CA2513473A1 - Footwear with separable upper and sole structure - Google Patents

Footwear with separable upper and sole structure Download PDF

Info

Publication number
CA2513473A1
CA2513473A1 CA002513473A CA2513473A CA2513473A1 CA 2513473 A1 CA2513473 A1 CA 2513473A1 CA 002513473 A CA002513473 A CA 002513473A CA 2513473 A CA2513473 A CA 2513473A CA 2513473 A1 CA2513473 A1 CA 2513473A1
Authority
CA
Canada
Prior art keywords
footwear
article
foot
sole structure
supporting element
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
CA002513473A
Other languages
French (fr)
Other versions
CA2513473C (en
Inventor
James A. Grove
Eric P. Avar
Bruce J. Kilgore
Michael R. Friton
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Nike Innovate CV USA
Original Assignee
Individual
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Individual filed Critical Individual
Publication of CA2513473A1 publication Critical patent/CA2513473A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of CA2513473C publication Critical patent/CA2513473C/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Fee Related legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A43FOOTWEAR
    • A43BCHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
    • A43B3/00Footwear characterised by the shape or the use
    • A43B3/24Collapsible or convertible
    • A43B3/244Collapsible or convertible characterised by the attachment between upper and sole
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A43FOOTWEAR
    • A43BCHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
    • A43B13/00Soles; Sole-and-heel integral units
    • A43B13/14Soles; Sole-and-heel integral units characterised by the constructive form
    • A43B13/22Soles made slip-preventing or wear-resisting, e.g. by impregnation or spreading a wear-resisting layer
    • A43B13/223Profiled soles
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A43FOOTWEAR
    • A43BCHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
    • A43B13/00Soles; Sole-and-heel integral units
    • A43B13/14Soles; Sole-and-heel integral units characterised by the constructive form
    • A43B13/22Soles made slip-preventing or wear-resisting, e.g. by impregnation or spreading a wear-resisting layer
    • A43B13/24Soles made slip-preventing or wear-resisting, e.g. by impregnation or spreading a wear-resisting layer by use of insertions
    • A43B13/26Soles made slip-preventing or wear-resisting, e.g. by impregnation or spreading a wear-resisting layer by use of insertions projecting beyond the sole surface
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A43FOOTWEAR
    • A43BCHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
    • A43B13/00Soles; Sole-and-heel integral units
    • A43B13/28Soles; Sole-and-heel integral units characterised by their attachment, also attachment of combined soles and heels
    • A43B13/36Easily-exchangeable soles
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A43FOOTWEAR
    • A43BCHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
    • A43B23/00Uppers; Boot legs; Stiffeners; Other single parts of footwear
    • A43B23/02Uppers; Boot legs
    • A43B23/0245Uppers; Boot legs characterised by the constructive form
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A43FOOTWEAR
    • A43BCHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
    • A43B3/00Footwear characterised by the shape or the use
    • A43B3/24Collapsible or convertible
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A43FOOTWEAR
    • A43BCHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
    • A43B3/00Footwear characterised by the shape or the use
    • A43B3/24Collapsible or convertible
    • A43B3/242Collapsible or convertible characterised by the upper
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A43FOOTWEAR
    • A43BCHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
    • A43B3/00Footwear characterised by the shape or the use
    • A43B3/24Collapsible or convertible
    • A43B3/246Collapsible or convertible characterised by the sole
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A43FOOTWEAR
    • A43BCHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
    • A43B7/00Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements
    • A43B7/14Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A43FOOTWEAR
    • A43BCHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
    • A43B7/00Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements
    • A43B7/14Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts
    • A43B7/1405Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form
    • A43B7/1415Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form characterised by the location under the foot
    • A43B7/1425Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form characterised by the location under the foot situated under the ball of the foot, i.e. the joint between the first metatarsal and first phalange
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A43FOOTWEAR
    • A43BCHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
    • A43B7/00Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements
    • A43B7/14Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts
    • A43B7/1405Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form
    • A43B7/1415Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form characterised by the location under the foot
    • A43B7/1445Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form characterised by the location under the foot situated under the midfoot, i.e. the second, third or fourth metatarsal
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A43FOOTWEAR
    • A43BCHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
    • A43B7/00Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements
    • A43B7/14Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts
    • A43B7/1405Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form
    • A43B7/1415Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form characterised by the location under the foot
    • A43B7/145Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form characterised by the location under the foot situated under the toes, i.e. the phalanges

Abstract

An article of footwear is disclosed that includes upper (20) and a sole structure (30). The upper defines an interior void that is configured to receive the sole structure and a foot. A lower surface of the upper defines a plurality of apertures (24a-24f), and the sole structure includes a plurality of projections (32a-32f) that extend through the apertures to form a ground-engaging surface. The projections are connected to a foot-supporting member (31) that remains within the upper. A locking system (25, 37, 35a-35f) is incorporated into the upper and sole structure to secure the sole structure to the upper.

Description

FOOTWEAR WITH SEPARABLE UPPER AND SOLE STRUCTURE
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Field of the Invention [Ol] This application claims the benefit of U. S. application Ser. No.
10/349,398 filed January 21, 2003, the contents of which are expressly incorporated herein.
[02] The present invention relates to the field of footwear. The invention concerns, more particularly, an article of footwear having a sole structure that is separable from an upper.
Description of Background art [03] Conventional articles of athletic footwear generally include two primary elements, an upper and a sole structure. The upper is secured to the sole structure and forms a void on the interior of the footwear for securely and comfoi tably receiving a foot.
The upper is generally formed from multiple elements that are stitched and adhesively bonded together to form a comfortable structure for receiving the foot. Conventional athletic footwear may include, for example, an exterior formed of leather and polymer textile materials that are resistant to abrasion and provide the footwear with a particular aesthetic. Foam materials may be located on the interior of the upper to enhance the comfort of the upper, and moisture-wicking textiles may be positioned adjacent the foot to limit the perspiration within the upper.
[~4] The sole structure attenuates ground reaction forces and absorbs energy as the footwear contacts the ground, and often incorporates multiple layers that are conventionally referred to as a midsole and an outsole. The midsole forms the middle layer of the sole and serves a variety of purposes that include controlling potentially harmful foot motions, such as over pronation, and shielding the foot from excessive ground reaction forces.
The outsole forms the ground-contacting element of footwear and is usually fashioned from a durable, wear resistant material that includes texturing to improve traction. The sole structure may also include an insole, which is a thin, cushioning member located within the upper and adjacent to a sole of the foot to enhance footwear comfort.
[OS] The upper and sole structure of most conventional articles of footwear are permanently secured together through adhesive bonding or stitching, for example.
Accordingly, wear or damage occurring to either the upper or sole structure may require that the entire article of footwear be discarded. In addition, sole structures are generally configured for use during specific activities, particularly with athletic footwear. For example, a sole structure may incorporate pronation control elements that are beneficial for running, stability elements for court-style activities, or relatively soft cushioning for walking. A
sole structure that is configured for one athletic activity, such as long-distance running, may not be suitable for use during another athletic activity, such as tennis.
Each different type of sole structure, therefore, requires a distinct upper in footwear where the upper and sole structure are permanently secured together.
[06] In contrast with the conventional article of footwear that includes a permanently secured upper and sole structure, footwear configurations embodying an upper and detachable sole structure have been proposed. U.S. Patent Number 6,023,857 to Vizy et al.
discloses footwear with a permanently attached upper and outsole that includes a separate midsole and heel counter structure, which is removable from the upper. LT.S. Patent Number 5,083,385 to I4alford and IJ.S. Patent number 4,974,344 to thing both disclose an outsole structure that is detachable from the remainder of the footgear. Finally, LT.S. Patent Numbers 6,023,859 and 5,799,417 to l3urke et al. disclose an article of footwear with removable and exchangeable inserts that are positioned between the upper and a lower portion of the sole structure. The inserts protrude through the lower portion of the sole structure to provide a ground-contacting surface.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[07] The present invention is an article of footwear having an upper and a sole structure. The upper includes an ankle opening and a pair of side portions extending downward from the ankle opening. The upper also includes a connection element located opposite the ankle opening and extending between the side portions. The connection element forms a bottom portion of the upper and defines an aperture. The sole structure includes a foot-supporting element and a projection connected to said foot-supporting element.
The sole structure is insertable through the ankle opening such that the foot-supporting element is positioned adjacent an upper surface of the connection element and the projection extends through the aperture to provide a ground-contacting surface.
[08] The footwear configuration described above provides reparability between the upper and the sole structure. That is, the upper and sole structure may be separated into two discrete components of the footwear. During use, however, the upper and sole structure are intended to remain securely connected. In order to enhance the connection between the upper and sole structure, a locking system may be incorporated into the footwear. In an exemplary embodiment, the locking system includes an indentation in the projection that receives an edge of the aperture, thereby effectively securing the upper to the sole structure. The indentatiomnay be positioned, for example, adjacent the foot-supporting ele~~nent.
[~~] The footwear may also include additional features, including an outsole section and a textile liner. The sole structure may include a polymer foam, particularly in the projection. The outsole section, which may be formed of a rubber material, may be positioned on a lower surface of the projection to enhance the abrasion-resistance and durability of the sole structure. Similarly, the foot-supporting element may be formed of a polymer foam material. In order to enhance the comfort of the sole structure, a textile liner may be secured to the upper surface of the foot-supporting member.
[10] The advantages and features of novelty characterising the present invention are pointed out with particularity in the appended claims. To gain an improved understanding of the advantages and features of novelty, however, reference may be made to the following descriptive matter and accompanying drawings that describe and illustrate various embodiments and concepts related to the invention.
DESC:RIPTI~N ~F THE DRAWINGS
[lI] The foregoing Summary of the Invention, as well as the following Detailed Description of the Invention, will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
[I2] Figure 1 is a lateral elevational view of an article of footwear having a separable upper and sole structure in accordance with the present invention.
[13J Figure 2 is an exploded elevational view of the footwear.
[ICJ Figure 3 is a perspective view of a bottom and medial side of the footv~ear.
[~5] Figure 9~ is aai exploded perspective view of the footwear.
Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the footwear, as defined by line S-5 in Figure 1.
[17] Figure 6 is a bottom plan view of the footwear.
[18] Figure 7 is a bottom plan view of the sole structure.
[19] Figure 8 is a bottom plan view of the upper.
[20] Figure 9 is a lateral elevational view of the article of footwear with an alternate locking system.
[21] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of the footwear with the alternate locking system, as defined by line 10-10 in Figure 9.
lJETI~ILED I)ESCRIPTI~IV ~F THE II~TVENTI~N
[22] The following discussion and accompanying Figures 1-8 disclose an article of footwear having an upper 20 and a sole structure 30 in accordance with the present invention.
In contrast with conventional articles of footwear that have a permanently-attached upper and sole structure, upper 20 and sole structure 30 are separable. This structure provides a plurality of advantages over the conventional, non-separable footwear. For example, upper 20 and sole structure 30 may be separately cleansed in a manner that best suits the respective materials forming each component. If one of upper 20 and sole structure 30 becomes worn or otherwise damaged, the damaged component may be replaced without the necessity of replacing the undamaged component. Furthermore, upper 20 and sole structure 30 may be interchanged with alternate uppers or sole structures to suit a particular activity or a preference of an individual.
[2~] For purposes of reference in the following discussion, foot~erzrear 10 is divided into ~ heel portion 11, a midfoot portion 12, and a forefoot portion 13, as defined in Figure 1. heel portion 11 generally corresponds with the area of footwear 10 that receives the heel and ankle of the individual, midfoot portion 12 generally corresponds with the area of footwear 10 that receives the arch, and forefoot portion 13 generally corresponds with the area of footwear 10 that receives the toes. Portions 11-13 are not intended to demarcate precise areas of footwear 10. Rather, portions 11-13 are intended to encompass general areas of footwear 10 to aid in the following discussion.
[24] Upper 20 incorporates a plurality of elements that are stitched or otherwise connected to form a comfortable structure for receiving the foot. Each element may include an individual material or selected textile, foam, leather, and polymer materials that are stitched or adhesively bonded together. The textile materials, for example may include a mesh cloth that provides enhanced air-permeability and moisture-wicking properties.
The foam materials may be a lightweight thermoset foam that conforms to the shape of the foot and enhances the comfort of footwear 10. Finally, the leather and polymer materials may be positioned in high-wear portions of upper 20, or in portions of upper 20 that require additional stretch-resistance or support. Accordingly, upper 20 may be manufactured from generally conventional materials.
[25] The various elements forming upper 20 define a lateral side 21 a, an opposite medial side 21b, an ankle opening 22, and a connecting element 23. Lateral side 21a and medial side 21b generally cover the sides, heel, and instep portion of the foot and may include laces or another tightening system for tightening upper 20 around the foot and securing the foot within footwear 10. Lateral side 21a and medial side 21b define ankle opening 22 and extend downward from ankle opening 22 to join with connecting element 23.
Ankle opening 22 provides access to a void within upper 20 that accommodates both sole structure 30 and the foot. Upper 20 is, therefore, configured to receive sole structure 30 and the foot through ankle opening 22. Lateral side 21a, medial side 21b, and anl~le opening 22 have, therefore, a generally conventional configuration. In contrast with a conventional upper, however, upper 20 includes connecting element 23, which is secured to lateral side 21a and medial side 21b and extends across a bottom of upper 20 to form a lower surface of upper 20.
[26] Connecting element 23 is secured to a lower portion of lateral side 21 a and medial side 21b to form a lower surface of upper 20. A variety of attachment techniques may be utilized for securing connecting element 23 to lateral side 21a and medial side 21b, including stitching, adhesive bonding, thermobonding, or a combination of stitching and bonding, for example. Connecting element 23 extends onto a toe area of lateral side 21 a and medial side 21b in forefoot portion 13. This configuration limits forward movement of the foot relative to footwear 10. Connecting element 23 may also extend upward on the lateral side, on the medial side, or in heel portion I 1.
[27] Connecting element 23 may be a single element, as depicted in Figure 5 and ~, or a plurality of elements that are joined together. The primary purpose of connecting element 23-is to form a plurality of apertures 24a-24g in a lower surface of upper 20.
Suitable materials for connecting element 23 include a plurality of flexible and mildly stretchable polymers, including polyether block amide, thermoplastic polyurethane, or a variety of rubber or elastomeric materials. A combination of materials may also be utilized. For example, a majority of connecting element 23 may be formed from a textile or leather material, and a polymer may be secured to the textile or leather around each of apertures 24a-24g.
[2~] Sole structure 30 is separable fTOrrn upper 20 by disengaging sole structure 30 from upper 20 and drawing sole structure 30 through anl~le opening 22, thereby removing sole structure 30 from the void formed within upper 20. The primary elerrmnts of sole structure 30 are a foot-supporting element 31 and a plurality of projections 32a-32g.
Foot-supporting element 31 extends from heel portion 11 to forefoot portion 13 and provides an upper surface for contacting and supporting the foot. The upper surface of foot-supporting element 31 may be contoured to include a depression in heel portion 11 for seating the heel; an arch in midfoot portion 12 for supporting the arch;
and an area in forefoot portion 13 for supporting forward portions of the foot, including the toes.
Peripheral areas of foot-supporting element 31 may be raised to form a general depression in the upper surface of foot-supporting member 31, thereby providing an area for securely receiving the foot. In order to enhance the comfort of sole structure 30, a textile liner 33 may be attached, through adhesive bonding for example, to the upper surface of foot-supporting element 31.
[2~] ?a lower surface of foot-supporting element 31 contacts connecting element 23 when sole structure 30 is received by the void within upper 20. In addition, projections 32a-32g extend through apertures 24~a-24~g, respectively, and extend downward from upper 20 to form a ground-contacting portion of footwear 10. Each projection 32a-32g includes one of a plurality of outsole sections 34a-34g that impart a durable and abrasion-resistant lower surface to projections 32a-32g. Suitable materials for outsole sections 34a-34g include any of the various rubber materials that are conventionally utilized in footwear outsoles, including blown rubber, carbon rubber or a combination of blown and carbon rubbers.
[30] With the primary exceptions of liner 33 and outsole sections 34a-34g, sole structure 30 is formed of a polymer foam material that provides cushioning as footwear 10 contacts the ground. bore specifically, sole structure 30 acts to attenuate ground reaction forces and absorb energy as sole st1-ucture 30 is compressed between the foot and the ground. This may occur, for example, during activities that involve walling or running.
Suitable materials for sole structure 30 are, therefore, any of the conventional polymer foams that are utilized in the midsoles of athletic footwear, such as ethylvinylacetate and polyurethane foam. Sole structure 30 may also incorporate a fluid-filled bladder in heel portion 11 or along the entire length of foot-supporting element 31 in order to provide additional cushioning, as disclosed in U.S. Patent Numbers 4,183,156;
4,219,945;
4,906,502; and 5,03,361 to Marion F. Rudy, and U.S. Patent Numbers 5,993,S~S
and 6,119,371 to David A. Goodwin et al.
[31] Projections 32a-32g may have a variety of shapes within the scope of the present invention, including circular, elliptical, triangular, hexagonal, square, or any other geometrical or non-geometrical shape. As depicted in Figure 7, projections 32a-32g each have different non-geometrical shapes and are distributed throughout footwear 10. More specifically, projections 32a-32b are positioned in forefoot portion 13, projections 32c-32e are positioned in midfoot portion 12, and projections 32f 32g are positioned in heel portion 11. Similarly, projections 32a, 32c, 32e, and 32f are positioned on a lateral side of footwear 10, and projections 32b, 32d, and 32g are positioned on a medial side of footwear 10.
[32] When sole structure 30 is properly positioned within upper 20, projections 32a-32g extend downward and through apertures 24a-24g, respectively. The shapes of projections 32a-32g generally correspond with the shapes of apertures 24a-24g to provide a secure connection between connecting element 23 and sole structure 30. The secure connection ensures, for example, that sole structure 30 remains properly positioned relative to upper 20 during walking, running, or other ambulatory activities. The secure connection also ensures that dirt, stones, twigs and other debris do not enter upper 20 through apertures 24a-24~g. In order to enhance the secure connection, apertures 24a-24~g may be formed to have an area that is slightly smaller than the area of projections 32a-32g.
Apertures 24a-24g may stretch, therefore, when receiving projections 32a-32g. Furthermore, projections 32a-32g may each define one of an indentation 3Sa-3Sg that extends at least partially around projections 32a-32g. Indentations 3Sa-3Sg may be utilized to receive the edges of apertures 24a-24g, thereby forming a locking system that securely connects sole structure 30 to upper 20. The area of engagement between apertures 24a-24g and projections 32a-32g, which includes indentation 35a-35g, may have approximately the same area as apertures 24a-24g, or a slightly greater area to ensure a secure connection.
[33] The edges of apertures 24a-24g and indentations 35a-35g form the locking system that securely connects sole structure 30 to upper 20. A secure connection is generally formed when the edges of apertures 24a-24g extend into indentations 35a-35g. The connection may be enhanced, however, when the shape of the edges of apertures 24a-24g generally correspond with the shape of indentations 35a-35g. As depicted in Figure 5, therefore, the edges of apertures 24~f and 24g have a shape that corresponds with and engages the surfaces of indentations 35f and 35g. That is, the edges of apertures 24f and 24~g have a generally convex shape that engages a generally concave shape formed by the surfaces of indentations 35f and 35g. In further embodiments, apertures 24a-24g and indentations 35a-35g may be structured to form other corresponding shapes. In addition, the indentations may be formed in the edges of apertures 24a-24g and projections 32a-32g may form protrusions that mate with the indentation in the edges of apertures 24a-24g.
[34] Indentations 35a-35g may extend entirely around each of projection 32a-32g. As depicted in the figures, however, indentations 35a-35g extend only partially around each of projections 32a-32g. More specifically, indentations 35a-35g are located only on portions of projections 32a-32g that face outward from footwear 10. ~Jith respect to projection 32c, for example, indentation 35c is positioned on the lateral side of projection 32c and extends at least partially onto front and rear portions of projection 32c.
Indentation 35c is not located, however, on the medial side of projection 32c.
[35] Indentations 35a-35g receive the edges of apertures 24a-24g to form a locking system that securely connects sole structure 30 to upper 20. As discussed above, the edges of apertures 24a-24g extend into indentations 35a-35g, and the shape of the edges of apertures 24a-24g generally correspond with the shape of indentations 35a-35g.
In portions of apertures 24a-24g that do not extend into indentations 35a-35g, the edge of apertures 24a-24g may have a rounded configuration, as depicted in Figure 5, in order to increase the surface area of contact between connecting element 23 and sole structure 30.
[36] The locking system described above provides an example of a mechanical locking system that is suitable for footwear 10. The use of an aperture edge and indentation is not the only type of mechanical locking system that may be utilized to form a secure connection between sole structure 30 and upper 20. As depicted in Figures 9 and 10, for example, upper 20 may include a series of tubular structures 25 that extend around connection element 23, and sole structure 30 may include a series of corresponding tubular structures 36 that align with tubular structures 25 of upper 20 and fit between tubular stTUCtures 25.
Various pins 37, for example, could be placed through tubular structures 25 and 36 to secure upper 20 and sole structure 30 together. Accordingly, upper 20 and sole structure 30 have corresponding tubular structures 25 and 36 that are similar to the configuration of a hinge, with pins 37 serving the purpose of the pin in the hinge structure.
[37] The structure of footwear 10 described above provides a variety of advantages over conventional footwear, wherein the sole is permanently attached to the upper.
During running, for example, some individuals may prefer a sole structure that limits the degree to which the foot pronates upon contact with the ground. The same individual, however, may prefer a sole structure that e~~hibits a high degree of stability during court-style activities, such as basketball or tennis. lather than purchase multiple pairs ~f upper-sole structure combinations that are permanently secured together, the individual may acquire a single upper 20 and multiple sole structures 30, each sole structure 30 being suitable for different activities. The individual may then select one of the multiple sole structures 30 for use with upper 20. Similarly, the individual may acquire multiple uppers 20 for use with a single sole structure 30.
[38] Upper 20 and sole structure 30 are formed from different materials.
Whereas a large portion of upper 20 includes textiles, sole structure 30 is primarily formed from polymer foam and rubber. Upper 20 and sole structure 30 may benefit, therefore, from cleansing techniques that are specifically suited to their respective materials.
Accordingly, upper 20 may be separated from sole structure 30 and each may be cleansed in an appropriate manner.
[3~] ~utsole sections 34a-34g are formed of a rubber material to provide durable, ground-contacting elements of footwear 10. Although outsole sections 34a-34g are abrasion-resistant, significant use of footwear 10 may eventually wear through portions of outsole sections 34a-34g. Rather than dispose of footwear 10, sole structure 30 may be properly recycled and replaced with an alternate sole structure 30, thus extending the lifespan of footwear 10. Similar considerations apply to upper 20.
(40] From an aesthetic viewpoint, the interchangeability of upper 20 and sole structure 30 also provides the individual with the ability to customize the appearance of footwear 10. For example, footwear 10 may be purchased to have an upper 20 and sole structure 30 with substantially similar colors. )3y interchanging upper 20 with an alternate upper 20, the color combination of footwear 10 may be customized to the preferences of the individual.
Support for a particular athletic team, for example, may also be demonstrated by selecting upper 20 and sole structure 30 combinations that reflect the colors of the athletic team.
[41] The present invention is disclosed above and in the accompanying drawings with reference to a variety of embodiments. The purpose served by the disclosure, however, is to provide an example of the various features and concepts related to the invention, not to limit the scope of the invention. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize that numerous variations and modifications may be made to the embodiments described above without departing from the scope of the present invention, as defined by the appended claims.

Claims (52)

1. An article of footwear comprising:

an upper having an ankle opening, a pair of side portions extending downward from said ankle opening, and a connection element located opposite said ankle opening and extending between said side portions, said connection element forming a bottom portion of said upper and defining an aperture extending through said connection element; and a sole structure having a foot-supporting element and a projection connected to said foot-supporting element, said sole structure being insertable through said ankle opening such that said foot-supporting element is positioned adjacent an upper surface of said connection element and said projection extends through said aperture to provide a ground-contacting surface.
2. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein said connection element forms a first portion of a locking system and said sole structure forms a second portion of said locking system, said first portion being joinable with said second portion to secure said sole structure to said upper.
3. The article of footwear of claim 2, wherein the locking system is a mechanical locking system.
4. The article of footwear of claim 2, wherein said first portion is an edge of said aperture and said second portion is an indentation in said sole structure, said edge being receivable by said indentation.
5. The article of footwear of claim 4, wherein said indentation extends at least partially around said projection.
6. The article of footwear of claim 4, wherein said indentation is located on a portion of said projection facing away from said footwear.
7. The article of footwear of claim 4, wherein said indentation is positioned at least partially around said projection and adjacent to said foot-supporting member.
8. The article of footwear of claim 4, wherein said edge and said indentation have corresponding shapes.
9. The article of footwear of claim 4, wherein said edge forms a convex surface and said indentation forms a concave surface.
10. The article of footwear of claim 2, wherein said first portion is a first tubular structure and said second portion is a second tubular structure that is axially aligned with said first tubular structure, and said locking system includes an element that extends through said first tubular structure and said second tubular structure to secure said upper to said sole structure.
11. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein said upper includes a plurality of said aperture, and said sole structure includes a plurality of said projection.
12. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of said foot-supporting element and said projection are formed of a polymer foam material.
13. The article of footwear of claim 12, wherein an outsole section is secured to a lower surface of said projection.
14. The article of footwear of claim 1, where an upper surface of said foot-supporting element is contoured.
15. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of a periphery of an upper surface of said foot-supporting element is raised in relation to a central area of said upper surface of said foot-supporting element.
16. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein a heel portion of an upper surface of said foot-supporting element includes a depression for receiving a heel of a foot.
17. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein a textile is secured to an upper surface of said foot-supporting element.
18. An article of footwear comprising:

an upper having an ankle opening, a pair of side portions extending downward from said ankle opening, and a connection element located opposite said ankle opening and extending between said side portions, said connection element forming a bottom portion of said upper and defining a plurality of apertures extending through said connection element; and a sole structure having a foot-supporting element and a plurality of projections connected to said foot-supporting element, said sole structure being insertable through said ankle opening such that said foot-supporting element is positioned adjacent an upper surface of said connection element and said projections extend through said apertures to provide ground-contacting surfaces, wherein said connection element includes a first portion of a locking system and said sole structure includes a second portion of said locking system, said first portion being joinable with said second portion to secure said sole structure to said upper.
19. The article of footwear of claim 18, wherein the locking system is mechanical.
20. The article of footwear of claim 18, wherein said first portion is edges of said apertures and said second portion is indentations in said sole structure, said edges being receivable by said indentations.
21. The article of footwear of claim 20, wherein said indentations extend at least partially around said projections.
22. The article of footwear of claim 20, wherein said indentations are positioned at least partially around said projections and adjacent to said foot-supporting member.
23. The article of footwear of claim 20, wherein said indentations are located on portions of said projections facing away from said footwear.
24. The article of footwear of claim 20, wherein said edges and said indentations have corresponding shapes.
25. The article of footwear of claim 20, wherein said edges form convex surfaces and said indentations forms concave surfaces.
26. The article of footwear of claim 18, wherein at least a portion of said foot-supporting element and said projections are formed of a polymer foam material.
27. The article of footwear of claim 26, wherein outsole sections are secured to lower surfaces of said projections.
28. The article of footwear of claim 18, where an upper surface of said foot-supporting element is contoured.
29. The article of footwear of claim 18, wherein at least a portion of a periphery of an upper surface of said foot-supporting element is raised in relation to a central area of said upper surface of said foot-supporting element.
30. The article of footwear of claim 18, wherein a heel portion of an upper surface of said foot-supporting element includes a depression for receiving a heel of a foot.
31. The article of footwear of claim 18, wherein a textile is secured to an upper surface of said foot-supporting element.
32. The article of footwear of claim 18, wherein said first portion is a first tubular structure and said second portion is a second tubular structure that is axially aligned with said first tubular structure, and said locking system includes an element that extends through said first tubular structure and said second tubular structure to secure said upper to said sole structure.
33. An article of footwear comprising:

an upper having an ankle opening, a pair of side portions extending downward from said ankle opening, and a connection element located opposite said ankle opening and extending between said side portions, said connection element forming a bottom portion of said upper and defining a plurality of apertures extending through said connection element; and a sole structure having a foot-supporting element and a plurality of projections connected to said foot-supporting element, said sole structure being insertable through said ankle opening such that said foot-supporting element is positioned adjacent an upper surface of said connection element and said projections extend through said apertures to provide ground-contacting surfaces, wherein edges of at least a portion of said apertures and indentations in at least a portion of said projections form a locking system, said edges being joinable with said indentations to secure said sole structure to said upper.
34. The article of footwear of claim 33, wherein said indentations extend at least partially around said projections.
35. The article of footwear of claim 33, wherein said indentations are positioned at least partially around said at least a portion of said projections and adjacent to said foot-supporting member.
36. The article of footwear of claim 33, wherein said edges and said indentations have corresponding shapes.
37. The article of footwear of claim 33, wherein said edges form convex surfaces and said indentations forms concave surfaces.
38. The article of footwear of claim 33, wherein at least a portion of said foot-supporting element and said projections are formed of a polymer foam material.
39. The article of footwear of claim 38, wherein outsole sections are secured to lower surfaces of said projections.
40. The article of footwear of claim 33, where an upper surface of said foot-supporting element is contoured.
41. The article of footwear of claim 33, wherein at least a portion of a periphery of an upper surface of said foot-supporting element is raised in relation to a central area of said upper surface of said foot-supporting element.
42. The article of footwear of claim 33, wherein a heel portion of an upper surface of said foot-supporting element includes a depression for receiving a heel of a foot.
43. The article of footwear of claim 33, wherein a textile is secured to an upper surface of said foot-supporting element.
44. The article of footwear of claim 33, wherein said indentations are located on portions of said projections facing away from said footwear.
45. An article of footwear comprising an upper and a sole structure that are separable, said upper defining a void located on an interior of said upper, said void having a shape and a size that accommodates both said sole structure and a foot, and said upper defining a plurality of apertures that extend through a bottom portion of said upper, said sole structure having a foot-supporting element positioned on an interior of said upper, and said sole structure having a plurality of projections secured to said foot-supporting element, said projections extending through said apertures to form a ground-engaging surface, wherein said upper includes a first portion of a locking system and said sole structure includes a second portion of said locking system, said first portion being joinable with said second portion to secure said sole structure to said upper.
46. The article of footwear of claim 45, wherein the locking system is mechanical.
47. The article of footwear of claim 45, wherein said first portion is edges of said apertures and said second portion is indentations in said sole structure, said edges being receivable by said indentations.
48. The article of footwear of claim 47, wherein said indentations extend at least partially around said projections.
49. The article of footwear of claim 47, wherein said indentations are positioned at least partially around said projections and adjacent to said foot-supporting member.
50. The article of footwear of claim 47, wherein said indentations are located on portions of said projections facing away from said footwear.
51. The article of footwear of claim 47, wherein said edges and said indentations have corresponding shapes.
52. The article of footwear of claim 47, wherein said edges form convex surfaces and said indentations forms concave surfaces.
CA2513473A 2003-01-21 2003-12-10 Footwear with separable upper and sole structure Expired - Fee Related CA2513473C (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US10/349,398 US6915596B2 (en) 2003-01-21 2003-01-21 Footwear with separable upper and sole structure
US10/349,398 2003-01-21
PCT/US2003/037083 WO2004066771A1 (en) 2003-01-21 2003-12-10 Footwear with separable upper and sole structure

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
CA2513473A1 true CA2513473A1 (en) 2004-08-12
CA2513473C CA2513473C (en) 2014-05-13

Family

ID=32770255

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
CA2513473A Expired - Fee Related CA2513473C (en) 2003-01-21 2003-12-10 Footwear with separable upper and sole structure

Country Status (9)

Country Link
US (8) US6915596B2 (en)
EP (4) EP2327322B1 (en)
JP (3) JP4537859B2 (en)
AT (2) ATE384452T1 (en)
AU (1) AU2003294371A1 (en)
CA (1) CA2513473C (en)
DE (2) DE60318907T2 (en)
HK (1) HK1082388A1 (en)
WO (1) WO2004066771A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (198)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US7634529B2 (en) 1996-11-29 2009-12-15 Ellis Iii Frampton E Personal and server computers having microchips with multiple processing units and internal firewalls
US7107235B2 (en) * 2000-03-10 2006-09-12 Lyden Robert M Method of conducting business including making and selling a custom article of footwear
US7752775B2 (en) 2000-03-10 2010-07-13 Lyden Robert M Footwear with removable lasting board and cleats
US6915596B2 (en) 2003-01-21 2005-07-12 Nike, Inc. Footwear with separable upper and sole structure
US7010872B2 (en) 2003-05-16 2006-03-14 The Timberland Company Modular shoe
EP1832190A3 (en) * 2003-05-16 2007-09-26 The Timberland Company Modular shoe
US20050022424A1 (en) * 2003-07-28 2005-02-03 Held Jerry Martin Shoes - a new design
US6990755B2 (en) 2003-10-09 2006-01-31 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear with a stretchable upper and an articulated sole structure
US7451557B2 (en) * 2004-06-04 2008-11-18 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear with a removable midsole element
US8303885B2 (en) 2003-10-09 2012-11-06 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear with a stretchable upper and an articulated sole structure
US7290357B2 (en) 2003-10-09 2007-11-06 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear with an articulated sole structure
JP2007507323A (en) * 2003-10-10 2007-03-29 スキン シューズ エルエルシー Modular shoe system
US7171768B2 (en) * 2003-10-10 2007-02-06 Skins Footwear, Inc. Modular shoe system
US20050115107A1 (en) * 2003-12-01 2005-06-02 Schumacher James H. Flexible outsole
US7140129B2 (en) * 2004-02-27 2006-11-28 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear with perforated covering and removable components
US8474155B2 (en) * 2004-06-04 2013-07-02 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear with outsole web and midsole protrusions
US7634831B2 (en) * 2004-06-04 2009-12-22 Nike, Inc. Footwear products, methods for making footwear products, and structures used in making footwear products
ITFI20040132A1 (en) * 2004-06-10 2004-09-10 Luigi Bernardeschi FOOT STRUCTURE FOR FOOTWEAR, PROCEDURE FOR ASSEMBLING THE BOTTOM TO A UPPER AND FOOTWEAR SO OBTAINED
CN100525666C (en) * 2004-07-12 2009-08-12 防滑装置有限责任公司 Removable footwear traction plate
US7730636B2 (en) * 2004-07-28 2010-06-08 Nike, Inc. Cleated article of footwear and method of manufacture
WO2006038338A1 (en) * 2004-09-30 2006-04-13 Asics Corporation Cushioning device for rear foot portion of shoe bottom
WO2006037154A1 (en) * 2004-10-08 2006-04-13 Pointe Noir Pty Ltd Dance footwear
US8291618B2 (en) 2004-11-22 2012-10-23 Frampton E. Ellis Devices with internal flexibility sipes, including siped chambers for footwear
US8256147B2 (en) 2004-11-22 2012-09-04 Frampton E. Eliis Devices with internal flexibility sipes, including siped chambers for footwear
US8205356B2 (en) 2004-11-22 2012-06-26 Frampton E. Ellis Devices with internal flexibility sipes, including siped chambers for footwear
US7748145B2 (en) * 2005-01-24 2010-07-06 U Turn Sports Co, LLC Mo Corp Footwear with banding device
US20070023955A1 (en) * 2005-07-27 2007-02-01 Danny Ho Footware cushioning method
US7464489B2 (en) * 2005-07-27 2008-12-16 Aci International Footwear cushioning device
US7467484B2 (en) * 2005-08-12 2008-12-23 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear with midsole having multiple layers
US20070039208A1 (en) * 2005-08-22 2007-02-22 Fila Luxembourg S.A.R.L. Adaptable shoe having an expandable sole assembly
US7437838B2 (en) * 2005-09-23 2008-10-21 Srl, Inc. Article of footwear
JP4886260B2 (en) * 2005-09-28 2012-02-29 株式会社アシックス Shoe sole cushioning structure
US7832123B2 (en) * 2005-12-15 2010-11-16 Nike, Inc. Team shoe set with differing upper characteristics
US20070137067A1 (en) * 2005-12-15 2007-06-21 Nike, Inc. Team shoe set with differing soles
IL173985A0 (en) * 2006-02-27 2006-07-05 Kaplan Sirota Keren Apparel having a replaceable outer layer
US7549236B2 (en) 2006-03-09 2009-06-23 New England Footwear, Llc Footwear with independent suspension and protection
WO2007122722A1 (en) * 2006-04-21 2007-11-01 Asics Corporation Shoe sole with reinforcing structure and shoe sole with damping structure
US7685740B2 (en) 2006-07-13 2010-03-30 Nike, Inc. Dance shoe
US7926203B2 (en) * 2006-10-17 2011-04-19 Pointe Noir Pty Ltd. Dance footwear
EP2540183A3 (en) 2006-10-20 2013-07-10 ASICS Corporation Structure for front foot portion of a shoe sole
US20080141562A1 (en) * 2006-12-13 2008-06-19 Fila Luxembourg S.A.R.L. Adjustable arch support assembly
US8079159B1 (en) * 2007-03-06 2011-12-20 Adriano Rosa Footwear
US7814686B2 (en) * 2007-03-06 2010-10-19 Nike, Inc. Lightweight and flexible article of footwear
US8938889B2 (en) 2007-03-06 2015-01-27 Deckers Outdoor Corporation Footwear
US7793428B2 (en) * 2007-03-07 2010-09-14 Nike, Inc. Footwear with removable midsole having projections
US7946058B2 (en) * 2007-03-21 2011-05-24 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear having a sole structure with an articulated midsole and outsole
US7966748B2 (en) * 2007-04-16 2011-06-28 Earl J. & Kimberly Votolato, Trustees Of The Votolato Living Trust Elastic overshoe with sandwiched sole pads
US8365445B2 (en) 2007-05-22 2013-02-05 K-Swiss, Inc. Shoe outsole having semicircular protrusions
US7784838B2 (en) * 2007-06-21 2010-08-31 Petro Technologies, Inc. High pressure energizable tube connector for a well
US7673400B2 (en) * 2007-07-09 2010-03-09 Acushnet Company Golf shoe outsole
WO2009062030A1 (en) * 2007-11-07 2009-05-14 Linckia Development Llc Footware suspension system
US7987617B2 (en) * 2007-11-13 2011-08-02 Nike, Inc. Self assembled article of footwear with customized designs
ES2326250B1 (en) * 2007-11-15 2010-06-01 Taexpa, S.L. ADDRESSABLE AMORTIGUATION SYSTEM FOR PRESSURE OR IMPACT RECEIVING BODIES.
US8125796B2 (en) 2007-11-21 2012-02-28 Frampton E. Ellis Devices with faraday cages and internal flexibility sipes
US20090183392A1 (en) * 2008-01-18 2009-07-23 Nike, Inc. Footwear with adjustable size
US8720086B2 (en) * 2008-03-20 2014-05-13 Nike, Inc. Cleat member for article of footwear
WO2009126664A2 (en) * 2008-04-08 2009-10-15 Brown Shoe Company, Inc. Shoe sole and method
US20100031535A1 (en) * 2008-08-05 2010-02-11 Gregory Ross Leedy Printed sole for a shoe and method of making
US8256145B2 (en) 2008-09-26 2012-09-04 Nike, Inc. Articles with retractable traction elements
US8079160B2 (en) 2008-09-26 2011-12-20 Nike, Inc. Articles with retractable traction elements
FR2940018B1 (en) * 2008-12-19 2011-07-01 Karim Bonnet HEEL SOCK RESIDING IN THE ASSEMBLY OF A HEEL INSOLE COMPLETELY DENUDED OR NOT, AND A SOCKS PROTECTIVE SOLE TROUSED FOR THE PASSAGE OF THE HEEL.
US8220183B2 (en) * 2009-01-23 2012-07-17 Nike, Inc. Removable heel pad for foot-receiving device
US8181364B2 (en) * 2009-02-06 2012-05-22 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear with heel cushioning system
WO2010115004A1 (en) * 2009-04-02 2010-10-07 Nike International, Ltd. Traction elements
US8616892B2 (en) 2009-04-02 2013-12-31 Nike, Inc. Training system for an article of footwear with a traction system
US8104197B2 (en) * 2009-04-27 2012-01-31 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear with vertical grooves
US8632342B2 (en) 2009-05-28 2014-01-21 Nike, Inc. Training system for an article of footwear
US8573981B2 (en) 2009-05-29 2013-11-05 Nike, Inc. Training system for an article of footwear with a ball control portion
US8453354B2 (en) 2009-10-01 2013-06-04 Nike, Inc. Rigid cantilevered stud
JP5249193B2 (en) * 2009-12-30 2013-07-31 Open Your Eyes 株式会社 footwear
US20110192056A1 (en) * 2010-02-05 2011-08-11 Deckers Outdoor Corporation Footwear including a self-adjusting midsole
US8533979B2 (en) * 2010-02-18 2013-09-17 Nike, Inc. Self-adjusting studs
US8322051B2 (en) * 2010-02-23 2012-12-04 Nike, Inc. Self-adjusting studs
US9210967B2 (en) 2010-08-13 2015-12-15 Nike, Inc. Sole structure with traction elements
US8584377B2 (en) 2010-09-14 2013-11-19 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear with elongated shock absorbing heel system
US8529267B2 (en) 2010-11-01 2013-09-10 Nike, Inc. Integrated training system for articles of footwear
US9173448B1 (en) * 2011-01-10 2015-11-03 Eric Knoblauch Wrestling shoe assembly that includes an auxiliary overshoe
US8516721B2 (en) * 2011-01-10 2013-08-27 Saucony Ip Holdings Llc Articles of footwear
US8713819B2 (en) 2011-01-19 2014-05-06 Nike, Inc. Composite sole structure
US8763276B2 (en) * 2011-03-01 2014-07-01 Nike, Inc. Removable outsole elements for articles of footwear
US10010136B2 (en) 2011-03-16 2018-07-03 Nike, Inc. Footwear sole structure incorporating a plurality of chambers
US9504293B2 (en) 2011-04-18 2016-11-29 Nike, Inc. Outsole with extendable traction elements
WO2012149458A1 (en) * 2011-04-29 2012-11-01 Crocs, Inc. Footwear with dual molded piece construction
US20120285041A1 (en) * 2011-05-13 2012-11-15 Skins Footwear, Inc. Modular Shoe System
USD661075S1 (en) * 2011-06-01 2012-06-05 Acushnet Company Golf shoe outsole
US8677653B2 (en) 2011-06-01 2014-03-25 Nike, Inc. Interchangeable insert system for footwear
US8991071B2 (en) * 2011-06-13 2015-03-31 Crocs, Inc. Systems and methods for side snap footbeds
US8813394B2 (en) * 2011-06-29 2014-08-26 Etonic Holdings, Llc Bowling shoe outsole with interchangeable pads
US9149087B2 (en) * 2011-08-05 2015-10-06 Newton Running Company, Inc. Shoe soles for shock absorption and energy return
US20130036633A1 (en) * 2011-08-09 2013-02-14 Ching-Nan LEE Non-slip sole structure
US9220320B2 (en) 2011-09-16 2015-12-29 Nike, Inc. Sole arrangement with ground-engaging member support features
US8966787B2 (en) 2011-09-16 2015-03-03 Nike, Inc. Orientations for footwear ground-engaging member support features
US9138027B2 (en) 2011-09-16 2015-09-22 Nike, Inc. Spacing for footwear ground-engaging member support features
US8806779B2 (en) 2011-09-16 2014-08-19 Nike, Inc. Shaped support features for footwear ground-engaging members
USD861302S1 (en) * 2011-10-24 2019-10-01 Dynasty Footwear, Ltd. Shoe bottom
EP2653048A1 (en) * 2012-04-17 2013-10-23 Jomarpi-Sociedade De Fabrico E Representacoes De Calcado Lda. Adjustable size footwear
US9402442B2 (en) 2012-04-27 2016-08-02 Nike, Inc. Sole structure and article of footwear including same
US9204682B2 (en) 2012-06-13 2015-12-08 Taylor Made Golf Company, Inc. Golf shoe outsole
US8656613B2 (en) 2012-07-13 2014-02-25 Skechers U.S.A., Inc. Ii Article of footwear having articulated sole member
US9032645B2 (en) 2012-07-30 2015-05-19 Nike, Inc. Support features for footwear ground engaging members
US9282784B2 (en) 2012-09-06 2016-03-15 Nike, Inc. Sole structures and articles of footwear having a lightweight midsole with segmented protective elements
US20140101824A1 (en) * 2012-10-15 2014-04-17 Nike, Inc. System Including Footwear and Sock Having Aligning Indicia
US9179738B2 (en) 2012-11-05 2015-11-10 Taylor Made Golf Company, Inc. Golf shoes
EP2916678B1 (en) * 2012-11-10 2017-01-11 Puma Se Shoe, in particular sports shoe
US20140259784A1 (en) * 2013-03-13 2014-09-18 Deckers Outdoor Corporation Footwear with pontoon sole structure
WO2014143692A1 (en) * 2013-03-15 2014-09-18 Javanscience Llc Modular shoe systems and methods of using same
GB2511834A (en) * 2013-03-15 2014-09-17 Olga Dias An item of footwear
US20140259778A1 (en) * 2013-03-15 2014-09-18 Jordan Anderson Footwear With Transformation System
US9750303B2 (en) * 2013-03-15 2017-09-05 New Balance Athletics, Inc. Cambered sole
US11666113B2 (en) 2013-04-19 2023-06-06 Adidas Ag Shoe with knitted outer sole
US20200196700A1 (en) * 2013-04-19 2020-06-25 Adidas Ag Shoe
TWM462012U (en) * 2013-04-19 2013-09-21 Heng-Xian Su Shoe suitable for water activities
DE102013208170B4 (en) * 2013-05-03 2019-10-24 Adidas Ag Sole for a shoe and shoe with such a sole
US20160174659A1 (en) * 2013-09-03 2016-06-23 Shoes For Crews, Llc Tread pattern combination for non-slip shoes
US9615626B2 (en) * 2013-12-20 2017-04-11 Nike, Inc. Sole structure with segmented portions
KR101880276B1 (en) * 2014-02-01 2018-07-19 아키코 가와카미 Footwear
US20150313312A1 (en) * 2014-05-05 2015-11-05 Treksta, Inc. Shoe sole and method for manufacturing the same
US9930934B2 (en) * 2014-07-03 2018-04-03 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear with a segmented plate
DE202014006154U1 (en) 2014-07-25 2014-08-28 Maria Schwermer Shoe with exchangeable sole
US9974356B2 (en) * 2014-08-06 2018-05-22 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear with midsole with arcuate underside cavity insert
US10342291B2 (en) * 2014-08-25 2019-07-09 Nike, Inc. Article with sole structure having multiple components
WO2016040129A1 (en) * 2014-09-08 2016-03-17 Sequence Llc Footwear with support and traction
DE102015200523B4 (en) * 2015-01-15 2022-06-30 Adidas Ag Modular shoe
DE102015200526B4 (en) 2015-01-15 2016-11-24 Adidas Ag Base plate for a shoe, in particular a sports shoe
US9820530B2 (en) 2015-01-16 2017-11-21 Nike, Inc. Knit article of footwear with customized midsole and customized cleat arrangement
US9775401B2 (en) 2015-01-16 2017-10-03 Nike, Inc. Sole system for an article of footwear incorporating a knitted component with a one-piece knit outsole
US9848673B2 (en) * 2015-01-16 2017-12-26 Nike, Inc. Vacuum formed knit sole system for an article of footwear incorporating a knitted component
US10568383B2 (en) 2015-01-16 2020-02-25 Nike, Inc. Sole system for an article of footwear incorporating a knitted component with a one-piece knit outsole and a tensile element
US10123586B2 (en) * 2015-04-17 2018-11-13 Nike, Inc. Independently movable sole structure
US9737109B2 (en) 2015-05-07 2017-08-22 Nike, Inc. Footwear with removable midsole and outsole
US10251445B2 (en) * 2015-05-08 2019-04-09 Under Armour, Inc. Article of footwear with improved arch support
USD885718S1 (en) 2015-05-19 2020-06-02 Nike, Inc. Shoe
WO2016196770A1 (en) * 2015-06-02 2016-12-08 Under Armour, Inc. Footwear including lightweight sole structure providing enhanced comfort, flexibility and performance features
US9974359B2 (en) * 2015-07-24 2018-05-22 Chinook Asia Llc Footwear having a sole with a plurality of chambers
US9968159B2 (en) 2015-10-20 2018-05-15 Nike, Inc. Footwear with interchangeable sole structure elements
US9635901B1 (en) 2015-10-20 2017-05-02 Nike, Inc. Footwear with interchangeable sole structure elements
US11206890B2 (en) * 2015-11-20 2021-12-28 Nike, Inc. Ground-engaging structures for articles of footwear
US9486036B1 (en) * 2015-12-21 2016-11-08 Michael K. Douglas Shoe and method of manufacture
USD783245S1 (en) * 2016-01-14 2017-04-11 Nike, Inc. Shoe midsole
US10856610B2 (en) 2016-01-15 2020-12-08 Hoe-Phuan Ng Manual and dynamic shoe comfortness adjustment methods
US10842223B2 (en) * 2016-01-15 2020-11-24 Nike, Inc. Footwear with internal chassis and/or indexed sock liner
USD783249S1 (en) * 2016-01-21 2017-04-11 Nike, Inc. Shoe outsole
USD783959S1 (en) * 2016-03-01 2017-04-18 Nike, Inc. Shoe midsole
USD808137S1 (en) * 2016-05-17 2018-01-23 Nike, Inc. Shoe outsole
ITUA20164129A1 (en) * 2016-06-06 2017-12-06 Freddy Spa SOLE FOR A FOOTWEAR WITH A PART TO SUPPORT THE FAST
CN109310181B (en) * 2016-06-23 2022-02-01 达科国际股份有限公司 Medical shoe with multi-density over-molding
US11224263B2 (en) * 2016-06-23 2022-01-18 Darco Internationa I;, Inc. Medical shoe having a plurality of outsole projections
US10376014B2 (en) 2016-09-06 2019-08-13 CleatGuard LLC Shoe cover with bistable latch
USD802263S1 (en) 2016-10-11 2017-11-14 Charles Spry Shoe
US11019884B2 (en) * 2016-11-23 2021-06-01 Nike, Inc. Sole structure having a midsole component with movable traction members
KR101825557B1 (en) * 2017-02-20 2018-02-05 (주)이너스코리아 assemblable shoes
US10952496B2 (en) * 2017-05-09 2021-03-23 Under Armour, Inc. Article of footwear with interlocking midsole member
USD898335S1 (en) 2017-05-16 2020-10-13 Nike, Inc. Shoe
USD882909S1 (en) 2017-05-16 2020-05-05 Nike, Inc. Shoe
USD897090S1 (en) 2017-05-16 2020-09-29 Nike, Inc. Shoe
WO2018222721A1 (en) 2017-05-30 2018-12-06 Nike Innovate C.V. Mechanical lock sole structure for braided footwear
US11583033B1 (en) * 2017-07-25 2023-02-21 Blauer Manufacturing Company, Inc. Footwear with a reflective heel
USD828988S1 (en) * 2017-12-14 2018-09-25 Nike, Inc. Shoe
USD860600S1 (en) * 2018-02-28 2019-09-24 Nike, Inc. Shoe
USD869131S1 (en) 2018-02-28 2019-12-10 Nike, Inc. Shoe
AU201816717S (en) * 2018-05-14 2018-12-07 On Clouds Gmbh Shoe part
USD871738S1 (en) * 2018-05-18 2020-01-07 Nike, Inc. Shoe
USD871737S1 (en) * 2018-05-18 2020-01-07 Nike, Inc. Shoe
USD866932S1 (en) * 2018-05-31 2019-11-19 Cole Haan Llc Shoe
US10772382B2 (en) 2018-06-04 2020-09-15 Cole Haan Llc Shoe having stiffening features
WO2019234721A1 (en) * 2018-06-09 2019-12-12 Sidhu Harnihal Singh Adjustable footwear sole for reducing foot loading through adjustable pellets
US11229257B1 (en) 2018-06-13 2022-01-25 Winnies Socks Company LLC Methods for and footwear assemblies with releasable attachment of soles
USD897075S1 (en) * 2018-08-01 2020-09-29 Puma SE Shoe
JP2020078396A (en) * 2018-11-12 2020-05-28 邦盛 宮川 Shoe, sole of shoe and upper part of shoe
USD900440S1 (en) * 2019-01-18 2020-11-03 Puma SE Shoe
USD885723S1 (en) 2019-02-14 2020-06-02 Puma SE Shoe
USD876765S1 (en) * 2019-03-08 2020-03-03 Nike, Inc. Shoe
USD876768S1 (en) * 2019-04-19 2020-03-03 Nike, Inc. Shoe
USD876770S1 (en) * 2019-04-19 2020-03-03 Nike, Inc. Shoe
USD902541S1 (en) 2019-05-31 2020-11-24 Nike, Inc. Shoe
USD902542S1 (en) 2019-05-31 2020-11-24 Nike, Inc. Shoe
USD907342S1 (en) 2019-08-23 2021-01-12 Nike, Inc. Shoe
USD906649S1 (en) 2019-08-23 2021-01-05 Nike, Inc. Shoe
USD906659S1 (en) 2019-08-23 2021-01-05 Nike, Inc. Shoe
USD915745S1 (en) * 2019-10-24 2021-04-13 Nike, Inc. Shoe
WO2021092507A1 (en) * 2019-11-08 2021-05-14 Ussary Jason Footwear with interchangeable sole member
US11399591B2 (en) 2020-03-16 2022-08-02 Robert Lyden Article of footwear, method of making the same, and method of conducting retail and internet business
US20220192315A1 (en) * 2020-12-18 2022-06-23 Genesco Inc. Chassis System For Footwear
USD948854S1 (en) * 2021-03-05 2022-04-19 Nike, Inc. Shoe
US20220361632A1 (en) * 2021-05-13 2022-11-17 Nike, Inc. Sole Structures and Articles of Footwear Having Separate and Separable Outsole and Midsole Components
US11564446B1 (en) * 2021-07-20 2023-01-31 Lululemon Athletica Canada Inc. Outsoles having traction inserts
USD966676S1 (en) * 2021-10-15 2022-10-18 Nike, Inc. Shoe
USD977790S1 (en) * 2022-02-04 2023-02-14 Nike, Inc. Shoe
USD978500S1 (en) * 2022-02-04 2023-02-21 Nike, Inc. Shoe
USD977791S1 (en) * 2022-02-04 2023-02-14 Nike, Inc. Shoe
USD978501S1 (en) * 2022-02-04 2023-02-21 Nike, Inc. Shoe
USD978499S1 (en) * 2022-02-04 2023-02-21 Nike, Inc. Shoe
USD977792S1 (en) * 2022-02-04 2023-02-14 Nike, Inc. Shoe
USD977233S1 (en) * 2022-02-04 2023-02-07 Nike, Inc. Shoe
USD985244S1 (en) * 2022-02-04 2023-05-09 Nike, Inc. Shoe
US20230292877A1 (en) * 2022-03-15 2023-09-21 Nike, Inc. Articles of Footwear Having Modular, Replaceable, and/or Recyclable Parts
USD1007121S1 (en) * 2023-03-23 2023-12-12 Nike, Inc. Shoe
USD1009429S1 (en) * 2023-03-23 2024-01-02 Nike, Inc. Shoe

Family Cites Families (47)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US453838A (en) * 1891-06-09 Axle-lubricator
US997657A (en) * 1908-06-15 1911-07-11 Charles Leonard Drake Sporting-shoe.
US1219507A (en) * 1915-02-08 1917-03-20 Lilian G Teare Legging.
US2178025A (en) * 1938-02-25 1939-10-31 Richter Eduard Composite shoe
BE493654A (en) 1950-02-01 1950-06-01 E.M.J. Coulanges PROTECTIVE SHEATH OR WEAR CAP FOR FOOTWEAR AND THE LIKE SOLE
US2931110A (en) * 1957-02-26 1960-04-05 Pietrocola Roberto Sole and heel unit for shoes and the like
US3446919A (en) * 1965-09-03 1969-05-27 William J Curtin Telephone answering system providing multiple answering points with centralized or decentralized operation
US3373510A (en) * 1965-11-24 1968-03-19 Memole Ralph Decorative shoe cover
US3538628A (en) * 1968-09-23 1970-11-10 Lord Geller Federico & Partner Footwear
DE2139151C2 (en) * 1971-08-05 1984-11-22 Salamander Ag, 7014 Kornwestheim Shoe, in particular children's walker shoe
FR2241950A5 (en) * 1973-08-21 1975-03-21 Milotic Milio
US4183156A (en) 1977-01-14 1980-01-15 Robert C. Bogert Insole construction for articles of footwear
US4219945B1 (en) 1978-06-26 1993-10-19 Robert C. Bogert Footwear
US4420894A (en) * 1982-04-19 1983-12-20 Joel Glassman Snap shoe
US4538368A (en) * 1983-06-22 1985-09-03 Bernadette Mugford Child's overshoe
US4747220A (en) * 1987-01-20 1988-05-31 Autry Industries, Inc. Cleated sole for activewear shoe
US4745693A (en) * 1987-02-09 1988-05-24 Brown Randy N Shoe with detachable sole and heel
US4825563A (en) * 1987-12-17 1989-05-02 Murray Strongwater Shoe protector
US5083361A (en) 1988-02-05 1992-01-28 Robert C. Bogert Pressurizable envelope and method
US4906502A (en) 1988-02-05 1990-03-06 Robert C. Bogert Pressurizable envelope and method
US4850122A (en) * 1988-06-06 1989-07-25 Schwab Jr Robert L Shoe cover
US4887369A (en) * 1988-08-12 1989-12-19 Angileen Bailey Changeable shoe tops/heels
US4974344A (en) * 1989-08-09 1990-12-04 Ching Peng J Shoe with interchangeable vamp and sole
US5083385A (en) * 1990-07-31 1992-01-28 Halford Catherine J P Footwear having interchangeable uppers
US5381610A (en) * 1990-09-28 1995-01-17 Hanson; Violet M. Convertible footwear
US5410821A (en) * 1992-01-21 1995-05-02 Hilgendorf; Eric Shoe with interchangable soles
US5317822A (en) * 1992-10-19 1994-06-07 Johnson Joshua F Athletic shoe with interchangeable wear sole
US5367791A (en) * 1993-02-04 1994-11-29 Asahi, Inc. Shoe sole
US5533280A (en) * 1995-02-10 1996-07-09 Halliday; David Footwear with interchangeable components
US5822888A (en) * 1996-01-11 1998-10-20 Terry; Michael R. Reversable shoe with removable midsole
JPH09285310A (en) * 1996-04-24 1997-11-04 Okamoto Ind Inc Sports shoes
AU3173097A (en) 1996-06-06 1998-01-05 Adidas Ag Shoe having perforated shoe upper with outwardly protruding outsole and method of making the same
US5661915A (en) * 1996-07-15 1997-09-02 Smith; Michael R. Shoe with removable spike plate
WO1998020763A1 (en) * 1996-11-12 1998-05-22 Stan Hockerson Cleated athletic shoe
US5799417A (en) * 1997-01-13 1998-09-01 Bata Limited Shoe sole with removal insert
US5993585A (en) 1998-01-09 1999-11-30 Nike, Inc. Resilient bladder for use in footwear and method of making the bladder
BR9800549A (en) * 1998-02-04 1999-10-05 Calcados Azaleia S A Process for assembling leather on shoe soles, using latches, and the resulting shoe.
US6023857A (en) * 1998-09-21 2000-02-15 Converse Inc. Shoe with removable midsole
US6381610B1 (en) * 1999-01-22 2002-04-30 Unmesh B. Gundewar System and method for implementing project procedures
US7016867B2 (en) * 2000-03-10 2006-03-21 Lyden Robert M Method of conducting business including making and selling a custom article of footwear
US6449878B1 (en) * 2000-03-10 2002-09-17 Robert M. Lyden Article of footwear having a spring element and selectively removable components
US6601042B1 (en) * 2000-03-10 2003-07-29 Robert M. Lyden Customized article of footwear and method of conducting retail and internet business
US7107235B2 (en) * 2000-03-10 2006-09-12 Lyden Robert M Method of conducting business including making and selling a custom article of footwear
CN1263408C (en) * 2000-04-13 2006-07-12 基特鞋业有限公司 Shoes
FR2813766B1 (en) 2000-09-09 2002-10-11 Carole Claudie Fenestraz TRANSFORMABLE FOOTWEAR. REMOVABLE ROD
DE20114602U1 (en) 2001-09-05 2002-01-31 Glory Innovations Inc Patterned playing card
US6915596B2 (en) * 2003-01-21 2005-07-12 Nike, Inc. Footwear with separable upper and sole structure

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US20130205616A1 (en) 2013-08-15
HK1082388A1 (en) 2006-06-09
JP5325042B2 (en) 2013-10-23
US8813387B2 (en) 2014-08-26
EP2298110A1 (en) 2011-03-23
EP1587385B1 (en) 2008-01-23
WO2004066771A1 (en) 2004-08-12
CA2513473C (en) 2014-05-13
US20170071281A1 (en) 2017-03-16
DE60318907D1 (en) 2008-03-13
US20140317960A1 (en) 2014-10-30
EP1886591A1 (en) 2008-02-13
DE60318907T2 (en) 2009-01-29
US20090000149A1 (en) 2009-01-01
EP2327322A1 (en) 2011-06-01
ATE489864T1 (en) 2010-12-15
AU2003294371A1 (en) 2004-08-23
US9521875B2 (en) 2016-12-20
ATE384452T1 (en) 2008-02-15
JP5502158B2 (en) 2014-05-28
US7076890B2 (en) 2006-07-18
US20110000104A1 (en) 2011-01-06
US20050210705A1 (en) 2005-09-29
JP2012210502A (en) 2012-11-01
US7814682B2 (en) 2010-10-19
EP2298110B1 (en) 2016-08-24
US7444763B2 (en) 2008-11-04
JP4537859B2 (en) 2010-09-08
US6915596B2 (en) 2005-07-12
JP2009254875A (en) 2009-11-05
EP1587385A1 (en) 2005-10-26
JP2006512998A (en) 2006-04-20
US20060213088A1 (en) 2006-09-28
US20040148803A1 (en) 2004-08-05
DE60335225D1 (en) 2011-01-13
US9955748B2 (en) 2018-05-01
EP1886591B1 (en) 2010-12-01
EP2327322B1 (en) 2013-05-29

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US9955748B2 (en) Footwear with separable upper and sole structure
US10905195B2 (en) Article of footwear with outsole web and midsole protrusions
EP2062492B1 (en) Article of footwear with a removable midsole element
US20070289161A1 (en) Modular article of footwear

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
EEER Examination request
MKLA Lapsed

Effective date: 20201210