ONE-WAY STRETCHABLE UPPER WITH A REINFORCEMENT ELEMENT

Abstract

An upper for a shoe, particularly a sports shoe. The upper includes a base layer having a one-way stretchable material, in which the one-way stretchable material is stretchable in a first direction. The upper further includes at least one reinforcement element, in which the reinforcement element is arranged such as to limit the stretchability of the one-way stretchable material at least in the first direction.

Claims

1. An upper for a sports shoe, comprising: a base layer comprising a one-way stretchable material, wherein the one-way stretchable material is stretchable in a first direction; at least one reinforcement element, wherein the reinforcement element is arranged such as to limit the stretchability of the one-way stretchable material at least in the first direction.

2. The upper of claim 1, wherein the one-way stretchable material comprises a material that is essentially stretchable exclusively in the first direction.

3. The upper of claim 2, wherein the material is essentially unstretchable in a second direction, wherein the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction.

4. The upper of claim 3, wherein the second direction comprises a component parallel to a direction extending from a lateral side of the upper to a medial side of the upper; wherein the second direction is essentially parallel to the direction extending from a lateral side to the medial side.

5. The upper of claim 4, wherein the first direction comprises a component parallel to a longitudinal direction of the upper, wherein the first direction is essentially parallel the longitudinal direction.

6. The upper of claim 5, wherein the at least one reinforcement element is arranged such that the at least one reinforcement element extends at least partially into the first direction.

7. The upper of claim 6, wherein the at least one reinforcement element is arranged such as to be located at an inner surface of the base layer.

8. The upper of claim 7, wherein the at least one reinforcement element is arranged such that: at least a portion of the reinforcement element is heat bonded to the base layer; and/or at least a portion of the reinforcement element is stitched to the base layer.

9. The upper of claim 8, wherein the at least one reinforcement element is arranged such as to be essentially symmetrical with respect to a medial portion and a lateral portion of the upper.

10. The upper of claim 9, wherein the at least one reinforcement element encompasses at least a portion of eyestays of the upper, wherein the at least one reinforcement element encompasses the complete eyestays of the upper.

11. The upper of claim 10, wherein the at least one reinforcement element encompasses the eyestays as an essentially continuous segment.

12. The upper of claim 11, wherein the at least one reinforcement element comprises at least one reinforcement band; wherein: the at least one reinforcement band extends from a region of the upper associated with eyestays to a region of the upper associated with a midsole and/or strobel; and/or the at least one reinforcement band extends from a region of the upper associated with eyestays to a region of the upper associated with a heel area.

13. The upper of claim 12, wherein the at least one reinforcement band extends from the essentially continuous segment encompassing the eyestays of the upper.

14. The upper of claim 13, wherein the upper comprises at least one reinforcement band and at most 20 reinforcement bands.

15. The upper of claim 14, wherein: a width of the at least one reinforcement is at least 0.25 cm and at most 3 cm.

16. The upper of claim 15, wherein the at least one reinforcement element comprises a non-stretchable material, the non-stretchable material comprising at least one of synthetic suede, non-stretchable textile, leather, or a polymer-based tape.

17. The upper of claim 1, wherein the base layer comprises a woven material comprising a weft thread and a warp thread.

18. The upper of claim 17, wherein the weft thread comprises at least one weft yarn and the warp thread comprises at least one warp yarn such that: the at least one weft yarn is more stretchable than the at least one warp yarn; or the at least one warp yarn is more stretchable than the at least one weft yarn.

19. The upper of claim 1, wherein the base layer comprises a knitted material.

20. The upper of claim 1, wherein the base layer comprises a one-piece material and/or a unitary construction, wherein the one-piece material and/or the unitary construction is adapted such as to form a one-piece upper.

21. A sports shoe comprising the upper of claim 1.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0030] In the following, exemplary embodiments are described with reference to the figures. The figures show:

[0031] FIG. 1A: an example of an upper in which a reinforcement element has four reinforcement bands;

[0032] FIG. 1B: an example of an upper in which a reinforcement element has two reinforcement bands; and

[0033] FIG. 2: an example of a sports shoe having an upper.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] A first example relates to an upper, particularly an upper for a sports shoe. The upper includes a base layer of a one-way stretchable material, in which the one-way stretchable material is stretchable in a first direction. The upper further includes at least one reinforcement element, in which the reinforcement element is arranged such as to limit the stretchability of the one-way stretchable material at least in the first direction.

[0035] The one-way stretchable material is stretchable in the first direction. For example, the term one-way may refer to the first direction. Generally, the first direction may be a direction with respect to a plane state of the upper. A plane state of the upper may mean that the upper is laid out in a planar or substantially planar state and not yet formed in a shoe, e.g., the upper has not been fixed to a midsole of shoe. For example, a plane state of the upper may refer to an upper that is unfolded and flat.

[0036] The base layer including the one-way stretchable material may include the one-way stretchable material essentially across the base layer's whole extent. For example, the one-way stretchable material may be distributed uniformly across the whole base layer. For example, at least 60%, in some embodiments at least 70%, in some embodiments at least 80%, in some embodiments at least 90%, in some embodiments at least 95% of the base layer and/or the upper may have the one-way stretchable material.

[0037] The upper in this example further includes at least one reinforcement element. The at least one reinforcement element may be a connected reinforcement element. In addition, or alternatively, the reinforcement element may be at least two unconnected reinforcement elements. The at least one reinforcement element may be arranged such as to limit the stretchability of the one-way stretchable material at least in the first direction. Specifically, the at least one reinforcement element may be arranged such as to locally limit the stretchability of the one-way stretchable material. For example, the at least one reinforcement element may limit the stretchability of the one-way stretchable material in at least one region of the base layer. In particular, the at least one region of the base layer may be associated with a position of the at least one reinforcement element with respect to the base layer. For example, a first reinforcement element may be arranged at a first position such as to limit the stretchability of the base layer at a first region associated with the first position. Limiting the stretchability of the one-way stretchable material at least in the first direction may include reducing the stretchability of the one-way stretchable material at least in the first direction.

[0038] An upper including a one-way stretchable material and at least one reinforcement element arranged such as to limit the stretchability of the upper at least in the first direction allows for controlling the stretchability of the upper at least in the first direction. For example, controlling the stretchability at least in the first direction allows for tuning the stretchability towards a targeted stretchability and/or for adjusting the stretchability to the needs of an athlete. In addition, controlling the stretchability at least in the first direction allows for adapting the textile of the upper, e.g., the base layer, to radial and/or extreme shapes of the shoe last, e.g., to a shoe last having regions with a high curvature. For example, a shoe last including a radial and/or extreme shape may include protruding volume zones and/or curved carved zones and/or at least one transition area changing from convex to concave and vice versa. Thereby, using an upper with a one-way stretchable material and at least one reinforcement element arranged such as to limit the stretchability of the upper at least in the first direction enables the creation of a perfectly fitting upper using a one-piece base layer and/or a one-piece upper, even when having an extreme shape last. In particular, using a one-piece upper reduces the number of production steps and further reduces the weight of a final shoe, e.g., a shoe comprising the upper. Therefore, the above-described upper enhances the efficiency of the production and contributes to a minimal weight of the shoe. Contributing to the minimal weight of the shoe further contributes to an optimization of the performance of the athlete wearing the shoe.

[0039] Generally, the one-way stretchable material may be a material that is essentially stretchable exclusively in the first direction. In particular, being essentially stretchable exclusively in the first direction may mean that the material is essentially unstretchable in a second direction. For example, the second direction may be perpendicular to the first direction.

[0040] For example, the term one-way may refer to material that is essentially stretchable exclusively in one direction and specifically in the first direction. In other words, the one-way stretchable material may be only stretchable in the first direction. For example, the one-way stretchable material may be unstretchable in a second direction, perpendicular to the first direction. In particular, the one-way stretchable material may be tight in the second direction. Specifically, being unstretchable in the second direction may comprise that the stretchability in the second direction of the material is much smaller compared to the stretchability in the first direction.

[0041] Generally, assessing the stretchability of a material and/or textile may be based on a stretching under load test. For example, applying a tensile force in the first direction to the base layer may stretch the base layer by a first amount and applying a tensile force in the second direction of the same magnitude as the first force may stretch the base layer by a second amount. For example, the magnitude of the force may be in the range between 10 N to 300 N, in some embodiments in the range between 20 N to 200 N, in some embodiments in the range between 25 N to 100 N. In particular, the first amount may be larger than the second amount, e.g., larger by a factor of at least 1.2, in some embodiments at least 1.4, in some embodiments at least 1.6, in some embodiments at least 1.8, in some embodiments at least 2. Specifically, the ratio (factor) between the first amount and the second amount may at least partially depend on the magnitude of the applied force, e.g., the magnitude of the first force. For example, the ratio (factor) may depend non-linearly on the applied force. In general, the second direction may be perpendicular to the first direction. The second direction may be a direction with respect to the plane state of the upper.

[0042] Using a one-way stretchable material that is essentially stretchable exclusively in the first direction allows for a precise adjustment of the stretchability in the first direction. In particular, being essentially stretchable exclusively in the first direction may ensure that it is sufficient to limit the stretchability of the base layer and/or the upper only in the first direction, e.g., no additional reinforcement elements adapted to limit the stretchability in the second direction may be needed. Thereby, a good fit of the upper and/or the shoe having the upper can be guaranteed. A good fit of the upper and/or the shoe enhances the wearing comfort of the shoe and thus optimizes the performance of the athlete. In addition, using a one-way stretchable material essentially stretchable exclusively in the first direction may ensure that upper is sufficiently stable such as to support a foot of the athlete (particularly during walking and/or running) while at the same time being stretchable in selected areas such as to adapt to the shape of the last and of the foot.

[0043] Specifically, the second direction may be parallel to a direction extending from a lateral side of the upper to a medial side of the upper. For example, the second direction may be essentially parallel to the direction extending from a lateral side to the medial side.

[0044] The lateral side of the upper and/or the medial side of the upper may refer to the corresponding sides of a shoe, e.g., when the upper is fixed to a sole of the shoe. The direction extending from a lateral side of the upper to a medial side of the upper may be a direction with respect to the plane state of the upper, e.g., when the upper may comprise an essentially two-dimensional extension. For example, the second direction, e.g., the direction in which the material is essentially unstretchable, may be parallel to the direction extending from the lateral side of the upper to the medial side of the upper. Particularly, parallel to the direction extending from a lateral side of the upper to a medial side of the upper may mean that an angle between the second direction and direction extending from a lateral side of the upper to a medial side of the upper is smaller than 90, in some embodiments smaller than 75, in some embodiments smaller than 60, in some embodiments smaller than 45, in some embodiments smaller than 30. In some embodiments, the second direction may be essentially parallel to the direction extending from a lateral side to the medial side. For example, the second direction and the direction extending from a lateral side to the medial side may be essentially the same direction, e.g., an angle between the second direction and the direction extending from a lateral side to the medial side may be smaller than 20, in some embodiments smaller than 15, in some embodiments smaller than 10, in some embodiments smaller than 6, in some embodiments smaller than 3.

[0045] In general, the first direction may have a component parallel to a longitudinal direction of the upper and/or shoe. For example, the first direction may be essentially parallel to the longitudinal direction.

[0046] The longitudinal direction of the upper and/or the shoe may include a direction extending from a region of the upper and/or shoe associated with a heel to a region of the upper and/or shoe associated with a forefoot and/or toe. For example, the region of the shoe associated with the heel may include a region adapted to receive a heel and/or rearfoot of the wearer. In addition, the region associated with the forefoot and/or toe may include a region adapted to receive a forefoot and/or toe of the wearer.

[0047] Particularly, in some instances, a component parallel to the longitudinal direction of the upper and/or shoe may mean that an angle between the first direction and the longitudinal direction of the upper and/or shoe is smaller than 90, in some embodiments smaller than 75, in some embodiments smaller than 60, in some embodiments smaller than 45, in some embodiments smaller than 30. In some embodiments, the first direction may be essentially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the upper and/or shoe. For example, the first direction and the longitudinal direction of the upper and/or shoe may be essentially the same direction, e.g., an angle between the first direction and the longitudinal direction of the upper and/or shoe may be smaller than 20, in some embodiments smaller than 15, in some embodiments smaller than 10, in some embodiments smaller than 6, in some embodiments smaller than 2. In some embodiments, the first direction may be parallel to a last ridge line, e.g., the first direction may at least partially follow the last ridge line.

[0048] A material stretchable in a direction including a component parallel to a longitudinal direction of the upper and/or shoe enhances the adaptability of the upper to the last and/or to the shoe. For example, the stretchability in the direction including a component parallel to a longitudinal direction of the upper and/or shoe may allow the upper to adapt to the last and/or shoe even when the shoe last comprises a radial and/or extreme shape. Thereby, the material stretchable in a direction including a component parallel to a longitudinal direction of the upper and/or shoe may render the use of a one-piece upper possible, e.g., an upper and/or base layer essentially formed of one piece.

[0049] In addition, a first direction including a component parallel to the last ridge line allows the material to stretch along the ridge line of the last, thereby accommodating the convex portions of it, while still adhering to the adjacent concave portions of the last, e.g., the concave portion corresponding to the arch of the foot.

[0050] Generally, the at least one reinforcement element may be arranged such that the at least one reinforcement element extends at least partially in the first direction.

[0051] For example, extending at least partially in the first direction may mean that the at least one reinforcement element includes a dimension in the first direction, e.g., has a component extending in the first direction. In addition, extending at least partially in the first direction may mean the at least one reinforcement element further includes a dimension and/or extension in the second direction. Generally, the at least one reinforcement element may have a dimension and/or extension in the first and the second direction. For example, extending at least partially in the first direction may mean that the dimension and/or extension in the first direction may be larger than the dimension and/or extension in the second direction. In particular, having a dimension and/or extension in the first direction that is larger than a dimension and/or extension in the second direction may mean that a projection of the at least one reinforcement element onto the first direction is larger than a projection of the reinforcement element onto the second direction.

[0052] A reinforcement element arranged such as to at least partially extend in the first direction may ensure that the stretchability of the one-way stretchable material can be limited in selected and/or targeted areas, e.g., in selected and/or targeted portions of the upper. In particular, a reinforcement element at least partially extending in the first direction may allow limiting the stretchability of the one-way stretchable material across the dimension and/or extension of the reinforcement element in the first direction. Therefore, a reinforcement element arranged such as to at least partially extend in the first direction allows for a precise and focused steering of the stretchability of the one-way stretchable material and thus contributes to an optimizes adaption of the upper and/or the base layer to the shape of the shoe last, e.g., to shoe lasts having an extreme and/or radial shape, and consequently to the foot of the athlete.

[0053] The at least one reinforcement element may be arranged such as to be located at a surface of the base layer. For example, the at least one reinforcement element may be arranged such as to be located at an inner surface of the base layer.

[0054] The base layer may have two surfaces, e.g., an inwardly directed surface and an outwardly directed surface. Specifically, the inwardly directed surface may be an opposite surface with respect to the outwardly directed surface, e.g., when the upper is in the plane state. For example, the inwardly directed surface may be a surface which is adapted to point towards an inside of the shoe, that is toward the void intended to receive the foot of the wearer e.g., when arranged at the shoe. In particular, the inwardly directed surface may be adapted to contact directly or indirectly a foot of the athlete. In addition, the outwardly directed surface may be an outer surface of the shoe.

[0055] Locating the reinforcement element at a surface of the base layer, e.g., an inner surface of the base layer may mean that the reinforcement element is at least partially fixed to and/or at least partially contacts the surface of the base layer. For example, the reinforcement element may be put on the surface of the base layer.

[0056] In addition, or alternatively, the reinforcement element may be arranged at the outer surface of the base layer. For example, the complete reinforcement element may be arranged at the outer surface of the base layer, e.g., the reinforcement element is exclusively arranged at the outer surface. Generally, the reinforcement element may be arranged at the inner surface and the outer surface. For example, a first portion of the reinforcement element may be arranged at the inner surface and a second portion may be arranged at the outer surface. In some instances, at least a portion of the reinforcement element may be arranged within the base layer. For example, at least a portion of the reinforcement element may be arranged in between the inner surface and the outer surface of the base layer. In particular, the base layer may have at least one pocket adapted to receive at least a part of the reinforcement element.

[0057] Locating the reinforcement element at a surface of the base layer may simplify and/or optimize the process of arranging the reinforcement element at the upper. Therefore, the number of production steps needed may be minimized, which may speed up the production of the upper. Speeding up the production of the upper may contribute to an optimized production of the upper and maximization of efficiency.

[0058] In particular, locating the at least one reinforcement element at the outer surface renders the inner surface of the upper smoother, thereby minimizing discontinuities at the inner surface and thus make the shoe is more comfortable.

[0059] Furthermore, locating the at least one reinforcement element at the inner surface contributes to a smoother and cleaner outer surface of the base material and/or upper, thereby optimizing the athlete's control over a ball when kicking the ball, e.g., in sports as football.

[0060] In general, the at least one reinforcement element may be arranged such that at least a portion of the reinforcement element is heat bonded to the base layer. In addition, or alternatively, the at least one reinforcement element may be arranged such that at least a portion of the reinforcement element is stitched to the base layer. In addition, or alternatively, the at least one reinforcement element may be arranged such that at least a portion of the reinforcement element is glued and/or cemented and/or taped to the base layer. In addition, or alternatively, the at least one reinforcement element may be arranged such that at least a portion of the reinforcement element is fixed at the base layer through a melting yarn, e.g., a melting yarn incorporated in the base layer and/or in the reinforcement element. Specifically, the melting yarn may be incorporated into the base material and/or the material of the at least one reinforcement band.

[0061] In addition, or alternatively, at least a portion of the reinforcement element may be embroidered to the base layer. For example, the (whole) reinforcement element may be embroidered to the base layer. Specifically, the at least portion of the reinforcement element may be embroidered to the base layer at least partially based on a strong thread and/or a hotmelt yarn and subsequent heat pressing.

[0062] For example, the at least a portion of the reinforcement element may be heat bonded to a portion of the surface of the base layer. For example, the at least a portion of the reinforcement may be heat bonded to a portion of the inner surface and/or the outer surface of the base layer. In addition, or alternatively, the at least a portion of the reinforcement may be stitched to the base layer. For example, the at least a portion of the reinforcement may be stitched to the surface, e.g., the inner and/or the outer surface, of the base layer. In some embodiments, a first portion of the reinforcement element may be heat bonded to the base layer and a second portion of the reinforcement element may be stitched to the base layer.

[0063] Heat bonding and/or stitching the at least a portion of the reinforcement to the base layer may ensure that the reinforcement element is sufficiently fixed to the base layer without substantially altering the base layer. In addition, heat bonding and/or stitching the at least portion of the reinforcement to the base layer may speed up the process of attaching the reinforcement element to the base layer, thereby rendering the production of the upper and/or shoe more efficient.

[0064] The at least one reinforcement element may be arranged such as to be essentially symmetrical with respect to a medial portion and a lateral portion of the upper.

[0065] Generally, being essentially symmetrical with respect to a medial portion and a lateral portion of the upper may mean that at least one property of the reinforcement element associated with the medial side and the lateral side coincides. For example, the number of reinforcement bands associated with the medial portion of the upper may coincide with the number of reinforcement bands associated with the lateral portion of the upper. In other words, the medial portion of the upper may have the same number of reinforcement bands as the lateral portion of the upper. In addition, the reinforcement bands on the medial side of the upper may have the same width as the reinforcement bands on the lateral side.

[0066] In addition, or alternatively, being essentially symmetrical with respect to a medial portion and a lateral portion of the upper may mean that the portion of the reinforcement element associated with the medial side of the upper is essentially congruent to the portion of the reinforcement element associated with the lateral side of the upper. For example, being congruent may mean that the medial portion of the reinforcement element has the same shape and size as the lateral portion of the reinforcement element.

[0067] In addition, or alternatively, being essentially symmetrical with respect to a medial portion and a lateral portion of the upper may mean that the portion of the reinforcement element associated with the medial side of the upper is essentially similar to the portion of the reinforcement element associated with the lateral side of the upper. For example, being similar may mean that the medial portion of the reinforcement element comprises the same shape. Specifically, similarity may not refer to properties such as a location, a scale, an orientation and/or a reflection of the portions of the reinforcement element. For example, the medial portion of the reinforcement element may be regarded as being similar, e.g., when the lateral portion of the reinforcement element corresponds to the medial portion of the reinforcement element up to a scaling.

[0068] For example, the upper may be configured such that the medial portion of the upper and the lateral portion of the upper may essentially define a symmetry axis of the upper. Being arranged symmetrical with respect to the medial portion and the lateral portion of the upper may mean that the at least one reinforcement element may be symmetrical with respect to a symmetry axis. For example, the symmetry axis of the at least one reinforcement element may essentially coincide with the symmetry axis of the upper, which extends in the longitudinal direction. For example, when the at least one reinforcement element only has one reinforcement element, being arranged symmetrically may mean that the reinforcement element is symmetrical, and that the symmetry axis of the reinforcement element may coincide with the symmetry axis of the upper. In addition, or alternatively, when the at least one reinforcement element has at least two elements, being arranged symmetric may mean that the at least two reinforcement elements are arranged such as to be symmetrical with respect to the symmetry axis of the upper. For example, the number and/or alignment of reinforcement elements associated with the medial side of the upper may correspond to the number and/or alignment of reinforcement elements associated with the lateral side of the upper.

[0069] In addition, or alternatively, being essentially symmetrical with respect to a medial portion and a lateral portion of the upper may mean that at least a subset of the bands associated with the medial side of upper are symmetrical with at least a subset of the bands associated with the later side of the upper. For example, a first lateral reinforcement band arranged at the lateral portion of the upper and a first medial reinforcement band arranged at the medial portion of the upper may be essentially symmetrical. Specifically, the first lateral reinforcement band and the first medial reinforcement band may each include a reinforcement band extending from a region of the upper associated with eyestays to a region of the upper associated with a heel area. In addition, or alternatively, the upper may have a second lateral reinforcement band and/or a second medial reinforcement band, e.g., the number of second reinforcement bands of the medial portion and the lateral portion may differ. For example, the upper may have a second lateral reinforcement band and a second medial reinforcement band. In particular, the second lateral reinforcement band may have a shape and/or size and/or orientation different from a shape and/or size and/or orientation of the second medial reinforcement band.

[0070] Arranging the at least one reinforcement element such as to be essentially symmetrical with respect to a medial portion and a lateral portion of the upper may ensure that the stretchability of the one-way stretchable material in the medial region is essentially the same as the stretchability of the one-way stretchable material in the lateral region. Therefore, the stretchability of the upper may be essentially symmetrical with respect to the medial portion and the lateral portion of the upper. A symmetrical stretchability of the upper may contribute to an optimized adaption of the upper to a shoe last, e.g., a shoe last of radical and/or extreme shape, as well as to an optimized adaption of the upper to the foot of the athlete.

[0071] In some embodiments, the at least one reinforcement element may encompass at least a portion of eyestays of the upper. For example, the at least one reinforcement element may encompass the complete eyestays of the upper.

[0072] A material associated with the at least one reinforcement element may at least partially enclose at least a portion of eyestays of the upper. For example, the at least one reinforcement element may encompass at least two adjacent eyestays of the upper. In addition, or alternatively, the reinforcement element may encompass eyestays of the upper that are not adjacent, e.g., between two eyestays that are encompassed and/or enclosed by the upper there may be at least one eyestay in between which is not encompassed and/or enclosed by the reinforcement element.

[0073] Generally, the at least one reinforcement element may encompass at least a portion of the eyestays such as to symmetrically encompass the eyestays with respect to the symmetry axis of the upper. For example, a medial portion of the eyestays may be located at the medial side of the upper and a lateral portion of the eyestays may be located at the lateral side of the upper. In particular, the at least one reinforcement element may be arranged such as to encompass the same number of lateral and medial eyestays. Specifically, the at least one reinforcement element may encompass at least two, in some embodiments at least three, in some embodiments at least four, in some embodiments at least five eyestays of the medial and/or lateral eyestays. In particular, the at least one reinforcement element may encompass the complete eyestays of the upper, e.g., the complete medial and the complete lateral eyestays of the upper.

[0074] In addition, or alternatively, the eyestays may be separated from each other by spacings. For example, a first eyestay may be separated from a second eyestay by a first spacing. Specifically, the at least one reinforcement element may encompass the eyestays such as to extend between the spacing of adjacent eyestays. For example, the at least one reinforcement element may encompass the first and the second eyestay such as to cover the first spacing. For example, at least a portion of the spacing may comprise a portion of the reinforcement element.

[0075] Arranging the at least one reinforcement element such as to encompass at least a portion of the eyestays of the upper allows for limiting the stretchability of the one-way stretchable material at least in the first direction. For example, the eyestays may be arranged such as to essentially follow the longitudinal direction of the upper and/or shoe. In particular, arranging the at least one reinforcement element such as to encompass at least a portion of the eyestays of the upper enhances the stability of the upper in a region associated with the eyestays, thereby contributing to an improved support and lock down of the foot.

[0076] Reinforcement elements encompassing at least a portion of the eyestays of the upper may further act as reinforcement elements to prevent wearing and tearing of the base material/layer around the eyestays due to a tension applied by laces. In other words, reinforcement elements encompassing at least a portion of the eyestays of the upper may (mostly) be directed to the reinforcement of the material around the eyestays and may be (only secondary) directed to the limitation of the stretchability of the one-way stretchable material. In particular, (at least) regarding the limitation of the stretchability of the one-way stretchable material, adapting the reinforcement elements such as to encompass at least a portion of the eyestays may be an optional feature, e.g., may be omitted.

[0077] Specifically, the at least one reinforcement element may encompass the eyestays such as to encompass the eyestays as an essentially continuous segment.

[0078] For example, the at least one reinforcement element may encompass a contiguous set of eyestays. In particular, the at least one reinforcement element may encompass a first eyestay and a last eyestay and all eyestays in between. Encompassing the eyestays as an essentially continuous segment may mean that the at least one reinforcement element extends between the first and the last eyestay. For example, the at least one reinforcement element may extend essentially continuously between the first and the last eyestay. In particular, extend essentially continuously between the first and the last eyestay may mean extending between the first and the last eyestay without a gap, e.g., a portion not encompassed by the at least one reinforcement element.

[0079] Arranging the at least one reinforcement element such as to encompass the eyestays as an essentially continuous segment allows for limiting the stretchability of the one-way stretchable material at least in the first direction. In particular, arranging the at least one reinforcement element such as to encompass the eyestays as an essentially continuous segment enhances the stability of the upper in a region associated with the eyestays, thereby contributing to an improved support and lock down of the foot.

[0080] Generally, the at least one reinforcement element may include at least one reinforcement band. In particular, the at least one reinforcement band may extend from a region of the upper associated with eyestays to a region of the upper associated with a midsole and/or strobel. In addition, or alternatively, the at least one reinforcement band may extend from a region of the upper associated with eyestays to a region of the upper associated with a heel area.

[0081] A reinforcement band may include at least a portion of the reinforcement element such that an extension of the reinforcement band in a first direction is larger than an extension of the reinforcement band in a second direction. For example, the reinforcement band may have an essentially rectangular shape, e.g., one major extension in the first direction and a minor extension in the second direction. Specifically, the reinforcement band may comprise the shape of a strip.

[0082] In addition, or alternatively, the at least one reinforcement band may extend from a region of the upper associated with eyestays to a region of the upper associated with a midsole and/or strobel. The region of the upper associated with a midsole and/or strobel may be a region of the upper adapted to contact the midsole and/or strobel.

[0083] Specifically, the upper may include reinforcement bands extending from a region associated with the eyestays towards a region associated with the midsole and/or strobel when the corresponding shoe is adapted for sports involving multi-directional movements and/or high speeds, e.g., (large) lateral movements, e.g., sprinting, football, basketball, baseball and/or tennis. In addition, or alternatively, the upper may include reinforcement bands extending from a region associated with the eyestays towards a region associated with the midsole and/or strobel when the base material is very light.

[0084] In addition, or alternatively, the region of the upper associated with a midsole and/or strobel may be a region of the upper adapted to be fixed to the midsole and/or strobel, e.g., by gluing. For example, the reinforcement band may extend beyond a bite line and/or a tooling top line, e.g., an upper edge of the midsole.

[0085] For example, the reinforcement band may originate from the region of the upper associated with the eyestays and may end in the region associated with the midsole and/or strobel. In particular, the reinforcement band may be configured such that the direction associated with the larger extension of the reinforcement band (major direction) may include a component parallel to a direction pointing from the region of the upper associated with the eyestays towards the region associated with the midsole and/or strobel.

[0086] In addition, or alternatively, the at least one reinforcement band may extend from a region of the upper associated with eyestays to a region of the upper associated with a heel area. For example, the reinforcement band may originate from the region of the upper associated with the eyestays and may end in the region associated with the heel area. For example, the reinforcement band may end in a region associated with a rear edge of the heel portion, e.g., a back seam of the heel portion. Specifically, the reinforcement band may originate from the eyestays region on a forefoot, e.g., a first and/or second lace hole on the forefoot area of the upper. In particular, the reinforcement band may be configured such that the direction associated with the larger extension of the reinforcement band (major direction) may include a component parallel to a direction pointing from the region of the upper associated with the eyestays towards the region associated with the heel area.

[0087] A reinforcement element including at least one reinforcement band may allow for an effective and efficient utilization of the reinforcement element, e.g., stiffening a large portion of the base layer while using a minimal portion of the reinforcement element. In particular, the reinforcement band may have a major dimension and/or extension in a direction essentially parallel to the first direction, i.e., the direction in which the one-way stretchable material is stretchable and a minor dimension and/or extension in the second direction, i.e., the direction in which the one-way material may be unstretchable. Therefore, using reinforcement bands minimizes the portion of the base layer including the reinforcement band and/or minimizes the amount of reinforcement band necessary to achieve the intended stiffening and/or limitation of stretchability. Minimizing the amount of reinforcement band necessary to achieve the intended stiffening and limitation of stretchability may minimize the weight of the upper and/or the shoe. Minimizing the weight of the upper and/or shoe may contribute to an increased performance of the athlete and may further reduce production costs, e.g., by reducing the amount of necessary material and/or accelerating the production.

[0088] In particular, a reinforcement element having at least one reinforcement band extending from a region of the upper associated with eyestays to a region of the upper associated a heel area allows for creating a tension line from the forefoot to the heel area. Thereby, the at least one reinforcement element provides the sufficient support and lock down for the foot necessary for any sports, and it would be a sufficient reinforcement element particularly for sports featuring a linear movement, e.g., marathon running. In particular, for linear movement sports, e.g., running sports, the at least one reinforcement band may extend from a region of the upper associated with eyestays to a region of the upper associated a heel area may be sufficient, e.g., the reinforcement bands extending from a region of the upper associated with eyestays to a region of the upper associated with a midsole and/or strobel may not be needed for ensuring sufficient support of the foot.

[0089] Generally, the at least one reinforcement band may originate in a region located below the eyestays of the upper, e.g., there may be a distance between the eyestays of the upper and at least one reinforcement band.

[0090] In addition, or alternatively, the at least one reinforcement band may extend from the essentially continuous segment encompassing the eyestays of the upper.

[0091] For example, the at least one reinforcement band may originate from the essentially continuous segment encompassing the eyestays of the upper. For example, the at least one reinforcement band may originate from the essentially continuous segment encompassing the eyestays of the upper and extend towards the region associated with the midsole and/or strobel. In addition, or alternatively, the at least one reinforcement band may originate from the essentially continuous segment encompassing the eyestays of the upper and extend towards the region associated with the heel area. In some embodiments, the upper may have a first reinforcement band extending from the essentially continuous segment towards the region associated with the midsole and/or strobel and a second reinforcement band extending from the essentially continuous segment towards the region associated with the heel area. Specifically, the upper may have the first and the second reinforcement bands at a medial side and at a lateral side of the midsole, e.g., the upper may include four reinforcement bands. In particular, the reinforcement bands may be arranged symmetrical with respect to the medial and the lateral side of the upper.

[0092] A reinforcement band extending from the essentially continuous segment encompassing the eyestays of the upper allows for a localized and efficient stiffening of the base layer and/or upper at least in the first direction. In addition, as the reinforcement element may be a contiguous reinforcement element, e.g., an essentially continuous segment from which reinforcement bands extend, the arrangement of the reinforcement element at the base layer, e.g., at a surface of the base layer, may be simplified. Simplifying the arrangement of the reinforcement element at the base layer may speed up and/or may optimize the production of the upper.

[0093] Generally, the upper may include at least one reinforcement band. In addition, or alternatively, the upper may include at least two reinforcement bands. In addition, or alternatively, the upper may include at least three reinforcement bands. In addition, or alternatively, the upper may include at least four reinforcement bands. In some embodiments, the upper may include at most 20 reinforcement bands. In addition, or alternatively, the upper may include at most 16 reinforcement bands. In addition, or alternatively, the upper may include at most 12 reinforcement bands. In addition, or alternatively, the upper may include at most 8 reinforcement bands. In addition, or alternatively, the upper may include at most 6 reinforcement bands.

[0094] For example, the upper may include at least two reinforcement bands, e.g., a first reinforcement band at a medial side of the base layer and a second reinforcement band at a lateral side of the base layer. In addition, or alternatively, the upper may include at least two reinforcement bands at each side, e.g., two reinforcement bands at the medial side and two reinforcement bands at the lateral side. In addition, or alternatively, the upper may include at most 20 reinforcement bands. For example, the upper may comprise at most 20 reinforcement bands in total, e.g., the sum of reinforcement bands at the medial side and reinforcement bands at the lateral side may be at most 20. In some embodiments, the number of reinforcement bands at the medial and/or the lateral side may be at most 20.

[0095] An upper include at least two reinforcement bands and/or at most 20 reinforcement bands may ensure a sufficient limitation of the stretchability of the base layer and/or upper at least in the first direction while at the same time guaranteeing an efficient utilization of the reinforcement element, e.g., achieving the intended limitation and/or stiffening with a minimal number of reinforcement bands.

[0096] In general, a width of the at least one reinforcement band may be at least 0.25 cm. In addition, or alternatively, the width of the at least one reinforcement band may be at least 0.5 cm. In addition, or alternatively, the width of the at least one reinforcement band may be at least 0.75 cm. In addition, or alternatively, the width of the at least one reinforcement band may be at least 1 cm. In addition, or alternatively, the width of the at least one reinforcement band may be at least 1.25 cm. In addition, or alternatively, the width of the at least one reinforcement band may be at most 3 cm, in some embodiments at most 2.75 cm, in some embodiments at most 2.5 cm, in some embodiments at most 2.25 cm, in some embodiments at most 2 cm.

[0097] The width of the at least one reinforcement band may be the extension of the reinforcement band in the direction associated with the smaller extension, e.g., the minor extension of the reinforcement band. A reinforcement band with a width of at least 0.25 cm may contribute to the limitation of the stretchability of the one-way stretchable material at least in the first direction. In particular, a reinforcement band with a width of at least 0.25 may ensure that an intended limitation of the stretchability and/or an intending stiffening of the upper is achieved. Therefore, using a reinforcement band comprising a width of at least 0.25 cm may enhance the support and/or the lock down of the foot.

[0098] Generally, the at least one reinforcement element may be a non-stretchable material. For example, the at least one reinforcement element may be synthetic suede and/or a non-stretchable textile and/or leather and/or a polymer-based tape.

[0099] A non-stretchable material may be a material whose stretchability is smaller than the stretchability of the base one-way stretchable material. For example, a non-stretchable material may be a material which is unstretchable in all directions, e.g., in a first direction and second direction such that the first and second directions are essentially perpendicular. For example, the non-stretchable material may be an essentially tight material. In particular, the non-stretchable material may be configured such that it can be heat bonded and/or stitched to the base layer. Specifically, the reinforcement may comprise a synthetic suede. In addition, or alternatively, the non-stretchable material may be a non-stretchable textile. In addition, or alternatively, the non-stretchable material may be leather, natural or synthetic. In addition, or alternatively, the non-stretchable material may be a polymer-based tape. For example, the polymer-based tape may be polyurethane.

[0100] Using a reinforcement element of a non-stretchable material may ensure that the reinforcement element limits the stretchability of the one-way stretchable material at least in the first direction. Therefore, the reinforcement element of a non-stretchable material contributes to the stiffening of at least a portion of the base layer and/or the upper. A stiff portion of the base-layer and/or the upper maximizes the support of the foot and/or the lock down of the foot.

[0101] In some embodiments, the base layer may be a woven material with a weft thread and a warp thread. In particular, the weft thread may have at least one weft yarn and the warp thread may have at least one warp yarn. For example, the at least one weft yarn and the at least one warp yarn may be configured such that the at least one weft yarn is more stretchable than the at least one warp yarn. In addition, or alternatively, the at least one weft yarn and the at least one warp yarn may be configured such that the at least one warp yarn is more stretchable than the at least one weft yarn.

[0102] Specifically, in an embodiment, the at least one weft yarn may be more stretchable than the at least one warp yarn, as adjusting the at least one warp yarn may be more difficult and thereby impede the production.

[0103] For example, essentially the whole base layer may be the woven material. The woven material may have at least one weft yarn and/or at least one warp yarn. Generally, the at least one weft yarn and the at least one warp yarn of the woven material may be arranged such as to cross each other at essentially right angles. For example, at least one weft yarn may be more stretchable than at least one warp yarn. In particular, all weft yarns may be more stretchable than the warp yarns. Specifically, all weft yarns may have a first stretchability and all warp yarns may have a second stretchability. For example, the first stretchability may be larger than the second stretchability, e.g., the weft yarns may be more stretchable than the warp yarns. In other words, all weft yarns may essentially comprise the same stretchability and all warp yarns may essentially comprise the same stretchability. For example, the warp yarns may be essentially unstretchable. In particular, the weft yarns may be stretchable, and the warp yarns may be unstretchable. Specifically, the weft yarns may run in the first direction and/or the warp yarns may run in the second direction. For example, the weft yarns may run in the first direction and the warp yarns may run in the second direction such as to at least partially define the one-way stretchable material.

[0104] For example, the more stretchable yarns, e.g., the weft yarns, may be a mechanical high stretch yarn, particularly a high crimp yarn. For example, the high crimp yarn may comprise a texturized yarn finished to possess high degree of crimp. In addition, or alternatively, the high stretch yarn may be a side-by-side yarn.

[0105] In some embodiments, the differential stretch in the woven material may be achieved by placing an elastane thread every few weft yarns.

[0106] In addition, or alternatively, at least one warp yarn may be more stretchable than at least one weft yarn. In particular, all warp yarns may be more stretchable than the weft yarns. Specifically, all warp yarns may comprise a first stretchability and all weft yarns may comprise a second stretchability. For example, the first stretchability may be larger than the second stretchability, e.g., the warp yarns may be more stretchable than the weft yarns.

[0107] In some embodiments, the yarns of the weft thread may have a different stretchability. For example, a first weft yarn may comprise a first stretchability and a second weft yarn may have a second stretchability. In addition, or alternatively, the yarns of the warp thread may have a different stretchability. For example, a first warp yarn may have a first stretchability and a second warp yarn may have a second stretchability. Specifically, the stretchability of the weft yarns and/or the warp yarns may be such that an effective stretchability of the weft yarns, e.g., a stretchability associated with the weft thread may be larger than an effective stretchability of the warp yarns, e.g., a stretchability associated with the warp thread.

[0108] A woven with weft yarns and warp yarns with a different stretchability may contribute to the one-way stretchable material. In particular, the weft yarns and/or the warp yarns may at least partially define the first and the second direction of the one-way stretchable material, e.g., the stretchable direction and the unstretchable direction.

[0109] Therefore, a woven with weft yarns and warp yarns with a different stretchability contributes to the adaptivity of the upper to the foot and/or the shoe last, e.g., a shoe last of an extreme shape. In particular, the woven may contribute to an optimal fitting of the upper and/or shoe to the foot of the athlete, thereby maximizing the wearing comfort and thus optimizing the performance.

[0110] In addition, or alternatively, the base layer may be of a knitted material.

[0111] For example, a portion of the base layer may be of a knitted material. In some embodiments, essentially the complete base layer may be a knitted material. Generally, the knitted material may be a weft knitted material. In addition, or alternatively, the knitted material may be a warp knitted material.

[0112] Generally, the base layer may be a one-piece material and/or a unitary construction. For example, the one-piece material and/or the unitary construction may be adapted such as to form a one-piece upper.

[0113] A one-piece material and/or a unitary construction may mean that the base layer is essentially formed by a single piece of material. In particular, a one-piece material may not be a material that has multiple cut pieces of textile that are stitched together. In other words, the one-piece material and/or unitary construction may be a homogenous and/or continuous construction, e.g., there may be no seams resulting from connecting different cuts together.

[0114] Specifically, the one-piece material and/or the unitary construction may be adapted such as to form a one-piece upper. A one-piece upper may be an upper that essentially is of a unitary construction. For example, a one-piece upper may have a base layer of a unitary construction, e.g., the base layer may be of a one-piece material. In addition, a one-piece upper may have a base layer of a unitary construction and/or a one-piece material onto which additional structural elements may be arranged. For example, a one-piece upper may have a base layer of unitary construction and/or a one-piece material onto which reinforcement elements may be arranged. In other words, a one-piece upper and/or unitary construction may mean that apart from the base layer no further full layers are foreseen in the upper. For example, the base layer may be the only material running throughout the full upper, while other possible local reinforcements, e.g., a toe reinforcement and/or a heel reinforcement, and/or a padding, e.g., a padding at an ankle opening, and/or branding may be attached to it.

[0115] Using a one-piece material and/or a unitary construction for the base layer and/or the upper may contribute to a minimal and simple construction of the upper. For example, using a one-piece material and/or a unitary construction for the base layer and/or the upper may reduce the production steps of the upper and thereby the costs. In addition, using the one-piece material and/or the unitary construction for the base layer and/or the upper may contribute to a light, e.g., minimal weight, and soft upper construction. In particular, using the one-piece material and/or the unitary construction for the base layer and/or the upper may allow the upper to fit onto and/or wrap around the foot of the athlete. Therefore, the one-piece material and/or the unitary construction for the base layer and/or the upper enhances the performance of the athlete.

[0116] Another example relates to a shoe, particularly a sports shoe, including the above-described upper.

[0117] The shoe with the above-described upper may inherit all the beneficial effects described-above in relation with the upper. Generally, the upper may be incorporated in the shoe such as to be fixed to a midsole of the shoe.

[0118] In the following, only some possible examples are described in detail. It is to be understood that these examples can be modified in a number of ways and combined with each other whenever compatible and that certain features may be omitted in so far as they appear dispensable.

[0119] It is to be understood that not all features of the described aspects/embodiments must be present for realizing the technical benefits provided by the present disclosure, which is defined by the subject matter of the claims. The disclosed aspects/embodiments may be modified by combining certain features of one aspect/embodiment with one or more features of another aspect/embodiment. Specifically, the skilled person will understand that features, and/or functional elements of one aspect/embodiment can be combined with technically compatible features, and/or functional elements of any other aspect/embodiment of the present disclosure given that the resulting combination falls within the definition of the present disclosure.

[0120] While the embodiments below are described primarily with reference to an upper for a sports shoe, such as a running shoe, the skilled person will recognize that this disclosure can equally be applied in different technical fields and/or use cases. For instance, other sports shoe for basketball, soccer, football, tennis, golf, cross-training, hiking, cycling, trailrunning or snowboarding are also encompassed. The expression sports shoe means that athletic sports shoes are mentioned without use cases not directed to the athletic use like business shoes or chess shoes or house slippers.

[0121] FIG. 1A illustrates an example of an upper 100. The upper 100 has a base layer 110 and a reinforcement element 120. The reinforcement element is arranged on an inner side of the upper 100, e.g., a side of the upper which is adapted to be oriented inwardly when the upper is arranged at a shoe. For example, the inner side of the upper 100 may be adapted to directly contact a foot of the athlete wearing the shoe or indirectly contact the foot of the athlete if for instance the latter is wearing socks. In some implementations, the reinforcement element 120 may be arranged at an outer side of the upper 100, e.g., a side of the upper 100 that is visible when the upper 100 is arranged at the shoe. In addition, or alternatively, the reinforcement element 120 may be arranged within the base layer 110. In addition, the upper includes eyestays 130a, 130b, 130c, 130d, 130e, 130f, 130g (others not labelled).

[0122] The base layer 110 includes a one-way stretchable material 115. The base layer 100 features the one-way stretchable material 115 essentially uniformly, e.g., the one-way stretchable material 115 may be present essentially across the complete base layer 110. The one-way stretchable material 115 is stretchable in a first direction 100a. In particular, the first direction 100a has a component parallel to the longitudinal direction of the upper 100. For example, the first direction 100a is essentially parallel to the longitudinal direction. Furthermore, the one-way stretchable material 115 is unstretchable in a second direction 100b. The second direction 100b is essentially perpendicular to the first direction 100a. The second direction 100b comprises a component parallel to a direction extending from the lateral side of the upper to the medial side of the upper. In particular, the second direction 100b is essentially parallel to the direction extending from the lateral side to the medial side.

[0123] Generally, the base layer 110 and/or the one-way stretchable material 115 may be a woven material. For example, the woven material may include weft yarns and/or warp yarns. Specifically, the weft yarns and/or the warp yarns may have a different stretchability. For example, the weft yarns may be more stretchable than the warp yarns. Alternatively, the warp yarns may be more stretchable than the weft yarns. The yarns being more stretchable, e.g., the warp yarns and/or the weft yarns, may be arranged such as to run in the first direction 100a. The yarns being less stretchable, e.g., the warp yarns and/or the weft yarns, may be arranged such as to run in the second direction 100b. The yarns running in the second direction may be essentially non-stretchable. In addition, or alternatively, the base layer 110 and/or the one-way stretchable material 115 may be a knitted material.

[0124] In the example shown, the reinforcement element 120 is formed as a connected and/or contiguous reinforcement element 120, e.g., the reinforcement element 120 cannot be decomposed into unconnected portions. The reinforcement element 120 comprises four reinforcement bands 125a, 125b, 125c, 125d. For example, the reinforcement bands 125a, 125b may be associated with a lateral portion of the upper 100. In addition, the reinforcement bands 125c, 125d may be associated with a medial portion of the upper. The reinforcement element 120 is arranged such as to extend at least partially in the first direction 100a.

[0125] The reinforcement element 120, particularly the reinforcement bands 125a, 125b, 125c, 125d, is arranged such as to be essentially symmetrical with respect to the medial portion and the lateral portion of the upper 100, as explained before. For example, the reinforcement element 120 is arranged such as to be essentially symmetrical with respect to the symmetry axis 105. The symmetry axis 105 is at least partially based on the medial portion and the lateral portion of the upper 100. For example, the portion of the reinforcement element 120 arranged on the medial side of the upper 100 has essentially the same shape and size as the portion of the reinforcement element 120 arranged on the lateral side of the upper 100. In particular, the portion of the reinforcement element 120 arranged on the medial side of the upper 100 essentially mirrors the portion of the reinforcement element 120 arranged on the lateral side of the upper 100 with respect to the symmetry axis 105.

[0126] The reinforcement band 125a extends from a region associated with the eyestays 130a, 130b, 130c, 130d, 130e, 130f, 130g towards a region 104 associated with a heel area. Similarly, the reinforcement band 125b extends from a region associated with the eyestays 130a, 130b, 130c, 130d, 130e, 130f, 130g towards a region 102 associated with a midsole and/or strobel. For example, the region 102 associated with the midsole and/or strobel may be a region adapted to contact the midsole and/or strobel and/or to be fixed to the midsole. In addition, the reinforcement band 125d extends from a region associated with the eyestays 130a, 130b, 130c, 130d, 130e, 130f, 130g towards a region 104 associated with a heel area. Similarly, the reinforcement band 125c extends from a region associated with the eyestays 130a, 130b, 130c, 130d, 130e, 130f, 130g towards a region 102 associated with a midsole and/or strobel. Specifically, a length of the reinforcement bands 125a, 125b, 125c, 125d may be larger than a width of the reinforcement bands 125a, 125b, 125c, 125d. For example, the length of the reinforcement band 125a is larger than the length of the reinforcement band 125b.

[0127] The reinforcement bands 125a, 125b associated with the lateral side of the upper 100 may originate essentially at the same eyestays 130e, 130f. Similarly, the reinforcement bands 125c, 125d associated with the medial side of the upper 100 may originate essentially at the same eyestays (not labelled). In some embodiments, the reinforcement bands 125a, 125b associated with the lateral side of the upper 100 may originate at different eyestays. For example, the reinforcement band 125b may originate at eyestay 130g and reinforcement band 125a may originate at eyestay 130d. In particular, the reinforcement bands 125a, 125b may originate from eyestays 130d, 130g associated with a forefoot and/or midfoot region of the upper.

[0128] The reinforcement element 120 encompasses the eyestays 130a, 130b, 130c, 130d, 130e, 130f, 130g of the upper 100. In particular, the reinforcement element 120 encompasses the eyestays 130a, 130b, 130c, 130d, 130e, 130f, 130g as an essentially continuous segment. For example, the reinforcement element 120 encompasses all eyestays 130a, 130b, 130c, 130d, 130e, 130f, 130g of the upper 100. In particular, the reinforcement element 120 encompasses the eyestays 130a, 130b, 130c, 130d, 130e, 130f, 130g of the upper 100 such as to connect the eyestays 130a, 130b, 130c, 130d, 130e, 130f, 130g associated with the lateral side of the upper 100 with the eyestays (not labelled) associated with the medial side of the upper. Specifically, the reinforcement element 120 encompasses the eyestays 130a, 130b, 130c, 130d, 130e, 130f, 130g of the upper 100 such as to extend between the spacings between the eyestays 130a, 130b, 130c, 130d, 130e, 130f, 130g.

[0129] Generally, the reinforcement bands 125a, 125b, 125c, 125d may be a non-stretchable material. For example, the reinforcement bands 125a, 125b, 125c, 125d may be a synthetic suede and/or a non-stretchable textile and/or leather and/or a polymer-based tape. Specifically, the reinforcement bands 125a, 125b, 125c, 125d may be heat bonded to the base layer 110. In addition, or alternatively, the reinforcement bands 125a, 125b, 125c, 125d may be stitched and/or glued to the base layer 110.

[0130] FIG. 1B illustrates another example of an upper 100 including a reinforcement element, in which the reinforcement element 120 includes two disconnected reinforcement elements 120a and 120b. The reinforcement element 120a is arranged at a medial portion of the upper 100 and the reinforcement element 120b is arranged at a lateral portion of the upper. Each of the reinforcement elements 120a, 120b extend in the first direction 100a. In addition, each of the reinforcement elements 120a, 120b comprise a reinforcement band 125a, 125b. Particularly, the reinforcement element 120a includes the reinforcement band 125a and the reinforcement element 120b includes the reinforcement band 125b. The reinforcement elements 120a and 120b are arranged such as to be essentially symmetrical with respect to the medial portion and the lateral portion of the upper 100. In particular, the reinforcement elements 120a, 120b are arranged such as to be symmetrical with respect to the symmetry axis 105. For example, the reinforcement element 120a is arranged such as to essentially mirror the reinforcement element 120b with respect to the symmetry axis.

[0131] The reinforcement elements 120a, 120b are arranged such as to encompass at least a portion of the eyestays 130a-130l of the upper 100. For example, the reinforcement element 120a arranged on the medial side of the upper 100 is arranged such as to encompass at least a portion of the eyestays 130a-130f associated with the medial side of the upper. In addition, the reinforcement element 120b arranged on the lateral side of the upper 100 is arranged such as to encompass at least a portion of the eyestays 130g-130l associated with the lateral side of the upper. For example, the reinforcement element 120a encompasses the eyestays 130a, 130b of the upper 100. In particular, the reinforcement element 120a encompasses the eyestays 130a, 130b of the upper 100 such as to extend between the eyestays 130a, 130b, e.g., the reinforcement element 120a encompasses the eyestays 130a, 130b of the upper 100 as an essentially continuous segment. In addition, the reinforcement element 120b encompasses the eyestays 130k, 130l of the upper 100. In particular, the reinforcement element 120b encompasses the eyestays 130k, 130l of the upper 100 such as to extend between the eyestays 130k, 130l, e.g., the reinforcement element 120b encompasses the eyestays 130k, 130l of the upper 100 as an essentially continuous segment.

[0132] The reinforcement band 125a of the reinforcement element 120a extends from the region associated with the eyestays 130a-130f of the upper 100 to a region 104 of the upper 100 associated with a heel area. In addition, the reinforcement band 125b of the reinforcement element 120b extends from the region associated with the eyestays 130g-130l of the upper 100 to a region 104 of the upper 100 associated with a heel area.

[0133] FIG. 2 shows a lateral side view of an exemplary sports shoe 200 including an upper 210 (such as one of the afore described uppers) and a midsole 205. The upper 210 includes a base layer with a one-way stretchable material which is stretchable in the first direction 200a and essentially unstretchable in the second direction 200b. The upper further includes eyestays 230a, 230b, 230c, 230d, 230e, 230f, 230g. The upper 210 includes at least one reinforcement element 220 arranged such as to limit the stretchability of the one-way stretchable material at least in the first direction 100a.

[0134] The reinforcement element 220 is arranged on a medial side of the upper 210. In general, the upper 100 may include further reinforcement elements on the medial side (not shown). For example, the reinforcement elements 200 on the medial and the lateral side of the upper 100 may be arranged such as to be symmetrical with respect to the medial and the lateral portion of the upper 100. The reinforcement element 200 includes a reinforcement band 225. The reinforcement band 225 extends into a direction essentially parallel to the first direction 100a. In particular, the reinforcement band 225 extends from the region associated with the eyestays 230a, 230b, 230c, 230d, 230e, 230f, 230g to a region 202 associated with a heel area. In addition, or alternatively, the reinforcement element 220 may include further reinforcement bands. For example, the reinforcement element 220 may include a reinforcement band extending from a region associated with the eyestays 230a, 230b, 230c, 230d, 230e, 230f, 230g to a region 204 associated with a midsole 205 and/or strobel.

[0135] The reinforcement element 220 is arranged such as to encompass at least a portion of the eyestays 230a, 230b, 230c, 230d, 230e, 230f, 230g of the upper 100. In particular, the reinforcement element 220 is arranged such as to encompass the complete eyestays 230a, 230b, 230c, 230d, 230e, 230f, 230g of the upper 100. For example, the reinforcement element 220 is arranged such as to encompass the complete eyestays 230a, 230b, 230c, 230d, 230e, 230f, 230g of the upper as an essentially continuous segment.

ADDITIONAL EXAMPLES

[0136] Example 1An upper (100) for a shoe, particularly a sports shoe, including: a base layer (110) having a one-way stretchable material (115), in which the one-way stretchable material (115) is stretchable in a first di-rection (100a); and at least one reinforcement element (120), in which the reinforcement element (120) is arranged such as to limit the stretchability of the one-way stretchable material (115) at least in the first direction (100a).

[0137] Example 2The upper (100) of Example 1 in which the one-way stretchable material (115) is a material that is essentially stretchable exclusively in the first direction (100a).

[0138] Example 3The upper (100) of Example 2, in which essentially stretchable exclusively in the first direction (100a) means that the material is essentially unstretchable in a second direction (100b), in some instances the second direction (100b) is perpendicular to the first direction (100a).

[0139] Example 4The upper (100) of Example 3, in which the second direction has a component parallel to a direction extending from a lateral side of the upper to a medial side of the upper; in some instances in which the second direction is essentially parallel to the direction extending from a lateral side to the medial side.

[0140] Example 5The upper (100) of any of the previous Examples, in which the first direction (100a) has a component parallel to a longitudinal direction of the upper (100) and/or shoe, in some instances, in which the first direction (100a) is essentially parallel the longitudinal direction.

[0141] Example 6The upper (100) of any of the previous Examples, in which the at least one reinforcement element (120) is arranged such that the at least one reinforcement element (120) extends at least partially into the first direction (100a).

[0142] Example 7The upper (100) of any of the previous Examples, in which the at least one reinforcement element (120) is arranged such as to be located at a surface of the base layer (110), in some instances at an inner surface of the base layer (110).

[0143] Example 8The upper (100) of any of the previous Examples, in which the at least one reinforcement element (120) is arranged such that: at least a portion of the reinforcement element (120) is heat bonded to the base layer (110); and/or at least a portion of the reinforcement element (120) is stitched to the base layer (110).

[0144] Example 9The upper (100) of any of the previous Examples, in which the at least one reinforcement element (120) is arranged such as to be essentially symmetrical (105) with respect to a medial portion and a lateral portion of the upper.

[0145] Example 10The upper (100) of any of the previous Examples, in which the at least one reinforcement element (120) encompasses at least a portion of eyestays (130a-130g) of the upper, in some instances in which the at least one reinforcement element (120) encompasses the complete eyestays (130a-130g) of the upper.

[0146] Example 11The upper (100) of Example 10, in which the at least one reinforcement element (120) encompasses the eyestays (130a-130g) such as to encompass the eyestays (130a-130g) as an essentially continuous segment.

[0147] Example 12The upper (100) of any of the previous Examples, in which the at least one reinforcement element (120) has at least one reinforcement band (125a, 125b, 125c, 125d); in some embodiments in which the at least one reinforcement band (125a, 125b, 125c, 125d) extends from a region of the upper (100) associated with eyestays (130a-130g) to a region (102) of the upper (100) associated with a midsole and/or strobel; and/or the at least one reinforcement band (125a, 125b, 125c, 125d) extends from a region of the upper (100) associated with eyestays (130a-130g) to a region (104) of the upper (100) associated with a heel area.

[0148] Example 13The upper (100) of Example 11 or 12, in which the at least one reinforcement band (125a, 125b, 125c, 125d) extends from the essentially continuous segment encompassing the eyestays (130a-130g) of the upper (100).

[0149] Example 14The upper (100) of Example 12 or 13, in which the upper (100) has at least one reinforcement band, in some instances at least two reinforcement bands, in some instances at least three reinforcement bands, in some instances at least four reinforcement bands; and/or the upper (100) has at most 20 reinforcement bands, in some instances at most 16 reinforcement bands, in some instances at most 12 reinforcement bands, in some instances at most 8 reinforcement bands, in some instances at most 6 reinforcement bands.

[0150] Example 15The upper (100) of Examples 12, 13, or 14, in which a width of the at least one reinforcement band (125a, 125b, 125c, 125d) is at least 0.25 cm, in some instances at least 0.5 cm, in some instances at least 0.75 cm, in some instances at least 1 cm, in some instances at least 1.25 cm; and/or the width of the at least one reinforcement band (125a, 125b, 125c, 125d) is at most 3 cm, in some instances at most 2.75 cm, in some instances at most 2.5 cm, in some instances at most 2.25 cm, in some instances at most 2 cm.

[0151] Example 16The upper (100) of any of the previous Examples, in which the at least one reinforcement element (125a, 125b, 125c, 125d) is a non-stretchable material, in some instances synthetic suede, non-stretchable textile, leather, and/or a polymer-based tape.

[0152] Example 17The upper (100) of any of the previous Examples, in which the base layer (110) is a woven material comprising a weft thread and a warp thread.

[0153] Example 18The upper (100) of Example 17, in which the weft thread has at least one weft yarn and the warp thread has at least one warp yarn such that: the at least one weft yarn is more stretchable than the at least one warp yarn; or the at least one warp yarn is more stretchable than the at least one weft yarn.

[0154] Example 19The upper (100) of any of the previous Examples, in which the base layer (110) is a knitted material.

[0155] Example 20The upper (100) of any of the previous Examples, in which the base layer (110) is a one-piece material and/or a unitary construction, in some instances in which the one-piece material and/or the unitary construction is adapted such as to form a one-piece upper (100).

[0156] Example 21A shoe (200), particularly a sports shoe including the upper (100) according to one of the previous Examples.