CN118201521A

CN118201521A - Article of footwear

Info

Publication number: CN118201521A
Application number: CN202280067137.1A
Authority: CN
Inventors: A·西吉斯蒙德
Original assignee: Puma SE
Current assignee: Puma SE
Priority date: 2021-08-20
Filing date: 2022-08-18
Publication date: 2024-06-14
Also published as: EP4387484A1; US20230058209A1; WO2023021469A1

Abstract

A sole structure for an article of footwear includes a midsole and a stabilizing member. The stabilizing member may include a first end and a second end. The first end is positioned along a bottom surface of the midsole. The first subsection of the first end extends along a first side of the midsole and the second subsection of the first end extends from the first side of the midsole through the bottom surface to a second side of the midsole. The second portion extends upwardly from the first portion and onto a second side of the midsole to wrap around at least a portion of the periphery of the heel region of the midsole and onto the first side of the midsole.

Description

Article of footwear

Cross Reference to Related Applications

The present application claims the benefit and priority of U.S. provisional application No. 63/235,353, entitled "article of footwear," filed on 8/20 of 2021, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates generally to articles of footwear having a stabilizing structure, and more particularly to articles of footwear having an upper and a sole structure that includes a midsole, an outsole, and a Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) stabilizing member.

Background

Many conventional shoes or other articles of footwear generally include an upper and a sole attached to a lower end of the upper. Conventional shoes also include an interior space (i.e., void or cavity) formed by the upper and the interior surface of the sole for receiving a user's foot prior to securing the shoe to the foot. The sole is attached to a lower surface or border of the upper and is positioned between the upper and the ground. Thus, soles typically provide stability and cushioning to the user when the shoe is worn. In some cases, the sole may include multiple components, such as an outsole, midsole, and insole. The outsole may provide traction to the bottom surface of the sole, and the midsole may be attached to the inner surface of the outsole, and may provide cushioning or increased stability to the sole. For example, the sole may include foam or foam-like material that may increase stability at one or more desired locations along the sole; or may reduce stress or impact energy on the foot or leg when the user runs, walks, or performs another activity.

The upper generally extends upwardly from the sole and defines an interior cavity for completely or partially enclosing the foot. In most cases, the upper extends over and through the medial and lateral sides of the instep and toe areas. Many articles of footwear may also include a tongue that extends through the instep area to bridge the gap between the medial and lateral edges of the upper, the gap defining an opening into the cavity. A tongue may also be provided under the lacing system and between the medial and lateral sides of the upper to allow for adjustment of the tightness of the shoe. The tongue may also be manipulated by the user to allow the foot to enter or leave the interior space or cavity. In addition, the lacing system may allow a user to adjust certain dimensions of the upper or sole, thereby allowing the upper to accommodate a wide variety of foot types having different sizes and shapes.

The upper may comprise a variety of materials, which may be selected based on one or more intended uses of the shoe. The upper may also include portions that are composed of different materials that are specific to particular areas of the upper. For example, increased stability may be desired at the front of the upper or adjacent the heel area to provide a higher degree of resistance or stiffness. In contrast, other portions of the shoe may include soft woven fabrics to provide areas of stretch resistance, flexibility, breathability or moisture absorption characteristics.

The sole assembly generally extends between the ground and the upper. In some examples, the sole assembly includes an outsole that provides both wear resistance and traction with the ground. The outsole may be formed of rubber or other materials that impart durability and wear resistance, and enhance traction with the ground.

While many of the currently available shoes have various features relating to the above-described characteristics, many shoes, including athletic shoes and even running shoes, have sole structures that lack additional support structures to aid in stability during running or during strenuous athletic activities. This is particularly problematic for individuals suffering from pronation and supination. Pronation and supination are the processes that result in the foot rolling inward and outward, respectively, during normal movement of the foot. If left unsolved, such pronation and supination can lead to injury.

Accordingly, articles of footwear having stability-enhancing features along their uppers and sole structures are desired. These and other drawbacks of the prior art are addressed by the following disclosure.

Disclosure of Invention

Many advantages of the articles of footwear described herein will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. For example, including various components of the sole structure, particularly the elongate stabilizing members, add different athletic benefits to the footwear, such as stiffening, or pronation and supination support.

In accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure, a sole structure for an article of footwear may include a midsole and a stabilizing member. The midsole may define first and second sides extending between the top and bottom surfaces. The stabilizing member may include a first end and a second end. The first end may be positioned along a bottom surface of the midsole and may include a first sub-portion and a second sub-portion. The first subsection may extend along a first side of the midsole and the second subsection may extend (diagonally) from the first side of the midsole through the bottom surface to a second side of the midsole. The second end may extend upwardly from the first portion and onto a second side of the midsole to wrap around at least a portion of the periphery of the heel region of the sole structure and onto the first side of the midsole.

In some embodiments, the stabilizing member may be at least partially disposed over the midsole in the heel region. In some cases, the distal end of the second end may be positioned closer to a midfoot region of the midsole than to a heel end of the midsole.

In some embodiments, a first subsection of the stabilizing member may be positioned in a forefoot region of the midsole and a second subsection of the stabilizing member may be positioned in a midfoot region of the midsole. In some cases, the second end may be positioned in both a midfoot region and a heel region of the sole structure.

In some embodiments, an inner surface of the first end of the stabilizing member may be coupled to the midsole, and an outer surface of the first end of the stabilizing member may form at least a portion of a ground-engaging surface of the sole structure. In some cases, the first end may be at least partially disposed within a channel formed in the midsole. In some cases, the sole structure may also include an outsole having a first outsole portion and a second outsole portion separated by a stabilizing member. The first outsole portion and the second outsole portion may form a remainder of the ground-engaging surface of the sole structure. In some cases, the first end may include a first flange extending from a first edge of the first portion. The first flange may be secured between the midsole and at least one of the first outsole portion or the second outsole portion. In some cases, the first end may further include a second flange extending from an opposite second edge of the first portion. The second flange may be secured between the midsole and the other of the first outsole portion or the second outsole portion.

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, an article of footwear may include an upper and a sole structure coupled to the upper. The sole structure may extend through a forefoot region, a midfoot region, and a heel region of the article of footwear. The sole structure may include a midsole, an outsole coupled to a bottom surface of the midsole, and a stabilizing member. The stabilizing member may wrap around the midsole from a first distal end at a medial side of a forefoot region of the outsole, through a lateral side of the midsole at a midfoot region, and up along the lateral side of the midsole from the midfoot region to a heel region to continue wrapping around a perimeter of the heel region to terminate at a second distal end on the medial side within the midfoot region.

In some embodiments, the stabilizing member may be coupled to at least one of the midsole or the upper as it wraps around the perimeter of the heel region. In some cases, the sole structure may further include an outsole coupled to a bottom surface of the midsole. The outsole may include a first outsole portion and a second outsole portion separated by a stabilizing member. The stabilizing member may include a flange secured between the outsole and midsole. The outsole and the first end of the stabilizing member together may form a ground-engaging surface of the article of footwear.

In some embodiments, the outer surface of the stabilizing member may include a plurality of substantially parallel ridges that may extend along the length of the stabilizing member from the first distal end to the second distal end. In some cases, the first distal end of the stabilizing member may be coupled to at least one of a medial side of the midsole or the upper in a forefoot region. In some cases, the stabilizing member may be at least partially disposed within a channel formed in the midsole.

In accordance with yet another aspect of the present disclosure, an article of footwear may include an upper and a sole structure coupled to the upper. The sole structure may extend through a forefoot region, a midfoot region, and a heel region of the article of footwear. The sole structure may include a midsole and a stabilizing member, which may include a first end and a second end. The first end portion may be positioned along a bottom surface of the midsole and may include a first sub-portion extending along a medial side of the midsole in a forefoot region and a second sub-portion extending through the bottom surface from a medial side to a lateral side of the midsole in a midfoot region. The second end may extend upwardly from the first portion and onto a lateral side of the midsole in the midfoot region. The second end may continue to extend rearward along the lateral side of the midsole and may wrap around the heel end of the midsole to extend onto the medial side of the midsole.

In some embodiments, a stabilizing member may be coupled to each of the midsole and the upper in at least one of the forefoot region or the heel region.

Other aspects of the articles of footwear described herein, including features and advantages thereof, will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon review of the drawings and detailed description herein. Accordingly, all such aspects of the article of footwear are intended to be included in the detailed description and summary of the invention.

Drawings

FIG. 1 is a lateral side view of an article of footwear including an upper and a sole structure as disclosed herein;

FIG. 2 is a medial side view of the article of footwear of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a bottom view of the article of footwear of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a lateral side view of another example of an article of footwear similar to FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a medial side view of the article of footwear of FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is a top view of yet another article of footwear similar to the article of footwear of FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 is a bottom, lateral, isometric view of the article of footwear of FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 is a bottom medial isometric view of another article of footwear similar to the article of footwear of FIG. 1;

FIG. 9 is a bottom medial isometric view of yet another article of footwear similar to the article of footwear of FIG. 1;

FIG. 10 is a bottom view of another embodiment of a sole structure according to aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 11 is a lateral side view of the sole structure of FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is a medial side view of the sole structure of FIG. 10;

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure taken along line A-A of FIG. 10; and

FIG. 14 is a lateral side view, similar to FIG. 1, of another example of an article of footwear.

Detailed Description

The following discussion and accompanying figures disclose various embodiments or configurations of footwear having an upper and a sole structure. Although the embodiments are disclosed with reference to athletic shoes, such as running shoes, tennis shoes, basketball shoes, etc., the concepts associated with the embodiments of the shoes may be applied to a wide variety of footwear and footwear types, including basketball shoes, cross-training shoes, football shoes, golf shoes, hiking boots, ski boots and snowboard boots, soccer shoes and cleats, walking shoes, and athletic cleats, for example. The footwear concept may also be applied to articles of footwear that are considered to be non-athletic, including dress shoes, sandals, blessing shoes, slippers, and high-heeled shoes.

As used herein, the term "about" refers to numerical variations that may occur, for example, due to inadvertent errors in typical measurement and manufacturing procedures for articles of footwear or other articles of manufacture that may include embodiments disclosed herein; there are differences in the manufacture, source or purity of the ingredients used to prepare the composition or mixture; or differences in the implementation, etc. Throughout this disclosure, the terms "about" and "approximately" refer to a range of + -5% of the numerical value following the term.

Also as used herein, unless otherwise limited or defined, "or" indicates a non-exclusive list of components or operations that may be present in any of various combinations, and not an exclusive list of components that may exist as alternatives to one another. For example, the list of "A, B or C" indicates the options: a, A is as follows; b, a step of preparing a composite material; c, performing operation; a and B; a and C; b and C; and A, B and C. Accordingly, the term "or" as used herein is intended to indicate exclusive alternatives, such as "or", "one of", "only one of", or "exactly one of", only when prior to the exclusive term. For example, the list of "one of A, B or C" indicates the option: a, but not B and C; b, but not a and C; and C, but not A and B. The list preceded by "one or more" (and variants thereof) and including "or" to separate listed elements indicates an option for one or more of any or all of the listed elements. For example, the phrases "one or more of A, B or C" and "at least one of A, B or C" indicate the following options: one or more a; one or more B; one or more C; one or more a and one or more B; one or more B and one or more C; one or more a and one or more C; and one or more a, one or more B and one or more C; similarly, the list preceded by "a plurality" (and variations thereof) and including "or" indicates the option of multiple instances of any or all of the listed elements in the list of separately listed elements. For example, the phrases "a plurality A, B or C" and "two or more of A, B or C" indicate the following options: a and B; b and C; a and C; and A, B and C.

Furthermore, as used herein, directional terms are used to facilitate discussion with reference to particular drawings or examples unless otherwise defined or limited. For example, references to "downward" or other directions, or "lower" or other locations, may be used to discuss aspects of a particular example or drawing, but similar orientations or geometries are not necessarily required in all installations or configurations.

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

The present disclosure relates to articles of footwear or particular components of articles of footwear, such as uppers, soles, or sole structures. The upper may include knitted components, woven fabrics, non-woven fabrics, leather, mesh, suede, or a combination of one or more of the foregoing. The knitted component may be made from knitted yarns, the knitted fabric may be made from knitted yarns, and the non-knitted fabric may be made from making a single non-woven web. Knitted fabrics include fabrics formed by warp knitting, weft knitting, plain knitting, circular knitting, or other suitable knitting operations. For example, the knitted fabric may have a flat knit structure, a mesh knit structure, or a rib knit structure. Woven fabrics include, but are not limited to, fabrics formed by any of a variety of weave forms, such as plain weave, twill weave, satin weave, multi-binge weave, jacquard weave, double knit, or double knit. For example, nonwoven fabrics include fabrics made by air-laying or spin-laying processes. The upper may include a variety of materials, such as a first yarn, a second yarn, or a third yarn, which may have different properties or different visual characteristics.

Furthermore, the present disclosure relates to an article of footwear having a sole structure attached to an upper. The sole structure may include a midsole, an outsole, and a stabilizing member. Each of the midsole, outsole and stabilizing member may be separate components that are connected to one another, or one or more of these elements may be integrally formed with one another. The midsole may be made of a foam material and is disposed between and connects the upper and the outsole. The midsole may cushion the impact from the foot of the user contacting the ground. An outsole may be attached to the midsole to define a sole surface of the shoe. The outsole may be made of a rubber material and is configured to contact the ground and provide traction. The outsole may include one or more portions, such as a heel portion and a forefoot portion, although the outsole may include more than two portions in different areas, or it may be a single component. The stabilizing member may be made of a rigid plastic (e.g., TPU), or other types of plastic or composite material, and is configured to increase support and guide the user's foot throughout gait. In particular, the stabilizing member may wrap around the midsole and have portions on the medial and lateral sides of the article of footwear that may help prevent rolling of the user's foot due to pronation and supination.

The stabilizing member is an elongated member that is connected with and wrapped around the midsole. The stabilizing member has an inner surface facing the article of footwear, which is configured to couple with the midsole when the sole structure is connected with the upper, and further couple with at least a portion of the upper. The stabilizing member also has an outer surface, which in some embodiments may be smooth, wavy, or have other features such as ribs. The stabilizing members may be contoured to match adjacent portions of the midsole and/or upper. Such features may be used to adjust the flexibility of the stabilizing member to be stiffer in some portions or along some directions (e.g., the length of the stabilizing member), and they may add to the ornamental nature of the stabilizing member. Further, the stabilizing members may have generally smooth and curvilinear, undulating, zig-zag, or otherwise undulating edges. Portions of the stabilizing member, such as those adjacent the bottom surface, may have one or more flanges extending therefrom. A flange may be disposed between the midsole and the outsole to help secure the stabilizing member to the sole structure.

As described above, the stabilizing member wraps around the midsole. In particular, the stabilizing member may define a first distal end in a forefoot region proximate the medial side. The first distal end may be located near the bottom surface of the sole structure, or it may extend partially onto the side of the midsole or upper. The stabilizing members may extend rearwardly along a bottom surface of the sole structure proximate the medial side and may pass through to the lateral side. Upon reaching the lateral side, the stabilizing member may wrap up and rearward along the lateral side of the midsole and toward the heel region. The stabilizing member may extend over the midsole in the heel region such that it is connected with the upper. The stabilizing member may also wrap around the periphery of the heel region from lateral side to medial side, extend forward, and terminate adjacent the second distal end of the midfoot region. In the heel region, the stabilizing member may be configured to connect with both the midsole and the upper over at least a portion of its length.

Figures 1-3 depict a first exemplary embodiment of an article of footwear 100 that includes an upper 102 and a sole structure 104. As will be discussed in greater detail below, upper 102 is attached to sole structure 104 and, together with sole structure 104, defines an interior cavity 106 into which a user's foot may be inserted. Upper 102 may also include an insole (not shown) positioned within interior cavity 106, which may be coupled to an interior surface (not shown) of article of footwear 100. The inner surface may directly contact the user's foot when the shoe is worn. Sole structure 104 includes a midsole 108, an outsole 110 that defines a bottom surface 112 (e.g., a ground-engaging surface) of article of footwear 100, and a stabilizing member 114. In some embodiments, the outsole may not be included and the bottom of the midsole may define the ground-engaging surface.

For reference, article of footwear 100 also defines a lateral side 116 (i.e., a first side of article of footwear 100, see FIG. 1) and a medial side 118 (i.e., a second side of article of footwear 100, see FIG. 2). For reference, article of footwear 100 defines a longitudinal plane 120 (see FIG. 3) extending from a toe end 122 located at a distal end of forefoot region 126 to a heel end 124 located at a distal end of a heel region opposite toe end 122. Longitudinal plane 120 defines a medial portion of article of footwear 100, with lateral side 116 extending from one side of longitudinal plane 120 and medial side 118 extending from the other side. In other words, the outer side 116 and the inner side 118 abut each other along the longitudinal plane 120. In particular, lateral side 116 corresponds with a lateral portion of article of footwear 100 and medial side 118 corresponds with a medial portion of article of footwear 100 with respect to a user's foot. As such, the left and right articles of footwear have opposite lateral sides 116 and medial sides 118 such that the medial sides 118 are closest to each other when the user wears the article of footwear 100, and the lateral sides 116 are defined as the sides that are furthest from each other when worn.

Referring to fig. 3, article of footwear 100 also defines a forefoot region 126, a midfoot region 130, and a heel region 134, which are shown separated by an imaginary line intersecting longitudinal plane 120. Forefoot region 126 generally corresponds with portions of article of footwear 100 surrounding the foot including the toes, the ball of the foot, and the joints connecting the metatarsals with the toes or phalanges. Midfoot region 130 is adjacent to and abuts forefoot region 126 and generally corresponds with the portion of article of footwear 100 surrounding the arch and the foot bridge. Heel region 134 is adjacent to and abuts midfoot region 130 and generally corresponds with the portion of article of footwear 100 surrounding the rear of the foot, including the heel or calcaneus bone, ankle, or achilles tendon.

Still referring to fig. 3, forefoot region 126, midfoot region 130, heel region 134, medial side 118, and lateral side 116 are intended to define boundaries or regions of article of footwear 100 and collectively span the entire length of article of footwear 100 from toe end 122 to heel end 124. It should be understood that aspects of the present disclosure may refer to portions or elements that are coextensive with one or more of forefoot region 126, midfoot region 130, heel region 134, medial side 118, and lateral side 116. Forefoot region 126 extends from toe end 122 to a widest portion 137a of article of footwear 100 (i.e., the distance between medial side 118 and lateral side 116 of sole structure 104). Midfoot region 130 extends from a widest portion 137a to a narrowest portion 137b of article of footwear 100 (i.e., the distance between medial side 118 and lateral side 116 of sole structure 104). Heel region 134 extends from narrowest portion 137b of article of footwear 100 to heel end 124.

Referring to fig. 1 and 3, lateral side 116 begins where toe end 122 intersects longitudinal plane 120 and curves outwardly (i.e., away from longitudinal plane 120) along forefoot region 126 toward midfoot region 130. At widest portion 137a, lateral side 116 curves inward (i.e., toward longitudinal plane 120) toward narrowest portion 137b into midfoot region 130. Upon reaching narrowest portion 137b, lateral side 116 flexes outwardly and extends into heel region 134. Lateral side 116 then curves back inward toward heel end 124 and terminates where heel end 124 intersects longitudinal plane 120.

Referring to fig. 2 and 3, medial side 118 begins where toe end 122 intersects longitudinal plane 120 and curves outwardly (i.e., away from longitudinal plane 120) along forefoot region 126 toward midfoot region 130. At widest portion 137a, medial side 118 curves inward (i.e., toward longitudinal plane 120) toward narrowest portion 137b into midfoot region 130. Upon reaching narrowest portion 137b, medial side 118 flexes outwardly and extends into heel region 134. Medial side 118 then curves back inward toward heel end 124 and terminates where heel end 124 intersects longitudinal plane 120.

It should be appreciated that many modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the foregoing description, and that individual components thereof may be incorporated into many articles of footwear. Accordingly, aspects of article of footwear 100 and components thereof may be described with reference to general areas or portions of article of footwear 100, with the understanding that the boundaries of forefoot region 126, midfoot region 130, heel region 134, lateral side 116, and/or medial side 118, as described herein, may vary between articles of footwear. Further, aspects of article of footwear 100 and individual components thereof may also be described with reference to an exact region or portion of article of footwear 100, and the scope of the claims appended hereto may include limitations associated with these boundaries of forefoot region 126, midfoot region 130, heel region 134, lateral side 116, and/or medial side 118 discussed herein.

As shown in fig. 1 and 2, upper 102 is disposed above and coupled to sole structure 104. Upper 102 is made from a single piece of mesh material that extends integrally along each of medial side 118 and lateral side 116, including on top of forefoot region 126 and around heel region 134. While upper 102 is depicted and described as a single-piece upper 102, upper 102 may be formed from other materials or structures. For example, many conventional uppers are formed from multiple elements (e.g., fabrics, polymer foams, polymer sheets, leather, and synthetic leather) that are joined by bonding or stitching at seams. In various embodiments, the knitted component may incorporate various types of yarns that may provide different characteristics to the upper. In some embodiments, the upper may incorporate multiple layers of different materials, each layer having different characteristics, such as increased breathability or hygroscopicity.

With continued reference to fig. 1 and 2, a number of other features may be attached or coupled to the upper to provide or enhance certain characteristics of upper 102. For example, tongue 138 is shown attached to upper 102. Tongue 138 includes a lining and foam pad (not shown) to increase comfort. However, in some embodiments, tongue 138 may not be a separate component, but may be integral with upper 102. In addition, upper 102 also includes a tensioning system 140 that allows the user to adjust upper 102 to fit the user's foot. As shown in fig. 1 and 2, tensioning system 140 includes a lace 142 that extends through midfoot region 130 and forefoot region 126 of upper 102. In addition, upper 102 is configured with apertures or other structures (not shown) to allow lace 142 to be tightened. TPU shell 144 may extend through tensioning system 140 to provide better structural integrity to upper 102 at various stress points. In further embodiments, the tensioning system 140 may be another lacing-free fastening system known in the art.

With continued reference to fig. 1 and 2, the tpu housing 144 is applied to the outer surface of the upper. TPU shell 144 may extend anywhere along upper 102, including heel region 134, midfoot region 130, and forefoot region 126. The TPU shell 144 may include a number of different portions and may be included on the lateral side 116 and the medial side 118 of the upper. For example, in this embodiment, each of lateral side 116 and medial side 118 of upper 102 includes two portions of TPU shell 144. TPU shell 144 may help support the user's foot by imparting different characteristics to upper 102, for example, in areas of less flexibility or less stretch. In addition, TPU shell 144 may be applied to areas of upper 102 that are subject to high stress or friction from other components, such as, for example, areas where lace 142 is attached to upper 102.

The TPU housing 144 may be a single piece TPU or a multi-piece TPU. For example, as best shown in fig. 1, lateral side 116 of upper 102 includes a first TPU housing portion 144A and a second TPU housing portion 144B. The first TPU housing portion 144A has an inverted V-shape extending along lateral side 116 of upper 102. More specifically, first TPU portion 144A has a first arm 146A that extends diagonally along tongue 138 and receives a portion of lace 142, and a second arm 146B that extends diagonally downward and rearward away from tongue 138 toward sole structure 104 (i.e., where upper 102 and midsole 108 are joined) and heel end 124. The second TPU portion 144B has a rounded shape and is positioned forward of the first TPU portion 146A to receive the remainder of the lace 142 on the lateral side 116.

Similarly, as best shown in FIG. 2, medial side 118 of upper 102 includes a third TPU shell portion 144C and a fourth TPU shell portion 144D. The third TPU shell portion 144C is similar to the second arm 146B of the first TPU shell portion 144A and extends downward and rearward away from the tongue 138 toward the sole structure 104 (i.e., where the upper 102 and midsole 108 are joined) and the heel end 124. A third TPU shell portion 144C receives a portion of lace 142 on medial side 118 of upper 102. The fourth TPU housing portion 144D has a V shape with a first arm 146C and a second arm 146D. The first arm 146C of the fourth TPU shell portion 144D extends downwardly and rearwardly away from the tongue 138 toward the sole structure 104 (i.e., where the upper 102 and midsole 108 are joined) and the heel region 134. The second arm 146D of the fourth TPU housing portion 144D is curvilinear and extends generally forward toward the toe end 122. Each of the first arm 146C and the second arm 146D of the fourth TPU housing portion 144D receives a portion of the lace 142 on the medial side 118.

Referring again to fig. 1 and 2, upper 102 is coupled to sole structure 104. Sole structure 104 extends between upper 102 and the ground and includes midsole 108, outsole 110, and stabilizing member 114. Upper 102 and midsole 108 may be joined together by an adhesive. In addition, upper 102 is also attached to stabilizing member 114 in heel region 134 by an adhesive. Sole structure 104 may also include one or more other components, which may include a lasting board, a plate, or a strobel board (not shown). Midsole 108 is defined as the portion of sole structure 104 that extends between and connects upper 102 and outsole 110. Midsole 108 acts as a cushion to absorb shock caused by the user's foot striking the ground, and may include thicker areas to provide enhanced cushioning. For example, as shown in fig. 1 and 2, the midsole is thicker where the user's foot first impacts the heel region 134 of the ground.

In this embodiment, midsole 108 extends through forefoot region 126, midfoot region 130, and heel region 134 from toe end 122 to heel end 124. Midsole 108 is made of a foam material, such as TPU foam, EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) or other thermoplastic polymeric material, such as thermoplastic polyurethane, polyolefin elastomer, ethylene vinyl acetate or mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, a portion of midsole 108 or midsole 108 may include beads or pellets that include a granular foam such as eTPU or eTPE-E. Further, midsole 108 may be a dual density or multi-density foam.

As best shown in fig. 3, midsole 108 of this embodiment is a dual density foam. In particular, first midsole member 148, including soft EVA foam, may be disposed at least in heel region 134 to provide greater shock absorbing capacity. Conversely, a second midsole member 150 comprising a denser, stiffer EVA foam may be provided in at least forefoot region 126 to aid in toe-off, or to provide greater stability to forefoot region 126 and other regions of sole structure 104, such as midfoot region 130 and heel region 134. However, the use of different types of foam (including, for example, nitrogen-infused foam) is not limited to these fields. Conversely, to achieve the desired cushioning characteristics, various foams may be included in any of forefoot region 126, midfoot region 130, and heel region 134. Additionally, the various foams may be layered, or pockets or cavities of different types of materials may be present within midsole 108.

In other aspects, midsole 108 may include various textures on the sides of midsole 108, which may add aesthetic elements to article of footwear 100. For example, as shown in fig. 1 and 2, midsole 108 has a texture 152 that is laser etched into midsole 108. Texture 152 is etched into the sides of midsole 108 along medial side 118 and lateral side 116 and extends through forefoot region 126, midfoot region 130, and heel region 134. Texture 152 may also increase the aesthetic appeal of the shoe. Or other methods known in the art, such as UV (ultraviolet) printing, may be used to create various textures or other decorative elements.

As shown in FIG. 3, the outsole 110 is attached to and disposed below the midsole 108 and extends substantially across the lower surface of the midsole 108. Outsole 110 defines a bottom surface 112 of the sole structure and is configured to at least partially contact the ground. Additionally, outsole 110 increases the structural integrity of sole structure 104 and provides traction to the user. As shown, the outsole 110 is formed of two parts, a first outsole portion 110a and a second outsole portion 110b, separated by a stabilizing member 114. Thus, the bottom surface 112 of the outsole 110 is discontinuous. Here, first outer sole member 110a extends from heel end 124 and into midfoot region 130, and second outer sole portion 110b extends from toe end 122 and into midfoot region 130. However, the outsole 110 may also be formed as a single unitary body, or as any number of separate portions. The outsole 110 is integrally formed or co-molded with the midsole 108, but the outsole 110 may alternatively be attached to the midsole 108 by glue or other adhesive. In addition, the outsole 110 is integrally formed or co-molded with the stabilizing members 114. In some embodiments, the outsole 110 may also be connected to the stabilizing member 114 by glue or other adhesive, or it may not be connected to the stabilizing member 114 at all.

With continued reference to fig. 3, sole structure 104 may include one or more recesses. As shown in fig. 3, a first recess 156 is provided in heel region 134 and a second recess 158 is provided in forefoot region 126. Recesses 156 and 158 extend through outsole 110 and into midsole 108 such that first midsole member 148 and second midsole member 150 are visible from the bottom of sole structure 104. Although sole structure 104 is shown with two recesses 156 and 158, in some embodiments, more or fewer recesses may be provided. Further, while this embodiment includes recesses 158 and 156 in forefoot region 126 and heel region 134, respectively, more or fewer recesses may be included anywhere within each of forefoot region 126, midfoot region 130, and heel region 134. Although in the present embodiment, the recesses 156, 158 intersect the longitudinal plane 120, the recesses 156, 158 may also be biased toward either the lateral side 116 or the medial side 118.

Referring to fig. 1-3, sole structure 104 includes grooves 160 (e.g., curved grooves) along bottom surface 112 that may increase the flexibility of sole structure 104 and provide increased traction. Sipe 160 defines a gap within sole structure 104. In some embodiments, grooves 160 may be replaced with other traction structures, such as ribs or tread patterns. In this embodiment, sole structure 104 is provided with a first or inner set of sipes 160a and a second or peripheral set of sipes 160b. As shown, all of the grooves in the first set of grooves 160a are shallower than all of the grooves in the second set of grooves 160b, but this may not always be the case. In other words, the maximum depth of all grooves of the first set of grooves 160a is less than the maximum depth of all grooves of the second set of grooves 160b, wherein the respective depths are taken in a direction perpendicular to the bottom surface 112 at the respective grooves of each of the first set of grooves 160a and the second set of grooves 160b. In some embodiments, the maximum depth of the first set of grooves 160a may be greater than or equal to the maximum depth of the second set of grooves 160b. In some embodiments, only some of the grooves of the first set of grooves 160a have a maximum depth that is less than the maximum depth of all of the grooves of the second set of grooves 160b, and vice versa.

With particular reference to FIG. 3, the grooves of the first set of grooves 160a are elongated recesses that are each disposed within the outsole 110. Some of the grooves in the first set of grooves 160a are curved and some of the grooves in the first set of grooves 160a are straight; however, all of the grooves within the first set of grooves 160a extend at least partially within the outsole 110. In this embodiment, the grooves in the first set of grooves 160a are disposed entirely within the outsole 110 such that each groove in the first set of grooves 160a does not extend to the outer periphery of the outsole 110, but is visible only from the bottom of the article of footwear 100.

Referring again to fig. 1-3, grooves of the second set of grooves 160b are disposed along the periphery of the outsole 110 and extend into the midsole 108. That is, the grooves within the second set of grooves 160b each have at least one open end located at the periphery of the midsole 108 along either the medial side 118 or the lateral side 116. The grooves in the second set of grooves 160b may be straight or curved. In addition, the grooves of the second set of grooves 160b have different depths. In particular, the grooves of second set of grooves 160b are deeper at the edge of sole structure 104. In other words, the depth of the second set of grooves 160b increases along their length as they extend outwardly toward their respective outer side 116 or inner side 118. In addition, the outsole 110 has a plurality of fingers 166 extending between at least some of the second set of grooves 160 b. To this end, at least some of first set of sipes 160a may be aligned with at least some of second set of sipes 160b such that first set of sipes 160a and second set of sipes 160b together form a row that extends in a generally lateral direction between lateral side 116 and medial side 118 of the sole structure. For example, in heel region 134, first set of grooves 160a and second set of grooves 160b form a substantially arcuate row that projects toward heel end 124 of article of footwear 100.

In some embodiments, the grooves of second set of grooves 160b may be arranged to vary the width of fingers 166 (e.g., the size between adjacent grooves) depending on the particular location of fingers 166 on sole structure 104. For example, in heel region 134, and more specifically, along lateral side 116 of heel region 134, the grooves of second set of grooves 160b are angled relative to each other such that the width of fingers 166 decreases as one moves laterally outward to lateral side 116. Conversely, along medial side 118 of midfoot region 130, the grooves of second set of grooves 160b are angled relative to each other such that the width of fingers 166 increases as one moves laterally outward to medial side 118. Further, fingers 166 generally become wider along medial side 118 from midfoot region 130 to heel region 134, and generally become narrower (i.e., reduced in width) along lateral side 116 from forefoot region 126 to heel region 134.

With continued reference to fig. 1-3, sole structure 104 also includes a stabilizing member 114. The stabilizing member 114 is an elongated member that wraps at least partially around the outsole 110 and midsole 108. As shown, the stabilizing member 114 is a unitary body made of a thermoplastic material (e.g., TPU). In some embodiments, the stabilizing member 114 is made of translucent TPU or other translucent material. Further, the stabilizing member 114 may comprise two or more materials that may have different characteristics. For example, in some embodiments, the stabilizing member 114 may include a portion made of TPU and another portion including a composite material, which may be integrally formed or connected to one another.

The stabilizing members 114 may help guide the user's foot as it moves and provide support to the user's foot as it contacts the ground. In particular, the stabilizing members 114 may help prevent or reduce rolling of the foot or ankle that is typical of a user's particular gait. This allows a user suffering from pronation and supination to achieve a more neutral gait and may reduce the likelihood of injury. For example, a user who pronates or supinates during his normal gait may be prone to ankle, knee or other injuries because these areas of the body must compensate for the rolling of the foot. By supporting the foot, the chances of injury may be reduced. In addition, the inclusion of stabilizing members 114 may increase the visual appeal of the footwear and allow the user to see how the footwear is designed to be supportive by providing a strong visual element.

Still referring to fig. 1-3, stabilizing member 114 is an elongated member that wraps around midsole 108 to provide support to medial side 118 and lateral side 116 of sole structure 104. The stabilizing member 114 has an inner surface (e.g., see inner surface 668 in fig. 13) that faces toward the article of footwear 100 and an outer surface 170 that faces away from the article of footwear 100. In some embodiments, stabilization member 114 may be at least partially disposed within a channel formed in midsole 108 (e.g., see channel 608a in fig. 13). An inner surface of stabilization member 114 is configured to be coupled to the bottom of midsole 108 in forefoot region 126 and midfoot region 130, and to be coupled to midsole 108 and upper 102 in heel region 134. However, in some embodiments, stabilization member 114 may also be coupled to the sides of midsole 108 or upper 102 in forefoot region 126 and midfoot region 130. With respect to midsole 108, stabilization member 114 may be co-molded with midsole 108 or adhered to midsole 108 by glue or other adhesive.

With particular reference to fig. 3, the stabilizing member 114 may include one or more flanges 172, shown by dashed lines, that extend at least partially along and parallel to the length of the stabilizing member 114. As used herein, the length of the stabilizing member 114 is the dimension taken along the centerline 181 of the stabilizing member 114 extending from the first distal end 178 to the second distal end 180. The flange 172 extends substantially perpendicularly from the edge of the stabilizing member 114. Accordingly, the flange 172 may increase the local width (e.g., a dimension taken substantially perpendicular to the length) of the stabilizing member 114. Flange 172 is located in forefoot region 126 and midfoot region 130 and allows for a greater contact area between midsole 108 and the inner surface of stabilizing member 114 to ensure a strong bond therebetween. By including the flange 172, the outsole 110 may be adhered to or co-molded on top of the flange 172, providing a stronger bond. In some embodiments, each of the outsole 110 and the stabilizing member 114 has a thickness that is the same as or substantially corresponds to each other (e.g., a dimension taken along a direction perpendicular to the bottom surface 112 and substantially perpendicular to the length and width of the stabilizing member 114) such that the outsole 110 and the stabilizing member 114 form a flat or continuous bottom surface 112 of the sole structure 104. For example, the outsole 110 may protrude beyond 10% of the thickness of the stabilizing member 114, and vice versa.

Referring again to fig. 1-3, the thickness of the stabilizing member 114 may vary throughout its length such that some portions of the stabilizing member 114 are stiffer or more flexible than other portions. This allows the article of footwear 100 to have areas that provide increased support while maintaining sufficient flexibility. Further, the outer surface 170 of the stabilizing member 114 may be substantially flat, as shown in fig. 1-3, or the outer surface 170 may be wave-shaped, or have ribs or ridges. In some embodiments, the undulating shape, ribs, or ridges may extend along substantially the entire length of the stabilizing member 114, or substantially perpendicular to the length of the stabilizing member 114. In some embodiments, the wave shape and/or ribs may be curved.

With continued reference to fig. 1 and 3, the stabilizing member 114 defines a first end or bottom 174 and a second end or upper 176 that are connected at a corner or inflection point 175. As shown, the first end 174 extends generally diagonally across the bottom surface 112 from the medial side 118 to the lateral side 116. The second portion 176 extends upward from the first end 174 at an inflection point 175 and wraps along the lateral side 116 of the midsole 108 and around at least a portion of the periphery of the heel region 134, back to the medial side 118. In some embodiments, the stabilizing member 114 may be substantially mirrored about the longitudinal plane 120 such that the first end 174 extends generally diagonally across the bottom surface 112 from the lateral side 116 to the medial side 118. Accordingly, the second portion 176 may extend upward from the first end 174 at an inflection point 175 to wrap along the medial side 118 of the midsole 108 and around at least a portion of the periphery of the heel region 134, back to the lateral side 116. In either case, stabilizing member 114 may extend above midsole 108 in heel region 134, thereby forming the highest portion of sole structure 104. Further, while inflection point 175 is located in midfoot region 130, it may also be located within either forefoot region 126 or heel region 134 to selectively increase support in those regions.

With continued reference to fig. 1-3, the first end 174 is associated with a portion of the stabilizing member 114 beginning at the toe end 122 of the forefoot region 126 and extending generally rearward along the bottom surface 112 from the medial side 118 of the forefoot region 126 to the lateral side 116 of the midfoot region 130. Second end 176 is associated with a portion of stabilization member 114 that extends upward along lateral side 116 of midsole 108 at midfoot region 130 and extends around the periphery of heel region 134 to medial side 118. Thus, the second end 176 may be the heel of the stabilizing member 114. In some embodiments, first end 174 may extend rearward along bottom surface 112 and into heel region 134 such that second end 176 begins on lateral side 116 of heel region 134. Alternatively, first end 174 may extend rearward along bottom surface 112 such that second end 176 begins on lateral side 116 of forefoot region 126.

Referring to fig. 3, the stabilizing member 114 further defines a first distal end 178 of the first end 174. A first distal end 178 is disposed along the bottom surface 112 at the toe end 122, proximate the medial side 118 of the forefoot region 126, and connected to the midsole 108. In some embodiments, distal end 178 may be coupled to midsole 108 and/or a portion of a side of upper 102. From first distal end 178, first end 174 (e.g., first subsection 174 a) extends rearward along medial side 118 of forefoot region 126 and in a heel-to-toe general direction to midfoot region 130. That is, first subsection 174a extends in a toe-to-heel direction from toe end 122 toward midfoot region 130. In some cases, as first end 174 approaches midfoot region 130, first end 174 (e.g., second sub-portion 174 b) may begin to extend toward lateral side 116.

As a result, medial side 118 of forefoot region 134 is provided with greater stability, while lateral side 116 of forefoot region 134 is provided with greater flexibility, which may help reduce or prevent pronation. First end 174 then continues to extend from medial side 118 to lateral side 116 of midfoot region 130. First end 174 extends generally diagonally across bottom surface 112 from a medial side of a midfoot portion of midfoot region 130 to a lateral side of a heel portion of midfoot region 130. That is, first end 174 extends generally toward heel region 134 from medial side 118 to lateral side 116. It should be appreciated that the stabilizing members 114 may include straight and curved portions and still be considered to extend diagonally across the bottom surface 112.

Although first end 174 is shown disposed along or adjacent to bottom surface 112, in some embodiments, at least a portion of stabilization member 114, particularly at distal end 178, may extend upward along medial side 118 of forefoot region 126 such that stabilization member 114 extends onto a side of midsole 108 and/or upper 102. In addition, because at least a portion of the first end 174 is disposed adjacent the bottom surface 112, the stabilizing member 114 may also contact the ground, similar to the outsole 110.

Turning again to fig. 1, as stabilizing member 114 extends upwardly from bottom surface 112 at lateral side 116 of midfoot portion 130, first end 174 becomes or transitions to second end 176. Second end 176 then continues to extend upward and rearward from midfoot region 130 to heel region 134 along lateral side 116 of midsole 108. In heel region 134, second end 176 continues to extend upward and rearward toward lateral side 116 of heel region 134 such that second end 176 is at least partially disposed above midsole 108 and coupled with upper 102. At heel end 124, stabilizing member 114 remains connected to midsole 108. For example, as shown in fig. 1, stabilization member 114 may be coupled to midsole 108 at the edges or along only a small portion of the inner surface of stabilization member 114.

On the lateral side 116, the stabilizing member 114 is coupled to the midsole 108 as it extends upwardly and rearwardly from the bottom surface 112. Upon reaching heel region 134, stabilizing member 114 then extends along upper 102 and is primarily connected to upper 102, moving rearward to heel end 124. Although stabilization member 114 is primarily attached to the upper, a localized lower edge of stabilization member 114 is still attached to the upper edge of midsole 108. Subsequently, moving along medial side 118, stabilizing member 114 is tilted downward such that a progressively larger portion of stabilizing member 114 is coupled to midsole 108 moving toward midfoot region 130. For example, at second distal end 180, approximately half of the width of stabilization member 114 is coupled to upper 102, and the other half (approximately half width) of stabilization member 114 is coupled to midsole 108. Thus, the upper and lower edges each include a plurality of inflection points and a wave-like configuration. In some embodiments, stabilization member 114 may be coupled to one of upper 102 or midsole 108 at heel end 124 only. From there, second end 176 continues around the periphery of heel region 134 and spans onto medial side 118 of heel region 134 at heel end 124.

Turning again to fig. 2, second end 176 is shown extending generally forward from heel end 124, along the outer periphery of heel region 134, and into midfoot region 130. Stabilizing member 114 terminates at a second distal end 180 at second end 176 adjacent midfoot region 130. In other words, stabilizing member 114 wraps from a first distal end 178 along medial side 118 of forefoot region 126 of outsole 110, across lateral side 116 at midfoot region 134, up along lateral side 116 of midsole 108 from midfoot region 130 to heel region 134, and wraps around the periphery of heel region 134 to a second distal end 180 terminating within midfoot region 130 on medial side 118.

As shown in fig. 1 and 2, the width of stabilizing member 114 increases as it moves along lateral side 116 of midsole 108 onto upper 104 to heel end 124. Stabilizing member 114 then narrows as it moves along medial side 118 toward midfoot region 130 until it narrows to a point at second distal end 180. In addition, stabilization member 114 is shaped to follow the contours of midsole 108 and upper 102 as it extends along the sides of midsole 108 and onto upper 102. Stabilizing member 114 may be located at a highest point on upper 102 at heel end 124 and may move generally downward (i.e., toward midsole 108) obliquely along medial side 118 and lateral side 116 so as not to interfere with movement of the user's ankle. In addition, stabilization member 114 may be contoured based on the portions of upper 102 and midsole 108 to which stabilization member 114 is attached. As a result, stabilization member 114 may define contoured outer and inner surfaces that may include various inflection points, for example, near heel end 124, near the junction between upper 102 and sole structure 102 (e.g., midsole 108).

In some embodiments, stabilizing member 114 may terminate within heel region 134 to allow increased mobility, which may be preferable in some activities, such as running, where the range of motion of the user's ankle travel is large. In some embodiments, stabilizing members 114 may terminate in either midfoot region 130 or forefoot region 126 to increase support, which may be preferable in some activities, such as off-road running and/or hiking. Stabilization member 114 is coupled to both midsole 108 and upper 102 as it wraps around heel region 134. The portion of stabilization member 114 wrapped around the perimeter of heel region 134 extends onto or along upper 102 to provide additional stability and rigidity to the user.

In some embodiments, the stabilizing member may be a mirror image of the stabilizing member 114, which is mirrored with respect to the longitudinal plane 120. More specifically, the stabilizing member may wrap from the first distal end along a lateral side of a forefoot region of the outsole, through a medial side at the midfoot region, from the midfoot region to the heel region up along a medial side of the midsole, and around a periphery of the heel region to a second distal end terminating in the medial midfoot region. In such embodiments, the stabilizing members may provide greater support on the lateral side of the forefoot region and greater flexibility on the medial side of the forefoot region, which may help reduce or prevent supination. The stabilizing member may be attached to one or both of the upper and midsole as it wraps around the heel region.

Referring now to fig. 4 and 5, another exemplary embodiment of an article of footwear 200 is depicted that includes an upper 202 and a sole structure 204. Article of footwear 200 is similar to the previous embodiments, with like elements being indicated by reference numerals in the "2xx" series. Although article of footwear 200 is similar in many respects to the previous embodiments, there are a number of different aspects. In particular, tongue 238 is integral with upper 202, and upper 202 is configured to rise above the ankle of the user to increase support from upper 202. In addition, a set of grooves 260 extend deeper into midsole 208 at lateral side 216 and medial side 218 (i.e., a depth taken at the respective groove 260 in a direction perpendicular to bottom surface 212). Deeper grooves 260 may further enhance traction and flexibility of sole structure 204. In addition, stabilizing member 214 includes a rib 282 extending from first end 274 to second end 276. A rib 282 is also provided in second end 276 on medial side 218 of heel region 234. In addition, stabilizing members 214 are partially disposed within channels 208a formed in midsole 208. By recessing stabilizing member 214 into channel 208a, stabilizing member 214 may be more securely attached to midsole 208 along portions of stabilizing member 214 that do not include a flange.

Referring now to fig. 6 and 7, yet another exemplary embodiment of an article of footwear 300 is shown that includes an upper 302 and a sole structure 304. Article of footwear 300 is similar to the previous embodiments, with like elements being indicated by reference numerals in the "3xx" series. Although article of footwear 300 is similar in many respects to the previous embodiments, there are a number of different aspects. In particular, upper 302 is a two-piece upper that is coupled to sole structure 304. In addition, upper 302 has an integral tongue 338 and does not include a tensioning system or TPU shell. Referring to sole structure 304, outsole 310 defines a bottom surface 312 of article of footwear 300 and is integral with midsole 308. No grooves are present in either midsole 308 or outsole 310. Conversely, outsole 310, including first outsole portion 310a and second outsole portion 310b, is provided with a plurality of triangular-shaped ridges 384 that extend perpendicular to longitudinal plane 320 that extends through footwear 300 from toe end 322 at a distal end of forefoot region 326 to heel end 324 at a distal end of heel region 334 opposite toe end 322. In addition, no texture is etched on the sides of midsole 308.

With continued reference to fig. 6 and 7, similar to the previous embodiments, the stabilizing members 314 wrap around and are embedded in the midsole 308 and outsole 310. That is, the stabilizing member 314 is at least partially disposed within a channel 308a in the midsole 308 and outsole 310 that is configured to receive the stabilizing member 314. First end 374 of stabilizing member 314 extends along the sides of midsole 308 and upper 302 at a first distal end 378, which is disposed on medial side 318 of forefoot region 326. In addition, the stabilizing member 314 is provided with a plurality of ridges 382 disposed across the entire outer surface 370 of the stabilizing member 314. Some of the ridges 382 are curved and/or concentric with one another, while other ridges are generally straight.

Referring now to FIG. 8, another exemplary embodiment of an article of footwear 400 is shown that includes an upper 402 and a sole structure 404. Article of footwear 400 is similar to the previous embodiments, with like elements being indicated by a "4xx" series of reference numbers. Upper 402 is lace-free and sole structure 404 is made from a plurality of expanded thermoplastic beads that are co-molded together to form a unitary structure. In some embodiments, the thermoplastic beads may be co-molded with the adhesive. In addition, a plurality of grooves 460 are provided in the bottom surface 412 of the outsole 410 (e.g., on each of the first outsole portion 410a and the second outsole portion 410 b). The groove 460 extends perpendicular to the longitudinal plane 420 that extends through the shoe 400 and from the heel end 442 to the toe end 422. In addition, sole structure 404 includes two elongated recesses, namely a first recess 456 and a second recess 458. First recess 456 is disposed in heel region 434 of sole structure 404 proximate medial side 418. Second recess 458 extends through midfoot region 430 and forefoot region 426 of sole structure 404.

With continued reference to fig. 8, sole structure 404 includes stabilizing member 414, wherein a portion of first end 474 (e.g., first subsection 474 a) extends upward onto medial side 418 of forefoot region 430 and connects with upper 402, and first distal end 478 is coupled to upper 402. The outer surface 470 of the stabilizing member has a plurality of curved ribs 482. Some of the ribs 482 are disposed in the first end 474 while other ribs 482 extend from the first end 474 to the second end 476. For example, the ribs 482 include a first set of ribs 482a along the inner side 418 of the first end 474. The ribs within the first set of ribs 482a are arranged in an elongated spiral and extend onto the portion of the stabilizing member 414 that is coupled to the inner side 418 of the midsole 408. In addition, ribs within the first set of ribs 482a extend along the outer side 418 of the first end 474 onto the second end 476. Similar to the first set of ribs 482a, the ribs within the second set of ribs 482b are also arranged in an elongated spiral. In some embodiments, the ribs 482 may be arranged differently, e.g., in concentric ellipses, which may be shaped according to the profile of the stabilizing member 414.

In addition, the width of stabilizing member 414 (e.g., second sub-portion 474b of first end 474) varies along its length, moving from first distal end 478 to second distal end 480. In particular, as stabilizing component 414 diagonally passes from outer side 416 to inner side 418 along bottom surface 412, its width increases. Because stabilizing member 414 is wider along lateral side 416, it may provide increased support for a user supinating or flipping his foot to lateral side 416. Further, because stabilizing member 414 remains wider throughout second end 476, stabilizing member 414 may provide greater support in heel region 434.

Referring now to FIG. 9, another exemplary embodiment of an article of footwear 500 is shown that includes an upper 502 and a sole structure 504. Article of footwear 500 is similar to the previous embodiment, with like elements indicated by reference numerals in the "5xx" series. Although article of footwear 500 is similar in many respects to the previous embodiments, there are a number of different aspects. In particular, upper 502 is a strapless upper, and the sole structure includes an outsole 510 having a plurality of curved grooves 560 in forefoot region 526, midfoot region 530, and heel region 534. Thus, a curvilinear groove 560 is provided on each of the first outsole portion 510a and the second outsole portion 510 b. In addition, the stabilizing member 514 has a plurality of ribs 582 that are perpendicular to the length of the stabilizing member 514. That is, the rib 582 is perpendicular to a midline 584 extending from the first distal end 578 to the second distal end 580. In some embodiments, the ribs 582 may be perpendicular to the length of the article of footwear 500, or the ribs 582 may be oriented in multiple directions.

With continued reference to fig. 9, the width of the stabilizing member 514 varies along its length. A first end 574 (e.g., first subsection 574 a) of the stabilizing member 514 widens from a first distal end 576 to a widest portion 537a of the article of footwear 500 as it extends toward the medial side 518 of the forefoot region 526. A portion of stabilizing member 514 extends onto upper 502 in forefoot region 526. Extending from the widest portion 537a of the article of footwear 500, a first end 574 (e.g., a second sub-portion 574 b) of the stabilizing member 514 is curved toward a longitudinal plane 520 extending through the footwear 500, intersecting the longitudinal plane 520 at a thinnest portion 537b of the article of footwear 500. In so doing, the stabilizing member 514 also thins to its thinnest portion that coincides with the thinnest portion 537b of the article of footwear 500.

The stabilizing members 514 continue along the bottom surface 512 of the article of footwear 500 to the lateral side 516 in the heel region 534, proximate the heel end 524. At this point, the stabilizing member 514 is bent upward to a second end 576 at an inflection point 575 and wraps around the periphery of the heel region 534 to a second distal end 580 on the medial side 518 of the heel region 534. The stabilizing member 514 includes a downward curvature along the medial side 518 of the heel region 534, forming a U-shape that allows more room for the user's ankle. By allowing more space around the user's ankle, the article of footwear 500 may allow for greater or unrestricted ankle mobility, which may be advantageous, for example, when running. In addition, providing more space around the ankle may result in increased comfort. In addition, because the stabilizing members 514 curve upward toward the eyelet braces (EYELET STAY) (not shown) and/or tongue 538, the article of footwear 500 may provide increased support to reduce or prevent pronation.

Referring now to fig. 10-13, yet another exemplary sole structure 604 is depicted. Sole structure 604 is similar to the previous sole structure, with like elements being indicated by a "6xx" series of reference numerals. Sole structure 604 has only a single recess 656 (see fig. 10 and 13) disposed in heel region 634 of sole structure 604. The recess 656 extends through the outsole 610 and into the midsole 608. In addition, the stabilizing member 614 has a plurality of parallel ridges 682 (see fig. 11-13) extending along its length. In this embodiment, there are five ridges 682, all of which have a triangular shape and extend parallel to the sides of the stabilizing member 614. That is, the ridges 682 form elongated and pointed pleats on the outer surface 670 of the stabilizing member 614 and extend along the length of the stabilizing member 614 from the first distal end 674 to the second distal end 676. However, in some embodiments, there may be more or fewer ridges 682, and the ridges 682 may have different profiles, such as circular or square. Regardless, the ridges 682 may help increase traction between the article of footwear 500 and the ground, while increasing support.

Referring to FIG. 13, a cross-sectional view of sole structure 604 is depicted as taken along line A-A of FIG. 10, wherein upper 602 is depicted by a dashed line. Sole structure 604 has a dual density midsole 608 that includes a first midsole member 648 that is made of low density EVA foam for added cushioning, and a second midsole member 650 that is made of high density EVA foam for improved support and stability. The first midsole member 648 and the second midsole member 650 are co-molded, but may be formed as separate components connected by an adhesive. First midsole member 648 is disposed within second midsole member 650, and each of midsole members 648, 650 extends through forefoot region 626, midfoot region 630, and heel region 634. In addition, the second midsole member 650 has an aperture 658 in the heel region 634 that aligns with the recess 656. First midsole member 648 extends into aperture 658 such that first midsole member 648 is visible through recess 656. Thus, the recess 656 extends through the outsole 610 and into the first midsole member 648 such that the first midsole member 648 defines the bottom of the recess 656.

Still referring to fig. 13, the first end 674 of the stabilizing member 614 is embedded within the channel 608a of the midsole 608 such that the first end 674 of the stabilizing member 614 is connected with the midsole 608 along the inner surface 668 of the stabilizing member 614. In addition, a flange 672 of the stabilizing member 614 is disposed along the outsole 610 (e.g., along each of the first outsole portion 610a and the second outsole portion 610 b). Thus, the stabilization member 614 is coupled to the outsole 610 at the outer surface 670 of the stabilization member 614. Accordingly, flange 672 is disposed between outsole 610 and midsole 608.

Specifically, referring to the heel region 634, the second end 676 of the stabilizing member 614 is connected with the midsole 608 at a lower edge 690 of the stabilizing member 614. This allows a majority of inner surface 668 to be adhered or otherwise attached to upper 602. In some embodiments, the stabilizing member 614 may be disposed at a higher or lower position on the midsole 608 within the heel region 634. Where the stabilizing member 614 is disposed on a lower portion of the midsole 608, the stabilizing member 614 may be connected with the midsole 608 at a portion of an inner surface 668 of the stabilizing member 614.

Referring now to FIG. 14, yet another exemplary embodiment of an article of footwear 700 is shown that includes an upper 702 and a sole structure 704. The article of footwear 700 is similar to the previous embodiment, with like elements being indicated by a "7xx" series of reference numbers. Although article of footwear 700 is similar in many respects to the previous embodiments, there are a number of different aspects. In particular, first midsole member 748 extends from heel end 724 to toe end 722. First midsole member 748 increases in height (i.e., in a direction extending vertically from bottom surface 710 of article of footwear 700 toward upper 702) as it extends from heel end 724 through heel region 734 and to thickest midfoot region 730 of first midsole member 748. First midsole member 748 then thins as it continues through forefoot region 726 to toe end 722. Second midsole member 750 is attached below first midsole member 748 in heel region 734 and has a wedge shape that is complementary to first midsole member 748 with the thickest portion disposed at heel end 724. Both the first midsole member 748 and the second midsole member 750 have grooves 760 that extend upward from the bottom surface 712 of the article of footwear 700.

With continued reference to fig. 14, the stabilizing member 714 does not extend around the heel region 734. Conversely, the second end 776 of the stabilizing member 714 rises from the bottom surface 712 at the lateral side 716 of the midfoot region 730 and extends rearward to a second distal end 780 that is located in the midsole 708 at the heel end 724. The second end 776 thins from the midfoot region 730 to a point at the second distal end 780. In addition, because the stabilizing member 714 does not wrap around the heel region 734, a heel cup 788 is provided to substantially wrap around the user's heel. The heel cup 788 is a piece of rigid or semi-rigid plastic, such as TPU. In this case, the heel cup 788 is formed from translucent TPU.

Any of the embodiments described herein may be modified to include any structure or method disclosed in connection with the different embodiments. For example, certain features and combinations of features presented in the foregoing discussion with respect to particular embodiments may be used as appropriate in some embodiments and in other combinations. Similarly, in some embodiments, materials or construction techniques other than those disclosed above may be substituted or added according to known methods. Furthermore, the present disclosure is not limited to articles of footwear of the type specifically illustrated. Still further, aspects of the article of footwear of any of the embodiments disclosed herein may be modified to work with any type of footwear, apparel, or other athletic equipment.

As previously mentioned, those skilled in the art will appreciate that, although the present disclosure has been described above in connection with particular embodiments and examples, the disclosure is not necessarily so limited, and that the claims appended hereto are intended to cover numerous other embodiments, examples, uses, modifications and departures from such embodiments, examples and uses.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

Many modifications of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the above description. Accordingly, the description is to be construed as illustrative only and is presented for the purpose of enabling those skilled in the art to make and use the invention. Proprietary rights to all modifications falling within the scope of the appended claims are reserved.

Claims

1. A sole structure for an article of footwear, the sole structure comprising:

A midsole defining a first side and a second side extending between a top surface and a bottom surface; and

A stabilizing member comprising:

A first end positioned along a bottom surface of the midsole, the first end including a first sub-portion extending along a first side of the midsole and a second sub-portion extending through the bottom surface from the first side of the midsole to a second side of the midsole, an

A second end portion extending upwardly from the first end portion and extending to a second side of the midsole, the second end portion wrapping around at least a portion of a perimeter of a heel region of the sole structure to extend to the first side of the midsole.

2. The sole structure of claim 1, wherein the stabilizing member is at least partially disposed above the midsole in the heel region.

3. The sole structure of claim 1, wherein a distal end of the second end is positioned closer to a midfoot region of the midsole than a heel end of the midsole.

4. The sole structure of claim 1, wherein a first sub-portion of the stabilizing member is positioned at a forefoot region of the sole structure and a second sub-portion of the stabilizing member is positioned at a midfoot region of the sole structure.

5. The sole structure of claim 1, wherein the second end is positioned in both a midfoot region and the heel region of the sole structure.

6. The sole structure of claim 1, wherein an inner surface of the first end of the stabilizing member is coupled to the midsole and an outer surface of the first end of the stabilizing member forms at least a portion of a ground-engaging surface of the sole structure.

7. The sole structure of claim 6, wherein the first end is at least partially disposed within a channel formed in the midsole.

8. The sole structure of claim 7, further comprising an outsole having first and second outer bottom portions separated by the stabilizing member, the first and second outsole portions forming a remainder of a ground-engaging surface of the sole structure.

9. The sole structure of claim 8, wherein the first end includes a first flange extending from a first edge of the first end, the first flange secured between the midsole and at least one of the first outsole portion or the second outsole portion.

10. The sole structure of claim 9, wherein the first end includes a second flange extending from an opposite second edge of the first end, the second flange secured between the midsole and the other of the first outsole portion or the second outsole portion.

11. An article of footwear, comprising:

An upper; and

A sole structure coupled to the upper and extending through a forefoot region, a midfoot region, and a heel region of the article of footwear, the sole structure comprising:

a midsole;

an outsole coupled to a bottom surface of the midsole; and

A stabilizing member surrounding the midsole from a first distal end at a medial side of a forefoot region of the outsole, spanning to a lateral side of the midsole at the midfoot region, along the lateral side of the midsole from the midfoot region up to the heel region to continue wrapping around a perimeter of the heel region to terminate at a second distal end within the midfoot region on the medial side.

12. The article of footwear of claim 11, wherein the stabilizing member is coupled to at least one of the midsole or the upper when it wraps around a perimeter of the heel region.

13. The article of footwear of claim 11, further comprising an outsole coupled to a bottom surface of the midsole, the outsole including a first outsole portion and a second outsole portion separated by the stabilizing member.

14. The article of footwear of claim 13, wherein the outsole and the first end of the stabilizing member together form a ground-engaging surface of the article of footwear.

15. The article of footwear of claim 13, wherein the stabilizing member includes a flange secured between the outsole and the midsole.

16. The article of footwear of claim 11, wherein the outer surface of the stabilizing member includes a plurality of substantially parallel ridges extending along a length of the stabilizing member from the first distal end to the second distal end.

17. The article of footwear of claim 11, wherein the first distal end of the stabilizing member is coupled to at least one of a medial side of the midsole or the upper in the forefoot region.

18. The article of footwear of claim 11, wherein the stabilizing member is at least partially disposed within a channel formed in the midsole.

19. An article of footwear, comprising:

An upper; and

Midsole, and

A stabilizing member comprising:

A first end positioned along a bottom surface of the midsole, the first end including a first sub-portion extending along a medial side of the midsole in the forefoot region and a second sub-portion extending through the bottom surface from a medial side to a lateral side of the midsole in the midfoot region, an

A second end portion extending upwardly from the first end portion in the midfoot region and extending to a lateral side of the midsole, the second end portion extending rearward along a lateral side of the midsole and wrapping around a heel end of the midsole to extend to a medial side of the midsole.

20. The article of footwear of claim 19, wherein the stabilizing member is coupled to each of the midsole and the upper in at least one of the forefoot region or the heel region.