WO2019050528A1

WO2019050528A1 - Dual toe anchor footwear

Info

Publication number: WO2019050528A1
Application number: PCT/US2017/050570
Authority: WO
Inventors: Diana Laird
Original assignee: Diana Laird
Priority date: 2017-09-08
Filing date: 2017-09-08
Publication date: 2019-03-14

Abstract

An apparatus (200) for a Dual Toe Anchor Footwear is disclosed. The apparatus includes a sole (202), a first strap (204) and a second strap (206). The first strap (204) includes a first end (210) coupled to the sole (202) at a position between a great toe (104) when the user's foot is positioned on the sole (202) and a second end (214). The second strap (206) also includes a first end (220) coupled to the sole (202) at a position between a second toe (106) and a third toe (108) of a user's foot when the user's foot is positioned on the sole (202) and a second end (222). Only the first strap (204) and the second strap (206) are positioned between the toes of the user's foot when the user's foot is positioned on the sole (202).

Description

DUAL TOE ANCHOR FOOTWEAR

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of, United States Provisional Patent Application Number 62/384,363 entitled "DUAL ANCHOR SANDAL" and filed on September 7, 2016 for Diana Laird, which is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] This invention relates to footwear and more particularly relates to a dual toe anchor footwear.

BACKGROUND

[0001] Sandals are an open type of footwear, consisting of a sole held to the wearer's foot by straps passing over the instep and, sometimes, around the ankle. The modern flip-flop has a very simple design, consisting of a thin rubber sole with two straps running in an upside down Y shape from the sides of the foot to the gap between the great toe and the second toe. Other types of footwear utilize this arrangement including high heel type style footwear and wedge style footwear.

[0002] Due to improper alignment of the single anchor points in a conventional flip-flop or other type of footwear, their simple design is responsible for a host injuries of the foot and lower leg. Walking for long periods in flip-flops can be very tough on the feet, resulting in pain in the ankles, legs, and feet.

[0003] The lack of support provided by conventional footwear is a major cause of injuries. Such footwear can also cause a person to overuse the tendons in their feet, resulting in tendonitis. The single off center anchor is a common reason for injury, as this causes wearers to grip and scrunch their toes in an effort to keep the footwear in place, which can result in tendonitis.

[0004] Additionally, a single toe anchor point of a conventional footwear allows the sole of the footwear to pivot about the single toe anchor point. If the sole pivots too much the heal of the user' s foot may not be supported by the sole when the user takes a step leaving the user's heal unprotected from hazards on the ground.

SUMMARY

[0005] From the foregoing discussion, it should be apparent that a need exists for an apparatus, system, and method that improves on conventional footwear. Beneficially, such an apparatus, system, and method would reduce rotation of the sole of the footwear and position the sole of the footwear under the user's foot with each step.

[0006] The sandal of the present application has been developed in response to the present state of the flip-flops, and in particular, in response to the problems with footwear that have not yet been fully solved by currently available footwear. Accordingly, the present invention has been developed to provide a dual toe anchor footwear that overcomes many or all of the above-discussed shortcomings in the art.

[0007] The footwear, in one embodiment, includes a sole, a first strap and a second strap. The first strap includes a first end and a second end. The first end of the first strap is coupled to the sole at a position between a great toe and a second toe of a user's foot when the user's foot is positioned on the sole. The second strap also includes a first end and a second end. The first end of the second strap is coupled to the sole at a position between a second toe and a third toe of a user's foot when the user's foot is positioned on the sole. In certain embodiments, only the first strap and the second strap are positioned between the toes of the user's foot when the user's foot is positioned on the sole.

[0008] In one embodiment, the second end of the first strap is coupled to the sole at a position proximate a first longitudinal side of the sole. The first longitudinal side of the sole comprises a side of the sole proximate the great toe of the user' s foot when the user's foot is positioned on the sole. In such an embodiment, the first strap extends across at least a portion of a first metatarsal of the user's foot when the user's foot is positioned on the sole.

[0009] The second end of the first strap, in other embodiments, is coupled to the sole at a position proximate a second longitudinal side of the sole. The second longitudinal side of the sole comprises a side of the sole proximate the fifth toe of the user's foot when the user's foot is positioned on the sole. In such embodiments, the first strap extends across at least a portion of a third metatarsal, a fourth metatarsal, and a fifth metatarsal of the user's foot when the user's foot is positioned on the sole.

[0010] In another embodiment, he second end of the second strap is coupled to the sole at a position proximate a second longitudinal side of the sole. The second longitudinal side of the sole comprises a side of the sole proximate the fifth toe of the user's foot when the user's foot is positioned on the sole. In such an embodiment, the second strap extends across at least a portion of a third metatarsal, a fourth metatarsal, and a fifth metatarsal of the user' s foot when the user' s foot is positioned on the sole.

[0011] In yet another embodiment, the second end of the second strap is coupled to the sole at a position proximate a first longitudinal side of the sole. In this embodiment, the first longitudinal side of the sole comprises a side of the sole proximate the great toe of the user's foot when the user's foot is positioned on the sole. In such an embodiment, the second strap extends across at least a portion of a first metatarsal of the user's foot when the user's foot is positioned on the sole.

[0012] Reference throughout this specification to features, advantages, or similar language does not imply that all of the features and advantages that may be realized with the present invention should be or are in any single embodiment of the invention. Rather, language referring to the features and advantages is understood to mean that a specific feature, advantage, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, discussion of the features and advantages, and similar language, throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, refer to the same embodiment.

[0013] Furthermore, the described features, advantages, and characteristics of the invention may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize that the invention may be practiced without one or more of the specific features or advantages of a particular embodiment. In other instances, additional features and advantages may be recognized in certain embodiments that may not be present in all embodiments of the invention.

[0014] These features and advantages of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of the invention as set forth hereinafter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] In order that the advantages of the invention will be readily understood, a description of the subject matter will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments that are illustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the subject matter and are not therefore to be considered to be limiting of its scope, the subject matter will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0016] Figure 1A is a top view depicting the bones of a human foot in accordance with the present subject matter;

[0017] Figure IB is another top view depicting the bones of a human foot in accordance with the present subject matter;

[0018] Figure 2 is a top view illustrating one embodiment of a dual toe anchor sandal style footwear in accordance with the present subject matter;

[0019] Figure 3 is a perspective view further illustrating the dual toe anchor sandal style footwear of Figure 2 in accordance with the present subject matter;

[0020] Figure 4 is a perspective view illustrating another embodiment of a dual toe anchor sandal style footwear in accordance with the present subject matter;

[0021] Figure 5 is a perspective view illustrating another embodiment of a dual toe anchor sandal style footwear in accordance with the present subject matter;

[0022] Figure 6 is a perspective view illustrating one embodiment of a dual toe anchor high heel style footwear in accordance with the present subject matter; and

[0023] Figure 7 is a perspective view illustrating one embodiment of a dual toe anchor wedge style footwear in accordance with the present subject matter. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment," "an embodiment," or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment," "in an embodiment," and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment.

[0025] Furthermore, the described features, structures, or characteristics of the invention may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. In the following description, numerous specific details are provided for a thorough understanding of embodiments of the invention. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize, however, that the invention may be practiced without one or more of the specific details, or with other methods, components, materials, and so forth. In other instances, well-known structures, materials, or operations are not shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of the invention.

[0026] Figure 1A is a top view depicting the bones of a human foot 100 including the talus (ankle bone) 142 and calcaneus (heal bone) 140 with toes 104, 106 and 108 connected to the talus (ankle bone) 142 and toes 110 and 112 connected to calcaneus (heal bone) 140 in accordance with the present subject matter. Figure IB is another top view depicting the bones of a human foot 100 and including the three main arches of the foot 100, the medial arch 134, the lateral arch 136, and the transverse arch 138 in accordance with the present subject matter. The human foot 100 is a strong and complex mechanical structure containing 26 bones, 33 joints (20 of which are actively articulated), and more than a hundred muscles, tendons, and ligaments. The great toe 104 of the foot 100 is made up of two phalanges bones 102. All of the other toes consist of three phalanges bones 102. These toes are labeled the second toe 106, the third toe 108, the fourth toe 110 and the fifth toe 112. [0027] The arches of the foot 100, formed by the tarsal 132 and metatarsal bones 130, strengthened by ligaments and tendons, allow the foot 100 to support the weight of the body in the erect posture with the least weight. The arches are categorized as longitudinal and transverse arches.

[0028] The longitudinal arches of the foot 100 can be divided into a medial arch 134 and a lateral arch 136. The medial arch 134 is higher than the lateral longitudinal arch 136. The medial arch 134 includes the first 120, second 122, and third 124 metatarsals 130 and extends from the first 120 metatarsal 130 of the foot 100 to the calcaneus 140 or heal bone of the foot 100. The lateral arch 136 includes the fourth 126 and fifth 128 metatarsals 130 and extends from the fifth 128 metatarsals 130 of the foot 100 to the calcaneus 140 or heal bone of the foot 100. In addition to the medial longitudinal arch 134 and the lateral longitudinal arch 136 the foot 100 includes a transverse arch 138. The transverse arch 138 runs across the foot from the first 120 metatarsal 130 to the fifth 128 metatarsal 130.

[0029] The medial longitudinal arch 134, the lateral longitudinal arch 136, and the transverse arch 138 create a space for soft tissues with elastic properties which act as springs passing from the calcaneus 140 or heal bone to the toes 104-110. Because of their elastic properties, these soft tissues can spread ground contact reaction forces over a longer time period, slowly stretching as the foot strikes the ground, and thus reducing the risk of musculoskeletal wear or damage. The soft tissues can also store the energy of these forces, returning it at the next step and thus reducing the cost of walking and, particularly, running, where vertical forces are higher. Accordingly, footwear should be designed to engage each of the medial longitudinal arch 134, the lateral longitudinal arch 136, and the transverse arch 138.

[0030] Sandals are an open type of footwear, consisting of a sole held to the wearer's foot by straps passing over the instep and, sometimes, around the ankle. The modern flip-flop has a very simple design, consisting of a thin rubber sole with two straps running in an upside-down Y shape from the sides of the foot to the gap 105 between the great toe 104 and the second toe 106. While the present discussion is directed towards sandal style footwear, one of skill in the art will recognize that the subject matter of the present disclosure is equally applicable to other types of footwear.

[0031] Because the strap is connected to the sole at the gap 105 between the user's great toe 104 and second toe 106, a conventional flip-flop is not conducive to engaging each of the medial longitudinal arch 134, the lateral longitudinal arch 136, and the transverse arch 138. Instead, individuals wearing conventional flip-flops tend to over engage the medial longitudinal arch 134 and under engage the lateral longitudinal arch 136 and the transverse arch 138. Specifically, wearing flip-flops has been linked to excessive dorsiflexion of the great toe 104 during the gait due to the individuals attempt to keep the flip-flop engaged in the gap 105 between the user's great toe 104 and second toe 106. The emphasis on an exaggerated dorsiflexion of the great toe 104 causes the individual to over engage the medial longitudinal arch 134 and under engage the lateral longitudinal arc 136.

[0032] A central longitudinal axis 116 of the foot 100 extends from the talus 142 or ankle bone of the foot 100 and through the second toe 106. The central longitudinal axis 116 divides the foot 100 into two approximately equal sides. Engaging the foot 100 on both sides of the second toe 106 aligns the control points for the sandal on both sides of the central longitudinal axis 116 of the foot 100 and activates the third 124, fourth 126 and fifth 128 metatarsal 130. This allows the user to engage the medial longitudinal arch 134, the lateral longitudinal arch 136, and the transverse arch 138 creating better ground contact for the entire foot 100 for increased feedback when wearing the sandal.

[0033] Additionally, researchers in exercise physiology suggest that the most efficient way to transfer energy from the human body is to do so by concentrating on transferring such energy through the "fifth line" of a limb. The fifth line is the most efficient line of energy for movement. The fifth line of a limb is a line that runs straight through the central longitudinal axis of a limb such as the leg or a central longitudinal axis of the body. Directing energy along the fifth line is thought to activate the deepest layer of muscle in the human limb leading to optimal energy transfer.

[0034] The energy directed through the fifth line exits the body through a power or exit point 114 of the foot 100 out through the top of the exit point 114 as shown in Figures 1 A and IB. By concentrating on directing energy through the exit point 114 of the foot 100 an individual extends his or her body more thoroughly than he or she would otherwise thereby accessing optimal energy transfer. As can be seen in Figure 1A and IB, the central longitudinal axis 116 of the foot 100 that passes through the exit point 114 is aligned with the second metatarsal 122 of the foot 100 which is centered in the talus 142 or ankle bone of the foot 100. Accordingly, a sandal that positions the anchor points on both sides of the second toe 106 takes advantage of the increased energetic characteristics associated with directing energy through the fifth line and through the exit point 114 of the foot 100.

[0035] Due to improper alignment of the single anchor points in a conventional flip-flop, their simple design is responsible for a host of other injuries of the foot and lower leg. Walking for long periods in flip-flops can be very tough on the feet, resulting in pain in the ankles, legs, and feet.

[0036] The lack of support provided by flip-flop sandals is a major cause of injuries. Flip-flops can also cause a person to overuse the tendons in their feet, resulting in tendonitis. The single off center anchor is also a common reason for injury, as this causes wearers to grip and scrunch their toes in an effort to keep the flip-flop in place, which can result in tendonitis.

[0037] Additionally, a single toe anchor point of a conventional flip-flop allows the sole of the flip-flop to pivot about the single toe anchor point. If the sole pivots too much the heal of the user's foot may not be supported by the sole when the user takes a step leaving the user's heal unprotected from hazards on the ground.

[0038] The sandal of the present application has been developed in response to the present state of the flip-flops, and in particular, in response to the problems with sandals that have not yet been fully solved by currently available flip-flops. Accordingly, the present invention has been developed to provide a dual anchor sandal that overcomes many or all of the above-discussed shortcomings in the art.

[0039] Figure 2 is a top view illustrating one embodiment of a dual toe anchor sandal 200 in accordance with the present subject matter. This dual toe anchor sandal 200 is more structurally balanced with anchor points being positioned on both sides of the second metatarsal 122, i.e., on either side of the central longitudinal axis 116 or fifth line of the foot 100. The dual feedback of the dual toe anchor sandal 200 encourages and engages more connections within the foot 100 which leads to more congruency, proprioception and release and encourages a three dimensional expansion and spreading of the foot 100 that is associated with grounding.

[0040] The dual toe anchor sandal 200 creates better feedback and gives a broader sense of floor foot surface contact, encompassing the entire spectrum of the ball of foot 100 including the outer border and not just the inner border of the foot 100. The dual toe anchor sandal 200 encourages more support and activates more engagement of the entire foot 100, including all three arches 134, 136, 138 and all five metatarsals 130, allowing for a more complete, integrated roll through the entire foot 100. Beginning with the initial "heal strike" i.e., the heal touching ground, and rolling through all three arches 134, 136, 138, all five metatarsals 130, the entire ball of foot 100, all five phalanges 102 (toe bones), and ending with "toe off" which initiates the energy transfer of the next step. This creates more congruency and integrity and influences an overall healthier gait.

[0041] The dual toe anchor sandal 200, in certain embodiments, includes a sole 202, a first strap 204, and a second strap 206. In one embodiment, the sole 202 of the sandal 200 is made from a rubber material and is shaped to completely cover the sole of a user's foot 100 when the sandal 200 is worn by the user. In other embodiments, the sole 202 of the sandal 200 is made of alternative materials such as leather, wood, tatami, rope, etc. One of skill in the art will recognize that the sole 202 of the sandal 200 may be made of any material suitable to protect the sole of the user's foot 100. Note that in the embodiment illustrated in Figure 2, the toes 104-112 of the foot 100 are depicted as being covered in flesh rather than in skeletal form as depicted in Figures 1A and IB. The skeletal depiction of the toes 104-112 in Figures 1 A and IB makes the depiction of the central longitudinal axis 116 more readily identifiable.

[0042] A first end 210 of the first strap 204 is coupled to the sole 202 of the sandal 200 at a position 212 between the great toe 104 and the second toe 106 when the user's foot 100 is positioned on the sole 202 of the sandal 200. A second end 214 of the first strap 204 is coupled to the sole 202 of the sandal 200 at a position 216 proximate a first longitudinal side 218 of the sole 202. The first longitudinal side 218 of the sole 202 is the side of the sole 202 proximate the great toe 104 of the user's foot 100 when the user's foot 100 is positioned on the sole 202. In this position, the first strap 204 extends across at least a portion of the first metatarsal 120 (See, Figure 1A and IB) to support the sole 202 on, and couple it to, the great toe 104 side of the foot 100.

[0043] The second strap 206 also includes a first end 220 and a second end 222. The first end 220 of the second strap 206 is coupled to the sole 202 at a position 224 between the second toe 106 and the third toe 108 of the user's foot 100 when the user's foot 100 is positioned on the sole 202 of the sandal 200. The second end 222 of the second strap 206 is coupled to the sole 202 at a position 226 proximate a second longitudinal side 228 of the sole 202. The second longitudinal side 228 of the sole 202 is the side of the sole 202 adjacent the fifth toe 112 of the user's foot 100 when the user's foot 100 is positioned on the sole 202. In this position, the second strap 206 extends across at least a portion of a third metatarsal 124, a fourth metatarsal 126, and a fifth metatarsal 128 of the user's foot 100 when the user's foot 100 is positioned on the sole 202.

[0044] In certain embodiments, the sandal 200 includes only two anchor points, the first anchor point being between the great toe 104 and the second toe 106, the second anchor point positioned between the second toe 106 and the third toe 108 while the fourth toe 110 and fifth toe 112 remain free from a strap positioned between them. Because the first strap 204 extends in a direction towards the first longitudinal side 218 and the second strap 206 extends in the direction towards the second longitudinal side 228, the second toe 106 and the second metatarsal 122 are unencumbered by straps. The second toe 106 and the second metatarsal 122 are the bones are aligned with the central longitudinal axis 116 of the foot 100 that passes through the exit point 114.

[0045] By leaving the second toe 106 and the second metatarsal 122 unencumbered by straps, the sole 202 of the can pivot about the central longitudinal axis 116 of the foot 100. Because the sandal 200 is anchored at position 212 between the great toe 104 and the second toe 106 by the first strap 204 and is also anchored at position 224 between the second toe 106 and the third toe 108, rotation of the sandal 200 in the direction indicated by arrow 230 is inhibited making it more likely that the heal 232 of the user's foot 100 will stay positioned on the sole 202 of the sandal.

[0046] In certain embodiments, the first strap 204 and the second strap 206 are made of a material such as natural or synthetic rubber, nylon webbing, hemp, or any other pliable material. While the embodiment illustrated in Figure 2 depicts the first strap 204 and the second strap 206 as being relatively narrow, one of skill in the art will recognize that in other embodiments, the width of the first strap 204 and the second strap 206 may be varied to account for various stylistic preferences.

[0047] Figure 3 is a perspective view further illustrating the dual toe anchor sandal 200 of Figure 2 in accordance with the present subject matter. As discussed above, the sandal 200 includes the sole 202, the first strap 204, and the second strap 206.

[0048] The first end 210 of the first strap 204 is coupled to the sole 202 of the sandal 200 at a position 212 between the great toe 104 and the second toe 106 when the user's foot 100 is positioned on the sole 202 of the sandal 200. The second end 214 of the first strap 204 is coupled to the sole 202 of the sandal 200 at a position 216 proximate the first longitudinal side 218 of the sole 202.

[0049] The first end 220 of the second strap 206 is coupled to the sole 202 at a position 224 between the second toe 106 and the third toe 108 of the user's foot 100 when the user's foot 100 is positioned on the sole 202 of the sandal 200. The second end 222 of the second strap 206 is coupled to the sole 202 at a position 226 proximate a second longitudinal side 228 of the sole 202.

[0050] The first strap 204 forms a first metatarsal receiving space 302 sized and shaped to receive the first metatarsal 120 of the user's foot 100. The second strap 206 forms a receiving space 304 sized and shaped to receive the third metatarsal 124, the fourth metatarsal 126 and the fifth metatarsal 128 of the user's foot 100. The first end 210 of the first strap 204 is coupled to the soul 202 at a position 212 that is a sufficient distance from the position 224 where the first end 220 of the second strap 206 is coupled to the sole 202 to form a gap 306. The gap 306 is sized to receive the second toe 106 between the first end 212 of the first strap 204 and the first end 220 of the second strap 206.

[0051] In certain embodiments, the first end 210 of the first strap 204 and the first end 220 of the second strap 206 include toe engaging portions 308 and 310 respectively. In one embodiment, the toe engaging portions 308 and 310 of the first and second straps 204 and 206 extend substantially perpendicularly from the sole 202 to a position approximately the height of the great toe 104 to avoid irritation between the first and second straps 204 and 206 and the great toe 104, the second toe 106 and the third toe 108. One of skill in the art will recognize that the great toe 104 typically has a depth which is greater than the depth of the third toe 108. Therefore, in other embodiments, the toe engaging portion 308 of the first strap 204 may be configured to extend perpendicularly from the sole 202 to a position approximately the height of the great toe 104 while the toe engaging portion 310 of the second strap 206 is configured to extend perpendicularly from the sole 202 to a position approximately the height of the third toe 108.

[0052] Figure 4 is a perspective view illustrating another embodiment of a dual toe anchor sandal 400 in accordance with the present subject matter. The sandal 400, in certain embodiments, includes a sole 202, a first strap 404, and a second strap 406.

[0053] The sole 202 is substantially similar to the sole 202 of the sandal 200 discussed above with reference to Figures 2 and 3. Accordingly, in exemplary embodiments, the sole 202 of the sandal 400 is made from a rubber material and is shaped to completely cover the sole of a user's foot 100 when the sandal 400 is worn by the user. In other embodiments, the sole 202 of the sandal 400 is made of alternative materials such as leather, wood, tatami, rope, etc. One of skill in the art will recognize that the sole 202 of the sandal 400 may be made of any material suitable to protect the sole of the user's foot 100.

[0054] The sandal 400 of Figure 4 differs from the sandal 200 of Figures 2 and 3 in that the first strap 404 crosses the second strap 406. That is, in certain embodiments, the first end 408 of the first strap 404 is coupled to the sole 202 in approximately the same position as the first end 210 of the first strap 204 of the sandal 200 of Figures 2 and 3 (i.e., between the great toe 104 and the second toe 106). However, instead of extending to the first longitudinal side 218 of the sole 202, the second end 410 extends to the second longitudinal side 228 of the sole 202. Thus, the first strap 404 crosses over the second toe 106, the third toe 108, the fourth toe 110 and the fifth toe 112. Similarly, the first end 412 of the second strap 406 is coupled to the sole 202 in approximately the same position as the first end 220 of the second strap 206 of the sandal 200 of Figures 2 and 3 (i.e., between the second toe 106 and the third toe 108). The second end 414 of the second strap 406 extends to the first longitudinal side 218 of the sole 202. Accordingly, the second strap crosses over the second toe 106 and the great toe 104. [0055] Figure 5 is a perspective view illustrating another embodiment of a dual toe anchor sandal 500 in accordance with the present subject matter. The sandal 500, in certain embodiments, includes a sole 202, a first strap 204, a second strap 206, and a third strap 502.

[0056] The sole 202, the first strap 204, and the second strap 206 are substantially similar to the sole 202, the first strap 204, and the second strap 206 of sandal 200 discussed above with reference to Figures 2 and 3. Accordingly, in exemplary embodiments, the sole 202 of the sandal 500 is made from varied material and is shaped to completely cover the sole of a user's foot 100 when the sandal 500 is worn by the user. In other embodiments, the sole 202 of the sandal 500 is made of alternative materials such as leather, wood, tatami, rope, etc. One of skill in the art will recognize that the sole 202 of the sandal 500 may be made of any material suitable to protect the sole of the user's foot 100.

[0057] The first end 210 of the first strap 204 is coupled to the sole 202 of the sandal 500 at a position 212 between the great toe 104 and the second toe 106 when the user's foot 100 is positioned on the sole 202 of the sandal 500. The second end 214 of the first strap 204 is coupled to the sole 202 of the sandal 500 at a position 216 proximate the first longitudinal side 218 of the sole 202.

[0058] The first end 220 of the second strap 206 is coupled to the sole 202 at a position 224 between the second toe 106 and the third toe 108 of the user's foot 100 when the user's foot 100 is positioned on the sole 202 of the sandal 500. The second end 222 of the second strap 206 is coupled to the sole 202 at a position 226 proximate a second longitudinal side 228 of the sole 202.

[0059] The third strap 502 extends across the sole 202 of the sandal 500 from the first longitudinal side 218 of the sole 202 to the second longitudinal side 228 of the sole 202. In an exemplary embodiment, the third strap 502 is positioned under the first strap 204 and the second strap 206. In other embodiments, the third strap 502 is positioned over the first strap 204 and the second strap 206. In either embodiment, the third strap 502 extends across each of the user's toes 104-112 from the great toe 104 to the fifth toe 112. In such an embodiment, the third strap 502 may provide additional lateral support to the user's foot 100 to maintain the user's foot 100 positioned on the sole of the sandal 500.

[0060] In certain embodiments, the third strap 502 is approximately the same width as the first strap 204 and the second strap 206. In an exemplary embodiment, the third strap 502 is substantially wider than the first strap 204 and the second strap 206. A wider third strap 502 may provide additional lateral support to the user's foot 100 to maintain the user's foot 100 in a proper position on the sole 202 of the sandal 500.

[0061] Figure 6 is a perspective view illustrating a perspective view illustrating one embodiment of a dual toe anchor high heel style footwear 600 in accordance with the present subject matter. The high heel style footwear 600, in certain embodiments, includes a sole 602, a first strap 204, and a second strap 206.

[0062] The first strap 204 and the second strap 206 are substantially similar to the first strap 204 and the second strap 206 of the dual toe anchor sandal 200 of Figures 2 and 3 discussed above. Accordingly, a first end 210 of the first strap 204 is coupled to the sole 602 of the footwear 600 at a position 612 between the great toe 104 and the second toe 106 when the user's foot 100 is positioned on the sole 602 of the footwear 600. The second end 214 of the first strap 204 is coupled to the sole 602 of the footwear 600 at a position 616 proximate a first longitudinal side 618 of the sole 602.

[0063] The first end 220 of the second strap 206 is coupled to the sole 602 at a position 624 between the second toe 106 and the third toe 108 of the user's foot 100 when the user's foot 100 is positioned on the sole 602 of the footwear 600. The second end 222 of the second strap 206 is coupled to the sole 602 at a position 626 proximate a second longitudinal side 628 of the sole 602.

[0064] The first strap 204 forms a first metatarsal receiving space 630 sized and shaped to receive the first metatarsal 120 of the user's foot 100. The second strap 206 forms a receiving space 632 sized and shaped to receive the third metatarsal 124, the fourth metatarsal 126 and the fifth metatarsal 128 of the user's foot 100. The first end 210 of the first strap 204 is coupled to the soul 202 at a position 612 that is a sufficient distance from the position 624 where the first end 220 of the second strap 206 is coupled to the sole 602 to form a gap 634. The gap 634 is sized to receive the second toe 106 between the first end 212 of the first strap 204 and the first end 220 of the second strap 206.

[0065] In certain embodiments, the first end 210 of the first strap 204 and the first end 220 of the second strap 206 include toe engaging portions 308 and 310 respectively. In one embodiment, the toe engaging portions 308 and 310 of the first and second straps 204 and 206 extend substantially perpendicularly from the sole 602 to a position sufficient to avoid irritation between the first and second straps 204 and 206 and the toes 104-112. One of skill in the art will recognize that the great toe 104 typically has a depth which is greater than the depth of the third toe 108. Therefore, in other embodiments, the toe engaging portion 308 of the first strap 204 may be configured to extend perpendicularly from the sole 602 to a position approximately the height of the great toe 104 while the toe engaging portion 310 of the second strap 206 is configured to extend perpendicularly from the sole 602 to a position approximately the height of the third toe 108.

[0066] In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 6, the footwear 600 is a high heel style footwear 600 having a heel 640 configured to elevate the calcaneus (heal bone) 140 with respect to the toes 104-112. Such a configuration may cause the user's foot to naturally slide forward on the footwear 600 in the direction indicated by arrow 642. The dual toe anchor of the present subject matter is particularly suited to arrest any forward sliding given the two anchor points.

[0067] In exemplary embodiments, the sole 602 of the footwear 600 is made from varied material and is shaped to completely support the sole of a user's foot 100 when the footwear 600 is worn by the user. In other embodiments, the sole 602 of the footwear 600 is made of alternative materials such as leather, wood, tatami, rope, etc. One of skill in the art will recognize that the sole 602 of the footwear 600 may be made of any material suitable to support the sole of the user's foot 100.

[0068] Figure 7 is a perspective view illustrating a perspective view illustrating one embodiment of a dual toe anchor wedge style footwear 700 in accordance with the present subject matter. The wedge style footwear 700, in certain embodiments, includes a sole 702, a first strap 204, and a second strap 206.

[0069] The first strap 204 and the second strap 206 are substantially similar to the first strap 204 and the second strap 206 of the dual toe anchor sandal 200 and the high heel style footwear 600 of Figures 2, 3 and 6 discussed above. Accordingly, a first end 210 of the first strap 204 is coupled to the sole 702 of the footwear 700 at a position 712 between the great toe 104 and the second toe 106 when the user's foot 100 is positioned on the sole 702 of the footwear 700. The second end 214 of the first strap 204 is coupled to the sole 702 of the footwear 700 at a position 716 proximate a first longitudinal side 718 of the sole 702.

[0070] The first end 220 of the second strap 206 is coupled to the sole 702 at a position 724 between the second toe 106 and the third toe 108 of the user's foot 100 when the user's foot 100 is positioned on the sole 702 of the footwear 700. The second end 222 of the second strap 206 is coupled to the sole 702 at a position 726 proximate a second longitudinal side 728 of the sole 702.

[0071] The first strap 204 forms a first metatarsal receiving space 730 sized and shaped to receive the first metatarsal 120 of the user's foot 100. The second strap 206 forms a receiving space 732 sized and shaped to receive the third metatarsal 124, the fourth metatarsal 126 and the fifth metatarsal 128 of the user's foot 100. The first end 210 of the first strap 204 is coupled to the soul 202 at a position 712 that is a sufficient distance from the position 724 where the first end 220 of the second strap 206 is coupled to the sole 702 to form a gap 734. The gap 734 is sized to receive the second toe 106 between the first end 212 of the first strap 204 and the first end 220 of the second strap [0072] In certain embodiments, the first end 210 of the first strap 204 and the first end 220 of the second strap 206 include toe engaging portions 308 and 310 respectively. In one embodiment, the toe engaging portions 308 and 310 of the first and second straps 204 and 206 extend substantially perpendicularly from the sole 702 to a position sufficient to avoid irritation between the first and second straps 204 and 206 and the toes 104-112. One of skill in the art will recognize that the great toe 104 typically has a depth which is greater than the depth of the third toe 108. Therefore, in other embodiments, the toe engaging portion 308 of the first strap 204 may be configured to extend perpendicularly from the sole 702 to a position approximately the height of the great toe 104 while the toe engaging portion 310 of the second strap 206 is configured to extend perpendicularly from the sole 702 to a position approximately the height of the third toe 108.

[0073] In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 7, the footwear 700 is a wedge style footwear 700 having a heel 740 configured to elevate the calcaneus (heal bone) 140 with respect to the toes 104- 112. One of skill in the art will recognize that a wedge style footwear 700 includes a wedge 750 that is positioned under the sole of the user to elevate the calcaneus (heal bone) 140 of the user. Unlike the high heel embodiment however, the wedge style footwear 700 includes material throughout the sole 702. As with the high heel embodiment of the current subject matter, such a configuration may cause the user's foot to naturally slide forward on the footwear 700 in the direction indicated by arrow 742. The dual toe anchor of the present subject matter is particularly suited to arrest any forward sliding given the two anchor points.

[0074] In exemplary embodiments, the sole 702 of the footwear 700 is made from varied material and is shaped to completely support the sole of a user's foot 100 when the footwear 700 is worn by the user. In other embodiments, the sole 702 of the footwear 700 is made of alternative materials such as leather, cork, wood, tatami, rope, etc. One of skill in the art will recognize that the sole 702 of the footwear 700 may be made of any material suitable to support the sole of the user's foot 100. [0075] The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.

[0076] What is claimed is:

Claims

1. A dual toe anchor footwear comprising:

a sole;

a first strap having a first end and a second end, the first end of the first strap coupled to the sole at a position between a great toe and a second toe of a user' s foot when the user' s foot is positioned on the sole;

a second strap having a first end and a second end, the first end of the second strap coupled to the sole at a position between a second toe and a third toe of a user's foot when the user's foot is positioned on the sole; and

wherein only the first strap and the second strap are positioned between the toes of the user' s foot.

2. The footwear of claim 1, wherein the second end of the first strap is coupled to the sole at a position proximate a first longitudinal side of the sole.

3. The footwear of claim 2, wherein the first longitudinal side of the sole

comprises a side of the sole proximate the great toe of the user' s foot when the user' s foot is positioned on the sole.

4. The footwear of claim 3, wherein the first strap extends across at least a

portion of a first metatarsal of the user's foot when the user's foot is positioned on the sole. The footwear of claim 1, wherein the second end of the first strap is coupled the sole at a position proximate a second longitudinal side of the sole.

6. The footwear of claim 5, wherein the second longitudinal side of the sole comprises a side of the sole proximate the fifth toe of the user's foot when the user' s foot is positioned on the sole.

7. The footwear of claim 6, wherein the first strap extends across at least a

portion of a third metatarsal, a fourth metatarsal, and a fifth metatarsal of the user' s foot when the user' s foot is positioned on the sole.

8. The footwear of claim 1, wherein the second end of the second strap is

coupled to the sole at a position proximate a second longitudinal side of the sole.

9. The footwear of claim 8, wherein the second longitudinal side of the sole comprises a side of the sole proximate the fifth toe of the user's foot when the user' s foot is positioned on the sole.

The footwear of claim 9, wherein the second strap extends across at least a portion of a third metatarsal, a fourth metatarsal, and a fifth metatarsal of the user' s foot when the user' s foot is positioned on the sole.

11. The footwear of claim 1, wherein the second end of the second strap is

coupled to the sole at a position proximate a first longitudinal side of the sole.

The footwear of claim 11, wherein the first longitudinal side of the sole comprises a side of the sole proximate the great toe of the user' s foot when the user' s foot is positioned on the sole.

The footwear of claim 12, wherein the second strap extends across at least a portion of a first metatarsal of the user's foot when the user's foot is positioned on the sole.

A dual toe anchor footwear comprising:

a sole;

a first strap having a first end and a second end, the first end of the first strap coupled to the sole at a position between a great toe and a second toe of a user' s foot when the user' s foot is positioned on the sole, wherein the second end of the first strap is coupled to the sole at a position proximate a first longitudinal side of the sole;

a second strap having a first end and a second end, the first end of the second strap coupled to the sole at a position between a second toe and a third toe of a user's foot when the user's foot is positioned on the sole, wherein the second end of the second strap is coupled to the sole at a position proximate a second longitudinal side of the sole; and

15. The footwear of claim 14, wherein the first longitudinal side of the sole comprises a side of the sole proximate the great toe of the user' s foot when the user' s foot is positioned on the sole.

16. The footwear of claim 15, wherein the first strap extends across at least a portion of a first metatarsal of the user's foot when the user's foot is positioned on the sole.

17. The footwear of claim 14, wherein the second end of the second strap is

18. The footwear of claim 17, wherein the second longitudinal side of the sole comprises a side of the sole proximate the fifth toe of the user's foot when the user' s foot is positioned on the sole.

19. The sandal of claim 18, wherein the second strap extends across at least a portion of a third metatarsal, a fourth metatarsal, and a fifth metatarsal of the user' s foot when the user' s foot is positioned on the sole.

20. A dual toe anchor footwear comprising:

a sole;

a first strap having a first end and a second end, the first end of the first strap coupled to the sole at a position between a great toe and a second toe of a user' s foot when the user' s foot is positioned on the sole, wherein the second end of the first strap is coupled to the sole at a position proximate a first longitudinal side of the sole and wherein the first strap extends across at least a portion of a first metatarsal of the user's foot when the user's foot is positioned on the sole;

a second strap having a first end and a second end, the first end of the second strap coupled to the sole at a position between a second toe and a third toe of a user's foot when the user's foot is positioned on the sole, wherein the second end of the second strap is coupled to the sole at a position proximate a second longitudinal side of the sole, and wherein the second strap extends across at least a portion of a third metatarsal, a fourth metatarsal, and a fifth metatarsal of the user's foot when the user's foot is positioned on the sole; and