Abstract: An athletic shoe that in one embodiment includes an arch bridge that is visible from beneath the shoe.

Abstract: A shoe including a heel support integrally formed of a material different from the midsole material of a rear sole for supporting the foot of a user. The heel support includes a wall along at least one of the medial side of the shoe, the lateral side of the shoe and the rear of the shoe that extends vertically at least in part and includes at least one window through which at least a portion of the midsole material of the rear sole is exposed to and visible from outside the shoe.

Abstract: An athletic shoe is provided with a selectively adjustable shock-absorbing element. In one preferred aspect, a plate is provided with a plurality of independently moveable portions in contact with the shock-absorbing element. In another aspect, a plate is provided at an angle relative to a coil spring. A method is provided for adjusting a shock-absorbing spring.

Abstract: A shoe having an open interior, a plate positioned between the bottom of the shoe and a portion of the upper, and at least one opening extending from the bottom of the shoe into the midsole for providing air communication with the interior of the upper. In one embodiment, the opening has a height as measured from the bottom of the shoe along a vertical central axis that is greater than one-half the thickness of the rear sole. In another embodiment, the opening extends through the plate.

Abstract: A heel support for an athletic shoe that in one embodiment includes a recumbent-U shaped member to assist in shock absorption. The member may include a tent-shaped wall with an upper perimeter in contact with a non-ground-engaging member.

Abstract: A heel support for an athletic shoe that in one embodiment includes a recumbent-U shaped member to assist in shock absorption. The member may include a tent-shaped wall with an opening exposing the interior of the member.

Abstract: An athletic shoe that in one embodiment includes an arch bridge that is visible from beneath the shoe.

Abstract: A plate support for supporting a wearer's foot. The heel support includes a flexible central plate joined at its periphery to one or more tubular portions. The heel support provides cushioning without the need for an air-tight enclosure in the rear sole of a shoe.