Composite plate for an article of footwear or equipment

A method for forming a plate includes attaching a first strand portion to a flexible substrate to form a first layer on the substrate and positioning a second strand portion on the first layer to form a second layer on the first layer in a plurality of discrete regions on the substrate. The method also includes positioning a plurality of traction elements into corresponding cavities formed into a first mold surface and positioning the substrate on the first mold surface to change a shape of the substrate. At least one of heat and pressure is applied to the first strand portion, the second strand portion, the substrate, and the traction elements to conform the substrate to the shape of the first mold surface and form the traction elements into the substrate at each of the discrete regions. The method also includes incorporating the substrate into an article of footwear.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to composite plates and more particularly to a composite plate for use with equipment or an article of footwear.

BACKGROUND

Footwear and other athletic equipment is generally designed with an emphasis on optimizing performance without increasing the overall weight of the footwear or equipment beyond a threshold amount. For example, increasing a specific stiffness and durability of a footwear plate generally results in an increase in weight due to the additional materials required to provide the increased stiffness. Conversely, reducing the weight of the footwear generally requires reducing the materials used to form the footwear plate, thereby sacrificing the strength of the plate. In order to meet the need to increase strength and durability of footwear plates, while at the same time reducing the weight thereof, the foregoing drawbacks can be overcome using composite materials exhibiting high strength-to-weight ratios to form the footwear plate.

Generally, composite footwear plates are formed from unidirectional tapes or plates only capable of offering stiffness and load path properties that are unidirectional. While a unidirectional stiffness and load path may be suitable in one region of footwear, the same unidirectional stiffness and load path may not be suitable in other regions of the footwear. Moreover, composite footwear plates are typically formed from a substantially rigid, flat preform with a uniform thickness that is difficult to shape into a three-dimensional (e.g., non-flat) shape having a variable thickness. Accordingly, composite footwear plates are generally limited to flat surface profiles with a uniform thickness that do not conform to the surface profiles of the bottom surface of a foot. In view of the foregoing drawbacks of unidirectional tapes or plates used in the formation of composite footwear plates, such composite plates are usually only incorporated into one portion of the footwear, (e.g., one of the heel region and the forefoot region). As such, conventional footwear plates do not afford maximum support in both the heel region and the mid-foot region of the footwear and, further, cannot be tailored for the particular region of the footwear.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

One aspect of the disclosure provides a method of forming an article of footwear that includes attaching a first strand portion to a flexible substrate to form a first layer on the substrate and positioning a second strand portion on the first layer to form a second layer on the first layer in a plurality of discrete regions on the substrate. The method also includes positioning a plurality of traction elements into corresponding cavities formed into a first mold surface and positioning the substrate on the first mold surface to change a shape of the substrate. The method also includes applying at least one of heat and pressure to the first strand portion, the second strand portion, the substrate, and the traction elements to conform the substrate to the shape of the first mold surface and form the traction elements into the substrate at each of the discrete regions. The method also includes incorporating the substrate into an article of footwear.

In some implementations, positioning the substrate on the first mold surface includes aligning the cavities formed into the first mold surface with the discrete regions of the substrate. Attaching the first strand portion to the flexible substrate may include attaching the first strand portion to the flexible substrate via first stitching that crosses over the first strand portion and penetrates the substrate at first attachment locations that are spaced apart from the first strand portion. Additionally or alternatively, positioning the second portion on the first layer may include attaching the first strand portion to the flexible substrate via second stitching that crosses over the second strand portion, extends through the first strand portion, and penetrates the substrate at second attachment locations disposed in the discrete regions of the substrate.

In some examples, the method also includes forming the second strand portion from a plurality of different strands of fibers each corresponding to one of the discrete regions. The method may include forming at least one of the first strand portion and the second strand portion of the same, continuous strand. The first strand portion may be formed from a first tow of fibers and/or the second strand portion may be formed from a second tow of fibers. The first and second tow of fibers each include at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymeric fibers.

In some configurations, the method also includes providing the first strand portion with looped portions disposed proximate to a peripheral edge of the substrate and connecting adjacent first segments. In these configurations, the method also includes removing at least one of the looped portions that extends outside the peripheral edge of the substrate to define an outer edge of the plate. Additionally or alternatively, the method may also include providing the first layer and the second layer with segments having different densities. In some implementations, attaching the first strand portion includes applying first segments of the first strand portion to the substrate in a first shape and positioning the second strand portion includes applying second segments of the second strand portion to the first layer in a second shape different than the first shape.

In some examples, applying at least one of heat and pressure includes at least one of activating a polymeric resin incorporated into the first strand portion and the second strand portion and infusing the first strand portion, the second strand portion, and the substrate with a liquid material. In these examples, the liquid material is a thermoset material. The applying at least one of heat and pressure may include subjecting the first strand portion, the second strand portion, the substrate, and the plurality of traction elements to at least one of vacuum molding and compression molding. The method may also include forming the substrate from a thermoplastic film. In some configurations, incorporating the substrate into the article of footwear includes attaching the substrate to an upper of the article of footwear.

Referring toFIGS. 1-12, in some implementations, an article of footwear10includes an upper100and a footwear plate200attached to the upper100.FIGS. 1 and 2provide front (FIG. 1) and side (FIG. 2) perspective views of the footwear10divided into one or more portions. The portions may include a forefoot portion12, a mid-foot portion14and a heel portion16. The forefoot, mid-foot, and heel portions12,14,16may alternatively be referred to as forefoot, mid-foot, and heel regions12,14,16, respectively. The forefoot portion12may correspond with toes and joints connecting metatarsal bones with phalanx bones of a foot. The mid-foot portion14may correspond with an arch area of the foot, and the heel portion16may correspond with rear portions of the foot, including a calcaneus bone. The footwear10may include lateral and medial sides18,20, respectively, corresponding with opposite sides of the footwear10and extending through the portions12,14,16.

The upper100includes interior surfaces that define an interior void102configured to receive and secure a foot for support on the sole structure200. Ankle opening104in the heel portion16may provide access to the interior void102. For example, the ankle opening104may receive a foot to secure the foot within the void102and facilitate entry and removal of the foot from and to the interior void102. In some examples, one or more fasteners106extend along the upper100to adjust a fit of the interior void102around the foot while concurrently accommodating entry and removal of the foot therefrom. The upper100may include apertures such as eyelets and/or other engagement features such as fabric or mesh loops that receive the fasteners106. The fasteners106may include laces, straps, cords, hook-and-loop, or any other suitable type of fastener.

The upper100may include a tongue portion110that extends between the interior void102and the fasteners106. The upper100may be formed from one or more materials that are stitched or adhesively bonded together to form the interior void102. Suitable materials of the upper may include, but are not limited, textiles, foam, leather, and synthetic leather. The materials may be selected and located to impart properties of durability, air-permeability, wear-resistance, flexibility, and comfort.

Referring toFIG. 3, an exploded view of the article of footwear10ofFIG. 2shows a footbed surface222disposed between the plate200and the upper100for receiving a bottom surface (e.g., plantar) of the foot within the interior void102. The footbed surface222may be integrally formed with the upper100in some configurations, or the footbed surface222may correspond to a separately formed layer that attaches to the upper100in other configurations. In some examples, the footbed surface222is contoured to conform to a profile of the plantar of the foot. Additionally or alternatively, an insole or sockliner may be disposed upon the footbed surface222under the foot within at least a portion of the interior void102of the upper100to enhance comfort of the footwear10. The footbed surface222may correspond to a conventional strobel attached to the upper100or integrally formed with the upper100.

The footwear plate200defines a longitudinal axis L that extends through the forefoot portion12, the mid-foot portion14, and the heel portion16. The plate200attaches to the upper100and may impart features that a conventional outsole provides.FIGS. 4 and 5provide top (FIG. 4) and bottom (FIG. 5) perspective views of the embroidered plate200showing the plate200having a ground-engaging surface212and an opposite inner surface214that opposes the footbed surface222. In some examples, an outsole material, such as rubber, is attached to the ground-engaging surface212to provide traction with the ground surface. The inner surface214may be contoured to the shape of the footbed surface222(e.g., strobel) to conform to the profile of the bottom surface (e.g., plantar) of the foot within the interior void102. In some examples, a sidewall220extends around a perimeter of the plate200between the ground-engaging surface212and the inner surface214. The sidewall220and the inner surface214of the plate200may cooperate to retain and support the foot upon the plate200when the interior void102receives the foot therein. For instance, the sidewall220may define a rim around the perimeter of the contoured inner surface214to cradle the foot during use of the footwear10when performing walking, running, and/or lateral movements. In some implementations, portions of the sidewall220extend around the upper100and attach to exterior surfaces of the upper100at one or more locations to secure the plate200to the upper100. Adhesives may be used to secure the plate200to the upper100.

In some examples, one or more protruding elements215(e.g., cleats/traction elements) extend from the ground-engaging surface212in a direction away from the plate200and the upper100to provide traction with soft ground surfaces, such as grass. For instance, a cleat shaft217associated with each protruding element215may attach to the ground-engaging surface212of the plate200and extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L of the plate200. In another configuration, an article of footwear10hofFIGS. 50-57includes protruding elements215hthat are integrally formed, e.g., via molding, with a footwear plate200hat multiple locations (i.e., discrete regions) along an outer surface212hof the footwear plate200h.

In some implementations, the footwear plate200is substantially rigid and formed from one or more composite materials. By contrast to conventional composite plates formed from unidirectional tapes that only afford directional stiffness properties, the footwear plate200is formed from one or more strand portions300arranged in selected patterns to impart anisotropic stiffness and gradient load paths throughout the plate200. Each strand portion300may refer to a tow of a plurality of fibers350, a monofilament, yarn, or polymer pre-impregnated tows that include ribbon or strips of unidirectional tape. The present disclosure will refer to each strand portion300as a corresponding tow300of fibers350unless indicated otherwise. As used herein, the term “tow” refers to a bundle (i.e., plurality) of filaments (e.g., fibers350) that may be twisted or untwisted and each tow may be designated a size associated with a number of fibers350the corresponding tow300contains. For instance, the at least one tow300forming the footwear plate200may range in size from about 1,000 fibers per bundle to about 48,000 fibers per bundle.

In some configurations, the fibers350associated with the at least one tow300include at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymeric fibers. The polymeric fibers can be formed of a thermoplastic material or a thermoset material. The polymeric fibers can compositionally comprise a polyurethane, a polyamide, a polyester, a polyether, a polyurethane co-polymer, a polyamide co-polymer, a polyester co-polymer, a polyether co-polymer, and any combination thereof. The polyurethane can be a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). The polymeric fibers can compositionally comprise polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The polymeric fibers can compositionally comprise an aramid. The polymeric fibers can compositionally comprise poly (p-phenylene-2,6-benzobisoxazole) (PBO).

Additionally, at least a portion of the fibers350associated the at least one tow300may be formed from a first thermoplastic material. Fibers such as carbon fibers, aramid fibers, and boron fibers may provide a high modulus while glass fibers (e.g., fiberglass) and polymer fibers (e.g., synthetic fibers) provide a medium modulus.

In some examples, the density of fiber per unit area varies within a single tow300of fibers350. Additionally or alternatively, the type of fibers350forming a corresponding tow300may vary across the plate200between the forefoot region12and the heel region16and between the lateral side18and the medial side20. In doing so, the plate200can be designed to have a stiffness gradient based on anatomical features of the foot. For instance, a stiffness of the plate200may increase along the length of the plate200from the forefoot portion12to the heel portion14. In some examples, the patterns for each tow300of fibers350provides a stiffness gradient between the lateral side18and the medial side20of the plate200through at least one of the portions12,14,16. For instance, the stiffness of the plate200in the forefoot portion12may increase in a direction from the medial side20to the lateral side18. Thus, the one or more tows300of fibers350may include paths with multiple curves to steer around voids and/or to change directions in the load path of the plate200to accommodate anatomical features as well as to enhance performance of the footwear10for its intended use. In some implementations, the plate200is formed by embroidering at least two tows300of fibers350in a layered configuration while being affixed to a same substrate400(FIG. 6). In other implementations, the plate is formed by affixing at least two tows300of fibers350separately to corresponding substrates and stacking the substrates such that the at least two tows300of fibers350are embroidered in a layered configuration. As used herein, the substrate400refers to any one of a veil, carrier, or backer at which the at least one tow300of fibers350affix to and bind with. The substrate400may be formed from a thermoset polymeric material or a thermoplastic polymeric material and can be a textile (e.g., knit, woven, or non-woven), an injection molded article, formed from an organosheet, or a thermoformed article.

Generally, it is difficult to manufacture a non-flat (e.g., curved/contoured) and substantially rigid composite plate in its final state from a preform plate that is initially rigid and flat in shape. Implementations herein are directed toward an embroidered preform that affixes the one or more tows300of fibers350to the same substrate400or different substrates400and applying heat to mold the embroidered preform to form the footwear plate200with a desired shape and curvature. Thereafter, the plate200may be cured to impart structural rigidity. That is to say, both the substrate(s)400and each tow300of fibers350are thin and flexible to allow the embroidered preform to be positioned into a mold to form the plate200with a three-dimensional shape having structural rigidity. In some examples, manufacturing the plate200includes infusing liquid thermoplastic material into the embroidered preform (e.g., one or more tows300of fibers350affixed to the substrate400) and using vacuum molding and/or compression molding techniques to form the plate200. The liquid thermoplastic material may include at least one of polymerizable compositions or pre-polymer materials. Additional polymers/toughening agents (such as softer polymers, rubber, and/or block copolymers) may be added to the liquid thermoplastic material to reduce brittleness of the plate200.

In other examples, the substrate400, or a portion thereof, is formed from a thermoset polymeric material and/or a thermoplastic polymeric material. The thermoplastic polymeric material includes a melting point below a melting point or degradation temperature of the fibers350of the tows300. Here, incorporating the thermoplastic material and/or the thermoset polymeric material into the substrate400may be used in addition to, or in lieu of, the liquid thermoplastic material infused into the embroidered preform to melt/infuse the embroidered preform during the vacuum molding process and/or the compression molding process. Additionally or alternatively, thermoplastic yarns may be commingled with the fibers350of the one or more tows300to assist with melting/infusing the embroidered preform during vacuum molding or compression molding. Optionally, the embroidered preform may be power coated with the thermoset and/or thermoplastic polymeric materials or injection-molding techniques may be used to overmold and/or impregnate the embroidered preform with the thermoset and/or thermoplastic polymeric materials

FIG. 6provides a top view of an example substrate400used for forming the footwear plate200. The substrate400may be substantially thin, flat, and flexible. As set forth above, the substrate400, or at least a portion thereof, may be formed from a thermoset polymeric material or a thermoplastic polymeric material. In some configurations, the substrate400includes a textile that may be knit, woven, or non-woven. The substrate400may also optionally be formed from an injection molded article, a thermoformed article, or an organosheet. The substrate400may be cut to a desired shape defined by a perimeter edge402.

FIG. 7provides a top view of a first tow300,310of fibers350affixed/attached to a top surface410of the substrate400ofFIG. 6to form a first layer on the substrate400. The first tow310(i.e., first strand portion) forms a first void316in the forefoot portion12and a second void318in the heel portion16of the substrate400. In some examples, the first tow310of fibers350includes a plurality of first segments312that each extend between two different locations along the substrate to form the first layer thereon and define the voids316,318to expose the substrate400therein. For instance, a portion of the first segments312may extend between two different locations along the peripheral edge402of the substrate400in regions where the voids316,318are absent. Other portions of the first segments312extend between a first location along the peripheral edge402of the substrate400to a second location at an interior region of the substrate400associated with a boundary of one of the voids316,318. The first segments312may be disposed adjacent and substantially parallel to one another. In some examples, the first segments312are applied to the substrate400at a first angle relative to the longitudinal axis L of the substrate400. The first tow310of fibers350may also include first looped portions313disposed proximate to the peripheral edge402of the substrate400that are operative to connect adjacent first segments312.FIG. 7shows the first tow310of fibers350including curved paths that change directions based on anatomical features of the foot.

In some configurations, the first tow310of fibers350attaches to the substrate400via first stitching314. For example, the first stitching314may zigzag across the first tow310between first attachment locations located on the substrate400. The first stitching314may penetrate the substrate400at the first attachment locations. Here, the attachment locations may be spaced apart from the first tow310along the perimeter edge402of the substrate400as well as around the portions of the substrate400exposed within the voids316,318. The first stitching314may be formed from the same material as the substrate400or the first stitching314may be formed from a different material than the material forming the substrate400such that the first stitching314is associated with a higher melting point than the substrate400. Providing the stitching314with a higher melting point than the substrate400allows the stitching314to melt after the substrate400when heat is applied, thereby allowing the stitching314to retain the first tow310of fibers350when the substrate400begins to melt. In some examples, the first stitching314, or at least a portion thereof, is formed from resin.

FIG. 8provides a top view of the first tow310of fibers350, a second tow320of fibers350, and a third tow330of fibers350affixed/attached to the substrate400ofFIG. 6in a layered configuration to form the embroidered preform that may be heated, molded, and cured to form the three-dimensional and substantially rigid footwear plate200. Other configurations may include each tow310,320,330affixed/attached to different substrates400and layered to provide a stacked substrate400. The substrate(s)400and/or tows310,320,330may be trimmed prior to applying at least one of heat and pressure to form the substantially rigid, three-dimensional footwear plate200.

FIGS. 9 and 10provide exploded (FIG. 9) and side-by-side (FIG. 10) views of the embroidered preform ofFIG. 8showing each one of the substrate400, the first tow310, the second tow320, and the third tow330such that each tow310,320,330is formed from separate corresponding strands/bundles of fibers350. For example, at least one of the first tow310, the second tow320, and the third tow330is formed from a corresponding continuous strand of fibers350. In other configurations, however, the tows310,320,330may all be formed from the same continuous strand/bundle of fibers350. The tows310,320,330may attach to the top surface410of the substrate400without penetrating a bottom surface412disposed on an opposite side of the substrate400than the top surface410.

In some examples, the first tow310is associated with a first shape and the second tow320is associated with a second shape that is different than the first shape. Similarly, the third tow330is associated with a third shape that may be different than the first and third shapes. Accordingly, the layers associated with at least two of the tows310,320,330may be anisotropic. Other configurations may include the first shape being approximately the same as the second shape and/or the third shape. In some implementations, at least two of the tows310,320,330have approximately the same length. By contrast, other implementations include at least two of the tows310,320,330having different lengths. For instance, the examples ofFIGS. 8 and 9show the first tow310of fibers350defining a length that extends through the forefoot, mid-foot, and heel portions12,14,16, the second tow320of fibers350defining a second length shorter than the first length that extends through the forefoot and mid-foot portions12,14, and the third tow330of fibers350defining a third length shorter than the second length that extends within the forefoot and mid-foot portions12,14of the substrate400. Each tow310,320,330may be designed with an emphasis to provide corresponding performance characteristics different from the corresponding performance characteristics provided by the other tows310,320,330. Moreover, the layered configuration of the tows310,320,330may provide a variable thickness throughout the forefoot, mid-foot, and heel portions12,14,16of the substrate400

In some implementations, the second tow320(i.e., second strand portion) is disposed on the first layer (e.g., the first tow310) and includes second segments322that each extend between two different locations along the peripheral edge402of the substrate400to form a second layer on the first layer. The second segments322may be convergent with the first segments312. The first tow310of fibers350and the second tow320of fibers350may be formed from the same or different materials. For instance, the first tow310and/or the second tow320may include at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymeric fibers. In some examples, the second tow320of fibers350includes approximately the same number of fibers350as the first tow310of fibers350. In other examples, the second tow320of fibers350includes a different number of fibers350than the first tow310of fibers350. As with the first tow310, the second tow320of fibers350may include second looped portions323(FIGS. 8 and 9) disposed proximate to the peripheral edge402of the substrate400for connecting adjacent second segments322. In some configurations, one or more of the looped portions323extend beyond the peripheral edge402of the substrate400and create pinch points when the layered configuration is subjected to pressure (e.g., molding) for consolidating the fibers350to form the footwear plate200. Accordingly,FIG. 8shows the second tow320of fibers350cut along the peripheral edge402of the substrate400to remove the looped portions323, thereby removing the presence of pinch points when applying pressure to form the finished footwear plate200. Thus, adjacent second segments322may be disconnected at the peripheral edge of the substrate400once the corresponding looped portions323are removed (e.g., by cutting).

The second tow320of fibers350may attach to the substrate400via second stitching324that may zigzag across the second tow320between second attachment locations located on the substrate400. In some examples, the second stitching324penetrates the substrate400at the second attachment locations. Additionally or alternatively, the second stitching324may extend through the first tow310of fibers350. In other words, the second stitching324may attach the second tow320of fibers350to the substrate400by crossing over the second tow320of fibers350, extending through the first tow310of fibers, and penetrating the substrate400at the second attachment locations.

In some scenarios, the first stitching314and/or the second stitching324is formed from resin. Additionally or alternatively, at least one of the first stitching314and the second stitching324is formed from the same material as the substrate400. In some configurations, at least one of the first stitching314and the second stitching324has a higher melting point than the substrate400. Here, the higher melting point allows the stitching(s)314,324to melt after the substrate400begins to melt during thermal processing so that the corresponding tows310,320are kept in place by the stitching(s)314,324. The stitching(s)314,324may also include materials that match optional infused polymers used for compression molding and/or vacuum molding.

The third tow330(i.e., third strand portion) is disposed on the second layer (e.g., the second tow320) and includes third segments332that each extend between two different locations along the peripheral edge402of the substrate400to form a third layer on the second layer. As with the first segments312of the first tow310, the second segments322and the third segments332of the corresponding second and third tows320,330may each be disposed adjacent and substantially parallel to one another.FIG. 8shows the second segments322of the second tow320of fibers350applied to the substrate at a second angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the substrate400that is different than the first angle associated with the first segments312of the first tow310of fibers350. WhileFIG. 8also shows the third segments332of the third tow330applied to the substrate400at a third angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the substrate400that is different than both the first angle associated with the first segments312and the second angle associated with the second segments322, the third angle may be the same as one of the first angle and the second angle but different from the other one of the first angle and the second angle. In other words, other configurations may include the third tow330having third segments332that is convergent with only one of the first segments312and the second segments322.

In some configurations, the third tow330of fibers350attaches to the substrate400via third stitching334that zigzags across the third tow330between third attachment locations located on the substrate400. In some examples, the third stitching334penetrates the substrate400at the third attachment locations. Additionally or alternatively, the third stitching334may extend through at least one of the first tow310of fibers350and the second tow320of fibers350. In other words, the third stitching334may attach the third tow330of fibers350to the substrate400by crossing over the third tow330of fibers350, extending through the first tow310and/or the second tow320, and penetrating the substrate400at the third attachment locations.

Referring toFIG. 11, a close-up view shows a portion of the first tow300,310of fibers350attached to the substrate400via the first stitching314. The first tow310is disposed upon the top surface410of the substrate400and the first stitching314crosses (e.g., zigzags) over the first tow310and penetrates the substrate400at the first attachment locations315that are spaced apart from the first tow310. The substrate400and the first stitching314may be formed from thermoplastic polymer materials that melt during the thermal processing. The first stitching314may be formed from a first thermoplastic polymer material and the substrate400may be formed from a second thermoplastic polymer material having a lower melting temperature than the first thermoplastic polymer material. Thus, the first stitching314may retain the first tow310of fibers350in place without melting when the substrate400begins to melt during thermal processing. The fibers350associated with the first tow310may include non-polymer fibers352and polymer fibers354. For instance, the non-polymer fibers352may include carbon fibers, glass fibers, aramid fibers, and/or boron fibers. The polymer fibers354, on the other hand, may include thermoplastic polymer fibers having a higher melting temperature than that of the thermoplastic polymer materials used to form the substrate400and/or the first stitching314. Moreover, the thermoplastic polymer materials used to form the substrate400may include a melting temperature that is below a degradation temperature associated with the non-polymer fibers352(e.g., carbon fibers).

FIG. 12provides a cross-sectional view taken along line12-12ofFIG. 11showing the first stitching314attaching the first tow310of fibers350to the top surface410of the substrate400. The first stitching314may penetrate through the surfaces410,412of the substrate400and zigzag across the first tow310between the first attachment locations315. The non-polymer fibers352(e.g., carbon fibers) and the polymer fibers354(e.g., thermoplastic polymer fibers) may include circular cross sections that co-mingle with each other throughout the length of the first tow310.

FIG. 13provides another tow300aof fibers350attached to the substrate400and forming a first layer on the substrate400. The tow300aof fibers350includes a pattern of segments302that are disposed adjacent and substantially parallel to one another. Whereas the first segments312of the first tow310of fibers350ofFIGS. 7-10define voids316,318exposing the substrate400, the segments302extend continuously between two different locations along the peripheral edge402of the substrate400to form the first layer covering the substrate400without defining any voids, i.e., the segments302extend across the substrate400between the lateral and medial sides. The segments302may extend in a direction that converges with the longitudinal axis of the substrate400. Referring toFIG. 14, a detailed view within phantom circle14ofFIG. 13shows the tow300aincluding looped portions303disposed proximate to the peripheral edge402of the substrate400for connecting adjacent segments302. Moreover, the tow300aof fibers350may attach to the substrate400via stitching304that may zigzag across the tow300abetween attachment locations305located on the substrate400.

FIGS. 15 and 16provide exploded (FIG. 15) and side-by-side (FIG. 16) views of an embroidered preform used to form a three-dimensional and substantially rigid footwear plate200athat may affix to the upper100of the article of footwear10. In view of the substantial similarity in structure and function of the components associated with the footwear plate200with respect to the footwear plate200a, like reference numerals are used hereinafter and in the drawings to identify like components while like reference numerals containing letter extensions are used to identify those components that have been modified.

The embroidered preform associated with the footwear plate200aincludes the substrate400, a first tow310aof fibers350, a second tow320aof fibers350, and a third tow330aof fibers arranged in a layered configuration. The tows310a,320a,330amay be formed from the same continuous strand/bundle of fibers350or at least one of the tows310a,320a,330amay be formed from a different continuous strand/bundle of fibers350. As with the tows310,320,330ofFIGS. 8-10, the tows310a,320a,330amay attach to the top surface410of the substrate400without penetrating the bottom surface412of the substrate400via stitching314,324,334that crosses over corresponding tows310a,320a,330abetween attachment locations disposed on the substrate400. The tows310a,320a,330aof fibers350may also similarly include at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymeric fibers.

The first tow310aof fibers350includes first segments312athat each extend between two different locations along the peripheral edge402of the substrate400to form a first layer on the substrate400(e.g., upon the top surface410). The first segments312are disposed adjacent and substantially parallel to one another.FIG. 16shows the first segments312aapplied to the substrate at a first angle α1relative to the longitudinal axis L of the substrate400.

The second tow320aof fibers350includes second segments322athat each extend between two different locations along the peripheral edge402of the substrate400to form a second layer on the first layer. Here, the second segments322aare convergent with the first segments312aand disposed adjacent and substantially parallel to one another. For instance, the second segments322amay be applied to the first layer at a second angle α2relative to the longitudinal axis L of the substrate400that is different than the first angle α1. In some examples, the first layer associated with the first tow310aand the second layer associated with the second tow320aare anisotropic to impart gradient stiffness and gradient load paths throughout the plate200a.

The third tow330aof fibers350includes third segments332athat each extend between two different locations along the peripheral edge402of the substrate400to form a third layer on the second layer. Here, the third segments332aare convergent with the first segments312aand the second segments322aand disposed adjacent and substantially parallel to one another. For instance, the third segments332amay be applied to the second layer at a third angle α3relative to the longitudinal axis L of the substrate400that is different than the first angle α1and the second angle α2. Other configurations may include attaching each tow310a,320a,330ato a separate corresponding substrate and stacking the substrates to form a substrate stack such that the first tow310ais disposed between a bottom substrate and an intermediate substrate, the second tow320ais disposed between the intermediate substrate and a top substrate, and the third tow is disposed upon the top substrate.

FIGS. 17-20provide an embroidered preform used to form a three-dimensional and substantially rigid footwear plate200bthat may affix to the upper100of the article of footwear10. In view of the substantial similarity in structure and function of the components associated with the footwear plate200with respect to the footwear plate200b, like reference numerals are used hereinafter and in the drawings to identify like components while like reference numerals containing letter extensions are used to identify those components that have been modified.

FIG. 17provides a top view of the preform plate200bincluding a first tow310bof fibers350and a second tow320bof fibers disposed upon the top surface410of the substrate400. Stitching may attach the tows310b,320bto the substrate400at corresponding attachment locations that may penetrate the substrate400through the top and bottom surfaces410,412. The first tow310b(i.e., first strand portion) may define a plurality of first segments312bthat each extend between two different locations along the substrate400to form a layer thereon and define a first void316bin the forefoot portion12and a second void318bin the heel portion16of the substrate400. The second tow320bis operative as an outer reinforcement area disposed along the perimeter edge402of the substrate400such that the fibers350of the second tow320bsurround the first segments312bassociated with the first tow310bof fibers350. The preform plate200bmay optionally include a third tow330bof fibers350that operate as an inner reinforcement area surrounding the first void316bin the forefoot portion12. Here, the outer and inner reinforcement areas defined by the second and third tows320b,330bmay provide additional reinforcement or structural support for the first segments312bof the first tow310bin regions between the first void316band the perimeter edge402of the substrate400. The example shows the third tow330bforming a third void336bthat is spaced apart from the second void318bbut aligned with the first void316bto expose the substrate400. While not shown inFIG. 17, the preform plate200bmay also include a fourth tow of fibers operative as a corresponding inner reinforcement area surrounding the second void318bin the heel portion16in the same manner as the third tow330breinforces the first segments312bsurrounding the first void316b.

Referring toFIG. 18, a cross-sectional view taken along line18-18ofFIG. 17shows the second tow320bof fibers350disposed along the perimeter edge402of the substrate400to provide the outer reinforcement area for the first tow310bof fibers350. The tows310b,320bmay have approximately the same length or may have different lengths. In some implementations, the tows310b,320bare formed from the same materials. For instance, the fibers350associated with the tows310b,320bmay include at least one of the non-polymer fibers352(e.g., carbon fibers, glass fibers and/or aramid fibers, and/or boron fibers) and the polymer fibers354. As set forth above, the polymer fibers354may include thermoplastic polymer fibers having a higher melting temperature than that of thermoplastic polymer materials (if any) used to form the substrate400. In other implementations, the tows310b,320bare formed from different materials.

FIG. 19provides an alternate cross-sectional view taken along line18-18ofFIG. 17showing a polymeric material520providing the outer reinforcement area for the first tow310bof fibers350. Here, the polymeric material520may include a single strand of material (i.e., with a circular cross-section) that replaces the second tow320bof fibers350by extending along the perimeter edge402of the substrate400. The polymeric material520may include a thermoplastic polymeric material or a thermoset polymeric material having a higher melting temperature than a melting temperature of polymeric materials forming the substrate400so that the polymeric material520reinforces the first tow310bof fibers350along the perimeter edge402of the substrate400as the substrate400begins to melt.

FIG. 20provides another alternate cross-sectional view taken along line18-18ofFIG. 17showing the first tow310bof fibers350attached to a substrate400ahaving the top surface410opposing the first tow310band the bottom surface412disposed on an opposite side of the substrate400athan the top surface410. Whereas the second tow320bor the polymeric material520attaches to the substrate400ofFIGS. 17-19to provide the outer reinforcement area for the first tow310bof fibers350, the substrate400aincludes a fold414along a perimeter edge402ato double a thickness of the substrate400afor providing the outer reinforcement area for the first tow310bof fibers350.

FIGS. 21-24provide an embroidered preform used to form a three-dimensional and substantially rigid footwear plate200chaving an arch support202that may affix to the upper100of the article of footwear10. In view of the substantial similarity in structure and function of the components associated with the footwear plate200with respect to the footwear plate200c, like reference numerals are used hereinafter and in the drawings to identify like components while like reference numerals containing letter extensions are used to identify those components that have been modified.

FIG. 21provides a top view of the preform plate200cincluding a tow300cof fibers350disposed on a substrate400clocal to an arch area425of the plate200cto provide the arch support202for the foot. When the plate200cis formed, e.g., by thermo-processing and molding the substrate400cand the tow300cof fibers350into the three-dimensional plate200c, the concentration of the tow300cof fibers350providing the arch support202imparts structural support and increases stability for the foot in the arch area425of the footwear10. In some examples, the tow300cof fibers350attach to an arch-shaped substrate420disposed upon a top surface410cof the substrate400cto form a substrate stack in the arch area425. For example, the tow300cof fibers350may include a plurality of segments302cthat extend between and attach to the arch-shaped substrate420via stitching that crosses over the tow300cand penetrates the arch-shaped substrate420. The arch-shaped substrate420may affix to the substrate400cbefore, during, or after the tow300caffixes to the arch-shaped substrate420. In some configurations, the arch-shaped substrate420is positioned upon the top surface410cof the substrate400cand the stitching is operative to attach both the tow300cof fibers350to the arch-shaped substrate420and the arch-shaped substrate420to the substrate400cas the stitching crosses over the tow300cand penetrates both the arch-shaped substrate420and the substrate400c. In other configurations, the arch-shaped substrate420having the tow300cof fibers350attached thereto is subsequently attached to the substrate400cin the arch area425. In these configurations, additional stitching may be used to attach the substrates400c,420together or the substrates400c,420form a stack and attach to one another when subjected to compression molding and/or vacuum molding. Here, thermoplastics or other materials may be applied between the substrates400,420to facilitate attachment during the compression molding and/or the vacuum molding.

Referring toFIG. 22, in some implementations, a continuous substrate400cintegrally forms the arch support202by folding/layering/tufting material of the substrate400clocal to the arch area425. Here, the folding/layer/tufting the substrate400cprovides an increased thickness in the arch area425to impart a desired profile and stiffness of the arch support202once the three-dimensional footwear plate200cis formed. In some examples, one or more of the tows300(e.g., tows300a,310,310a,320,320b,330,330c) additionally attach to the substrate400cto provide gradient stiffness and gradient load paths throughout the plate200cin addition to the arch support202.

FIGS. 23 and 24provide exploded (FIG. 23) and perspective (FIG. 24) views of the tow300cof fibers350attached directly to the top surface410cof the substrate400without using the intermediary arch-shaped substrate420. The tow300cof fibers350may be disposed upon the substrate400local to an arch area425and attached thereto using any of the aforementioned stitching techniques.

FIGS. 25-28provide an embroidered preform used to form a three-dimensional and substantially rigid footwear plate200dhaving a heel counter204and that may affix to the upper100of the article of footwear10. In view of the substantial similarity in structure and function of the components associated with the footwear plate200with respect to the footwear plate200d, like reference numerals are used hereinafter and in the drawings to identify like components while like reference numerals containing letter extensions are used to identify those components that have been modified.

FIG. 25shows a partial rear perspective view of the heel counter204formed from a tow300dof fibers350attached to a top surface410dof a substrate400d. In some examples, the tow300dof fibers350attaches to the substrate400dvia stitching. The tow300dof fibers350may extend around the perimeter edge402of the substrate400din the heel portion16and in a direction away from the top surface410dof the substrate400d. For instance, the tow300dmay include a plurality of segments302dextending around the perimeter edge402in the heel portion16from the lateral side18to the medial side20and layered upon one another to form sequential layers on the substrate400c. Thickness and/or density of the fibers350included in the tow may vary in each segment302dto provide desirable stiffness and rigidity properties for the heel counter204.

Referring toFIG. 26, in some implementations, the substrate400dincludes a raised back portion404that extends around the perimeter edge402of the substrate400din the heel portion16and in the direction away from the top surface410dof the substrate400d. The example shows the raised back portion404integrally formed from the substrate400dby folding excess material in the heel portion16of the substrate400d. Here, the raised back portion404is operative as an outer reinforcement or support for the tow300dof fibers350ofFIG. 25and cooperates with the tow300dof fibers350to form an integral heel counter204a. In some examples, the tow300dof fibers350attaches to the back portion404of the substrate400dvia stitching in addition to, or in lieu of, stitching attaching the tow300dto the top surface410dof the substrate400d. For instance, stitching may penetrate through and/or across individual ones of the segments302dto attach the tow300dof fibers350to the raised back portion404. At least one of the fibers350, stitching, and substrate400may include polymer materials (e.g., thermoplastic or thermoset polymeric materials) to integrally form the heel counter204afrom the raised back portion404of the substrate400dand the tow300dof fibers350when heat is applied and the embroidered preform is subjected to compression molding and/or vacuum molding.

WhereasFIG. 26shows the raised back portion404integral with the substrate400cvia folding substrate400dmaterial,FIG. 27provides an alternative raised back portion404aformed from a separate piece of material that attaches to the substrate400d. In some examples, the raised back portion404ais formed from the same material as the substrate400d. The raised back portion404amay attach to the substrate400daround the perimeter edge402in the heel portion16at various attachment locations403. Stitching may penetrate the substrate400dand the raised back portion404aat the various attachment locations403along the perimeter edge402. The same or separate stitching may attach the tow300dof fibers350to the raised back portion404aand/or the top surface410dof the substrate400d. In some configurations, the raised back portion404,404aofFIGS. 26 and 27may be embroidered directly to an upper100formed from a knit material to integrally form the finished heel counter204,204awith the upper100.

In some examples, the raised back portion404and the tow300dof fibers350provide a separate embroidered preform that may be subjected to pressure and/or heat to form the heel counter204. For instance, the raised back portion404may include a substantially flat substrate and the segments302dof the tow300dmay attach to the raised back portion404via stitching. The fibers350of the tow300dmay be co-mingled with thermoplastic polymer fibers and/or thermoplastic yarns and the raised back portion404may be formed from a thermoplastic film. The stitching may be formed from a same thermoplastic material as the thermoplastic film, but may include a higher melting point to hold the segments302din place as the thermoplastic film of the raised back portion404begins to melt. Additionally or alternatively, the embroidered preform including the tow300dand the raised back portion404may be consolidated with liquid material including a thermoplastic material and/or a thermoset material to assist with affixing/bonding the tow300dto the raised back portion404when pressure and heat is applied. Accordingly, the embroidered preform including the tow300dand the raised back portion404amay be positioned into a mold and pressure may be applied to the preform300d,404by subjecting the preform300d,404to at least one of compression molding and vacuum molding while enclosed within the mold to form the finished heel counter204.

Due to the curvature requirements of the heel counter204having to extend around the perimeter of the heel region16of the footwear10, in some examples, the heel counter204is formed by separately forming two separate halves. For instance, a first preform300d,404amay be subjected to the at least one of compression molding and vacuum molding while enclosed within the mold to form a first half of the finished counter204, and a second preform300d,404may be subjected to the at least one of compression molding and vacuum molding while enclosed within a mold to form a second half of the finished counter204. Here, the first half may have a curvature that extends along the perimeter edge402of the substrate400din the heel region16from the lateral side18to the heel end, and the second half may have a curvature that extends along the perimeter edge402of the substrate400din the heel region16from the medial side20to the heel end. The first and second halves may be combined to form the whole heel counter204.

FIG. 28shows an example of the tow300dof fibers350attaching to the substrate400dto form the heel counter204around the perimeter edge402of the substrate400dand a separate tow300eof fibers350attached to the top surface410dof the substrate400d. Thus, the tows300d,300eof fibers350and the substrate400dmay cooperate to provide the embroidered preform used to form the three-dimensional and substantially rigid footwear plate200dhaving the heel counter204. Accordingly, the tow300dattaches to the substrate400din the heel portion and includes a first pattern with first performance characteristics (e.g., a heel counter with desired stiffness and rigidity properties) while the other tow300eattaches to the substrate400dthrough all the portions12,14,16thereof and includes a second pattern different from the first pattern to provide the portions12,14,16at least a second performance characteristic different from the first performance characteristics.

FIGS. 29-36provide a reinforcing cage206that may affix to a footwear plate200eand/or an upper100eof an article of footwear10e. In view of the substantial similarity in structure and function of the components associated with the footwear plate200with respect to the footwear plate200e, like reference numerals are used hereinafter and in the drawings to identify like components while like reference numerals containing letter extensions are used to identify those components that have been modified.

The reinforcing cage206provides a reinforcing structure that extends away from the footwear plate200eand that may secure to exterior surfaces of the upper100eor may extend between the material elements forming the upper100ein order to secure the footwear plate200eto the upper100e. In some examples, the reinforcing cage206extends around the foot in the mid-foot portion14, for example, to provide additional support for the foot. In these examples, the reinforcing cage206includes a lateral portion268that extends around the lateral side18of the footwear10eand a medial portion262that extends around the medial side of the footwear10e. Distal ends of the lateral portion268and the medial portion262may extend from away from the plate200etoward corresponding distal ends to define a gap265therebetween that extends along the instep of the foot corresponding to at least a portion of a throat opening defined by the upper100e. In some implementations, a flat intermediate portion266connects opposing ends of the lateral portion268and the medial portion262opposite the gap265. Here, the intermediate portion266may provide increased reinforcement for the reinforcing cage206during use of the footwear10e.

Referring toFIGS. 30 and 31, a reinforcing cage206eincludes corresponding lateral and medial portions268e,262eeach defining a plurality of extensions207that extend along the lateral and medial sides18,20of the upper100e. Each extension207includes a corresponding aperture209formed therethrough that corresponds to an eyelet operative to receive a shoe lace (not shown), such as the fastener member106ofFIGS. 1-3. For instance, the apertures209of the extensions207may receive the shoe lace of a lacing system that modifies the dimensions of the interior void, thereby securing the foot within the interior void102and facilitating entry and removal of the foot from the interior void102. For instance, moving the shoe lace in a tightening direction may pull the extensions207of the lateral and medial portions268e,262etoward one another, thereby cinching the upper100eto close the interior void102around the foot.FIG. 31shows a corresponding tensile strand211attached to the footwear plate200eat a plurality of discrete locations along each of the lateral and medial sides18,20of the footwear10e. Each tensile strand211extends through each aperture209of the extensions207defined by the corresponding lateral and medial portions268e,262eof the reinforcing cage206ato assist in securing the reinforcing cage206eto the footwear plate200e.

In some configurations, the reinforcing cage206is integrally formed with a substrate400eused to form a three-dimensional and substantially rigid footwear plate200e. Referring toFIG. 32, a perfective view shows the footwear plate200eincluding the reinforcing cage206integrally formed with the substrate400esuch that the lateral portion268extends from the top surface410of the substrate400ealong the lateral side18within the mid-foot portion14and the medial portion262extends from the top surface410of the substrate400ealong the medial side20in the mid-foot portion14. In other configurations,FIG. 33shows the reinforcing cage206and the substrate400eformed separately and attached to one another using stitching406or other techniques for joining the cage206to the substrate400e.FIG. 34shows one or more tows300of fibers350attached to a top surface410eof the substrate400eto provide the embroidered preform plate200e. Thereafter, the preform plate200emay be subjected to heat and pressure to form the plate200ewith a three-dimensional shape and cured to impart structural rigidity to the plate200e. The material(s) of the substrate400eand the tows300of fibers350may cooperate to provide gradient stiffness and gradient load paths throughout the plate200e.

Referring toFIGS. 35 and 36, in some implementations, one or more tows310e,320eare attached to both a reinforcing cage206eand the top surface410eof the substrate400e.FIG. 35shows a first tow310eof fibers350attached to the top surface410eof the substrate400eand a second tow320eof fibers350attached to the reinforcing cage206e. While the second tow320eis attached to interior surfaces of the reinforcing cage206erelative to the view ofFIG. 35, the second tow320emay be attached to the exterior surface of the cage206ewithout departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The reinforcing cage206emay be integrally formed with the substrate400eor the reinforcing cage206may be formed separately and attached to the substrate400evia stitching or other techniques for joining the cage206to the substrate400e. The first tow310emay attach to the top surface410eof the substrate400evia stitching and/or the second tow320emay attach to the reinforcing cage206evia stitching. Additionally or alternatively, a polymeric material may be used to infuse the first tow310eof fibers350to the substrate400ewhile the interaction between the reinforcing cage206eand the second tow of fibers320emay be substantially free of the polymeric material. In some examples, the second tow320eof fibers350infuses to the reinforcing cage206eusing a polymeric material different than a polymeric material used to infuse the first tow310eof fibers350to the top surface410eof the substrate400e. Segments associated with the second tow320eof fibers350may be more sparse and/or wider than the first tow310eof fibers350to provide the reinforcing cage206ewith a reduced stiffness compared to that of the footwear plate200e.

FIG. 36shows the first tow310eof fibers350attached to both the top surface410eof the substrate400eas well as to the reinforcing cage206e. The first tow310eof fibers350may exhibit properties on the reinforcing cage206ethat are different than the properties on the top surface410eof the substrate400e. For instance, the first tow310emay be less stiff along the reinforcing cage206ecompared to the top surface410eof the substrate400e. Here, the first tow310emay utilize different fibers350along the reinforcing cage206ethan the fibers350along the top surface410eof the substrate400e. Additionally or alternatively, the first tow310emay define wider segments312ethat attach to the top surface410eof the substrate400ethan segments313ethat attach to the reinforcing cage206e. In some examples, polymeric material may be used to infuse the tow310eto the substrate400ewhile the reinforcing cage206eis substantially free of polymeric material. Alternatively, the reinforcing cage206euses the same or a different polymeric material to attach the first tow310eof fibers350thereto.

FIGS. 37-42provide an embroidered preform used to form a three-dimensional and substantially rigid footwear plate200fhaving a toe cap270and that may affix to the upper100of the article of footwear10. In view of the substantial similarity in structure and function of the components associated with the footwear plate200with respect to the footwear plate200f, like reference numerals are used hereinafter and in the drawings to identify like components while like reference numerals containing letter extensions are used to identify those components that have been modified.

The toe cap270may be located at a toe end of the forefoot portion12of the footwear plate200fto provide reinforcement for the upper100as well as improved impact resistance around the toes of the foot. The toe cap270may include a sidewall272and a cover portion274that cooperate with the footwear plate200fto define a toe receiving void275for receiving the toes of the foot. Referring toFIG. 38, in some configurations, the toe cap270is integrally formed with a substrate400fused to form a three-dimensional and substantially rigid footwear plate200fsuch that excess material of the substrate400fextends around the perimeter edge402of the substrate400fin the forefoot portion12to form the toe cap270. In other configurations,FIG. 39shows the toe cap270and the substrate400fare formed separately and attached to one another using stitching406for other techniques for joining the cap270to the substrate400f.FIG. 40shows one or more tows300of fibers350attached to a top surface410fof the substrate400fto provide the embroidered preform plate200f. Thereafter, the preform plate200fmay be subjected to heat and pressure to form the plate200fwith a three-dimensional shape and cured to impart structural rigidity throughout the plate200f. The material(s) of the substrate400fand the tows300of fibers350may cooperate to provide gradient stiffness and gradient load paths throughout the plate200f.

Referring toFIGS. 41 and 42, in some implementations, one or more tows300,300f,310fof fibers350are attached to both the top surface410fof the substrate400fand the toe cap270.FIG. 41the tows300of fibers350attached to the top surface410fof the substrate400fas shown inFIG. 40and a different tow310fof fibers350attached to the toe cap270. While the tow310fof fibers350is attached to exterior surfaces of the toe cap270relative to the view ofFIG. 41, the tow310fmay be attached to the interior surfaces of the cap270without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The tow310fmay attach to the toe cap270via stitching or other attachment techniques. Additionally or alternatively, a polymeric material may be used to infuse the tow300of fibers350to the substrate400fwhile toe cap270is substantially free of the polymeric material. In some examples, the tow310fof fibers350infuses to the toe cap270using a polymeric material different than a polymeric material used to infuse the tow300fof fibers350to the top surface410fof the substrate400f. The tows300,310fmay exhibit different performance parameters from one another by using at least one of different fibers350, varying the width of the corresponding segments, and/or varying the density of corresponding fibers350.

FIG. 42shows a tow300fof fibers350attached to both the top surface410fof the substrate400fas well as to the toe cap270. The tow300fof fibers350may exhibit properties on the cap270that are different than the properties on the top surface410fof the substrate400fFor instance, the tow300fmay be less stiff along the cap270compared to the top surface410fof the substrate400fHere, the tow300fmay utilize different fibers350along the cap270than the fibers350along the top surface410fof the substrate400f. Additionally or alternatively, the tow300fmay define wider segments that attach to the top surface410fof the substrate400fthan segments that attach to the cap270. In some examples, polymeric material may be used to infuse the tow300fto the substrate400fwhile the cap270is substantially free of polymeric material. Alternatively, the cap270uses the same or a different polymeric material to attach the tow300fof fibers350thereto. In some configurations, the toe cap270and tow300fof fibers350attached thereto are embroidered directly to the upper100formed from a knit material to integrally form the toe cap270with the upper100.

As with the heel counter204ofFIGS. 25-28, the toe cap270includes a geometry with multiple curves for defining the sidewall272and the cover portion274that cooperate with the footwear plate200fto define the toe receiving void275for receiving the toes of the foot. In some examples, the toe cap270is formed by separately forming two separate halves. For instance, a first preform300f,270may be subjected to at least one of compression molding and vacuum molding while enclosed within a mold to form a first half of the finished toe cap270, and a second preform300f,270may be subjected to the at least one of compression molding and vacuum molding while enclosed within a mold to form a second half of the finished toe cap270. Here, the first half may define the sidewall272and cover portion along274the lateral side18and the second half may define the sidewall272and the cover portion274along the medial side20. Thereafter, the two halves may be combined to form the whole toe cap270defining the toe receiving void274for receiving the toes of the foot.

FIGS. 43-46provide a substantially rigid footwear plate200gthat may affix to an upper100gof an article of footwear10g. In view of the substantial similarity in structure and function of the components associated with the footwear plate200with respect to the footwear plate200g, like reference numerals are used hereinafter and in the drawings to identify like components while like reference numerals containing letter extensions are used to identify those components that have been modified.

FIG. 43provides a bottom view a substrate400gincluding one or more protruding elements215g(e.g., cleats) extending from a bottom surface412gof the substrate400gin a direction away from the substrate400g. Here, the bottom surface412gof the substrate400gmay correspond to the ground-engaging surface212of the footwear plate200gsuch that the protruding elements215provide traction with soft ground surfaces, such as grass. For instance, each protruding element215may extend from the bottom surface412gin a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L of the substrate400g. The substrate400gmay be formed from the thermoplastic polymer materials used to form the substrate400ofFIGS. 1-12.

FIG. 44provides a bottom perspective view of the footwear plate200gshowing a tow300gof fibers350(e.g., strand portion) attached to the substrate400gand including a plurality of segments302gthat extend between a first end1disposed in the forefoot portion12of the substrate400gand a second end2disposed in the heel portion16of the substrate400g. Moreover, the segments302gmay cross one another in the mid-foot portion14disposed between the forefoot portion12and the heel portion16of the substrate400g. For instance, the plurality of segments302gmay be woven together in the mid-foot portion14of the plate200g. Additionally,FIG. 45provides a partial rear perspective view of the footwear plate200gshowing the plurality of segments302gwoven together around the second end2of the substrate400gto form a heel counter.

The tow300gof fibers350could be thermoformed directly to the plate400gsuch that subjecting the tow300gof fibers350to the thermoforming process (i.e., subjecting the tow300gto heat and pressure) causes the tow300gto be attached to the material forming the substrate400g. In another configuration, the tow300gcould first be subjected to a thermoforming process and could subsequently be attached to the material forming the substrate400gvia a suitable adhesive. Regardless of how the tow300gis attached to the material forming the substrate400g, attaching the tow300gto the substrate400gincreases the overall stiffness and strength of the footwear plate200gwithout overly increasing the weight of the plate200g. In short, providing the substrate400gwith fibers350only in discrete areas provides the plate300gwith targeted strength, as fibers are only added where increased strength and/or stiffness is needed.

In some examples, the tow300gof fibers350includes looped portions303connecting adjacent segments302g. The tow300gmay be formed from a continuous strand of fibers350that includes at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymeric fibers. The first tow300gof fibers350attaches to the bottom surface412gof the substrate400gand extends around at least a portion of the protruding members215(e.g., cleat members) and/or surrounds at least one of the cleat members215. For instance, the first tow300gmay extend around cleat members215disposed in the forefoot portion12proximate to the first end1of the substrate400g. In some examples, at least one of the plurality of segments302gsurrounds at least one of the cleat members215. In some examples, at least two of the segments302gcooperate to form at least one void316gsuch that the substrate400g(e.g., bottom surface412g) is exposed within the at least one void316g.

In some configurations, the tow300gof fibers350wraps around the substrate400gto provide one or more bundles380,381,382,383of the plurality of segments302g. The bundles380,381,382,383may cross at the mid-foot portion14of the plate200gand at least a portion of the segments302gmay be woven together where the bundles380,381,382,383cross. Similarly,FIG. 45shows the bundles380and383crossing at the heel portion16of the plate200gto provide the heel counter. In some configurations, the at least one void316gis disposed between a first bundle381and a second bundle382.

FIG. 46provides a side perspective view of the article of footwear10gshowing the tow300gof fibers350extending onto exterior surfaces of the upper100g. Here, the tow300gof fibers350, while attached to the bottom surface412g(not shown relative to the view ofFIG. 46) of the substrate400g, extend onto the exterior surfaces of the upper100gproximate to a lower region to provide a sidewall220gfor the footwear10gby extending around a perimeter of the upper100g. In some examples, one or more tensile strands211gextend between and connect the tow300gof fibers350to the upper100g. For instance, a first tensile strand211gmay attach the tow300gto the exterior surface of the upper100galong the lateral side18, and a second tensile strand211gmay attach the tow300gto the exterior surface of the upper100galong the medial side20.

Referring to the first tensile strand211galong the lateral side18of the footwear10g, the tensile strand211gextends between a first end250attached to at least one of the segments302gof the tow300gat a location proximate to the heel portion16and a second end254attached to at least one of the segments302gof the tow300gat a location proximate to the forefoot portion12. The tensile strand211gmay attach to the tow300gof fibers350at a plurality tow attachment locations252between and including the first end250and the second end254and define a plurality of free looped ends253that extend away from the tow300gbetween each adjacent tow attachment location252. In some configurations, the tensile strand211gattaches to the upper100gat a plurality of discrete attachment locations315galong the length of the tensile strand211gbetween the attachment locations252and the free looped ends253. While not shown relative to the view ofFIG. 46, the second tensile strand211galong the medial side20of the footwear10gextends between and connects the tow300gof fibers350to the upper100gin a manner substantially similar to the first tensile strand211galong lateral side18.

The example shows the footwear10gincluding the lace106(e.g., fastener) operative to move the upper100gbetween a tightened state and a relaxed state. In some implementations, a lacing pattern of the lace106extends along the throat opening of the upper100g(e.g., along the instep of the foot) and weaves through the free looped ends253of the tensile strands211galong the lateral and medial sides18,20to join with the tow300g(e.g., at least one of the segments302g) via the tow attachment locations252as well as the upper100gvia the attachment locations315g. In other words, the free looped ends253ends of the tensile strands211gare operative to extend between and join the lace106and at least one of the plurality of segments302gof the tow300gof fibers350.

Referring toFIGS. 47-49, a mold is provided and includes an upper mold portion82and a lower mold portion84that molds an embroidered preform including the one or more tows300of fibers350attached to one or more substrates400to form the substantially rigid footwear plate200ofFIGS. 1-12. As set forth above, the footwear plate200may define a three dimensional shape with the inner surface214configured to oppose the footbed surface222of the upper100and contoured to the shape of the footbed surface222to conform to the profile of the bottom surface (e.g., plantar) of the foot within the interior void102. In some examples, the sidewall220extends around a perimeter of the plate200between the ground-engaging surface212and the inner surface214to provide a rim for retaining the foot upon the inner surface214. Accordingly, the upper mold portion82may include a contact surface86having a surface profile that imparts a shape to the embroidered preform that conforms to the profile of the bottom surface (e.g., plantar) of the foot when the embroidered preform is compressed between the mold portions82,84. Likewise, the lower mold portion84may include a contact surface88having a surface profile that imparts a shape to the embroidered preform that corresponds to ground-engaging surface212of the plate200when the preform300,400is compressed between the mold portions82,84. In some examples, the lower mold portion84is fixed and the upper mold portion82translates toward the lower mold portion84to close the mold80and thereby compress the embroidered preform therebetween. In other examples, the lower mold portion84and the upper mold portion82may each translate toward one another or only the lower mold portion84may translate toward the upper mold portion82.

FIG. 47shows the mold80open and the embroidered preform positioned between the upper mold portion82and the lower mold portion84. The embroidered preform may include one or more tows300of fibers350attached to the substrate400. The substrate400and the tows300may be substantially flexible. For instance, the tows300may attach to the substrate400without penetrating the substrate400to form one or more layers upon the top surface410of the substrate400. For instance, the tows300may attach to the substrate400via stitching304that crosses over the tows300and penetrates the substrate400at attachment locations305spaced apart from the tows300and/or penetrating thru at least one of the tows300. In some examples, the stitching305is formed from resin.

In some configurations, the one or more tows300may include the first, second, and third tows310,320,330ofFIGS. 8-10attached to the substrate400to form corresponding first, second, and third layers upon the top surface410of the substrate. In these examples, the tows310,320,330may be formed from the same continuous strand of fibers350or at least one of the tows310may be formed from a different strand of fibers350. Accordingly, the one or more tows310,320,330may be formed from the same or different materials, may include the approximately the same or a different number of fibers350, may include approximately the same or different lengths, may include the approximately the same or different thicknesses, and may include at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymeric fibers. WhileFIGS. 8-10depict the tows310,320,330arranged in a layered configuration upon a single substrate400, other configurations include attaching each tow310,320,330to a corresponding substrate400to form a substrate stack. In these configurations, the substrate stack may be positioned between the upper and lower mold portions82,84and subjected to heat and pressure (FIG. 48) to conform the stack to the shape of at least one of the corresponding contact surfaces86,88and cured to provide the substantially rigid footwear plate200(FIG. 49) having the three-dimensional shape.

In some implementations, the embroidered preform is infused with a liquid material650that coats/encapsulates exterior portions of the at least one tow300and partially penetrates interior portions of the at least one tow300to bind the least one tow300to the substrate400and/or other tows300. In these implementations, the liquid material650may include a thermoset material applied to the preform300,400in a molten state. The thermoset material may include at least one of an epoxy, a polyurethane, a polymerizable composition, and a pre-polymer. Moreover, one or more polymers, such as rubber and/or block copolymer, may be added to the liquid material650to increase ductility when the liquid material650cures. Additionally or alternatively, a resin material652may be incorporated into the at least one tow300to assist with binding/affixing the at least one tow300to the substrate400.

The mold80may close by transitioning at least one of the upper mold portion82and the lower mold portion84toward the other one of the upper mold portion82and the lower mold portion84.FIG. 48shows the mold80closed and pressure applied to the embroidered preform by subjecting the preform300,400to at least one of compression molding and vacuum molding while enclosed between the mold portions82,84. Moreover, the mold80may simultaneously apply heat to assist with conforming the embroidered preform to the shape of at least one of the corresponding contact surfaces86,88and curing the embroidered preform to provide the footwear plate200with the three-dimensional shape and structural rigidity. The upper and/or lower mold portions82,84may include a plurality of conduits configured to channel a heated liquid, such as water, through the corresponding mold portion(s)82,84. Here, the heated liquid raises the overall temperature of the corresponding mold portion82,84and the preform300,400conducts the heat from the mold portion(s)82,84, thereby raising the temperature of the preform300,400to a temperature suitable for melting and/or curing one or more materials associated therewith. In some implementations, the preform300,400is heated prior to placement within the mold80.

In some configurations, the substrate400is formed from a thermoplastic film that attaches to the at least one tow300via the stitching304which penetrates the substrate400at the attachment locations305. In examples where more than one substrates400form a stack, at least one of the substrates400may be formed from the thermoplastic film. At least a portion of the stitching304may be formed from the same material as the substrate400. Thus, at least a portion of the stitching304may be formed the same thermoplastic material as the thermoplastic film forming the substrate400. In these configurations, applying heat to the embroidered preform while the mold80is closed is operative to thermoform the thermoplastic film and the thermoplastic stitching304to join the at least one tow300of fibers350to the substrate. Additionally, the closed mold80may apply pressure to the embroidered preform. In some configurations, the thermoplastic stitching304includes a higher melting point than the thermoplastic film so that the stitching305melts after the thermoplastic film, thereby permitting the stitching304to hold the at least one tow300in position upon the substrate400as the thermoplastic film of the substrate400begins to melt. Additionally, in configurations when the resin material652is incorporated into the at least one tow300, the heat and pressure activates the resin material652to bind the fibers350associated with the at least one tow300in addition to the stitching304when at least the portion of the stitching is formed from resin.

In implementations when the liquid material650(e.g., thermoset material with or without the addition of the ductility increasing polymers) infuses the at least one tow300of fibers350, the closed mold80applying at least one of heat and pressure includes subjecting the embroidered preform to at least one of vacuum molding and compression molding to cure the liquid material650(e.g., cure the thermoset material) such that the at least one tow300binds to the substrate400and/or other tows300.

Referring toFIG. 49, the mold80opens by translating the upper mold portion82away from the lower mold portion84and/or the lower mold portion84away from upper mold portion82. The liquid material650(thermoset material) infused into the tows300and/or the thermoplastic material forming the substrate400and/or the stitching are cured to form the substantially rigid footwear plate200with a three-dimensional shape. Thereafter, the footwear plate100may be incorporated into the article of footwear10.

Referring toFIGS. 50-56, an article of footwear10hincluding an upper100and a footwear plate200hattached to the upper100is provided. In view of the substantial similarity in structure and function of the components associated with the article of footwear10with respect to the article of footwear10h, like reference numerals are used hereinafter and in the drawings to identify like components while like reference numerals containing letter extensions are used to identify those components that have been modified.

The interior surfaces of the upper100define the interior void102to receive and secure the foot for support on the sole structure, while the ankle opening104provides access to the interior void. The fasteners106(e.g., laces, straps, cords, hook-and-loop, etc.) may extend along the upper to adjust the fit of the interior void102around the foot and to facilitate entry and removal of the foot from the interior void102. The tongue portion extends between the interior void102and the fasteners106.

The footwear plate200hdefines a longitudinal axis L that extends through the forefoot portion12, the mid-foot portion14, and the heel portion16. The plate200hattaches to the upper100and includes a plurality of protruding elements215h(FIG. 51) integrally formed with, and extending from, a ground-engaging surface212hof the plate200hto provide traction with soft ground surfaces (e.g., grass) during athletic movements. The protruding elements215hmay also be referred to as traction elements.FIG. 51provides a bottom perspective view of the footwear plate200hshowing the integrally formed protruding elements215hextending from the ground-engaging surface212hand the sidewall surface220extending around a perimeter of the plate200hbetween the ground-engaging surface212hand the inner surface (none shown) disposed on an opposite side of the plate200hthan the ground-engaging surface212h. As with the plate200ofFIGS. 1-12, the sidewall surface220may define a rim around the perimeter of the plate200to cradle the foot when performing walking, running, and/or lateral movements. In some implementations, portions of the sidewall220extend around the upper100and attach to exterior surfaces of the upper100at one or more locations to secure the plate200hto the upper100. Adhesives may be used to secure the plate200hto the upper100.

The footwear plate200his formed from at least two strand portions300harranged in selected patterns to impart anisotropic stiffness and gradient load paths throughout the plate200h. In the examples shown, the at least two strand portions300hinclude at least first and second strand portions310hand320h. The first strand portion310hmay extend along an entire length of the plate200hwhile the second strand portion320hare applied in a plurality of discrete regions218along the ground-engaging surface212hof the plate200hto increase a density/concentration of fiber per unit area in each of the discrete regions218. Each discrete region218is associated with a corresponding location of a protruding element215hformed into the plate200hand extending from the ground-engaging surface212h. In some implementations, the first strand portion310hforms a first layer across the entire plate200hand the second strand portion320his applied upon the first strand portion310hin each discrete region218to form a second layer in each of the discrete regions218, thereby increasing the density/concentration of fiber per unit area in the discrete regions218to provide additional structural support for the integrally-formed protruding elements215hand, further, to provide additional material for forming the protruding elements215h. Each strand portion300hmay refer to a tow of a plurality of fibers350, a monofilament, yarn, or polymer pre-impregnated tows that include ribbon or strips of unidirectional tape. The present disclosure will refer to each strand portion300has a corresponding tow300hof fibers350unless indicated otherwise. Each tow300h,310h,320hforming the footwear plate200may range in size from about 1,000 fibers per bundle to about 48,000 fibers per bundle.

In some configurations, the fibers350associated with the two tows310h,320hinclude at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymeric fibers. Additionally, at least a portion of the fibers350associated the at least two tows310h,320hmay be formed from a first thermoplastic material. Fibers such as carbon fibers, aramid fibers, and boron fibers may provide a high modulus while glass fibers (e.g., fiberglass) and polymer fibers (e.g., synthetic fibers) provide a medium modulus. At least one of the first tow310hand the second tow320hmay include a thermoplastic material commingled with 12,000 carbon fibers per bundle or 24,000 carbon fibers per bundle. Here, the thermoplastic material may include Nylon 6 or Nylon 12.

As with the plate200ofFIGS. 1-12, the plate200hmay be designed based on anatomical features of the foot to provide a stiffness gradient along the length of the plate200hfrom the forefoot portion12to the heel portion16and/or a stiffness gradient between the lateral side18and the medial side20of the plate200through at least one of the portions12,14,16. Thus, at least the first tow300h,310hof fibers350may include paths with multiple curves to steer around voids and/or to change directions in the load path of the plate200hto accommodate anatomical features as well as to enhance performance of the footwear10for its intended use. On the other hand, the second tow300h,320hof fibers350disposed in each of the discrete regions218may include spiral paths to increase structural integrity for each of the protruding elements215hto accommodate higher loads at the discrete regions218in response to ground-reaction forces. Moreover, due to the difficulty in manufacturing a non-flat (e.g., curved/contoured) and substantially rigid composite plate in its final state from a preform plate that is initially rigid and flat in shape, the at least two tows300hof fibers300provide an embroidered preform by affixing to a same substrate400h(FIG. 52) or different substrates400hthat is positioned in a mold to form the protruding elements215hand the footwear plate200hwith a desired shape and curvature. As such, the protruding elements215hare integrally formed with the remainder of the plate200h. Thereafter, the plate200hmay be cured to impart structural rigidity. In some examples, manufacturing the plate200hincludes infusing the liquid material650h, including a thermoset polymeric material and/or a thermoplastic polymeric material into the embroidered preform (e.g., the first and second tows310h,320hof fibers350affixed to the substrate400) and using vacuum molding and/or compression molding techniques to form the plate200. Additional polymers/toughening agents (such as softer polymers, rubber, and/or block copolymers) may be added to the liquid material650to reduce brittleness of the plate200h.

In other examples, the substrate400h, or a portion thereof, is formed from a thermoset polymeric material and/or a thermoplastic polymeric material. The thermoplastic polymeric material includes a melting point below a melting point or degradation temperature of the fibers350of the tows300h. Here, incorporating the thermoplastic material and/or the thermoset polymeric material into the substrate400hmay be used in addition to, or in lieu of, the liquid material650infused/injected into the embroidered preform to melt/infuse the embroidered preform during the vacuum molding process and/or the compression molding process. Additionally or alternatively, thermoplastic yarns may be commingled with the fibers350of at least one of the tows300hto assist with melting/infusing the embroidered preform during vacuum molding or compression molding. Optionally, the embroidered preform may be power coated with the thermoset and/or thermoplastic polymeric materials or injection-molding techniques may be used to overmold and/or impregnate the embroidered preform with the thermoset and/or thermoplastic polymeric materials

FIG. 52provides a top view of an example substrate400hused for forming the footwear plate200h. The substrate400hmay be substantially thin, flat, and flexible. As set forth above, the substrate400h, or at least a portion thereof, may be formed from a thermoset polymeric material, a thermoplastic polymeric material, or an organosheet. In some configurations, the substrate400hincludes a textile that may be knit, woven, or non-woven. The substrate400hmay also optionally be formed from an injection molded article or a thermoformed article. The substrate400hmay be cut to a desired shape defined by a perimeter edge402.

FIG. 53provides a top view of the first tow300h,310hof fibers350affixed/attached to a top surface410hof the substrate400hofFIG. 52to form a first layer on the substrate400h. The first tow310hof fibers350includes first segments312hthat each extend between two different locations along the peripheral edge402of the substrate400h. The first segments312hare disposed adjacent and substantially parallel to one another.FIG. 53shows the first segments312happlied to the substrate400hat a first angle α1relative to the longitudinal axis L of the substrate400h. The first tow310hmay include looped portions303hdisposed proximate to the peripheral edge402of the substrate400hfor connecting adjacent first segments312h. In the example shown, one or more of the looped portions303hextend beyond the peripheral edge402of the substrate400hand create pinch points when the layered configuration is subjected to pressure (e.g., molding) for consolidating the fibers350to form the footwear plate200h. As shown inFIG. 54, the first tow310hof fibers350is severed (e.g., by cutting) along the peripheral edge402of the substrate400hto remove the looped portions303h, thereby removing the presence of pinch points when applying pressure to form the finished footwear plate200h. Thus, adjacent second segments312hmay be disconnected at the peripheral edge402of the substrate400honce the corresponding looped portions303hare removed (e.g., by cutting). Each tow300h,310hmay attach to the top surface410of the substrate400hwithout penetrating the bottom surface412h(FIG. 61) via stitching304(FIGS. 57-63) that crosses over the corresponding tows300h,310hbetween attachment locations305disposed on the substrate400h. While the example shown only depicts the first tow310hforming the first layer, additional tows300heach having corresponding segments substantially parallel to one another and convergent with the segments of the other tows300hmay be applied over top the first layer as described above with reference to the tows310a,320h,330hofFIGS. 15 and 16. Moreover, at least one of the tows310,320,330ofFIGS. 8-10may be applied to the substrate400hin addition to or instead of the first tow310hof fibers350without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 54 and 55provide a top view (FIG. 54) and an exploded view (FIG. 55) of the embroidered preform including the first tow310hof fibers350and the second tow320hof fibers affixed/attached to the substrate400hofFIG. 52to increase the structural integrity of the footwear plate200hin each of the discrete regions218associated with the locations of the integrally molded protruding elements215hextending from the ground-engaging surface212h. The second tow320hof fibers350may include second segments322hthat are convergent with the first segments312hof the first tow310h. The second tow320hof fibers350are disposed upon the first tow310hof fibers350and attached to the substrate400hat each of the discrete regions218. For instance, the second tow320hof fibers350may attach to the substrate400hvia stitching that may zigzag across the second tow320hbetween second attachment locations located on the substrate400h. Here, the stitching may penetrate the substrate at the second attachment locations and/or may extend through the first tow310hof fibers350.

In the examples shown inFIGS. 54 and 55, each second tow320hof fibers350is formed from a corresponding strand of fibers350disposed at a corresponding discrete location218of the footwear plate200hthat is separate from the other second tows320hof fibers350at the other discrete locations218. In other examples, the second tow320hof fibers350at each of the discrete locations218is formed from the same continuous strand/bundle of fibers350. For instance,FIG. 56provides an exploded view of an alternate configuration where the second tow320hof fibers350includes one continuous second tow320hof fibers350applied to the substrate400hthat overlaps the first tow310hof fibers350at each discrete location218. Other examples may include the second tow320hof fibers350having curved paths that change directions based on the location of each discrete location218similar to the shape of the first tow310of fibers350ofFIGS. 7-10. Here, the segments may extend substantially parallel to one another without spiraling at the discrete locations218.

Referring toFIGS. 57 and 58, the second segments322hof the second tow320hat each discrete location218may define spiraled paths and may occupy a surface area that surrounds a perimeter of each protruding element215hand forms the protruding elements215h. Further, each spiraled path may include an overall perimeter defining a shape that is similar to the shape of the formed protruding elements215h. For protruding elements that include at least two segments angled relative to one another, the pattern of the second tow320hof fibers in the corresponding discrete location218may define spiraled paths that form multiple ellipses or cardioids surrounding the segments of each protruding element215hwithin the discrete regions218. In one configuration, the second tow320hincludes individual segments322h(FIG. 57). In another configuration, the second tow320hof fibers350is formed from the same continuous strand/bundle of fibers350such that the spiraled paths located at each discrete location218is connected (FIG. 58).

With reference toFIG. 59, the second tow320hof fibers350may include a fiber path219that increases the structural integrity of the footwear plate200hat each location of the integrally molded protruding elements215hextending from the ground-engaging surface212hand, further, provides additional material for forming the protruding elements215hfrom the second tow320hor fibers350, as will be described below. For example, the fiber path219may extend through each location218, as shown above with respect toFIG. 51. In one configuration, the fiber path219includes several strands/bundles of fibers350that are applied to the first tow310hsuch that the fibers350of the second tow320hfollow a serpentine shape. As shown inFIG. 59, the strands/bundles of fibers350forming the second tow320hare disposed on the first tow310hof fibers350such that several strands are disposed adjacent to one another to provide the path219with a width (W) extending in a direction across the plate200h(i.e., in a direction substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the plate200h).

In one configuration, the strands/bundles of fibers350forming the second tow320hare formed from a single, continuous strand. In other configurations, the strands/bundles of fibers350forming the second tow320hare individual segments that are attached to the first tow310hin the pattern shown inFIG. 59. Finally, the shape shown inFIG. 59could be formed from a single, continuous strand of fibers350, as shown inFIG. 59. Alternatively, the path219could include a first portion221spaced apart and separated from a second portion223. Each portion221,223could be formed from a single, continuous strand/bundle of fibers350or, alternatively, could each include multiple strands/bundles of fibers350.

In the configurations shown inFIGS. 54-59, the second tow320hcould be formed on the first tow310hsuch that the fibers350of the second tow320hare used to form the protruding elements215h. In addition to forming at least a portion of the protruding elements215h, the fibers350hof the second tow320hprovide increased strength in the areas of the protruding elements215h, thereby increasing the overall strength and performance of the plate200h. Further, at each location of the protruding elements215h, the size of the second tow320h(i.e., the area of the second tow320h) could be greater than an area of a base of its respective protruding element215hin an effort to fully support and engage each protruding element215h. Finally, the second tow320hmay be attached to the first tow310hsuch than an angle of the fibers350of the second tow320his different than an angle of the fibers350of the first tow310h. For example, a longitudinal axis of the fibers350of the first tow310hmay be approximately 90 degrees (90°) relative to a longitudinal axis of the fibers350of the second tow320h.

As shown, the protruding elements215hmay include tips217hthat are attached to distal ends of the protruding elements215hformed by the fibers350of the second tow of fibers320h. The tips217hmay be formed from the same or different material than the fibers350and may provide the protruding elements215hwith increased strength, abrasion resistance, and/or traction.

Referring toFIGS. 60-66a mold80his provided and includes an upper mold portion82and a lower mold portion84hthat molds an embroidered preform including the two or more tows300hof fibers350attached to one or more substrates400hto integrally form the footwear plate200hwith the plurality of protruding elements215hofFIGS. 50-56.FIGS. 60-62depict the embroidered preform injected/infused with the liquid material650that may include the resin material652to assist with binding/affixing the tows300hand the protruding elements215hto the substrate400h.FIGS. 63-65depict the embroidered preform including the tows300hhaving non-polymer fibers352(e.g., carbon and/or fiberglass fibers) and polymer fibers354(e.g., thermoplastic polymer fibers) that co-mingle with each other throughout the length of the tows300hto facilitate bonding with the thermoplastic polymer materials used to form the substrate400hand/or the thermoplastic material of the stitching304. In view of the substantial similarity in structure and function of the components associated with the mold80with respect to the footwear plate80h, like reference numerals are used hereinafter and in the drawings to identify like components while like reference numerals containing letter extensions are used to identify those components that have been modified.

The upper mold portion82may include a contact surface86having a surface profile that imparts a shape to the embroidered preform that conforms to the profile of the bottom surface (e.g., planta) of the foot when the embroidered preform is compressed between the mold portions82,84h. In addition to defining a shape that imparts a shape to the embroidered preform that corresponds to the ground-engaging surface212hof the plate200hwhen compressed between the mold portions82,84h, a contact surface88hof the bottom mold portion84hdefines a plurality of cavities89hthat form and shape the fibers350of the second tow320hinto corresponding ones of the plurality of protruding elements215hand, if present, receive the tips217htherein. In some examples, the lower mold portion84his fixed and the upper mold portion82translates toward the lower mold portion84hto close the mold80hand thereby compress the embroidered preform therebetween. In other examples, the lower mold portion84hand the upper mold portion82may each translate toward one another or only the lower mold portion84hmay translate toward the upper mold portion82.

FIG. 60shows the mold80hopen and the embroidered preform positioned between the upper mold portion82and the lower mold portion84hand the tips217hpositioned in their corresponding cavities89h. The tows300hmay attach to the substrate400hwithout penetrating the substrate400hto form multiple layers upon the top surface410hof the substrate400halong areas associated with the discrete locations218. For instance, the tows300hmay attach to the substrate400hvia stitching304that crosses over the tows300hand penetrates the substrate400hat attachment locations305spaced apart from the tows300hand/or penetrating thru at least one of the tows300h. In some examples, the stitching305is formed from resin that includes a thermoplastic and/or thermoset material. In some configurations, the at least two tows300hinclude the first and second tows310h,320hofFIGS. 50-56attached to the substrate400hto form corresponding first and second layers upon the top surface410hof the substrate200hwhere the tows310h,320hoverlap in the discrete regions218associated with the locations of the protruding elements.

In the example shown, the embroidered preform is infused with a liquid material650that coats/encapsulates exterior portions of the at least two tows300hand partially penetrates interior portions of the tows300hto bind the tows300hto the substrate400, the tips217hand/or other tows300when heat and pressure is applied. The liquid material650includes a thermoset material applied to the preform300h,400hin a molten state and includes at least one of an epoxy, a polyurethane, a polymerizable composition, and a pre-polymer. Moreover, one or more polymers, such as rubber and/or block copolymer, may be added to the liquid material650to increase ductility when the liquid material650cures. Additionally or alternatively, a resin material652may be incorporated into the at least two tows300hand/or the liquid material650to assist with binding/affixing the at least two tows300hto the substrate400and the tips217h.

The mold80hmay close by transitioning at least one of the upper mold portion82and the lower mold portion84htoward the other one of the upper mold portion82and the lower mold portion84h.FIG. 61shows the mold80hclosed and pressure applied to the embroidered preform. The pressure causes the fibers350of the second tow320hto extend into the cavities89h, thereby forming the protruding elements215hby subjecting the preform300h,400hto at least one of compression molding and vacuum molding while enclosed between the mold portions82,84h. Moreover, the mold80hmay simultaneously apply heat to assist with conforming the embroidered preform to the shape of at least one of the corresponding contact surfaces86,88hand to the shape of the cavities89h, thereby forming the protruding elements215hinto the embroidered preform, and curing the embroidered preform to provide the footwear plate200hincluding the protruding elements215hextending from the ground-engaging surface212hand having the three-dimensional shape and structural rigidity. The heat, pressure, and liquid material650may additionally serve to attach one or more tips217hto respective ones of the protruding elements215h. The upper and/or lower mold portions82,84hmay include a plurality of conduits configured to channel a heated liquid, such as water, through the corresponding mold portion(s)82,84h. Here, the heated liquid raises the overall temperature of the corresponding mold portion82,84hand the preform300h,400hconducts the heat from the mold portion(s)82,84h, thereby raising the temperature of the preform300h,400hto a temperature suitable for melting and/or curing one or more materials associated therewith. In some implementations, the preform300h,400his heated prior to placement within the mold80.

In some configurations, the substrate400his formed from a thermoplastic film and at least a portion of the stitching304attaching the tows300hto the substrate400hmay be formed from the same thermoplastic material as the thermoplastic film forming the substrate400h. The thermoplastic stitching304may include a higher melting point than the thermoplastic film so that the stitching304melts after the thermoplastic film, thereby permitting the stitching304to hold the at least two tows300hin position upon the substrate400has the thermoplastic film of the substrate400hbegins to melt. Additionally, in configurations when the resin material652is incorporated into the at least two tows300h, the heat and pressure activates the resin material652to bind the fibers350associated with the tows300hin addition to the stitching304when at least a portion of the stitching is formed from resin. Moreover, the liquid material650(e.g., thermoset material with or without the addition of the ductility increasing polymers) infuses the tows300hof fibers350when the mold80his closed. Applying at least one of heat and pressure to cure the liquid material650(e.g., cure the thermoset material) binds the tows300hto the substrate400h, other tows300h, and the protruding elements215h.

Referring toFIG. 62, the mold80hopens by translating the upper mold portion82away from the lower mold portion84hand/or the lower mold portion84haway from upper mold portion82. The liquid material650(thermoset material) infused into the tows300hand/or the thermoplastic material forming the substrate400hand/or the stitching304are cured to form the substantially rigid footwear plate200hwith a three-dimensional shape and the protruding elements215hformed into the plate200hand projecting from the ground-engaging surface212hthereof. Thereafter, the footwear plate200hmay be incorporated into the article of footwear10h.

In another implementation of forming the footwear plate200hwith the mold80h,FIG. 63shows the mold80hopen and the embroidered preform positioned between the upper mold portion82and the lower mold portion84hand the tips217hpositioned in their corresponding cavities89h. In the same manner as described above with reference toFIG. 60, the tows300hmay attach to the substrate400hvia the thermoplastic stitching304that penetrates the substrate400hat the attachment locations305spaced apart from the tows300hand/or penetrating thru at least one of the tows300h. The thermoplastic stitching304may include the higher melting point than the thermoplastic film of the substrate400hto hold the at least two tows300hin position upon the substrate400has the thermoplastic film of the substrate400hbegins to melt. Additionally, the resin material652may be incorporated into the at least two tows300hto activate when subjected to heat and pressure to bind the fibers350associated with the tows300hin addition to the stitching304when at least the portion of the stitching is formed from resin. In contrast to the examples ofFIGS. 60-62, the embroidered preform is not infused with the liquid material650that includes the thermoset material in the molten state to assist with binding the tows300hto the tips217hand the substrate400h. Instead, the fibers350associated with the tows300hinclude the non-polymer fibers (e.g., carbon fibers) and the polymer fibers354(e.g., thermoplastic polymer fibers) that co-mingle with each other throughout the length of the tows300hto facilitate bonding with the thermoplastic polymer materials used to form the substrate400h. An additional thermoplastic sheet or film may be disposed between the bottom surface412hof the substrate and the tips217hto facilitate bonding between the tows300h, substrate400h, and the tips217h. Additionally or alternatively, portions of the tips217hmay be formed from thermoplastic materials, or coated with thermoplastic materials, to facilitate bonding when the embroidered preform is compressed between the mold portions82,84hand the material of the second tow320his received within the cavities89hand contacts the respective tips217h. The resin material652may be incorporated to assist in binding the tows300hand substrate400hwith the tips217hto form the tips217hinto the finished footwear plate200hat each of the discrete regions218. In other configurations, a liquid thermoplastic material may be injected into the cavities89hto form the tips217hinto the embroidered preform upon compressing the preform300h,400hbetween the upper mold portion82and the lower mold portion84h.

FIG. 64provides a cross-sectional view taken along line64-64ofFIG. 63showing the stitching304attaching the first tow310hof fibers350and the second tow320hof fibers350to the top surface410hof the substrate400hat the discrete regions218corresponding to the locations where the protruding elements215hwill form into the preform300h,400h. In the regions/areas outside the discrete regions218, the first tow310hof fibers350forms the first layer on the substrate400hwithout the second tow320hof fibers350applied upon the first tow310h. Accordingly, the embroidered preform includes a greater concentration/density of fibers350,352,354at the discrete regions218to provide additional structural integrity for the finished footwear plate200hat the corresponding locations incorporating the integrally formed protruding elements215hand, further, to provide sufficient material to form the protruding elements215h. The stitching304may penetrate through at least the top surface410hof the substrate400hand zigzag across the first tow310hand the second tow320hbetween the attachment locations305. In some configurations, the stitching304penetrates through the first tow310hof fibers350. The non-polymer fibers352(e.g., carbon fibers) and the polymer fibers354(e.g., thermoplastic polymer fibers) may include circular cross sections that co-mingle with each other throughout the length of the first tow310.

FIG. 65shows the mold80hclosed and pressure applied to the embroidered preform by subjecting the preform300h,400hto at least one of compression molding and vacuum molding while enclosed between the mold portions82,84h. As described above with reference toFIG. 61, the mold80hmay simultaneously apply heat to assist with the embroidered preform conforming to the shape of at least one of the corresponding contact surfaces86,88hand to form the protruding elements215hwithin the respective cavities89h. This process may also cure the embroidered preform to provide the footwear plate200hincluding the protruding elements215hextending from the ground-engaging surface212hand having the three-dimensional shape and structural rigidity.

The application of heat and pressure while the mold80his closed is operative to thermoform the thermoplastic polymer fibers354of the tows300h, the thermoplastic stitching304, and the thermoplastic film to join the tows300hand the tips217h(if present) to the substrate400h. Additionally or alternatively, portions of the tips217hthat contact the material of the second tow320hduring formation of the protruding elements215hmay be formed from thermoplastic materials, or coated with thermoplastic materials, to facilitate bonding with the protruding elements215hwithin the mold portions82,84h. The resin material652may be incorporated to assist in binding the tows300hand substrate400hat each of the discrete regions218. In other configurations, a liquid thermoplastic material may be injected into the cavities89hto form the tips217hinto the embroidered preform upon compressing the preform300h,400hbetween the upper mold portion82and the lower mold portion84h.

Referring toFIG. 66, the mold80hopens by translating the upper mold portion82away from the lower mold portion84hand/or the lower mold portion84haway from upper mold portion82. The thermoplastic polymer fibers354co-mingled through the length of the tows300h, the thermoplastic material forming the substrate400hand/or the stitching304are cured to form the substantially rigid footwear plate200hwith a three-dimensional shape and the protruding elements215hformed into the plate200hand projecting from the ground-engaging surface212hthereof. Thereafter, the footwear plate200hmay be incorporated into the article of footwear10h.

FIGS. 67-70provide embroidered preforms used to form three-dimensional and substantially rigid plates200i,200j,200k,200lthat may be incorporated into athletic equipment and/or apparel. In view of the substantial similarity in structure and function of the components associated with the footwear plate200i−1 with respect to the footwear plate200, like reference numerals are used hereinafter and in the drawings to identify like components while like reference numerals containing letter extensions are used to identify those components that have been modified.

FIG. 67provides one or more composite plates200ithat may be incorporated into athletic apparel to provide padding with increased durability, increased strength, and/or reduced weight compared to conventional padding. The composite plates200iare substantially rigid and designed with an emphasis to absorb impacts directed toward thighs and/or knees of an athlete. While the example shown includes a pair of football pants1100incorporating multiple composite plates200ito provide padding, other examples may include girdles, pants, shorts, or shirts that incorporate one or more composite plates200ito provide padding for other sports. For instance, a hockey girdle may incorporate one or more of the composite plates200ihaving modified shapes to absorb impacts along the thighs, hips, or tail bone. Each plate200imay be formed from at least one tow300iof fibers350affixed/attached to a surface of a substrate400to form one or more layers of fibers350upon the substrate.

In some examples, multiple tows300iof fibers350are affixed/attached to the substrate to form corresponding layers on the substrate. Stitching (e.g., thermoplastic stitching) may be used to join the tows300ito the substrate. In these examples, at least one of the tows300iis applied to the substrate in a different shape than the other tows300iapplied to the substrate. Additionally or alternatively, the each tow300imay be formed from a same continuous, strand of fibers350, or at least one of the tows300imay be formed from a different strand of fibers350than the other tows. Moreover, a density/concentration of tows300imay vary across the plate200ito provide gradient stiffness properties along the plate200i. For instance, center regions of the plates200imay include a greater concentration of fibers350than perimeter regions of the plates200ito provide increased stiffness at locations where the force of an impact is greater. For instance, at least two different tows300iof fibers350may overlap in specified regions of the plates200ito increase the concentration of fibers350. The material(s) of the tows300iof fibers350may cooperate to provide gradient stiffness and gradient load paths throughout the plate200i.FIG. 67shows the multiple tows300iof fibers350including curved paths that change directions based on anatomical features of the leg and/or knee. The plate200imay be subjected to heat and pressure to form the plate200iwith a three-dimensional shape and cured to impart structural rigidity throughout the plate200i.

FIG. 68provides a perspective view of a baseball cap1200including a brim1202formed from a tow300jof fibers350attached to a substrate400jin accordance with principles of the present disclosure. The brim1202may attach a cap portion1204that fits around a head and that may be formed from one or more textile materials. In some examples, the brim1202is integrally formed with the substrate400jused to form a curved and substantially rigid plate200jthat extends from the cap portion1204. The substantially rigid plate200jmay impart properties of low weight associated with conventional brims1202while providing increased durability over a lifespan of the cap1200. In some examples, one or more tows300jof fibers350attach to a surface of the substrate400jto provide an embroidered preform that may be subjected to heat and pressure to form the plate200jhaving a curved profile and cured to impart increased rigidity throughout the plate200j. In some examples, the finished plate200jmay be encapsulated within a textile material to provide the appearance of a conventional brim1202and attached to the cap portion1204. In other examples, at least a portion of the plate200jmay be exposed for aesthetics.

FIG. 69provides a perspective view of a helmet1302incorporating a composite plate200kformed from at least one tow300kof fibers350in accordance with principles of the present disclosure. The composite plate200kis substantially rigid and designed with an emphasis to absorb head-impacts that may result in sports such as, without limitation, cycling, hockey, football, lacrosse, skateboarding, and kayaking. The plate200kmay be formed from at least one tow300kof fibers350affixed/attached to a surface of a substrate400to form one or more layers on the substrate. For instance, each tow300kmay be formed from a same continuous, strand of fibers350, or at least one tow300kmay be formed from a different strand of fibers350than the other tows. For instance, some tows300kmay surround a perimeter of voids1302formed in the helmet1302while other tows300kmay extend around or terminate at each of the voids1302. Moreover, a density/concentration of tows300kmay vary across the plate200kto provide gradient stiffness properties along the plate200k. For instance, regions of the plates200kthat surround the sides and back of the head may provide a greater concentration of fibers350that regions of the plate200kextending over the top of the head to provide increased stiffness at locations where impact forces are greater. The material(s) of the tows300kof fibers350may cooperate to provide gradient stiffness and gradient load paths throughout the plate200k.

FIG. 70provides a top view of a preform plate200lincluding a first tow300l,310lof fibers350and a second tow300l,320lof fibers350disposed upon a top surface of a substrate400lview to form a shin guard1400in accordance with principles of the present disclosure

Stitching may attach the tows310l,320lto the substrate400lat corresponding attachment locations that may penetrate the substrate400lthrough at least the top surface of the substrate. The first tow310l(i.e., first strand portion) may define a plurality of first segments312lthat each extend between two different locations along the substrate400lto form a layer thereon and define at least one void1402exposing the substrate400l. In some configurations, portions of the first segments312lthat extend beyond a perimeter edge402lof the substrate400lare removed to define a perimeter of the finished shin guard1400. In some examples, looped portions of the first segments312lthat extend outside the perimeter edge402lare removed to eliminate the presence of pinch points when the embroidered preform plate200lis subjected to heat and pressure. The substrate400lmay be removed within each void1402to provide the shin guard1400with the one or more voids1402to reduce weight. The second tow320lof fibers350may operate as an inner reinforcement area surrounding the voids1402. Here, the inner reinforcement area defined by the second tow320lmay provide additional reinforcement or structural support for the first segments312lof the first tow310lin regions proximate to the at least one void1402.

The following Clauses provide an exemplary configuration for a method of forming an article of footwear.

Clause 1: A method of forming an article of footwear comprising attaching a first strand portion to a flexible substrate to form a first layer on the substrate, positioning a second strand portion on the first layer to form a second layer on the first layer in a plurality of discrete regions on the substrate, positioning the substrate on a first mold surface to change a shape of the substrate, and applying at least one of heat and pressure to the first strand portion, the second strand portion, and the substrate to conform the substrate to the shape of the first mold surface and to form traction elements from the second strand portion at each of the discrete regions. The method also includes incorporating the substrate into an article of footwear.

Clause 2: The method of Clause 1, wherein positioning the substrate on the first mold surface includes aligning cavities formed into the first mold surface with the discrete regions of the substrate.

Clause 3: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein attaching the first strand portion to the flexible substrate includes attaching the first strand portion to the flexible substrate via first stitching that crosses over the first strand portion and penetrates the substrate at first attachment locations that are spaced apart from the first strand portion.

Clause 4: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein positioning the second portion on the first layer includes attaching the first strand portion to the flexible substrate via second stitching that crosses over the second strand portion, extends through the first strand portion, and penetrates the substrate at second attachment locations disposed in the discrete regions of the substrate.

Clause 5: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming the second strand portion from a plurality of different strands of fibers each corresponding to one of the discrete regions.

Clause 6: The method of Clause 1, further comprising forming at least one of the first strand portion and the second strand portion of the same, continuous strand.

Clause 7: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming the first strand portion from a first tow of fibers including at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymeric fibers.

Clause 8: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming the second strand portion from a second tow of fibers including at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymeric fibers.

Clause 9: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising: providing the first strand portion with looped portions disposed proximate to a peripheral edge of the substrate, the looped portions connecting adjacent first segments; and removing at least one of the looped portions that extends outside the peripheral edge of the substrate.

Clause 10: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising providing the first layer and the second layer with segments having different densities.

Clause 11: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein attaching the first strand portion includes applying first segments of the first strand portion to the substrate in a first shape and positioning the second strand portion includes applying second segments of the second strand portion to the first layer in a second shape different than the first shape.

Clause 12: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein applying at least one of heat and pressure includes at least one of activating a polymeric resin incorporated into the first strand portion and the second strand portion and infusing the first strand portion, the second strand portion and the substrate with a liquid material, the liquid material being a thermoset material.

Clause 13: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein applying at least one of heat and pressure includes subjecting the first strand portion, the second strand portion, and the substrate to at least one of vacuum molding and compression molding.

Clause 14: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming the substrate from a thermoplastic film.

Clause 15: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein incorporating the substrate into the article of footwear includes attaching the substrate to an upper of the article of footwear.

Clause 16: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising positioning a third strand portion on the substrate between the plurality of traction elements.

Clause 17: The method of Clause 16, wherein positioning a third strand portion on the substrate between the plurality of traction elements includes wrapping the third strand portion around the plurality of traction elements.

Clause 18: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising positioning a plurality of traction element tips into corresponding cavities formed into the first mold surface and wherein applying at least one of heat and pressure to the first strand portion, the second strand portion, and the substrate comprises applying at least one of heat and pressure to the first strand portion, the second strand portion, the substrate, and the traction element tips.

Clause 19: The method of Clause 18, further comprising attaching the traction element tips to respective ones of the plurality of traction elements.

Clause 20: A method of forming an article of footwear, the method comprising: attaching a first strand portion to a flexible first substrate to form a first layer on the first substrate; positioning a second strand portion on the first layer at a first region to form a second layer on the first layer within the first region, the second layer cooperating with the first layer to provide an area of increased thickness within the first region; positioning the first substrate on a first mold surface to change a shape of the first substrate; applying at least one of heat and pressure to the first strand portion, the second strand portion, and the first substrate to conform the first substrate to the shape of the first mold surface; and incorporating the first substrate into an article of footwear.

Clause 21: The method of Clause 20, wherein positioning the second strand portion on the first layer at the first region includes positioning the second strand portion on the first layer within a midfoot region of the first substrate.

Clause 22: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising positioning the second strand portion on a second substrate.

Clause 23: The method of Clause 22, wherein positioning the second strand portion on the first layer includes positioning the second substrate between the second strand portion and the first strand portion.

Clause 24: The method of Clause 20, wherein positioning the second strand portion on the first layer at the first region includes positioning the second strand portion directly on the first layer.

Clause 25: The method of Clause 20, wherein positioning the second strand portion on the first layer at the first region includes positioning the second strand portion on the first layer within a heel region of the first substrate.

Clause 26: The method of Clause 25, wherein positioning the second strand portion within the heel region includes extending the second strand portion around a perimeter edge of the first substrate.

Clause 27: The method of Clause 26, wherein extending the second strand portion around a perimeter edge of the substrate includes extending a plurality of segments of the second strand portion from a medial side of the first substrate to a lateral side of the first substrate.

Clause 28: The method of Clause 27, further comprising layering adjacent segments of the plurality of segments of the second strand portion on top of one another.

Clause 29: The method of Clause 28, wherein layering adjacent segments of the plurality of segments of the second strand portion includes forming sequential layers that are progressively further away from the first layer and/or are progressively shorter as the segments are deposited on one another.

Clause 30: The method of Clauses 25-29, further comprising attaching the second strand portion to a second substrate.

Clause 31: The method of Clause 30, further comprising attaching the second substrate to the first substrate.

Clause 32: The method of Clause 31, wherein attaching the second substrate to the first substrate includes attaching the second substrate to the first substrate proximate to an outer perimeter edge of the first substrate within the heel region.

Clause 33: The method of Clause 31, wherein attaching the second substrate to the first substrate includes attaching the second substrate to the first substrate along an outer perimeter edge of the first substrate within the heel region.

Clause 34: The method of Clauses 25-29, further comprising folding the first substrate at the heel region to form the first substrate into a first segment and a second segment, the first segment defining the heel region, a forefoot region and a midfoot region and the second segment extending in a direction away from the first segment at the heel region.

Clause 35: The method of Clause 34, wherein positioning the second strand portion on the first layer includes positioning the second strand portion on the second segment of the first substrate.

Clause 36: The method of Clause 34, wherein folding the first substrate at the heel region includes positioning the second segment substantially perpendicular to the first segment.

Clause 37: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein attaching the first strand portion to the first substrate includes attaching the first strand portion to the first substrate via first stitching that crosses over the first strand portion and penetrates the first substrate at first attachment locations that are spaced apart from the first strand portion.

Clause 38: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein positioning the second strand portion on the first layer includes attaching the first strand portion to the first substrate via second stitching that crosses over the second strand portion, extends through the first strand portion, and penetrates the first substrate at second attachment locations disposed in the discrete regions of the first substrate.

Clause 39: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming the second strand portion from a plurality of different strands of fibers.

Clause 40: The method of Clause 20, further comprising forming at least one of the first strand portion and the second strand portion of the same, continuous strand.

Clause 41: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming the first strand portion from a first tow of fibers including at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymeric fibers.

Clause 42: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming the second strand portion from a second tow of fibers including at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymeric fibers.

Clause 43: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising: providing the first strand portion with looped portions disposed proximate to a peripheral edge of the first substrate, the looped portions connecting adjacent first segments; and removing at least one of the looped portions that extends outside the peripheral edge of the first substrate.

Clause 44: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising providing the first layer and the second layer with segments having different densities.

Clause 45: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein attaching the first strand portion includes applying first segments of the first strand portion to the first substrate in a first shape and positioning the second strand portion includes applying second segments of the second strand portion to the first layer in a second shape different than the first shape.

Clause 46: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein applying at least one of heat and pressure includes at least one of activating a polymeric resin incorporated into the first strand portion and the second strand portion and infusing the first strand portion, the second strand portion, and the first substrate with a liquid material, the liquid material being a thermoset material.

Clause 47: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein applying at least one of heat and pressure includes subjecting the first strand portion, the second strand portion, and the first substrate to at least one of vacuum molding and compression molding.

Clause 48: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming the first substrate from a thermoplastic film.

Clause 49: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein incorporating the first substrate into the article of footwear includes attaching the first substrate to an upper of the article of footwear.

Clause 50: A method of forming an article of footwear, the method comprising: attaching a first strand portion to a flexible first substrate to form a first layer on the first substrate; extending a second strand portion from the first layer at a first region to form a second layer within the first region, the second layer forming a projection that extends from the first layer at a peripheral edge of the first substrate; positioning the first substrate on a first mold surface to change a shape of the first substrate; applying at least one of heat and pressure to the first strand portion, the second strand portion, and the first substrate to conform the first substrate to the shape of the first mold surface; and incorporating the first substrate into an article of footwear.

Clause 51: The method of Clause 50, wherein extending the second strand portion from the first layer includes extending the second strand portion from the first layer within a midfoot region of the first substrate.

Clause 52: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising positioning the second strand portion on a second substrate.

Clause 53: The method of Clause 52, wherein extending the second strand portion from the first layer includes positioning the second substrate between the second strand portion and the first strand portion.

Clause 54: The method of Clause 50, wherein extending the second strand portion from the first layer at the first region includes positioning the second strand portion directly on the first layer.

Clause 55: The method of Clause 50, wherein extending the second strand portion from the first layer at the first region includes positioning the second strand portion on the first layer within a heel region of the first substrate.

Clause 56: The method of Clause 55, wherein positioning the second strand portion within the heel region includes extending the second strand portion around a perimeter edge of the first substrate.

Clause 57: The method of Clause 56, wherein extending the second strand portion around a perimeter edge of the substrate includes extending a plurality of segments of the second strand portion from a medial side of the first substrate to a lateral side of the first substrate.

Clause 58: The method of Clause 57, further comprising layering adjacent segments of the plurality of segments of the second strand portion on top of one another.

Clause 59: The method of Clause 58, wherein layering adjacent segments of the plurality of segments of the second strand portion includes forming sequential layers that are progressively further away from the first layer and/or are progressively shorter as the segments are deposited on one another.

Clause 60: The method of Clauses 55-59, further comprising attaching the second strand portion to a second substrate.

Clause 61: The method of Clause 60, further comprising attaching the second substrate to the first substrate.

Clause 62: The method of Clause 61, wherein attaching the second substrate to the first substrate includes attaching the second substrate to the first substrate proximate to the outer peripheral edge of the first substrate within the heel region.

Clause 63: The method of Clause 61, wherein attaching the second substrate to the first substrate includes attaching the second substrate to the first substrate along an outer perimeter edge of the first substrate within the heel region.

Clause 64: The method of Clauses 55-59, further comprising folding the first substrate at the heel region to form the first substrate into a first segment and a second segment, the first segment defining the heel region, a forefoot region and a midfoot region and the second segment extending in a direction away from the first segment at the heel region.

Clause 65: The method of Clause 64, wherein extending the second strand portion from the first layer includes positioning the second strand portion on the second segment of the first substrate.

Clause 66: The method of Clause 64, wherein folding the first substrate at the heel region includes positioning the second segment substantially perpendicular to the first segment.

Clause 67: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein attaching the first strand portion to the first substrate includes attaching the first strand portion to the first substrate via first stitching that crosses over the first strand portion and penetrates the first substrate at first attachment locations that are spaced apart from the first strand portion.

Clause 68: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein positioning the second strand portion on the first layer includes attaching the first strand portion to the first substrate via second stitching that crosses over the second strand portion, extends through the first strand portion, and penetrates the first substrate at second attachment locations disposed in the discrete regions of the first substrate.

Clause 69: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming the second strand portion from a plurality of different strands of fibers.

Clause 70: The method of Clause 50, further comprising forming at least one of the first strand portion and the second strand portion of the same, continuous strand.

Clause 71: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming the first strand portion from a first tow of fibers including at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymeric fibers.

Clause 72: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming the second strand portion from a second tow of fibers including at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymeric fibers.

Clause 73: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising: providing the first strand portion with looped portions disposed proximate to the peripheral edge of the first substrate, the looped portions connecting adjacent first segments; and removing at least one of the looped portions that extends outside the peripheral edge of the first substrate.

Clause 74: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising providing the first layer and the second layer with segments having different densities.

Clause 75: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein attaching the first strand portion includes applying first segments of the first strand portion to the first substrate in a first shape and positioning the second strand portion includes applying second segments of the second strand portion to the first layer in a second shape different than the first shape.

Clause 76: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein applying at least one of heat and pressure includes at least one of activating a polymeric resin incorporated into the first strand portion and the second strand portion and infusing the first strand portion, the second strand portion, and the first substrate with a liquid material, the liquid material being a thermoset material.

Clause 77: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein applying at least one of heat and pressure includes subjecting the first strand portion, the second strand portion, and the first substrate to at least one of vacuum molding and compression molding.

Clause 78: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming the first substrate from a thermoplastic film.

Clause 79: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein incorporating the first substrate into the article of footwear includes attaching the first substrate to an upper of the article of footwear.

Clause 80: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein extending the second strand portion from the first layer at the peripheral edge includes extending the second strand portion from a peripheral edge located in at least one of a heel region, a midfoot region, and a forefoot region.

Clause 81: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein extending the second strand portion from the first layer at the peripheral edge includes extending the second strand portion from a forward-most peripheral edge or a rearward-most peripheral edge of the first substrate, the forward-most peripheral edge being disposed on an opposite end of the first substrate than the rearward-most peripheral edge along a longitudinal axis of the first substrate.

Clause 82: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein extending the second strand portion from the first layer at the peripheral edge includes extending the second strand portion from a peripheral edge extending along a medial side of the first substrate or from a peripheral edge extending along a lateral side of the first substrate.

Clause 83: An article made by the method of any of Clauses 1-82.

Clause 84: An article of footwear made by receiving an upper, receiving a plate made by the method of any of Clauses 1-82, and operably connecting the upper to the plate to form the article of footwear.

Clause 85: An article of footwear comprising an upper and a plate including a ground-contacting surface having a plurality of traction elements integrally formed with the plate and extending in a direction away from the upper, a first strand portion forming a first layer, and a second strand portion forming a second layer and disposed on the first strand portion at discrete locations. The second strand portion forming at least a portion of the plurality of traction elements at the discrete locations.

Clause 86: The article of footwear of Clause 85, further comprising a plurality of traction element tips respectively attached to distal ends of the plurality of traction elements.

Clause 87: The article of footwear of Clause 86, wherein the traction element tips are attached to the distal ends via an adhesive.

Clause 88: The article of footwear of Clause 86, wherein the traction element tips are molded onto the distal ends.

Clause 89: The article of footwear of Clauses 85-88, wherein the first strand portion is formed from a first tow of fibers and the second strand portion is formed from a second tow of fibers.

Clause 90: The article of footwear of Clause 89, wherein the first tow of fibers and the second tow of fibers are formed from the same material.

Clause 91: The article of footwear of Clause 89, wherein the first tow of fibers and the second tow of fibers are formed from different materials.

Clause 92: The article of footwear of Clause 89, wherein the first tow of fibers and the second tow of fibers include at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymeric fibers.

Clause 93: The article of footwear of any of Clauses 89-92, wherein the first tow of fibers and the second tow of fibers include approximately the same number of fibers.

Clause 94: The article of footwear of any of Clauses 89-92, wherein the first tow of fibers and the second tow of fibers include a different number of fibers.

Clause 95: A plate comprising a first surface including a plurality of protruding elements integrally formed with the plate and extending in a direction away from the first surface, a first strand portion forming a first layer, and a second strand portion forming a second layer and disposed on the first strand portion at discrete locations. The second strand portion forming at least a portion of the plurality of protruding elements at the discrete locations.

Clause 96: The plate of Clause 95, further comprising a plurality of tips respectively attached to distal ends of the plurality of protruding elements.

Clause 97: The plate of Clause 96, wherein the tips are attached to the distal ends via an adhesive.

Clause 98: The plate of Clause 96, wherein the tips are molded onto the distal ends.

Clause 99: The plate of Clauses 95-98, wherein the first strand portion is formed from a first tow of fibers and the second strand portion is formed from a second tow of fibers.

Clause 100: The plate of Clause 99, wherein the first tow of fibers and the second tow of fibers are formed from the same material.

Clause 101: The plate of Clause 99, wherein the first tow of fibers and the second tow of fibers are formed from different materials.

Clause 102: The plate of Clause 99, wherein the first tow of fibers and the second tow of fibers include at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymeric fibers.

Clause 103: The plate of any of Clauses 99-102, wherein the first tow of fibers and the second tow of fibers include approximately the same number of fibers.

Clause 104: The plate of any of Clauses 99-102, wherein the first tow of fibers and the second tow of fibers include a different number of fibers.

Clause 105: An article incorporating the plate of any of Clauses 95-104.

Clause 106: An article of footwear incorporating the plate of any of Clauses 95-104.

Clause 107: A plate for an article of footwear, the plate comprising a substrate and a first strand portion attached to the substrate and forming a first layer on the substrate, the first strand portion attached to the substrate via first stitching that crosses over the first strand portion and penetrates the substrate at first attachment locations that are spaced apart from the first strand portion and a second strand portion disposed on the first layer and forming a second layer, the second strand portion attached to the substrate via second stitching that crosses over the second strand portion, extends through the first strand portion, and penetrates the substrate at second attachment locations.

Clause 108: The plate of Clause 107, wherein the first strand portion is disposed between the second attachment locations and the second strand portion.

Clause 109: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first strand portion and the second strand portion are portions of the same, continuous strand.

Clause 110: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first strand portion and the second strand portion are formed from the same material.

Clause 111: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first strand portion and the second strand portion are formed from different materials.

Clause 112: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first strand portion is formed from a first tow of fibers.

Clause 113: The plate of clause 112, wherein the first tow of fibers includes at least one of carbon fibers, aramid fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymer fibers.

Clause 114: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the second strand portion is formed from a second tow of fibers.

Clause 115: The plate of clause 114, wherein the second tow of fibers includes at least one of carbon fibers, aramid fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymer fibers.

Clause 116: The plate of clause 115, wherein the second tow of fibers includes approximately the same number of fibers as the first tow of fibers.

Clause 117: The plate of clause 115, wherein the second tow of fibers includes a different number of fibers than the first tow of fibers.

Clause 118: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first strand portion and the second strand portion have different lengths.

Clause 119: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first strand portion and the second strand portion have approximately the same length.

Clause 120: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first strand portion forms a first void in the first layer.

Clause 121: The plate of clause 120, wherein the substrate is exposed within the first void.

Clause 122: The plate of clause 120, wherein the second strand portion forms a second void in the second layer.

Clause 123: The plate of clause 122, wherein the second void is aligned with the first void to expose the substrate at the second layer.

Clause 124: The plate of clause 122, wherein the second void is spaced apart from the first void.

Clause 125: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first strand portion is applied to the substrate in a first shape and the second strand portion is applied to the first layer in a second shape.

Clause 126: The plate of clause 125, wherein the first shape is approximately the same as the second shape.

Clause 127: The plate of clause 125, wherein the first shape is different than the second shape.

Clause 128: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one of the first stitching and the second stitching is formed from resin.

Clause 129: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one of the first stitching and the second stitching is formed from the same material as the substrate.

Clause 130: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one of the first stitching and the second stitching has a higher melting point than the substrate.

Clause 131: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first stitching zigzags across the first strand portion between the first attachment locations.

Clause 132: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the second stitching zigzags across the second strand portion between the second attachment locations.

Clause 133: A plate for an article of footwear, the plate comprising a substrate defining a peripheral edge and a first strand portion attached to the substrate and including first segments that each extend between two different locations along the peripheral edge of the substrate to form a first layer on the substrate, the first segments being disposed adjacent and substantially parallel to one another and a second strand portion disposed on the first layer and including second segments that each extend between two different locations along the peripheral edge of the substrate to form a second layer on the first layer, the second segments being convergent with the first segments and disposed adjacent and substantially parallel to one another.

Clause 134: The plate of clause 133, wherein at least one of the first strand portion and the second strand portion is a continuous strand.

Clause 135: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first strand portion and the second strand portion are portions of the same, continuous strand.

Clause 136: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first strand portion and the second strand portion are formed from the same material.

Clause 137: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first strand portion and the second strand portion are formed from different materials.

Clause 138: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first strand portion is formed from a first tow of fibers.

Clause 139: The plate of clause 138, wherein the first tow of fibers includes at least one of carbon fibers, aramid fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymer fibers.

Clause 140: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the second strand portion is formed from a second tow of fibers.

Clause 141: The plate of clause 140, wherein the second tow of fibers includes at least one of carbon fibers, aramid fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymer fibers.

Clause 142: The plate of clause 141, wherein the second tow of fibers includes approximately the same number of fibers as the first tow of fibers.

Clause 143: The plate of clause 141, wherein the second tow of fibers includes a different number of fibers than the first tow of fibers.

Clause 144: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first strand portion includes first looped portions disposed proximate to the peripheral edge of the substrate, the first looped portions connecting adjacent first segments.

Clause 145: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the second strand portion includes second looped portions disposed proximate to the peripheral edge of the substrate, the second looped portions connecting adjacent second segments.

Clause 146: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first strand portion forms a first void in the first layer.

Clause 147: The plate of clause 146, wherein the substrate is exposed within the first void.

Clause 148: The plate of clause 146, wherein the second strand portion forms a second void in the second layer.

Clause 149: The plate of clause 148, wherein the second void is aligned with the first void to expose the substrate at the second layer.

Clause 150: The plate of clause 148, wherein the second void is spaced apart from the first void.

Clause 151: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first segments are applied to the substrate at a first angle relative to a longitudinal axis of the substrate and the second segments are applied to the first layer at a second angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the substrate that is different than the first angle.

Clause 152: The plate of clause 151, further comprising a third strand portion disposed on the second layer and including third segments that each extend between two different locations along the peripheral edge of the substrate to form a third layer on the second layer, the third segments being convergent with the first segments and the second segments and disposed adjacent and substantially parallel to one another.

Clause 153: The plate of clause 152, wherein the third segments are applied to the second layer at a third angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the substrate that is different than the first angle and the second angle.

Clause 154: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first strand portion is attached to the substrate via first stitching and the second strand portion is attached to the substrate via second stitching.

Clause 155: The plate of Clause 154, wherein at least one of the first stitching and the second stitching is formed from the same material as the substrate.

Clause 156: The plate of Clause 154, wherein at least one of the first stitching and the second stitching has a higher melting point than the substrate.

Clause 157: The plate of Clause 154, wherein at least one of the first stitching and the second stitching is formed from resin.

Clause 158: The plate of Clause 154, wherein the first stitching zigzags across the first strand portion and penetrates the substrate at first attachment locations.

Clause 159: The plate of Clause 158, wherein the first attachment locations are spaced apart from the first strand portion.

Clause 160: The plate of Clause 158, wherein the second stitching zigzags across the second strand portion and penetrates the substrate at second attachment locations.

Clause 161: The plate of Clause 160, wherein the first strand portions are disposed between the second layer and the second attachment locations.

Clause 162: The plate of Clause 160, wherein the second stitching extends though the first strand portion.

Clause 163: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first layer and the second layer are anisotropic.

Clause 164: A plate for an article of footwear, the plate comprising a substrate and a first strand portion attached to the substrate and forming a first layer on the substrate, the first strand portion forming a first void in the first layer to expose the substrate within the first void.

Clause 165: The plate of Clause 164, further comprising a second strand portion disposed on the first layer and forming a second layer.

Clause 166: The plate of Clause 165, wherein the first strand portion and the second strand portion are portions of the same, continuous strand.

Clause 167: The plate of Clause 165, wherein the first strand portion and the second strand portion are formed from the same material.

Clause 168: The plate of Clause 165, wherein the first strand portion and the second strand portion are formed from different materials.

Clause 169: The plate of any of Clause 165, wherein the first strand portion and the second strand portion have different lengths.

Clause 170: The plate of Clause 165, wherein the first strand portion and the second strand portion have approximately the same length.

Clause 171: The plate of Clause 165, wherein the second strand portion forms a second void in the second layer.

Clause 172: The plate of Clause 171, wherein the second void is aligned with the first void to expose the substrate at the second layer.

Clause 173: The plate of Clause 171, wherein the second void is spaced apart from the first void.

Clause 174: The plate of Clause 165, wherein the first strand portion is applied to the substrate in a first shape and the second strand portion is applied to the first layer in a second shape.

Clause 175: The plate of Clause 174, wherein the first shape is approximately the same as the second shape.

Clause 176: The plate of Clause 174, wherein the first shape is different than the second shape.

Clause 177: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first strand portion is attached to the substrate by stitching.

Clause 178: The plate of Clause 177, wherein the stitching is formed from resin.

Clause 179: The plate of Clause 177, wherein the stitching is formed from the same material as the substrate.

Clause 180: The plate of Clause 177, wherein the stitching has a higher melting point than the substrate.

Clause 181: The plate of Clause 177, wherein the stitching zigzags across the first strand portion between attachment locations located on the substrate.

Clause 182: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first strand portion is formed from a first tow of fibers.

Clause 183: The plate of Clause 182, wherein the first tow of fibers includes at least one of carbon fibers, aramid fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymer fibers.

Clause 184: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising a second strand portion disposed on the first layer and forming a second layer, the second strand portion being formed from a second tow of fibers.

Clause 185: The plate of Clause 184, wherein the second tow of fibers includes at least one of carbon fibers, aramid fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymer fibers.

Clause 186: The plate of Clause 184, wherein the second tow of fibers includes approximately the same number of fibers as the first tow of fibers.

Clause 187: The plate of Clause 184, wherein the second tow of fibers includes a different number of fibers than the first tow of fibers.

Clause 188: A plate for an article of footwear, the plate comprising a substrate defining a first region and a second region and a first strand portion attached to and opposing the substrate in one of the first region and the second region and including a first pattern providing the one of the first region and the second region with first performance characteristics and a second strand portion attached to and opposing the substrate in the other of the first region and the second region and including a second pattern different than the first pattern and providing the other of the first region and the second region with second performance characteristics different than the first performance characteristics.

Clause 189: The plate of Clause 82, wherein the first strand portion forms a first edge to define a shape of the one of the first region and the second region.

Clause 190: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the second strand portion forms a second edge to define a shape of the other of the first region and the second region.

Clause 191: The plate of Clause 190, wherein the first edge is spaced apart and separated from the second edge.

Clause 192: The plate of Clause 190, wherein the first edge abuts the second edge.

Clause 193: The plate of and of the preceding clauses, wherein the first strand portion and the second strand portion are portions of the same, continuous strand.

Clause 194: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first strand portion and the second strand portion are formed from the same material.

Clause 195: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first strand portion and the second strand portion are formed from different materials.

Clause 196: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first strand portion is formed from a first tow of fibers.

Clause 197: The plate of Clause 196, wherein the first tow of fibers includes at least one of carbon fibers, aramid fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymer fibers.

Clause 198: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the second strand portion is formed from a second tow of fibers.

Clause 199: The plate of Clause 188, wherein the second tow of fibers includes at least one of carbon fibers, aramid fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymer fibers.

Clause 200: The plate of Clause 199, wherein the second tow of fibers includes approximately the same number of fibers as the first tow of fibers.

Clause 201: The plate of Clause 199, wherein the second tow of fibers includes a different number of fibers than the first tow of fibers.

Clause 202: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first strand portion and the second strand portion have different lengths.

Clause 203: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first strand portion and the second strand portion have approximately the same length.

Clause 204: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one of the first strand portion and the second strand portion forms a void in at least one of the first region and the second region.

Clause 205: The plate of Clause 204, wherein the substrate is exposed within the void.

Clause 206: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first strand portion and the second strand portion have different thicknesses.

Clause 207: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first strand portion and the second strand portion have approximately the same thickness.

Clause 208: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first region and the second region have different thicknesses.

Clause 209: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first region and the second region have approximately the same thickness.

Clause 210: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein one of the first region and the second region is located in one of a forefoot portion, a midfoot portion, and a heel portion of the article of footwear and the other of the first region and the second region is located in another of the forefoot portion, the midfoot portion, and the heel portion of the article of footwear.

Clause 211: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first strand portion is attached to the substrate via first stitching and the second strand portion is attached to the substrate via second stitching.

Clause 212: The plate of Clause 211, wherein at least one of the first stitching and the second stitching is formed from resin.

Clause 213: The plate of any of Clause 211, wherein at least one of the first stitching and the second stitching is formed from the same material as the substrate.

Clause 214: The plate of Clause 211, wherein at least one of the first stitching and the second stitching has a higher melting point than the substrate.

Clause 215: The plate of Clause 211, wherein the first stitching zigzags across the first strand portion and penetrates the substrate at first attachment locations that are spaced apart from the first strand portion.

Clause 216: The plate of Clause 215, wherein the second stitching zigzags across the second strand portion and penetrates the substrate at second attachment locations that are spaced apart from the second strand portion.

Clause 217: The plate of Clause 211, wherein the second stitching zigzags across the second strand portion and penetrates the substrate at second attachment locations that are spaced apart from the second strand portion.

Clause 218. A plate for an article of footwear, the plate comprising a substrate having a forefoot region and a heel region and a first strand portion attached to the substrate and including a plurality of segments that extend between a first end disposed in the forefoot region and a second end disposed in the heel region, the plurality of segments crossing one another in a midfoot region disposed between the forefoot region and the heel region.

Clause 219: The plate of Clause 218, wherein the first strand portion is formed from a continuous strand.

Clause 220: The plate of Clause 219, wherein the first strand portion includes first looped portions joining respective first ends of the plurality of segments and second looped portions joining respective second ends of the plurality of segments, the plurality of segments, the first looped portions, and the second looped portions cooperating to provide the first strand portion with a continuous construction.

Clause 221: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first strand portion extends onto an upper of the article of footwear.

Clause 222: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising tensile strands extending between and connecting the first strand portion to an upper of the article of footwear.

Clause 223: The plate of Clause 222, wherein the tensile strands are attached to the first strand portion along at least one of the plurality of segments between the first end and the second end of the at least one of the plurality of segments.

Clause 224: The plate of Clause 223, further comprising a lace operable to move the upper between a tightened state and a relaxed state, the tensile strands extending between and joining the lace and the at least one of the plurality of segments.

Clause 225: The plate of Clause 218, wherein the substrate includes cleat members extending from a surface thereof.

Clause 226: The plate of Clause 225, wherein the first strand portion is attached to the surface of the substrate and extends around a portion of the cleat members.

Clause 227: The plate of Clause 225, wherein the first strand portion is attached to the surface of the substrate and surrounds at least one of the cleat members.

Clause 228: The plate of Clause 225, wherein the first strand portion is attached to the surface of the substrate and at least one of the plurality of segments surrounds at least one of the cleat members.

Clause 229: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the plurality of segments are woven together at the midfoot region.

Clause 230: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first strand portion is formed from a first tow of fibers.

Clause 231: The plate of Clause 230, wherein the first tow of fibers includes at least one of carbon fibers, aramid fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymer fibers.

Clause 232: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first strand portion forms at least one void between at least two of the segments.

Clause 233: The plate of Clause 232, wherein the substrate is exposed within the at least one void.

Clause 234: The plate of Clause 232, wherein a first bundle of the plurality of segments and a second bundle of the plurality of segments cooperate to define the at least one void.

Clause 235: The plate of Clause 232, wherein the at least one void is disposed between the first bundle and the second.

Clause 236: A method of forming a plate for an article of footwear, the method comprising: stitching a first strand portion to a substrate to form a first layer on the substrate including applying first stitching that crosses over the first strand portion and penetrates the substrate at first attachment locations that are spaced apart from the first strand portion and stitching a second strand portion on the first layer to form a second layer including applying second stitching that crosses over the second strand portion, extends through the first strand portion, and penetrates the substrate at second attachment locations.

Clause 237: The method of Clause 236, wherein stitching the second strand portion on the first layer includes positioning the first strand portion between the second attachment locations and the second strand portion.

Clause 238: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming the first strand portion and the second strand portion of the same, continuous strand.

Clause 239: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming the first strand portion and the second strand portion from the same material.

Clause 240: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming the first strand portion and the second strand portion from different materials.

Clause 241: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming the first strand portion from a first tow of fibers.

Clause 242: The method of Clause 241, wherein forming the first strand portion from the first tow of fibers includes forming the first strand portion from at least one of carbon fibers, aramid fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymer fibers.

Clause 243: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming the second strand portion from a second tow of fibers.

Clause 244: The method of Clause 243, wherein forming the second strand portion from the second tow of fibers includes forming the second strand portion from at least one of carbon fibers, aramid fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymer fibers.

Clause 245: The method of Clause 244, wherein forming the second strand from the second tow of fibers includes providing approximately the same number of fibers as the first tow of fibers.

Clause 246: The method of Clause 244, wherein forming the second strand from the second tow of fibers includes providing a different number of fibers than the first tow of fibers.

Clause 247: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising providing the first strand portion and the second strand portion with different lengths.

Clause 248: The method of any of the preceding Clauses, further comprising providing the first strand portion and the second strand portion with approximately the same length.

Clause 249: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein stitching the first strand portion to the substrate includes forming a first void in the first layer.

Clause 250: The method of Clause 249, further comprising exposing the substrate within the first void.

Clause 251: The method of Clause 249, wherein stitching the second strand portion on the first layer includes forming a second void in the second layer.

Clause 252: The method of Clause 251, wherein forming the second void includes aligning the second void with the first void to expose the substrate at the second layer.

Clause 253: The method of Clause 251, wherein forming the second void includes spacing apart the second void from the first void.

Clause 254: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein stitching the first strand portion to the substrate includes applying the first strand portion to the substrate in a first shape and stitching the second strand portion on the first layer includes applying the second strand portion to the first layer in a second shape.

Clause 255: The method of Clause 254, wherein applying the first strand portion in the first shape and applying the second strand portion in the second shape includes applying the first strand portion and the second strand portion in approximately the same shape.

Clause 256: The method of Clause 254, wherein applying the first strand portion in the first shape and applying the second strand portion in the second shape includes applying the first strand portion and the second strand portion in different shapes.

Clause 257: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one of applying the first stitching and applying the second stitching includes applying stitching formed from resin.

Clause 258: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one of applying the first stitching and applying the second stitching includes applying stitching that is formed from the same material as the substrate.

Clause 259: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one of applying the first stitching and applying the second stitching includes applying stitching that has a higher melting point than the substrate.

Clause 260: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein applying the first stitching includes zigzagging the first stitching across the first strand portion between first attachment locations.

Clause 261: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein applying the second stitching includes zigzagging the second stitching across the second strand portion between the second attachment locations.

Clause 262: The method of Clause 236, further comprising applying at least one of heat and pressure to the first strand portion and the second strand portion to bind the first strand portion to both the substrate and the second strand portion.

Clause 263: The method of Clause 262, wherein applying at least one of heat and pressure includes forming the substrate, the first strand portion, and the second strand portion into a desired shape.

Clause 264: A method of forming a plate for an article of footwear, the method comprising: attaching a first strand portion to a substrate including positioning first segments of the first strand portion on the substrate with each first segment extending between two different locations along a peripheral edge of the substrate to form a first layer on the substrate, the first segments being disposed adjacent and substantially parallel to one another and positioning a second strand portion on the first layer including positioning second segments of the second strand portion on the first layer with each second segment extending between two different locations along the peripheral edge of the substrate to form a second layer on the first layer, the second segments being convergent with the first segments and disposed adjacent and substantially parallel to one another.

Clause 265: The method of Clause 264, wherein at least one of attaching the first strand portion to the substrate and positioning the second strand portion on the first layer includes positioning a continuous strand.

Clause 266: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein attaching the first strand portion to the substrate and positioning the second strand portion on the first layer includes positioning a single, continuous strand.

Clause 267: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming the first strand portion and the second strand portion from the same material.

Clause 268: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming the first strand portion and the second strand portion from different materials.

Clause 269: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming the first strand portion from a first tow of fibers.

Clause 270: The method of Clause 269, wherein forming the first strand portion from the first tow of fibers includes forming the first strand portion from at least one of carbon fibers, aramid fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymer fibers.

Clause 271: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming the second strand portion from a second tow of fibers.

Clause 272: The method of Clause 271, wherein forming the second strand portion from the second tow of fibers includes forming the second strand portion from at least one of carbon fibers, aramid fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymer fibers.

Clause 273: The method of Clause 272, wherein forming the second strand from the second tow of fibers includes providing approximately the same number of fibers as the first tow of fibers.

Clause 274: The method of Clause 272, wherein forming the second strand from the second tow of fibers includes providing a different number of fibers than the first tow of fibers.

Clause 275: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising providing the first strand portion with first looped portions disposed proximate to the peripheral edge of the substrate, the first looped portions connecting adjacent first segments.

Clause 276: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising providing the second strand portion with second looped portions disposed proximate to the peripheral edge of the substrate, the second looped portions connecting adjacent second segments.

Clause 277: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein attaching the first strand portion to the substrate includes forming a first void in the first layer.

Clause 278: The method of Clause 277, further comprising exposing the substrate within the first void.

Clause 279: The method of Clause 277, wherein positioning the second strand portion on the first layer includes forming a second void in the second layer.

Clause 280: The method of Clause 279, wherein forming the second void includes aligning the second void with the first void to expose the substrate at the second layer.

Clause 281: The method of Clause 279, wherein forming the second void includes spacing apart the second void from the first void.

Clause 282: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein positioning the first segments of the first strand portion on the substrate includes applying the first segments at a first angle relative to a longitudinal axis of the substrate and positioning the second segments of the second strand portion on the first layer includes applying the second segments at a second angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the substrate that is different than the first angle.

Clause 283: The method of Clause 282, further comprising positioning a third strand portion on the second layer including positioning third segments of the third strand portion on the second layer with each third segment extending between two different locations along the peripheral edge of the substrate to form a third layer on the second layer, the third segments being convergent with the first segments and the second segments and disposed adjacent and substantially parallel to one another.

Clause 284: The method of Clause 283, wherein positioning the third segments on the second layer includes applying the third segments at a third angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the substrate that is different than the first angle and the second angle.

Clause 285: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein attaching the first strand portion to the substrate includes applying first stitching and positioning the second strand portion on the first layer includes applying second stitching.

Clause 286: The method of Clause 285, wherein at least one of applying the first stitching and applying the second stitching includes applying stitching that is formed from the same material as the substrate.

Clause 287: The method of Clause 285, wherein at least one of applying the first stitching and applying the second stitching includes applying stitching that has a higher melting point than the substrate.

Clause 288: The method of Clause 285, wherein applying the first stitching includes zigzagging the first stitching across the first strand portion between first attachment locations.

Clause 289: The method of Clause 285, wherein applying the second stitching includes zigzagging the second stitching across the second strand portion between second attachment locations.

Clause 290: The method of Clause 285, wherein applying the second stitching includes extending the second stitching through the first strand portion.

Clause 291: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising applying at least one of heat and pressure to the first strand portion and the second strand portion to bind the first strand portion to both the substrate and the second strand portion.

Clause 292: The method of Clause 56, wherein applying at least one of heat and pressure includes forming the substrate, the first strand portion, and the second strand portion into a desired shape.

Clause 293: A method of forming a plate for an article of footwear, the method comprising: attaching a first strand portion to a substrate to form a first layer on the substrate, the first strand portion forming a first void in the first layer to expose the substrate within the first void.

Clause 294: The method of Clause 58, further comprising positioning a second strand portion on the first layer to form a second layer.

Clause 295: The method of Clause 294, further comprising forming the first strand portion and the second strand portion of the same, continuous strand.

Clause 296: The method of Clause 294, further comprising forming the first strand portion and the second strand portion from the same material.

Clause 297: The method of Clause 294, further comprising forming the first strand portion and the second strand portion from different materials.

Clause 298: The method of Clause 294, further comprising providing the first strand portion and the second strand portion with different lengths.

Clause 299: The method of Clause 294, further comprising providing the first strand portion and the second strand portion with approximately the same length.

Clause 300: The method of Clause 294, wherein positioning the second strand portion includes forming a second void in the second layer.

Clause 301: The method of Clause 300, further comprising aligning the second void with the first void to expose the substrate at the second layer.

Clause 302: The method of Clause 300, further comprising spacing the second void apart from the first void.

Clause 303: The method of Clause 294, wherein attaching the first strand portion includes applying the first strand portion to the substrate in a first shape and positioning the second strand portion includes applying the second strand portion on the first layer in a second shape.

Clause 304: The method of Clause 303, wherein applying the first strand portion in the first shape and applying the second strand portion in the second shape includes applying the first strand portion and the second strand portion in approximately the same shape.

Clause 305: The method of Clause 303, wherein applying the first strand portion in the first shape and applying the second strand portion in the second shape includes applying the first strand portion and the second strand portion in different shapes.

Clause 306: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein attaching the first strand portion to the substrate includes applying stitching.

Clause 307: The method of Clause 306, wherein applying stitching includes applying stitching formed from resin.

Clause 308: The method of Clause 306, wherein applying stitching includes applying stitching formed from the same material as the substrate.

Clause 309: The method of Clause 306, wherein applying stitching includes applying stitching having a higher melting point than the substrate.

Clause 310: The method of Clause 306, wherein applying stitching includes zigzagging the stitching across the first strand portion between first attachment locations located on the substrate.

Clause 311: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming the first strand portion from a first tow of fibers.

Clause 312: The method of Clause 311, wherein forming the first strand portion from the first tow of fibers includes forming the first strand portion from at least one of carbon fibers, aramid fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymer fibers.

Clause 313: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising positioning a second strand portion on the first layer to form a second layer, the second strand portion being formed from a second tow of fibers.

Clause 314: The method of Clause 313, wherein forming the second strand portion from the second tow of fibers includes forming the second strand portion from at least one of carbon fibers, aramid fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymer fibers.

Clause 315: The method of Clause 313, wherein forming the second strand portion from the second tow of fibers includes providing approximately the same number of fibers as the first tow of fibers.

Clause 316: The method of Clause 313, wherein forming the second strand portion from the second tow of fibers includes providing a different number of fibers than the first tow of fibers.

Clause 317: A method of forming an article of footwear, the method comprising: defining a first region and a second region on a substrate; attaching a first strand portion to the substrate in one of the first region and the second region including forming the first strand into a first pattern that opposes the substrate and provides the one of the first region and the second region with first performance characteristics and attaching a second strand portion to the substrate in the other of the first region and the second region including forming the second strand portion into a second pattern different than the first pattern that opposes the substrate and provides the other of the first region and the second region with second performance characteristics different than the first performance characteristics.

Clause 318: The method of Clause 317, wherein forming the first strand portion includes forming a first edge to define a shape of the one of the first region and the second region.

Clause 319: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein forming the second strand portion includes forming a second edge to define a shape of the other of the first region and the second region.

Clause 320: The method of Clause 319, further comprising spacing the first edge apart from the second edge.

Clause 321: The method of Clause 319, further comprising abutting the first edge against the second edge.

Clause 322: The method of and of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming the first strand portion and the second strand portion of the same, continuous strand.

Clause 323: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming the first strand portion and the second strand portion from the same material.

Clause 324: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming the first strand portion and the second strand portion from different materials.

Clause 325: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming the first strand portion from a first tow of fibers.

Clause 326: The method of Clause 325, wherein forming the first strand portion from the first tow of fibers includes forming the first strand portion from at least one of carbon fibers, aramid fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymer fibers.

Clause 327: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming the second strand portion from a second tow of fibers.

Clause 328: The method of Clause 327, wherein forming the second strand portion from the second tow of fibers includes forming the second strand portion from at least one of carbon fibers, aramid fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymer fibers.

Clause 329: The method of Clause 328, wherein forming the second strand from the second tow of fibers includes providing approximately the same number of fibers as the first tow of fibers.

Clause 330: The method of Clause 328, wherein forming the second strand from the second tow of fibers includes providing a different number of fibers than the first tow of fibers.

Clause 331: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising providing the first strand portion and the second strand portion with different lengths.

Clause 332: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising providing the first strand portion and the second strand portion with approximately the same length.

Clause 333: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one of attaching the first strand portion to the substrate and attaching the second strand portion to the substrate includes forming a void in at least one of the first region and the second region.

Clause 334: The method of Clause 333, further comprising exposing the substrate within the void.

Clause 335: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising providing the first strand portion and the second strand portion with different thicknesses.

Clause 336: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising providing the first strand portion and the second strand portion with approximately the same thickness.

Clause 337: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising providing the first region and the second region with different thicknesses.

Clause 338: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising providing the first region and the second region with approximately the same thickness.

Clause 339: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising locating one of the first region and the second region in one of a forefoot portion, a midfoot portion, and a heel portion of the article of footwear and locating the other of the first region and the second region in another of the forefoot portion, the midfoot portion, and the heel portion of the article of footwear.

Clause 340: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising attaching the first strand portion to the substrate via first stitching and attaching the second strand portion to the substrate via second stitching.

Clause 341: The method of Clause 340, wherein attaching the first strand portion to the substrate via first stitching and attaching the second strand portion to the substrate via second stitching includes using stitching formed from resin.

Clause 342: The method of Clause 340, wherein attaching the first strand portion to the substrate via first stitching and attaching the second strand portion to the substrate via second stitching includes using stitching formed from the same material as the substrate.

Clause 343: The method of Clause 340, wherein attaching the first strand portion to the substrate via first stitching and attaching the second strand portion to the substrate via second stitching includes using stitching having a higher melting point than the substrate.

Clause 344: The method of Clause 340, further comprising zigzagging the first stitching across the first strand portion and penetrating the substrate at first attachment locations that are spaced apart from the first strand portion.

Clause 345: The method of Clause 344, further comprising zigzagging the second stitching across the second strand portion and penetrating the substrate at second attachment locations that are spaced apart from the second strand portion.

Clause 346: The method of Clause 340, further comprising zigzagging the second stitching across the second strand portion and penetrating the substrate at second attachment locations that are spaced apart from the second strand portion.

Clause 347: A method of forming an article of footwear, the method comprising: attaching a first strand portion to a flexible substrate to form a first layer on the substrate; positioning the substrate on a first mold surface to change a shape of the substrate; applying at least one of heat and pressure to the first strand portion and the substrate to conform the substrate to the shape of the first mold surface and incorporating the substrate into an article of footwear.

Clause 348: The method of Clause 347, further comprising attaching a second strand portion to the substrate to form a second layer on the substrate;

Clause 349: The method of Clause 348, wherein attaching the second strand portion to the substrate includes attaching the second strand portion adjacent to the first strand portion.

Clause 350: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein attaching the second strand portion to the substrate includes overlapping a least a portion of the second strand portion on the first strand portion.

Clause 351: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming the first strand portion and the second strand portion of the same, continuous strand.

Clause 352: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming the first strand portion and the second strand portion from the same material.

Clause 353: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming the first strand portion and the second strand portion from different materials.

Clause 354: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming the first strand portion from a first tow of fibers.

Clause 355: The method of Clause 354, wherein forming the first strand portion from the first tow of fibers includes forming the first strand portion from at least one of carbon fibers, aramid fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymer fibers.

Clause 356: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming the second strand portion from a second tow of fibers.

Clause 357: The method of Clause 356, wherein forming the second strand portion from the second tow of fibers includes forming the second strand portion from at least one of carbon fibers, aramid fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymer fibers.

Clause 358: The method of Clause 357, wherein forming the second strand from the second tow of fibers includes providing approximately the same number of fibers as the first tow of fibers.

Clause 359: The method of Clause 357, wherein forming the second strand from the second tow of fibers includes providing a different number of fibers than the first tow of fibers.

Clause 360: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising providing the first strand portion and the second strand portion with different lengths.

Clause 361: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising providing the first strand portion and the second strand portion with approximately the same length.

Clause 362: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one of attaching the first strand portion to the substrate and attaching the second strand portion to the substrate includes forming a void in at least one of the first layer and the second layer.

Clause 363: The method of Clause 362, further comprising exposing the substrate within the void.

Clause 364: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising providing the first strand portion and the second strand portion with different thicknesses.

Clause 365: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising providing the first strand portion and the second strand portion with approximately the same thickness.

Clause 366: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising providing the first layer and the second layer with different thicknesses.

Clause 367: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising providing the first layer and the second layer with approximately the same thickness.

Clause 368: The method of Clause 347, wherein conforming the substrate to the shape of the first mold surface includes providing the substrate with a forefoot portion, a midfoot portion, and a heel portion.

Clause 369: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising attaching the first strand portion to the substrate via first stitching and attaching the second strand portion to the substrate via second stitching.

Clause 370: The method of Clause 369, wherein attaching the first strand portion to the substrate via first stitching and attaching the second strand portion to the substrate via second stitching includes using stitching formed from resin.

Clause 371: The method of any of Clause 369, wherein attaching the first strand portion to the substrate via first stitching and attaching the second strand portion to the substrate via second stitching includes using stitching formed from the same material as the substrate.

Clause 372: The method of any of Clause 369, wherein attaching the first strand portion to the substrate via first stitching and attaching the second strand portion to the substrate via second stitching includes using stitching having a higher melting point than the substrate.

Clause 373: The method of Clause 347, wherein applying at least one of heat and pressure includes activating a resin material incorporated into the first strand portion.

Clause 374: The method of Clause 347, further comprising infusing the first strand portion with a liquid material.

Clause 375: The method of Clause 374, wherein applying at least one of heat and pressure includes subjecting the substrate and the first strand portion to at least one of vacuum molding and compression molding to cure the liquid material.

Clause 376: The method of Clause 375, wherein curing the liquid material includes curing a thermoset material.

Clause 377: The method of Clause 376, wherein curing a thermoset material includes curing at least one of an epoxy, a polyurethane, a polymerizable composition, and a pre-polymer.

Clause 378: The method of Clause 374, wherein infusing the first strand portion with a liquid material includes adding a polymer to the liquid material to increase the ductility of the liquid material once cured.

Clause 379: The method of Clause 378, wherein adding a polymer to the liquid material includes adding at least one of rubber and a block copolymer.

Clause 380: The method of Clause 347, further comprising forming the substrate from a thermoplastic film.

Clause 381: The method of Clause 380, further comprising attaching the first strand portion to the thermoplastic film via stitching.

Clause 382: The method of Clause 381, wherein attaching the first strand portion to the thermoplastic film via stitching includes using stitching formed from a thermoplastic material.

Clause 383: The method of Clause 382, wherein applying at least one of heat and pressure to the first strand portion and the substrate includes thermoforming the thermoplastic film and the thermoplastic stitching to join the first strand portion to the substrate.

Clause 384: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein applying at least one of heat and pressure includes subjecting the substrate and the first strand portion to at least one of vacuum molding and compression molding.

Clause 385: A method of forming an article of footwear, the method comprising: attaching a first strand portion to a first substrate to form a first layer on the first substrate; attaching a second strand portion to a second substrate to form a second layer on the second substrate; positioning the second substrate on the first substrate to form a substrate stack; positioning the substrate stack on a first mold surface; applying at least one of heat and pressure to the substrate stack to conform the substrate stack to the shape of the first mold surface and incorporating the substrate stack into an article of footwear.

Clause 386: The method of Clause 385, wherein applying at least one of heat and pressure includes activating a resin material incorporated into the first strand portion and the second strand portion.

Clause 387: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising infusing the first strand portion and the second strand portion with a liquid material.

Clause 388: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein applying at least one of heat and pressure includes subjecting the substrate stack to at least one of vacuum molding and compression molding to cure the liquid material.

Clause 389: The method of Clause 388, wherein curing the liquid material includes curing a thermoset material.

Clause 390: The method of Clause 389, wherein curing a thermoset material includes curing at least one of an epoxy, a polyurethane, a polymerizable composition, and a pre-polymer.

Clause 391: The method of Clause 387, wherein infusing the first strand portion and the second strand portion with a liquid material includes adding a polymer to the liquid material to increase the ductility of the liquid material once cured.

Clause 392: The method of Clause 391, wherein adding a polymer to the liquid material includes adding at least one of rubber and a block copolymer.

Clause 393: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming at least one of the first substrate and the second substrate from a thermoplastic film.

Clause 394: The method of Clause 393, further comprising attaching the first strand portion to the first substrate via first stitching and attaching the second strand portion to the second substrate via second stitching.

Clause 395: The method of Clause 394, wherein attaching the first strand portion to the first substrate via first stitching and attaching the second strand portion to the second substrate via second stitching includes using stitching formed from a thermoplastic material.

Clause 396: The method of Clause 395, wherein applying at least one of heat and pressure to the substrate stack includes thermoforming the thermoplastic film of the first substrate and the first stitching to join the first strand portion and the first substrate and thermoforming the thermoplastic film of the second substrate and the second stitching to join the second strand portion and the second substrate.

Clause 397: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising attaching the first strand portion to the first substrate via first stitching and attaching the second strand portion to the second substrate via second stitching.

Clause 398: The method of Clause 397, wherein attaching the first strand portion to the substrate via first stitching and attaching the second strand portion to the substrate via second stitching includes using stitching formed from resin.

Clause 399: The method of any of Clause 397, wherein attaching the first strand portion to the substrate via first stitching and attaching the second strand portion to the substrate via second stitching includes using stitching formed from the same material as the substrate.

Clause 400: The method of any of Clause 397, wherein attaching the first strand portion to the substrate via first stitching and attaching the second strand portion to the substrate via second stitching includes using stitching having a higher melting point than the substrate.

Clause 401: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein applying at least one of heat and pressure includes activating a resin material incorporated into at least one of the first strand portion and the second stand portion.

Clause 402: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein applying at least one of heat and pressure includes subjecting the substrate stack to at least one of vacuum molding and compression molding.

Clause 403: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming the first strand portion and the second strand portion from the same material.

Clause 404: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming the first strand portion and the second strand portion from different materials.

Clause 405: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming the first strand portion from a first tow of fibers.

Clause 406: The method of Clause 405, wherein forming the first strand portion from the first tow of fibers includes forming the first strand portion from at least one of carbon fibers, aramid fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymer fibers.

Clause 407: The method of any of the preceding Clauses, further comprising forming the second strand portion from a second tow of fibers.

Clause 408: The method of Clause 407, wherein forming the second strand portion from the second tow of fibers includes forming the second strand portion from at least one of carbon fibers, aramid fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymer fibers.

Clause 409: The method of Clause 408, wherein forming the second strand from the second tow of fibers includes providing approximately the same number of fibers as the first tow of fibers.

Clause 410: The method of Clause 408, wherein forming the second strand from the second tow of fibers includes providing a different number of fibers than the first tow of fibers.

Clause 411: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising providing the first strand portion and the second strand portion with different lengths.

Clause 412: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising providing the first strand portion and the second strand portion with approximately the same length.

Clause 413: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one of attaching the first strand portion to the first substrate and attaching the second strand portion to the second substrate includes forming a void in at least one of the first layer and the second layer.

Clause 414: The method of Clause 413, further comprising exposing the substrate within the void.

Clause 415: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising providing the first strand portion and the second strand portion with different thicknesses.

Clause 416: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising providing the first strand portion and the second strand portion with approximately the same thickness.

Clause 417: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising providing the first layer and the second layer with different thicknesses.

Clause 418: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising providing the first layer and the second layer with approximately the same thickness.

Clause 419: The method of Clause 385, wherein conforming the substrate stack to the shape of the first mold surface includes providing the substrate stack with a forefoot portion, a midfoot portion, and a heel portion.

Clause 420: A method of forming a plate for an article of footwear, the method comprising: providing a substrate having a forefoot region and a heel region; attaching a first strand portion to the substrate having a plurality of segments that extend between a first end disposed in the forefoot region and a second end disposed in the heel region and crossing the plurality of segments in a midfoot region disposed between the forefoot region and the heel region.

Clause 421: The method of Clause 420, wherein attaching the first strand portion to the substrate includes attaching a continuous strand.

Clause 422: The method of Clause 421, wherein attaching the first strand portion to the substrate includes joining respective first ends of the plurality of segments via first looped portions and joining respective second ends of the plurality of segments via second looped portions to provide the first strand portion with a continuous construction.

Clause 423: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising extending the first strand portion onto an upper of the article of footwear.

Clause 424: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising extending tensile strands between the first strand portion and an upper of the article of footwear.

Clause 425: The method of Clause 424, wherein extending tensile strands between the first strand portion and the upper includes connecting the first strand portion and the upper via the tensile strands.

Clause 426: The method of Clause 424, further comprising attaching the tensile strands to the first strand portion along at least one of the plurality of segments between the first end and the second end of the at least one of the plurality of segments.

Clause 427: The method of Clause 426, further comprising extending the tensile strands between a lace operable to move the upper between a tightened state and a relaxed state and the at least one of the plurality of segments.

Clause 428: The method of Clause 427, wherein extending the tensile strands between the lace and the at least one of the plurality of segments includes connecting the tensile strands to the lace and the at least one of the plurality of segments.

Clause 429: The method of Clause 420, further comprising providing the substrate with cleat members that extend from a surface thereof.

Clause 430: The method of Clause 429, further comprising attaching the first strand portion to the surface of the substrate and extending the first strand portion around a portion of the cleat members.

Clause 431: The method of Clause 429, further comprising attaching the first strand portion to the surface of the substrate and surrounding at least one of the cleat members with the first strand portion.

Clause 432: The method of Clause 429, further comprising attaching the first strand portion to the surface of the substrate and surrounding at least one of the cleat members with at least one of the plurality of segments.

Clause 433: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising weaving the plurality of segments together at the midfoot region.

Clause 434: The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising forming the first strand portion from a first tow of fibers.

Clause 435: The method of Clause 434, wherein forming the first strand portion from the first tow of fibers includes forming the first strand portion from at least one of carbon fibers, aramid fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymer fibers.

Clause 436: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein attaching the first strand portion to the substrate includes forming at least one void between at least two of the segments.

Clause 437: The method of Clause 436, further comprising exposing the substrate within the at least one void.

Clause 438: The method of Clause 436, further comprising defining the at least one void between a first bundle of the plurality of segments and a second bundle of the plurality of segments.

Clause 439: The method of Clause 438, further comprising exposing the substrate within the at least one void.

Clause 440: A method of forming a plate for an article of footwear, the method comprising applying a first strand portion to a base layer including positioning first segments of the first strand portion on the base layer adjacent to one another to form a first layer on the base layer, removing portions of the first segments to define an outer edge of the plate, and applying at least one of heat and pressure to the first strand portion and to the base layer to conform the first strand portion and the base layer to a predetermined shape.

Clause 441: The method of Clause 440, wherein removing portions of the first segments includes severing the first strand portion at a first end of each first segment and severing the first strand portions at a second end of each first segment located at an opposite end of the respective first strand portions than the first end.

Clause 442: The method of Clause 440, wherein removing portions of the first segments includes removing loops of the first strand portion connecting adjacent first segments.

Clause 443: The method of Clause 440, wherein applying the first strand portion to a base layer includes applying the first strand portion to a second layer having a plurality of fibers and/or to a second layer formed from unidirectional tape.

Clause 444: The method of Clause 440, wherein applying the first strand portion to a base layer includes applying the first strand portion to a substrate.

Clause 445: The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein applying the first strand portion to a base layer includes attaching the first strand portion to the base layer via stitching.

Clause 446: The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein applying the first strand portion to a base layer includes applying a continuous strand.

Clause 447: The method of Clause 446, wherein applying a continuous strand of the first strand portion includes forming loops of the first strand portion.

Clause 448: The method of Clause 447, wherein removing portions of the first segments includes removing the loops between adjacent first segments of the first strand portion.

Clause 449: The method of any of the preceding Clauses, further comprising forming the first strand portion from a first tow of fibers.

Clause 450: The method of Clause 449, wherein forming the first strand portion from a first tow of fibers includes forming the first strand portion from at least one of carbon fibers, aramid fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymer fibers.

Clause 451: The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein applying the first strand portion to a base layer includes positioning adjacent first segments closer to one another across a width of the plate between a medial side and a lateral side at a midfoot region of the plate than at a forefoot region of the plate.

Clause 452: The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein applying the first strand portion to a base layer includes positioning adjacent first segments closer to one another across a width of the plate between a medial side and a lateral side at a midfoot region of the plate than at a heel region of the plate.

Clause 453: Further comprising incorporating the plate into an article of footwear.

Clause 454: A method of forming a plate for an article of footwear, the method comprising applying a first strand portion to a base layer including positioning adjacent first segments of the first strand portion closer to one another across a width of the plate between a medial side and a lateral side at a midfoot region of the plate than at a heel region of the plate to form a first layer on the base layer, and applying at least one of heat and pressure to the first strand portion and to the base layer to conform the first strand portion and the base layer to a predetermined shape.

Clause 455: The method of Clause 454, further comprising removing portions of the first segments to define an outer edge of the plate.

Clause 456: The method of Clause 455, wherein removing portions of the first segments includes severing the first strand portion at a first end of each first segment and severing the first strand portions at a second end of each first segment located at an opposite end of the respective first strand portions than the first end.

Clause 457: The method of Clause 455, wherein removing portions of the first segments includes removing loops of the first strand portion connecting adjacent first segments.

Clause 458: The method of Clause 454, wherein applying the first strand portion to a base layer includes applying the first strand portion to a second layer having a plurality of fibers and/or to a second layer formed from unidirectional tape.

Clause 459: The method of Clause 454, wherein applying the first strand portion to a base layer includes applying the first strand portion to a substrate.

Clause 460: The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein applying the first strand portion to a base layer includes attaching the first strand portion to the base layer via stitching.

Clause 461: The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein applying the first strand portion to a base layer includes applying a continuous strand.

Clause 462: The method of Clause 461, wherein applying a continuous strand of the first strand portion includes forming loops of the first strand portion.

Clause 463: The method of Clause 462, further comprising removing the loops between adjacent first segments of the first strand portion to define an outer edge of the plate.

Clause 464: The method of any of the preceding Clauses, further comprising forming the first strand portion from a first tow of fibers.

Clause 465: The method of Clause 464, wherein forming the first strand portion from a first tow of fibers includes forming the first strand portion from at least one of carbon fibers, aramid fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymer fibers.

Clause 466: The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein applying the first strand portion to a base layer includes positioning adjacent first segments closer to one another across the width of the plate between the medial side and the lateral side at the midfoot region of the plate than at a forefoot region of the plate.

Clause 467: Further comprising incorporating the plate into an article of footwear.

Clause 468: A method of forming a plate for an article of footwear, the method comprising applying a first strand portion to a base layer including positioning adjacent first segments of the first strand portion closer to one another across a width of the plate between a medial side and a lateral side at a midfoot region of the plate than at a forefoot region of the plate to form a first layer on the base layer, and applying at least one of heat and pressure to the first strand portion and to the base layer to conform the first strand portion and the base layer to a predetermined shape.

Clause 469: The method of Clause 468, further comprising removing portions of the first segments to define an outer edge of the plate.

Clause 470: The method of Clause 469, wherein removing portions of the first segments includes severing the first strand portion at a first end of each first segment and severing the first strand portions at a second end of each first segment located at an opposite end of the respective first strand portions than the first end.

Clause 471: The method of Clause 469, wherein removing portions of the first segments includes removing loops of the first strand portion connecting adjacent first segments.

Clause 472: The method of Clause 468, wherein applying the first strand portion to a base layer includes applying the first strand portion to a second layer having a plurality of fibers and/or to a second layer formed from unidirectional tape.

Clause 473: The method of Clause 468, wherein applying the first strand portion to a base layer includes applying the first strand portion to a substrate.

Clause 474: The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein applying the first strand portion to a base layer includes attaching the first strand portion to the base layer via stitching.

Clause 475: The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein applying the first strand portion to a base layer includes applying a continuous strand.

Clause 476: The method of Clause 475, wherein applying a continuous strand of the first strand portion includes forming loops of the first strand portion.

Clause 477: The method of Clause 476, further comprising removing the loops between adjacent first segments of the first strand portion to define an outer edge of the plate.

Clause 478: The method of any of the preceding Clauses, further comprising forming the first strand portion from a first tow of fibers.

Clause 479: The method of Clause 478, wherein forming the first strand portion from a first tow of fibers includes forming the first strand portion from at least one of carbon fibers, aramid fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymer fibers.

Clause 480: The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein applying the first strand portion to a base layer includes positioning adjacent first segments closer to one another across the width of the plate between the medial side and the lateral side at the midfoot region of the plate than at a heel region of the plate.

Clause 481: Further comprising incorporating the plate into an article of footwear.

Clause 482: The method of any of Clauses 440-481, further comprising consolidating fibers of the first strand portion with a polymeric resin.

Clause 483: The method of Clause 482, wherein consolidating the fibers with a polymeric resin is performed during the application of heat and/or pressure.

Clause 484: A plate for an article of footwear, the plate comprising a first layer including first high tensile strength fibers, a second layer including second high tensile strength fibers, a third layer including third high tensile strength fibers, and a polymeric resin consolidating the first high tensile strength fibers, the second high tensile strength fibers, and the third high tensile strength fibers, wherein the plate includes a forefoot region, a heel region, and a midfoot region disposed between the forefoot region and the heel region, the forefoot region including a stiffness of about 80 N/mm to about 90 N/mm.

Clause 485: The plate of Clause 484, wherein a stiffness of the heel region is about 20 N/mm to about 30 N/mm.

Clause 486: The plate of Clause 484, wherein a stiffness of the midfoot region is about 75 N/mm to about 120 N/mm.

Clause 487: The plate of Clause 484, wherein a stiffness of the heel region is about 50 N/mm to about 60 N/mm.

Clause 488: The plate of Clause 484, wherein a stiffness of the midfoot region is about 20 N/mm to about 55 N/mm.

Clause 489: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one of the first high tensile strength fibers, the second high tensile strength fibers, and the third high tensile strength fibers include at least one of carbon fibers, aramid fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymer fibers.

Clause 490: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the polymeric resin is a thermoset resin or a thermoplastic resin.

Clause 491: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one of the first high tensile strength fibers, the second high tensile strength fibers, and the third high tensile strength fibers are applied in a unidirectional tape.

Clause 492: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one of the first high tensile strength fibers, the second high tensile strength fibers, and the third high tensile strength fibers are applied as a strand of fibers stitched down to a base layer.

Clause 493: The plate of Clause 484, wherein at least two of the first high tensile strength fibers, the second high tensile strength fibers, and the third high tensile strength fibers are applied in a unidirectional tape and the other the first high tensile strength fibers, the second high tensile strength fibers, and the third high tensile strength fibers is applied as a strand of fibers stitched down to a base layer.

Clause 494: The plate of Clause 484, wherein the first high tensile strength fibers, the second high tensile strength fibers, and the third high tensile strength fibers are applied as strands of fibers stitched down to a base layer and each including a different pattern.

Clause 495: The plate of Clause 484, wherein at least one of the first high tensile strength fibers, the second high tensile strength fibers, and the third high tensile strength fibers are applied as a strand of fibers stitched down to a base layer.

Clause 496: The plate of Clause 495, wherein adjacent segments of the strand of fibers are positioned closer to one another across a width of the plate between a medial side and a lateral side at the midfoot region of the plate than at the heel region of the plate to form the first layer.

Clause 497: The plate of Clause 495, wherein adjacent segments of the strand of fibers are positioned closer to one another across a width of the plate between a medial side and a lateral side at the midfoot region of the plate than at the forefoot region of the plate to form the first layer.

Clause 498: A plate for an article of footwear, the plate comprising a first layer including first high tensile strength fibers, a second layer including second high tensile strength fibers, a third layer including third high tensile strength fibers, and a polymeric resin consolidating the first high tensile strength fibers, the second high tensile strength fibers, and the third high tensile strength fibers, wherein the plate includes a forefoot region, a heel region, and a midfoot region disposed between the forefoot region and the heel region, the midfoot region including a stiffness of about 60 N/mm to about 70 N/mm.

Clause 499: The plate of Clause 498, wherein a stiffness of the heel region is about 20 N/mm to about 30 N/mm.

Clause 500: The plate of Clause 498, wherein a stiffness of the forefoot region is about 95 N/mm to about 105 N/mm.

Clause 501: The plate of Clause 498, wherein a stiffness of the heel region is about 50 N/mm to about 60 N/mm.

Clause 502: The plate of Clause 498, wherein a stiffness of the forefoot region is about 75 N/mm to about 120 N/mm.

Clause 503: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one of the first high tensile strength fibers, the second high tensile strength fibers, and the third high tensile strength fibers include at least one of carbon fibers, aramid fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymer fibers.

Clause 504: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the polymeric resin is a thermoset resin or a thermoplastic resin.

Clause 505: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one of the first high tensile strength fibers, the second high tensile strength fibers, and the third high tensile strength fibers are applied in a unidirectional tape.

Clause 506: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one of the first high tensile strength fibers, the second high tensile strength fibers, and the third high tensile strength fibers are applied as a strand of fibers stitched down to a base layer.

Clause 507: The plate of Clause 498, wherein at least two of the first high tensile strength fibers, the second high tensile strength fibers, and the third high tensile strength fibers are applied in a unidirectional tape and the other the first high tensile strength fibers, the second high tensile strength fibers, and the third high tensile strength fibers is applied as a strand of fibers stitched down to a base layer.

Clause 508: The plate of Clause 498, wherein the first high tensile strength fibers, the second high tensile strength fibers, and the third high tensile strength fibers are applied as strands of fibers stitched down to a base layer and each including a different pattern.

Clause 509: The plate of Clause 498, wherein at least one of the first high tensile strength fibers, the second high tensile strength fibers, and the third high tensile strength fibers are applied as a strand of fibers stitched down to a base layer.

Clause 510: The plate of Clause 509, wherein adjacent segments of the strand of fibers are positioned closer to one another across a width of the plate between a medial side and a lateral side at the midfoot region of the plate than at the heel region of the plate to form the first layer.

Clause 511: The plate of Clause 509, wherein adjacent segments of the strand of fibers are positioned closer to one another across a width of the plate between a medial side and a lateral side at the midfoot region of the plate than at the forefoot region of the plate to form the first layer.

Clause 512: A plate for an article of footwear, the plate comprising a first layer including first high tensile strength fibers, a second layer including second high tensile strength fibers, a third layer including third high tensile strength fibers and a polymeric resin consolidating the first high tensile strength fibers, the second high tensile strength fibers, and the third high tensile strength fibers, wherein the plate includes a forefoot region, a heel region, and a midfoot region disposed between the forefoot region and the heel region, the heel region including a stiffness of about 35 N/mm to about 45 N/mm.

Clause 513: The plate of Clause 512, wherein a stiffness of the midfoot region is about 20 N/mm to about 55 N/mm.

Clause 514: The plate of Clause 512, wherein a stiffness of the forefoot region is about 95 N/mm to about 105 N/mm.

Clause 515: The plate of Clause 512, wherein a stiffness of the midfoot region is about 75 N/mm to about 120 N/mm.

Clause 516: The plate of Clause 512, wherein a stiffness of the forefoot region is about 75 N/mm to about 120 N/mm.

Clause 517: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one of the first high tensile strength fibers, the second high tensile strength fibers, and the third high tensile strength fibers include at least one of carbon fibers, aramid fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymer fibers.

Clause 518: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the polymeric resin is a thermoset resin or a thermoplastic resin.

Clause 519: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one of the first high tensile strength fibers, the second high tensile strength fibers, and the third high tensile strength fibers are applied in a unidirectional tape.

Clause 520: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one of the first high tensile strength fibers, the second high tensile strength fibers, and the third high tensile strength fibers are applied as a strand of fibers stitched down to a base layer.

Clause 521: The plate of Clause 512, wherein at least two of the first high tensile strength fibers, the second high tensile strength fibers, and the third high tensile strength fibers are applied in a unidirectional tape and the other the first high tensile strength fibers, the second high tensile strength fibers, and the third high tensile strength fibers is applied as a strand of fibers stitched down to a base layer.

Clause 522: The plate of Clause 512, wherein the first high tensile strength fibers, the second high tensile strength fibers, and the third high tensile strength fibers are applied as strands of fibers stitched down to a base layer and each including a different pattern.

Clause 523: The plate of Clause 512, wherein at least one of the first high tensile strength fibers, the second high tensile strength fibers, and the third high tensile strength fibers are applied as a strand of fibers stitched down to a base layer.

Clause 524: The plate of Clause 523, wherein adjacent segments of the strand of fibers are positioned closer to one another across a width of the plate between a medial side and a lateral side at the midfoot region of the plate than at the heel region of the plate to form the first layer.

Clause 525: The plate of Clause 523, wherein adjacent segments of the strand of fibers are positioned closer to one another across a width of the plate between a medial side and a lateral side at the midfoot region of the plate than at the forefoot region of the plate to form the first layer.