Abstract: A Reactive Energy Fluid Filled Toroid Apparatus includes concentric fluid filled toroids that are contained in the midsole of a shoe. The toroid apparatus provides cushioning for the foot and dynamically reacts to off-center impacts from footsteps to redistribute impact forces and to stabilize and support the foot by cradling a portion of the foot in the shoe.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a fluid filled apparatus that reacts with the stimulus of outside forces, furnished at the instep area of a shoe upper and the forefoot area of the shoe sole. The apparatus provides cushioning and a custom fit to the shoe in an area surrounding the forward portion of the shoe wearer's foot. In particular, the present invention pertains to a reactive energy apparatus comprised of anatomically shaped fluid filled bladders or pads that are furnished at the instep area of the shoe upper and the forefoot area of the shoe sole. The bladders engage and assume a complimentary custom fitting configuration around the instep and ball of the shoe wearer's foot by displacement of fluid contained in the bladders, and thereby provide cushioning and a custom fit around the shoe wearer's foot.

Abstract: A reactive energy apparatus providing a custom fit and ankle support in a shoe upper is comprised of a pair of fluid filled pads that are positioned in the upper on opposite sides of the Achilles tendon of the wearer. The fluid filled pads each contain one or more interior chambers containing fluid, and the pads are connected in fluid communication by a series of conduits extending between the pads and around the Achilles tendon of the wearer. The conduits are constructed to enable the free flow of fluid between the two pads, enabling the apparatus to provide a continuous custom fit and dynamic support for the wearer's ankle while avoiding exerting any pressure on the Achilles tendon of the wearer that could potentially injure the tendon.

Abstract: A reactive energy fluid filled cushioning and stabilizing apparatus in a shoe is comprised of one or more anatomically shaped fluid filled bladders that are positioned in the forefoot, arch and/or heel areas of the shoe. The bladders assume a complementary custom fitting configuration to the contours of a foot inserted in the shoe. In variant embodiments of the apparatus, the fluid filled bladders are positioned separate from each other in the forefoot, arch and heel areas of the shoe and are interconnected in fluid communication by fluid conducting channels, or the bladders are positioned independent of each other in the forefoot, arch and heel areas of the shoe.

Abstract: A shoe includes a removable structure, having lateral and medial sheet springs. Each spring has a Y shape and is removably attached, with a rotary-keyed fastener, to the side of the shoe below the ankle. The springs are fastened under tension to each other around the ankle so as to inhibit displacement of the ankle.