US20240090622A1 - Upper for a Shoe - Google Patents
Upper for a Shoe Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20240090622A1 US20240090622A1 US18/307,879 US202318307879A US2024090622A1 US 20240090622 A1 US20240090622 A1 US 20240090622A1 US 202318307879 A US202318307879 A US 202318307879A US 2024090622 A1 US2024090622 A1 US 2024090622A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- shaft
- shoe
- aperture
- notch
- protrusions
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Pending
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- 230000001681 protective effect Effects 0.000 abstract description 8
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 abstract description 6
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 abstract description 6
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 29
- 239000010410 layer Substances 0.000 description 22
- 244000309466 calf Species 0.000 description 9
- 210000003423 ankle Anatomy 0.000 description 8
- 210000002683 foot Anatomy 0.000 description 6
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 description 6
- 229920001971 elastomer Polymers 0.000 description 5
- 230000009286 beneficial effect Effects 0.000 description 4
- 210000003127 knee Anatomy 0.000 description 4
- 239000010985 leather Substances 0.000 description 4
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000009423 ventilation Methods 0.000 description 3
- 239000004677 Nylon Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000001816 cooling Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000006260 foam Substances 0.000 description 2
- 231100001261 hazardous Toxicity 0.000 description 2
- 150000002825 nitriles Chemical class 0.000 description 2
- 229920001778 nylon Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 229920001084 poly(chloroprene) Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 239000002356 single layer Substances 0.000 description 2
- 210000004233 talus Anatomy 0.000 description 2
- 241000283086 Equidae Species 0.000 description 1
- 241001465754 Metazoa Species 0.000 description 1
- 208000034819 Mobility Limitation Diseases 0.000 description 1
- DQXBYHZEEUGOBF-UHFFFAOYSA-N but-3-enoic acid;ethene Chemical compound C=C.OC(=O)CC=C DQXBYHZEEUGOBF-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229910003460 diamond Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000010432 diamond Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000005038 ethylene vinyl acetate Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000009413 insulation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000003993 interaction Effects 0.000 description 1
- 210000002414 leg Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 210000003205 muscle Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 229920001200 poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate) Polymers 0.000 description 1
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Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
- A43B23/00—Uppers; Boot legs; Stiffeners; Other single parts of footwear
- A43B23/02—Uppers; Boot legs
- A43B23/0245—Uppers; Boot legs characterised by the constructive form
- A43B23/0295—Pieced uppers
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
- A43B5/00—Footwear for sporting purposes
- A43B5/006—Footwear for sporting purposes for horse riding
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
- A43B11/00—Footwear with arrangements to facilitate putting-on or removing, e.g. with straps
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
- A43B21/00—Heels; Top-pieces or top-lifts
- A43B21/24—Heels; Top-pieces or top-lifts characterised by the constructive form
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
- A43B23/00—Uppers; Boot legs; Stiffeners; Other single parts of footwear
- A43B23/02—Uppers; Boot legs
- A43B23/0245—Uppers; Boot legs characterised by the constructive form
- A43B23/0265—Uppers; Boot legs characterised by the constructive form having different properties in different directions
- A43B23/027—Uppers; Boot legs characterised by the constructive form having different properties in different directions with a part of the upper particularly flexible, e.g. permitting articulation or torsion
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
- A43B3/00—Footwear characterised by the shape or the use
- A43B3/02—Boots covering the lower leg
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
- A43B3/00—Footwear characterised by the shape or the use
- A43B3/02—Boots covering the lower leg
- A43B3/04—Boots covering the lower leg with rubber or elastic insertions or gussets
Definitions
- the present invention regards shoes, specifically shoes with features added to enhance the flexibility of the shoes.
- shoes that have parts which extend over the ankle, especially if these parts rise close to the knee, constrict movement of the calf, knee, or ankle regions.
- An example of this is the typical western style boot which has a shaft that extends up from the heel typically ten to fifteen inches, often encasing and restricting movement of the ankle and most of the calf region. And while this shaft can be useful for protection while working in different conditions for the wearers of such boots, or for ornamentation for special events like dances, in these environments where there is significant movement in the foot and calf region, shaft flexibility also can be necessary.
- the prior art In attempts to increase flexibility and ease of getting such shoes on and off, the prior art often adds elements such as zippers, laces, or clips. However, such elements can reduce the structural integrity and unified structure of the shaft, thus reducing its protective properties and structural features. Alternatively, the prior art has designed shoes with removable shafts, but this opens up the possibility that the shaft could fall off if not properly adhered to the shoe, as well as the possibility of losing the shaft when disassembled.
- the object of the present invention is to provide a shoe with a fixed shaft with added flexibility yet limited reduction to the protective nature of the shaft.
- the present invention comprises a shoe with a sole, upper, and a shaft.
- the upper and shaft include one or more structural modifications which increase flexibility. These modifications generally fall into the broad category of notch or aperture.
- the notch and aperture are generally parallel to one another, and in other embodiments they are generally perpendicular to each other. In some embodiments the notch and aperture are both in the same area of the shaft, such as the top, and in other embodiments they are in different areas of the shaft.
- protrusions of the upper onto the bottom of the shaft are provided to give added protection. In some embodiments these protrusions are generally parallel to one another and in other embodiments these protrusions are generally perpendicular to one another. In some embodiments the shaft also has protrusions on the top as a means of aiding in putting on the shoe.
- the shaft is a single section held together by a single seam and in other embodiments the shaft is multiple sections held together by multiple seams. This multiplicity of shaft sections allows for different material types to make up different areas of the shaft, in order to enhance the protection or flexibility of a specific task.
- FIG. 1 is a front view of a shoe containing a sole, an upper, and a shaft, with the upper showing at least one of a number of possible protrusions into the shaft, and the shaft showing a number of possible notches and apertures.
- FIG. 2 is a back view of the shoe shown in FIG. 1 , which contains a sole, an upper, and a shaft, with the upper showing at least one of a number of possible protrusions into the shaft, and the shaft showing a number of possible notches and apertures.
- FIG. 3 is an intrados view of the shoe shown in FIG. 1 , which contains a sole, an upper, and a shaft, showing the shaft with a number of possible apertures.
- FIG. 4 is an extrados view of the shoe shown in FIG. 1 , which contains a sole, an upper, and a shaft, showing the shaft with a number of possible apertures.
- FIG. 5 is an intrados view of a shoe containing a sole, an upper, and a shaft, showing the shaft with an alternative number of possible notches and apertures as the shoe shown in FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 6 is a front view of a shoe containing a sole, an upper, and a shaft, with the upper showing at least one of a number of possible protrusions into the shaft, and the shaft showing a number of possible notches and apertures.
- FIG. 7 is an angled view of a shoe containing a sole, an upper, and a shaft, with the upper showing at least one of a number of possible protrusions into the shaft, and the shaft showing a number of possible notches and apertures.
- FIG. 8 is an angled view of a shoe containing a sole, an upper, and a shaft, with the upper showing at least one of a number of possible protrusions into the shaft, and the shaft showing a number of possible notches and apertures.
- FIG. 9 is a front view of a shoe containing a sole, an upper, and a shaft, showing a shaft with a longer notch and upper with a longer protrusion than the shoe shown in FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 1 shows the front view of shoe 1 , containing sole 2 , upper 3 , and shaft 4 .
- Shoe 1 has a front, denoted by dotted line 64 ( FIG. 3 ), a back, denoted by dotted line 65 ( FIG. 3 ), a top, denoted by dotted line 70 ( FIG. 2 ), and a bottom, denoted by dotted line 71 ( FIG. 2 ).
- FIGS. 2 , 3 , and 4 show different perspectives of the same shoe embodiment.
- FIGS. 5 - 8 show different embodiments of the invention, which will be discussed in more detail below.
- sole 2 contains bottom 5 which faces downwards ( 50 ) when wearing the shoe, and top 6 which faces upwards ( 49 ) when wearing the shoe.
- FIG. 3 shows the general toe, arch, and heel regions which are designated by 7 , 8 , and 9 , respectively. Toe region 7 is located in the front ( 64 ) of the shoe and heel region 9 is located at the back ( 65 ) of the shoe.
- the thickness of sole 2 (the distance between top 6 and bottom 5 ) changes between front 64 and back 65 .
- the thickness of sole 2 varies within a given region. In other embodiments, the thickness of sole 2 is generally consistent.
- the sole has an outside perimeter ( 42 ).
- the width ( 43 ) of outside perimeter 42 varies between the toe ( 7 ), arch ( 8 ) and heel ( 9 ) regions. In other embodiments, width 43 of perimeter 42 varies within a single region. In other embodiments, width 43 of perimeter 42 is generally consistent.
- Sole 2 is made of rubber (natural or synthetic), polyurethane, ethylene vinyl acetate, or polyvinyl chloride, or any combination of these materials.
- Upper 3 contains bottom 10 , which faces downwards ( 50 ) when wearing the shoe and is connected to the upper surface of the sole ( 6 ), and top 11 , which faces upwards ( 49 ) when wearing the shoe.
- Upper 3 has a toe, arch, and heel region, generally designated by 7 , 8 , and 9 , respectively ( FIG. 3 ).
- Bottom 10 of upper 3 has an outside perimeter ( 44 ).
- perimeter 44 is generally the same size as perimeter 42 .
- perimeter 44 is larger than perimeter 42
- perimeter 44 is smaller than perimeter 42 .
- Upper 3 has an outside ( 45 ) which is opposite to the inside ( 46 ) where the foot would be placed.
- Upper 3 is made of leather (natural or synthetic), mesh, rubber (natural or synthetic), neoprene, nylon, nitrile, foam, or any combination of these materials.
- FIGS. 1 - 4 each show the different faces of shoe 1 and shaft 4 .
- FIG. 1 shows front 12
- FIG. 2 shows back 13
- FIG. 3 shows intrados 14 , which faces the other shoe when wearing the shoes
- FIG. 4 shows extrados 15 , which faces away from the other shoe when wearing the shoes.
- Shaft 4 has a top ( 47 ) which faces upwards ( 49 ) when wearing the shoe, and a bottom ( 48 ) which faces downwards ( 50 ) when wearing the shoe.
- Bottom 48 is connected to the top of the upper ( 11 ).
- shaft 4 is connected to the outside of the upper ( 45 ) and in other embodiments shaft 4 is connected to the inside of the upper ( 46 ).
- the shaft has an inside ( 16 ) which is where the leg is placed, and an outside ( 51 ) which is opposite to inside 16 .
- Shaft 4 is made of leather (natural or synthetic), mesh, rubber (natural or synthetic), neoprene, nylon, nitrile, foam, or any combination of these materials.
- FIGS. 1 and 2 show two protrusions of the upper ( 21 and 22 ) into shaft 4 which in the example embodiment shown are located in the front of the shaft (protrusion 21 ) and the back of the shaft (protrusion 22 ).
- FIGS. 7 and 8 show another embodiments, with protrusion 23 located on the intrados of the shaft.
- the number and combination of these protrusions are varied depending on the required protection and flexibility.
- the protrusions give at least one extra layer of material, the areas covered by said protrusions will have increased protection but more limited movement, thus different embodiments are required depending on the specifics of the protection and movement needed for different activities.
- the material difference between the upper and shaft is what gives the added protection in the shaft area where the protrusion is located.
- This embodiment is useful for when protection is needed mainly in the sagittal plane ( 55 ) such as protection from debris generated when using a circular saw.
- the two protrusions are into the intrados ( 14 ) and extrados ( 15 ) of shaft 4 .
- This embodiment is useful for when protection is needed mainly in the lateral plane ( 56 ).
- the two protrusions ( 21 and 23 , FIG. 8 ) are generally perpendicular to one another, such as into the front ( 12 ) and intrados ( 14 ) of shaft 4 .
- This embodiment is useful for when protection is needed on two perpendicular sides, yet significant flexibility is still needed in the other sides, such as when riding a horse. While riding a horse, protection on the front ( 12 ) and extrados ( 15 ) from trees or other objects are required in combination with flexibility in the back ( 13 ) and intrados ( 14 ) for interaction with the animal.
- there are three or more protrusions into the shaft for example protrusions 21 , 22 , and 23 ( FIGS. 1 , 2 , and 8 ). This embodiment is useful when maximum protection but the least flexibility is required.
- the protrusions are located on the outside of the shaft ( 51 ), and on other embodiments the protrusions are located on the inside of the shaft ( 16 ).
- FIG. 6 shows protrusion 21 on the front of the shaft ( 12 ).
- protrusion 21 only covers a small portion of the entire front part of the shaft ( 12 ).
- FIG. 9 shows a different embodiment of protrusion 21 , where 21 is significantly larger than the embodiment shown in FIG. 6 .
- the height of a protrusion is measured from the topmost point 66 to line 67 which is drawn around where the anklebone would be when wearing the shoe.
- the width of a protrusion is measured from the farthest point on the left ( 68 ) to the farthest point on the right ( 69 ) side.
- the height of protrusion 21 , or other similar protrusions ( 22 , 23 , etc.) is less than one inch, in other embodiments the height of protrusion 21 , or other similar protrusions ( 22 , 23 , etc.) is one to three inches and in other embodiments the height of protrusion 21 , or other similar protrusions ( 22 , 23 , etc.) is three to five inches.
- the width of protrusion 21 , or other similar protrusions ( 22 , 23 , etc.) is less than one inch, in other embodiments the width of protrusion 21 , or other similar protrusions ( 22 , 23 , etc.) is one to three inches, and in other embodiments the width of protrusion 21 , or other similar protrusions ( 22 , 23 , etc.) is three to five inches.
- the embodiments where the protrusions have a length or width less than one inch are useful when only a minimal amount of protection but a maximal amount of flexibility is required.
- the embodiments where the protrusions have a length or width three to five inches are useful when maximum protection but minimal flexibility is required. In-between these two extremes are the embodiments where the protrusions have a length or width one to three inches in the horizontal or vertical directions, which gives a balance of flexibility and protection.
- FIGS. 1 - 9 show five potential embodiments in regards to the aperture and notch location, shape, and size. While a notch is generally a “V” shaped cut or modification to the material, apertures can take a variety of forms.
- the aperture(s) are horizontal slices ( 18 , 20 , 24 , 26 , 57 ), in others diagonal slices ( 19 , 25 , 28 , 31 ), in others arch-shaped slices ( 58 ), or in others vertical slices ( 27 , 30 ), as seen in FIGS. 1 - 6 .
- the aperture(s) are holes ( 29 , 32 , 34 , 35 ) as seen in FIGS.
- the apertures are combinations of the above listed forms.
- the varying shapes listed above are specifically designed for different purposes. When looking directly at the aperture, horizontal slices are designed for optimizing flexibility in the forward and backward direction, diagonal slices are designed for optimizing flexibility while twisting, vertical slices are designed for optimizing flexibility in the left and right direction, and arch-shaped slices are designed to aid in the contour of the ankle, knee, or other rounded objects. Similarly, holes are used around the circular ankle bone to better fit around the joint. Circular, diamond, or rectangular holes are also useful as a means to insert fingers to aid in the process of putting on the shoe.
- notches 17 and 36 are placed in the front ( 12 ) and back ( 13 ) of shaft 4 , respectively.
- one or more notches 33 are placed on the intrados ( 14 ) or extrados ( 15 ) of shaft 4 .
- FIGS. 1 - 4 show a number of different aperture shapes and locations.
- aperture(s) are located near the bottom of the shaft ( 48 ), close to the ankle area ( 54 , FIG. 7 ) on either the front ( 12 ), back ( 13 ), intrados ( 14 ), or extrados ( 15 ) of shaft 4 .
- apertures are labeled as 18 , 24 , 27 , and 30 , respectively.
- aperture(s) are located near the middle of shaft 4 ( 19 , 25 , 28 , and 31 ) or in other embodiments near the top ( 47 ) of shaft 4 ( 20 , 26 , 29 , 32 ).
- the location of the notches and apertures is important for improved flexibility and ease of putting on and taking off the shoe. For instance, at least one aperture near the bottom of the shaft ( 48 ), or around ankle area 54 , would give the ankle and lower calf increased flexibility.
- Apertures near the top of the shaft ( 47 ) are used as anchor points to put fingers into as a means of pulling up the shoe shaft. Apertures near the middle of the shaft are used for ventilation and for an increase in the twisting motion of the shaft.
- notch and aperture placement there are several possibilities in terms of the combination of notch and aperture placement.
- a single notch and aperture are generally parallel to one another, such as notch 17 combined with aperture 18 in FIG. 1 .
- a single notch and aperture are generally perpendicular to one another, such as notch 17 combined with aperture 27 , shown in FIGS. 1 and 3 , respectively.
- notches 17 and 33 in combination with aperture 57 there are two notches generally perpendicular to one another with an aperture generally parallel to one and generally perpendicular to another, such as notches 17 and 33 in combination with aperture 57 ( FIGS. 1 and 5 ).
- the two apertures are generally parallel with the notch perpendicular.
- Other embodiments include other such combinations.
- two apertures are next to one another in the same area, as shown with apertures 34 and 35 which are both located near the top ( 47 ) of shaft 4 ( FIG. 7 ).
- a single aperture spans over more than one location, for example aperture 19 ( FIG.
- Each notch has a peak point ( 61 ) and two edges ( 62 and 63 ).
- FIG. 2 shows notch 36 whose peak point 61 is located about a quarter of way down from shaft top 47 . This distance between peak point 61 and shaft top 47 denotes the length of notch 16 . There is also a specified distance between edges 62 and 63 , measured from the top ( 47 ) of shaft 4 , which denotes the notch width.
- notch 36 , or other similar notches ( 17 , 33 , etc.) are cut deeper or shallower into the shaft, an example of which shown in FIG. 9 . In some embodiments these notches are wider or narrower then depicted.
- said notches are less than one inch in length, in other embodiments, said notches are one to three inches in length, in other embodiments said notches are three to five inches in length, and in other embodiments said notches are five to seven inches in length. In some embodiments said notches are less than one inch wide. In other embodiments, said notches are one to three inches wide, and in other embodiments, said notches are three to five inches wide. In some embodiments with two or more notches, the notches are all generally the same length and width as each other. In other embodiments with two or more notches, the notches are different lengths and widths.
- the different notch lengths allow for movement at the top of the shaft ( 47 ) and would be useful when putting the shoe on or taking it off and when completing activities where the foot has significant movement in an up and down or rotating motion, as the calf muscle would have room to flex and relax in the various directions.
- the different notch lengths are useful for tailoring to those differences, especially for shoes with longer shafts which encase more of the calf.
- the embodiments where the notch length or width is less than one inch is useful for when maximum protection but limited movement and ease of putting on is desired.
- the embodiments where the notch length is five to seven inches are useful when less protection but significant flexibility and ease of putting on is desired. In-between these two extremes are the two embodiments ranging from one to three and three to five inches, which are both used when balancing flexibility and protection.
- FIG. 1 shows an embodiment with aperture 41 on upper 3 .
- aperture 41 is in combination with other apertures and notches and in other embodiments aperture 41 is absent.
- Aperture 41 is used for ventilation, cooling the foot encased in upper 3 .
- the placement of the aperture one that maximizes cooling but minimizes protection loss is essential and will vary depending on where maximum protection is necessary.
- aperture 41 is shifted onto protrusion 21 , and in other embodiments, it is shifted down towards the tow region ( 9 ) of upper 3 .
- FIGS. 3 and 4 show an embodiment with additional protrusions 38 and 39 on the top of the intrados ( 14 ) and extrados ( 15 ) faces of shaft 4 , respectively.
- Protrusions 38 and 39 are used for added grip when pulling on the shoe, and thus are made of a material with traction such as leather.
- these protrusions are shifted to the front ( 12 ) and back ( 13 ) of shaft 4 , such as protrusion 60 in FIG. 6 , depending on the location of the notch(es) ( 17 , 33 , 37 , etc.).
- only one of these protrusions are present, and in other embodiments these protrusions are absent altogether.
- the length and width of the protrusions can also be modified, as with the lower protrusions ( 21 , 22 , 23 , etc.) discussed above.
- FIG. 7 shows an embodiment with seam 37 located on the intrados ( 14 ) face of shaft 4 .
- This seam holds together the two sections ( 52 ) of shaft 4 , mostly comprising the front ( 12 ) and back ( 13 ) face.
- there is another seam which is generally opposite to seam 37 , being about the same distance if measured one direction around shaft 4 , for example clockwise, as if measured the other direction around shaft 4 , for example counterclockwise.
- these generally opposite seams are located on the front ( 12 ) and back ( 13 ) of shaft 4 , with the two sections ( 52 ) generally comprising the intrados ( 14 ) and extrados ( 15 ) face.
- shaft 4 is made of a single section 52 with only one seam required, which is located anywhere around shaft 4 .
- more than two sections 52 make up shaft 4 requiring three, four, or even more seams.
- the seams are not required to be generally opposite one another.
- one section 52 is significantly smaller than the other section 52 , with the two seams 37 being significantly closer to one another in one direction around shaft 4 , and significantly farther apart in the other direction around shaft 4 .
- the seams are generally evenly spaced around shaft 4 . In other embodiments with more than two seams, the seams are not evenly spaced around shaft 4 .
- each section 52 is generally the same size, and in other embodiments the sections 52 have different sizes. In some embodiments there are sections 52 which are combined horizontally, creating both vertical and horizontal seams. These different numbers of sections and seams are useful for modifying the properties and durability of shaft 4 .
- a single section 52 and seam leads to the least number of seams which can come apart thus giving the greatest durability.
- multiple sections 52 and different sized sections allow for different materials to be used in different areas of shaft 4 , discussed in more detail below.
- Each of the sections 52 that make up shaft 4 has a general outside 51 and a corresponding inside 16 .
- these sections 52 are made of single layer 53 .
- shaft sections 52 are made of two layers 53 connected in some way, one being on outside 51 and another being on inside 16 .
- shaft 4 sections 52 are made of more than two layers 53 , one being on outside 51 and another being on inside 16 with middle layer(s) 53 in-between the two.
- layers 53 are the same material.
- layers 53 are different material.
- the various shaft sections 52 are all made of the same materials and have generally the same layer 53 composition.
- the various shaft 4 sections 52 are made of different materials and have different layer 53 compositions.
- a single shaft 4 composition is adequate, however in many cases having shaft 4 with different sectional 52 compositions are beneficial.
- a small section 52 is placed over the ankle area ( 54 ) which has different properties than the other shaft 4 sections 52 , such as being more flexible or more protective.
- This embodiment is useful for situations such as riding a horse, where it is beneficial to have different material(s) facing inwards to the horse, ones that are more flexible and breathe more, than on the outside of the horse, ones that are more durable and protective.
- the layers 53 are different material can be useful for waterproofing the shoe, such that a rubber or other waterproof material can be put on the outside, but a cooler material or one less prone to stick to the skin can be put on the inside.
- upper 3 is a single section 73 of leather or other similar materials. However, in other embodiments multiple upper sections 73 are used which are held together by one or more seams. Additionally, as with the shaft, in some embodiments the upper section(s) 73 are made of a single layer 74 , and in other embodiments the upper section(s) 73 are made of two layers 74 , one being on outside 45 and another being on inside 46 . In yet other embodiments, the upper section(s) 73 are made of more than two layers 74 , one being on outside 45 and another being on inside 46 with middle layer(s) 74 in-between the two. In some embodiments containing two or more layers 74 , the layers are the same material.
- the layers are different material.
- the various upper sections 73 are all made of the same materials and have generally the same layer 74 composition.
- the various upper sections 73 are made of different materials and have generally different layer 74 compositions. Similar to shaft 4 , the varying constructions of upper 3 are important for functions where differing materials are beneficial for different areas of upper 3 . For instance, having toe area 7 composed of a more protective and sturdy material than the rest of upper 3 is beneficial in hazardous occupations such as construction. As discussed above with the shaft, the embodiments where upper 3 layers 74 are different materials are useful when different properties or characteristic are desired on the outside and inside of the shoe, or when insulation is desired.
- FIG. 3 shows shaft 4 whose top ( 47 ) is about fifteen inches above top 6 of the heel region ( 9 ).
- the length of shaft 4 could be longer or shorter.
- the varying shaft 4 heights aid in flexibility and ease of getting shaft 4 on and off, with the longer shafts giving protection to a larger section of the calf, but having less flexibly in comparison to the shorter shafts.
- varying shaft 4 lengths are required.
- varying notch, aperture, and protrusion configurations would be more optimal with certain sized shafts.
- top 47 of shaft 4 is six to eight inches from top 6 of the heel region ( 9 ).
- top 47 of shaft 4 is eight to ten inches from top 6 of the heel region ( 9 ). In another embodiment, top 47 of shaft 4 is ten to twelve inches from top 6 of the heel region ( 9 ). In another embodiment, top 47 of shaft 4 is twelve to fifteen inches from top 6 of the heel region ( 9 ). In another embodiment, top 47 of shaft 4 is fifteen to eighteen inches from top 6 of the heel region ( 9 ). These varying embodiments are required due to individual needs. Obviously, a person who is seven feet tall is going to need a significantly longer shaft 4 to protect and cover the same calf proportion as someone who is five feet tall. Thus, embodiments with fifteen to eighteen inch shafts 4 are useful for taller individuals, or for individuals who want maximum protection.
- shaft 4 is made of waterproof materials, such as rubber, shafts that extend even past the knee may be desired.
- shaft 4 only six to eight inches tall are useful for shorter individuals or for individuals who do not require significant protection. These shorter shafts 4 could be worn during hotter months for activities which do not require significant protection and where longer shafts would be unnecessarily constricting and hot.
- the other embodiments with different sizes give a combination of shaft heights designed for optimizing flexibility and protection depending on the situation.
- FIG. 3 shows a shoe with heel 40 which extends off of heel region 9 of sole 2 , and covers about half of the area under shaft 4 .
- Heel 40 can simply be used for a specific design, however, heel 40 is intended for functional purposes, such as a means of securing shoe 1 into a stirrup.
- Heel 40 height is measured at the front ( 72 ) of the heel 40 from the bottom ( 5 ) to the top ( 6 ) of sole 2 .
- the size of heel 40 affects the functionality, as shoes with taller heels are easier to secure into stirrups but are harder to walk in, since toe region 7 needs to arch more drastically in order to be able to touch the ground.
- heel 40 is about one to three inches high and in other embodiments heel 40 is less than one inch high.
- the embodiment with larger heel 40 gives greater functionality but more toe region 7 arch and thus more difficulty walking, while the smaller heel 40 embodiments gives less functionality but are easier to walk in. These differences are important as different individuals, such as the elderly, need shoes with more balance and ease of walking, and likely will not be riding as roughly on horses, thus not needing as functional of heel 40 .
- heel 40 is completely removed.
- sole 2 is flat along the bottom surface ( 5 ) as is common for sneakers, in other embodiments sole 2 still has a arch shape, and in other embodiments sole 2 has a section removed in general arch region 8 .
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- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Physical Education & Sports Medicine (AREA)
- Footwear And Its Accessory, Manufacturing Method And Apparatuses (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Zoology (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
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Abstract
A shoe with a sole, upper, and shaft, whose upper and shaft contain a number of modifications to increase flexibility of the shoe but maintain protection for the wearer of the shoe. These modifications fall into the general categories of notch and aperture. The upper also has a number of protrusions into the shaft to increase protection in the protrusion areas. The location, shape, and size of these notches, apertures, and protrusions are important for optimizing the flexibility and protective qualities of the shoe.
Description
- This application is a continuation application of U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 16/178,724, filed Nov. 2, 2018 and titled “Upper for a Shoe” and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/582,159, filed Nov. 6, 2017 and titled ‘Shaft for a Boot’. The contents of the above-identified application are relied upon and incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
- The present invention regards shoes, specifically shoes with features added to enhance the flexibility of the shoes.
- Typically, shoes that have parts which extend over the ankle, especially if these parts rise close to the knee, constrict movement of the calf, knee, or ankle regions. An example of this is the typical western style boot which has a shaft that extends up from the heel typically ten to fifteen inches, often encasing and restricting movement of the ankle and most of the calf region. And while this shaft can be useful for protection while working in different conditions for the wearers of such boots, or for ornamentation for special events like dances, in these environments where there is significant movement in the foot and calf region, shaft flexibility also can be necessary.
- In attempts to increase flexibility and ease of getting such shoes on and off, the prior art often adds elements such as zippers, laces, or clips. However, such elements can reduce the structural integrity and unified structure of the shaft, thus reducing its protective properties and structural features. Alternatively, the prior art has designed shoes with removable shafts, but this opens up the possibility that the shaft could fall off if not properly adhered to the shoe, as well as the possibility of losing the shaft when disassembled.
- In light of these issues, what is needed is a shoe that has a fixed shaft with elements that increase flexibility in the shaft but also maintain the protection, structural features, and other functionalities of similar shoes.
- The object of the present invention is to provide a shoe with a fixed shaft with added flexibility yet limited reduction to the protective nature of the shaft. Thus, the present invention comprises a shoe with a sole, upper, and a shaft. The upper and shaft include one or more structural modifications which increase flexibility. These modifications generally fall into the broad category of notch or aperture.
- The location, shape, and size of these notches and apertures are important for optimizing the flexibility and protective qualities of the shoe. In some embodiments the notch and aperture are generally parallel to one another, and in other embodiments they are generally perpendicular to each other. In some embodiments the notch and aperture are both in the same area of the shaft, such as the top, and in other embodiments they are in different areas of the shaft.
- In some embodiments, protrusions of the upper onto the bottom of the shaft are provided to give added protection. In some embodiments these protrusions are generally parallel to one another and in other embodiments these protrusions are generally perpendicular to one another. In some embodiments the shaft also has protrusions on the top as a means of aiding in putting on the shoe.
- In some embodiments the shaft is a single section held together by a single seam and in other embodiments the shaft is multiple sections held together by multiple seams. This multiplicity of shaft sections allows for different material types to make up different areas of the shaft, in order to enhance the protection or flexibility of a specific task.
- The particular details and benefits of the present invention will be apparent to those of skill in the art based on the following description with reference to the appended drawings.
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FIG. 1 is a front view of a shoe containing a sole, an upper, and a shaft, with the upper showing at least one of a number of possible protrusions into the shaft, and the shaft showing a number of possible notches and apertures. -
FIG. 2 is a back view of the shoe shown inFIG. 1 , which contains a sole, an upper, and a shaft, with the upper showing at least one of a number of possible protrusions into the shaft, and the shaft showing a number of possible notches and apertures. -
FIG. 3 is an intrados view of the shoe shown inFIG. 1 , which contains a sole, an upper, and a shaft, showing the shaft with a number of possible apertures. -
FIG. 4 is an extrados view of the shoe shown inFIG. 1 , which contains a sole, an upper, and a shaft, showing the shaft with a number of possible apertures. -
FIG. 5 is an intrados view of a shoe containing a sole, an upper, and a shaft, showing the shaft with an alternative number of possible notches and apertures as the shoe shown inFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 6 is a front view of a shoe containing a sole, an upper, and a shaft, with the upper showing at least one of a number of possible protrusions into the shaft, and the shaft showing a number of possible notches and apertures. -
FIG. 7 is an angled view of a shoe containing a sole, an upper, and a shaft, with the upper showing at least one of a number of possible protrusions into the shaft, and the shaft showing a number of possible notches and apertures. -
FIG. 8 is an angled view of a shoe containing a sole, an upper, and a shaft, with the upper showing at least one of a number of possible protrusions into the shaft, and the shaft showing a number of possible notches and apertures. -
FIG. 9 is a front view of a shoe containing a sole, an upper, and a shaft, showing a shaft with a longer notch and upper with a longer protrusion than the shoe shown inFIG. 1 . - Referring now to the figures, where identical elements are numbered identically throughout, a description of exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be provided. The lines consisting of a repeating dot/dash pattern (such as
line 64 inFIG. 3 ) are intended to denote an area and are not part of the embodiment itself. -
FIG. 1 shows the front view ofshoe 1, containing sole 2, upper 3, and shaft 4.Shoe 1 has a front, denoted by dotted line 64 (FIG. 3 ), a back, denoted by dotted line 65 (FIG. 3 ), a top, denoted by dotted line 70 (FIG. 2 ), and a bottom, denoted by dotted line 71 (FIG. 2 ).FIGS. 2, 3, and 4 show different perspectives of the same shoe embodiment.FIGS. 5-8 show different embodiments of the invention, which will be discussed in more detail below. - Seen in
FIG. 1 ,sole 2 containsbottom 5 which faces downwards (50) when wearing the shoe, and top 6 which faces upwards (49) when wearing the shoe.FIG. 3 shows the general toe, arch, and heel regions which are designated by 7, 8, and 9, respectively. Toeregion 7 is located in the front (64) of the shoe andheel region 9 is located at the back (65) of the shoe. In some embodiments the thickness of sole 2 (the distance between top 6 and bottom 5) changes betweenfront 64 andback 65. In some embodiments the thickness of sole 2 varies within a given region. In other embodiments, the thickness of sole 2 is generally consistent. The sole has an outside perimeter (42). In some embodiments, the width (43) ofoutside perimeter 42 varies between the toe (7), arch (8) and heel (9) regions. In other embodiments,width 43 ofperimeter 42 varies within a single region. In other embodiments,width 43 ofperimeter 42 is generally consistent. Sole 2 is made of rubber (natural or synthetic), polyurethane, ethylene vinyl acetate, or polyvinyl chloride, or any combination of these materials. - Upper 3 contains
bottom 10, which faces downwards (50) when wearing the shoe and is connected to the upper surface of the sole (6), andtop 11, which faces upwards (49) when wearing the shoe. Upper 3 has a toe, arch, and heel region, generally designated by 7, 8, and 9, respectively (FIG. 3 ).Bottom 10 of upper 3 has an outside perimeter (44). In someembodiments perimeter 44 is generally the same size asperimeter 42. Inother embodiments perimeter 44 is larger thanperimeter 42, and in yetother embodiments perimeter 44 is smaller thanperimeter 42. Upper 3 has an outside (45) which is opposite to the inside (46) where the foot would be placed. Upper 3 is made of leather (natural or synthetic), mesh, rubber (natural or synthetic), neoprene, nylon, nitrile, foam, or any combination of these materials. -
FIGS. 1-4 each show the different faces ofshoe 1 and shaft 4. For shaft 4 in particular,FIG. 1 showsfront 12,FIG. 2 shows back 13,FIG. 3 showsintrados 14, which faces the other shoe when wearing the shoes, andFIG. 4 showsextrados 15, which faces away from the other shoe when wearing the shoes. Shaft 4 has a top (47) which faces upwards (49) when wearing the shoe, and a bottom (48) which faces downwards (50) when wearing the shoe.Bottom 48 is connected to the top of the upper (11). In some embodiments shaft 4 is connected to the outside of the upper (45) and in other embodiments shaft 4 is connected to the inside of the upper (46). The shaft has an inside (16) which is where the leg is placed, and an outside (51) which is opposite to inside 16. Shaft 4 is made of leather (natural or synthetic), mesh, rubber (natural or synthetic), neoprene, nylon, nitrile, foam, or any combination of these materials. -
FIGS. 1 and 2 show two protrusions of the upper (21 and 22) into shaft 4 which in the example embodiment shown are located in the front of the shaft (protrusion 21) and the back of the shaft (protrusion 22).FIGS. 7 and 8 show another embodiments, withprotrusion 23 located on the intrados of the shaft. The number and combination of these protrusions are varied depending on the required protection and flexibility. As in some embodiments the protrusions give at least one extra layer of material, the areas covered by said protrusions will have increased protection but more limited movement, thus different embodiments are required depending on the specifics of the protection and movement needed for different activities. In other embodiments the material difference between the upper and shaft is what gives the added protection in the shaft area where the protrusion is located. In one embodiment of the invention, there are two protrusions (21 and 22) from upper 3 into the front (12) and back (13) of shaft 4. This embodiment is useful for when protection is needed mainly in the sagittal plane (55) such as protection from debris generated when using a circular saw. In other embodiments, the two protrusions are into the intrados (14) and extrados (15) of shaft 4. This embodiment is useful for when protection is needed mainly in the lateral plane (56). In other embodiments, the two protrusions (21 and 23,FIG. 8 ) are generally perpendicular to one another, such as into the front (12) and intrados (14) of shaft 4. This embodiment is useful for when protection is needed on two perpendicular sides, yet significant flexibility is still needed in the other sides, such as when riding a horse. While riding a horse, protection on the front (12) and extrados (15) from trees or other objects are required in combination with flexibility in the back (13) and intrados (14) for interaction with the animal. In yet other embodiments there are three or more protrusions into the shaft, forexample protrusions FIGS. 1, 2, and 8 ). This embodiment is useful when maximum protection but the least flexibility is required. In some embodiments the protrusions are located on the outside of the shaft (51), and on other embodiments the protrusions are located on the inside of the shaft (16). - The size of the protrusions also varies depending on the embodiment.
FIG. 6 showsprotrusion 21 on the front of the shaft (12). In this embodiment,protrusion 21 only covers a small portion of the entire front part of the shaft (12). However, the location, width, and length of these protrusions are useful for modifying the flexibility and protection of the shoe.FIG. 9 shows a different embodiment ofprotrusion 21, where 21 is significantly larger than the embodiment shown inFIG. 6 . The height of a protrusion is measured from thetopmost point 66 toline 67 which is drawn around where the anklebone would be when wearing the shoe. The width of a protrusion is measured from the farthest point on the left (68) to the farthest point on the right (69) side. In some embodiments, the height ofprotrusion 21, or other similar protrusions (22, 23, etc.) is less than one inch, in other embodiments the height ofprotrusion 21, or other similar protrusions (22, 23, etc.) is one to three inches and in other embodiments the height ofprotrusion 21, or other similar protrusions (22, 23, etc.) is three to five inches. Likewise, in some embodiments the width ofprotrusion 21, or other similar protrusions (22, 23, etc.) is less than one inch, in other embodiments the width ofprotrusion 21, or other similar protrusions (22, 23, etc.) is one to three inches, and in other embodiments the width ofprotrusion 21, or other similar protrusions (22, 23, etc.) is three to five inches. The embodiments where the protrusions have a length or width less than one inch are useful when only a minimal amount of protection but a maximal amount of flexibility is required. In contrast, the embodiments where the protrusions have a length or width three to five inches are useful when maximum protection but minimal flexibility is required. In-between these two extremes are the embodiments where the protrusions have a length or width one to three inches in the horizontal or vertical directions, which gives a balance of flexibility and protection. -
FIGS. 1-9 show five potential embodiments in regards to the aperture and notch location, shape, and size. While a notch is generally a “V” shaped cut or modification to the material, apertures can take a variety of forms. In some embodiments, the aperture(s) are horizontal slices (18, 20, 24, 26, 57), in others diagonal slices (19, 25, 28, 31), in others arch-shaped slices (58), or in others vertical slices (27, 30), as seen inFIGS. 1-6 . In other embodiments the aperture(s) are holes (29, 32, 34, 35) as seen inFIGS. 3, 4, and 7 , in other embodiments gaps, or in other embodiments other such openings or spaces. In other embodiments the apertures are combinations of the above listed forms. In addition to ventilation, the varying shapes listed above are specifically designed for different purposes. When looking directly at the aperture, horizontal slices are designed for optimizing flexibility in the forward and backward direction, diagonal slices are designed for optimizing flexibility while twisting, vertical slices are designed for optimizing flexibility in the left and right direction, and arch-shaped slices are designed to aid in the contour of the ankle, knee, or other rounded objects. Similarly, holes are used around the circular ankle bone to better fit around the joint. Circular, diamond, or rectangular holes are also useful as a means to insert fingers to aid in the process of putting on the shoe. - In some embodiments, such as the one shown in
FIGS. 1 and 2 ,notches FIG. 5 , one ormore notches 33 are placed on the intrados (14) or extrados (15) of shaft 4.FIGS. 1-4 show a number of different aperture shapes and locations. In some embodiments, aperture(s) are located near the bottom of the shaft (48), close to the ankle area (54,FIG. 7 ) on either the front (12), back (13), intrados (14), or extrados (15) of shaft 4. These apertures are labeled as 18, 24, 27, and 30, respectively. Similarly, in other embodiments, aperture(s) are located near the middle of shaft 4 (19, 25, 28, and 31) or in other embodiments near the top (47) of shaft 4 (20, 26, 29, 32). The location of the notches and apertures is important for improved flexibility and ease of putting on and taking off the shoe. For instance, at least one aperture near the bottom of the shaft (48), or aroundankle area 54, would give the ankle and lower calf increased flexibility. Apertures near the top of the shaft (47) are used as anchor points to put fingers into as a means of pulling up the shoe shaft. Apertures near the middle of the shaft are used for ventilation and for an increase in the twisting motion of the shaft. - While multiple apertures and notches are shown in the figures, only one notch and one aperture is required for any given embodiment. Thus, there are several possibilities in terms of the combination of notch and aperture placement. In one embodiment, a single notch and aperture are generally parallel to one another, such as
notch 17 combined withaperture 18 inFIG. 1 . In another embodiment, a single notch and aperture are generally perpendicular to one another, such asnotch 17 combined withaperture 27, shown inFIGS. 1 and 3 , respectively. In another embodiment there are two notches generally parallel to one another with an aperture generally perpendicular to one of them, such asnotches FIGS. 1-3 ). In another embodiment there are two notches generally perpendicular to one another with an aperture generally parallel to one and generally perpendicular to another, such asnotches FIGS. 1 and 5 ). In another embodiment there are two apertures and a notch all generally parallel to one another, such asapertures notch 17 seen inFIG. 1 . In another embodiment the two apertures are generally parallel with the notch perpendicular. Other embodiments include other such combinations. In another embodiment two apertures are next to one another in the same area, as shown withapertures FIG. 7 ). In another embodiment a single aperture spans over more than one location, for example aperture 19 (FIG. 1 ) combined with aperture 28 (FIG. 3 ) to make one larger aperture which covers both the front (12) and intrados (14) sides of shaft 4. What is listed above in not intended to be an exhaustive list of the potential combinations, but simply a general overview of the different possible locations, relative placement, and possible number of notches and apertures located on a single shaft 4. - The size and length of the notch is also varied depending on the embodiment. Each notch has a peak point (61) and two edges (62 and 63).
FIG. 2 shows notch 36 whosepeak point 61 is located about a quarter of way down fromshaft top 47. This distance betweenpeak point 61 andshaft top 47 denotes the length ofnotch 16. There is also a specified distance betweenedges notch 36, or other similar notches (17, 33, etc.) are cut deeper or shallower into the shaft, an example of which shown inFIG. 9 . In some embodiments these notches are wider or narrower then depicted. In some embodiments said notches are less than one inch in length, in other embodiments, said notches are one to three inches in length, in other embodiments said notches are three to five inches in length, and in other embodiments said notches are five to seven inches in length. In some embodiments said notches are less than one inch wide. In other embodiments, said notches are one to three inches wide, and in other embodiments, said notches are three to five inches wide. In some embodiments with two or more notches, the notches are all generally the same length and width as each other. In other embodiments with two or more notches, the notches are different lengths and widths. These different length and width notches allow for movement at the top of the shaft (47) and would be useful when putting the shoe on or taking it off and when completing activities where the foot has significant movement in an up and down or rotating motion, as the calf muscle would have room to flex and relax in the various directions. In addition, as each individual has different calf sizes, the different notch lengths are useful for tailoring to those differences, especially for shoes with longer shafts which encase more of the calf. The embodiments where the notch length or width is less than one inch is useful for when maximum protection but limited movement and ease of putting on is desired. In contrast, the embodiments where the notch length is five to seven inches are useful when less protection but significant flexibility and ease of putting on is desired. In-between these two extremes are the two embodiments ranging from one to three and three to five inches, which are both used when balancing flexibility and protection. -
FIG. 1 shows an embodiment withaperture 41 on upper 3. In some embodiments,aperture 41 is in combination with other apertures and notches and inother embodiments aperture 41 is absent.Aperture 41 is used for ventilation, cooling the foot encased in upper 3. As an aperture in upper 3 reduces protection, the placement of the aperture, one that maximizes cooling but minimizes protection loss is essential and will vary depending on where maximum protection is necessary. In someembodiments aperture 41 is shifted ontoprotrusion 21, and in other embodiments, it is shifted down towards the tow region (9) of upper 3. -
FIGS. 3 and 4 show an embodiment withadditional protrusions protrusion 60 inFIG. 6 , depending on the location of the notch(es) (17, 33, 37, etc.). In other embodiments only one of these protrusions are present, and in other embodiments these protrusions are absent altogether. The length and width of the protrusions can also be modified, as with the lower protrusions (21, 22, 23, etc.) discussed above. -
FIG. 7 shows an embodiment withseam 37 located on the intrados (14) face of shaft 4. This seam holds together the two sections (52) of shaft 4, mostly comprising the front (12) and back (13) face. In one embodiment, there is another seam which is generally opposite toseam 37, being about the same distance if measured one direction around shaft 4, for example clockwise, as if measured the other direction around shaft 4, for example counterclockwise. In another embodiment, these generally opposite seams are located on the front (12) and back (13) of shaft 4, with the two sections (52) generally comprising the intrados (14) and extrados (15) face. In another embodiment, shaft 4 is made of asingle section 52 with only one seam required, which is located anywhere around shaft 4. In another embodiment, more than twosections 52 make up shaft 4 requiring three, four, or even more seams. For embodiments with two seams, the seams are not required to be generally opposite one another. In some embodiments with twosections 52, onesection 52 is significantly smaller than theother section 52, with the twoseams 37 being significantly closer to one another in one direction around shaft 4, and significantly farther apart in the other direction around shaft 4. In some embodiments with more than two seams, the seams are generally evenly spaced around shaft 4. In other embodiments with more than two seams, the seams are not evenly spaced around shaft 4. In some embodiments with more than two shaft 4sections 52, eachsection 52 is generally the same size, and in other embodiments thesections 52 have different sizes. In some embodiments there aresections 52 which are combined horizontally, creating both vertical and horizontal seams. These different numbers of sections and seams are useful for modifying the properties and durability of shaft 4. Asingle section 52 and seam leads to the least number of seams which can come apart thus giving the greatest durability. However,multiple sections 52 and different sized sections allow for different materials to be used in different areas of shaft 4, discussed in more detail below. - Each of the
sections 52 that make up shaft 4, as seen inFIG. 7 , has a general outside 51 and a corresponding inside 16. In some embodiments thesesections 52 are made ofsingle layer 53. In otherembodiments shaft sections 52 are made of twolayers 53 connected in some way, one being on outside 51 and another being on inside 16. In some embodiments shaft 4sections 52 are made of more than twolayers 53, one being on outside 51 and another being on inside 16 with middle layer(s) 53 in-between the two. In some embodiments containing two or more shaft 4layers 53, layers 53 are the same material. In other embodiments containing two or more shaft 4layers 53, layers 53 are different material. In some embodiments, thevarious shaft sections 52 are all made of the same materials and have generally thesame layer 53 composition. In other embodiments, the various shaft 4sections 52 are made of different materials and havedifferent layer 53 compositions. - In many cases a single shaft 4 composition is adequate, however in many cases having shaft 4 with different sectional 52 compositions are beneficial. For example, in one embodiment a
small section 52 is placed over the ankle area (54) which has different properties than the other shaft 4sections 52, such as being more flexible or more protective. This embodiment is useful for situations such as riding a horse, where it is beneficial to have different material(s) facing inwards to the horse, ones that are more flexible and breathe more, than on the outside of the horse, ones that are more durable and protective. Embodiments where thelayers 53 are different material can be useful for waterproofing the shoe, such that a rubber or other waterproof material can be put on the outside, but a cooler material or one less prone to stick to the skin can be put on the inside. Alternatively, often softer or more comfortable materials are desired on the inside of a shoe for contact with the skin but significantly rougher and more durable materials are desired for the outside of the shoe which is exposed to different hazardous conditions. Insulating internal layers are also useful for preventing skin contact with extreme cold or heat. - In one embodiment, as seen in
FIG. 1 , upper 3 is asingle section 73 of leather or other similar materials. However, in other embodiments multipleupper sections 73 are used which are held together by one or more seams. Additionally, as with the shaft, in some embodiments the upper section(s) 73 are made of asingle layer 74, and in other embodiments the upper section(s) 73 are made of twolayers 74, one being on outside 45 and another being on inside 46. In yet other embodiments, the upper section(s) 73 are made of more than twolayers 74, one being on outside 45 and another being on inside 46 with middle layer(s) 74 in-between the two. In some embodiments containing two ormore layers 74, the layers are the same material. In other embodiments containing two or more upper 3layers 74, the layers are different material. In some embodiments, the variousupper sections 73 are all made of the same materials and have generally thesame layer 74 composition. In other embodiments, the variousupper sections 73 are made of different materials and have generallydifferent layer 74 compositions. Similar to shaft 4, the varying constructions of upper 3 are important for functions where differing materials are beneficial for different areas of upper 3. For instance, havingtoe area 7 composed of a more protective and sturdy material than the rest of upper 3 is beneficial in hazardous occupations such as construction. As discussed above with the shaft, the embodiments where upper 3layers 74 are different materials are useful when different properties or characteristic are desired on the outside and inside of the shoe, or when insulation is desired. -
FIG. 3 shows shaft 4 whose top (47) is about fifteen inches above top 6 of the heel region (9). Depending on the embodiment the length of shaft 4 could be longer or shorter. The varying shaft 4 heights aid in flexibility and ease of getting shaft 4 on and off, with the longer shafts giving protection to a larger section of the calf, but having less flexibly in comparison to the shorter shafts. Thus, depending on the individual protective or stylistic need, varying shaft 4 lengths are required. Additionally, varying notch, aperture, and protrusion configurations would be more optimal with certain sized shafts. In one embodiment of the invention, top 47 of shaft 4 is six to eight inches from top 6 of the heel region (9). In another embodiment, top 47 of shaft 4 is eight to ten inches from top 6 of the heel region (9). In another embodiment, top 47 of shaft 4 is ten to twelve inches from top 6 of the heel region (9). In another embodiment, top 47 of shaft 4 is twelve to fifteen inches from top 6 of the heel region (9). In another embodiment, top 47 of shaft 4 is fifteen to eighteen inches from top 6 of the heel region (9). These varying embodiments are required due to individual needs. Obviously, a person who is seven feet tall is going to need a significantly longer shaft 4 to protect and cover the same calf proportion as someone who is five feet tall. Thus, embodiments with fifteen to eighteen inch shafts 4 are useful for taller individuals, or for individuals who want maximum protection. If shaft 4 is made of waterproof materials, such as rubber, shafts that extend even past the knee may be desired. On the other hand, embodiments with shaft 4 only six to eight inches tall are useful for shorter individuals or for individuals who do not require significant protection. These shorter shafts 4 could be worn during hotter months for activities which do not require significant protection and where longer shafts would be unnecessarily constricting and hot. The other embodiments with different sizes give a combination of shaft heights designed for optimizing flexibility and protection depending on the situation. -
FIG. 3 shows a shoe withheel 40 which extends off ofheel region 9 of sole 2, and covers about half of the area under shaft 4.Heel 40 can simply be used for a specific design, however,heel 40 is intended for functional purposes, such as a means of securingshoe 1 into a stirrup.Heel 40 height is measured at the front (72) of theheel 40 from the bottom (5) to the top (6) of sole 2. The size ofheel 40 affects the functionality, as shoes with taller heels are easier to secure into stirrups but are harder to walk in, sincetoe region 7 needs to arch more drastically in order to be able to touch the ground. Because of this, in someembodiments heel 40 is about one to three inches high and inother embodiments heel 40 is less than one inch high. The embodiment withlarger heel 40 gives greater functionality butmore toe region 7 arch and thus more difficulty walking, while thesmaller heel 40 embodiments gives less functionality but are easier to walk in. These differences are important as different individuals, such as the elderly, need shoes with more balance and ease of walking, and likely will not be riding as roughly on horses, thus not needing as functional ofheel 40. Inother embodiments heel 40 is completely removed. In some embodiments withheel 40 removed, sole 2 is flat along the bottom surface (5) as is common for sneakers, in other embodiments sole 2 still has a arch shape, and in other embodiments sole 2 has a section removed in generalarch region 8. - Although the invention has been described referencing several potential embodiments, some of which are indicated by the figures presented, this was not intended to be an exhaustive list of all possible arrangements of features, materials, or the like as many other potential embodiments, modifications, or variations will be ascertainable by a person having ordinary skill in the art.
Claims (20)
1. A shoe, comprising
a sole;
an upper connected to said sole;
a shaft connected to said upper.
2. The shoe according to claim 1 wherein said shaft includes a notch.
3. The shoe according to claim 1 wherein said shaft includes an aperture.
4. The shoe according to claim 1 wherein said upper includes a protrusion into said shaft.
5. The shoe according to claim 1 further comprising at least one notch and at least one aperture wherein said combination of said at least one notch and said at least one aperture provide enhanced flexibility.
wherein said shaft includes at least one notch and at least one aperture;
wherein a combination of said at least one notch and said at least one aperture provide enhanced flexibility;
wherein said upper includes at least two protrusions into said shaft.
6. The shoe according to claim 1 wherein said shaft includes at least two sections.
7. The shoe according to claim 6 further comprising at least one vertical seam which fastens said at least two sections together.
8. The shoe according to claim 7 wherein said shaft includes at least one horizontal seam which fasten said at least two sections together.
9. The shoe according to claim 8 wherein said upper includes at least one section with at least one seam which fastens said sections together.
10. The shoe according to claim 1 wherein said upper further includes at least one aperture.
11. The shoe according to claim 1 wherein said shaft further includes a top with at least one protrusion.
12. The shoe according to claim 1 wherein said sole further includes a heel.
13. A shoe, comprising a sole;
an upper connected to said sole;
a shaft connected to said upper;
wherein said shaft includes at least one notch and at least one aperture;
a heel;
protrusions.
14. The shoe according to claim 13 wherein said at least one notch and at least one aperture are generally perpendicular to each other.
15. The shoe according to claim 13 wherein said at least one notch and at least one aperture are generally parallel to each other.
16. The shoe according to claim 13 wherein said shaft contains a top wherein said at least one notch is located, and a top area where said at least one aperture is located.
17. The shoe according to claim 13 wherein said shaft contains a top wherein said at least one notch is located, and a middle area where said at least one aperture is located.
18. The shoe according to claim 13 wherein said protrusions are generally perpendicular to one another.
19. The shoe according to claim 13 wherein said protrusions are generally parallel to one another.
20. A shoe, comprising
a sole;
an upper connected to said sole;
a shaft connected to said upper;
wherein said shaft includes at least one notch and at least one aperture;
wherein said at least one notch is in a first location on said shaft and said at least one aperture is in a second location on said shaft;
wherein said upper includes at least two protrusions into said shaft;
wherein said upper protrusions are in a first and second location.
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US11564450B2 (en) * | 2019-01-11 | 2023-01-31 | Boot Bam, Inc. | Systems and methods for enhancing boot comfort and style |
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US2446158A (en) * | 1947-09-22 | 1948-07-27 | Julius Z Miller | Cowboy boot upper |
US3514877A (en) * | 1968-06-26 | 1970-06-02 | Usm Corp | Boots |
SE7803905L (en) * | 1977-04-08 | 1978-10-09 | Rigon Spa | STOVEL MADE OF MOLDED PLASTIC MATERIAL |
US4571856A (en) * | 1984-05-21 | 1986-02-25 | Autry Industries, Inc. | Double laced athletic shoe |
IT8459366V0 (en) * | 1984-10-10 | 1984-10-10 | Alpine Stars Spa | SPORTS FOOTWEAR AIRED PARTICULARLY FOR MOTORCYCLISTS. |
CA2279738A1 (en) * | 1999-08-04 | 2001-02-04 | Opal Limited | Ventilated footwear |
US6990755B2 (en) * | 2003-10-09 | 2006-01-31 | Nike, Inc. | Article of footwear with a stretchable upper and an articulated sole structure |
USD519722S1 (en) * | 2004-06-14 | 2006-05-02 | Alpinestars Research Srl | Boot for motorcycling |
WO2006074067A1 (en) * | 2005-01-05 | 2006-07-13 | Red Wing Shoe Company, Inc. | Footwear tensioning system |
JP3118168U (en) * | 2005-10-31 | 2006-01-26 | 景化 山本 | boots |
IT1393928B1 (en) * | 2008-07-25 | 2012-05-17 | Alpinestars Res Srl | FOOTWEAR FOR SPORTS USE. |
US7980010B2 (en) * | 2008-08-06 | 2011-07-19 | Ariat International, Inc. | Footwear with expandable entry and exit feature |
US20120186110A1 (en) * | 2011-01-25 | 2012-07-26 | Mark Recchi | Footwear with heel lift |
US20120186106A1 (en) * | 2011-01-26 | 2012-07-26 | Mark Recchi | Footwear with expansion joint |
US20140007462A1 (en) * | 2012-07-06 | 2014-01-09 | Rayanne Engel-Currin | Article of Footwear for Leg Protection in Barrel Racing |
US9661897B2 (en) * | 2012-10-18 | 2017-05-30 | Dusty Rocker Boots, Llc | Cowboy boots with interchangeable inlay for the purpose of changing colors of design |
US9480299B2 (en) * | 2013-03-14 | 2016-11-01 | Red Wing Shoe Company, Inc. | Slip-on footwear with foot securing system |
US9204681B2 (en) * | 2013-05-21 | 2015-12-08 | Ariat International, Inc. | Hybrid boots |
US9332807B2 (en) * | 2013-06-10 | 2016-05-10 | Perfect Storm Boot Corporation | Boot handle storm cover |
USD782787S1 (en) * | 2014-08-27 | 2017-04-04 | Diamond Dust Design LLC | Clothing article |
US9210959B1 (en) * | 2014-08-28 | 2015-12-15 | Diamond Dust Design LLC | Selectively decorative clothing article |
US11622597B2 (en) * | 2016-08-10 | 2023-04-11 | Red Wing Shoe Company, Inc. | Footwear having internal metatarsal guard |
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US11672306B2 (en) | 2023-06-13 |
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