Abstract: A footwear traction device is provided that is removably attachable to an item of footwear. The footwear traction device comprises a traction portion having one or more traction elements on a bottom thereof, a heel support portion disposed at a rear traction portion, and a forefoot support portion disposed at a forefoot traction portion. A cable extends through cable guides or channels and attaches the traction portion, the heel support portion, and the forefoot support portion together. A cable reel device is rotatably operable to adjust a length of the cable to selectively secure and unsecure the footwear traction device to the item of footwear. Shortening the length of the cable tightens the traction portion, the heel support portion and the forefoot support portion inwardly against the item of footwear, thereby securing the footwear traction device to the footwear.

Abstract: An item of footwear having an interchangeable sole system, midsoles for such an item of footwear, and related methods for making such midsoles, including a receptacle incorporated in the midsole wherein a portion of the receptacle is configured to complement an engageable element of a sole unit so that a bidirectional stop is provided that helps secure the sole unit to the midsole, and wherein a material property of the receptacle differs from a material property of the midsole so that the midsole provides cushioning to the item of footwear, and the receptacle allows for engagement and disengagement of the engageable element of the sole unit to the midsole without the need for an outsole frame.

Abstract: A modular sole assembly system for footwear and components thereof.