Patent Publication Number: US-9833040-B2

Title: Footwear and insole system

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 14/334,263 filed Jul. 17, 2014, which is a continuation of U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 14/183,031 filed Feb. 18, 2014, which is a continuation of U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 14/156,706 filed Jan. 16, 2014; U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 14/334,263 filed Jul. 17, 2014 is also a continuation of U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 14/183,051 filed Feb. 18, 2014, which is a continuation of U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 14/156,708 filed Jan. 16, 2014; all of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present invention relates generally to the field of footwear, and more particularly to an insole system for use with footwear, and to footwear having an insole system. 
     BACKGROUND 
     To a person or wearer of footwear, it is commonly preferred that the footwear be comfortable and appealing. Typically, this is not a problem to a wearer of flat bottom shoes—most people can find an article of footwear that is at least comfortable and appealing to the person wearing the footwear. Unfortunately, as the footwear becomes appealing or dressier, for example—the heel of the footwear increasing in elevation as in womens&#39; high heel footwear, the comfort declines drastically. Time and time again, high heel shoes fail to provide comfort to the wearer; additionally failing to provide other important factors such as the distribution of pressure of the wearer&#39;s foot and supporting the same while ensuring the foot stays odorless, fresh and dry. 
     Accordingly, needs exist for improved insole systems for use with footwear, and in particular for use with womens&#39; high heeled shoes. It is to the provision of a footwear insole system meeting these and other needs that the present invention is primarily directed. 
     SUMMARY 
     In example embodiments, the present invention provides a footwear insole system. In one aspect, the insole system includes a base insole, first and second shock absorbing inserts, and an upper insole. The base insole includes a chassis having an upper surface and a lower surface, a lateral side and a medial side, a heel end and a forefoot end, and a heel portion, a midfoot portion, and a forefoot portion. The first and second shock absorbing inserts are mounted to the chassis and the upper insole is mounted to the upper surface of the chassis. 
     In another aspect, the invention relates to an insole for replaceable incorporation into a shoe including an insole base layer, an upper insole cover layer, and at least one gel insert member retained between the insole base layer and the upper insole cover layer. 
     In still another aspect, the insole system includes a base insole and an upper insole. The base insole includes a chassis and first and second shock absorbing inserts. The chassis includes an upper surface and a lower surface, a lateral side and a medial side, a heel end and a forefoot end, and a heel portion, a midfoot portion and a forefoot portion. The upper insole is generally configured for mounting to the upper surface of the chassis and includes a spacer panel, first and second gel insert members, and a cover sheet layer. 
     In yet another aspect, the invention relates to an insole system for an article of footwear. The insole system includes a base insole and an upper insole. The base insole includes a chassis and first and a second shock absorbing inserts. The chassis has an upper surface and a lower surface, a lateral side and a medial side, a heel end and a forefoot end, and a heel portion, a midfoot portion, and a forefoot portion. The chassis defines a central well formed at the heel portion having a peripheral wall defined along the well at the heel portion and extending along the lateral and medial sides of the chassis until gradually tapering at the midfoot portion. In one example form, the peripheral wall defines an outer collar that is generally transverse the wall and between the wall and an outer contour of the chassis. First and second shock absorbing layers are mounted to the chassis wherein the first shock absorbing layer is mounted to at least a portion of the forefoot portion and the second shock absorbing layer is mounted to at least a portion of the central well at the heel portion. The upper insole includes a spacer panel having at least one opening formed therein, at least a first and a second gel insert, and a cover sheet. The spacer panel includes a midfoot portion and a forefoot portion for extending along the midfoot and forefoot portions of the base insole, with the first gel insert being fitted within the opening of the spacer panel to be adjacent the first shock absorbing layer and the second gel insert abutting a portion of the spacer panel proximal the midfoot portion and being adjacent the second shock absorbing layer, and the cover sheet mounted atop the spacer panel and at least the first and second gel inserts. 
     In still another aspect, the present invention provides an article of footwear such as a shoe comprising an insole system for improved comfort and stability. The article of footwear includes a footwear upper, an outer sole or outsole member and an insole system. The upper generally includes an opening that is configured to receive a wearer&#39;s foot. The outer member is generally mounted to the upper. The insole system generally includes a base insole and an upper insole. The base insole includes a chassis or base layer and first and second shock absorbing inserts. The chassis generally has an upper surface and a lower surface, a lateral side and a medial side, a heel end and a forefoot end, and a heel portion, a midfoot portion, and a forefoot portion. The upper insole is generally mounted to the upper surface of the chassis and includes a spacer panel, first and a second gel insert members, and a cover sheet layer. 
     In another aspect, the invention relates to an article of footwear such as a shoe including an upper, an outer member and an insole system. The upper includes an opening that is configured to receive a wearer&#39;s foot and the outer member is mounted to the upper. The insole system includes a base insole and an upper insole. The base insole includes a chassis and first and a second shock absorbing inserts. The chassis has an upper surface and a lower surface, a lateral side and a medial side, a heel end and a forefoot end, and a heel portion, a midfoot portion, and a forefoot portion. The chassis defines a central well formed at the heel portion having a peripheral wall defined along the well at the heel portion and extending along the lateral and medial sides of the chassis until gradually tapering at the midfoot portion. In one example form, the peripheral wall defines an outer collar that is generally transverse the wall and between the wall and an outer contour of the chassis. First and second shock absorbing inserts are mounted to the chassis wherein the first shock absorbing layer is mounted to at least a portion of the forefoot portion and the second shock absorbing layer is mounted to at least a portion of the central well at the heel portion. The upper insole includes a spacer panel having at least one opening formed therein, at least a first and a second gel insert, and a cover sheet. The spacer panel includes a midfoot portion and a forefoot portion for extending along the midfoot and forefoot portions of the base insole, with the first gel insert being fitted within the opening of the spacer panel to be adjacent the first shock absorbing layer and the second gel insert abutting a portion of the spacer panel proximal the midfoot portion and being adjacent the second shock absorbing layer, and the cover sheet mounted atop the spacer panel and at least the first and second gel inserts. 
     In still another aspect, the invention relates to a method of assembling an article of footwear such as a shoe. The shoe assembly method generally includes providing an upper having an opening configured for receiving a wearer&#39;s foot, mounting an outer member to a bottom surface of the upper, affixing a base insole to an interior portion of the upper, and affixing an upper insole to the base insole. 
     These and other aspects, features and advantages of the invention will be understood with reference to the drawing figures and detailed description herein, and will be realized by means of the various elements and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following brief description of the drawings and detailed description of the invention are exemplary and explanatory of preferred embodiments of the invention, and are not restrictive of the invention, as claimed. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a side perspective view of an article of footwear comprising an insole system according to an example embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 2  is a bottom perspective view of the article of footwear of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3  is a side assembly view of the article of footwear of  FIG. 1 , showing the components of the insole system. 
         FIG. 4  is a perspective partial assembly view of a base insole of the footwear insole system of  FIG. 3 . 
         FIG. 5  is an assembly view of an upper insole portion of the footwear insole system of  FIG. 3 . 
         FIG. 6  is a bottom perspective view of the upper insole of  FIG. 5 , showing the components thereof assembled together. 
         FIG. 7  is a side perspective view of the footwear insole system of  FIG. 3 , showing the upper insole sitting atop the base insole. 
         FIG. 8  is a top view of the footwear insole system of  FIG. 7 , showing the upper insole secured to the base insole. 
         FIG. 9  is a side perspective view of an article of footwear comprising an insole system according to another example embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 10  is a bottom perspective view of the article of footwear of  FIG. 9 . 
         FIG. 11  is a side assembly view of the article of footwear of  FIG. 9 , showing the components of the insole system. 
         FIG. 12  is a perspective partial assembly view of a base insole of the footwear insole system of  FIG. 11 . 
         FIG. 13  is an assembly view of an upper insole portion of the footwear insole system of  FIG. 11 . 
         FIG. 14  is a bottom perspective view of the upper insole of  FIG. 13 , showing the components thereof assembled together. 
         FIG. 15  is a side perspective view of the footwear insole system of  FIG. 11 , showing the upper insole sitting atop the base insole. 
         FIG. 16  is a top view of the footwear insole system of  FIG. 15 , showing the upper insole secured to the base insole. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS 
     The present invention may be understood more readily by reference to the following detailed description of the invention taken in connection with the accompanying drawing figures, which form a part of this disclosure. It is to be understood that this invention is not limited to the specific devices, methods, conditions or parameters described and/or shown herein, and that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments by way of example only and is not intended to be limiting of the claimed invention. Any and all patents and other publications identified in this specification are incorporated by reference as though fully set forth herein. 
     Also, as used in the specification including the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include the plural, and reference to a particular numerical value includes at least that particular value, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as from “about” or “approximately” one particular value and/or to “about” or “approximately” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment. 
     Generally described, the present invention relates to a footwear insole system for providing support, comfort and protection to a wearer&#39;s foot, and to help keep the wearer&#39;s feet odorless, fresh and dry. In one embodiment, the footwear insole system is configured for dress shoes, for example, high heel womens&#39; shoes. Alternately, the footwear insole system can be configured to be adapted to other types of dress footwear (men or women), casual footwear, athletic footwear, etc. 
     With reference now to the drawing figures, wherein like reference numbers represent corresponding parts throughout the several views,  FIG. 1  shows an article of footwear  10  comprising an upper  12 , an outer sole member  14  and an insole system  20 . In one example embodiment, the article of footwear  10  is in the form of a high heel shoe, which can generally comprise a heel  16  extending a distance downward from the heel or rear end of the outsole  14 . As depicted, the heel is generally unitary with the outer sole member  14 . The heel  16  can be sized and shaped as desired and comprise any length, thickness and/or style as desired by the manufacturer or wearer of the article of footwear  10 . Generally, the upper  12  and the outer  14  are assembled together to form the outer structure of the article of footwear  10 . An opening  18  is provided on the upper  12  and is preferably configured to receive the wearer&#39;s foot. The outer member  14  and optional heel  16  are generally configured to contact the ground during use of the article of footwear  10 . A plurality of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) injected slip-resistant treads  19  may be provided on a bottom side of the outer member. Preferably, the treads  19  are generally flush or at the same level with the external surface of the outer sole  14 . Alternatively, the treads  19  can extend slightly beyond, for example about 1-3 millimeters beyond, the external surface of the outer sole  14 . As depicted, the treads  19  are generally shaped to resemble a teardrop in overall peripheral profile with a portion of the slip-resistant tread  19  extending from the front end of the teardrop to a keystone shaped or otherwise configured toe end, and can be co-molded or injection molded into the outer sole member  14 , or otherwise formed. Optionally, other shapes or patterns can be provided. In one example form, the insole system  20  is permanently secured to the upper  12  within the opening  20 . In another example form, the insole system  20  may be replaceable or interchangeable, to be installed or removed from the article of footwear  10  by insertion or removal through the opening  18 . In example embodiments, portions of the insole system  20  can be generally built into the article of footwear  10  or permanently or semi-permanently attached when constructing the upper  12 . Thus, as will be described below, at least a portion of the insole system  20  may be secured to the upper  12  regardless of whether the balance of the insole system  20  is permanently secured or replaceable therefrom. 
       FIG. 3  shows an exploded or assembly view of the article of footwear  10  including the upper  12 , the outer member  14  and the insole system  20 . Generally, the upper  12  and outer member  14  are constructed of one or more materials such as other leather, synthetic leather, wood, plastic, polymer, composites, natural materials, synthetic materials, other materials and/or combinations thereof. In example forms, the upper  12  optionally comprises a midsole (unshown) to which the insole system  20  is affixed or mounted. Generally, the midsole, as is typical with footwear construction, is typically unitary with or affixed to the upper  12  when constructing the upper  12 , which generally forms the bottom portion thereof. As such, to construct the article of footwear  10 , the outer member  14  is affixed to the bottom portion of the upper  12  or external/exposed portion of the midsole (e.g., generally opposite the opening  18 ) and the insole system  20  is affixed or mounted to the midsole or interior portion of the upper  12  that is exposed therein (e.g., by inserting the insole system  20  within the opening  18 ). Thus, in example forms, the midsole is generally sandwiched between the outer member  14  and the insole system  20 . Optionally, the upper  12  is constructed without the use of a midsole such that the outer member  14  is affixed to the bottom portion of the upper  12  and the insole system  20  is affixed within the upper  12  to a portion of the outer sole member  14  or an internal portion of the upper  12 . 
     As will be described in greater detail below, example forms of the insole system  20  generally comprise a base insole  22  and an upper insole  62 , which are generally affixed together to form the insole system  20 . The base insole  22  generally comprises a base layer or chassis  24  and a first and a second (or fore and aft) shock absorbing insert  56 ,  60 . The upper insole  62  generally comprises a central spacer panel or gel insert member receiver  64 , first and a second (or fore and aft) gel insert members  70 ,  72  and a fabric cover sheet layer  74 . In alternative embodiments, the first and second shock absorbing inserts  56 ,  60  and/or the first and second gel insert members  70 ,  72  may comprise unitary or continuous elements optionally incorporating intermediate connector webs or panels of reduced thickness interconnecting first and second primary sections of the inserts and/or members; and/or only a single shock absorbing insert and/or a single gel insert member may be included at either the fore or aft locations. 
       FIG. 4  shows the base insole  22  in greater detail. Generally, as briefly described above, the base insole  22  comprises the chassis or base layer  24  and first and second shock absorbing inserts  56 ,  60 . Typically, the chassis  24  comprises an upper surface  26 , a lower surface  30 , a lateral side  32 , a medial side  34 , a heel or rear end  36 , a forefoot or front end  40 , a heel or rearward end portion  42 , a midfoot portion  44  and a forefoot portion  46 . As such, the chassis  24  is generally shaped to comprise an outer contour that is shaped to generally match the shape of a wearer&#39;s foot, and thus shaped similarly to the upper  12  that is it intended to be affixed or removably mounted to. As shown, the base insole  22  is generally arched as is typical for high heel shoes, with the heel of a wearer&#39;s foot elevated above the forefoot by 1″, 2″, 3″ or more. Alternatively, the base insole  22  may be substantially flat or otherwise configured to accommodate for use in connection with various other types and styles of footwear. 
     In example forms, the heel portion  42  of the chassis  24  comprises a central recess, cup or well  50  that is generally spaced inwardly from the outer periphery of the heel portion  42 . A peripheral wall  52  extends at least partially around the central well  50  along the rearward end  42  and the lateral and medial sides  32 ,  34  from the heel end of the chassis  24  and gradually tapering away (e.g., reducing in thickness or wall height) around the midfoot portion  44  or the forefoot portion  46 . Preferably, the peripheral wall  52  defines an outer rim or collar  53  that is generally transverse the wall  52  and between the wall  52  and the outer contour of the chassis  24  such that an inner or central portion of the wearer&#39;s heel is positioned over the central well  50  and an outer or peripheral portion of the wearer&#39;s heel is positioned over the collar  53 , providing improved weight distribution and comfort when worn. In some example forms, collar lip  53  may comprise a ramped or inclined surface generally sloping or tapering downwardly and inwardly towards the central well  50 . As will be described below, the wall  52  defines an area for seating portions of the upper insole  62  therein, and the lip  53  provides a surface for affixing portions of the upper insole  62  thereto. Optionally, a surface defined within the central well  50  comprises a plurality of recessed apertures or indentions  54  countersunk therein to provide for the alignment and placement of one or more fasteners that can be used for attachment of the heel portion  42  to the upper  12 . Alternatively or additionally, an adhesive or other attachment means can be used to affix the heel portion  42  to the upper  12 . 
     The first and second shock absorbing inserts  56 ,  60  are typically affixed to the upper surface  26  of the chassis  24 , for example, the first shock absorbing insert  56  being affixed between the forefoot portion  46  and the midfoot portion  44  and the second shock absorbing insert  60  being affixed within the central well  50 . Generally, the outer contour of the central well  50  is substantially similar to the outer contour of the second shock absorbing insert  60  so that the insert is closely received within the well. In one form, the central well  50  is recessed below the upper surface  26  such that the upper surface of the second shock absorbing insert  60  is generally flush with the upper surface  26  when mounted thereto. Similarly, the upper surface of the first shock absorbing insert  56  is preferably flush with the upper surface  26  when affixed thereto (between the forefoot portion  46  and the midfoot portion  44 ). In one example form, a recessed channel or inset is provided within the base layer  24  such that the first shock absorbing insert  56  can be affixed within the recessed portion and remain flush with the upper surface  26 . Optionally, the first shock absorbing insert  56  and the chassis  24  (generally near the forefoot portion  46 ) comprise a substantially similar thickness, and the first shock absorbing insert  56  is affixed between the forefoot portion  46  and the midfoot portion  44 , for example, wherein it is the first shock absorbing insert  56  that couples the midfoot portion  44  to the forefoot portion  46 . Optionally, the ends of the first shock absorbing layer  56  and the ends of the midfoot and forefoot portions  44 ,  46  (e.g., generally adjacent and abutting each other) can be mitered, dovetailed or overlayed to provide a smoother or improved transition and/or connection between the upper surface of the chassis  24  and the first shock absorbing layer  56 . 
     In example forms, at least portions of the base insole  22  are permanently or semi-permanently secured to the upper  12  during the construction or assembly thereof. For example, in one example form, the chassis  24  and the first shock absorbing insert  56  are permanently secured to the upper  12  during the construction or assembly of the upper  12 , and the second shock absorbing insert  60  and the upper insole  62  are separately installed (permanently secured or replaceable/interchangeable) in the upper  12 . In alternate example forms, the base insole  22  and the upper insole  62  are installed after the construction of the upper  12 , for example to then be permanently secured or replaceable/interchangeable with the upper  12 . Optionally, the base insole  22  (or the chassis  24  and first shock absorbing insert  56 ) is/are permanently secured to the upper  12  and the upper insole  62  is replaceable/interchangeable with the upper  12 . 
     Optionally, a generally rigid member or shank may be incorporated within the heel and/or forefoot portions  42 ,  44  to provide for enhancing or supporting the arched shape of the base insole  22  for improved comfort. Example shanks can be constructed from metal, plastic, composite, wood, natural materials, synthetic materials, other materials and/or combinations thereof. Alternatively, the outsole, base layer and/or other components of the footwear and/or the insole provide sufficient structural support and rigidity to eliminate the need for a shank. 
     In example embodiments, the base layer or chassis  24  is formed from high density polyethylene (HDPE) and the shock absorbing inserts  56 ,  60  are formed from polyurethane (PU). Optionally, the HDPE of the chassis  24  may include a microfiber overlayer or other fiberboard layer, which may comprise antimicrobial characteristics. In one example form, the shock absorbing inserts  56 ,  60  are formed from a specific polyurethane material, for example, Poron® XRD™ (available at www.poronxrd.com) that may vary in density from about 9 lb/ft 3  to about 25 lb/ft 3  and have a range of specific gravity from about 0.14 to about 0.40. Example qualities that may provide superior benefit to the shock absorbing inserts  56 ,  60  include but are not limited to performance advantage (consistent repeated impact absorption for dependable protection throughout the life of the product), wearable protection advantage (offers thin and flexible alternative to traditional padding, Microban® antimicrobial protection to help prevent growth of bacteria that causes stains, odors and product deterioration, breathable technology for ensuring ease of motion and air flow, contouring, and soft and flexible to the touch, offering the wearer a comfortable and customizable fit), design advantage (lightweight and low profile material technology, available in a variety of density/thickness combinations) and technologically advanced (soft to the touch, firm on impact, conforms to body&#39;s move, yet upon impact, forms a comfortable shell that protects the body, open-cell, breathable, excellent compression-set resistance, antifungal and does not contain latex, PVCs, VOCs or heavy metals). In example forms, to construct the base insole  12 , the chassis  24  is preferably injection molded as a single piece and the shock absorbing inserts  56 ,  60  are affixed thereto with an adhesive or other attachment means, press-fit, co-molded, or otherwise constructed. Example forms of adhesives can include but are not limited to glue, resin, cement, or other various types of bonding materials. Optionally, the base insole  22  (chassis  24  and shock absorbing inserts  56 ,  60 ) may be constructed using various other manufacturing and assembly methods including cutting (e.g., die cutting, stamping, etc.), casting, molding, stitching, heat bonding, couplings, hook and loop material, tape, etc. 
       FIGS. 5 and 6  show the upper insole  62  in greater detail. Generally, as briefly described above, the upper insole  62  comprises the spacer or insert member panel  64 , the first and second gel insert members  70 ,  72 , and the fabric cover sheet layer  74 . As depicted, the spacer panel  64  is generally formed from a material having a uniform thickness and comprises a forefoot portion  65  and a midfoot portion  66 . Preferably, an opening  68  is provided within the spacer panel  64  between the forefoot portion  65  and the midfoot portion  66  for receiving the first gel insert member  70  and an end surface  67  is provided near the midfoot portion  66  of the spacer panel  64  for attachment or abutment of a forward edge of the second gel insert member  72  thereto (see  FIG. 6 ). Preferably, the outer contour of the opening  68  is substantially similar in shape to the outer contour of the first gel insert member  70  to provide a generally close or snug fit of the gel insert member into the opening. In example forms, the first and second gel insert members  70 ,  72  comprise a plurality of honeycomb or hexagon-shaped indentions or recessed cells  73  formed on one or both sides thereof, bounded by substantially upright flexible cell walls, which provide for additional comfort, adequate flexibility of the wearer&#39;s foot and distribution of a force applied thereon. The fabric sheet layer  74  is provided for substantially covering a side of the spacer panel  64  and the gel insert members  70 ,  72 , and maintaining attachment of the insole components assembled therewith. Preferably, as shown in  FIG. 6 , portions of the fabric sheet layer  74  extend beyond the outer contour of the midfoot portion  66  and the affixed second gel insert  72  to provide an attachment surface for adhering to the outer rim-like surface or collar  53  of the base insole  22 . In example embodiments, breathable holes or openings  76  are provided through the fabric sheet layer  74 , to allow air movement, moisture dissipation and breathability for increased comfort (see  FIGS. 7-8 ). 
     Preferably, the spacer panel  64  is formed from polyurethane (PU), the first and second gel inserts  70 ,  72  are formed from a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) gel having nanoclay incorporated therein, and the fabric sheet layer  74  is formed from an antimicrobial microfiber fabric material. Optionally, the first and second gel inserts  70 ,  72  can comprise additional materials incorporated therein, for example, an antimicrobial material or others as desired. Typically, as described above, the antimicrobial characteristics incorporated within one or more components of the base or upper insole  22 ,  62  provide for preventing growth of bacteria that causes stains, odors and product deterioration. 
     In one example form, the spacer panel  64  is formed from a specific polyurethane material, for example, Poron® Performance Cushioning (available at www.poronsuchioning.com) that may vary in density from about 15 lb/ft 3  to about 25 lb/ft 3  and have a range of specific gravity from about 0.24 to about 0.40. Example qualities that provide superior benefit to the spacer panel  64  include but are not limited to superior shock absorption (lower peak deceleration, greater shock reduction), performance ability (long-term comfort, compression-set resistance, open-cell, breathable, Microban® antimicrobial protection) and versatility (available in a variety of densities, thicknesses (1.0 mm to 12.7 mm)). In example forms, the spacer panel  64  is generally formed from a large roll of the polyurethane sheet material, for example, wherein a die cutting machine is used to form the preferred shape of the spacer panel  64 . Optionally, the spacer panel  64  may be formed in a plurality of other ways, which may include casting, stamping, molding, CNC, etc. Similarly, the fabric sheet layer is typically formed by die cutting the preferred shape from a roll of the antimicrobial microfiber fabric material. And, the first and second gel inserts  70 ,  72  are typically formed by injection molding. Optionally, various other manufacturing and assembly techniques may be employed to obtain the components and/or the assembled upper insole  62  including cutting, casting, molding, stamping, CNC, stitching, printing, heat bonding, couplings, hook and loop material, etc. 
     In example embodiments, the upper insole  62  is generally formed by molding the inserts onto the fabric sheet layer  74  and then aligning the spacer panel  64  with the fabric sheet layer  74  so that the inserts  70 ,  72  fit within portions thereof (e.g., insert  70  fitting within opening  68  and insert  72  fitting adjacent to surface  67 ). For example, in one example form, the fabric sheet layer  74  is placed within a mold machine and the inserts  70 ,  72  are molded onto the fabric, wherein the heat that provides attachment of the inserts  70 ,  72  provides attachment of the inserts to the fabric sheet layer  74 . Alternatively or additionally, the inserts may be adhesively or otherwise attached to the fabric sheet layer. Thus, when placing the spacer panel  64  thereon, the inserts  70 ,  72  are free to float relative to the spacer panel and the base insole in response to movement or shifting of weight of the wearer. Preferably, the spacer panel  64  is fitted onto the fabric sheet layer  74  (and inserts  70 ,  72  molded thereto) without any form of adhesive or attachment. Optionally, an adhesive or other form of attachment can be provided to affix the spacer panel  64  to the fabric sheet layer  74 , for example, wherein an adhesive is applied to one or more portions of the spacer panel  64  and/or the fabric sheet layer  74 . Preferably, the gel insert members  70 ,  72  are not adhered or otherwise attached to the underlying base insole  22  or shock absorbing inserts  56 ,  60 , but are allowed to compress and move under load for increased comfort and weight distribution when worn, and to resist shifting of the foot within the shoe (i.e., to substantially lock the foot in position on the insole to prevent shifting forward in the footbed). 
     In alternate example embodiments, the first and second gel inserts  70 ,  72  can be affixed in place in or on the spacer panel  64 , and the fabric sheet layer  74  can then be affixed to the panel  64  with an adhesive. For example, an adhesive may be applied to the outer periphery of the first gel insert  70  and the insert  70  is fitted within the opening  68 , thus coupling the outer periphery of the first gel insert  70  to the outer contour of the opening  68 . For affixing the second gel insert  73  to the spacer panel  64 , an adhesive is applied to an end surface of the second gel insert  72  and the end surface of the insert  72  is affixed to the end surface  67  of the spacer panel  64 . And, for affixing the fabric sheet layer  74 , an adhesive is more or less applied across the surface of the sheet layer  74  and the sheet layer  74  is affixed to the spacer panel  64 . Optionally, the adhesive can be selectively applied on the sheet layer  74  to only adhere at one or more portions of the spacer panel  64 . Preferably, the adhesive is in the form of a glue, resin, cement, or other type of bonding material. Optionally, the panel  64 , inserts  70 ,  72  and fabric sheet layer  74  can be affixed together by other adhesives, heat bonding, stitching, injection molding, etc. Optionally, the inserts  70 ,  72  are separately formed (not molded onto the fabric sheet layer  74 ) and can be adhered to the fabric sheet layer  74  with an adhesive, by stitching, or other attachment means. Optionally, the spacer panel  64  can be adhered to the sheet layer  74  prior to adhering the inserts  70 ,  72  to the spacer panel  64  and/or sheet layer  74 . Alternatively, the gel insert members  70 ,  72  are not adhered or attached to the spacer panel  64 , but are held in place by being sandwiched in close fit between the surrounding components. 
     Generally, the insole system  20  may be either permanently secured to the internal portion of the upper  12  (accessible through the opening  18 ) of a shoe or other article of footwear, or the insole system  20  may be added or removed from the article of footwear  10  by insertion or removal through the opening  18 . As described above, it is preferred that portions of the insole system  20  are constructed or assembled with the article of footwear  10  at different stages of the construction or assembly of the article of footwear  10 . For example, the chassis  24  and the shock absorbing insert  56  are typically assembled when forming the upper  12  and outsole  14 , and the second shock absorbing insert  60  and upper insole  62  are assembled at a later stage. In one example form, the second shock absorbing insert  60  and the upper insole  62  are assembled during the construction of the article of footwear  10  (permanently secured or replaceable/interchangeable), but after at least constructing the upper  12  (comprising the chassis  24  and the first shock absorbing insert  56 ). In another example form, the second shock absorbing insert  60  and/or the upper insole  62  can be installed during a post-construction or assembly process or other later time including once the footwear  10  has been worn by a user. For example, it may be desired to provide a replacement upper insole  62  and/or the second shock absorbing insert  60  to replace the current upper insole  62  and/or second shock absorbing insert  60  after the article of footwear  10  has been used. In this manner, the insole system of the present invention can be installed during construction as original equipment within a shoe designed to incorporate the insole system, or can be retrofit into the construction of a standard shoe design, or can be installed in an existing shoe after construction. Optionally, the entire insole system  20  can be assembled at the same stage and then be permanently secured or replaceable/interchangeable with the article of footwear  10  during or after the construction process thereof. 
     In example forms, the base insole  22  is generally affixed to an internal portion of the upper  12  by applying an adhesive to the bottom side  30  of the chassis or base layer  24 , the internal portions of the upper  12 , or both. Optionally, stitching, molding or other adhering methods may be used to affix the base insole  22  to the upper  12  (and/or midsole as described above). If the second shock absorbing insert  60  has not been secured to the central well  50 , the insert  60  is then secured to the central well  50 , which is typically accomplished with an adhesive. Optionally, the other adhering methods listed above and others may be used. Typically, the upper insole  62  is inserted within the opening  18  (aligning the forefoot portion  65  with the forefoot portion  46 , see  FIG. 7 ) and the midfoot portion  66  and the affixed heel portion  72  are then inserted within the central well  50  and between the peripheral wall  52  (see  FIG. 8 ). To permanently secure the upper insole  62  to the chassis  24  of the base insole  22 , adhesive is applied to the lip or collar  53  or the exposed portions of the fabric sheet layer  74  extending beyond the periphery of the midfoot portion  66  and the second gel insert  72 , or both. Optionally, other adhering methods may be provided to affix the upper insole  62  to the base insole  22 . Optionally, the adhesive can be applied to the lip  53  and/or fabric sheet layer  74  prior to placing the upper insole  62  atop the base insole  22 . Further optional, the adhesive can be applied to the exposed (bottom side of the spacer panel  64 ), which will contact and adhere to the chassis  24  of the base insole  22 . Preferably, the first and second gel inserts  70 ,  72  remain free from engagement with the chassis  24  and/or central well  50 , thus allowing the inserts  70 ,  72  to generally float atop the shock absorbing inserts  56 ,  60  of the base insole  22 , respectively. In some example forms, at least some portions of the outer periphery of the spacer panel  64  and/or the second gel insert  72  can be secured to the peripheral wall  52 , or alternatively may be unsecured. Further optionally, the upper insole  62  and/or shock absorbing insert  60  are replaceable or interchangeable, to be installed or removed from the article of footwear  10  by insertion or removal through the opening  18 . Thus, the upper insole  60  and/or shock absorbing insert  60  may be generally seated within or interengage the base insole  22  and provide a substantially snug fit while also providing for replacing or interchanging therefrom. 
     In other aspects, the present invention relates to a method of assembling an article of footwear such as for example a womens&#39; high heel shoe. Generally, the method comprises providing a shoe upper having an opening configured for receiving a wearer&#39;s foot, mounting a shoe outer member to a bottom surface of the shoe upper, affixing a base insole to an interior portion of the upper, and affixing an upper insole to the base insole. Alternatively, the method comprises forming a footwear upper comprising a footbed or midsole therein, mounting an outer sole member to the midsole and/or to the upper, affixing a base insole  22  to the midsole and/or footbed within the upper  12 , and affixing an upper insole  62  to the base insole  22 . As described above, the outer member can be mounted to the bottom of the upper  12 , which may comprise the midsole mounted therein. Further, as described above, the base insole  22  can be affixed to the upper insole  62  prior to affixing the base insole  22  to the midsole (and/or internal portions of the upper  12 ). One or more gel insert members are held in place between the base insole and the upper insole, preferably without attachment that would otherwise restrict movement of the gel insert members in compression. 
       FIGS. 9-16  show an article of footwear  100  comprising an insole system  120  according to another example embodiment of the present invention. As similarly described above, the article of footwear generally comprises an upper  112 , an outer sole member  114  and the insole system  120 . In the depicted embodiment, the article of footwear  100  is in the form of a high heel shoe, which can generally comprise a heel  116  extending a distance downward from the heel or rear end of the outsole  114 . In alternate embodiments, the footwear can take the form of various other types of shoes, boots, sandals, slippers, or other footwear. The upper  112  and the outer  114  are generally assembled together to form the outer structure of the article of footwear  100 . An opening  118  is provided on the upper  112  and is preferably configured to receive a wearer&#39;s foot. 
       FIG. 11  shows an exploded or assembly view of the article of footwear  100  including the upper  112 , the outer member  114  and the insole system  120 . The insole system  120  generally comprises a base insole  122  and an upper insole  162 , which are generally affixed together to form the insole system  120 . The base insole  122  generally comprises a base layer or chassis  124  and a first and a second (or fore and aft) shock absorbing insert  156 ,  160 . The upper insole  162  generally comprises first and second spacer panels  163 ,  164 , first and second (or fore and aft) gel insert members  170 ,  172  and a fabric cover sheet layer  174 . In alternative embodiments, the first and second shock absorbing inserts  156 ,  160  and/or the first and second gel insert members  170 ,  172  may comprise unitary or continuous elements optionally incorporating intermediate connector webs or panels of reduced thickness interconnecting first and second primary sections of the inserts and/or members; and/or only a single shock absorbing insert and/or a single gel insert member may be included at either the fore or aft locations. 
       FIG. 12  shows a detailed view of the base insole  122  including the chassis  124  and the first and second shock absorbing inserts  156 ,  160 . Typically, the chassis  124  comprises an upper surface, a lower surface, a lateral side  132 , a medial side  134 , a heel or rear end  136 , a forefoot or front end  140 , a heel or rearward portion  142 , a midfoot portion  144  and a forefoot portion  146 . Optionally, a surface defined near the heel portion  142  of the base layer comprises a plurality of recessed apertures or indentions  54  countersunk therein to provide for the alignment and placement of one or more fasteners that can be used for attachment of the heel portion  142  to the upper  112 . Alternatively or additionally, an adhesive or other attachment means can be used to affix the heel portion  142  to the upper  112 . According to one example embodiment, the upper surface of the chassis  124  is generally smooth and formed from a molded and generally rigid and/or at least partially flexible insole member whereby the first and second shock absorbing inserts  156 ,  160  are generally coupled to an upper surface thereof. In some example forms, the chassis  124  is formed from a cardboard or pressboard material, but may optionally be formed from polyethylene material, as described above. 
       FIGS. 13-14  show the upper insole  162  in greater detail. Generally, the upper insole  162  comprises the first and second spacers or insert member panels  163 ,  164 , first and second (or fore and aft) gel insert members  170 ,  172 , and a fabric or leather cover sheet layer  174 . In example forms, the panels  163 ,  164  are generally formed from a material having a uniform thickness. In example forms, the panel  163  comprises a forefoot portion  165  and the panel  164  comprises a midfoot portion  166 , which extends rearwardly towards the heel portion. Preferably, the panel  163  comprises an end surface  167   a  and the panel  164  comprises an end surface  167   b  for attachment or abutment of the forward and rearward edges of the first gel insert member  170 . Typically, the first gel insert member  170  is substantially similar in width to the panels  163 ,  164  such that a generally smooth transition is provided along the periphery of the assembled upper insole  162  (see  FIG. 14 ). Optionally, the width of the first gel insert member  170  is at least partially larger than the width of the panels  163 ,  164  such that a noticeable transition is provided along the periphery of the upper insole  162  between the abutment of the panels  163 ,  164  and the first gel insert member  170 . An opening  168  is provided within the panel  164  near the heel portion for receiving the second gel insert member  172 . Preferably, the outer contour of the opening  168  is substantially similar in shape to the outer contour of the second gel insert member  172  to provide a generally close or snug fit of the gel insert member into the opening. As similarly described above, the first and second gel insert members  170 ,  172  comprise a plurality of honeycomb or hexagon-shaped indentions or recessed cells  173  formed on one or both sides thereof, bounded by substantially upright flexible cell walls, which provide for additional comfort, adequate flexibility of the wearer&#39;s foot and distribution of a force applied thereon. The cover sheet layer  174  is provided for substantially covering the top of the panels  163 ,  164  and the gel insert members  170 ,  172 , and maintaining attachment of the insole components assembled therewith. The cover sheet layer  174  may be formed from a fabric, leather or other material(s) of construction. 
       FIGS. 15-16  show the upper insole  162  and the base insole  122  generally assembled together to form the insole system  120 . As similarly described above, the upper insole  162  and the base insole  122  can generally be assembled or affixed together as desired. According to one form, the upper insole  162  and the base insole  122  are mounted together by an adhesive or glue-like material, for example wherein at least a portion of the one or more spacer panels  163 ,  164  are mounted to at least a portion of the shock absorbing inserts  156 ,  160  and/or at least a portion of the chassis  124 . Optionally, one or more components of the upper insole  162  and/or the base insole  122  may be molded together as a unitary member, or one or more co-molding processes may be provided for the same. According to some example forms, the spacer panel  163  is glued to the shock absorbing insert  156  and the spacer panel  164  is glued to the shock absorbing insert  160 . Preferably, according to at least one example form, the gel insert member  170  is not glued to the shock absorbing insert  156 , but rather floats atop the shock absorbing insert  156  and between the spacer panels  163 ,  164 . Similarly, the gel insert member  172  is not glued to the shock absorbing insert  160 , but rather floats atop the shock absorbing insert  160  and within the opening  168 . The gel insert members  170 ,  172  are shown in broken lines to depict that they are inside the insole, for example, since they are covered by the cover sheet layer  174 . Furthermore, as depicted in  FIGS. 7-8 , one or more holes may be provided in the cover sheet layer  174  to allow for air movement, moisture dissipation, and breathability. 
     While the invention has been described with reference to preferred and example embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that a variety of modifications, additions and deletions are within the scope of the invention, as defined by the following claims.