SOLE STRUCTURE FOR A SHOE

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a sole structure for a shoe, in particular a football shoe, and a shoe comprising the sole structure.

BACKGROUND

When designing soles for shoes to be used for participation in athletic activities, the use of the foot when engaging in those activities should be considered. For example, velocity of a ball that is kicked can increase with increased plantarflexion of the foot of the kicker. Stability of the foot while the participant runs, jumps, cuts, etc., should also be considered. Hence, there is a continuing need for shoes designed to improve the overall properties of the sole structure of the shoe.

BRIEF SUMMARY

A first embodiment (I) of the present disclosure is directed to a sole structure for a shoe, comprising: a forefoot portion; a heel portion; and a midfoot portion coupled to the forefoot portion and the heel portion, the midfoot portion comprising a plurality of connectors disposed on a ground-facing side of the midfoot portion, the plurality of connectors comprising a first connector and a second connector, the first connector located closer to the forefoot portion than the second connector; and a resilient component coupled to the first connector and the second connector, wherein the midfoot portion has a resting state in which the resilient component has a first length, wherein, when the midfoot portion bends in a dorsiflexion direction, the first connector and the second connector move away from each other and pull the resilient component to a second length longer than the first length, and wherein, when the midfoot portion bends in a plantarflexion direction, the first connector and the second connector move toward each other and allow the resilient component to relax to a third length shorter than the first length.

A second embodiment (II) of the present disclosure is directed to the sole structure of the first embodiment (I), wherein the midfoot portion has a neutral bending axis, and the resilient component is vertically spaced apart from the neutral bending axis.

A third embodiment (III) of the present disclosure is directed to the sole structure of either of the first embodiment (I) or the second embodiment (II), wherein the resilient component comprises an elastic band.

A fourth embodiment (IV) of the present disclosure is directed to the sole structure of any one of the previous embodiments, wherein the resilient component is removably coupled to the first connector and the second connector such that a wearer can replace the resilient component with a different resilient component.

A fifth embodiment (V) of the present disclosure is directed to the sole structure of any one of the previous embodiments, wherein the midfoot portion has a dorsiflexion bending stiffness in the dorsiflexion direction and a plantarflexion bending stiffness in the plantarflexion direction, the plantarflexion bending stiffness being lower than the dorsiflexion bending stiffness.

A sixth embodiment (VI) of the present disclosure is directed to the sole structure of any one of the second embodiment (II) through the fifth embodiment (V), wherein the resilient component is a first resilient component, wherein the plurality of connectors comprises a third connector and a fourth connector, the third connector located closer to the forefoot portion than the fourth connector, and wherein the sole structure comprises a second resilient component coupled to the third connector and the fourth connector, the second resilient component being vertically spaced apart from the neutral bending axis.

A seventh embodiment (VII) of the present disclosure is directed to the sole structure of the sixth embodiment (VI), wherein the first connector and the second connector are arranged along a first axis in the resting state, and the third connector and the fourth connector are arranged along a second axis in the resting state different from the first axis.

An eighth embodiment (VIII) of the present disclosure is directed to the sole structure of the seventh embodiment (VII), wherein the first axis and the second axis are spaced apart from each other along a transverse axis of the midfoot portion, and wherein the first axis and the second axis are each approximately parallel to a longitudinal axis of the midfoot portion.

A ninth embodiment (IX) of the present disclosure is directed to the sole structure of the seventh embodiment (VII) or the eighth embodiment (VIII), wherein the first axis and the second axis are spaced apart from each other along a transverse axis of the midfoot portion, wherein the first axis is disposed at a first nonzero angle relative to a longitudinal axis of the midfoot portion and the second axis is disposed at a second nonzero angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the midfoot portion.

A tenth embodiment (X) of the present disclosure is directed to the sole structure of the ninth embodiment (IX), wherein the first axis extends in a forward medial direction relative to the longitudinal axis of the midfoot portion and the second axis extends in a forward lateral direction relative to the longitudinal axis of the midfoot portion.

An eleventh embodiment, (XI) of the present disclosure is directed to the sole structure of the seventh embodiment (VII) or the eighth embodiment (VIII), wherein the first axis and the second axis are spaced apart from each other along a transverse axis of the midfoot portion, wherein the first axis is approximately parallel to the second axis.

A twelfth embodiment (XII) of the present disclosure is directed to the sole structure of the sixth embodiment (VI), wherein the first resilient component has a first stiffness and the second resilient component has a second stiffness that is different than the first stiffness.

A thirteenth embodiment (XIII) of the present disclosure is directed to the sole structure of the sixth embodiment (VI) or the twelfth embodiment (XII), wherein: the plurality of connectors comprises a fifth connector and a sixth connector, the fifth connector located closer to the forefoot portion than the sixth connector, the sole structure comprises a third resilient component coupled to the fifth connector and the sixth connector, the third resilient component being vertically spaced apart from the neutral bending axis, the first connector and the second connector are arranged along a first axis approximately parallel to a longitudinal axis of the midfoot portion in the resting state, the third connector and the fourth connector are arranged along a second axis in the resting state different from the first axis, the second axis extending in a forward medial direction relative to the longitudinal axis of the midfoot portion, and the fifth connector and the sixth connector are arranged along a third axis in the resting state different from the first axis and the second axis, the third axis extending in a forward lateral direction relative to the longitudinal axis.

A fourteenth embodiment (XIV) of the present disclosure is directed to the sole structure of any one of the previous embodiments, further comprising an insert coupled to the midfoot portion between the first connector and the second connector.

A fifteenth embodiment (XV) of the present disclosure is directed to the sole structure of the fourteenth embodiment (XIV), wherein the insert limits relative motion between the first connector and the second connector when the midfoot portion bends in the plantarflexion direction.

A sixteenth embodiment (XVI) of the present disclosure is directed to the sole structure of the fourteenth embodiment (XIV) or the fifteenth embodiment (XV), further comprising a guide disposed between the first connector and the second connector, wherein a portion of the resilient component engages the guide between the first connector and the second connector.

A seventeenth embodiment (XVII) of the present disclosure is directed to the sole structure of the sixteenth embodiment (XVI), further comprising an insert removably coupled to the midfoot portion between the guide and the first connector or the guide and the second connector.

An eighteenth embodiment (XVIII) of the present disclosure is directed to the sole structure of any one of the previous embodiments, wherein the midfoot portion bridges a gap between the forefoot portion and the heel portion.

A nineteenth embodiment (XIX) of the present disclosure is directed to a shoe comprising the sole structure of any one of the previous embodiments.

A twentieth embodiment (XX) of the present disclosure is directed to the shoe of the nineteenth embodiment (XIX), wherein each of the forefoot portion and the heel portion comprise cleats.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS/FIGURES

FIG. 1 shows a top view of an upper portion of a shoe.

FIG. 2 shows a position of a midfoot portion of a shoe during a kicking motion and a running motion.

FIG. 3A shows a bottom view of a sole structure, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 3B shows a side view of the sole structure of FIG. 3A, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 4A shows a bottom view of a midfoot portion of a sole structure, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 4B shows another bottom view of the midfoot portion of FIG. 4A, according to some embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The indefinite articles “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless clearly contradicted or the context clearly dictates otherwise.

As used herein, unless specified otherwise, references to “first,” “second,” “third,” “fourth,” etc. are not intended to denote order, or that an earlier-numbered feature is required for a later-numbered feature. Also, unless specified otherwise, the use of “first,” “second,” “third,” “fourth,” etc. does not necessarily mean that the “first,” “second,” “third,” “fourth,” etc. features have different properties or values.

As used herein, unless specified otherwise, reference to objects or axes being “approximately parallel” to each other includes parallel and relationships between the objects or axes up to and including within ten degrees of being parallel. For example, two axes that are oriented at an angle of negative 10 degrees to positive 10 degrees relative to each other are considered approximately parallel.

As used herein, unless specified otherwise, reference to objects or axes being “approximately perpendicular” to each other includes perpendicular and relationships between the objects or axes up to and including within 10 degrees of being perpendicular. For example, two axes that are oriented at an angle of 80-100 degrees relative to each other are considered approximately perpendicular.

As used herein, unless specified otherwise, reference to an object or axis being “approximately orthogonal” to other objects or axes includes orthogonal and relationships between the objects or axes up to and including within 10 degrees of being orthogonal. For example, a first axis can be considered orthogonal to a second axis and a third axis if the first axis is oriented at an angle of 80-100 degrees relative to each of the second axis and the third axis.

As used herein, unless specified otherwise, reference to an axis being “approximately straight” refers to instances in which the axis is straight or within 10 degrees of being straight. For example, an axis can be considered approximately straight if the axis is oriented at an angle of 170-190 degrees relative to a horizontal ground surface.

As used herein, unless specified otherwise, reference to two or more values being “approximately equal” refers to instances in which the two or more values are equal or within 10 percent of being equal. For example, values of 9 and 11 are considered approximately equal to a stated value of 10.

The term “comprising” is an open-ended transitional phrase. A list of elements following the transitional phrase “comprising” is a non-exclusive list, such that elements in addition to those specifically recited in the list can also be present. The phrase “consisting essentially of” limits the composition of a component to the specified materials and those that do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristic(s) of the component. The phrase “consisting of” limits the composition of a component to the specified materials and excludes any material not specified.

Where a range of numerical values comprising upper and lower values is recited herein, unless otherwise stated in specific circumstances, the range is intended to include the endpoints thereof, and all integers and fractions within the range. It is not intended that the disclosure or claims be limited to the specific values recited when defining a range. Further, when an amount, concentration, or other value or parameter is given as a range, one or more ranges, or as list of upper values and lower values, this is to be understood as specifically disclosing all ranges formed from any pair of any upper range limit or value and any lower range limit or value, regardless of whether such pairs are separately disclosed.

Sole structures according to embodiments of the present application are designed to provide various advantageous effects for a wearer. The sole structures can facilitate optimal athletic performance for a wearer participating in a sport, for example football, while also providing footwear that is supportive. The sole structures are designed to provide flexibility in particular directions and stiffness in other directions. The combination of flexibility and stiffness can facilitate desired athletic performance characteristics while also providing support for the feet of the wearer. Sole structures according to embodiments of the present application are designed to address and/or pursue the following problems and/or objectives at least partially.

Sole structures for shoes (for example, football shoes) that are optimized for running can exhibit a stiff flexural behaviour. This stiff behaviour can be beneficial for some actions, such as running, but can create impairments for a wearer when attempting to perform other actions. FIG. 1 shows positions of a shoe 100 during a kicking motion and a running motion. In the example shown, the shoe 100 can be a typical football shoe. The shoe 100 comprises a sole structure 102. The sole structure 102 comprises a heel portion 104 and a forefoot portion 106. The sole structure 102 comprises a midfoot portion 108 between the heel portion 104 and the forefoot portion 106. When running (shown on the right side of FIG. 1), the midfoot portion 108 provides support for the foot of the wearer as the forefoot portion 106 and the heel portion 104 move away from each other during dorsiflexion of the foot of the wearer. When kicking a ball (shown on the left side of FIG. 1), the midfoot portion 108 can bend to allow the forefoot portion 106 and the heel portion 104 to move towards each other during plantarflexion of the foot of the wearer.

Increasing stiffness of the midfoot portion 108 can provide increased stability for the foot of the wearer when running. However, increasing stiffness of the midfoot portion 108 can limit plantarflexion of the foot of the wearer when kicking a ball. Limiting plantarflexion of the foot can create limitations for a wearer, such as limiting the velocity of the ball off the foot. Decreasing stiffness of the midfoot portion 108 can allow for greater plantarflexion of the foot of the wearer. However, decreasing stiffness of the midfoot portion 108 can reduce stability for the foot of the wearer when running.

Sole structures according to embodiments of the present disclosure can allow for increased plantarflexion of the foot when performing an action such as kicking a ball while maintaining stability of the sole during dorsiflexion of the wearer's foot. In particular embodiments, sole structures according to embodiments of the present disclosure can allow for increased plantarflexion of the foot when kicking a ball while maintaining stability of when running. For example, sole structures according to embodiments of the present disclosure can comprise a midfoot portion that allows for increased plantarflexion of the foot when kicking a ball while maintaining stability of the midfoot portion when running. The increased plantarflexion can increase the velocity of the ball off the foot of the wearer, thereby increasing kicking performance. The midfoot portion according to embodiments of the present disclosure can be any portion of the sole located between a heel-most portion and a forefoot-most portion of the sole. In some embodiments, the midfoot portion can be located such that it is configured to support all of a portion of a wearer's foot arch when a shoe comprising the midfoot portion is worn.

FIG. 2 shows a top view of an upper portion 234 of the shoe 100. The shoe 100 comprises a longitudinal axis 210. The longitudinal axis 210 extends between the heel portion 104 of the shoe 100 and the forefoot portion 106 of the shoe 100. The shoe 100 comprises a transverse axis 212. The transverse axis 212 extends between a medial side 216 of the shoe 100 and a lateral side 214 of the shoe 100. The transverse axis 212 is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 210.

Different areas of the upper portion 234 can be used to kick a ball along different axes (for example, when passing, shooting, curving the ball, etc.). For example, an instep area 218 can be used to kick the ball along an instep axis 220. A medial toe area 222 can be used to kick the ball along a medial toe axis 224. A top area 226 can be used to kick the ball along a top axis 228. A lateral toe area 230 can be used to kick the ball along a lateral toe axis 232.

Sole structures for shoes typically exhibit substantially isotropic bending behaviour about various bending axes (for example, the sole structures bend symmetrically about a bending axis). With reference to FIGS. 1-2, a midfoot portion 108 of the sole structure 102 of the shoe 100 can bend about the transverse axis 212 of the midfoot portion 108 when the wearer kicks the ball. The forces on the midfoot portion 108 can differ based on the area used to kick the ball, however the midfoot portion 108 bends in the same manner regardless of the area of the upper portion 234 used to kick the ball.

Sole structures according to embodiments of the present disclosure can exhibit anisotropic bending behaviour about various bending axes so the sole structures can bend in a desired manner based on the area of the upper portion 234 used to kick the ball. For example, sole structures according to embodiments of the present disclosure can exhibit different bending stiffnesses when bent around an axis perpendicular to longitudinal axis 210, when bent around an axis perpendicular to instep axis 220, when bent around an axis perpendicular to medial toe axis 224, when bent around an axis perpendicular to top axis 228, and/or when bent around an axis perpendicular to lateral toe axis 232. For example, in some embodiments, the sole structures can exhibit a first bending stiffness when bent around an axis perpendicular to longitudinal axis 210, a second bending stiffness when bent around an axis perpendicular to instep axis 220, a third bending stiffness when bent around an axis perpendicular to medial toe axis 224, a fourth bending stiffness when bent around an axis perpendicular to top axis 228, a fifth bending stiffness when bent around an axis perpendicular to lateral toe axis 232, or any combination thereof. In particular embodiments, midfoot portions described herein can exhibit a first bending stiffness when bent around an axis perpendicular to longitudinal axis 210, a second bending stiffness when bent around an axis perpendicular to instep axis 220, a third bending stiffness when bent around an axis perpendicular to medial toe axis 224, a fourth bending stiffness when bent around an axis perpendicular to top axis 228, a fifth bending stiffness when bent around an axis perpendicular to lateral toe axis 232, or any combination thereof.

Further, in some cases, a wearer may desire a shoe that provides increased plantarflexion of the foot when kicking a ball in on or more directions to increase the velocity of ball. The wearer may also desire a shoe that provides stability when sprinting, changing directions, etc. Sole structures of typical shoes do not provide a satisfactory solution to address both characteristics (for example, increased plantarflexion and stability). Sole structures of the present disclosure can provide both increased plantarflexion in or more directions and stability of the sole during dorsiflexion in one or more directions.

FIGS. 3A-3B show a sole structure 340 according to some embodiments. FIG. 3A shows a bottom view of the sole structure 340. FIG. 3B shows a side view of a portion of the sole structure 340. The sole structure 340 can be coupled to an upper portion 342 of a shoe. The sole structure 340 comprises a forefoot portion 344. The forefoot portion 344 is located underneath a forefoot of a wearer (for example, the portion of the foot of the wearer that comprises the toes). The sole structure 340 also comprises a heel portion 346. The heel portion 346 is located underneath a heel of the wearer. In some embodiments, the forefoot portion 344 comprises cleats 348 on a ground-facing side 350 of the forefoot portion 344. In some embodiments, the heel portion 346 comprises cleats 352 on a ground-facing side 354 of the heel portion 346.

The sole structure 340 comprises a midfoot portion 356. The midfoot portion 356 is located underneath a midfoot of the wearer (for example, the portion of the foot of the wearer that comprises the arch of the foot). The midfoot portion 356 is coupled to the forefoot portion 344. The midfoot portion is coupled to the heel portion 346. In some embodiments, the midfoot portion can bridge a gap 379 between the forefoot portion 344 and the heel portion 346. In some embodiments, the gap 379 can be open space located between a foremost end of heel portion 346 and a rearmost end of the forefoot portion 344.

In some embodiments, the midfoot portion 356 can be coupled to the forefoot portion 344 and the heel portion 346 using one or more connectors such as screws, bolts, rivets, or any other type of connector that can couple two components together. In some embodiments, the connectors can be screws 358 as shown in FIG. 3A. In some embodiments, the connectors can be removable such that the midfoot portion can be exchanged as discussed below. In some embodiments, the midfoot portion 356 can be coupled to the forefoot portion 344 and the heel portion 346 via an overmolding process (for example, the material for the midfoot portion 356 is molded on to the forefoot portion 344 and the heel portion 346). In such embodiments, the midfoot portion 356 can be integrally formed with forefoot portion 344 and the heel portion 346 as a single piece. In some embodiments, the midfoot portion 356 can be coupled to the forefoot portion 344 and the heel portion 346 using an adhesive.

In some embodiments, the midfoot portion 356 can be formed from a polymer. More specifically, the midfoot portion 356 can be formed from polyamide, polyurethane, thermoplastic elastomer, or a combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the midfoot portion 356 can be removably coupled to the forefoot portion 344 and the heel portion 346. For example, the midfoot portion 356 can be coupled to the forefoot portion 344 and the heel portion 346 with latches, snaps, removable threaded connectors, or any other type of connector that can provide for a removable connection. The midfoot portion 356 being removable from the forefoot portion 344 and the heel portion 346 allows the wearer to exchange the midfoot portion 356 for another midfoot portion. In some embodiments, the another midfoot portion can be a new version of the midfoot portion removed. In some embodiments, the another midfoot portion can comprise different bending properties than the midfoot portion 356.

As described herein, in some embodiments, the midfoot portion 356 can comprise a first bending stiffness in a plantarflexion direction 370 (also referred to as a plantarflexion bending stiffness) and a second bending stiffness in a dorsiflexion direction 368 (also referred to as a dorsiflexion bending stiffness).

In some embodiments, the value of the second bending stiffness in the dorsiflexion direction 368 can range from 0.8 Newton-meters per degree (N-m/degree) to 1.6 N-m/degree. In some embodiments, the value of the second bending stiffness in the dorsiflexion direction 368 can range from 0.5 N-m/degree to 2 N-m/degree.

In some embodiments, as described herein, the value of the first bending stiffness in the plantarflexion direction 370 can be less than the value of the second bending stiffness in the dorsiflexion direction 368. In some embodiments, the value of the first bending stiffness in the plantarflexion direction 370 can be less than 0.8 N-m/degree, less than 0.6 N-m/degree, less than 0.4 N-m/degree, or less than 0.2 N-m/degree. In some embodiments, the value of the first bending stiffness in the plantarflexion direction 370 can range from 0.1 N-m/degree to 0.8 N-m/degree. In some embodiments, the value of the first bending stiffness in the plantarflexion direction 370 can range from 0.1 N-m/degree to 0.4 N-m/degree.

In some embodiments, the value of the first bending stiffness in the plantarflexion direction 370 can be at least 0.1 N-m/degree less than the value of the second bending stiffness in the dorsiflexion direction 368. In some embodiments, the value of the first bending stiffness in the plantarflexion direction 370 can be at least 0.2 N-m/degree less than the value of the second bending stiffness in the dorsiflexion direction 368. In some embodiments, the value of the first bending stiffness in the plantarflexion direction 370 can be at least 0.4 N-m/degree less than the value of the second bending stiffness in the dorsiflexion direction 368. In some embodiments, the value of the first bending stiffness in the plantarflexion direction 370 can be at least 0.1 N-m/degree less than the value of the second bending stiffness in the dorsiflexion direction 368 and no more than 1 N-m/degree less than the value of the second bending stiffness in the dorsiflexion direction 368. In some embodiments, the value of the first bending stiffness in the plantarflexion direction 370 can be at least 0.1 N-m/degree less than the value of the second bending stiffness in the dorsiflexion direction 368 and no more than 1.5 N-m/degree less than the value of the second bending stiffness in the dorsiflexion direction 368.

In some embodiments, the forefoot portion 344 can comprise a forefoot bending stiffness in the dorsiflexion direction 368 that is less than the second bending stiffness of the midfoot portion 356 in the dorsiflexion direction 368. In some embodiments, the value of the forefoot bending stiffness in the dorsiflexion direction 368 can be at least 0.1 N-m/degree less than the value of the second bending stiffness of the midfoot portion 356 in the dorsiflexion direction 368.

Unless specified otherwise, a bending stiffness (for example, first bending stiffness or second bending stiffness) is measured by fixing a heel portion (for example, heel portion 346), rotating a forefoot portion (for example, forefoot portion 344) relative to the heel portion, and measuring the amount of torque (in N-m) per degree required to rotate the forefoot portion relative to the heel portion. For purposes of comparing a forefoot bending stiffness in the dorsiflexion direction 368 and the bending stiffness of the midfoot portion 356 in the dorsiflexion direction 368, the dorsiflexion stiffness of the forefoot portion is measured by fixing the heel end of the forefoot portion and rotating the forefoot end of the forefoot portion.

In some embodiments, the another midfoot portion can comprise a third bending stiffness in the plantarflexion direction 370 that is different than the first bending stiffness, the another midfoot portion can comprise a fourth bending stiffness in the dorsiflexion direction 368 that is different than the second bending stiffness, or both. Thus, the sole structure 340 can comprise a modular system in which various midfoot portions can be coupled to the forefoot portion 344 and the heel portion 346 according to the desired properties of the midfoot portion.

In some embodiments, the third bending stiffness can be equal to values, or can be within any of the ranges, described herein for the first bending stiffness. In some embodiments, the third bending stiffness can be at least 0.1 N-m/degree less than or at least 0.1 N-m/degree greater than the first bending stiffness. Similarly, the fourth bending stiffness can be equal to values, or can be within any of the ranges, described herein for the second bending stiffness. In some embodiments, the fourth bending stiffness can be at least 0.1 N-m/degree less than or at least 0.1 N-m/degree greater than the second bending stiffness.

The combination of the forefoot portion 344, the heel portion 346, the midfoot portion 356, and the upper portion 342 can form a shoe. In some embodiments, the shoe is a football shoe. In some embodiments, the shoe is used for other sports such as baseball, lacrosse, American football, rugby, etc.

In some embodiments, the midfoot portion 356 can comprise various sections disposed along a longitudinal axis 380 and spaced apart from a transverse axis 382. The longitudinal axis 380 extends lengthwise along the midfoot portion 356 between the forefoot portion 344 and the heel portion 346. The transverse axis 382 is disposed perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 380 and extends across a midpoint of the midfoot portion 356 between a medial side 314 of the midfoot portion 356 and a lateral side 316 of the midfoot portion 356.

As shown in FIG. 3B, the midfoot portion 356 can comprise a forefoot section 341. The forefoot section 341 is coupled to the forefoot portion 344. The forefoot section 341 comprises a height H₁ extending in a vertical direction. As used herein, the term “vertical direction” refers to a direction that is approximately orthogonal to both the longitudinal axis 380 and the transverse axis 382. The midfoot portion 356 can comprise a heel section 349. The heel section 349 is coupled to the heel portion 346. The heel section 349 comprises a height H₂ extending in the vertical direction. The midfoot portion 356 can comprise a central section 345 located between the forefoot section 341 and the heel section 349. The central section 345 comprises a height H₃ extending in the vertical direction. In some embodiments, the heights H₁, H₂, and H₃ are approximately equal. In some embodiments, the heights H₁, H₂, and H₃ are different. The midfoot portion 356 can comprise a first recessed section 343 located between the forefoot section 341 and the central section 345. The first recessed section 343 comprises a height H₄ extending in the vertical direction. The midfoot portion 356 can also comprise a second recessed section 347 located between the central section 345 and the heel section 349. The second recessed section comprises a height H₅ extending in the vertical direction. In some embodiments, the heights H₄ and H₅ are approximately equal. In some embodiments, the heights H₄ and H₅ are different. In some embodiments, each of the heights H₁, H₂, and H₃ is larger than each of the heights H₄ and H₅. Thus, the first recessed section 343 can define a first recess 351. Similarly, the second recessed section 347 can define a second recess 353.

The midfoot portion 356 comprises a plurality of connectors 360. The plurality of connectors 360 are disposed on a ground-facing side 361 of the midfoot portion 356. The plurality of connectors comprises a first connector 362. The first connector is coupled to the forefoot section 341 and extends away from the midfoot portion 356 in a direction away from an upper-facing side 363 of the midfoot portion 356. The plurality of connectors comprises a second connector 364. The second connector is coupled to the heel section 349 and extends away from the midfoot portion 356 in a direction away from the upper-facing side 363. Thus, the first connector 362 is located closer to the forefoot portion 344 than the second connector 364. Similarly, the second connector 364 is located closer to the heel portion 346 than the first connector 362.

In some embodiments, the first connector 362 and the second connector 364 are arranged along a first axis 384. For example, the first axis 384 can be an axis that extends between a center of mass of the first connector 362 and a center of mass of the second connector 364. In some embodiments, the first axis 384 is approximately parallel to the longitudinal axis 380. In some embodiments, the first axis 384 is vertically aligned with the longitudinal axis 380. In some embodiments, the first axis 384 is approximately parallel to a neutral bending axis 381 of the midfoot portion 356 when the midfoot portion 356 is in the resting state. In some embodiments, the first axis 384 is vertically aligned with the neutral bending axis 381 when the midfoot portion 356 is in the resting state. In some embodiments, the first axis 384 is spaced apart from (for example, offset from) the longitudinal axis 380 along the transverse axis 382. In some embodiments, the first axis 384 is disposed at a non-zero angle relative to the longitudinal axis 380 (for example, the first axis 384 is not parallel to the longitudinal axis 380). In some embodiments, the first axis 384 can be oriented at an acute angle (an angle less than 90 degrees) relative to the longitudinal axis 380.

As used herein, the neutral bending axis 381 is an axis about which stress and strain within the midfoot portion 356 are zero when the midfoot portion 356 bends. In some embodiments, the midfoot portion 356 can have a resting state in which the neutral bending axis 381 is approximately straight. In some embodiments, the neutral bending axis 381 can be coincident with the longitudinal axis 380.

The midfoot portion 356 comprises a first resilient component 366 coupled to the first connector 362 and the second connector 364. In some embodiments, the first resilient component 366 can be removably coupled to the first connector 362 and the second connector 364. In some embodiments, the first resilient component 366 can comprise one or more elastic bands or one or more elastic straps. The first resilient component 366 can be formed from a material that allows the first resilient component 366 to be deformed under a tensile load and return to its original configuration (for example, its configuration prior to the tensile load being applied) after the tensile load is removed (for example, elastic deformation). In some embodiments, the first resilient component 366 can be formed from natural rubber, synthetic rubber, or any other type of material that exhibits the properties described herein.

When the first resilient component 366 is coupled to the first connector 362 and the second connector 364, the first resilient component 366 can be in tension. More specifically, the first resilient component 366 can be stretched to extend over both the first connector 362 and the second connector 364 such that the first resilient component 366 exerts a compressive force between the first connector 362 and the second connector 364. Because the first resilient component 366 is configured for elastic deformation, a force F that the first resilient component 366 applies to the midfoot portion 356 is determined using equation (1) below:

F = kx ( 1 )

In equation (1), k is a constant based on the material used for the first resilient component 366 that is indicative of the stiffness of the material, and x is the distance the first resilient component 366 is stretched beyond its resting state. Thus, the force exerted by the first resilient component 366 on the first connector 362 and the second connector 364 (and thus, the midfoot portion 356) increases as the first resilient component 366 is stretched further from its resting state.

The first resilient component 366 can be vertically spaced apart from the neutral bending axis 381 of the midfoot portion 356 (for example, in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 380 and the neutral bending axis 381). The midfoot portion 356 has a dorsiflexion state in which the midfoot portion 356 bends in a dorsiflexion direction 368. The midfoot portion 356 has a plantarflexion state in which the midfoot portion 356 bends in the plantarflexion direction 370.

The plantarflexion direction 370 and the dorsiflexion direction 368 can be defined relative to a transverse axis for a midfoot portion (for example, the transverse axis 382 of the midfoot portion 356). For example, the midfoot portion 356 can bend in the plantarflexion direction 370 when the ground-facing side 350 of the forefoot portion 344 and the ground-facing side 354 of the heel portion bend toward each other about the transverse axis 382. The midfoot portion 356 can bend in the dorsiflexion direction 368 when the ground-facing side 350 of the forefoot portion 344 and the ground-facing side 354 of the heel portion bend away from each other about the transverse axis 382. Thus, the plantarflexion direction 370 and the dorsiflexion direction 368 can be opposite directions, in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the midfoot portion 356 can bend in the plantarflexion direction 370 and/or the dorsiflexion direction 368 about an axis other than the transverse axis 382. For example, the midfoot portion 356 can bend about a transverse axis that is offset from the transverse axis 382 in a direction along the longitudinal axis 380. In some embodiments, the transverse axis can be approximately parallel to the transverse axis 382. In some embodiments, the transverse axis can be oriented at an angle non-parallel to the transverse axis 382. In some embodiments, when the midfoot portion bends in either the dorsiflexion direction 368 or the plantarflexion direction 370, the neutral bending axis 381 can bend in the same direction.

When the midfoot portion 356 is in the resting state, the first resilient component 366 has a first length. The first length can be longer than a resting length (for example, the length of the resilient component under no tensile load) of the first resilient component 366 such that the first resilient component 366 exerts a first compressive force on the midfoot portion 356 when the midfoot portion 356 is in the resting state. When the midfoot portion bends in the dorsiflexion direction 368, the first connector 362 and the second connector 364 move away from each other. The relative movement of the first connector 362 and the second connector 364 away from each other pulls the first resilient component 366 to a second length that is longer than the first length. Thus, the first resilient component 366 exerts a second compressive force on the midfoot portion 356 when the midfoot portion 356 portion bends in the dorsiflexion direction 368. In some embodiments, the second compressive force can be higher than the first compressive force. When the midfoot portion 356 bends in the plantarflexion direction 370, the first connector 362 and the second connector 364 move toward each other such that the first connector 362 and the second connector 364 are closer to each other than when the midfoot portion 356 is in the resting state. The relative movement of the first connector 362 and the second connector 364 toward each other to reach the plantarflexion state allows the first resilient component 366 to relax to a third length that is shorter than the first length. Thus, the first resilient component 366 exerts a third compressive force on the midfoot portion 356 when the midfoot portion 356 portion bends in the plantarflexion direction 370. In some embodiments, the third compressive force can be lower than the first compressive force and the second compressive force when the midfoot portion 356 is in the plantarflexion state.

The different relative lengths of the first resilient component 366 when the midfoot portion 356 is in various states can cause the midfoot portion 356 to have different a different bending stiffness (a resistance to bending) in the dorsiflexion direction 368 and the plantarflexion direction 370. The different bending stiffness in the dorsiflexion direction 368 and the plantarflexion direction 370 can be referred to as a dorsiflexion bending stiffness and a plantarflexion bending stiffness, respectively. For example, as the midfoot portion 356 bends in the dorsiflexion direction 368, the first resilient component 366 is stretched, thereby exerting an increasing compressive force between the first connector 362 and the second connector 364 as the first resilient component 366 stretches. The increasing compressive force increases the resistance to bending of the midfoot portion 356 in the dorsiflexion direction 368. As another example, as the midfoot portion 356 bends in the plantarflexion direction 370, the first resilient component 366 is relaxed, thereby exerting a decreasing compressive force between the first connector 362 and the second connector 364 as the first resilient component 366 relaxes. The decreasing compressive force decreases the resistance to bending of the midfoot portion 356 in the plantarflexion direction 370. Thus, the plantarflexion bending stiffness of the midfoot portion 356 is lower than the dorsiflexion bending stiffness of the midfoot portion 356. This difference between the plantarflexion bending stiffness and the dorsiflexion bending stiffness can provide the function of facilitating bending of the midfoot portion 356 in the plantarflexion direction 370 during, for example, kicking a ball. This difference between the plantarflexion bending stiffness and the dorsiflexion bending stiffness can also provide the function of allowing limiting bending of the midfoot portion 356 in the dorsiflexion direction 368 to provide stability during, for example, running, jumping, changing directions, etc.

As described above, the first resilient component 366 can be removably coupled to the first connector 362 and the second connector 364. Removable coupling of the first resilient component 366 to the second connector 364 allows for replacement of the first resilient component 366. In some embodiments, the first resilient component 366 can be removed and replaced with another of the first resilient component 366 (for example, for regular maintenance, repair, etc.). In some embodiments, the first resilient component 366 can be removed and replaced with a different resilient component. The different resilient component can have clastic properties that differ from the first resilient component 366. For example, the different resilient component can have a different value for k (from equation (1)) such that the different resilient component exerts different forces on the midfoot portion 356. Replacing the first resilient component 366 with the different resilient component can be performed by the wearer and can be based on the preferences of the wearer. For example, the wearer may want to maximize dorsiflexion bending stiffness and can replace the first resilient component 366 with a different resilient component having a higher k value. As another example, the wearer may want to minimize dorsiflexion bending stiffness and can replace the first resilient component 366 with a different resilient component having a lower k value.

In some embodiments, the midfoot portion 356 comprises additional connectors and resilient components. Having more connectors and resilient components can provide a wearer opportunities to customize the bending characteristics of the midfoot portion 356. For example, the plurality of connectors 360 can comprise a third connector 374 and a fourth connector 376. In such embodiments, the third connector 374 can be located closer to the forefoot portion 344 than the fourth connector 376. Similarly, the fourth connector 376 can be located closer to the heel portion 346 than the third connector 374.

In some embodiments, the third connector 374 and the fourth connector 376 are arranged along a second axis 386. For example, the second axis 386 can be an axis that extends between a center of mass of the third connector 374 and a center of mass of the fourth connector 376. In some embodiments, the second axis 386 is approximately parallel to the longitudinal axis 380. In some embodiments, the second axis 386 is vertically aligned with the longitudinal axis 380. In some embodiments, the second axis 386 is approximately parallel to the neutral bending axis 381 when the midfoot portion 356 is in the resting state. In some embodiments, the second axis 386 is vertically aligned with the neutral bending axis 381 when the midfoot portion 356 is in the resting state. In some embodiments, the second axis 386 is spaced apart from (for example, offset from) the longitudinal axis 380 along the transverse axis 382. In some embodiments, the second axis 386 is disposed at a non-zero angle relative to the longitudinal axis 380 (for example, the second axis 386 is not parallel to the longitudinal axis 380). In some embodiments, the second axis 386 can be oriented at an acute angle relative to the longitudinal axis 380.

In some embodiments, the first axis 384 and the second axis 386 are spaced apart from each other along the transverse axis 382. In some embodiments, the first axis 384 and the second axis 386 are each approximately parallel to the longitudinal axis 380. In some embodiments, each of the first axis 384 and the second axis 386 are disposed at non-zero angles relative to the longitudinal axis 380. More specifically, the first axis 384 can be disposed at a first non-zero angle relative to the longitudinal axis 380 and the second axis 386 can be disposed at a second non-zero angle relative to the longitudinal axis 380. In some embodiments, the first non-zero angle and the second non-zero angle are approximately equal. Thus, the first axis 384 and the second axis 386 can be approximately parallel to each other and be non-parallel to (for example, disposed at the first non-zero angle and the second non-zero angle) the longitudinal axis 380. In some embodiments, the first non-zero angle is different than the second non-zero angle (for example, the first non-zero angle and the second non-zero angle are not equal).

In some embodiments, the midfoot portion 356 comprises a second resilient component 378. The second resilient component 378 can be coupled to the third connector 374 and the fourth connector 376. In some embodiments, the second resilient component 378 can be removably coupled to the third connector 374 and the fourth connector 376. The second resilient component 378 can be vertically spaced apart from the neutral bending axis 381 (for example, in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 380 and the neutral bending axis 381). In some embodiments, the second resilient component 378 can comprise one or more elastic bands or one or more elastic straps. The second resilient component 378 can be formed from a material that allows the second resilient component 378 to be deformed under a tensile load and return to its original configuration (for example, its configuration prior to the tensile load being applied) after the tensile load is removed (for example, elastic deformation). In some embodiments, the second resilient component 378 can be formed from natural rubber, synthetic rubber, or any other type of material that exhibits the desired properties described herein.

In some embodiments, stiffnesses of the first resilient component 366 and the second resilient component 378 can be different. For example, the first resilient component 366 can have a first stiffness and the second resilient component 378 can have a second stiffness that is different than the first stiffness. Because the first stiffness and the second stiffness can be different, first resilient component 366 and the second resilient component 378 can exert different forces on the midfoot portion 356. Thus, the midfoot portion 356 can have different bending stiffnesses across the transverse axis 382 based on the relative stiffnesses of the first resilient component 366 and the second resilient component 378.

For example, the first axis 384 can be located on a medial side of the midfoot portion 356 and extend in a forward medial direction relative to the longitudinal axis 380 (for example, a direction aligned with the medial toe axis 224 of FIG. 2). As another example, the second axis 386 can be located on a lateral side of the midfoot portion 356 and extend in a forward lateral direction relative to the longitudinal axis 380 (for example, a direction aligned with the lateral toe axis 232 of FIG. 2). In embodiments where the first stiffness of the first resilient component 366 is greater than the second stiffness of the second resilient component 378, the dorsiflexion bending stiffness of the midfoot portion 356 will be higher at the medial side than the lateral side. In embodiments where the first stiffness of the first resilient component 366 is lower than the second stiffness of the second resilient component 378, the dorsiflexion bending stiffness of the midfoot portion 356 will be higher at the lateral side than the medial side. Stated differently, the midfoot portion 356 can exhibit asymmetric bending behaviour based on the relative stiffnesses of the resilient components used. Thus, the wearer can use different resilient components with different stiffnesses to customize the bending characteristics of the midfoot portion 356 based on preferences of the wearer.

In some embodiments, the midfoot portion 356 can comprise additional connectors and resilient components to provide the wearer even more options to customize the bending characteristics of the midfoot portion 356. For example, the plurality of connectors 360 can comprise a fifth connector 388 and a sixth connector 390. In such embodiments, the fifth connector 388 can be located closer to the forefoot portion 344 than the sixth connector 390. Similarly, the sixth connector 390 can be located closer to the heel portion 346 than the fifth connector 388.

In some embodiments, the fifth connector 388 and the sixth connector 390 are arranged along a third axis 394. For example, the third axis 394 can be an axis that extends between a center of mass of the fifth connector 388 and a center of mass of the sixth connector 390. In some embodiments, the third axis 394 is approximately parallel to the longitudinal axis 380. In some embodiments, the third axis 394 is vertically aligned with the longitudinal axis 380. In some embodiments, the third axis 394 is approximately parallel to the neutral bending axis 381 when the midfoot portion 356 is in the resting state. In some embodiments, the third axis 394 is vertically aligned with the neutral bending axis 381 when the midfoot portion 356 is in the resting state. In some embodiments, the third axis 394 is spaced apart from (for example, offset from) the longitudinal axis 380 along the transverse axis 382. In some embodiments, third axis 394 is disposed at a non-zero angle relative to the longitudinal axis 380 (for example, the third axis 394 is not parallel to the longitudinal axis 380). In some embodiments, the third axis 394 can be oriented at an acute angle relative to the longitudinal axis 380.

In some embodiments, each of the first axis 384, the second axis 386, and the third axis 394 can be disposed at different angles relative to each other. In some embodiments, each of the first axis 384, the second axis 386, and the third axis 394 can be disposed at different angles relative to the longitudinal axis 380. In an example embodiment, the first axis 384 can be disposed between the second axis 386 and the third axis 394 and can be approximately parallel to the longitudinal axis 380. The second axis 386 can be on the medial side of the midfoot portion 356 and can be disposed in a forward medial direction relative to the longitudinal axis 380 (for example, a direction aligned with the medial toe axis 224 of FIG. 2). And the third axis 394 can be on the lateral side of the midfoot portion 356 and can be disposed in a forward lateral direction relative to the longitudinal axis 380 (for example, a direction aligned with the lateral toe axis 232 of FIG. 2).

In some embodiments, the midfoot portion 356 comprises a third resilient component 392 coupled to the fifth connector 388 and the sixth connector 390. In some embodiments, the third resilient component 392 can be removably coupled to the fifth connector 388 and the sixth connector 390. The third resilient component 392 can be vertically spaced apart from the neutral bending axis 381 (for example, in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 380 and the neutral bending axis 381). In some embodiments, the third resilient component 392 can comprise one or more elastic bands or one or more elastic straps. The third resilient component 392 can be formed from a material that allows the third resilient component 392 to be deformed under a tensile load and return to its original configuration (for example, its configuration prior to the tensile load being applied) after the tensile load is removed (for example, elastic deformation). In some embodiments, the third resilient component 392 can be formed from natural rubber, synthetic rubber, or any other type of material that exhibits the desired properties described herein.

In some embodiments, each of the first resilient component 366, the second resilient component 378, and the third resilient component 392 can have different stiffnesses to alter the bending characteristics of the midfoot portion 356. For example, if the wearer wants the midfoot portion 356 to be stiffer on the medial side of the midfoot portion 356 than on the lateral side, the wearer can choose the first resilient component 366 to have a higher stiffness than the second resilient component 378 and the third resilient component 392. As another example, if the wearer wants the midfoot portion 356 to be stiffer on the lateral side of the midfoot portion 356 than on the medial side, the wearer can choose the third resilient component 392 to have a higher stiffness than the first resilient component 366 and the second resilient component 378. As yet another example, if the wearer prefers the midfoot portion 356 to have a uniform stiffness, the wearer can choose the first resilient component 366, the second resilient component 378, and the third resilient component 392 to have the same stiffnesses.

In some embodiments, midfoot portion 356 can comprise one or more guides 398. The guide 398 can be disposed between the first connector 362 and the second connector 364. In some embodiments, a portion of the first resilient component 366 can engage the guide 398 between the first connector 362 and the second connector 364. In some embodiments, the guide 398 can direct the first resilient component 366 between the first connector 362 and the second connector 364. In some embodiments, the guide 398 can limit movement of the first resilient component 366 in a direction aligned with the transverse axis 382 of the midfoot portion 356. For example, the guide 398 can limit the ability of the debris to displace the first resilient component 366 in a direction aligned with the transverse axis 382, thereby maintaining the desired functionality of the first resilient component 366. In some embodiments, more than one of the guide 398 can be used. For example, a guide 398 can be located between the third connector 374 and the fourth connector 376 to engage with second resilient component 378 in the same manner as the first resilient component 366. As another example, a guide 398 can be located between the fifth connector 388 and the sixth connector 390 to engage with the third resilient component 392 in the same manner as the first resilient component 366.

In some embodiments, additional adjustability for midfoot portion 356 can be provided by allowing the axes along which the connectors are aligned to be adjusted relative to each other and to the longitudinal axis 380, as explained below with reference to midfoot portion 456. Furthermore, in some embodiments, inserts can be provided to limit plantarflexion of the midfoot portion 356 as desired by the wearer. For example, a first insert 396 can be positioned between the guide 398 and the first connector 362 and/or a second insert can be positioned between the guide 398 and the second connector 364. The function of the first insert 396 and the second insert 397 is similar to the function of a first insert 496 and a second insert 497 described with reference to FIG. 4A.

FIG. 4A shows a bottom view of a midfoot portion 456, according to some embodiments. The midfoot portion 456 can comprise any of the features of midfoot portion 356 described herein. FIG. 4B shows another bottom view of the midfoot portion 456, according to some embodiments.

The midfoot portion 456 comprises a plurality of connectors 460. The plurality of connectors comprises a first connector 462 and a second connector 464. The first connector is coupled to a forefoot section 441 and extends away from the midfoot portion 456 in a direction away from an upper-facing side 463 of the midfoot portion 456. The plurality of connectors comprises a second connector 464. The second connector is coupled to a heel section 449 and extends away from the midfoot portion 456 in a direction away from the upper-facing side 463. Thus, the first connector 462 can be located closer to the forefoot portion 344 of the sole structure 340 (shown in FIG. 3A) than the second connector 464. Similarly, the second connector 464 can be located closer to the heel portion 346 of the sole structure 340 than the first connector 462. The first connector 462 and the second connector 464 are arranged along a first axis 484 that extends between a center of mass of the first connector 462 and a center of mass of the second connector 464.

The plurality of connectors 460 comprises a third connector 474 and a fourth connector 476. The third connector 474 and the fourth connector 476 are arranged relative to the forefoot section 441 and the heel section 449 in a manner similar to that described with reference to the first connector 462 and the second connector 464. Thus, the third connector 474 and the fourth connector 476 are arranged along a second axis 486 that extends between a center of mass of the third connector 474 and a center of mass of the fourth connector 476.

The plurality of connectors 460 comprises a fifth connector 488 and a sixth connector 490. The fifth connector 488 and the sixth connector 490 are arranged relative to the forefoot section 441 and the heel section 449 in a manner similar to that described with reference to the first connector 462 and the second connector 464. Thus, the fifth connector 488 and the sixth connector 490 are arranged along a third axis 494 that extends between a center of mass of the fifth connector 488 and a center of mass of the sixth connector 490.

The midfoot portion 456 comprises a first resilient component 466. The midfoot portion 456 comprises a second resilient component 478. The midfoot portion 456 comprises a third resilient component 492. Each of the first resilient component 466, the second resilient component 478, and the third resilient component 492 are similar to the first resilient component 366, the second resilient component 378, and the third resilient component 392 such that the descriptions of the first resilient component 366, the second resilient component 378, and the third resilient component 392 apply to the first resilient component 466, the second resilient component 478, and the third resilient component 492.

In some embodiments, orientations of the first axis 484, the second axis 486, and the third axis 494 can be fixed. For example, each of the plurality of connectors 460 can be fixed to the forefoot section 441 or the heel section 449 such that the wearer cannot adjust a position of any of the plurality of connectors 460 relative to the forefoot section 441 or the heel section 449. In such embodiments, changing bending characteristics of the midfoot portion 456 can be accomplished by using resilient components having different stiffnesses, as described with reference to FIGS. 3A-3B.

In some embodiments, orientations of the first axis 484, the second axis 486, and the third axis 494 can be adjustable relative to each other and relative to the midfoot portion 456. For example, the positions of any of the plurality of connectors 460 can be moved to alter orientations of one or more of the first axis 484, the second axis 486, or the third axis 494. More specifically, each of the plurality of connectors 460 can be adjustably coupled to the forefoot section 441 or the heel section 449 such that each of the plurality of connectors 460 can be moved in a direction parallel to a transverse axis 482 of the midfoot portion 456.

An example embodiment detailing the adjustability is shown in FIG. 4B, which shows a top view of the midfoot portion 456 with the connectors and resilient components removed for clarity. The forefoot section 441 can comprise a plurality of apertures 475 adapted to receive a fastener. The plurality of apertures 475 can be arranged approximately parallel to the transverse axis 482. Additionally or alternatively, the heel section 449 can comprise a plurality of apertures 477 adapted to receive a fastener. The plurality of apertures 477 can be arranged approximately parallel to the transverse axis 482. Each of the plurality of connectors 460 can be coupled to a corresponding one of the plurality of apertures 475 or the plurality of apertures 477. For example, the first connector 462 can be coupled to one of the plurality of apertures 475 and the second connector can be coupled to one of the plurality of apertures 477 such that the first axis 484 extends in a direction that is approximately parallel to a longitudinal axis 480 of the midfoot portion 456. The third connector 474 can be coupled to one of the plurality of apertures 475 and the fourth connector 476 can be coupled to one of the plurality of apertures 477 such that the second axis 486 extends in a forward medial direction (for example, a direction aligned with the medial toe axis 224 of FIG. 2). And the fifth connector 488 can be coupled to one of the plurality of apertures 475 and the sixth connector 490 can be coupled to one of the plurality of apertures 477 such that the third axis 494 extends in a forward lateral direction (for example, a direction aligned with the lateral toe axis 232 of FIG. 2).

Though the adjustability of the plurality of connectors 460 is described as being achieved via connectors, various other ways can be implemented to adjustably couple the plurality of connectors 460 to the forefoot section 441 and the heel section 449. For example, one or both of the forefoot section 441 and the heel section 449 can comprise a channel, and each of the plurality of connectors 460 can comprise a connector that couples the connectors 460 at various locations along the channel. For example, the connector can be bayonet connector that can be coupled to the respective channel by insertion into the channel and rotation relative to the channel. Other methods of adjustably coupling the plurality of connectors 460 to the forefoot section 441 and the heel section 449 can be implemented.

A wearer can thus adjust the bending characteristics of the midfoot portion 456 in multiple ways. As described with reference to FIGS. 3A-3B, the wearer can adjust the bending characteristics of the midfoot portion 456 by selecting resilient components having different stiffnesses, and by arranging different resilient components in locations specific to the desired bending characteristics.

The wearer can additionally or alternatively adjust the bending characteristics by adjusting the locations of any of the plurality of connectors 460 relative to the forefoot section 441 and the heel section 449. Adjusting those locations changes the orientations of the axes along which the associated resilient components can exert a force on the midfoot portion 456. In an example embodiment, the plurality of connectors 460 can be arranged such that the first axis 484, the second axis 486, and the third axis 494 are approximately parallel to each other. More specifically, the plurality of connectors 460 can be arranged such that the first axis 484, the second axis 486, and the third axis 494 are all oriented in the same direction (for example, in directions aligned with the lateral toe axis 232, the top axis 228, the instep axis 220, the medial toc axis 224, etc.). In some embodiments, the plurality of connectors can be arranged such that the first axis 484, the second axis 486, and the third axis 494 are all oriented in different directions (as shown in FIG. 4B.). In some embodiments, the plurality of connectors can be arranged such that at least two of the first axis 484, the second axis 486, and the third axis 494 are oriented in the same direction.

In some embodiments, the midfoot portion 456 can comprise one or more guides 498 similar to guides 398.

In some embodiments, a wearer can selectively limit plantarflexion of the midfoot portion 456. Selectively limiting plantarflexion can be accomplished by limiting movement of the connectors relative to each other in the plantarflexion direction. For example, a first insert 496 can be coupled to the midfoot portion 456 (for example, via a threaded connection, a bayonet connection, or any other type of connection capable of releasably coupling the first insert 496 to the midfoot portion 456). The first insert 496 can be located between the first connector 462 and the second connector 464. In some embodiments, the first insert 496 can be located between a guide 498 and the first connector 462. In some embodiments, the first insert 496 can be sized for a friction fit between the guide 498 and the first connector 462. In such embodiments, coupling the first insert 496 to the midfoot portion 456 via a connection can be omitted because the first insert 496 is secured in place via the friction fit. In some embodiments, a second insert 497 can be coupled to the midfoot portion 456. The second insert 497 can be located between the first connector 462 and the second connector 464. In some embodiments, the second insert 497 can be located between the guide 498 and the second connector 464. In some embodiments, one or both of the first insert 496 and the second insert 497 can be removably coupled to the midfoot portion 456.

When positioned on midfoot portion 456, the first insert 496 and/or the second insert 497 can limit relative motion between the first connector 462 and the second connector 464 when the midfoot portion 456 bends in the plantarflexion direction 470. In some embodiments, the first insert 496 is coupled to the midfoot portion 456 between the guide 498 and the first connector 462, and the second insert can be omitted. In such embodiments, when the midfoot portion 456 bends in the plantarflexion direction 470, the second connector 464 bends toward the guide 498. The first insert 496 contacts both the guide 498 and the first connector 462 as the midfoot portion 456 bends in the plantarflexion direction 470, thereby limiting bending of the midfoot portion 456. More specifically, the midfoot portion 456 has a first local bending stiffness in the area of the midfoot portion 456 that includes the first insert 496 and a second local bending stiffness in the area of the midfoot portion 456 in which the second insert 497 is omitted, with the second local bending stiffness being lower than the first local bending stiffness. Thus, the midfoot portion 456 can bend more easily in the area where the second insert 497 is omitted (for example, an area of the midfoot portion 456 located closer to a heel portion of a sole structure to which the midfoot portion 456 is coupled, such as the sole structure 340 of FIG. 3A).

In some embodiments, the second insert 497 is coupled to the midfoot portion 456 between the guide 498 and the second connector 464, and the first insert 496 is omitted. In such embodiments, the midfoot portion 456 bends more easily in the area where the first insert 496 is omitted (for example, an area of the midfoot portion 456 located closer to a forefoot portion of a sole structure to which the midfoot portion 456 is coupled, such as the sole structure 340 of FIG. 3A).

In some embodiments, the first insert 496 is coupled to the midfoot portion 456 between the guide 498 and the first connector 462, and the second insert 497 is coupled to the midfoot portion 456 between the guide 498 and the second connector 464. In such embodiments, bending of the midfoot portion 456 in the plantarflexion direction 470 is limited as compared to embodiments in which the midfoot portion 456 includes only one of the first insert 496 or the second insert 497, or in which the midfoot portion 456 includes neither the first insert 496 nor the second insert 497.

Though described with respect to the first connector 462 and the second connector 464, the first insert 496 and the second insert 497 can be coupled to the midfoot portion 456 between any of the plurality of connectors 460 described herein. Thus, the wearer can use various inserts in locations that provide the desired bending performance in the plantarflexion direction 470.

As described above, the first insert 396 and the second insert 397 (shown in FIG. 3A) are similar to the first insert 496 and the second insert 497 and can be used to limit plantarflexion of the midfoot portion 356 in a similar manner. For example, as shown in FIG. 3A, the first insert 396 can be coupled to the midfoot portion 356 between the guide 398 and the first connector 362. More specifically, in some embodiments, the first insert 396 can be sized to fit within the first recess 351 (for example, via a friction fit or by coupling the first insert 396 to the midfoot portion 356 via a threaded connection, a bayonet connection, etc.). In some embodiments, the second insert 397 can be coupled to the midfoot portion 356 between the guide 398 and the second connector 364. More specifically, the second insert 397 can be sized to fit within the second recess 353. Similar to the first insert 496 and the second insert 497, the first insert 396 and the second insert 397 can be used independently based on the preferences of the wearer. For example, if the wearer wants more plantarflexion toward the forefoot portion 344 and less plantarflexion toward the heel portion 346, the wearer can couple the second insert 397 to the midfoot portion 356 between the guide 398 and the second connector 364. If the wearer wants more plantarflexion toward the heel portion 346 and less plantarflexion toward the forefoot portion 344, the wearer can couple the first insert 396 to the midfoot portion 356 between the guide 398 and the first connector 362.

The embodiments described with respect to FIGS. 4A-4B provide the wearer with one or more options to adjust bending performance of the midfoot portion 456 based on preferences of the wearer. The wearer can adjust the angles of axes between connectors to align with a preferred bending direction. The wearer can change or replace resilient components with other resilient components having different stiffnesses to provide more or less resistance to bending in the dorsiflexion direction. The wearer can add or remove inserts between connectors to provide more or less resistance to bending in the plantarflexion direction.

While various embodiments have been described herein, they have been presented by way of example, and not limitation. It should be apparent that adaptations and modifications are intended to be within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments, based on the teaching and guidance presented herein. It therefore will be apparent to one skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail can be made to the embodiments disclosed herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. The elements of the embodiments presented herein are not necessarily mutually exclusive, but can be interchanged to meet various situations as would be appreciated by one of skill in the art.

The examples are illustrative, but not limiting, of the present disclosure. Other suitable modifications and adaptations of the variety of conditions and parameters normally encountered in the field, and which would be apparent to those skilled in the art, are within the spirit and scope of the disclosure.

It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. The breadth and scope of the present disclosure should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments, but should be defined in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents.