Abstract: In one embodiment a gaitor interface may be used to connect a gaitor to many different types of footwear. The gaitor interface provides a removable attachment between the gaitor and the shoe. One part of the gaitor interface comprises a track that can be mounted along the exterior of the shoe. The track includes a pair of elongated arms that define an interior flex track. Another part of the gaitor interface comprises a connector for attaching to the track. The connector has a bead portion that can be slid into the flex track. The interlock between the bead portion and the flex track provides a releasably secure connection between the gaitor and the shoe. In another embodiment, a convertible shoe having a removable shoe collar is provided. The removable collar may be reversible and may have different linings or covering for the inner and outer surfaces.

Abstract: The present invention employs chimneys and chimneys structures to move or vent heat and moisture away from the foot and out of the microclimate of the shoe. The chimneys define pathways that utilize convection and other principles to cool and dry the foot. The chimneys and chimney structures can have many different configurations, and can be positioned anywhere desired in the upper. For example, chimneys can be positioned on the sidewalls of the upper, in the tongue, or both. Chimneys and chimney structures can also be used with form-fitting foot coverings such as socks or leggings, or used with other apparel. Specialized footbeds can also be employed with footwear chimneys to evacuate hot, moist air away from the underside of the foot and towards the chimneys.

Abstract: The present invention relates to removable and/or replaceable liners for use in a wide variety of footwear. Liners may be permanently connected to the collar of the shoe, or may be semi-permanently attached for easy removal from the collar. The liners can be quickly removed from the interior of the shoe using any number of disengagement devices. Removing the liner from within the shoe permits rapid drying of the liner when it becomes wet due to moisture generated by the foot within the shoe or from external environmental conditions. Semi-permanently attached liners can be detached for cleaning or for replacement by another liner depending on the needs of the wearer. Disengagement means can be provided in conjunction with the liner, which enable the wearer to easily pull the liner out of the shoe.

Abstract: The present invention provides a wraparound lacing system for use with footwear. The lacing system includes a lace which encircles the housing of the article of footwear in a spiral, helical, coiled or similar wound wraparound pattern. The housing includes finger members which independently adjust to the contours of the wearer's foot while providing a snug and secure fit. The housing of the upper and the midsole includes channels therein which receive the wraparound lace. The lace can be affixed at one or both ends to the midsole or to the upper. Removable lace end keepers on the upper permit the user to adjust the length of the lace. Recessed cavities may be positioned along the lacing channels to promote easy adjustment of the lace. The lace may run along channels formed between fingers and an overlying shell structure. The lace may run through a tube structure within the channels.

Abstract: The present invention provides a wraparound lacing system for use in all manner of footwear. The lacing system includes a lace which encircles the upper and midsole of the article of footwear in a spiral, helical, coiled or similar wound wraparound pattern. The upper includes finger members which independently adjust to the contours of the wearer's foot while providing a snug and secure fit. The upper and midsole are integrally formed as a unitary structure. The housing of the upper and the midsole includes channels therein which receive the wraparound lace. The lace can be affixed at one or both ends to the midsole or to the upper. Removable lace end keepers on the upper permit the user to adjust the length of the lace.

Abstract: A modular shoe separates into components. The components may be interchangeable to provide versatility without requiring a large number of single use shoes. Each shoe component may also be collapsible to provide for convenient packing in a travel bag or other location where space is limited.

Abstract: The present invention provides a wraparound lacing system for use in all manner of footwear. The lacing system includes a lace which encircles the upper and midsole of the article of footwear in a spiral, helical, coiled or similar wound wraparound pattern. The upper includes finger members which independently adjust to the contours of the wearer's foot while providing a snug and secure fit. The upper and midsole are integrally formed as a unitary structure. The housing of the upper and the midsole includes channels therein which receive the wraparound lace. The lace can be affixed at one or both ends to the midsole or to the upper. Removable lace end keepers on the upper permit the user to adjust the length of the lace. Siping and/or elongated, raised ridge members may be positioned along the bottom surface of the outsole for enhanced traction on wet surfaces.

Abstract: The present invention provides a wraparound lacing system for use in all manner of footwear. The lacing system includes a lace which encircles the upper and midsole of the article of footwear in a spiral, helical, coiled or similar wound wraparound pattern. The upper includes finger members which independently adjust to the contours of the wearer's foot while providing a snug and secure fit. The upper and midsole are integrally formed as a unitary structure. The housing of the upper and the midsole includes channels therein which receive the wraparound lace. The lace can be affixed at one or both ends to the midsole or to the upper. Removable lace end keepers on the upper permit the user to adjust the length of the lace.

Abstract: An improved shoe outsole, and a shoe incorporating the outsole, having improved traction are provided. The outsole contains articulated lugs of various shapes extending downward from the base of the outsole and adapted for contacting the ground and enhancing traction.

Abstract: A modular shoe separates into components. The components may be interchangeable to provide versatility without requiring a large number of single use shoes. Each shoe component may also be collapsible to provide for convenient packing in a travel bag or other location where space is limited.

Abstract: An article of footwear having an upper and a sole is disclosed. The sole of the article of footwear includes a midsole having a support portion and a plurality of projections extending from the support portion. The sole of the article of footwear also includes a plate contacting the support portion having a body positioned in an area between the plurality of projections. The plate further includes a plurality of openings which correspond to the plurality of projections and allow the projections to extend below the body of the plate. The plate further includes a plurality of cantilever elements extending on at least one side and on the bottom of each of the plurality of projections. The projections and the corresponding cantilever elements interact with one another to form a plurality of lugs located on the sole of the article of footwear.

Abstract: An article of footwear having an upper, which includes a first foam layer having a first surface and a second surface remote from the first surface, a second foam layer having a first surface and a second surface remote from the first surface, and a middle layer having a first surface and a second surface remote from the first surface. The first surface of the middle layer is affixed to the second surface of the first foam layer, and the second surface of the middle layer is affixed to the first surface of the second foam layer. The upper defines at least a portion of a foot receiving cavity for the article of footwear.

Abstract: The present invention discloses various features and combinations thereof for use with articles of footwear such as boots. The boots are especially adapted for use on construction projects, and provide protection, support and comfort to the wearer. Numerous outsole configurations and styles are provided, which provide superior traction and a low center of gravity for enhanced balance. Different layers of materials provide puncture resistance, abrasion resistance, thermal insulation, waterproofing and other benefits. Protective and/or insulative plates may be utilized in the footwear for puncture protection or thermal insulation, for example. Shovel guards protect the wearer when using a tool, and toe tools permit the wearer to employ the boot as a tool of its own. Structural support cages chimney structures are also utilized for support and comfort.

Abstract: The present invention provides articles of footwear for use by firefighters in different activities such as emergency and rescue situations, as well as daily activity in and around the firehouse. Integrated handles enable the firefighter to quickly and easily put the article of footwear on while minimizing the possibility of accidentally catching on equipment, apparel or debris. Locking bands that wrap around the upper are used to adjust for comfort and a secure fit. A dual lacing and zipper system enables the firefighter to initially adjust for fit by selectively tightening the lace, while the zipper provides a quick means for securing the article of footwear. Different outsole lug configurations are suitable for different surfaces, wet, dry and of varying and extreme temperatures. Added protection is available with a tibia/shin protector and ankle protectors.

Abstract: The present invention provides a floating anatomical protector for use in articles of footwear, and is particularly suited for footwear employing a wraparound lacing system. The floating anatomical protector preferably does not directly contact the superstructure of the article of footwear when worn. Instead, the lacing or other fastening system retains the floating anatomical protector in place over the wearer's foot and/or leg. For instance, the instep region of the foot, the shin, Achilles heel, calf, etc. may be covered by the floating anatomical protector. Multiple segments or separate protectors may be used. The lace may run between different layers of the floating anatomical protector. Also, the floating anatomical protector may directly contact the wearer's skin, or it may be used in conjunction with a bootie, sock or other intermediate material.

Abstract: The present invention provides a wraparound lacing system for use in all manner of footwear. The lacing system includes a lace which encircles the upper and midsole of the article of footwear in a spiral, helical, coiled or similar wound wraparound pattern. The upper includes finger members which independently adjust to the contours of the wearer's foot while providing a snug and secure fit. The upper and midsole are integrally formed as a unitary structure. The housing of the upper and the midsole includes channels therein which receive the wraparound lace. The lace can be affixed at one or both ends to the midsole or to the upper. Removable lace end keepers on the upper permit the user to adjust the length of the lace.

Abstract: The present invention provides a wraparound lacing system for use with footwear. The lacing system includes a lace which encircles the housing of the article of footwear in a spiral, helical, coiled or similar wound wraparound pattern. The housing includes finger members which independently adjust to the contours of the wearer's foot while providing a snug and secure fit. The housing of the upper and the midsole includes channels therein which receive the wraparound lace. The lace can be affixed at one or both ends to the midsole or to the upper. Removable lace end keepers on the upper permit the user to adjust the length of the lace. Recessed cavities may be positioned along the lacing channels to promote easy adjustment of the lace. The lace may run along channels formed between fingers and an overlying shell structure. The lace may run through a tube structure within the channels.