Abstract: An athletic shoe having an upper portion (15) fixed to a lower portion (16) comprising a midsole (21) and an attached wear surface (22). To provide both cushioning and stability to the foot the midsole includes slots or channels (25, 27) extending at an angle other than normal to the wear surface so as to provide a cushioning effect when forces are exerted through the shoe in one direction, as during the heel contact phase of running, and forming therebetween crossbeams 23 to provide stability and force transfer from the foot to the ground as required during the push-off phase of running.

Abstract: An orthotic stabilizer for an athletic shoe comprising a semirigid body formed to fit around and under the wearer's heel above the midsole forming a concave pocket for receiving the heel and extending from the heel along approximately two-thirds of the length of the foot. Immediately beneath the calcaneous region is an opening in the stabilizer approximately the size of the calcaneous lower extremity filled with a padding material. The stabilizer serves to cushion the calcaneous during running and expedite subtalar joint stabilization to allow the foot to accommodate to the running surface as heel contact is made.

Abstract: An athletic shoe particularly adapted for use in racing and training, having a tilted cleat configuration on the sole for contacting the running surface in a manner to provide good traction while effectively cushioning the foot and leg of the wearer when the foot strikes the ground.

Abstract: A shoe for sprinters, middle distance and distance runners incorporating sharp spikes or like traction devices under the toe portion and raised cushion cleats under the heel portion for maintaining the heel in an elevated position for a good running posture and to provide cushioning as well as traction during heel contact. Also, the elevated heel portion reduces excess strain on the Achilles' tendon of the middle distance and long distance runners.

Abstract: An athletic shoe particularly adapted to support the foot while the wearer is running, and having a particular cleat configuration on the sole for contacting the ground or running surface in a manner to both cushion the foot and leg of the wearer and provide improved traction as the heel strikes the surface.