SOLE STRUCTURE FOR ARTICLE OF FOOTWEAR

Abstract

A sole structure for an article of footwear includes a first sole plate extending from an anterior end of the sole structure to a posterior end of the sole structure. The sole structure further includes a first cleat set disposed in a forefoot region and having a first plurality of traction elements arranged in a first annular pattern about a first axis disposed in the forefoot region. The sole structure also A second cleat set is disposed in a heel region of the sole structure and includes a second plurality of the traction elements arranged in a second annular pattern about a second axis disposed in the heel region.

Description

FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to an article of footwear and more particularly to a sole structure for an article of footwear

BACKGROUND

This section provides background information related to the present disclosure and 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 and include an outsole. The outsole may include a baseplate formed of a rigid or semi-rigid material that provides rigidity and energy distribution across the sole structure. The baseplate may be provided with one or more ground-engaging members for engagement with a ground surface.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected configurations and not all possible implementations, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

FIG. 1 is a medial side perspective view of an example of an article of footwear according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a lateral side perspective view of the article of footwear of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the article of footwear of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of an example of a sole structure for the article of footwear of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a partial perspective view showing a forefoot region of the sole structure of FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is a lateral side elevation view of the sole structure of FIG. 4;

FIG. 7 is a medial side elevation view of the sole structure of FIG. 4;

FIGS. 8A and 8B are bottom plan views of the sole structure of FIG. 4;

FIG. 9 is a top plan view of the sole structure of FIG. 4;

FIG. 10 is a front elevation view of the sole structure of FIG. 4;

FIG. 11 is a rear elevation view of the sole structure of FIG. 4;

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 4, taken along Line 12-12 of FIG. 8A;

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 4, taken along Line 13-13 of FIG. 8A;

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 4, taken along Line 14-14 of FIG. 8A;

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 4, taken along Line 15-15 of FIG. 8A;

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 4, taken along Line 16-16 of FIG. 8A;

FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 4, taken along Line 17-17 of FIG. 8A;

FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 4, taken along Line 18-18 of FIG. 8A;

FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 4, taken along Line 19-19 of FIG. 8A;

FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 4, taken along Line 20-20 of FIG. 8A;

FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 4, taken along Line 21-21 of FIG. 8A;

FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 4, taken along Line 22-22 of FIG. 8A;

FIG. 23 is a medial side perspective view of another example of an article of footwear according the present disclosure;

FIG. 24 is a lateral side perspective view of the article of footwear of FIG. 23;

FIG. 25 is an exploded perspective view of the article of footwear of FIG. 23;

FIG. 26 is a top perspective view of an example of a sole structure for the article of footwear of FIG. 23;

FIG. 27 is a partial perspective view showing a forefoot region of the sole structure of FIG. 26;

FIG. 28 is a lateral side elevation view of the sole structure of FIG. 26;

FIG. 29 is a medial side elevation view of the sole structure of FIG. 26;

FIGS. 30A and 30B are bottom plan views of the sole structure of FIG. 26;

FIG. 31 is a top plan view of the sole structure of FIG. 26;

FIG. 32 is a front elevation view of the sole structure of FIG. 26;

FIG. 33 is a rear elevation view of the sole structure of FIG. 26;

FIG. 34 is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 26, taken along Line 34-34 of FIG. 30A;

FIG. 35 is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 26, taken along Line 35-35 of FIG. 30A;

FIG. 36 is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 26, taken along Line 36-36 of FIG. 30A;

FIG. 37 is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 26, taken along Line 37-37 of FIG. 30A;

FIG. 38 is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 26, taken along Line 38-38 of FIG. 30A;

FIG. 39 is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 26, taken along Line 39-39 of FIG. 30A;

FIG. 40 is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 26, taken along Line 40-40 of FIG. 30A;

FIG. 41 is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 26, taken along Line 41-41 of FIG. 30A;

FIG. 42 is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 26, taken along Line 42-42 of FIG. 30A; and

FIG. 43 is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of FIG. 26, taken along Line 43-43 of FIG. 30A.

Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Example configurations will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. Example configurations are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough, and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those of ordinary skill in the art. Specific details are set forth such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, to provide a thorough understanding of configurations of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that specific details need not be employed, that example configurations may be embodied in many different forms, and that the specific details and the example configurations should not be construed to limit the scope of the disclosure.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular exemplary configurations only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular articles “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, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, 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. Additional or alternative steps may be employed.

When an element or layer is referred to as being “on,” “engaged to,” “connected to,” “attached to,” or “coupled to” another element or layer, it may be directly on, engaged, connected, attached, 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,” “directly attached 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.

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 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 configurations.

An aspect of the disclosure provides a sole structure for an article of footwear. The sole structure includes a first sole plate extending from an anterior end of the sole structure to a posterior end of the sole structure. A first cleat set is disposed in a forefoot region and includes a first plurality of traction elements arranged in a first annular pattern about a first axis disposed in the forefoot region. A second cleat set is disposed in a heel region of the sole structure and including a second plurality of the traction elements arranged in a second annular pattern about a second axis disposed in the heel region.

Aspects of the disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In some implementations, the sole structure includes a third cleat set including a third plurality of traction elements arranged in a third annular pattern about the first axis. In some examples, the first sole plate defines a flex zone formed between the first cleat set and the third cleat set. Optionally, the flex zone extends from a first relief on a medial side of the first sole plate to a second relief on a lateral side of the first sole plate.

In some configurations, each of the first plurality of traction elements are oriented in a first rotational direction about the first axis. In some implementations, the second cleat set includes a first one of the traction elements oriented in a first rotational direction about the second axis and a second one of the traction elements oriented in an opposite second rotational direction about the second axis. Optionally, the second cleat set includes a third one of the traction elements oriented in the first rotational direction about the second axis and a fourth one of the traction elements oriented in the second rotational direction about the second axis. In some examples, the first one of the traction elements is diametrically opposed to the third one of the traction elements across the second axis and the second one of the traction elements is diametrically opposed to the fourth one of the traction elements across the second axis.

In some implementations, the sole structure includes a second sole plate attached to the first sole plate and surrounded by the first plurality of traction elements. In some examples, each of the traction elements includes a base portion including a first material of the first sole plate and a tip portion including a second material different than the first material.

Another aspect of the disclosure provides sole structure for an article of footwear. The sole structure includes a first sole plate extending from an anterior end of the sole structure to a posterior end of the sole structure. A first cleat set is disposed in a forefoot region and includes a first plurality of elongate traction elements arranged in a first annular pattern about a first axis disposed in the forefoot region. A second cleat set includes a second plurality of elongate traction elements arranged in a second annular pattern about the first axis.

Aspects of the disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In some examples, the sole structure further includes a third cleat set disposed in a heel region of the sole structure and including a third plurality of elongate traction elements arranged in a third annular pattern about a second axis disposed in the heel region. In some implementations, the first sole plate defines a flex zone formed between the first cleat set and the second cleat set. In some configurations, the flex zone extends from a first relief on a medial side of the first sole plate to a second relief on a lateral side of the first sole plate.

In some configurations, the third cleat set includes a first one of the traction elements oriented in a first rotational direction about the second axis and a second one of the traction elements oriented in an opposite second rotational direction about the second axis. In some examples, the third cleat set includes a third one of the traction elements oriented in the first rotational direction about the second axis and a fourth one of the traction elements oriented in the second rotational direction about the second axis. In some implementations, first one of the traction elements is diametrically opposed to the third one of the traction elements across the second axis and the second one of the traction elements is diametrically opposed to the fourth one of the traction elements across the second axis.

In some examples, each of the first plurality of elongate traction elements are oriented in a first rotational direction about the first axis. In some examples, the sole structure includes a second sole plate attached to the first sole plate and surrounded by the first plurality of elongate traction elements. In some implementations, each of the traction elements includes a base portion including a first material of the first sole plate and a tip portion including a second material different than the first material.

An article of footwear may incorporate the sole structure described above.

Referring to FIGS. 1-3, an article of footwear 10 includes a sole structure 100 and an upper 200 attached to the sole structure 100. The article of footwear 10 may further include an anterior end 12 associated with a forward-most point of the footwear 10 and a posterior end 14 corresponding to a rearward-most point of the footwear 10. A longitudinal axis A10 (FIG. 8A) of the footwear 10 extends along a length of the footwear 10 from the anterior end 12 to the posterior end 14 parallel to a ground surface, and generally divides the footwear 10 into a medial side 16 and a lateral side 18. Accordingly, the medial side 16 and the lateral side 18 respectively correspond with opposite sides of the footwear 10 and extend from the anterior end 12 to the posterior end 14. As used herein, a longitudinal direction refers to the direction extending from the anterior end 12 to the posterior end 14, while a lateral direction refers to the direction transverse to the longitudinal direction and extending from the medial side 16 to the lateral side 18.

The article of footwear 10 may be divided into one or more regions. The regions may include a forefoot region 20, a mid-foot region 22, and a heel region 24. The forefoot region 20 may include a ball portion 20r corresponding with the phalanges and a ball portion 20B associated with the metatarsal bones of a foot. The mid-foot region 22 may correspond with an arch area of the foot, and the heel region 24 may correspond with rear portions of the foot, including a calcaneus bone.

The upper 200 includes interior surfaces that define an interior void configured to receive and secure a foot for support on the sole structure 100. The upper 200 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 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. In some examples, one or more fasteners extend along the upper 200 to adjust a fit of the interior void around the foot and to accommodate entry and removal of the foot therefrom. The upper 200 may include apertures such as eyelets and/or other engagement features such as fabric or mesh loops that receive the fasteners. The fasteners may include laces, straps, cords, hook-and-loop, or any other suitable type of fastener. The upper 200 may include a tongue portion that extends between the interior void and the fasteners.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the sole structure 100 of the illustrated example includes a primary sole plate 102, a secondary sole plate 104 attached to a bottom surface of the primary sole plate 102, a forefoot cleat set 106 disposed in the forefoot region 20, a mid-foot cleat set disposed in the mid-foot region 22, and a heel cleat set 110 disposed in the heel region 24. Optionally, the sole structure 100 incudes a rand 112 extending along a peripheral edge of the primary sole plate 102 to provide a cushioned interface between the primary sole plate 102 and the upper 200. As discussed in greater detail below, the cleat sets 106, 108, 110 each incorporate a respective group of traction elements 114a-114k.

The primary sole plate 102 may be described as including an upper or interior side 116 and a lower or exterior side 118 formed on an opposite side from the interior side 116. Thus, the interior side 116 generally corresponds to a footbed of the article of footwear 10 and the exterior side 118 corresponds to a ground-engaging surface of the article of footwear 10. A distance from the interior side 116 to the exterior side 118 defines a thickness of the primary sole plate 102. The interior side 116 and the exterior side 118 are connected to each other by a peripheral edge 120 that extends along the periphery of the primary sole plate 102. Thus, the peripheral edge 120 defines a peripheral profile of the primary sole plate 102.

Referring to FIG. 5, in the illustrated example each of the traction elements 114a-114k includes a substantially similar construction and are provided on the exterior side 118 of the primary sole plate 102 at different positions and orientations. Each of the traction elements 114a-114k includes a height extending from a base portion 122 to a distal tip portion 124 formed at an opposite end of the traction element 114a-114k than the base portion 122. As shown, the base portion 122 is attached at the exterior side 118 of the primary sole plate 102 and the distal tip portion 124 faces away from the exterior side 118. A length of each of the traction elements 114a-114k extends from a leading end 126 to a trailing end 128 formed at an opposite end from the leading end 126. A width of each of the traction elements 114a-114k is defined between a first side 130 that extends from the leading end 126 to the trailing end 128 on a first side (i.e., a left side) and a second side 132 that extends between the leading end 126 and the trailing end 128 on an opposite side (i.e., a right side) from the first side 130. As shown, one or more of the traction elements 114a-114k includes a traction rib 134 extending along the leading end 126 and the tip portion 124 of the traction element 114a-114k. The traction rib 134 may be formed as a continuous rib having a width that is less than the respective widths of the leading end 126 and the tip portion 124 and may protrude from the traction element 114a-114k at the leading end 126 and the tip portion 124. Thus the traction rib 134 and the distal tip 124 may define a stepped configuration at the distal end of the traction element 114a-114k.

With continued reference to FIG. 5, each traction element 114a-114k includes tapering geometries that facilitate desirable traction properties. For example, a length of one or more of the traction elements 114a-114k may taper along a direction from the base portion 122 to the tip portion 124. Particularly, at least one of the leading end 126 and the trailing end 128 may be formed at an oblique angle relative to the immediately adjacent surface of the exterior side 118 of the primary sole plate 102, whereby the leading end 126 and the trailing end 128 converge with each other along the direction from the exterior side 118 to the tip portion 124. Here, a relative angle between the leading end 126 and the exterior side 118 of the primary sole plate 102 may be less than an angle between the trailing end 128 and the exterior side 118 of the sole plate 102.

In addition to the tapered length, each traction element 114a-114k may include a tapering width (i.e., distance between the first side 130 and the second side 132). For instance, the traction elements 114a-114k may taper along the direction from the trailing end 128 to the leading end 126. Thus, the width of the traction element is greater at the trailing end 128 than at the leading end 126. The width of the traction elements 114a-114k may also taper along the direction from the base portion 122 to the tip portion 124. Accordingly, each of the traction elements 114a-114k may be described as including a compound taper, whereby the width tapers along the lengthwise direction and the height direction.

The combination of the tapering width(s) and length may be configured to optimize traction properties for each traction element. For example, the leading end 126 may be provided at less of an incline than the trailing end 128, whereby the leading end 126 functions to knife through a ground surface while the trailing end 128 functions to engage the ground surface to minimize movement through the ground surface in a direction towards the trailing end 128. Likewise, the tapering width along the height direction facilitates insertion of the traction elements 114a-114k into the ground surface, while the tapering width along the lengthwise direction facilitates a knifing property as each traction element 114a-114k moves through the ground surface in a direction towards the leading end 126.

In the illustrated example, the traction elements 114a-114k are formed as composite structures, whereby portions of the traction elements 114a-114k are defined by various components and/or materials. For example, the base portion 122 of each traction element 114a-114k is defined by the primary sole plate 102 while the tip portion 124 of each traction element 114a-114k is defined by a stud element 136 that is formed separately and attached to the base portion 122. With reference to FIG. 3, the base portion 122 of each traction element 122 is formed on the exterior side 118 of the primary sole plate 102 and extends to a substantially planar lower attachment surface 138. The lower attachment surface 138 may include one or more protuberances 140. Conversely, the stud element 136 includes an upper attachment surface 142 including a socket (not shown) configured to receive the protuberance 140 to provide a mechanical interface for aligning the tip portion 124 (i.e., the stud element 136) and the base portion 122 of the traction element 114. In this example, the attachment interface is provided by a bonding relationship between the attachment surfaces 138, 142. Bonding may be accomplished by directly bonding the materials of the stud element 136 and the primary sole plate 102 during a co-molding process or by including an additional adhesive material between the attachment surfaces 138, 142.

Referring now to FIG. 8B, the traction elements 114a-114k of the sole structure 100 are arranged in groups defining the forefoot cleat set 106, the mid-foot cleat set 108, and the heel cleat set 110. Generally, the traction elements 114a-114k are positioned and oriented to provide each cleat set 106, 108, 110 with a unique function associated with the respective region of the sole structure 100.

Referring still to FIG. 8B, the forefoot cleat set 106 includes a plurality of traction elements 114a-114e arranged in a annular pattern around a forefoot rotational axis A₂₀ of the forefoot region 20. Particularly, the traction elements 114a-114e are arranged such that each traction element 114a-114e of the forefoot cleat set 106 is oriented in the same direction (i.e., the forefoot rotational direction) along the circumference of the annular pattern. Here, the forefoot rotational direction is configured to facilitate rotation of the heel region 24 of the sole structure 100 in a lateral direction about the forefoot rotational axis A₂₀ while minimizing rotation of the heel region 24 in the medial direction. Thus, in a right-footed sole structure 100, as shown in FIG. 9, the forefoot rotational direction is clockwise about the forefoot rotational axis A₂₀. Conversely, on a left-footed sole structure 100, the forefoot rotational direction would be counter-clockwise about the forefoot rotational axis A₂₀. This configuration allows the forefoot region 20 of the sole structure 100 to rotate about the forefoot rotational axis A₂₀ during locomotion, while limiting counter-rotation during a kicking movement with the opposite foot.

With continued reference to FIG. 8B, the forefoot cleat set 106 includes five of the tractions elements 114a-114e, including a pair of toe traction elements 114a, 114b, a pair of peripheral ball traction elements 114c, 114d, and a central ball traction element 114e. The toe traction elements 114a, 114b include a medial toe traction element 114a disposed adjacent to the peripheral edge 120 of the primary sole plate 102 on the medial side 16 adjacent to the anterior end 12 as well as a lateral toe traction element 114b disposed on the lateral side 18 adjacent to the anterior end 12. The peripheral ball traction elements 114c, 114d include a medial peripheral ball traction element 114c disposed adjacent to the peripheral edge 120 in the ball portion 20g of the forefoot region 20 and a lateral peripheral ball traction element 114d disposed adjacent to the peripheral edge 120 in the ball portion 20B of the forefoot region 20. The central ball traction element 114e is disposed in the ball portion 20B between the medial side 16 and the lateral side 18. Generally, the central ball traction element 114e is positioned along the longitudinal axis A₁₀₀ of the sole structure 100 and a length of the central ball traction element 114e (i.e. from leading end 126 to trailing end 128) is oriented transverse to the longitudinal axis A₁₀₀ (i.e., from medial side to lateral side).

Referring still to FIG. 8B, the mid-foot cleat set 108 includes a pair of traction elements 114f, 114g that are arranged and oriented in an arcuate pattern with respect to the forefoot rotational axis A₂₀. As shown in FIG. 8B and described in greater detail below, the mid-foot cleat set 108 includes a medial mid-foot traction element 114f disposed on the medial side of the longitudinal axis A₁₀₀ of the sole structure 100 and a lateral mid-foot traction element 114g disposed on the lateral side of the longitudinal axis A₁₀₀ of the soles structure 100.

The forefoot cleat set 106 and the mid-foot cleat set 108 may be generally described as being concentrically aligned about the forefoot rotational axis A₂₀ such that the mid-foot cleat set 108 cooperates with the forefoot cleat set 106 during rotation of the sole structure 100. For example, the traction elements 114a-114e of the forefoot cleat set 106 may be arranged within a forefoot rotational zone Z₁₀₆ defined between a first radius R1 and a second radius R2 and the traction elements 114f, 114g of the mid-foot cleat set 108 may be arranged within a mid-foot rotational zone Z₁₀₈ defined between a third radius R3 and a fourth radius R4, whereby each of the radii are measured from the forefoot rotational axis A₂₀.

In the illustrated example, a space between the forefoot rotational zone Z₁₀₆ and the mid-foot rotational zone Z₁₀₈ (i.e., between the second radius R2 and the third radius R3) defines an arcuate flex zone 146 corresponding to a metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint of the foot. The flex zone 146 extends continuously along an arcuate path from the peripheral edge 120 on the medial side 16 to the peripheral edge 120 on the lateral side 18. Optionally, the flex zone 146 may be associated with a pair of reliefs 148a, 148b formed at opposite ends of the flex zone 146 on the medial side 16 and the lateral side 18. As shown, each of the reliefs 148a, 148b is defined by a generally arcuate recess formed along the peripheral edge 120 between the forefoot region 20 and the mid-foot region 22. Apexes 149a, 149b of each relief 148a, 148b are aligned with each other across the lateral direction of the primary sole plate 102. In some examples, the apexes 149a, 149b of the reliefs 148a, 148b are further aligned with the central ball traction element 114e across the lateral direction of the primary sole plate 102. Particularly, a lateral axis A_114e extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A₁₀₀ of the sole structure may bisect the trailing end 128 of the central ball traction element 114e.

With continued reference to FIG. 6, the heel cleat set 110 is arranged in the heel region 24 of the primary sole plate 102. While the heel cleat set 110 includes a plurality of traction elements 114h-114k arranged in a generally annular pattern, the heel cleat set 110 is configured in an anti-rotational manner. Particularly, the heel cleat set 110 includes at least one cleat oriented in a first rotational direction (e.g., clockwise) about a heel rotational axis A₂₄ and at least one cleat oriented in an opposite second rotational direction (e.g. counter-clockwise) about the heel rotational axis A₂₄. Thus, the heel cleat set 110 is configured to provide relatively high lateral and longitudinal traction while providing similar resistance to rotation in the clockwise and counter-clockwise directions.

In the illustrated example, the heel cleat set 110 includes an anterior-medial heel traction element 114h, an anterior-lateral heel traction element 114i, a posterior-medial heel traction element 114j, and a posterior-lateral heel traction element 114k. For the sake of description, the respective pairs of the traction elements 114h-114k of the heel cleat set 110 may be referred as anterior heel traction elements 114h, 114i, posterior heel traction elements 114j, 114k, medial heel traction elements 114h, 114j, or lateral heel traction elements 114i, 114k. In the illustrated example, one of the heel traction elements 114h-114k of each respective pair is oriented in the opposite rotational direction from the other one of the heel traction elements 114h-114k of the pair. For example, the anterior-medial heel traction element 114h is oriented in an opposite rotational direction from the anterior-lateral heel traction element 114i (anterior pair) and in an opposite rotational direction from the posterior-medial heel traction element 114j (medial pair). Put another way, pairs of diametrically opposed heel traction elements 114h-114k are oriented in the same rotational direction as each other.

As provided in the preceding paragraphs, the traction elements 114a-114k are referred to as being oriented along first and second rotational directions. For clarity, orientation along a rotational direction refers to a longitudinal axis A₁₁₄ of the traction element 114a-114k being substantially tangentially aligned with a radial arc associated with a respective one of the rotational axes A₂₀, A₂₄, whereby the leading end 126 of the traction element 114a-114k faces the rotational direction and the trailing end 128 faces away from the rotational direction. Here, one of the sides 130, 132 of the traction element 114a-114k faces towards the rotational axis A₂₀, A₂₄ such that a radius line taken from the rotational axis A₂₀, A₂₄ intersects the side 130, 132 of the respective traction element 114a-114k at a substantially perpendicular angle.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1-20, the primary sole plate 102 includes various structural features to promote desired torsional and stiffness properties. In the illustrated example, the primary sole plate 102 includes a pair of ribs 150a, 150b extending between the mid-foot cleat set 108 and the heel cleat set 110. Particularly, a first one of the ribs 150a extends between and connects a base portion 122 of the medial mid-foot traction element 114f and a base portion 122 of the anterior-lateral heel traction element 114i. Similarly, a second one of the ribs 150b extends between and connects a base portion 122 of the lateral mid-foot traction element 114g and a base portion 122 of the anterior-medial heel traction element 114h. As shown, the ribs 150a, 150b are integrally and continuously formed with the base portions 122 of the traction elements 114f-114i. The ribs 150a, 150b intersect each other at junction 152 an intermediate portion of the mid-foot region 22. The junction 152 is substantially centered between opposing portions of the peripheral edge 120 in the mid-foot region 22 and, further, is longitudinally aligned with a narrowest portion of the primary sole plate 102.

The primary sole plate 102 may further include one or more annular ribs 154 formed in the heel region 24 within the heel cleat set 110. The annular ribs 154 protrude from the exterior side 118 and may define a cavity in the heel region 24 between the traction elements 114i-114k of the heel cleat set 110. In the illustrated example, the annular ribs 154 are circular (i.e., constant radius) and include a primary annular rib 154 and a pair of secondary annular ribs 154 having a smaller radius and height than the primary rib 154.

The ribs 150a, 150b, 154 of the primary sole plate 102 are formed as shell structures that protrude from the exterior side 118 of the primary sole plate 102 (FIG. 2) and define corresponding recesses on the opposite interior side 116 of the primary sole plate 102 (FIG. 9). As best shown in FIG. 9, the ribs 150a, 150b, 154 and the traction elements 114a-114k may include interior torsion elements 156a, 156b formed within the recesses on the interior side 116. In the illustrated example, the torsion elements 156a, 156b include braces 156a, 156b extending across the recesses. The braces 156a, 156b are generally aligned as a series of elongate braces 156a along the lengths of the longitudinal ribs 150a, 150b and are arranged as a radial array of helical braces 156b about the heel rotational axis A₂₄ within the heel region 24.

With renewed reference to FIGS. 1-3, the secondary sole plate 104 includes a cylindrical element attached to the exterior side 118 of the primary sole plate 102 in the forefoot region 20. A center axis of the secondary sole plate 104 is axially aligned with the forefoot rotational axis A₂₀ of the primary sole plate 102. Optionally, the exterior side 118 of the primary sole plate 102 may include a socket configured to receive the secondary sole plate 104, whereby the secondary sole plate 104 sits flush with the exterior side 118 of the primary sole plate 102 (FIG. 13).

The sole structure 100 is constructed such that the primary sole plate 102 includes a first material having a greater stiffness than the materials forming the secondary sole plate 104, the rand 112, and the stud elements 136. For example, suitable materials for the primary sole plate 102 include a fiberglass reinforced polyamide material (e.g., Rilsan™ BZM materials produced by Arkema™). The rand 112 may include materials that are softer than the material of the primary sole plate 102, such as a polyether block amide (e.g., Pebax™ materials produced by Arkema™). Suitable materials for the stud elements 136 include, but are not limited to, thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPUs), polyolefins, polyolefin based elastomers, and nylons, as these materials provide superior abrasion properties.

Referring again to FIG. 1, the upper 200 may be formed from one or more materials that are stitched or adhesively bonded together to define the interior void. Suitable materials of the upper 200 may include, but are not limited to, textiles, foam, leather, and synthetic leather. The example upper 200 may be formed from a combination of one or more substantially inelastic or non-stretchable materials and one or more substantially elastic or stretchable materials disposed in different regions of the upper 200 to facilitate movement of the article of footwear 10 between a tightened state and a loosened state. The one or more elastic materials may include any combination of one or more elastic fabrics such as, without limitation, spandex, elastane, rubber or neoprene. The one or more inelastic materials may include any combination of one or more of thermoplastic polyurethanes, nylon, leather, vinyl, or another material/fabric that does not impart properties of elasticity.

With particular reference to FIGS. 23-43, an article of footwear 10a is provided and includes a sole structure 100a and the upper 200 attached to the sole structure 100a. In view of the substantial similarity in structure and function of the components associated with the article of footwear 10 with respect to the article of footwear 10a, like reference numerals are used hereinafter and in the drawings to identify like components while like reference numerals containing letter extensions are used to identify those components that have been modified. The assembled sole structure 100a of FIGS. 23-43 includes substantially similar geometries to the sole structure 100 described above with respect to FIGS. 1-22. However, the sole structure 100a is constructed using different subcomponents and materials, described as follows.

With reference to FIGS. 23-25, the sole structure 100a includes a primary sole plate 102a and a secondary sole plate 104a. Similar to the foregoing sole structure 100, the sole structure 100a includes the forefoot cleat set 106, the mid-foot cleat set 108, and the heel cleat set 110, which respectively include the traction elements 114a-114k. Again, the cleat sets 106, 108, 110 and traction elements 114a-114k of the sole structure 100a are substantially similar to the cleat sets 106, 108, 110 and traction elements 114a-114k of the sole structure 100 when the sole structure 100a is in the assembled state. However, the subcomponents of the traction elements 114a-114k may be configured in a different manner, as described below.

With reference to FIG. 25, the primary sole plate 102a of the present disclosure includes two plate portions 160, 162 attached along a joint 164. Particularly, the primary sole plate 102a includes an anterior plate portion 160 and a posterior plate portion 162 that are attached to each other along a joint 164 formed along the flex zone 146 (as defined previously) of the primary sole plate 102a. As shown in FIG. 27, the joint 164 extends along an arcuate path about the forefoot rotational axis A₂₀ from the medial side 16 to the lateral side 18. Thus, the joint 164 extends from a first end 165a at the relief 148a on the medial side 16 to a second end 165b at the relief 148b on the lateral side 18. The ends 165a, 165b may be longitudinally offset from the respective apexes 149a, 149b of the reliefs 148a, 148b. For example, the illustrated example shows the ends 165a, 165b of the joint 164 formed at the posterior side of the apexes 149a, 149b.

The anterior plate portion 160 may include an aperture 166 formed through the thickness of the anterior plate portion 160 from the interior side 116 to the posterior side 118. As shown in FIG. 36, the aperture 166 is configured to receive the secondary sole plate 104a such that the secondary sole plate 104a is flush with the primary sole plate 102a on each of the interior side 116 and the exterior side 118.

Referring again to FIG. 25, the traction elements 114a-114k of the sole structure 100a are constructed using a mechanical attachment interface between a base portion 122a of the traction element 114a-114k and the stud element 136a. The base portions 122a of the traction elements 114a-114k are integrally formed with the primary sole plate 102a and extend to a lower attachment surface 138a. In this example, the lower attachment surface 138a of the base portion 122a includes an opening 168 formed through the thickness of the base portion 122a, thereby providing fluid communication between the exterior of the base portion 122a and an interior of the base portion 122a.

The stud elements 136a of the present example include the distal tip portion 124 of the traction elements 114a-114k. An upper attachment surface 142 of the stud element 136a is configured to interface with the lower attachment surface 138a of the base portion 122a. Additionally, the stud elements 136a include an anchor portion 170 that extends from the upper attachment surface 142. When the sole structure 100a is assembled, the anchor portion 170 of the stud element 136a is received in the interior of the base portion 122a and connects to the tip portion 124 through the opening 168 formed in the lower attachment surface 138a of the base portion 122a. Here, the anchor portion 170 may conform to the interior of the base portion 122a and includes a larger cross section than the opening 168. Thus, the lower attachment surface 138a of the base portion 122a is captured between the tip portion 124 and the anchor portion 170 to provide a mechanical attachment interface between the stud element 136a and the base portion 122a.

The sole structure 100a is constructed such that the primary sole plate 102a, the secondary sole plate 104a, and the stud elements 136 include the same materials. Suitable materials for the stud elements 136 include, but are not limited to, thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPUs), polyolefins, polyolefin based elastomers, and nylons, as these materials provide superior abrasion properties. Thus, while the anterior plate portion 160 and the posterior plate portion 162 may be molded as separate components that are attached or bonded along the joint 164, these components may include the same material properties.

The following Clauses provide an exemplary configuration for a sole structure for an article of footwear, an article of footwear, and a composite structure described above.

• • Clause 1: A sole structure for an article of footwear, the sole structure comprising: a first sole plate extending from an anterior end of the sole structure to a posterior end of the sole structure; a first cleat set disposed in a forefoot region and including a first plurality of traction elements arranged in a first annular pattern about a first axis disposed in the forefoot region; and a second cleat set disposed in a heel region of the sole structure and including a second plurality of the traction elements arranged in a second annular pattern about a second axis disposed in the heel region.
  • Clause 2: The sole structure of Clause 1, further comprising a third cleat set including a third plurality of traction elements arranged in a third annular pattern about the first axis.
  • Clause 3: The sole structure of Clause 2, wherein the first sole plate defines a flex zone formed between the first cleat set and the third cleat set.
  • Clause 4: The sole structure of Clause 3, wherein the flex zone extends from a first relief on a medial side of the first sole plate to a second relief on a lateral side of the first sole plate.
  • Clause 5: The sole structure of Clause 1, wherein each of the first plurality of traction elements are oriented in a first rotational direction about the first axis.
  • Clause 6: The sole structure of Clause 1, wherein the second cleat set includes a first one of the traction elements oriented in a first rotational direction about the second axis and a second one of the traction elements oriented in an opposite second rotational direction about the second axis.
  • Clause 7: The sole structure of Clause 6, wherein the second cleat set includes a third one of the traction elements oriented in the first rotational direction about the second axis and a fourth one of the traction elements oriented in the second rotational direction about the second axis.
  • Clause 8: The sole structure of Clause 7, wherein the first one of the traction elements is diametrically opposed to the third one of the traction elements across the second axis and the second one of the traction elements is diametrically opposed to the fourth one of the traction elements across the second axis.
  • Clause 9: The sole structure of Clause 1, further comprising a second sole plate attached to the first sole plate and surrounded by the first plurality of traction elements.
  • Clause 10: The sole structure of Clause 1, wherein each of the traction elements includes a base portion including a first material of the first sole plate and a tip portion including a second material different than the first material.
  • Clause 11: A sole structure for an article of footwear, the sole structure comprising: a first sole plate extending from an anterior end of the sole structure to a posterior end of the sole structure; a first cleat set disposed in a forefoot region and including a first plurality of elongate traction elements arranged in a first annular pattern about a first axis disposed in the forefoot region; and a second cleat set including a second plurality of elongate traction elements arranged in a second annular pattern about the first axis.
  • Clause 12: The sole structure of Clause 11, further comprising a third cleat set disposed in a heel region of the sole structure and including a third plurality of elongate traction elements arranged in a third annular pattern about a second axis disposed in the heel region.
  • Clause 13: The sole structure of Clause 12, wherein the first sole plate defines a flex zone formed between the first cleat set and the second cleat set.
  • Clause 14: The sole structure of Clause 13, wherein the flex zone extends from a first relief on a medial side of the first sole plate to a second relief on a lateral side of the first sole plate.
  • Clause 15: The sole structure of Clause 12, wherein the third cleat set includes a first one of the traction elements oriented in a first rotational direction about the second axis and a second one of the traction elements oriented in an opposite second rotational direction about the second axis.
  • Clause 16: The sole structure of Clause 15, wherein the third cleat set includes a third one of the traction elements oriented in the first rotational direction about the second axis and a fourth one of the traction elements oriented in the second rotational direction about the second axis.
  • Clause 17: The sole structure of Clause 16, wherein the first one of the traction elements is diametrically opposed to the third one of the traction elements across the second axis and the second one of the traction elements is diametrically opposed to the fourth one of the traction elements across the second axis.
  • Clause 18: The sole structure of Clause 11, wherein each of the first plurality of elongate traction elements are oriented in a first rotational direction about the first axis.
  • Clause 19: The sole structure of Clause 11, further comprising a second sole plate attached to the first sole plate and surrounded by the first plurality of elongate traction elements.
  • Clause 20: The sole structure of Clause 11, wherein each of the traction elements includes a base portion including a first material of the first sole plate and a tip portion including a second material different than the first material.

The foregoing description has been provided for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure. Individual elements or features of a particular configuration are generally not limited to that particular configuration, but, where applicable, are interchangeable and can be used in a selected configuration, even if not specifically shown or described. The same may also be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the disclosure.

Claims

1. A sole structure for an article of footwear, the sole structure comprising: a first sole plate extending from an anterior end of the sole structure to a posterior end of the sole structure;a first cleat set disposed in a forefoot region and including a first plurality of traction elements arranged in a first annular pattern about a first axis disposed in the forefoot region; anda second cleat set disposed in a heel region of the sole structure and including a second plurality of the traction elements arranged in a second annular pattern about a second axis disposed in the heel region.

2. The sole structure of claim 1, further comprising a third cleat set including a third plurality of traction elements arranged in a third annular pattern about the first axis.

3. The sole structure of claim 2, wherein the first sole plate defines a flex zone formed between the first cleat set and the third cleat set.

4. The sole structure of claim 3, wherein the flex zone extends from a first relief on a medial side of the first sole plate to a second relief on a lateral side of the first sole plate.

5. The sole structure of claim 1, wherein each of the first plurality of traction elements are oriented in a first rotational direction about the first axis.

6. The sole structure of claim 1, wherein the second cleat set includes a first one of the traction elements oriented in a first rotational direction about the second axis and a second one of the traction elements oriented in an opposite second rotational direction about the second axis.

7. The sole structure of claim 6, wherein the second cleat set includes a third one of the traction elements oriented in the first rotational direction about the second axis and a fourth one of the traction elements oriented in the second rotational direction about the second axis.

8. The sole structure of claim 7, wherein the first one of the traction elements is diametrically opposed to the third one of the traction elements across the second axis and the second one of the traction elements is diametrically opposed to the fourth one of the traction elements across the second axis.

9. The sole structure of claim 1, further comprising a second sole plate attached to the first sole plate and surrounded by the first plurality of traction elements.

10. The sole structure of claim 1, wherein each of the traction elements includes a base portion including a first material of the first sole plate and a tip portion including a second material different than the first material.

11. A sole structure for an article of footwear, the sole structure comprising: a first sole plate extending from an anterior end of the sole structure to a posterior end of the sole structure;a first cleat set disposed in a forefoot region and including a first plurality of elongate traction elements arranged in a first annular pattern about a first axis disposed in the forefoot region; anda second cleat set including a second plurality of elongate traction elements arranged in a second annular pattern about the first axis.

12. The sole structure of claim 11, further comprising a third cleat set disposed in a heel region of the sole structure and including a third plurality of elongate traction elements arranged in a third annular pattern about a second axis disposed in the heel region.

13. The sole structure of claim 12, wherein the first sole plate defines a flex zone formed between the first cleat set and the second cleat set.

14. The sole structure of claim 13, wherein the flex zone extends from a first relief on a medial side of the first sole plate to a second relief on a lateral side of the first sole plate.

15. The sole structure of claim 12, wherein the third cleat set includes a first one of the traction elements oriented in a first rotational direction about the second axis and a second one of the traction elements oriented in an opposite second rotational direction about the second axis.

16. The sole structure of claim 15, wherein the third cleat set includes a third one of the traction elements oriented in the first rotational direction about the second axis and a fourth one of the traction elements oriented in the second rotational direction about the second axis.

17. The sole structure of claim 16, wherein the first one of the traction elements is diametrically opposed to the third one of the traction elements across the second axis and the second one of the traction elements is diametrically opposed to the fourth one of the traction elements across the second axis.

18. The sole structure of claim 11, wherein each of the first plurality of elongate traction elements are oriented in a first rotational direction about the first axis.

19. The sole structure of claim 11, further comprising a second sole plate attached to the first sole plate and surrounded by the first plurality of elongate traction elements.

20. The sole structure of claim 11, wherein each of the traction elements includes a base portion including a first material of the first sole plate and a tip portion including a second material different than the first material.