Abstract: A shoe insole includes a soft elastomer formed in a shape of an inner bottom surface of a shoe, wherein the soft elastomer includes a front metatarsal section, a mid foot section and a rear heel section, and wherein the rear heel section has a recessed area, and an inner arch concave surface and an outer arch concave surface are respectively defined in two opposite sides of the recessed area; and a hard elastomer combined with the mid foot section and the rear heel section of the soft elastomer, wherein a rear heel section of the hard elastomer has a through-hole, and a portion of material of the soft elastomer is filled in the through-hole, and an inner arch concave surface and an outer arch concave surface are respectively defined in two opposite outer sides of the rear heel section of the hard elastomer.

Abstract: A weighted insole assembly, comprising a top thermoformable material layer, a bottom thermoformable material layer, and a weighted unit encapsulated between the top and bottom thermoformable material layers, the weighted unit including a heavy filler material and having a specific gravity between about 2.0 and about 4.

Abstract: The invention provides bicycling shoes and bicycling shoe components that offer improved comfort, fit, increased efficiency and reduced incidence of injury. The invention includes an athletic shoe having a sole, an upper attached to the sole to form a toe box, a vamp, a quarter, a throat and an interior cavity, a tongue attached to the upper proximate the toe box, and a closure system adapted to close and secure the tongue on a foot of a user. The closure system comprises at least two straps and two loops that are secured by drawing one end of a strap across the top of the upper, through a loop, and back over the upper, to connect with an opposing end of the strap, and, at least two straps are positioned on the upper to intersect a toe-to-heel line at a strap angle between about 95 degrees and about 120 degrees.

Abstract: An insole can include: an upper conductive ground plane layer; an upper compressible insulating layer physically coupled to the upper conductive ground plane layer; a conductive sensor layer physically coupled to the upper compressible insulating layer, the conductive sensor layer comprising one or more sensors are configured to a force applied to the insole by the foot; a lower compressible insulating layer physically coupled to conductive sensor layer; a lower conductive ground plane layer physically coupled to the lower compressible insulating layer and electrically coupled to the upper conductive ground plane layer; and at least one computational unit communicatively coupled to the one or more sensors. The upper conductive ground plane layer and the lower conductive ground plane layer are configured to substantially electrically shield the upper compressible insulating layer, the conductive sensor layer, and the lower compressible insulating layer from the shoe and the foot.

Abstract: A removable and adjustable insert for footwear has slots placed in the insole and/or midsole of the shoe to allow access to the arch and/or metatarsal and/or heel regions of the insole and/or midsole. In an embodiment, an insert placed into the arch insert slot that establishes how much the arch protrudes above the remainder of the top surface of the insole. One or more inserts are provided having different thicknesses so that the height of the arch can be varied by the user or at the direction of a third party, such as a doctor or a trainer.

Abstract: A triple density replacement insole which has at least two coextensive layers of different densities which are adjacent one another and extending the length of the insole comprising a first top cloth layer and a second gel layer and a third density layer comprising a stability cradle adjacent the gel layer. In a preferred embodiment, the stability cradle, which extends from the arch area to the heel area and secures to the gel layer, defines a first metatarsal region gap which exposes the gel layer and a second heel region gap which exposes the gel layer. A heel cushion is positioned in the second heel region gap adjacent to the gel layer and is secured to the gel layer exposed in that region. A metatarsal arch support is integrally formed in the first metatarsal region gap area.

Abstract: An impact resistant running shoe insert provides impact resistance for minimalist and non-minimalist running or hiking shoes. Three flat layers are superimposed on each other. A hard layer provides impact resistance, a soft layer atop of the hard layer provides comfort and friction between the insert and a user's foot, and a third layer below the hard layer minimizes slippage between the insert and the user's shoe. A full length insert may be used in a single toe box shoe, and a partial length insert is provided for use with multiple toe box shoes. The partial length insert has a tapered edge between the forefoot area and the toe area in order to minimize discomfort.

Abstract: A device for improving walks of a patient with knee osteoarthritis includes an insole, an inside-forefoot wedge cushion joining the insole at an inner side of a forefoot, wherein the inside-forefoot wedge cushion can support the inner side of the forefoot and thus reduce knee varus torques, an outside-hindfoot wedge cushion joining the insole at an outer side of a hindfoot, wherein the outside-hindfoot wedge cushion can support the outer side of the hindfoot and thus reduce knee varus torques, and a medial-foot-arch cushion joining the insole, wherein the medial-foot-arch cushion can have a foot to be turned out and increase walking stability and fluency. Thereby, a patient with knee osteoarthritis, when being walking, can have reduced knee varus torques. The purpose of improving walks of a patient with knee osteoarthritis can be achieved.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a polyurethane-coated (PU-coated) spandex fabric-fused midsole, and an apparatus and method for manufacturing the same, which allow a shoe midsole to be easily and conveniently manufactured through a single automatic process, and allows a PU-coated spandex fabric to be easily fused to a surface of the midsole in the process of manufacturing the midsole.

Abstract: The present invention is a non-woven, transparent, foot membrane that helps provide comfort and support for the foot during high-heel shoe wear. The device comprises a self-supporting membrane that flexes, stretches and conforms to the shape of the foot, or the portion of the foot in contact with the membrane, when worn. The device has different thicknesses throughout its structure. Preferably, the parts of the invention at and around the major points of contact on a foot when in a high-heeled shoe, e.g., the mid-foot plantar surface, the toes (except the big toe) and the upper foot/ankle, are thicker than the other portions of the device. The device around the forefoot, the big toe, and the heel, is comprised of a plurality of layers of membrane material and gel-like material.

Abstract: A reversible insole for use inside a supportive boot, such as used for protection and support of the lower leg or foot after injury, is disclosed. The insole provides contouring on the opposite surfaces thereof which accommodates similar contours of the human foot. By alternately positioning the insole with the one surface or the other surface upward, a single insole can provide appropriate support for either the left of right foot inside an outer boot, such as a walker boot, that may be symmetrical from medial to lateral side. Such an outerboot may thus accommodate a left or right foot in a single product.

Abstract: An insole structure is disclosed. The insole is comprised of a cushioned flexible closed cell plastic film (bubbled rubber material) layered on top of and adhesively bonded to a rubber semi-rigid base formed with wings along the side for extra support and stability along the sides of the foot and in the arch area. The combination distributes the pressure created by the foot evenly between the bubbles, so each component absorbs a portion of the pressure, and the combination remains soft and comfortable under the wearer's foot even when the footwear is worn for extended periods of time. This new type of cushion insole provides substantial enhanced comfort, side to side stability, and massages the foot as the wearer moves or walks.

Abstract: Methods and high heel foot wear pads help provide arch support and may include a soft pliable foot engageable sheet for fitting into a high heel foot wear to engage the downwardly sloping arch engageable portion of its inner sole. A fastener on the underside of the sheet is adapted to secure the pad in place on the sloping arch engaging inner sole of the high heel foot wear. An arch support component may be mounted to the underside of the sheet spaced from the edges of the sheet to help support the foot of the wearer.

Abstract: An insole combined with a band/strap that wraps around the midfoot. The insole provides arch, midfoot and metatarsal support, cushioning and a heel cup. The band/strap supports the arch, talus and midfoot and keeps the plantar fascia stretched. The arch, metatarsal and midfoot support of the insole press up against said areas of foot, opposing their collapse, and work in conjunction with the heel cup to limit over pronation. The band/strap keeps the plantar fascia tissue stretched, which can hinder tearing. The insole can provide soft cushioning which can increase comfort by spreading out the force of foot impact over a more evenly dispersed and greater area.

Abstract: Embodiments provide an insole having a multilayered construction with openings and ribs sized, shaped, and positioned to provide desired areas of stiffness and flexibility. The multi-layered construction may include a chassis defining a support member opening and a support member covering the opening and positioned between the chassis and a cushioning layer. The chassis may define a plurality of apertures in the forefoot portion, which, in a direction from the forefoot end to the heel end, progressively increase in size to a point at which maximum flexibility is desired in the forefoot portion. The bottom of the support member may include protruding ribs that extend generally in a longitudinal direction from the midfoot to the heel, and include a straight middle rib, a medial side rib convex with respect to the middle rib, and a lateral side rib convex with respect to the middle rib.

Abstract: The present invention is an insole topper pad adapted to provide an absorbent perspiration barrier between the bottom surface of the bare human foot and the top surface of a shoe's insole or footbed. The insole topper pad enables a user to easily transition from going barefoot to wearing shoes in a sockless manner, while further retaining a relatively hygienic environment within the shoe. The insole topper pad may be easily inserted in, or removed from, articles of footwear, and conveniently laundered on a daily basis. Further, the worry of unhealthy and embarrassing odors produced from prolonged bacteria build-up within a shoe may be substantially reduced. While eliminating the need for traditional socks, the insole topper pad allows the user to comfortably and sanitarily adapt to fashion and lifestyle trends which have significantly shifted, exposing the bare lower leg and ankle portion of the foot while wearing low rise shoes.

Abstract: A footwear component and a method of making the footwear component are disclosed. The footwear component includes a first portion and a second portion that are joined at a transition zone. The first portion and the second portion have different flexibility characteristics. The footwear component can bend at the transition zone to accommodate the natural bending of a foot.

Abstract: An orthotic is disclosed. The orthotic may include a cushioning layer configured to extend from at least the metatarsal region to the proximal heel region, the cushioning layer having a heel region with a protruding heel piece integrally molded as part of the cushioning layer. The orthotic may also include an outer shell layer fixedly coupled to the cushioning layer, the outer shell layer extending longitudinally from at least the medial cuneiform-first metatarsal joint region to the calcaneus bone region of the user, the outer shell layer configured to receive the protruding heel piece.

Abstract: A footwear exercising device for use by a wearer in improving various aspects of the wearer's physical condition, health and overall appearance. The footwear exercising device of the present invention includes a reverse wedge for wear below the sole of a wearer's foot, and may be worn with a wide variety of fashion. Prolonged use of the device of the present invention has been shown to improve the tone of the muscle groups of a wearer's body which have to do with the wearer's posture. Prolonged use of the instant invention has also been shown to improve the blood circulation in a wearer's legs and to strengthen significantly the muscles supporting a wearer's knees. The design of the device is such that prolonged wear of the invention is neither strenuous nor taxing.

Abstract: A fabric-covered fluid-filled therapeutic foot orthotic with thong-cut device system comprising: a top substrate having fabric covering: a bottom substrate having fabric covering; a high viscosity fluid-filled arch supporting, massaging and comforting-medium; a series of dot welds placed distally of the metatarsal arch; a series of dot welds on a longitudinal arc through the medial arch; a longitudinal swatch weld towards the lateral mid-foot for directional flow and restriction of fluid towards the lateral mid foot; a rearwardly-placed half-moon shaped indentation; a front bladder seal seam; a heel dot weld; and a single forwardly-orientated indented trim line. The design permits the orthotic to be positioned into closed in shoes for transferring further towards the front of the a thong cut sandal to provide a ‘correct fit’ without losing any effectiveness of the arch support or therapeutic value while eliminating all unnecessary trim lines.

Abstract: An article of footwear for increased athleticism utilizing independently articulating toe platforms. The footwear includes a first toe platform and a second toe platform disposed in a toe portion of the footwear that are either physically separated from one another via a cut in the toe portion or a flexible segment extending through the toe portion. A toe post is configured to engage between a first toe of a user's foot and a second toe of the user's foot. The first toe is configured to contact the first toe platform and the second toe is configured to contact the second toe platform. Additional toe platforms and/or toe posts may be utilized. The footwear may include a topsole, a midsole and an outsole. A stiffening agent may be disposed between the midsole and the outsole for resisting bending of the footwear and/or for helping protect the user's foot from external objects.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an insole, in particular for a sports shoe, and shoe comprising an electronic chip. In order to provide a shoe, in particular a sports shoe, with an electronic chip in a more cost efficient way compared to the prior art, wherein the chip can easily be replaced or removed in case of failure or for recycling, the invention provides an insole, in particular for a sports shoe, wherein the insole comprises an electronic chip. The insole may be fitted into any kinds of shoes and may be readily replaced or removed, as is not an inherent part of the shoe.

Abstract: Provided are, among other things, shoe inserts and methods for using them to soften the abrupt change in slope exhibited in the insole of certain shoes. One such shoe insert includes: a bottom surface having a front portion, a rear portion that is angled upwardly relative to the front portion of the bottom surface at a first angle, and a central portion having a maximum mean rate of angular increase where the first angle increases at least 30° over a shortest distance measured from the front portion of the bottom surface to the rear portion of the bottom surface; and a top surface having a front edge and a rear edge, where each position from the front edge of the top surface to the rear edge of the top surface has a second rate of angular increase that is less than ½ the maximum mean rate of angular increase exhibited in the central portion of the bottom surface.

Abstract: Protective padding comprising: a spacer fabric comprising a first fabric layer, a second fabric layer, and a plurality of interconnecting filaments extending between said first fabric layer and said second fabric layer; wherein at least one of said first fabric layer, said second fabric layer and said plurality of interconnecting filaments comprise a shape memory material.

Abstract: A shoe insole comprising: a spacer fabric comprising a bottom layer, a top layer, and a plurality of interconnecting filaments extending between said bottom layer and said top layer; wherein at least one of said bottom layer, said top layer and said plurality of interconnecting filaments comprise a shape memory material.

Abstract: An insole for an article of footwear includes a base that extends generally in the transverse direction, and the base includes a base superior surface and a base inferior surface. Furthermore, the insole includes a dampener that is resiliently flexible to cushion the foot of the wearer. The dampener extends inferiorly from the inferior surface of the base and terminates at a dampener inferior surface. The dampener also is rounded in a cross section taken in the inferior-superior direction. The dampener also includes an opening that extends through the dampener inferior surface and that extends superiorly therefrom.

Abstract: A weighted insole assembly, comprising a top thermoformable material layer, a bottom thermoformable material layer, and a weighted unit encapsulated between the top and bottom thermoformable material layers, the weighted unit including a heavy filler material and having a specific gravity between about 2.0 and about 4.0.

Abstract: A resilient pad for an article of footwear comprises a plurality of pocketed coil springs each of which is located in a discrete pocket formed between two layers of material bonded or otherwise attached together at least at locations between the springs. The springs are preferably coil springs which may be of wire and are preferably of stainless steel or titanium. The springs are preferably wider than they are tall, i.e. they have a diameter which is greater than the height of the spring when the spring is in the pocket. The pad or panel may be substantially co-extensive in plan with a foot of a wearer of the article of footwear.

Abstract: A sole for a shoe, in particular a sports shoe, includes a unidirectional bending element. The unidirectional bending element enables a dorsal bending of the sole (bending of the sole in the direction upward and away from the ground) and blocks a plantar bending of the sole (bending of the sole in the direction downward and towards the ground). The unidirectional bending element may be arranged at a first layer of the sole and may vertically project from the first layer.

Abstract: An orthotic device that includes an active mechanism to modify the curvature of the arch support and a mechanism to tilt the heel while performing varied activities is provided. The system functions by using both a plantar pressure sensor to measure the reaction forces felt on the device by the foot and determine the position in the walking cycle. A fluid sensor is typically used to determine the pressure in each hydraulic chamber to determine if the pressure in each chamber corresponds with the distribution pattern in the plantar pressure sensor. This device hardens the insole at the point before push-off to create a rigid lever that increases the user's transfer of energy to the ground.

Abstract: An insole with individual elastic components has an elastic pad with a ventilative layer adhered to the top surface and a supporting block disposed at the heel region on the bottom surface. The elastic pad has first hollow elastic pillars in the foot-thenar region and second hollow elastic pillars in the foot-arch region, with both pillars extending from the bottom surface and having openings toward the top surface. The elastic pad is formed as a single body. The height of the first hollow elastic pillars and the second hollow elastic pillars is greater than the height of the supporting block so that ventilation and cushioning effects are provided to improve air circulation inside the shoe when the insole is pressed.

Abstract: An orthotic insert assembly for an article of footwear. The orthotic insert assembly includes base, a plurality of flexible layers positioned over the base, and a plurality of adjustors configured to be positionable between a lowered position and a raised position. The orthotic insert assembly may be incorporated into an article of footwear and disposed between an outer sole and an inner sole.

Abstract: A shoe insole includes a soft elastomer formed in a shape of an inner bottom surface of a shoe, wherein the soft elastomer includes a front metatarsal section, a mid foot section and a rear heel section, and wherein the rear heel section has a recessed area, and an inner arch concave surface and an outer arch concave surface are respectively defined in two opposite sides of the recessed area; and a hard elastomer combined with the mid foot section and the rear heel section of the soft elastomer, wherein a rear heel section of the hard elastomer has a through-hole, and a portion of material of the soft elastomer is filled in the through-hole, and an inner arch concave surface and an outer arch concave surface are respectively defined in two opposite outer sides of the rear heel section of the hard elastomer.

Abstract: An insole includes an upper foot contacting substrate and a lower substrate, wherein openings are provided in both the upper foot contacting substrate and the lower substrate. These openings are at least partially kept in alignment with each other to receive a flexible, shock absorbing unit therein. The insole according to the invention provides a good absorbance and at the same time improves the air flow inside the insole. Therefore, the moisture around the wearer's foot can easily escape, thus keeping foot dry.

Abstract: Embodiments provide an insole having a multilayered construction with openings and ribs sized, shaped, and positioned to provide desired areas of stiffness and flexibility. The multi-layered construction may include a chassis defining a support member opening and a support member covering the opening and positioned between the chassis and a cushioning layer. The chassis may define a plurality of apertures in the forefoot portion, which, in a direction from the forefoot end to the heel end, progressively increase in size to a point at which maximum flexibility is desired in the forefoot portion. The bottom of the support member may include protruding ribs that extend generally in a longitudinal direction from the midfoot to the heel, and include a straight middle rib, a medial side rib convex with respect to the middle rib, and a lateral side rib convex with respect to the middle rib.

Abstract: Disclosed is a footwear insole for alleviating arthritis pain of the foot, knee, and/or hip by providing a rigid shell layer for arch support, and a topcloth, an upper cushioning layer, and a lower cushioning layer for cushioning. Further, the rigid shell layer includes a shell aperture, and the lower cushioning layer includes a lower layer aperture, through which a portion of the upper cushioning layer extends for cushioning.

Abstract: A footwear component and a method of making the footwear component are disclosed. The footwear component includes a first portion and a second portion that are joined at a transition zone. The first portion and the second portion have different flexibility characteristics. The footwear component can bend at the transition zone to accommodate the natural bending of a foot.

Abstract: A fluid-filled chamber may include an upper barrier portion, a lower barrier portion, and a tensile member. An upper tensile layer of the tensile member may be secured to the upper barrier portion, and a lower tensile layer of the tensile member may be secured to the lower barrier portion. The upper barrier portion and the lower barrier portion may have first areas and second areas. The first areas may be indentations extending into the chamber, and the second areas may be protrusions extending outward from the chamber. At least a portion of the first areas may be unbonded with the upper barrier portion and the lower barrier portion. Accordingly, one or more properties of the chamber, such as a flexibility, stiffness, rigidity, tensile response, compressibility, or force attenuation property, may be altered.

Abstract: A shoe insole includes a knitted spacer fabric. The knitted fabric comprises a top layer, a bottom layer, and a plurality of spacing threads extending between the top layer and the bottom layer. The spacing threads includes a monofilament yarn having a diameter of between 0.09 mm and 0.12 mm. Optionally the top layer on one of its sides, exposed to the exterior and adapted to contact a shoe wearer's foot, has been given a softer feel by a sanding treatment.

Abstract: To provide a footwear sole insert and footwear that would allow performing the fundamental motion of grasping through regulation and promotion of the formation of a functional fundamental arch line linking the cuneocuboid joint areas at cuboidal bone edges of the foot parts with the second and third MP joint areas thereof to thereby making it possible to basically solve alignment abnormality and functional failure. A sole insert is provided with a raised ridge face brought into contact with the region of the foot part extending from the vicinity of the cuneocuboid joint area at edges of cuboids to the vicinity of the proximal phalanxes at the MP joint area between second metatarsals and third metatarsals so as to elevate the region and hold the same in archlike form.

Abstract: An orthotic foot device for footwear may include a flexible insole chassis adapted to extend substantially between the heel and the toe of the footwear and at least one support component attached at a lower side of the chassis. The chassis may include a cushioned layer composed of conforming resilient material overlying the upper side of the chassis.

Abstract: Methods of making molded articles and the articles formed by the method, particularly viscoelastic gel articles.

Abstract: A protective insole, designed with a chain-linked layer or similarly virtually impenetrable layer, which is preferably placed within a shoe as an additional sole, meant to augment the original sole of a shoe, thereby preventing nails or other sharp objects from penetrating the entirety of the shoe and causing harm to the individual. The central portion of the insole is designed to be flexible, providing for the easy installation and removal of the insole within the shoe. The chain-links are preferably rubberized to provide comfort to the user, and are sized to fit the shoe they are designed to fit within.

Abstract: An odor neutralizing shoe insert includes a flexible top layer formed from a fluid-absorbent material and a flexible bottom layer spaced from the top layer. An intermediate layer impregnated with a plurality of ground coffee particulates may be intercalated between the top and bottom layers respectively. The top layer may include a plurality of apertures formed through its entire cross-section such that the top layer is in fluid communication with the ground coffee particulates. The ground coffee particulates may further be scattered along a major top surface area of the intermediate layer and thereby filter through the top layer such that the ground coffee particulates become exposed above the top layer.

Abstract: An insole especially advantageous for arthritic or diabetic patients comprises three layers and is shaped in a form which provides and arch support and an integral heel receiving area. It is made from a generally foot-shaped bottom layer having a length extending from a heel area to a toe area, a top surface and a bottom surface. The bottom surface of the bottom layer preferably further comprises one to three indentations formed integrally therein. Insert layers are secured to each of said indentations. Preferably, the bottom layer is made from an EVA foam. A middle layer having a first and second side is secured to the top surface of the bottom layer adjacent the middle layer's second side. The middle layer is preferably made of a synthetic rubber layer. The middle layer takes the shape of the bottom layer. A top layer is coextensive with and secured to the first side of the synthetic rubber layer. The top layer composition is selected according to the intended use.

Abstract: A shoe has an insole having a heel in a customary supportive hard rubber-like material about 3 inches thick. The same rubber-like material surrounds the entire sole with a change in thickness beginning at the arch, where it slopes down, leveling out at a thickness of about 1¼ inches. This change in thickness creates a frontal recess, leaving a bead of rubber at the outer edge. This cavity holds a thick cushion of about 1¾ inches of highly viscous gel material held in place by the rubber lip and adhered to the elastic material. This creates a cushion when the foot applies weight. The front of the sole and the back of the heel are equal in height, giving the entire surface equal height planes for balance. The two materials are one rubber like, one gel like and slope toward each other at the arch in identical angles.

Abstract: An insole with the concept of harmonic tai chi consists of an upper pad, a lower pas, and a supporter. The upper pad has an S-shaped vibration absorption block protruding downward on the outer side of the front sole. Corresponding to the vibration absorption block of the upper pad, the lower pad has an S-shaped elastic block on the inner side of the sole. With the harmonic combination of the vibration absorption and elastic blocks, the insole is more suitable to dynamical needs as the user walks. The U-shaped supporter is made of a harder material, fixed on the lower pad and extending from the inner foot arch to the heel, thereby protecting the heel and supporting the inner foot arch.

Abstract: A compound structure of mid-sole and insole is disclosed. A PU outer sole is made into a trough shape in order to reduce the use of PU and thus the weight thereof. The mid-sole and insole are made as a compound of a lightweight material, such as EVA, and disposed inside the trough. The invention thus provides best comfort to the user while the total weight of shoe is effectively reduced.

Abstract: A footbed for use in footwear. The footbed includes a first molded layer having a size and shape adapted to support at least a first portion of a foot of a wearer of the footwear. The first layer has a top surface and a bottom surface opposite the top surface. A second molded layer has a size and shape adapted to support at least a second portion of the foot of the wearer of the footwear. The second layer also has a top surface and a bottom surface opposite the top surface. A foam layer is attached to the top surface of the second molded layer. The foam layer and the second molded layer are positioned over at least a portion of the top surface of the first molded layer.

Abstract: Various embodiments of this invention disclose a dynamically responsive shock attenuation system for apparel intended to protect boney areas of the body where skeletal structures are close to the surface and soft tissue layers are thin, that comprises two or more materials with different, narrowly prescribed physical properties which, when used together, produce a dynamic, continuous, and proportional response over a wide range of impact forces. In various embodiments of the invention, the two materials comprise a first material that exhibits generally Newtonian behavior to impact forces and a second material that exhibits generally non-Newtonian behavior to impact forces.