CN113924021B - Sole structure for an article of footwear - Google Patents

Abstract

A sole structure is provided that includes a midfoot region, a heel region, a lateral side, and a medial side. The sole structure has a first sole element that includes a first interior surface that has a plurality of first surface features, whereby at least one of the first surface features has a different configuration than another of the first surface features. The sole structure also includes a second sole element that includes a second interior surface having a plurality of second surface features configured to interface with the first surface features. The sheet is disposed between the first sole element and the second sole element such that the first sole element is disposed on a first side of the sheet and the second sole element is disposed on a second side of the sheet opposite the first side.

Description

Sole structure of footwear items

Cross-references to related applications

This application claims priority from non-provisional U.S. patent application Serial No. 16/833,617, filed on March 29, 2020, which filed in 2019 under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) The disclosures of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/825,898, filed March 29, are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

field

The present disclosure relates generally to articles of footwear, and more particularly to sole structures for articles of footwear.

background

This section provides background information related to the present disclosure and is not necessarily prior art.

Articles of footwear conventionally include upper and sole structures. The upper may be formed from any suitable material to receive, secure and support the foot on the sole structure. The upper may work with laces, straps, or other fasteners to adjust the fit of the upper around the foot. A bottom portion of the upper proximate the bottom surface of the foot is attached to the sole structure.

Sole construction typically includes a stacked arrangement of midsole and outsole extending between the ground surface and the upper. The outsole provides wear resistance and traction with the ground surface, and may be formed from rubber or other materials that impart durability and wear resistance and enhance traction with the ground surface. The midsole is provided between the outsole and the upper. Although existing sole structures adequately serve their intended purpose, improvements in sole structures are constantly being sought in order to advance technology.

Description of drawings

The drawings described herein are for purposes of illustration only of selected embodiments and not all possible implementations, and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure.

Figure 1 is a lateral side view of an article of footwear in accordance with principles of the present disclosure;

Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the article of footwear of Figure 1;

Figure 3 is a partially exploded perspective view of the article of footwear of Figure 1;

Figure 4 is a perspective view of an internal sole element of the article of footwear of Figure 1;

Figure 5 is a perspective view of an external sole element of the article of footwear of Figure 1;

Figure 6 is a plan view of the internal sole element of Figure 4;

Figure 7 is a plan view of the external sole element of Figure 5;

Figure 8 is a lateral side view of an article of footwear in accordance with principles of the present disclosure;

Figure 9 is an exploded perspective view of the article of footwear of Figure 8;

Figure 10 is a perspective view of an internal sole element of the article of footwear of Figure 8;

Figure 11 is a perspective view of an external sole element of the article of footwear of Figure 8;

Figure 12 is a plan view of the internal sole element of Figure 10;

Figure 13 is a plan view of the external sole element of Figure 11;

Figure 14 is a lateral side view of an article of footwear in accordance with principles of the present disclosure;

Figure 15 is an exploded perspective view of the article of footwear of Figure 14;

Figure 16 is a perspective view of an internal sole element of the article of footwear of Figure 14;

Figure 17 is a perspective view of an external sole element of the article of footwear of Figure 14;

Figure 18 is a plan view of the internal sole element of Figure 16;

Figure 19 is a plan view of the external sole element of Figure 17;

Figure 20 is a lateral side view of an article of footwear in accordance with principles of the present disclosure;

Figure 21 is an exploded perspective view of the article of footwear of Figure 20;

Figure 22 is a perspective view of an internal sole element of the article of footwear of Figure 20;

Figure 23 is a perspective view of an external sole element of the article of footwear of Figure 20;

Figure 24 is a plan view of the internal sole element of Figure 22;

Figure 25 is a plan view of the external sole element of Figure 23;

Figure 26 is a lateral side view of an article of footwear in accordance with principles of the present disclosure;

Figure 27 is an exploded perspective view of the article of footwear of Figure 8;

Figure 28 is a perspective view of an internal sole element of the article of footwear of Figure 8;

Figure 29 is a perspective view of an external sole element of the article of footwear of Figure 8;

Figure 30 is a plan view of the internal sole element of Figure 28; and

Figure 31 is a plan view of the outer sole element of Figure 29.

Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views of the drawings.

A detailed description

The present disclosure relates to sole structures, articles of footwear including sole structures, methods of making sole structures, sole structures made using these methods, methods of making articles of footwear including sole structures, and articles of footwear made using these methods. These sole structures provide cushioning and lateral stability to footwear items. A sole structure has a forefoot region, a midfoot region, a heel region, a lateral side, and a medial side, and includes a first sole element including a plurality of first surface features. a first inner surface, at least one of the first surface features having a different configuration than another of the first surface features; a second sole element, the second sole element The element includes a second inner surface having a plurality of second surface features configured to interface with the first surface feature; and a panel disposed between the first sole element and the second sole element. , a first sole element is provided on a first side of the panel, and a second sole element is provided on a second side of the panel opposite the first side. The first surface feature or the second surface feature, or both, may include at least one rib. In some examples, the ribs define one or more channels, and at least one cable can extend through the channels. These cables can be used to lock the upper to the sole structure during wear. The sheet may comprise a film or sheet of material, or may comprise a textile such as a knitted textile, a woven textile, a braided textile, a crocheted textile or a nonwoven Textiles (non-woventextile). Since the properties of the sheet material affect the lateral stability of the sole structure, the properties of the sole structure can be easily changed in a manufacturing environment by changing the type of sheet material used in the sole structure. In certain examples, the panel may be integrally formed with an upper for an article of footwear such that the step of disposing the panel between the first sole element and the second sole element also serves to attach the upper to the sole structure, thereby providing a simpler manufacturing process that can be easily automated.

Example embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. Example embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough, and will fully convey the scope to those skilled in the art. Numerous specific details are set forth, such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need not be employed, that example embodiments may be embodied in many different forms and that neither should be construed to limit the scope of the disclosure. In some example embodiments, well-known processes, well-known device structures, and well-known technologies are not described in detail.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular example embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" may also be intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms "comprises," "comprising," "including," and "having" are inclusive and therefore designate the modified feature, integer, step, operation, element or part does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, parts and/or groups thereof. Unless specifically identified as an order of performance, the method steps, processes and operations described herein should not be construed as requiring that they be performed in the specific order discussed or illustrated. It should also be understood that additional or alternative steps may be employed.

When an element or piece is referred to as being "on," "engaged to," "connected to" or "coupled to" another element or piece, it can be directly on, coupled to, or coupled to the other element or piece. Connected or coupled to another element or piece, or intervening elements or pieces may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly on," "directly engaged to," "directly connected to" or "directly coupled to" another element or piece, there may be no intervening elements present. Or piece. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a like fashion (e.g., "between" versus "directly between," "adjacent" versus "directly between" "nearby" etc.). As used herein, the term "and/or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

Although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, sections and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, sections and/or sections should not be limited by these Terminology Limitations. These terms may be only used to distinguish one element, component, region, section or section from another region, section or section. Terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numerical terms when used herein do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region, section or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, section or section without departing from the teachings of example embodiments.

For convenience of description, terms such as "inside", "outside", "beneath", "below", "lower", "above" and "upper" may be used herein. and similar terms, spatially relative terms, describe the relationship of one element or feature to another element (or elements) or feature (or features) as illustrated in the Figures. The spatially relative terms may be intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as "below" or "beneath" other elements or features would then be oriented "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term "below" may encompass both the above orientation and the below orientation. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

Referring to the accompanying drawings, a sole structure is provided having a forefoot region, a midsole region, a heel region, a lateral side and a medial side. The sole structure includes a first sole element including a first inner surface having a plurality of first surface features, at least one of the first surface features having a structure similar to another of the first surface features. A configuration with different surface characteristics. The sole structure also includes a second sole element including a second inner surface having a plurality of second surface features configured to interface with the first surface features; and disposed on the first sole element and a second sole element between the panel, the first sole element being disposed on a first side of the panel, and the second sole element being disposed on a second side of the panel opposite the first side.

Implementations of the present disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In some examples, the first surface feature includes a plurality of protrusions and the second surface feature includes a plurality of recesses configured to mate with the protrusions.

In some embodiments, the first surface feature includes at least one first protrusion having a first configuration and at least one second protrusion having a second configuration different from the first configuration, and the second surface feature includes a first protrusion having a first configuration. At least one first recess of a second configuration and at least one second recess of a second configuration. Here, the first configuration may include at least one of a first size, a first shape, and a first orientation, and the second configuration may include at least one of a second size, a second shape, and a second orientation. Optionally, at least one first protrusion and at least one second protrusion are respectively opposite to at least one first recess and at least one second recess.

In some examples, the first surface features include a first plurality of ribs having a first configuration and a second plurality of ribs having a second configuration different from the first configuration. Optionally, each rib extends from the first end to the second end. Here, the width of each rib may be along the direction from the first end to the second end. Optionally, the spacing between adjacent ones of the ribs in the forefoot region is different from the spacing between adjacent ones of the ribs in the heel region. In some examples, a first plurality of ribs extends along a first direction and a second plurality of ribs extends along a second direction transverse to the first direction.

In some embodiments, the surface features include a first protrusion disposed in the forefoot region, a second protrusion disposed in the heel region, a plurality of first ribs partially surrounding the first protrusion, a plurality of first ribs disposed completely surrounding the second protrusion. A plurality of second ribs and a plurality of third ribs extending between the first and second ribs.

In some examples, the first, second, and third ribs are ridge-shaped. Optionally, the first rib may extend around the first protrusion from a first end on the lateral side of the first sole element to a second end on the lateral side of the first sole element. Here, the first ribs may extend along an arcuate path and be concentric with each other and with the first protrusion. In some embodiments, the second ribs each extend along a circular path and are concentric with each other and with the second protrusion. Optionally, the third rib extends from a first end on the lateral side of the first sole element to a second end on the medial side of the first sole element. Each of the third ribs may extend along an arcuate path.

In some examples, the plurality of first ribs define a plurality of first channels, each first channel extending from a first end on the lateral side of the first sole element to a third end on the lateral side of the first sole element. Two ends. Here, the sole structure may include at least one cable extending through at least one first channel.

In some examples, the plurality of second ribs define a plurality of second channels, each second channel extending from a first end on the lateral side of the first sole element to a third end on the medial side of the first sole element. Two ends. Here, the sole structure may further include at least one cable extending through the at least one second channel.

In some embodiments, the first protrusion is cylindrical. In some examples, the second protrusion is cylindrical. Optionally, the first protrusion is offset towards the lateral side of the first sole element. Optionally, the second protrusion is centrally located between the lateral side of the first sole element and the medial side of the first sole element.

In some examples, the first protrusion has a different hardness than the second protrusion.

In another aspect of the present disclosure, a first surface feature includes a first protrusion disposed in a forefoot region, a plurality of arcuate first ribs partially surrounding the first protrusion, and a plurality of arcuate first ribs disposed adjacent the plurality of first ribs. Multiple elongated second ribs.

Optionally, the first and second ribs are ridged. Here, the first rib may extend around the first protrusion from a first end on the medial side of the first sole element to a second end on the medial side of the first sole element. Optionally, the first ribs extend along an arcuate path and are concentric with each other and with the first protrusion. In some examples, the second rib extends from a first end on the lateral side of the first sole element to a second end on the medial side of the first sole element. In some embodiments, the second ribs extend along an arcuate path and are concentric with each other and with the first protrusion. In some configurations, the first rib and the second rib are arranged sequentially from the first protrusion to the rear end of the first sole element and gradually increase in size in a radial direction away from the first protrusion. Optionally, the first protrusion is cylindrical. In some examples, the first protrusion is disposed adjacent the medial side of the first sole element. In some embodiments, the first and second ribs are ridged.

In some configurations, the first surface features include a plurality of annular first ribs disposed in the heel region and a plurality of elongated second ribs disposed in the midfoot region and the forefoot region. Optionally, the first ribs are concentric with each other. In some embodiments, the second rib extends from a first end on the lateral side of the first sole element to a second end on the medial side of the first sole element. In some embodiments, the second ribs each extend along an arcuate path. In some examples, the second ribs are concentric with each other. In some examples, the second rib is concentric with the first rib.

Optionally, the second rib is arranged sequentially between the first rib and the front end of the first sole element. Here, the second rib gradually changes in size in the direction from the first rib to the front end portion. In some embodiments, the second rib gradually increases in width in a direction from the first rib to the front end.

In some embodiments, the first and second ribs are ridged.

In another aspect of the present disclosure, the first surface feature includes a plurality of first ribs extending radially outward from a central portion of the heel region, sequentially disposed between the first rib and the front end of the first sole element. of multiple second ribs. Here, the first rib and the second rib may cooperate to form a nautilus pattern.

In some examples, the central portion is substantially planar and the apex of the first rib is coplanar with the central portion. Here, the first rib may extend from a first end at the central portion of the first sole element to a second end at the peripheral side wall. In some embodiments, the first ribs each increase in height from the first end to the second end.

In some examples, the second rib is arranged sequentially from the first rib to the front end of the first sole element. In some embodiments, the second rib extends from a distal first end adjacent the medial side of the first sole element to a second end at the lateral side of the first sole element. Optionally, the second ribs each increase in height from the first end to the second end.

In some examples, the center portion is teardrop-shaped.

In some embodiments, the first and second ribs are ridged.

In another aspect of the disclosure, wherein the first surface feature includes a plurality of first ribs converging on one another along a first direction and a plurality of second ribs converging on one another along a second direction. Here, the first ribs may be arranged in a first radial array and the second ribs in a second radial array. Optionally, the first ribs converge with each other in a direction from the lateral side to the medial side. In some embodiments, the second ribs converge with each other in a direction from the medial side to the lateral side.

In some examples, the first rib is provided in the forefoot region. Optionally, a second rib is provided in the heel area. In some embodiments, the first surface feature further includes a plurality of transition ribs disposed between the first rib and the second rib. In some examples, the first and second ribs are ridged. In some embodiments, the first ribs each taper in width in a direction from the lateral side to the medial side. Optionally, the second ribs each taper in width in a direction from the medial side to the lateral side.

In some examples, the first sole element defines a footbed of the sole structure and the outer sole element defines a ground-engaging surface of the sole structure.

Optionally, each of the plurality of first surface features has a minimum height or depth of at least 2 mm. In some examples, each of the plurality of first surface features has a minimum height or depth of at least 11 mm. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of first surface features has a maximum height or depth of less than 28 mm. In some configurations, each of the plurality of first surface features has a maximum height or depth of less than 23 mm. Optionally, the height or depth of each of the plurality of surface features ranges from about 2 mm to about 27 mm.

In some aspects, a sole structure includes an adhesive disposed between a first sole element and a second sole element, the adhesive being applied to the first sole element, the second sole element, an upper surface of the sheet, and the sheet. on at least one of the lower surfaces of the material.

In some embodiments, the sheet material includes mesh textile. In some examples, the sheet is a textile constructed to stretch in only one dimension. Alternatively, the sheet is a textile constructed to stretch in two dimensions. In some configurations, the panel is an embroidered textile.

In some examples, at least one of the first sole element and the second sole element is formed from a polymeric material having a foam structure. Here, the polymer material having a foam structure may be injection-molded foam. Alternatively, the polymeric material having a foam structure is compression-molded foam. In some examples, polymeric materials with foam structures are anisotropic.

In some configurations, the sheet follows the shape of the first surface feature and follows the shape of the second surface feature.

Another aspect of the present disclosure provides an article of footwear including any of the examples of sole structures described in the preceding paragraphs. Here, an article of footwear includes an upper including a panel and a peripheral wall defining an interior cavity and a throat opening. Optionally, the first sole element is disposed within the interior cavity of the upper and the second sole element is disposed externally of the upper. Here, the article of footwear may include at least one cable extending from the throat opening and between the first sole element and the second sole element. Optionally, the cable includes an end defining an aperture for receiving at least one fastener of the article of footwear.

In another aspect of the present disclosure, a method of providing a sole structure as described above includes providing an upper for an article of footwear, and attaching the sole structure and the upper to one another to form the article of footwear.

In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, an article of footwear includes an upper having a bottom panel and peripheral sidewalls that cooperate to define an interior cavity. The article of footwear also includes a first sole element disposed within the interior cavity on a first side of the panel and including a first interior surface having a plurality of first surface features, the first surface features being At least one first surface feature of has a different configuration than another of the first surface features. The second sole element is disposed on an opposite side of the sheet from the first sole element and includes a second inner surface having a plurality of second surface features configured to be consistent with the first surface features. docking.

In some examples, at least one of the bottom panel and the peripheral sidewalls is formed from a textile, optionally from a knitted textile, a braided textile, a braided textile, a crocheted textile, or a nonwoven textile, optionally from a knitted textile. Optionally, the upper is a sock with an integrally formed bottom panel and peripheral sidewalls. In some embodiments, the bottom panel is formed as a strobel panel. In some examples, the bottom panel includes an inner layer on a first side of the first sole element and an outer layer disposed on a side of the first sole element opposite the inner layer. Optionally, the bottom panel defines a pocket for receiving the first sole element. Here, the bottom sheet may follow the shape of the plurality of first surface features.

In another aspect of the present disclosure, a method of manufacturing an article of footwear includes forming a first sole element including a first inner surface having a plurality of first surface features, at least one of the first surface features One first surface feature has a different configuration than another of the first surface features. The method also includes forming a second sole element including a second inner surface having a plurality of second surface features configured to interface with the first surface features; in the first sole A piece of material is disposed between the first inner surface of the element and the second inner surface of the second sole element.

In some embodiments, the method includes forming the first sole element and the second sole element by injection molding. Optionally, the method includes forming a plurality of surface features to include at least one channel extending from a first end at a peripheral side surface of the first sole element to a peripheral side surface of the first sole element the second end.

In some examples, the method includes positioning the first cable within at least one channel. Here, the method may include positioning the first cable between the panel and the first sole element. Optionally, the method includes positioning the first cable between the panel and the second sole element. In some examples, the method includes routing a cable from a first end of the channel to a second end of the channel.

In some examples, the method includes attaching the sheet to the perimeter sidewall to form an upper. Here, the method may include integrally forming the panel and peripheral sidewall of the textile. In some embodiments, the method includes attaching the sheet to the perimeter sidewall using a Strobel construction.

In some embodiments, the method includes forming a sheet having an inner layer and an outer layer. Optionally, the method includes positioning the first sole element between the inner layer and the outer layer.

In some examples, the method includes forming a sheet with a pocket. Here, the method includes positioning the first sole element within the bag.

In another aspect of the disclosure, an article of footwear is produced according to any of the methods described above.

Referring to Figures 1-7, a first example of an article of footwear 10 constructed in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure is shown. Article of footwear 10 includes an upper 100 and a sole structure 200 . Unlike conventional articles of footwear in which the entire sole structure is attached to the lower exterior surface of the upper, the sole structure 200 of the illustrated example includes an internal sole element 202 disposed within the upper 100 and an inner sole element 202 attached to the upper 100 . An outer outer sole element 204, and thus a portion of upper 100, is interposed between inner sole element 202 and outer sole element 204, as discussed in greater detail below.

Footwear 10 may include a front end portion 12 associated with a forwardmost point of footwear 10 and a rear end portion 14 corresponding to a rearmost point of footwear 10 . The longitudinal axis _Af of the footwear 10 extends along the length of the footwear 10 from the front end 12 to the rear end 14 and generally divides the footwear 10 into a lateral side 16 and a medial side 18 , respectively. on opposite sides of the footwear 10 and extending from the front end 12 to the rear end 14 .

The article of footwear 10 may be divided into one or more regions along the longitudinal axis _Af . These areas may include a forefoot area 20, a midfoot area 22, and a heel area 24. The forefoot area 20 may correspond to the toes and the joints connecting the metatarsal bones to the phalanges of the foot. Midfoot region 22 may correspond to the arch region of the foot, and heel region 24 may correspond to the rear region of the foot, including the calcaneus bone. The forefoot region 20 may be subdivided into a toe portion 20 _T corresponding to the phalanges and a ball portion 20 _B associated with the metatarsal bones of the foot.

Upper 100 may be described as including multiple components that cooperate to define interior cavity 102 and ankle opening 104 that receive and secure the foot for support on sole structure 200 . As shown in FIG. 2 , upper 100 includes a base panel 108 defining the bottom of interior cavity 102 , and a perimeter wall 110 extending from base panel 108 and surrounding interior cavity 102 . As discussed in greater detail below, when footwear 10 is assembled, bottom panel 108 will be between inner sole element 202 and outer sole element 204 and follow the contours of inner sole element 202 and outer sole element 204 as shown in FIG. 1 shown.

In some examples, the upper 100 of the present disclosure includes a sock-like structure 106 formed from a single piece of textile, such as a knitted textile, a braided textile, a braided textile, a crocheted textile, or a nonwoven textile. Here, the panel 108 and the peripheral wall 110 are integrally formed into a substantially continuous sock-like structure. In other examples, sheet 108 is a strobel sock or sheet formed separately from perimeter sidewall 110 and attached to perimeter sidewall 110 using a configuration commonly referred to as strobel construction, where The bottom panel 108 and the peripheral sidewalls 110 are sewn together along the perimeter of the bottom panel 108 . Where a Strobel construction is used, the bottom panel 108 and the peripheral sidewalls 110 may be formed from the same or different materials. Additionally or alternatively, one or both of the bottom panel 108 and the peripheral sidewalls 110 may be formed from textiles, as discussed below.

In some examples, bottom panel 108 may include an inner layer and an outer layer that cooperate to define a pocket within bottom panel 108 . Bag 108 is configured to receive inner sole element 202 therein, with an inner layer of bottom panel 108 disposed on a first side of inner sole element 202 facing inner cavity 102 , and an outer layer 108 between inner sole element 202 and exterior. Intersole elements 204 are disposed on opposite sides of inner sole elements 202 .

Continuing with reference to the figures, the bottom panel 108 and/or the peripheral sidewalls 110 may be formed from textiles. Textiles can be formed by manipulating one or more fibers, filaments, or yarns using techniques such as knitting, weaving, braiding, felting, hydroentanglement, and the like. Similarly, when one or more cables are included in the sole structure, the cables may be formed from one or more fibers, filaments or yarns using knitting or braiding techniques. The filaments and/or fibers used to form the yarns or fibers may include polymeric materials such as, for example, thermoplastic materials. Exemplary thermoplastic materials may include, for example, thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoplastic polyamide, thermoplastic polyether, thermoplastic polyester, thermoplastic polyolefin, any combination thereof, and the like. In some cases, the sheet material is porous. In some examples, if the sheet is a textile, the textile may include polyester yarns. Additionally, in other examples, if the sheet is a textile that contains holes or channels between overlapping or entangled filaments, fibers, or yarns, each channel or hole defining the structure of the textile may be in the largest dimension Be at least 0.5mm long, or may be at least 1.0mm long in the largest dimension. In some cases, the panel includes an embroidered textile and has one or more first areas that include embroidery and one or more areas that do not have embroidery or have a lower percentage of embroidered surface area than the one or more first areas. More second areas. Embroidery can provide areas of the piece with reduced stretch or "lock down" features. In some examples, or in some portions of the upper, the panels may stretch in a single direction. In other examples, or in other parts, the sheet may be stretched in multiple directions.

The sock structure 106 of the upper 100 may include a throat opening 112 extending from the ankle opening 104 toward the forefoot region 20 between the lateral side 16 and the medial side 18 of the sock structure 106 . Tongue 114 may be disposed within throat opening 112 to cover interior cavity 102 . A plurality of fasteners 116 may extend between opposing edges of the throat opening 112 to adjust the fit of the interior cavity 102 about the foot and accommodate entry of the foot into and exit of the interior cavity 102 Move out. Fasteners 116 may include laces, straps, ropes, carabiners, or any other suitable type of fastener. Accordingly, the perimeter wall 110 of the sock-like structure 106 may include a plurality of holes 118 disposed along opposite sides of the throat opening 112 through which the fasteners 116 are routed.

In some examples, holes 118 may be formed through the material of sock structure 106 . However, in the example of footwear 10 shown in FIGS. 1-7 , at least a portion of hole 118 is formed at the end of cable 120 integrated within the material of sock structure 106 . Each cable 120 includes at least one end 122 forming a hole 118 . In the illustrated example, each cable 120 includes a pair of ends 122 formed at opposite ends of the cable 120 . As best shown in FIG. 3 and described in greater detail below, cables 120 each extend from first end 122 adjacent throat opening 112 , along perimeter wall 110 to sole structure 200 , along internal sole element 202 and outer sole element 204 , and up along the perimeter wall 110 back to the second end 122 adjacent the throat opening 112 . Cable 120 is formed from a material having a lower modulus of elasticity than the material forming the sock-like structure, whereby cable 120 is configured to act as a tensile member between sole structure 200 and upper 100 .

Referring now to FIG. 2 , sole structure 200 of article of footwear 10 includes an inner sole element 202 and an outer sole element 204 . Generally, the inner sole element 202 and the outer sole element 204 are configured to be disposed on opposite sides of the bottom panel 108 of the sock-like structure 106 such that the bottom panel 108 is interposed or sandwiched between the sole elements 202, 204. In particular, inner sole element 202 is disposed within interior cavity 102 of upper 100 while outer sole element 204 is disposed on the exterior of upper 100 .

As shown in FIG. 2 , inner sole element 202 includes a top surface 206 formed on the top of inner sole element 202 , a lower surface 208 formed on a side of inner sole element 202 opposite top surface 206 , and a lower surface 208 formed on the top surface of inner sole element 202 . 206 and the lower surface 208 extending between the peripheral side surface 210 .

Referring to FIG. 4 , the contour of the top surface 206 of the inner sole element 202 may define the footbed 212 of the article of footwear 10 . Additionally, the top surface 206 and the peripheral side surfaces 210 may cooperate to define a side wall 214 that extends away from the outer periphery of the foot bed 212 to a distal end 216 . The side walls 214 of the illustrated example extend continuously around the footbed 212 . The distal end 216 of the sidewall 214 may include one or more reliefs or notches 218 formed therein to provide a reduced height to the section of the sidewall 214 to increase the flexibility of the sole structure 200 . In the illustrated example, the inner sole element 202 includes notches 218 formed in the toe ball area 20B of the sidewall 214 on the lateral side 16 and the _medial side 18 thereby allowing the forefoot area 20 of the sole structure to be positioned relative to the shoe. The central region 22 is curved. The sidewall 214 also includes a notch 218a formed in the heel region 24 between the lateral side 16 and the medial side 18 to allow the lateral side 16 of the sole structure 200 to be independent of the medial side 18 of the sole structure 200 in the heel region 24 bending.

Referring again to FIG. 2 , outer sole element 204 includes an upper surface 220 formed on the top of outer sole element 204 , a bottom surface 222 formed on a side of outer sole element 204 opposite upper surface 220 , and upper surface 220 and a peripheral side surface 224 extending between the bottom surface 222 and the bottom surface 222 .

Referring to FIG. 5 , bottom surface 222 of outer sole element 204 may form a ground-engaging surface of article of footwear 10 . Thus, although bottom surface 222 is illustrated as being substantially smooth, bottom surface 222 may include a tread profile formed therein. In some examples, an outsole may be attached to bottom surface 222 to form a ground-engaging surface for the article of footwear.

As best shown in FIG. 2 , when the article of footwear 10 is assembled, the inner sole element 202 is inserted into the interior cavity 102 such that the lower surface 208 of the inner sole element 202 faces the inside of the bottom panel 108 of the sock-shaped structure 106 surface. The outer sole element 204 is located on the opposite side of the bottom panel 108 of the sock-like structure 106 from the inner sole element 202 such that the upper surface 220 of the outer sole element 204 also faces the bottom panel 108 . Therefore, the bottom panel 108 of the sock-like structure 106 will be intermediate or sandwiched between the lower surface 208 of the inner sole element 202 and the upper surface 220 of the outer sole element 204. Thus, the lower surface 208 of the inner sole element 202 and the upper surface 220 of the outer sole element 204 may be collectively referred to as the inner surfaces 208 , 220 of the sole structure 200 , while the top surface 206 of the inner sole element 202 and the bottom surface 222 of the outer sole element 204 These may be collectively referred to as the outer surfaces 206, 222 of the sole structure 200.

Continuing with reference to FIG. 2 , inner surfaces 208 , 220 of sole elements 202 , 204 are configured to interface with each other to form a substantially continuous sole structure 200 , wherein the inner surfaces 208 , 220 mate with each other when the article of footwear 10 is assembled. As shown, each of the inner surfaces 208, 220 of the sole elements 202, 204 includes a plurality of surface features 226, 228 configured to correspond to corresponding surface features 226, 226 of the other of the inner surfaces 208, 220. 228 docking or matching. For example, the surface features 226 , 228 may be described as including a plurality of protrusions formed on the inner surface 208 of the inner sole element 202 that are configured to be received in corresponding recesses of the outer sole element 204 . Alternatively, inner sole element 202 may be described as including a plurality of recesses configured to receive corresponding protrusions of outer sole element 204 .

Typically, the configuration of surface features 226, 228 is irregular or non-uniform, whereby the profile and arrangement of surface features 226, 228 vary along the length of sole structure 200. For example, the surface features 226 , 228 may include one or more first surface features 226 , 228 having a first size, a first shape, and/or a first orientation in the first region 20 , 22 , 24 of the sole structure 200 , and one or more second surface features 226, 228 in the second regions 20, 22, 24 of the sole structure 200. Additionally or alternatively, surface features 226, 228 may vary within any of the regions 20, 22, 24, from the lateral side 16 to the medial side 18, or combinations thereof.

Referring now to Figure 6, the surface features 226 of the inner sole element 202 include a first protrusion 230a, a second protrusion 230b, a third plurality 230c, a fourth plurality 230d, and a fifth plurality 230e. Similarly, outer sole element 204 includes corresponding recesses, including a first recess 236a, a second recess 236b, a third plurality 236c, a fourth recess 236d, and a fifth recess 236e, as illustrated in Figure 7 of.

Continuing with reference to FIG. 6 , the first protrusion 230 a of the inner sole element 202 is disposed in the forefoot region 20 adjacent the peripheral side surface 210 on the lateral side 16 . As shown, the first protrusion 230a may be continuously formed and disposed entirely within the peripheral side surface 210 of the inner sole element 202 (ie, not intersecting the peripheral side surface). In the illustrated example, first protrusion 230a is cylindrically shaped and extends to a substantially planar distal end 238a. In other examples, first protrusion 230a may be polygonal or irregularly shaped. The position of the first protrusion 230a of the inner sole element 202 is configured to correspond to the position of the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint on the lateral side of the foot. Therefore, the first protrusion 230a acts as a pad for the MTP joint of the foot during use.

The second protrusion 230b of the inner sole element 202 is provided in the central portion of the heel area 24. As shown, the second protrusion 230b is continuously formed and disposed completely interior of the peripheral side surface 210 of the inner sole element 202 (ie, does not intersect the peripheral side surface). In the illustrated example, second protrusion 230b is cylindrically shaped and extends to a substantially planar distal end 238b. In other examples, the second protrusion 230b may be polygonal or irregularly shaped. The position of the second protrusion 230b of the inner sole element 202 is configured to correspond to the position of the calcaneus bone of the foot. Therefore, when the first protrusion 230a is offset toward the lateral side 16, the second protrusion 230b is substantially centrally disposed between the lateral side 16 and the medial side 18 of the inner sole element 202 such that the central axis A of the second protrusion 230b _230b is aligned with longitudinal axis _Af , as best shown in Figure 6. Therefore, the second protrusion 230b acts as a pad for the heel of the foot.

The plurality of third protrusions 230c include a plurality of arc-shaped first ribs 230c extending around the first protrusions 230a. In the illustrated example, each first rib 230c extends from a first end 240c at the peripheral side surface 210 on the lateral side 16 and extends around the first protrusion 230a to the peripheral side surface 210 on the lateral side 16 the second end 242c. Accordingly, each first rib 230c extends along a substantially arcuate path. In the midfoot region 22, a first end 240c of each first rib 230c is disposed between the first protrusion 230a and the front end 12, and a second end 242c is disposed between the first protrusion 230a and the rear end 14. between.

Continuing to refer to FIG. 6 , the plurality of fourth protrusions 230d include a plurality of elongated second ribs 230d disposed adjacent to the first ribs 230c and extending from the peripheral side surface 210 on the outer side 16 The first end 240d at 240d extends continuously to the second end 242d at the peripheral side surface 210 on the medial side 18. Therefore, unlike the first rib 230c which is arcuate and extends from the lateral side 16 around the first protrusion 230a and back to the lateral side 16, the second rib 230d is substantially elongated and extends from the lateral side 16 to the medial side 18 . As described below, the second rib 230d may extend along an arcuate path that is complementary to the path of the adjacent first and third ribs 230c, 230e.

The plurality of fifth protrusions 230e include a plurality of annular third ribs 230e extending continuously around the second protrusions 230b. Therefore, unlike the first rib 230c and the second rib 230d, the third rib 230d has no end. Instead, each third rib 230e extends along a continuous circular path having a constant radius measured from the center point of the second protrusion 230b. Therefore, the third ribs 230e are concentric with each other and with the second protrusion 230b.

As shown, the second rib 230d is disposed sequentially along the midfoot region 22 between the first rib 230c and the third rib 230d. As discussed above, one or more paths along which second rib 230d extends may be complementary in shape to the paths of adjacent first ribs 230c and/or third ribs 230e. As shown, second rib 230d gradually transitions from a forward-facing concave curvature that is complementary to the arcuate path of first rib 230c to a rearward-facing concave curvature that is complementary to the circular path of third rib 230e.

Each of ribs 230c-230e may be described as ridge-shaped, whereby the width W ₂₃₀ of each rib 230c-230e is from a first valley 237c-237e on a first side of rib 230c-230e to rib 230c- Measured at a second valley 237c-237e on the opposite side of 230e, and tapering to a continuous distal end or peak 238c-238e. The height H ₂₃₀ of each rib 230c - 230e is measured from one of the valleys 237 of the corresponding rib 230c - 230e to the peak 238c - 238e.

As discussed above, the size and spacing of ribs 230c-230e may be variable both between ribs 230c-230e and along individual ones of ribs 230c-230e. For example, the width of the first rib 230c adjacent the first protrusion 230a may be smaller than the width of the first rib 230c spaced apart from the first protrusion 230a. Additionally, one or more of the first rib 230c and/or the second rib 230d may have a greater width at the first end 240c, 240d and/or the second end 242c, 242d than at the intermediate portion. Additionally or alternatively, one or more ribs 230c-230e may have different cross-sectional shapes. For example, ribs 230c-230e may have polygonal cross-sections, arcuate cross-sections, or combinations thereof.

As discussed above, interior sole element 202 may be described as including a plurality of recesses 234c-234e bounded by and disposed between adjacent ones of protrusions 230a-230c. In the illustrated example, recesses 234c-234e include a plurality of channels 234c-234e defined by ribs 230c-230e. In particular, inner sole element 202 includes a first plurality of channels 234c defined by first ribs 230c that extend from a first end 244c at peripheral side surface 210 on lateral side 16 to the outside. Second end 246c at peripheral side surface 210 on side 16 . A plurality of second channels 234c are defined between adjacent ones of the second ribs 230d, and each second channel extends from a first end 244d at the peripheral side surface 210 on the outer side 16 to the second end 246 at the peripheral side surface 210 on the outer side 16 . A plurality of third channels 234c are defined between third ribs 230e, and each third channel 234c extends along a continuous circular path in the heel region.

Referring to FIG. 7 , the inner surface 220 of the outer sole element 204 includes a plurality of surface features 228 that correspond to the surface features 226 of the inner sole element 202 . For example, outer sole element 204 includes a plurality of recesses 236a-236e and protrusions 232c-232e configured to mate with corresponding protrusions 230a-230e and recesses 234c-e of inner sole element 202. Accordingly, the size, shape, and arrangement of surface features 228 of outer sole element 204 will be substantially similar to the size, shape, and arrangement of corresponding surface features 226 , whereby the inner surfaces 208 , 220 of inner sole element 202 and outer sole element 204 Cooperate with each other. In other words, when the article of footwear 10 is assembled, the peaks 238 of the inner sole element 202 are opposite the valleys 237 of the outer sole element 204, and vice versa.

In some examples, the materials forming inner sole element 202 and outer sole element 204 may be anisotropic, whereby the properties of the first portion of sole structure 200 are different from the properties of the second portion of sole structure 200 . In the illustrated example, the material forming the first protrusion 230a may be softer than the material forming the second protrusion 230b.

As best shown in FIG. 3 , when the article of footwear 10 is assembled, the inner sole element 202 is inserted into the interior cavity 102 of the upper 100 and the bottom panel 108 of the sock-like structure 106 follows the inner sole element 202 The shape of surface features 226. Therefore, the contours of the protrusions 230a-230e and recesses 234c-234e will be imparted to the bottom sheet 108. In some examples, the bottom sheet 108 may be pre-profiled with surface features 226 , 228 .

As shown, the cable 120 is routed through the sole structure 200 along the valleys 237 of the channels 234c, 234d of the inner sole element 202. Specifically, each cable 102 extends along the perimeter wall 110 of the sock structure 106 from a first end 122 adjacent the throat opening 112 to a first end 244c, 234d of one of the channels 234c, 234d. 244d, extending through one of the channels 234c, 234d to the second end 246c, 246d and up along the perimeter wall 110 back to the second end 122 adjacent the throat opening 112. In the illustrated example, the first pair of cables 122 are routed through the first channel 234c such that the first and second ends 122 and 122 of each cable 120 are along the lateral side 16 of the upper 100 Routed and disposed adjacent the lateral side 16 of the throat opening 120 . The second pair of cables 122 are routed through the second channel 234d whereby the first end 122 of each cable 120 is routed to the lateral side 16 of the throat opening and the second end of each cable 120 122 is routed to the medial side 18 of the throat opening 112 . Thus, the cable end 122 forms a greater number of holes 118 on the lateral side 16 of the footwear 10 than the medial side 18 . More specifically, apertures 118 in forefoot region 20 on lateral side 16 are formed by cable ends 122 whereby cables 120 routed along lateral side 16 of upper 100 are securely connected to upper 100 and sole structure 200 provides increased responsiveness. Cable 120 may be sewn or knitted or otherwise attached or integrated into perimeter wall 110 of upper 100 .

After the cables 120 are routed through the channels 234c, 234d of the inner sole element 202, the outer sole element 204 can be joined to the inner sole element 202 such that the bottom panel 108 and the cables 120 will be interposed between the sole elements 202, 204. between mating surface features 226, 228. Here, outer sole element 204 may be joined to inner sole element 202 through bottom panel 108 using one or more bonding methods, such as adhesive bonding or fusion.

Referring to Figures 8-13, an article of footwear 10a constructed in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure is shown. In view of the fact that the structure and function of the components associated with the article of footwear 10 are substantially similar with respect to the article of footwear 10a, the same reference numerals are used below and in the drawings to identify the same components, while using the same reference numerals including letter extensions. Reference numbers identify parts that have been modified.

Article of footwear 10a includes an upper 100 and a sole structure 200a. Referring to Figure 9, sole structure 200a of article of footwear 10a includes an inner sole element 202a and an outer sole element 204a. Generally, inner sole element 202a and outer sole element 204a are configured to be disposed on opposite sides of bottom panel 108 of sock-like structure 106 such that bottom panel 108 is interposed or sandwiched between sole elements 202a, 204a.

As shown in Figure 9, inner sole element 202a includes a top surface 206 formed on the top of inner sole element 202a, a lower surface 208a formed on an opposite side of inner sole element 202a from top surface 206, and a top surface 208a formed on the top surface of inner sole element 202a. 206 and a peripheral side surface 210 extending between lower surface 208a. The outer sole element 204a includes an upper surface 220a formed on the top of the outer sole element 204a, a bottom surface 222 formed on a side of the outer sole element 204a opposite the upper surface 220a, and between the upper surface 220a and the bottom surface 222. The peripheral side surface 224 extends between.

As best shown in Figure 9, when the article of footwear 10a is assembled, the inner sole element 202a is inserted into the interior cavity 102 such that the lower surface 208a of the inner sole element 202a faces the bottom panel 108 of the sock structure 106. The inner surface. The outer sole element 204a is located on the opposite side of the bottom panel 108 of the sock-like structure 106 from the inner sole element 202a such that the upper surface 220a of the outer sole element 204a also faces the bottom panel 108. Thus, the bottom panel 108 of the sock-like structure 106 will be intermediate or sandwiched between the lower surface 208a of the inner sole element 202a and the upper surface 220a of the outer sole element 204a. The lower surface 208a of the inner sole element 202a and the upper surface 220a of the outer sole element 204a may be collectively referred to as the inner surfaces 208a, 220a of the sole structure 200a, while the top surface 206 of the inner sole element 202a and the bottom surface 222 of the outer sole element 204a may be collectively referred to as are the outer surfaces 206, 222 of the sole structure 200a.

Continuing with reference to Figure 9, inner surfaces 208a, 220a of sole elements 202a, 204a are configured to interface with each other to form a substantially continuous sole structure 200a, wherein the inner surfaces 208a, 220a mate with each other when the article of footwear 10a is assembled. As shown, each of the inner surfaces 208a, 220a of the sole elements 202a, 204a includes a plurality of surface features 226, 228 configured to correspond to the corresponding surface features 226 of the other of the inner surfaces 208a, 220a. ,228 docking or cooperation. For example, the surface features 226, 228 may be described as including a plurality of protrusions formed on the inner surface 208a of the inner sole element 202a that are configured to be received in corresponding recesses of the outer sole element 204a. Alternatively, inner sole element 202a may be described as including a plurality of recesses configured to receive corresponding protrusions of outer sole element 204a.

Typically, the configuration of surface features 226, 228 is irregular or non-uniform, whereby the profile and arrangement of surface features 226, 228 vary along the length of sole structure 200a. For example, the surface features 226, 228 may include one or more first surface features 226, 228 having a first size, a first shape, and/or a first orientation in the first region 20, 22, 24 of the sole structure 200a. , and one or more second surface features 226, 228 in the second regions 20, 22, 24 of the sole structure 200a. Additionally or alternatively, surface features 226, 228 may vary within any of the regions 20, 22, 24, from the lateral side 16 to the medial side 18, or combinations thereof.

Referring now to Figures 9 and 12, surface features 226 of inner sole element 202a include a first protrusion 230f, a second plurality of protrusions 230g, and a third plurality of protrusions 230h. Similarly, outer sole element 204a includes corresponding recesses including a first recess 236f, a second plurality of recesses 236g, and a third plurality of recesses 236h, as illustrated in Figures 9 and 13.

Continuing with reference to FIG. 12 , the first protrusion 230f of the inner sole element 202a is disposed in the forefoot region 20 adjacent the peripheral side surface 210 on the medial side 18 . As shown, the first protrusion 230f may be formed continuously. In the illustrated example, first protrusion 23Of has a frustoconical shape that intersects peripheral sidewall 210 on medial side 18 and extends to a substantially planar distal end 238f. In other examples, first protrusion 230f may be polygonal or irregularly shaped. The position of the first protrusion 23Of of the inner sole element 202a is configured to correspond to the position of the first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint on the medial side 18 of the foot. Therefore, the first protrusion 23Of acts as a pad for the first MTP joint of the foot.

The plurality of second protrusions 230g include a plurality of arc-shaped first ribs 230g extending around the first protrusions 230f. In the illustrated example, each first rib 230g extends from a first end 240g at the peripheral side surface 210 on the medial side surface 18 and about the first protrusion 230f to the peripheral side surface 210 on the medial side surface 18 The second end is 242g. Accordingly, each first rib 230g extends along a substantially arcuate path concentric with the central axis A _230f of the first protrusion 230f. In the mid-shoe region 22, a first end 240g of each first rib 230g is disposed between the first protrusion 230f and the front end 12, and a second end 242g is disposed between the first protrusion 230f and the rear end 14. between.

Continuing to refer to Figure 12, the plurality of third protrusions 230h include a plurality of elongated second ribs 230h. These elongated second ribs 230h are disposed adjacent to the first ribs 230g, and each second rib 230h is formed from The first end 240h at the peripheral side surface 210 extends continuously to the second end 242h at the peripheral side surface 210 on the medial side 18 . Therefore, unlike the first rib 230g which extends from the medial side 18 to the medial side 18, the second rib 232d is generally elongated and extends from the lateral side 16 to the medial side 18. However, although the second ribs 230h are generally elongated, each second rib 230h may extend along an arcuate path from the lateral side 16 to the medial side 18 . The arcuate path along which the second rib 230h extends may be concentric with the central axis A _230f of the first protrusion 230f and/or the first rib 230g.

Each of the ribs 230g, 230h may be described as ridged, whereby the width W 230 of each rib 230g, _230h is from a first valley 237 on a first side of the rib 230g, 230h to the rib 230g, 230h A second valley 237 is measured on the opposite side and tapers to a continuous distal end or peak 238 .

As discussed above, the size and spacing of ribs 230g, 230h may be variable both between ribs 230g, 230h and along individual ones of ribs 230g, 230h. As shown, the ribs 230g, 230h are arranged sequentially from the first protrusion 23Of to the rear end 14 and gradually increase in size in the radial direction away from the first protrusion 23Of. For example, the height H ₂₃₀ and/or the width W 230 of the first rib 230 g adjacent the first protrusion 230 _f may be less than the height H ₂₃₀ and/or width W 230 of the first rib 230 g further away from the first protrusion ₂₃₀ f. Likewise, one or more of the first rib 230g and/or the second rib 230h may have a greater height or width at the first end 240g, 240h than at the second end 242g, 242h . Additionally or alternatively, one or more ribs 230g, 230h may have different cross-sectional shapes. For example, ribs 230g, 230h may have polygonal cross-sections, arcuate cross-sections, or combinations thereof.

As discussed above, inner sole element 202a may be described as including a plurality of recesses 234g, 234h bounded by and disposed between adjacent ones of protrusions 230f-230h. In the illustrated example, recesses 234g, 234h include a plurality of channels 234g, 234h defined by adjacent ones of ribs 230g, 230h. In particular, inner sole element 202a includes a plurality of first channels 234g defined by adjacent ones of first ribs 230g. The first channel 234g extends from a first end 244g on the medial side 18 at the peripheral side surface 210 to a second end 246g on the medial side 18 at the peripheral side surface 210 . A plurality of second channels 234h are defined by adjacent ones of the second ribs 230h, and each second channel extends from a first end 244h at the peripheral side surface 210 on the outer side 16 to the inner side 18 and the second end 246h at the peripheral side surface 210.

Referring to Figure 13, the inner surface 220a of the outer sole element 204a includes a plurality of surface features 228 that correspond to the surface features 226 of the inner sole element 202a. For example, outer sole element 204a includes a plurality of recesses 236f-236h and protrusions 232g, 232h configured to mate with corresponding protrusions 230f-230h and recesses 234g, 234h of inner sole element 202a. Accordingly, the size, shape, and arrangement of surface features 228 of outer sole element 204a will be substantially similar to the size, shape, and arrangement of corresponding surface features 226 of inner sole element 202a, whereby the inner sole element 202a and outer sole element 204a The inner surfaces 208a, 220a cooperate with each other. In other words, when the article of footwear 10a is assembled, the peak 238 of the inner sole element 202a is opposite the valley 237 of the outer sole element 204a, and vice versa.

In some examples, the material forming inner sole element 202a and outer sole element 204a may be anisotropic, whereby the properties of a first portion of sole structure 200a are different than the properties of a second portion of sole structure 200a. For example, the inner sole element 202a and/or the outer sole element 204a may have a first stiffness in a first region 20, 22, 24 of the sole structure 200a and a second hardness in a second region 20, 22, 24 of the sole structure 200a. Two hardness.

As best shown in Figure 8, when the article of footwear 10a is assembled, the inner sole element 202a is inserted into the interior cavity 102 of the upper 100 and the bottom panel 108 of the sock-like structure 106 follows the inner sole element 202a. The shape of surface features 226. Therefore, the contours of the protrusions 230f-230h and recesses 234g, 234h will be imparted to the bottom sheet 108. The outer sole element 204a is then attached to the opposite side of the bottom panel 108 on the exterior of the upper 100 such that the bottom panel 108 will be between the mating surface features 226, 228 of the sole elements 202a, 204a. Here, outer sole element 204a may be joined to inner sole element 202a through bottom panel 108 using one or more bonding methods, such as adhesive bonding or fusion.

Although not shown in the illustrated example, the article of footwear 10a may include one or more cables 120 extending from the first end 122 adjacent the throat opening 112 through the inner sole. One or more of the channels 234g, 230h of element 202a and returns to the second end 122 adjacent the throat opening 112.

Referring to Figures 14-19, an article of footwear 10b constructed in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure is shown. In view of the fact that the structure and function of the components associated with the article of footwear 10 are substantially similar with respect to the article of footwear 10b, the same reference numerals are used below and in the drawings to identify the same components, while using the same reference numerals including letter extensions. Reference numbers identify parts that have been modified.

Article of footwear 10b includes an upper 100 and a sole structure 200b. Sole structure 200b of article of footwear 10b includes inner sole element 202b and outer sole element 204b. Generally, inner sole element 202b and outer sole element 204b are configured to be disposed on opposite sides of bottom panel 108 of sock-like structure 106 such that bottom panel 108 is interposed or sandwiched between sole elements 202b, 204b.

As shown in Figure 14, inner sole element 202b includes a top surface 206 formed on the top of inner sole element 202b, a lower surface 208b formed on a side of inner sole element 202b opposite top surface 206, and a top surface 208b formed on the top surface of inner sole element 202b. 206 and a peripheral side surface 210 extending between lower surface 208b. The outer sole element 204b includes an upper surface 220b formed on the top of the outer sole element 204b, a bottom surface 222 formed on a side of the outer sole element 204b opposite the upper surface 220b, and between the upper surface 220b and the bottom surface 222. The peripheral side surface 224 extends between.

As best shown in Figure 14, when the article of footwear 10b is assembled, the inner sole element 202b is inserted into the inner cavity 102 such that the lower surface 208b of the inner sole element 202b faces the inside of the bottom panel 108 of the sock-like structure 106 surface. The outer sole element 204b is located on the opposite side of the bottom panel 108 of the sock-like structure 106 from the inner sole element 202b such that the upper surface 220b of the outer sole element 204b faces the outer surface of the bottom panel 108. Thus, the bottom panel 108 of the sock-like structure 106 will be intermediate or sandwiched between the lower surface 208b of the inner sole element 202b and the upper surface 220b of the outer sole element 204b. The lower surface 208b of the inner sole element 202b and the upper surface 220b of the outer sole element 204b may be collectively referred to as the inner surfaces 208b, 220b of the sole structure 200b, while the top surface 206 of the inner sole element 202b and the bottom surface 222 of the outer sole element 204b may be collectively referred to as are the outer surfaces 206, 222 of the sole structure 200b.

Continuing with reference to Figure 14, inner surfaces 208b, 220b of sole elements 202b, 204b are configured to interface with each other to form a substantially continuous sole structure 200b, wherein the inner surfaces 208b, 220b mate with each other when the article of footwear 10b is assembled. As shown, each of the inner surfaces 208b, 220b of the sole elements 202b, 204b includes a plurality of surface features 226, 228 configured to correspond to the corresponding surface features 226 of the other of the inner surfaces 208b, 220b. ,228 docking or cooperation. For example, the surface features 226, 228 may be described as including a plurality of protrusions formed on the inner surface 208b of the inner sole element 202b that are configured to be received in corresponding recesses of the outer sole element 204b. Alternatively, inner sole element 202b may be described as including a plurality of recesses configured to receive corresponding protrusions of outer sole element 204b.

Typically, the configuration of surface features 226, 228 is irregular or non-uniform, whereby the profile and arrangement of surface features 226, 228 vary along sole structure 200b. For example, the surface features 226, 228 may include one or more first surface features 226, 228 having a first size, a first shape, and/or a first orientation in the first region 20, 22, 24 of the sole structure 200b. , and one or more second surface features 226, 228 in the second regions 20, 22, 24 of the sole structure 200b. Additionally or alternatively, surface features 226, 228 may vary within any of the regions 20, 22, 24, from the lateral side 16 to the medial side 18, or combinations thereof.

Referring now to FIG. 15 , surface features 226 of inner sole element 202b include a plurality of first protrusions 230i in heel region 24 and a plurality of second protrusions 230j serially disposed between heel region 24 and fore end 12 . Similarly, outer sole element 204b includes corresponding recesses including a first plurality of recesses 236i and a second plurality of recesses 236j, as illustrated in Figure 15.

Referring to FIGS. 15 and 18 , the first protrusion 230i of the inner sole element 202b is disposed in the heel region 24 adjacent the peripheral side surface 210 on the medial side 18 . The plurality of first protrusions 230i include a plurality of annular first ribs 230i disposed in the heel area 24. As shown, first rib 230i is concentrically disposed about axis A _230i in the central portion of heel area 24.

The plurality of second protrusions 230j include a plurality of arc-shaped elongated second ribs 230j. The second ribs 230j are adjacent to and concentrically arranged with the first ribs 230i. Each second rib 230j extends continuously from a first end 240j at the peripheral side surface 210 on the outer side 16 to a second end 242j at the peripheral side surface 210 on the inner side 18 . Therefore, unlike the first rib 230i which is annular and continuous, the second rib 232d is substantially elongated and extends from the lateral side 16 to the medial side 18. Although the second ribs 230j are generally elongated, each second rib 230j may extend along an arcuate path from the lateral side 16 to the medial side 18 . In the illustrated example, the second ribs 230j are concentric with each other and the first ribs 230i surround axis A _230i .

Each of the ribs 230i, 230j may be described as ridged, whereby the width W 230 of each rib 230i, _230j is from the first valley 237 on the first side of the rib 230g, 230h to the rib 230i, 230j A second valley 237 is measured on the opposite side and tapers to a continuous distal end or peak 238 . Additionally or alternatively, one or more ribs 230i, 230j may have different cross-sectional shapes. For example, ribs 230i, 230j may have polygonal cross-sections, arcuate cross-sections, or combinations thereof.

As discussed above, the size, shape, and/or orientation of ribs 230i, 230j may vary between ribs 230i, 230j. As shown, the second ribs 230j are arranged serially from the first rib 230i to the front end 12 and gradually change in size along the radial direction from the first rib 230i to the front end. For example, the width W ₂₃₀ of the second rib 230j adjacent the first rib 230i may be less than the width W ₂₃₀ of the second rib 230j further away from the first rib 230i, while the height H ₂₃₀ of the second rib 230j adjacent the first rib 230i may be is greater than the height H ₂₃₀ of the second rib 230j further away from the first rib 230i. In this example, the height H ₂₃₀ and width W ₂₃₀ of each of ribs 230i, 230j are substantially constant along the entire length of each rib 230i, 230j.

As previously discussed, inner sole element 202b may be described as including a plurality of recesses 234i, 234j defined by and disposed between adjacent ones of protrusions 230i, 230j. In the illustrated example, recesses 234i, 234j include a plurality of channels 234i, 234j defined by adjacent ones of protrusions 230i, 230j. In particular, inner sole element 202b includes a plurality of annular first channels 234i defined by first ribs 230i. A plurality of second channels 234j are defined by second ribs 230j and each second channel extends from a first end 244j at the peripheral side surface 210 on the lateral side 16 to the peripheral side surface 210 on the medial side 18 the second end 246j.

Referring to Figure 19, the inner surface 220b of the outer sole element 204b includes a plurality of surface features 228 that correspond to the surface features 226 of the inner sole element 202b. For example, outer sole element 204b includes a plurality of recesses 236i, 236j and protrusions 232i, 232j configured to mate with corresponding protrusions 230i, 230j and recesses 234i, 234j of inner sole element 202b. Accordingly, the size, shape, and arrangement of surface features 228 of outer sole element 204b will be substantially similar to the size, shape, and arrangement of cooperating surface features 226 of inner sole element 202b, whereby the inner sole element 202b and outer sole element 204b The inner surfaces 208b, 220b are configured to mate with each other. In other words, when the article of footwear 10b is assembled, the peak 238 of the inner sole element 202b is opposite the valley 237 of the outer sole element 204b, and vice versa.

In some examples, the material forming inner sole element 202b and outer sole element 204b may be anisotropic, whereby the properties of a first portion of sole structure 200b are different from the properties of a second portion of sole structure 200b. For example, the inner sole element 202b and/or the outer sole element 204b may have a first stiffness in a first region 20, 22, 24 of the sole structure 200b and a second hardness in a second region 20, 22, 24 of the sole structure 200b. Two hardness.

As best shown in Figure 14, when the article of footwear 10b is assembled, the inner sole element 202b is inserted into the interior cavity 102 of the upper 100 and the bottom panel 108 of the sock-like structure 106 follows the inner sole element 202b. The shape of surface features 226. Therefore, the contours of the protrusions 230i, 230j and recesses 234i, 234j will be imparted to the bottom sheet 108. The outer sole element 204b is then attached to the opposite side of the bottom panel 108 on the exterior of the upper 100 such that the bottom panel 108 will be between the mating surface features 226, 228 of the sole elements 202b, 204b. Here, outer sole element 204 may be joined to inner sole element 202 through bottom panel 108 using one or more bonding methods, such as adhesive bonding or fusion. Although not shown in the illustrated example, the article of footwear 10b may include one or more cables 120 extending from the first end 122 adjacent the throat opening 112 through the interior sole. One or more of the channels 234i, 230j of element 202b and returns to the second end 122 adjacent the throat opening 112.

Referring to Figures 20-25, an article of footwear 10c constructed in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure is shown. In view of the fact that the structure and function of the components associated with the article of footwear 10 are substantially similar with respect to the article of footwear 10c, the same reference numerals are used below and in the drawings to identify the same components, while using the same reference numerals including letter extensions. Reference numbers identify parts that have been modified.

Article of footwear 10c includes an upper 100 and a sole structure 200c. Referring to Figure 20, sole structure 200c of article of footwear 10c includes an inner sole element 202c and an outer sole element 204c. Generally, inner sole element 202c and outer sole element 204c are configured to be disposed on opposite sides of bottom panel 108 of sock-like structure 106 such that bottom panel 108 is interposed or sandwiched between sole elements 202c, 204c.

As shown in Figure 22, inner sole element 202c includes a top surface 206 formed on the top of inner sole element 202c, a lower surface 208c formed on an opposite side of inner sole element 202c from top surface 206, and a top surface 208c formed on the top surface of inner sole element 202c. 206 and a peripheral side surface 210 extending between lower surface 208c. Referring to Figure 23, outer sole element 204c includes an upper surface 220c formed on the top of outer sole element 204c, a bottom surface 222 formed on an opposite side of outer sole element 204c from upper surface 220c, and between upper surface 220c and The peripheral side surfaces 224 extend between the bottom surface 222 .

Referring to Figures 20 and 21, when the article of footwear 10c is assembled, the inner sole element 202c is inserted into the interior cavity 102 such that the lower surface 208c of the inner sole element 202c faces the inner surface of the bottom panel 108 of the sock structure 106. The outer sole element 204c is located on the side of the bottom panel 108 of the sock-like structure 106 opposite the inner sole element 202c such that the upper surface 220c of the outer sole element 204c faces the outer surface of the bottom panel 108. Therefore, the bottom panel 108 of the sock-like structure 106 will be intermediate or sandwiched between the lower surface 208c of the inner sole element 202c and the upper surface 220c of the outer sole element 204c. The lower surface 208c of the inner sole element 202c and the upper surface 220c of the outer sole element 204c may be collectively referred to as the inner surfaces 208c, 220c of the sole structure 200c, while the top surface 206 of the inner sole element 202c and the bottom surface 222 of the outer sole element 204c may be collectively referred to as are the outer surfaces 206, 222 of the sole structure 200c.

Continuing with reference to Figure 20, inner surfaces 208c, 220c of sole elements 202c, 204c are configured to abut one another to form a substantially continuous sole structure 200c, wherein the inner surfaces 208c, 220c mate with one another when the article of footwear 10c is assembled. The lower interior surface 208c of the interior sole element 202c includes a plurality of surface features 226 configured to interface or mate with corresponding surface features 228 of the upper interior surface 220c of the exterior sole element 204c. For example, surface features 226 of inner sole element 202c may be described as including a plurality of protrusions formed on the inner surface 208c of inner sole element 202c, while surface features 228 of outer sole element 204c include protrusions corresponding to the protrusions of inner sole element 202c. Multiple recesses. Additionally or alternatively, inner sole element 202c may be described as including a plurality of recesses configured to receive corresponding protrusions of outer sole element 204c.

Typically, the configuration of surface features 226, 228 is irregular or non-uniform, whereby the profile and arrangement of surface features 226, 228 vary along sole structure 200c. For example, the surface features 226, 228 may include one or more first surface features 226, 228 having a first size, a first shape, and/or a first orientation in the first region 20, 22, 24 of the sole structure 200c. , and one or more second surface features 226, 228 in the second regions 20, 22, 24 of the sole structure 200c. Additionally or alternatively, surface features 226, 228 may vary within any of the regions 20, 22, 24, from the lateral side 16 to the medial side 18, or combinations thereof.

Referring now to FIG. 21 , surface features 226 of inner sole element 202c include a first plurality of protrusions 230k in the heel region 24 and a plurality of second protrusions 230m sequentially disposed between the first protrusions 230k and the fore end 12 . Generally, the first protrusion 230k and the second protrusion 230m may be described as being arranged in a nautilus pattern, whereby the first protrusion 230k is disposed radially about axis A _230K in the heel area 24 and the second protrusion 230m is arranged along the midfoot Region 22 and forefoot region 20 are continuously spaced apart. The outer sole element 204c includes respective recesses, including a first plurality of recesses 236k and a second plurality of recesses 236m, respectively configured to receive respective protrusions 230k, 230m.

Continuing to refer to FIG. 21 , the plurality of first protrusions 230k include a plurality of tapered elongated first ribs 230k disposed in the heel region 24 , while the plurality of second protrusions 230m include disposed in the mid-shoe region 22 and the front of the shoe. A plurality of tapered elongated second ribs 230m in area 20. Each rib 230k, 230m may be described as ridge-shaped whereby the width W 230 of each rib 230k, _230m is from a first valley 237 on a first side of the rib 230k, 230m to an opposite side of the rib 230k, 230m is measured at a second valley 237 and tapers to a continuous distal end or peak 238 .

As shown, the first rib 230k is disposed radially about the axis A _230k of the central portion 229 of the heel region 24 . The area of inner surface 208c formed by central portion 229 is substantially planar and free of surface features 226. In some examples, the peak 238 of the first rib 230k is substantially coplanar with the central portion 229 while the depth D ₂₃₄ of the first recess 234k defined by the first rib 230k increases in a radial direction away from the central portion 229 . Therefore, the effective height H ₂₃₀ of the first rib 230 also increases gradually or continuously in the radial direction away from the central portion 229 .

In the illustrated example, the perimeter of the central portion 229 is teardrop-shaped - tapering in the direction from the rear end 14 to the front end 12 - and the first protrusion 230k projects radially outward therefrom. In particular, a first of the first ribs 230k extends from a first end 240k on the medial side 18 of the central portion 229 to a second end 242k on the medial side 18 of the inner sole element 202c at the peripheral sidewall 210 , while the last of the first ribs 230k extends from a first end 240k on the lateral side 16 of the central portion 229 to a second end 242k on the lateral side 16 of the inner sole element 202c at the peripheral sidewall 210. A series of intermediate ribs of first rib 230k are spaced between the first rib and the last rib of first rib 230k, whereby central portion 229 is completely surrounded by first rib 230k. As described above, the height H ₂₃₀ of each first rib 230k (ie, the depth D ₂₃₄ of the channel 234k) continuously increases in the direction from the first end 240k to the second end 242k.

Continuing with reference to FIG. 21 , the second ribs 230 m are continuously spaced along the midfoot region 22 and the forefoot region 20 . Each second rib 230m extends continuously from a distal first end 240m on the medial side 18 of the inner sole element 202c to a second end 242m on the peripheral side surface 210 of the lateral side 16. As shown, the first end 240m is spaced inwardly from the peripheral side surface 210 on the medial side 18 . Like the first rib 230k, the height H ₂₃₀ of each second rib 230m (ie, the depth D ₂₃₄ of the channel 234m) increases from the first end 240m to the second end 242m.

As shown in Figure 24, the first of the second ribs 230m is disposed adjacent the last of the first ribs 230k on the lateral side 16 in the heel area 24, and the last of the second ribs 230m is disposed on the lateral side 16 of the heel area 24. In the toe portion _20T of the front region 20. A series of intermediate ribs in the second rib 230m are spaced between the first rib and the last rib in the second rib 230m. In the example shown, the second ribs 230m each extend in a transverse direction of the article of footwear (ie, from the lateral side to the medial side, transversely to the longitudinal axis _Af ). Two or more second ribs 230m may be parallel to each other.

As noted above, interior sole element 202c may be described as including a plurality of recesses 234k, 234m bounded by and disposed between adjacent ones of ribs 230k, 230m. In the illustrated example, recesses 234k, 234m include a plurality of channels 234k, 234m defined by adjacent ones of ribs 230k, 230m. In particular, inner sole element 202c includes a plurality of elongated first channels 234k defined by first ribs 230k that extend radially outward from a first end 244k at central portion 229 to the peripheral sidewalls Second end at 210 246k. A plurality of second channels 234m are defined by second ribs 230m and each second channel 234m extends from a first end 244m of the medial side 18 adjacent the inner surface 208m to a peripheral side surface 210 on the lateral side 16 Second end 246m.

Referring to Figure 25, the inner surface 220c of the outer sole element 204c includes a plurality of surface features 228 that correspond to the surface features 226 of the inner sole element 202c. For example, outer sole element 204c includes a plurality of recesses 236k, 236m and protrusions 232k, 232m configured to mate with corresponding protrusions 230k, 230m and recesses 234k, 234m of inner sole element 202c . Accordingly, the size, shape, and arrangement of the surface features 228 of the outer sole element 204c will be substantially similar to the size, shape, and arrangement of the mating surface features 226 of the inner sole element 202c, whereby the inner sole element 202c and outer sole element 204c will have a similar size, shape, and arrangement. Surfaces 208c, 220c are configured to mate with each other. In other words, when the article of footwear 10c is assembled, the peak 238 of the inner sole element 202c is opposite the valley 237 of the outer sole element 204c, and vice versa.

In some examples, the material forming inner sole element 202c and outer sole element 204c may be anisotropic, whereby the properties of the first portion of sole structure 200c are different than the properties of the second portion of sole structure 200c. For example, inner sole element 202c and/or outer sole element 204c may have a first stiffness in first regions 20, 22, 24 of sole structure 200c and a second hardness in second regions 20, 22, 24 of sole structure 200c. Two hardness.

As shown in Figure 20, when the article of footwear 10c is assembled, the inner sole element 202c is inserted into the interior cavity 102 of the upper 100 and the bottom panel 108 of the sock-like structure 106 follows the surface features 226 of the inner sole element 202c. shape. Therefore, the contours of the protrusions 230k, 230m and recesses 234k, 234m will be imparted to the bottom sheet 108. The outer sole element 204c is then attached to the opposite side of the bottom panel 108 on the exterior of the upper 100, whereby the bottom panel 108 will be inserted between the mating surface features 226, 228 of the sole elements 202c, 204c. Here, outer sole element 204c may be joined to inner sole element 202c via bottom panel 108 using one or more bonding methods, such as adhesive bonding or fusion. Although not shown in the illustrated example, the article of footwear 10c may include one or more cables 120 extending from the first end 122 adjacent the throat opening 112 through the inner sole. One or more channels 234k, 230m of element 202a and back to the second end 122 adjacent the throat opening 112.

Referring to Figures 26-31, an article of footwear 10d constructed in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure is shown. In view of the fact that the structure and function of the components associated with the article of footwear 10 are substantially similar with respect to the article of footwear 10d, the same reference numerals are used below and in the drawings to identify the same components, while using the same reference numerals including letter extensions. Reference numbers identify parts that have been modified.

The article of footwear 10d includes an upper 100 and a sole structure 200d. Referring to Figure 27, sole structure 200d of article of footwear 10d includes an inner sole element 202d and an outer sole element 204d. Generally, inner sole element 202d and outer sole element 204d are configured to be disposed on opposite sides of bottom panel 108 of sock-like structure 106 such that bottom panel 108 is interposed or sandwiched between sole elements 202d, 204d.

As shown in Figure 28, inner sole element 202d includes a top surface 206 formed on the top of inner sole element 202d, a lower surface 208d formed on a side of inner sole element 202d opposite top surface 206, and a top surface 208d formed on the top surface of inner sole element 202d. 206 and a peripheral side surface 210 extending between lower surface 208d. Referring to Figure 29, outer sole element 204d includes an upper surface 220d formed on top of outer sole element 204d, a bottom surface 222 formed on a side of outer sole element 204d opposite upper surface 220d, and inner and outer surfaces 220d and 220d. 222 extending between the peripheral side surfaces 224 .

26 and 27, when the article of footwear 10d is assembled, the inner sole element 202d is inserted into the interior cavity 102 such that the lower surface 208d of the inner sole element 202d faces the inner surface of the bottom panel 108 of the sock structure 106. The outer sole element 204d is located on the opposite side of the bottom panel 108 of the sock-like structure 106 from the inner sole element 202d such that the upper surface 220d of the outer sole element 204d faces the outer surface of the bottom panel 108. Therefore, the bottom panel 108 of the sock-like structure 106 will be between or sandwiched between the lower surface 208d of the inner sole element 202d and the upper surface 220d of the outer sole element 204d. The lower surface 208d of the inner sole element 202d and the upper surface 220d of the outer sole element 204d may be collectively referred to as the inner surfaces 208d, 220d of the sole structure 200d, while the top surface 206 of the inner sole element 202d and the bottom surface 222 of the outer sole element 204d may be collectively referred to as are the outer surfaces 206, 222 of the sole structure 200d.

Continuing with reference to Figure 26, inner surfaces 208d, 220d of sole elements 202d, 204d are configured to abut one another to form a substantially continuous sole structure 200d, wherein the inner surfaces 208d, 220d mate with one another when the article of footwear 10d is assembled. The lower interior surface 208d of the interior sole element 202d includes a plurality of surface features 226 configured to interface or mate with corresponding surface features 228 of the upper interior surface 220d of the exterior sole element 204d. For example, the surface features 226 of the inner sole element 202d may be described as including a plurality of protrusions 230n, 230p and recesses 234p, 234n formed on the inner surface 208d of the inner sole element 202d, while the surface features 228 of the outer sole element 204d include respectively A plurality of recesses 236p, 236n and protrusions 232p, 232n are configured to interface with the protrusions 230n, 230p and recesses 234p, 234n of the inner sole element 202d.

Generally, the configuration of surface features 226, 228 is irregular or non-uniform, whereby the profile and arrangement of surface features 226, 228 vary along sole structure 200d. For example, the surface features 226, 228 may include one or more first surface features 226, 228 having a first size, a first shape, and/or a first orientation in the first region 20, 22, 24 of the sole structure 200d. , and one or more second surface features 226, 228 in the second regions 20, 22, 24 of the sole structure 200d. Additionally or alternatively, surface features 226, 228 may vary within any of the regions 20, 22, 24, from the lateral side 16 to the medial side 18, or combinations thereof.

Referring now to Figure 27, surface features 226 of inner sole element 202d include a first plurality of protrusions 230n and a second plurality of protrusions 230p. The outer sole element 204d includes corresponding recesses 236n, 236p including a first plurality of recesses 236n and a second plurality of recesses 236p configured to receive the protrusions 230n, 230n, 230n, 236p when the inner sole element 202c and the outer sole element 204c are assembled. 230p.

Typically, the first protrusion 230n includes a plurality of first tapered ribs 230n, and the second protrusion 230p includes a plurality of second tapered ribs 230p. Each of the ribs 230n, 230p may be described as ridged, whereby the width W 230 of each rib 230n, _230p is from a first valley 237 on a first side of the rib 230n, 230p to the rib 230n, 230p A second valley 237 is measured on the opposite side and tapers to a continuous distal end or peak 238 . The ribs 230n, 230p may be described as being arranged in a composite starburst pattern whereby the first ribs 230n are arranged in a first radial array in the forefoot region 20 and are oriented toward each other in a direction from the lateral side 16 to the medial side 18 Converging, and the second ribs 230p are arranged in a second radial array in the heel area 24 and converging with each other in a direction from the medial side 18 to the lateral side 16, as best shown in FIG. 30 .

As shown, the first ribs 230n are arranged in a first starburst pattern in the forefoot region 20 . Each first rib 230n extends continuously across the inner surface 208c from a first end 240n at the peripheral sidewall 210 on the outer side 16 to a second end 242n at the peripheral sidewall 210 on the inner side 18. As discussed above, the first ribs 230n converge with each other in a direction from the lateral side 16 to the medial side 18 . As shown in Figure 30, the first of the first ribs 230n is disposed at the front end 12 of the inner sole element 202d, and the last of the first ribs 230n is disposed in the midfoot region 22 of the inner sole element 202d. , while the middle one of the first ribs 230n is continuously spaced between the first rib 230n and the last rib 230n. The first ribs 230n may be arranged in a radial array about the first axis A _230n on the medial side 18 of the inner sole element 202c.

As shown, the second ribs 230p are arranged in the heel area 24 in a second starburst pattern whereby the second ribs 230p span the inner surface 208c from a first end 240p at the peripheral sidewall 210 on the lateral side 16 extends continuously to the second end 242p at the peripheral side wall 210 on the medial side 18. Compared to the first ribs 230n, the second ribs 230p converge with each other in the direction from the medial side 18 to the lateral side 16. As shown in FIG. 30 , the first of the second ribs 230p is disposed adjacent to the last of the first ribs 230n in the midshoe region 22 , and the last of the second ribs 230p is disposed at the front end. 14, while the middle one of the second ribs 230p is continuously spaced between the first rib 230p and the last rib 230p. Two or more second ribs 230p may extend radially from the second axis A _230p on the lateral side 16 of the inner sole element 202c.

As shown in Figure 30, the inner sole element 202d may include a plurality of ribs 230n-p in the midfoot region 22 that converge with the first rib 230n or the second rib 230p, but are not centered around the axes A _230n , A _230p any arrangement. These ribs 230n-p may be referred to as transition ribs 230n-p that gradually transition from the lateral to medial convergence of the first rib 230n to the lateral to medial convergence of the second rib 230p. Thus, ribs 230n, 230p, 230n-p cooperate to define a composite radial array having a first portion and an opposite second portion.

As discussed above, inner sole element 202d may be described as including a plurality of recesses 234n, 234p that are defined by and disposed between adjacent ones of ribs 230n, 230p. In the illustrated example, recesses 234n, 234p include a plurality of channels 234n, 234p defined by adjacent ones of ribs 230n, 230p. In particular, inner sole element 202d includes a plurality of elongated first channels 234n defined by first ribs 230n extending inwardly from a first end 244m at peripheral sidewall 210 on lateral side 16 Second end 246m at peripheral side wall 210 on side 18 . A plurality of second channels 234p are defined by second ribs 230p and each channel extends from a first end 244m on the outer side 16 of the inner surface 208m to a second end on the inner side 18 at the peripheral side surface 210 The base is 246m.

Referring to Figure 31, the inner surface 220d of the outer sole element 204d includes a plurality of surface features 228 that correspond to the surface features 226 of the inner sole element 202d. For example, outer sole element 204d includes a plurality of recesses 236n, 236p and protrusions 232n, 232p configured to mate with corresponding protrusions 230n, 230p and recesses 234n, 234p of inner sole element 202d. Accordingly, the size, shape, and arrangement of surface features 228 of outer sole element 204d will be substantially similar to the size, shape, and arrangement of cooperating surface features 226 of inner sole element 202d, whereby the inner sole element 202d and outer sole element 204d The inner surfaces 208d, 220d are configured to mate with each other. In other words, when the article of footwear 10d is assembled, the peak 238 of the inner sole element 202d is opposite the valley 237 of the outer sole element 204d, and vice versa.

In some examples, the material forming inner sole element 202d and outer sole element 204d may be anisotropic, whereby the properties of the first portion of sole structure 200d are different than the properties of the second portion of sole structure 200d. For example, inner sole element 202d and/or outer sole element 204d may have a first stiffness in a first region 20, 22, 24 of sole structure 200d and a second stiffness in a second region 20, 22, 24 of sole structure 200d. Two hardness.

As best shown in Figure 26, when the article of footwear 10d is assembled, the inner sole element 202d is inserted into the interior cavity 102 of the upper 100 and the bottom panel 108 of the sock-like structure 106 follows the surface of the inner sole element 202d The shape of feature 226. Therefore, the contours of the protrusions 230n, 230p and recesses 234n, 234p will be imparted to the bottom sheet 108. The outer sole element 204d is then attached to the opposite side of the bottom panel 108 on the exterior of the upper 100 such that the bottom panel 108 will be between the mating surface features 226, 228 of the sole elements 202d, 204d. Although not shown, the article of footwear 10d may include one or more cables 120, whereby each cable 120 extends from the lateral side 16 of the throat opening 112 along the perimeter wall 110 of the sock-shaped structure 106, Follow one of the channels 234n, 234p through the sole structure 200d and up the perimeter wall 110 back to the lateral side 18 of the throat opening 112.

As discussed above, sole elements 202-202d, 204-204d are formed from an elastic polymer material, such as foam or rubber, to impart cushioning, responsiveness, and energy distribution properties to the wearer's foot. As discussed, sole elements 202-202d, 204-204d may be anisotropic such that a first portion of a respective sole element 202-202d, 204-204d has a second portion corresponding to sole element 202-202d, 204-204d. Partially different nature. For example, one or more of surface features 226, 228 may have a first hardness while a second of surface features 226, 228 has a second hardness.

Example elastomeric polymer materials for sole elements 202-202d, 204-204d may include materials based on foaming or molding one or more polymers, such as one or more elastomers (e.g., thermoplastic elastomers). body (TPE)). The one or more polymers may include aliphatic polymers, aromatic polymers, or mixtures of both; and may include homopolymers, copolymers (including terpolymers), or mixtures of both.

In some aspects, the one or more polymers can include olefinic homopolymers, olefinic copolymers, or blends thereof. Examples of olefinic polymers include polyethylene, polypropylene, and combinations thereof. In other aspects, the one or more polymers may include one or more ethylene copolymers, such as ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymer, EVOH copolymer, ethylene-ethyl acrylate copolymer, ethylene - Unsaturated monofatty acid copolymers and combinations thereof.

In additional aspects, the one or more polymers may include one or more polyacrylates, such as polyacrylic acid, esters of polyacrylic acid, polyacrylonitrile, polyacrylic acetate, polymethyl acrylate, Polyethyl acrylate, polybutyl acrylate, polymethyl methacrylate and polyvinyl acetate; including their derivatives, their copolymers and any combination thereof.

In yet additional aspects, the one or more polymers can include one or more ionomeric polymers. In these aspects, the ionomer polymer may include polymers having carboxylic acid functionality, sulfonic acid functionality, salts thereof (eg, sodium, magnesium, potassium, etc.), and/or anhydrides thereof. For example, the ionomer polymer may include one or more fatty acid-modified ionomer polymers, polystyrene sulfonates, ethylene-methacrylic acid copolymers, and combinations thereof.

In additional aspects, the one or more polymers may include one or more styrene block copolymers, such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene block copolymer, styrene acrylonitrile block copolymer , styrene ethylene butylene styrene block copolymer, styrene ethylene butadiene styrene block copolymer, styrene ethylene propylene styrene block copolymer, styrene butadiene styrene block copolymer and its combination.

In additional aspects, the one or more polymers may include one or more polyamide copolymers (e.g., polyamide-polyether copolymers) and/or one or more polyurethanes (e.g., crosslinked polyurethane and/or thermoplastic polyurethane). Examples of suitable polyurethanes include those discussed above for barrier layers 218a, 218b. Alternatively, the one or more polymers may include one or more natural and/or synthetic rubbers, such as butadiene and isoprene.

When the elastomeric polymer material is a foamed polymer material, the foamed material may be foamed using a physical blowing agent that phase-changes into a gas based on changes in temperature and/or pressure, or when heated above its activation temperature. Chemical blowing agents that form gases to create foam. For example, the chemical blowing agent may be an azo compound such as azodicarbonamide, sodium bicarbonate, and/or isocyanate.

In some embodiments, the foamed polymer material may be a cross-linked foamed material. In these embodiments, peroxide-based cross-linking agents may be used, such as dicumyl peroxide. Additionally, the foamed polymeric material may include one or more fillers such as pigments, modified or natural clays, modified or unmodified synthetic clays, talc, glass fibers, glass powder, modified or natural Silica, calcium carbonate, mica, paper, wood chips and the like.

The elastic polymer material can be formed using a molding process. In one example, when the elastomeric polymer material is a molded elastomer, the uncured elastomer (e.g., rubber) can be mixed in a Banbury mixer with optional fillers and curing packages (such as based on A sulfur or peroxide based cure package) is mixed, calendered, formed into shape, placed in a mold and vulcanized.

In another example, when the elastomeric polymer material is a foamed material, the material can be foamed during a molding process, such as an injection molding process. The thermoplastic polymer material can be melted in the barrel of the injection molding system and combined with a physical or chemical blowing agent and optional cross-linking agent, and then injected into the mold under conditions that activate the blowing agent to form the mold. Make foam.

Optionally, when the elastomeric polymer material is a foamed material, the foamed material may be a compression molded foam. Compression molding can be used to change the physical properties of the foam (e.g., density, stiffness, and/or hardness), or to change the physical appearance of the foam (e.g., fusing two or more pieces of foam, shaping the foam, etc.), or It's both.

The compression molding process desirably proceeds by forming one or more foam preforms, such as by injection molding a polymeric material and foaming the polymeric material, by forming foamed granules or beads, by cutting foamed sheets materials and similar operations). This can then be accomplished by placing one or more preforms formed from the foamed polymer material in a compression mold and applying sufficient pressure to the one or more preforms to compress the one or more preforms in the closed mold. Preforms to create compression molded foam. Once the mold is closed, sufficient heat and/or pressure is applied to the one or more preforms in the closed mold for a sufficient duration to alter the preform by forming a skin on the outer surface of the compression molded foam pieces, fuse individual foam particles to each other, permanently increase the density of the foam, or any combination thereof. After applying heat and/or pressure, the mold is opened and the molded foam article is removed from the mold.

The following clauses provide exemplary configurations for the article of footwear described above.

Clause 1: A sole structure having a forefoot region, a midsole region, a heel region, a lateral side and a medial side, the sole structure comprising: a first sole element including a plurality of first a first inner surface of surface features, at least one of said first surface features having a different configuration than another of said first surface features; a second sole element including a plurality of second surface features; a second inner surface, the second surface feature configured to interface with the first surface feature; and a sheet disposed between the first sole element and the second sole element, the first sole element A sole element is provided on a first side of the panel and the second sole element is provided on a second side of the panel opposite the first side.

Clause 2: The sole structure of Clause 1, wherein the first surface feature includes a plurality of protrusions and the second surface feature includes a plurality of recesses configured to mate with the protrusions.

Clause 3: The sole structure of Clause 1, wherein the first surface feature includes at least one first protrusion having a first configuration and at least one first protrusion having a second configuration different from the first configuration. A second protrusion, the second surface feature including at least one first recess having the first configuration and at least one second recess having the second configuration.

Clause 4: The sole structure of Clause 3, wherein the first configuration includes at least one of a first size, a first shape, and a first orientation, and the second configuration includes a second size, a first orientation at least one of a second shape and a second orientation.

Clause 5: The sole structure of Clause 3, wherein the at least one first protrusion and the at least one second protrusion are respectively opposite to the at least one first recess and the at least one second recess.

Clause 6: The sole structure of Clause 1, wherein the first surface features include a first plurality of ribs having a first configuration and a second rib having a second configuration different from the first configuration. Multiple ribs.

Clause 7: The sole structure of clause 6, wherein each of said ribs extends from a first end to a second end.

Clause 8: The sole structure of Clause 7, wherein the width of each of the ribs gradually decreases in a direction from the first end to the second end.

Clause 9: Sole structure according to any one of clauses 6 to 8, wherein the spacing between adjacent ones of the ribs in the forefoot region is different from that in the heel region. The spacing between adjacent ones of the ribs.

Clause 10: The sole structure of any one of Clauses 6-9, wherein the first plurality of ribs extend along a first direction, and the second plurality of ribs extend in a direction transverse to the first direction. The second direction of the direction extends.

Clause 11: The sole structure of Clause 1, wherein the first surface feature includes a first protrusion disposed in the fore region, a second protrusion disposed in the heel region, a plurality of protrusions partially surrounding the first protrusion. A first rib, a plurality of second ribs completely surrounding the second protrusion, and a plurality of third ribs extending between the first rib and the second rib.

Clause 12: The sole structure of clause 11, wherein the first rib, the second rib and the third rib are ridged.

Clause 13: A sole structure as claimed in clause 11 or 12, wherein the first rib extends from a first end on the lateral face of the first sole element to a second end on the lateral face of the first sole element about the first protrusion. department.

Clause 14: The sole structure of any one of Clauses 11-13, wherein the first ribs extend along an arcuate path and are concentric with each other and with the first protrusion.

Clause 15: A sole structure according to any one of clauses 11 to 14, wherein the second ribs each extend along a circular path and are concentric with each other and with the second protrusion.

Clause 16: A sole structure as claimed in any one of clauses 11 to 15, wherein the third rib extends from a first end on the lateral side of the first sole element to a second end on the medial side of the first sole element department.

Clause 17: A sole structure as described in Clause 16, wherein each third rib extends along an arcuate path.

Clause 18: A sole structure as claimed in any one of clauses 11 to 17, wherein the plurality of first ribs define a plurality of first channels, each first channel extending from a first portion on the lateral side of the first sole element. The end extends to a second end on the lateral side of the first sole element.

Clause 19: The sole structure of Clause 18, further comprising at least one cable extending through the at least one first channel.

Clause 20: A sole structure as claimed in any one of clauses 11 to 19, wherein the plurality of second ribs define a plurality of second channels, each second channel extending from a first portion on a lateral surface of the first sole element. The end extends to the second end on the medial side of the first sole element.

Clause 21: The sole structure of clause 20, further comprising at least one cable extending through the at least one second channel.

Clause 22: A sole structure as claimed in any one of clauses 11 to 21, wherein the first protrusion is cylindrical.

Clause 23: The sole structure of any one of Clauses 11-22, wherein the second protrusion is cylindrical.

Clause 24: The sole structure of any one of Clauses 11-23, wherein the first protrusion is offset towards the lateral side of the first sole element.

Clause 25: A sole structure according to any one of clauses 11 to 24, wherein the second protrusion is centrally located between the lateral side of the first sole element and the medial side of the first sole element.

Clause 26: The sole structure of any one of Clauses 11-25, wherein the first protrusion has a different hardness than the second protrusion.

Clause 27: The sole structure of Clause 1, wherein the first surface feature includes a first protrusion disposed in the forefoot region, a plurality of arcuate first ribs partially surrounding the first protrusion, and a plurality of adjacent first protrusions. One rib is provided with a plurality of elongated second ribs.

Clause 28: The sole structure of clause 27, wherein the first rib and the second rib are ridged.

Clause 29: A sole structure as claimed in clause 27 or 28, wherein the first rib extends from a first end on the medial side of the first sole element to a second end on the medial side of the first sole element about the first protrusion. department.

Clause 30: The sole structure of any one of Clauses 27-29, wherein the first ribs extend along an arcuate path and are concentric with each other and with the first protrusion.

Clause 31: A sole structure as claimed in any one of clauses 27 to 30, wherein the second rib extends from a first end on the lateral side of the first sole element to a second end on the medial side of the first sole element department.

Clause 32: The sole structure of any one of Clauses 27-31, wherein the second ribs extend along an arcuate path and are concentric with each other and with the first protrusion.

Clause 33: Sole structure according to any one of clauses 27 to 32, wherein the first rib and the second rib are arranged sequentially from the first protrusion to the rear end of the first sole element and are spaced apart in a radial direction The first protuberance gradually increases in size.

Clause 34: A sole structure as claimed in any one of Clauses 27-33, wherein the first protrusion is cylindrical.

Clause 35: The sole structure of any of clauses 27-34, wherein the first protrusion is disposed adjacent the medial side of the first sole element.

Clause 36: A sole structure as claimed in any of Clauses 27-35, wherein the first rib and the second rib are ridged.

Clause 37: The sole structure of clause 1, wherein the first surface feature includes a plurality of annular first ribs disposed in the heel region and a plurality of elongated first ribs disposed in the midsole region and the forefoot region. of the second rib.

Clause 38: Sole structure as described in Clause 37, wherein the first ribs are concentric with each other.

Clause 39: A sole structure as claimed in clause 37 or 38, wherein the second rib extends from a first end on the lateral side of the first sole element to a second end on the medial side of the first sole element.

Clause 40: A sole structure as claimed in any one of Clauses 37-39, wherein the second ribs each extend along an arcuate path.

Clause 41: Sole structure as claimed in any one of Clauses 37-40, wherein the second ribs are concentric with each other.

Clause 42: A sole structure as claimed in any one of Clauses 37-41, wherein the second rib is concentric with the first rib.

Clause 43: A sole structure as claimed in any one of Clauses 37-42, wherein the second rib is arranged sequentially between the first rib and the front end of the first sole element.

Clause 44: The sole structure of Clause 43, wherein the second rib gradually changes in size in a direction from the first rib to the front end.

Clause 45: The sole structure of Clause 43, wherein the second rib gradually increases in width in a direction from the first rib to the front end portion.

Clause 46: A sole structure as claimed in any of Clauses 37-45, wherein the first rib and the second rib are ridged.

Clause 47: The sole structure of Clause 1, wherein the first surface feature includes a plurality of first ribs extending radially outward from a central portion of the heel region and sequentially disposed between the first ribs and the first sole element. A plurality of second ribs between the front ends.

Clause 48: The sole structure of clause 47, wherein the first rib and the second rib cooperate to form a nautilus pattern.

Clause 49: A sole structure as described in Clause 47 or 48, wherein the central portion is substantially planar and the peak of the first rib is coplanar with the central portion.

Clause 50: The sole structure of any of clauses 47-49, wherein the first rib extends from a first end at the central portion to a second end at the peripheral sidewall of the first sole element.

Clause 51: A sole structure as claimed in any one of Clauses 47-50, wherein the first ribs each increase in height from the first end to the second end.

Clause 52: A sole structure according to any one of Clauses 47-51, wherein the second rib is arranged sequentially from the first rib to the front end of the first sole element.

Clause 53: A sole structure as claimed in any one of Clauses 47-52, wherein the second rib extends from a distal first end adjacent the medial side of the first sole element to a third rib at the lateral side of the first sole element. Two ends.

Clause 54: The sole structure of any of clauses 47-53, wherein the second ribs each increase in height from the first end to the second end.

Clause 55: A sole structure as claimed in any one of Clauses 47-54, wherein the central portion is teardrop-shaped.

Clause 56: A sole structure as claimed in any of Clauses 47-55, wherein the first rib and the second rib are ridged.

Clause 57: The sole structure of clause 1, wherein the first surface feature includes a plurality of first ribs converging to each other along a first direction and a plurality of second ribs converging to each other along a second direction.

Clause 58: The sole structure of clause 57, wherein the first ribs are arranged in a first radial array and the second ribs are arranged in a second radial array.

Clause 59: Sole structure as described in Clause 57 or 58, wherein the first ribs converge with each other in the direction from the lateral side to the medial side.

Clause 60: A sole structure as claimed in any one of Clauses 57-59, wherein the second ribs converge with each other in a direction from the medial side to the lateral side.

Clause 61: Sole structure according to any one of Clauses 57-60, wherein the first rib is provided in the forefoot region.

Clause 62: Sole structure as claimed in any one of Clauses 57-61, wherein the second rib is provided in the heel region.

Clause 63: The sole structure of any one of Clauses 57-62, further comprising a plurality of transition ribs disposed between the first rib and the second rib.

Clause 64: A sole structure as claimed in any of Clauses 57-63, wherein the first rib and the second rib are ridged.

Clause 65: A sole structure as claimed in any one of Clauses 57-64, wherein the first ribs each taper in width in a direction from the lateral side to the medial side.

Clause 66: A sole structure as claimed in any one of Clauses 57-65, wherein the second ribs each taper in width in a direction from the medial side to the lateral side.

Clause 67: The sole structure of any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the first sole element defines a footbed of the sole structure and the outer sole element defines a ground-engaging surface of the sole structure.

Clause 68: A sole structure as claimed in any one of the preceding clauses, wherein each of the plurality of first surface features has a minimum height or depth of at least 2 mm.

Clause 69: A sole structure as claimed in any one of the preceding clauses, wherein each of the plurality of first surface features has a minimum height or depth of at least 11 mm.

Clause 70: A sole structure as claimed in any one of the preceding clauses, wherein each of the plurality of first surface features has a maximum height or depth of less than 28 mm.

Clause 71: A sole structure as claimed in any one of the preceding clauses, wherein each of the plurality of first surface features has a maximum height or depth of less than 23 mm.

Clause 72: The sole structure of any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the height or depth of each of the plurality of surface features ranges from about 2 mm to about 27 mm.

Clause 73: A sole structure as claimed in any one of the preceding clauses, further comprising an adhesive disposed between the first sole element and the second sole element, the adhesive being applied to the first sole element, the second sole element on at least one of the sole element, the upper surface of the panel, and the lower surface of the panel.

Clause 74: A sole structure as claimed in any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the sheet material comprises a mesh textile.

Clause 75: A sole structure as claimed in any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the panel is a textile constructed to stretch in only one dimension.

Clause 76: A sole structure as claimed in any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the panel is a textile constructed to stretch in two dimensions.

Clause 77: Sole construction as described in any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the panel is an embroidered textile.

Clause 78: A sole structure as claimed in any one of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one of the first sole element and the second sole element is formed from a polymeric material having a foam structure.

Clause 79: A sole structure as described in Clause 78, wherein the polymeric material having the foam structure is an injection molded foam.

Clause 80: A sole structure as described in Clause 78, wherein the polymeric material having the foam structure is a compression molded foam.

Clause 81: A sole structure as described in Clause 78, wherein the polymeric material having the foam structure is anisotropic.

Clause 82: A sole structure as claimed in any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the sheet follows the shape of the first surface feature and conforms to the shape of the second surface feature.

Clause 83: An article of footwear comprising a sole structure as described in any of Clauses 1-82.

Clause 84: The article of footwear of Clause 83, further comprising an upper comprising the panel and a peripheral wall defining an interior cavity and a throat opening.

Clause 85: The article of footwear of Clause 84, wherein the first sole element is disposed within the interior cavity of the upper and the second sole element is disposed externally of the upper.

Clause 86: The article of footwear of Clause 85, further comprising at least one cable extending from the throat opening and between the first sole element and the second sole element.

Clause 87: The article of footwear of Clause 86, wherein the cable includes an end defining an aperture for receiving at least one fastener of the article of footwear.

Clause 88: A method of manufacturing an article of footwear, the method comprising providing a sole structure as described in any of clauses 1-82, providing an upper for the article of footwear, and attaching the sole structure and the upper to each other to form footwear items.

Clause 89: An article of footwear, comprising: an upper having a base panel and peripheral sidewalls cooperating to define an interior cavity; a first sole An element disposed within the interior cavity on a first side of the sheet and including a first interior surface having a plurality of first surface features, one of the first surface features being at least one having a different configuration than another of the first surface features; and a second sole element disposed on an opposite side of the sheet from the first sole element and including a second inner A surface, the second inner surface having a plurality of second surface features configured to interface with the first surface features.

Clause 90: An article of footwear as described in Clause 89, wherein at least one of the bottom panel and the peripheral sidewall is formed from a textile, optionally from a knitted textile, a braided textile, a knitted textile, a crocheted textile, or a nonwoven textile , optionally formed from knitted textile.

Clause 91: The article of footwear of Clause 89 or 90, wherein the upper is a sock-like structure having an integrally formed bottom panel and peripheral sidewalls.

Clause 92: An article of footwear as described in Clause 89 or 90, wherein the bottom panel is formed as a Strobel sheet.

Clause 93: An article of footwear as claimed in any one of the preceding clauses, wherein said bottom panel includes an inner layer on a first side of said first sole element and an inner layer disposed between said first sole element and The inner layer is on the opposite side to the outer layer.

Clause 94: The article of footwear of any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the bottom panel defines a pocket that receives the first sole element.

Clause 95: The article of footwear of any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the bottom panel follows the shape of the first plurality of surface features.

Clause 96: A method of manufacturing an article of footwear, the method comprising forming a first sole element including a first interior surface having a plurality of first surface features, wherein the first surface features at least one of said first surface features having a different configuration than another one of said first surface features; forming a second sole element including a second inner surface having a plurality of second surface features, said second A surface feature is configured to interface with the first surface feature; and a sheet is disposed between the first interior surface of the first sole element and the second interior surface of the second sole element.

Clause 97: The method of Clause 96, further comprising forming the first sole element and the second sole element by injection molding.

Clause 98: The method of any one of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming a plurality of surface features to include at least one channel extending from the first end at the peripheral side surface of the first sole element to a second end at the peripheral side surface of the first sole element.

Clause 99: The method of Clause 98, further comprising positioning the first cable within at least one channel.

Clause 100: The method of Clause 99, further comprising positioning the first cable between the sheet material and the first sole element.

Clause 101: The method of Clause 99, further comprising positioning the first cable between the sheet material and the second sole element.

Clause 102: The method of Clause 99, further comprising routing a cable from the first end of the channel to the second end of the channel.

Clause 103: The method of any one of the preceding clauses, further comprising attaching the sheet to the peripheral sidewall to form an upper.

Clause 104: The method of Clause 103, further comprising integrally forming the panel and peripheral sidewalls from the textile.

Clause 105: The method of Clause 103, further comprising attaching the sheet to the perimeter sidewall using a Strobel construction.

Clause 106: The method of any one of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming a sheet having an inner layer and an outer layer.

Clause 107: The method of Clause 106, further comprising positioning the first sole element between the inner layer and the outer layer.

Clause 108: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming the sheet having a pocket.

Clause 109: The method of Clause 108, further comprising positioning the first sole element within the pocket.

Clause 110: An article of footwear prepared according to the method of any of clauses 96-109.

The foregoing descriptions of the embodiments have been presented for the purposes of illustration and description. The foregoing description is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure. Individual elements or features of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment, but, where applicable, are interchangeable and can be used in selected embodiments even if not expressly shown or described. Individual elements or features of a particular embodiment may also vary in many ways. Such changes are not deemed to depart from the disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the disclosure.

Claims (73)

1. A sole structure having a forefoot region, a midfoot region, a heel region, a lateral side, and a medial side, the sole structure comprising:

a first sole element comprising a first interior surface having a plurality of first surface features, the first surface features comprising: (i) a first protrusion disposed within the forefoot region, (ii) a second protrusion disposed within the heel region, (iii) a plurality of first ribs, each first rib extending along the first interior surface in a first direction along an arcuate path and extending continuously around the first protrusion from a first end on a medial side of the first sole element to a second end on the medial side of the first sole element or continuously around the first protrusion from a first end on a lateral side of the first sole element to a second end on the lateral side of the first sole element, (iv) a plurality of second ribs, each second rib extending along the first interior surface in a second direction transverse to the first direction and extending completely around the second protrusion, and (v) a plurality of third ribs extending between the first ribs and the second ribs;

A second sole element including a second interior surface having a plurality of second surface features configured to interface with the first surface features; and

a sheet disposed between the first sole element and the second sole element, the first sole element disposed on a first side of the sheet and the second sole element disposed on a second side of the sheet opposite the first side.

2. The sole structure of claim 1, wherein the first surface feature comprises a plurality of protrusions and the second surface feature comprises a plurality of recesses configured to mate with the protrusions.

3. The sole structure of claim 1, wherein the first surface feature includes at least one first protrusion having a first configuration and at least one second protrusion having a second configuration different from the first configuration, the second surface feature including at least one first recess having the first configuration and at least one second recess having the second configuration.

4. The sole structure of claim 3, wherein the first configuration includes at least one of a first size, a first shape, and a first orientation, and the second configuration includes at least one of a second size, a second shape, and a second orientation.

5. A sole structure according to claim 3, wherein the at least one first protrusion and the at least one second protrusion are opposite the at least one first recess and the at least one second recess, respectively.

6. The sole structure of claim 1, wherein a width of each of the plurality of first ribs tapers in a direction from the first end to the second end.

7. The sole structure of claim 1, wherein a spacing between adjacent ones of the plurality of first ribs in the forefoot region is different than a spacing between adjacent ones of the plurality of second ribs in the heel region.

8. The sole structure of claim 1, wherein the first rib, the second rib, and the third rib are ridged.

9. The sole structure of any of claims 1-8, wherein the second ribs each extend along a circular path and are concentric with each other and with the second protrusion.

10. The sole structure of any of claims 1-9, wherein the third rib extends from a first end on a lateral side of the first sole element to a second end on a medial side of the first sole element.

11. The sole structure of claim 10, wherein each of the third ribs extends along an arcuate path.

12. The sole structure of any of claims 1-11, wherein the plurality of first ribs define a plurality of first channels, each first channel extending from a first end on a lateral side of the first sole element to a second end on a lateral side of the first sole element.

13. The sole structure of claim 12, further comprising at least one cable extending through at least one of the first channels.

14. The sole structure of any of claims 1-13, wherein the plurality of third ribs define a plurality of third channels, each third channel extending from a first end on a lateral side of the first sole element to a second end on a medial side of the first sole element.

15. The sole structure of claim 14, further comprising at least one cable extending through at least one of the third channels.

16. The sole structure of any of claims 1-15, wherein the first protrusion is cylindrical.

17. The sole structure of any of claims 1-16, wherein the second protrusion is cylindrical.

18. The sole structure of any of claims 1-17, wherein the first projection is offset toward a lateral side of the first sole element.

19. The sole structure of any of claims 1-18, wherein the second protrusion is centrally disposed between a lateral side of the first sole element and a medial side of the first sole element.

20. The sole structure of any of claims 1-19, wherein the first protrusion has a different hardness than the second protrusion.

21. The sole structure of any of claims 1-20, wherein the first ribs are concentric with each other and with the first protrusions.

22. A sole structure according to claim 21, wherein the third rib extends from a first end on a lateral side of the first sole element to a second end on a medial side of the first sole element.

23. The sole structure of any of claims 1-22, wherein the second ribs extend along an arcuate path and are concentric with each other and with the second protrusion.

24. The sole structure of any of claims 1-23, wherein the first rib and the second rib are ridge-shaped.

25. The sole structure of claim 1, wherein the first surface feature includes an annular first plurality of ribs disposed in the heel region and an elongated second plurality of ribs disposed in the midfoot region and the forefoot region.

26. The sole structure of claim 25, wherein the first ribs are concentric with one another.

27. A sole structure according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first sole element defines a footbed of the sole structure and the second sole element defines a ground-engaging surface of the sole structure.

28. A sole structure according to any of the preceding claims, wherein each of the plurality of first surface features has a minimum height or depth of at least 2 mm.

29. A sole structure according to any of the preceding claims, wherein each of the plurality of first surface features has a minimum height or depth of at least 11 mm.

30. A sole structure according to any of the preceding claims, wherein each of the plurality of first surface features has a maximum height or depth of less than 28 mm.

31. A sole structure according to any of the preceding claims, wherein each of the plurality of first surface features has a maximum height or depth of less than 23 mm.

32. A sole structure according to any of the preceding claims, wherein a height or depth of each of the plurality of first surface features ranges from 2mm to 27mm.

33. The sole structure of any of the preceding claims, further comprising an adhesive disposed between the first sole element and the second sole element, the adhesive applied to at least one of the first sole element, the second sole element, an upper surface of the sheet, and a lower surface of the sheet.

34. The sole structure of any of claims 1-33, wherein the sheet includes a mesh textile.

35. The sole structure of any of claims 1-34, wherein the sheet is a textile configured to stretch in only one dimension.

36. The sole structure of any of claims 1-34, wherein the sheet is a textile configured to stretch in two dimensions.

37. The sole structure of any of claims 1-33, wherein the sheet is an embroidered textile.

38. A sole structure according to any of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the first sole element and the second sole element is formed from a polymer material having a foam structure.

39. The sole structure of claim 38, wherein the polymer material having a foam structure is an injection molded foam.

40. The sole structure of claim 38, wherein the polymer material having a foam structure is a compression molded foam.

41. The sole structure of claim 38, wherein the polymer material having a foam structure is anisotropic.

42. A sole structure according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the sheet follows the shape of the first surface feature and follows the shape of the second surface feature.

43. An article of footwear comprising the sole structure of any of claims 1-42.

44. The article of footwear according to claim 43, further comprising an upper including the sheet and a peripheral wall defining an interior void and a throat opening.

45. The article of footwear according to claim 44, wherein the first sole element is disposed within the interior void of the upper and the second sole element is disposed on an exterior of the upper.

46. The article of footwear according to claim 45, further comprising at least one cable extending from the throat opening and located between the first sole element and the second sole element.

47. The article of footwear according to claim 46, wherein the cable includes an end defining an aperture for receiving at least one fastener of the article of footwear.

48. A method of manufacturing an article of footwear, the method comprising providing a sole structure according to any of claims 1-42, providing an upper for an article of footwear, and attaching the sole structure and the upper to one another to form the article of footwear.

49. An article of footwear, the article of footwear comprising:

an upper having a bottom sheet and a peripheral sidewall, the bottom sheet and the peripheral sidewall cooperating to define an interior cavity;

a first sole element disposed within the interior cavity on a first side of the bottom sheet and including a first interior surface having a plurality of first surface features opposite the bottom sheet, the first surface features comprising: (i) a first protrusion disposed in a forefoot region, (ii) a second protrusion disposed in a heel region, (iii) a plurality of first ribs, each first rib extending along the first interior surface in a first direction along an arcuate path and extending continuously around the first protrusion from a first end on a medial side of the first sole element to a second end on the medial side of the first sole element or continuously around the first protrusion from a first end on a lateral side of the first sole element to a second end on the lateral side of the first sole element, (iv) a plurality of second ribs, each second rib extending along the first interior surface in a second direction transverse to the first direction and extending completely around the second protrusion, and (v) a plurality of third ribs extending between the first ribs and the second ribs; and

A second sole element disposed on an opposite side of the bottom sheet from the first sole element and including a second interior surface having a plurality of second surface features opposite the bottom sheet and configured to interface with the first surface features.

50. The article of footwear of claim 49, wherein at least one of the bottom sheet and the peripheral sidewall is formed from a textile.

51. The article of footwear of claim 50, wherein the bottom sheet is integrally formed with the peripheral sidewall.

52. The article of footwear according to claim 49, wherein the bottom sheet includes an inner layer on a first side of the first sole element and an outer layer disposed on a side of the first sole element opposite the inner layer.

53. The article of footwear of claim 49, wherein the bottom sheet defines a pocket that receives the first sole element.

54. The article of footwear of claim 49, wherein the bottom sheet conforms to a shape of the plurality of first surface features.

55. The article of footwear of claim 49 or 50, wherein the bottom sheet is formed as a strobel sheet.

56. A method of manufacturing an article of footwear, the method comprising:

forming a first sole element including a first interior surface having a plurality of first surface features, the first surface features comprising: (i) a first protrusion disposed in a forefoot region, (ii) a second protrusion disposed in a heel region, (iii) a plurality of first ribs, each first rib extending along the first interior surface in a first direction along an arcuate path and extending continuously around the first protrusion from a first end on a medial side of the first sole element to a second end on the medial side of the first sole element or continuously around the first protrusion from a first end on a lateral side of the first sole element to a second end on the lateral side of the first sole element, (iv) a plurality of second ribs, each second rib extending along the first interior surface in a second direction transverse to the first direction and extending completely around the second protrusion, and (v) a plurality of third ribs extending between the first ribs and the second ribs;

forming a second sole element including a second interior surface having a plurality of second surface features configured to interface with the first surface features; and

A sheet is disposed between the first inner surface of the first sole element and the second inner surface of the second sole element.

57. The method of claim 56, further comprising defining at least one channel extending from a first end at a peripheral side surface of the first sole element to a second end at the peripheral side surface of the first sole element.

58. The method of claim 57, further comprising positioning a cable within the at least one channel, the cable being positioned between the sheet and the first sole element or between the sheet and the second sole element.

59. The method of claim 56, further comprising forming the sheet from a textile.

60. The method of claim 56, further comprising forming the first sole element and the second sole element by injection molding.

61. The method of any of claims 56-57, further comprising forming the plurality of first surface features to include at least one channel extending from a first end at a peripheral side surface of the first sole element to a second end at the peripheral side surface of the first sole element.

62. The method of claim 61, further comprising positioning a first cable within the at least one channel.

63. The method of claim 62, further comprising positioning the first cable between the sheet and the first sole element.

64. The method of claim 62, further comprising positioning the first cable between the sheet and the second sole element.

65. The method of claim 64, further comprising routing the cable from a first end of the channel to a second end of the channel.

66. The method of any of claims 56-65, further comprising attaching the sheet to a peripheral sidewall to form an upper.

67. The method of claim 66, further comprising integrally forming the sheet and the peripheral sidewall from a textile.

68. The method of claim 66, further comprising attaching the sheet to the peripheral sidewall using a strobel configuration.

69. The method of any of claims 56-68 further comprising forming the sheet having an inner layer and an outer layer.

70. The method of claim 69, further comprising positioning the first sole element between the inner layer and the outer layer.

71. The method of any of claims 56-70, further comprising forming the sheet with a pocket.

72. The method of claim 71, further comprising positioning the first sole element within the pocket.

73. An article of footwear prepared according to the method of any one of claims 56-72.