articles of Footwear

Articles of footwear, including athletic footwear, include cleat structures, strapping systems, sole structures, and/or improved natural motion characteristics are described. Also, methods for making such articles of footwear (and particularly sole structures for articles of footwear) are described. 1. An upper for an article of footwear , comprising:an upper member defining a medial side, a lateral side, a rear heel area, and an ankle opening;a rear heel strap member engaged with or integrally formed with the rear heel area of the upper member, wherein the rear heel strap member includes: (a) a rear heel element, (b) a lateral side strap element that extends from the rear heel element and along the lateral side of the upper, and (c) a medial side strap element that extends from the rear heel element and along the medial side of the upper;a first strap member extending from the medial side of the ankle opening, across a front of the ankle opening, to at least one of a lateral midfoot or lateral forefoot area of the upper member;a second strap member extending from the lateral side of the ankle opening, across the front of the ankle opening, to a medial midfoot area of the upper member;a first tensioning system for engaging the medial side strap element with the first strap member; anda second tensioning system for engaging the lateral side strap element with the second strap member.2. An article of footwear , comprising:an upper defining a medial side, a lateral side, a rear heel area, and an ankle opening;a rear heel strap member engaged with or integrally formed with the rear heel area of the upper, wherein the rear heel strap member includes: (a) a rear heel element, (b) a lateral side strap element that extends from the rear heel element and along the lateral side of the upper, and (c) a medial side strap element that extends from the rear heel element and along the medial side of the upper;a first strap member extending from the medial side of the ankle opening ...

Flex Groove Sole Assembly With Biasing Structure

An article of footwear includes an upper and a sole assembly. The sole assembly includes a groove that separates the sole assembly into first and second portions. Moreover, the article of footwear includes a flexible cord including a first end, a second end, and a middle portion. The middle portion extends through the sole assembly and across the groove between the first portion and the second portion. The article of footwear also includes an adjustment device that is operably coupled to the first end and the second end. The adjustment device is configured to move at least one of the first end and the second end to selectively adjust tension of the flexible cord between a first tension level and a second tension level. The first portion is more rotatable about the groove relative to the second portion at the first tension level as compared to the second tension level. 1. An article of footwear comprising:an upper;a sole assembly that is operably coupled to the upper, the sole assembly defining a ground engaging surface, the sole assembly including a groove that separates the sole assembly into a first portion and a second portion, the groove being open at the ground engaging surface and extending in a depth direction from the ground engaging surface;a flexible cord including a first end, a second end, and a middle portion, the middle portion extending through the sole assembly and across the groove between the first portion and the second portion; andan adjustment device supported by at least one of the upper and the sole assembly, the adjustment device operably coupled to the first end and the second end, the adjustment device configured to move at least one of the first end and the second end to selectively adjust tension of the flexible cord between a first tension level and a second tension level, the first portion being more rotatable about the groove relative to the second portion at the first tension level as compared to the second tension level.2. The ...

Flex Groove Sole Assembly With Biasing Structure

An article of footwear includes an upper and a sole assembly that is operably coupled to the upper. The sole assembly defines a ground engaging surface. The sole assembly also includes a first portion and a second portion that are separated by an opening. The opening is open at the ground engaging surface and extends in a depth direction from the ground engaging surface. The article of footwear also includes a reinforcing tube that is fixedly coupled to at least one of the first portion and the second portion of the sole assembly. The article of footwear further includes a flexible cord including a first end, a second end, and a middle portion. The middle portion extends at least partially through the reinforcing tube and across the opening between the first portion and the second portion. The cord is configured to bias the first portion toward the second portion. 1. An article of footwear comprising:an upper;a sole assembly that is operably coupled to the upper, the sole assembly defining a ground engaging surface, the sole assembly including a first portion and a second portion that are separated by an opening, the opening being open at the ground engaging surface and extending in a depth direction from the ground engaging surface;a reinforcing tube that is fixedly coupled to at least one of the first portion and the second portion of the sole assembly; anda flexible cord including a first end, a second end, and a middle portion, the middle portion extending at least partially through the reinforcing tube and across the opening between the first portion and the second portion, the cord configured to bias the first portion toward the second portion.2. The article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein the reinforcing tube includes a plurality of anchoring projections that are fixed to the at least one of the first portion and the second portion of the sole assembly.3. The article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein the reinforcing tube is a first reinforcing tube that ...

Flex Groove Sole Assembly With Biasing Structure

An article of footwear an upper and a sole structure that defines a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is disposed proximate the medial side of the footwear, and the second portion is disposed proximate the lateral side. The first portion and the second portion are configured to move relative to each other. The article of footwear also includes a flexible biasing member including a first end, a second end, and a middle portion. The middle portion extends across the first portion and the second portion. The first and second ends extend out from the outer surface of the footwear from either the medial or lateral side. The middle portion of the biasing member is configured to bias the first and second portions toward each other.

GARMENT FOR UPRIGHT SLEEPING

Aspects herein are directed to an upper-body garment that facilitates upright sleeping. The garment includes an inner hood with a mesh elastic panel that is adapted to be positioned across the wearer's forehead helping to anchor the inner hood on to the wearer's head. The inner hood includes a low stretch or no stretch center panel. The center panel extends from the mesh elastic panel, down the center back of the inner hood, and further extends on to a back aspect of a torso portion of the garment where it forms a center portion of the back of the upper-body garment. Because the center panel has low stretch or no stretch, the wearer's head and neck are held in an upright or generally upright position when the inner hood is donned. The upper-body garment further includes a large volume outer hood positioned external to the inner hood. 1. An upper-body garment comprising:a torso portion defining a neck opening and a waist opening, the torso portion having a front aspect and a back aspect;an outer hood affixed to the neck opening at both a first end and a second end of an unaffixed portion of the outer hood to form an opening, wherein the opening is located at the back aspect of the torso portion; andan inner hood positioned internal to the outer hood, a center panel of the inner hood affixed to the outer hood at the first end and the second end of the unaffixed portion of the outer hood, the center panel of the inner hood further affixed to a top of the outer hood.2. The upper-body garment of claim 1 , wherein the center panel of the inner hood extends through the opening and forms at least a portion of the back aspect of the torso portion.3. The upper-body garment of claim 2 , wherein the center panel is formed from a low stretch or no stretch material.4. The upper-body garment of claim 1 , wherein the center panel includes a low stretch or no stretch film material affixed to a first surface of the center panel.5. The upper-body garment of claim 1 , wherein the ...

FOOTWEAR UPPER WITH MAGNETIC HOLD OPEN FOR FOOT ENTRY

An article of footwear may include a sole structure and an upper. The upper may include a first section and a second section and may define a foot-receiving cavity over the sole structure. The first section may be fixed to the sole structure, and the second section may articulate relative to the first section between an access position and a use position, the foot-receiving cavity being more exposed when the second section is in the access position. A magnetic coupling includes a first coupling member that may be operatively secured to the second section of the upper and a second coupling member may be operatively secured to the sole structure and positioned so that the first coupling member couples with the second coupling member by magnetic force when the second section is in the access position. 1. An article of footwear comprising:a sole structure;an upper including a first section and a second section and defining a foot-receiving cavity over the sole structure;wherein the first section is fixed to the sole structure, and the second section articulates relative to the first section between an access position and a use position, the foot-receiving cavity being more exposed when the second section is in the access position than when the second section is in the use position; anda magnetic coupling including a first coupling member and a second coupling member, one of which is a magnet and the other of which comprises either of a magnet or a ferromagnetic material;wherein the first coupling member is operatively secured to the second section of the upper and the second coupling member is operatively secured to the sole structure and positioned so that the first coupling member couples with the second coupling member when the second section is in the access position, the second section held in the access position by magnetic force between the first coupling member and the second coupling member.2. The article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein:the second section has ...

Closure strap for footwear upper with looped grab handle

An article of footwear includes a sole structure and an upper. The upper may include a first and a second section and partially define a foot-receiving cavity over the sole structure. The first section may be fixed to the sole structure and the second section may articulate between an access position and a use position. The foot-receiving cavity may be more exposed in the access position to allow easier foot entry. A strap may extend from one of the first and the second section. A looped handle may extend from the strap and may at least partially form a loop. The strap may extend across the second section of the upper when the second section is in the use position. The strap may have a distal portion configured to releasably secure to one of the first section or the second section with the looped handle exposed.

Easy Access Articles of Footwear

Footwear, including athletic footwear, opens very wide, e.g., by moving an ankle containing portion of a footwear upper laterally/sideways with respect to the sole structure or a base portion of the upper (e.g., rotate it to the lateral side). In effect, the ankle containing portion may move/rotate sideways with respect to the sole structure/base portion via a connecting member (e.g., moving akin to rotation on a hinge type structure) to open in somewhat of a “clamshell” fashion. The rear of the upper base portion in this open condition may appear somewhat as an open backed slipper or “slide” type shoe. These actions and features open the rear heel area of the upper wide and low to enable easy insertion of a foot into the interior chamber, generally from the rear of the footwear structure. One or more straps can be used to secure the upper to the foot. 1. An article of footwear , comprising:an upper including a top opening, a first side, a second side, a first side edge extending downward from the top opening at the first side, and a second side edge extending downward from the top opening at the second side, wherein the upper further includes a foot insertion opening extending from the first side edge and terminating at a closed end located at a side heel area of the upper on the second side of the upper;a closure system engaged with the upper for releasably closing the foot insertion opening, wherein the closure system extends between the closed end and the first side edge of the upper; anda sole structure engaged with the upper.2. An article of footwear according to claim 1 , wherein the second side edge includes a downward extending segment and a rearward extending segment.3. An article of footwear according to claim 2 , wherein the rearward extending segment of the second side edge terminates at a closed end claim 2 , wherein the closed end of the second side edge is located a distance L from the closed end of the closure system claim 2 , wherein L is within a ...

Pair of asymmetrical footwear articles

A pair of shoes may be asymmetric between one another in various respects. For example, the left shoe may include a throat extending gradually towards a lateral side of the left shoe while the right shoe may include a throat extending gradually towards a medial side of the left shoe. In addition, the left shoe may include a heel counter constructed into a left-shoe heel portion that provides more support on the medial side than on the lateral side of the left shoe, while the right shoe may include a heel counter constructed into a right-shoe heel portion that provides more support on the lateral side than on the medial side of the right shoe.

PAIR OF ASYMMETRICAL FOOTWEAR ARTICLES

A pair of shoes may be asymmetric between one another in various respects. For example, the left shoe may include a left-shoe wrapping panel non-releasably coupled to a left-shoe medial side and extending towards a left-shoe lateral side while the right shoe may include a wrapping panel non-releasably coupled to a right-shoe lateral side and extending towards a right-shoe medial side. The left-shoe wrapping panel may releasably couple to the left-shoe lateral side and the right-shoe wrapping panel may releasably couple to the right-shoe medial side. The left shoe and the right shoe may respectively include a left-shoe heel strap and a right-shoe heel strap. The left-shoe heel strap and a right-shoe heel strap each respectively wrap around, at least in part, a heel region of the left shoe and the right shoe. 1. A pair of shoes comprising:a left shoe having a left-shoe medial side, a left-shoe lateral side, a left-shoe upper, and a left-shoe wrapping panel, wherein the left-shoe wrapping panel includes a first portion that is non-releasably coupled to the left-shoe medial side, a second portion that releasably attaches onto the left-shoe upper, and a flexible body between the first portion and the second portion; anda right shoe having a right-shoe medial side, a right-shoe lateral side, a right-shoe upper, and a right-shoe wrapping panel, wherein the right-shoe wrapping panel includes a third portion that is non-releasably coupled to the right-shoe lateral side, a fourth portion that releasably attaches onto the right-shoe upper, and a flexible body between the third portion and the fourth portion.2. The pair of shoes of claim 1 ,wherein the second portion releasably attaches onto the left-shoe lateral side of the left-shoe upper, andwherein the fourth portion releasably attaches onto the right-shoe medial side of the right-shoe upper.3. The pair of shoes of claim 1 ,wherein the first portion is wider than the second portion, such that the left-shoe wrapping panel ...

CLEATED FOOTWEAR WITH FLEXIBLE CLEATS

Flexible cleats for flexible footwear (e.g., with natural motion sole structures) include a cleat structure that generally has the appearance of a cleat that has been separated into individual component parts by one or more flex grooves formed into the sole structure. Such structures provide additional flexibility at the areas of the cleats so as to avoid a “stiff” feeling in certain areas and/or during certain activities. The flexible cleats may be arranged around one or more intersections of flex grooves provided in a sole member, optionally in the form of an array of sole pods provided at least in a forefoot area of the sole member. 1. A sole structure for an article of footwear , comprising: a first flex groove that extends partially through the sole member from the exterior surface in a direction toward the interior surface, and', 'a second flex groove that extends partially through the sole member from the exterior surface in a direction toward the interior surface, wherein the first and second flex grooves form a junction; and, 'a sole member having an exterior surface and an opposite interior surface, wherein the sole member includes a first cleat component that includes a first side extending along the first and second flex grooves and a first nadir portion along the first side adjacent the junction, and', 'a second cleat component that includes a second side extending along the first and second flex grooves and a second nadir portion along the second side adjacent the junction., 'a flexible cleat extending in a direction away from the interior and exterior surfaces of the sole member, wherein the flexible cleat includes2. A sole structure according to claim 1 , wherein the flexible cleat further includes a third cleat component that includes a third side extending along at least one of the first and second flex grooves.3. A sole structure according to claim 2 , wherein the third cleat component further includes a third nadir portion located along the third ...

Article Of Footwear With Upper Having Member With Support Arm

An article of footwear includes a sole structure. The article of footwear further includes a first member that extends away from the sole structure. The first member at least partially defines a medial side and a lateral side of the article of footwear. Moreover, the second member has a body, a first support arm, and a second support arm. The body is attached to the first member such that the first member and the body cooperate to define a void that is configured to receive a foot. The body is also attached to the sole structure. The first support arm is attached to the first member on the medial side, and the second support arm is attached to the first member on the lateral side. 1. An article of footwear having a medial side and a lateral side , the article of footwear comprising:a sole structure;a first member that extends away from the sole structure, the first member at least partially defining the medial side and the lateral side; anda second member having a body, a first support arm, and a second support arm, the body being attached to the first member such that the first member and the body cooperate to define a void that is configured to receive a foot, the body also attached to the sole structure, the first support arm attached to the first member on the medial side, the second support arm attached to the first member on the lateral side.2. The article of footwear of claim wherein the first member includes a lower peripheral edge that is adjacent the sole structure , and wherein the body of the second member is attached to the first member along the lower peripheral edge.3. The article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein the first member also at least partially defines a heel region and a forefoot region claim 1 , wherein the second member also includes a third support arm and a fourth support arm claim 1 , wherein the third support arm is attached to the first member on the heel region claim 1 , and wherein the fourth support arm is attached to the first ...

UPPER COMPONENT FOR AN ARTICLE OF FOOTWEAR

An upper component for an article of footwear allows easy entry of the foot into the article of footwear. The upper component includes a heel body, which includes a first portion partially defining an ankle opening. The heel body further includes a second portion coupled to the first portion. The second portion is foldable and partially defines the ankle opening. The second portion is movable relative to the first portion between an unfolded configuration and a folded configuration. The upper component includes at least one tension member coupled to the second portion. The tension member is movable relative to the first portion to move the second portion from the unfolded configuration to the folded configuration. The ankle opening is larger when the second portion is in the unfolded configuration than when the second portion is in the folded configuration.

UPPER COMPONENT FOR AN ARTICLE OF FOOTWEAR

An upper component for an article of footwear allows easy entry of the foot into the article of footwear. The upper component includes a heel body, which includes a first portion partially defining an ankle opening. The heel body further includes a second portion coupled to the first portion. The second portion is foldable and partially defines the ankle opening. The second portion is movable relative to the first portion between an unfolded configuration and a folded configuration. The upper component includes at least one tension member coupled to the second portion. The tension member is movable relative to the first portion to move the second portion from the unfolded configuration to the folded configuration. The ankle opening is larger when the second portion is in the unfolded configuration than when the second portion is in the folded configuration. 1. An upper component for an article of footwear , comprising: a first portion partially defining an ankle opening;', 'a second portion coupled to the first portion, wherein the second portion is foldable and partially defines the ankle opening, and the second portion is movable relative to the first portion between an unfolded configuration and a folded configuration;, 'a heel body includingat least one tension member coupled to the second portion, wherein the at least one tension member is movable relative to the first portion to move the second portion from the unfolded configuration to the folded configuration; andwherein the ankle opening is larger when the second portion is in the unfolded configuration than when the second portion is in the folded configuration.2. The upper component of claim 1 , further comprising a tube partly disposed inside the first portion claim 1 , wherein:the at least one tension member is disposed in the tube to minimize friction between the at least one tension member and the heel body when the tension member moves relative to the first portion.3. The upper component of claim 1 , ...

FLEX GROOVE SOLE ASSEMBLY WITH BIASING STRUCTURE

An article of footwear an upper and a sole structure that defines a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is disposed proximate the medial side of the footwear, and the second portion is disposed proximate the lateral side. The first portion and the second portion are configured to move relative to each other. The article of footwear also includes a flexible biasing member including a first end, a second end, and a middle portion. The middle portion extends across the first portion and the second portion. The first and second ends extend out from the outer surface of the footwear from either the medial or lateral side. The middle portion of the biasing member is configured to bias the first and second portions toward each other. 120-. (canceled)21. An article of footwear comprising:an upper;a sole structure attached to the upper;a cord including a first portion at least partially enclosed within the upper and a second portion at least partially enclosed within the sole structure; anda tensioner attached to one of the upper and the sole structure and receiving a third portion of the cord, the tensioner operable to maintain tension in the cord to selectively adjust a stiffness of the upper.22. The article of footwear of claim 21 , wherein the sole structure includes a midsole claim 21 , the second portion of the cord being received within at least one passage defined by the midsole.23. The article of footwear of claim 22 , further comprising at least one reinforcing tube disposed within the at least one passage of the midsole and receiving the cord therein.24. The article of footwear of claim 21 , further comprising at least one reinforcing tube attached to at least one of the upper and the sole structure claim 21 , the at least one reinforcing tube receiving the cord therein.25. The article of footwear of claim 21 , wherein the second portion of the cord extends substantially parallel to a ground-contacting surface of the sole structure.26. The ...

EASY ACCESS ARTICLES OF FOOTWEAR

Articles of footwear, including athletic footwear, may include: (a) an upper including an opening through which a leg of a wearer extends, wherein the upper includes a foot insertion opening extending rearwardly and downwardly from a front portion of the leg opening at least to a heel area of the upper; (b) a closure system for releasably closing the foot insertion opening and optionally tightening the shoe on the foot; and (c) a sole structure engaged with the upper. The foot insertion opening widely opens the side and/or rear area of the shoe to allow for easy insertion and removal of a foot. Such uppers can be particularly useful for hightop athletic footwear, boots, or other footwear that extends up to or at least partially over a wearer's ankles. 1. An article of footwear , comprising:an upper including a top opening, a first side edge extending forward from the top opening and along an instep area, and a second side edge opposite the first side edge and extending forward from the top opening and along the instep area, wherein the upper includes a foot insertion opening extending rearwardly and downwardly from the first side edge at least to a heel area of the upper;a zipper system for at least partially closing the foot insertion opening engaged with the upper; anda sole structure engaged with the upper.2. An article of footwear according to claim 1 , further comprising:a strap engaged with a slider element of the zipper system, wherein the strap extends beyond the second side edge and releasably secures to the upper.3. An article of footwear according to claim 1 , further comprising:a lace element extending across the instep area and connecting the first side edge and the second side edge of the upper; anda strap engaged with a slider element of the zipper system, wherein the strap extends beyond the second side edge and releasably secures to the upper, wherein the lace element is engaged with the strap such that pulling the strap to a location to releasably ...

Sole structure with progressively angled traction elements

A sole structure includes an outsole having an outsole body defining an inner body surface and an outer body surface opposite the inner body surface. The outsole has a plurality of traction elements each extending from the outsole body away from the inner body surface. Each of the traction elements includes a base coupled to the outsole body surface. Each of the traction elements includes a tip spaced apart from the outer body surface and has a pitch defined by a vector. The pitch of each of the plurality of traction elements varies as a function of a distance from the central axis to a respective traction element.

Easy Access Articles of Footwear

Articles of footwear, including athletic footwear, may include: (a) an upper including an opening through which a leg of a wearer extends, wherein the upper includes a foot insertion opening extending rearwardly and downwardly from a front portion of the leg opening at least to a heel area of the upper; (b) a closure system for releasably closing the foot insertion opening and optionally tightening the shoe on the foot; and (c) a sole structure engaged with the upper. The foot insertion opening widely opens the side and/or rear area of the shoe to allow for easy insertion and removal of a foot. Such uppers can be particularly useful for hightop athletic footwear, boots, or other footwear that extends up to or at least partially over a wearer's ankles. 1. An article of footwear , comprising:an upper including a top opening, a first side edge extending forward from the top opening and along an instep area, and a second side edge opposite the first side edge and extending forward from the top opening and along the instep area, wherein the upper includes a foot insertion opening extending rearwardly and downwardly from the first side edge, and wherein the foot insertion opening terminates at a closed end located at a rear heel area, a lateral rear heel area, or a lateral side heel area of the upper;a zipper system engaged with the upper for at least partially closing the foot insertion opening, wherein the zipper system extends between the closed end and the first side edge of the upper; anda sole structure engaged with the upper.2. An article of footwear according to claim 1 , further comprising:a strap engaged with a slider element of the zipper system, wherein the strap extends beyond the second side edge and releasably secures to the upper.3. An article of footwear according to claim 1 , further comprising:a lace element extending across the instep area and connecting the first side edge and the second side edge of the upper; anda strap engaged with a slider element ...

Article of Footwear with a Stretchable Upper and an Articulated Sole Structure

An article of footwear is disclosed that includes at least one of a stretchable upper and an articulated sole structure. The upper may include an exterior layer and an interior layer. The exterior layer forms at least a portion of an exterior of the upper, and the exterior layer includes a plurality of incisions that extend through the exterior layer. The interior layer is located adjacent an inner surface of the exterior layer, and the interior layer is exposed through the incisions. The sole structure may include a connecting portion and a plurality of discrete sole elements. The connecting portion is positioned adjacent the upper and may extend along a longitudinal length of the upper. The sole elements extend from the connecting portion, and the sole elements are separated by a plurality of sipes that extend upward into the sole structure. 1. A method of manufacturing articles of footwear having a female version and a male version , the method comprising steps of:molding sole structures of the articles of footwear to each include a connecting portion and a plurality of discrete sole elements extending from the connecting portion, the sole elements being separated by a plurality of sipes that extend into the sole structures;structuring the sole structures to have a first thickness in a forefoot region and a second thickness in a heel region; andforming the female version such that a differential between the first thickness and the second thickness is greater than a corresponding differential in the male version.2. The method recited in claim 1 , wherein the step of molding includes forming at least one of the sipes to have a greater width than other sipes.3. The method recited in claim 1 , wherein the step of molding includes forming the female version to include at least two sipes with a greater width than other sipes claim 1 , and forming the male version to include only one sipe with a greater width than other sipes.4. The method recited in claim 1 , wherein ...

Rigid Sole Structures For Articles Of Footwear

Articles of footwear (e.g., for long jump/triple jump events, etc.) may include a sole structure having: (a) a first impact force attenuating component (e.g., foam) that includes top and bottom surfaces (and may be engaged with an outsole member, such as a cleated sole member); (b) a rigid plate component that includes top and bottom surfaces, wherein the bottom surface of the rigid plate component is engaged with the top surface of the first impact force attenuating component; and (c) a second impact force attenuating component (e.g., foam) that includes top and bottom surfaces, wherein the bottom surface of the second impact force attenuating component is engaged with the top surface of the rigid plate component. The rigid plate component may be the stiffest component in the sole structure (e.g., resistant to bending about an axis extending in the medial side-to-lateral side direction). 1. A sole structure for an article of footwear , comprising:a cleated ground-engaging component having an upper-facing surface and a ground-facing surface;a first foam component that includes an upper-facing surface and a ground-facing surface, wherein the ground-facing surface of the first foam component is engaged with the upper-facing surface of the cleated ground-engaging component;a rigid plate component that includes an upper-facing surface and a ground-facing surface, wherein the ground-facing surface of the rigid plate component is engaged with the upper-facing surface of the first foam component; anda second foam component that includes an upper-facing surface and a ground-facing surface, wherein the ground-facing surface of the second foam component is engaged with the upper-facing surface of the rigid plate component.2. The sole structure according to claim 1 , wherein the upper-facing surface of the first foam component includes a front raised ridge and a raised front support surface extending forward from the front raised ridge claim 1 , wherein the ground-facing ...

UPPER COMPONENT FOR AN ARTICLE OF FOOTWEAR

An upper component for an article of footwear allows easy entry of the foot into the article of footwear. The upper component includes a heel body, which includes a first portion partially defining an ankle opening. The heel body further includes a second portion coupled to the first portion. The second portion is foldable and partially defines the ankle opening. The second portion is movable relative to the first portion between an unfolded configuration and a folded configuration. The upper component includes at least one tension member coupled to the second portion. The tension member is movable relative to the first portion to move the second portion from the unfolded configuration to the folded configuration. The ankle opening is larger when the second portion is in the unfolded configuration than when the second portion is in the folded configuration. 1. An upper component for an article of footwear , comprising: an anterior body portion partially defining an ankle opening;', 'a posterior body portion coupled to the anterior body portion, wherein the posterior body portion is foldable and partially defines the ankle opening, and the posterior body portion is movable relative to the anterior body portion between an unfolded configuration and a folded configuration;, 'a heel body includingat least one tension member anchored at the posterior body portion, wherein the at least one tension member is movable relative to the anterior body portion to move the posterior body portion from the unfolded configuration to the folded configuration; andwherein the ankle opening is larger when the posterior body portion is in the unfolded configuration than when the posterior body portion is in the folded configuration.2. The upper component of claim 1 , wherein the at least one tension member includes an anterior member portion and a posterior member portion coupled to the anterior member portion claim 1 , and the posterior member portion of the at least one tension member ...

Articles of Footwear

Articles of footwear, including athletic footwear, include: (A) an upper; (B) a rear heel strap member engaged with or integrally formed with the upper and including: (i) a rear heel element, (ii) a lateral side strap element, and (iii) a medial side strap element; (C) a first strap member extending along the medial side of the upper, wherein the first strap member includes at least one structure for engaging a lace; (D) a second strap member extending along the lateral side of the upper, wherein the second strap member includes at least two structures for engaging the lace; (E) a tensioning system for engaging the medial side strap element with the first strap member; (F) another tensioning system for engaging the lateral side strap element with the second strap member; and (G) a sole structure.

Flex Groove Sole Assembly With Biasing Structure

An article of footwear an upper and a sole structure that defines a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is disposed proximate the medial side of the footwear, and the second portion is disposed proximate the lateral side. The first portion and the second portion are configured to move relative to each other. The article of footwear also includes a flexible biasing member including a first end, a second end, and a middle portion. The middle portion extends across the first portion and the second portion. The first and second ends extend out from the outer surface of the footwear from either the medial or lateral side. The middle portion of the biasing member is configured to bias the first and second portions toward each other.

Article of Footwear For Athletic And Recreational Activities

An article of footwear in which certain regions of the upper may be slippery, such that it is more difficult for a person to firmly grasp the article of footwear. The eyestays in the article of footwear are biased towards the lateral side of the footwear. The article of footwear also has an outer sole with ridges at, for example, the back of the heel, the ball-of-the foot regions on the lateral and medial sides, respectively, of the article of footwear, and at the toe region. The ridges are angle downward, such that the wearer of the footwear may have increased traction by digging the ridges into the ground or into a playing surface.

Article of Footwear For Athletic And Recreational Activities with Bootie

An article of footwear with an inner bootie that fits into and is strapped into an external shell to form the article of footwear. The inner bootie may have specially-treated regions that together allow the bootie to slip readily into the external shell and to be held firmly in place. When the inner bootie is in place in the external shell, cable loops woven into the lateral side and the medial side of the inner bootie protrude from corresponding openings in the external shell. A lace may then be laced through the cable loops to fasten the throat opening of the external shell over a wearer's foot. 1. An article of footwear comprising an inner bootie and an external shell , an ankle opening, a toe region and a forefoot region;', 'at least one cable loop woven into a lateral side of the inner bootie and at least one cable loop woven into the medial side of the inner bootie;', 'a perimeter region around at least one of the toe region and the forefoot region, wherein the perimeter region is configured to detachably attach itself to corresponding interior regions of the external shell;', 'wherein the inner bootie further comprises a region on a lower surface of the inner bootie that has a smooth surface;, 'wherein the inner bootie comprisesandwherein an ankle strap attached to a heel region of the external shell is configured to be laced through slots on a medial side and on a lateral side of the ankle opening of the inner bootie to attach the external shell to the inner bootie,and wherein the external shell comprises a longitudinal throat opening and at least one opening on a lateral side of the longitudinal throat opening that corresponds to the at least one cable loop on the lateral side of the inner bootie, and at least one opening on a medial side of the longitudinal throat opening that corresponds to the at least one cable loop on the medial side of the inner bootie.2. The article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein the at least one cable loop on the lateral side of ...

ARTICLE OF FOOTWEAR HAVING A POLYGON LUG SOLE PATTERN

Articles of footwear, including athletic footwear, include one or more of: (a) an upper; (b) a sole structure including a midsole and an outsole, the outsole having a plurality of polygonal lugs arranged about a base surface of the outsole. The outsole may include one or more regions wherein the characteristics of a portion of the lugs within a region differ from the characteristics of a portion of the lugs in another region. The lugs may differ, for example based on size, construction and/or spacing between the lugs. Methods of manufacturing such articles of footwear also are disclosed. 1. A method of manufacturing an article of footwear , comprising:providing a mold of a first portion of the article of footwear, the mold defining a plurality of lugs having a uniform, polygonal shape, wherein the distal ends of the lugs are not in contact with each other;filling the mold with a polyurethane;removing excess polyurethane from the mold;adding a second portion of the article of footwear to the mold; andapplying at least one of heat and pressure to engage the first portion and the second portion.2. The method of manufacturing an article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein the second portion of the article of footwear includes a textile portion of an upper.3. The method of manufacturing an article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein the second portion of the article of footwear includes a leather portion of an upper.4. The method of manufacturing an article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein the second portion of the article of footwear includes a portion of a midsole.5. A method of manufacturing a portion of an article of footwear claim 1 , comprising:providing a mold of a first portion of the article of footwear, the mold defining a plurality of hexagonal lugs wherein the hexagonal lugs are sized or spaced from one another to provide regions of different impact-attenuation characteristics, wherein the plurality of hexagonal lugs includes a first hexagonal lug having two ...

ARTICLE OF FOOTWEAR HAVING A POLYGON LUG SOLE PATTERN

Articles of footwear, including athletic footwear, include one or more of: (a) an upper; (b) a sole structure including a midsole and an outsole, the outsole having a plurality of polygonal lugs arranged about a base surface of the outsole. The outsole may include one or more regions wherein the characteristics of a portion of the lugs within a region differ from the characteristics of a portion of the lugs in another region. The lugs may differ, for example based on size, construction and/or spacing between the lugs. Methods of manufacturing such articles of footwear also are disclosed. 1. An article of footwear , comprising:an upper; anda sole structure connected to the upper, the sole structure including a plurality of hexagonal lugs extending from a base surface, the hexagonal lugs being arranged to form a ground contacting surface of the outsole, wherein the hexagonal lugs are sized or spaced from one another to provide regions of the outsole with different impact-attenuation characteristics, and wherein the plurality of hexagonal lugs includes a first hexagonal lug having two adjacent sides nested within an area defined by sides of two adjacent hexagonal lugs.2. The article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of hexagonal lugs are non-uniformly sized.3. The article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of hexagonal lugs are non-uniformly shaped.4. The article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein at least some of the hexagonal lugs are arranged such that a distance between neighboring lugs is between 1 mm and 15 mm.5. The article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein at least some of the hexagonal lugs are arranged such that a distance between neighboring lugs is between 1 mm and 8 mm.6. The article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein at least some of the hexagonal lugs are arranged such that a distance between neighboring lugs is between 2 mm and 12 mm.7. The article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein free ends of the plurality of hexagonal lugs opposite ...

Cleated Footwear with Flexible Cleats

Flexible cleats for flexible footwear (e.g., with natural motion sole structures) include a cleat structure that generally has the appearance of a cleat that has been separated into individual component parts by one or more flex grooves formed into the sole structure. Such structures provide additional flexibility at the areas of the cleats so as to avoid a “stiff” feeling in certain areas and/or during certain activities. The flexible cleats may be arranged around one or more intersections of flex grooves provided in a sole member, optionally in the form of an array of sole pods provided at least in a forefoot area of the sole member.

Flex Groove Sole Assembly With Biasing Structure

An article of footwear an upper and a sole structure that defines a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is disposed proximate the medial side of the footwear, and the second portion is disposed proximate the lateral side. The first portion and the second portion are configured to move relative to each other. The article of footwear also includes a flexible biasing member including a first end, a second end, and a middle portion. The middle portion extends across the first portion and the second portion. The first and second ends extend out from the outer surface of the footwear from either the medial or lateral side. The middle portion of the biasing member is configured to bias the first and second portions toward each other.

Article of Footwear with Upper Having Member with Support Arm

An article of footwear includes a sole structure. The article of footwear further includes a first member that extends away from the sole structure. The first member at least partially defines a medial side and a lateral side of the article of footwear. Moreover, the second member has a body, a first support arm, and a second support arm. The body is attached to the first member such that the first member and the body cooperate to define a void that is configured to receive a foot. The body is also attached to the sole structure. The first support arm is attached to the first member on the medial side, and the second support arm is attached to the first member on the lateral side.

Golf Shoe with Natural Motion Structures

Golf shoes include one or more of the following: (a) a foot stabilizer system that interacts with a shoe securing system to securely engage and/or wrap around a foot of a wearer; (b) a natural motion sole, optionally including flex grooves that allow a weight transfer from back-to-front and/or from side-to-side; (c) a six cleat configuration (e.g., four cleats in a forefoot region, two cleats in a heel region, and no cleats located directly under a big toe); (d) a forefoot moderator plate positioned to moderate or reduce user feel of the forefoot cleats; (e) a lateral half heel counter extending from a rear heel area to a lateral midfoot or lateral forward heel area of the shoe; and/or (f) one or more medial, forefoot, sidewall traction elements at or near a big toe area of the sole. 1. A golf shoe , comprising:an upper defining at least a portion of an interior chamber for receiving a foot; and a midsole component formed, at least in part, from a polymeric foam material,', 'a first longitudinal flexion groove defined, at least in part, in the midsole component,', 'a first transverse flexion groove defined, at least in part, in the midsole component,', 'a second transverse flexion groove located on a forefoot side of the first transverse flexion groove and defined, at least in part, in the midsole component,', 'an outsole engaged with the midsole component, wherein the outsole includes at least: (a) a first portion located on a lateral side of the first longitudinal flexion groove between the first transverse flexion groove and the second transverse flexion groove, and (b) a second portion located on a medial side of the first longitudinal flexion groove between the first transverse flexion groove and the second transverse flexion groove, wherein the second portion of the outsole includes a side wall portion that extends continuously from a bottom surface to a medial side surface of the midsole component,', 'a first cleat element provided with the first portion of ...

Articles of Footwear With An Alternate Fastening System

An article of footwear has an upper with multiple components. The upper includes a fastening system with a moveable assembly. The moveable assembly may include a flap portion and a throat portion. The moveable assembly is attached to the upper. The moveable assembly may be readily moved to facilitate entry of a foot into the article of footwear, or exit of a foot from the article of footwear.

ARTICLE OF FOOTWEAR HAVING A POLYGON LUG SOLE PATTERN

Articles of footwear, including athletic footwear, include one or more of: (a) an upper; (b) a sole structure including a midsole and an outsole, the outsole having a plurality of polygonal lugs arranged about a base surface of the outsole. The outsole may include one or more regions wherein the characteristics of a portion of the lugs within a region differ from the characteristics of a portion of the lugs in another region. The lugs may differ, for example based on size, construction and/or spacing between the lugs. Methods of manufacturing such articles of footwear also are disclosed.

Article of footwear with a stretchable upper and an articulated sole structure

An article of footwear is disclosed that includes at least one of a stretchable upper and an articulated sole structure. The upper may include an exterior layer and an interior layer. The exterior layer forms at least a portion of an exterior of the upper, and the exterior layer includes a plurality of incisions that extend through the exterior layer. The interior layer is located adjacent an inner surface of the exterior layer, and the interior layer is exposed through the incisions. The sole structure may include a connecting portion and a plurality of discrete sole elements. The connecting portion is positioned adjacent the upper and may extend along a longitudinal length of the upper. The sole elements extend from the connecting portion, and the sole elements are separated by a plurality of sipes that extend upward into the sole structure.

Article of footwear having a fluid-filled chamber with flexion zones

An article of footwear is disclosed that includes a fluid-filled chamber with one or more flexion zones. The flexion zones may be areas of the chamber where a tensile element, for example, is absent, or the flexion zones may be areas of the chamber where opposite surfaces of the chamber are bonded together. The footwear may also include a sole structure with a flexion zone, and the flexion zone of the chamber may be aligned with the flexion zone of the sole structure.

Article of footwear having a fluid-filled chamber with flexion zones

An article of footwear is disclosed that includes a fluid-filled chamber with one or more flexion zones. The flexion zones may be areas of the chamber where a tensile element, for example, is absent, or the flexion zones may be areas of the chamber where opposite surfaces of the chamber are bonded together. The footwear may also include a sole structure with a flexion zone, and the flexion zone of the chamber may be aligned with the flexion zone of the sole structure. In other configurations, the chamber may include a chamber secured within a depression of a midsole of the footwear.

An article of footwear having a fluid-filled chamber with flexion zones

An article of footwear is disclosed that includes a fluid-filled chamber with one or more flexion zones. The flexion zones may be areas of the chamber where a tensile element, for example, is absent, or the flexion zones may be areas of the chamber where opposite surfaces of the chamber are bonded together. The footwear may also include a sole structure with a flexion zone, and the flexion zone of the chamber may be aligned with the flexion zone of the sole structure.

An article of footwear having a fluid-filled chamber with flexion zones

Article of footwear with upper having member with support arm

Article of athletic footwear with a leash

An article of footwear is disclosed that includes an upper, a sole structure, and a leash secured to the upper. The leash is formed of a flexible material and includes a connector strap that extends from a heel portion of the upper. A pair of straps extend from the connector strap and are configured to extend around opposite sides of an ankle. A fastener is secured to opposite sides of the straps and is utilized to secure the leash to the ankle. The leash secures the footwear to the individual, thereby limiting inadvertent removal of the footwear from the foot.

Easy access articles of footwear

Articles of footwear, including athletic footwear, may include: (a) an upper including an opening through which a leg of a wearer extends, wherein the upper includes a foot insertion opening extending rearwardly and downwardly from a front portion of the leg opening at least to a heel area of the upper; (b) a closure system for releasably closing the foot insertion opening and optionally tightening the shoe on the foot; and (c) a sole structure engaged with the upper. The foot insertion opening widely opens the side and/or rear area of the shoe to allow for easy insertion and removal of a foot. Such uppers can be particularly useful for hightop athletic footwear, boots, or other footwear that extends up to or at least partially over a wearer's ankles.

Article of footwear having a polygon lug sole pattern

An article of footwear having a fluid-filled chamber with flexion zones

An article of footwear is disclosed that includes a fluid-filled chamber with one or more flexion zones. The flexion zones may be areas of the chamber where a tensile element, for example, is absent, or the flexion zones may be areas of the chamber where opposite surfaces of the chamber are bonded together. The footwear may also include a sole structure with a flexion zone, and the flexion zone of the chamber may be aligned with the flexion zone of the sole structure.

An article of footwear having a fluid-filled chamber with flexion zones

An article of footwear is disclosed that includes a fluid-filled chamber with one or more flexion zones. The flexion zones may be areas of the chamber where a tensile element, for example, is absent, or the flexion zones may be areas of the chamber where opposite surfaces of the chamber are bonded together. The footwear may also include a sole structure with a flexion zone, and the flexion zone of the chamber may be aligned with the flexion zone of the sole structure. In other configurations, the chamber may include a chamber secured within a depression of a midsole of the footwear.

Article of footwear with a stretchable upper and an articulated sole structure

Article of footwear with upper having member with support arm

An article of footwear includes a sole structure. The article of footwear further includes a first member that extends away from the sole structure. The first member at least partially defines a medial side and a lateral side of the article of footwear. Moreover, the second member has a body, a first support arm, and a second support arm. The body is attached to the first member such that the first member and the body cooperate to define a void that is configured to receive a foot. The body is also attached to the sole structure. The first support arm is attached to the first member on the medial side, and the second support arm is attached to the first member on the lateral side.

Article of footwear

There is disclosed an article of footwear having an upper and a sole structure secured to the upper, the sole structure comprising a plurality of discrete sole elements extending downward from a connecting portion, the sole elements being outwardly exposed and separated by a plurality of sipes that extend upward into the sole structure, the plurality of sipes including: a first sipe oriented in a longitudinal direction with respect to the footwear, the first sipe extending through an entire length of the sole structure and exhibiting a curved configuration, the first sipe being spaced inward from a lateral side of the sole structure, and the first sipe being approximately centered between the lateral side and a medial side of the sole structure in a heel region of the footwear; a second sipe that extends in the longitudinal direction, the second sipe extending through only a portion of the length of the sole structure; and a plurality of third sipes that extend laterally from the medial side to the lateral side of the sole structure. tO U) C)l N a U) N e -C //o

Article of footwear with a stretchable upper and an articulated sole structure

An article of footwear is disclosed that includes at least one of a stretchable upper and an articulated sole structure. The upper may include an exterior layer and an interior layer. The exterior layer forms at least a portion of an exterior of the upper, and the exterior layer includes a plurality of incisions that extend through the exterior layer. The interior layer is located adjacent an inner surface of the exterior layer, and the interior layer is exposed through the incisions. The sole structure may include a connecting portion and a plurality of discrete sole elements. The connecting portion is positioned adjacent the upper and may extend along a longitudinal length of the upper. The sole elements extend from the connecting portion, and the sole elements are separated by a plurality of sipes that extend upward into the sole structure.

Golf shoe with natural motion structures

Article of footwear with a stretchable upper and an articulated sole structure

Shoe

Article of footwear

An article of footwear, e.g., a shoe for running, jogging, and walking, that is designed to provide a better and more anatomical fit to the wearer's foot to enhance performance and provide better arch support. The shoe includes an articulated arch that is independent from the main sole unit to provide better arch support, optimal comfort, and enhanced articulation. A heel notch is cut in the medial and lateral quarter panels to enable the shoe to move in a manner more like the human foot. A heel clip is provided, in lieu of a traditional heel counter, to provide a secure fit in the heel region without the inflexibility and discomfort of a traditional heel counter.

Article of footwear with a stretchable upper and an articulated sole structure

An article of footwear is disclosed that includes at least one of a stretchable upper and an articulated sole structure. The upper may include an exterior layer and an interior layer. The exterior layer forms at least a portion of an exterior of the upper, and the exterior layer includes a plurality of incisions that extend through the exterior layer. The interior layer is located adjacent an inner surface of the exterior layer, and the interior layer is exposed through the incisions. The sole structure may include a connecting portion and a plurality of discrete sole elements. The connecting portion is positioned adjacent the upper and may extend along a longitudinal length of the upper. The sole elements extend from the connecting portion, and the sole elements are separated by a plurality of sipes that extend upward into the sole structure.

Easy access articles of footwear

Articles of footwear, including athletic footwear, may include: (a) an upper including an opening through which a leg of a wearer extends, wherein the upper includes a foot insertion opening extending rearwardly and downwardly from a front portion of the leg opening at least to a heel area of the upper; (b) a closure system for releasably closing the foot insertion opening and optionally tightening the shoe on the foot; and (c) a sole structure engaged with the upper. The foot insertion opening widely opens the side and/or rear area of the shoe to allow for easy insertion and removal of a foot. Such uppers can be particularly useful for hightop athletic footwear, boots, or other footwear that extends up to or at least partially over a wearer's ankles.

Article of footwear having a polygon lug sole pattern

Articles of footwear, including athletic footwear, include one or more of: (a) an upper; (b) a sole structure including a midsole and an outsole, the outsole having a plurality of polygonal lugs arranged about a base surface of the outsole. The outsole may include one or more regions wherein the characteristics of a portion of the lugs within a region differ from the characteristics of a portion of the lugs in another region. The lugs may differ, for example based on size, construction and/or spacing between the lugs. Methods of manufacturing such articles of footwear also are disclosed.

Anatomically-fitting footwear

A first article of footwear 10 comprises a sole 14, a fastening system for permitting the tightening of an upper 12 around a user's foot, and an articulated arch member 50 which, in use, moves towards the user's foot in response to the tightening of the upper 12. A second article of footwear 10 is disclosed which comprises a sole 14 having a midsole 16 and an outsole 17 and an upper 12 comprising a medial quarter panel (18, Fig. 4) and a lateral quarter panel (20, Fig. 4), wherein both quarter panels (18, 20) are provided with a heel notch (30, Fig. 4) having a depth of at least 40 mm. A third article of footwear 10 is described comprising a sole 14, an upper 12, and a heel clip 38 coupled to the upper 12 and extending around a rear section thereof.

Article of footwear with a stretchable upper and an articulated sole structure

An article of footwear is disclosed that includes at least one of a stretchable upper and an articulated sole structure. The upper may include an exterior layer and an interior later. The exterior layer forms at least a portion of an exterior of the upper, and the exterior layer includes a plurality of incisions that extend through the exterior layer. The interior layer is located adjacent an inner surface of the exterior layer, and the interior layer is exposed through the incisions. The sole structure may include a connecting portion and a plurality of discrete sole elements. The connecting portion is positioned adjacent the upper and may extend along a longitudinal length of the upper. The sole elements extend from the connecting portion, and the sole elements are separated by a plurality of sipes that extend upward into the sole structure.

Footwear upper with magnetic hold open for foot entry

An article of footwear may include a sole structure and an upper. The upper may include a first section and a second section and may define a foot-receiving cavity over the sole structure. The first section may be fixed to the sole structure, and the second section may articulate relative to the first section between an access position and a use position, the foot-receiving cavity being more exposed when the second section is in the access position. A magnetic coupling includes a first coupling member that may be operatively secured to the second section of the upper and a second coupling member may be operatively secured to the sole structure and positioned so that the first coupling member couples with the second coupling member by magnetic force when the second section is in the access position.

Upper component for an article of footwear

Article of footwear with upper having member with support arm

An article of footwear includes a sole structure. The article of footwear further includes a first member that extends away from the sole structure. The first member at least partially defines a medial side and a lateral side of the article of footwear. Moreover, the second member has a body, a first support arm, and a second support arm. The body is attached to the first member such that the first member and the body cooperate to define a void that is configured to receive a foot. The body is also attached to the sole structure. The first support arm is attached to the first member on the medial side, and the second support arm is attached to the first member on the lateral side.

Article of footwear for sand sports

An article of footwear for sand sports includes an outsole and an upper secured to the outsole. The upper has a first toe pocket configured to receive a big toe of a user and a second toe pocket configured to receive at least some of the remaining toes of the user. A wrap extends around a midfoot portion of the outsole and the upper, and around a heel portion of the upper. A plurality of cleats may be secured to a lower surface of the outsole.

Article of footwear with an articulated sole structure

An article of footwear is disclosed that includes an upper and a sole structure secured to the upper. The sole structure includes a connecting portion positioned adjacent the upper and extending along a longitudinal length of the upper. A plurality of discrete sole elements extend downward from the connecting portion. The sole elements define a lower surface, and the sole elements are separated by a plurality of sipes that extend upward from the lower surface and into the sole structure. An outsole may be located within the sipes and extend between the sole elements, with a lower portion of the outsole extending beyond the lower surface of the sole elements.

Flex groove sole assembly with biasing structure

An article of footwear includes an upper and a sole assembly. The sole assembly includes a groove that separates the sole assembly into first and second portions. Moreover, the article of footwear includes a flexible cord including a first end, a second end, and a middle portion. The middle portion extends through the sole assembly and across the groove between the first portion and the second portion. The article of footwear also includes an adjustment device that is operably coupled to the first end and the second end. The adjustment device is configured to move at least one of the first end and the second end to selectively adjust tension of the flexible cord between a first tension level and a second tension level. The first portion is more rotatable about the groove relative to the second portion at the first tension level as compared to the second tension level.

Article of footwear with a stretchable upper

Article of footwear with a stretchable upper and an articulated sole structure

An article of footwear is disclosed that includes at least one of a stretchable upper and an articulated sole structure. The upper may include an exterior layer and an interior layer. The exterior layer forms at least a portion of an exterior of the upper, and the exterior layer includes a plurality of incisions that extend through the exterior layer. The interior layer is located adjacent an inner surface of the exterior layer, and the interior layer is exposed through the incisions. The sole structure may include a connecting portion and a plurality of discrete sole elements. The connecting portion is positioned adjacent the upper and may extend along a longitudinal length of the upper. The sole elements extend from the connecting portion, and the sole elements are separated by a plurality of sipes that extend upward into the sole structure.

Article of footwear with a stretchable upper and an articulated sole structure

Upper component for an article of footwear

An upper component for an article of footwear allows easy entry of the foot into the article of footwear. The upper component includes a heel body, which includes a first portion partially defining an ankle opening. The heel body further includes a second portion coupled to the first portion. The second portion is foldable and partially defines the ankle opening. The second portion is movable relative to the first portion between an unfolded configuration and a folded configuration. The upper component includes at least one tension member coupled to the second portion. The tension member is movable relative to the first portion to move the second portion from the unfolded configuration to the folded configuration. The ankle opening is larger when the second portion is in the unfolded configuration than when the second portion is in the folded configuration.

Garment for upright sleeping

Aspects herein are directed to an upper-body garment that facilitates upright sleeping. The garment includes an inner hood with a mesh elastic panel that is adapted to be positioned across the wearer's forehead helping to anchor the inner hood on to the wearer's head. The inner hood includes a low stretch or no stretch center panel. The center panel extends from the mesh elastic panel, down the center back of the inner hood, and further extends on to a back aspect of a torso portion of the garment where it forms a center portion of the back of the upper-body garment. Because the center panel has low stretch or no stretch, the wearer's head and neck are held in an upright or generally upright position when the inner hood is donned. The upper-body garment further includes a large volume outer hood positioned external to the inner hood.

Closure strap for footwear upper with looped grab handle

Upper for an article of footwear

An article of footwear includes an upper having an enclosure including an adjustment region extending from a first edge to a second edge formed on an opposite side of the adjustment region from the first edge. The upper further includes a cable tensioning guide attached to the enclosure adjacent to the first edge of the adjustment region. The cable tensioning guide includes a first conduit and a second conduit. A cable of the upper includes a tensioning element having a first tensioning segment extending across the adjustment region from the first conduit and a second tensioning segment extending across the adjustment region from the second conduit. The cable further includes a control element having a first control segment connected to the first tensioning segment at the first conduit, and a second control segment connected to the second tensioning segment at the second conduit.

FUßBEKLEIDUNGSARTIKEL MIT DEHNBARER OBER- UND BEWEGLICHER SOHLENSTRUKTUR

Footwear upper with magnetic hold open for foot entry

An article of footwear may include a sole structure and an upper. The upper may include a first section and a second section and may define a foot-receiving cavity over the sole structure. The first section may be fixed to the sole structure, and the second section may articulate relative to the first section between an access position and a use position, the foot-receiving cavity being more exposed when the second section is in the access position. A magnetic coupling includes a first coupling member that may be operatively secured to the second section of the upper and a second coupling member may be operatively secured to the sole structure and positioned so that the first coupling member couples with the second coupling member by magnetic force when the second section is in the access position.

Traction system for an ambulatory support

A traction system for an ambulatory support such as a prosthetic foot blade or a crutch includes a sole plate, a latch assembly, and a strap. The sole plate is couplable to a distal end of the ambulatory support to extend under a bottom side of the ambulatory support and a latch assembly. The latch assembly includes a front catch and a rear catch both fixable at a top side of the ambulatory support with the front catch nearer to the distal end of the ambulatory support than the rear catch, and a lever having a front end and a rear end, the front end releasably latchable to the front catch and the rear end releasably latchable to the rear catch when the lever is pivoted about the latched front end. The strap is secured to the lever and to the sole plate.

Traction system for an ambulatory support

A traction system for an ambulatory support such as a prosthetic foot blade or a crutch includes a sole plate, a latch assembly, and a strap. The sole plate is couplable to a distal end of the ambulatory support to extend under a bottom side of the ambulatory support and a latch assembly. The latch assembly includes a front catch and a rear catch both fixable at a top side of the ambulatory support with the front catch nearer to the distal end of the ambulatory support than the rear catch, and a lever having a front end and a rear end, the front end releasably latchable to the front catch and the rear end releasably latchable to the rear catch when the lever is pivoted about the latched front end. The strap is secured to the lever and to the sole plate.

Articles of Footwear and Upper and/or Sole Components Therefor

Articles of footwear include upper components and/or sole components. In some examples, the articles of footwear and/or sole structures may include features making them well suited for obstacle course type athletic events (e.g., by providing enhanced traction for various obstacle course events, such as wall climb events, rope climb events, etc.). As some more specific examples, articles of footwear and/or components thereof may include one or more of: (a) a ground-contacting surface having a plurality of large grooves, a plurality of small grooves, and relatively flat and/or smoothly curved base surfaces between the grooves; (b) a medial sidewall having a concave exterior surface, e.g., in the midfoot area; (c) a medial sidewall having enhanced traction features, e.g., in the midfoot area; and/or (d) a medial instep component (e.g., medial eye stay reinforcing component) having enhanced traction features.

Garment for upright sleeping

Aspects herein are directed to an upper-body garment (100) that facilitates upright sleeping. The garment (100) includes an inner hood (300) with a mesh elastic panel (314) that is adapted to be positioned across the wearer's forehead helping to anchor the inner hood (300) on to the wearer's head. The inner hood (300) includes a low stretch or no stretch center panel (124). The center panel (124) extends from the mesh elastic panel (314), down the center back of the inner hood (300), and further extends on to a back aspect (112) of a torso portion (110) of the garment (100) where it forms a center portion of the back of the upper-body garment (100). Because the center panel (124) has low stretch or no stretch, the wearer's head and neck are held in an upright or generally upright position when the inner hood is donned. The upper-body garment (100) further includes a large volume outer hood (116) positioned external to the inner hood (300).

Cleated footwear with flexible cleats

Flexible cleats for flexible footwear (e.g., with natural motion sole structures) include a cleat structure that generally has the appearance of a cleat that has been separated into individual component parts by one or more flex grooves formed into the sole structure. Such structures provide additional flexibility at the areas of the cleats so as to avoid a stiff feeling in certain areas and/or during certain activities. The flexible cleats may be arranged around one or more intersections of flex grooves provided in a sole member, optionally in the form of an array of sole pods provided at least in a forefoot area of the sole member.

Cleated footwear with flexible cleats

Traction system for an ambulatory support

A traction system for an ambulatory support such as a prosthetic foot blade or a crutch includes a sole plate, a latch assembly, and a strap. The sole plate is couplable to a distal end of the ambulatory support to extend under a bottom side of the ambulatory support and a latch assembly. The latch assembly includes a front catch and a rear catch both fixable at a top side of the ambulatory support with the front catch nearer to the distal end of the ambulatory support than the rear catch, and a lever having a front end and a rear end, the front end releasably latchable to the front catch and the rear end releasably latchable to the rear catch when the lever is pivoted about the latched front end. The strap is secured to the lever and to the sole plate.

Footwear upper with magnetic hold open for foot entry

Articles of footwear with an alternate fastening system

An article of footwear has an upper with multiple components. The upper includes a fastening system with a moveable assembly. The moveable assembly may include a flap portion and a throat portion. The moveable assembly is attached to the upper. The moveable assembly may be readily moved to facilitate entry of a foot into the article of footwear, or exit of a foot from the article of footwear.

Articles of footwear

Articles of footwear, including athletic footwear, include: (A) an upper; (B) a rear heel strap member engaged with or integrally formed with the upper and including: (i) a rear heel element, (ii) a lateral side strap element, and (iii) a medial side strap element; (C) a first strap member extending along the medial side of the upper, wherein the first strap member includes at least one structure for engaging a lace; (D) a second strap member extending along the lateral side of the upper, wherein the second strap member includes at least two structures for engaging the lace; (E) a tensioning system for engaging the medial side strap element with the first strap member; (F) another tensioning system for engaging the lateral side strap element with the second strap member; and (G) a sole structure.

Easy access articles of footwear

Articles of footwear, including athletic footwear, may include: (a) an upper including an opening through which a leg of a wearer extends, wherein the upper includes a foot insertion opening extending rearwardly and downwardly from a front portion of the leg opening at least to a heel area of the upper; (b) a closure system for releasably closing the foot insertion opening and optionally tightening the shoe on the foot; and (c) a sole structure engaged with the upper. The foot insertion opening widely opens the side and/or rear area of the shoe to allow for easy insertion and removal of a foot. Such uppers can be particularly useful for hightop athletic footwear, boots, or other footwear that extends up to or at least partially over a wearer's ankles.

Easy access articles of footwear

Footwear, including athletic footwear, opens very wide, e.g., by moving an ankle containing portion of a footwear upper laterally/sideways with respect to the sole structure or a base portion of the upper (e.g., rotate it to the lateral side). In effect, the ankle containing portion may move/rotate sideways with respect to the sole structure/base portion via a connecting member (e.g., moving akin to rotation on a hinge type structure) to open in somewhat of a “clamshell” fashion. The rear of the upper base portion in this open condition may appear somewhat as an open backed slipper or “slide” type shoe. These actions and features open the rear heel area of the upper wide and low to enable easy insertion of a foot into the interior chamber, generally from the rear of the footwear structure. One or more straps can be used to secure the upper to the foot.

Article of footwear with upper having member with support arm

An article of footwear includes a sole structure. The article of footwear further includes a first member that extends away from the sole structure. The first member at least partially defines a medial side and a lateral side of the article of footwear. Moreover, the second member has a body, a first support arm, and a second support arm. The body is attached to the first member such that the first member and the body cooperate to define a void that is configured to receive a foot. The body is also attached to the sole structure. The first support arm is attached to the first member on the medial side, and the second support arm is attached to the first member on the lateral side.

Flex groove sole assembly with biasing structure

An article of footwear an upper and a sole structure that defines a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is disposed proximate the medial side of the footwear, and the second portion is disposed proximate the lateral side. The first portion and the second portion are configured to move relative to each other. The article of footwear also includes a flexible biasing member including a first end, a second end, and a middle portion. The middle portion extends across the first portion and the second portion. The first and second ends extend out from the outer surface of the footwear from either the medial or lateral side. The middle portion of the biasing member is configured to bias the first and second portions toward each other.

Cleated footwear with flexible cleats

Flexible cleats for flexible footwear (e.g., with natural motion sole structures) include a cleat structure that generally has the appearance of a cleat that has been separated into individual component parts by one or more flex grooves formed into the sole structure. Such structures provide additional flexibility at the areas of the cleats so as to avoid a “stiff” feeling in certain areas and/or during certain activities. The flexible cleats may be arranged around one or more intersections of flex grooves provided in a sole member, optionally in the form of an array of sole pods provided at least in a forefoot area of the sole member.

Article of footwear with a stretchable upper and an articulated sole structure

An article of footwear is disclosed that includes at least one of a stretchable upper and an articulated sole structure. The upper may include an exterior layer and an interior layer. The exterior layer forms at least a portion of an exterior of the upper, and the exterior layer includes a plurality of incisions that extend through the exterior layer. The interior layer is located adjacent an inner surface of the exterior layer, and the interior layer is exposed through the incisions. The sole structure may include a connecting portion and a plurality of discrete sole elements. The connecting portion is positioned adjacent the upper and may extend along a longitudinal length of the upper. The sole elements extend from the connecting portion, and the sole elements are separated by a plurality of sipes that extend upward into the sole structure.

Article of footwear for athletic and recreational activities

An article of footwear in which certain regions of the upper may be slippery, such that it is more difficult for a person to firmly grasp the article of footwear. The eyestays in the article of footwear are biased towards the lateral side of the footwear. The article of footwear also has an outer sole with ridges at, for example, the back of the heel, the ball-of-the foot regions on the lateral and medial sides, respectively, of the article of footwear, and at the toe region. The ridges are angled downward, such that the wearer of the footwear may have increased traction by digging the ridges into the ground or into a playing surface.