Abstract: Articles of footwear include one or more expandable lugs (e.g., inflatable lugs) to hold at least some footwear component parts together. The expandable lug(s) may be included as part of an impact force-attenuating component (e.g., a fluid-filled bladder) for the article of footwear. The expandable lug(s) extend into receptacle(s) provided in a foot support component in an unexpanded (e.g., deflated or low-pressure) condition. Once within the receptacle(s), the expandable lug(s) are changed to an expanded (e.g., inflated or high-pressure) condition. The expanded lug(s) engage bearing surfaces provided inside the receptacle(s) to prevent the lugs from pulling out of the receptacles. The use of such expandable lugs for securing footwear component parts together may enable easy assembly of footwear components without use of adhesives and/or separate hardware components, which can enhance the recyclability, sustainability, and environmental friendliness of articles of footwear and their production methods.

Abstract: Articles of footwear in accordance with some aspects of this technology include a simple construction with each component made from a single material and fit together in a releasable manner. The invention enhances the recyclability and sustainable nature of the article of footwear and shoe. At least one specific aspect of this technology relates to footwear structure that may include three main parts: (a) an outer cage, which may include a single piece having features of: (i) a footwear upper and (ii) a sole structure having one or more traction element outer shells; (b) an inner upper component; and (c) a chassis and heel counter component with a bottom surface thereof that includes one or more traction element inserts and supports that fit inside the one or more traction element outer shells.

Abstract: A sole structure for an article of footwear can include a midsole and an outsole. The outsole can include one or more layers, and the one or more layers can be printed material deposited directly onto the midsole. In some instances, the outsole can include a base layer and an outermost layer. The base layer can include a first printed material deposited directly onto the midsole and includes a first width. The outermost layer can include a second printed material deposited onto the base layer and includes a second width, and the second width can less than or greater than the first width.