US20150342298A9 - Outsole With Stepped Projections For Article Of Footwear - Google Patents
Outsole With Stepped Projections For Article Of Footwear Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20150342298A9 US20150342298A9 US14/025,351 US201314025351A US2015342298A9 US 20150342298 A9 US20150342298 A9 US 20150342298A9 US 201314025351 A US201314025351 A US 201314025351A US 2015342298 A9 US2015342298 A9 US 2015342298A9
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- Prior art keywords
- footwear
- article
- stepped
- projection
- projections
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Classifications
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
- A43B7/00—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements
- A43B7/14—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts
- A43B7/1405—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form
- A43B7/1455—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form with special properties
- A43B7/146—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form with special properties provided with acupressure points or means for foot massage
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
- A43B13/00—Soles; Sole-and-heel integral units
- A43B13/14—Soles; Sole-and-heel integral units characterised by the constructive form
- A43B13/22—Soles made slip-preventing or wear-resisting, e.g. by impregnation or spreading a wear-resisting layer
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
- A43B13/00—Soles; Sole-and-heel integral units
- A43B13/14—Soles; Sole-and-heel integral units characterised by the constructive form
- A43B13/141—Soles; Sole-and-heel integral units characterised by the constructive form with a part of the sole being flexible, e.g. permitting articulation or torsion
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
- A43B13/00—Soles; Sole-and-heel integral units
- A43B13/14—Soles; Sole-and-heel integral units characterised by the constructive form
- A43B13/18—Resilient soles
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
- A43B13/00—Soles; Sole-and-heel integral units
- A43B13/14—Soles; Sole-and-heel integral units characterised by the constructive form
- A43B13/22—Soles made slip-preventing or wear-resisting, e.g. by impregnation or spreading a wear-resisting layer
- A43B13/223—Profiled soles
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
- A43B13/00—Soles; Sole-and-heel integral units
- A43B13/38—Built-in insoles joined to uppers during the manufacturing process, e.g. structural insoles; Insoles glued to shoes during the manufacturing process
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43C—FASTENINGS OR ATTACHMENTS OF FOOTWEAR; LACES IN GENERAL
- A43C15/00—Non-skid devices or attachments
- A43C15/16—Studs or cleats for football or like boots
- A43C15/162—Studs or cleats for football or like boots characterised by the shape
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43C—FASTENINGS OR ATTACHMENTS OF FOOTWEAR; LACES IN GENERAL
- A43C15/00—Non-skid devices or attachments
- A43C15/16—Studs or cleats for football or like boots
- A43C15/168—Studs or cleats for football or like boots with resilient means, e.g. shock absorbing means
Definitions
- the present disclosure relates to footwear and, more particularly, relates to an outsole with stepped projections for an article of footwear.
- Articles of footwear usually include an upper and a sole structure.
- the upper can receive the wearer's foot and secure the footwear to the foot.
- the sole structure can provide traction for the footwear.
- the sole structure can be resiliently compressible to provide cushioning to the wearer's foot.
- the upper can include one or more sheet-like sections of material that define a cavity for receiving the wearer's foot.
- the upper can also include laces, straps, buckles, buttons, and other similar components for securing the footwear to the wearer's foot.
- the sole structure can include a midsole in some embodiments.
- the midsole can include resiliently compressible members, such as foam, a fluid-filled bladder, or other similar members. As such, the midsole can resiliently compress under the weight of the wearer or due to impact with a ground surface. This can help distribute the resulting loads across the sole assembly and/or attenuate the loads to provide cushioning.
- the sole structure can additionally include an outsole.
- the outsole can be made from relatively high friction material such that the outsole can readily grip the ground with firm traction.
- the outsole can also include grooves, sipes, recesses, or other features that increase surface area of the ground engaging surface, that can channel water away from the ground engaging surface, or otherwise increase such traction for the article of footwear.
- An article of footwear has a medial side and a lateral side.
- the article of footwear defines a lateral axis that extends between the medial side and the lateral side.
- the article of footwear includes an upper and a sole structure that is operably coupled to the upper.
- the sole structure extends along the lateral axis.
- the sole structure includes an outsole having a base with an upper surface that faces the upper and a lower surface that faces away from the upper surface.
- the outsole also includes a first stepped projection that projects in a plurality of first steps from the lower surface.
- the plurality of first steps can be defined by a plurality of first tread surfaces and a plurality of first riser surfaces.
- the outsole additionally includes a second stepped projection that projects in a plurality of second steps from the lower surface.
- the plurality of second steps can be defined by a plurality of second tread surfaces and a plurality of second riser surfaces.
- the second stepped projection can be spaced away from the first stepped projection relative to the lateral axis of the article of footwear.
- An article of footwear is also disclosed that includes an upper having an interior surface and an exterior surface.
- the article of footwear also includes a sole structure that is operably coupled to the upper.
- the sole structure includes an outsole that has a base.
- the base has an upper surface that faces the upper and a lower surface that faces away from the upper surface.
- the upper surface can be layered underneath and attached directly to the exterior surface of the upper.
- the outsole also includes a projection that projects from the lower surface of the base along a first direction.
- the projection has a transverse dimension measured in a second direction that is transverse to the first direction.
- the projection decreases in the transverse dimension as the projection projects in the first direction.
- the base and the projection are resiliently flexible and moveable between a neutral position and a flexed position. The interior surface moves due to the movement between the neutral position and the flexed position.
- an article of footwear that includes a forefoot portion, a heel portion, a medial side, and a lateral side.
- the medial side and the lateral side each extend between the forefoot portion and the heel portion.
- the article of footwear includes an upper and a sole structure that is operably coupled to the upper.
- the sole structure has a ground engaging surface and a total thickness.
- the sole structure includes an outsole with a base with an upper surface that is directly attached to the upper and a lower surface that faces away from the upper.
- the base can have a base thickness measured between the upper surface and the lower surface. In some embodiments, the base thickness can be at most approximately thirty percent (30%) of the total thickness of the sole structure.
- the outsole includes a plurality of stepped projections that each project from the lower surface of the base.
- Each of the plurality of stepped projections can include at least three riser surfaces.
- the plurality of stepped projections can be arranged in a plurality of rows that extend generally between the medial side and the lateral side.
- the plurality of stepped projections can also be arranged in a plurality of columns that extend generally between the forefoot portion and the lateral portion.
- the plurality of stepped projections can be spaced apart from each other within the plurality of rows and within the plurality of columns.
- FIG. 1 is a side view of an article of footwear according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure
- FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a sole structure of the article of footwear of HG. 1 ;
- FIG. 3 is a bottom view of the article of footwear of FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 4 is a longitudinal section view of the sole structure of the article of footwear taken along line. 4 - 4 of FIG. 3 ;
- FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a plurality of stepped projections of the sole structure of the article of footwear of FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 6 is a section view of the sole structure taken along the line 6 - 6 of FIG. 5 ;
- FIG. 7 is a section view of the sole structure of FIG. 6 shown in a first flexed position
- FIG. 8 is a section view of the sole structure of FIG. 6 shown in a second flexed position
- FIG. 9 is a section view of the sole structure taken along the line 9 - 9 of FIG. 5 ;
- FIG. 10 is a section view of the sole structure of FIG. 9 shown in a first flexed position
- FIG. 11 is a section view of the sole structure of FIG. 9 shown in a second flexed position
- FIG. 12 is a bottom view of the article of footwear with stepped projections according to additional embodiments of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 13 is a perspective view of stepped projections of the article of footwear of FIG. 12 .
- an article of footwear 10 includes an upper 12 and a sole structure 14 that are operably coupled together.
- the article of footwear 10 is illustrated as an athletic shoe, it will be appreciated that the footwear 10 could be a boot, a sandal, or any other type without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
- Footwear 10 can be constructed to include a forefoot portion 16 , a heel portion 18 , a medial side 20 , and a lateral side 22 .
- the medial side 20 and lateral side 22 can both extend between the forefoot portion 16 and the heel portion 18 , and the medial side 20 and lateral side 22 can be disposed on opposite sides of a longitudinal axis 24 of the footwear 10 .
- a lateral axis 26 can extend transversely relative to the longitudinal axis 24 and can extend between the medial side 20 and the lateral side 22 .
- the lateral axis 26 can be substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 24 .
- the forefoot portion 16 can support the forefoot area of the wearer's foot, such as the toes, metatarsals, and other neighboring areas of the foot.
- the heel portion 18 can support the wearer's heel and ankle.
- the medial side 20 can support the medial side of the wearer's foot, and the lateral side 22 can support the lateral side of the wearer's foot.
- the upper 12 can include one or more sheets of material that is/are shaped to define an internal void 27 that can receive the wearer's foot.
- the upper 12 can be made from any suitable material.
- the upper 12 can be at least partially constructed from leather, fabric, or synthetic material.
- the upper 12 can be made from a mesh material such that the upper 12 is lightweight and air can readily move in and out of the upper 12 .
- the upper 12 can continuously extend between the forefoot portion 16 , the heel portion 18 , the medial side 20 , and the lateral side 22 of the article of footwear 10 .
- the upper 12 can include a collar 28 that defines an ankle opening 30 , which provides access into and out of the internal void 27 .
- the upper 12 can include a throat opening 32 that extends along the longitudinal axis 24 between the medial side 20 and the lateral side 22 .
- a securing device 34 such as a shoelace 36 , can extend across the throat opening 32 to selectively vary the width of the upper 12 . For instance, the shoelace 36 can be tightened to make the upper 12 more narrow for securing the upper 12 to the wearer's foot.
- the shoelace 36 can also be loosened to make the upper 12 wider for releasing the upper 12 from the wearer's foot.
- the shoelace 36 is merely one example of a suitable securing device 34 for the article of footwear 10
- the article of footwear 10 could also include straps, buckles, loop-and-pile tape, elastic bands, or other types of securing devices 34 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
- a tongue can be provided within the throat opening 32 to be disposed between the securing device 34 and the wearer's foot in some embodiments.
- the upper 12 can additionally include a strobel member 37 , which can also be referred to as a “strobel” or as a “strobel sock.”
- a strobel member 37 can be a sheet of material that extends horizontally and continuously between the forefoot portion 16 , the heel portion 18 , the medial side 20 , and the lateral side 22 .
- the strobel member 37 can be disposed underneath the wearer's foot.
- Strobel member 37 can include an interior surface 39 and an exterior surface 41 .
- the interior surface 39 can face the sole of the wearer's foot and can abut against the wearer's foot or the stocking enclosing the wearer's foot.
- the exterior surface 41 can face in an opposite direction from the interior surface 39 .
- the sole structure 14 can be attached to the upper 12 and can extend under the wearer's foot. Also, the sole structure 14 can define a ground engaging surface 35 that engages the ground, floor, running track, or other supporting surface. Also, the sole structure 14 can provide increased traction when walking, running, or jumping. Furthermore, the sole structure 14 can be resiliently deformable to attenuate impact forces while walking, running, or jumping. Additionally, the sole structure 14 can resiliently recover from such impact to provide energy return to the wearer's foot.
- the sole structure 14 can include an outsole 31 .
- the outsole 31 can be connected directly to the upper 12 .
- the outsole 31 can be layered underneath and directly attached to the strobel member 37 .
- the sole structure 14 can include a midsole between the upper 12 and the outsole 31 , and the midsole can be made from resilient materials, bladders, or other items that resiliently deform and compress to attenuate impact forces.
- the article of footwear 10 shown in the illustrated embodiments does not include a midsole. Stated differently, the sole structure 14 of the footwear 10 can be “midsole-less”.
- the outsole 31 can be resiliently deformable to provide at least some of the energy damping and energy return that a traditional midsole provides. It will be appreciated that the absence of a midsole can provide weight savings and can increase manufacturing efficiency for the article of footwear 10 . The absence of the midsole can further allow the outsole 31 to transfer loads to the wearer's foot in a direct manner. As such, sole structure 14 can enhance proprioceptive qualities to the wearer and provide other advantages that will be discussed in detail below. Also, the upper 12 , the sole structure 14 , and/or other aspects of the footwear 10 can incorporate one or more of the features disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No.
- the outsole 31 can be thin, flexible, and lightweight.
- the outsole 31 can include a plurality of projections that project downward and away from the upper 12 .
- the projections can project away from the upper 12 and can reduce in width, length, or other dimension as the projections project from the upper 12 as will be discussed.
- These projections can increase traction and can resiliently deform to attenuate impact forces when running, walking, jumping, or otherwise moving.
- the sole structure 14 can also have a high degree of flexibility.
- the outsole 31 can flex during use in such a way that the outsole 31 provides tactile feedback for the wearer.
- the outsole 31 can flex and deform to transfer at least some impact force to the wearer such that the wearer can “feel” the ground to a higher degree as compared to wearing conventional articles of footwear.
- the outsole 31 can include a base 38 .
- the base 38 can also be referred to as a “web”.
- the base 38 can be a relatively thin sheet of flexible material that extends continuously between the forefoot portion 16 , the heel portion 18 , the medial side 20 , and the lateral side 22 .
- the base 38 can also include an upper surface 40 and a lower surface 42 that face in opposite directions.
- the upper surface 40 can face the upper 12
- the lower surface 42 can face away from the upper surface 40 and the upper 12 .
- the base 38 can include a peripheral edge 44 .
- the peripheral edge 44 can extend continuously about the article of footwear 10 between the forefoot portion 16 , the medial side 20 , the heel portion 18 , and the lateral side 22 .
- the base 38 can have a thickness 46 that is measured between the upper surface 40 and the lower surface 42 . In some embodiments, the thickness 46 is constant across the entire base 38 , and in other embodiments, the thickness 46 varies across the base 38 .
- the upper surface 40 of the base 38 can be relatively smooth and can be directly attached to the upper 12 .
- the upper surface 40 can be layered on, can abut, and can be attached to the strobel member 37 .
- the upper surface 40 can be attached to the strobes member 37 via adhesives.
- the base 38 can be attached to the strobel member 37 via stitching, fasteners, or other attachment devices.
- the outsole 31 can include a plurality of projections 48 that project from the lower surface 42 of the base 38 in a first direction generally away from the upper 12 .
- the first direction can be normal to the lower surface 42 in some embodiments.
- the first direction can also be disposed at another angle relative to the lower surface 42 in other embodiments.
- the projections 48 can have any suitable shape.
- the projections 48 can have a transverse dimension 43 that is transverse to the first direction as shown in FIGS. 1 and 4 .
- the transverse dimension 43 can be considered a width of an individual projection 48 .
- the transverse dimension 43 could be a length, circumference, radius, or other dimension in other embodiments.
- the transverse dimension 43 here the width of the projection 48 can reduce as the projection 48 projects away from the lower surface 42 in the first direction.
- the width of the projection 48 can reduce as the projection 48 projects away from the lower surface 42 .
- the projections 48 can also be integrally attached to the base 38 such that the projections 48 and base 38 are unitary, monolithic, and form a one-piece structure. In other embodiments, the projections 48 can be removably attached to the base 38 .
- the projections 48 can be shaped, configured, and arranged on the base 38 such that the projections 48 and base 38 can flex together when subjected to one or more input forces. This flexure can be felt by the wearer to provide the wearer with tactile feedback upon impacting the ground for example.
- each projection 48 can reduce in the transverse dimension 43 as the projection 48 projects away from the lower surface 42 .
- the projections 48 can be stepped. Stated differently, the projections 48 can project from the base 38 in a plurality of steps 61 as shown in detail in FIG. 5 . As such, the projections 48 decrease in the respective transverse dimension 43 as the projection projects in the plurality of steps 61 along the first direction.
- the projections 48 can include any number of steps 61 .
- the projections 48 can include at least three steps 61 .
- These steps 61 can include and can be defined by a plurality of riser surfaces and tread surfaces as will be discussed in detail below.
- stepped projections 48 will be discussed in detail. Although the stepped projections 48 are substantially similar in the embodiments of FIG. 5 , it will be appreciated that the stepped projections 48 of the sole structure 14 could vary in some embodiments.
- the projections 48 can include a stepped side 50 that is defined by the plurality of steps 61 .
- the projections 48 can also include at least one additional side that projects from the base 38 .
- the projection 48 can include a second side 52 , a third side 54 , and a fourth side 56 .
- the stepped side 50 projects from the base 38 in the plurality of steps 61 , and the second side 52 , the third side 54 , and the fourth side 56 also project from the base 38 .
- the projections 48 can also include a respective ground engaging surface 67 that extends between the stepped side 50 , the second side 52 , the third side 54 , and the fourth side 56 .
- these features can be defined by a plurality of substantially planar surfaces; however, these features can also be defined by contoured surfaces in other embodiments. It will also be appreciated that the projections 48 can have any suitable shape, and the projections 48 can include any number of sides and surfaces.
- the stepped side 50 can generally include three steps 61 .
- the stepped side 50 can include at least three riser surfaces, each disposed between respective tread surfaces.
- the riser surfaces and tread surfaces can be substantially smooth. These surfaces can also be planar in some embodiments, or these surfaces can be contoured in some embodiments.
- the riser surfaces can be substantially perpendicular to the tread surfaces, but in additional embodiments, the riser surfaces can be disposed at another angle relative to the tread surfaces.
- the stepped side 50 can be defined by a first riser surface 69 , a first tread surface 63 , a second riser surface 71 , a second tread surface 65 , and a third riser surface 73 .
- the first riser surface 69 , the first tread surface 63 , the second riser surface 71 , the second tread surface 65 , and the third riser surface 73 can each be substantially planar.
- the first riser surface 69 can project normally from the lower surface 42 of the base 38 .
- the first tread surface 63 can extend substantially perpendicular to the first riser surface 69 .
- the second riser surface 71 can project normally from the first tread surface 63 and can be substantially parallel to the first riser surface 69 .
- the second tread surface 65 can extend substantially perpendicular to the second riser surface 71 and can be substantially parallel to the first tread surface 63 .
- the third riser surface 73 can project normally from the second tread surface 65 and can be substantially parallel to the second riser surface 71 .
- the ground engaging surface 67 can extend substantially perpendicular to the third riser surface 73 and can be substantially parallel to the first tread surface 63 and the second tread surface 65 . Because of its similarity to the first tread surface 63 and the second tread surface 65 , the ground engaging surface 67 could be referred to as a “third tread surface” of the plurality of steps 61 . However, for purposes of discussion, this surface will be referred to as the ground engaging surface 67 .
- first tread surface 63 can be spaced away from the lower surface 42 of the base 38 by the first riser surface 69 .
- the second tread surface 65 can be spaced away from the first tread surface 63 by the second riser surface 71 .
- the ground engaging surface 67 can be spaced way from the second tread surface 65 by the third riser surface 73 .
- first riser surface 69 and the first tread surface 63 can intersect at a first edge 81 .
- second riser surface 71 and the second tread surface 65 can intersect at a second edge 83 .
- third riser surface 73 and the ground engaging surface 67 can intersect at a third edge 85 .
- the second side 52 and the fourth side 56 can each be substantially smooth and planar surfaces that extend transversely from opposite sides of the stepped side 50 .
- the third side 54 can be substantially smooth and planar, and the third side 54 can extend between the second side 52 and the fourth side 56 .
- the second side 52 and the fourth side 56 can be substantially parallel to each other, and the third side 54 can be substantially perpendicular to the second side 52 and the fourth side 56 .
- the second side 52 can intersect the plurality of steps 61 at a second stepped edge 87
- the fourth side 56 can intersect the plurality of steps 61 at a fourth stepped edge 89 .
- the arrangement of the plurality of projections 48 on the outsole 31 will now be discussed. It will be appreciated that the projections 48 can be arranged in any suitable fashion.
- the projections 48 can be disposed such that the stepped side 50 of the projections 48 generally face the forefoot portion 16 of the article of footwear 10 , the second side 52 faces the medial side 20 , the third side 54 faces the heel portion 18 , and the fourth side 56 faces the lateral side 22 .
- the second side 52 and the fourth side 56 can be substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 24
- the third side 54 can be substantially parallel to the lateral axis 22 .
- the projections 48 can be spaced apart from each other and arranged in any suitable pattern on the base 38 of the outsole 31 .
- the projections 48 can be spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction and in the transverse direction.
- neighboring projections 48 can be spaced apart by a longitudinal distance 72 , which is measured substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 24
- neighboring projections 48 can also be spaced apart by a transverse distance 74 , which is measured substantially parallel to the lateral axis 26 .
- the longitudinal distance 72 between neighboring projections 48 can be equal across the outsole 31
- the transverse distance 74 between neighboring projections 48 can also be equal across the outsole 31 .
- the projections 48 can be aligned and arranged in respective rows that extend generally between the medial side 20 and the lateral side 22 of the article of footwear 10 .
- a representative first row 60 , second row 62 , and third row 64 are indicated in FIG. 3 , and as shown, the rows of projections 48 can be substantially parallel to the lateral axis 26 .
- the projections 48 can be aligned and arranged in respective columns that extend generally between the forefoot portion 16 and the heel portion 18 of the article of footwear 10 .
- a representative first column 66 , second column 68 , and third column 70 are indicated in FIG. 3 , and as shown, the columns of projections 48 can be substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 24 .
- a first stepped projection 51 , a second stepped projection 53 , a third stepped projection 55 , a fourth stepped projection 57 , and a fifth stepped projection 59 are indicated in FIG. 3 .
- the first stepped projection 51 and the second stepped projection 53 can be disposed in a common column.
- the third stepped projection 55 , the fourth stepped projection 57 , and the fifth stepped projection 59 can be disposed in a common column.
- the first stepped projection 51 and the fifth stepped projection 59 can be disposed in a common row while the second stepped projection 53 and the fourth stepped projection 57 can be disposed in a common row.
- the outsole 31 can be made from any suitable material.
- the outsole 31 can be made from rubber or thermoplastic polyurethane in some embodiments.
- the outsole 31 can be manufactured using suitable means, such as injection molding processes. Once formed, the outsole 31 can be attached to the upper 12 using adhesives, stitching, fasteners, or other attachment devices.
- the outsole 31 can be formed by injection molding and, the outsole 31 can be simultaneously attached to the upper 12 during the same injection molding process. More specifically, the upper 12 can be fit to a foot-shaped last, the upper 12 can be partially inserted inside a mold cavity, and molten material of the outsole 31 can then be introduced into the mold cavity.
- the outsole 31 can be removably attached to the upper 12 .
- the outsole. 31 can attach to the upper 12 as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,543,399 to Kilgore et al., which issued on Jun. 9, 2009, and which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.
- the upper 12 can be supplied to a wearer with multiple different outsoles 31 , and the wearer can select which of the outsoles 31 to attach to the upper.
- These outsoles 31 can vary in color, shape, dimension, or in any other characteristic.
- the outsole 31 can resiliently flexible. This can be due to the material used to make the outsole 31 as well as the shape, arrangement, and spacing of the plurality of projections 48 . Moreover, the thickness 46 of the base 38 can be relatively low to enhance the flexibility of the outsole 31 .
- the projections 48 can be spaced apart along the lateral axis 26 . As such, the projections 48 can individually or collectively flex relative to the base 38 toward the medial side 20 and/or toward the lateral side 22 .
- the projections 48 can be also spaced along the longitudinal axis 24 . As such, the projections 48 individually or collectively flex toward the forefoot portion 16 and the heel portion 18 as will be discussed in detail below.
- the outsole 31 can be at rest in a neutral position shown in FIGS. 1 , 3 - 6 , and 9 .
- the outsole 31 can be disposed in this neutral position when not under the influence of an external input load.
- the plurality of projections 48 can be shaped as discussed above, with respective surfaces being generally planar.
- first tread surface 63 , second tread surface 65 , and ground engaging surface 67 can be substantially parallel to the surrounding base 38 as shown in FIGS. 6 and 9 .
- the base 38 of the outsole 31 can be substantially smooth and substantially parallel to the ground 33 when in this neutral position.
- the projections 48 and/or the base 38 can resiliently flex away from the neutral position under the influence of an external load. Specifically, when the footwear 10 impacts the ground 33 during running, walking, or jumping, the projections 48 and/or base 38 can resiliently flex away from the neutral position shown in FIGS. 1 , 3 , 4 , 5 , and 6 .
- the projections 48 can deform, resiliently flex, bend, and/or rotate about a transverse bending axis 78 into a first flexed position.
- transverse bending axis 78 can extend between the medial side 20 and the lateral side 22 of the footwear 10 as shown in FIG. 7 .
- the projections 48 can bend and rotate in a rearward or substantially counterclockwise direction about the bending axis 78 . This flexure can occur, for example, when the outsole 31 impacts the ground 33 with forward momentum.
- the projections 48 can deform such that one or more surfaces can become contoured.
- the projections 48 can also deform, resiliently flex, bend, and/or rotate in the opposite direction about the bending axis 78 . This flexure can occur, for example, when the outsole 31 impacts the ground 33 with rearward momentum.
- the projections 48 can deform, resiliently flex, bend, and/or rotate in a counterclockwise direction about a longitudinal bending axis 76 .
- the longitudinal bending axis 76 can extend between the forefoot portion 16 and the heel portion 18 of the footwear 10 . This can occur, for example, when the outsole 31 impacts the ground 33 with laterally-directed momentum.
- the projections 48 can deform, resiliently flex, bend, and/or rotate in the opposite direction about the axis 76 . This can occur, for example, when the outsole 31 impacts the ground 33 with medially-directed momentum.
- transverse flexure of the projections 48 can cause the second side 52 and fourth side 56 to become contoured, and the projections 48 can flex such that the projections 48 become supported on the ground 33 by the second stepped edge 87 or the fourth stepped edge 89 .
- the thickness of the base 38 can be relatively low for enhancing this flexibility of the outsole 31 .
- the thickness 46 of the base 38 can be at most thirty percent (30%) of a total thickness 13 of the outsole 31 .
- the thickness 46 of the base 38 can be at most twenty-five percent (25%) of a total thickness 13 of the outsole 31 .
- the thickness 46 of the base 38 can measure at most approximately 1.5 millimeters in some embodiments. This low thickness 46 of the base 38 can allow the base 38 and the projections 48 to flex together in concert when impacting the ground 33 .
- the base 38 can be substantially smooth in the neutral, unloaded position of FIGS. 6 and 9 .
- the base 38 can flex with the projections 48 as shown in FIGS. 7 , 8 , 10 , and 11 due to impact with the ground 33 .
- the areas of the base 38 between the projections 48 can flex such that the base 38 becomes contoured and wavy as shown in the illustrated embodiments.
- the base 38 can, therefore, push upwards on the strobel member 37 and move the strobel member 37 causing the upper surface 39 of the strobel member 37 to push upward on the wearer's foot. It will be appreciated that the amount of flexure and/or waviness of the base 38 shown in FIGS.
- the base 38 can remain substantially smooth during flexure of the outsole 31 .
- the base 38 and the projections 48 can resiliently return to the neutral position shown in FIGS. 1 , 3 - 6 , and 9 .
- the strobel member 37 can also return to a relatively smooth configuration. This flexure and recovery of outsole 31 and strobel member 37 can be repeated as the wearer runs, walks, jumps or during other ambulatory activities.
- this flexure of the outsole 31 can cause the outsole 31 to absorb and ameliorate impact loads. This can increase comfort and support for the wearer.
- the recovery of the outsole 31 can additionally provide energy return to the wearer in some embodiments.
- the flexure and deformation of the projections 48 , the base 38 of the outsole 31 , and/or the strobel member 37 of the upper 12 can be felt by the wearer of the article of footwear 10 .
- the wearer is likely to feel this flexure and deformation in embodiments where the outsole 31 is attached directly to the upper 12 without a midsole.
- the outsole 31 can press upward onto the exterior surface 41 of the strobel member 37 , causing the strobe/member 37 to become wavy and press upwards on the wearer's foot.
- Forces on the projections 48 can also transfer to the base 38 to increase waviness in the base 38 , thereby creating pressure points on the wearer's foot. This can provide a pleasurable, massaging sensation to the wearer in some embodiments.
- the resulting tactile sensation can prepare the wearer for the full impact load, and the wearer can more efficiently flex foot and leg muscles to absorb the loading and prepare for the next step, stride, or forward thrust.
- the plurality of the steps 61 on the projections 48 can allow the projections 48 to flex in a desirable manner.
- the steps 61 can allow the projection 48 to flex readily in one direction about the transverse bending axis 78 , and the projection 48 can be stiffer in the opposite direction.
- the steps 61 can allow the projection 48 to have substantially the same stiffness in both directions about the longitudinal bending axis 78 .
- the outsole 31 can be configured to have a primary mode of flexure that provides the wearer with especially effective cushioning, proprioceptive qualities, and the like.
- the plurality of steps 61 can allow the projections 48 to flex without losing traction. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 7 , the projections 48 can flex such that the projection 48 becomes substantially supported on the ground 33 by at least one of the first edge 81 , the second edge 83 , and the third edge 85 . In the embodiments illustrated, these edges can provide lines of contact where pressure can concentrate and help increase traction.
- FIGS. 12 and 13 additional embodiments of the article of footwear 100 are illustrated according to the present disclosure.
- the footwear 100 can share some common features with the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1-11 .
- the common features will not be repeated with respect to FIGS. 12 and 13 .
- features that are unique to the embodiments of FIGS. 12 and 13 will be described in detail.
- the article of footwear 100 can include a plurality of stepped projections 148 .
- the stepped projections 148 can include a plurality of first projections 119 that are arranged in respective rows that extend between the medial side 120 and lateral side 122 , similar to the embodiments of FIGS. 1-11 .
- the first projections 119 can also be arranged in respective columns that extend between the forefoot portion 116 and the heel portion 118 , similar to the embodiments of FIGS. 1-11 .
- the article of footwear 100 can also include a plurality of second stepped projections 149 .
- the plurality of second stepped projections 149 can be wedge-shaped and can be arranged in a ring 147 on the outsole 131 .
- the ring 147 can be disposed on the outsole 131 so as to be located underneath the ball of the wearer's foot, for example, underneath the metatarsal of the wearer's big toe.
- neighboring secondary stepped projections 149 can be spaced apart within the ring 147 .
- each of the plurality of steps 161 generally face the forefoot portion 116 of the footwear 100 . Accordingly, the steps 161 can provide the advantages discussed above with respect to the embodiments of FIGS. 12 and 13 . Also, because the secondary stepped projections 149 are arranged in the ring 147 , the secondary stepped projections 149 can provide comfort, proprioceptive signals, or otherwise support for the ball of the wearer's foot. This can be effective because this area of the wearer's foot can experience a high degree of loading during walking, running, jumping, and other ambulatory activities.
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Abstract
Description
- The present disclosure relates to footwear and, more particularly, relates to an outsole with stepped projections for an article of footwear.
- Articles of footwear usually include an upper and a sole structure. Generally, the upper can receive the wearer's foot and secure the footwear to the foot. Also, the sole structure can provide traction for the footwear. Moreover in some embodiments, the sole structure can be resiliently compressible to provide cushioning to the wearer's foot.
- More specifically, the upper can include one or more sheet-like sections of material that define a cavity for receiving the wearer's foot. The upper can also include laces, straps, buckles, buttons, and other similar components for securing the footwear to the wearer's foot.
- Also, the sole structure can include a midsole in some embodiments. The midsole can include resiliently compressible members, such as foam, a fluid-filled bladder, or other similar members. As such, the midsole can resiliently compress under the weight of the wearer or due to impact with a ground surface. This can help distribute the resulting loads across the sole assembly and/or attenuate the loads to provide cushioning.
- The sole structure can additionally include an outsole. The outsole can be made from relatively high friction material such that the outsole can readily grip the ground with firm traction. The outsole can also include grooves, sipes, recesses, or other features that increase surface area of the ground engaging surface, that can channel water away from the ground engaging surface, or otherwise increase such traction for the article of footwear.
- An article of footwear is disclosed that has a medial side and a lateral side. The article of footwear defines a lateral axis that extends between the medial side and the lateral side. The article of footwear includes an upper and a sole structure that is operably coupled to the upper. The sole structure extends along the lateral axis. The sole structure includes an outsole having a base with an upper surface that faces the upper and a lower surface that faces away from the upper surface. The outsole also includes a first stepped projection that projects in a plurality of first steps from the lower surface. In exemplary embodiments; the plurality of first steps can be defined by a plurality of first tread surfaces and a plurality of first riser surfaces. The outsole additionally includes a second stepped projection that projects in a plurality of second steps from the lower surface. In exemplary embodiments, the plurality of second steps can be defined by a plurality of second tread surfaces and a plurality of second riser surfaces. The second stepped projection can be spaced away from the first stepped projection relative to the lateral axis of the article of footwear.
- An article of footwear is also disclosed that includes an upper having an interior surface and an exterior surface. The article of footwear also includes a sole structure that is operably coupled to the upper. The sole structure includes an outsole that has a base. The base has an upper surface that faces the upper and a lower surface that faces away from the upper surface. The upper surface can be layered underneath and attached directly to the exterior surface of the upper. The outsole also includes a projection that projects from the lower surface of the base along a first direction. The projection has a transverse dimension measured in a second direction that is transverse to the first direction. The projection decreases in the transverse dimension as the projection projects in the first direction. Additionally, the base and the projection are resiliently flexible and moveable between a neutral position and a flexed position. The interior surface moves due to the movement between the neutral position and the flexed position.
- Moreover, an article of footwear is disclosed that includes a forefoot portion, a heel portion, a medial side, and a lateral side. The medial side and the lateral side each extend between the forefoot portion and the heel portion. The article of footwear includes an upper and a sole structure that is operably coupled to the upper. The sole structure has a ground engaging surface and a total thickness. The sole structure includes an outsole with a base with an upper surface that is directly attached to the upper and a lower surface that faces away from the upper. The base can have a base thickness measured between the upper surface and the lower surface. In some embodiments, the base thickness can be at most approximately thirty percent (30%) of the total thickness of the sole structure. Furthermore, the outsole includes a plurality of stepped projections that each project from the lower surface of the base. Each of the plurality of stepped projections can include at least three riser surfaces. The plurality of stepped projections can be arranged in a plurality of rows that extend generally between the medial side and the lateral side. The plurality of stepped projections can also be arranged in a plurality of columns that extend generally between the forefoot portion and the lateral portion. The plurality of stepped projections can be spaced apart from each other within the plurality of rows and within the plurality of columns.
- This section provides a general summary of the disclosure, and is not a comprehensive disclosure of its full scope or all of its features. Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the description provided herein. The description and specific examples in this summary are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.
- The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected embodiments and not all possible implementations, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.
-
FIG. 1 is a side view of an article of footwear according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure; -
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a sole structure of the article of footwear of HG. 1; -
FIG. 3 is a bottom view of the article of footwear ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 4 is a longitudinal section view of the sole structure of the article of footwear taken along line. 4-4 ofFIG. 3 ; -
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a plurality of stepped projections of the sole structure of the article of footwear ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 6 is a section view of the sole structure taken along the line 6-6 ofFIG. 5 ; -
FIG. 7 is a section view of the sole structure ofFIG. 6 shown in a first flexed position; -
FIG. 8 is a section view of the sole structure ofFIG. 6 shown in a second flexed position; -
FIG. 9 is a section view of the sole structure taken along the line 9-9 ofFIG. 5 ; -
FIG. 10 is a section view of the sole structure ofFIG. 9 shown in a first flexed position; -
FIG. 11 is a section view of the sole structure ofFIG. 9 shown in a second flexed position; -
FIG. 12 is a bottom view of the article of footwear with stepped projections according to additional embodiments of the present disclosure; and -
FIG. 13 is a perspective view of stepped projections of the article of footwear ofFIG. 12 . - Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views of the drawings,
- Example embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings.
- Referring initially to
FIGS. 1 and 2 , exemplary embodiments of an article offootwear 10 are illustrated according to various teachings of the present disclosure. Generally, the article offootwear 10 includes an upper 12 and asole structure 14 that are operably coupled together. Although the article offootwear 10 is illustrated as an athletic shoe, it will be appreciated that thefootwear 10 could be a boot, a sandal, or any other type without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. -
Footwear 10 can be constructed to include aforefoot portion 16, aheel portion 18, amedial side 20, and alateral side 22. Themedial side 20 andlateral side 22 can both extend between theforefoot portion 16 and theheel portion 18, and themedial side 20 andlateral side 22 can be disposed on opposite sides of alongitudinal axis 24 of thefootwear 10. Also, alateral axis 26 can extend transversely relative to thelongitudinal axis 24 and can extend between themedial side 20 and thelateral side 22. For example, thelateral axis 26 can be substantially perpendicular to thelongitudinal axis 24. Theforefoot portion 16 can support the forefoot area of the wearer's foot, such as the toes, metatarsals, and other neighboring areas of the foot. Theheel portion 18 can support the wearer's heel and ankle. Themedial side 20 can support the medial side of the wearer's foot, and thelateral side 22 can support the lateral side of the wearer's foot. - Referring now to
FIGS. 1 and 2 , the upper 12 will be discussed in greater detail according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the upper 12 can include one or more sheets of material that is/are shaped to define aninternal void 27 that can receive the wearer's foot. The upper 12 can be made from any suitable material. For example, the upper 12 can be at least partially constructed from leather, fabric, or synthetic material. Also, the upper 12 can be made from a mesh material such that the upper 12 is lightweight and air can readily move in and out of the upper 12. - As shown in the illustrated embodiments, the upper 12 can continuously extend between the
forefoot portion 16, theheel portion 18, themedial side 20, and thelateral side 22 of the article offootwear 10. Also, the upper 12 can include acollar 28 that defines anankle opening 30, which provides access into and out of theinternal void 27. Additionally, the upper 12 can include athroat opening 32 that extends along thelongitudinal axis 24 between themedial side 20 and thelateral side 22. A securingdevice 34, such as ashoelace 36, can extend across thethroat opening 32 to selectively vary the width of the upper 12. For instance, theshoelace 36 can be tightened to make the upper 12 more narrow for securing the upper 12 to the wearer's foot. Theshoelace 36 can also be loosened to make the upper 12 wider for releasing the upper 12 from the wearer's foot. It will be appreciated that theshoelace 36 is merely one example of asuitable securing device 34 for the article offootwear 10, and the article offootwear 10 could also include straps, buckles, loop-and-pile tape, elastic bands, or other types of securingdevices 34 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Also a tongue can be provided within thethroat opening 32 to be disposed between the securingdevice 34 and the wearer's foot in some embodiments. - As partially shown in
FIG. 4 , the upper 12 can additionally include astrobel member 37, which can also be referred to as a “strobel” or as a “strobel sock.” Those having ordinary skill in the art will understand that thestrobel member 37 can be a sheet of material that extends horizontally and continuously between theforefoot portion 16, theheel portion 18, themedial side 20, and thelateral side 22. As such, thestrobel member 37 can be disposed underneath the wearer's foot.Strobel member 37 can include aninterior surface 39 and anexterior surface 41. Theinterior surface 39 can face the sole of the wearer's foot and can abut against the wearer's foot or the stocking enclosing the wearer's foot. Theexterior surface 41 can face in an opposite direction from theinterior surface 39. - Referring now to
FIGS. 1-4 , thesole structure 14 will be discussed in greater detail. Thesole structure 14 can be attached to the upper 12 and can extend under the wearer's foot. Also, thesole structure 14 can define aground engaging surface 35 that engages the ground, floor, running track, or other supporting surface. Also, thesole structure 14 can provide increased traction when walking, running, or jumping. Furthermore, thesole structure 14 can be resiliently deformable to attenuate impact forces while walking, running, or jumping. Additionally, thesole structure 14 can resiliently recover from such impact to provide energy return to the wearer's foot. - As shown in the illustrated embodiments, the
sole structure 14 can include anoutsole 31. Theoutsole 31 can be connected directly to the upper 12. For example, as shown inFIG. 4 , theoutsole 31 can be layered underneath and directly attached to thestrobel member 37. In other embodiments, thesole structure 14 can include a midsole between the upper 12 and theoutsole 31, and the midsole can be made from resilient materials, bladders, or other items that resiliently deform and compress to attenuate impact forces. However, those having ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the article offootwear 10 shown in the illustrated embodiments does not include a midsole. Stated differently, thesole structure 14 of thefootwear 10 can be “midsole-less”. Theoutsole 31 can be resiliently deformable to provide at least some of the energy damping and energy return that a traditional midsole provides. It will be appreciated that the absence of a midsole can provide weight savings and can increase manufacturing efficiency for the article offootwear 10. The absence of the midsole can further allow theoutsole 31 to transfer loads to the wearer's foot in a direct manner. As such,sole structure 14 can enhance proprioceptive qualities to the wearer and provide other advantages that will be discussed in detail below. Also, the upper 12, thesole structure 14, and/or other aspects of thefootwear 10 can incorporate one or more of the features disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No. ______, to Farris et al., entitled “Article of Footwear With Upper Having Member With Support Arm,” (U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, which was co-filed with the present application on ______, Attorney Docket No. 51-3225) and which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. - Embodiments of the
outsole 31 will now be discussed in detail. As will be discussed, theoutsole 31 can be thin, flexible, and lightweight. Also, theoutsole 31 can include a plurality of projections that project downward and away from the upper 12. The projections can project away from the upper 12 and can reduce in width, length, or other dimension as the projections project from the upper 12 as will be discussed. These projections can increase traction and can resiliently deform to attenuate impact forces when running, walking, jumping, or otherwise moving. Thesole structure 14 can also have a high degree of flexibility. For example, theoutsole 31 can flex during use in such a way that theoutsole 31 provides tactile feedback for the wearer. For example, when the foot impacts the ground, theoutsole 31 can flex and deform to transfer at least some impact force to the wearer such that the wearer can “feel” the ground to a higher degree as compared to wearing conventional articles of footwear. - As shown in the embodiments illustrated, the
outsole 31 can include abase 38. The base 38 can also be referred to as a “web”. The base 38 can be a relatively thin sheet of flexible material that extends continuously between theforefoot portion 16, theheel portion 18, themedial side 20, and thelateral side 22. The base 38 can also include anupper surface 40 and alower surface 42 that face in opposite directions. Theupper surface 40 can face the upper 12, and thelower surface 42 can face away from theupper surface 40 and the upper 12. Moreover, thebase 38 can include aperipheral edge 44. Theperipheral edge 44 can extend continuously about the article offootwear 10 between theforefoot portion 16, themedial side 20, theheel portion 18, and thelateral side 22. Moreover, thebase 38 can have athickness 46 that is measured between theupper surface 40 and thelower surface 42. In some embodiments, thethickness 46 is constant across theentire base 38, and in other embodiments, thethickness 46 varies across thebase 38. - The
upper surface 40 of the base 38 can be relatively smooth and can be directly attached to the upper 12. For example, theupper surface 40 can be layered on, can abut, and can be attached to thestrobel member 37. In some embodiments, theupper surface 40 can be attached to thestrobes member 37 via adhesives. In other embodiments, thebase 38 can be attached to thestrobel member 37 via stitching, fasteners, or other attachment devices. - Additionally, the
outsole 31 can include a plurality ofprojections 48 that project from thelower surface 42 of the base 38 in a first direction generally away from the upper 12. The first direction can be normal to thelower surface 42 in some embodiments. The first direction can also be disposed at another angle relative to thelower surface 42 in other embodiments. Theprojections 48 can have any suitable shape. For example, theprojections 48 can have atransverse dimension 43 that is transverse to the first direction as shown inFIGS. 1 and 4 . In the embodiments shown, thetransverse dimension 43 can be considered a width of anindividual projection 48. However, thetransverse dimension 43 could be a length, circumference, radius, or other dimension in other embodiments. As will be discussed, thetransverse dimension 43 here the width of theprojection 48 can reduce as theprojection 48 projects away from thelower surface 42 in the first direction. For example, as shown in the embodiments ofFIGS. 1 and 4 , the width of theprojection 48 can reduce as theprojection 48 projects away from thelower surface 42. - The
projections 48 can also be integrally attached to the base 38 such that theprojections 48 andbase 38 are unitary, monolithic, and form a one-piece structure. In other embodiments, theprojections 48 can be removably attached to thebase 38. - The
projections 48 can be shaped, configured, and arranged on the base 38 such that theprojections 48 andbase 38 can flex together when subjected to one or more input forces. This flexure can be felt by the wearer to provide the wearer with tactile feedback upon impacting the ground for example. - As stated, each
projection 48 can reduce in thetransverse dimension 43 as theprojection 48 projects away from thelower surface 42. For example, as shown in the illustrated embodiments, theprojections 48 can be stepped. Stated differently, theprojections 48 can project from the base 38 in a plurality ofsteps 61 as shown in detail inFIG. 5 . As such, theprojections 48 decrease in the respectivetransverse dimension 43 as the projection projects in the plurality ofsteps 61 along the first direction. - The
projections 48 can include any number ofsteps 61. For example, as shown in the illustrated embodiments, theprojections 48 can include at least threesteps 61. Thesesteps 61 can include and can be defined by a plurality of riser surfaces and tread surfaces as will be discussed in detail below. - Referring specifically to
FIG. 5 , exemplary embodiments of steppedprojections 48 will be discussed in detail. Although the steppedprojections 48 are substantially similar in the embodiments ofFIG. 5 , it will be appreciated that the steppedprojections 48 of thesole structure 14 could vary in some embodiments. - As shown in
FIG. 5 , theprojections 48 can include a steppedside 50 that is defined by the plurality ofsteps 61. Theprojections 48 can also include at least one additional side that projects from thebase 38. For example, theprojection 48 can include asecond side 52, athird side 54, and afourth side 56. The steppedside 50 projects from the base 38 in the plurality ofsteps 61, and thesecond side 52, thethird side 54, and thefourth side 56 also project from thebase 38. Theprojections 48 can also include a respectiveground engaging surface 67 that extends between the steppedside 50, thesecond side 52, thethird side 54, and thefourth side 56. As will be described, these features can be defined by a plurality of substantially planar surfaces; however, these features can also be defined by contoured surfaces in other embodiments. It will also be appreciated that theprojections 48 can have any suitable shape, and theprojections 48 can include any number of sides and surfaces. - As shown in the embodiments illustrated in
FIG. 5 , the steppedside 50 can generally include threesteps 61. Stated differently, the steppedside 50 can include at least three riser surfaces, each disposed between respective tread surfaces. In some embodiments, the riser surfaces and tread surfaces can be substantially smooth. These surfaces can also be planar in some embodiments, or these surfaces can be contoured in some embodiments. Moreover, in some embodiments, the riser surfaces can be substantially perpendicular to the tread surfaces, but in additional embodiments, the riser surfaces can be disposed at another angle relative to the tread surfaces. - More specifically, as shown in the embodiments of
FIG. 5 , the steppedside 50 can be defined by afirst riser surface 69, afirst tread surface 63, asecond riser surface 71, asecond tread surface 65, and athird riser surface 73. Thefirst riser surface 69, thefirst tread surface 63, thesecond riser surface 71, thesecond tread surface 65, and thethird riser surface 73 can each be substantially planar. Thefirst riser surface 69 can project normally from thelower surface 42 of thebase 38. Thefirst tread surface 63 can extend substantially perpendicular to thefirst riser surface 69. Thesecond riser surface 71 can project normally from thefirst tread surface 63 and can be substantially parallel to thefirst riser surface 69. Thesecond tread surface 65 can extend substantially perpendicular to thesecond riser surface 71 and can be substantially parallel to thefirst tread surface 63. Thethird riser surface 73 can project normally from thesecond tread surface 65 and can be substantially parallel to thesecond riser surface 71. - The
ground engaging surface 67 can extend substantially perpendicular to thethird riser surface 73 and can be substantially parallel to thefirst tread surface 63 and thesecond tread surface 65. Because of its similarity to thefirst tread surface 63 and thesecond tread surface 65, theground engaging surface 67 could be referred to as a “third tread surface” of the plurality ofsteps 61. However, for purposes of discussion, this surface will be referred to as theground engaging surface 67. - Thus, the
first tread surface 63 can be spaced away from thelower surface 42 of the base 38 by thefirst riser surface 69. Also, thesecond tread surface 65 can be spaced away from thefirst tread surface 63 by thesecond riser surface 71. Moreover, theground engaging surface 67 can be spaced way from thesecond tread surface 65 by thethird riser surface 73. - Additionally, the
first riser surface 69 and thefirst tread surface 63 can intersect at afirst edge 81. Likewise, thesecond riser surface 71 and thesecond tread surface 65 can intersect at asecond edge 83. Furthermore, thethird riser surface 73 and theground engaging surface 67 can intersect at athird edge 85. - As shown in
FIG. 5 , thesecond side 52 and thefourth side 56 can each be substantially smooth and planar surfaces that extend transversely from opposite sides of the steppedside 50. Moreover, thethird side 54 can be substantially smooth and planar, and thethird side 54 can extend between thesecond side 52 and thefourth side 56. Thesecond side 52 and thefourth side 56 can be substantially parallel to each other, and thethird side 54 can be substantially perpendicular to thesecond side 52 and thefourth side 56. Thesecond side 52 can intersect the plurality ofsteps 61 at a second steppededge 87, and thefourth side 56 can intersect the plurality ofsteps 61 at a fourth steppededge 89. - Referring now to
FIGS. 2 and 3 , the arrangement of the plurality ofprojections 48 on theoutsole 31 will now be discussed. It will be appreciated that theprojections 48 can be arranged in any suitable fashion. - For example, as shown in
FIG. 3 , theprojections 48 can be disposed such that the steppedside 50 of theprojections 48 generally face theforefoot portion 16 of the article offootwear 10, thesecond side 52 faces themedial side 20, thethird side 54 faces theheel portion 18, and thefourth side 56 faces thelateral side 22. In some embodiments, thesecond side 52 and thefourth side 56 can be substantially parallel to thelongitudinal axis 24, and thethird side 54 can be substantially parallel to thelateral axis 22. - Additionally, the
projections 48 can be spaced apart from each other and arranged in any suitable pattern on thebase 38 of theoutsole 31. For example, as shown inFIG. 3 , theprojections 48 can be spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction and in the transverse direction. More specifically, neighboringprojections 48 can be spaced apart by alongitudinal distance 72, which is measured substantially parallel to thelongitudinal axis 24, and neighboringprojections 48 can also be spaced apart by atransverse distance 74, which is measured substantially parallel to thelateral axis 26. As shown, thelongitudinal distance 72 between neighboringprojections 48 can be equal across theoutsole 31, and thetransverse distance 74 between neighboringprojections 48 can also be equal across theoutsole 31. - Furthermore, as shown in
FIG. 3 , theprojections 48 can be aligned and arranged in respective rows that extend generally between themedial side 20 and thelateral side 22 of the article offootwear 10. A representativefirst row 60,second row 62, andthird row 64 are indicated inFIG. 3 , and as shown, the rows ofprojections 48 can be substantially parallel to thelateral axis 26. - Also, as shown in
FIG. 3 , theprojections 48 can be aligned and arranged in respective columns that extend generally between theforefoot portion 16 and theheel portion 18 of the article offootwear 10. A representativefirst column 66,second column 68, andthird column 70 are indicated inFIG. 3 , and as shown, the columns ofprojections 48 can be substantially parallel to thelongitudinal axis 24. - For purposes of discussion, a first stepped
projection 51, a second steppedprojection 53, a third steppedprojection 55, a fourth steppedprojection 57, and a fifth steppedprojection 59 are indicated inFIG. 3 . As shown, the first steppedprojection 51 and the second steppedprojection 53 can be disposed in a common column. Meanwhile, the third steppedprojection 55, the fourth steppedprojection 57, and the fifth steppedprojection 59 can be disposed in a common column. Also, the first steppedprojection 51 and the fifth steppedprojection 59 can be disposed in a common row while the second steppedprojection 53 and the fourth steppedprojection 57 can be disposed in a common row. - It will be appreciated that the
outsole 31 can be made from any suitable material. For example, theoutsole 31 can be made from rubber or thermoplastic polyurethane in some embodiments. Also, theoutsole 31 can be manufactured using suitable means, such as injection molding processes. Once formed, theoutsole 31 can be attached to the upper 12 using adhesives, stitching, fasteners, or other attachment devices. In additional embodiments, theoutsole 31 can be formed by injection molding and, theoutsole 31 can be simultaneously attached to the upper 12 during the same injection molding process. More specifically, the upper 12 can be fit to a foot-shaped last, the upper 12 can be partially inserted inside a mold cavity, and molten material of theoutsole 31 can then be introduced into the mold cavity. The material can cure inside the mold cavity to form the shape of theoutsole 31 and to also attach to the upper 12. In still additional embodiments, theoutsole 31 can be removably attached to the upper 12. For example, the outsole. 31 can attach to the upper 12 as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,543,399 to Kilgore et al., which issued on Jun. 9, 2009, and which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. Also, in this embodiment, the upper 12 can be supplied to a wearer with multipledifferent outsoles 31, and the wearer can select which of theoutsoles 31 to attach to the upper. Theseoutsoles 31 can vary in color, shape, dimension, or in any other characteristic. - In some embodiments, the
outsole 31 can resiliently flexible. This can be due to the material used to make theoutsole 31 as well as the shape, arrangement, and spacing of the plurality ofprojections 48. Moreover, thethickness 46 of the base 38 can be relatively low to enhance the flexibility of theoutsole 31. - Furthermore, as discussed above, the
projections 48 can be spaced apart along thelateral axis 26. As such, theprojections 48 can individually or collectively flex relative to the base 38 toward themedial side 20 and/or toward thelateral side 22. Theprojections 48 can be also spaced along thelongitudinal axis 24. As such, theprojections 48 individually or collectively flex toward theforefoot portion 16 and theheel portion 18 as will be discussed in detail below. - For example, the
outsole 31 can be at rest in a neutral position shown inFIGS. 1 , 3-6, and 9. Theoutsole 31 can be disposed in this neutral position when not under the influence of an external input load. In this neutral position, the plurality ofprojections 48 can be shaped as discussed above, with respective surfaces being generally planar. Also,first tread surface 63,second tread surface 65, andground engaging surface 67 can be substantially parallel to the surroundingbase 38 as shown inFIGS. 6 and 9 . Also, thebase 38 of theoutsole 31 can be substantially smooth and substantially parallel to theground 33 when in this neutral position. - However, the
projections 48 and/or the base 38 can resiliently flex away from the neutral position under the influence of an external load. Specifically, when thefootwear 10 impacts theground 33 during running, walking, or jumping, theprojections 48 and/orbase 38 can resiliently flex away from the neutral position shown inFIGS. 1 , 3, 4, 5, and 6. - For example, as shown in
FIG. 7 , theprojections 48 can deform, resiliently flex, bend, and/or rotate about atransverse bending axis 78 into a first flexed position. It will be appreciated thattransverse bending axis 78 can extend between themedial side 20 and thelateral side 22 of thefootwear 10 as shown inFIG. 7 . Specifically, theprojections 48 can bend and rotate in a rearward or substantially counterclockwise direction about the bendingaxis 78. This flexure can occur, for example, when theoutsole 31 impacts theground 33 with forward momentum. As shown, theprojections 48 can deform such that one or more surfaces can become contoured. Also, at least one of thefirst edge 81, thesecond edge 83, and thethird edge 85 can contact theground 33. In contrast, as shown inFIG. 8 , theprojections 48 can also deform, resiliently flex, bend, and/or rotate in the opposite direction about the bendingaxis 78. This flexure can occur, for example, when theoutsole 31 impacts theground 33 with rearward momentum. - Still further, as shown in
FIG. 10 , theprojections 48 can deform, resiliently flex, bend, and/or rotate in a counterclockwise direction about alongitudinal bending axis 76. It will be appreciated that thelongitudinal bending axis 76 can extend between theforefoot portion 16 and theheel portion 18 of thefootwear 10. This can occur, for example, when theoutsole 31 impacts theground 33 with laterally-directed momentum. In contrast, as shown inFIG. 11 , theprojections 48 can deform, resiliently flex, bend, and/or rotate in the opposite direction about theaxis 76. This can occur, for example, when theoutsole 31 impacts theground 33 with medially-directed momentum. As shown inFIGS. 10 and 11, transverse flexure of theprojections 48 can cause thesecond side 52 andfourth side 56 to become contoured, and theprojections 48 can flex such that theprojections 48 become supported on theground 33 by the second steppededge 87 or the fourth steppededge 89. - The thickness of the base 38 can be relatively low for enhancing this flexibility of the
outsole 31. For example, in some embodiments, thethickness 46 of the base 38 can be at most thirty percent (30%) of atotal thickness 13 of theoutsole 31. In some further embodiments, thethickness 46 of the base 38 can be at most twenty-five percent (25%) of atotal thickness 13 of theoutsole 31. Also, thethickness 46 of the base 38 can measure at most approximately 1.5 millimeters in some embodiments. Thislow thickness 46 of the base 38 can allow thebase 38 and theprojections 48 to flex together in concert when impacting theground 33. - For example, the
base 38 can be substantially smooth in the neutral, unloaded position ofFIGS. 6 and 9 . However, thebase 38 can flex with theprojections 48 as shown inFIGS. 7 , 8, 10, and 11 due to impact with theground 33. Specifically, the areas of the base 38 between theprojections 48 can flex such that thebase 38 becomes contoured and wavy as shown in the illustrated embodiments. The base 38 can, therefore, push upwards on thestrobel member 37 and move thestrobel member 37 causing theupper surface 39 of thestrobel member 37 to push upward on the wearer's foot. It will be appreciated that the amount of flexure and/or waviness of the base 38 shown inFIGS. 7 , 8, 10, and 11 is an example, and that this amount of waviness can vary depending on the dimensions of thebase 38, the weight of the wearer pressing down on thebase 38, or other factors. Also, in some embodiments, thebase 38 can remain substantially smooth during flexure of theoutsole 31. - Once the
outsole 31 is unloaded, thebase 38 and theprojections 48 can resiliently return to the neutral position shown inFIGS. 1 , 3-6, and 9. As a result, thestrobel member 37 can also return to a relatively smooth configuration. This flexure and recovery ofoutsole 31 andstrobel member 37 can be repeated as the wearer runs, walks, jumps or during other ambulatory activities. - Additionally, this flexure of the
outsole 31 can cause theoutsole 31 to absorb and ameliorate impact loads. This can increase comfort and support for the wearer. The recovery of theoutsole 31 can additionally provide energy return to the wearer in some embodiments. - Also, in some embodiments, the flexure and deformation of the
projections 48, thebase 38 of theoutsole 31, and/or thestrobel member 37 of the upper 12 can be felt by the wearer of the article offootwear 10. The wearer is likely to feel this flexure and deformation in embodiments where theoutsole 31 is attached directly to the upper 12 without a midsole. - For example, when the
base 38 flexes from its smooth configuration to its wavy configuration shown inFIGS. 7 , 8, 10, and 11, theoutsole 31 can press upward onto theexterior surface 41 of thestrobel member 37, causing the strobe/member 37 to become wavy and press upwards on the wearer's foot. Forces on theprojections 48 can also transfer to the base 38 to increase waviness in thebase 38, thereby creating pressure points on the wearer's foot. This can provide a pleasurable, massaging sensation to the wearer in some embodiments. This can also provide a proprioceptive signal to the wearer in some embodiments, for example, facilitating the wearer's ability to “feel” the position of the foot in relation to theground 33. Moreover, as thefootwear 10 first impacts theground 33, the resulting tactile sensation can prepare the wearer for the full impact load, and the wearer can more efficiently flex foot and leg muscles to absorb the loading and prepare for the next step, stride, or forward thrust. - Furthermore, the plurality of the
steps 61 on theprojections 48 can allow theprojections 48 to flex in a desirable manner. For example, as shown inFIGS. 7 and 8 , thesteps 61 can allow theprojection 48 to flex readily in one direction about thetransverse bending axis 78, and theprojection 48 can be stiffer in the opposite direction. However, as shown inFIGS. 10 and 11 , thesteps 61 can allow theprojection 48 to have substantially the same stiffness in both directions about thelongitudinal bending axis 78. Accordingly, theoutsole 31 can be configured to have a primary mode of flexure that provides the wearer with especially effective cushioning, proprioceptive qualities, and the like. - Additionally, the plurality of
steps 61 can allow theprojections 48 to flex without losing traction. More specifically, as shown inFIG. 7 , theprojections 48 can flex such that theprojection 48 becomes substantially supported on theground 33 by at least one of thefirst edge 81, thesecond edge 83, and thethird edge 85. In the embodiments illustrated, these edges can provide lines of contact where pressure can concentrate and help increase traction. - Referring now to
FIGS. 12 and 13 , additional embodiments of the article offootwear 100 are illustrated according to the present disclosure. Thefootwear 100 can share some common features with the embodiments shown inFIGS. 1-11 . For purposes of brevity, the common features will not be repeated with respect toFIGS. 12 and 13 . However, features that are unique to the embodiments ofFIGS. 12 and 13 will be described in detail. - As shown, the article of
footwear 100 can include a plurality of steppedprojections 148. The steppedprojections 148 can include a plurality offirst projections 119 that are arranged in respective rows that extend between themedial side 120 andlateral side 122, similar to the embodiments ofFIGS. 1-11 . Thefirst projections 119 can also be arranged in respective columns that extend between the forefoot portion 116 and theheel portion 118, similar to the embodiments ofFIGS. 1-11 . - Moreover, the article of
footwear 100 can also include a plurality of second steppedprojections 149. The plurality of second steppedprojections 149 can be wedge-shaped and can be arranged in aring 147 on theoutsole 131. In some embodiments, thering 147 can be disposed on theoutsole 131 so as to be located underneath the ball of the wearer's foot, for example, underneath the metatarsal of the wearer's big toe. Also, neighboring secondary steppedprojections 149 can be spaced apart within thering 147. - It is noted that, in the embodiments of
FIGS. 12 and 13 , each of the plurality ofsteps 161 generally face the forefoot portion 116 of thefootwear 100. Accordingly, thesteps 161 can provide the advantages discussed above with respect to the embodiments ofFIGS. 12 and 13 . Also, because the secondary steppedprojections 149 are arranged in thering 147, the secondary steppedprojections 149 can provide comfort, proprioceptive signals, or otherwise support for the ball of the wearer's foot. This can be effective because this area of the wearer's foot can experience a high degree of loading during walking, running, jumping, and other ambulatory activities. - The foregoing description of the embodiments has been provided for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present disclosure. Individual elements or features of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment, but, where applicable, are interchangeable and can be used in a selected embodiment, even if not specifically shown or described. The same may also be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the present disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure.
Claims (29)
Priority Applications (4)
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US14/025,351 US9655403B2 (en) | 2013-09-12 | 2013-09-12 | Outsole with stepped projections for article of footwear |
CN201480043671.4A CN105491906B (en) | 2013-09-12 | 2014-08-26 | Include the article of footwear of the footwear outer bottom with step-like protuberance |
PCT/US2014/052608 WO2015038321A1 (en) | 2013-09-12 | 2014-08-26 | Article of footwear comprising outsole with stepped projections |
EP14767181.2A EP3010363B1 (en) | 2013-09-12 | 2014-08-26 | Outsole with stepped projections for article of footwear |
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WO2020033727A1 (en) | 2018-08-08 | 2020-02-13 | Nike Innovate C.V. | Midsole structure of an article of footwear including mesh |
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JP7008764B1 (en) * | 2020-07-31 | 2022-01-25 | 美津濃株式会社 | Baseball spike shoes with sole and it |
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Also Published As
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CN105491906A (en) | 2016-04-13 |
US20150068063A1 (en) | 2015-03-12 |
EP3010363B1 (en) | 2018-09-19 |
WO2015038321A1 (en) | 2015-03-19 |
US9655403B2 (en) | 2017-05-23 |
EP3010363A1 (en) | 2016-04-27 |
CN105491906B (en) | 2017-11-10 |
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