ARTICLE OF FOOTWEAR HAVING A SOLE PLATE

Abstract

A sole structure for an article of footwear having an upper includes an outsole having a ground engaging surface and a midsole member disposed between the outsole and the upper. The midsole member has a pocket extending from a heel region to a forefoot region and a sole plate disposed within the pocket. The sole plate extends from the heel region into the forefoot region. In the heel region, the sole structure is shaped to define an entry region that is configured to increase contact at the ground engaging surface during a heel strike. The entry region defines an angled portion that is angled at an entry angle relative to a flat ground surface. The midsole member is a supercritical foam.

Claims

1. A sole structure for an article of footwear having an upper, the sole structure comprising: an outsole having a ground engaging surface; a midsole member disposed between the outsole and the upper, the midsole member having a pocket extending from a heel region to a forefoot region; and a sole plate disposed within the pocket, the sole plate extending from the heel region into the forefoot region, wherein, in the heel region, the sole structure is shaped to define an entry region that is configured to increase contact at the ground engaging surface during a heel strike, the entry region defining an angled portion that is angled at an entry angle relative to a flat ground surface, and wherein the midsole member is a supercritical foam.

2. The sole structure of claim 1, wherein, in the forefoot region, the sole structure is shaped to define an exit region that curves to angle away from the flat ground surface, and wherein the exit region forms a rocking member with a fulcrum proximate a widest portion of the sole structure, the rocking member forming a propulsion lever with the sole plate that is configured to propel a user forward during toe off.

3. The sole structure of claim 1, further including a cushioning layer disposed between the midsole member and the upper.

4. The sole structure of claim 3, wherein the cushioning layer is positioned on top of the sole plate so that the sole plate is positioned between the midsole member and the cushioning layer.

5. The sole structure of claim 1, wherein the sole plate is a carbon fiber plate that is similarly shaped to and proportionally smaller than the midsole member in at least one of the forefoot region, a midfoot region, or the heel region of the sole structure.

6. The sole structure of claim 1, wherein the midsole member defines a longitudinal channel extending from a heel end of the sole structure and into a midfoot region.

7. The sole structure of claim 6, wherein the outsole includes a first outsole member and a second outsole member that are separated from one another by the longitudinal channel so that the ground engaging surface is not continuous across the heel region between a lateral side and medial side of the sole structure.

8. The sole structure of claim 1, wherein the outsole includes a first outsole member in the forefoot region and a second outsole member in the heel region, and wherein the ground engaging surface is not continuous along a medial side of a midfoot region of the sole structure.

9. A sole structure for an article of footwear having an upper, the sole structure comprising: an outsole defining a ground engaging surface; a midsole extending between the outsole and the upper, the midsole including: a first midsole member coupled to the outsole and extending from a forefoot region to a heel region of the sole structure, the first midsole member defining an entry region at a heel end in which the first midsole member is angled away from a ground surface by a first angle that is configured to increase contact at the ground engaging surface during a heel strike, and a second midsole member coupled to the upper and positioned between the first midsole member and the upper, the second midsole member extending from the heel region to the forefoot region, wherein at least one of the first midsole member or the second midsole member is a supercritical foam; and a sole plate positioned within the midsole between the first midsole member and the second midsole member.

10. The sole structure of claim 9, wherein the sole plate is comprised of carbon fibers and extends from the heel region to the forefoot region.

11. The sole structure of claim 9, wherein the outsole extends at least partially into the entry region.

12. The sole structure of claim 9, wherein the first midsole member further defines an exit region in the forefoot region in which the first midsole member curves away from the ground surface from approximately a widest portion of the sole structure to a toe end of the sole structure.

13. The sole structure of claim 12, wherein the first midsole member defines a substantially flat region between the entry region and the exit region.

14. The sole structure of claim 13, wherein the first midsole member defines a rocking member between the substantially flat region and the exit region, the rocking member creating a fulcrum for the sole plate to help propel a user forward during toe off.

15. The sole structure of claim 14, wherein the fulcrum is positioned to be proximate metatarsal bones of a user.

16. The sole structure of claim 9, wherein the first midsole member defines a pocket and at least one of the sole plate or the second midsole member is disposed at least partially within the pocket.

17. A sole structure for an article of footwear having an upper, the sole structure comprising: a first midsole member having a bottom surface opposite a top surface and extending from a forefoot region to a heel region of the sole structure, the first midsole member defining: an upwardly curved entry region along the bottom surface in the heel region, an upwardly curved exit region along the bottom surface in the forefoot region, and a substantially flat region extending along the bottom surface between the entry region and the exit region, wherein at least a portion of the entry region is angled relative to the substantially flat region to define an entry angle; a second midsole member positioned between the first midsole member and the upper, the second midsole member extending from the heel region to the forefoot region; and a sole plate positioned between the first midsole member and the second midsole member, wherein the first midsole member defines a rocking member between the substantially flat region and the exit region, the rocking member creating a fulcrum for the sole plate to help propel a user forward during toe off, and wherein at least one of the first midsole member or the second midsole member is a supercritical foam.

18. The sole structure of claim 17, wherein the sole plate defines a first region with a first stiffness and a second region with a second stiffness that is greater than the first stiffness.

19. The sole structure of claim 17, further including an outsole coupled to the bottom surface of the first midsole member and defining a ground engaging surface of the sole structure, the outsole including a first outsole portion positioned in the forefoot region and a second outsole portion positioned in the heel region, the first outsole portion and the second outsole portion being spaced from one another so that the ground engaging surface is not continuous between the first outsole portion and the second outsole portion.

20. The sole structure of claim 17, wherein the exit region curves upwardly from approximately a widest portion of the sole structure to a toe end of the sole structure.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] FIG. 1 is a medial side view of an article of footwear configured as a left shoe that includes an upper and a sole structure according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0025] FIG. 2 is a lateral side view of the shoe of FIG. 1;

[0026] FIG. 3 is a bottom view of the shoe of FIG. 1;

[0027] FIG. 4 is a top plan view of the article of footwear of FIG. 1, with an upper removed and a user's skeletal foot structure overlaid thereon;

[0028] FIG. 5A is a medial view of a sole structure of an article of footwear that includes a sole plate according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0029] FIG. 5B is a bottom view of the sole structure of FIG. 5A;

[0030] FIG. 5C is a lateral side view of the sole structure of FIG. 5A;

[0031] FIG. 5D is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 5A taken along line 5D-5D of FIG. 5B;

[0032] FIG. 5E is a top view of the sole structure of FIG. 5A;

[0033] FIG. 5F is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 5A taken along line 5F-5F of FIG. 5B;

[0034] FIG. 5G is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 5A taken along the line 5G-5G of FIG. 5B;

[0035] FIG. 5H is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 5A taken along the line 5H-5H of FIG. 5B;

[0036] FIG. 5I is a cross sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 5A taken along the line 5I-5I of FIG. 5B;

[0037] FIG. 5J is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 5A taken along the line 5J-5J of FIG. 5B;

[0038] FIG. 5K is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 5A taken along the line 5K-5K of FIG. 5B;

[0039] FIG. 5L is a toe view of the sole structure of FIG. 5A;

[0040] FIG. 5M is a heel view of the sole structure of FIG. 5A;

[0041] FIG. 6A is a medial side view of a sole structure of an article of footwear that includes a sole plate and a foam layer according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0042] FIG. 6B is a bottom view of the sole structure of FIG. 6A;

[0043] FIG. 6C is a lateral side view of the sole structure of FIG. 6A;

[0044] FIG. 6D is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 6A taken along line 6D-6D of FIG. 6B;

[0045] FIG. 6E is a top view of the sole structure of FIG. 6A;

[0046] FIG. 6F is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 6A taken along line 6F-6F of FIG. 6B;

[0047] FIG. 6G is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 6A taken along the line 6G-6G of FIG. 6B;

[0048] FIG. 6H is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 6A taken along the line 6H-6H of FIG. 6B;

[0049] FIG. 6I is a cross sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 6A taken along the line 6I-6I of FIG. 6B;

[0050] FIG. 6J is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 6A taken along the line 6J-6J of FIG. 6B;

[0051] FIG. 6K is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 6A taken along the line 6K-6K of FIG. 6B;

[0052] FIG. 6L is a toe view of the sole structure of FIG. 6A;

[0053] FIG. 6M is a heel view of the sole structure of FIG. 6A;

[0054] FIG. 7A is a medial side view of a sole structure of an article of footwear that includes a sole plate according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0055] FIG. 7B is a bottom view of the sole structure of FIG. 7A;

[0056] FIG. 7C is a lateral side view of the sole structure of FIG. 7A;

[0057] FIG. 7D is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 7A taken along line 7D-7D of FIG. 7B;

[0058] FIG. 7E is a top view of the sole structure of FIG. 7A;

[0059] FIG. 7F is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 7A taken along line 7F-7F of FIG. 7B;

[0060] FIG. 7G is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 7A taken along the line 7G-7G of FIG. 7B;

[0061] FIG. 7H is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 7A taken along the line 7H-7H of FIG. 7B;

[0062] FIG. 7I is a cross sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 7A taken along the line 7I-7I of FIG. 7B;

[0063] FIG. 7J is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 7A taken along the line 7J-7J of FIG. 7B;

[0064] FIG. 7K is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 7A taken along the line 7K-7K of FIG. 7B;

[0065] FIG. 7L is a toe view of the sole structure of FIG. 7A;

[0066] FIG. 7M is a heel view of the sole structure of FIG. 7A;

[0067] FIG. 8A is a medial side view of a sole structure of an article of footwear that includes a sole plate and a foam layer according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0068] FIG. 8B is a bottom view of the sole structure of FIG. 8A;

[0069] FIG. 8C is a lateral side view of the sole structure of FIG. 8A;

[0070] FIG. 8D is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 8A taken along line 8D-8D of FIG. 8B;

[0071] FIG. 8E is a top view of the sole structure of FIG. 8A;

[0072] FIG. 8F is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 8A taken along line 8F-8F of FIG. 8B;

[0073] FIG. 8G is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 8A taken along the line 8G-8G of FIG. 8B;

[0074] FIG. 8H is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 8A taken along the line 8H-8H of FIG. 8B;

[0075] FIG. 8I is a cross sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 8A taken along the line 8I-8I of FIG. 8B;

[0076] FIG. 8J is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 8A taken along the line 8J-8J of FIG. 8B;

[0077] FIG. 8K is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 8A taken along the line 8K-8K of FIG. 8B;

[0078] FIG. 8L is a toe view of the sole structure of FIG. 8A;

[0079] FIG. 8M is a heel view of the sole structure of FIG. 8A;

[0080] FIG. 9A is a medial side view of a sole structure of an article of footwear that includes a sole plate and a foam layer according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0081] FIG. 9B is a bottom view of the sole structure of FIG. 9A;

[0082] FIG. 9C is a lateral side view of the sole structure of FIG. 9A;

[0083] FIG. 9D is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 9A taken along line 9D-9D of FIG. 9B;

[0084] FIG. 9E is a top view of the sole structure of FIG. 9A;

[0085] FIG. 9F is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 9A taken along line 9F-9F of FIG. 9B;

[0086] FIG. 9G is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 9A taken along the line 9G-9G of FIG. 9B;

[0087] FIG. 9H is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 9A taken along the line 9H-9H of FIG. 9B;

[0088] FIG. 9I is a cross sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 9A taken along the line 9I-9I of FIG. 9B;

[0089] FIG. 9J is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 9A taken along the line 9J-9J of FIG. 9B;

[0090] FIG. 9K is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 9A taken along the line 9K-9K of FIG. 9B;

[0091] FIG. 9L is a toe view of the sole structure of FIG. 9A;

[0092] FIG. 9M is a heel view of the sole structure of FIG. 9A;

[0093] FIG. 10A is a medial side view of a sole structure of an article of footwear that includes a sole plate and a foam layer according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0094] FIG. 10B is a bottom view of the sole structure of FIG. 10A;

[0095] FIG. 10C is a lateral side view of the sole structure of FIG. 10A;

[0096] FIG. 10D is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 10A taken along line 10D-10D of FIG. 10B;

[0097] FIG. 10E is a top view of the sole structure of FIG. 10A;

[0098] FIG. 10F is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 10A taken along line 10F-10F of FIG. 10B;

[0099] FIG. 10G is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 10A taken along the line 10G-10G of FIG. 10B;

[0100] FIG. 10H is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 10A taken along the line 10H-10H of FIG. 10B;

[0101] FIG. 10I is a cross sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 10A taken along the line 10I-10I of FIG. 10B;

[0102] FIG. 10J is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 10A taken along the line 10J-10J of FIG. 10B;

[0103] FIG. 10K is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 10A taken along the line 10K-10K of FIG. 10B;

[0104] FIG. 10L is a toe view of the sole structure of FIG. 10A; and

[0105] FIG. 10M is a heel view of the sole structure of FIG. 10A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0106] The following discussion and accompanying figures disclose various embodiments or configurations of a shoe and a sole structure. Although embodiments of a shoe or sole structure are disclosed with reference to a sports shoe, such as a running shoe, tennis shoe, basketball shoe, etc., concepts associated with embodiments of the shoe or the sole structure may be applied to a wide range of footwear and footwear styles, including cross-training shoes, football shoes, golf shoes, hiking shoes, hiking boots, ski and snowboard boots, soccer shoes and cleats, walking shoes, and track cleats, for example. Concepts of the shoe or the sole structure may also be applied to articles of footwear that are considered non-athletic, including dress shoes, sandals, loafers, slippers, and heels.

[0107] In addition to footwear, particular concepts described herein may also be applied and incorporated in other types of apparel or other athletic equipment, including helmets, padding or protective pads, shin guards, and gloves. Even further, particular concepts described herein may be incorporated in cushions, backpack straps, golf clubs, or other consumer or industrial products. Accordingly, concepts described herein may be utilized in a variety of products.

[0108] The term “about,” as used herein, refers to variation in the numerical quantity that may occur, for example, through typical measuring and manufacturing procedures used for articles of footwear or other articles of manufacture that may include embodiments of the disclosure herein; through inadvertent error in these procedures; through differences in the manufacture, source, or purity of the ingredients used to make the compositions or mixtures or carry out the methods; and the like. Throughout the disclosure, the terms “about” and “approximately” refer to a range of values±5% of the numeric value that the term precedes.

[0109] The terms “weight percent,” “wt-%,” “percent by weight,” “% by weight,” and variations thereof, as used herein, refer to the concentration of a substance or component as the weight of that substance or component divided by the total weight, for example, of the composition or of a particular component of the composition, and multiplied by 100. It is understood that, as used herein, “percent,” “%,” and the like may be synonymous with “weight percent” and “wt-%.”

[0110] The present disclosure is directed to an article of footwear and/or specific components of the article of footwear, such as an upper and/or a sole or sole structure. The upper may comprise a knitted component, a woven textile, and/or a non-woven textile. The knitted component may be made by knitting of yarn, the woven textile by weaving of yarn, and the non-woven textile by manufacture of a unitary non-woven web. Knitted textiles include textiles formed by way of warp knitting, weft knitting, flat knitting, circular knitting, and/or other suitable knitting operations. The knit textile may have a plain knit structure, a mesh knit structure, and/or a rib knit structure, for example. Woven textiles include, but are not limited to, textiles formed by way of any of the numerous weave forms, such as plain weave, twill weave, satin weave, dobbin weave, jacquard weave, double weaves, and/or double cloth weaves, for example. Non-woven textiles include textiles made by air-laid and/or spun-laid methods, for example. The upper may comprise a variety of materials, such as a first yarn, a second yarn, and/or a third yarn, which may have varying properties or varying visual characteristics.

[0111] FIGS. 1-3 depict an embodiment of an article of footwear 100, configured as a shoe, including an upper 102 and a sole structure 104. The upper 102 is attached to the sole structure 104 and together define an interior cavity 106 into which a foot may be inserted. For reference, the article of footwear 100 defines a forefoot region 108, a midfoot region 110, and a heel region 112. The forefoot region 108 generally corresponds with portions of the article of footwear 100 that encase portions of the foot that include the toes, the ball of the foot (shown in FIG. 4), and joints connecting the metatarsals with the toes or phalanges (also shown in FIG. 4). The midfoot region 110 is proximate and adjoining the forefoot region 108, and generally corresponds with portions of the article of footwear 100 that encase the arch of a foot, along with the bridge of a foot. The heel region 112 is proximate and adjoining the midfoot region 110 and generally corresponds with portions of the article of footwear 100 that encase rear portions of the foot, including the heel or calcaneus bone, the ankle, and/or the Achilles tendon.

[0112] While only a single article of footwear is depicted, i.e., a shoe that is worn on a left foot of a user, it should be appreciated that the concepts disclosed herein are applicable to a pair of shoes (not shown), which includes a left shoe and a right shoe that may be sized and shaped to receive a left foot and a right foot of a user, respectively. For ease of disclosure, a single shoe will be referenced to describe aspects of the disclosure. The disclosure below with reference to the article of footwear 100 is applicable to both a left shoe and a right shoe. However, in some embodiments there may be differences between a left shoe and a right shoe other than the left/right configuration. Further, in some embodiments, a left shoe may include one or more additional elements that a right shoe does not include, or vice versa.

[0113] Many conventional footwear uppers are formed from multiple elements (e.g., textiles, polymer foam, polymer sheets, leather, and synthetic leather) that are joined through bonding or stitching at a seam. In some embodiments, the upper 102 of the article of footwear 100 is formed from a knitted structure or knitted components. In various embodiments, a knitted component may incorporate various types of yarn that may provide different properties to an upper. For example, one area of the upper 102 may be formed from a first type of yarn that imparts a first set of properties, and another area of the upper 102 may be formed from a second type of yarn that imparts a second set of properties. Using this configuration, properties of the upper 102 may vary throughout the upper 102 by selecting specific yarns for different areas of the upper 102. In another example, an upper mesh layer may be warp knit, while a mesh backing layer may comprise a circular knit.

[0114] The article of footwear 100 also includes a medial side 116 illustrated in FIG. 1 and a lateral side 118 illustrated in FIG. 2. In particular, when a user is wearing the article of footwear 100, the lateral side 118 corresponds to an outside-facing portion of the article of footwear 100 and the medial side 116 corresponds to an inside-facing portion of the article of footwear 100. As such, left and right articles of footwear have opposing lateral and medial sides, such that the medial sides 116 are closest to one another when a user is wearing the articles of footwear 100, while the lateral sides 118 are defined as the sides that are farthest from one another while being worn. The medial side 116 and the lateral side 118 adjoin one another at opposing, distal ends of the article of footwear 100.

[0115] Unless otherwise specified, the forefoot region 108, the midfoot region 110, the heel region 112, the medial side 116, and the lateral side 118 are intended to define boundaries or areas of the article of footwear 100. To that end, the forefoot region 108, the midfoot region 110, the heel region 112, the medial side 116, and the lateral side 118 generally characterize sections of the article of footwear 100. Further, both the upper 102 and the sole structure 104 may be characterized as having portions within the forefoot region 108, the midfoot region 110, the heel region 112, and on the medial side 116 and the lateral side 118. Therefore, the upper 102 and the sole structure 104, and/or individual portions of the upper 102 and the sole structure 104, may include portions thereof that are disposed within the forefoot region 108, the midfoot region 110, the heel region 112, and on the medial side 116 and the lateral side 118.

[0116] Referring to FIG. 4, the forefoot region 108 may generally correspond with portions of the article of footwear 100 that encase portions of a foot 10 that include the toes or phalanges 12, the ball 14 of the foot 10, and one or more of the joints 16 that connect the metatarsals 18 of the foot 10 with the toes or phalanges 12. The midfoot region 110 is proximate and adjoins the forefoot region 108. The midfoot region 110 generally corresponds with portions of the article of footwear 100 that encase an arch 20 of a foot 10, along with a bridge 22 of the foot 10. The heel region 112 is proximate to the midfoot region 110 and adjoins the midfoot region 110. The heel region 112 generally corresponds with portions of the article of footwear 100 that encase rear portions of the foot 10, including the heel or calcaneus bone 24, the ankle (not shown), and/or the Achilles tendon (not shown).

[0117] The sole structure 104 is connected or secured to the upper 102 and extends between a foot of a user and the ground when the article of footwear 100 is worn by the user. The sole structure 104 may include one or more components, which may include an outsole, a midsole, a heel, a vamp, and/or an insole. For example, in some embodiments, a sole structure may include an outsole that provides structural integrity to the sole structure, along with providing traction for a user, a midsole that provides a cushioning system, and an insole that provides support for an arch of a user. As will be further discussed herein, the sole structure 104 of the present embodiment of the invention includes one or more components that provide the sole structure 104 with preferable spring and damping properties.

[0118] The sole structure 104 includes an outsole 130, a first midsole member 132, a second midsole member 134, and a sole plate 136 (see, for example FIG. 3). The outsole 130 may define a bottom end or surface of the sole structure 104 across the heel region 112, the midfoot region 110, and the forefoot region 108. Further, the outsole 130 may be a ground-engaging portion or include a ground-engaging surface of the sole structure 104 and may be opposite of the insole thereof. The outsole 130 may be formed from one or more materials to impart durability, wear-resistance, abrasion resistance, or traction to the sole structure 104. In some embodiments, the outsole 130 may be formed from rubber, for example.

[0119] Together, the first midsole member 132 and the second midsole member 134 form a midsole and may be positioned adjacent to and on top of the outsole 130 in the heel region 112 and partially in the midfoot region 110 and forefoot region 108. The first midsole member 132 and the second midsole member 134 define a cutout portion 138. The first midsole member 132 may be constructed from a thermoplastic material, such as polyurethane (PU) plastic, for example and the second midsole member 134 may be constructed from ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), copolymers thereof, or a similar type of material. In other embodiments, each of the first midsole member 132 and the second midsole member 134 may be constructed from the same material.

[0120] In other embodiments, the first midsole member 132 and/or the second midsole member 134 may be an EVA-Solid-Sponge (“ESS”) material, an EVA foam (e.g., PUMA® ProFoam Lite™, IGNITE Foam), polyurethane, polyether, an olefin block copolymer, a thermoplastic material (e.g., a thermoplastic polyurethane, a thermoplastic elastomer, a thermoplastic polyolefin, etc.), or a supercritical foam. The first midsole member 132 and/or the second midsole member 134 may be a single polymeric material or may be a blend of materials, such as an EVA copolymer, a thermoplastic polyurethane, a polyether block amide (PEBA) copolymer, and/or an olefin block copolymer.

[0121] The sole structure further includes the sole plate 136 disposed between the second midsole member 134 and the upper 102. As shown in FIG. 3, the sole plate 136 extends at least partially through the midfoot region 110 and is exposed at the cutout portion 138. The sole plate 136 is also disposed adjacent an arched section 140 of the article of footwear 100.

[0122] In some embodiments, the ground-engaging surface is not continuous along the medial side 116 of the midfoot region 110 of the article of footwear. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 3, the outsole 130 partially surrounds the arched section 140, the first midsole member 132 partially surrounds and partially defines the arched section 140, and the second midsole member 134 surrounds and partially defines the arched section 140.

[0123] In some embodiments, the sole plate 136 comprises a polyurethane (PU) plastic, such as a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material, for example. Other thermoplastic elastomers and fiber reinforced thermoplastics consisting of block copolymers are also possible. In other embodiments, the sole plate 136 can include carbon fiber, for example. In some embodiments, these and other rigid, semi-rigid, or spring-like materials and combinations thereof may comprise the sole plate 136. The sole plate 136 can have varied stiffness along the length of the sole plate 136. For example, the stiffness in the forefoot region 108 of the sole plate 136 may be more or less flexible than the midfoot region 110 of the sole plate 136, which may be more or less flexible than the heel region 112 of the sole plate 136. Alternatively, the sole plate 136 can include a uniform stiffness. Additionally, the sole plate 136 may include additional or alternative geometries, such as, for example, notches, curves, protrusions, voids, angled edges, cutouts, etc. In some embodiments, the sole plate 136 can be configured as a shock plate to impart impact protection and facilitate leg muscle tension, thereby relieving stress on a heel, ankle, shin, knees, hips, and/or back of a user.

[0124] FIGS. 5A through 5M depict an exemplary embodiment of a sole structure 204 according to one embodiment of the invention. Similar to the sole structure 104, the sole structure 204 is configured to be attached to an upper 202 and together define an interior cavity 206 of an article of footwear 200 (shown in FIG. 5D) into which a foot may be inserted. For reference the sole structure 204 defines a forefoot region 208, a midfoot region 210, and a heel region 212. The forefoot region 208 generally corresponds with portions of an article of footwear, such as the article of footwear 100, for example, that encase portions of the foot that include the toes, the ball of the foot (shown in FIG. 4), and joints connecting the metatarsals with the toes or phalanges (also shown in FIG. 4). The midfoot region 210 is proximate and adjoining the forefoot region 208, and generally corresponds with portions of the article of footwear that encase the arch of a foot, along with the bridge of a foot. The heel region 212 is proximate and adjoining the midfoot region 110 and generally corresponds with portions of the article of footwear that encase rear portions of the foot, including the heel or calcaneus bone, the ankle, and/or the Achilles tendon (shown in FIG. 4).

[0125] The sole structure 204 also includes a medial side 216 illustrated in FIG. 5A and a lateral side 218 illustrated in FIG. 5C. In particular, the lateral side 218 corresponds to an outside portion of the article of footwear and the medial side 216 corresponds to an inside portion of the article of footwear. As such, left and right articles of footwear have opposing lateral and medial sides, such that the medial sides 216 are closest to one another when a user is wearing the articles of footwear, while the lateral sides 218 are defined as the sides that are farthest from one another while being worn. The medial side 216 and the lateral side 218 adjoin one another at opposing, distal ends of the article of footwear.

[0126] Unless otherwise specified, the forefoot region 208, the midfoot region 210, the heel region 212, the medial side 216, and the lateral side 218 are intended to define boundaries or areas of the article of footwear. To that end, the forefoot region 208, the midfoot region 210, the heel region 212, the medial side 216, and the lateral side 218 generally characterize sections of the article of footwear. Further, both the upper 202 and the sole structure 204 may be characterized as having portions within the forefoot region 208, the midfoot region 210, the heel region 212, and on the medial side 216 and the lateral side 218. Therefore, the upper 202 and the sole structure 204, and/or individual portions of the upper 202 and the sole structure 204, may include portions thereof that are disposed within the forefoot region 208, the midfoot region 210, the heel region 212, and on the medial side 216 and the lateral side 218.

[0127] The sole structure 204 is connected or secured to the upper 202 and extends between a foot of a user and the ground when the article of footwear is worn by the user. The sole structure 204 may include one or more components, which may include an outsole, a midsole, a heel, a vamp, and/or an insole. For example, in some embodiments, a sole structure may include an outsole that provides structural integrity to the sole structure, along with providing traction for a user, a midsole that provides a cushioning system, and an insole that provides support for an arch of a user. As will be further discussed herein, the sole structure 204 of the present embodiment of the invention includes one or more components that provide the sole structure 204 with preferable spring and damping properties.

[0128] The sole structure 204 includes an outsole 230, a first midsole member 232, a second midsole member 234, and a sole plate 236. The first midsole member 232 is coupled to the outsole 230 and the second midsole member 234 is positioned between the first midsole member 232 and the upper 202. The outsole 230 may define a bottom end or surface of the sole structure 204 across the heel region 212, the midfoot region 210, and the forefoot region 208. Further, the outsole 230 may be a ground-engaging portion or include a ground-engaging surface of the sole structure 204 and may be opposite of the insole thereof. The outsole 230 may be formed from one or more materials to impart durability, wear-resistance, abrasion resistance, or traction to the sole structure 204. In some embodiments, the outsole 230 may be formed from rubber, for example.

[0129] When in a rested state as shown in FIGS. 5A-5M, the sole structure 204 is shaped to define an entry angle 220 in the heel region 212 and an exit angle 222 in the forefoot region 208 with respect to a flat ground surface 224. The sole structure 204 can also define a substantially flat region 219 that is approximately parallel with the flat ground surface 224. In some embodiments, the entry angle 220 can be about 30 degrees. Correspondingly, the sole structure 204 can define an entry region 221 in which a bottom surface 205 of the sole structure 204 curves upwardly to start angling away from the ground surface 224 approximate the area underneath the heel of a user's foot (shown in FIG. 4). In some embodiments, the exit angle 222 can be about 15 degrees. Correspondingly, the sole structure 204 can also define an exit region 223 in which the bottom surface 205 of the sole structure 204 curves to start angling away from the ground surface 224 approximate the area underneath the balls of a user's foot (shown in FIG. 4).

[0130] The entry and exit angles 220, 224 can be configured to enhance contact with a user's heel during a heel strike and promoting engagement of a large surface area of the outsole 230 in the forefoot region 208 during a push-off by the user. Accordingly, the entry region 221 can extend rearward from the substantially flat region 219 and the exit region 223 can extend forward from the substantially flat region 219. In some embodiments, the junction between the substantially flat region 219 and the exit region 223 can be located at a widest portion 207 of the sole structure 204 (e.g., at a greatest distance between the medial and lateral sides 216, 218), so as to be aligned proximate to the metatarsal bones of the user.

[0131] Due to the curved nature of each of the entry region 221 and the exit region 223, the respective junctions with the substantially flat region 219 can form rocking regions 225, 227. The rocking regions 225, 227 can create a fulcrum for the sole plate 236. For example, the fulcrum created by the rocking region 227 can create a propulsion lever with the sole plate 236 between a midfoot region and a heel region of the wearer that allows the wearer to accelerate faster and create a toe-off movement where the forefoot region of the wearer propels the wearer forward.

[0132] The first midsole member 232 and the second midsole member 234 may be positioned adjacent and on top of the outsole 230 in the heel region 212 and partially in the midfoot region 210 and forefoot region 208, with the first midsole member 232 concentrated in the areas underneath the balls and heel of a user's foot. The first midsole member 232 and the second midsole member 234 define a cutout portion 238. The first midsole member 232 may be constructed from a thermoplastic material, such as PU, for example and the second midsole member 234 may be constructed from EVA, copolymers thereof, or a similar type of material. In other embodiments, each of the first midsole member 232 and the second midsole member 234 may be constructed from the same material. In some embodiments, the first midsole member 232 and/or the second midsole member 234 may be an EVA-Solid-Sponge (“ESS”) material, an EVA foam (e.g., PUMA® ProFoam Lite™, IGNITE Foam), polyurethane, polyether, an olefin block copolymer, a thermoplastic material (e.g., a thermoplastic polyurethane, a thermoplastic elastomer, a thermoplastic polyolefin, etc.), or a supercritical foam. The first midsole member 232 and/or the second midsole member 234 may be a single polymeric material or may be a blend of materials, such as an EVA copolymer, a thermoplastic polyurethane, a polyether block amide (PEBA) copolymer, and/or an olefin block copolymer.

[0133] The sole structure further includes the sole plate 236 disposed between the second midsole member 234 and the upper 202. As shown in FIGS. 5D and 5E, the sole plate 236 extends through the midfoot region 210 and is exposed at the cutout portion 238 within an arched section 240 illustrated in FIG. 5B. Further illustrated in FIG. 5B, the outsole 230 partially surrounds the arched section 240, the first midsole member 232 partially surrounds and partially comprises the arched section 240, and the second midsole member 234 surrounds and partially comprises the arched section 240.

[0134] In some embodiments, the ground-engaging surface is not continuous along the medial side 216 of the midfoot region 210 of the article of footwear. Correspondingly, the outsole 230 may comprise multiple outsole portions that are spaced apart from one another, such that the ground engaging surface is not continuous between the outsole portions. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 5B, the outsole 230 includes a first outsole portion 230a positioned in the forefoot region 208 and generally forward of the widest portion 205 (e.g., to extend into the exit region 223). Additionally, the outsole 230 includes a second outsole portion 230b extending from the widest portion 205, along the lateral side 218 of the midfoot region 410, and around a periphery of the heel region 212 to the medial side 216 (e.g., to extend into the entry region 221).

[0135] In some embodiments, for example, as illustrated in FIGS. 5B, and 5I-5M, the first midsole member 232 can define a longitudinal channel 233 that extends from the heel region 212 and into the midfoot region 210.

[0136] Illustrated in FIG. 5E, the sole plate 236 extends between the heel region 212 and the forefoot region 208 and includes a plurality of cutouts 250 in the forefoot region 208. The plurality of cutouts 250 are oriented to approximate the angle of the path of the ball of user's foot (shown in FIG. 4) from medial side to lateral side. The plurality of cutouts 250 provide reliefs in the sole plate 250 allowing it to bend and flex more easily at the cutouts 250. Generally, the sole plate 236 has a shape that is similar to but proportionally smaller than the midsole member 232 in the midfoot and heel regions 210, 212. In the forefoot region 218, the sole plate 236 has an irregular periphery, wherein the periphery extends inward in the spaces between the cutouts 250. Decreasing the width of the sole plate 236 in the spaces between the cutouts 250 increases the flexibility of the sole plate 236 in the forefoot region 218 by making the sole plate 236 easier to bend. Illustrated in FIGS. 5F through 5K, the sole plate 236 has a uniform thickness. In some embodiments, the thickness of the sole plate 236 is approximately 1.2 millimeters. In some embodiments, the sole plate 236 can be configured as a shock plate to impart impact protection and facilitate leg muscle tension thereby relieving stress on a heel, ankle, shin, knees, hips, and/or back of a user.

[0137] Continuing, FIGS. 5F and 5G show cross-sectional views of the forefoot region 208 of the article of footwear 200 along lines 5F-5F and 5G-5G in FIG. 5B. In FIG. 5F, the sole plate 236 is shown extending between the medial side 216 and the lateral side 218 and positioned within a pocket 242 and exposed along the top of the second midsole member 234. In FIG. 5G, the second midsole member 234 is shown extending through one of the plurality of cutouts 250 and contacting the upper 202. FIG. 5G further shows the first midsole member 232 in contact with the second midsole member 234 and the outsole 230 along the medial side 216.

[0138] FIGS. 5H and SI illustrate cross-sectional views of the midfoot region 210 of the article of footwear 200 along lines 5H-5H and 5I-5I of FIG. 5B. The sole plate 236 is positioned within the pocket 242 and exposed along the top of the second midsole member 234 in FIG. 5H. Further, the second midsole member 234 extends continuously from medial side 216 to the lateral side 218 and the first midsole member 232 is sandwiched between the second sole member 234 and the outsole 230, with both the first midsole member 232 and the outsole 230 also extending continuously from the medial side 216 to the lateral side 218. Looking at FIGS. 5A, 5C, and 5D, and as mentioned above, this portion of the sole structure 204 is located underneath the ball of a user's foot (shown in FIG. 4) and creates a rocking member (i.e., a rocking region) with a fulcrum proximate to the metatarsal bones of the user. The position of the sole plate 236 in relation to the first and second midsole members 232, 234 effectively adjusts the running posture of the user to be a forward tilt and moves the running motion of the user toward their forefoot.

[0139] Continuing, in FIG. 5G, the sole plate 236 is also shown positioned within and exposed along the top of the second midsole member 234 but also exposed through the cutout portion 238. The first midsole member 232 is only shown along the lateral side 218. Along the medial side 216, the second midsole member 234 is spaced from the ground surface 224 and is configured to be capable of engaging an elevated ground surface or other external surface at the midfoot region 210.

[0140] Further, FIGS. 5J and 5K show cross-sectional views of the heel region 212 of the article of footwear 200 along lines 5J-5J and 5K-5K of FIG. 5B. The sole plate 236 is positioned within the pocket 242 of the second midsole member 234 as shown in both FIGS. 5J and 5K, but is exposed through the cutout portion 238 in at least the area of the heel region 212 of the sole structure 204 shown in FIG. 5J. Additionally, the first midsole member 232 is positioned between the second midsole member 234 and the outsole 230 along both the medial side 216 and the lateral side 218 of the heel region 212. In FIG. 5K, the sole plate 236 is shown positioned within the pocket 242 and exposed along the top of the second midsole member 234. Further, the second midsole member 234 extends continuously from the medial side 216 to the lateral side 218. The first midsole member 232 is positioned between the second midsole member 234 and the outsole 230. Both the first midsole member 232 and the outsole 230 extend continuously from the medial side 216 to the lateral side 218.

[0141] In some embodiments, the sole plate 236 comprises a PU plastic, such as a TPU material, for example. Other thermoplastic elastomers and fiber reinforced thermoplastics consisting of block copolymers are also possible. In other embodiments, the sole plate 236 can include carbon fiber, for example. However, these and other rigid, semi-rigid, or spring-like materials and combinations thereof may comprise the sole plate 236. The sole plate 236 can have varied stiffness along the length of the sole plate 236. For example, the stiffness in the forefoot region 208 of the sole plate 236 may be more or less flexible than the midfoot region 210 of the sole plate 236, which may be more or less flexible than the heel region 212 of the sole plate 236. Alternatively, the sole plate 236 can include a uniform stiffness. Additionally, the sole plate 236 may include additional or alternative geometries, such as, for example, notches, curves, protrusions, voids, angled edges, cutouts, etc.

[0142] FIGS. 5L and 5G illustrate a toe view and a heel view, respectively, of the article of footwear 200. The outsole 230 extends up and around the second midsole member 234 and at least a portion of the upper 202 in the front of the forefoot region 208 (shown in FIGS. 5A, 5C and 5D).

[0143] FIGS. 6A through 6M depict an exemplary embodiment of a sole structure 304 according to one embodiment of the disclosure. Similar to the sole structures 104 and 204, the sole structure 304 is configured to be attached to an upper 302 and together define an interior cavity of an article of footwear 300 (shown in FIG. 6D) into which a foot may be inserted. For reference the sole structure 304 defines a forefoot region 308, a midfoot region 310, and a heel region 312. The forefoot region 308 generally corresponds with portions of an article of footwear, such as the article of footwear 100, for example, that encase portions of the foot that include the toes, the ball of the foot (shown in FIG. 4), and joints connecting the metatarsals with the toes or phalanges (also shown in FIG. 4). The midfoot region 310 is proximate and adjoining the forefoot region 308, and generally corresponds with portions of the article of footwear that encase the arch of a foot, along with the bridge of a foot. The heel region 312 is proximate and adjoining the midfoot region 310 and generally corresponds with portions of the article of footwear that encase rear portions of the foot, including the heel or calcaneus bone, the ankle, and/or the Achilles tendon (shown in FIG. 4).

[0144] The sole structure 304 also includes a medial side 316 illustrated in FIG. 6A and a lateral side 318 illustrated in FIG. 6C. In particular, the lateral side 318 corresponds to an outside portion of the article of footwear and the medial side 316 corresponds to an inside portion of the article of footwear. As such, left and right articles of footwear have opposing lateral and medial sides, such that the medial sides 316 are closest to one another when a user is wearing the articles of footwear, while the lateral sides 318 are defined as the sides that are farthest from one another while being worn. The medial side 316 and the lateral side 318 adjoin one another at opposing, distal ends of the article of footwear.

[0145] Unless otherwise specified, the forefoot region 308, the midfoot region 310, the heel region 312, the medial side 316, and the lateral side 318 are intended to define boundaries or areas of the article of footwear. To that end, the forefoot region 308, the midfoot region 310, the heel region 312, the medial side 316, and the lateral side 318 generally characterize sections of the article of footwear. Further, both the upper 302 and the sole structure 304 may be characterized as having portions within the forefoot region 308, the midfoot region 310, the heel region 312, and on the medial side 316 and the lateral side 318. Therefore, the upper 302 and the sole structure 304, and/or individual portions of the upper 302 and the sole structure 304, may include portions thereof that are disposed within the forefoot region 308, the midfoot region 310, the heel region 312, and on the medial side 316 and the lateral side 318.

[0146] The sole structure 304 is connected or secured to the upper 302 and extends between a foot of a user and the ground when the article of footwear is worn by the user. The sole structure 304 may include one or more components, which may include an outsole, a midsole, a heel, a vamp, and/or an insole. For example, in some embodiments, a sole structure may include an outsole that provides structural integrity to the sole structure, along with providing traction for a user, a midsole that provides a cushioning, and an insole that provides support for an arch of a user. As will be further discussed herein, the sole structure 304 of the present embodiment of the invention includes one or more components that provide the sole structure 304 with preferable spring and damping properties.

[0147] The sole structure 304 includes an outsole 330, a midsole member 332, a sole plate 336 and a cushion layer 352. The outsole 330 may define a bottom end or surface of the sole structure 304 across the heel region 312, the midfoot region 310, and the forefoot region 308. Further, the outsole 330 may be a ground-engaging portion or include a ground-engaging surface of the sole structure 304 and may be opposite of the insole thereof. The outsole 330 may be formed from one or more materials to impart durability, wear-resistance, abrasion resistance, or traction to the sole structure 304. In some embodiments, the outsole 330 may be formed from rubber, for example. Similar to the outsole 230, the outsole 330 can have an entry angle 320 in the heel region 312 and an exit angle 322 in the forefoot region 308 relative to a ground surface 324. Further, in some embodiments, the entry angle 320 can be about 30 degrees, and in some embodiments the exit angle 322 can be about 15 degrees.

[0148] Accordingly, when in a rested state as shown in FIGS. 6A-6M, the sole structure 304 is shaped to define an entry angle 320 in the heel region 312 and an exit angle 322 in the forefoot region 308 with respect to a flat ground surface 324. The sole structure 304 can also define a substantially flat region 319 that is approximately parallel with the flat ground surface 324. Correspondingly, the sole structure 304 can define an entry region 321 in which a bottom surface 305 of the sole structure 304 curves upwardly to start angling away from the ground surface 324 approximate the area underneath the heel of a user's foot (shown in FIG. 4). Correspondingly, the sole structure 304 can also define an exit region 323 in which the bottom surface 305 of the sole structure 304 curves upwardly to start angling away from the ground surface 324 approximate the area underneath the ball of a user's foot (shown in FIG. 4).

[0149] The entry and exit angles 320, 324 can be configured to enhance contact with a user's heel during a heel strike and promote engagement of a large surface area of the outsole 330 in the forefoot region 308 during a push-off by the user. Accordingly, the entry region 321 can extend rearward from the substantially flat region 319 and the exit region 323 can extend forward from the substantially flat region 319. In some embodiments, the junction between the substantially flat region 319 and the exit region 323 can be located at a widest portion 307 of the sole structure 304 (e.g., at a greatest distance between the medial and lateral sides 316, 318), so as to be aligned proximate to the metatarsal bones of the user.

[0150] Due to the curved nature of each of the entry region 321 and the exit region 323, the respective junctions with the substantially flat region 319 can form rocking regions 325, 327. The rocking regions 325, 327 can create a fulcrum for the sole plate 336. For example, the fulcrum created by the rocking region 327 can create a propulsion lever with the sole plate 336 between a midfoot region and a heel region of the wearer that allows the wearer to accelerate faster and create a toe-off movement where the forefoot region of the wearer propels the wearer forward.

[0151] The midsole member 332 may be positioned adjacent and on top of the outsole 330 in the heel region 312 and partially in the midfoot region 310 and forefoot region 308. The midsole member 332 may define a cutout portion 338. The midsole member 332 can be constructed from a PU plastic, such as a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material, for example. The midsole member 332 may be constructed from a thermoplastic elastomer material such as a polyether block amide (PEBA). One example of a PEBA material is PEBAX® foam. In some embodiments, the midsole member 332 can be constructed from an EVA-Solid-Sponge (“ESS”) material, an EVA foam (e.g., PUMA® ProFoam Lite™, IGNITE Foam), polyurethane, polyether, an olefin block copolymer, a thermoplastic material (e.g., a thermoplastic polyurethane, a thermoplastic elastomer, a thermoplastic polyolefin, etc.), or a supercritical foam. The midsole member 332 may be a single polymeric material or may be a blend of materials, such as an EVA copolymer, a thermoplastic polyurethane, a PEBA copolymer, and/or an olefin block copolymer.

[0152] The sole structure further includes the sole plate 336 disposed between the midsole member 332 and the upper 302. As shown in FIGS. 6D and 6E, the sole plate 336 extends through the midfoot region 310 and is exposed at the cutout portion 338 within an arched section 340 illustrated in FIG. 6B. Further illustrated in FIG. 6B, the outsole 330 partially surrounds the arched section 340 and the midsole member 332 partially surrounds and partially comprises the arched section 340.

[0153] In some embodiments, the ground-engaging surface is not continuous along the medial side 316 of the midfoot region 310 of the article of footwear. Correspondingly, the outsole 330 may comprise multiple outsole portions that are spaced apart from one another, such that the ground engaging surface is not continuous between the outsole portions. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 6B, the outsole 330 includes a first outsole portion 330a positioned in the forefoot region 308 and generally forward of the widest portion 305 (e.g., to extend into the exit region 323). Additionally, the outsole 330 includes a second outsole portion 330b extending from the widest portion 305, along the lateral side 318 of the midfoot region 410, and around a periphery of the heel region 312 to the medial side 316 (e.g., to extend into the entry region 321).

[0154] In some embodiments, for example, as illustrated in FIGS. 6B, and 6I-6M, the first midsole member 332 can define a longitudinal channel 333 that extends from the heel region 312 and into the midfoot region 310.

[0155] Illustrated in FIG. 6E, the sole plate 336 extends between the heel region 312 and the forefoot region 308. Illustrated in FIGS. 6F through 6K, the sole plate 336 has a uniform thickness throughout of approximately 0.8 millimeters. Generally, the sole plate 336 has a shape that is similar to but proportionally smaller than the midsole member 332 throughout the forefoot, midfoot, and heel regions 308, 310, 312 (shown in FIG. 6E). In some embodiments, the sole plate 336 comprises carbon fiber, for example. In other embodiments, the sole plate 336 can include a PU plastic, such as a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material, for example. Other thermoplastic elastomers and fiber reinforced thermoplastics consisting of block copolymers are also possible. However, these and other rigid, semi-rigid, or spring-like materials and combinations thereof may comprise the sole plate 336. In some embodiments, the sole plate 336 can be configured as a shock plate to impart impact protection and facilitate leg muscle tension thereby relieving stress on a heel, ankle, shin, knees, hips, and/or back of a user.

[0156] The sole plate 336 can have varied stiffness along the length of the sole plate 336. For example, the stiffness in the forefoot region 308 of the sole plate 336 may be more or less flexible than the midfoot region 310 of the sole plate 336, which may be more or less flexible than the heel region 312 of the sole plate 336. Alternatively, the sole plate 336 can include a uniform stiffness. Additionally, the sole plate 336 may include additional or alternative geometries, such as, for example, notches, curves, protrusions, voids, angled edges, cutouts, etc. The sole plate 336 further defines an outer periphery that would fit into a peripheral envelope of the sole plate 336.

[0157] The cushion layer 352 extends between the heel region 312 and the midfoot region 310 as illustrated in FIG. 6J and is positioned on top at least a portion of the sole plate 336 and between the sole plate 336 and the upper 302. The cushion layer 352 is configured as a thin foam layer having a thickness of approximately 4 millimeters in the heel region 312 and a portion of the midfoot region 310. In some embodiments, the cushion layer 352 can be constructed from a thermoplastic elastomer material such as a polyether block amide (PEBA). One example of a PEBA material is PEBAX® foam. In a portion of the midfoot region 310 the cushion layer 352 tapers to a thickness of zero so that there is little to no cushion layer 352 present in the forefoot region 308. However, in some embodiments, the cushion layer 352 can extend at least partially into the forefoot region 308.

[0158] Continuing, FIGS. 6F and 6G show cross-sectional views of the forefoot region 308 of the article of footwear 300 along lines 6F-6F and 6G-6G in FIG. 6B. In both FIGS. 6F and 6G the sole plate 336 is shown positioned within a pocket 342 and exposed along the top of the midsole member 332 and in contact with the upper 302. The sole plate 336 also extends between the medial side 316 and the lateral side 318.

[0159] FIGS. 6H and 6I illustrate cross-sectional views of the midfoot region 310 along lines 6H-6H and 6I-6I of FIG. 6B. In FIG. 6H, the sole plate 336 is shown positioned within the pocket 342 in the top of the midsole member 332. The cushion layer 352 is also positioned within the pocket 342 of the midsole member 332 and on top of the sole plate 336 (e.g., so that the sole plate 336 is embedded in the sole structure 304, with the cushion layer 352 positioned generally above the midsole member 332). Accordingly, the sole plate 336 is positioned between the midsole member 332 and the cushion layer 352. Put another way, the cushion layer 352 is positioned generally above the midsole member 352 and the sole plate 336 so that the cushion layer 352 is between the upper 302 and each of the midsole member 352 and the sole plate 336. Further, the midsole member 332 extends from the medial side 316 to the lateral side 318 and the outsole 330 extends across the bottom of the midsole member 332. Looking at FIGS. 6A, 6C, and 6D, and as mentioned above, this portion of the sole structure 304 is located underneath the ball of a user's foot (shown in FIG. 4) and creates a rocking member (i.e., a rocking region) with a fulcrum proximate to the metatarsal bones of the user. The position of the sole plate 336 in relationship to the midsole member 332 effectively adjusts the running posture of the user to be a forward tilt and moves the running motion of the user toward their forefoot.

[0160] In FIG. 6G, the sole plate 336 is also shown positioned within the pocket 342 of the midsole member 332 and exposed through the cutout portion 338. The cushion layer 352 is also positioned within the pocket 342 and on top of the sole plate 336. Along the medial side 316, the midsole member 332 is spaced from the ground surface 324 and is configured to be capable of engaging an elevated ground surface or other external surface at the midfoot region 310.

[0161] Further, FIGS. 6J and 6K show cross-sectional views of the heel region 312 along lines 6J-6J and 6K-6K of FIG. 6B. In FIG. 6J, the sole plate 336 is shown positioned within the pocket 342 of the midsole member 332 and exposed through the cutout portion 338. Additionally, the cushion layer 352 is also positioned within the pocket 342 and on top of the sole plate 336. Further, the midsole member 332 on the medial side 316 is spaced from the ground surface, but less spaced than in the part of the midfoot region 310 shown in FIG. 6I. In FIG. 6K, the sole plate 336 is shown positioned within the pocket 342 of the midsole member 332. Additionally, the cushion layer 352 is also positioned within the pocket 342 and on top of the sole plate 336. Further, the midsole member 332 extends continuously from the medial side 316 to the lateral side 318.

[0162] FIGS. 6L and 6G illustrate a toe view and a heel view, respectively, of the article of footwear 300. The outsole 330 extends up and around the midsole member 332 and at least a portion of the upper 302 in the front of the forefoot region 308 (shown in FIGS. 6A, 6C and 6D).

[0163] FIGS. 7A through 7M illustrate another embodiment of an article of footwear 400 according to the invention. In many aspects, the article of footwear 400 is similar to the article of footwear 200 described above and similar numbering in the 400 series is used for the article of footwear 400. For example, the article of footwear 400 has an upper 402, a sole structure 404, an interior cavity 406 defined by the combination of the upper 402 and the sole structure 404, a forefoot region 408, a midfoot region 410, a heel region 412, a medial side 416, and a lateral side 418. Further, the sole structure 404 has an outsole 430, a first midsole member 432, a second midsole member 434 with a pocket 442, a sole plate 436, an arched section 440, and a cutout portion 438. Additionally, the sole structure 404 is shaped to define an entry angle 420 in the heel region 412 and an exit angle 422 in the forefoot region 408 with respect to a flat ground surface 424. Similarly, in some embodiments, the entry angle 420 can be about 30 degrees and the sole structure 404 can start angling away from the ground surface 424 approximate the area underneath the heel of a user's foot (shown in FIG. 4). Further, in some embodiments, the exit angle 422 can be about 15 degrees and can start angling away from the ground surface 424 approximate the area underneath the balls of a user's foot (shown in FIG. 4).

[0164] Additionally, the first midsole member 432, the second midsole member 434, and the sole plate 436 can be similarly constructed as the first midsole member 232, the second midsole member 234, and the sole plate 236. For example, the first and second midsole members 432, 434 can be formed from a PU plastic, such as a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material, ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) polymer, copolymers thereof, or a similar type of material and the sole plate 436 can be formed from a PU plastic, such as a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material, thermoplastic elastomers and fiber reinforced thermoplastics consisting of block copolymers, carbon fiber, or other rigid, semi-rigid, or spring-like materials and combinations thereof.

[0165] In some aspects, however, the articles of footwear 200, 400 differ from each other. For example, the sole plate 436 has a shape that is similar to but proportionally smaller than the midsole member 432 throughout the forefoot, midfoot, and heel regions 408, 410, 412 (shown in FIG. 7E).

[0166] Additionally, as shown in FIG. 7D and FIGS. 7G, 7I, and 7J, which are cross-sectional views taken along lines 7G-7G, 7I-7I, and 7J-7J in FIG. 7B within the forefoot region 408, the midfoot region 410, and the heel region 412, respectively, the first midsole member 432 and the second midsole member 434 are positioned differently within the sole structure 404 than the first midsole member 232 and the second midsole member 234 in the sole structure 204. For example, the second midsole member 434 extends around the front of the first midsole member 432 in the forefoot region 408 (shown in FIG. 7D).

[0167] FIGS. 8A through 8M illustrate another embodiment of an article of footwear 500 according to the invention. In many aspects, the article of footwear 500 is similar to the article of footwear 300 described above and similar numbering in the 500 series is used for the article of footwear 500. For example, the article of footwear 500 has an upper 502, a sole structure 504, an interior cavity 506 defined by the combination of the upper 502 and the sole structure 504, a forefoot region 508, a midfoot region 510, a heel region 512, a medial side 516, and a lateral side 518. Further, the sole structure 504 has an outsole 530, a midsole member 532 (i.e., a first midsole member of a midsole) with a pocket 542, a sole plate 536, a cushion layer 552 (i.e., a second midsole member of a midsole), an arched section 540, and a cutout portion 538. Additionally, the sole structure 504 is shaped to define an entry angle 520 in the heel region 512 and an exit angle 522 in the forefoot region 508 with respect to a flat ground surface 524. Similarly, in some embodiments, the entry angle 520 can be about 30 degrees and the sole structure 504 can start angling away from the ground surface 524 approximate the area underneath the heel of a user's foot (shown in FIG. 4). Further, in some embodiments, the exit angle 522 can be about 15 degrees and can start angling away from the ground surface 524 approximate the area underneath the balls of a user's foot (shown in FIG. 4).

[0168] Accordingly, when in a rested state as shown in FIGS. 6A-6M, the sole structure 504 is shaped to define an entry angle 520 in the heel region 512 and an exit angle 522 in the forefoot region 508 with respect to a flat ground surface 524. The sole structure 504 can also define a substantially flat region 519 that is approximately parallel with the flat ground surface 524. Correspondingly, the sole structure 504 can define an entry region 521 in which a bottom surface 505 of the sole structure 504 curves upwardly to start angling away from the ground surface 524 approximate the area underneath the heel of a user's foot (shown in FIG. 4) by at least the entry angle 520. Correspondingly, the sole structure 504 can also define an exit region 523 in which the bottom surface 505 of the sole structure 504 curves upwardly to start angling away from the ground surface 524 approximate the area underneath the balls of a user's foot (shown in FIG. 4) by at least the exit angle 524.

[0169] The entry and exit angles 520, 524 can be configured to enhance contact with a user's heel during a heel strike and promoting engagement of a large surface area of the outsole 530 in the forefoot region 508 during a push-off by the user. Accordingly, the entry region 521 can extend rearward from the substantially flat region 519 and the exit region 523 can extend forward from the substantially flat region 519. In some embodiments, the junction between the substantially flat region 519 and the exit region 523 can be located at a widest portion 507 of the sole structure 504 (e.g., at a greatest distance between the medial and lateral sides 516, 518), so as to be aligned proximate to the metatarsal bones of the user.

[0170] Due to the curved nature of each of the entry region 521 and the exit region 523, the respective junctions with the substantially flat region 519 can form rocking regions 525, 527. The rocking regions 525, 527 can create a fulcrum for the sole plate 536. For example, the fulcrum created by the rocking region 527 can create a propulsion lever with the sole plate 536 between a midfoot region and a heel region of the wearer that allows the wearer to accelerate faster and create a toe-off movement where the forefoot region of the wearer propels the wearer forward.

[0171] Additionally, the midsole member 532, the sole plate 536, and the cushion layer 552 can be similarly constructed as the midsole member 332, the sole plate 336, and the cushion layer 352. For example, the midsole member 532 can be formed from a PU plastic, such as a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material; the sole plate 536 can be formed from a PU plastic, such as a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material, thermoplastic elastomers and fiber reinforced thermoplastics consisting of block copolymers, carbon fiber, or other rigid, semi-rigid, or spring-like materials and combinations thereof; and the cushion layer 552 can be formed from a thermoplastic elastomer material, for example, a polyether block amide (PEBA), including PEBAX® foam. In some embodiments, the cushion layer member 552 can be constructed from an EVA-Solid-Sponge (“ESS”) material, an EVA foam (e.g., PUMA® ProFoam Lite™, IGNITE Foam), polyurethane, polyether, an olefin block copolymer, a thermoplastic material (e.g., a thermoplastic polyurethane, a thermoplastic elastomer, a thermoplastic polyolefin, etc.), or a supercritical foam.

[0172] Another similarity is that the sole plate 536 has a shape that is similar to but proportionally smaller than the midsole member 532 throughout the forefoot, midfoot, and heel regions 508, 510, 512 (shown in FIG. 8E).

[0173] In some aspects, however, the articles of footwear 300, 500 differ from each other. For example, the cushion layer is different. As shown in FIGS. 8D and 8G, which is a cross-sectional view taken along line 8G-8G in FIG. 8B within the forefoot region 508, the cushion layer 552 extends into the forefoot region 508.

[0174] Further, in some embodiments, the ground-engaging surface is not continuous along the medial side 516 of the midfoot region 510 of the article of footwear. Correspondingly, the outsole 530 may comprise multiple outsole portions that are spaced apart from one another, such that the ground engaging surface is not continuous between the outsole portions. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 8B, the outsole 530 includes a first outsole portion 530a positioned in the forefoot region 508 and generally forward of the widest portion 505 (e.g., to extend into the exit region 523). Additionally, the outsole 530 includes a second outsole portion 530b extending from the widest portion 505 and along the lateral side 518 of the midfoot region 410 to the heel region 512. Further, the outsole 530 can include a third outsole portion 530c that is coupled to the medial side 516 of the first midsole member in the heel region 512 (e.g., to extend into the entry region 521).

[0175] In some embodiments, for example, as illustrated in FIGS. 8B, and 8I-8M, the first midsole member 532 can define a longitudinal channel 533 that extends from the heel region 512 and into the midfoot region 510. As illustrated, the second and third outsole portions 530b, 530c are positioned on opposite sides of the longitudinal channel 533 so that the ground engaging surface is not continuous between the medial and lateral sides 516, 518 in the heel region 512.

[0176] FIGS. 9A through 9M illustrate another embodiment of an article of footwear 600 according to the invention. In many aspects, the article of footwear 600 is similar to the article of footwear 500 described above and similar numbering in the 600 series is used for the article of footwear 600. For example, the article of footwear 600 has an upper 602, a sole structure 604, an interior cavity 606 defined by the combination of the upper 602 and the sole structure 604, a forefoot region 608, a midfoot region 610, a heel region 612, a medial side 616, and a lateral side 618. Further, the sole structure 604 has an outsole 630, a midsole member 632 with a pocket 642, a sole plate 636, a cushion layer 652, an arched section 640, and a cutout portion 638. Additionally, the sole structure 604 is shaped to define an entry angle 620 in the heel region 612 and an exit angle 622 in the forefoot region 608 with respect to a flat ground surface 624. Similarly, in some embodiments, the entry angle 620 can be about 30 degrees and the sole structure 604 can start angling away from the ground surface 624 approximate the area underneath the heel of a user's foot (shown in FIG. 4). Further, in some embodiments, the exit angle 622 can be about 15 degrees and can start angling away from the ground surface 624 approximate the area underneath the balls of a user's foot (shown in FIG. 4).

[0177] Additionally, the midsole member 632, the sole plate 636, and the cushion layer 652 can be similarly constructed as the midsole member 532, the sole plate 536, and the cushion layer 552. For example, the midsole member 632 can be formed from a PU plastic, such as a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material; the sole plate 636 can be formed from a PU plastic, such as a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material, thermoplastic elastomers and fiber reinforced thermoplastics consisting of block copolymers, carbon fiber, or other rigid, semi-rigid, or spring-like materials and combinations thereof; and the cushion layer 652 can be formed from a thermoplastic elastomer material, for example, a polyether block amide (PEBA), including PEBAX® foam.

[0178] Further, the sole plate 636 has a shape that is similar to but proportionally smaller than the midsole member 632 throughout the forefoot, midfoot, and heel regions 608, 610, 612 (shown in FIG. 9E).

[0179] In some aspects, however, the articles of footwear 500, 600 differ from each other. For example, as shown in FIGS. 9D, 9E and FIG. 9F, which is a cross-sectional view taken along line 9F-9F in FIG. 9B within the forefoot region 608, the cushion layer 652 extends even farther into the forefoot region 608. Additionally, the midsole member 632 has a more consistent thickness from the midfoot region 610 through the forefoot region 608 and is thinner than the midsole member 532 near the midfoot region 610 and thicker in the portion beneath a user's toes in the forefoot region 608. The midsole member 632 also has a chamber 654 extending upward into the midsole member 632 and extending from the forefoot region 608 into the cutout portion 638. In some embodiments, the chamber 654 can be arch-shaped. Looking at FIGS. 9F-9H, in those embodiments, the height of the chamber 654 (defined as measured from the ground surface 624 to the top of the chamber 654 taken along the shortest path) can be about half the thickness of the midsole member 632 (defined as measured from the top of the chamber 654 to the top of the midsole member 632 taken along the shortest path). In some embodiments, the width of the chamber 654 can decrease moving from the forefoot region 608 to the cutout portion 638. In some embodiments the area of the cross-section of the chamber 654 can remain constant moving from the forefoot region 608 to the cutout portion 638 (e.g., as the width of the chamber 654 decreases, the height of the chamber 654 increases).

[0180] FIGS. 10A through 10M illustrate another embodiment of an article of footwear 700 according to the invention. In many aspects, the article of footwear 700 is similar to the article of footwear 300 described above and similar numbering in the 700 series is used for the article of footwear 700. For example, the article of footwear 700 has an upper 702, a sole structure 704, an interior cavity 706 defined by the combination of the upper 702 and the sole structure 704, a forefoot region 708, a midfoot region 710, a heel region 712, a medial side 716, and a lateral side 718. Further, the sole structure 704 has an outsole 730, a midsole member 732 with a pocket 742, a sole plate 736, a cushion layer 752, an arched section 740, and a cutout portion 738. Additionally, the sole structure 704 is shaped to define an entry angle 720 in the heel region 712 and an exit angle 722 in the forefoot region 708 with respect to a flat ground surface 724. Similarly, in some embodiments, the entry angle 720 can be about 30 degrees and the sole structure 704 can start angling away from the ground surface 724 approximate the area underneath the heel of a user's foot (shown in FIG. 4). Further, in some embodiments, the exit angle 722 can be about 15 degrees and can start angling away from the ground surface 724 approximate the area underneath the balls of a user's foot (shown in FIG. 4).

[0181] Additionally, the midsole member 732, the sole plate 736, and the cushion layer 752 can be similarly constructed as the midsole member 332, the sole plate 336, and the cushion layer 352. For example, the midsole member 732 can be formed from a PU plastic, such as a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material; the sole plate 736 can be formed from a PU plastic, such as a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material, thermoplastic elastomers and fiber reinforced thermoplastics consisting of block copolymers, carbon fiber, or other rigid, semi-rigid, or spring-like materials and combinations thereof; and the cushion layer 752 can be formed from a thermoplastic elastomer material, for example, a polyether block amide (PEBA), including PEBAX® foam.

[0182] Another similarity is that the sole plate 736 has a shape that is similar to but proportionally smaller than the midsole member 732 throughout the forefoot, midfoot, and heel regions 708, 710, 712 (shown in FIG. 10E).

[0183] In some aspects, however, the articles of footwear 300, 700 differ from each other. For example, the cushion layer is different. As shown in FIGS. 10D and 10F, which is a cross-sectional view taken along line 10G-10G in FIG. 10B within the forefoot region 708, the cushion layer 752 extends into the forefoot region 708.

[0184] The above-described sole plates, such as sole plates 136, 236, and 336 provide a rigid sole that can promote a faster takeoff when running. In particular, the fulcrum of the rocking member creates a propulsion lever between a midfoot region and a heel region of the wearer that allows the wearer to accelerate faster and create a toe-off movement where the forefoot region of the wearer propels the wearer forward. Further, embodiments of the sole structures described herein can provide a training aid or tool that can be used to strengthen entire leg and foot muscles of a wearer and adjust their running posture to a forward-tilt position that promotes constant muscle tension.

[0185] Any of the embodiments described herein may be modified to include any of the structures or methodologies disclosed in connection with different embodiments. Further, the present disclosure is not limited to articles of footwear of the type specifically shown. Still further, aspects of the articles of footwear of any of the embodiments disclosed herein may be modified to work with any type of footwear, apparel, or other athletic equipment.

[0186] As noted previously, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that while the invention has been described above in connection with particular embodiments and examples, the invention is not necessarily so limited, and that numerous other embodiments, examples, uses, modifications and departures from the embodiments, examples and uses are intended to be encompassed by the claims attached hereto. The entire disclosure of each patent and publication cited herein is incorporated by reference, as if each such patent or publication were individually incorporated by reference herein. Various features and advantages of the invention are set forth in the following claims.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

[0187] Numerous modifications to the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the foregoing description. Accordingly, this description is to be construed as illustrative only and is presented for the purpose of enabling those skilled in the art to make and use the invention and to teach the best mode of carrying out same. The exclusive rights to all modifications which come within the scope of the appended claims are reserved.