Abstract: The present invention is directed toward an article of footwear including a sole structure and an upper. The upper includes an area of dynamic modulation. Specifically, the footwear upper defines a discrete band whose elasticity and/or dimension is altered in the presence of a specified temperature. In an embodiment, the footwear upper includes a shape memory polymer operable to alter the circumference of the foot cavity and/or alter the expansion properties of the upper 105. By way of example, the discrete band may be positioned within the collar and/or along the instep of the upper.