Patent Publication Number: US-2023157417-A1

Title: Article of footwear with adjustable fitting system

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/864,664, filed May 1, 2020, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/722,189, filed Oct. 2, 2017, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/945,734, filed Nov. 19, 2015, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/039,225, filed Sep. 27, 2013, the disclosures of which are incorporated by reference in their entirety. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     Field 
     The following relates to an article of footwear and, more particularly, relates to an article of footwear with an adjustable fitting system. 
     Description of Related Art 
     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 an interior surface of the upper defines a void 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. 
     SUMMARY 
     An article of footwear is disclosed that includes an upper that defines a void for receiving a foot. The article of footwear also includes a flexible sole structure that is coupled to the upper. Also, the article of footwear includes a fitting system. The fitting system includes an upper member that is supported by the upper. The fitting system also includes a strand guide that is supported by the sole structure. The strand guide is flexible and configured to flex in concert with the sole structure between a first position and a second position. The strand guide has a guide surface. The fitting system further includes a tensioning system with a flexible strand that is configured to bias the upper member toward the strand guide. The flexible strand has a first section coupled to the upper member and a second section extending through the sole structure. The second section abuts the guide surface. The second section is configured to slide across the guide surface as a result of flexure of the strand guide between the first position and the second position. The first section and the upper member are configured to move relative to the sole structure as a result of sliding of the second section across the guide surface. 
     Additionally, an article of footwear having a medial side, a lateral side, and a longitudinal axis is disclosed. The article of footwear includes an upper that defines a void for receiving a foot. The article of footwear also includes a flexible sole structure that is coupled to the upper. Moreover, the article of footwear includes a fitting system. The fitting system includes an upper member that is supported by the upper and a strand guide that is supported by the sole structure. The strand guide is flexible and configured to flex in concert with the sole structure between a first position and a second position. The fitting system also includes a tensioning system with at least one flexible strand that is configured to bias the upper member toward the strand guide. The flexible strand has a medial portion, a lateral portion, and a central portion. The medial portion is coupled to the upper member at the medial side. The lateral portion is coupled to the upper member at the lateral side. The central portion extends through the sole structure and abuts the strand guide. The central portion is configured to slide across the strand guide as a result of flexure of the strand guide between the first position and the second position. 
     Still further, an article of footwear having a longitudinal axis extending between a heel region and a forefoot region of the article of footwear is disclosed. The article of footwear includes an upper that defines a void for receiving a foot. The article of footwear also includes a sole structure that is coupled to the upper. Additionally, the article of footwear includes a fitting system. The fitting system includes an upper member that is supported by the upper. The fitting system also includes a strand guide that is supported by the sole structure. The strand guide is flexible and configured to flex in concert with the sole structure between a first position and a second position. The strand guide includes a longitudinal member that extends along the longitudinal axis of the article of footwear. The strand guide also includes a transverse member that extends transversely from the longitudinal member. The strand guide also includes a guide surface that extends continuously across each of the longitudinal member and the transverse member. The fitting system further includes a tensioning system with at least one flexible strand. The strand includes a first section, a second section, a third section, and a fourth section. The first section, the second section, the third section, and the fourth section are arranged continuously in succession along a longitudinal axis of the strand. The first section is attached to the heel region, the second section extends through the sole structure along the guide surface of the longitudinal member, the third section extends transversely from the second section through the sole structure and along the guide surface of the transverse member, and the fourth section extends from the third section and is attached to the upper member. 
     Other systems, methods, features and advantages of the present disclosure will be, or will become, apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features and advantages be included within this description and this summary, be within the scope of the present disclosure, and be protected by the following claims. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The present disclosure can be better understood with reference to the following drawings and description. The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the present disclosure. Moreover, in the figures, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the different views. 
         FIG.  1    is a lateral view of an article of footwear with a compressive fitting system according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  2    is a medial view of the article of footwear of  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIG.  3    is an exploded perspective view of the article of footwear of  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIG.  4    is an exploded view of the compressive fitting system of the article of footwear of  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIG.  5    is a bottom view of a strand guide of the compressive fitting system of  FIG.  1    with a peripheral edge of the sole structure shown in phantom; 
         FIG.  6    is an inverted rear view of the strand guide of  FIG.  5   ; 
         FIG.  7    is a perspective view of a tensioning system of the compressive fitting system of the article of footwear of  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIGS.  8  and  9    are perspective views of portions of the tensioning system and upper member of the compressive fitting system of  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIG.  10    is a perspective view of the tensioning system shown pulling the upper member of the compressive fitting of  FIG.  1    toward the sole structure; 
         FIGS.  11  and  12    are perspective views of portions of the tensioning system and strand guide of the compressive fitting system of  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIG.  13    is a perspective view of the tensioning system and strand guide shown in flexion; 
         FIG.  14    is a lateral view of the article of footwear of  FIG.  1    with the compressive fitting system shown at a first fastened configuration; 
         FIG.  15    is a lateral view of the article of footwear of  FIG.  1    with the compressive fitting system shown at a second fastened configuration; 
         FIG.  16    is a lateral view of the article of footwear of  FIG.  1    with the compressive fitting system shown at an unfastened configuration; 
         FIG.  17    is a side view of the compressive fitting system shown in a neutral position with the upper and the sole structure shown in phantom; 
         FIG.  18    is a side view of the compressive fitting system shown in a flexed position with the upper and the sole structure shown in phantom; 
         FIG.  19    is a section view of the article of footwear with the upper and the sole structure shown in phantom and the compressive fitting system shown in a neutral position; 
         FIG.  20    is a section view of the article of footwear with the upper and the sole structure shown in phantom and the compressive fitting system shown in a flexed position; 
         FIG.  21    is a lateral view of the article of footwear of  FIG.  1    shown in plantarflexion; 
         FIG.  22    is a lateral view of the article of footwear of  FIG.  1    shown in dorsiflexion; 
         FIG.  23    is a perspective view of the compressive fitting system of  FIG.  1    with the upper member and strand guide shown in a neutral position in solid lines, with the upper member and the strand guide shown in a compressed position in phantom lines, and with the tensioning system shown with broken lines; 
         FIG.  24    is a lateral view of the article of footwear according to additional embodiments of the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  25    is a medial view of the article of footwear of  FIG.  24   ; 
         FIGS.  26  and  27    are rear views of the article of footwear and fitting system according to additional embodiments of the present disclosure, wherein  FIG.  26    shows the fitting system being tightened and  FIG.  27    shows the fitting system being loosened; 
         FIG.  28    is a lateral view of the article of footwear according to additional embodiments of the present disclosure; and 
         FIG.  29    is a perspective view of a tensioning system of the compressive fitting system of the article of footwear of  FIG.  28   . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The following discussion and accompanying figures disclose a variety of concepts relating to articles of footwear with fitting systems that adjustably fit the footwear to the wearer&#39;s loot. Stated differently, the fitting systems can tighten and secure the footwear to the foot, and the fitting systems can loosen and release the footwear from the foot as will be discussed in detail. The fitting systems can compress the footwear against the wearer&#39;s foot in some embodiments so as to closely and comfortably conform the footwear to the foot. The fitting systems can also adjust the fit of the footwear while the wearer&#39;s foot moves and flexes while walking, running, jumping, or otherwise moving. As a result, the footwear can be very comfortable to wear, the footwear can enhance the wearer&#39;s ability to run and jump, and the footwear can provide additional benefits that will be discussed in detail below. 
       FIGS.  1  through  3    illustrate exemplary embodiments of an article of footwear  100 , also referred to simply as footwear  100 . In some embodiments, article of footwear  100  may include a sole structure  110  and an upper  120 . Although footwear  100  is illustrated as having a general configuration suitable for running, concepts associated with 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  may be applied to a wide variety of footwear types. 
     For reference purposes, footwear  100  may be divided into three general regions, namely, a forefoot region  101 , a midfoot region  102 , and a heel region  103  as shown in  FIGS.  1  and  2   . These regions  101 ,  102 ,  103  can be spaced apart generally along a longitudinal axis X of footwear  100 . Forefoot region  101  generally includes portions of footwear  100  corresponding with the toes and the joints connecting the metatarsals with the phalanges. Midfoot region  102  generally includes portions of footwear  100  corresponding with an arch area of the foot. Heel region  103  generally corresponds with rear portions of the foot, including the calcaneus bone. Footwear  100  also includes a lateral side  104  and a medial side  105 , which are spaced on opposite sides of axis X, and which extend through each of forefoot region  101 , midfoot region  102 , and heel region  103  and correspond with opposite sides of footwear  100 . More particularly, lateral side  104  corresponds with an outside area of the foot that faces away from the other foot, and medial side  105  corresponds with an inside area of the foot that faces toward the other foot. Forefoot region  101 , midfoot region  102 , and heel region  103  and lateral side  104 , medial side  105  are not intended to demarcate precise areas of footwear  100 . Rather, forefoot region  101 , midfoot region  102 , and heel region  103  and lateral side  104 , medial side  105  are intended to represent general areas of footwear  100  to aid in the following discussion. Additionally, while the terms forefoot region  101 , midfoot region  102 , heel region  103 , lateral side  104 , and medial side  105  can be applied to footwear  100 , these terms can also indicate corresponding areas of the sole structure  110 , the upper  120 , and individual elements of these structures. 
     Exemplary embodiments of sole structure  110  are shown  FIGS.  1 - 3   . Sole structure  110  is secured to upper  120  and extends between the foot and the ground when footwear  100  is worn. Thus, sole structure  110  can define a ground engaging surface  114 . Sole structure  110  can also include an upper engaging surface  113  that is coupled to sole structure  110 . Furthermore, sole structure  110  can include a side surface  115  that extends between ground engaging surface  114  and upper engaging surface  113 . Side surface  115  can define a periphery of sole structure  110 . As will be discussed, sole structure  110  can be flexible. For example, sole structure  110  can bend along any suitable axis when the wearer runs, jumps, or otherwise moves the foot within footwear  100 . 
     In some embodiments, the sole structure  110  can include a midsole  111  and an outsole  112 . In additional embodiments, the sole structure  110  can include a sockliner that is disposed within upper  120  to extend under a lower surface of the foot and to enhance the comfort of footwear  100 . 
     Midsole  111  can define upper engaging surface  113  and can be secured to a lower surface of upper  120 . Midsole  111  may be formed from a compressible polymer foam element, such as a polyurethane or ethylvinylacetate foam, that attenuates ground reaction forces to provide cushioning when compressed between the foot and the ground during walking, running, or other ambulatory activities. In additional embodiments, midsole  111  may incorporate plates, moderators, fluid-filled chambers, lasting elements, or motion control members that further attenuate forces, enhance stability, or influence the motions of the foot. 
     As shown in  FIG.  3   , upper engaging surface  113  can include one or more projections  117  that extend generally toward upper  120 . For instance, projections  117  can be contoured to support and/or shape corresponding portions of upper  120 . Projections  117  in  FIG.  3   , for example, are positioned about heel region  103 , medial region  102 , and forefoot region  101 . Projections  117  can also be shaped to cushion and/or resist medial, lateral, rearward, and forward movements of the wearer&#39;s foot within upper  120 . 
     Outsole  112  can be secured to a lower surface of midsole  111  and may be formed from a wear-resistant rubber material that is textured to impart traction. Outsole  112  can also include a plurality of durable pads that are spaced apart on the lower surface of midsole  111 . Thus, outsole.  112  can at least partially define ground engaging surface  114  to provide traction to footwear  100 . 
     Sole assembly  110  can also include a recess  116 . For instance, recess  116  can extend upward from ground engaging surface  114 . Recess  116  can have any suitable shape and dimension. Recess  116  can extend from ground engaging surface  114  and into outsole  112 . In some embodiments, recess  116  can also extend from ground engaging surface  114 , through outsole  112 , and into midsole  111 . Features of recess  116  will be discussed in further detail below. 
     Embodiments of upper  120  are also shown in  FIGS.  1 - 3   . Upper  120  can define a void  122  within footwear  100  for receiving and securing a foot relative to sole structure  110 . Upper  120  can be shaped to accommodate the wearer&#39;s foot and can extend along a lateral side of the foot, along a medial side of the foot, over the foot, around the heel, and under the foot in some embodiments. 
     Access to the void  122  can be provided by an ankle opening  121  located in at least heel region  103 . The size of ankle opening  121  can be defined by a rim  123  through which the wearer&#39;s foot enters and exits upper  120 . 
     In some embodiments, upper  120  can be made from a lightweight and flexible material. For instance, upper  120  can be made from fabric, breathable mesh, or other suitable material. 
     As shown in  FIGS.  1 - 4   , article of footwear  100  can further include a fitting system  130 . Fitting system  130  can secure footwear  100  to the wearer&#39;s foot as will be discussed. For instance, fitting system  130  can allow the wearer to selectively tighten footwear  100  to the wearer&#39;s foot, and fitting system  130  can allow the wearer to selectively loosen footwear  100  from the wearer&#39;s foot. Fitting system  130  can also automatically adjust the fit of the footwear  100  such that footwear  100  comfortably conforms to the wearer&#39;s foot as the foot flexes, extends, and moves within upper  120 . 
     It will be appreciated that fitting system  130  illustrated in  FIGS.  1 - 4    and described below are merely exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Thus, fitting system  130  could vary in many ways without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. 
     Embodiments of fitting system  130  will now be discussed in detail. In some embodiments, fitting system  130  can generally include an upper member  132 , a strand guide  134 , and a tensioning system  136  as shown in  FIGS.  1 - 4   . Upper member  132  can be disposed on, supported by, coupled to, and/or attached to upper  120 . Strand guide  134  can be disposed on, supported by, coupled to, and/or attached to sole structure  110 . Moreover, tensioning system  136  can extend between and operably couple upper member  132  and strand guide  134 . As will be discussed, tension within tensioning system  136  can cause upper member  132  and strand guide  134  to be biased toward each other to fit footwear  100  to the wearer&#39;s foot. 
     In some embodiments, fitting system  130  can further include an adjustment device  135  that allows tension in the tensioning system  136  to be selectively adjusted by the wearer. Accordingly, adjustment device  135  can allow the user to selectively adjust the fit or the compressive load applied by the fitting system  130  to the wearer&#39;s foot as will be discussed. 
     Upper member  132  can have any suitable shape and size. For instance, as shown in  FIGS.  1 - 4   , upper member  132  can include a relatively thin panel  140  of flexible material. In some embodiments, panel  140  can include a knitted or woven fabric, leather, or other suitable material. Panel  140  can also be supported in any suitable position relative to upper  120 . For instance, panel  140  can overlap midfoot region  102  of upper  120  and can extend between medial side  105  and lateral side  104  of upper  120 . Panel  140  can also be disposed immediately forward of ankle opening  121  and can be substantially centered with respect to ankle opening  121 . As such, panel  140  can effectively distribute loads over the midfoot region of the wearer&#39;s foot. 
     It will be appreciated that although panel  140  covers an outer surface of upper  120  and is exposed in the illustrated embodiments, panel  140  could be differently arranged with respect to upper  120 . For example, panel  140  could be overlapped by portions of upper  120 . Panel  140  also could be at least partially enclosed by upper  120  in some embodiments. 
     As shown in the embodiments of  FIG.  3   , panel  140  can have a main body  142  and at least one projection that extends from main body  142 . More specifically, panel  140  can include a forward lateral projection  144 , a rear lateral projection  146 , a forward medial projection  148 , and a rear medial projection  150 . Projection  144  and projection  146  can extend from main body  142  toward lateral side  104  of footwear  100 . Projection  148  and projection  150  can extend from main body  142  toward medial side  105 . Projection  144  and projection  146  can also be spaced apart longitudinally along axis X of footwear  100 . Likewise projection  148  and projection  150  can be similarly spaced longitudinally along axis X. Accordingly, panel  140  can be generally butterfly-shaped and symmetrical, and panel  140  can substantially centered over footwear  100 . 
     Embodiments of strand guide  134  will now be discussed. Strand guide  134  can also have any suitable shape and size. Strand guide  134  can also be coupled to sole structure  110  and can extend through sole structure  110 . Moreover, strand guide  134  can be flexible and can flex in concert with sole structure  110 . As such, flexure of strand guide  134  can cause sole structure  110  to flex. Also, flexure of sole structure  110  can cause strand guide  134  to flex. Furthermore, strand guide  134  can be coupled to tensioning system  136  and can couple tensioning system to sole structure  110 . As such, tension of tensioning system  136  can cause flexure of strand guide  134 . Still further, flexure of strand guide  134  can cause a change in tension of tensioning system  136 . Strand guide  134  can further reinforce sole structure  110  and distribute forces of the tensioning system  136  on sole structure  110 . As such, sole structure  110  is unlikely to be damaged by tensioning system  136 . Moreover, strand guide  134  can guide movement of tensioning system  136  relative to sole structure  110  in some embodiments. 
     As shown in  FIGS.  3 - 6   , strand guide  134  can include a longitudinal member  152  with at least one transverse member extending transversely from longitudinal member  152 . Also, strand guide  134  can include a plurality of transverse members. For example, strand guide  134  can include a first forward lateral transverse member  154 , a second forward lateral transverse member  156 , a first rear lateral transverse member  158 , and a second rear lateral transverse member  160  that each extend transversely from longitudinal member  152 . Strand guide  134  can further include a first forward medial transverse member  162 , a second forward medial transverse member  164 , a first rear medial transverse member  166 , and a second rear medial transverse member  168  that each extend transversely from longitudinal member  152 . Transverse member  162 , transverse member  164 , transverse member  166 , and transverse member  168  can each extend in a direction opposite that of transverse member  154 , transverse member  156 , transverse member  158 , and transverse member  160 . As shown in the illustrated embodiments, first forward lateral transverse member  154  and first forward medial transverse member  162  can be substantially aligned. Likewise, second forward lateral transverse member  156  and second forward medial transverse member  164  can be substantially aligned, first rear lateral transverse member  158  and first rear medial transverse member  166  can be substantially aligned, and second rear lateral transverse member  160  and second rear medial transverse member  168  can be substantially aligned. Moreover, an end  170  of longitudinal member  152  can extend from second rear lateral transverse member  160  and second rear medial transverse member  168 . 
     One or more of transverse member  154 , transverse member  156 , transverse member  158 , transverse member  160 , transverse member  162 , transverse member  164 , transverse member  166 , and transverse member  168  can be integrally attached to longitudinal member  152 . Also, strand guide  134  can be made out of any suitable material, such as polymeric or metallic material. Additionally, strand guide  134  can resiliently flexible as represented in  FIGS.  13 ,  17 - 20 , and  23   . For example, as shown in  FIG.  23   , strand guide  134  is shown in a neutral position in solid lines, and strand guide  134  is shown in a resiliently flexed position in phantom lines. In some embodiments, strand guide  134  can be resiliently flexed or bent from the neutral position to the flexed position, and upon removal of the bending load, the strand guide  134  can resiliently recover back to the neutral position. 
     As shown in the embodiments of  FIG.  5   , longitudinal member  152  can be curved longitudinally. Also, as shown in  FIG.  5   , transverse member  154 , transverse member  156 , transverse member  158 , transverse member  160 , transverse member  162 , transverse member  164 , transverse member  166 , and transverse member  168  can extend transversely from longitudinal member  152  at a respective angle, one of which is indicated at reference numeral  169 . It will be appreciated that angles  169  between longitudinal member  152  and each of transverse members can have any suitable value. 
     Furthermore, strand guide  134  can include one or more upturned ends  176 . For example, transverse member  154 , transverse member  156 , transverse member  158 , transverse member  160 , transverse member  162 , transverse member  164 , transverse member  168 , and end  170  can each include a respective upturned end  176 , which is spaced from longitudinal member  152 . 
     Still further, as shown in  FIGS.  5 ,  6  and  11 - 13   , strand guide  134  can define a guide surface  174 . Guide surface  174  can be shaped, sized, and otherwise configured to receive tensioning system  136  to thereby operably couple the tensioning system  136  to strand guide  134 . For example, guide surface  174  can be defined by an open groove, a hollow tube, or other aperture included on strand guide  134 . In the illustrated embodiments, for example, guide surface  174  is defined by a groove on an underside of strand guide  134 . The guide surface  174  can be contoured and concave in cross section. For example, guide surface  174  can be U-shaped in cross section as shown in  FIG.  6   . Moreover, guide surface  174  can extend and branch continuously along longitudinal member  152 , transverse members  154 , transverse member  156 , transverse member  158 , transverse member  160 , transverse member  162 , transverse member  164 , transverse member  166 , and transverse member  168 . 
     Strand guide  134  can be operably coupled and supported by sole structure  110  in any suitable fashion. For example, as shown in  FIG.  3   , strand guide  134  can be received within recess  116  of sole structure  110 . Thus, in some embodiments, recess  116  can be shaped and sized to match the shape and size of strand guide  134 . Also, in some embodiments, strand guide  134  can be held within recess  116  via friction, via an interference fit, via fasteners, or other suitable attachment device. Thus, strand guide  134  can be exposed through the ground engaging surface  114 . In additional embodiments, strand guide  134  can be substantially enclosed within sole structure  110 . For example, ground engaging surface  114  can substantially cover strand guide  134 , and ends  176  of strand guide  134  can be exposed through respective openings in sole structure  110 . Ends  176  can extend slightly outward from sole structure  110  or can be disposed inward relative to sole structure  110 . The position of ends  176  can also be dependent on the anatomy of the wearer&#39;s foot, the size of the sole structure  110 , or other factors. 
     Additionally, strand guide  134  can be disposed relative to sole structure  110  in any suitable location when coupled to sole structure  110 . As shown in the embodiment of  FIG.  5    where sole structure  110  is shown in phantom, strand guide  134  can be substantially centered on sole structure  110  and disposed such that longitudinal member  152  can extend generally along longitudinal axis X. Also, lateral transverse member  154 , lateral transverse member  156 , lateral transverse member  158 , and lateral transverse member  160  can extend laterally toward lateral side  104 . Medial transverse member  162 , medial transverse member  164 , medial transverse member  166 , and medial transverse member  168  can extend medially toward medial side  105 . Upturned ends  176  of transverse member  154 , transverse member  156 , transverse member  158 , and transverse member  160  can be disposed adjacent side surface  115  of sole structure  110 . Also, ends  176  can be exposed through sole openings  119  that are defined by side surface  115  of sole structure  110 . Upturned ends  176  can be turned upward slightly towards upper  120  as shown. 
     Embodiments of tensioning system  136  will now be discussed with reference to  FIGS.  1 - 4  and  7   . As mentioned above, tensioning system  136  can operably couple upper member  132  and strand guide  134 . As such, upper member  132  can be biased toward strand guide  134  to fit article of footwear  100  to the wearer&#39;s foot. Moreover, tensioning system  136  can allow footwear  100  to adjust to the wearer&#39;s foot when it flexes, extends, and moves within upper  120 . Tensioning system  136  can also be highly flexible and moveable relative to upper  120  and/or sole structure  110  to thereby accommodate the high degree movement of the wearer&#39;s foot. 
     Tensioning system  136  can include one or more flexible strands. In some embodiments, tensioning system  136  can include a first strand  190  and a second strand  196 . The strand  190  and strand  196  can be a cable, a rope, a wire, a cord, braided wires, a yarn, a monofilament, a composite filament including multiple wound or braided filaments, a chain, or other suitable elongate and flexible structures. Also, strand  190  and/or strand  196  can have a substantially fixed length. In additional embodiments, strand  190  and/or strand  196  can be resiliently stretchable and extendable in length. However, it will be appreciated that tensioning system  136  can include any suitable number of strands and/or tensioning system  136  can include alternative structure without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. 
     Tensioning system  136  can be arranged in any suitable fashion with respect to upper  120 , sole structure  110 , and strand guide  134 . Stated differently, strand  190  and strand  196  can extend over, through, and under any suitable portion of upper  120 , sole structure  110 , and strand guide  134 . 
     Tensioning system  136  can be cooperatively defined by first strand  190  and second strand  196 . For purposes of discussion, the tensioning system  136  will be discussed as being divided into a plurality of portions, sections, or segments. For example, tensioning system  136  can include a central portion  184 , a medial portion  182 , and a lateral portion  180  as indicated in  FIGS.  4  and  7   . Central portion  184  of tensioning system  136  can be received and guided by strand guide  134  for movement that is directed substantially parallel to the ground engaging surface  114 . Medial portion  182  can branch from central portion  184  and can be connected to the upper member  132  on the medial side  105  of footwear  100 . Lateral portion  180  can branch from central portion  184  and can be connected to upper member  132  on the lateral side  104  of footwear  100 . First strand  190  and second strand  196  can collectively define each of central portion  184 , medial portion  182 , and lateral portion  180  of tensioning system  136  in some embodiments. 
     Tensioning system  136  can also be connected to heel region  103  of footwear  100  on the upper  120  and/or sole structure  110 . For example, a tail portion  290  of tensioning system  136  can be attached to heel region  103  and can be attached to central portion  184  of tensioning system  136 . In some embodiments, tail portion  290  can be fixedly attached to heel region  103 . In other embodiments, tail portion  290  can be removeably attached to heel region  103 . 
     First strand  190  will now be discussed in greater detail. First strand  192  can be divided longitudinally into a plurality of sections, portions, divisions, or segments. The following discussion of the different longitudinal sections of the first strand  190  is merely exemplary, and it will be appreciated that first strand  192  can be divided longitudinally into any number of sections. 
     For example, in the embodiments shown in  FIGS.  3 ,  4 , and  7   , a first end  192  of first strand  190  can extend from heel region  103  and vertically downward. A first horizontal section  250  of first strand  190  can be received in end  170  of longitudinal member  152  and can continuously extend forward along longitudinal member  152  toward forefoot region  101 . A second horizontal section  252  of first strand  190  can extend along first forward lateral transverse member  154  toward the lateral side  104 . From end  176  of transverse member  154 , a third vertical section  254  of first strand  190  can extend vertically upward toward upper  120  and upper member  132  to connect the first strand  190  to forward lateral projection  144  of upper member  132 . A fourth vertical section  256  of first strand  190  can extend back vertically downward from forward lateral projection  144  toward sole structure  110 . A fifth horizontal section  258  can extend from end  176  of second forward lateral transverse member  156 , first strand  190  can cross over longitudinal member  152 , and a sixth horizontal section  260  of first strand  190  can extend along second forward medial transverse member  164 . Moreover, a seventh vertical section  262  of first strand  190  can extend from end  176  of transverse member  164  upward toward upper  120  and upper member  132  to connect the first strand  190  to forward medial projection  148  of upper member  132 . An eighth vertical section  264  can extend back vertically downward from forward medial projection  148  toward sole structure  110 . A ninth horizontal section  265  can extend along first forward medial transverse member  162  toward longitudinal member  152 . Additionally, a tenth horizontal section  266  can extend longitudinally along longitudinal member  152 . From end  176  of longitudinal member  152 , a second end  194  of first strand  190  can extend upward and terminate at heel region  103 . 
     It will be appreciated that section  250 , section  266 , section  252 , section  258 , section  260 , and section  265  can cooperate to at least partially define the central portion  184  of the tensioning system  136  in the illustrated embodiments. It will also be appreciated that section  254  and section  256  can cooperate to at least partially define the lateral portion  180  of tensioning system  136 . Moreover, section  262  and section  264  can cooperate to at least partially define the medial portion  182  of tensioning system  136 . 
     Furthermore, section  254  and section  256  can be disposed at an angle relative to each other and can be arranged in an inverted “V” shape as shown in  FIGS.  3 ,  4 , and  7   . Likewise, section  262  and section  264  can also be disposed at an angle relative to each other and can be arranged in an inverted “V” shape. 
     Second strand  196  will now be discussed in greater detail. Second strand  196  can be considered to have a plurality of sections, portions, divisions, or segments. As discussed above with respect to first strand  190 , the second strand  196  can be divided longitudinally into any number of sections. 
     Specifically, in the embodiments shown in  FIGS.  3 ,  4 , and  7   , a first end  198  of second strand  196  can extend from heel region  103  and vertically downward. A first horizontal section  270  of second strand  196  can be received in end  170  of longitudinal member  152  and can continuously extend forward along longitudinal member  152  toward forefoot region  101 . A second horizontal section  272  of second strand  196  can extend along first rear lateral transverse member  158  toward the lateral side  104 . From end  176  of transverse member  158 , a third vertical section  274  of second strand  196  can extend vertically upward toward upper  120  and upper member  132  to connect the second strand  196  to rear lateral projection  146  of upper member  132 . A fourth vertical section  276  of second strand  196  can extend back vertically downward from rear lateral projection  146  toward sole structure  110 . A fifth horizontal section  278  can extend from end  176  of second rear lateral transverse member  160 , second strand  196  can cross over longitudinal member  152 , and a sixth horizontal section  280  of second strand  196  can extend along second rear medial transverse member  168 . Moreover, a seventh vertical section  282  of second strand  196  can extend from end  176  of transverse member  168  upward toward upper  120  and upper member  132  to connect the second strand  196  to rear medial projection  150  of upper member  132 . An eighth vertical section  284  can extend back vertically downward from rear medial projection  150  toward sole structure  110 . A ninth horizontal section  286  can extend along first rear medial transverse member  166  toward longitudinal member  152 . Additionally, a tenth horizontal section  288  can extend longitudinally along longitudinal member  152 . From end  176  of longitudinal member  152 , a second end  200  of second strand  196  can extend upward and terminate at heel region  103 . 
     It will be appreciated that section  270 , section  272 , section  278 , section  286 , section  280 , and section  288  can cooperate to at least partially define the central portion  184  of the tensioning system  136  in the illustrated embodiments. It will also be appreciated that section  274  and section  276  can cooperate to at least partially define the lateral portion  180  of tensioning system  136 . Moreover, section  284  and section  282  can cooperate to at least partially define the medial portion  182  of tensioning system  136 . 
     Furthermore, section  274  and section  276  can be disposed at an angle relative to each other and can be arranged in an inverted “V” shape as shown in  FIGS.  3 ,  4 , and  7   . Likewise, section  284  and section  282  can also be disposed at an angle relative to each other and can be arranged in an inverted “V” shape. 
     It will be appreciated that strand  190  and strand  196  could be routed in any suitable way to couple upper member  132  and strand guide  134 . It will also be appreciated that first strand  190  and second strand  196  could be braided together or otherwise joined together in some embodiments. Moreover, it will be appreciated that tensioning system  136  could include more or less strands than those in the illustrated embodiments. 
     Strand  190  and strand  196  can be attached to upper member  132  in any suitable fashion. For example, upper member  132  can include a plurality of fasteners  199  for attaching strand  190  and/or strand  196  to upper member  132 . The fasteners  199  can be disposed on respective ones of projection  144 , projection  146 , projection  148 , and projection  150 . The fasteners  199  can be of any suitable type, such as pegs, to which the strand  190  and strand  196  are attached. In additional embodiments, fasteners  199  can include eyelets, grommets, hooks, or other fastening devices for attaching to the strand  190  and/or strand  196 . Fasteners  199  could also be attached to strand  190  or strand  196  for attaching to upper member  132 . 
     For example, as shown in  FIGS.  8 ,  9 , and  10    a vertex  205  of strand  190  can be defined between section  254  and section  256 , and vertex  205  can turn over a base  203  of fastener  199  to attach strand  190  to projection  144  of upper member  132 . Fasteners  199  can also include an enlarged head  207  that can secure vertex  205  to upper member  132 . First strand  190  can be similarly attached at projection  148  of upper member  132 , and second strand  196  can be similarly attached at projection  146  and projection  150  of upper member  132 . 
     Also, as shown in  FIGS.  8  and  9   , first strand  190  can slide longitudinally over base  203  of fastener  199 . By comparing  FIG.  8    and  FIG.  9   , it will be apparent that strand  190  can slide in either direction over base  203  of fastener  199  with respect to the longitudinal axis of strand  190 . It will be appreciated that second strand  196  can be similarly attached to the other fasteners  199 . Thus, strand  190  and strand  196  can be moveably attached to upper member  132  at respective locations defined by fasteners  199 . Stated differently, strand  190  can slide along the longitudinal axis of strand  190  relative to upper member  132  and, yet, still remain attached to upper member  132 . Likewise, strand  196  can slide along the longitudinal axis of strand  196  relative to upper member  132  and, yet, still remain attached to upper member  132 . 
     Moreover, as shown in  FIG.  10   , tension of first strand  190  can increase to pull upper member  132  toward sole structure  110  and strand guide  134 . Stated differently, the first strand  190  can pull upper member  132  from the position shown in phantom in  FIG.  10    to the position shown in solid lines in  FIG.  10   . In contrast, tension of first strand  190  can decrease to allow upper member  132  to move away from sole structure  110  and strand guide  134 . It will also be appreciated that tension of second strand  196  can increase to similarly pull upper member  132  toward sole structure  110  and strand guide  134 . Furthermore, it will be appreciated that tension of second strand  196  can decrease to allow upper member  132  to move away from sole structure  110  and strand guide  134 . Accordingly, increasing tension in tensioning system  136  can pull the upper member  132  and the upper  120  toward the wearer&#39;s foot, and decreasing tension in tensioning system  136  can release the upper member  132  and the upper  120  from the wearer&#39;s foot. 
     Additionally, strand  190  and strand  196  can be attached to strand guide  134  in any suitable fashion. For example, strand  190  and strand  196  can be received by guide surface  174  of strand guide  134  and can be substantially aligned with respective portions of strand guide  134 . 
     Also, as shown in  FIGS.  11  and  12   , strand  190  can abut and slide across guide surface  174  of strand guide  134 . By comparing  FIGS.  11  and  12   , it will be apparent that strand  190  can slide in both longitudinal directions across guide surface  174 . It will be appreciated that second strand  196  can similarly slide across respective portions of guide surface  174 . It will also be apparent that the recessed, U-shaped contour of guide surface  174  can direct and guide strand  190  and strand  196  toward the inner apex of guide surface  174 . Accordingly, the guide surface  174  can help retain strand  190  and strand  196  against the guide surface  174  of strand guide  136 . 
     Furthermore, as shown in  FIG.  13   , strand guide  134  can flex as a result of changing tension in strand  190 . For example, strand guide  134  can bend resiliently between a neutral position shown in solid lines in  FIG.  13    and a flexed position shown in phantom in  FIG.  13   . It will be appreciated that second strand  196  can similarly cause flexion of respective portions of strand guide  134 . 
     As represented in the exemplary embodiment of  FIG.  23   , the upper member  132  and the strand guide  134  are shown in a neutral position in solid lines. The upper member  132  and strand guide  134  are also shown in a flexed position in phantom in  FIG.  23   . The tensioning system  136  is shown with broken lines for purposes of clarity; however, it will be apparent from the above description that tensioning system  136  can bias upper member  132  generally toward strand guide  134 . As described above with respect to  FIGS.  10  and  13   , changing tension in the tensioning system  136  can cause movement of the upper member  132  and the strand guide  134  between the neutral and flexed position. Assuming that the upper member  132  and strand guide  134  are in the neutral position, an increase in tension in tensioning system  136  can pull upper member  132  toward the strand guide  134  and, thus, the sole structure  110 . At the same time, ends  176  of strand guide  134  can rotate inward and upward toward upper member  132 . Accordingly, upper member  132  and strand guide  134  can compress toward each other in multiple directions and, as a result, the fitting system  130  can cause the footwear  100  to fit tighter to the wearer&#39;s foot. It will be appreciated that reducing tension in tensioning system  136  can allow upper member  132  and strand guide  134  to move away from each other for looser fitting footwear  100 . 
     As mentioned above, strand  190  and strand  196  can slide longitudinally and adjust with respect to upper member  132  and strand guide  134 . Thus, tensioning system  136  can adjust to changes in tension while the wearer&#39;s foot flexes and moves within footwear  100 . Stated differently, the wearer&#39;s foot may flex so as to increase in volume and push outward on some portions of the inner surface of upper  120 . These forces can, for example, push outward on upper member  132  to increase tension in tensioning system  136 . The tensioning system  136  can slide relative to upper member  132  to accommodate such changes in tension. Likewise, running, jumping, and other activities can involve flexure of the sole structure  110 ; however, strand guide  134  can flex in concert with sole structure  110 , and tensioning system  136  can slide along strand guide  134  to accommodate such flexure. As such, the fit of footwear  100  can automatically adjust to keep the wearer&#39;s foot comfortable and properly supported during such movement. 
     More specifically, as shown in  FIGS.  3 ,  4 ,  7 ,  17 , and  18   , strand  190  can define a section height  268 . For example, as shown in  FIG.  3   , section  254  has a section height  268  defined from the respective vertex  205 , where the strand  190  is coupled to the upper member  132 , to the adjacent horizontal section  252 , where the strand  190  is coupled to the strand guide  134 . Stated differently, the section  254  can freely extend between upper member  132  and strand guide  134  along the section height  268 . Section  264  defines a similar section height  268  as shown in  FIG.  4   . Similarly, section  256  and section  262  can also each define a respective section height  268 . Moreover, strand  196  can define similar section heights  268  for section  274 , section  276 , section  282 , and section  284 . 
     It will be appreciated that section height  268  of the sections can adjust due to changing tension of strand  190  and strand  196 . Section heights  268  can also change as the upper member  132  moves toward and away from strand guide  134 . 
     Section heights  268  can further change as the strand guide  134  flexes. For example, as shown in  FIGS.  17  and  18   , footwear  100  can flex and bend in the fore/aft direction to flex strand guide  134 . As a result, tensioning system  136  can pull upper member  132  toward strand guide  134 . Stated differently, longitudinal member  152  of strand guide  134  can have a longitudinal length  299  as shown in  FIG.  17   , and longitudinal member  152  can be substantially straight along the length  299 . Flexure of the strand guide  134  can increase the curvature of the longitudinal member  152  along the length  299  as shown in  FIG.  18   . Strand guide  134  can, thus, pull on the strand  190  and/or the strand  196  due to this flexure. Strand  190  and/or strand  196  can accommodate this change in curvature by sliding over fasteners  199  and ends  176 . As such, section height  268  can be smaller in the flexed position of  FIG.  18    as compared to the neutral position of  FIG.  17   . Also, upper member  132  can be pulled toward strand guide  134  and toward the wearer&#39;s foot. 
     Similarly, footwear  100  can flex in the medial/aft direction as shown in  FIGS.  19  and  20   . As a result, tensioning system  136  can pull upper member  132  toward strand guide  134 . Stated differently, strand guide  134  can define a transverse length  298  defined between opposing ends  176 , and strand guide  134  can be substantially straight along the length  298  as shown in  FIG.  19   . Flexure of the strand guide  134  can increase the curvature of the strand guide  134  along the length  298  as shown in  FIG.  20   . Stand guide  134  can, thus, pull on the strand  190  and/or the strand  196  due to this flexure. Strand  190  and/or strand  196  can accommodate this change in curvature by sliding over fasteners  199  and ends  176 . As such, section height  268  can be smaller in the flexed position of  FIG.  20    as compared to the neutral position of  FIG.  19   . Also, upper member  132  can be pulled toward strand  134  and toward the wearer&#39;s foot. 
     As mentioned above, tensioning system  136  can be attached to heel region  103  of upper  120 . Specifically, first end  192  and second end  194  of first strand  190  can be attached to heel region  103 . First end  198  and second end  200  of second strand  196  can be attached to heel region  103  of upper  120 . It will be appreciated, however, that any portion of strand  190  and/or strand  196  can be attached to heel region  103  using any suitable means. 
     Tensioning system  136  can, thus, be attached to heel region  103  and to upper member  132  at the medial side  105  and lateral side  104  while also extending longitudinally and transversely across sole structure  110 . This routing of tensioning system  136  can allow for a high degree of adjustability of footwear  100  relative to the wearer&#39;s foot. 
     Moreover, as mentioned above and as shown in  FIGS.  1 - 4   , fitting system  130  can include an adjustment device  135  that allows for selective adjustment of tension within strand  190  and/or strand  196 . For example, in the illustrated embodiments, adjustment device  135  can include a fastening portion  137  of tensioning system  136  and a retainer  138  that is included on at least one of upper  120  and sole structure  110 . More specifically, first and/or second strand  190 ,  196  can define the fastening portion  137  of tensioning system  136 , and fastening portion  137  can selectively attach or fasten to retainer  138  in one or more fastened configurations represented in  FIGS.  14  and  15   . Fastening portion  137  can also be configured to detach or unfasten from retainer  138  in an unfastened configuration represented in  FIG.  16   . 
     It will be appreciated that by moving fastening portion  137  between the fastened and unfastened configurations, tension of tensioning system  136  can be adjusted. As a result, the biasing or compression bad level of upper member  132  toward strand guide  134  can be adjusted. 
     In some embodiments, ends  192 ,  194 ,  198 ,  200  of strands  190 ,  196  can be attached to a hook  201  to define the fastening portion  137  of tensioning system  136 . Also, as shown in  FIGS.  1 ,  2 , and  3   , retainer  138  can include a body  202  that is supported by upper  120 . Body  202  can also be at supported by sole structure  110  in some embodiments. Body  202  can be substantially rigid and can be incorporated in a heel counter of upper  120  in some embodiments. Body  202  can be made from rigid, relative lightweight material, such has hard plastic. Body  202  can also have ribs, honeycomb, or other projections that increase rigidity, strength, or other structural support. 
     Body  202  can further include one or more retaining features  204  as shown in  FIGS.  3  and  4   . For example, body  202  can include two or more openings  206  that are arranged in a vertically-extending row. Hook  201  can be received and retained in any of the openings  206 . 
     In a first fastened configuration shown in  FIG.  14   , hook  201  is received in an opening  206  of retainer  138 . In a second fastened configuration shown in  FIG.  15   , hook  201  is received in an opening  206  located further downward on body  202 . In an unfastened configuration shown in  FIG.  16   , hook  201  is unfastened from retainer  138 . 
     To move tensioning system  136  from unfastened configuration of  FIG.  16    to first fastened configuration of  FIG.  14   , wearer can pull hook  201  upward in the direction of arrow  211 . This can consequently pull and increase tension in first and second strands  190 ,  196  to bias and compress upper member  132  toward strand guide  134  in the direction of arrows  213 . Also, midfoot region  102 , lateral side  104 , and/or medial side  105  of upper  120  can more closely conform to the wearer&#39;s foot due to such tightening of fitting system  130 . Likewise, such loading of strand guide  134  can transfer to sole structure  110  to flex sole structure  110  and conform sole structure  110  to the sole of the wearer&#39;s foot. 
     If the wearer so chooses, fitting system  130  can be loosened somewhat by moving the tensioning system  136  from the first fastened configuration of  FIG.  14    to the second fastened configuration of  FIG.  15   . Specifically, hook  201  can be moved downward in the direction of arrow  217  in  FIG.  15   . As a consequence, tension can be reduced in tensioning system  136 . Also, upper member  132  can move slightly away from sole structure  110  and strand guide  134  in the direction of arrows  219 . 
     Moreover, to further loosen fitting system  130 , the wearer can unfasten the hook  201  from retainer  138  as shown in  FIG.  16   . The wearer may wish to move fitting system  130  to the unfastened configuration to insert foot into void  122  or to remove foot from void  122  of upper  120 . 
     Moreover,  FIGS.  21  and  22    illustrate how fitting system  130  can automatically adjust the fit of footwear  100  on the wearer&#39;s foot during flexion, extension or other movement of the wearer&#39;s foot and/or due to impact with the ground surface.  FIG.  21    can represent the position of the wearer&#39;s foot and footwear  100  when thrusting forward from the ground surface when running or jumping.  FIG.  22    can represent the wearer&#39;s foot and footwear  100  when the footwear  100  lands back on the ground surface. 
     For example, during plantarflexion of the wearer&#39;s foot represented in  FIG.  21   , the wearer&#39;s ankle and midfoot can press upward to supply an input force to upper member  132  as represented by arrow  133 . As a result, tension in strands  190 ,  196  can increase to draw strand guide  134  upward generally toward the sole of the wearer&#39;s foot. Specifically, as shown in  FIG.  21   , a reaction load represented by arrow  291  can be transferred to strand guide  134  adjacent heel region  103 . In some embodiments, reaction load  291  can be a bending moment that causes end  170  of strand guide  134  to bend upward toward the sole and heel of the wearer&#39;s foot. Thus, the fitting system  130  can cause the sole structure  110  at heel region  103  to pull toward the wearer&#39;s foot. 
     In contrast,  FIG.  22    illustrates footwear  100  during dorsiflexion of the wearer&#39;s foot. As shown, flexure of sole structure  110  can cause flexure of strand guide  134  as represented by curved arrows  292 ,  293  in  FIG.  22   . This flexure can increase tension in tensioning system  136  such that upper member  132  is pulled downward against the wearer&#39;s foot as represented by arrow  294  in  FIG.  22   . 
     Accordingly, the fitting system  130  allows footwear  100  to comfortably fit and conform to the wearer&#39;s foot. Also, movements of the wearer&#39;s foot during running, jumping, flexure, and extension can cause the fitting system  130  to adjust. Stated differently, fitting system  130  can tighten one or more areas of footwear  100  to the wearer&#39;s foot as the foot moves. 
     Turning now to  FIGS.  24  and  25   , additional embodiments are illustrated. As shown, footwear can be substantially similar to the embodiments of  FIGS.  1 - 23   . However, upper member  132  can additionally include a lateral heel projection  208  as shown in  FIG.  24    and a medial heel projection  209  as shown in  FIG.  25   . Heel projections  208 ,  209  can extend generally toward heel region  103  of footwear. 
     Also, fitting system  130  can include a heel strap  212  that is supported by heel region of footwear. Moreover, tensioning system  136  can include a lateral heel strand  214  as shown in  FIG.  24    and a medial heel strand  215  as shown in  FIG.  25   . Lateral heel strand  214  can couple and extend between lateral heel projection  208  and one end of heel strap  212 , and medial heel strand  215  can couple and extend between medial heel projection  208  and the opposite end of heel strap  212 . 
     Thus, fitting system  130  can additionally pull heel region  103  into the wearer&#39;s heel due to movement of the wearer&#39;s foot and flexure of other areas of footwear. For example, plantarflexion of the foot can load the upper member  132  such that heel strands  214 ,  215  pull heel strap  212  against wearer&#39;s heel. This can further allow footwear to fit comfortably and adjustably against wearer&#39;s foot. 
     Moreover, as shown in  FIGS.  24  and  25   , footwear can include projections  216  that project outwardly from upper  120 . Projections  216  can be of any suitable type. For example, projections  216  can be raised strips of material, such as polymeric material. The projections  216  can extend in an aesthetically pleasing pattern. For example, projections  216  can extend in a serpentine pattern on upper  120 . Projections  216  can be disposed underneath respective ones of the inverted “V” of the tensioning system  136 . The tensioning system  136  can abut against projections  216  and can be supported against projections  216 . For instance, the tensioning system  136  can slide over projections  216 , and projections  216  can protect surrounding portions of upper  120  from abrasion or other damage. The projections  216  can also be configured to guide tensioning system  136 . For example, the projections  216  can include a groove or other opening that receives tensioning system  136  and keeps tensioning system  136  in a predetermined position relative to the upper  120 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  26  and  27   , still further embodiments are illustrated. Footwear can be substantially similar to the embodiments discussed above. However, the adjustment device  135  can be different. For example, adjustment device  135  can include a spool  302  on which strands of tensioning system  136  can spool and unspool. Specifically, by rotating spool  302  in one direction, tensioning system  136  can advance toward spool  302 , and a portion of tensioning system  136  can gather onto spool  302  to increase tension in tensioning system  136 . By rotating spool  302  in the opposite direction, the portion of tensioning system  136  can unspool from spool  302  to decrease tension in tensioning system  136 . 
     Adjustment device  135  can further include a catch  304  that can retain spool  302  at a selected angular position. In some embodiments, for example, catch  304  can be a pawl that engages spokes extending from spool  302 . It will be appreciated that adjustment device  135  can include a release mechanism with which the user can release the catch  304  for unspooling tensioning system  136 . Also, in some embodiments, adjustment device  135  can incorporate one or more features disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,934,599, issued on Aug. 10, 1999 to Hammerslag, U.S. Pat. No. 6,202,953, issued on Mar. 20, 2001 to Hammerslag, and/or U.S. Pat. No. 6,289,558, issued Sep. 18, 2001 to Hammerslag, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
     Moreover, as shown in  FIGS.  26  and  27   , strand guide  134  can be substantially enclosed within sole structure  110 . Stated differently, ground engaging surface  114  can cover over strand guide  134 . For example, sole structure  110  can include a cavity having a size and dimension conforming to that of strand guide  114 , and strand guide  114  can be encapsulated within the cavity. Also, sole openings  139 , such as through-holes, can expose ends  176  of strand guide  114  and/or allow passage of strands of tensioning system  136 . 
     In still further embodiments, ends  176  can extend upward from sole structure  110  to be disposed on upper  120 . For example, ends  176  can overlap and abut respective portions of upper  120 . 
     Referring now to  FIG.  28   , additional embodiments of the article of footwear  100  are illustrated. As shown in  FIG.  28   , footwear  100  can be substantially similar to embodiments discussed above, except as noted herein. 
     For example, fitting system  130  can include an upper member  132  that is coupled to strands of tensioning system  136  in a different manner. More specifically, as shown in the illustrated embodiments, the upper member  132  can include one or more openings that receive the strands. As shown in  FIG.  28   , the upper member  132  can include a rear opening  401  and a forward opening  402 . The rear opening  401  and forward opening  402  can receive at least one strand of the tensioning system  136  to thereby couple to the respective strand(s). 
     Also, as shown in  FIG.  28   , the adjustment device  135  can include a spool  302 , similar to the embodiments of  FIGS.  26  and  27   . Also, portions of the strands of the tensioning system  136  can be enclosed within sole structure  110 . The strands can extend out of the sole openings  139 , similar to the embodiments discussed above in relation to  FIGS.  26  and  27   . It will be appreciated that the strand guide  134  can be similarly enclosed and embedded in sole structure  110 , similar to the embodiments of  FIGS.  26  and  27   . 
     Additionally, as shown in  FIGS.  28  and  29   , tensioning system  136  can include first strand  190 , second strand  196 , as well as a heel strand  414 . The first strand  190  and second strand  196  can be substantially similar to the embodiments discussed above. However, the heel strand  414  can extend between and can be coupled to the heel region  103  of the upper  120 , the upper member  132  of the fitting system  130 , and the sole structure  110 . 
     More specifically, as shown in  FIG.  29   , the heel strand  414  can include a first horizontal section  470  that is coupled to the spool  302 . The first horizontal section  470  can be spooled and unspooled from the spool  302 . Also, the first horizontal section  470  can extend from the spool  302  across the lateral side  104  of the heel region  103  and can be received within the rear opening  401  to couple to the upper member  132 . The heel strand  414  can also include a first vertical section  476  that extends from the rear opening  401  toward the sole structure  110 . The first vertical section  476  can extend substantially parallel to the section  276  of the second strand  196 . Also, the heel strand  414  can include a second horizontal section  479  that can be coupled to the strand guide  134  and that can extend substantially parallel to the section  278  and the section  280  of the second strand  196 . Moreover, the heel strand  414  can include a second vertical section  482  that extends out of the sole structure  110  and that extends upward toward upper member  132  to couple to upper member  132  on the medial side  105  of the footwear  100 . The second vertical section  482  can be substantially parallel to the section  282  of the strand  196 . Furthermore, the heel strand  414  can include a third horizontal section  488  that extends back toward spool  302 . The third horizontal section  488  can be spooled and unspooled from spool  302 . 
     The heel strand  414  can function similar to the heel strap  212 , strand  214 , and strand  215  of the embodiments of  FIGS.  24  and  25    to pull heel region  103  toward the wearer&#39;s heel. Tension in heel strand  414  can also be selectively adjusted by the wearer to change the amount of force applied by the heel region  103  onto the wearer&#39;s foot by rotating the spool  302  in either direction. Moreover, tension in the heel strand  414  can adjust in concert with the strand  190  and the strand  196  to adjust the fit of the footwear  100  according to the movements of the wearer&#39;s foot. Also, since heel strand  414  extends into sole structure  110 , heel strand  414  can pull upper member  132 , heel region  103 , and sole structure  110  generally toward each other to compress the wearer&#39;s foot. 
     In summary, embodiments of fitting system  130  described above and shown in  FIGS.  1 - 29    can allow footwear  100  to comfortably and securely fit to wearer&#39;s foot. The fit of footwear  100  can be quickly and easily adjusted by the wearer. Also, fit of the footwear  100  can automatically adjust during ambulatory movements of the wearer&#39;s foot. Accordingly, the footwear  100  can increase the wearer&#39;s ability to run, jump, or otherwise move. 
     While various embodiments of the present disclosure have been described, the description is intended to be exemplary, rather than limiting and it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that many more embodiments and implementations are possible that are within the scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the present disclosure is not to be restricted except in light of the attached claims and their equivalents. Also, various modifications and changes may be made within the scope of the attached claims.