Patent Description:
The various material elements forming the upper impart different properties to different areas of the upper. For example, textile elements may provide breathability and may absorb moisture from the foot, foam layers may compress to impart comfort, and leather may impart durability and wear-resistance. As the number of material elements increases, the overall mass of the footwear may increase proportionally. One of the challenges with designing athletic footwear is to provide a designer with freedom of design to combine various materials for an upper to achieve a desired appearance while minimizing the weight of the upper. Although numerous materials could be combined and used to provide a desired design, the design could result in a heavier upper, which may diminish mobility, performance, and comfort for a wearer.

The time and expense associated with transporting, stocking, cutting, and joining material elements may also increase as the number of material elements of an upper increases. Additionally, waste material from cutting and stitching processes may accumulate to a greater degree as the number of material elements incorporated into an upper increases. Moreover, products with a greater number of material elements may be more difficult to recycle than products formed from fewer material elements. By decreasing the number of material elements, therefore, the mass of the footwear and waste may be decreased, while increasing manufacturing efficiency and recyclability.

In view of these considerations, there is a need for an article of footwear that advantageously includes a strong, lightweight structure that also provides a designer with a substantial degree of design freedom when creating an article of footwear with a stylish design.

Document <CIT> describes systems for securing a foot in a housing such as a piece of athletic footwear including: (a) a foot-housing member that at least partially defines a chamber for receiving the foot (e.g., a shoe upper and/or insole and/or outsole and/or midsole); and (b) a closure system for holding the foot in the foot-housing member. The closure system may include a mesh or braided panel that at least partially holds the foot-receiving device on the foot. The mesh or braided panel may conform to foot shape or position changes while still maintaining adequate pressure on the foot and/or adequately closing the chamber opening to hold the foot in the housing member.

Document <CIT> discloses an article of apparel that includes a textile with at least one property that changes upon exposure to a physical stimulus. The textile has a modifiable structure formed from one or more yarns that exhibit a dimensional transformation upon exposure to the physical stimulus. The yarns have a first set of dimensions when unexposed to the physical stimulus, and the yarns have a second set of dimensions when exposed to the physical stimulus.

The structure of the textile is modified by exposing the textile to the physical stimulus such that the yarns transform from the first set of dimensions to the second set of dimensions and change the property of the textile.

<CIT> describes a fabric consisting essentially of closely spaced interlaced strands of different materials, the strands of one material being formed of a plastic substantially curved in cross section and having a highly light reflective surface and of such quality as to be set in an undulating formation upon fabrication, the strand of the other material being comparatively non-light reflective and soft, said plastic strands being floated over a greater number of the other strands on one side of said fabric than on the other side between the interlockings of said strands, said plastic strands being relatively stiff thereby providing undulations extending in curved formation between adjacent interlockings of said strands, said other strands being sufficiently pliable to be positioned below the crest of each undulation of said plastic strands on one side of the fabric, providing a surface on said fabric composed predominantly of said plastic strands having a multiplicity of closely spaced highly light reflective points.

The invention is defined by the appended independent claim <NUM>. Additional embodiments are defined in the dependent claims.

The foregoing Summary and the following Detailed Description will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying figures.

The following discussion and accompanying figures disclose an article of footwear having an upper that includes a mesh material. The mesh material may include tensile strand elements. The article of footwear is disclosed as having a general configuration suitable for a variety of pursuits. Concepts associated with the footwear, including the upper, may also be applied to a variety of other athletic footwear types, including baseball shoes, basketball shoes, cross-training shoes, cycling shoes, football shoes, tennis shoes, soccer 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. The concepts disclosed herein apply, therefore, to a wide variety of footwear types. The mesh material may, however, be utilized in a variety of other products, including backpacks and other bags and apparel (e.g., pants, shirts, headwear), for example. Accordingly, the concepts disclosed herein may apply to a wide variety of products.

A conventional upper may be formed from multiple material layers that each may impart different properties to various areas of the upper. During use, an upper may experience significant tensile forces, and one or more layers of material are positioned in areas of the upper to resist the tensile forces. That is, individual layers may be incorporated into specific portions of the upper to resist tensile forces that arise during use of the footwear. As an example, a textile may be incorporated into an upper to impart stretch resistance in the longitudinal direction. Such a textile may be, for example, a woven textile formed from yarns that interweave at right angles to each other. If the woven textile is incorporated into the upper for purposes of longitudinal stretch-resistance, then only the yarns oriented in the longitudinal direction will contribute to longitudinal stretch-resistance, and the yarns oriented orthogonal to the longitudinal direction will not generally contribute to longitudinal stretch-resistance. As a result, approximately one-half of the yarns in the woven textile are superfluous to longitudinal stretch-resistance.

As an extension of this example, the degree of stretch-resistance required in different areas of an upper may vary. Whereas some areas of the upper may require a relatively high degree of stretch-resistance due to forces that the areas are subjected to, other areas of the upper may require a relatively low degree of stretch-resistance. Because the woven textile may be utilized in areas requiring both high and low degrees of stretch-resistance, some of the yarns in the woven textile may be superfluous in areas requiring the low degree of stretch-resistance. In this example, the superfluous yarns add to the overall mass of the footwear, without adding beneficial properties to the footwear. Similar concepts apply to other materials, such as leather and polymer sheets, that are utilized for one or more of wear-resistance, flexibility, air-permeability, cushioning, and moisture-wicking, for example.

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

One method of addressing these issues has been to incorporate tensile strand elements into an upper to provide strength and stretch resistance to the upper. The use of such tensile strand elements is discussed in, for example, <CIT>;<CIT>;<CIT>; <CIT>; <CIT>;<CIT>;<CIT>; and <CIT>.

A conventional tensile strand element includes strands having a relatively high tensile strength. Turning to the example of <FIG>, a conventional tensile strand element <NUM> can include strands <NUM> having a relatively high tensile strength that enhance the stretch resistance of strand element <NUM>. A tensile strand element <NUM> can be incorporated into the layers of an upper to enhance strength and impart stretch resistance of the upper, while using less material due to the elongated and relatively narrow shape of the tensile strand elements.

To maintain the position of the strands, a conventional tensile strand element may position the strands between two materials, covers, or layers which act to hold the strands in place. Examples of such materials, covers, or layers are discussed in, for example,<CIT>; <CIT>; <CIT>; <CIT>; <CIT>;<CIT>; <CIT>; and<CIT>. Turning to <FIG>, which is enlarged view of area <NUM> of the tensile strand element <NUM> of <FIG>, a tensile strand element <NUM> may include a base layer <NUM> and a cover layer <NUM>, with strands <NUM> being positioned between base layer <NUM> and cover layer <NUM>. <FIG> shows an exploded view of the embodiment of <FIG> and further illustrates how strands <NUM> are positioned between base layer <NUM> and cover layer <NUM>. Strands <NUM> can extend parallel to surfaces of base layer <NUM> and cover layer <NUM>. By being substantially parallel to the surfaces of base layer <NUM> and cover layer <NUM>, strands <NUM> resist stretch in directions that correspond with the surfaces of base layer <NUM> and cover layer <NUM>.

Strands <NUM> may be formed from any generally one-dimensional material. As utilized with respect to the present invention, the term "one-dimensional material" or variants thereof is intended to encompass generally elongate materials exhibiting a length that is substantially greater than a width and a thickness. Accordingly, suitable materials for strands <NUM> include various filaments, fibers, yarns, threads, cables, or ropes that are 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, and steel. Such materials may provide a relatively high tensile strength which enhances the stretch resistance of a material that a strand <NUM> is incorporated into. Whereas filaments have an indefinite length and may be utilized individually as strands <NUM>, fibers have a relatively short length and generally go through spinning or twisting processes to produce a strand of suitable length.

An individual filament utilized in strands <NUM> may be formed from 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 strands <NUM> 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, or ropes. The thickness of strands <NUM> may also vary significantly to range from, for example, <NUM> millimeters to more than <NUM> millimeters. Although one-dimensional materials may often have a cross-section where width and thickness are substantially equal (e.g., a round or square cross-section), some one-dimensional materials may have a width that is greater than a thickness (e.g., a rectangular, oval, or otherwise elongate cross-section).

Strands may be utilized to modify properties of an article of footwear other than stretch-resistance. For example, strands may be utilized to provide additional wear-resistance in specific areas of an upper. For example, strands may be concentrated in areas of upper that experience wear, such as in a forefoot region of the upper and adjacent to a sole structure. If utilized for wear resistance, strands may be selected from materials that exhibit relatively high wear-resistance properties. Strands may also be utilized to modify the flex characteristics of an upper. For example, areas with relatively high concentrations of strands may flex to a lesser degree than areas with relatively low concentrations of strands. Similarly, areas with relatively high concentrations of strands may be less air permeable than areas with relatively low concentrations of strands. Further, strands may be used to connect or affix an upper to a sole structure while using less weight than a conventional upper which uses, for example, leather or other textile panels connected to a sole structure. Strands may also strength such a connection between an upper and sole structure.

The sole structure can be secured to a lower portion of the upper so as to be positioned between the foot and the ground. In athletic footwear, for example, the sole structure includes a midsole and an outsole. The midsole may be formed from a polymer foam material that attenuates ground reaction forces (i.e., provides cushioning) during walking, running, and other ambulatory activities. The midsole may also include fluid-filled chambers, plates, moderators, or other elements that further attenuate forces, enhance stability, or influence the motions of the foot, for example. The outsole forms a ground-contacting element of the footwear and is usually fashioned from a durable and wear-resistant rubber material that includes texturing to impart traction. The sole structure may also include a sockliner positioned within the upper and proximal a lower surface of the foot to enhance footwear comfort.

In conventional designs, tensile strand elements may be provided as separate elements, such as separate filaments, yarns, or strands, that were placed on top of a base layer of the upper. To ensure that the tensile strand elements remained in place, a connecting layer or other securing element may bond, secure, or otherwise join the tensile strand elements to the base layer. According to one example, a sheet of thermoplastic polymer could be located between strands and the base layer and heated to bond the strands and base layer together. According to another example, the connecting element or securing element may be a sheet of thermoplastic polymer or a textile, for example, that extended over strands and the base layer to bond the strands and the base layer together. Such a sheet can in turn act as a cover layer that forms a portion of an exterior or exposed surface of the upper, with a combination of the base layer, strands, and the cover sheet providing substantially all of the thickness of the upper in some areas. In another example, connecting element or other securing element may be an adhesive that bonds strands and the base layer together. In other examples, additional individual threads are stitched over strands to secure the tensile strand elements to the base layer. As a result, a variety of structures or methods may be used to secure strands to an underlying base layer.

Although conventional tensile strand elements provide a high degree of performance, such as by enhancing the stretch resistance of an upper, the methods used to incorporate the tensile strand elements into an upper may provide an article of footwear that is stylish and pleasing for certain uses. For example, by incorporating strands <NUM> between a base layer <NUM> and a cover layer <NUM>, an article of footwear is produced with high performance and a style for athletic use but not necessarily for casual use. It would be desirable to provide an article of footwear which provides a high level of performance but is also stylish and pleasing for multiple uses, such as both athletic and casual uses.

According to all embodiments of the claimed invention, strands are incorporated into a mesh material. The mesh material may include a combination of high tensile strength stands and non-high tensile strength stands that do not possess a high tensile strength. For example, the strands not possessing high tensile strength may intersect the high tensile strength strands. A mesh including a pattern of intersecting strands can advantageously provide a structure that substantially holds the high tensile strength strands in place while also providing enhance performance. As a result, the mesh material could include high tensile strength strands which enhance the strength and stretch resistance of the mesh but do not require a base layer and a cover layer to maintain the position of the high tensile strength strands. Such a mesh may advantageously be breathable and flexible but also have relatively high strength and limited stretch. Besides advantageously providing enhanced performance and materials savings, the mesh material may also provide a stylish pattern.

<FIG> shows a mesh <NUM> which includes a first set <NUM> of high tensile strength strands. According to an embodiment, first set <NUM> of tensile strength strands can include various numbers of tensile strength strands. The number of tensile strength strands selected for a given set of high tensile strength strands may be selected, for example, according to a desired strength and/or stretch resistance for mesh <NUM>. For example, first set <NUM> of high tensile strength strands can include a first high tensile strength strand <NUM>, a second high tensile strength strand <NUM>, a third high tensile strength strand <NUM>, and a fourth high tensile strength strand <NUM>, although first set <NUM> of tensile strength strands can include other numbers of high tensile strength strand. High tensile strength strands can be in the same form as strands <NUM> used in a conventional tensile strand element <NUM> discussed above and can be made from the same materials. For example, high tensile strength strands of first set <NUM> may be high tensile strength nylon. First set <NUM> of high tensile strength strands may act to increase the strength of mesh <NUM> and enhance the stretch resistance of mesh <NUM> due to the tensile properties of the high tensile strength strands.

Mesh <NUM> may include a second set <NUM> of strands which intersect the first set <NUM> of high tensile strength strands. According to an embodiment, second set <NUM> of strands can include various numbers of strands. The number of strands selected for second set <NUM> of strands may be selected, for example, to provide a sufficient number of strands to intersect with high tensile strength strands and substantially hold the high tensile strength strands in place. For example, second set <NUM> may include a first strand <NUM>, a second strand <NUM>, and a third strand <NUM>, although second set <NUM> can include other numbers of strands.

Strands of the second set <NUM> of strands can be non-high tensile strength strands. For example, strands of second set <NUM> may be in a different form and/or be made from different materials than high tensile strength strands of first set <NUM>. For example, non-high tensile strength strands, such as the strands of second set <NUM>, may be made of polyester. In another example, non-high tensile strength strands can be made of a mixture of <NUM>% polyester & <NUM>% polyester 150D. In another example, when mesh <NUM> includes high tensile strength strands and non-high tensile strength strands, mesh <NUM> can be made of various materials, which may be selected according to a desired strength and stretch resistance for mesh <NUM>.

The strands of second set <NUM> do not necessarily enhance the strength and stretch resistance of mesh <NUM> to the degree that high tensile strength strands do. However, strands of second set <NUM> may intersect high tensile strength strands of first set <NUM> and provide a mesh structure that substantially holds the high tensile strength strands of first set <NUM> in place. For example, strands of second set <NUM> may form an interlocking mesh structure with high tensile strength strands of first set <NUM> that limits movement of the high tensile strength strands of first set <NUM>.

According to an embodiment, mesh <NUM> may include a plurality of sets of strands. For example, mesh <NUM> may include first set <NUM> of high tensile strength strands and at least second set <NUM> of strands that intersect the high tensile strength strands of first set <NUM>. In another example, mesh <NUM> may include multiple sets of strands that intersect high tensile strength strands of first set <NUM>, such as second set <NUM> of strands and a third set <NUM> of strands. Third set <NUM> of strands may be substantially the same or similar to those of second set <NUM>. For example, third set <NUM> may include a first strand <NUM>, a second strand <NUM>, and a third strand <NUM>, although third set <NUM> may include any number of strands. According to an example, second set <NUM> of strands and third set of strands may be repeated in any number along a direction that extends along a length of high tensile strength strands of first set <NUM>. This would result in multiple sets of strands intersecting the high tensile strength strands of first set <NUM> so that the multiple sets of strands act to substantially hold the high tensile strength strands of first set <NUM> in place.

According to an embodiment, mesh <NUM> may include additional sets of strands extending in substantially the same direction as first set <NUM> of strands. For example, mesh <NUM> may include a fourth set <NUM> of strands and a fifth set <NUM> of strands. Fourth set <NUM> of strands and fifth set <NUM> of strands may include any number of strands. For example, fourth set <NUM> of strands may include a first strand <NUM>, a second strand <NUM>, a third strand <NUM>, and a fourth strand <NUM>, and fifth set <NUM> of strands may include a first strand <NUM>, a second strand <NUM>, a third strand <NUM>, and a fourth strand <NUM>, although fourth set <NUM> of strands and fifth set <NUM> of strands may include any number of strands. According to an embodiment, the strands of the fourth set <NUM> and the strands of the fifth set <NUM> may be strands like those of second set <NUM>. In such an embodiment, the strands of the fourth set <NUM>, fifth set <NUM>, and second set <NUM> would be made of the same materials and have the same structure, with the strands of the fourth set <NUM> and the strands of the fifth set <NUM> intersecting the strands of the second set <NUM> to form a mesh structure for mesh <NUM>.

According to an embodiment, a repeating pattern can be provided in which sets of high tensile strength strands alternate with sets of non-high tensile strength strands. For example, the strands of fourth set <NUM> and fifth set <NUM> may be non-high tensile strength strands on either side of first set <NUM> of high tensile strength strands, with sets of high tensile strength strands and sets of non-high tensile strength strands alternating in directions substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axes of the strands. According to another embodiment, strands of either or both of fourth set <NUM> and fifth set <NUM> can be high tensile strength strands substantially the same or similar to those of first set <NUM>. Sets of strands can be selected to include high tensile strength strands or non-high tensile strength strands according to a desired strength and stretch resistance for mesh <NUM>.

According to an embodiment, any of the sets of strands may include a mixture of high tensile strength strands and non-high tensile strength strands. Such a mixture may be selected according to a desired strength and stretch resistance for mesh <NUM>.

According to an embodiment, mesh <NUM> can be formed from monofilament strands. For example, non-high tensile strength strands can be formed with monofilament strands, such as the strands of second set <NUM> and other sets including non-high tensile strength strands.

Mesh <NUM> may be a woven material or a knit material. For example, mesh <NUM> can be produced as a woven or knit material to not only provide a high performance material with strength and stretch resistance, but to also provide a mesh material having a desired pattern or style.

According to an embodiment, mesh <NUM> may be a woven material in which strands alternately pass over and under one another in warp and weft directions. For instance, high tensile strength strands of first set <NUM> may extend in a warp direction while strands of second set <NUM> may extend in the weft direction. The strands of second set <NUM>, for example, could alternately pass over and under the high tensile strength strands of first set <NUM> as the strands of second set <NUM> intersect the high tensile strength strands of first set <NUM>. Such a pattern of weaving strands may provide both high tensile strength strands to enhance the strength and stretch resistance of a mesh material and non-high tensile strength strands to interlock with the high tensile strength strands and substantially hold the high tensile strength strands in place.

According to another embodiment, mesh <NUM> may be a knit material in which strands are knitted together. For instance, high tensile strength strands of first set <NUM> may extend in a first direction along their respective lengths and non-high tensile strength strands of second set <NUM> may interest the high tensile strength strands and knit adjacent high tensile strength strands of first set <NUM> to one another. For example, non-high tensile strength strands of second set <NUM> can be formed in loops between first strand <NUM> and second strand <NUM> of first set <NUM> that knit first strand <NUM> and second strand <NUM> together. Non-high tensile strength strands can similarly knit other high tensile strength strands to one another and may connect adjacent sets of strands to one another.

Mesh materials described above may be included in an article of footwear to advantageously provide the article of footwear with enhanced strength and stretch resistance but also freedom to design various pleasing styles. For example, a mesh material itself can be used to incorporate various stylish designs into an article of footwear. Turning to the example of <FIG>, an article of footwear <NUM> may include an upper <NUM> and a sole structure <NUM>. <FIG> shows a view of the lateral side <NUM> of footwear <NUM> of <FIG> and <FIG> shows a view of medial side <NUM> of footwear <NUM>. For reference purposes, footwear <NUM> may be divided into three general regions: a forefoot region <NUM>, a midfoot region <NUM>, and a heel region <NUM>, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>. Forefoot region <NUM> generally includes portions of footwear <NUM> corresponding with the toe portion <NUM> where toes and the joints connecting the metatarsals with the phalanges would be present. Midfoot region <NUM> generally includes portions of footwear <NUM> corresponding with the arch area of the foot, and heel region <NUM> corresponds with the heel portion <NUM> and rear portions of the foot, including the calcaneus bone. Regions <NUM>-<NUM>, medial side <NUM>, and lateral side <NUM> may be applied to sole structure <NUM>, upper <NUM>, and individual elements thereof. Regions <NUM>-<NUM>, medial side <NUM>, and lateral side <NUM> are not intended to demarcate precise areas of footwear <NUM>. Rather, regions <NUM>-<NUM>, medial side <NUM>, and lateral side <NUM> are intended to represent general areas of footwear <NUM> to aid in the following discussion.

Sole structure <NUM> is secured to upper <NUM> and extends between the foot and a ground surface when footwear <NUM> is worn. Sole structure <NUM> may include a midsole, an outsole, and an sockliner (not shown). Midsole is secured to a lower surface of upper <NUM> and may be formed from a compressible polymer foam element (e.g., a polyurethane or ethylvinylacetate foam) that attenuates ground reaction forces (i.e., provides cushioning) when compressed between the foot and the ground during walking, running, or other ambulatory activities. In further configurations, midsole may incorporate fluid-filled chambers, plates, moderators, or other elements that further attenuate forces, enhance stability, or influence the motions of the foot, or midsole may be primarily formed from a fluid-filled chamber. Outsole is secured to a lower surface of midsole and may be formed from a wear-resistant rubber material that is textured to impart traction. Sockliner is located within upper <NUM> and is positioned to extend under a lower surface of the foot. Although this configuration for sole structure <NUM> provides an example of a sole structure that may be used in connection with upper <NUM>, a variety of other conventional or nonconventional configurations for sole structure <NUM> may also be utilized. Accordingly, the structure and features of sole structure <NUM> or any sole structure utilized with upper <NUM> may vary considerably.

Upper <NUM> defines a void <NUM> within footwear <NUM> for receiving and securing a foot relative to sole structure <NUM>. The void <NUM> may be shaped to accommodate the foot and extend along the lateral side <NUM> of the foot, along the medial side <NUM> of the foot, over the foot, around the heel, and under the foot. A lace <NUM> extends through various lace apertures <NUM> and permits a wearer to modify dimensions of upper <NUM> to accommodate the proportions of the foot. More particularly, lace <NUM> permits the wearer to tighten upper <NUM> around the foot, and lace <NUM> permits the wearer to loosen upper <NUM> to facilitate entry and removal of the foot from the void <NUM>. In addition, upper <NUM> may include a tongue (not depicted) that extends under lace <NUM>.

According to an embodiment, upper <NUM> may include stitching <NUM>. Stitching <NUM> can be used to join materials of upper <NUM> and/or to provide a stylish design to upper <NUM>. For example, a thread can be used for stitching <NUM> that contrasts with surrounding material of upper <NUM> so that stitching <NUM> is more visible to provide a stylish design.

Various portions of upper <NUM> may be formed from one or more of a plurality of material elements (e.g., textiles, polymer sheets, foam layers, leather, synthetic leather) that are stitched or bonded together to form the void within footwear <NUM>. Upper <NUM> may also incorporate a heel counter that limits heel movement in heel region <NUM> or a wear-resistant toe guard located in forefoot region <NUM>. Although a variety of material elements or other elements may be incorporated into upper <NUM>, areas of one or both of lateral side <NUM> and medial side <NUM> incorporate various strands <NUM>.

The mesh material discussed above may be incorporated into footwear <NUM>. According to an embodiment, mesh material <NUM> may be incorporated into the upper <NUM>. As shown in the examples of <FIG>, the mesh material <NUM> may form, for example, a majority of the lateral side <NUM> and a majority of the medial side <NUM> of upper <NUM>. As a result, mesh material <NUM> may have a configuration that (a) extends from higher areas of upper <NUM> to lower areas of upper <NUM> and through each of regions <NUM>-<NUM>, (b) defines the various lace apertures <NUM>, and (c) may form an exterior surface (i.e., an outer, exposed surface of footwear <NUM>).

Mesh material <NUM> may include a first set <NUM> of high tensile strength strands, as shown in the example of <FIG>. The high tensile strength strands enhance the strength and stretch resistance of the mesh material <NUM> and upper <NUM> that the mesh material <NUM> is incorporated into.

During walking, running, or other ambulatory activities, forces induced in footwear <NUM> may tend to stretch upper <NUM> in various directions, and the forces may be concentrated at various locations. That is, many of the material elements forming upper <NUM> may stretch when placed in tension by movements of the foot. Although high tensile strength strands may also stretch, high tensile strength strands generally stretch to a lesser degree than the other material elements forming upper <NUM>. Mesh material <NUM> may be located, therefore, to provide structural components in upper <NUM> that strengthen the upper and resist stretching in specific directions or reinforce locations where forces are concentrated. Such a mesh material <NUM> may also provide weight savings by providing a lightweight structure that is relatively strong. High tensile strength strands may be positioned to provide stretch-resistance in particular directions and locations, and the number of high tensile strength strands may be selected to impart a desired degree of stretch-resistance. Accordingly, the orientations, locations, and quantity of high tensile strength strands may be selected to provide structural components that are tailored to a specific purpose.

As an example, the various high tensile strength strands that extend between lace apertures <NUM> and sole structure <NUM> resist stretch in the medial-lateral direction (i.e., in a direction extending around upper <NUM>). These high tensile strength strands may also be positioned adjacent to and extend from lace apertures <NUM> to resist stretch due to tension in lace <NUM>. Given that the high tensile strength strands cross other strands, whether the other strands be other high tensile strength strands or non-high tensile strength strands, forces from the tension in lace <NUM> or from movement of the foot may be distributed over various areas of upper <NUM>. Accordingly, high tensile strength strands are located to form structural components in upper <NUM> that resist stretch.

According to an embodiment, mesh structure <NUM> may include high tensile strength strands which extend longitudinally along footwear <NUM> between forefoot region <NUM> and heel region <NUM>. Such high tensile strength strands resist stretch in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in a direction extending through each of regions <NUM>-<NUM>). In such an embodiment, high tensile strength strands may cross one another and permit forces from lace <NUM> at the various lace apertures <NUM> to be distributed more widely throughout upper <NUM>.

According to an embodiment, mesh material <NUM> may be oriented so that the high tensile strength strands in mesh material <NUM> are angled relative to sole structure <NUM>. For example, mesh material <NUM> may be oriented so that high tensile strength strands of mesh material <NUM>, such as the high tensile strength strands of first set <NUM>, are angled diagonally between sole structure <NUM> and lace aperture <NUM>. The running style or preferences of an individual, for example, may determine the orientations, locations, and quantity of high tensile strength strands. For example, some individuals may have a relatively high degree of pronation (i.e., an inward roll of the foot), so providing a greater number of high tensile strength strands on lateral side <NUM> may reduce the degree of pronation. Some individuals may also prefer that upper <NUM> fit more snugly, which may require adding more high tensile strength strands throughout upper <NUM>. Accordingly, footwear <NUM> may be customized to the running style or preferences of an individual through changes in the orientations, locations, and quantity of high tensile strength strands. In addition, the mesh material <NUM> may impart stretch-resistance to specific areas, reinforce areas, enhance wear-resistance, modify the flexibility, or provide areas of air permeability to upper <NUM>. Accordingly, by controlling the orientations, locations, and quantity of strands, the properties of upper <NUM> and footwear <NUM> may be controlled.

Upper <NUM> may include a plurality of sets of high tensile strength strands, such as a second set <NUM> of high tensile strength strands, as shown in <FIG>. Upper <NUM> may also include one or more sets of non-high tensile strength strands. For example, upper may include at least a third set of non-high tensile strength strands, as shown in <FIG>. According to an embodiment, first set <NUM> of high tensile strength strands and second set <NUM> of high tensile strength strands may be arranged in an alternating pattern, with a third set <NUM> of non-high tensile strength strands located in between first set <NUM> of high tensile strength strands and second set <NUM> of high tensile strength strands, as shown in <FIG>. Upper <NUM> may further include a fourth set <NUM> of non-high tensile strength strands which intersect first set <NUM> of high tensile strength strands and second set <NUM> of high tensile strength strands, as shown in <FIG>. As a result, the non-high tensile strength strands of fourth set <NUM> may interlock with the high tensile strength strands of first set <NUM> and second set <NUM> to substantially hold the high tensile strength strands of first set <NUM> and second set <NUM> in place.

Based upon the above discussion, a mesh material <NUM> including high tensile strength strands may be utilized to form structural components in upper <NUM>. In general, high tensile strength strands resist stretch to limit the overall stretch in upper <NUM>. High tensile strength strands may also be utilized to distribute forces (e.g., forces from lace <NUM> and lace aperture <NUM>) to different areas of upper <NUM>. Accordingly, the orientations, locations, and quantity of high tensile strength strands may be selected to provide structural components that are tailored to a specific purpose. The high tensile strength strands of mesh material <NUM> may be arranged to impart one-dimensional stretch or multidimensional stretch. The mesh material may also include coatings that form a breathable and water resistant barrier, for example.

The strands forming mesh material <NUM> may be arranged so that mesh material <NUM> presents a stylish design. A design incorporating mesh material <NUM> that includes high tensile strength strands advantageously provides footwear <NUM> that has a high performance due to the enhanced strength and stretch resistance of mesh material <NUM>, along with the weight savings afforded by mesh material <NUM> due to its high strength and stretch resistance without using a base layer or cover layer, but also a stylish design that is desirable for both athletic use and for casual use. For example, footwear <NUM> incorporating mesh material <NUM> may provide high performance when worn while playing tennis but also provides a design that is desirable not only during tennis play but during casual wear off the tennis court.

For example, the strands of mesh material <NUM> may be arranged in a plaid design, as shown in <FIG>. Such a plaid design can be produced, for example, by intersecting sets of high tensile strength strands and sets of non-high tensile strength strands in a mesh structure. In such a mesh structure the high tensile strength strands and non-high tensile strength strands may interlock with one another so that the high tensile strength strands are substantially held in place. The plaid design may include, for example, sets of high tensile strength strands that alternate with non- high tensile strength strands. As shown in <FIG>, first set <NUM> of high tensile strength strands and second set <NUM> of high tensile strength strands may alternate with a third set <NUM> of non-high tensile strength strands.

According to an embodiment, high tensile strength strands may contrast with non-high tensile strength strands so that the high tensile strength strands stand out and are more visible than the non-high tensile strength strands. As shown in the example of <FIG>, a high tensile strength strand <NUM> in first set <NUM> of high tensile strength strands may contrast and stand out from the surrounding non-high tensile strength strands that intersect or run adjacent to the high tensile strength strand <NUM>. Such an effect may be accomplished, for example, by making the high tensile strength strand <NUM> thicker than the surrounding non-high tensile strength strands and/or by making the high tensile strength strand <NUM> a different color than the surrounding non-high tensile strength strands.

Mesh material may be incorporated into an article of footwear using various methods. According to an embodiment, mesh material can be provided in a sheet form which is then incorporated into an article of footwear. As shown in the example of <FIG>, mesh material can be provided as a sheet <NUM> which has been cut into a desired shape corresponding to an article of footwear. For example, sheet <NUM> may be cut to correspond to a shape of an upper of an article of footwear. As shown in the example of <FIG>, sheet <NUM> can be cut to include both a medial side <NUM> and a lateral side <NUM> that respectively correspond to the medial and lateral sides of an upper. Such a sheet <NUM> of mesh material can be applied to an upper <NUM> of an article of footwear by wrapping sheet <NUM> around upper <NUM>, as shown in the example of <FIG>. For example, sheet <NUM> of mesh material may be first applied to a toe portion <NUM> of upper <NUM> and then lowered along the direction indicated by arrow Y in <FIG> so that medial side <NUM> and lateral side <NUM> of sheet <NUM> are respectively wrapped around the sides of upper <NUM>. The ends of medial side <NUM> and lateral side <NUM> of sheet <NUM> may then be wrapped around the heel portion <NUM> of upper <NUM> to provide an article of footwear including the sheet <NUM> of mesh material, as shown in the example of <FIG>. Such an article of footwear incorporating the mesh material advantageously provides high performance due to the strength and stretch resistance of the mesh material but also provides a stylish design desirable for both athletic use and casual use.

Other methods can be used to incorporate mesh material into an article of footwear. According to an embodiment, discrete sections of mesh material that are separate from one another can be applied to the upper of an article of footwear to incorporate the mesh material into an article of footwear. The method of incorporating mesh material into an article of footwear may be selected according to a desired amount of mesh material to be incorporated into the article of footwear and according to a desired style or pattern for the article of footwear.

Mesh material that is incorporated into an article of footwear may have a structure that is breathable due to the woven or knitted structure of the mesh material. Such a woven or knitted structure is open to a degree and permits some air to pass through the mesh material. As a result, the mesh material, may advantageously make an upper that the mesh material is incorporated into more breathable. In addition, the structure of the mesh material can also be semi-transparent or translucent and permit a degree of light to pass through the mesh material. As a result, the mesh material may permit an observer to see materials or layers underneath the mesh material. Such an effect can be used, for example, to add styles or designs to an article of footwear by incorporating layers underneath the mesh material that can be viewed through the mesh material to a degree.

Turning to <FIG>, which shows an exploded view of an article of footwear that incorporates mesh material <NUM>. Mesh material <NUM> can be semi-transparent or translucent, permitting an observer to see materials or layers underneath mesh material <NUM>. For example, a layer <NUM> may be provided underneath mesh material <NUM>. Layer <NUM> may include a rear portion <NUM> and a strip portion <NUM>, as shown in the example of <FIG>. The rear portion <NUM> and/or strip portion <NUM> of layer <NUM> may be provided to add to the stylish design of an article of footwear because layer <NUM> may be viewed through mesh material <NUM>. For example, rear portion <NUM> may have a different color, design, or pattern than mesh material <NUM> and other surrounding materials so that the rear portion <NUM> of layer <NUM> is distinct may be more easily viewed through mesh material <NUM>. Strip portion <NUM> may also be distinct from mesh material <NUM> and surrounding materials so that strip portion <NUM> may be more easily viewed through mesh material <NUM>. According to such embodiments, layer <NUM> may contribute to the stylish design of an article of footwear by providing designs and/or colors viewable through mesh material <NUM>. According to another embodiment, layer <NUM> is not necessarily distinct from mesh material <NUM>, which may also contribute to the stylish design of an article of footwear. For example, a design for an article of footwear may be selected that minimizes distinctive designs and/or colors for a simplified, but stylish design. <FIG> is also included to provide a picture of an article of footwear incorporating a mesh material having a plaid pattern, according to an embodiment.

An article of footwear may also include a liner <NUM>, which may act as a base layer. Similarly to layer <NUM>, liner <NUM> may also be distinct from mesh material <NUM> and surrounding materials so liner <NUM> is more easily viewed through mesh material <NUM>. As a result, liner <NUM> may contribute to the stylish design of an article of footwear by providing designs and/or colors viewable through mesh material <NUM>. According to another embodiment, liner <NUM> is not necessarily distinct from mesh material <NUM>, which may also contribute to the stylish design of an article of footwear.

Liner <NUM> may be formed from any generally two-dimensional material. As utilized with respect to the present invention, the term "two-dimensional material" or variants thereof is intended to encompass generally flat materials exhibiting a length and a width that are substantially greater than a thickness. Suitable materials for liner <NUM> include, for example, various textiles, polymer sheets, or combinations of textiles and polymer sheets. Textiles are generally manufactured from fibers, filaments, or yarns that are, for example, either (a) produced directly from webs of fibers by bonding, fusing, or interlocking to construct non-woven fabrics and felts or (b) formed through a mechanical manipulation of yarn to produce a woven fabric. Polymer sheets may be extruded, rolled, or otherwise formed from a polymer material to exhibit a generally flat aspect. Two dimensional materials may also encompass laminated or otherwise layered materials that include two or more layers of textiles, polymer sheets, or combinations of textiles and polymer sheets. In addition to textiles and polymer sheets, other two-dimensional materials may be utilized for liner <NUM>. Although two-dimensional materials may have smooth or generally untextured surfaces, some two-dimensional materials will exhibit textures or other surface characteristics, such as dimpling, protrusions, ribs, or various patterns, for example. Despite the presence of surface characteristics, two-dimensional materials remain generally flat and exhibit a length and a width that are substantially greater than a thickness.

As shown in the example of <FIG>, an article of footwear may also include a strap <NUM> and a heel counter <NUM>. Strap <NUM> may help to secure the upper of an article of footwear to a foot <NUM> and thus improve the feel of the article of footwear. A strap <NUM> can be provided, for example, on either or both of the medial and lateral sides of an article of footwear. Strap <NUM> can be located underneath mesh material <NUM> or be located underneath mesh material <NUM>. According to an embodiment, strap <NUM> may be distinctive from mesh material <NUM> so that strap <NUM> is more easily viewed through or relative to mesh material <NUM>. As a result, strap <NUM> may contribute to an overall stylish design of an article of footwear due to its distinctive color and/or pattern. According to another embodiment, strap <NUM> is not necessarily distinct from mesh material <NUM>, which may also contribute to the stylish design of an article of footwear.

Mesh material <NUM> may be joined to the upper of an article of footwear to secure mesh material <NUM> in place. According to an embodiment, mesh material <NUM> may be joined to a strip portion <NUM>. For example, a top portion of mesh material <NUM> may be welded to strip portion <NUM> and a bottom portion of mesh material may be joined to the sole structure of the article of footwear. Strip portion <NUM> may be made of a material suitable to provide a desired design or color. For example, the strip portion <NUM> may be made of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).

According to an embodiment, mesh material <NUM> itself may be colored. Providing color to mesh material <NUM> may add to the stylish design of mesh material <NUM> and the article of footwear it is incorporated into. For example, the strands of mesh material <NUM> may be colored. Such stands may be colored the same color or different strands may be colored different colors. In the example of a plaid design for mesh material <NUM>, the strands of mesh material <NUM> may have different colors to accentuate the plaid pattern. According to an embodiment, the strands of mesh material <NUM> may include high tensile strength strands made of, for example, nylon, and non-high tensile strength strands made of, for example, polyester. The mesh material <NUM> may then be dyed so that the non-high tensile strength strands become colored while the high tensile strength strands are not colored. In such an example, the non-colored high tensile strength strands would be distinct and stand out against the colored non-high tensile strength strands. For example, mesh material <NUM> may be dip dyed to color non-high tensile strength strands made of polyester.

As discussed above, the mesh material incorporated into an upper of an article of footwear may be a woven material. Turning to <FIG>, a mesh material <NUM> may include a first set <NUM> of high tensile strength strands that intersect and are woven with a second set <NUM> of non-high tensile strength strands to provide strength and stretch resistance to mesh material <NUM>, while substantially holding first set <NUM> high tensile strength strands in place. Mesh material <NUM> may include additional sets of high tensile strength strands and additional sets of non-high tensile strength strands. The sets of high tensile strength strands and non-high tensile strength strands may be arranged in alternating patterns to provide a design.

As shown in the example of <FIG>, which is an isometric view of the mesh material <NUM> of <FIG>, sets of strands of mesh material <NUM> may be woven into a stylish pattern, such as, for example, a plaid design. According to an embodiment, first set <NUM> of high tensile strength strands may be woven with an second set <NUM> of non-high tensile strength strands and a third set <NUM> of non-high tensile strength strands. For example, first set <NUM> of high tensile strength strands may extend in a warp direction <NUM> of mesh material <NUM>, while second set <NUM> of non-high tensile strength strands and third set <NUM> of non-high tensile strength strands extend in a weft direction <NUM>. Such a woven pattern would provide, for example, a mesh material <NUM> that substantially resists stretch in warp direction <NUM> and weft direction <NUM> but may permit some stretch in a direction <NUM> (a bias direction) that is diagonal to warp direction <NUM> and weft direction <NUM>. The diagonal direction <NUM> may extend, for example, at substantially a <NUM> degree angle between the warp direction <NUM> and weft direction <NUM>.

As a result, mesh material <NUM> may have, for example, enhanced strength and stretch resistance in warp direction <NUM> and weft direction <NUM> (e.g., along the directions first set <NUM> of strands and second set <NUM> of strands extend) but may permit some stretch in diagonal direction <NUM>.

According to an embodiment, second set <NUM> of non-high tensile strength strands and third set <NUM> of non-high tensile strength strands may intersect with the high tensile strength strands of first set <NUM> to provide an interlocking pattern between the high tensile strength strands and non-high tensile strength strands. Such an interlocking pattern may substantially hold the high tensile strength strands in place while providing strength and stretch resistance to the plaid design.

For example, as shown in <FIG>, which is a cross-sectional view along line <NUM>-<NUM> in <FIG>, individual high tensile strength strands <NUM> may intersect and interlock with non-high tensile strength strand <NUM> and non-high tensile strength strand <NUM> which extend in weft direction <NUM>. As shown in the example of <FIG>, non-high tensile strength strand <NUM> may pass over each high tensile strength strand <NUM> while non-high tensile strength strand <NUM> passes under each high tensile strength strand <NUM>. In a region <NUM> between high tensile strength strands <NUM>, non-high tensile strength strand <NUM> and non-high tensile strength strand <NUM> may pass one another and may be woven or connected to one another. For example, another non-high tensile strength strand (not shown) may pass between non-high tensile strength strand <NUM> and non-high tensile strength strand <NUM> in region <NUM>, such as through a loop formed by non-high tensile strength strand <NUM> and non-high tensile strength strand <NUM>, to weave non-high tensile strength strand <NUM> and non-high tensile strength strand <NUM> in region <NUM>.

According to an embodiment, mesh material <NUM> may further include a fourth set <NUM> of non-high tensile strength strands which extend along the warp direction <NUM>. Fourth set <NUM> of non-high tensile strength strands may intersect and weave with the non-high tensile strength strands of second set <NUM> and third set <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the weaving pattern formed between the strands of first set <NUM> and second set <NUM> and third set <NUM>, and between fourth set <NUM> and second set <NUM> and third set <NUM>, may be selected to provide different regions of mesh material <NUM> with different patterns. For example, a first region <NUM>, a second region <NUM>, a third region <NUM>, and a fourth region <NUM> of mesh material <NUM> may have different patterns to provide a plaid design. A plaid design provided by the weaving patterns of first region <NUM>, second region <NUM>, third region <NUM>, and fourth region <NUM> may be alternately repeated, for example, in the warp direction <NUM> and weft direction <NUM> to provide a mesh material <NUM> with a plaid design.

<FIG> shows an example of a weaving pattern for a mesh material <NUM>, according to an embodiment. Mesh material <NUM> may include a high tensile strength stand <NUM> which intersects and interlocks with a non-high tensile strength stand <NUM> and a non-high tensile strength stand <NUM>. <FIG> shows an enlarged view of the mesh material <NUM> of <FIG> to assist with viewing the weaving pattern of mesh material <NUM>. For example, non-high tensile strength stand <NUM> and non-high tensile strength stand <NUM> may alternately weave over and under high tensile strength strand <NUM> to provide a weaving pattern which substantially holds high tensile strength strand <NUM> in place.

In addition, mesh material <NUM> may include a non-high tensile strength strand <NUM> which extends in substantially the same direction as high tensile strength strand <NUM> and interlocks with non-high tensile strength stand <NUM> and non-high tensile strength stand <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. Such a weaving pattern formed between high tensile strength strand <NUM>, non-high tensile strength stand <NUM>, non-high tensile strength stand <NUM>, and non-high tensile strength stand <NUM> may be repeated through mesh material to provide a desired pattern. <FIG> shows a side view of an exemplary high tensile strength strand <NUM>.

As discussed above, a mesh material may be oriented so that high tensile strength strands of mesh material are angled diagonally between a sole structure and a lace aperture for a lace. According to another embodiment, the high tensile strength strands of a mesh material may be oriented in a substantially vertical direction between a sole structure and lace aperture.

Turning to <FIG>, an article of footwear <NUM> may include a mesh material <NUM>. Mesh material <NUM> may in turn include a first set <NUM> of high tensile strength strands and a second set <NUM> of non-high tensile strength strands. As shown in the enlarged portion of <FIG>, first set <NUM> may include a first high tensile strength strand <NUM>, a second <NUM> high tensile strength strand, and a third high tensile strength strand <NUM>, although any number of high tensile strength strands may be included in first set <NUM>. For example, the number of high tensile strength strands in first set <NUM> may be varied according to a desired strength or stretch resistance for mesh material <NUM>.

Further, as shown in the enlarged portion of <FIG>, second set <NUM> may include a first non-high tensile strength strand <NUM>, a second non-high tensile strength strand <NUM>, and a second non-high tensile strength strand <NUM>, although second set <NUM> may include any number of non-high tensile strength strands. Mesh material <NUM> may include other sets of strands, such a third set <NUM> of high tensile strength strands and a fourth set <NUM> of strands, with the fourth set <NUM> being a set of high tensile strength strands or non-high tensile strength strands that intersect the strands of first set <NUM>, second set <NUM>, and third set <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the alternating pattern of first set <NUM> of high tensile strength strands, second set <NUM> of non-high tensile strength strands, and third set <NUM> of high tensile strength strands may be repeated in horizontal and vertical directions to provide mesh material <NUM> with a desired pattern, such as, for example, a plaid pattern.

As shown in the example of <FIG>, the high tensile strength strands of first set <NUM> and the non-high tensile strength strands of second set <NUM> may extend in a substantially vertical direction between a sole structure <NUM> and a lace aperture <NUM> of footwear <NUM>.

Sets of high tensile strength strands and sets of non-high tensile strength strands can include various numbers of strands and the respective sets may have various widths. The number of strands and width for a given set of strands may be selected, for example, according to a desired strength and stretch resistance for a mesh material <NUM>. For example, a first set <NUM> of high tensile strength strands may have a width in a horizontal direction (which is substantially perpendicular to the vertical direction extending between sole structure <NUM> and lace aperture <NUM>) of approximately <NUM> to <NUM>. Second set <NUM> of non-high tensile strength strands may have a width corresponding to first set <NUM> or may have a different width falling within the range of approximately <NUM> to <NUM>. Third set <NUM> of high tensile strength strands may have the same width as first set <NUM> or may have a different width to provide mesh material <NUM> with a design that varies. Fourth set <NUM> of strands may have a height in the vertical direction that is the same as the width of first set <NUM>, such as when a pattern of repeating squares is desired for mesh material <NUM>, or may have a height that differs and falls within the range of approximately <NUM> to <NUM>.

As discussed above, due to the structure of the mesh material, the mesh may be at least semi-transparent. As a result, the mesh material may be layered over other materials to provide additional patterns or designs to an article of footwear. As shown in the example of <FIG>, which shows a cross-section of an article of footwear, a mesh material <NUM> may be layered over another layer <NUM>, such as a liner, and connected to a sole structure <NUM>. As discussed above, layer <NUM> may have a color, design, or pattern which enhances the design provided by mesh material <NUM>.

Because the mesh material itself may provide strength, stretch resistance, and a stylish design, as well as being breathable, an article of footwear may be provided in which the mesh material provides the main layer for the upper, according to an embodiment. As shown in the example of <FIG>, a mesh material <NUM> may be connected to a sole structure <NUM> and act as a main layer for an upper. Such a mesh material <NUM> may, for example, be the only layer provided for an upper in portions of the upper and may provide substantially the entire thickness of the upper in those portions where only the mesh material <NUM> is present, as shown in <FIG>. Such an embodiment advantageously provides an article of footwear that requires less material for an upper and its liner, providing a structure that is lightweight, provides weight savings, and permits more air to flow freely around a foot within the article of footwear.

Mesh material may be formed into patterns employing principles other than those described above, such as patterns other than the plaid pattern described above. According to an embodiment, mesh material may be formed into a herringbone pattern. Such a herringbone pattern may be formed, for example, by a knitted mesh material.

<FIG> shows a side view of an article of footwear <NUM> which incorporates mesh material <NUM> formed in a herringbone pattern. Mesh material <NUM> may include a plurality of high tensile strength strands, such as a first high tensile strength strand <NUM> and a second high tensile strength strand <NUM>. A set of non-high tensile strength strands <NUM> may be located between high tensile strength strand <NUM> and second high tensile strength strand <NUM>. According to an embodiment, set of non-high tensile strength strands <NUM> may intersect with high tensile strength strand <NUM> and second high tensile strength strand <NUM> to form an interlocking mesh structure that substantially holds high tensile strength strand <NUM> and high tensile strength strand <NUM> in place. For example, set of non-high tensile strength strands <NUM> may form a knitted structure in which high tensile strength strand <NUM> and high tensile strength strand <NUM> are knitted together by loops formed by the non-high tensile strength strands of set <NUM>. <FIG> is included to provide a picture of a mesh material having a herringbone pattern, according to an embodiment.

According to an embodiment, each of high tensile strength strand <NUM> and high tensile strength strand <NUM> may have a width <NUM> of approximately <NUM> to <NUM>. According to an embodiment, set <NUM> of non-high tensile strength strands may have a width <NUM> of approximately <NUM> to <NUM>.

As shown in the example of <FIG>, high tensile strength strand <NUM>, high tensile strength strand <NUM>, and set <NUM> of non-high tensile strength strands may be oriented at an angle between sole structure <NUM> and lace aperture <NUM> for lace <NUM>. According to another embodiment, the high tensile strength strands and non-high tensile strength strands may be oriented to extend in a substantially vertical direction between sole structure <NUM> and lace aperture <NUM>.

Mesh material used for a herringbone pattern may have the characteristics of mesh materials described above. For example, the mesh material used for a herringbone pattern may be semi-transparent and permit layers and materials underneath the mesh material to be viewed by an observer. Turning to <FIG>, a completed upper <NUM> of an article of footwear is shown which incorporates mesh material <NUM> in a herringbone pattern. <FIG> shows the upper <NUM> of <FIG> with mesh material <NUM> removed to more clearly show the layers underneath mesh material <NUM>. According to an embodiment, upper <NUM> may include one or more straps <NUM> underneath mesh material <NUM>. Strap <NUM> may be provided to assist in securing upper <NUM> to a foot and improve the feel of an article of footwear. An intermediate layer <NUM> may also be provided underneath mesh material <NUM>. Strap <NUM> and/or intermediate layer <NUM> may have a color and/or pattern which contributes to the design of mesh material <NUM>. For example, strap <NUM> and/or intermediate layer <NUM> may have a color and/or design which is distinctive from mesh material <NUM>. In another example, strap <NUM> and/or intermediate layer <NUM> may have a color and/or design which is not distinctive from mesh material <NUM>. According to an embodiment, upper <NUM> may further include a liner <NUM> provided underneath mesh material <NUM> and intermediate layer <NUM>, when intermediate layer <NUM> is present. Liner <NUM> may have a color and/or pattern which contributes to the design of mesh material <NUM>. In addition, liner <NUM> may have different portions with different colors and/or patterns. For example, liner <NUM> may include a portion <NUM> having a different color and/or pattern than the remainder of liner <NUM> when a different design or color is desired for different portions of liner <NUM>.

According to an embodiment, mesh material may be formed into a seersucker pattern. Such a seersucker pattern may be formed, for example, by a knitted mesh material. <FIG> shows an example of an article of footwear <NUM> which incorporates a mesh material <NUM> having a seersucker pattern. Mesh material <NUM> may include high tensile strength strands <NUM> that provide strength and stretch resistance to the mesh material <NUM>. Mesh material <NUM> may have the characteristics of mesh materials discussed above. For example, mesh material <NUM> may be breathable and semi-transparent. As shown in the example of <FIG>, the mesh material <NUM> may be incorporated so that the high tensile strength strands <NUM> are oriented at an angle between a sole structure <NUM> and a lace aperture <NUM>, although other angles may be utilized, such as a substantially vertical angle between sole structure <NUM> and lace aperture <NUM>. <FIG> is included to provide a picture of an article of footwear incorporating a mesh material having a seersucker pattern, according to an embodiment.

<FIG> shows an exploded view of the upper of article of footwear <NUM> in <FIG>. As shown in the embodiment of <FIG>, the upper may include a strap <NUM>, mesh material <NUM>, and a liner <NUM>. Strap <NUM> may be provided to assist in securing upper to a foot and improve the feel of article of footwear <NUM>. A liner <NUM> may also be provided. According to an embodiment, strap <NUM> and/or liner <NUM> may have a color and/or pattern which contributes to the design of mesh material <NUM>. Although <FIG> depicts strap <NUM> as being on top of mesh material <NUM>, strap <NUM> may be located underneath mesh material <NUM>.

A mesh material in the form of a seersucker pattern may include high tensile strength strands and intersecting non-high tensile strength strands that interlock with the high tensile strength strands to provide a mesh structure that substantially holds the high tensile strength strands in place. Turning to <FIG>, a mesh material <NUM> may be provided with a seersucker pattern that includes a first high tensile strength strand <NUM> and a second high tensile strength strand <NUM>. Mesh material <NUM> may further include non-high tensile strength strands <NUM> in between first high tensile strength strand <NUM> and second high tensile strength strand <NUM> which connect first high tensile strength strand <NUM> and second high tensile strength strand <NUM> together. For example, non-high tensile strength strands <NUM> may have a knitted pattern that knits first high tensile strength strand <NUM> and second high tensile strength strand <NUM> together such as with, for example, knitted loops formed by non-high tensile strength strands <NUM>.

Claim 1:
An article of footwear (<NUM>; <NUM>), comprising:
an upper (<NUM>);
a sole structure (<NUM>); and
a mesh material (<NUM>; <NUM>) incorporated into the upper, the mesh material (<NUM>; <NUM>) including high tensile strength strands (<NUM>; <NUM>) and non-high tensile strength strands (<NUM>; <NUM>), wherein:
the high tensile strength strands enhance the stretch resistance of the mesh material (<NUM>; <NUM>);
the mesh material (<NUM>; <NUM>) comprises a first set of high tensile strength strands, a second set of non-high tensile strength strands, a fourth set of non-high tensile strength strands and a fifth set of non-high tensile strength strands;
the high tensile strength strands (<NUM>; <NUM>) of the first set of high tensile strength strands and the non-high tensile strength strands (<NUM>; <NUM>) of the second set of non-high tensile strength strands interlock so that the high tensile strength strands (<NUM>; <NUM>) are substantially held in place and the interlocking mesh structure limits movement of the high tensile strength strands (<NUM>; <NUM>);
the fourth set of non-high tensile strength strands and the fifth set of non-high tensile strength strands are on either side of the first set of high tensile strength strands;
the fourth set of non-high tensile strength strands and the fifth set of non-high tensile strength strands intersect the second set of non-high tensile strength strands; and
the mesh material (<NUM>; <NUM>) is connected to the sole structure (<NUM>) and is the only layer provided for the upper (<NUM>) in portions of the upper (<NUM>).