Abstract: An insert for use within a relatively soft article of manufacture for lending support to the article from within to keep it in its expanded state includes a main panel dimensioned for substantially conforming juxtaposition with one of the wall of the article when the inserted position within the article, and a pair of auxiliary panels mounted by respective pivoting regions on opposite end zones of the main panel for pivoting between their respective collapsed positions in which they are juxtaposed with the main panel and at least their deployed positions in which they extend substantially normal to the main panel and, when the insert is accommodated in the article, are substantially conformingly juxtaposed with respective associated ones of the walls of the article that adjoin the aforementioned one wall.

Abstract: A foot-shaped inflatable stuffing is inserted into and removed from footwear. The stuffing has a tapered insert and a gas inlet. The inlet allows gas to be admitted into the insert, and also serves as a convenient handle to effect removal of the stuffing.