Abstract: A shoe sole having a tread preferably defining a longitudinally and/or laterally oriented concavity with the lower extremities of the sole embodied in downwardly and outwardly disposed flexible lugs to cushion the foot against impact loads. The tread members are preferably inclined at an obtuse angle to the lower surface of the sole for spreading outwardly upon impact with the ground to dissipate the impact forces outwardly away from the foot and leg of the wearer. Rows of lugs may be spaced inwardly from the sole edges of a lesser vertical dimension than the outermost lugs and serve to supplement cushioning. A web extends between some of the outer lugs to reinforce same against load deflection. Further, the outer lugs may be of non-uniform lateral dimension at the heel portion of the sole.

Abstract: A shoe sole construction which features an outer sole (18) having at least one opening (26) through which a protrusion (30) of a less dense midsole (16) extends. The cutout area (26) of the more dense outsole (18) decreases the overall weight of the sole (12), while the less dense protrusion (30) aids in cushioning the foot to provide greater comfort and support. Other protrusions (32 and 68) may also be provided through other openings in the outsole to further lessen weight and increase the cushioning effect on the foot. Additionally, grooves (42) may be provided on the upper surface (40) of the midsole (16) to increase flexibility of the sole (12) and further aid in cushioning the foot and providing peripheral support were needed. The invention may be applied to athletic shoes (FIGS. 1-9), a woman's high-heeled shoe (FIGS. 10-14), or other footwear.