Abrégé

The present invention provides articles of footwear adapted for use in extreme and hazardous environments by members of the military, law enforcement personnel and others who require durable and functional footwear. The footwear include protective coverings that may be proof, puncture proof, fire retardant or water repelling. Drainage holes can be positioned in the toe region and along the outsole to enable a wearer to quickly drain water from the article of footwear. Single use or replaceable drainage plugs may cover the holes to prevent entry of water into the boot or other article of footwear. Removable and/or replaceable footbeds may be employed, and such footbeds may provide adjustable sizing of the article of footwear using interchangeable cartridges. A support saddle may be employed with the footbed to enhance foot support under heavy loads. These and other features herein are suited for use in a wide variety of footwear.

Classes IPC  ?

• A43B 7/06 - Chaussures avec dispositions médicales ou hygiéniques ventilées

Abrégé

The present invention provides a wraparound lacing system for use in all manner of footwear. The lacing system includes a lace which encircles the upper and midsole of the article of footwear in a spiral, helical, coiled or similar wound wraparound pattern. The upper includes finger members which independently adjust to the contours of the wearer's foot while providing a snug and secure fit. The upper and midsole are integrally formed as a unitary structure. The housing of the upper and the midsole includes channels therein which receive the wraparound lace. The lace can be affixed at one or both ends to the midsole or to the upper. Removable lace end keepers on the upper permit the user to adjust the length of the lace.

Classes IPC  ?

• A43C 11/00 - Autres fermetures spécialement destinées aux chaussures

Abrégé

The present invention provides a floating anatomical protector (1106) for use in articles of footwear (1100) , and is particularly suited for footwear employing a wraparound lacing system. The floating anatomical protector (1106) preferably does not directly contact the superstructure (1104) of the article of footwear (1100) when worn. Instead, the lacing (1118) or other fastening system retains the floating anatomical protector (1106) in place over the wearer's foot and/or leg. For instance, the instep region of the foot, the shin, Achilles heel, calf , etc. may be covered by the floating anatomical protector (1106) . Multiple segments or separate protectors may be used. The lace (1118) may run between different layers (1106a, 1106b) of the floating anatomical protector. Also, the floating anatomical protector (1106) may directly contact the wearer's skin, or it may be used in conjunction with a bootie, sock or other intermediate material (1108) .

Classes IPC  ?

• A43C 11/20 - Fermetures avec dispositifs de serrage montés sur la languette
• A43B 5/04 - Chaussures de ski ou similaires

Abrégé

An article of footwear or shoe assembly (10), which is designed, to allow for adjustment of stiffness in its sole unit (11), is disclosed. The article of footwear (10) is preferably constructed to enhance stability, support and comfort of a wearer on varied terrain. Among other elements, the shoe assembly (10) preferably includes an adjustable shank (32) disposed within the shoe (10) to allow for adjustment in the stiffness of the sole unit (11). In certain embodiments, the adjustable shank (32) further includes a plurality of segments (34a, 34b, 34c, 34d, 134a, 134b, 135c, 135d, 234a, 234b, 234c, 234d, 334a, 334b, 334c, 334d, 434a, 434b, 434c, 434d, 534a, 534b, 534c, 534d, and 718) adapted to be manipulated in order to vary the stiffness.

Classes IPC  ?

• A43B 13/42 - Matériaux de remplissage placés entre les semelles intérieure et extérieureMatériaux raidisseurs

Abrégé

An article of footwear or shoe assembly, which is designed to allow for adjustment of stiffness in its sole unit, is disclosed. The article of footwear is preferably constructed to enhance stability, support and comfort of a wearer on varied terrain. Among other elements, the shoe assembly preferably includes an adjustable shank disposed within the shoe to allow for adjustment in the stiffness of the sole unit. In certain embodiments, the adjustable shank further includes a plurality of segments adapted to be manipulated in order to vary the stiffness.

Classes IPC  ?

• A43B 13/42 - Matériaux de remplissage placés entre les semelles intérieure et extérieureMatériaux raidisseurs
• A43B 23/22 - Supports pour la cambrure de la tige
• A43B 1/10 - Chaussures caractérisées par les matériaux en caoutchouc

Abrégé

An article of footwear (10) having an upper (12) and a sole (14) is disclosed. The sole (14) of the article of footwear (10) includes a midsole (28) having a support portion (22) and a plurality of projections (30) extending from the support portion (22). The sole (14) of the article of footwear (10) also includes a plate (20) contacting the support portion (22) having a body (25) positioned in an area between the plurality of projections (30). The plate (20) further includes a plurality of openings (27) which correspond to the plurality of projections (30) and allow the projections (30) to extend below the body (25) of the plate (20). The plate (20) further includes a plurality of cantilever elements (24) extending on at least one side and on the bottom of each of the plurality of projections (30). The projections (30) and the corresponding cantilever elements (24) interact with one another to form a plurality of lugs (17) located on the sole (14) of the article of footwear (10).

Classes IPC  ?

• A43B 13/18 - Semelles élastiques

Abrégé

An article of footwear (10) having an upper (12), which includes a first foam layer (48) having a first surface and a second surface remote from the first surface, a second foam layer (46) having a first surface and a second surface remote from the first surface, and a middle layer (50) having a first surface and a second surface remote from the first surface. The first surface of the middle layer (50) is affixed to the second surface of the first foam layer (48), and the second surface of the middle layer (50) is affixed to the first surface of the second foam layer (46) . The upper (12) defines at least a portion of a foot receiving cavity (13) for the article of footwear (10).

Classes IPC  ?

• A43B 13/12 - Semelles à plusieurs couches de matériaux différents

Abrégé

The present invention discloses various features and combinations thereof for use with articles of footwear such as boots. The boots are especially adapted for use on construction projects, and provide protection, support and comfort to the wearer. Numerous outsole configurations and styles are provided, which provide superior traction and a low center of gravity for enhanced balance. Different layers of materials provide puncture resistance, abrasion resistance, thermal insulation, waterproofing and other benefits. Protective and/or insulative plates may be utilized in the footwear for puncture protection or thermal insulation, for example. Shovel guards protect the wearer when using a tool, and toe tools permit the wearer to employ the boot as a tool of its own. Structural support cages chimney structures are also utilized for support and comfort.

Classes IPC  ?

• A43B 3/00 - Chaussures caractérisées par la forme ou l'utilisation

Abrégé

The present invention provides articles of footwear for use by firefighters in different activities such as emergency and rescue situations, as well as daily activity in and around the firehouse. Integrated handles enable the firefighter to quickly and easily put the article of footwear on while minimizing the possibility of accidentally catching on equipment, apparel or debris. Locking bands that wrap around the upper are used to adjust for comfort and a secure fit. A dual lacing and zipper system enables the firefighter to initially adjust for fit by selectively tightening the lace, while the zipper provides a quick means for securing the article of footwear. Different outsole lug configurations are suitable for different surfaces, wet, dry and of varying and extreme temperatures. Added protection is available with a tibia/shin protector and ankle protectors.

Classes IPC  ?

• A43C 11/00 - Autres fermetures spécialement destinées aux chaussures
• A43B 23/28 - Dispositifs à placer dans les chaussures pour empêcher le glissement du talon ou l'usure des chaussettes ou des bas

Abrégé

The present invention provides a wraparound lacing system for use with footwear. The lacing system includes a lace (118) which encircles the housing (104) of the article of footwear (100) in a spiral, helical, coiled or similar wound wraparound pattern. The housing (104) includes finger members or projections (112) which independently adjust to the contours of the wearer's foot while providing a snug and secure fit. The housing (104) of the upper (104a) and the midsole (104b) includes channels (116) therein which receive the wraparound lace (118) . The lace (118) can be affixed at one or both ends to the midsole (104b) or to the upper (104a) . Removable lace end keepers (124) on the upper (104a) permit the user to adjust the length of the lace (118) . Recessed cavities (1000) may be positioned along the lacing channels (116) to promote easy adjustment of the lace (118) . The lace (118) may run along channels (1161, 61O1) formed between fingers and an overlying shell structure (6061) . The lace (118) may run through a tube structure (6121) within the channels (1161, 61O1) .

Classes IPC  ?

• A43C 11/00 - Autres fermetures spécialement destinées aux chaussures

Abrégé

The present invention provides a wraparound lacing system for use in all manner of footwear. The lacing system includes a lace which encircles the upper and midsole of the article of footwear in a spiral, helical, coiled or similar wound wraparound pattern. The upper includes finger members which independently adjust to the contours of the wearer's foot while providing a snug and secure fit. The upper and midsole are integrally formed as a unitary structure. The housing of the upper and the midsole includes channels therein which receive the wraparound lace. The lace can be affixed at one or both ends to the midsole or to the upper. Removable lace end keepers on the upper permit the user to adjust the length of the lace.

Classes IPC  ?

• A43C 11/00 - Autres fermetures spécialement destinées aux chaussures

Abrégé

The present invention provides a wraparound lacing system for use in all manner of footwear. The lacing system includes a lace which encircles the upper and midsole of the article of footwear in a spiral, helical, coiled or similar wound wraparound pattern. The upper includes finger members which independently adjust to the contours of the wearer's foot while providing a snug and secure fit. The upper and midsole are integrally formed as a unitary structure. The housing of the upper and the midsole includes channels therein which receive the wraparound lace. The lace can be affixed at one or both ends to the midsole or to the upper. Removable lace end keepers on the upper permit the user to adjust the length of the lace. Siping and/or elongated, raised ridge members may be positioned along the bottom surface of the outsole for enhanced traction on wet surfaces.

Classes IPC  ?

• A43C 11/00 - Autres fermetures spécialement destinées aux chaussures
• A43C 15/00 - Dispositifs antidérapants

Abrégé

The present invention provides a wraparound lacing system for use with footwear. The lacing system includes a lace which encircles the housing of the article of footwear in a spiral, helical, coiled or similar wound wraparound pattern. The housing includes finger members which independently adjust to the contours of the wearer's foot while providing a snug and secure fit. The housing of the upper and the midsole includes channels therein which receive the wraparound lace. The lace can be affixed at one or both ends to the midsole or to the upper. Removable lace end keepers on the upper permit the user to adjust the length of the lace. Recessed cavities may be positioned along the lacing channels to promote easy adjustment of the lace. The lace may run along channels formed between fingers and an overlying shell structure. The lace may run through a tube structure within the channels.

Classes IPC  ?

• A43C 11/00 - Autres fermetures spécialement destinées aux chaussures

Abrégé

The present invention provides a floating anatomical protector for use in articles of footwear, and is particularly suited for footwear employing a wraparound lacing system. The floating anatomical protector preferably does not directly contact the superstructure of the article of footwear when worn. Instead, the lacing or other fastening system retains the floating anatomical protector in place over the wearer's foot and/or leg. For instance, the instep region of the foot, the shin, Achilles heel, calf, etc. may be covered by the floating anatomical protector. Multiple segments or separate protectors may be used. The lace may run between different layers of the floating anatomical protector. Also, the floating anatomical protector may directly contact the wearer's skin, or it may be used in conjunction with a bootie, sock or other intermediate material.

Classes IPC  ?

• A43C 11/00 - Autres fermetures spécialement destinées aux chaussures

Abrégé

The present invention employs chimneys and chimneys structures to move or vent heat and moisture away from the foot and out of the microclimate of the shoe. The chimneys define pathways that utilize convection and other principles to cool and dry the foot. The chimneys and chimney structures can have many different configurations, and can be positioned anywhere desired in the upper. For example, chimneys can be positioned on the sidewalls of the upper, in the tongue, or both. Chimneys and chimney structures can also be used with form-fitting foot coverings such as socks or leggings, or used with other apparel. Specialized footbeds can also be employed with footwear chimneys to evacuate hot, moist air away from the underside of the foot and towards the chimneys.

Classes IPC  ?

• A43B 7/06 - Chaussures avec dispositions médicales ou hygiéniques ventilées

Abrégé

The present invention employs chimneys and chimneys structures to move or vent heat and moisture away from the foot and out of the microclimate of the shoe. The chimneys define pathways that utilize convection and other principles to cool and dry the foot. The chimneys and chimney structures can have many different configurations, and can be positioned anywhere desired in the upper. For example, chimneys can be positioned on the sidewalls of the upper, in the tongue, or both. Chimneys and chimney structures can also be used with form-fitting foot coverings such as socks or leggings, or used with other apparel. Specialized footbeds can also be employed with footwear chimneys to evacuate hot, moist air away from the underside of the foot and towards the chimneys.

Classes IPC  ?

• A43B 7/06 - Chaussures avec dispositions médicales ou hygiéniques ventilées

Abrégé

The present invention employs chimneys (32, 34) and chimneys structures (36, 60) to move or vent heat and moisture away from the foot and out of the microclimate of the shoe. The chimneys (32, 34) define pathways (42, 54) that utilize convection and other principles to cool and dry the foot. The chimneys (32, 34) and chimney structures (36, 60) can have many different configurations, and can be positioned anywhere desired in the upper (14). For example, chimneys (32, 34) can be positioned on the sidewalls (20) of the upper (14), in the tongue (26), or both. Chimneys (32, 34) and chimney structures (36, 60) can also be used with form-fitting foot coverings (720) such as socks or leggings, or used with other apparel. Specialized footbeds (800) can also be employed with footwear chimneys (32, 34) to evacuate hot, moist air away from the underside of the foot and towards the chimneys (32, 34).

Classes IPC  ?

• A43B 7/06 - Chaussures avec dispositions médicales ou hygiéniques ventilées
• A43B 23/07 - Doublures pour celles-ci

Abrégé

The present invention employs chimneys and chimneys structures to move or vent heat and moisture away from the foot and out of the microclimate of the shoe. The chimneys define pathways that utilize convection and other principles to cool and dry the foot. The chimneys and chimney structures can have many different configurations, and can be positioned anywhere desired in the upper. For example, chimneys can be positioned on the sidewalls of the upper, in the tongue, or both. Chimneys and chimney structures can also be used with form-fitting foot coverings such as socks or leggings, or used with other apparel. Specialized footbeds can also be employed with footwear chimneys to evacuate hot, moist air away from the underside of the foot and towards the chimneys.

Classes IPC  ?

• A43B 7/06 - Chaussures avec dispositions médicales ou hygiéniques ventilées

Abrégé

The present invention relates to removable and/or replaceable liners for use in a wide variety of footwear. Liners may be permanently connected to the collar of the shoe, or may be semi-permanently attached for easy removal from the collar. The liners can be quickly removed from the interior of the shoe using any number of disengagement devices. Removing the liner from within the shoe permits rapid drying of the liner when it becomes wet due to moisture generated by the foot within the shoe or from external environmental conditions. Semi-permanently attached liners can be detached for cleaning or for replacement by another liner depending on the needs of the wearer. Disengagement means can be provided in conjunction with the liner, which enable the wearer to easily pull the liner out of the shoe.

Classes IPC  ?

• A43B 17/00 - Premières de propreté, p. ex. semelles à insérer ou insertions, pour fixation à la chaussure après fixation de la tige
• A43B 3/24 - Chaussures caractérisées par la forme ou l'utilisation pliables ou transformables

Abrégé

The present invention provides an interchangeable shoe footbed cartridge system. The system includes a footbed such as a midsole, insole or a sockliner. A cartridge is inserted into or otherwise attached to the forefoot section of the footbed. Multiple cartridges of varying depths, widths and/or lengths may be provided. The wearer can select a cartridge to achieve a desired fit. Because right and left feet may be of different sizes, different cartridges may be chosen for each foot. Furthermore, the user may swap cartridges depending upon different conditions, or to change the stiffness of the cartridge. Additionally, a slipcover having a stretchable portion may be placed over the cartridge system. The cartridges enable a footwear manufacturer to produce fewer shoe sizes while fitting more of the population. This reduces manufacturing, shipping, warehousing and accounting costs. All levels of the supply chain, as well as the end customers, will greatly benefit from the method of supplying footwear.

Classes IPC  ?

• A43B 3/24 - Chaussures caractérisées par la forme ou l'utilisation pliables ou transformables

Abrégé

The present invention provides an interchangeable shoe footbed cartridge system. The system includes a footbed such as a midsole, insole or a sockliner. A cartridge is inserted into or otherwise attached to the forefoot section of the footbed. Multiple cartridges of varying depths, widths and/or lengths may be provided. The wearer can select a cartridge to achieve a desired fit. Because right and left feet may be of different sizes, different cartridges may be chosen for each foot. Furthermore, the user may swap cartridges depending upon different conditions, or to change the stiffness of the cartridge. Additionally, a slipcover having a stretchable portion may be placed over the cartridge system. The cartridges enable a footwear manufacturer to produce fewer shoe sizes while fitting more of the population. This reduces manufacturing, shipping, warehousing and accounting costs. All levels of the supply chain, as well as the end customers, will greatly benefit from the method of supplying footwear.

Classes IPC  ?

• A43B 3/24 - Chaussures caractérisées par la forme ou l'utilisation pliables ou transformables

Abrégé

In one embodiment a gaitor interface may be used to connect a gaitor to many different types of footwear. The gaitor interface provides a removable attachment between the gaitor and the shoe. One part of the gaitor interface comprises a track that can be mounted along the exterior of the shoe. The track includes a pair of elongated arms that define an interior flex track. Another part of the gaitor interface comprises a connector for attaching to the track. The connector has a bead portion that can be slid into the flex track. The interlock between the bead portion and the flex track provides a releasably secure connection between the gaitor and the shoe. In another embodiment, a convertible shoe having a removable shoe collar is provided. The removable collar may be reversible and may have different linings or covering for the inner and outer surfaces.

Classes IPC  ?

• A43B 3/00 - Chaussures caractérisées par la forme ou l'utilisation
• A43B 3/24 - Chaussures caractérisées par la forme ou l'utilisation pliables ou transformables

Abrégé

An improved shoe outsole, and a shoe incorporating the outsole, having improved traction are provided. The outsole contains articulated lugs of various shapes extending downward from the base of the outsole and adapted for contacting the ground and enhancing traction.

Classes IPC  ?

• A43C 15/00 - Dispositifs antidérapants
• A43B 5/00 - Chaussures de sport