ARTICLE OF FOOTWEAR HAVING A SOLE STRUCTURE

FIELD

The present embodiments relate generally to articles of footwear, and in particular to articles of footwear with cleats having variable exposure.

BACKGROUND

This section provides background information related to the present disclosure which is not necessarily prior art.

Articles of footwear conventionally include an upper and a sole structure. The upper may be formed from any suitable material(s) to receive, secure, and support a foot on the sole structure. The upper may cooperate with laces, straps, or other fasteners to adjust the fit of the upper around the foot. A bottom portion of the upper, proximate to a bottom surface of the foot, attaches to the sole structure.

Sole structures generally include a layered arrangement extending between a ground surface and the upper. One layer of the sole structure includes an outsole that provides abrasion-resistance and traction with the ground surface. The outsole may be formed from polymers or other materials that impart durability and wear-resistance, as well as enhancing traction with the ground surface. Another layer of the sole structure includes a midsole disposed between the outsole and the upper. The midsole provides cushioning for the foot and is, generally, at least partially formed from a polymer foam material that compresses resiliently under an applied load to cushion the foot by attenuating ground-reaction forces. The midsole may define a bottom surface on one side that opposes the outsole and a footbed on the opposite side that may be contoured to conform to a profile of the bottom surface of the foot. Sole structures may also include a comfort-enhancing insole and/or a sockliner located within a void proximate to the bottom portion of the upper.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The embodiments 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 embodiments. Moreover, in the figures, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the different views.

FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary article of footwear including a sole structure, according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 2 illustrates a bottom perspective view of the sole structure of the article of footwear of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3a illustrates a schematic view of a traction system of the article of footwear of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3b illustrates a schematic view of a traction system of the article of footwear of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3c illustrates a schematic view of a traction system of the article of footwear of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3d illustrates a schematic view of a traction system of the article of footwear of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a traction system including an outer membrane of the article of footwear of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 illustrates a bottom perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the sole structure of the article of footwear of FIG. 2;

FIG. 6 illustrates a bottom perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the sole structure of the article of footwear of FIG. 2;

FIG. 7 illustrates a bottom perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the sole structure of the article of footwear of FIG. 2;

FIG. 8 illustrates a bottom perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the sole structure of the article of footwear of FIG. 2;

FIG. 9 illustrates a bottom perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the sole structure of the article of footwear of FIG. 2;

FIG. 10 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a cushioning element;

FIG. 11 illustrates a bottom perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the sole structure of the article of footwear of FIG. 2;

FIG. 12 illustrates a bottom perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the sole structure of the article of footwear of FIG. 2;

FIG. 13 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a cushioning element; and

FIG. 14 illustrates a bottom perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the sole structure of the article of footwear of FIG. 2.

Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views of the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Example embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. Example embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough, and will fully convey the scope of those who are skilled in the art. Numerous specific details are set forth such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need not be employed, that example embodiments may be embodied in many different forms and that neither should be construed to limit the scope of the disclosure. In some example embodiments, well-known processes, well-known device structures, and well known technologies are not described in detail.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular example embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” may be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “including,” and “having,” are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. The method steps, processes, and operations described herein are not to be construed as necessarily requiring their performance in the particular order discussed or illustrated, unless specifically identified as an order of performance. It is also to be understood that additional or alternative steps may be employed.

When an element or layer is referred to as being “on,” “engaged to,” “connected to,” or “coupled to” another element or layer, it may be directly on, engaged, connected or coupled to the other element or layer, or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly on,” “directly engaged to,” “directly connected to,” or “directly coupled to” another element or layer, there may be no intervening elements or layers present. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a like fashion (e.g., “between” versus “directly between,” “adjacent” versus “directly adjacent,” etc.). As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

Although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Terms such as “first”, “second,” and other numerical terms when used herein do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the example embodiments.

Spatially relative terms, such as “inner,” “outer,” “beneath,” “below,” “lower,” “above,” “upper,” and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. Spatially relative terms may be intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “above” the other elements or features. Thus, the example term “below” may encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

In the discussion that follows, terms “about,” “approximately,” “substantially,” and the like, when used in describing a numerical value, denote a variation of +/−10% of that value, unless specified otherwise.

Examples of the present disclosure relate to, among other things, articles of footwear having a sole structure. In one example, the articles of footwear may improve performance of a user. Each of the examples disclosed herein may include one or more of the features described in connection with any of the other disclosed examples. Examples of the present disclosure may incorporate cushioning elements into a sole structure while maintaining an overall height of an article of footwear relatively low/short.

Referring to FIG. 1, an article of footwear 10 includes an upper 100 and a sole structure 101 coupled to the upper 100. The article of footwear 10 may be divided into one or more regions. The regions may include a forefoot region 12, a mid-foot region 14, and a heel region 16. The forefoot region 12 may be subdivided into a toe portion 12T corresponding with phalanges, and a ball portion 12B associated with metatarsal bones of a foot. The mid-foot region 14 may correspond with an arch area of the foot, and the heel region 16 may correspond with rear portions of the foot, including a calcaneus bone. The footwear 10 may further include an anterior end 18 associated with a forward-most point of the forefoot region 12 and a posterior end 20 associated with a rearward-most point of the heel region 16. A longitudinal axis of the footwear 10 extends along a length of the footwear 10 from the anterior end 18 to the posterior end 20, and generally divides the footwear 10 into a medial side 22 (shown in FIG. 2) and a lateral side 24 (also shown in FIG. 2). Accordingly, the medial side 22 and the lateral side 24 respectively correspond with opposite sides of the footwear 10 and extend through the regions 12, 14, 16.

The sole structure 101 may be configured to provide traction for the article of footwear 10. In addition to providing traction, sole structure 101 may attenuate ground reaction forces when compressed between the foot and the ground during walking, running or other ambulatory activities.

With continued reference to FIG. 1, the upper 100 includes interior surfaces that define an interior void configured to receive and secure a foot for support on the sole structure 101. The upper 100 may be formed from one or more materials that are stitched or adhesively bonded together to form the interior void. Suitable materials of the upper 100 may include, but are not limited to, mesh, textiles, foam, leather, and synthetic leather. The materials may be selected and located to impart properties of durability, air-permeability, wear-resistance, flexibility, and comfort. An ankle opening 110 in the heel region 16 may provide access to the interior void. For example, the ankle opening 110 may receive a foot to secure the foot within the void and to facilitate entry and removal of the foot to and from the interior void.

In some examples, the upper 100 includes a strobel having a bottom surface opposing the sole structure 101 and an opposing top surface defining a footbed of the interior void. Stitching or adhesives may secure the strobel to the upper 100. The footbed may be contoured to conform to a profile of the bottom surface (e.g., plantar) of the foot. Optionally, the upper 100 may also incorporate additional layers such as an insole or sockliner that may be disposed upon the strobel and reside within the interior void of the upper 100 to receive a plantar surface of the foot to enhance the comfort of the article of footwear 10. The sockliner may include resilient materials thereby imparting a desired level of support and stiffness.

In some examples, one or more fasteners 111 extend along the upper 100 to adjust a fit of the interior void around the foot and to accommodate entry and removal of the foot therefrom. The upper 100 may include apertures such as eyelets and/or other engagement features such as fabric or mesh loops that receive the fasteners 111. The fasteners 111 may include laces, straps, cords, hook-and-loop, or any other suitable type of fastener. The upper 100 may include a tongue portion that extends between the interior void and the fasteners 111. Additionally or alternatively, the upper 100 may be formed with a tensioning system including a series of cables routed through cable locking devices attached to the article of footwear.

Referring to FIG. 2, sole structure 101 includes an outsole plate 104 and a traction system 106. Outsole plate 104 may extend continuously from the anterior end 18 of the article of footwear 10 to the posterior end 20 of the article of footwear 10. The outsole plate 104 may further include an upper surface 302 (seen in FIG. 3A) facing the upper 100 and a lower surface 304 formed on an opposite side of the outsole plate 104 from the upper surface 302, the lower surface 304 facing a ground surface. The outsole plate 104 and the traction system 106 together form a ground-contacting surface of the article of footwear 10.

Further, the outsole plate 104 may be divided into an anterior region and a posterior region by an axis A114 that may be perpendicular to a central longitudinal axis A104. Axis A114 may intersect the central longitudinal axis 104 at a point that is a longitudinal center between the anterior most and posterior most portions of the outsole plate 104. Additionally, axis A114 may divide the outsole plate 104 into an anterior region 322 and a posterior region 324. Anterior region 322 and posterior region 324 may or may not have equal two-dimensional areas (when viewed from directly above).

The lower surface 304 of the outsole plate 104 may form a portion of the ground-engaging surface of the article of footwear 10, and may include one or more peripheral traction elements 318 and at least one central traction element 320. Some or all of the one or more traction elements 318 and the central traction element 320 may be integrally molded with the bottom surface 304 of the outsole plate 104. The plurality of traction elements 318 and the central traction element 320 may all have the same size, or they may have different sizes to provide the desired traction, stability, and/or other properties. It is contemplated that the traction elements 318 and 320 may alternatively be attached to the outsole plate 104 by a snap fit, screw structure, or the like. The at least one central traction element 320 may form a portion of the traction system 106. The one or more peripheral traction elements 318 and the central traction element 320 may be configured to penetrate into a ground surface in order to facilitate traction, stability and/or control for a user.

Traction elements 318 and 320 may be rigid and may cause friction between the sole structure 101 and the ground or surface that it contacts to provide support and stability to the wearer of an article of footwear 10 during various movements such as when the wearer plants his or her forefoot into the ground, for example during a pivoting or turning motion. The traction elements 318 and 320 may include a relatively hard, resilient material that is capable of withstanding the forces from a wearer's foot and is also capable of piercing or puncturing the ground to provide stable contact between the traction element and the ground. In some examples, additional friction-inducing characteristics may be included as part of the traction elements 318 and 320. For example, the traction elements 318 and 320 may have a grooved surface or projections to provide the wearer with additional traction. In other examples, a friction-inducing material may be attached to the tip of the traction elements 318 and 320 to provide additional traction capabilities.

The traction elements 318 and 320 may include materials such as a TPU, polyurethane nylon material, carbon fiber, and rubber. An exemplary TPU is TPU with a 95A/50D hardness. The traction elements 318 and 320 may include other materials that are capable of withstanding forces that will be exerted upon the traction element by a wearer and can also withstand the forces applied by the ground or surface that the traction elements contact, such as metal, rubber, and the like.

The central traction element 320 may be disposed in the forefoot region 12, although other examples are envisioned where the central traction 320 may be disposed in any or multiple of the forefoot region 12, the mid-foot region 14, and the heel region 16. Central traction element 320 may be disposed solely in the ball region 12B. The traction elements 318 may be disposed in the forefoot region 12 and the heel region 16. The traction elements 318 may extend from the heel region 16 toward the mid-foot region 14 and from the forefoot region 12 to the mid-foot region 14. Portions of the traction elements 318 may partially extend into the mid-foot region 14. In some embodiments, the mid-foot region 14 may be substantially free of traction elements 318.

With continued reference to FIG. 2, a forefoot cushioning element 103 may form a portion of the traction system 106. The forefoot cushioning element 103 extends from the lower surface 304 of the outsole plate 104. The forefoot cushioning element 103 may directly contact a ground surface. As will be described in greater detail below, the forefoot cushioning element 103 may comprise any number of forefoot cushioning elements 103. In alternate examples, the forefoot cushioning element 103 may be disposed on the upper surface 302 of the outsole plate 104.

The forefoot cushioning element 103 may be a fluid-filled bladder, for example, that may be inflated to provide a desired form of cushioning and support. Forefoot cushioning element 103 may be formed from a pair of barrier layers, which when joined together may define an enclosed inner volume (or hollow interior) for receiving, for example, a pressurized fluid (e.g. a gas as set forth in further detail below). The barrier layers may be joined to each other at discrete locations to define an overall shape of the forefoot cushioning element 103. In an exemplary embodiment, the forefoot cushioning element 103 may include a first, upper barrier layer 402 (shown in FIG. 3A) and a second, lower barrier layer 404 (shown in FIG. 3A). The upper barrier layer 402 may be attached to the lower barrier layer 404 by applying heat and pressure at a perimeter of the upper barrier layer 402 and the lower barrier layer 404. The pressurized fluid is enclosed within a first volume defined by interior surfaces of upper barrier layer 402 and interior surfaces of lower barrier layer 404.

Forefoot cushioning element 103 may surround the central traction element 320. Forefoot cushioning element 103 may include a cavity 326. The cavity 326 is defined by exterior surfaces of the upper barrier layer 402 and the lower barrier layer 404 enclosing the central traction element 320. The cavity 326 is not in fluid communication with the pressurized fluid within the first volume. The cavity 326 is exposed to environment. In other words, cavity 326 is disposed within forefoot cushioning element 103 such that the central traction element 320 is not in communication with an inner volume of the forefoot cushioning element 103, and is enclosed by outer surfaces of the forefoot cushioning element 103, while being open to the ambient environment. The forefoot cushioning element 103 may have a substantially rectangular shape, although other shapes (i.e., circular, ovular, triangular, rounded rectangle, irregular, or the like) are contemplated. Forefoot cushioning element 103 may be substantially symmetrical about the axis A104, although non-symmetrical configurations are contemplated.

Referring to FIG. 3A, the forefoot cushioning element 103 includes an anterior portion 103a and a posterior portion 103b. The anterior portion 103a may be disposed nearer an anterior end 18. The posterior portion 103b may be disposed nearer a posterior end 20. Parts of the anterior portion 103a may extend a first distance D1 from the outsole plate 104. Parts of the posterior portion 103b may extend a second distance D2 from the outsole plate 104. Anterior portion 103a and posterior portion 103b are in fluid communication with one another and the forefoot cushioning element 103 is a continuous structure. The first distance D1 and the second distance D2 correspond to the forefoot cushioning element 103 being in an uncompressed state. The central traction element 320 may extend a third distance D3 from the outsole plate 104. In an exemplary embodiment, distance D1 may be the same as distance D2 and distance D3 may be greater than and different from each of distances D1 and D2. In some examples, distance D1 ranges from 2 to 40 millimeters. In some examples, distance D2 ranges from 2 to 40 millimeters. In some examples distance D3 ranges from 3 to 50 millimeters. In some examples distance D1 is 10 millimeters. In some examples distance D2 is 10 millimeters. In some examples distance D3 is 15 millimeters.

It is contemplated that distance D1 may be the same as or different from distances D2 and D3. It is also contemplated that distance D2 may be the same as or different from distances D1 and D3. It is also contemplated that distance D3 may be the same as or different from distances D1 and D2. In some examples, distance D3 may be greater than distance D1 and greater than distance D2 by an amount from between 0.1 to 10 millimeters. In some examples, distance D3 may be greater than distance D1 and greater than distance D2 by an amount greater than 5 millimeters. In some examples, distance D3 is greater than distance D1 and greater than distance D2 by approximately 3 millimeters.

The forefoot cushioning element 103 is configured to transition between a compressed state and an uncompressed state. Referring to FIG. 3B, during activity of a user and when the weight of the user presses down the forefoot cushioning element 103, the forefoot cushioning element 103 transitions between the compressed state and the uncompressed state. In the uncompressed state, a first portion 328 of the central traction element 320 is exposed, extending past the forefoot cushioning element 103. In the compressed state, an anterior second portion 330a and a posterior second portion 330b of the central traction element 320 are exposed by the forefoot cushioning element 103. In the compressed state, the traction system 106 may provide dynamic traction to the article of footwear 10 during various athletic maneuvers such as cutting. The uncompressed state corresponds to the position of the forefoot cushioning element 103 in the absence of force being applied to the forefoot cushioning element 103. The compressed state may be one of numerous compressed states of the cushioning element 103 of varying levels of compression. In the compressed state, forefoot cushioning element 103 is compressed toward the sole structure 101.

When a force F1 is applied across a forefoot portion of the outsole plate 104, the entirety of the forefoot cushioning element 103 compresses. The downward force F1 may be applied by a foot during various kinds of motion such as running and/or cutting. The anterior portion 103a compresses a distance D4. In some examples, distance D4 may range from 0.01 to 10 millimeters. The posterior portion 103b compresses a distance D5. In some examples, distance D5 may range from 0.01 to 10 millimeters. When the compressive force is applied to the entirety of cushioning element 103, distance D4 is the same as distance D5. When the compressive force applied to the cushioning element 103 is applied only to parts of the cushioning element 103 rather than the entirety of the cushioning element 103, distance D4 is different from distance D5. The force F1 may correspond to a user entering a toe-off or mid-stance portion of a running cycle when the user's weight is predominantly positioned over the forefoot region 12.

Referring to FIG. 3C, during activity of a user, various portions (i.e. anterior portion 103a and posterior portion 103b) of the forefoot cushioning element 103 may undergo compression. As an example, a force F2 may only be applied to only the posterior portion 103b of the forefoot cushioning element 103, such that the posterior portion 103b compresses a distance D6 and exposes the posterior second portion 330b of the central traction element 320. Distance D6 is the distance D2 minus an amount of compression of the posterior portion 103b of the forefoot cushioning element 103. In some examples, the amount of compression applied to the posterior portion 103b may compress the posterior portion 103b a distance ranging from 0.01 to 10 millimeters. The downward force F2 may be applied by a foot during various kinds of motion such as running and/or cutting. The anterior portion 103a may remain in the uncompressed state. Referring to FIG. 3D, in another example, a force F3 may only be applied to the anterior portion 103a such that the anterior portion 103a compresses a distance D7. Distance D7 is the distance D1 minus an amount of compression of the anterior portion 103a of the forefoot cushioning element 103. In some examples, the amount of compression applied to the anterior portion 103a may compress the anterior portion 103a a distance ranging from 0.01 to 10 millimeters. The downward force F3 may be applied by a foot during various kinds of motion such as running and/or cutting. In such an example, the anterior portion 103a exposes the anterior second portion 330a of the central traction element 320. The posterior portion 103b may remain in the uncompressed state. The exposed portion of the central traction element 320 may be said to provide dynamic traction to the article of footwear 10 during various athletic maneuvers such as cutting.

In other examples, only lateral portions of the forefoot cushioning element 103 may experience a compressive force. In some other examples, only medial portions of the forefoot cushioning element 103 may experience a compressive force. In some other examples, a compressive force may be applied to all portions of the forefoot cushioning element 103, but the anterior portion 103a may experience a greater compressive force than the compressive force applied to the posterior portion 103b. In some other examples, a compressive force may be applied to all portions of the forefoot cushioning element 103, but the posterior portion 103b may experience a greater compressive force than the compressive force applied to the anterior portion 103a. In some other examples, compression across the forefoot cushioning element 103 may be gradual or otherwise ramped from the posterior portion 103b to the anterior portion 103a or vice versa. In other words, the forefoot cushioning element 103 may gradually compress from the rear to the front of the forefoot cushioning element 103 or from the front to the rear of the forefoot cushioning element 103.

FIG. 4 illustrates the forefoot cushioning element 103 including an outer membrane 400. Outer membrane 400 may be disposed on an outer surface of the forefoot cushioning element 103. The outer membrane 400 may serve as a protective layer for forefoot cushioning element 103 as forefoot cushioning element 103 contacts the ground surface. The forefoot cushioning element 103 may be implemented in examples with the outer membrane 400 and without the outer membrane 400. The outer membrane 400 may include a thermoplastic urethane (TPU), rubber, or the like.

FIGS. 5 and 6 show alternative patterns and arrangements of the forefoot cushioning element 103 that may affect the traction and responsiveness of the sole structure 101. FIG. 5 shows a dual chambered forefoot cushioning element 502 comprising a first cushion 502a and a second cushion 502b. Cushion 502a and cushion 502b may be substantially bridge shaped. FIG. 6 shows a forefoot cushioning element 602 comprising a plurality of disconnected cushions (602a, 602b, 602c, and 602d). Cushions 602a, 602b, 602c, and 602d may be substantially ovular in shape.

FIG. 7 depicts an alternative embodiment of the traction system 106 including a primary traction system 700 and a secondary traction system 710. Primary traction system 700 includes central traction element 320, forefoot cushioning element 702, and supplemental traction elements 704a and 704b. Forefoot cushioning element 702 is substantially similar to forefoot cushioning element 103 as described earlier. Supplemental traction elements 704a and 704b may be disposed on forefoot cushioning element 702. Supplemental traction elements 704a and 704b may provide additional traction to the article of footwear 10. Secondary traction system 710 may include a heel central traction element 708 and a heel cushioning element 706. Heel cushioning element 706 may be substantially similar to forefoot cushioning element 103 with the exception that heel cushioning element 706 is disposed in the heel region 16. Heel central traction element 708 is disposed in the heel region 16. In some examples, the supplemental traction elements 704a and 704b may have similar dimensions (i.e. height, width, length). In some examples, the supplemental traction element 704a may have a different dimension (i.e. height, width, and/or length) than a dimension (i.e. height, width, and/or length) of the supplemental traction element 704b. In some other examples, the supplemental traction elements 704a and 704b may be positioned in any location on a ground-engaging surface of the forefoot cushioning element 702. For example, supplemental traction elements 704a and 704b could be positioned on a lateral portion and a medial portion respectively of the forefoot cushioning element 702. In some other examples, the supplemental traction elements 704a and 704b could be vertically offset from one another along a central longitudinal axis of the forefoot cushioning element 702.

FIG. 8 depicts an alternative embodiment of the traction system 106 including a primary traction system 800. Primary traction system 800 includes a cushioning element 802, a first traction element 820, a second traction element 822, and a third traction element 824. Cushioning element 802 is substantially similar to forefoot cushioning element 103 as described earlier. Forefoot cushioning element 802 includes a cavity 804. Each of traction elements 820, 822, and 824 may be similarly formed as central traction element 320. In one alternative embodiment, each of traction elements 820, 822, and 824 may be formed differently from central traction element 320 and include a shape different from central traction element 320. In another alternative embodiment, some of traction elements 820, 822, and 824 are similarly formed as central traction element 320 while others of traction elements 820, 822, and 824 are formed differently to central traction element 320. Each of traction elements 820, 822, and 824 are disposed within the cavity 804. Traction system 800 can include one, two, three, or more traction elements. Traction system 800 may include any desired number of traction elements to provide a desired form of traction to the footwear 10. Traction elements 820, 822, and 824 may be arranged in a triangular pattern. Traction elements 820, 822, and 824 may be arranged in a circular pattern, semi-circular pattern, or any other pattern suitable for providing a desired for of traction to the footwear 10.

FIG. 9 depicts an alternative embodiment of the traction system 106 including a primary traction system 900. Primary traction system 900 includes a forefoot cushioning element 902, traction element 320, a first blade 904a, and a second blade 904b. The forefoot cushioning element 902 includes a first cavity 906a, a second cavity 906b, and a third cavity 906c. The first cavity 906a and the second cavity 906b extend through the forefoot cushioning element 902. The second cavity 906c is circumscribed by the forefoot cushioning element 902. The first cavity 906a is the anterior most cavity. The second cavity 906b is the posterior most cavity. The third cavity 906c is disposed between the first cavity 906a and the second cavity 906b. The first blade 904a extends from the lower surface 304 through the first cavity 906a. The second blade 906b extends from the lower surface 304 through the second cavity 906b.

FIG. 10 depicts an anterior portion of a forefoot cushioning element 1002a and a posterior portion of a forefoot cushioning element 1002b including a tensile element 1000 therein (or one or more tensile elements 1000). Each tensile element 1000 may include a series of tensile strands extending between an upper tensile sheet (not shown) and a lower tensile sheet (not shown). The upper tensile sheet may be attached to an upper barrier layer while the lower tensile sheet may be attached to a lower barrier layer. In this manner, when the cushioning element receives the pressurized fluid, the tensile strands of the tensile element are placed in tension. Because the upper tensile sheet is attached to the upper barrier layer and the lower tensile sheet is attached to the lower barrier layer, the tensile strands retain a desired shape of the forefoot cushioning element when the pressurized fluid is injected into the chamber.

FIG. 11 depicts an alternative embodiment of the forefoot cushioning element 1100. The forefoot cushioning element 1100 is substantially circular and extends around the central traction element 320. The forefoot cushioning element 1100 includes a web area 1102 and a peripheral seam 1104. The web area 1102 extends from an inner circumferential face of the forefoot cushioning element 1100 to the central traction element 320. The central traction element 320 extends from the lower surface 304 and through the web area 1102. The web area 1102 may directly contact the lower surface 304. The peripheral seam 1104 may represent where top and bottom surfaces of the forefoot cushioning element 1100 contact one another during manufacturing.

FIG. 12 depicts an alternative cushioning element 1200. Cushioning element 1200 is substantially circular.

FIG. 13 depicts an anterior portion of a forefoot cushioning element 1300a and a posterior portion of a forefoot cushioning element 1300b. While portions 1300a and 1300b are shown as two separate portions for illustration purposes, it should be appreciated that anterior portion 1300a and posterior portion 1300b are a part of a forefoot cushioning element that is circular or substantially donut shaped, and therefore, in practice, would be a singular continuous portion of the forefoot cushioning element. An anterior webbing 1306a extends from the anterior portion of the forefoot cushioning element 1300a to the central traction element 320. A posterior webbing 1306b extends from the anterior portion of the forefoot cushioning element 1300b to the central traction element 320. While webbing 1306a and 1306b are shown as two separate webbings for illustration purposes, it should be appreciated that anterior webbing 1306a and posterior webbing 1306b are a part of a forefoot cushioning element that is circular or substantially donut shaped, and therefore, in practice, would be a singular continuous webbing of the forefoot cushioning element. Disposed between the anterior webbing 1306a, the anterior portion of the forefoot cushioning element 1300a, and the outsole plate 104 is a gap 1302a. Disposed between the posterior webbing 1306b, the posterior portion of the forefoot cushioning element 1300b, and the outsole plate 104 is a gap 1302b. While gaps 1302a and 1302b are shown as two separate gaps for illustration purposes, it should be appreciated that gap 1302a and gap 1302b are formed under a forefoot cushioning element that is circular or substantially donut shaped, and therefore, in practice, would be a singular continuous gap disposed between the outsole plate 104 and the continuous forefoot cushioning element. An exposed area 1304a is disposed between the anterior webbing 1306a, the anterior portion of the forefoot cushioning element 1300a, and the environment. An exposed area 1304b is disposed between the posterior webbing 1306b, the posterior portion of the forefoot cushioning element 1300b, and the environment. In other words, the exposed areas 1304a and 1304b allow the respective webbings 1306a and 1306b to be exposed to the environment external of the footwear.

FIG. 14 depicts an alternative cushioning element 1400. Cushioning element 1400 is substantially circular. Cushioning element 1400 includes a peripheral seam 1404 and a gap 1402. The gap 1402 extends between opposing interior surfaces of cushioning element 1400. The central traction element 320 extends from the lower surface 304 and through the gap 1402. The peripheral seam 1404 may represent where top and bottom surfaces of the forefoot cushioning element 1400 contact one another during manufacturing.

The examples shown of the forefoot cushioning element 103 and the central traction element 320 may provide a desired form of dynamic traction and responsiveness to the article of footwear 10.

As used herein, the term “barrier layer” (e.g., barrier layers 402, 404) may encompass both monolayer and multilayer films. In some embodiments, one or both of barrier layers 402, 404 may each be produced (e.g., thermoformed or blow molded) from a monolayer film (a single layer). In other embodiments, one or both of barrier layers 402, 404 may each be produced (e.g., thermoformed or blow molded) from a multilayer film (multiple sublayers). In either embodiment, each layer or sublayer can have a film thickness ranging from about 0.2 micrometers to about be about 1 millimeter. In further embodiments, the film thickness for each layer or sublayer can range from about 0.5 micrometers to about 500 micrometers. In yet further embodiments, the film thickness for each layer or sublayer can range from about 1 micrometer to about 100 micrometers. It is contemplated that the forefoot cushioning element 103 may have a thickness ranging from 6 mm to 10 mm, although other suitable values are contemplated. In an exemplary embodiment, forefoot cushioning element 103 may have a thickness of 8 mm.

One or both of barrier layers 402, 404 may independently be transparent, translucent, and/or opaque. Additionally, one or both of barrier layers 402 and 404 may be dyed to include a color. As used herein, the term “transparent” for a barrier layer and/or a fluid-filled chamber means that light passes through the barrier layer in substantially straight lines and a viewer can see through the barrier layer. In comparison, for an opaque barrier layer, light does not pass through the barrier layer and one cannot see clearly through the barrier layer at all. A translucent barrier layer falls between a transparent barrier layer and an opaque barrier layer, in that light passes through a translucent layer but some of the light is scattered so that a viewer cannot see clearly through the layer.

The barrier layers 402, 404 may each be produced from an elastomeric material that includes one or more thermoplastic polymers and/or one or more cross-linkable polymers. In an embodiment, the elastomeric material can include one or more thermoplastic elastomeric materials, such as one or more thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) copolymers, one or more ethylene-vinyl alcohol (EVOH) copolymers, and the like.

The forefoot cushioning 103 may be produced from the barrier layers 402, 404 using any suitable technique, such as thermoforming (e.g. vacuum thermoforming), blow molding, extrusion, injection molding, vacuum molding, rotary molding, transfer molding, pressure forming, heat sealing, casting, low-pressure casting, spin casting, reaction injection molding, radio frequency (RF) welding, and the like. In an embodiment, the barrier layers 402, 404 can be produced by co-extrusion followed by vacuum thermoforming to produce forefoot cushioning element 103, which can optionally include one or more valves (e.g., one way valves) that allows forefoot cushioning element 103 to be filled with a fluid (e.g., gas).

The forefoot cushioning element 103 may be provided in a fluid-filled or in an unfilled state. The forefoot cushioning element 103 may be filled to include any suitable fluid, such as a gas or liquid. In an embodiment, the gas may include air, nitrogen (N₂), or any other suitable gas. In other embodiments, the forefoot cushioning element 103 may alternatively include other media, such as pellets, beads, ground recycled material, and the like (e.g., foamed beads and/or rubber beads). The fluid provided to the forefoot cushioning element 103 can result in the forefoot cushioning element 103 being pressurized. In some examples, the forefoot cushioning element 103 may have a pressure ranging from 15 psi (pounds per square inch) to 25 psi. In other examples, the forefoot cushioning element 103 may have a pressure ranging from 20 psi to 25 psi. In some examples, the forefoot cushioning element 103 may have a pressure of 20 psi. In other examples, the forefoot cushioning element 103 may have a pressure of 25 psi. Alternatively, the fluid provided to the forefoot cushioning element 103 may be at atmospheric pressure such that the forefoot cushioning element 103 is not pressurized but, rather, simply contains a volume of fluid at atmospheric pressure.

In an alternative embodiment, forefoot cushioning element 103 may include a polymer foam and/or particulate matter in one or more, or all, regions of the forefoot cushioning element 103 corresponding to the enclosed inner volume of the forefoot cushioning element 103. For example, the forefoot cushioning element 103 may include a plurality of fluid-filled chambers arranged in the forefoot region, as described in greater detail below. Additionally or alternatively, the forefoot cushioning element 103 may be replaced or supplemented with other cushioning elements. For example, the cushion may include a foam block that replaces or supplements the pressurized fluid. The foam block(s) may be received within an inner void defined by the upper barrier layer 402 and the lower barrier layer 404. Positioning the foam block(s) within the inner void defined by the upper barrier layer 402 and the lower barrier layer 404 may allow the barrier layers to restrict expansion of the foam blocks beyond a predetermined amount when subjected to a predetermined load. Accordingly, the overall shape and, thus, the performance of the foam blocks may be controlled by allowing the foam blocks to interact with the barrier layers 402 and 404 during loading. While the foam blocks are described as being received within the inner void of the barrier layers 402 and 404, the foam blocks may alternatively be positioned between the forefoot cushioning element 103 and the outsole plate 104 absent the barrier layers 402 and 404. In such a configuration, the foam blocks may be directly attached to the bottom surface of the outsole plate 104.

The forefoot cushioning element 103 desirably has a low gas transmission rate to preserve its retained gas pressure. In some embodiments, forefoot cushioning element 103 may have a gas transmission rate for nitrogen gas that is at least about ten (10) times lower than a nitrogen gas transmission rate for a butyl rubber layer of substantially the same dimensions. In an embodiment, forefoot cushioning element 103 may have a nitrogen gas transmission rate of 15 cubic-centimeter/square-meter·atmosphere·day (cm³/m²·atm·day) or less for an average film thickness of 500 micrometers (based on thicknesses of barrier layers 402, 404). In further embodiments, the transmission rate may be 10 cm³/m²·atm·day or less, 5 cm³/m²·atm·day or less, or 1 cm³/m²·atm·day or less.

The barrier layers of forefoot cushioning element 103 may be produced from an elastomeric material that includes one or more thermoplastic polymers and/or one or more cross-linkable polymers. In an aspect, the elastomeric material may include one or more thermoplastic elastomeric materials, such as one or more thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) copolymers, one or more ethylene-vinyl alcohol (EVOH) copolymers, and the like.

As used herein, “polyurethane” refers to a copolymer (including oligomers) that contains a urethane group (—N(C═O)O—). These polyurethanes may contain additional groups such as ester, ether, urea, allophanate, biuret, carbodiimide, oxazolidinyl, isocyanurate, uretdione, carbonate, and the like, in addition to urethane groups. In an aspect, one or more of the polyurethanes may be produced by polymerizing one or more isocyanates with one or more polyols to produce copolymer chains having (—N(C═O)O—) linkages.

Examples of suitable isocyanates for producing the polyurethane copolymer chains include diisocyanates, such as aromatic diisocyanates, aliphatic diisocyanates, and combinations thereof. Examples of suitable aromatic diisocyanates include toluene diisocyanate (TDI), TDI adducts with trimethyloylpropane (TMP), methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI), xylene diisocyanate (XDI), tetramethylxylylene diisocyanate (TMXDI), hydrogenated xylene diisocyanate (HXDI), naphthalene 1,5-diisocyanate (NDI), 1,5-tetrahydronaphthalene diisocyanate, para-phenylene diisocyanate (PPDI), 3,3′-dimethyldiphenyl-4, 4′-diisocyanate (DDDI), 4,4′-dibenzyl diisocyanate (DBDI), 4-chloro-1,3-phenylene diisocyanate, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the copolymer chains are substantially free of aromatic groups.

In particular aspects, the polyurethane polymer chains are produced from diisocyanates including HMDI, TDI, MDI, H12 aliphatics, and combinations thereof. In an aspect, the thermoplastic TPU may include polyester-based TPU, polyether-based TPU, polycaprolactone[1] based TPU, polycarbonate-based TPU, polysiloxane-based TPU, or combinations thereof.

In another aspect, the polymeric layer may be formed of one or more of the following: EVOH copolymers, poly(vinyl chloride), polyvinylidene polymers and copolymers (e.g., polyvinylidene chloride), polyamides (e.g., amorphous polyamides), amide-based copolymers, acrylonitrile polymers (e.g., acrylonitrile-methyl acrylate copolymers), polyethylene terephthalate, polyether imides, polyacrylic imides, and other polymeric materials known to have relatively low gas transmission rates. Blends of these materials, as well as with the TPU copolymers described herein and optionally including combinations of polyimides and crystalline polymers, are also suitable.

One or more of the elements 102 and 103 may be formed of a resilient polymeric material, such as foam or rubber, to impart properties of cushioning, responsiveness, and energy distribution to the foot of the wearer. The elements 102 and 103 may be affixed within the sole structure using a fusing process, using an adhesive, or by suspending the elements in a different resilient polymeric material. As discussed above, the elements 102, 103, and 104 may be formed with cooperating geometries (e.g., steps, protrusions) for restricting relative motion between the elements 102, 103, and 104 of the sole structure.

Example resilient polymeric materials for the elements 102 and 103 may include those based on foaming or molding one or more polymers, such as one or more elastomers (e.g., thermoplastic elastomers (TPE)). The one or more polymers may include aliphatic polymers, aromatic polymers, or mixtures of both; and may include homopolymers, copolymers (including terpolymers), or mixtures of both.

In some aspects, the one or more polymers may include olefinic homopolymers, olefinic copolymers, or blends thereof. Examples of olefinic polymers include polyethylene, polypropylene, and combinations thereof. In other aspects, the one or more polymers may include one or more ethylene copolymers, such as, ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymers, EVOH copolymers, ethylene-ethyl acrylate copolymers, ethylene-unsaturated mono-fatty acid copolymers, and combinations thereof.

In further aspects, the one or more polymers may include one or more polyacrylates, such as polyacrylic acid, esters of polyacrylic acid, polyacrylonitrile, polyacrylic acetate, polymethyl acrylate, polyethyl acrylate, polybutyl acrylate, polymethyl methacrylate, and polyvinyl acetate; including derivatives thereof, copolymers thereof, and any combinations thereof.

In yet further aspects, the one or more polymers may include one or more ionomeric polymers. In these aspects, the ionomeric polymers may include polymers with carboxylic acid functional groups, sulfonic acid functional groups, salts thereof (e.g., sodium, magnesium, potassium, etc.), and/or anhydrides thereof. For instance, the ionomeric polymer(s) may include one or more fatty acid-modified ionomeric polymers, polystyrene sulfonate, ethylene-methacrylic acid copolymers, and combinations thereof.

In further aspects, the one or more polymers may include one or more styrenic block copolymers, such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene block copolymers, styrene acrylonitrile block copolymers, styrene ethylene butylene styrene block copolymers, styrene ethylene butadiene styrene block copolymers, styrene ethylene propylene styrene block copolymers, styrene butadiene styrene block copolymers, and combinations thereof.

In further aspects, the one or more polymers may include one or more polyamide copolymers (e.g., polyamide-polyether copolymers) and/or one or more polyurethanes (e.g., cross-linked polyurethanes and/or thermoplastic polyurethanes). Alternatively, the one or more polymers may include one or more natural and/or synthetic rubbers, such as butadiene and isoprene.

When the resilient polymeric material is a foamed polymeric material, the foamed material may be foamed using a physical blowing agent which phase transitions to a gas based on a change in temperature and/or pressure, or a chemical blowing agent which forms a gas when heated above its activation temperature. For example, the chemical blowing agent may be an azo compound such as azodicarbonamide, sodium bicarbonate, and/or an isocyanate.

In some embodiments, the foamed polymeric material may be a cross-linked foamed material. In these embodiments, a peroxide-based crosslinking agent such as dicumyl peroxide may be used. Furthermore, the foamed polymeric material may include one or more fillers such as pigments, modified or natural clays, modified or unmodified synthetic clays, talc glass fiber, powdered glass, modified or natural silica, calcium carbonate, mica, paper, wood chips, and the like.

The resilient polymeric material may be formed using a molding process. In one example, when the resilient polymeric material is a molded elastomer, the uncured elastomer (e.g., rubber) may be mixed in a Banbury mixer with an optional filler and a curing package such as a sulfur-based or peroxide-based curing package, calendared, formed into shape, placed in a mold, and vulcanized.

In another example, when the resilient polymeric material is a foamed material, the material may be foamed during a molding process, such as an injection molding process. A thermoplastic polymeric material may be melted in the barrel of an injection molding system and combined with a physical or chemical blowing agent and optionally a crosslinking agent, and then injected into a mold under conditions which activate the blowing agent, forming a molded foam.

Optionally, when the resilient polymeric material is a foamed material, the foamed material may be a compression molded foam. Compression molding may be used to alter the physical properties (e.g., density, stiffness and/or durometer) of a foam, or to alter the physical appearance of the foam (e.g., to fuse two or more pieces of foam, to shape the foam, etc.), or both.

The compression molding process desirably starts by forming one or more foam preforms, such as by injection molding and foaming a polymeric material, by forming foamed particles or beads, by cutting foamed sheet stock, and the like. The compression molded foam may then be made by placing the one or more preforms formed of foamed polymeric material(s) in a compression mold, and applying sufficient pressure to the one or more preforms to compress the one or more preforms in a closed mold. Once the mold is closed, sufficient heat and/or pressure is applied to the one or more preforms in the closed mold for a sufficient duration of time to alter the preform(s) by forming a skin on the outer surface of the compression molded foam, fuse individual foam particles to each other, permanently increase the density of the foam(s), or any combination thereof. Following the heating and/or application of pressure, the mold is opened and the molded foam article is removed from the mold.

The barrier layers 402 and 404 may include two or more sublayers (multilayer film) such as shown in Mitchell et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,713,141 and Mitchell et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,952,065, the disclosures of which are incorporated by reference in their entirety. In embodiments where the barrier layers 402 and 404 include two or more sublayers, examples of suitable multilayer films include microlayer films, such as those disclosed in Bonk et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,582,786, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. In further embodiments, the barrier layers 402 and 404 may each independently include alternating sublayers of one or more TPU copolymer materials and one or more EVOH copolymer materials, where the total number of sublayers in each of the barrier layers 402 and 404 includes at least four (4) sublayers, at least ten (10) sublayers, at least twenty (20) sublayers, at least forty (40) sublayers, and/or at least sixty (60) sublayers.

The forefoot cushioning element 103 may be provided in a fluid-filled (shown in FIG. 3A) or in an unfilled state. The forefoot cushioning element 103 may be filled to include any suitable fluid, such as a gas or liquid. In an aspect, the gas may include air, nitrogen (N₂), or any other suitable gas. In other aspects, the forefoot cushioning element 103 may alternatively include other media, such as pellets, beads, ground recycled material, and the like (e.g., foamed beads and/or rubber beads).

The following clauses provide an exemplary configuration for an article of footwear and sole structure described above.

Clause 1. A sole structure for an article of footwear, the sole structure comprising an outsole plate having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface; a traction element extending from the second surface of the outsole plate; and a cushioning element configured to transition from an uncompressed state to a compressed state, wherein an amount of exposure of the traction element varies based on compression or expansion of the cushioning element.

Clause 2. The sole structure of Clause 1, wherein the cushioning element and the one or more traction elements form a portion of a ground-contacting surface.

Clause 3. The sole structure of Clause 1, wherein the cushioning element further includes a cavity.

Clause 4. The sole structure of Clause 3, wherein the cushioning element is a fluid-filled bladder.

Clause 5. The sole structure of Clause 4, wherein the cushioning element includes a first barrier layer and a second barrier layer, and wherein the first barrier layer and the second barrier layer enclose an inner volume of the cushioning element, the inner volume filled with a pressurized gas.

Clause 6. The sole structure of Clause 5, wherein outer surfaces of the first barrier layer and outer surfaces of the second barrier layer bound the cavity.

Clause 7. The sole structure of Clause 6, wherein the cavity is exposed to the environment, and wherein the cavity is not in fluid communication with the pressurized gas disposed within the inner volume.

Clause 8. The sole structure of Clause 7, wherein the central traction element extends through the cavity of the cushioning element.

Clause 9. The sole structure of Clause 8, wherein the cushioning element is coupled to the second surface of the outsole plate.

Clause 10. The sole structure of Clause 9, wherein compression of the cushioning element increases exposure of the traction element.

Clause 11. The sole structure of Clause 9, wherein expansion of the cushioning element reduces exposure of the traction element.

Clause 12. The sole structure of Clause 10, wherein in the uncompressed state, the cushioning element exposes a first portion of the central traction element, and wherein in the compressed state, the cushioning element exposes a second portion of the central traction element.

Clause 13. The sole structure of Clause 1, wherein the cushioning element includes an anterior portion disposed nearer the anterior end of the article of footwear and a posterior portion disposed nearer the posterior end of the article of footwear, and wherein the posterior portion and the anterior portion are in fluid communication with one another.

Clause 14. The sole structure of Clause 13, wherein in the compressed state, the anterior portion extends a third distance from the outsole plate, and the posterior portion extends a fourth distance from the outsole plate.

Clause 15. The sole structure of Clause 14, wherein in the compressed state, the third distance of the anterior portion is the same as the fourth distance of the posterior portion.

Clause 16. The sole structure of Clause 14, wherein in the compressed state, the third distance of the anterior portion is different from the fourth distance of the posterior portion.

Clause 17. The sole structure of Clause 1, wherein the cushioning element includes an outer membrane.

Clause 18. The sole structure of Clause 1, wherein the traction element is a cleat.

Clause 19. The sole structure of Clause 18, wherein the cleat includes one or more of a TPU, polyurethane nylon material, carbon fiber, and rubber.

Clause 20. An article of footwear comprising an upper having end an anterior disposed in a forefoot region and a posterior end disposed in a heel region; and a sole structure extending from the posterior end to the anterior end, the sole structure further comprising an outsole plate extending from the posterior end to the anterior end; one or more traction elements extending from the outsole plate, the one or more traction elements including a central traction element; and a cushioning element configured to transition between a compressed state and an uncompressed state, the cushioning element disposed in the forefoot region, and the cushioning element extending from the outsole plate, wherein the cushioning element includes a cavity.

Clause 21. The article of footwear of Clause 11, wherein the central traction element is disposed within the cavity of the cushioning element.

Clause 22. The article of footwear of Clause 11, wherein the cushioning element includes an outer membrane.

Clause 23. The article of footwear of Clause 11, wherein the cushioning element forms a portion of a ground-contacting surface of the article of footwear.

Clause 24. The article of footwear of Clause 14, wherein the one or more traction elements form a portion of the ground-contacting surface of the article of footwear.

Clause 25. The article of footwear of Clause 11, wherein in the uncompressed state, the cushioning element exposes a first portion of the central traction element.

Clause 26. The article of footwear of Clause 16, wherein in the compressed state, the cushioning element exposes a second portion of the central traction element.

Clause 27. A sole structure for an article of footwear, the sole structure comprising an outsole plate extending a heel region of the article of footwear to a forefoot region of the article of footwear; a traction system disposed in the forefoot region, the traction system further comprising a cushioning element extending from the outsole plate and configured to transition between a compressed state and an uncompressed state, the cushioning element including a cavity; and a central traction element extending from the outsole plate, the central traction element disposed within the cavity of the cushioning element, wherein in the uncompressed state, the cushioning element exposes a first portion of the central traction element, and wherein in the compressed stated, the cushioning element exposes a second portion of the central traction element.

Clause 28. The sole structure of Clause 18, wherein the first portion of the central traction element includes a first exposed height of the central traction element, and wherein the second portion of the central traction element includes a second height of the central traction element.

Clause 29. The sole structure of Clause 19, wherein the first exposed height is less than the second exposed height.

Clause 30. A sole structure for an article of footwear, the sole structure comprising an outsole plate having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface; at least one traction element extending from the second surface of the outsole plate; and a plurality of cushioning elements configured to transition from an uncompressed state to a compressed state, wherein an amount of exposure of the traction element varies based on compression or expansion of the plurality of cushioning elements.

Clause 31. The sole structure of Clause 30, wherein the plurality of cushioning elements includes a first cushioning element and a second cushioning element, the first cushioning element disposed nearer an anterior portion of the outsole plate than the second cushioning element.

Clause 32. The sole structure of Clause 31, wherein the first cushioning element and the second cushioning element are disposed adjacent one another.

Clause 33. The sole structure of Clause 32, wherein the first cushioning element and the second cushioning element are not in direct contact with one another.

Clause 34. The sole structure of Clause 32, wherein the first cushioning element and the second cushioning element surround a substantial majority of a central traction element of the at least one traction element.

Clause 35. The sole structure of Clause 30, wherein the plurality of cushioning elements further includes: a first cushioning element extending from the second surface of the outsole plate; a second cushioning element extending from the second surface of the outsole plate; a third cushioning element extending from the second surface of the outsole plate; and a fourth cushioning element extending from the second surface of the outsole plate.

Clause 36. The sole structure of Clause 35, wherein the at least one traction element includes a central traction element.

Clause 37. The sole structure of Clause 36, wherein each of the first cushioning element, the second cushioning element, the third cushioning element, and the fourth cushioning element are disposed equidistant around the central traction element.

Clause 38. The sole structure of Clause 30, wherein the plurality of cushioning elements includes a forefoot cushioning element and a heel cushioning element.

Clause 39. The sole structure of Clause 38, wherein the forefoot cushioning element includes a cavity.

Clause 40. The sole structure of Clause 39, wherein the at least one traction element includes a forefoot central traction element, the forefoot central traction element extending through the cavity.

Clause 41. The sole structure of Clause 38, wherein the forefoot cushioning element includes one or more supplemental traction elements.

Clause 42. The sole structure of Clause 38, wherein the heel cushioning element includes a cavity.

Clause 43. The sole structure of Clause 42, wherein the at least one traction element includes a heel central traction element, the heel central traction element extending through the cavity.

ARTICLE OF FOOTWEAR HAVING A SOLE STRUCTURE

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