Article of footwear for snowboarding

An article of footwear for use in sporting activities such as snowboarding is disclosed. The article of footwear can include a flex notch and a coupled lace loop design. The article can further include an internal harness to enhance stability of the foot. The article can also include a threading layer configured to strengthen the upper and a corresponding connecting layer to bond the threading layer to the upper and to provide protection to other areas of the upper.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to an article of footwear, and in particular to a boot for use in snowboarding.

2. Description of Related Art

Articles of footwear for use in sporting activities, such as snowboarding, have been previously proposed. Some designs for snowboarding boots have previously been focused on provisions for increasing the durability of one or more portions of the upper or sole. Some other designs have been focused on provisions to attach a snowboard boot to bindings of a snowboard.

Some previous designs for articles have taught features for increasing flexibility of a component of the article. Francis et al. (U.S. Pat. No. 5,243,772) teaches a shoe with an external shell. Francis teaches a shoe with a sole, a sock attached to the sole and a form-retaining shell attached to the sole and not attached to the sock above the region of the sole, such that the sole may be flexible during use. Francis teaches a notch that enables the sole to flex in use. Francis also teaches an embodiment of the article with a gap that serves the same purpose of the notch (i.e. to allow the sole to flex during use). In another embodiment, Francis teaches that the notch is partially or wholly replaced by a flexible corrugated or bellow portion having a relatively thin, fan-like cross-section which may be molded into the shell.

Adams (U.S. Pat. No. 3,546,796) teaches a special sport shoe for people with high insteps. Adams teaches a shoe with an upper vamp section that is provided with V-shaped slits or openings, one on each side of the vamp. In addition, Adams teaches that in cases where the manufacturer desires to adapt the invention to somewhat more formal shoes for persons with high insteps, the V-shaped openings could be filled with an elastic gusset or other ornamental devices to cover the separation of the vamp portion of the shoe into upper and lower vamps.

Other designs for articles have taught provisions for lacing an article using lace loops. Sokolowski et al. (U.S. patent application publication number 2008/0110049) teaches an article of footwear having a flat knit upper construction. Sokolowski teaches an article of footwear that includes a sole structure and an upper. The article includes a textile element including four channels. The channels are formed from two at least partially coextensive layers of the material forming textile element.

Sokolowski also teaches lace elements that receive a lace. The lace elements include loops. In addition, the lace elements extend through the channels. The loops are positioned to extend outward from upper portions of the channels. The materials that can be used for the textile element include cotton and wool fibers, natural filaments such as silk, and synthetic filaments that include nylon, rayon, polyester and acrylic. Elastane fibers can provide substantial stretch and recoverability.

Lanzi (U.S. Pat. No. 7,331,363) teaches a textile weave of inelastic and elastic fiber forming an elastic weave with one or more rigid loops. The lace loop is made of inelastic fiber, which is connected to the inelastic-elastic weave, which is further connected to another inelastic fiber, which is then connected to the shoe. When the lace is tightened, the elastic-inelastic part stretches, but the loop does not.

Friton (U.S. Pat. No. 6,298,582) teaches an article of footwear with a heel clip. Friton teaches non-stretch lace engaging elements that may be made from nylon. The lace engaging elements include a first end containing eyelets, lace loops, or the like, and a second end that is fixedly attached to the side panel of the upper. The side panels may be flexible and may be made from a flexible mesh. Because of the flexibility of the side panels, the lace engaging elements are pulled upwardly and inwardly as the lace is tightened. Friton also teaches flexible straps that can be applied against the side panels, and in some cases can wrap over to tighten from one side to another.

Monti (U.S. Pat. No. 5,992,057) teaches a strapping closure system for an article of footwear. Monti teaches instep straps that are fixedly attached to second ends. The instep straps each have a loop at one end for receiving a lace. The instep straps are disposed through slits in the midfoot area of the upper. The instep straps are not attached to the upper so they can be tightened independently of the upper. Instead, the instep straps are attached to instep pieces.

Hatfield et al. (U.S. Pat. No. 5,377,430) teaches a shoe with an elastic closure system. Hatfield teaches a shoe in which elastic material is secured along the base of the upper on the medial and lateral sides of the shoe. A plurality of straps are separately and independently attached at their lower end to the elastic material. The straps are made of a substantially inelastic material. Lace openings are positioned at the upper ends of the straps. As the lace is drawn, the straps are tightened around the foot to place the elastic material disposed along the medial and lateral sides of the foot under tension. See the abstract.

Hatfield teaches an upper with medial straps and lateral straps. The straps are connected by web portions. Hatfield also teaches an elastic material including a first portion and a second portion disposed on the medial and lateral sides, respectively. Hatfield also teaches upper edges for the portions.

Hatfield teaches an inner sleeve including an outer layer made of a stretchable material, for example, neoprene, and an inner layer made of a stretchable material. Hatfield teaches the use of Lycra. The outer layer and inner layer are stitched together at their top ends around foot opening.

Articles with structural elements formed of threads have also been previously proposed. Meschter (U.S. patent application publication number 2007/0271823) teaches an article of footwear having an upper with thread structural elements.

SUMMARY

The invention discloses an article of footwear for use in sporting activities such as snowboarding. In one aspect, the invention provides an article of footwear, comprising: an upper comprising a lower portion corresponding to a foot and an upper portion corresponding to an ankle of the foot; a lacing region extending through the lower portion and the upper portion; a flex notch extending from the lacing region towards a heel portion of the upper; an elastic portion extending through a portion of the lacing region; and wherein the elastic portion extends between a first edge and a second edge of the flex notch.

In another aspect, the invention provides an article of footwear, comprising: an upper comprising a lower portion corresponding to a foot and an upper portion corresponding to an ankle of the foot; a lacing region extending through the lower portion and the upper portion; a flex notch extending from the lacing region towards a heel portion of the upper; the flex notch being disposed between the lower portion and the upper portion; a lace loop configured to receive a lacing member associated with the lacing region; the lace loop including a first end portion, a second end portion and an intermediate portion disposed between the first end portion and the second end portion; the first end portion being attached to the upper portion and the second end portion being attached to the lower portion; and wherein the intermediate portion spans between the flex notch.

In another aspect, the invention provides an article of footwear, comprising: an upper comprising a lower portion corresponding to a foot and an upper portion corresponding to an ankle of the foot; a lacing region extending through the lower portion and the upper portion; a flex notch extending from a lacing region towards a heel portion of the upper; an elastic portion extending through a portion of the lacing region, the elastic portion extending between a first edge and a second edge of the flex notch; a lace loop configured to receive a lacing member associated with the lacing region; the lace loop including a first end portion, a second end portion and an intermediate portion disposed between the first end portion and the second end portion; the first end portion being attached to the upper portion and the second end portion being attached to the lower portion; and wherein the intermediate portion spans the flex notch.

In another aspect, the invention provides an article of footwear, comprising: an upper including a lacing region; an elastic portion configured to attach to an edge of the lacing region; at least one lace loop including a first end portion and a second end portion, the first end portion and the second end portion being attached to the edge of the lacing region; and wherein a portion of the elastic portion is disposed between the first end portion and the second end portion of the at least one lace loop.

In another aspect, the invention provides an article of footwear, comprising: an upper including a lacing region; an elastic portion configured to attach to an edge of the lacing region; the elastic portion including an exterior portion facing outwardly on the upper and an interior portion facing inwardly on the upper, the elastic portion further including an upper edge that separates the exterior portion from the interior portion; a lace loop including a first end portion and a second end portion attached to the edge of the lacing region; the lace loop including an intermediate portion disposed between the first end portion and the second end portion; and wherein the intermediate portion is configured to wrap around the upper edge of the elastic portion.

In another aspect, the invention provides an article of footwear, comprising: an upper including a lacing region; an elastic portion configured to attach to an edge of the lacing region; a first lace loop attached to an edge of the lacing region and a second lace loop attached to the edge of the lacing region; the elastic portion extending through the first lace loop and the second lace loop; and wherein the elastic portion includes an intermediate portion that extends between the first lace loop and the second lace loop.

In another aspect, the invention provides an article of footwear, comprising: a harness, the harness including a base layer and a threading layer, the threading layer configured to attach to the base layer; the threading layer comprising threads arranged in a first thread group and a second thread group; the first thread group including a first end portion and a second end portion, wherein the threads extend radially outward from the first end portion to the second end portion; the second thread group including a third end portion and a fourth end portion, wherein the threads extend radially outward from the third end portion to the fourth end portion; the first end portion of the first thread group being substantially spaced apart from the third end portion of the second thread group by a thread gap; and wherein the base layer includes a notch associated with the thread gap.

In another aspect, the invention provides an article of footwear, comprising: a harness, the harness including a base layer and a threading layer, the threading layer configured to attach to the base layer; the threading layer comprising threads arranged in a first thread group and a second thread group; the first thread group including a first end portion and a second end portion, wherein the threads extend radially outward from the first end portion to the second end portion; the second thread group including a third end portion and a fourth end portion, wherein the threads extend radially outward from the third end portion to the fourth end portion; the first thread group including a first side edge extending from the first end portion of the first thread group to the second end portion of the first thread group; the second thread group including a second side edge extending from the third end portion of the second thread group to the fourth end portion of the second thread group; the threading layer including a thread gap disposed between the first side edge and the second side edge; and wherein the base layer includes a notch that extends between the first side edge and the second side edge.

In another aspect, the invention provides an article of footwear, comprising: a harness, the harness including a base layer and a threading layer, the threading layer configured to attach to the base layer; the harness further including a peripheral layer that is configured to attach to an outer peripheral portion of the base layer; the peripheral layer including a first tab portion including a first lace loop and a second tab portion including a second lace loop; the first tab portion being connected to the second tab portion by a segment; the threading layer comprising a plurality of threads arranged in a first thread group and a second thread group; a first end portion of the first thread group extending to the first tab portion of the peripheral layer and a second end portion of the second thread group extending to the second tab portion of the peripheral layer; the first end portion of the first thread group being spaced apart from the second end portion of the second thread group by a thread gap; and wherein the segment of the peripheral layer has a shape that corresponds to the thread gap.

In another aspect, the invention provides an article of footwear, comprising: a harness, the harness including a base layer and a threading layer, the threading layer configured to attach to the base layer; the harness further including a peripheral layer; the threading layer comprising a plurality of threads arranged in a thread group; the thread group including an end portion disposed adjacent to an edge of the base layer; and wherein the threads of the end portion are disposed between the peripheral layer and the base layer.

In another aspect, the invention provides an article of footwear, comprising: a harness, the harness including a base layer and a threading layer, the threading layer configured to attach to the base layer; the base layer including a central portion and an outer peripheral portion extending around the central portion; the threading layer extending through the central portion of the base layer; a peripheral layer disposed adjacent to the base layer; and wherein the peripheral layer is configured to confront the outer peripheral portion of the base layer.

In another aspect, the invention provides an article of footwear, comprising: a harness, the harness including a base layer and a threading layer, the threading layer configured to attach to the base layer; the harness further including a peripheral layer; the peripheral layer including at least one lace loop; and wherein at least one lace loop is bonded to a tab portion of the peripheral layer and wherein the tab portion comprises a polymer material.

In another aspect, the invention provides an article of footwear, comprising: a base layer configured to form an upper, the upper including a forefoot portion, a heel portion and a midfoot portion disposed between the forefoot portion and the heel portion; a threading layer including at least one thread group disposed on the base layer in the midfoot portion, the threading layer including an outer perimeter; a connecting layer configured to bond the threading layer to the base layer; the connecting layer including a first portion and a second portion; and wherein the first portion is configured to cover the threading layer and wherein the second portion is configured to extend away from the threading perimeter of the threading layer.

In another aspect, the invention provides an article of footwear, comprising: a base layer configured to form an upper, the upper including a forefoot portion, a heel portion and a midfoot portion disposed between the forefoot portion and the heel portion; a threading layer including a first thread group disposed on a side of the midfoot portion; a connecting layer including a first side portion and a forward portion; and wherein the first side portion corresponds to the first thread group and wherein the forward portion corresponds to a toe portion of the forefoot portion.

In another aspect, the invention provides an article of footwear, comprising: a base layer configured to form an upper, the upper including a forefoot portion, a heel portion and a midfoot portion disposed between the forefoot portion and the heel portion; a threading layer including a first thread group disposed on a medial side of the midfoot portion and the threading layer including a second thread group disposed on a lateral side of the midfoot portion; a connecting layer including a first side portion and a second side portion; and wherein the first side portion corresponds to the first thread group and the second side portion corresponds to the second thread group.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1-2illustrate an exemplary embodiment of article of footwear100. In particular,FIG. 1illustrates an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of article of footwear100andFIG. 2illustrates an exploded isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of article of footwear100. For clarity, the following detailed description discusses an exemplary embodiment, in the form of a boot, but it should be noted that the present invention could take the form of any article of footwear including, but not limited to: hiking boots, soccer shoes, football shoes, sneakers, rugby shoes, baseball shoes as well as other kinds of shoes. Furthermore, the exemplary embodiments illustrate a boot configured to be used for snowboarding, however, in other embodiments the boot could be used for other activities such as hiking, skiing, or any other type of activity in which boots may be used. As shown inFIGS. 1-2, article of footwear100, also referred to simply as article100, can be used with a right foot. It is understood that the following discussion may equally apply to a mirror image of article of footwear100that can be used with a left foot. Features discussed herein may apply equally well for an article of footwear configured for use with a left foot or for a right foot. However, some features discussed herein or configurations shown may provide particular advantages an article of footwear configured for use with either a left foot or a right foot, such as a snowboard boot arranged for use as the lead boot for a user having an left or goofy foot stance.

For purposes of reference, article100may be divided into forefoot portion10, midfoot portion12and heel portion14. Forefoot portion10may be generally associated with the toes and joints connecting the metatarsals with the phalanges. Midfoot portion12may be generally associated with the arch of a foot. Likewise, heel portion14may be generally associated with the heel of a foot, including the calcaneus bone. In addition, article100may include lateral side16and medial side18. In particular, lateral side16and medial side18may be opposing sides of article100. Furthermore, both lateral side16and medial side18may extend through forefoot portion10, midfoot portion12and heel portion14.

It will be understood that forefoot portion10, midfoot portion12and heel portion14are only intended for purposes of description and are not intended to demarcate precise regions of article100. Likewise, lateral side16and medial side18are intended to represent generally two sides of an article, rather than precisely demarcating article100into two halves. In addition, forefoot portion10, midfoot portion12and heel portion14, as well as lateral side16and medial side18, can also be applied to individual components of an article, such as a sole structure and/or an upper.

For consistency and convenience, directional adjectives are employed throughout this detailed description corresponding to the illustrated embodiments. The term “longitudinal” as used throughout this detailed description and in the claims refers to a direction extending a length of an article. In some cases, the longitudinal direction may extend from a forefoot portion to a heel portion of the article. Also, the term “lateral” as used throughout this detailed description and in the claims refers to a direction extending a width of an article. In other words, the lateral direction may extend between a medial side and a lateral side of an article. Furthermore, the term “vertical” as used throughout this detailed description and in the claims refers to a direction generally perpendicular to a lateral and longitudinal direction. For example, in cases where an article is planted flat on a ground surface, the vertical direction may extend from the ground surface upward. It will be understood that each of these directional adjectives may be applied to individual components of an article, such as an upper and/or a sole.

Article100can include upper102and sole structure110. Sole structure110is secured to upper102and extends between the foot and the ground when article100is worn. In different embodiments, sole structure110may include different components. For example, sole structure110may include an outsole, a midsole, and/or an insole. In some cases, one or more of these components may be optional.

In some embodiments, sole structure110may be configured to provide traction for article100. In addition to providing traction, sole structure110may attenuate ground reaction forces when compressed between the foot and the ground during walking, running or other ambulatory activities. The configuration of sole structure110may vary significantly in different embodiments to include a variety of conventional or non-conventional structures. In some cases, the configuration of sole structure110can be configured according to one or more types of ground surfaces on which sole structure110may be used. Examples of ground surfaces include, but are not limited to: natural turf, synthetic turf, dirt, as well as other surfaces.

In embodiments where article of footwear100is a snowboard boot, sole structure110can include provisions for interacting with a snowboard. For example, in some cases, sole structure110can include features for receiving, and fastening to, bindings on a snowboard. Furthermore, sole structure110can include traction members to enhance grip between article100and a snowboard. For purposes of clarity, sole structure110is shown without any particular features for associating with a snowboard, but it will be understood that in different embodiments any such provisions known in the art can be used.

Upper102is configured to receive a foot of a wearer of article100. Generally, upper102may be any type of upper. In particular, upper102could have any design, shape, size and/or color. For example, in embodiments where article100is a basketball shoe, upper102could be a high top upper that is shaped to provide high support on an ankle. In embodiments where article100is a running shoe, upper102could be a low top upper. In an exemplary embodiment, upper102has the shape of a boot upper that completely covers a foot and provides additional coverage at an ankle.

In one embodiment, upper102may be provided with lower portion104and upper portion106. In some cases, lower portion104may be associated with, and configured to receive, the toes, arch and heel of a foot. Upper portion106may extend upwards from lower portion104. In some cases, upper portion106can be associated with an ankle of a foot. In an exemplary embodiment, upper portion106may be a cuff portion for upper102.

Upper102, including both lower portion104and upper portion106, may define a void in article100for receiving and securing the foot relative to sole structure110. In particular, the void is shaped to accommodate a foot and extends along the lateral side of the foot, along the medial side of the foot, over the foot and under the foot. In some cases, upper102may be provided with entry hole108that provides access to the void. In an exemplary embodiment, entry hole108may be provided at upper end portion112of upper portion106.

Upper102may include provisions for enhancing the durability and appearance of article100. In some embodiments, upper102may include first padded portion114. In some cases, first padded portion114may be disposed adjacent to entry hole108. In an exemplary embodiment, first padded portion114may extend around a substantial majority of the perimeter of entry hole108. This arrangement can facilitate cushioning at a top edge of upper102to enhance comfort as a foot is inserted or removed from article100.

In addition, upper102can include second padded portion116. In some embodiments, second padded portion116can be disposed adjacent to an ankle of the foot in order to provide cushioning for the ankle. In some cases, second padded portion116can be disposed on medial side18. In other cases, however, second padded portion116can be disposed on lateral side16. In still other cases, second padded portion116can be provided on both lateral side16and medial side18of upper102. With this arrangement, second padded portion116can provide additional protection for the ankle of a user.

In some embodiments, upper102includes lower gap131and upper gap132. In some cases, lower gap131may span between lower medial edge134and lower lateral edge136of lower portion104. Likewise, upper gap132may span between upper medial edge138and upper lateral edge140. In an exemplary embodiment, lacing system120can include provisions for changing the sizes of lower gap131and upper gap132in order to adjust the size of upper102and thereby tighten or loosen upper102around a foot.

In some embodiments, upper102may include tongue111that extends through lacing region122. In some cases, tongue111may be integrally formed with upper102. In other cases, however, tongue111may be a separate component from upper102and may be attached to upper102using conventional methods such as stitching or adhesives.

In some embodiments, lacing system120can include lacing member124. The term ‘lacing member’, as used throughout this detailed discussion, refers to any type of lace that may be used with an article of footwear. Generally, the size, including cross sectional shape and length, of lacing member124may be varied. Also, lacing member124may be made of any material, including, but not limited to: various types of natural and/or synthetic fibers, as well as other types of materials that may be used as laces. Furthermore it should be understood that although a single lacing member is shown in this preferred embodiment, other embodiments may incorporate more than one lace.

In some embodiments, lacing system120may include provisions for securing lacing member124to various portions of upper102. In some embodiments, lacing system120may include lace receiving members configured to receive portions of lacing member124. In other words, these lace receiving members may function in a similar manner to traditional eyelets. In different embodiments, different types of lace receiving members may be used. Examples of different lace receiving members include but are not limited to: eyelets, hooks, lace loops, as well as other types of lace receiving members.

In some embodiments, lacing system120may include lace hook set200. In particular, lace hook set200can include first lace hook201, second lace hook202and third lace hook203that are associated with upper medial edge138of upper102. In addition, lace hook set200can include fourth lace hook204, fifth lace hook205and sixth lace hook206that are associated with upper lateral edge140of upper102. In an exemplary embodiment, first lace hook201, second lace hook202, third lace hook203, fourth lace hook204, fifth lace hook205and sixth lace hook206are traditional types of lace hooks. Generally, lace hooks of lace hook set200can have any shape that is configured to receive lacing member124for the purposes of tightening upper medial edge138and upper lateral edge140. It will be understood that in other embodiments different types of lacing guides could be used in place of lace hooks.

In an exemplary embodiment, lacing system120may include lace loop set130that is associated with lower medial edge134and lower lateral edge136. In particular, lace loop set130can include first lace loop141, second lace loop142, third lace loop143and fourth lace loop144that are associated with lower medial edge134. In addition, lace loop set130can include fifth lace loop145, sixth lace loop146, seventh lace loop147and eighth lace loop148that are associated with lower lateral edge136. Using lace loop set130, lacing member124can be configured to tighten lower portion104of upper102.

In different embodiments, the geometry of one or more lace loops can vary. As illustrated inFIG. 2, each lace loop of lace loop set130may have a substantially rectangular shape. In other embodiments, however, the shape of one or more lace loops can vary. In addition, each of the lace loops in the current embodiment have lengths that vary in a generally longitudinal direction along lacing region122. In particular, first lace loop141and fifth lace loop145are generally smaller than the remaining lace loops. Likewise, fourth lace loop144and eighth lace loop148are generally larger than the remaining lace loops. Furthermore, the lengths of second lace loop142, third lace loop143, sixth lace loop146and seventh lace loop147increase from forefoot portion10towards heel portion14. It will be understood, however, that in different embodiments the length of each lace loop of lace loop set130can vary.

An article can be provided with provisions for enhancing the flexibility between an upper portion and a lower portion of an upper. For example, in cases where an upper includes an upper portion that wraps around an ankle, an article can include provisions to allow the ankle to move forwards and rearwards with respect to the foot. In an exemplary embodiment, an article can include one or more flex notches that are configured to facilitate increased flexibility for a cuff of an upper, which can facilitate leaning forwards and rearwards during snowboarding maneuvers.

Referring toFIGS. 1-2, article100includes first flex notch182and second flex notch184disposed on medial side18and lateral side16, respectively. In one embodiment, first flex notch182has an approximately triangular shape. In particular, first flex notch182includes first edge186, which is associated with upper portion106. Also, first flex notch182can include second edge187, which is associated with lower portion104. Furthermore, first edge186may extend from upper medial edge138in a rearwards direction towards heel portion14. Likewise, second edge187may extend from lower medial edge134towards heel portion14. In some cases, first edge186and second edge187may be joined at first vertex portion189. In an exemplary embodiment, first edge186and second edge187are disposed at an acute angle with respect to one another. With the arrangement, first flex notch182may be configured to facilitate movement between upper portion106and lower portion104on medial side18.

In a similar manner, second flex notch184may be configured with a shape that facilitates enhanced flexibility of lateral side16of upper102. In one embodiment, second flex notch184also has an approximately triangular shape. In particular, second flex notch184may include third edge196, which is associated with upper portion106. Also, second flex notch184can include fourth edge197, which is associated with lower portion104. Furthermore, third edge196may extend from upper lateral edge140in a rearwards direction towards heel portion14. Likewise, fourth edge197may extend from lower lateral edge136towards heel portion14. In some cases, third edge196and fourth edge197may be joined at second vertex portion199. In an exemplary embodiment, third edge196and fourth edge197are disposed at an acute angle with respect to one another. With the arrangement, second flex notch184may be configured to facilitate movement between upper portion106and lower portion104on lateral side16.

It will be understood that the location of one or more flex notches can vary in different embodiments. In other embodiments, a flex notch could be disposed closer to a toe portion of an upper in order to facilitate increased flexibility at the middle of an upper. In still other embodiments, a flex notch could be disposed closer to an entry hole of an upper to facilitate increased flexibility at a high ankle portion of an upper.

Furthermore, the geometry of one or more flex notches can vary in different embodiments. In one embodiment, the angle formed between a first edge and a second edge of a flex notch can be in the range between 10 degrees and 50 degrees. In an exemplary embodiment, the angle formed between a first edge and a second edge of a flex notch can be in the range between 20 degrees and 40 degrees. In other embodiments, the angle could be less than 10 degrees or greater than 50 degrees. In another embodiment, for example, the angle formed between a first edge and a second edge of a flex notch could be an approximately right angle. In still other embodiments, the angle formed between a first edge and a second edge could be an obtuse angle.

It will also be understood that the shape of a flex notch is not limited to an approximately triangular shape. In other embodiments, a flex notch could be configured with any other kind of shape including, but not limited to: rectangular shapes, oval-like shapes, rounded shapes, polygonal shapes, irregular shapes, as well as any other type of shape.

In addition, while the current embodiment includes two flex notches disposed on the medial and lateral sides of the upper, other embodiments could include any number of flex notches. For example, in another embodiment, a flex notch could be provided on only a medial side or lateral side of the upper. In other embodiments, either the medial or lateral side of the upper can be provided with two or more flex notches.

An article of footwear can include provisions for controlling the flexibility of a lacing region. In some cases, an article can be provided with a layer of material that extends through a portion of the lacing region. In an exemplary embodiment, the article can include an elastic layer that extends through a portion of the lacing region.

Article100can include first elastic portion160and second elastic portion162. Generally, first elastic portion160can have any shape. In some cases, first elastic portion160can be configured to extend through a portion of lacing region122. In particular, first portion164of first elastic portion160may be configured to extend from first end portion172to second end portion174along medial side18of lacing region122. In a similar manner, first portion165of second elastic portion162may extend from first end portion172to second end portion174along lateral side16of lacing region122. With this arrangement, first elastic portion160and second elastic portion162may enhance the flexibility of lacing region122in order to help upper102conform to a foot for a better fit.

In some embodiments, an elastic portion can be further associated with a flex notch in order to provide increased stability for the flex notch. In the current embodiment, first elastic portion160may include second portion166. In some cases, second portion166of first elastic portion160may be configured to extend into first flex notch182. Additionally, second elastic portion162may include second portion167. In some cases, second portion167of second elastic portion162may be configured to extend into second flex notch184. With this arrangement, the flexibility of first flex notch182and second flex notch184can be fine tuned.

In different embodiments, the size and shape of each elastic portion can vary. For example, in another embodiment, first elastic portion160and second elastic portion162can be configured as inner linings for upper102. In particular, first elastic portion160and second elastic portion162can extend further into an interior portion of upper102. In some cases, first portion164of first elastic portion160can extend below lower medial edge134of lacing region122. In addition, second portion166of first elastic portion160can extend beyond first edge186and second edge187of first flex notch182. In a similar manner, first portion165and second portion167of second elastic portion162can extend below lower lateral edge136and second flex notch184, respectively.

In different embodiments, the materials used for the various components of article100may vary. For example, sole structure110may be made from any suitable material, including, but not limited to: elastomers, siloxanes, natural rubber, other synthetic rubbers, aluminum, steel, natural leather, synthetic leather, or plastics. In some cases, the materials used for making sole structure110may be selected to accomplish stability and cushioning for a foot undergoing forces typically associated with snowboarding.

Also, upper102may be made from any suitable material. Examples of materials for upper102include, but are not limited to: nylon, natural leather, synthetic leather, natural rubber or synthetic rubber. In some cases, upper102can be made of any suitable knitted, woven or non-woven material. In an exemplary embodiment, upper102can be made of a combination of outer and inner layers. For example, in some cases, upper102can be provided with an outer layer made of synthetic leather, which can enhance the durability of upper102. The outer layer can be reinforced on an interior side of upper102by an inner layer made of, for example, a synthetic fabric that provides increased comfort to a foot.

Components associated with a lacing system can be made of any materials known in the art. For example, lace loops used in a lacing system can be made of materials including, but not limited to: leather, synthetic leather, knitted fabrics, woven fabrics, rubbers, plastics, or any other type of material. In an exemplary embodiment, lace loops used with upper102may be made of a fabric with a woven mesh, which can provide substantial flexibility to the lace loops.

The term “elastic portion” as used throughout this detailed description and in the claims is used to describe any component that is capable of substantial elastic deformation. It should be understood that the term “elastic portion” is not intended to be limited to a particular class of elastic materials. In some cases, one or more elastic portions can be made of an elastomeric material including, but not limited to: natural rubber, synthetic polyisoprene, butyl rubber, halogenated butyl rubbers, polybutadiene, styrene-butadiene rubber, nitrile rubber, hydrogenated nitrile rubbers, chloroprene rubber (such as polychloroprene, neoprene and bayprene), ethylene propylene rubber (EPM), ethylene propylene diene rubber (EPDM), epichlorohydrin rubber (ECO), polyacrylic rubber, silicone rubber, fluorosilicone rubber (FVMQ), fluoroelastomers (such as Viton, Tecnoflon, Fluorel, Aflas and Dai-EI), perfluoroelastomers (such as Tecnoflon PFR, Kalrez, Chemraz, Perlast), polyether block amides (PEBA), chlorosulfonated polyethylene (CSM), ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), various types of thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), for example Elastron, as well as any other type of material with substantial elastic properties. In other cases, an elastic portion could be made of another type of material that is capable of elastic deformation. In other words, materials used for an elastic portion are not limited to elastomeric materials. In an exemplary embodiment, each elastic portion may be made of neoprene.

FIGS. 3 through 5illustrate assembled views of lacing system120of article100. For purposes of clarity, tongue111is not illustrated. Referring toFIGS. 3 through 5, first portion164of first elastic portion160may be associated with lower medial edge134of upper102, as previously discussed. In addition, second portion166may be associated with first flex notch182. In some cases, first portion164may be stitched to lower medial edge134. In other cases, first portion164could be attached to lower medial edge134using an adhesive. In still other cases, first portion164may be attached to lower medial edge134in any other manner known in the art. In a similar manner, in some cases, peripheral edge169of second portion166can be stitched to first edge186and second edge187of first flex notch182. In other cases, peripheral edge169can be fastened to first edge186and second edge187of first flex notch182in another manner, such as through the use of an adhesive.

Second elastic portion162can be attached to upper102. In some cases, first portion165of second elastic portion162may be associated with lower lateral edge136of upper102. Likewise, second portion167may be associated with second flex notch184. In some cases, first portion165may be stitched to lower lateral edge136. In other cases, first portion165may be attached to lower lateral edge136in another manner. In a similar manner, in some cases, peripheral edge207of second portion167can be stitched to third edge196and fourth edge197of second flex notch184. In other cases, peripheral edge207can be fastened to third edge196and fourth edge197of second flex notch184in another manner.

In this embodiment, each lace loop of first lace loop141, second lace loop142and third lace loop143may be configured to attach to lower medial edge134of lacing region122. In particular, first lace loop141includes first end portion251and second end portion252. In some cases, first end portion251and second end portion252may be attached to lower medial edge134of lacing region122. In a similar manner, second lace loop142may include third end portion253and fourth end portion254that are configured to attach to lower medial edge134. Similarly, third lace loop143may include fifth end portion255and sixth end portion256that are configured to attach to lower medial edge134.

Each lace loop of fifth lace loop145, sixth lace loop146and seventh lace loop147may be configured to attach to lower lateral edge136of lacing region122. In particular, fifth lace loop145can include seventh end portion257and eighth end portion258configured to attach to lower lateral edge136. In addition, sixth lace loop146includes ninth end portion259and tenth end portion260configured to attach to lower lateral edge136. Also, seventh lace loop147includes eleventh end portion261and twelfth end portion262configured to attach to lower lateral edge136.

In contrast to the lace loops discussed above, fourth lace loop144and eighth lace loop148may include end portions that attach at separated portions of upper102. In one embodiment, fourth lace loop144includes first end portion231and second end portion232. In some cases, first end portion231may be attached to second edge187of first flex notch182. Also, second end portion232may be attached to first edge186of first flex notch182. Furthermore, fourth lace loop144may include intermediate portion233that is disposed between first end portion231and second end portion232. In some cases, intermediate portion233can be configured to extend between first edge186and second edge187of first flex notch182. This arrangement can help a wearer to adjust first flex notch182, since fourth lace loop144extends between adjacent edges of first flex notch182.

In some embodiments, eighth lace loop148can include first end portion234and second end portion235. In some cases, first end portion234may be attached to fourth edge197of second flex notch184. In addition, second end portion235may be attached to third edge196of second flex notch184. Furthermore, eighth lace loop148may include intermediate portion236that is disposed between first end portion234and second end portion235. In some cases, intermediate portion236can be configured to extend between third edge196and fourth edge197of second flex notch184. This arrangement can help a wearer adjust second flex notch184, since eighth lace loop148extends between adjacent edges of second flex notch184.

An article including lace loops can include provisions to increase comfort in a lacing region of the footwear. In some cases, lace loops can be associated with an elastic portion that extends throughout a lacing region in order to reduce localized pressure that may be applied by a lace loop when a lacing member is tightened. In an exemplary embodiment, lace loops can be configured to wrap around an elastic portion to enhance the comfort in the lacing region.

Generally, some lace loops of lace loop set130may be configured to wrap around first elastic portion160and second elastic portion162. For example, first lace loop141is configured to wrap around first elastic portion160. In particular, first end portion251of first lace loop141is disposed adjacent to first exterior portion272of first elastic portion160. In addition, second end portion252of first lace loop141is disposed adjacent to first interior portion274of first elastic portion160. Furthermore, first intermediate portion211of first lace loop141, which is disposed between first end portion251and second end portion252, is disposed adjacent to first upper edge221of first elastic portion160. In other words, first elastic portion160extends through the aperture formed within first lace loop141.

In an exemplary embodiment, second lace loop142and third lace loop143may be configured to wrap around first elastic portion160. Also, fifth lace loop145, sixth lace loop146and seventh lace loop147may be configured to wrap around second elastic portion162. In particular third end portion253and fifth end portion255of second lace loop142and third lace loop143are disposed adjacent to first exterior portion272of first elastic portion160. In addition, fourth end portion254and sixth end portion256of second lace loop142and third lace loop143are disposed adjacent to first interior portion274of first elastic portion160. Furthermore, second lace loop142and third lace loop143include second intermediate portion212and third intermediate portion213, respectively, disposed around first upper edge221of first elastic portion160.

In a similar manner, seventh end portion257, ninth end portion259and eleventh end portion261of fifth lace loop145, sixth lace loop146and seventh lace loop147are disposed adjacent to second exterior portion276of second elastic portion162. In addition, eighth end portion258, tenth end portion260and twelfth end portion262of fifth lace loop145, sixth lace loop146and seventh lace loop147are disposed adjacent to second interior portion278of second elastic portion162. Furthermore, fifth lace loop145, sixth lace loop146and seventh lace loop147include fifth intermediate portion215, sixth intermediate portion216and seventh intermediate portion217, respectively, disposed around second upper edge223of second elastic portion162.

In some embodiments, fourth lace loop144and eighth lace loop148may not be configured to wrap around first elastic portion160and second elastic portion162, respectively. Instead, fourth lace loop144may be disposed adjacent to first exterior portion272of first elastic portion160. In particular, first end portion231and second end portion232of fourth lace loop144may be both disposed adjacent to first exterior portion272of first elastic portion160. Likewise, first end portion234and second end portion235of eighth lace loop148may be both disposed adjacent to second exterior portion276of second elastic portion162.

Typically, as a wearer adjusts an article with lace loops, the lace loops may tighten against a top surface of the article. In embodiments with free-floating lace loops, which are lace loops that are not wrapped around an elastic portion, the tension of the lace loops against an upper surface of the article can cause discomfort to a wearer.

FIG. 6illustrates an alternative embodiment of an article including lace loops. Referring toFIG. 6, article300may have a substantially similar design to the embodiment discussed above. For example, article300may be a boot, such as a boot designed for snowboarding. In particular, article300can include upper302, which further includes lower portion304and upper portion306. Lower portion304may be configured to receive a foot, including the toes, arch and heel. In addition, upper portion306may be a cuff-like portion configured to receive an ankle.

Furthermore, article300can be provided with lacing system320, which is disposed in lacing region322. In the alternative embodiment, lacing system320further includes lower set of lace loops330, which includes first lace loop331, second lace loop332, third lace loop333, fourth lace loop334, fifth lace loop335and sixth lace loop336. In this case, the lace loops of lower set of lace loops330are associated with lower portion304of upper302. In particular, lacing member324of lacing system320may be inserted through each lace loop of lacing system320in order to facilitate fastening of lower portion304.

In this alternative embodiment, the end portions of each lace loop of lower set of lace loops330are attached directly to medial edge318and lateral edge316of lacing region322. In particular, the end portions of each lace loop are attached to one another and a corresponding edge of lacing region322. In contrast to the previous embodiment, however, article300does not include any elastic portions disposed through lacing region322.

In this alternative embodiment, lacing member324has been pulled to tighten fully lacing system320. As lacing member324is tightened, each lacing loop of lower set of lace loops330is pulled taught against upper surface350of upper102. In this embodiment, upper surface350is associated with an upper surface of tongue311of upper302. However, in other embodiments without a tongue, each lace loop of lower set of lace loops330may be pressed directly against an inner lining of upper302.

As each lace loop tightens around upper surface350, pressure may be applied at localized regions of upper surface350. For example, in this embodiment first lace loop331applies a downward and inward pressure at first localized region361of upper surface350. In addition, second lace loop332applies a downward and inward pressure at second localized region362of upper surface350. This arrangement can cause depressions in upper surface350at first localized region361and second localized region362of upper surface350. Furthermore, as first localized region361and second localized region362of upper surface350are compressed under the pressure applied by first lace loop331and second lace loop332, intermediate region363of upper surface350may expand outwardly from adjacent regions of upper surface350. In other words, intermediate region363may bunch due to the forces applied at first localized region361and second localized region362.

In a similar manner, upper surface350may be depressed in localized regions adjacent to third lace loop333, fourth lace loop334, fifth lace loop335and sixth lace loop336. Furthermore, regions intermediate to any two adjacent lace loops may experience bunching or bulging due to the pressure applied locally at the lace loops. This bunched arrangement for upper surface350can lead to discomfort for a wearer, as the uneven surface created at upper surface350can lead to an irregular lower surface of tongue111that is configured to contact a foot or sock of a wearer.

In contrast to the arrangement described in the alternative embodiment without elastic portions, an article with elastic portions disposed through lace loops can help reduce localized pressures that can cause an irregular upper surface for an upper. In particular, the exemplary design includes a lace loop system in which the lace loops are coupled with the elastic portions in a manner that provides substantially even pressure over an upper surface of an upper, especially adjacent to edges of the lacing region.

Referring toFIG. 7, article100includes lace loops that are configured to wrap around elastic portions, as previously discussed. In this embodiment, as lacing member124is tightened, each lace loop of lace loop set130may be pulled inwardly and downwardly against upper surface370of upper102. For example, first lace loop141is pulled taught against upper surface370. Also, second lace loop142is pulled taught against upper surface370. In addition, because first elastic portion160is disposed through first lace loop141and second lace loop142, intermediate elastic portion372is also pulled taught against upper surface370. Therefore, the forces applied by first lace loop141and second lace loop142are distributed over first region374, which is extends beneath first lace loop141, second lace loop142and intermediate elastic portion372.

In a similar manner, as other lace loops of lace loop set130are pulled tightly against upper surface370, the pressures that would normally be applied to localized regions are instead distributed over wider regions that span between adjacent lace loops. With this arrangement, pressure is evenly applied over a relatively large region of upper surface370, which results in a substantially smooth surface. In other words, this arrangement helps reduce the bunching and uneven surfaces that are created using the free-floating lace loop arrangement described in the alternative embodiment.

FIGS. 8 and 9are intended to illustrate the enhanced stability provided for a flex notch that is associated with an elastic portion. Referring toFIGS. 8 and 9, the flexibility of second flex notch184can be controlled using second elastic portion162that extends between third edge196and fourth edge197of second flex notch184. In particular, second portion167can provide an elastic tension between third edge196and fourth edge197that helps urge third edge196and fourth edge197together as a user leans forward in article100. Furthermore, as a user leans rearwards in article100, which acts to widen second flex notch184, second elastic portion162can help provide a restoring force to second flex notch184to enhance stability.

In addition, because second elastic portion162extends along lateral side16of lacing region122, second elastic portion162may be configured to provide a greater restoring force for flexing at second flex notch184. Likewise, because first elastic portion160extends along medial side18of lacing region122, first elastic portion160may be configured to provide a greater restoring force at first flex notch182.

As illustrated inFIG. 8, athlete380is standing in a generally upright position to steer snowboard382in a generally straight manner. It is understood that a binding mechanism (not shown) may bind article100to snowboard382during use, which has been omitted for clarity. The term athlete is intended to include both professional athletes and amateur athletes. In particular, the term athlete, as used throughout this detailed discussion and in the claims, refers to any user of article100. In this situation, second flex notch184may be disposed on a substantially non-flexed position. In this case, third edge196may form an angle A1with fourth edge197.

Referring toFIG. 9, the shoulders of athlete380are rotated to turn snowboard382. As athlete380twists, upper portion106extends in a rearward direction and second flex notch184expands to accommodate the flexing of upper portion106with respect to lower portion104. In particular, third edge196may form an angle A2with fourth edge197in this flexed position.

In this case, second elastic portion162may stretch to accommodate the widening of second flex notch184. In particular, second flex notch184may expand to fill the increased surface area between third edge196and fourth edge197of second flex notch184. In addition, second elastic portion162may be configured to expand in a substantially longitudinal direction between first end portion172of lacing region122and third edge196of second flex notch184. This arrangement can help increase the restoring force to second flex notch184that is provided by second elastic portion162. In particular, this arrangement may provide for increased stability over a system in which an elastic portion is confined to a flex notch.

Although only lateral side16is illustrated inFIGS. 8 and 9, it will be understood that first flex notch182, which is disposed on medial side18, may be configured to flex in a similar manner to second flex notch184. Furthermore, first elastic portion160can also be configured to accommodate flexing at first flex notch182. In particular, first elastic portion160can provide a similar restoring force for first flex notch182during maneuvers where upper portion106is titled backwards with respect to lower portion104.

The arrangement discussed here for an article of footwear with flex notches can provide increased flexibility for an athlete. As discussed above, first flex notch182and second flex notch184can accommodate bending between lower portion104and upper portion106. In addition to facilitating bending between lower portion104and upper portion106of upper102, first flex notch182and second flex notch184can also accommodate twisting between lower portion104and second lower portion106. By accommodating both bending and twisting of upper102, article100can help assist an athlete in performing various athletic maneuvers. For example, when article of footwear100is used for snowboarding, first flex notch182and second flex notch184can help the athlete in performing various types of snowboarding moves such as turning and carving. In addition, article100can be configured to help an athlete perform various types of snowboarding tricks including aerial tricks, such as ollies, as well as surface tricks, including but not limited to wheelies, butters and nose and tail rolls, grinding tricks, such as 50/50 grinds, halfpipe tricks such as alley oops, as well as any other type of snowboarding trick.

An article with one or more flex notches can include provisions for modifying the size of the one or more flex notches. In some cases, one or more straps can be associated with a flex notch. In other cases, one or more lace loops can be associated with a flex notch. In an exemplary embodiment, a flex notch of an article can include a lace loop with opposing ends that are attached to adjacent edges of the flex notch.

FIGS. 10 and 11are intended to illustrate the use of fourth lace loop144for modifying the size of first flex notch182. Although the embodiment shown here only illustrates medial side18of upper102, including first flex notch182and fourth lace loop144, it will be understood that eighth lace loop148may be used to modify the size of second flex notch184in a similar manner. In particular, because lacing member124is generally laced in a symmetric manner through lace loop set130, including both fourth lace loop144and eighth lace loop148, similar forces are applied to both fourth lace loop144and eighth lace loop148by lacing member124.

Referring toFIG. 10, lacing member124has not been tightened. In particular, lacing member124is loose and disposed away from intermediate portion233of fourth lace loop144. At this point, first flex notch182is in a non-flexed position. As illustrated, first edge186and second edge187are separated by a distance D1.

Referring now toFIG. 11, lacing member124has been tightened to adjust upper102around a foot. In particular, lacing member124is drawn tightly against intermediate portion233of fourth lace loop144. In this case, lacing member124pulls intermediate portion233towards the middle of lacing region122. As intermediate portion233is pulled, first end portion231and second end portion232of fourth lace loop144are pulled closer together, which also acts to pull first edge186and second edge187of first flex notch182closer together. As illustrated, in this tightened position, first edge186and second edge187are separated by a distance D2. In an exemplary embodiment, distance D2is substantially smaller than distance D1. With this arrangement, the size of first flex notch182, which corresponds to the distance between first edge186and second edge187, can be controlled using lacing member124. This arrangement can facilitate a more controlled fit for a wearer, since first flex notch182can be adjusted to different positions.

An article of footwear can include provisions to enhance stability for a foot. In an article configured as a boot, the upper may include additional provisions for securely wrapping around the rear of a foot. In some embodiments, the article can include a harness that is associated with a rear portion of a foot. In some cases, the harness can be disposed externally over an upper. In an exemplary embodiment, an article can include a harness that is disposed internally within an upper.

In some embodiments, harness400can have a substantially symmetric shape that includes first side portion410and second side portion412. In some cases, first side portion410may be configured to partially wrap around a medial side of a foot that is inserted into upper102. In particular, first side portion410may engage the medial side of the foot at or just below the ankle of the foot. In a similar manner, second side portion412may be configured to partially wrap around a lateral side of a foot that is inserted into upper102. In particular, second side portion412may engage the lateral side of the foot at or just below the ankle of the foot. With this arrangement, harness400can be configured to cradle a rear portion of the foot and provide enhanced stability for article100.

In one embodiment, first side portion410includes medial edge420. Likewise, second side portion412includes lateral edge422. In an exemplary embodiment, medial edge420is disposed adjacent to upper medial edge138of lacing region122. In some cases, a portion of medial edge420may extend below upper medial edge138of lacing region122. In other cases, a portion of medial edge420can substantially coincide with upper medial edge138of lacing region122. In some embodiments, lateral edge422is disposed adjacent to upper lateral edge140of lacing region122. In some cases, a portion of lateral edge422may extend below upper lateral edge140. In other cases, a portion of lateral edge422can substantially coincide with upper lateral edge140of lacing region122. With this arrangement, medial edge420and lateral edge422of harness400may be associated with lacing region122. In some embodiments, medial edge420and lateral edge422can be configured to receive laces, as discussed in further detail below.

It will be understood that in other embodiments, medial edge420and lateral edge422could be associated with different parts of lacing region122. For example, in another embodiment, medial edge420and lateral edge422could be disposed adjacent to lower medial edge134and lower lateral edge136, respectively, of lacing region122. In still other embodiments, medial edge420and lateral edge422may not be associated with any portions of lacing region122.

In some embodiments, first side portion410may include first lower extended portion424. In some cases, first lower extended portion424may extend downwards towards lower surface421of upper102. In a similar manner, second side portion412may include second lower extended portion426. In some cases, second lower extended portion426may also extend downwards towards lower surface421. With this arrangement, first lower extended portion424and second lower extended portion426can enhance stability of a foot at a base of the heel.

In some embodiments, harness400can include heel opening430to provide clearance for a heel in the rear of upper102. In particular, heel opening430may be provided between first lower extended portion424and second lower extended portion426. With this arrangement, heel opening430allows the heel of a foot to be disposed directly against an inner lining, or interior surface, of upper102.

In this exemplary embodiment, heel opening430has an approximately semi-circular shape. However, in other embodiments, heel opening430can have any other shape including, but not limited to: squares, circles, rectangles, regular polygons, irregular polygons, irregular shapes or any other type of shape. In particular, a different shape for heel opening430can be provided by modifying the shapes, and/or sizes, of first lower extended portion424and second lower extended portion426.

In different embodiments, harness400may be attached to an interior surface of upper102in various ways. In some cases, a substantial majority of harness400can be attached to the interior surface of upper102. In other cases, only a portion of harness400can be attached to the interior surface of upper102. In an exemplary embodiment, a central portion of harness400can be attached to the interior surface of upper102.

Harness400can include central portion440. In particular, central portion440may be disposed between first side portion410and second side portion412. In this exemplary embodiment, central portion440includes attachment region442. Attachment region442may be a region of upper102that is attached directly to an interior surface of upper102. In one embodiment, attachment region442is attached to an interior surface of upper102at rear wall402of upper102. With this arrangement, harness400is prevented from shifting substantially during use.

In different embodiments, harness400can be attached to upper102in various ways. In some cases, harness400can be attached to upper102using an adhesive of some kind. In other cases, harness400can be attached to upper102using a fastening system, such as a hook and loop fastener system. In an exemplary embodiment, harness400can be stitched directed to upper102.

FIGS. 15 through 19illustrate embodiments of harness400isolated from upper102. Referring toFIGS. 15 through 19, harness400may comprise multiple layers. In one embodiment, harness400can comprise base layer450, threading layer452and peripheral layer454. Generally, base layer450can be any substrate to which threads460of threading layer452are attached. In some cases, base layer450can be a single piece of material. In other cases, base layer450can be formed from multiple pieces of material. Furthermore, in some cases base layer450can comprise a single material layer. In other cases, base layer450can comprise multiple material layers.

Articles with threads configured to provide structural support have been previously disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2007/0271822, to Meschter, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference. In addition, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2007/0271823, also to Meschter, is hereby incorporated by reference. These two references will be referred to as the thread structural elements cases throughout the remainder of this detailed description.

In an exemplary embodiment, base layer450defines the overall shape of harness400. In particular, central portion440, first side portion410and second side portion412of harness400may be associated with base layer450. In addition, base layer450may be further associated with first lower extended portion424and second lower extended portion426of harness400.

Base layer450can also include medial edge420associated with first side portion410. In some embodiments, medial edge420can be provided with first medial portion472, second medial portion474and third medial portion476. Furthermore, first medial portion472may be separated from second medial portion474via first medial notch477. Likewise, second medial portion474may be separated from third medial portion476by second medial notch478.

In different embodiments, the shape of one or more medial notches of medial edge420can vary. In some cases, first medial notch477and second medial notch478can have substantially similar shapes. In other cases, first medial notch477and second medial notch478can have substantially different shapes. In an exemplary embodiment, first medial notch477and second medial notch478can have a substantially similar shape.

Furthermore, first medial notch477and second medial notch478can have any shape including, but not limited to: rounded shapes, rectangular shapes, circular shapes, ovular shapes, polygonal shapes, irregular shapes, as well as any other type of shape. In an exemplary embodiment, first medial notch477and second medial notch478can both have substantially triangular shapes.

Base layer450can also include lateral edge422associated with second side portion412. In some embodiments, lateral edge422can be provided with first lateral portion482, second lateral portion484and third lateral portion486. Furthermore, first lateral portion482may be separated from second lateral portion484via first lateral notch487. Likewise, second lateral portion484may be separated from third lateral portion486by second lateral notch488.

In different embodiments, the shape of one or more lateral notches of lateral edge422can vary. In some cases, first lateral notch487and second lateral notch488can have substantially similar shapes. In other cases, first lateral notch487and second lateral notch488can have substantially different shapes. In an exemplary embodiment, first lateral notch487and second lateral notch488can both have substantially similar shapes.

Furthermore, first lateral notch487and second lateral notch488can have any shape including, but not limited to: rounded shapes, rectangular shapes, circular shapes, ovular shapes, polygonal shapes, irregular shapes, as well as any other type of shape. In an exemplary embodiment, first lateral notch487and second lateral notch488can both have substantially triangular shapes.

Although the current embodiment includes medial and lateral edges shaped to include two notches, in other embodiments a medial and/or lateral edge could include a different number of notches. For example, in another embodiment, a medial edge and a lateral edge could each include a single notch. In still another embodiment, a medial edge and a lateral edge could each include three or more notches. In still another embodiment, a medial and/or lateral edge could be provided without notches.

Threading layer452may comprise threads460. Generally, threads460may be associated with base layer450in any manner. In some cases, portions of threads460can extend through base layer450. In areas where threads460extend through base layer450, threads460may be directly joined or otherwise secured to base layer450. In other cases, portions of threads460can lie adjacent to base layer450. In areas where threads460lie adjacent to base layer450, threads460may be unsecured to base layer450or may be joined using a connecting layer or other securing element that bonds, secures, or otherwise joins portions of threads460to base player450.

In order to form structural elements in harness400, multiple threads460or sections of an individual thread460may be collected into one of various thread groups. In an exemplary embodiment, threads460can include first thread group461, second thread group462, third thread group463and fourth thread group464. In particular, first thread group461includes threads460that extend between first lateral portion482and first medial portion472of base layer450. Second thread group462includes threads460that extend between second lateral portion484and second medial portion474of base layer450. In some cases, some threads460of second thread group462also extend between second lateral portion484and lower edge490of harness400. In addition, some threads460of second thread group462can also extend between second medial portion474and lower edge490. Third thread group includes threads460that extend between third lateral portion486and lower edge490of base layer450. In a similar manner, fourth thread group includes threads460that extend between third medial portion476and lower edge490of base layer450.

Referring toFIG. 18, each thread group includes threads that extend radially outward from medial and lateral portions of base layer450. For example, first thread group461includes first end portion491associated with first lateral portion482and second end portion492associated with first medial portion472. In addition, first thread group461includes intermediate portion493that is associated with central portion489of base layer450. In this exemplary embodiment, threads460are tightly packed together at first end portion491. Moving from first end portion491to intermediate portion493, threads460may expand radially outward. In other words, adjacent threads460may be spaced further apart at intermediate portion493than at first end portion491. In a similar manner, threads460are tightly packed together at second end portion492. Moving from second end portion492to intermediate portion493, threads460may expands radially outwards. In other words, adjacent threads460may be spaced further apart at intermediate portion493than at second end portion492.

Second thread group462can include first end portion501associated with second lateral portion484and second end portion502associated with second medial portion474. In addition, second thread group462includes intermediate portion503that is associated with central portion489of base layer450. In this exemplary embodiment, threads460are packed together at first end portion501and second end portion502. Moving towards intermediate portion503from either first end portion501or second end portion502, threads460may expand radially outwards.

Third thread group463can include first end portion511associated with third lateral portion486. Third thread group463can also include second end portion512associated with lower edge490of base layer450. In this exemplary embodiment, threads460are packed tightly at first end portion511and expand radially outward towards second end portion512. In a similar manner, fourth thread group464can include first end portion521associated with third medial portion476. Fourth thread group464can also include second end portion522associated with lower edge490of base layer450. In this exemplary embodiment, threads460are packed tightly at first end portion521and expand radially outwards towards second end portion522.

In different embodiments, threads of a thread group can be arranged in various ways. For example, in some cases, each thread of a thread group can be extended in a substantially straight manner from a first end portion to a second end portion of the thread group. In other cases, however, a thread may have various portions that are angled with respect to one another. In still other cases, a thread may be arranged in a curved shape.

In an exemplary embodiment, first thread group461can include first thread segment497that extends in a generally straight manner from first end portion491to intermediate portion493. Likewise, first thread group461can include second thread segment498that extends in a generally straight manner from second end portion492to intermediate portion493. In this embodiment, first thread segment497may be angled with respect to second thread segment498at intermediate portion493. In some cases, this angled arrangement between first thread segment497and second thread segment498can be achieved by stitching down intermediate portion493of first thread group491. In a similar manner, each of the threads460associated with second thread group462, third thread group463and fourth thread group464can be arranged in a substantially straight manner or as a plurality of thread segments that are angled with respect to one another.

The process of applying threads460to base layer450can be achieved using any method known in the art. In particular, the order of application of different threads from various thread groups can vary from one embodiment to another. Examples of a process for applying threads to an upper for an article of footwear are discussed in the thread structural elements cases. It will be understood that similar methods could be used for applying threads to a base layer for a harness.

In different embodiments, each thread of threads460may be secured to base layer450in various ways. In one embodiment, threads460of first thread group461, for example, can be secured to base layer450at first end portion491and second end portion492using a lock stitch. In addition, intermediate portion493of first thread group461may be attached to base layer450using a connecting layer that bonds, secures, or otherwise joins portions of threads460to base layer450. In other embodiments, however, threads460of first thread group461could be embedded in base layer450, especially in embodiments where base layer450comprises a polymer layer. Threads460of second thread group462, third thread group463and fourth thread group464can also be applied to base layer450in any manner discussed above.

During use of article of footwear100, forces induced in article100may tend to stretch harness400in various directions, and the forces may be concentrated at various locations. Each of threads460are located to form structural elements in harness400. More particularly, first thread group461, second thread group462, third thread group463and fourth thread group464are collections of multiple threads460or sections of an individual thread460that form structural elements to resist stretching in various directions or reinforce locations where forces are concentrated. First thread group461and second thread group462generally extend from medial edge420and lateral edge422of harness400to central portion440of harness400to resist stretch in a longitudinal direction. In addition, third thread group463and fourth thread group464generally extend from medial edge420and lateral edge422to lower edge490to resist stretch in a substantially vertical direction.

A harness can include provisions for associating with a lacing system of an article of footwear. In some embodiments, the harness can include a layer associated with one or more lace receiving members. In an exemplary embodiment, the harness can include a layer that provides lace receiving members and also helps to reinforce one or more thread groups of a threading layer.

Harness400can include peripheral layer454. In different embodiments, peripheral layer454can have any shape. In some cases, peripheral layer454can have a shape that confronts a substantial entirety of base layer450. In other cases, peripheral layer454can have a shape that confronts only a portion of base layer450. In an exemplary embodiment, peripheral layer454can have a shape configured to confront outer peripheral portion499of base layer450. In other words, peripheral layer454may be configured as a peripheral lining that is only disposed on an outer edge of harness400.

Peripheral layer454can include first portion532and second portion534. First portion532may include first tab portion541, second tab portion542and third tab portion543. In addition, second portion534can include fourth tab portion544, fifth tab portion545and sixth tab portion546. In some embodiments, first tab portion541may be connected to second tab portion542via first segment551. Also, second tab portion542may be connected to third tab portion543via second segment552. In addition, fourth tab portion544may be connected to fifth tab portion545via third segment553. Also, fifth tab portion545may be connected to sixth tab portion546via fourth segment554. In some cases, first tab portion541and fourth tab portion544can be attached via fifth segment555. Finally, peripheral layer454can also include sixth segment556and seventh segment557that extend away from third tab portion543and sixth tab portion546, respectively.

In some embodiments, one or more tab portions of peripheral layer454may have shapes that correspond to the shape of outer peripheral portion499. In some cases, first tab portion541, second tab portion542and third tab portion543may be configured to confront first medial portion472, second medial portion474and third medial portion476of base layer450. Likewise, in some cases, fourth tab portion544, fifth tab portion545and sixth tab portion546may be configured to confront first lateral portion482, second lateral portion484and third lateral portion486of base layer450.

In some embodiments, one or more segments of peripheral layer454may correspond to outer peripheral portion499. In some cases, first segment551and second segment552may be shaped in a manner that corresponds to first medial notch477and second medial notch478, respectively. In particular, first segment551and second segment552may be substantially v-shaped segments that correspond to the edges of first medial notch477and second medial notch478. In some cases, third segment553and fourth segment554may be shaped in a manner that corresponds to first lateral notch487and second lateral notch488, respectively. In particular, third segment553and fourth segment554may be substantially v-shaped segments that corresponds to the edges of first lateral notch487and second lateral notch488. Furthermore, fifth segment555can be associated with upper edge559of base layer450. Also, sixth segment556and seventh segment557can be associated with portions of lower edge490of base layer450.

In some embodiments, peripheral layer454can include provisions for attaching to a lacing member. In some cases, peripheral layer454can include one or more lacing guides disposed on one or more tab portions. In other cases, peripheral layer454can include apertures or holes that are disposed on one or more tab portions to receive a lacing member. In an exemplary embodiment, peripheral layer454can include one or more lacing loops that are disposed on one or more tab portions, which are configured to receive a lacing member for the purposes of tightening harness400.

In one embodiment, peripheral layer454can include first lace loop561, second lace loop562, third lace loop563, fourth lace loop564, fifth lace loop565and sixth lace loop566. In some cases, each lace loop may be disposed on a corresponding tab portion of peripheral layer454. In this exemplary embodiment, first lace loop561can be disposed on first tab portion541of peripheral layer454. In a similar manner, second lace loop562, third lace loop563, fourth lace loop564, fifth lace loop565and sixth lace loop566can be disposed on second tab portion542, third tab portion543, fourth tab portion544, fifth tab portion545and sixth tab portion546, respectively.

Generally, lace loops can be attached to tab portions of peripheral layer454in any manner. In some cases, first lace loop561can comprise an extended portion of first tab portion541. Referring toFIG. 18, first end portion571of first lace loop561may be integrally formed with first tab portion541. In addition, second end portion572of first lace loop561may be fixedly attached to first tab portion541using any manner known in the art including, but not limited to: adhesives, fusing, stitching, or other methods. In other cases, first lace loop561could be made separately from first tab portion541and both first end portion571and second end portion572could be fixedly attached to first tab portion541using any of the methods discussed above. In a similar manner, each of the remaining lace loops, including second lace loop562, third lace loop563, fourth lace loop564, fifth lace loop565and sixth lace loop566could be associated with second tab portion542, third tab portion543, fourth tab portion544, fifth tab portion545and sixth tab portion546in any manner.

In different embodiments, the materials used for each of the layers of harness400may vary. Base layer450may be formed from any generally two-dimensional material. The term “two-dimensional material” as used through this detailed description and in the claims refers to any generally flat material exhibiting a length and width that are substantially greater than a thickness of the material. Examples of different materials that could be used for base layer450include, but are not limited to: various textiles, polymer sheets, or combinations of textiles and polymer sheets. Textiles are generally manufactured from fibers, filaments, or yarns that are, for example, either (a) produce direction from webs of fibers by bonding, fusing or interlocking to construct non-woven fabrics and felts or (b) formed through a mechanical manipulation of yarn to produce a woven fabric. The textiles may incorporate fibers that are arranged to impart one-directional stretch or multi-directional stretch, and the textiles may include coatings that form a breathable and water resistant barrier. The polymer sheets may be extruded, rolled, or otherwise formed from a polymer material to exhibit a generally flat aspect. Two-dimensional materials may also encompass laminated or otherwise layered materials that include two or more layers of textiles, polymer sheets, or combinations of textiles and polymer sheets. In addition to textiles and polymer sheets, other two-dimensional materials may be utilized for base layer450. Although two-dimensional materials may have smooth or generally untextured surfaces, some two-dimensional materials will exhibit textures or other surface characteristics, such as dimpling, protrusions, ribs, or various patterns, for example. Despite the presence of surface characteristics, two-dimensional materials remain generally flat and exhibit a length and a width that are substantially greater than a thickness.

In embodiments where base layer450comprises a textile material, base layer450can be any type of textile material. Examples of different textile materials include, but are not limited to: plant based textiles (such as cotton), mineral textiles (such as glass fiber), synthetic textiles (such as polyester, aramid, acrylic, nylon, spandex, olefin fiber, ingeo and lurex), as well as other textiles. It will also be understood that base layer450can comprise a combination of various textile materials. As previously mentioned, base layer450may also include a combination of textile and polymer materials.

Threads460may be formed from any generally one-dimensional material. As utilized with respect to the present invention, the term “one-dimensional material” or variants thereof is intended to encompass generally elongated materials exhibiting a length that is substantially greater than a width and a thickness. Accordingly, suitable materials for threads460include various filaments and yarns, for example. Filaments may be formed from a plurality of synthetic materials such as rayon, nylon, polyester, and polyacrylic, with silk being the primary, naturally-occurring exception. In addition, various engineering fibers, such as aramid fibers, para-aramid fibers, and carbon fibers, may be utilized. Yarns may be formed from at least one filament or a plurality of fibers. Whereas filaments have an indefinite length, fibers have a relatively short length and generally go through spinning or twisting processes to produce a yarn of suitable length. With regarding to yarns formed from filaments, these yarns may be formed from a single filament or a plurality of individual filaments grouped together. Yarns may also include separate filaments formed from different materials, or yarns may include filaments that are each formed from two or more different materials. Similar concepts also apply to yarns formed from fibers. Accordingly, filaments and yarns may have a variety of configurations exhibiting a length that is substantially greater than a width and a thickness. In addition to filaments and yarns, other one-dimensional materials may be utilized for threads. Although one-dimensional materials will often have a cross-section where width and thickness are substantially equal (e.g., a round or square cross-section), some one-dimensional materials may have a width that is greater than a thickness (e.g., a rectangular cross-section). Despite the greater width, a material may be considered one-dimensional if a length of the material is substantially greater than a width and a thickness of the material.

Peripheral layer454may also be formed from any substantially two-dimensional layer. Furthermore, the materials used for peripheral layer454can be any type of material including textile materials, polymer materials, or any combination of textile and polymer materials. In some cases, materials for peripheral layer454can be selected to provide substantial bonding between base layer450and peripheral layer454. In addition, materials can be selected that include high tensile strength, since segments of peripheral layer454may be narrow and exposed to various strains along the edges of harness400.

A harness can include provisions for increasing the flexibility of edges of a harness that are configured with one or more lace loops. In embodiments including a threading layer, the threads may be packed closely together at end portions adjacent to one or more lace loops. In particular, the threads may form thread groups that are spaced apart adjacent to the lace loops. In an exemplary embodiment, the base layer of a harness may include notches that correspond to the spacing between threads adjacent to one or more lace loops.

In the exemplary embodiment, threads460of first thread group461, second thread group462, third thread group463and fourth thread group464are packed tightly at end portions disposed adjacent to lateral edge422and medial edge420of base layer450. In particular, first thread group461has an approximately pointed shape adjacent to first medial portion472and first lateral portion482. Likewise, second thread group462has an approximately pointed shape adjacent to second medial portion474and second lateral portion484. Also, third thread group463and fourth thread group464have approximately pointed shapes adjacent to third lateral portion486and fourth medial portion476, respectively.

In an exemplary embodiment, first end portion491of first thread group461may be spaced apart from first end portion501of second thread group462by first thread gap601. In addition, second end portion492of first thread group461may be spaced apart from second end portion502of second thread group462by second thread gap602. In a similar manner, first end portion501of second thread group462may be spaced apart from first end portion511of third thread group463by third thread gap603. Also, second end portion502of second thread group462may be spaced apart from first end portion521of fourth thread group464by fourth thread gap604.

Generally, first thread gap601, second thread gap602, third thread gap603and fourth thread gap604may be associated with any shape. Examples of different shapes include, but are not limited to: circular shapes, ovular shapes, rectangular shapes, triangular shapes, polygonal shapes, irregular shapes as well as any other types of shapes. In an exemplary embodiment, first thread gap601, second thread gap602, third thread gap603and fourth thread gap604may have approximately triangular or wedge-like shapes. For example, first thread gap601can have a wedge like shape defined by first thread edge611of first thread group461and second thread edge612of second thread group462. In a similar manner, each of the remaining thread gaps may have substantially similar wedge-like shapes to first thread gap601.

In some cases, one or more layers adjacent to threading layer452can include gaps or notches that correspond to the thread gaps of threading layer452. In one embodiment, first lateral notch487of base layer450can correspond to first thread gap601of threads460. In particular, first lateral notch487extends into first thread gap601. In a similar manner, second lateral notch488of base layer450can correspond to second thread gap602of threads460. In particular, second lateral notch488extends into second thread gap602. In a similar manner, first medial notch477of base layer450can correspond to third thread gap603of threads460. In particular, first medial notch477extends into third thread gap603. In a similar manner, second medial notch478of base layer450can correspond to fourth thread gap604of threads460. In particular, second medial notch478extends into fourth thread gap604.

With this arrangement, a substantial majority of the surface area of base layer450is reinforced with threads460in order to enhance the overall strength of harness400. In particular, by removing areas of base layer450that are not disposed adjacent to, or disposed beneath, threads460, this arrangement reduces or substantially eliminates regions of base layer450that may be weaker.

As previously discussed, peripheral layer454may have a shape that corresponds to the notches of base layer450. In particular, peripheral layer454may include first segment551, second segment552, third segment553and fourth segment554that are shaped to correspond to the edges of first medial notch477, second medial notch478, first lateral notch487and second lateral notch488, respectively. With this arrangement, first segment551may also correspond to the shape of third thread gap603. In other words, first segment551may be disposed between first thread group461and second thread group462. Likewise, second segment552may correspond to the shape of fourth thread gap604. In other words, second segment552may be disposed between second thread group462and fourth thread group464. Additionally, third segment553may correspond to the shape of first thread gap601. In other words, third segment553may be disposed between first thread group461and second thread group462. Finally, fourth segment554may correspond to the shape of second thread gap602. In other words, fourth segment554may be disposed between second thread group462and third thread group463. This arrangement for peripheral layer454can help reinforce regions where threads460are not provided on base layer450.

In addition to enhancing the strength of a majority of the surface area of harness400, these provisions can also help to reduce the costs of producing harnesses, since less material is required. Furthermore, this configuration can help reduce the weight of harness400, by decreasing the overall surface area of harness400. Such reductions in weight can be useful since boot-like articles are typically heavier than traditional low-top articles, which can inhibit comfort and mobility for a user. By reducing the weight of any components of the article, such as the harness, the experience of the user in activities such as snowboarding can be enhanced.

In some previous designs, threads have attached to portions of a base layer. However, these designs have lacked provisions for reinforcing the end portions of the threads with a layer that opposes the base layer. In contrast to such designs, the current design includes provisions for reinforcing the attachment of the threads to a harness by applying a peripheral layer over the first end portions of the threads.

In some embodiments, first tab portion541may be disposed over second end portion492of first thread group461. In particular, first tab portion541may be configured to confront first medial portion472of base layer450such that second end portion492of first thread group461is disposed between first tab portion541and first medial portion472. With this arrangement, first tab portion541can help to reinforce second end portion492of first thread group461, which can help prevent detachment of threads460associated with second end portion492.

In a similar manner, second tab portion542, third tab portion543, fourth tab portion544, fifth tab portion545and sixth tab portion546may be configured to reinforce second medial portion474, third medial portion476, first lateral portion482, second lateral portion484and third lateral portion486of base layer450. Therefore, the end portions of threads460may be surrounded by protective layers to help prevent detachment of threads460from base layer450.

A conventional harness for an upper may be formed from multiple material layers that each impart different properties to various areas of the harness. During use, the harness may experience significant tensile forces, and one or more layers of material are positioned in areas of the harness to resist the tensile forces. That is, individual layers may be incorporated into specific portions of the harness to resist tensile forces that arise during use of the footwear. As an example, a woven textile may be incorporated into a harness to impart stretch resistance in the longitudinal direction. A woven textile is formed from yarns that interweave at right angles to each other. If the woven textile is incorporated into the upper for purposes of longitudinal stretch-resistance, then only the yarns oriented in the longitudinal direction will contribute to longitudinal stretch-resistance, and the yarns oriented orthogonal to the longitudinal direction will not generally contribute to longitudinal stretch-resistance. Approximately one-half of the yarns in the woven textile are, therefore, superfluous to longitudinal stretch-resistance. As a further example, the degree of stretch-resistance required in different areas of the harness may vary. Whereas some areas of the harness may require a relatively high degree of stretch-resistance, other areas of the harness may require a relatively low degree of stretch-resistance. Because the woven textile may be utilized in areas requiring both high and low degrees of stretch-resistance, some of the yarns in the woven textile are superfluous in areas requiring the low degree of stretch-resistance. In each of these examples, the superfluous yarns add to the overall mass of the footwear, without adding beneficial properties to the footwear. Similar concepts apply to other materials, such as leather and polymer sheets, that are utilized for one or more of wear-resistance, flexibility, air-permeability, cushioning, and moisture-wicking, for example.

Based upon the above discussion, materials utilized in the conventional harness formed from multiple layers of material may have superfluous portions that do not significantly contribute to the desired properties of the harness. With regard to stretch-resistance, for example, a layer may have material that imparts (a) a greater number of directions of stretch-resistance or (b) a greater degree of stretch-resistance than is necessary or desired. The superfluous portions of these materials may, therefore, add to the overall mass of the footwear without contributing beneficial properties.

In contrast with the conventional layered construction, harness400is constructed to minimize the presence of superfluous material. Base layer450provides a large surface area to wrap around a foot, but exhibits a relatively low mass. In addition, some of the thread groups of first thread group461, second thread group462, third thread group463and fourth thread group464are located to provide stretch resistance in predetermined directions and the number of threads460are selected to impart the desired amount of stretch resistance. In addition, some of the thread groups of first thread group461, second thread group462, third thread group463and fourth thread group464are located to reinforce specific areas of harness400. With this arrangement, the orientations, locations and quantity of threads460are selected to provide structural elements for harness400that are tailored for a specific purpose.

Threads460may be utilized to modify properties of article100other than stretch resistance. For example, threads460may be utilized to provide additional wear-resistance in specific areas of harness400. For example, threads460may be utilized for wear resistance. If utilized for wear resistance, threads460may be selected from materials that also exhibit relatively high wear-resistance properties. Threads460may also be utilized to modify the flex characteristics of harness400. That is, areas with relatively high concentrations of threads460may flex to a lesser degree than areas with relatively low concentrations of threads460. Similarly, areas with relatively high concentrations of threads460may be less air-permeable than areas with relatively low concentrations of threads460.

FIGS. 20 and 21illustrate exemplary embodiments of harness400being used within article100. In particular,FIG. 20illustrates an exemplary lacing arrangement for harness400within article100andFIG. 21illustrates an exemplary embodiment of harness400in a tightened position within article100.

Referring toFIGS. 20 and 21, lacing member124may be disposed through a plurality of lace loops of article100. For purposes of clarity, lacing member124is divided into first portion630and second portion632which correspond to two evenly divided halves of lacing member124. In particular, first portion630and second portion632are integrally joined at central lace portion634that is inserted through toe lacing guide636disposed at first end portion172of lacing region122.

In this embodiment, first portion630extends from toe lacing guide636to first lace loop141, then to sixth lace loop146, back to third lace loop143and then to eighth lace loop148. In an alternating manner, second portion632extends from toe lacing guide636to fifth lace loop145, then to second lace loop142, back to seventh lace loop147and then to fourth lace loop144. At this point, first end portion630and second end portion632extend to the lacing loops of harness400. In particular, first end portion630extends from eighth lace loop148of lace loop set130to third lace loop563of harness400. Also, second end portion632extends from fourth lace loop144of lace loop set130to sixth lace loop566of harness400. First end portion630then extends from third lace loop563through fifth lace loop565and then through first lace loop561of harness400. In an alternating manner, second end portion632extends from sixth lace loop566through second lace loop562and then through fourth lace loop564of harness400. At this point, first end portion630and second end portion632can be laced through first lace hook201, second lace hook202, third lace hook203, fourth lace hook204, fifth lace hook205and sixth lace hook206in an alternating manner in order to fully fasten article100.

With this arrangement, as lacing member124is tightened, lower medial edge134can be pulled together with lower lateral edge136. In addition, upper medial edge138can be pulled together with upper lateral edge140. Furthermore, medial edge420of harness400can be pulled together with lateral edge422of harness400. This arrangement allows upper102to be tightened around a foot.

In this exemplary embodiment, harness400provides increased stability for foot640. In particular, first side portion410and second side portion412are configured to wrap around medial and lateral sides of foot640. Also, central portion440of harness400is configured to wrap around a rear side of foot640above the heel. This arrangement helps to reduce slippage of foot640within upper102.

An article of footwear can include provisions to enhance the strength of portions of an upper. In an exemplary embodiment, an article can be provided with a threading layer that is disposed on an exterior surface of the upper. As previously discussed, by applying a threading layer to a material of an article, that material can be strengthened in various directions to enhance durability and prevent unwanted stretching or twisting of the material.

In one embodiment, upper102of article100can be provided with threads700that are disposed externally on upper102. In particular, a portion of upper102may be formed of a base layer702and threading layer704that is disposed on base layer702.

In this exemplary embodiment, threading layer704includes threads700that are arranged into a plurality of thread groups. In particular, threading layer704includes first thread group711, second thread group712, third thread group713and fourth thread group714that are disposed on medial side18of base layer702. In addition, threading layer704includes fifth thread group715, sixth thread group716, seventh thread group717and eighth thread group718that are disposed on lateral side16of base layer702. Each thread group can include a first end portion that is disposed adjacent to lacing region122and a second end portion disposed adjacent to sole structure110. For example, first thread group711includes first end portion721disposed adjacent to lacing region122and second end portion722that is disposed adjacent to sole structure110. In a similar manner, second thread group712, third thread group713, fourth thread group714, fifth thread group715, sixth thread group716, seventh thread group717and eighth thread group718also include a first end portion disposed adjacent to lacing region122and a second end portion disposed adjacent to sole structure110.

In some cases, each thread group may have a shape that extends radially outwards from lacing region122. For example, threads700of first thread group711are packed closely together at first end portion721. As threads700extend from first end portion721to second end portion722of first thread group711, threads700are spaced further apart in a radially outward direction. In a similar manner, second thread group712, third thread group713, fourth thread group714, fifth thread group715, sixth thread group716, seventh thread group717and eighth thread group718all extend radially outwards from lacing region122to sole structure110. With threads400oriented in a generally vertical direction along base portion702of upper102, threads700can provide increased strength in this generally vertical direction. This arrangement may help in stabilizing a snowboarding boot that undergoes vertical forces from the snowboard below the sole and from bindings above the upper.

In a similar manner to the threading layer provided for harness400, threading layer704can provide structural elements for upper102. In particular, base layer702of upper102provides a covering for a foot, but exhibits a relatively low mass. In addition, some of the thread groups of first thread group711, second thread group712, third thread group713, fourth thread group714, fifth thread group715, sixth thread group716, seventh thread group717and eighth thread group718are located to provide stretch resistance in predetermined directions and the number of threads700are selected to impart the desired amount of stretch resistance. In addition, some of the thread groups of first thread group711, second thread group712, third thread group713, fourth thread group714, fifth thread group715, sixth thread group716, seventh thread group717and eighth thread group718are located to reinforce specific areas of upper102. With this arrangement, the orientations, locations and quantity of threads700are selected to provide structural elements for upper102that are tailored for a specific purpose.

As previously discussed for a harness, materials utilized in the conventional upper formed from multiple layers of material may have superfluous portions that do not significantly contribute to the desired properties of the upper. With regard to stretch-resistance, for example, a layer may have material that imparts (a) a greater number of directions of stretch-resistance or (b) a greater degree of stretch-resistance than is necessary or desired. The superfluous portions of these materials may, therefore, add to the overall mass of the footwear without contributing beneficial properties.

In contrast with the conventional layered construction, upper is102is constructed to minimize the presence of superfluous material. Base layer702provides a large surface area to wrap around a foot, but exhibits a relatively low mass. In addition, some of the thread groups of first thread group711, second thread group712, third thread group713, fourth thread group714, fifth thread group715and sixth thread group716are located to provide stretch resistance in predetermined directions and the number of threads700are selected to impart the desired amount of stretch resistance. In addition, some of the thread groups of first thread group711, second thread group712, third thread group713, fourth thread group714, fifth thread group715and sixth thread group716are located to reinforce specific areas of upper102. With this arrangement, the orientations, locations and quantity of threads700are selected to provide structural elements for upper102that are tailored for a specific purpose.

Threads700may be utilized to modify properties of article100other than stretch resistance. For example, threads700may be utilized to provide additional wear-resistance in specific areas of upper102. For example, threads700may be utilized for wear resistance. If utilized for wear resistance, threads700may be selected from materials that also exhibit relatively high wear-resistance properties. Threads700may also be utilized to modify the flex characteristics of upper102. That is, areas with relatively high concentrations of threads700may flex to a lesser degree than areas with relatively low concentrations of threads700. Similarly, areas with relatively high concentrations of threads700may be less air-permeable than areas with relatively low concentrations of threads700.

As previously discussed, threads embroidered onto a base layer can be provided with a connecting layer to help bond intermediate portions of the threads to the base layer. In this exemplary embodiment, article100can be provided with connecting layer740. In some cases, connecting layer740may be a substantially clear polymer layer. For example, in one embodiment connecting layer740may be a substantially clear layer of thermoplastic urethane (TPU). Using a clear TPU layer can help maintain the integrity of threading layer704without interfering with the design and aesthetic appearance of upper102.

Generally, connecting layer740may have a shape and size to cover over the entirety of threading layer704. In the exemplary embodiment, connecting layer740includes first side portion742and second side portion744. In particular, first side portion742may be configured to extend over the entirety of first thread group711, second thread group712, third thread group713and fourth thread group714. In some cases, first thread group711, second thread group712, third thread group713and fourth thread group714may be associated with first threading perimeter789that defines an outer boundary for first thread group711, second thread group712, third thread group713and fourth thread group714. In one embodiment, first side portion742may extend within first threading perimeter789. Furthermore, second side portion744may be configured to extend over the entirety of fifth thread group715, sixth thread group716, seventh thread group717and eighth thread group718. In some cases, fifth thread group715, sixth thread group716, seventh thread group717and eighth thread group718may be associated with second threading perimeter799that defines an outer boundary for fifth thread group715, sixth thread group716, seventh thread group717and eighth thread group718. In one embodiment, second side portion744may extend within second threading perimeter799. With this arrangement, threading layer704may be substantially connected to base layer702, which comprises upper102, of article100.

An article for use in snowboarding, or similar types of activities, can include provisions for protecting different regions of an upper from contact with a snowboard or other objects. In some embodiments, an article can include one or more protective layers disposed on different regions of an upper to help protect the outer surface of the upper. In embodiments using a connecting layer to facilitate connection of a threading layer to a base layer of the upper, the connecting layer can be extended over a greater surface area so that the connecting layer can provide increased protection over different regions of the upper.

In this exemplary embodiment, connecting layer740can include forward portion746. In some cases, forward portion746may be disposed forwards for first side portion742and second side portion744in a substantially longitudinal direction. In some embodiments, forward portion746may extend away, or outside of, first threading perimeter789and second threading perimeter799. The term “threading perimeter” as used throughout this detailed description and in the claims refers to a boundary formed around threads700, such that each thread group is disposed within the threading perimeter and such that no portion of the threading perimeter is disposed between any two threads.

In some cases, forward portion746may extend forwards of threads700in a substantially longitudinal direction. In particular, forward portion746may extend forward of first thread group711in a substantially longitudinal direction. Likewise, forward portion746may extend forward of fifth thread group715in a substantially longitudinal direction.

Generally, forward portion756may be configured to cover any portion of upper102. In one embodiment, forward portion746may be configured to cover a portion of forefoot portion10of upper102. In an exemplary embodiment, forward portion746may be configured to cover toe portion750of upper102.

FIG. 24illustrates an embodiment of article100during use. Referring toFIG. 24, athlete780is sitting on ski lift790. In this embodiment, athlete780is a snowboarder who has brought snowboard760onto ski lift790. Athlete780is also wearing a pair of snowboarding boots, including article100.

In some cases, athlete780may rest a portion of snowboard760on article100to help support snowboard760during the trip on ski lift790. In particular, athlete780may rest snowboard edge762on article100. Typically, the most readily available surface for placing snowboard edge762is toe portion750of upper102.

In previous designs, toe portion750of upper102may comprise a traditional upper material such as synthetic leather. In such designs, as snowboard edge762is placed against toe portion750, snowboard edge762could potentially scratch, rip, scuff, or otherwise damage toe portion750, especially after athlete780has taken multiple trips on ski lift790.

In contrast to these previous designs, article100may be provided with connecting layer740that extends over, and covers, toe portion750. In particular, the exemplary embodiment includes a substantially clear layer of thermoplastic urethane (TPU) that provides a protective layer for toe portion750. With this arrangement, snowboard edge762may scratch, scuff or otherwise damage connecting layer740without damaging base layer702of upper102. Furthermore, since connecting layer740is substantially transparent, the appearance of toe portion750is not substantially changed as connecting layer740is deformed.

In different embodiments, the overall shape of connecting layer740can vary. In addition, in different embodiments connecting layer740can extend to different portions of upper102. Furthermore, in other embodiments, multiple connecting layers can be used, rather than one single connecting layer.

FIGS. 25 through 28illustrate additional embodiments for an article with one or more connecting layers disposed on an upper. Referring toFIGS. 25 through 28, article100can be provided with threading layer704, as discussed in the previous embodiment. In particular, threading layer704can include a plurality of thread groups, including first thread group711, second thread group712, third thread group713, fourth thread group714, fifth thread group715, sixth thread group716, seventh thread group717and eighth thread group718. For purposes of illustration, fifth thread group715, sixth thread group716, seventh thread group717and eighth thread group718are not shown inFIGS. 25 through 28, but are visible inFIG. 23.

In one embodiment, article100can be provided with connecting layer782. In some embodiments, connecting layer782may be a substantially transparent polymer layer. In an exemplary embodiment, connecting layer782may be a TPU layer. Connecting layer782may be provided with first side784and second side786. In addition, connecting layer782can include forward portion788that is associated with toe portion750of upper102.

In some cases, connecting layer782can have a shape that conforms to the shape of first thread group711, second thread group712, third thread group713, fourth thread group714, fifth thread group715, sixth thread group716, seventh thread group717and eighth thread group718. In particular, first side784of connecting layer782can include interior medial edge785that includes first gap791, second gap792and third gap793corresponding to first thread gap801, second thread gap802and third thread gap803. Likewise, second side786of connecting layer782can include interior lateral edge787that includes fourth gap794, fifth gap795and sixth gap796corresponding to thread gaps associated with fifth thread group715, sixth thread group716, seventh thread group717and eighth thread group718. With this arrangement, first side784and second side786of connecting layer782can be extended only over those portions of upper102associated with threads700of threading layer704.

In some cases, a connecting layer can be divided into multiple separate portions to facilitate manufacturing. For example, referring toFIGS. 26 and 27, first connecting layer812can include first portion814and second portion816. First portion814is configured to cover first thread group711, second thread group712, third thread group713and fourth thread group714. In addition, first portion814includes first forward portion815that extends to medial side18of toe portion750. Likewise, second portion816is configured to cover fifth thread group715, sixth thread group716, seventh thread group717and eighth thread group718. In addition, second portion816includes second forward portion817that extends to lateral side16of toe portion750. With this arrangement, first portion814and second portion816can be applied separately to medial side18and lateral side16, respectively, of upper102during the manufacturing of article100.

In another embodiment, second connecting layer820includes first portion822and second portion824. In some cases, first portion822is associated with medial side18and toe portion750of upper102. In particular, first portion822extends to cover first thread group711, second thread group712, third thread group713and fourth thread group714to help connect threads700to base layer702. In addition, first portion822extends into toe portion750to help provide additional protection for toe portion750. In contrast, second portion824extends only through lateral side16of upper102. In particular, second portion824is disposed over fifth thread group715, sixth thread group716, seventh thread group717and eighth thread group718. This arrangement can also help facilitate assembly of article100by providing separated portions of a connecting layer to thread groups disposed on opposing medial and lateral sides of upper102.

In still another embodiment, a connecting layer may be configured to extend to different regions of an upper. As seen inFIG. 28, connecting layer830is configured to extend from threading layer704to heel portion14. In particular, connecting layer830includes first side portion840and second side portion842. First side portion840is associated with medial side18and extends over first thread group711, second thread group712, third thread group713and fourth thread group714. Likewise, second portion842is associated with lateral side16and extends over fifth thread group715, sixth thread group716, seventh thread group717and eighth thread group718(seeFIG. 27). In addition, connecting layer830includes rearward portion846that is associated with heel portion14of article100. In particular, rearward portion846may cover portions of upper102corresponding to the heel of a foot. In some embodiments, rearward portion846may further extend to cover portions of upper102corresponding to the ankle of the foot.

In still other embodiments, other arrangements for a connecting layer are possible. For example, in one embodiment, a connecting layer may be restricted to covering threads of a threading layer. In another embodiment, a connecting layer may also extend from thread groups on sides of an upper down to a lower peripheral edge of the upper that is associated with a sole structure.

An article can include provisions for supporting a portion of a foot. In some cases, an article can include a heel counter. In other cases, an article can include an ankle counter. In an exemplary embodiment, an article can include a heel counter that extends through the heel and ankle portions of an upper.

FIGS. 29 and 30illustrate exemplary embodiments of an article of footwear including an extended heel counter. In particular,FIG. 29illustrates a rear isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of an article with an extended heel counter andFIG. 30illustrates an exploded rear isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of an article with an extended heel counter. Referring toFIGS. 29 and 30, upper102includes extended heel counter900. In an exemplary embodiment, extended heel counter900may be associated with heel portion14of article100. In particular, extended heel counter900may extend through heel portion14as well as ankle portion15of article100.

Traditionally, a heel counter may be disposed internally to an article. In addition, a heel counter may be integrally formed with a sole. In contrast to the traditional design, however, extended heel counter900may be attached to upper102. Furthermore, extended heel counter900may be disposed externally on article100. With this arrangement, extended heel counter900can provide increased protection for a heel and/or ankle of article100.

In some embodiments, extended heel counter900may include base portion930and upper portion932. In some cases, base portion930may be disposed adjacent to a heel, while upper portion932may be disposed adjacent to an ankle of the foot. In particular, base portion930may include first side portion920and second side portion922, which extend in a generally longitudinal direction. In some cases, first side portion920may be associated with medial side18of upper102. In particular first side portion920may extend from heel portion14towards midfoot portion12of upper102on medial side18. In addition, second side portion922may be associated with lateral side16of upper102. In particular, second side portion922may extend from heel portion14towards midfoot portion12of upper102on lateral side16. With this arrangement, extended heel counter900can also provide protection for the sides of an ankle during use.

In some embodiments, upper portion932may extend away from base portion930. In some cases, upper portion932may extend in a substantially vertical direction from base portion930. In particular, upper portion932includes end portion934that is disposed on upper portion106of upper102.

In different embodiments, the height of extended heel counter900can vary. In one embodiment, end portion934may be disposed at height H1above a bottom surface940of sole structure110. In some cases, height H1may have a value in the range between 100 and 400 millimeters. In other cases, height H1may have a value in the range between 200 and 300 millimeters. In an exemplary embodiment, height H1may have a value of approximately 283 millimeters.

An extended heel counter can include provisions to enhance flexibility. In one embodiment, extended heel counter900can be provided with one or more flex notches. In an exemplary embodiment, extended heel counter900includes first flex notch950. In some cases, first flex notch950may be disposed on medial side18of extended heel counter900. In particular, first flex notch950may be disposed between base portion930and upper portion932of extended heel counter900on medial side18. In a similar manner, extended heel counter900can include a second flex notch (not shown). In some cases, the second flex notch may be disposed on lateral side16of extended heel counter900. In particular, the second flex notch may be disposed between base portion930and upper portion932of extended heel counter900on lateral side16.

In different embodiments, the materials comprising extended heel counter900can vary. For example, in some cases extended heel counter900can be made from similar materials to sole structure110, including but not limited to: elastomers, siloxanes, natural rubber, other synthetic rubbers, aluminum, steel, natural leather, synthetic leather, or plastics. In other cases, heel counter900can be made from similar materials to upper102including, but not limited to: nylon, natural leather, synthetic leather, natural rubber or synthetic rubber. In other cases, any suitable knitted, woven or non-woven material can be used to make extended heel counter900. In an exemplary embodiment, the materials chosen for extended heel counter900may be selected to achieve increased rigidity over other regions of article100, especially other regions of upper102.

FIGS. 31 through 34illustrate further exemplary arrangements of article100having alternative harness configurations. Referring initially toFIGS. 31 and 32, exemplary harness1400is shown that generally includes the features and preferences of harness400except as described herein. Harness1400may comprise base layer1450, threading layer1452, peripheral layer1454and lacing member connections1489to1499. Peripheral layer1454can have a shape that confronts a substantial entirety of base layer1450and that corresponds to the notches and tabs of base layer450discussed previously along withFIGS. 16 to 18. Further, peripheral layer1454can be formed from the same material, or from a substantially similar material, as the material used for base layer1450, which can enhance the cushioning of harness1400and enable it to distribute forces between it and the foot in a generally uniform manner. This can reduce the likelihood of discomfort to the foot related to prolonged use of article100or while harness1400securely engages the foot. In other embodiments, base layer1450and peripheral layer1454can be formed from different types of materials to provide specialized characteristics as desired, such as greater cushioning for peripheral layer1454disposed against the foot or greater strength for base layer1450attached to the interior of upper102. Further, additional layers can be used beyond the base and peripheral layers described in these example arrangements to provide further beneficial characteristics.

In general, peripheral layer1454and base layer1450, as well as threading layer1452disposed proximate base layer1450and opposed by peripheral layer1452, can cooperate to form a resilient harness for effectively transmitting forces between the foot and article100. Harness1400can include a pair of relatively thin opposing layers1450and1454that can surround a broad network of structural threads1460, which can enhance the transmission of forces in various directions. As shown, outlines of threads1460may be visible via raised tunnel portions of layers1450and1454formed via the layers conforming to the outlines of the threads.

As shown inFIG. 32, peripheral layer1454may include first segment1551, second segment1552, third segment1553and fourth segment1554that are shaped to correspond to the edges of base layer first medial notch1471, second medial notch1478, first lateral notch1487and second lateral notch1488formed in base layer1450. With this arrangement, first segment1551may also correspond to the shape of third thread gap1603formed in threading layer1452. In other words, first segment1551may be disposed between first thread group1461and second thread group1462. Likewise, second segment1552may correspond to the shape of fourth thread gap1604. In other words, second segment1552may be disposed between second thread group1462and fourth thread group1464. Additionally, third segment1553may correspond to the shape of first thread gap1601. In other words, third segment1553may be disposed between first thread group1461and second thread group1462. Finally, fourth segment1554may correspond to the shape of second thread gap1602. In other words, fourth segment1554may be disposed between second thread group1462and third thread group1463.

This arrangement of peripheral layer1454and base layer1450can provide a resilient harness having a generally uniform thickness for affording even pressure and cushioning against the foot during use along with high strength and flexibility characteristics, such as described previously along with harness400. Likewise, such an arrangement can provide a durable configuration of structural threads for effectively transmitting forces between the foot and article100via the harness. As noted above, in some previous designs, threads have been attached to portions of a base layer without reinforcing the threads via use of an opposing layer, which can affect the durability and useful life of such designs due to delamination of the threads. In contrast, the current arrangement includes provisions for reinforcing the attachment of the threads to the harness by applying a peripheral layer over the threads to secure them in place with the base layer. Peripheral layer1454can do so along the substantial entirety of the base layer and the network of threads disposed there on. Such a reinforced arrangement can enhance the strength and durability of the thread connections, as well as improve the overall resiliency of the harness. In addition, as discussed below, such an arrangement can provide for robust lacing member connections via threads providing structural reinforcement for the lacing loops.

Harness1400can be constructed to minimize the presence of superfluous material while still providing a thin, high-strength, flexible harness that can impart generally uniform pressure and cushioning against the foot during use. Base layer1450and peripheral layer1454can provide a large surface area for wrapping around the foot while being relatively thin to exhibit a low overall mass. In addition, some of the thread groups of first thread group1461, second thread group1462, third thread group1463and fourth thread group1464can be arranged to provide stretch resistance in predetermined directions to allow the harness have a low mass while maintaining needed strength in those directions. Moreover, the number of threads1460can be selected to impart a desired amount of stretch resistance to the harness. In addition, some of the thread groups of first thread group1461, second thread group1462, third thread group1463and fourth thread group1464can be located to reinforce specific areas of harness1400. As such, the orientations, locations and quantities of threads1460can be selected to provide structural elements for harness1400that are tailored for specific purposes.

The exemplary arrangement of harness1400can include reinforced lacing member connections1489to1499(FIG. 31), which can be formed via looped tab extensions extending from the base and peripheral layers that retain rigid lace receiving members, such as lace-receiving hoops1411(FIG. 32). Tab extensions1451to1461extending from the stacked base and peripheral layers along with thread extensions1465to1475extending from the ends of the thread groups can be folded over or looped lengthwise through lace-receiving hoops to provide structurally reinforced lace-receiving members. The corresponding tab extensions of the base and peripheral layers along with respective thread extensions can form stacks of robust support materials for securely connecting the lace-receiving members to the harness. Such a configuration can create robust, yet resilient, lacing member connections1489to1499shown inFIG. 31. The stacks of supports can each be folded over or looped back to attach to one or more of the fabric layers via stitching1487or another attachment mechanism, such as an adhesive bond. However, a stitched connection can engage all layers of the stack including the end portions of threads1460and, thus, provide high strength lace receiving member connections.

In the exemplary arrangement shown inFIG. 32, first tab extensions1451in the base and peripheral layers and first thread extension1465can form a stack of support materials that is looped through first lace-receiving hoop1413. This stack of support materials can be stitched to one or more of the harness layers to create a reinforced first lace connection tab1425. Similarly, second tab extensions1453and second thread extensions1467can loop through second lace-receiving hoop1415and be stitched to create a reinforced second lace connection tab1427, and third tab extensions1455and third thread extensions1469can loop through third lace-receiving hoop1417and be stitched to create a reinforced third lace connection tab1429. Likewise, fourth tab extensions1457and fourth thread extensions1471can loop through fourth lace-receiving hoop1419and be stitched to create a reinforced fourth lace connection tab1431; fifth tab extensions1459and fifth thread extensions1473can loop through fifth lace-receiving hoop1421and be stitched to create a reinforced fifth lace connection tab1433; and sixth tab extensions1461and sixth thread extensions1475can loop through sixth lace-receiving hoop1423and be stitched to create a reinforced sixth lace connection tab1435.

Lace-receiving hoops1411retained by the lace connection tabs can provide a robust configuration for securing the harness to the foot. The lace-receiving hoops1411can be formed from a relatively rigid material, such as a metal or polymeric material, or combinations of materials, such as a rigid base material and a less rigid cover material. A rigid material can distribute tensile forces to most or all of the corresponding thread group and permit harness1400to be more effectively secured than may be provided by other types of lacing member connections. In embodiments where lace-receiving hoops1411comprise a metal material, various types of metals or metal alloys could be used, such as, for example, materials including stainless steel, iron or aluminum. In embodiments where lace-receiving hoops1411comprise a polymeric material, the lace-receiving hoops could be formed from a wide variety of polymers. Examples of different types of polymers could include synthetic polymers, or plastics, such as thermoplastics, thermosets and elastomers. Some examples of thermoplastics include, but are not limited to: acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), acrylic (PMMA), celluloid, cellulose acetate, ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), fluoroplastics (PTFE), ionomers, Kydex, liquid crystal polymer (LCP), polyacetal (POM or Acetal), polyacrylates (Acrylic), polyacrylonitrile (PAN or Acrylonitrile), polyamide (PA or Nylon), polyamide-imide (PAI), polyaryletherketone (PAEK or Ketone), polybutadiene (PBD), polybutylene (PB), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polycaprolactone (PCL), polychlorotrifluoroethylene (PCTFE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polycyclohexylene dimethylene terephthalate (PCT), polycarbonate (PC), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), polyketone (PK), polyester, polyethylene (PE), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyetherimide (PEI), polyethersulfone (PES), polyethylenechlorinates (PEC), polyimide (PI), polylactic acid (PLA), polymethylpentene (PMP), polyphenylene oxide (PPO), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyphthalamide (PPA), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), polysulfone (PSU), polytrimethylene terephthalate (PTT), polyurethane (PU), polyvinyl acetate (PVA), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC), styrene-acrylonitrile (SAN) as well as other types of thermoplastic. In embodiments where lace-receiving hoops1411comprise combinations of materials, the lace-receiving hoops could be formed from a wide variety of base materials, such as from a rigid metal or metal alloy covered by a less rigid polymeric material, or from a rigid base material such as iron having a covering such as a galvanic coating, powder coating or paint.

Harness1400can provide high-strength lacing member connections via its thread-reinforced looped-tab configuration, as well as a resilient and comfortable cradle that can wrap around the foot and distribute forces encountered during use generally evenly against the foot. The use of lace-receiving hoops1411can permit the user to tighten the harness under greater tension than can typically be applied comfortably to a harness configuration having other types of lacing member connections, such as flexible lace loops or apertures formed through fabric. The lace-receiving hoops can also allow the user to tighten the harness much more quickly than can typically be accomplished via a configuration having other types of lacing member connections including lace hooks. In the exemplary configuration shown inFIGS. 31 and 32, lace-receiving hoops have a circular configuration, which can allow the lacing member to retain the harness quickly and securely with a variety of lace-receiving hoop orientations that can conform to particular user characteristics such as the shape and size of the user's ankle. However, lace-receiving hoops1411can form other shapes, such as shapes having particular directional characteristics like oval, rectangular or triangular hoops that can have rounded corners to avoid pinching the lacing member or forming stress concentrations in the lacing member.

The lace-receiving hoop configurations shown in the exemplary arrangement can permit the user to bind harness1400about the foot at the heel and ankle locations quickly and securely, which can be significant portions of the foot often used when maneuvering a snowboard or other object attached to article100. The exemplary arrangement can permit lace-receiving hoops1411to have significant orientation flexibility within the looped tab connections attaching them to the harness such that they can rotate several degrees in the medial and lateral directions as needed. This can permit lace-receiving hoops1411to conform to the particular configuration and size of the user's foot and to engage it tightly in a comfortable manner.

Harness1400shown inFIGS. 31 and 32includes an arrangement of threads similar to the arrangements shown inFIGS. 13-21along with having the generally uniform peripheral layer1454noted above. Such an arrangement can provide structural reinforcement to the harness in many different directions while comfortable distributing forces along the harness. The versatile and multi-directional structural reinforcement provided by the threads can be desirable for certain uses and types of footwear articles, such as footwear for sports requiring a wide variety of differing maneuvers or footwear for use by skilled athletes of particular sports. However, it is understood that a variety of thread arrangements can be used as desired, which can be varied according to factors such as the intended use of article100including the type of sport, skill of the user, special needs of the user, cost considerations for article100, and design considerations such as configuration options for the base and peripheral layers. For the exemplary arrangement shown inFIGS. 31 and 32, a substantial majority of the surface area of base layer1450can be reinforced via threads1460in order to enhance greatly the overall strength of harness1400to do so in many directions. As discussed along withFIG. 34, thread configurations can be selected for specific types and uses of article100or to provide other advantages, such as a low mass harness.

Referring now toFIG. 33, harness1400is shown in a dual lacing member arrangement that includes an outer lacing member1325and an inner lacing member1327. Inner lacing member1327can secure harness1400about the foot separately from outer lacing member1325. This can ensure a highly secure connection between the foot and harness1400that is less affected by usage variations or deficiencies in the tension of outer lacing member1325. Further, the dual lacing member arrangement can allow article100to be loosely secured about the foot by outer lacing member1325as desired by the user for a more comfortable fit, while still providing a firm connection between the harness and foot via more securely retained inner lacing member1327. This can allow the user to maintain significant control of the snowboard or other object during use in a comfortable and secure manner, which can often be largely provided by movements of the heel and ankle portions of the foot engaged by the harness.

As shown inFIG. 33, a quick release tab1329can also be provided to allow the user to pull inner lacing member1327to assist with quickly releasing harness tension about the foot, which may be provided without the user needing to modify significantly the tension of the outer lacing member. This can be beneficial for releasing pressure on the foot when unnecessary, such as between snowboard runs or when the snowboard or other object has been disconnected from article100. It is understood that quick release fittings (not shown), such as spring-loaded ratchet fittings or other quick release lacing mechanisms, could also be used along with quick release tab1329instead of the manual tie1305illustrated inFIG. 33.

Referring now toFIG. 34, an alternative harness2400is shown having fewer threads2460, and threads disposed in fewer orientations, than those for harness1400illustrated inFIGS. 31-33. Although they are fewer in number and orientation, threads2460can be selectively arranged to provide secure retention in desired directions for the most often encountered uses of article100. Other than the quantity and orientations of threads or corresponding mass reductions in the base and peripheral layers, harness2400is generally the same as harness1400.

As shown in the exemplary arrangement, threads2460can be oriented to provide high tensile strength in directions of primary need for a given use or sport while otherwise keeping small the mass of harness2400. For instance, upper thread group2461and middle thread group2462can wrap around the back of the foot proximate the Achilles tendon, which can provide tensile force for retaining the rear wall402of upper102against the back of the foot just above the heel during many common maneuvers. This can allow movement of the foot to be quickly transmitted to the snowboard when the user executes a common toe turn, which can include rocking forward or curling the toes while raising the heel. This can be accomplished via tensile forces being transmitted through thread groups2461and2462to article100and then to the snowboard. Of course, reverse movements of the snowboard due to contact with slopes can likewise be transmitted via threads groups2461and2462to the foot, which the user would likely counteract in a similar manner via tension along thread groups2461and2462.

Similarly, the medial or lateral sides of thread groups2461and2462can transmit corresponding tensile forces when the user twists the foot in the lateral or medial directions to execute other manuevers. In a like manner, the diagonal orientation of thread groups2463and2464extending along the harness from the heel of article100can efficiently transmit tensile forces to the snowboard or other device when the user leans forward or backward during maneuvers or when the user rocks the foot laterally about the longitudinal axis of the foot. Thus, although the thread groups can be relatively small in quantity and the numbers of orientations, they can be arranged to transmit the forces most often encountered during the primary control movements of the foot in an efficient and robust manner.

Further, harness2400can be reinforced in other directions via varying thread quantities, orientations and configurations according to the primary movements anticipated for article100, or as desired by a user, to transmit effectively the encountered tensile forces while minimizing the presence of superfluous material. As such, a relatively thin base layer2450and peripheral layer2454can be used with a small number of appropriately oriented threads2460to provide a robust harness2400having a low mass that distributes forces well to the foot.