Patent Publication Number: US-9848672-B2

Title: Article of footwear incorporating a knitted component with integrally knit contoured portion

Description:
FIELD 
     The present disclosure relates to an article of footwear and, more particularly, relates to an article of footwear incorporating a knitted component with an integrally knit contoured portion. 
     BACKGROUND 
     This section provides background information related to the present disclosure which is not necessarily prior art. 
     Conventional articles of footwear generally include two primary elements, an upper and a sole structure. The upper is secured to the sole structure and forms a void on the interior of the footwear for comfortably and securely receiving a foot. The sole structure is secured to a lower area of the upper, thereby being positioned between the upper and the ground. In athletic footwear, for example, the sole structure may include a midsole and an outsole. The midsole often includes a polymer foam material that attenuates ground reaction forces to lessen stresses upon the foot and leg during walking, running, and other ambulatory activities. Additionally, the midsole may include fluid-filled chambers, plates, moderators, or other elements that further attenuate forces, enhance stability, or influence the motions of the foot. The outsole is secured to a lower surface of the midsole and provides a ground-engaging portion of the sole structure formed from a durable and wear-resistant material, such as rubber. The sole structure may also include a sockliner positioned within the void and proximal a lower surface of the foot to enhance footwear comfort. 
     The upper generally extends over the instep and toe areas of the foot, along the medial and lateral sides of the foot and around the heel area of the foot. In some articles of footwear, such as basketball footwear and boots, the upper may extend upward and around the ankle to provide support or protection for the ankle. Access to the void on the interior of the upper is generally provided by an ankle opening in a heel region of the footwear. A lacing system is often incorporated into the upper to adjust the fit of the upper, thereby permitting entry and removal of the foot from the void within the upper. The lacing system also permits the wearer to modify certain dimensions of the upper, particularly girth, to accommodate feet with varying dimensions. In addition, the upper may include a tongue that extends under the lacing system to enhance adjustability of the footwear, and the upper may incorporate a heel counter to limit movement of the heel. 
     A variety of material elements (e.g., textiles, polymer foam, polymer sheets, leather, synthetic leather) are conventionally utilized in manufacturing the upper. In athletic footwear, for example, the upper may have multiple layers that each includes a variety of joined material elements. As examples, the material elements may be selected to impart stretch-resistance, wear-resistance, flexibility, air-permeability, compressibility, comfort, and moisture-wicking to different areas of the upper. In order to impart the different properties to different areas of the upper, material elements are often cut to desired shapes and then joined together, usually with stitching or adhesive bonding. Moreover, the material elements are often joined in a layered configuration to impart multiple properties to the same areas. As the number and type of material elements incorporated into the upper increases, the time and expense associated with transporting, stocking, cutting, and joining the material elements may also increase. Waste material from cutting and stitching processes also accumulates to a greater degree as the number and type of material elements incorporated into the upper increases. Moreover, uppers with a greater number of material elements may be more difficult to recycle than uppers formed from fewer types and numbers of material elements. By decreasing the number of material elements utilized in the upper, therefore, waste may be decreased while increasing the manufacturing efficiency and recyclability of the upper. 
     SUMMARY 
     This section provides a general summary of the disclosure, and is not a comprehensive disclosure of its full scope or all of its features. 
     An upper for an article of footwear that is configured to be connected to a sole structure and configured to receive a foot is disclosed. The upper includes a knitted component having unitary knit construction. The knitted component has a base portion configured to be disposed adjacent the sole structure. The knitted component also includes a heel portion and a forefoot portion that extend from opposite ends of the base portion. Furthermore, the knitted component includes a medial portion and a lateral portion that extend from opposite sides of the base portion. The medial and lateral portion cooperates to define a throat area between the medial and lateral portions. Furthermore, the knitted component includes a tongue portion that is configured to be disposed in the throat area. The tongue portion is decoupled from at least one of the medial portion and the lateral portion. Moreover, the upper includes a first edge of the knitted component and a second edge of the knitted component. The second edge is configured to be coupled to the first edge at a seam causing the base portion, the heel portion, the forefoot portion, the medial portion, and the lateral portion to cooperatively define a void that is configured to receive the foot. 
     Additionally, a method of manufacturing a knitted component for an article of footwear that is configured to be connected to a sole structure is disclosed. The method includes knitting the knitted component to have a base portion configured to be disposed adjacent the sole, a heel portion and a forefoot portion that extend from opposite ends of the base portion, and a medial portion and a lateral portion that extend from opposite sides of the base portion. The medial and lateral portion cooperate to define a throat area between the medial and lateral portions. Furthermore, knitting the knitted component includes knitting a tongue portion that is configured to be disposed in the throat area. The tongue portion is decoupled from at least one of the medial portion and the lateral portion. Furthermore, the method includes coupling a first edge of the knitted component and a second edge of the knitted component at a seam causing the base portion, the heel portion, the forefoot portion, the medial portion, and the lateral portion to cooperatively define a void that is configured to receive the foot. 
     Still further, an upper for an article of footwear that is configured to be connected to a sole structure and that is configured to receive a foot is disclosed. The upper includes a knitted component having a base portion that is configured to be disposed adjacent the sole structure. The base portion defines an interior surface and an exterior surface of the knitted component. The base portion defines a base portion passage between the interior surface and the exterior surface. Moreover, the upper includes a tensile strand that extends through the base portion passage. 
     Furthermore, a method of manufacturing an upper that is configured to be connected to a sole structure and that is configured to be worn on a foot is disclosed. The method includes knitting a knitted component having a base portion that is configured to be disposed adjacent the sole structure. The base portion defines an interior surface and an exterior surface of the knitted component. The base portion defines a base portion passage between the interior surface and the exterior surface. The method additionally includes extending a tensile strand through the base portion passage. 
     Additionally, an article of footwear is disclosed that includes a sole structure and an upper. The upper includes a knitted component having unitary knit construction. The knitted component also includes a base portion that is configured to be disposed adjacent the sole structure. The base portion defines an interior surface and an exterior surface of the knitted component. The base portion also defines a base portion passage between the interior surface and the exterior surface. Furthermore, the article of footwear includes a tensile strand that extends through the base portion passage. 
     Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the description provided herein. The description and specific examples in this summary are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. 
    
    
     
       DRAWINGS 
       The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected embodiments and not all possible implementations, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of an article of footwear according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view of the article of footwear of  FIG. 1  with a closure member removed; 
         FIG. 3  is an exploded perspective view of the article of footwear of  FIG. 2 ; 
         FIG. 4  is a perspective view of a knitted component with inlaid strands of the article of footwear of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 5  is a top plan view of the knitted component of  FIG. 4 ; 
         FIG. 6  is a bottom plan view of the knitted component of  FIG. 4  with a footprint shown in phantom; 
         FIG. 7  is a section view of the knitted component taken along the line  7 - 7  of  FIG. 6 ; 
         FIG. 8  a schematic view of a heel portion of the knitted component taken from the perspective of the line  8 - 8  of  FIG. 5 ; 
         FIG. 9  is a detail view of a portion of the knitted component taken from 
         FIG. 6 ; 
         FIGS. 10 and 11  are bottom plan views of the knitted component, wherein  FIG. 10  shows the closure member in the unsecured position and  FIG. 11  shows the closure member in the secured position; 
         FIG. 12  is a bottom view of a knitted component with inlaid strands according to additional embodiments of the present disclosure; 
         FIGS. 13 and 14  are schematic views of a unitary knit construction with inlaid strands; and 
         FIGS. 15-23  are perspective schematic views of parts of a flat knitting machine shown during formation of a unitary knit construction with an inlaid strand. 
     
    
    
     Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views of the drawings. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Example embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. 
     General Discussion of Article of Footwear 
     Referring initially to  FIGS. 1-3 , an article of footwear  100  is illustrated according to exemplary embodiments. The footwear  100  can generally include a sole structure  110  and an upper  120 . 
     Sole structure  110  is secured to upper  120  and extends between the foot and the ground when footwear  100  is worn. The sole structure  110  can include a midsole  112  and an outsole  114  that are layered on each other. The midsole  112  can include a resiliently compressible material, fluid-filled bladders, and the like. As such, the midsole  112  can cushion the wearer&#39;s foot and attenuate impact and other forces when running, jumping, and the like. The outsole  114  can be secured to the midsole  112  and can include a wear resistant material, such as rubber and the like. The outsole  114  can also include tread and other traction-enhancing features. 
     Moreover, the upper  120  can define a void  122  that receives a foot of the wearer. Stated differently, the upper  120  can define an interior surface  121  that defines the void  122 , and the upper  120  can define an exterior surface  123  that faces in a direction opposite the interior surface  121 . When the wearer&#39;s foot is received within the void  122 , the upper  120  can at least partially enclose and encapsulate the wearer&#39;s foot. 
     Many conventional footwear uppers are formed from multiple material elements (e.g., textiles, polymer foam, polymer sheets, leather, synthetic leather) that are joined through stitching or bonding, for example. In contrast, at least a portion of upper  120  is formed from a knitted component  116  having a unitary knit construction. The outer boundaries of the knitted component  116  can be defined by a peripheral edge  199 , which is shown in  FIGS. 5 and 6 . As will be discussed, knitted component  116  can define at least a portion of the void within upper  120 . Also, the knitted component  116  can define at least a portion of the exterior surface  123  and/or the interior surface  121  of the upper  120 . 
     In some embodiments, the knitted component  116  can define a majority of the upper  120 . Decreasing the number of material elements used in forming the upper  120  may decrease waste, while also increasing the manufacturing efficiency and recyclability of the upper  120 . As discussed in greater detail below, the knitted component  116  of the upper  120  of the present disclosure can decrease waste and increase manufacturing efficiency and recyclability. Additionally, the knitted component  116  of the upper  120  can incorporate smaller numbers of seams or other discontinuities, thereby enhancing the overall comfort of footwear  100 . 
     The knitted component  116  may also have common properties when formed from the same strand, yarn (or type of yarn) or with similar knit structures. For example, using the same strand in various portions of the knitted component  116  can impart similar durability, strength, stretch, wear-resistance, biodegradability, thermal, and hydrophobic properties. In addition to physical properties, using the same strand in multiple portions of the knitted component  116  can impart common aesthetic or tactile properties, such as color, sheen, and texture. Using the same knit structures across different portions of the knitted component  116  may also impart common physical properties and aesthetic properties. 
     Knitted Component Configurations 
       FIGS. 4-6  illustrate various embodiments of knitted components  116  that may be incorporated into articles of footwear in a similar manner as the exemplary embodiment of  FIGS. 1 through 3 . The knitted component  116  illustrated in  FIGS. 4-6  are depicted separate from a remainder of footwear  100 . However, it should be understood that each of the embodiments of knitted component  116  described herein may be combined with the elements of footwear  100 , described above, to form an article of footwear  100  incorporating the knitted component  116 . 
     The knitted component  116  can be of “unitary knit construction.” As defined herein and as used in the claims, the term “unitary knit construction” means that the knitted component  116  is formed as a one-piece element through a knitting process. That is, the knitting process substantially forms the various features and structures of knitted component  116  without the need for significant additional manufacturing steps or processes. A unitary knit construction may be used to form a knitted component having structures or elements that include one or more courses of yarn or other knit material that are joined such that the structures or elements include at least one course in common (i.e., sharing a common strand or common yarn) and/or include courses that are substantially continuous between each portion of the knitted component  116 . With this arrangement, a one-piece element of unitary knit construction is provided. 
     Although portions of knitted component  116  may be joined to each other following the knitting process, knitted component  116  remains formed of unitary knit construction because it is formed as a one-piece knit element. Moreover, knitted component  116  remains formed of unitary knit construction when other elements (e.g., an inlaid strand, a closure element, logos, trademarks, placards with care instructions and material information, and other structural elements) are added following the knitting process. 
       FIGS. 4-6  illustrate exemplary embodiments of the knitted component  116  as defining a majority of the upper  120  of the article of footwear  100 . As shown, the knitted component  116  of the upper  120  can include a base portion  124  or strobel portion or underfoot portion. Also, the knitted component  116  can include one or more side portions  126 . The base portion  124  can be configured to be disposed adjacent the sole structure  110 . For instance, the base portion  124  can attach directly or indirectly to the sole structure  110  such that the base portion  124  lies over the sole structure  110 . In additional embodiments, one or more parts of the base portion  124  (e.g., a periphery of the base portion  124 ) can attach to the sole structure  110  while other parts remain detached or decoupled. Also, the base portion  124  can be configured to extend underneath the wearer&#39;s foot. The side portion(s)  126  can extend from the base portion  124  and can be configured to at least partially cover over the wearer&#39;s foot. Also, the base portion  124  and side portion(s)  126  can cooperate to define a void  122  that receives the wearer&#39;s foot. Again, the base portion  124  and the side portion(s)  126  can be formed of a unitary knit construction as discussed above. 
     As shown in the illustrated embodiments, the side portions  126  of the knitted component  116  can include a heel portion  128 , a lateral portion  130 , a medial portion  132 , a forefoot portion  134 , and a tongue portion  136 , each of which are formed of the same unitary knit construction as the base portion  124 . Thus, the knitted component  116  can fit and conform closely to the wearer&#39;s foot. Also, because of this construction, the knitted component  116  can be formed relatively quickly to increase manufacturing efficiency. 
     Also, as shown in  FIG. 6  and as will be discussed in detail, the knitted component  116  can include one or more tensile strands  158  that are incorporated with the unitary knit construction of the knitted component  116 . For instance, the strands  158  can be inlaid within the courses and/or wales of the knitted component  116  as will be discussed. Also, the strands  158  can be attached to the interior and/or exterior surface of the knitted component  116 . 
     The strand(s)  158  can be disposed in the upper to extend across the sides and/or under the wearer&#39;s foot. Also, the strand(s)  158  can be operably coupled to a closure member  154 , such as a shoelace  155 . Thus, tensioning the shoelace  155  can, in turn, tension the strand(s)  158 . As a result, the strand(s)  158  can provide support to the wearer&#39;s foot for increased comfort and better fit. 
     The illustrated embodiments of the upper  120  and the footwear  100  is configured to be worn on a left foot of the wearer. However, it will be appreciated that the footwear  100  can be configured to be worn on the right foot and can include similar features as the illustrated embodiments. 
     The footwear  100  can also be configured as a running shoe. However, the footwear  100  may also be applied to a variety of other athletic footwear types, including baseball shoes, basketball shoes, cycling shoes, football shoes, tennis shoes, soccer shoes, training shoes, walking shoes, and hiking boots, for example. The concepts may also be applied to footwear types that are generally considered to be non-athletic, including dress shoes, loafers, sandals, and work boots. Accordingly, the concepts disclosed with respect to footwear  100  apply to a wide variety of footwear types. 
     Exemplary Features of Knitted Component 
     In exemplary embodiments schematically illustrated in  FIG. 13 , the primary element of knitted component  116  may be formed from at least one yarn  1138  or other strand that is manipulated (e.g., with a knitting machine) to form a plurality of intermeshed loops that define a variety of courses and wales. Although yarn  1138  forms each of the courses and wales in this configuration, additional yarns may form one or more of the courses and/or wales. 
     The properties that a particular type of yarn will impart to an area of a knitted component partially depend upon the materials that form the various filaments and fibers within the yarn. Cotton, for example, provides a soft hand, natural aesthetics, and biodegradability. Elastane and stretch polyester each provide substantial stretch and recovery, with stretch polyester also providing recyclability. Rayon provides high luster and moisture absorption. Wool also provides high moisture absorption, in addition to insulating properties and biodegradability. Nylon is a durable and abrasion-resistant material with relatively high strength. Polyester is a hydrophobic material that also provides relatively high durability. 
     Additional examples of a suitable configuration for a portion of knitted component  116  is depicted in  FIG. 14 . In this configuration, knitted component  116  includes yarn  1138  and another yarn  1139  (i.e., plural strands). Yarns  1138  and  1139  are plated and cooperatively form a plurality of intermeshed loops defining multiple horizontal courses and vertical wales. That is, yarns  1138  and  1139  run parallel to each other. An advantage of this configuration is that the properties of each of yarns  1138  and  1139  may be present in this area of knitted component  1130 . For example, yarns  1138  and  1139  may have different colors, with the color of yarn  1138  being primarily present on a face of the various stitches in knit element  1131  and the color of yarn  1139  being primarily present on a reverse of the various stitches in knit element  1131 . As another example, yarn  1139  may be formed from a yarn that is softer and more comfortable against the foot than yarn  1138 , with yarn  1138  being primarily present on first surface  1136  and yarn  1139  being primarily present on second surface  1137 . 
     Moreover, as shown in  FIGS. 13 and 14 , a strand  1132  can be incorporated in the unitary knit construction of the knitted component  116 . The strand  1132  can be a tensile strand element that provides support to the knitted component  116 . Stated differently, tension within the strand  1132  can allow the knitted component  116  to resist deformation, stretching, or otherwise provide support for the wearer&#39;s foot during running, jumping, or other movements of the wearer&#39;s foot. Also, it will be appreciated that the strand  158  of  FIG. 6  (mentioned above and described in detail below) can be incorporated in the knitted component  116  similar to the strand  1132  of  FIGS. 13 and 14 . 
     As will be discussed, the strand  1132  can be incorporated or inlaid into the unitary knit construction of the knitted component  116  such that the strand  1132  can be incorporated during the knitting processes on the knitting machine. For instance, the strand  1132  can be inlaid within the unitary knit construction such that the strand  1132  extends along one of the courses as shown in  FIGS. 13 and 14  and/or the wales of the knitted component  116 . As shown in  FIGS. 13 and 14 , the strand  1132  and can alternate between being located (a) behind loops formed from yarn  1138  and (b) in front of loops formed from yarn  1138 . In effect, inlaid strand  1132  weaves through the unitary knit construction of knit element  1131 . 
     The knitted component may also include one or more strands or yarns that are formed from at least one of a thermoset polymer material and natural fibers (e.g., cotton, wool, silk). Other yarns or strands may be formed from a thermoplastic polymer material. In general, a thermoplastic polymer material melts when heated and returns to a solid state when cooled. More particularly, the thermoplastic polymer material transitions from a solid state to a softened or liquid state when subjected to sufficient heat, and then the thermoplastic polymer material transitions from the softened or liquid state to the solid state when sufficiently cooled. As such, thermoplastic polymer materials are often used to join two objects or elements together. In this case, yarn may be utilized to join (a) one portion of yarn to another portion of yarn, (b) yarn and inlaid strand to each other, or (c) another element (e.g., logos, trademarks, and placards with care instructions and material information) to knitted component, for example. As such, yarn may be considered a fusible yarn given that it may be used to fuse or otherwise join portions of knitted component to each other. Moreover, yarn may be considered a non-fusible yarn given that it is not formed from materials that are generally capable of fusing or otherwise joining portions of knitted component to each other. That is, yarn may be a non-fusible yarn, whereas other yarn(s) may be a fusible yarn. In some configurations of knitted component, yarn (i.e., the non-fusible yarn) may be substantially formed from a thermoset polyester material and yarn (i.e., the fusible yarn) may be at least partially formed from a thermoplastic polyester material. 
     The use of plated yarns may impart advantages to knitted component. When yarn is heated and fused to yarn and inlaid strand, this process may have the effect of stiffening or rigidifying the structure of knitted component. Moreover, joining (a) one portion of yarn to another portion of yarn or (b) yarn and inlaid strand to each other has the effect of securing or locking the relative positions of yarn and inlaid strand, thereby imparting stretch-resistance and stiffness. That is, portions of yarn may not slide relative to each other when fused with yarn, thereby preventing warping or permanent stretching of knit element due to relative movement of the knit structure. Another benefit relates to limiting unraveling if a portion of knitted component becomes damaged or one of yarns is severed. Accordingly, areas of knitted component may benefit from the use of both fusible and non-fusible yarns within knit element. 
     Additionally, it will be appreciated that the knitted component can have varying zones that collectively form the unitary knit construction. For instance, the knitted component can include a combination at least two of the following: a flat knit zone, a tubular knit zone, a 1×1 mesh knit zone, a 2×2 mesh knit zone, a 3×2 mesh knit zone, a 1×1 mock mesh knit zone, a 2×2 mock mesh knit zone, a 2×2 hybrid knit zone, a full gauge knit zone, a ½ gauge knit zones, and the like. Accordingly, the knitted component  116  and upper  120  can be constructed according to the teachings of U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012/0233882, which published on Sep. 20, 2012, and which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
     Embodiments of Upper and Knitted Component 
     Various embodiments of the upper  120  and knitted component  116  will now be discussed in greater detail. As shown, the upper  120  can define a longitudinal direction  125 , a transverse direction  127 , and a vertical direction  129 , which will be used for referencing different features of the upper  120  in the below discussion. 
     As mentioned above, the knitted component  116  of the upper  120  can include a base portion  124 , which is configured to be disposed underneath the wearer&#39;s foot. An outline of the wearer&#39;s foot is shown in  FIG. 6 , such that the base portion  124  is at least generally defined relative to the wearer&#39;s foot. Thus, the base portion  124  can extend continuously underneath one or more portions of the heel, the sole, the toes, the arch, and/or other inferior surfaces of the wearer&#39;s foot. In additional embodiments, the base portion  124  can include openings and so as to extend partially or discontinuously under the wearer&#39;s foot 
     The knitted component  116  can also include various side portions  126  that extend peripherally from the base portion  124 . The side portions  126  can be configured to cover over and lie against at least a portion of the wearer&#39;s foot. In the embodiments illustrated, the side portions  126  of the knitted component  116  can substantially encompass the base portion  124 . Also, it will be appreciated that the base portion  124  and the side portions  126  can collectively define the interior surface  121  of the knitted component  116  as well as the exterior surface  123  of the knitted component  116 . 
     For instance, the side portions  126  can include a heel portion  128 , which is disposed on one end of the base portion  124 . The heel portion  128  can also extend upwards from the base portion  124  in the vertical direction  129  as shown in  FIG. 4 . The heel portion  128  can be configured to cover over a heel and/or an ankle area of the wearer&#39;s foot. 
     The side portions  126  of the knitted component  116  can also include a lateral portion  130 , which is disposed forward relative to the heel portion  128 , and which can extend upwards from a lateral side of the base portion  124  as shown in  FIG. 4 . The lateral portion  130  can be configured to cover over and lie against a lateral area of the wearer&#39;s foot. 
     Furthermore, the side portions  126  of the knitted component  116  can include a medial portion  132 , which is disposed on an opposite side of the base portion  124  relative to the lateral portion  130  and forward of the heel portion  128 . The medial portion  132  can further extend upwards in the vertical direction  129  from the base portion  124  as shown in  FIG. 4 . The medial portion  132  can be disposed on an opposite side of the base portion  124  in the transverse direction  127 . The medial portion  132  can be configured to cover over and lie against a medial area or instep of the wearer&#39;s foot. 
     The heel portion  128 , lateral portion  130 , and medial portion  132  can collectively define a horseshoe-shaped collar  133  of the upper  120 . The collar  133  can provide access into and out of the void  122  of the upper  120 . Moreover, a lateral edge  135  of the lateral portion  130  and a medial edge  137  of the medial portion  132  can collectively define a throat  131  of the upper  120 . The throat  131  can extend substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction  125 , or the throat  131  can be disposed at an angle relative to the longitudinal direction  125 . Also, although the throat  131  is substantially centered over the base portion  124  in the embodiments of  FIG. 4 , the throat  131  can be disposed to one side relative to the base portion  124  in the transverse direction  127 . As will be discussed, the width of the throat  131  can be selectively varied by the closure member  154  so as to move the lateral and medial edges  135 ,  137  toward and away from each other. As a result, the footwear  100  can be selectively tightened on the wearer&#39;s foot and loosened from the wearer&#39;s foot. 
     Additionally, the side portions  126  of the knitted component  116  can include a forefoot portion  134 . The forefoot portion  134  can be disposed on an opposite end of the base portion  124  relative to the heel portion  128  and forward of the lateral and medial portions  130 ,  132  in the longitudinal direction  125  as shown in  FIG. 1 . Also, the forefoot portion  134  can be integrally connected to either the lateral portion  130  or the medial portion  132 , and the forefoot portion  134  can be spaced from the other. In the embodiments shown, for instance, the forefoot portion  134  is integrally connected to the lateral portion  130  and is spaced from the medial portion  132 . Accordingly, when the upper  120  is in a disassembled state as shown in  FIG. 4 , a gap  139  can be defined between the forefoot portion  134  and the medial portion  132 . 
     Still further, the side portions  126  of the knitted component  116  can include a tongue portion  136 . As shown in  FIG. 4 , the tongue portion  136  can include a curved region  143  and a longitudinal region  145 . When the upper  120  is disassembled as shown in  FIG. 4 , the tongue portion  136  can extend generally forward from the base portion  124 , and the curved region  143  can be disposed within the gap  139  between the medial and forefoot portions. The curved region  143  can also curve such that the longitudinal region  145  extends generally rearwardly and at an angle  143  relative to the medial portion  132  as shown in  FIG. 4 . The curvature of the curved region  143  can be achieved by having knit courses that substantially radiate from a common area  151  as shown in  FIG. 5 . The common area  151  can be an imaginary point that is spaced from the periphery of the curved region  143 , between the tongue portion  136  and the medial portion  132  as shown, or the common area  151  can be disposed elsewhere. Also, when the upper  120  is assembled, the curved region  143  can wrap upwards to at least partially fill the gap  139 , and the longitudinal region  145  of the tongue portion  136  can be disposed within the throat  131  of the upper to cover over the wearer&#39;s foot between the lateral portion  130  and the medial portion  132 . Moreover, when the upper  120  is assembled, the longitudinal region  145  of the tongue portion  136  can be detached and decoupled from the lateral and/or medial portions  130 ,  132  as shown in  FIG. 3 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 4, 5, and 6 , the base portion  124  and the heel portion  128  can define a heel cavity  148  that is configured to receive a heel of the wearer&#39;s foot (see  FIG. 6 ). The heel cavity  148  can have interior and/or exterior surfaces with three dimensional curvature. Also, the heel cavity  148  can have a convex outer surface. Thus, as the heel portion  128  extends in the vertical direction  129  from the base portion  124 , the heel portion  128  can curve forward slightly in the longitudinal direction  125 . Also, as the heel portion  128  extends in the transverse direction  127 , both sides of the heel portion  128  can curve forward in the longitudinal direction  125  to join to the lateral and medial portions  130 ,  132 . Accordingly, the heel cavity  148  can conform and approximately correspond to the shape of the wearer&#39;s heel and ankle. 
     Furthermore, as shown in  FIGS. 4, 5, and 6 , the base portion  124  and the forefoot portion  134  can define a forefoot cavity  150  that is configured to receive the toes and other forefoot regions of the wearer&#39;s foot (see  FIG. 6 ). The forefoot cavity  150  can have interior and/or exterior surfaces with three dimensional curvature. Also, the forefoot cavity  150  can have a convex outer surface. Thus, as the forefoot portion  134  extends in the vertical direction  129  from the base portion  124 , the forefoot portion  134  can curve rearwardly in the longitudinal direction  125 . Also, as the forefoot portion  134  extends in the transverse direction  127 , the forefoot portion  134  can curve rearwardly in the longitudinal direction  125  to join to the lateral portion  130 . 
     The three dimensional curvature of the heel cavity  148  and/or the forefoot cavity  150  can be formed due to the unitary knit construction of the knitted component  116 . For instance, as shown in  FIG. 8 , the heel portion  128  can include at least two tapered areas  170 ,  171 . The tapered areas  170 ,  171  can have boundaries  173  that taper generally in the transverse direction  127  as indicated by broken lines. The tapered areas  170 ,  171  each have a plurality of courses, or row of stitches; however, the successive courses can have different lengths to thereby provide the tapered shape of the boundaries  173 . Thus, the tapered areas  170 ,  171  can have an eye shape, a double pointed oval shape, a biconvex shape, or a crescent shape. 
     Also, the boundary  173  of the tapered area  170  is joined to the boundary  173  of the tapered area  171  in the unitary knit construction to provide the knitted component  116  with three dimensional curvature. This can produce a visually evident distortion along the joined boundaries  173 . The distortion can be a so-called fully fashioned mark extending along the joined boundaries  173  in the knitted component  116 . 
     In the embodiments of  FIG. 8 , there are a plurality of tapered areas that are joined along respective boundaries such that the tapered areas extend from the collar  133  to the base portion  124  and a majority of the heel portion  128  includes these tapered areas. Accordingly, a majority of the heel portion  128  can have three-dimensional curvature. However, it will be appreciated that knitted component  116  can include any number of tapered areas  170 ,  171  on any portion of the knitted component  116  to provide three dimensional curvature to the knitted component  116 . Also, the tapered areas  170 ,  171  can be oriented in any suitable direction on the knitted component  116 . For instance, the forefoot portion  134  can similarly include tapered areas; however, such tapered areas can taper in the vertical direction  129  in exemplary embodiments. 
     The curved region  143  of the tongue portion  136  can also include a plurality of tapered areas that provide the curved region  143  with curvature. For instance, the curved region  143  can include tapered areas  193 ,  195  that are integrally knit together and joined along boundaries  197 . This can produce a visually evident distortion along the joined boundaries  197 . The distortion can be a so-called fully fashioned mark extending along the joined boundaries  197  in the knitted component  116 . Additionally, as mentioned above, the courses within the curved region  143  can radiate from common area  151  to provide two-dimensional curvature. 
     Also, in some embodiments, the forefoot portion  134  can include a plurality of openings  152  that are arranged to assist with increasing curvature of the forefoot portion  134 . In the embodiments illustrated, the plurality of openings  152  can include one or more rows of through-holes. Because the openings  152  reduce the amount of knitted material at those areas of the forefoot portion  134 , the forefoot portion  134  can readily curve rearward toward the heel portion  128 . 
     The knitted component  116  can additionally include at least two edge portions  140 ,  142  that are configured to be joined together when assembling the upper  120 . It will be appreciated that the first edge portion  140  can be a first longitudinal section of larger peripheral edge  199  of the knitted component  116  shown in  FIGS. 5 and 6 . It will also be appreciated that the second edge portion  142  can be a second longitudinal section of the peripheral edge  199 . The edge portions  140 ,  142  can be defined in any suitable location long the peripheral edge  199  and/or anywhere on the knitted component  116 . As shown in  FIGS. 5 and 6 , the first edge portion  140  can extend along the curved region  143  of the tongue portion  136  and can also extend partially through the base portion  124  in the transverse direction  127 , adjacent the forefoot portion  134 . The second edge portion  142  can curve along the forefoot portion  134 , generally in the transverse direction  127  and can extend downward in the vertical direction  129  along the forefoot portion  134  so as to partially define the gap  139 . The first edge  140  and the second edge  142  can also meet at a notch  141  defined within the base portion  124  as shown in  FIG. 4 . 
     As mentioned above, the footwear  100  can further include a closure member  154 , which is illustrated in  FIG. 1 . The closure member  154  can selectively secure the upper  120  to the wearer&#39;s foot and selectively release the upper  120  from the wearer&#39;s foot. 
     As shown in  FIG. 1 , the closure member  154  can be a shoelace  155 . As such, the lateral portion  130  can include one or more lateral closure openings  156 , such as through-holes that are disposed in a row extending along the lateral edge  135 . The medial portion  132  can include similar medial closure openings  157  that are disposed in a row extending along the medial edge  137 . The openings  156 ,  157  can receive the shoelace  155  such that the shoelace  155  can criss-cross, zigzag, and alternate between the lateral and medial portions  130 ,  132 . 
     It will be appreciated that the openings  156 ,  157  could be configured differently from the through-holes shown in  FIG. 1 . For instance, the openings  156 ,  157  could be defined by hoops, grommets, hooks, and other suitable features that are configured to receive a closure member and that are either integrated into the knitted component  116  or are removably attached to the knitted component  116 . 
     Also, it will be appreciated that the closure member  154  could include structure other than the shoelace  155  without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For instance, the closure member  154  could be a strap, a buckle, pile tape, or other suitable closure member. 
     Still further, as shown in  FIG. 6 , the upper  120  can include at least one tensile strand  158  that is coupled to the base portion  124  and/or the side portions  126 . The strand  158  can be coupled to any portion of the base portion  124  and/or the side portion  126 . Additionally, the strand  158  can be coupled to the base portion  124  and/or the side portion  126  in any suitable fashion. For instance, the strand  158  can be inlaid within courses and/or wales of the unitary knit construction of the base portion  124  and side portions  126  as will be discussed. Thus, the strand  153  can correspond to the strand  1132  described above and shown in  FIGS. 13 and 14 . The strand  158  can also be adhered, fastened, pierced through, or otherwise coupled to the interior or exterior surfaces  121 ,  123  of the base portion  124  and/or the side portion  126 . 
     The strand  158 , knitted component  116 , and upper  120  can incorporate the teachings of one or more of commonly-owned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/338,726 to Dua et al., entitled “Article of Footwear Having An Upper Incorporating A Knitted Component”, filed on Dec. 18, 2008 and published as U.S. Patent Application Publication Number 2010/0154256 on Jun. 24, 2010, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/048,514 to Huffa et al., entitled “Article Of Footwear Incorporating A Knitted Component”, filed on Mar. 15, 2011 and published as U.S. Patent Application Publication Number 2012/0233882 on Sep. 20, 2012, both of which applications are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety (collectively referred to herein as the “Inlaid Strand cases”). 
     The strand  158  can be an elongate and flexible. Also, the strand  158  can include at least one yarn, cable, wire, string, cord, filament, fiber, thread, rope, and the like. Also, the strand  158  can be formed from rayon, nylon, polyester, polyacrylic, silk, cotton, carbon, glass, aramids (e.g., para-aramid fibers and meta-aramid fibers), ultra high molecular weight polyethylene, liquid crystal polymer, copper, aluminum, steel, or other suitable material. An individual filament utilized in the strand  158  may be formed form a single material (i.e., a monocomponent filament) or from multiple materials (i.e., a bicomponent filament). Similarly, different filaments may be formed from different materials. As an example, yarns utilized as strand  158  may include filaments that are each formed from a common material, may include filaments that are each formed from two or more different materials, or may include filaments that are each formed from two or more different materials. Similar concepts also apply to threads, cables, ropes, etc. The thickness (diameter) of strand  158  can be within a range from approximately 0.03 millimeters to 5 millimeters, for example. Also, the strand  158  can have a substantially circular cross section, an ovate cross section, or a cross section of any other suitable shape. 
     As an example, the strand  158  may be formed from a bonded nylon 6.6 with a breaking or tensile strength of 3.1 kilograms and a weight of 45 tex. The strand  158  can also be formed from a bonded nylon 6.6 with a breaking or tensile strength of 6.2 kilograms and a tex of 45. As a further example, the strand  158  may have an outer sheath that sheathes and protects an inner core. 
     In some embodiments, the strand  158  can have a fixed length (e.g., can be nonextendible). Also in some embodiments, the strand  158  can be resiliently extendible. 
     Additionally, in some embodiments, the strand  158  can include a thermoplastic material that is configured to adhere, bond, or fuse to the base portion  124  and/or the side portions  126  of the upper  120 . For instance, selective application of heat can cause materials in the strand  158  to fuse to the materials of the base portion  124  and/or the side portions  126 . The strand  158  can, thus, be included according to the teachings of U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012/0233882, which published on Sep. 20, 2012, and which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
     As shown in the embodiments of  FIG. 6 , the upper  120  can include a single strand  158  that extends continuously between the medial portion  132 , the base portion  124 , and the lateral portion  130 . Also, the strand  158  can include one or more turns  159 ,  160 . The turns  159 ,  160  can be one hundred eighty degree turns or greater. Specifically, the strand  158  can include a plurality of lateral turns  159  that are arranged in a row along the lateral edge  135 , and the strand  158  can include a plurality of medial turns that are arranged in a row along the medial edge  137 . The strand  158  can also extend linearly between pairs of the turns  159 ,  160 . Additionally, the strand  158  can include a first terminal end  164  that is disposed adjacent the heel portion  128 , and the strand  158  can include a second terminal end  166  that is disposed adjacent the forefoot portion  134 . The strand  158  can also alternatingly extend and zigzag between the lateral and medial portions  130 ,  132 . 
     Furthermore, as shown in  FIGS. 6 and 7 , the knitted component  116  can define a passage  162  between the interior surface  121  and the exterior surface  123 . The passage  162  can be defined in any suitable fashion. For instance, in embodiments in which the strand  158  is inlaid within the knitted component  116 , the passage  162  can be defined through one or more courses or wales of the knitted component  116 . Also, in some embodiments, the interior surface  121  can be defined by a layer of knitted material and the exterior surface  123  can be defined by a separate layer of knitted material, and a plurality of strands, filaments, or monofilaments can extend and provide spacing between these layers (e.g., a so-called “spacer knit material”). In these embodiments, the passage  162  can be defined between the layers of knitted material and among the plurality of spacer strands. In additional embodiments, the interior surface  121  and the exterior surface  123  can be interconnected stitched surfaces, and the passage  162  can be defined between these surfaces. 
     The passage  162  can extend across any portion of the upper  120 . For instance, as indicated by broken lines in  FIG. 6 , the upper  120  can define a plurality of passages  162 , and each passage  162  can extend continuously between the lateral portion  130 , the base portion  124 , and the medial portion  132 . In the embodiments shown, each passage  162  extends partially across the lateral portion  130  (lateral passage), partially across the base portion  124  (base portion passage), and partially across the medial portion  132  (medial passage) such that the passage  162  is continuous between the lateral portion  130 , the base portion  124 , and the medial portion  132 . However, it will be appreciated that one or more passage  162  can be localized and isolated on any portion of the upper  120 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 7 , the strand  158  can be received and can extend longitudinally within one or more of the passages  162  so as to extend between the lateral portion  130 , the base portion  124 , and the medial portion  132 . Also, the turns  159 ,  160  of the strand  158  can be exposed from the passages  162 . 
     The lateral turns  159  can extend at least partially around respective ones of the lateral closure openings  156 , and the medial turns  160  can extend at least partially around respective ones of the medial closure openings  157 . Furthermore, as shown in  FIG. 1 , the shoelace  155  can be received within respective pairs of the lateral closure openings  156  and the lateral turns  159 , and the shoelace  155  can also be received within respective pairs of the medial closure openings  157  and the medial turns  160 . Stated differently, each pairing of lateral turn  159  and lateral closure opening  156  can cooperatively receive and support the shoelace  155 , and each pairing of medial turn  160  and medial closure opening  157  can also receive and support the shoelace  155 . 
     In some embodiments, the strand  158  can be loosely and moveably received within the respective passages  162 . For instance, the strand  158  can slide longitudinally through the passages  162 . Thus, as shown in  FIG. 9 , the turns  159 ,  160  can be pulled closer to the respective closure opening  156 ,  157 . In additional embodiments, the first and/or the second terminal end  164 ,  166  of the strand  158  can be fixed (e.g., fused) to the base portion  124  while remaining portions of the strand  158  can remain moveable relative to the base, lateral, and medial portions  124 ,  130 ,  132 . In still additional embodiments, portions of the strand  158  between the terminal ends  164 ,  166  can be fused or otherwise fixed to the base, lateral, and medial portions  124 ,  130 ,  132 . 
     Accordingly, tensioning the shoelace  155  can, in turn, increase tension in the strand  158 . For instance, as shown in  FIG. 10 , when the shoelace  155  is loose and in the unsecured position, tension in the strand  158  can be relatively low, thereby allowing the upper  120  to fit loosely about the wearer&#39;s foot. However, when the shoelace  155  is pulled and tensioned as indicated by arrows  174 ,  175 , the shoelace  155  can pull on the turns  159 ,  160  to increase tension in the strand  158 . As a result, the strand  158  can pull and conform the upper  120  closely to the wearer&#39;s foot as indicated by arrows  176 ,  177 ,  178 ,  179  in  FIG. 11 . 
     It will be appreciated that in the embodiments shown in  FIGS. 10 and 11 , the strand  158  can provide support for various areas on the bottom of the wearer&#39;s foot. For instance, the strand  158  can be disposed on an arch region  164  that is configured to be disposed underneath the arch of the wearer&#39;s foot. Thus, the strand  158  within the arch region  164  can support the wearer&#39;s arch, especially when the strand  158  is tensioned by the shoelace  155 . 
     It will also be appreciated that, in the embodiments illustrated, the upper  120  can include only one continuous strand  158  for providing such support to the foot. Accordingly, the part count of the upper  120  can be relatively low, and the upper  120  can be constructed in an efficient manner. 
     Assembly of the Footwear 
     Assembly of the footwear  100 , the knitted component  116  and upper  120  will now be discussed according to exemplary embodiments. For purposes of clarity, it will be assumed that the knitted component  116  and the strand  158  have been formed to the disassembled state shown in  FIGS. 5 and 6 . 
     To begin exemplary embodiments of the assembly of the upper  120 , the lateral and medial portions  130 ,  132  can be moved (folded) superiorly to the position shown in  FIG. 4 . Then, the tongue portion  136  can be wrapped superiorly such that the curved region  143  substantially fills the gap  139  and the longitudinal region  145  substantially fills the throat  131 . As such, the first and second edge portions  140 ,  142  can be disposed directly adjacent each other. Then, the first and second edge portions  140 ,  142  can be joined at a seam  144 . 
     The first and second edge portions  140 ,  142  can be joined at the seam  144  in any suitable fashion. For instance, the first and second edge portions  140 ,  142  can be joined using stitching, adhesives, tape, bonding, welding, fasteners, or other suitable attachment devices. 
     In some embodiments, the seam  144  can be formed by stitching the edge portions  140 ,  142  together with stitching  146  as shown in  FIGS. 1-3 . As mentioned above, the upper  120  can be a knitted element with a plurality of stitches; however, it will be appreciated that the stitching  146  can be independent of the stitches of the knitted component  116 . Stated differently, the stitching  146  can be formed using one or more threads, yarns, cables, or other strands that are attached after the knitted component  116  has been knitted. The stitching  146  can also be a zigzag stitch or other suitable stitch. Additionally, the edge portions  140 ,  142  can abut at the seam  144 . For instance, the edge portions  140 ,  142  can form a butt joint, or the edge portions  140 ,  142  can be partially overlapped to form the seam  144 . Additionally, the edge portions  140 ,  142  can be slightly spaced apart at the seam  144  with a bead of adhesive or other material between the edge portions  140 ,  142  at the seam  144 . 
     Moreover, the seam  144  can extend across any suitable portion of the knitted component  116 . For instance, in the embodiments of  FIG. 3 , the seam  144  can include a first terminal end  147  disposed in the base portion  124 , adjacent the forefoot portion  134 . The seam  144  can also include a second terminal end  149  at the junction of the lateral edge  135 , the forefoot portion  134 , and the tongue portion  136 . Also, the seam  144  can extend continuously between the first and second terminal ends  147 ,  149  in some embodiments. For instance, the seam  144  can include a first portion  181  that extends across the base portion  124  generally in the transverse direction  127  toward the medial portion  132  from the first terminal end  147 . The seam  144  can also include a second portion  183  that extends generally in the vertical direction  129  across the medial portion  132  and adjacent the forefoot portion  134 . The seam  144  can further include a third portion  185  that extends generally in the transverse direction toward the lateral side  130  and that curves rearwardly toward the second terminal end  149 . Thus, the seam  144  can extend continuously between the ends  147 ,  149  so as to extend from under the wearer&#39;s foot, around a medial area of the wearer&#39;s forefoot, to an area above the wearer&#39;s forefoot. 
     Also, there can be any number of seams  144  of the knitted component  116 . As shown in the embodiments of  FIG. 3 , for instance, there can be only one, solitary seam  144  necessary for giving the knitted component  116  of the upper  120  the three dimensional shape shown in  FIGS. 1-3 . This can facilitate manufacturing and reduce time for assembly of the upper  120 . 
     Also, the seam  144  can be spaced from the heel portion  128  such that the heel portion  128  is seamless. Thus, even if the heel portion  128  shifts on the wearer&#39;s heel, the relatively smooth and seamless heel portion  128  is unlikely to rub on the wearer&#39;s heel and provide discomfort to the wearer. 
     Subsequently, the shoelace  155  can be threaded through the lateral and medial openings  156 ,  157  and the lateral and medial turns  159 ,  160  as discussed above. Next, the sole structure  110  can be attached to the upper  120 . Specifically, the midsole  112  can be attached to the exterior surface  123  of the base portion  124 , and the outsole  114  can be attached to the midsole  112 . In additional embodiments, an additional sockliner can be inserted over and/or attached to the interior surface  121  of the base portion  124 . 
     Additional Embodiments of Knitted Component and Upper 
     Additional embodiments of the knitted component  116  of the upper  220  are illustrated in  FIG. 12 . The knitted component  116  and upper  220  can be substantially similar to the knitted component  116  and upper  120  described above, except as discussed. 
     The upper  220  can include a strand  258  that alternatingly extends across the medial portion  232 , the base portion  224 , and the lateral portion  230 , similar to the embodiments discussed above. The strand  258  can also extend through one or more passages  262 . However, the passages  262  can be defined on the medial portion  132  and the lateral portion  130 , and the passages  262  can be spaced away from the base portion  224 . 
     Accordingly, longitudinal portions of the strand  258  extending across the base portion  224  can be exposed from the passages  262 . Also, these portions of the strand  258  can be detached and decoupled from the base portion  224 . Thus, in some embodiments, these portions of the strand  258  can be free to be attached directly to the sole structure  110 . 
     Furthermore, as shown in  FIG. 12 , in some embodiments, the passages  262  can be V-shaped such that the turns of the strand  258  are embedded and enclosed within the passages  262  unlike the exposed turns  159 ,  160  shown above in  FIGS. 1-6 . 
     Exemplary Knitting Processes for Forming Knitted Component and Upper 
     The knitted component  116  can be knitted in any suitable direction. For instance, the knitted component  116  can be formed from the heel portion  128 , at the collar  133 , and the knitted component  116  can be formed so as to grow generally in the longitudinal direction  125  toward the forefoot portion  134 . The forefoot cavity  150  can be formed before the tongue portion  136 . Then, the tongue portion  136  can be subsequently formed. It will also be appreciated that the three dimensionally curved cavities and the two dimensionally curved portions of the knitted component  116  (such as the heel cavity  148 , the forefoot cavity  150 , the curved region  143  and/or other areas) can be formed unitarily during the knitting process. Specifically, the stitches at the boundaries  173 ,  197  can be held by respective needles as subsequent courses of stitches are added, and the held stitches at the boundaries  173 ,  197  can be knitted to respective stitches across the boundaries  173 ,  197 . Also, the strand  158  can be inlaid during this knitting process. Also, this process can be completed on any suitable machine, such as a flat knitting machine. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 15-23 , exemplary automated knitting processes for forming the knitted component  116  with the strand  158  will be discussed. For purposes of discussion, flat knitting processes and flat knitting machines will be discussed, however, the knitted component  116  and strand  158  can be otherwise formed without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Thus, the knitted component  116  and strand  158  can be formed according to the teachings of U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012/0233882, which published Sep. 20, 2012, and which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
     Referring to  FIG. 15 , a portion of knitting machine  1200  that includes various needles  1202 , rail  1203 , standard feeder  1204 , and combination feeder  1220  is depicted. Whereas combination feeder  1220  is secured to a front side of rail  1203 , standard feeder  1204  is secured to a rear side of rail  1203 . Yarn  1206  passes through combination feeder  1220 , and an end of yarn  1206  extends outward from dispensing tip  1246 . Although yarn  1206  is depicted, any other strand (e.g., filament, thread, rope, webbing, cable, chain, or yarn) may pass through combination feeder  1220 . Another yarn  1211  passes through standard feeder  1204  and forms a portion of a knitted component  1260 , and loops of yarn  1211  forming an uppermost course in knitted component  1260  are held by hooks located on ends of needles  1202 . 
     The knitting process discussed herein relates to the formation of knitted component  1260  or portion of knitted component  1260 . Thus, the portion of the knitted component  1260  can correspond to the base portion  124 , the heel portion  128 , the lateral portion  130 , the medial portion  132 , the forefoot portion  134 , and/or the tongue portion  136  discussed above in relation to  FIGS. 1-6 . For purposes of the discussion, only a relatively small section of knitted component  1260  is shown in the figures in order to permit the knit structure to be illustrated. Moreover, the scale or proportions of the various elements of knitting machine  1200  and knitted component  1260  may be enhanced to better illustrate the knitting process. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 16 , standard feeder  1204  moves along rail  1203  and a new course is formed in knitted component  1260  from yarn  1211 . More particularly, needles  1202  pulled sections of yarn  1211  through the loops of the prior course, thereby forming the new course. Accordingly, courses may be added to knitted component  1260  by moving standard feeder  1204  along needles  1202 , thereby permitting needles  1202  to manipulate yarn  1211  and form additional loops from yarn  1211 . 
     Continuing with the knitting process, feeder arm  1240  now translates from the retracted position to the extended position, as depicted in  FIG. 17 . In the extended position, feeder arm  1240  extends downward from carrier  1230  to position dispensing tip  1246  in a location that is (a) centered between needles  1202  and (b) below the intersection of needle beds. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 18 , combination feeder  1220  moves along rail  1203  and yarn  1206  is placed between loops of knitted component  1260 . That is, yarn  1206  is located in front of some loops and behind other loops in an alternating pattern. Moreover, yarn  1206  is placed in front of loops being held by needles  1202  from one needle bed  1201 , and yarn  1206  is placed behind loops being held by needles  1202  from the other needle bed. Note that feeder arm  1240  remains in the extended position in order to inlay yarn  1206  in the area below the intersection of needle beds. This effectively places yarn  1206  within the course recently formed by standard feeder  1204  in  FIG. 16 . 
     In order to complete inlaying yarn  1206  into knitted component  1260 , standard feeder  1204  moves along rail  1203  to form a new course from yarn  1211 , as depicted in  FIG. 19 . By forming the new course, yarn  1206  is effectively knit within or otherwise integrated into the structure of knitted component  1260 . At this stage, feeder arm  1240  may also translate from the extended position to the retracted position. 
       FIGS. 18 and 19  show separate movements of feeders  1204  and  1220  along rail  1203 . That is,  FIG. 18  shows a first movement of combination feeder  1220  along rail  1203 , and  FIG. 19  shows a second and subsequent movement of standard feeder  1204  along rail  1203 . In many knitting processes, feeders  1204  and  1220  may effectively move simultaneously to inlay yarn  1206  and form a new course from yarn  1211 . Combination feeder  1220 , however, moves ahead or in front of standard feeder  1204  in order to position yarn  1206  prior to the formation of the new course from yarn  1211 . 
     The general knitting process outlined in the above discussion provides an example of the manner in which strand  158  of  FIGS. 1-6  may be located in the base portion  124 , the lateral portion  130 , and/or the medial portion  132  of the upper  120 . More particularly, because of the reciprocating action of feeder arm  1240 , the strand  158  may be located within a previously formed course prior to the formation of a new course. 
     Continuing with the knitting process, feeder arm  1240  now translates from the retracted position to the extended position, as depicted in  FIG. 20 . Combination feeder  1220  then moves along rail  1203  and yarn  1206  is placed between loops of knitted component  1260 , as depicted in  FIG. 21 . This effectively places yarn  1206  within the course formed by standard feeder  1204  in  FIG. 19 . In order to complete inlaying yarn  1206  into knitted component  1260 , standard feeder  1204  moves along rail  1203  to form a new course from yarn  1211 , as depicted in  FIG. 22 . By forming the new course, yarn  1206  is effectively knit within or otherwise integrated into the structure of knitted component  1260 . At this stage, feeder arm  1240  may also translate from the extended position to the retracted position. 
     Referring to  FIG. 22 , yarn  1206  forms a loop  1214  between the two inlaid sections. In the discussion of the turns  159 ,  160  of  FIGS. 1-6 , it was noted that strand  158  exits the passage  162  and then enters another passage  162 , thereby forming the turns  159 ,  160 . Loop  1214  can be formed in a similar manner. That is, loop  1214  can be formed where yarn  1206  exits the knit structure of knitted component  1260  and then re-enters the knit structure. 
     Referring to  FIG. 23 , combination feeder  1220  moves along rail  1203  while in the retracted position and forms a course of knitted component  1260  while in the retracted position. Accordingly, by reciprocating feeder arm  1240  between the retracted position and the extended position, combination feeder  1220  may supply yarn  1206  for purposes of knitting, tucking, floating, and inlaying. 
     The following discussion and accompanying figures disclose a variety of concepts relating to knitted components and the manufacture of knitted components. Although the knitted components may be utilized in a variety of products, an article of footwear that incorporates one of the knitted components is disclosed below as an example. 
     The foregoing description of the embodiments has been provided for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure. Individual elements or features of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment, but, where applicable, are interchangeable and can be used in a selected embodiment, even if not specifically shown or described. The same may also be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the disclosure.