JP7836070B2 - Footwear - Google Patents

Description

This disclosure pertains to footwear.

Various footwear, including shoes and socks, incorporates numerous innovations aimed at improving comfort, reducing fatigue, and enhancing mobility for the wearer. For example, in shoes, various innovations are made to the materials, shape, and structure of the outsole (the sole component) and insole.

In footwear like this, there is a need to further enhance its functionality.

In some embodiments of this disclosure, footwear is provided. In some embodiments, the footwear includes a heel support. In some embodiments, the heel support supports the wearer's heel. In some embodiments, the heel support is raised upward from the bottom. In some embodiments, the bottom supports the sole of the wearer's foot. In some embodiments, the heel support includes an anterior ridge. In some embodiments, the anterior ridge is formed forward of the wearer's calcaneal tuberosity medial and calcaneal tuberosity lateral ridges. In some embodiments, the heel support includes an lateral ridge. In some embodiments, the lateral ridge is formed widthwise lateral to the calcaneal tuberosity lateral ridge. In some embodiments, the heel support includes an interior ridge. In some embodiments, the interior ridge is formed widthwise medial to the calcaneal tuberosity medial ridge. In some embodiments, the interior ridge is formed higher than the lateral ridge.

According to the above embodiment, when a user wears footwear equipped with the heel support, the user's heel is held in place by the anterior, lateral, and medial protrusions of the heel support. This allows, for example, the user's calcaneal inclination (leg-heel angle, LHA) to be stabilized in a proper neutral position.

In some embodiments of this disclosure, the footwear includes a band. In some embodiments, the band is provided on the footwear body. In some embodiments, the band functions to pull the corresponding portion of the user's fifth metatarsal bone downward and medially in the width direction.

This is a schematic diagram showing footwear according to one embodiment, and is a view of the footwear from the front at an oblique angle. This is a view of the footwear shown in Figure 1 from above. Figure 1 shows the footwear viewed from the outside in the width direction. This figure shows the attachment point of the first end of the belt to the footwear body in the footwear shown in Figure 1. This is a view from below of the bottom of the footwear shown in Figure 1. Figure 1 is a plan view showing the heel support of the footwear. This is a cross-sectional view taken along the line A-A in Figure 6. This is a cross-sectional view taken along the line B-B in Figure 6. This is a cross-sectional view taken along the line C-C in Figure 6. This is a cross-sectional view taken along the line D-D in Figure 6. This is a cross-sectional view taken along the line E-E in Figure 2. This is a schematic side view showing footwear according to one embodiment. This is a schematic side view showing footwear according to one embodiment. This is a schematic side view showing footwear according to one embodiment. This is a schematic perspective view showing footwear according to one embodiment. This is a schematic side view showing footwear according to one embodiment.

As used herein, "footwear" generally covers at least part or all of the user's foot. In some embodiments, the footwear may be configured to cover part or all of the lower leg, the knee, or part or all of the thigh in addition to the user's foot. In some embodiments, the footwear may be shoes, socks, or foot supports. In some embodiments, shoes may be athletic shoes, leather shoes, business shoes, boots, pumps, high heels (sometimes simply called heels), sandals, loafers, sneakers, tabi socks, etc.

In some embodiments, the shoe may comprise a footwear body. The footwear body is the part worn by the user on their foot. The footwear body includes parts that the user's foot touches directly or indirectly, such as through socks. In some embodiments, if the footwear is a shoe, the footwear body may comprise a bottom covering the user's sole from below, and an upper covering at least a portion of the user's instep. In some embodiments, the footwear body may comprise a rear support covering the user's heel from behind.

In some embodiments, the footwear may include an outsole. The outsole may be attached to the bottom of the footwear body. The outsole forms at least a portion of the contact surface of the footwear. In some embodiments, the outsole may form the entire contact surface of the shoe. In some embodiments, the outsole may have a sole below the corresponding portion of the wearer's heel. The sole may be provided on the underside of the rear portion of the outsole. The sole may project downward from the underside of the outsole. In some embodiments, if a sole is included, the footwear may be configured to make contact with the ground at the front of the outsole and at the heel.

In some embodiments, the footwear may include a midsole between the bottom of the footwear body and the outsole.

In some embodiments, the footwear may be a high heel. A high heel may comprise a footwear body and a heel. The footwear body is the part worn on the user's foot. In some embodiments, the footwear body may comprise a sole that covers the user's sole from below and an upper that covers at least a portion of the user's instep. In some embodiments, the heel may protrude downward from the bottom of the rear of the footwear body. In some embodiments, the high heel may be configured to make contact with the ground at the front of the sole and the heel. The heel height is not limited in any way, and the term "high heel" as used herein includes not only so-called high heels but also low heels, pumps, etc.

The footwear body may be formed using one or more materials from among natural leather, synthetic leather, natural fiber cloth, synthetic fiber cloth, etc. The outsole, midsole, and sole may be formed using one or more materials from among natural leather, synthetic leather, wood-based materials, resin-based materials, metal-based materials, etc. The footwear body, outsole, midsole, and sole may be individual components or a single integrated component. When the footwear body, outsole, midsole, and sole are a single integrated component, they may be formed from a single material, or they may be formed from different materials and then joined or molded together.

In some embodiments, the footwear may be socks. Socks are worn by the user. In some embodiments, the socks integrally include at least a portion that covers the sole of the user's foot from below and a portion that covers the top of the user's foot. The length of the socks, when worn by the user, may be below the user's ankle, above the user's ankle, to the user's lower leg (or calf), or above the user's knee, etc. In some embodiments, the socks are not limited to so-called socks, but may be stockings, tights, etc.

Footwear may also be a foot support. A foot support is worn by the user. The support covers at least part of the user's foot. The foot support may be designed to cover the sole and instep of the user's foot. The foot support may also be designed to cover the area around the user's ankle.

If the footwear is socks or foot supports, it may be made from natural fibers, synthetic fibers, rubber-based materials, etc. The footwear may also be made from stretchable materials.

As used herein, the term "front" generally refers to the front of the user's body while wearing footwear. As used herein, the term "rear" generally refers to the rear of the user's body while wearing footwear.

As used herein, the term "width direction" generally refers to the left-right direction of the user's body while wearing the footwear. As used herein, the term "inner width direction" refers to the side of the body towards the center in the left-right direction for the user wearing the footwear. As used herein, the term "outer width direction" refers to the side away from the center of the body in the left-right direction for the user wearing the footwear.

In some embodiments, the footwear may include a heel support. The heel support may be configured to support the wearer's heel. The heel support may rise upward from the bottom that supports the wearer's sole. In some embodiments, the heel support may be provided in the insole of the footwear. The heel support may be attached to the insole by bonding means such as adhesive. The heel support may be formed integrally with the insole. In some embodiments, the heel support may be formed such that, when viewed from the side, the front and rear are lower than the center in the anterior-posterior direction. The heel support may include a frontal ridge. The frontal ridge may be formed in front of the wearer's medial and lateral calcaneal tuberosities. Such a frontal ridge prevents the forward movement of the wearer's medial and lateral calcaneal tuberosities.

The heel support may have a lateral protrusion. The lateral protrusion may be formed laterally in the width direction relative to the lateral process of the user's calcaneal tuberosity. Such a lateral protrusion can guide a supinated calcaneus to a neutral position, or it can restrict lateral movement of the user's calcaneal tuberosity.

The heel support may have a medial ridge. The medial ridge may be formed medially in the width direction relative to the medial process of the user's calcaneal tuberosity. Such a medial ridge can guide a pronated calcaneus to a neutral position. Alternatively, it can suppress medial movement of the user's calcaneal tuberosity in the width direction. The medial ridge may be formed higher than the lateral ridge. This more effectively suppresses medial movement of the user's calcaneal tuberosity in the width direction. Therefore, it can prevent the user's calcaneus from tilting medially in the width direction.

In some embodiments, the outer and inner ridges may be integrally formed, extending posteriorly from the anterior ridge.

In some embodiments, the footwear may further include a rear support. The rear support supports the user's heel from behind. In some embodiments, the rear support may rise upward from the bottom of the footwear body and be configured to support the entire user's heel from behind. In some embodiments, the rear support may rise upward from the bottom of the footwear body and be configured to support a portion of the lower part of the user's heel in the vertical direction from behind. In some embodiments, the rear support may be a belt-like extension extending backward from the upper that covers the user's instep from above. Such a rear support prevents the user's heel from moving backward. By providing a rear support in addition to a heel support, the user's calcaneus (heel bone) is supported more stably.

In some embodiments, the footwear may include a band provided on the footwear body. The band may be configured to plantarflex or externally rotate the base of the user's fifth metatarsal bone. The band may also be configured to function to pull the corresponding portion of the user's fifth metatarsal bone downward and medially in the width direction.

The band may have a first end fixed to the footwear body. In some embodiments, the first end may be fixed to the footwear body at a portion that covers the instep of the user's foot. In some embodiments, the first end may be fixed to the footwear body at a portion other than the portion that covers the instep of the user's foot. In some embodiments, the first end may be fixed to the footwear body at a portion on the instep side of the user's foot, on the widthwise outer side.

In some embodiments, the first end may be fixed to the footwear body on the inside. In some embodiments, if the footwear body has a tongue on the inside of the upper, the first end may be fixed to the tongue on the inside of the footwear body. In some embodiments, the width of the band at the first end may be wider as it approaches the tongue than in the middle. In some embodiments, the width of the band at the first end may be constant.

The first end may be fixed to the footwear body by joining it to the footwear body by sewing, adhesive, or other means. The first end may also be integrally molded with the footwear body.

The band may have a second end configured to be secured to the footwear body. The second end may be configured to be secured to the footwear body at a corresponding location near the user's ankle. In some embodiments, the second end may be configured to lock into a position corresponding to the user's lateral malleolus. In some embodiments, the second end may be configured to extend from the widthwise inner side of the footwear body outward along the upper side of the user's foot and be secured to the footwear body. In some embodiments, the second end may be configured to wrap around the portion covering the user's ankle and be secured to the footwear body.

In some embodiments, the second end may be detachably secured to the footwear body. The second end may be detachably secured to the footwear body using a buckle, hook-and-loop fastener, or other detachable fastening component.

The band may have an intermediate section that passes from the lateral aspect of the corresponding area of the user's fifth metatarsal bone to the lateral aspect of the corresponding area of the first metatarsal bone. The intermediate section refers to the portion of the band between the first and second ends. In some embodiments, the band may be tightened to bring the user's fifth and first metatarsal bones closer together in the lateral direction. In some embodiments, the intermediate section of the band may be positioned to pass through the corresponding area of at least one of the user's navicular and cuneiform bones.

This band tightens the fifth and first metatarsals of the user's foot, bringing them closer together in the width direction. This induces plantar flexion of the base of the fifth metatarsal, maintains the medial arch, and/or guides the midfoot and beyond from abduction to adduction relative to the hindfoot. Guiding the base of the fifth metatarsal toward the sole of the foot stabilizes the lateral arch (lateral radii). Securing the belt to the ipsilateral lateral malleolus through the navicular/cuneiform bones (midfoot) stabilizes the medial arch (medial radii). Therefore, it is possible to further guide the abducted midfoot and forefoot toward adduction relative to the hindfoot (calcaneus and talus). Alternatively, the midfoot in the width direction is deformed to flex upward between the lateral and medial sides of the foot, thereby correcting the user's foot so that the arch is lifted upward. As a result, the user's foot is in a more ideal state during sports, walking, various tasks, exercises, rehabilitation, etc.

In some embodiments, the band may be positioned along the inner circumferential surface of the footwear body. In some embodiments, the band may be positioned along the outer circumferential surface of the footwear body.

In some embodiments, the band may be configured such that a first portion at the first end is positioned along the inner circumferential surface of the footwear body, and a second portion at the second end is positioned along the outer circumferential surface of the footwear body.

In some embodiments, the footwear body may have a slit. The slit allows a band to be inserted between a first and a second portion, thereby leading the band from the inside to the outside of the footwear body.

In some embodiments, the slit may be formed in the upper of the footwear body. In some embodiments, the slit may be formed near the boundary between the bottom and upper of the footwear body. In some embodiments, the slit may be formed in the bottom of the footwear body. In some embodiments, if an outsole is attached to the underside of the footwear body, the slit may be formed in the bottom of the footwear body. In this case, the band is led out from the slit and passes between the outsole and the bottom of the footwear body. In some embodiments, if the band passes from the slit between the outsole and the bottom of the footwear body, a groove for accommodating the band may be formed in the outsole. Also, if a midsole is provided between the body of the footwear body and the outsole, the band may pass between the outsole and the midsole or through the inside of the midsole.

As used herein, "band" generally refers to a flexible, pliable, strip-shaped or strap-shaped member. The band may be bendable in directions other than its longitudinal and widthwise directions (in the thinness direction). In some embodiments, the band may be constructed from various materials, including natural fibers, various synthetic fibers, and rubber-based materials. The band may be elastic or stretchable in at least a portion of its structure. The band may be elastic or stretchable throughout its entirety. This, for example, improves the tightening effect on the wearer's leg. The band may not be elastic or stretchable.

In some embodiments, the footwear may include at least one of a heel support and a band. The footwear may include only the heel support, only the band, or both.

Footwear may be used for training, exercise, rehabilitation, and/or care. Footwear may also be used for purposes other than training, exercise, rehabilitation, and/or care. For example, footwear may be used for commuting, going to school, working, and daily life.

The terms training, exercise, rehabilitation, and care are explained below with examples. The terms training, exercise, rehabilitation, and care may be used with different meanings. In some embodiments, these terms may be used interchangeably, or at least partially interchangeably.

As used herein, the term "training" generally refers to physical training or physical exercise. Training may include flexibility or mobility-enhancing training (e.g., stretching), aerobic training (e.g., cycling, walking, jogging, swimming), and anaerobic training (e.g., weight training, strength training). The above classification of training is illustrative, and other classifications may be used.

As used herein, the term "exercise" generally refers to physical movement aimed at maintaining, strengthening, restoring, or improving physical ability or health. In Japanese, it is also called "undo" (運動). "Exercise" may also refer to sports. Sports may refer to various types of sports.

As used herein, the term "rehabilitation" generally refers to a form of musculoskeletal therapy or exercise aimed at restoring or improving a medical or therapeutic condition. Rehabilitation includes therapeutic exercise therapy, physical therapy, and movement training. Rehabilitation may, for example, be medical rehabilitation. Rehabilitation may, for example, be physical therapy. Physical therapy may, for example, be exercise therapy. Exercise therapy generally refers to therapy aimed at reducing symptoms or restoring function by moving the whole or part of the body. Exercise therapy may also be called therapeutic exercises, functional training, etc.

In some embodiments, the band may be provided with an anti-slip member on at least a portion of the side that contacts the user's foot or footwear to prevent slippage between the band and the footwear. In some embodiments, the anti-slip member may be formed from a rubber-based material, a silicone-based material, or the like. In some embodiments, the anti-slip member may be formed on the band in the form of points, lines, or surfaces.

Figures 1 to 9 show footwear 1A according to a certain embodiment. Footwear 1A shown in Figures 1 to 9 is a shoe. More specifically, footwear 1A is a sneaker. As shown in Figures 1 to 3, footwear 1A comprises a footwear body 11, an outsole 17, a band 20A, and a heel support 30A (see Figures 2 and 3).

The footwear body 11 is the part that the user puts on their foot 100. The footwear body 11 comprises a sole 12, an upper 13, a rear support 14, and a tongue 15. The sole 12 covers the sole of the user's foot from below. The sole 12 forms the bottom of the footwear body 11. The upper 13 covers the top of the user's foot 100 from above.

As shown in Figures 1 and 2, in this embodiment, the upper 13 of the footwear 1A, which is a sneaker, comprises an outside quarter 13a and an inside quarter 13b, which are divided into left and right sections in the width direction Dw. The outside quarter 13a and the inside quarter 13b are formed with a gap between them in the width direction Dw. The outside quarter 13a and the inside quarter 13b extend diagonally upward and backward from the toe portion 13t of the upper 13. The outside quarter 13a and the inside quarter 13b are connected by shoelaces (not shown).

As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the rear support 14 covers the user's heel from behind. The rear support 14 supports the user's heel from the rear. The rear support 14 rises upward from the bottom 12 of the footwear body 11. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the rear support 14 is formed continuously behind the outside quarter 13a and inside quarter 13b. The rear support 14 prevents the user's heel from moving backward.

The tongue 15 extends diagonally upward and backward from the toe portion 13t between the outside quarter 13a and the inside quarter 13b. The tongue 15 extends wider on both sides in the width direction Dw than the gap between the outside quarter 13a and the inside quarter 13b.

Furthermore, as shown in Figures 2 and 3, an insole 16 is provided inside the footwear body 11. The insole 16 is provided along the upper surface of the bottom 12. The insole 16 is in contact with the sole of the user's foot.

As shown in Figures 1 and 3, the outsole 17 is provided on the underside of the footwear body 11. The outsole 17 is attached to the underside of the bottom 12 of the footwear body 11 using adhesive or the like. The outsole 17 forms the entire contact surface of the footwear 1A (sneaker, shoe).

As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the band 20A is attached to the footwear body 11. As shown in Figure 2, the band 20A is configured to pull the corresponding portion of the user's fifth metatarsal bone 125 downward and inward in the widthwise direction Dw2. The band 20A comprises a first end 210a, a second end 210b, and an intermediate portion 210c.

The first end 210a is fixed to the footwear body 11. The first end 210a is fixed to the footwear body 11 in the portion that covers the instep of the user's foot 100. The first end 210a is fixed to the footwear body 11 on the instep side of the user's foot 100 at the outer widthwise portion Dw1. As shown in Figure 4, the first end 210a is fixed to the tongue 15 on the inside of the footwear body 11. The first end 210a is joined to the outer widthwise portion Dw1 end 15e of the tongue 15. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the inner widthwise portion Dw2 end 15f of the tongue 15 is fixed to the inside quarter 13b at the inner widthwise portion Dw2. As a result, when the band 20A is pulled from the first end 210a to the second end 210b, the tension of the band 20A is transmitted via the tan 15 to the inside quarter 13b on the widthwise inner side Dw2.

As shown in Figures 2 and 4, the first end 210a is provided with a widened section 20d where the width of the band 20A gradually increases as it approaches the tongue 15 from the intermediate section 210c. The band 20A is connected to the tongue 15 via the widened section 20d. The widened section 20d is formed, for example, from flat rubber. A viscoelastic rubber material is applied to the portion of the widened section 20d that contacts the instep of the foot 100 as an anti-slip measure. By increasing the area of the portion of the widened section 20d that contacts the instep of the foot 100, the tightening force of the band 20A is efficiently transmitted to the instep of the user's foot 100.

As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the intermediate portion 210c of band 20A is formed between the first end 210a and the second end 210b of band 20A. As shown in Figure 2, the intermediate portion 210c is provided so as to pass from the lateral Dw1 in the width direction of the corresponding area of the user's fifth metatarsal bone 125, through the underside of the sole of the foot, and through the lateral Dw2 in the width direction of the corresponding area of the first metatarsal bone 121. As shown in Figure 3, the intermediate portion 210c passes through the corresponding area near the posterior end of the fifth metatarsal bone 125 on the lateral Dw1 in the width direction. The intermediate portion 210c passes through the corresponding area of at least one of the user's navicular bone 127 and cuneiform bone 129 on the lateral Dw2 in the width direction.

As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the second end 210b of the band 20A is detachably fixed to the footwear body 11. The second end 210b is detachably fixed to the footwear body 11 using a buckle, hook-and-loop fastener, or other detachable fastening component. The second end 210b is configured to be fixed to the footwear body 11 at a corresponding area near the user's ankle. The second end 210b extends from the inner width direction Dw2 of the footwear body 11 to the outer width direction Dw1 along the upper side of the user's foot 100, and is configured to be fixed to the footwear body 11 near the user's ankle bone (lateral malleolus).

As shown in Figure 5, the band 20A is configured such that the first portion 20P on the first end 210a side is positioned along the inner circumferential surface of the footwear body 11, and the second portion 20Q on the second end 210b side is positioned along the outer circumferential surface of the footwear body 11. The footwear body 11 has a slit 18 that extends long in the front-rear direction at its bottom 12. The slit 18 is formed to penetrate the bottom 12 of the footwear body 11 vertically. The band 20A is inserted between the first portion 20P and the second portion 20Q of the slit 18, thereby leading the band 20A from the inside to the outside of the footwear body 11. Preferably, the slit 18 is formed at a position approximately 0.2W from the outside in the width direction Dw1 of the bottom 12, where W is the width direction Dw of the bottom 12 in the portion where the slit 18 is provided. This prevents the foot 100 from being biased inward in the width direction Dw2 by the band 20A. It is preferable that the length of the slit 18 in the front-to-back direction be greater than the width dimension of the band 20A.

The band 20A, which is led out from the slit 18 to the underside of the bottom 12, passes between the outsole 17 and the bottom 12 of the footwear body 11, and is guided inward in the width direction Dw2. When the band 20A passes from the slit 18 between the outsole 17 and the bottom 12 of the footwear body 11, a groove for accommodating the band 20A may be formed in the outsole 17.

After the user puts the footwear body 11 on their foot 100, they pull the band 20A toward the second end 210b and fix the second end 210b to the outer surface of the footwear body 11. This tightens the band 20A so that the user's fifth metatarsal bone 125 and first metatarsal bone 121 are brought closer together in the width direction Dw. This induces plantar flexion of the base of the fifth metatarsal bone, secures the medial arch, and/or guides the midfoot and beyond relative to the hindfoot from abduction to adduction. By guiding the base of the fifth metatarsal bone toward the sole, the lateral arch (lateral radii) can be stabilized. By securing the belt 20A to the ipsilateral lateral malleolus through the navicular bone 127/cuneiform bone portion 129 (midfoot), the medial arch (medial radii) can be stabilized. Therefore, the abducted midfoot and forefoot relative to the hindfoot (calcaneus and talus) can be further guided in an adduction direction. Alternatively, the mid-width portion 100c of the user's foot 100 is deformed to flex upward between the lateral Dw1 and medial Dw2 in the width direction of the foot 100. This corrects the user's foot 100 so that the arch is lifted upward.

As shown in Figures 2, 3, and 6-9, the heel support 30A is provided on the insole 16 of the footwear 1A. The heel support 30A is attached to the insole 16 by adhesive or other bonding means. The heel support 30A is configured to support the user's heel. As shown in Figures 6-8, the heel support 30A integrally comprises a frontal ridge 31, an outer ridge 32 (see Figures 6 and 7), and an inner ridge 33. As shown in Figure 3, the heel support 30A rises upward from the bottom 12 that supports the sole of the user's foot. As shown in Figure 8, when viewed from the side, the heel support 30A is formed such that the central part 30c in the front-to-back direction Da is raised, while the front 30f and rear 30r are lower.

As shown in Figures 7A to 7C, the outer ridge 32 and the inner ridge 33 protrude upward from the upper surface of the insole 16. The height of the outer ridge 32 is formed to gradually increase toward the outer side Dw1 in the width direction. The height of the inner ridge 33 is formed to gradually increase toward the inner side Dw2 in the width direction. As shown in Figure 6, the outer ridge 32 and the inner ridge 33 extend to protrude forward and backward relative to the front ridge 31, respectively. As a result, the heel support 30A has a rear recess 34 and a front recess 35. The rear recess 34 is formed behind the front ridge 31, between the outer ridges 32 and the inner ridges 33 on both sides in the width direction Dw. The rear recess 34 is formed in a recessed area toward the front between the outer ridge 32 and the inner ridge 33. The front recess 35 is formed in front of the front ridge 31, between the outer ridges 32 and the inner ridges 33 on both sides in the width direction Dw. The front recess 35 is formed as a recess towards the rear, between the outer ridge 32 and the inner ridge 33.

As shown in Figure 3, the anterior ridge 31 is formed anterior to the user's medial calcaneal tuberosity 124 and lateral calcaneal tuberosity 123. The anterior ridge 31 is positioned below the sustentaculum tali of the calcaneus 120. This anterior ridge 31 prevents the user's medial calcaneal tuberosity 124 and lateral calcaneal tuberosity 123 from moving forward, and helps maintain the calcaneus 120 in a posterior position. In this specification, "the most downwardly projecting projection at the posterior part of the calcaneus" refers to the lowest end of the calcaneal tuberosity that can first make contact with the ground during walking.

As shown in Figure 6, the lateral ridge 32 extends anteriorly and posteriorly along the lateral edge Dw1 in the width direction of the insole 16. As shown in Figure 9, the lateral ridge 32 is formed laterally Dw1 in the width direction relative to the user's calcaneal tuberosity lateral projection 123. The lateral ridge 32 suppresses the movement of the user's calcaneal tuberosity lateral projection 123 toward lateral Dw1 in the width direction, and can guide the supinated calcaneus 120 to a neutral position.

As shown in Figure 6, the medial ridge 33 extends anterior-posteriorly along the medial edge Dw2 in the width direction of the insole 16. As shown in Figure 9, the medial ridge 33 is formed medially Dw2 in the width direction relative to the medial process 124 of the user's calcaneal tuberosity. This medial ridge 33 suppresses the movement of the medial process 124 of the user's calcaneal tuberosity toward medial Dw2 in the width direction, and guides the pronated calcaneus 120 to a neutral position. The medial ridge 33 is formed higher than the lateral ridge 32.

When the user places their foot 100 into the footwear body 11, the user's heel is supported from behind by the rear support 14, while the heel support 30A prevents forward and lateral movement Dw, or guides the pronated/supinated calcaneus 120 to a neutral position. Furthermore, the medial ridge 33 is formed higher than the lateral ridge 32. This prevents the user's calcaneus 120 from tilting or pronating medially Dw2 in the lateral direction.

Figure 10 shows footwear 1B according to one embodiment. Footwear 1B shown in Figure 10 is a sock. Footwear 1B comprises a sock body 51B, a band 20B, and a heel support 30B.

The sock body 51B is worn by the user on their foot 100. The sock body 51B integrally comprises a portion 51a that covers the sole of the user's foot from below, and a portion 51b that covers the top of the user's foot 100.

The band 20B is attached to the sock body 51B. The band 20B is, for example, sewn to the sock body 51B. The band 20B is configured to pull the corresponding portion of the user's fifth metatarsal bone 125 downward and medially in the width direction Dw2. The band 20B comprises a first end 220a, a second end 220b, and an intermediate portion 220c.

The first end 220a of the band 20B is fixed to the sock body 51B. The middle portion 220c of the band 20B extends along the outer surface of the sock body 51B and is provided to pass from the lateral Dw1 in the width direction of the area corresponding to the fifth metatarsal bone 125 of the user, through the underside of the sole of the foot, and through the lateral Dw2 in the width direction of the area corresponding to the first metatarsal bone 121. The middle portion 220c passes through the area near the posterior end of the fifth metatarsal bone 125 on the lateral Dw1 in the width direction. The middle portion 220c passes through the area corresponding to at least one of the navicular bone 127 and cuneiform bone 129 of the user on the lateral Dw2 in the width direction. The second end 220b of the band 20B is detachably fixed to a position corresponding to the lateral malleolus of the sock body 51B. The second end 220b is detachably fixed to the outer surface of the sock body 51B using a buckle, hook-and-loop fastener, or other detachable fastening component.

The heel support 30B shown in Figure 10 is provided on the inner circumferential surface of the sock body 51B. The heel support 30B has the same configuration as the heel support 30A described above. The heel support 30B is configured to support the user's heel. The heel support 30B may also be provided on the shoe side (the outer circumferential surface of the sock body 51B) instead of the sock body 51B.

By wearing footwear 1B (a type of sock) and then putting on shoes, the user can achieve the same effects and benefits as footwear 1A.

Figure 11 shows footwear 1C according to one embodiment. Footwear 1C shown in Figure 11 is a sock. Footwear 1C comprises a sock body 51C, a band 20C, and a heel support 30C having the same configuration as the heel support 30A described above. The sock body 51C integrally has a portion 52a that covers the sole of the user's foot from below, and a portion 52b that covers the instep of the user's foot 100.

The band 20C is attached to the sock body 51C. The band 20C is, for example, sewn to the sock body 51C. The band 20C is configured to function by pulling the corresponding portion of the user's fifth metatarsal bone 125 downward and medially in the width direction Dw2. The band 20C comprises a first end 230a, a second end 230b, and an intermediate portion 230c.

The first end 230a is fixed to the sock body 51C. The middle section 230c of the band 20C extends along the outer surface of the sock body 51C and is positioned to pass from the lateral Dw1 in the width direction to the corresponding area of the user's fifth metatarsal bone 125, through the underside of the sole of the foot, and through the lateral Dw2 in the width direction to the corresponding area of the first metatarsal bone 121. The middle section 230c passes through the corresponding area near the posterior end of the fifth metatarsal bone 125 at the lateral Dw1. The middle section 230c passes through the corresponding area of at least one of the user's navicular bone 127 and cuneiform bone 129 at the lateral Dw2. The second end 230b of the band 20C is wrapped around the area covering the user's ankle and fixed to the sock body 51C.

Figure 12 shows footwear 1D according to one embodiment. Footwear 1D shown in Figure 12 is a foot support. Footwear 1D comprises a support body 61, a band 20D, and a heel support 30D.

The supporter body 61 is worn by the user on their foot 100. The supporter body 61 integrally comprises a portion 61a that covers the sole and instep of the user's foot, and a portion 61b that covers the user's ankle.

The band 20D is attached to the supporter body 61. The band 20D is, for example, sewn to the supporter body 61. The band 20D is configured to pull the corresponding portion of the user's fifth metatarsal bone 125 downward and medially in the width direction Dw2. The band 20D comprises a first end 240a, a second end 240b, and an intermediate portion 240c.

The first end 240a of the band 20D is fixed to the supporter body 61. The intermediate portion 240c extends along the outer circumferential surface of the supporter body 61 and is provided to pass from the lateral Dw1 in the width direction of the corresponding area of the user's fifth metatarsal bone 125, through the underside of the sole of the foot, and through the lateral Dw2 in the width direction of the corresponding area of the first metatarsal bone 121. The intermediate portion 240c passes through the corresponding area near the posterior end of the fifth metatarsal bone 125 on the lateral Dw1 in the width direction. The intermediate portion 240c passes through the corresponding area of at least one of the user's navicular bone 127 and cuneiform bone 129 on the lateral Dw2 in the width direction. The second end 240b of the band 20D is detachably fixed to a position corresponding to the lateral malleolus of the supporter body 61. The second end 240b is detachably secured to the outer surface of the supporter body 61 using a buckle, hook-and-loop fastener, or other detachable fastening component. Alternatively, the band 20D may be wrapped around the part of the supporter body 20b that covers the user's ankle, as shown in Figure 11.

The heel support 30D shown in Figure 12 is provided on the inner circumferential surface of the supporter body 61. The heel support 30D is configured to support the user's heel. The heel support 30D has the same configuration as the heel support 30A described above. The heel support 30D may also be provided on the shoe side, rather than on the supporter body 61.

By wearing footwear 1D, which is a support device, the user can achieve the same effects and benefits as footwear 1A, 1B, and 1C.

Figure 13 shows footwear 1E according to one embodiment. Footwear 1E shown in Figure 13 is a high heel. Footwear 1E comprises a footwear body 71, a heel 75, and a heel support 30E.

The footwear body 71 is the part that the user wears on their feet. The footwear body 71 comprises a sole 72 that covers the sole of the user's foot from below, an upper 73 that covers at least a portion of the instep of the user's foot, and a rear support 74 that covers the user's heel from behind. The heel 75 protrudes downward from the rear of the sole 72.

The heel support 30E is provided on the insole 76 of the footwear body 71. The heel support 30E is configured to support the wearer's heel. The heel support 30E has the same configuration as the heel support 30A described above.

When the user places their foot into the footwear body 71, the user's heel is supported from behind by the rear support 74, while the heel support 30E prevents forward and lateral movement Dw. This allows the user's calcaneal inclination (leg-heel angle) to be stabilized in an appropriate intermediate position.

Figure 14 shows footwear 1F according to one embodiment. Footwear 1F shown in Figure 14 is a heel support. Footwear 1F comprises a footwear body 81 and a heel support 30F.

The footwear body 81 is the part worn by the user to cover the heel. The footwear body 81 integrally comprises a bottom portion 82 that covers the underside of the user's heel from below, and a rear support 83 that covers the user's heel from behind. The footwear body 81 is equipped with a fastening belt 84 for securing the bottom portion 82 and the rear support 83 to the foot, ensuring they cover the heel from behind and below.

The heel support 30F is provided on the bottom 82 of the footwear body 81. The heel support 30F is configured to support the user's heel. The heel support 30F has the same configuration as the heel support 30A described above.

When the user places their foot into the shoe with the heel support d attached, the user's heel is supported from behind by the rear support 83, while the heel support 30F prevents forward and lateral movement Dw. This allows the user's calcaneal inclination (leg-heel angle) to be stabilized in an appropriate intermediate position.

This disclosure also provides the following embodiments:
A001
Equipped with heel support to support the user's heel,
The heel support,
It rises upward from the base that supports the sole of the user's foot,
The anterior prominence formed anterior to the medial and lateral processes of the calcaneal tuberosity of the user,
A lateral protuberance formed laterally in the width direction relative to the lateral process of the calcaneal tuberosity,
The system is configured to include a medial ridge, which is formed medially in the width direction relative to the medial process of the calcaneal tuberosity and is higher than the lateral ridge,
Footwear.
A011
Footwear according to Embodiment A001,
Footwear that features additional rear support to support the wearer's heel from behind.
A021
Footwear according to either Embodiment A001 or A011,
It is a shoe.
Footwear.
A022
Footwear according to any one of embodiments A001 to A011,
High heels,
Footwear.
A023
Footwear according to any one of embodiments A001 to A011,
These are socks or foot supports.
Footwear.
B001
The footwear body covers at least a portion of the user's foot,
A band provided on the footwear body, which functions to pull the corresponding area of the user's fifth metatarsal bone downward and inward in the width direction,
The footwear body is provided with a heel support that supports the user's heel,
Equipped with,
The heel support rises upward from the bottom, which supports the sole of the user's foot.
An anterior protrusion formed anterior to the most downwardly projecting part at the posterior end of the calcaneus,
An outer ridge formed on the widthwise side of the aforementioned protrusion,
The configuration includes an inner ridge formed inward in the width direction relative to the protrusion and formed to be higher than the outer ridge,
Footwear.
B011
Footwear according to Embodiment B001,
The E band is
The first end is fixed to the footwear body in the part that covers the top of the user's foot,
The intermediate portion passes from the lateral side in the width direction of the corresponding area of the fifth metatarsal bone of the user to the medial side in the width direction of the corresponding area of the first metatarsal bone,
It comprises a second end configured to be fixed to the footwear body at a corresponding area near the user's ankle,
Footwear.
B012
Footwear according to Embodiment B001 or B011,
The footwear body is equipped with a tongue,
The first end is fixed to the tongue.
Footwear.
B013
Footwear according to Embodiment B012,
The first end is formed such that the width dimension of the band becomes wider as it approaches the tongue than the intermediate portion.
Footwear.
B021
Footwear according to any one of embodiments B001 to B013,
The second end is configured to extend from the inside in the width direction of the footwear body outward along the upper side of the user's foot and be fixed to the footwear body.
Footwear.
B031
Footwear according to any one of embodiments B001 to B013,
The second end is configured to be wrapped around the part that covers the user's ankle and secured to the footwear body.
Footwear.
B041
Footwear according to any one of embodiments B001 to B031,
The aforementioned intermediate portion passes through the corresponding part of at least one of the user's scaphoid and cuneiform bones.
Footwear.
B051
Footwear according to any one of embodiments B001 to B041,
The E band is
The first portion on the first end side is arranged along the inner circumferential surface of the footwear body,
The second portion on the second end side is configured to be positioned along the outer circumferential surface of the footwear body,
Footwear.
B052
Footwear according to Embodiment B051,
The footwear body has a slit through which the band is inserted between the first part and the second part, and through which the band is led from the inside to the outside of the footwear body.
Footwear.
B053
The footwear described in Embodiment B052,
The footwear further comprises an outsole attached to the lower side of the footwear body,
The aforementioned slit is formed on the lower surface of the footwear body,
The band is led out from the slit and passes between the outsole and the bottom of the footwear body.
Footwear.
B061
Footwear according to any one of embodiments B001 to B053,
The aforementioned shoes,
Footwear.
B062
Footwear according to any one of embodiments B001 to B052,
These are socks or foot supports.
Footwear.
C001
The footwear body covers at least a portion of the user's foot,
A band provided on the footwear body, which functions to pull the corresponding area of the user's fifth metatarsal bone downward and inward in the width direction,
Footwear equipped with these features.

The above describes several embodiments and examples of the present disclosure. These embodiments and examples are illustrative examples of the present disclosure. For example, each of the above embodiments is described in detail to make the present disclosure easier to understand, and dimensions, configurations, materials, and circuits may be added or modified as needed. Embodiments that arbitrarily combine one or more of the features of the present disclosure listed above are also included in the scope of the present disclosure. The claims encompass a number of variations on the embodiments, without departing from the technical idea of the present disclosure. Therefore, the embodiments and examples disclosed herein are provided for illustrative purposes only and should not be considered as limiting the scope of the present disclosure.

1A-1F Footwear 11, 71, 81 Footwear body 12 Bottom 14, 74, 83 Rear support 15 Tongue 17 Outsole 18 Slit 20A-20C Band 20P First part 20Q Second part 210a, 220a, 230a, 240a First end 210b, 220b, 230b, 240b Second end 210c, 220c, 230c, 240c Middle part 30A-30F Heel support 31 Anterior ridge 32 Lateral ridge 33 Medial ridge 100 Foot 120 Calcaneus 121 First metatarsal 125 Fifth metatarsal 123 Lateral process of calcaneal tuberosity 124 Medial process of calcaneal tuberosity 127 Navicular bone 129 Cuneiform bone Dw Width direction Dw1 Width direction outside Dw2 Width direction inside

Claims (17)

Equipped with heel support to support the user's heel,
The heel support is
It rises upward from the base that supports the sole of the user's foot,
The anterior prominence formed anterior to the medial and lateral processes of the calcaneal tuberosity of the user,
A lateral protuberance formed laterally in the width direction relative to the lateral process of the calcaneal tuberosity,
The system is configured to include a medial ridge, which is formed medially in the width direction relative to the medial process of the calcaneal tuberosity and is higher than the lateral ridge,
Footwear. Footwear according to claim 1,
It also features rear support to further support the user's heel from behind.
Footwear. Footwear according to either claim 1 or 2,
It is a shoe.
Footwear. Footwear according to either claim 1 or 2,
High heels
Footwear. Footwear according to either claim 1 or 2,
These are socks or foot supports.
Footwear. The footwear body covers at least a portion of the user 's foot,
A band provided on the footwear body, which functions to pull the corresponding area of the user's fifth metatarsal bone downward and inward in the width direction,
The footwear body is provided with a heel support that supports the user's heel,
Equipped with,
The heel support rises upward from the bottom that supports the sole of the user's foot,
An anterior protrusion formed in front of the most downwardly protruding part of the posterior part of the user's calcaneus,
An outer ridge formed on the widthwise side of the aforementioned protrusion,
The configuration includes an inner ridge formed inward in the width direction relative to the protrusion and formed to be higher than the outer ridge,
Footwear. Footwear according to claim 6,
The E band is
The first end, which is fixed to the footwear body in the part that covers the top of the user's foot,
The intermediate portion of the user passing from the lateral side in the width direction of the corresponding area of the fifth metatarsal bone to the lateral side in the width direction of the corresponding area of the first metatarsal bone,
It comprises a second end configured to be fixed to the footwear body at a corresponding area near the user's ankle,
Footwear. Footwear according to claim 7 ,
The footwear body is equipped with a tongue,
The first end is fixed to the tongue.
Footwear. Footwear according to claim 8,
The first end is formed such that the width dimension of the band becomes wider as it approaches the tongue than the intermediate portion.
Footwear. Footwear according to any one of claims 7 to 9,
The second end is configured to extend from the inside in the width direction of the footwear body outward along the upper side of the user's foot and be fixed to the footwear body.
Footwear. Footwear according to any one of claims 7 to 9,
The second end is configured to be wrapped around the part that covers the user's ankle and secured to the footwear body.
Footwear. Footwear according to any one of claims 7 to 11,
The aforementioned intermediate portion passes through the corresponding part of at least one of the user's scaphoid and cuneiform bones.
Footwear. Footwear according to any one of claims 7 to 12,
The aforementioned band,
The first portion on the first end side is arranged along the inner circumferential surface of the footwear body,
The second portion on the second end side is configured to be positioned along the outer circumferential surface of the footwear body,
Footwear. Footwear according to claim 13,
The footwear body has a slit through which the band is inserted between the first part and the second part, and through which the band is led from the inside to the outside of the footwear body.
Footwear. Footwear according to claim 14,
The footwear further comprises an outsole attached to the lower side of the footwear body,
The aforementioned slit is formed on the lower surface of the footwear body,
The band is led out from the slit and passes between the outsole and the bottom of the footwear body.
Footwear. Footwear according to any one of claims 6 to 15,
It is a shoe .
Footwear. Footwear according to any one of claims 6 to 14,
These are socks or foot supports.
Footwear.