A tension member guide that is configured to direct or route a tension member about a path of an article includes a cover member and a guide member that is partially covered by the cover member. The cover member is attachable to the article and includes a pair of slits or incisions. The guide member is folded along a longitudinal length to form a loop or channel within which the tension member may be inserted. The guide member is positioned in relation to the cover member so that opposing end portions of the loop or channel are inserted through the slits or incisions such that the opposing end portions are positioned on an opposite side of the cover member from a remainder of the guide member.

An article of footwear includes an upper attached to a sole structure to define an interior cavity and a closure system. The sole structure includes a forefoot region, a midfoot region, and a heel region. The closure system includes a closure mechanism, a securing element and a cord that is operably engaged with the upper of the footwear and the closure mechanism. The closure mechanism is actuated to adjust the footwear from a loosened configuration to a tightened configuration. The securing element extends across the upper from a medial side to a lateral side. The securing element only partially covers a winding region formed by the cord proximate a tongue of the footwear. The securing element has a fixed end that is permanently fastened to the sole structure.