GB2614778A

GB2614778A - An article of footwear

Info

Publication number: GB2614778A
Application number: GB2214289.7A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Rees Gareth; Moreira Filipe; Choi Sabby
Original assignee: Gymshark Ltd
Current assignee: Gymshark Ltd
Priority date: 2022-09-29
Filing date: 2022-09-29
Publication date: 2023-07-19
Anticipated expiration: 2042-09-29
Also published as: GB202214289D0; GB2614778B

Abstract

An article of footwear 1 comprising an upper 2 connected to a sole structure 4 including an outsole 6, wherein the outsole includes a first plurality of nested, aligned V-shaped grooves 20 extending from a lateral edge 8 towards a medial edge 10 and back to the lateral edge. A second plurality of nested, aligned V-shaped grooves 40 may extend from a heel edge towards a midsole region and back to the lateral edge. The relative width of each groove may relate inversely to the length of the groove. A further straight groove 97 may extend from a toe edge to the medial edge. A further V-shaped groove 92 may extend from the medial edge towards the lateral edge and back to the medial edge. A third plurality of grooves 60 may extend in a repeating interlocking pattern. A first protrusion (88, fig.2) may extend upwards adjacent the upper at a lateral junction (84, fig.2) and a second protrusion (86, fig.1) may extend upwards adjacent the upper at a medial junction (82, fig.1), wherein the first and second protrusions support the upper.

Description

An Article of Footwear [0001] The present invention relates to an article of footwear, and particularly but not exclusively to an article of footwear comprising an upper and a sole structure connected to the upper and including an outsole.

Abusive Prior Disclosure

An earlier abusive disclosure was made on 07 August 2022 in a breach of confidence. This application being filed today (29 September 2022) is within the six-month period as set out in section 2(4) of the Patents Act 1977 for the disregarding of disclosures made in breach of confidence.

Background

[0002] Articles of footwear, and in particular "sliders", generally include an upper for receiving a portion of a foot and a sole structure with an outsole for contacting the ground. Unlike sandals or flip-flops, sliders do not separate any of the toes via a portion of the article of footwear. The outsole of such articles may contact wet or polished surfaces whereby traction is decreased for the wearer. Such a reduction in traction is undesirable and may make it more difficult for the user to walk in the article of footwear in areas where such surfaces are common, for example adjacent pools or in gym changing rooms.

[0003] The use of heavier materials in outsole production, whilst providing a greater frictional force, can reduce mobility of the user when wearing the article by making it more difficult to lift the article. Such heavier materials may also result in a decrease in the flexibility of the outsole. Flexibility of outsoles and articles of footwear in general is important to provide a more natural walking movement.

[0004] It is with these competing issues in mind that an improved article of footwear is provided which addresses one or more problems associated with prior articles of footwear.

Summary of Invention

[0005] Aspects and embodiments of the invention will be described as claimed in the appended claims. According to a first aspect an article of footwear is provided. According to a second aspect an alternate article of footwear is provided. According to a third aspect an outsole for an article of footwear is provided. According to a fourth aspect a pair of articles of footwear are provided.

First Aspect [0006] According to a first aspect of the invention an article of footwear is provided. The article of footwear, comprising: an upper; a sole structure connected to the upper and including an outsole, the outsole including a first plurality of nested "V"-shaped grooves formed in the outsole and extending partially across the outsole from a lateral side edge towards a medial side edge and back to the lateral side edge.

[0007] Advantageously the first plurality of nested "V"-shaped grooves provide an increased grip in use when a user is wearing the article of footwear. The arrangement of the nested "V"-shaped grooves provide a compact and efficient arrangement. Advantageously the grooves enable the movement of water from the outsole towards the lateral side edge. Further the nested "V"-shaped grooves provide greater grip.

[0008] Preferably, for each groove of the first plurality of nested "V"-shaped grooves, the relative width of each groove is inversely related to an overall length of the groove. Providing an inverse relation of width to length enables a more efficient packing of the grooves on the outsole. Approximately, the same amount of surface water may be displaced by each groove of the first plurality of nested "V"-shaped grooves.

[0009] Preferably, for each groove of the first plurality of nested "V"-shaped grooves, the groove comprises a forward arm, an apex and a rearward arm, wherein the forward arm and the rearward arm are straight. Advantageously, providing straight arms enables more efficient movement of water along the groove in use compared to a more tortuous path.

[0010] Preferably, each forward arm is substantially parallel to one another. Advantageously, providing parallel arms enables more efficient movement of water along the groove in use compared to a more tortuous path.

[0011] Preferably, each rearward arm is substantially parallel to one another. Advantageously, providing parallel arms enables more efficient movement of water along the groove in use compared to a more tortuous path.

[0012] Preferably, each apex is aligned about an axis running from the medial side edge to the lateral side edge through a ball region of the outsole. Aligning the apexes along an axis enables more efficient packing of the grooves in the plurality of grooves on the outsole. This also simplifies manufacture of the outsole.

[0013] Preferably, the first plurality of nested "V"-shaped grooves comprises a first groove, a second groove and a third groove.

[0014] Preferably, the second groove extends partially across the outsole towards the medial side edge to a greater extent than the first groove.

[0015] Preferably, the third groove extends partially across the outsole towards the medial side edge to a greater extent than the second groove.

[0016] Preferably, the first groove has an apex that overlies a lateral side region of the outsole.

[0017] Preferably, the second groove has an apex that overlies a mid-region of the outsole.

[0018] Preferably, the third groove has an apex that overlies a medial side region of the outsole.

[0019] Preferably, the depth of first plurality of grooves formed in the outsole is constant as the grooves extend across the outsole. Provision of constant depth grooves provides a more simplified manufacturing procedure. Further, provision of constant depth grooves enables the wearer to at-a-glance check for wear of the outsole.

[0020] In one embodiment, the article of footwear further includes a second plurality of nested "V"-shaped grooves formed in the outsole and extending partially across the outsole from a heel edge towards a midsole region and back to a lateral side edge. Provision of a second set of nested "V"-shaped grooves enable greater grip on a surface and greater movement of water.

[0021] Preferably, for each groove of the second plurality of nested "V"-shaped grooves, the relative width of each groove is inversely related to an overall length of the groove. Providing an inverse relation of width to length enables a more efficient packing of the grooves on the outsole. Approximately, the same amount of surface water may be displaced by each groove of the first plurality of nested "V"-shaped grooves.

[0022] Preferably, for each groove of the second plurality of nested "V"-shaped grooves, the groove comprises a lateral arm, an apex and a medial arm, wherein the lateral arm and the medial arm are straight. Advantageously, providing straight arms enables more efficient movement of water along the groove in use compared to a more tortuous path.

[0023] Preferably, each lateral arm is substantially parallel to one another. Advantageously, providing parallel arms enables more efficient movement of water along the groove in use compared to a more tortuous path.

[0024] Preferably, each medial arm is substantially parallel to one another. Advantageously, providing parallel arms enables more efficient movement of water along the groove in use compared to a more tortuous path.

[0025] Preferably, each apex is aligned about a longitudinal axis running along a mid-point of a lateral side region of the outsole. Aligning the apexes along an axis enables more efficient packing of the grooves in the plurality of grooves on the outsole.

[0026] Preferably, the second plurality of nested "V"-shaped grooves comprises a fourth groove, a fifth groove and a sixth groove.

[0027] Preferably, the fifth groove extends partially across the outsole towards the midsole region to a greater extent than the fourth groove.

[0028] Preferably, the sixth groove extends partially across the outsole towards the midsole region to a greater extent than the fifth groove.

[0029] Preferably, the fourth groove has an apex that overlies a heel region of the outsole.

[0030] Preferably, the sixth groove has an apex that overlies a midsole region of the outsole.

[0031] Preferably, the depth of the second plurality of grooves formed in the outsole is constant as the grooves extend across the outsole.

[0032] Preferably, the second plurality of grooves has the same depth as the first plurality of grooves.

[0033] Preferably, the article includes a seventh groove extending from a toe edge to the medial edge in a straight line, substantially parallel to the forward arm of the third groove.

[0034] In an embodiment the article further includes a third plurality of grooves formed in the outsole and extending across the outsole and having a depth less than the depth of the first plurality of grooves. A third plurality of grooves provides a greater volume of grooves through which water may move through in use.

[0035] Preferably, the depth of the third plurality of grooves is constant as the grooves extend across the outsole.

[0036] Preferably, the third plurality of grooves are arranged in a repeating interlocking pattern across the outsole.

[0037] Preferably, the pattern has a constant spacing across the outsole.

[0038] Preferably, the third plurality of grooves are formed in at least one of a toe region, a lateral midfoot region and a heel region, preferably the third plurality of grooves are formed in each of a toe region, a lateral midfoot region and a heel region.

[0039] In any previous embodiment preferably, wherein the sole structure and the upper are integrally formed.

[0040] In any previous embodiment preferably, the upper and the sole structure have the same density throughout.

[0041] In any previous embodiment preferably, the upper and the sole structure are formed substantially of a polymer.

[0042] In any previous embodiment preferably, the upper and the sole structure are formed at least in part of a bio-based polymer. Manufacturing from a bio-based reduces the carbon footprint of the article of footwear. Furthermore, recyclability of the article of footwear is improved.

[0043] Preferably, the upper and the sole structure are formed substantially of a copoly-mer of ethylene and vinyl acetate, in which the ethylene is at least partially obtained from a renewable source of carbon. Manufacturing from a renewable source of carbon reduces the carbon footprint of the article of footwear.

[0044] In any previous embodiment preferably the upper has an inside surface and an outside surface, and wherein the inside surface is provided with a series of channels extending longitudinally. The channels advantageously may be used to provide areas to wick away sweat or water in use such that water does not remain on the inside surface of the upper where it can cause discomfort.

[0045] In any previous embodiment, preferably the upper has an inside surface and an outside surface, and wherein the outside surface is provided with a stipple pattern. The stipple pattern provides a surfaced with increased grip.

[0046] In any previous embodiment preferably an upper surface of sole structure is provided with a stipple pattern. The stipple pattern provides a surfaced with increased grip. When combining a pair of articles of footwear, for example for transport, the inside surface provided with a series of channels extending longitudinally may grip the stipple pattered upper surface of the sole structure.

[0047] In any previous embodiment, preferably the upper is a band.

[0048] In any previous embodiment, preferably the upper and the sole structure are formed by a moulding process, preferably wherein the moulding process is selected from a group consisting of injection moulding, pouring and compression moulding. Forming by one of these methods enables a net-shape or near net-shape component to be produced thus reducing the number of manufacturing steps required.

[0049] In any previous embodiment, preferably the article further comprises a surface comprising a "V"-shaped groove formed in the outsole and extending partially across the outsole from a medial side edge towards a lateral side edge and back to the medial side edge.

[0050] Preferably, the groove has a surface forward arm, a surface apex and a surface rearward arm.

[0051] Preferably, the surface forward arm is substantially parallel to the rearward arms of the first plurality of grooves.

[0052] Preferably, the surface rearward arm is substantially parallel to the medial arms of the second plurality of grooves.

Second Aspect [0053] According to a further aspect of the invention an article of footwear is provided.

The article of footwear, comprising: an upper; and a sole structure connected to the upper at a medial junction and a lateral junction, and wherein the article of footwear further comprises: a first protrusion of the sole structure extending upwards adjacent the upper at the lateral junction to provide support for the upper, a second protrusion of the sole structure extending upwards adjacent the upper at the medial junction to provide support for the upper. The first and second protrusions provide lateral stability on both sides of the article of footwear.

[0054] Preferably the article further comprises a groove extending partially around a perimeter of the sole structure, wherein the groove is aligned with the first and second protrusions. Advantageously, the groove allows for dissipation of wrinkles created through compression of the article of footwear in use. This in turn provides a softer feeling through the foot of the user.

[0055] Preferably, the first protrusion and second protrusion each comprise leading edge and a trailing edge, and wherein each trailing edge is substantially parallel with an edge of the upper, wherein the edge defines an opening of the upper to receive a user's foot, in use.

[0056] Preferably, the upper is a band.

[0057] Preferably, the sole structure is connected to the upper and includes an outsole, the outsole including a first plurality of nested "V" shaped grooves formed in the outsole and extending across the outsole from a lateral side edge towards a medial side edge and back to the lateral side edge, wherein the sole structure and the upper are integrally formed.

[0058] Preferably, for each groove of the first plurality of nested "V" shaped grooves, the width of each groove is inversely related to an overall length of the groove.

[0059] Preferably, for each groove of the first plurality of nested "V" shaped grooves, the groove comprises a forward arm, an apex and a rearward arm, wherein the forward arm and the rearward arm are straight.

[0060] Preferably, each forward arm is substantially parallel to one another.

[0061] Preferably, wherein each rearward arm is substantially parallel to one another.

[0062] Preferably, each apex is aligned about an axis running from the medial side edge to the lateral side edge through a ball region of the outsole.

[0063] Preferably, the first plurality of nested "V" shaped grooves comprises a first groove, a second groove and a third groove.

[0064] Preferably, the second groove extends across the outsole towards the medial side edge to a greater extent than the first groove.

[0065] Preferably, the third groove extends across the outsole towards the medial side edge to a greater extent than the second groove.

[0066] Preferably, the first groove has an apex that overlies a lateral side region of the outsole.

[0067] Preferably, the second groove has an apex that overlies a mid-region of the outsole.

[0068] Preferably, the third groove has an apex that overlies a medial side region of the outsole.

[0069] Preferably, the depth of first plurality of grooves formed in the outsole is constant as the grooves extend across the outsole.

[0070] Preferably, the article of footwear further including a second plurality of nested "V" shaped grooves formed in the outsole and extending across the outsole from a heel edge towards a midsole region and back to a lateral side edge.

[0071] Preferably, for each groove of the second plurality of nested "V" shaped grooves, the width of each groove is inversely related to an overall length of the groove.

[0072] Preferably, for each groove of the second plurality of nested "V" shaped grooves, the groove comprises a lateral arm, an apex and a medial arm, wherein the lateral arm and the medial arm are straight.

[0073] Preferably, each lateral arm is substantially parallel to one another.

[0074] Preferably, each medial arm is substantially parallel to one another.

[0075] Preferably, each apex is aligned about a longitudinal axis running along a mid-point of a lateral side region of the outsole.

[0076] Preferably, the second plurality of nested "V" shaped grooves comprises a fourth groove, a fifth groove and a sixth groove.

[0077] Preferably, the fifth groove extends across the outsole towards the midsole region to a greater extent than the fourth groove.

[0078] Preferably, the sixth groove extends across the outsole towards the midsole region to a greater extent than the fifth groove.

[0079] Preferably, the fourth groove has an apex that overlies a heel region of the outsole.

[0080] Preferably, the sixth groove has an apex that overlies a midsole region of the outsole.

[0081] Preferably, the depth of second plurality of grooves formed in the outsole is constant as the grooves extend across the outsole.

[0082] Preferably, the second plurality of grooves has the same depth as the first plurality of grooves.

[0083] Preferably, the article of footwear further includes a seventh groove extending from a toe edge to the medial edge in a straight line, substantially parallel to the forward arm of the third groove.

[0084] Preferably, the article of footwear further includes a third plurality of grooves formed in the outsole and extending across the outsole and having a depth less than the depth of the first plurality of grooves.

[0085] Preferably, the depth of the third plurality of grooves is constant as the grooves extend across the outsole.

[0086] Preferably, the third plurality of grooves are arranged in a repeating interlocking pattern across the outsole.

[0087] Preferably, the pattern has a constant spacing across the outsole.

[0088] Preferably, the third plurality of grooves are formed in at least one of a toe region, a lateral midfoot region and a heel region, preferably the third plurality of grooves are formed in each of a toe region, a lateral midfoot region and a heel region.

[0089] In any previous embodiment the upper and the sole structure are formed of the same material.

[0090] In any previous embodiment preferably the upper and the sole structure have the same density throughout.

[0091] In any previous embodiment preferably the upper and the sole structure are formed substantially of a polymer.

[0092] In any previous embodiment preferably the upper and the sole structure are formed at least in part of a bio-based polymer.

[0093] Preferably, the upper and the sole structure are formed substantially of a copoly-mer of ethylene and vinyl acetate, in which the ethylene is at least partially obtained from a renewable source of carbon.

[0094] In any previous embodiment preferably the upper has an inside surface and an outside surface, and wherein the inside surface is provided with a series of channels extending longitudinally.

[0095] In any previous embodiment preferably the upper has an inside surface and an outside surface, and wherein the outside surface is provided with a stipple pattern.

[0096] In any previous embodiment preferably an upper surface of sole structure is provided with a stipple pattern.

[0097] In any previous embodiment preferably the upper and the sole structure are formed by a moulding process, wherein the moulding process is selected from a group consisting of injection moulding, pouring and compression moulding.

[0098] In any previous embodiment preferably, the article further comprises a surface comprising a "V" shaped groove formed in the outsole and extending partially across the outsole from a medial side edge towards a lateral side edge and back to the medial side edge.

[0099] In any previous embodiment preferably, the groove has a surface forward arm, a surface apex and a surface rearward arm.

[0100] Preferably, wherein the surface forward arm is substantially parallel to the rearward arms of the first plurality of grooves.

[0101] Preferably, wherein the surface rearward arm is substantially parallel to the medial arms of the second plurality of grooves.

Third Aspect [0102] According to a third aspect of the invention an outsole for an article of footwear is provided. The outsole including a first plurality of nested "V" shaped grooves formed in the outsole and extending partially across the outsole from a lateral side edge towards a medial side edge and back to the lateral side edge.

[0103] Preferably, the outsole may further comprise any of the features (or combinations thereof) of the outsoles of any of the other aspects discussed.

Fourth Aspect [0104] According to a fourth aspect a pair of articles of footwear are provided. The pair of articles of footwear comprise a pair of articles of footwear of any of the embodiments of the first or second aspects.

Description of the Figures

[0105] Figure 1 shows a lateral side elevation of an article of footwear according to the present invention; [0106] Figure 2 shows a medial side elevation of the article of footwear of Figure 1; [0107] Figure 3 shows a plan view of the article of footwear of Figure 1; [0108] Figure 4 shows an enlarged surface detail of a portion of the article of footwear of Figure 1; [0109] Figure 5 shows a partial cutaway view of the article of footwear of Figure 1; [0110] Figure 6 shows an underside view of the article of footwear of Figure 1; [0111] Figure 7 shows an enlarged underside bottom view of the article of footwear of Figure 1; [0112] Figure 8 shows an enlarged underside bottom view of the article of footwear of Figure 1; [0113] Figure 9 shows an enlarged portion of the outsole; and [0114] Figure 10 shows a partial cross-sectional view of the outsole; [0115] Figure 11 shows a medial view of the article of footwear of Figure 2.

Detailed Description

[0116] In the following description of various example structures in accordance with the invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which are shown by way of illustration various example articles, including one or more outsole structures. Additionally, it is to be understood that other specific arrangements of parts and structures may be utilized, and structural and functional modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. Also, while the terms "top," "bottom," "front," "back," "rear," "side," "underside," "overhead," and the like may be used in this specification to describe various example features and elements of the invention, these terms are used herein as a matter of convenience, e.g., based on the example orientations shown in the figures and/or the orientations in typical use.

A. General Description of an Outsole for an Article of Footwear or Other Elements According to the Invention [0117] In general, as described above, aspects of this invention relate to articles of foot-wear and outsoles for articles of footwear having a plurality of nested "V" shaped grooves formed in the outsole. More detailed descriptions of aspects of this invention follow.

B. Specific Examples of the Invention [0118] Referring to the figures and the following discussion, articles of footwear in ac-cordance with the present invention are described. The footwear is depicted and discussed as of "sliders", however, the concept disclosed with respect to articles of footwear may be applied to a wide range of other types of footwear. For example, the teaching of the present invention may be applied to the following (non-limiting) list of examples: footwear, walking shoes, hiking shoes, running shoes, tennis shoes, boat shoes, flip-flops, sandals, court shoes, athletic footwear, cross-training shoes, football shoes, soccer shoes, cricket shoes, loafers, dress shoes, trainers, work boots, etc. The present invention is thus not limited to the precise embodiments disclosed herein, the examples given are given to teach the invention which can be applied to footwear generally.

[0119] An implementation of the invention will now be described with the aid of the Fig-ures.

[0120] Figure 1 is a view of an article of footwear 1, a so-called "slider" type article of footwear 1. For reasons of brevity, the article of footwear 1 will be referred to as an "article" 1 hereinafter.

[0121] The article 1 comprises an upper 2, an insole 7, a sole structure 4 with a midsole and outsole 6. The article 1 has a lateral side edge 8, a medial side edge 10, a front 12 and a rear 14.

[0122] The sole structure 4 has a toe region 16 located towards the front 12 of the arti-cle 1 and a heel region 18 located towards the rear 14 of the article 1. Located between the toe and heal regions 16, 18 is a lateral midfoot region 17.

The Upper [0123] The upper 2 is connected to the sole structure 4. The upper 2 and sole structure 4 may be integrally formed or they may be separate components joined during manufacturing, for example by welding, gluing, etc. [0124] The upper 2 is connected, at least in part, at a first side to the sole structure 4 via a first protrusion 86 of the sole structure located at a medial junction 82 disposed towards the medial side edge 10 of the article 1. The upper 2 is connected at a second side to the sole structure 2 via a second protrusion 88 of the sole structure located at a lateral junction 84 disposed towards the lateral side edge 8 of the article 1.

[0125] The upper 2 and the sole structure 4 are integrally formed. The integrally formed upper 2 and sole 4 are made of the same material. The integrally formed upper 2 and sole structure 4 of article 1 have the same density. Alternatively, where the upper 2 and sole structure 4 are not integrally formed the upper 2 and sole structure 4 may have the same density or a different density.

[0126] The upper 2 comprises a band 80. The band 80 receives a portion of the user's foot in use, namely at least a portion of the bridge of the foot. The band 80 is open at the toe region 16 such that the user's toes are exposed towards the toe region 16 when wearing the article 1. Alternatively, the band 80 may enclose or partially enclose the user's toes in use.

[0127] The band 80 has an outside surface 72. The band 80 has an inside surface 70.

[0128] The first and second protrusions 86, 88 each have a leading edge 87 and a trail-ing edge 89. The leading edge 87 extends towards the front 12; and the trailing edge extends towards the rear 14. This is shown in Figures 1 and 2. The two leading edges 87 are substantially parallel to each other, when viewed in a side elevation, as per Figures 1 and 2. The two trailing edges 89 are substantially parallel to each other, when viewed in a side elevation. Each trailing edge 89 is substantially parallel with an edge 3 of the upper 2, wherein the edge 3 defines an opening of the upper 2 to receive a user's foot, in use.

[0129] Alternatively, the band SO may be connected directly to the sole structure 4 and not via a first or second protrusion.

[0130] Alternatively, the band 80 may be connected directly to the sole structure 4 on a first or second side and connected to the sole structure 4 via a protrusion 86, 88 at the other side.

[0131] Alternatively, the band 80 may be a strap, such as a Velcro TM strap or buckled strap that allows adjustment of the length of the band 80 by the user for reasons of comfort and fit.

[0132] The upper 2 comprises an integral insole 7 or liner that is used to enhance com-fort of the article 1 for the user. The insole or liner may be made of a cushioning material such as those used in manufacture of the article 1. The band 80 is connected to the insole 7 and the band 80 is preferably integral to the insole 7. Alternatively, the insole 7 may be removable. Alternatively, no insole 7 may be provided and the band 80 connects to the sole structure 4. Alternatively, the insole 7 may form part of the sole structure 4. In such a scenario, the insole 7 may be integral or unitary with the sole structure 4 or a separable removable item.

[0133] The insole 7 has a raised portion 9 as shown in Figures 3 and 5. The raised por-tion 9 is a toe-gripping feature suitable for providing increased grip for the user.

The raised portion 9 lies under the toes of the user in use. The raised portion 9 comprises a first arm 9a, a second arm 9b and a third arm 9c. The arrangement of the user's toes in use in the article 1 will be described with the aid of Figure 5 which shows a "left" article 1 to be worn on a left foot. The example is for explanation only and the skilled reader would understand how the design can be applied to a right article 1 or a left article 1. The user's toes in use lie over the line formed by first and third arms 9a, 9c. The second arm 9b lies between the first and second toe of the user.

[0134] Alternatively, the raised portion 9 may be replaced with a pattern or regions of patterns which provide a gripping surface.

The Upper Inside Surface [0135] An inside surface 70 of the upper 2 has a series (or plurality) of channels 74 as shown in Figure 5. The non-limiting example of Figure 5 shows the channels 74 disposed across the inside surface 70 of the band 80. The channels 74 assist in gripping the user's foot in use and also provide a path for sweat, water or other liquid to travel away from the top of the foot. The channels 74 are substantially parallel to one another as shown in Figure 5. The perpendicular channels 74 aid in the quick wicking or removal of liquid via the channels 74. The channels 74 are substantially straight. Alternatively, the channels 74 may form a curve, or follow a path which has a form which is at least one of tortuous, sinusoidal, zig-zagged, square, sawtooth, continuous and aperiodic, or continuous and periodic, or any combination or subset thereof. In such cases the channels 74 may be substantially parallel, or at least an axis defined by the start and/or end of each of the channels 74 may be substantially parallel. In such cases the channels 74 may be stacked adjacent one another across the inside surface 70.

[0136] The channels 74 are formed such that they are recessed into the band 80. Alter-natively, the channels 74 may be formed between ridges that extend out of the band 80 such that said channels 74 are disposed between each ridge.

[0137] Instead of channels 74 a plurality of apertures may be provided in the band 80 which extend between the inside surface 70 and the outside surface 72. The plurality of apertures may be substantially the same cross-sectional area. Alternatively, the cross-sectional area of the aperture may vary across the band 80.

[0138] The plurality of apertures may be disposed in a regular or irregular pattern across the band 80.

[0139] The plurality of apertures may be disposed in clusters such that there is a higher density of apertures in a first location than in a second location. For example, a higher or lower density may be provided on the middle of band 80 (first location) located away from the medial junction 82 (second location) or lateral junction 84 (second location). The cross-sectional area of the apertures may also be proportional to the density, a higher density of apertures in the first location could mean a reduced aperture size compared to the second location or vice-versa.

[0140] The article 1 may be provided with both channels 74 and the plurality of aper-tures. The plurality of apertures in such an embodiment either pass through the channels 74 to provide a discontinuity in the channels 74 or the channels 74 may be disposed on the band 80 such that they pass around the apertures, or a combination of both may be provided.

[0141] The outside surface 72 of the upper 2 is provided with a stipple pattern 76. An exemplary stipple pattern 76 is shown in Figure 4. Other surfaces of the upper 2 may be provided with the stipple pattern 76.

Peripheral Groove / Peripheral Protrusion [0142] The article 1 further comprises a peripheral groove 11 as shown in Figures 1, 2, 3 and 5. The peripheral groove 11 is disposed on an upper surface of the sole structure 4 on the midsole 5.

[0143] The peripheral groove 11 runs around a portion of the periphery of the outsole 6.

The portion is preferably over 30%, 40%, 50%, 60% (or 30-60%) of the periphery of the sole structure 4.

[0144] As shown in Figure 3 the groove 11 runs around the article 1 periphery at the front 12 of the article and at the rear 14 of the article 1 but is interrupted by the protrusions 86, 88 of the sole structure 4. That is the groove extends partially around the perimeter of the sole structure 4, and is aligned with the first and second protrusions 86, 88 such that the groove 11 runs into the first and second protrusions 86, 88. Edges of the protrusions 86, 88 smoothly transition into the groove 11. For example, the trailing edge 89 of each protrusion at its most rearward point transitions into the portion of the groove 11 that runs around the entire rear 14 of the sole from the first protrusion 86 to the second protrusion 88. The same happens at the front 12 from the forward most points each of the leading edges 87.

[0145] Instead of a peripheral groove 11 a peripheral protrusion may be present. The peripheral protrusion extends from the sole structure 4.

Sole Structure [0146] The sole structure 4 will be described in further detail with the aid of Figures 6, 7 and 8 which show the underside of article 1 and the outsole 6.

[0147] As previously explained, the article 1 has a lateral side edge 8, a medial side edge 10, a front 12 and rear 14. The outsole 6, like the sole structure 4 described above, can be divided into a toe region 16 located towards the front 12 of the article 1 and a heel region 18 located towards the rear 14 of the article 1. Located between the toe and heal regions 16, 18 is a lateral midfoot region 17. The toe region 16 extends between the lateral side edge 8 and the medial side edge 10.

[0148] As shown in Figure 6, the outsole 6 has a number of grooves 20, 40. The grooves 20, 40 extend partially across the outsole. The grooves 20 are located more towards the front 12 of the article 1 than the grooves 40 which are located more towards the rear 14 of the article 1. The grooves 20 are located in the toe region of the outsole 6, whereas the grooves 40 are located between the heel and midfoot regions 18, 17 of the outsole 6.

[0149] The grooves 20, 40 are substantially "V" shaped such that they comprise two arms 22, 26, 42, 46 connected at an apex 24, 44. The arms 22, 26, 42, 46 are substantially straight. The arms 22, 26, 42, 46 may be curved, arcuate, zigzagged, sinusoidal, linear or any other shape. The grooves 20 are nested. Similarly the grooves 40 are nested. This means that the respective apexes 24, 44 are bounded on either side by the arms 22, 26, 42, 46 of the adjacent groove 20, 40 respectively.

[0150] Each groove 20 comprises a forward arm 22, an apex 24 and a rearward arm 26 as shown in Figure 6 and 7. The forward arm 22 is located more towards the front 12 in comparison to the rearward arm 26 which is located more towards the rear 14.

[0151] The forward arms 22 as shown in Figures 6 and 7 extend from the lateral side edge 8 towards the medial side edge 10 until the apex 24 is reached. At the apex 24 the groove 20 bends back on itself and extends from the apex 24 to the lateral side edge 8 via the rearward arm 26.

[0152] The angle between the forward arm 22 and rearward arm 26 is between 40 to degrees or 60 to 120 degrees.

[0153] The forward arms 22 of each groove 20 are substantially parallel to one another.

This can be observed when viewing the article 1 from below, as shown in Figures 6 to 8.

[0154] The rearward arms 26 of each groove 20 are substantially parallel to one another.

[0155] Each groove 40 comprises a lateral arm 42, an apex 44 and a medial arm 46 as shown in Figure 6. The lateral arm 42 is located more towards the lateral side edge 8 in comparison to the medial arm 46 which is located more towards the medial side edge 10.

[0156] The lateral arms 42 as shown in Figure 6 extend from the lateral side edge 8 to-wards the medial side edge 10 until the apex 44 is reached. At the apex 44 the groove 40 bends back on itself and extends from the apex 44 towards the medial side edge 10 via the medial arm 46.

[0157] The angle between the lateral arm 42 and medial arm 46 is between 40 to 140 degrees or 60 to 120 degrees, and preferably approximately 90 degrees.

[0158] The lateral arms 42 of each groove 40 are substantially parallel to one another.

[0159] The medial arms 46 of each groove 40 are substantially parallel to one another.

[0160] The grooves 20, 40 have a width wl, w2, w3 inversely related to the length of the groove 20, 40. In other words, the longer the groove 20, 40 the smaller the width wl, w2, w3 of said groove. The width of each groove 20, 40 is consistent along the length of the groove 20, 40.

[0161] Alternatively, the width wl, w2, w3 may increase proportionally with the length of the groove 20, 40. Or, the grooves 20, 40 may be of equal width along their length. Or, the width may vary along the length of the groove 20, 40.

[0162] The grooves 20, 40 have a constant depth (into the outsole 6) along the length of the grooves 20, 40. Alternatively, the depth may vary along the length of the groove 20, 40. For example, the depth may increase or decrease towards the apex 24, 44.

[0163] The grooves 20 make up a first plurality of grooves 30. The grooves 40 make up a second plurality of grooves 50. Alternatively, only one of the first plurality of grooves 30 or second plurality of grooves 50 may be provided on the article 1.

[0164] As shown in Figure 6, the first plurality of grooves 30 comprises at least three grooves 31, 32 and 33. There may be a fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, etc groove 20 as part of the first plurality of grooves. The number of grooves provided may be proportional to the shoe size, for example a size 8 UK shoe (size 42 EU, size 8.5 US men's, size 10.5 US women's) may have three grooves, larger sizes such as a UK size 10 (size 43 EU, size 10.5 US men's, size 12 US women's) may have five grooves. In a preferred embodiment the first plurality of grooves 30 consists of the three grooves 31, 32 and 33.

[0165] The third groove 33, as shown in Figure 6 and 7 extends more towards the me-dial side edge 10 than the second grove 32. The second groove 32 in turn extends more towards the medial side edge 10 than the first groove 31.

[0166] The first groove 31 has an apex 24 which overlies a lateral side region of the out-sole 6 as shown in Figures 6, 7. The second groove 32 has an apex 24 which overlies a mid-region of the outsole 6 as shown in Figures 6, 7. The third groove 33 has an apex 24 which overlies a medial side region of the outsole 6 as shown in Figures 6, 7. As shown in Figure 7 the first, second and third apexes 24 are aligned along an axis 28. The axis 28 extends from the medial side edge 10 to the lateral side edge 8. Each of the apexes 24 lie on the axis 28. Axis 28 is substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the article 1. Alternatively, the apexes 24 may alternately lie either side of the axis 28 such that one lies above then the next below and vice versa.

[0167] As shown in Figure 6, the second plurality of grooves 50 comprises at least three grooves 51, 52 and 53. There may be a fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, etc groove 40 as part of the second plurality of grooves. The number of grooves provided may be proportional to the shoe size, for example a size 8 UK shoe (size 42 EU, size 8.5 US men's, size 10.5 US women's) may have three grooves, larger sizes such as a UK size 10 (size 43 EU, size 10.5 US men's, size 12 US women's) may have five grooves. In a preferred embodiment the second plurality of grooves 50 consists of three grooves 51, 52 and 53.

[0168] The third groove 53, as shown in Figure 6 extends more towards the medial side edge 10 than the second grove 52. The second groove 52 in turn extends more towards the medial side edge 10 than the first groove 51.

[0169] The first groove 51 has an apex 24 which overlies a lateral side region of the out-sole 6 towards a middle portion of the outsole 6 as shown in Figure 6. The second groove 52 has an apex 24 overlies a lateral side region towards the heel region of the outsole 6 as shown in Figure 6. The third groove 53 has an apex 24 which overlies a lateral side region of the outsole 6 towards the rear 14 of article 1 as shown in Figure 6.

[0170] As shown in Figure 8 the first, second and third apexes 44 are aligned substan-tially along a longitudinal axis 48. The axis 48 extends from the front 12 to the rear 14 running along a mid-point of the lateral side region of the outsole as shown in Figure 8. Each of the apexes 44 lie on the axis 48. Alternatively, the apexes 44 may lie substantially on the axis 48; the apexes 44 may alternately lie either side of the axis 48 such that one lies more towards the lateral side edge than the subsequent, or more towards the medial side edge than the subsequent.

[0171] The first plurality of grooves 30 and second plurality of grooves 50 have the same depth. Alternatively, the first and second plurality 30, 50 may have different depths.

[0172] The article 1 outsole 6 comprises a third plurality of grooves 60 as shown in Fig-ures 6, 7 and 8, and in detail in Figures 9 and 10. The grooves 60 are a repeating pattern of shapes. The shape may be a chevron as in the exemplified embodiment. The shape may be a square, rectangle, triangle, pentagon, hexagon, heptagon, octagon, an n-sided shape, a regular shape, an irregular shape, a combination of regular and irregular shapes, a combination of different regular shapes, a combination of different irregular shapes, a tessellating pattern, or any combination thereof. The grooves 60 provide increased grip for the user when wearing article 1.

[0173] The third plurality of grooves 60 are arranged in a repeating interlocking pattern across the outsole 6.

[0174] The third plurality of grooves 60 extend across the outsole 60 and preferably across one or more of the toe region, lateral midfoot region, and heel region as shown in Figure 6.

[0175] The third plurality of grooves 60 have a depth less than the depth of the first plu-rality of grooves 30 and/or the second plurality of grooves 50. The depth of the third plurality of grooves 60 is constant across the outsole 6, alternatively the depth may vary across the outsole.

[0176] The third plurality of grooves 60 are arranged at an angle a to a longitudinal axis 13 of the article running from the front 12 to the rear 14. This is shown in Figure 6. The angle a is greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees from the axis 13. Preferably the angle is 10 to 80 degrees, 20 to 70 degrees, 30 to 60 degrees, 35 to 55 degrees, 40 to 50 degrees, or 45 degrees. Disposing the third plurality of grooves 60 at an angle to the longitudinal axis 13 provides greater torsional and mechanical resistance in use.

[0177] The third plurality of grooves 60 are arranged at an angle p to a transverse axis of the article running from the medial side edge 10 to the lateral side edge 8 perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 13. This is shown in Figure 6 and 7. The angle p is greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees from the axis 15. Preferably the angle is 10 to 80 degrees, 20 to 70 degrees, 30 to 60 degrees, 35 to 55 degrees, 40 to 50 degrees, or 45 degrees. Disposing the third plurality of grooves 60 at an angle to the transverse axis 13 provides greater torsional and mechanical resistance in use.

[0178] The sole structure 4 may further comprise a surface 90 as shown in Figure 6. The surface 90 may be recessed or flush with the lowest portion of the outsole 6 such that the surface may touch the ground in use.

[0179] The surface 90 is bordered by a groove 92. The groove 92 has a forward arm 96, a rearward arm 98 and an apex 94 at the point where the forward and rearward arms 96, 98 meet. The groove 92 is substantially V-shaped. Alternatively, the groove 92 may be shaped in a fashion similar to grooves 20, 40.

[0180] As with grooves 20, 40 the width of the groove 92 is inversely related to the length. As can be seen from Figure 6, groove 92 is the groove 20, 40, 92 with the greatest length and thus has the smallest width, as compared to groove 51 for example.

[0181] The groove 92 has substantially straight arms 96, 98. The groove's arms 96, 98 may be shaped as described above with respect to the other grooves.

[0182] The surface 90 shown in Figure 6 does not have a texture nor does the third plu-rality of grooves 60 extend across the surface 90. Alternatively, the surface 90 may have a texture or pattern or have the third plurality of grooves 60 extend across the surface 90.

[0183] The angle between the forward arm 96 and rearward arm 98 is between 40 to degrees or 60 to 120 degrees, and preferably approximately 90 degrees.

[0184] The outsole 6 may further comprise a groove 97 as shown in Figures 6 and 7. The groove 97 extends from the medial side edge 10 to the front 12 of the article in a substantially straight line. The groove 97 has a substantially constant width along its length. The groove 97 has a substantially constant depth along its length.

[0185] The article 1 is made of a polymer foam composition. The polymer foam compo-sition comprises an ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) polymer and a rubber. During production, the composition comprising EVA and rubber is treated with a foaming agent in order to produce a final material having a foamed cellular structure.

[0186] The EVA polymer material comprises EVA at least partially obtained from a re-newable carbon source. In particular, the renewable EVA is a bio-based EVA composition that is described in W02019202405. More specifically, a sugarcane-derived EVA polymer.

[0187] The article 1 may have a base composition of EVA rubber. For example, the amount of EVA in the base composition may be from 50% to 99%, such as from 60% to 98% or 70 to 97%, preferably from 80 to 95%. The EVA in the base composition may be a combination of EVA from both non-renewable (i.e. non-biobased) and renewable (i.e. bio-based) carbon sources. In particular, the base composition may comprise from 5% to 95% of bio-based EVA, based on the total amount of EVA in the base composition, such as from 10% to 90%, 15% to 80%, 20% to 70%, 20% to 60%, 20% to 50%, or 25% to 35%. The rubber in the base composition may be natural rubber, and may comprise the balance compared to the amount of EVA in the base composition. The EVA may comprise at least in part a renewable source material, preferably the renewable source material comprises 1 to 100 % of the EVA, more preferably 10 to 90 °A), more preferably still 20 to 50 %, most preferably 25 to 35 %. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the base composition comprises from 85% to 95% EVA and from 5 c/o to 15% rubber. In a more preferred embodiment of the invention, the base composition comprises 90 % EVA and 10 °/ci rubber, preferably 30 % of the EVA is from a renewable source material (of which preferably comprises at least 80% renewable material).

[0188] Alternatively, the article 1 is made from: a polymer, ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), polymer foam, rubber, natural rubber, synthetic rubber, plastic foam, cork, leather, "vegan" leather, recycled plastic, recycled polymer, a naturally derived polymer, other suitable materials, or any combination or subset thereof. The article 1 may be manufactured from a recycled material, such as a recycled polymer. Advantageously using recycled polymers or renewable materials decreases the environmental impact of the article 1.

[0189] Where the article 1 is made of a polymer, the article 1 may be formed by a moulding process such as injection moulding, pouring (e.g. gravity die pouring or the like), or compression moulding. Where the article 1 is unitary and the upper 2 and sole structure 4 are integral, the article 1 may be produced in a single step (with any post manufacturing steps undertaken subsequently, e.g. removal of sprues, flash, burrs, fins, cuts, washes, run out, or other excess material which may be subsequently recycled). Preferably, the article 1 is unitary and made by an injection moulding process. The injection moulding process may be any standard injection moulding, as known in the art.

[0190] The density of the upper 2 and the sole structure 4 is consistent throughout. The hardness of the upper 2 and the sole structure 4 is also consistent throughout. For example, the article 1 may have an Asker C hardness of from 30 to 65, such as from 35 to 60 or from 40 to 55, preferably from 45 to 50. Such a hardness measurement may be taken using a durometer, such as an Asker C durometer, using means and methods known in the art.

[0191] In alternative embodiments the density of the upper 2 and sole structure 4 may be different. For example, the midsole 5 which forms part of the sole structure 4 may have a lower hardness than the outsole 6 and/or the upper 2. The (comparatively) "softer" midsole may provide increased comfort as compared to the (comparatively) "harder" upper 2 and outsole 6. In addition, the (comparatively) "harder" outsole 6 may provide increased resistance to wear and or degradation as the article 1 is used.

[0192] Various parts of the invention are synergistic in that they provide a more comfort-able, easier to manufacture, wear resistant and more mechanically rigorous article 1.

[0193] It will be clear to the skilled person in the art that the above description corre-sponds to a single article 1 from a pair of such articles 100. As such the pair of articles 100 may be mirror images of each other to provide a left and right article 1 for example.

[0194] While the invention has been described in detail in terms of specific examples in-cluding presently preferred modes of carrying out the invention, those skilled in the art will appreciate that there are numerous variations and permutations of the above described systems and methods. Thus, the spirit and scope of the invention should be construed broadly as set forth in the appended claims.

No. Item 15 Transverse Axis a Angle 16 Toe Region P Angle 17 Lateral Midfoot Region wl width 18 Heel Region w2 width 20 Groove w3 width 22 Forward Arm 1 Article of footwear; Slider; Article 24 Apex 2 Upper 26 Rearward Arm 3 Edge 28 Axis 4 Sole Structure 30 First plurality of grooves Midsole 31 First Plurality First Groove 6 Outsole 32 First Plurality Second Groove 7 Insole 33 First Plurality Third Groove 8 Lateral Side Edge 40 Groove 9 Raised portion 42 lateral arm 9a First arm 44 apex 9b Second arm 46 medial arm 9c Third arm 48 Axis Medial Side Edge 50 Second plurality of grooves 11 Peripheral groove / Peripheral 51 Second Plurality First Groove protrusion 52 Second Plurality Second Groove 12 Front 53 Second Plurality Third Groove 13 Longitudinal Axis 60 Groove 14 Rear 70 Inside Surface 72 Outside Surface 88 Second Protrusion 74 Channel 89 Trailing Edge 76 Stipple Pattern 90 Surface 78 Sole Upper Surface 92 Surface groove Band 94 Surface groove apex 82 Medial Junction 96 Forward arm 84 Lateral Junction 97 Groove 86 First Protrusion 98 Rearward Arm 87 Leading edge 100 Pair of Articles

Claims

Claims 1. An article of footwear, comprising: an upper; a sole structure connected to the upper and including an outsole, the outsole including a first plurality of nested "V" shaped grooves formed in the outsole and extending partially across the outsole from a lateral side edge towards a medial side edge and back to the lateral side edge.
2. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein for each groove of the first plurality of nested "V" shaped grooves, a relative width of each groove is inversely related to an overall length of the groove.
3. The article of footwear of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein for each groove of the first plurality of nested "V" shaped grooves, the groove comprises a forward arm, an apex and a rearward arm, wherein the forward arm and the rearward arm are straight.
4. The article of footwear of claim 3, wherein each forward arm is substantially parallel to one another.
5. The article of footwear of claim 3, wherein each rearward arm is substantially parallel to one another.
6. The article of footwear of claim 3, wherein each apex is aligned about an axis running from the medial side edge to the lateral side edge through a ball region of the outsole.
7. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the first plurality of nested "V"-shaped grooves comprises a first groove, a second groove and a third groove.
8. The article of footwear of claim 7, wherein the second groove extends partially across the outsole towards the medial side edge to a greater extent than the first groove.
9. The article of footwear of claim 8, wherein the third groove extends partially across the outsole towards the medial side edge to a greater extent than the second groove.
10. The article of footwear of claim 7, wherein the first groove has an apex that overlies a lateral side region of the outsole.
11. The article of footwear of claim 7, wherein the second groove has an apex that overlies a mid-region of the outsole.
12. The article of footwear of claim 7, wherein the third groove has an apex that overlies a medial side region of the outsole.
13. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein a depth of first plurality of grooves formed in the outsole is constant as the grooves extend across the outsole.
14. The article of footwear of claim 11 further including a second plurality of nested "V" shaped grooves formed in the outsole and partially extending across the outsole from a heel edge towards a midsole region and back to a lateral side edge.
15. The article of footwear of claim 14, wherein for each groove of the second plurality of nested "V" shaped grooves, wherein a relative width of each groove is inversely related to an overall length of the groove.
16. The article of footwear of claim 14 or claim 15, wherein for each groove of the second plurality of nested "V" shaped grooves, the groove comprises a lateral arm, an apex and a medial arm, wherein the lateral arm and the medial arm are straight.
17. The article of footwear of claim 16, wherein each lateral arm is substantially parallel to one another, preferably wherein each medial arm is substantially parallel to one another.
18. The article of footwear of claim 16, wherein each apex is aligned along a longitudinal axis running along a mid-point of a lateral side region of the outsole.
19. The article of footwear of claim 14, wherein the second plurality of nested "V" shaped grooves comprises a fourth groove, a fifth groove and a sixth groove, preferably wherein the fifth groove extends partially across the outsole towards the midsole region to a greater extent than the fourth groove, preferably still wherein the sixth groove extends partially across the outsole towards the midsole region to a greater extent than the fifth groove.
20. The article of footwear of claim 19, wherein the fourth groove has an apex that overlies a heel region of the outsole, preferably wherein the sixth groove has an apex that overlies a midsole region of the outsole.
21. The article of footwear of claim 14, wherein a depth of the second plurality of grooves formed in the outsole is constant as the grooves extend across the outsole, preferably wherein the second plurality of grooves has the same depth as the first plurality of grooves.
22. The article of footwear of claim 19, further including a seventh groove extending from a toe edge to the medial edge in a straight line, substantially parallel to the forward arm of the third groove.
23. The article of footwear of claim 1, further including a third plurality of grooves formed in the outsole and extending across the outsole and having a depth less than the depth of the first plurality of grooves.
24. The article of footwear of claim 23, wherein the depth of the third plurality of grooves is constant as the grooves extend across the outsole.
25. The article of footwear of claim 23 or claim 24, wherein the third plurality of grooves are arranged in a repeating interlocking pattern across the outsole.
26. The article of footwear of any of claims 23 to 25, wherein the pattern has a constant spacing across the outsole.
27. The article of footwear of claim 23, wherein the third plurality of grooves are formed in at least one of a toe region, a lateral midfoot region and a heel region, preferably the third plurality of grooves are formed in each of a toe region, a lateral midfoot region and a heel region.
28. The article of footwear of any preceding claim, wherein the sole structure and the upper are integrally formed, preferably wherein the upper and the sole structure have the same density throughout, preferably still wherein the upper and the sole structure are formed substantially of a polymer.
29. The article of footwear of any preceding claim, wherein the upper and the sole structure are formed at least in part of a bio-based polymer.
30. The article of footwear of claim 29, wherein the upper and the sole structure are formed substantially of a copolymer of ethylene and vinyl acetate, in which the ethylene is at least partially obtained from a renewable source of carbon.
31. The article of footwear of any preceding claim, wherein the upper has an inside surface and an outside surface, and wherein the inside surface is provided with a series of channels extending longitudinally.
32. The article of footwear of any preceding claim, wherein the upper has an inside surface and an outside surface, and wherein the outside surface is provided with a stipple pattern.
33. The article of footwear of any preceding claim, wherein an upper surface of sole structure is provided with a stipple pattern.
34. The article of footwear of any preceding claim, wherein the upper is a band.
35. The article of footwear of any preceding claim, wherein the upper and the sole structure are formed by a moulding process, wherein the moulding process is selected from a group consisting of injection moulding, pouring and compression moulding.
36. The article of footwear of any preceding claim, wherein the article further comprises a surface comprising a "V" shaped groove formed in the outsole and extending partially across the outsole from a medial side edge towards a lateral side edge and back to the medial side edge.
37. The article of footwear of claim 36, wherein the groove has a surface forward arm, a surface apex and a surface rearward arm.
38. The article of footwear of claim 3 and claim 37, wherein the surface forward arm is substantially parallel to the rearward arms of the first plurality of grooves.
39. The article of footwear of claim 16 and claim 37, wherein the surface rearward arm is substantially parallel to the medial arms of the second plurality of grooves.
40. An article of footwear, comprising: an upper; and a sole structure connected to the upper at a medial junction and a lateral junction, and wherein the article of footwear further comprises: a first protrusion of the sole structure extending upwards adjacent the upper at the lateral junction to provide support for the upper, a second protrusion of the sole structure extending upwards adjacent the upper at the medial junction to provide support for the upper.
41. The article of footwear of claim 40, further comprising a groove extending partially around a perimeter of the sole structure, wherein the groove is aligned with the first and second protrusions.
42. The article of footwear of claim 41, wherein the first protrusion and second protrusion each comprise leading edge and a trailing edge, and wherein each trailing edge is substantially parallel with an edge of the upper, wherein the edge defines an opening of the upper to receive a user's foot, in use.
43. The article of footwear of any preceding claim, wherein the upper is a band.
44. The article of footwear of any of claims 40 to 43, wherein the sole structure is connected to the upper and includes an outsole, the outsole including a first plurality of nested "V" shaped grooves formed in the outsole and extending partially across the outsole from a lateral side edge towards a medial side edge and back to the lateral side edge, wherein the sole structure and the upper are integrally formed.
45. The article of footwear of claim 44, wherein for each groove of the first plurality of nested "V" shaped grooves, a relative width of each groove is inversely related to an overall length of the groove.
46. The article of footwear of claim 44 or claim 45, wherein for each groove of the first plurality of nested "V" shaped grooves, the groove comprises a forward arm, an apex and a rearward arm, wherein the forward arm and the rearward arm are straight, preferably wherein each forward arm is substantially parallel to one another, preferably still wherein each rearward arm is substantially parallel to one another.
47. The article of footwear of claim 46, wherein each apex is aligned about an axis running from the medial side edge to the lateral side edge through a ball region of the outsole.
48. The article of footwear of claim 51, wherein the first plurality of nested "V" shaped grooves comprises a first groove, a second groove and a third groove, preferably wherein the second groove extends partially across the outsole towards the medial side edge to a greater extent than the first groove, preferably still wherein the third groove extends partially across the outsole towards the medial side edge to a greater extent than the second groove.
49. The article of footwear of claim 46, wherein the first groove has an apex that overlies a lateral side region of the outsole, preferably wherein the second groove has an apex that overlies a mid-region of the outsole, preferably still wherein the third groove has an apex that overlies a medial side region of the outsole.
50. The article of footwear of claim 44, wherein a depth of first plurality of grooves formed in the outsole is constant as the grooves extend across the outsole.
51. The article of footwear of claim 44, further including a second plurality of nested "V" shaped grooves formed in the outsole and extending partially across the outsole from a heel edge towards a midsole region and back to a lateral side edge.
52. The article of footwear of claim 48, wherein for each groove of the second plurality of nested "V" shaped grooves, a relative width of each groove is inversely related to an overall length of the groove.
53. The article of footwear of claim 48 or claim 52, wherein for each groove of the second plurality of nested "V" shaped grooves, the groove comprises a lateral arm, an apex and a medial arm, wherein the lateral arm and the medial arm are straight.
54. The article of footwear of claim 53, wherein each lateral arm is substantially parallel to one another, preferably wherein each medial arm is substantially parallel to one another.
55. The article of footwear of claim 53, wherein each apex is aligned about a longitudinal axis running along a mid-point of a lateral side region of the outsole.
56. The article of footwear of claim 51, wherein the second plurality of nested "V" shaped grooves comprises a fourth groove, a fifth groove and a sixth groove.
57. The article of footwear of claim 56, wherein the fifth groove extends partially across the outsole towards the midsole region to a greater extent than the fourth groove, preferably wherein the sixth groove extends partially across the outsole towards the midsole region to a greater extent than the fifth groove, preferably still wherein the fourth groove has an apex that overlies a heel region of the outsole, preferably still wherein the sixth groove has an apex that overlies a midsole region of the outsole.
58. The article of footwear of claim 57, wherein a depth of second plurality of grooves formed in the outsole is constant as the grooves extend across the outsole.
59. The article of footwear of claim 58, wherein the second plurality of grooves has the same depth as the first plurality of grooves.
60. The article of footwear of claim 59, further including a seventh groove extending from a toe edge to the medial edge in a straight line, substantially parallel to a forward arm of the third groove.
61. The article of footwear of claim 44, further including a third plurality of grooves formed in the outsole and extending across the outsole and having a depth less than the depth of the first plurality of grooves, preferably wherein the depth of the third plurality of grooves is constant as the grooves extend across the outsole, preferably still wherein the third plurality of grooves are arranged in a repeating interlocking pattern across the outsole.
62. The article of footwear of claim 61, wherein the pattern has a constant spacing across the outsole.
63. The article of footwear of claim 61, wherein the third plurality of grooves are formed in at least one of a toe region, a lateral midfoot region and a heel region, preferably the third plurality of grooves are formed in each of a toe region, a lateral midfoot region and a heel region.
64. The article of footwear of any of claims 40 to 63, wherein the upper and the sole structure are formed of the same material.
65. The article of footwear of any of claims 40 to 64, wherein the upper and the sole structure have the same density throughout.
66. The article of footwear of any of claims 40 to 65, wherein the upper and the sole structure are formed substantially of a polymer, preferably wherein the upper and the sole structure are formed at least in part of a bio-based polymer.
67. The article of footwear of claim 66, wherein the upper and the sole structure are formed substantially of a copolymer of ethylene and vinyl acetate, in which the ethylene is at least partially obtained from a renewable source of carbon.
68. The article of footwear of any of claims 40 to 67, wherein the upper has an inside surface and an outside surface, and wherein the inside surface is provided with a series of channels extending longitudinally.
69. The article of footwear of any of claims 40 to 68, wherein the upper has an inside surface and an outside surface, and wherein the outside surface is provided with a stipple pattern.
70. The article of footwear of any of claims 40 to 69, wherein an upper surface of sole structure is provided with a stipple pattern.
71. The article of footwear of any of claims 40 to 70, wherein the upper and the sole structure are formed by a moulding process, wherein the moulding process is selected from a group consisting of injection moulding, pouring and compression moulding.72. The article of footwear of any of claims 40 to 71, wherein the article further comprises a surface comprising a "V" shaped groove formed in the outsole and extending partially across the outsole from a medial side edge towards a lateral side edge and back to the medial side edge, preferably wherein the groove has a surface forward arm, a surface apex and a surface rearward arm.
72. The article of footwear of claim 46 and claim 71, wherein the surface forward arm is substantially parallel to the rearward arms of the first plurality of grooves.
73. The article of footwear of claim 53 and claim 71, wherein the surface rearward arm is substantially parallel to the medial arms of the second plurality of grooves.
74. An outsole for an article of footwear, the outsole including a first plurality of nested "V" shaped grooves formed in the outsole and extending partially across the outsole from a lateral side edge towards a medial side edge and back to the lateral side edge.