GOLF SHOES WITH LACE TIGHTENING SYSTEM FOR CLOSURE AND COMFORTABLE FIT
The present disclosure provides various examples of golf shoes comprising an upper, a sole assembly connected to the upper, one or more straps extending across the upper, an internal support positioned under an outermost surface of the upper, and a lace assembly extending between the medial side and the lateral side of the upper. The lace assembly may be configured to simultaneously (i) draw the medial and lateral sides of the upper towards a top center region of the golf shoe and (ii) secure the internal support along or around a foot of a subject wearing the golf shoe.
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This application is a Continuation-in-Part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/365,077 filed on Jul. 1, 2021, which is a Continuation-in-Part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/355,390 filed on Jun. 23, 2021, which claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/051,070 filed on Jul. 13, 2020, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes.
BACKGROUND Field of the InventionThe present invention relates generally to shoes and more particularly to golf shoes having a lace tightening system. The upper of the shoe includes various lace guides that are separated by gaps. The lace is threaded through these guides and the lace can be tightened or loosened by a rotary dial mounted on the shoe. The lace tightening system can be used to close the instep region around the foot to secure the shoe and provide a comfortable fit. The midsole provides cushioning to the shoe. The outsole preferably contains multiple traction members to provide good stability and ground contact.
Brief Review of the Related ArtBoth professional and amateur golfers use specially designed golf shoes today. Typically, the golf shoe includes an upper portion and outsole portion along with a mid-sole connecting the upper to the outsole. The upper has a traditional shape for inserting a user's foot and thus covers and protects the foot in the shoe. The upper is designed to provide a comfortable fit around the contour of the foot. The mid-sole is relatively lightweight and provides cushioning to the shoe. The outsole is designed to provide stability and traction for the golfer. The bottom surface of the outsole may include spikes or cleats designed to engage the ground surface through contact with and penetration of the ground. These elements help provide the golfer with better foot stability and traction as he/she walks and plays the course.
Golf shoe manufacturers have developed shoes with an upper containing an instep region with a typical lace-tying system. The laces are used to control the size of the opening of the throat opening in the instep region for inserting the foot. In such conventional shoes, the laces are threaded through a series of eyelets on opposing sides of the shoe upper. The laces are threaded through the eyelets in a zig-zag pattern overlying the tongue of the shoe. When the golfer inserts his/her foot into the instep and pulls on the lace to “tie the shoe”, the eyelets are pulled together and instep region is closed.
In recent years, athletic shoe manufacturers have developed lace tightening systems that do not use conventional laces as described in the patent literature. For example, Hieblinger, U.S. Pat. No. 5,511,325 discloses an athletic shoe having a central rotary closure arranged on the heel of the upper and at least one tightening element which has a tightening section running from the central rotary closure towards each side of the shoe. The tightening sections are coupled by a coupling element with at least one strap which runs from each tightening section or coupling element over the instep or/and by the arch to the other tightening section or coupling element.
Krueger, U.S. Pat. No. 9,375,052 discloses a sport shoe having a sole connected with an upper shoe part that has two adjacent arranged tensioning sections in its instep region which are separated by a gap. A lacing system is arranged so the shoe can be laced at the foot of the wearer by pulling the tensioning sections against another. The lacing system includes a rotary central closure system mounted on the tongue of the shoe. According to the Krueger '052 patent, running shoes can be made with this lacing system. For golf applications, the Krueger '052 patent, discloses that the right and the left shoe can be designed differently with respect to the run of the tensioning elements.
Baker et al., U.S. Pat. No. 9,462,851 discloses a shoe having a cable disposed between an upper and a sole plate. The upper includes a flexible main body and an exoskeleton covering a portion of the flexible main body in an instep region. The cable is attached to the exoskeleton so that the exoskeleton is tightened to a wearer's foot when the cable tension is increased. According to the Baker '851 patent, the cable tensioning system is particularly suitable for turf shoes such as soccer and football cleats. The Baker '851 patent also discloses running shoes, tennis shoes, cross-training shoes, walking shoes, and hiking boots.
Rushbrook, U.S. Pat. No. 9,491,983 discloses a shoe having a sole structure with a gap extending longitudinally through the sole structure. A tensioning member extends through the sole structure and across the gap such that tensioning the tensioning member contracts the gap and pulls opposing sides of the sole structure together. As the sole structure contracts, the upper is pulled down on the foot, thereby tightening the upper around the foot. The Rushbrook '983 patent discloses suitable footwear as including hiking boots, soccer shoes, football shoes, sneakers, running shoes, cross-training shoes, rugby shoes, basketball shoes, and baseball shoes.
There is still a need for an improved golf shoe having a lace tightening system that can be used to close the instep region around the contour of the foot and provide a comfortable fit. The lace tightening system should be able to secure the foot in the shoe, while also providing a comfortable and smooth fit. Also, the lace tightening system should be comfortable for all golfers. Some golfers prefer a tight and snug fit with their shoes. These golfers want a shoe that very closely fits the contour of their foot. Other golfers prefer a looser fit so the foot can move more easily in the shoe. In both instances, the golfer wants a stable shoe that also has a comfortable and smooth fit. The shoe should hold and support the medial and lateral sides and heel region of the golfer's foot as they shift their weight while making a golf shot. The shoe should provide good stability so there is no slipping and the golfer can stay balanced as he/she swings the club.
Also, one drawback with some conventional golf shoes is these shoes may help provide the golfer with good stability and traction, but there is a loss in shoe flexibility. Some traditional golf shoes are relatively stiff—they provide a rigid platform, but they do not provide the needed flexibility for golfers. As discussed further below, when a golfer swings a club and transfers his/her weight on their feet, there are high forces placed on the foot. The shoe needs to provide a stable platform for the golfer when he/she maker their swing, but the foot also needs to be able to flex to a certain degree. The golfer needs their foot to feel comfortable in the shoe.
The shoes of this invention have a distinctive upper construction with a lace tightening system that helps to hold and support the golfer's foot in the shoe. The shoes have a closure system that securely keeps the foot in the shoe and helps provide the golfer with a stable platform. At the same time, the closure system provides the golfer with a comfortable fit. The shoe is easy and natural to wear. The shoes provide high structural support and traction for the golfer, and yet they also are easy and natural to wear. The shoes allow the foot to flex and move as needed. The shoes provide stability and power without sacrificing comfort, flexibility, and other golf-performance properties.
SUMMARYThe present invention provides golf shoes having different lace tightening systems. The golf shoe comprises an upper, an outsole, and a midsole connected to the upper and outsole, wherein the upper, midsole, and outsole each have forefoot, mid-foot, and rear-foot regions and lateral and medial sides. The shoe further comprises a lace tightening system, wherein the tightening system comprises a lace and lace tightening assembly. In one embodiment, the upper further comprises an instep region for allowing a foot to be inserted into the upper, the instep region having a tongue member; a power shroud overlying the tongue member; and a lower chip extending upwardly along the lateral side of the upper. There is also a first upper lace guide; a second upper lace guide; a first lower lace guide; and a second lower lace guide. The first and second upper lace guides are attached to the power shroud and the first and second lower lace guides are attached to the lower chip. The upper further includes a lateral lace channel extending from the rear-foot region along the lateral side of the upper for receiving the lace. The lace passes outwardly from the channel, preferably through an eyelet guide, and through the lace guides such that the lace forms a loop between the power shroud and lower chip. Thus, when the lace is tightened, the power shroud is pulled towards the lower chip and the shoe is tightened around the foot.
In one pathway, the lace can pass from the lateral lace channel to the first upper lace guide and then downwardly to the second lower lace guide; and then upwardly to the second upper lace guide and then downwardly to the first lower lace guide. Then, the lace can pass from the first lower lace guide to a termination plate attached to the power shroud. In one example, the lace crosses over itself in two criss-crossing zones as it passes from the lace channel to the termination plate.
In one example, the lace tightening assembly comprises a rotary dial that is pushed inwardly to engage the assembly; rotated in a clockwise direction to tighten the lace, and rotated in a counter-clockwise direction to loosen the lace. The lace tightening assembly can further comprise a spool for winding and unwinding the lace and a locking mechanism for locking the lace in place. In one example, the dial can be pulled outwardly to release the locking mechanism. The lace tightening assembly can be mounted on the rear-foot (heel) region or in other regions of the upper. The lace is preferably made of a metal or fiber material. Also, the lace guides can be made of a fiber material and attached to the power shroud and lower chip by stitching or other suitable fastening means. The upper and lower lace guides are substantially parallel to each other oriented at angles so that when the lace is tightened, an angled downward force is applied to the power shroud.
In another embodiment, the upper comprises an instep region for allowing a foot to be inserted into the upper, the instep region having a tongue member; a power shroud overlying the tongue member; and a lower chip extending upwardly along the lateral side of the upper. The upper further comprises a first upper lace guide; a second upper lace guide; a third upper lace guide; a first lower lace guide; and a second lower lace guide. The first and second upper lace guides are attached to a side edge of the power shroud and the third upper lace guide is attached to an upper edge of the power shroud. The first and second lower lace guides are attached to the lower chip.
The lateral lace channel extends from the rear-foot region along the lateral side of the upper and a medial lace channel extends from the rear-foot region along the medial side of the upper. The channels are adapted for receiving the lace, wherein the lace passes outwardly from the lateral channel and through the upper and lower lace guides and through the third upper lace guide and into the medial channel. Thus, the lace forms a continuous loop so that the lace extends along the lateral and medial sides and around the heel region of the upper. When the lace is tightened, the power shroud is pulled towards the lower chip and the shoe is tightened around the foot. In one pathway, the lace passes from the lateral lace channel to the first upper lace guide and then downwardly to the second lower lace guide; and then upwardly to the second upper lace guide and then downwardly to the first lower lace guide and then upwardly to the third upper lace guide and then into the medial lace channel. In one example, the lace crosses over itself in two criss-crossing zones.
In yet another embodiment, the upper comprises an instep region for allowing a foot to be inserted into the upper, the instep region having a tongue member; a power shroud overlying the tongue member; and a lower chip extending upwardly along the lateral side of the upper. Three also is a first upper lace guide; a second upper lace guide; a third upper lace guide; a first lower lace guide; and a second lower lace guide. The first and second upper lace guides are attached to a side edge of the power shroud and the third upper lace guide is attached to an upper edge of the power shroud. The first and second lower lace guides are attached to the lower chip.
The upper further comprises a lateral lace channel extending from the rear-foot region along the lateral side of the upper and a medial lace channel extending from the rear-foot region along the medial side of the upper. The channels are adapted for receiving the lace, wherein the lace passes outwardly from the lateral channel and through the upper and lower lace guides and through the third upper lace guide and into the medial channel. The lace thus forms a continuous loop so that the lace extends along the lateral and medial sides and around the heel region of the upper. When the lace is tightened, the power shroud is pulled towards the lower chip and the shoe is tightened around the foot.
In one example, there is a skeletal frame overlying the upper, the frame comprising a plurality of rib members extending upwardly from the midsole, and wherein the ribs are joined together to define an aperture and forming an A-Frame shaped structure. skeletal frame extends over the lateral and medial sides of the upper to form A-Frame shaped structures on the lateral and medial sides of the upper. The skeletal frame is preferably made of a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material.
In still another embodiment, the shoe includes a first lace tightening system, the first lace tightening system comprising a first lace and first lace tightening assembly; and a second lace tightening system, the second lace tightening system comprising a second lace and second lace tightening assembly. The upper comprises an instep region for allowing a foot to be inserted into the upper, the instep region having a tongue member; a first power shroud extending from the medial side of the upper and overlying the tongue member; and a second power shroud extending from the lateral side of the upper and overlying the tongue member. There is also a first upper lace guide; a second upper lace guide; and a first lower lace guide. The first upper lace guide is attached to the first power shroud and the second upper lace guide is attached to the second power shroud, and the first lower lace guide being attached to the medial side of the upper.
The first lace extends from the first lace tightening system and passes through the first upper lace guide so that when the first lace is tightened, the first power shroud is pulled towards the lateral side of the upper. Meanwhile, the second lace extends from the second lace tightening system and passes through the second upper lace guide and through the first lower lace guide so that when the lace is tightened, the second power shroud is pulled towards the medial side of the upper. In this way, the shoe is tightened around the foot.
In one example, the first lace tightening assembly is mounted on the lateral side of the upper and the second lace tightening assembly is mounted on the rear-foot (heel) region of the upper. Both lace tightening assemblies can comprise rotary dials, and these dials can be pushed inwardly to engage the tightening assemblies. The dials can be rotated in a clockwise direction to tighten the first and second laces, and rotated in a counter-clockwise direction to loosen the first and second laces. The tightening assemblies can comprise spools for winding and unwinding the laces and locking mechanisms for locking the first and second laces in place. In one example, the dials can be pulled outwardly to release the locking mechanisms. In one example, the upper further comprises a lace channel extending from the rear-foot region along the lateral side of the upper for receiving the second lace, the second lace passing outwardly from the channel and passing through the second upper lace guide attached to the second power shroud.
In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a golf shoe comprising an upper comprising a medial side and a lateral side; an outsole; a midsole connected to the upper and the outsole; one or more straps extending across the upper; an internal support positioned under an outermost surface of the upper; a lace assembly comprising (i) a first lace portion comprising a lace segment and (ii) a second lace portion comprising a lace loop; and a plurality of adjustment mechanisms for engaging the one or more straps and the internal support via the lace assembly. In some embodiments, the plurality of adjustment mechanisms comprises (i) a first adjustment mechanism positioned in a heel region of the golf shoe and (ii) a second adjustment mechanism positioned on the lateral side of the upper. In some embodiments, the first adjustment mechanism is configured to simultaneously (i) draw the medial and lateral sides of the upper towards a top center region of the golf shoe and (ii) engage the internal support via the first lace portion to secure the internal support along or around a foot of a subject wearing the golf shoe. In some embodiments, the second adjustment mechanism is configured to engage the one or more straps via the second lace portion. In some embodiments, the second adjustment mechanism may be configured to engage both the first strap and the second strap via at least the second lace portion.
In some embodiments, the second adjustment mechanism is configured to independently engage the first strap without engaging the second strap. In some embodiments, the second adjustment mechanism is configured to independently engage the second strap without engaging the first strap.
In some embodiments, the golf shoe may comprise a third adjustment mechanism disposed on a lateral side of the upper. In some embodiments, the third adjustment mechanism may be configured to independently engage the second strap without engaging the first strap. In some embodiments, the third adjustment mechanism may be configured to independently engage the first strap without engaging the second strap.
In some embodiments, a lower portion of the internal support is sleeved within the upper. In some embodiments, an upper portion of the internal support extends outside of the upper. In some embodiments, the upper portion of the internal support is configured to extend into or across a throat region, a vamp region, or an instep region of the golf shoe.
In some embodiments, the lace segment comprises a fixed end configured as a termination point for the lace segment. In some embodiments, the fixed end is positioned on a first side of a throat region, a vamp region, or an instep region of the golf shoe.
In some embodiments, the golf shoe comprises at least one lace guide disposed on (i) the first side of the throat region, the vamp region, or the instep region or (ii) on a second side of the throat region, the vamp region, or the instep region that is opposite the first side. In some embodiments, the internal support comprises a distal end with an integrated lace guide for receiving the lace segment. In some embodiments, the lace segment of the first lace portion is configured to extend from the termination point and through the at least one lace guide and the integrated lace guide to the first adjustment mechanism.
In some embodiments, the one or more straps comprise a distal end with an integrated lace guide for receiving the second lace portion. In some embodiments, the second lace portion is configured to extend between the distal end of the one or more straps and the second adjustment mechanism. In some embodiments, the lace loop of the second lace portion is offset from the top center region of the golf shoe.
In some embodiments, the one or more straps comprise a single strap that is securable around a foot of a subject wearing the golf shoe. In some embodiments, the single strap is configured to extend across and over the internal support or a portion thereof.
In some embodiments, the one or more straps comprise a plurality of straps that are securable around a foot of a subject wearing the golf shoe. In some embodiments, the plurality of straps comprises a first strap and a second strap configured to extend across and over the internal support. In some cases, the first strap and the second strap are configured to overlap on a medial side of the upper. In some cases, the first strap and the second strap do not overlap on the lateral side of the upper. In some cases, the first strap and the second strap are spaced apart along the lateral side of the upper to expose or reveal a portion of the internal support. In some cases, the first strap and/or the second strap may be configured to extend across or cover at least the first lace portion.
In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a golf shoe comprising an upper with a medial side and a lateral side, a sole assembly connected to the upper, one or more straps extending across the upper, an internal support positioned under an outermost surface of the upper, and a lace assembly extending between the medial side and the lateral side of the upper. In some embodiments, the lace assembly may be configured to simultaneously (i) draw the medial and lateral sides of the upper towards a top center region of the golf shoe and (ii) secure the internal support along or around a foot of a subject wearing the golf shoe.
In some embodiments, the internal support is automatically secured around the subject's foot when the medial and lateral sides of the upper are drawn towards the top center region of the golf shoe. In some embodiments, the internal support is automatically released from around the subject's foot when a tension drawing the medial and lateral sides of the upper together is released so that the medial and lateral sides can be drawn apart and separated. In some embodiments, the medial side of the upper, the lateral side of the upper, and the internal support may be independently securable or releasable from around the subject's foot without engaging the one or more straps.
In some embodiments, a lower portion of the internal support is sleeved within the upper, and an upper portion of the internal support extends outside of the upper. In some embodiments, the upper portion of the internal support is configured to extend into or across a throat region of the golf shoe. In some embodiments, the upper portion of the internal support is extendable across different regions or sections of the throat region.
In some embodiments, the one or more straps comprise a single strap that is securable around a foot of a subject wearing the golf shoe. In some embodiments, the single strap is configured to extend across and over the internal support or a portion thereof. In some embodiments, the single strap is positionally offset from the internal support so that the single strap does not overlap any portion of the internal support.
In some embodiments, the one or more straps comprise a plurality of straps that are securable around a foot of a subject wearing the golf shoe. In some embodiments, the plurality of straps comprises a first strap and a second strap configured to extend across and over the upper. In some embodiments, the first strap and the second strap are independently securable around different portions or regions of the subject's foot. In some embodiments, the first strap and the second strap are concurrently or simultaneously securable around different portions or regions of the subject's foot. In some embodiments, the internal support is independently securable around the subject's foot without engaging the first strap or the second strap.
In some embodiments, the first strap and the second strap are configured to overlap on a medial side of the upper. In other embodiments, the first strap and the second strap may not or need not overlap on the lateral side of the upper. In some embodiments, the first strap and the second strap are spaced apart along the lateral side of the upper to expose or reveal a portion of the internal support.
In some embodiments, the first strap or the second strap may comprise a rigid and stiff layer or support structure integrated with or embedded in the first strap or the second strap. In some embodiments, the rigid and stiff layer or support structure may comprise a comprises a composite plate or a carbon fiber plate.
The novel features that are characteristic of the present invention are set forth in the appended claims. However, the preferred embodiments of the invention, together with further objects and attendant advantages, are best understood by reference to the following detailed description in connection with the accompanying drawings in which:
Referring to the Figures, where like reference numerals are used to designate like elements, and particularly
Construction
The upper (12) has a traditional shape and is made from a standard upper material such as, for example, natural leather, synthetic leather, knits, non-woven materials, natural fabrics, and synthetic fabrics. For example, breathable, mesh, and synthetic textile fabrics made from nylons, polyesters, polyolefins, polyurethanes, rubbers, foams, and combinations thereof can be used. The material used to construct the upper is selected based on desired properties such as breathability, durability, flexibility, and comfort. In one preferred example, the upper (12) is made of a mesh material. The upper material is stitched or bonded together to form an upper structure. Referring to
The midsole (14) is relatively lightweight and provides cushioning to the shoe. The midsole (14) can be made from a standard midsole material such as, for example, foamed ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA) or polyurethane. In one manufacturing process, the midsole (14) is molded on and about the outsole. Alternatively, the midsole (14) can be molded as a separate piece and then joined to the top surface (not shown) of the outsole (16) by stitching, adhesives, or other suitable fastening means using standard techniques known in the art. For example, the midsole (14) can be heat-pressed and bonded to the top surface of the outsole (16). It should be understood that the above-described midsole (14) shown in
In general, the outsole (16) is designed to provide stability and traction for the shoe. Referring to
The bottom surface of the outsole (16) is configured to contact the ground during golf play. The golf shoe preferably includes traction projections of various shapes that protrude from the bottom surface of the outsole. The traction projections or members (32) can be of various shapes and sizes. The traction members (32) may be of any suitable shape including, but not limited to, rectangular, triangular, square, spherical, star, diamond, pyramid, arrow, rod, or conical-shapes. Also, the height and area of the traction members (32) may be the same or different. The traction members (32) are designed to engage the ground surface and provide an increased area of contact with the ground. This helps provide the golfer with better foot traction on the turf as he/she walks the course and plays the round. It should be understood that the above-described outsole (16) shown in
As further shown in
Basically, the anatomy of the foot can be divided into three bony regions. The rear-foot region generally includes the ankle (talus) and heel (calcaneus) bones. The mid-foot region includes the cuboid, cuneiform, and navicular bones that form the longitudinal arch of the foot. The forefoot region includes the metatarsals and the toes. The outsole (16) includes a metatarsal (forefoot) portion (21) positioned generally under a wearer's metatarsal bones, an arch (mid-foot) portion (23) positioned generally under a wearer's foot arch, and a calcaneus (rear-foot) portion (25) positioned generally under a wearer's calcaneus bone. The outsole (16) has a top (upper) surface (not shown) and bottom (lower) surface (27). The midsole (14) is joined to the top surface of the outsole (16).
Upper
Referring back to
The upper (12) further includes a lateral lace channel (52) extending along the lateral side of the upper. The lace (30) is disposed in the channel (52) so that it extends from the lace tightening assembly (60) in the heel region (17) to the instep region (18). The lace (30) can be made of any material known in the art, such as, for example, metals, fibers, and the like. For example, the lace (30) can be made of a yarn, cord, rope, string, fibers, filaments, strands, fabrics, webbing or other textile material. Polyamides (nylons), aramids such as Kevlar™ fibers, polyesters, polyurethanes, polypropylenes, polyethylenes, and the like can be used to make the lace (30). In other embodiments, the lace (30) can be made from metal, glass, carbon fiber, carbon fiber composites, or a metal material such as a metal wire or cable and the like. Stainless steel laces (30) can be used. Preferably, the lace (30) is made of an abrasion-resistant, durable material. Combinations of materials also can be used. For example, the lace (30) can be made of stainless steel, nylons, polyesters, polyurethanes, polypropylenes, and/or polyethylenes. Other materials that can be used to make the lace (30) include Dyneema™ composite fabric which is a laminated fabric constructed from ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fiber. In some cases, monofilaments, fibers, and/or films can be used to form the laces (30).
The lace (30) extends through the eyelet guide (54) and to the heel region (17), where the lace tightening assembly (60) is preferably mounted. As the lace (30) is tightened, the power shroud (24) is pulled downwardly so that it at least partially covers the instep region (18). Preferably, as the power shroud (24) is tightened, it covers the entire instep region (18). In this way, the shoe (10) is fitted securely and comfortably around the foot. The tightening of the lace (30) as it is pulled through the lace guides and the forces applied to the power shroud (24) and shoe (10) are described further below.
Lace Guides
As shown in
After the lace (30) exits the first upper lace guide (44) at the exit point, it passes downwardly and enters the second lower lace guide (50) at an entrance point. The lace travels through the second lower lace guide (50) and then exits the lace guide (50) at an exit point. After exiting the second lower lace guide (50), the lace is threaded upwardly to the second upper lace guide (46), where it enters the guide (46) at an entrance point. Then, the lace (30) travels through the second upper lace guide (46) and exits the lace guide (46) at an exit point. The lace (30) then passes downwardly and crosses over itself for a first time as it enters the first lower lace guide (48) at an entrance point. As shown in
The criss-crossing lace (30) slidably engages the upper and lower lace guides and criss-crosses the gap (57) located between the power shroud (24) and lower chip (40), thereby bringing and holding the power shroud (24) in place. As the lace (30) is tightened via the lace tightening assembly (60), the power shroud (24) is pulled in a downward direction as represented by Arrow A. An angled force is exerted on the power shroud (24) to pull the shroud (24) downwardly in the direction of Arrow A. The lace guides have low friction and this ensures that the lace (30) can be pulled through the guides smoothly and tightly. The length between the entrance and exit points of the lace guides and pathway of the lace (30) is discussed further below.
In different embodiments, the length of the power shroud (24) may vary. For example, in some embodiments, the length (L1) of the power shroud (24) may be in the range of about 0.5 to about 2.5 inches. In one example, the length (L1) of the power shroud is about 1.25 inches. In general, the power shroud (24) typically covers about 10% to about 80% of the surface area of the shoe upper (12).
The width of the power shroud (24) also may vary. For example, in some embodiments, the width (W1) of the power shroud (24) may be in the range of about 0.50 to about 2.50 inches. In one example, the width (W1) of the power shroud is about 1.75 inches. The width of the power shroud (24) should be greater than the width of the tongue member of the instep region (18). In this way, the power shroud (24) extends transversely over the tongue member (22).
The angled forces being applied to the power shroud (24) also will depend upon the length and position of the lace guides. In
The angled forces being applied to the power shroud (24) also will depend upon the gaps between the lace guides. As discussed above, after the lace (30) exits the first upper lace guide (44) at the exit point, it enters the second lower lace guide (50) and then exits the second lower lace guide. The gap (Ga1) between the first upper lace guide (44) and second lower lace guide (50) is generally in the range of about 0.100 to about 2.000 inches and preferably in the range of about 0.125 to about 1.750 inches.
After exiting the second lower lace guide (50), the lace (30) enters the second upper lace guide (46). The gap (Ga2) between the second lower lace guide (50) and second upper lace guide (46) is generally in the range of about 0.100 to about 2.000 inches and preferably in the range of about 0.125 to about 1.750 inches. The lace (30) then crosses over itself and enters the first lower lace guide (48) at an entrance point. The gap (Ga3) between the second upper lace guide (46) and first lower lace guide (48) may be about 0.100 to about 2.000 inches and preferably in the range of about 0.125 to about 1.750 inches. The lace (30) then exits the first lower lace guide (48); crosses over itself for a second time; and ends at a termination plate (56) attached to the power shroud (24). The gap (Ga4) between the first lower lace guide (48) and termination plate (56) may be about 0.100 to about 2.000 inches and preferably in the range of about 0.125 to about 1.750 inches.
Channel
Referring back to
Lace Tightening System
Any suitable lace tightening assembly (60) can be used in accordance with the present invention. Examples of suitable lace tightening systems include, but are not limited to, systems available from Boa Technology, Inc. (Denver, CO 80216); FITGO Technology Co., Ltd., Technology Part GuShu Industrial BaoAn, District ShenZhen, China; ATOP Lacing Systems, Yu Chen Plastic Ent. Co. Ltd., Taichung, Taiwan; and QUICKFIT Lacing Systems, Click Medical (Steamboat Springs, CO 80487). Other lace tightening systems also may be used in accordance with the present invention. Spool (reel) systems are described in the patent literature and such systems can be used in accordance with this invention. For example, such spool tightening systems are disclosed in Hammerslag, U.S. Pat. No. 7,591,050, and Hammerslag, U.S. Pat. No. 6,289,558, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference. The lace tightening assembly (60) can be disposed anywhere in the heel region, preferably it is mounted on the shoe upper (12) in the center of the heel region as shown in
The lace (30) is fed into the lace tightening assembly (60) and wound around the spool. The spool is rotatably mounted to the shoe upper (12) so that turning the rotary dial (62) in a first direction will wind more of the lace segment around the spool. This decreases the effective length of the lace (30). Turning the rotary dial (62) in a second direction will unwind the lace segment from the spool, thereby increasing the effective length of the lace (30). In some embodiments, the first direction will be clockwise, and the second direction will be counter-clockwise. In other embodiments, the first direction will be counter-clockwise, and the second direction will be clockwise.
Turning the dial (62) reduces the length of the lace (30) by winding the lace around the spool as described above. Tightening the lace (30) pulls on the power shroud (24), because the lace is threaded through the eye guide (54) and lace guides (44, 46, 48, and 50) attached to the power shroud (24) and lower chip (40). This tightening of the lace (30) cinches the power shroud (24) downwardly, in the direction of the Arrow A, and towards the outsole (16).
To loosen the lace (30), a person's hand pulls-up on the dial (62), and this motion causes the lace to unwind. Pulling-up on the dial provides a way for quickly releasing the lace tightening system. The effective length of the lace (30) is lengthened and slack returns to the lace. This slackened lace (30) allows the power shroud (24) and shoe upper (12) to loosen-up so the foot may be more easily pulled out.
Suitable lace tightening assemblies (60) are available from a number of suppliers including, but not limited to, Boa Technology, Inc. As shown in
Outsole
Turning to
The regions, sides, and areas of the outsole as described above are not intended to demarcate precise areas of the outsole. Rather, these regions, sides, and areas are intended to represent general areas of the outsole. The upper (12) and midsole (14) also have such regions, sides, and areas. Each region, side, and area also may include anterior and posterior sections.
As further shown in
Preferably, the outsole (16) has a plurality of flex channels (36) and each flex channel extends in a generally transverse direction from a lateral edge (66) or a medial edge (68) to an interior region (75) of the outsole. The flex channels (36) are substantially linear with a relatively wide end and a relatively narrow opposite end. That is, the channels (36) are generally tapered and have a spire-like shape. A hard, base material surrounds the flex channels (36). As discussed above, the outsole (16) preferably includes a plurality of receptacles for attaching and removing a plurality of spikes (34). As shown in
The hard, base material (80) provides stiffness for support and stability while the flex channels (36) allow the outsole (16) to bend when a golfer walks or swings. At least one flex channel (36) may extend from a lateral edge to a point in the interior region of the outsole that is adjacent to the receptacle. At least one flex channel (36) may extend from a medial edge to a point in the interior region of the outsole that is adjacent to the receptacle.
As discussed above, the metatarsal (21), arch (23), and calcaneus regions (25) include flex channels (36), which are voids in the outsole (16), extending across the outsole (16). Each spire-shaped flex channel (36) extends in a transverse direction from an exterior edge of the outsole to an interior region (75) of the outsole (16). The spire-shaped flex channels (36) are substantially parallel to each other. The pointed end of the spire-shaped flex channel (36), where it terminates in the interior region, is adjacent to a receptacle (35).
The flex channels (36) allow the outsole (16) to flex and bend when a golfer walks or swings the club. The flex channels (36) generally run along the interior region (75) between the medial edge (68) and lateral edge (66) of the outsole (16). In the embodiment shown in
Still referring to
It should be understood that the above-described outsole (16) shown in
Forces Applied to the Foot
During normal golf play, a golfer makes shots with a wide variety of clubs. As the golfer swings a club when making a shot and transfers their weight, the foot absorbs tremendous forces. In many cases, when a right-handed golfer is addressing the ball, their right and left feet are in a neutral position. As the golfer makes their backswing, the right foot presses down on the medial forefoot and heel regions, and, as the right knee remains tucked in, the right foot creates torque with the ground to resist external foot rotation. Following through on a shot, the golfer's left shoe rolls from the medial side (inside) of their left foot toward the lateral side (outside) of the left foot. Meanwhile, their right shoe simultaneously flexes to the forefoot and internally rotates as the heel lifts.
As discussed above, significant pressure is applied to the foot at various stages in the golf shot cycle. In the present invention, the lace tightening system helps provide support and stability to the sides of the foot and to the heel region. As shown in
The lace tightening system (60) of this invention helps hold and support the medial and lateral sides of the golfer's foot and the heel region as he/she shifts their weight when making a shot. The foot is held in place downwardly and rearwardly by the lace tightening system (60). Thus, the golfer has better stability and balance when making a shot. This support and contoured fit help the golfer in every phase of the game including walking the course. The shoe (10) fits snugly around the foot, but the shoe is not overly rigid. The shoe (10) allows the foot to move a certain degree inside of the shoe. That is, the shoe allows for some movement of the foot, but the motion of the foot is controlled. The lace tightening system of this invention helps provide a structured and smooth, comfortable fit. The lace tightening system helps control the motion of the foot by applying forces on the medial and lateral sides and heel regions. The shoe holds and support the foot without sacrificing flexibility. Thus, the shoe provides a snug and yet comfortable fit. In one embodiment, the tension in the lace as it passes through the different lace guides is substantially the same. In other embodiments, the tension can vary. Adjusting the lace provides a substantially uniform application of force against the shoe upper. The system of the present invention distributes the lateral, medial, and downward tightening forces along the length of the foot. Thus, there is a uniform tightening of the shoe against a wearer's foot. This helps prevent creating pressure points on the wearer's foot. Furthermore, the lace tightening system can be incrementally adjusted to tighten or loosen the lace as desired by the wearer of the shoe.
It should be understood that the above-described shoe construction which generally includes: a) an upper (12); b) an outsole (16); and c) a midsole (14) connecting the upper (12) and outsole (16), wherein the upper includes a power shroud (24) that is pulled over the instep region (18) and towards the lateral side (41) of the upper when the lace (30) is tightened via a lace tightening system (60) and that also includes a lower chip (40) represents only one example of a shoe construction of this invention. As discussed above, the unique upper construction and lace tightening system helps provide the golfer with high stability and balance on various surfaces. However, it is recognized that other upper and shoe structures can be used without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
For example, turning to
Thus, as shown in
Referring to
In this embodiment, the lace (30) is threaded through the upper and lower lace guides in the same manner as illustrated in
The lace (30) then passes downwardly and crosses over itself for a first time as it enters the first lower lace guide (48), which is attached to lateral side (41) of the upper. As shown in
Turning to
As shown in
After the first lace (30) exits the first upper lace guide (44) at the exit point, it is threaded downwardly and comes back to the same first lace tightening system (60a). As discussed above, the lace tightening assembly (60a) can include a dial (62a) that covers a spool (not shown) for winding the lace that is located within a housing. In one embodiment, the dial (62a) is first pushed inwardly to engage the lace tightening system (60a). The dial (62a) is then rotated in a clockwise direction to tighten the lace (30). As the first lace (30) is tightened, the first power shroud (24a) is pulled in a downward direction as represented by Arrow B—this is the angled force acting on the power shroud (24a). To loosen the lace (30), the dial (62a) is rotated in a counter-clockwise direction. In this manner, the tension on the first lace (30) can be adjusted. The tension can be increased or decreased. The dial (62a) may be pulled-out for a quick release of the lace tightening system (60a) and loosening of the lace (30).
Meanwhile, the second power shroud (24b) extends from the lateral side (41), overlies the tongue member (22), and extends onto the medial side (38). The second power shroud (24b) includes: i) a second upper lace guide (46). Also, a first lower lace guide (48) is shown fastened to the medial side (38) of the upper (12). The second power shroud (24b) is pulled over the instep region (18) and is tightened via the lace tightening system (60b) mounted on the heel region.
The second lace (33) extends from the second lace tightening system (60b) in the heel region, is threaded through a medial lace channel (51), and as it exits the channel through a trumpet or eyelet guide (54), it forms a loop between the upper (46) and lower (48) lace guides. The second lace (33) first enters the second upper lace guide (46) at an entrance point and exits the lace guide (46). After the lace (33) exits the second upper lace guide (46), it passes downwardly and enters the first lower lace guide (48) at an entrance point. The lace (33) travels through the first lower lace guide (48) and then exits the lace guide (48). After exiting the first lower lace guide (48), the lace (33) extends upwardly until its pathway ends at a termination plate (56) attached to the second power shroud (24b). The lace guides have low friction and this ensures that the lace can be pulled through the guides smoothly and tightly. The second upper lace guide (46) and first lower lace guide (48) in this embodiment of the shoe can have the same dimensions as the lace guides discussed above.
In this embodiment, the second lace tightening assembly (60b) is located on the heel region of the upper (12). As shown in
Referring to
The first power closure strap (82a) extends from the medial side of the upper (12), overlies the tongue member (22), and extends onto the lateral side. As shown in
Further, as shown in
In this embodiment, the single lace tightening assembly (81) is located on the heel region of the upper (12). As shown in
The power closure straps (82a, 82b) are preferably made of a lightweight, high-strength fabric material. For example, woven fabric made of polyamides (nylon), aramids such as Kevlar™, polyurethanes, polypropylenes, polyesters, and the like can be used to make the power closure straps (82a, 82b). Also, spandex or rubber fabric material, for example, styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) and Neoprene™ synthetic rubber, can be used to form the power closure straps (82a, 82b). Natural and synthetic rubber materials can be used. Examples of synthetic rubber materials include but are not limited to, polybutadiene, polyisoprene, ethylene-propylene rubber (“EPR”), ethylene-propylene-diene (“EPDM”) rubber, styrene-butadiene rubber, styrenic block copolymer rubbers (such as “SI”, “SIS”, “SB”, “SBS”, “SIBS”, “SEBS”, “SEPS” and the like, where “S” is styrene, “I” is isobutylene, “E” is ethylene, “P” is propylene, and “B” is butadiene), polyalkenamers, butyl rubber, nitrile rubber, and blends of two or more thereof. Natural leathers, synthetic leathers, knits, non-woven materials, natural fabrics, and synthetic fabrics also can be used. For example, synthetic textile fabrics made from nylons, polyesters, polyolefins, polyurethanes, rubbers, and combinations thereof can be used. Microfibers and nonwoven materials can be used as well as engineered knit and rolled good fabrics. All of these fiber and fabric structures can be reinforced with different materials. Also, hot-melt thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPUs) can be applied over these structures.
In still other embodiments, the power closure straps (82a, 82b) can be coupled together with a small strap, stitching, or other suitable fastening means so power closure straps (82a, 82b) function as a single power shroud structure. In still other embodiments, a single, power closure strap can be used. Such a power closure strap can have a single, integral and unitary structure.
Turning to
The power connector webbings (90a, 90b) extend through channels (98a, 98b) in the tongue member (22). In other examples, the power connecting webbings (90a, 90b) can extend inside the bootie, that is, the channels (98a, 98b) can extend between the tongue member (22) and liner of the bootie (87). The power connecting webbings (90a, 90b) can be considered as “floating.” In still other, examples, the webbings (90a, 90b) can go over the bootie (87). The power connector webbings (90a, 90b) can go inside or over the instep region so they extend between the medial and lateral sides of the upper (12). The webbings (90a, 90b) can be made from any suitable textile material such as, for example, polyamides (nylons), aramids such as Kevlar™ fibers, polyesters, polypropylenes, polyethylenes, polyurethanes, rubbers, and the like. Other suitable fiber and fabric materials that can be used to make the webbings are described elsewhere herein.
The first power webbing (90a) also includes: i) a first upper lace guide (84a). The second power webbing (90b) also includes: i) a second upper lace guide (84b). Additionally, a first lower lace guide (85a) and second lower lace guide (85b) are fastened to the lateral edge (42) of the upper (12). The lace (30) extends from the lace tightening assembly (81) in the heel region and exits through a trumpet or eyelet guide (54) of the lace channel (52), wherein it enters the lace guides. The lace forms a loop between the two power connector webbings (90a, 90b) and first and second lower lace guides (85a, 85b). The lace tightening assembly (81) can be used to tighten and loosen the lace (30) as described above.
Referring to
The lace (30a) extends from the lace tightening assembly (89) in the heel region, is threaded through a lateral lace channel (52a) and as it exits the channel through the eyelet (54), it enters the first lower lace guide (91a) and then exits the guide (91a). After exiting the first lower lateral lace guide (91a), the lace (30a) extends upwardly until it enters the first upper lateral lace guide (93a) at an entrance point and then exits the guide (93a). After the lace (30a) exits the first upper lateral lace guide (93a), it passes downwardly and enters the second lower lateral lace guide (91b) at an entrance point. The lace (30a) travels through the second lower lace guide (91b) and then exits the guide (91b). After exiting the second lower lace guide (91b), the lace (30a) extends upwardly and enters the second upper lateral lace guide (93b). The lace (30a) travels through the second upper lateral lace guide (93b) and then exits the guide (93b) at an exit point and extends downwardly. The path of the lace (30a) can then terminate at a termination plate (56a) fastened on the lateral edge (41) in the forefoot region (21). In this version, there are two strands of laces (30a, 30b). The lace (30a) extends along the lateral side (41) of the shoe upper and the lace (30b) extends along the medial side (38) of the shoe upper (12); and the laces (30a, 30b) do not connect. However, the system still provides good closure around the foot and gives a comfortable and smooth fit. In this version, there are two lace strands (30a, 30b). Both lace strands (30a, 30b) extend from the same lace tightening assembly (89). In other examples, as described below, the lace can extend along the lateral side and the lace extending along the medial side can connect. That is, there is a single lace running along the lateral and medial sides and forming a continuous loop. For example, the laces can connect via a forefoot connector thread guide (97) as shown in
The pathway of lace strand (30a) along the lateral side (41) of the shoe is described above. In the pathway of the second lace strand (30b) along the medial side (38), the lace extends from the lace tightening assembly (89) in the heel region, is threaded through a medial lace channel (52b) and as it exits the channel through the eyelet (54), it enters the first lower medial lace guide (91d) and then exits the guide (91d). After exiting the first lower medial lace guide (91d), the lace (30b) extends upwardly until it enters the first upper medial lace guide (93d) at an entrance point and then exits the guide (93d). After the lace (30a) exits the first upper medial lace guide (93d), it passes downwardly and enters the second lower medial lace guide (91c) at an entrance point. The lace (30b) travels through the second lower lace guide (91c) and then exits the guide (91c). After exiting the second lower lace guide (91c), the lace (30b) extends upwardly and enters the second upper medial lace guide (93c). The lace (30b) travels through the second upper medial lace guide (93c) and then exits the guide (93b) at an exit point and extends downwardly. The path of the lace (30b) can then terminate at a termination plate (56b) fastened on the medial edge (38) in the forefoot region (21). Thus, one lace strand (30a) extends along the lateral side (41), and the other lace strand (30b) extends along the medial side (38). The respective pathways of the lace strands (30a, 30b) end at the termination plates (56a, 56b) on the lateral and medial sides (41, 38) of the shoe upper.
In other versions, the lace (30) passes downwardly through the second upper lateral lace guide (93b) and then is threaded through a channel (not shown) running between the upper (12) and midsole (14). The lace (30) passes through this channel and then runs up along the medial side (38) of the shoe upper. Thus, the same lace (30) is threaded through the upper medial lace guides (93c, 93d) and the lower medial lace guides (91c, 91d). The lace (30) is passed through the second lower medial lace guide (91d) and then is threaded through the medial lace channel (52b) and passes back to the lace tightening assembly (89). Thus, in this example, the lace (30) forms a continuous loop so that the lace extends along both the lateral and medial sides and around the heel region of the shoe upper (12).
Turning to
The lace (30) extends from the lace tightening assembly (89) in the heel region, is threaded through a lateral lace channel (52) and as it exits the channel, it enters the first lower lace guide (91a) and then exits the guide (91a) at an exit point. After exiting the first lower lateral lace guide (91a), the lace (30) extends upwardly until it enters the first upper lateral lace guide (93a) at an entrance point and exits the guide (93a). After the lace (30) exits the first upper lateral lace guide (93a) at the exit point, it passes downwardly and enters the second lower lateral lace guide (91b) at an entrance point. The lace (30) travels through the second lower lace guide (91b) and then exits the guide (91b) at an exit point. After exiting the second lower lace guide (91b), the lace (30) extends upwardly and enters the second upper lateral lace guide (93b). The lace (30) travels through the second upper lateral lace guide (93b) and then exits the guide (93b) at an exit point and extends downwardly. The lace (30) is then threaded through the third lower lace guide (95) on the lateral side. After exiting the third lower lace guide (95), the lace (30) extends upwardly and is threaded through the forefoot connector thread guide (97) and over to the medial side of the upper (12).
As shown in
In a ninth embodiment, as shown in
In this version, there are two lace strands (30a, 30b). The lace (30a) extends along the lateral side (41) of the shoe upper as described above. Meanwhile, the lace (30b) extends along the medial side (38) of the shoe upper (12); and the laces (30a, 30b) do not connect. The pathway of lace strand (30a) along the lateral side (41) of the shoe is described above. In the pathway of lace strand (30b) along the medial side (38), the lace extends from the lace tightening assembly (99) in the heel region and is threaded through a medial lace channel (52b). As the lace (30b) exits the channel through the eyelet (54), it enters the lower medial lace guide (113) and then exits the guide (113). After the lace (30b) exits the lower medial lace guide (113) at the exit point, it passes upwardly and enters the second (medial) upper connector thread guide (107) at an entrance point. The lace (30b) then travels through the upper connector thread guide (107) and then extends downwardly. The path of the lace (30b) can then terminate at a termination plate (56) fastened on the medial edge (41) in the forefoot region (21). In this version, there are two separate lace strands (30a, 30b), but the system still provides good closure around the foot and gives a comfortable and smooth fit. Both lace strands (30a, 30b) extend from the same lace tightening assembly (99).
In other versions, the lace (30) passes downwardly from the first (lateral) upper connector thread guide (94) and then it can pass through a channel (not shown) running between the upper and midsole. The lace (30) passes through the channel and then up along the medial side (38) of the shoe upper (12). Thus, in this example, there is a single lace (30) that forms a continuous loop so that the lace (30) extends along both on the lateral and medial sides and around the heel region of the shoe upper. In this version, the same lace (30) extends along both the lateral and medial sides of the shoe upper (12). That is, the lace (30) is threaded through the channel (not shown), passes upwardly, and enters the second (medial) upper connector thread guide (107) at an entrance point. The lace then travels through the second (medial) connector thread guide (107) and then exits and extends downwardly until it passes through a lower medial lace guide (113) on the medial edge of the shoe upper (12). Then, the lace (30) is threaded through the medial lace channel (52b) and passes back to the lace tightening assembly (99). Thus, in this example, the same lace (30) forms a continuous loop so that the lace extends along both the lateral and medial sides of the shoe upper (12).
The first (lateral) and second (medial) upper connector thread guides (94, 107) can be coupled to each other by a wide variety of fastening means including, but not limited to, molded plastics, metal wires (100, 101), carbon fiber, carbon fiber composites, fabrics, webbings, fibers and other lacing systems. In other examples, if a bootie (83) is used in the instep region (18), the connector thread guides (94, 107) can go inside of the bootie member.
In this embodiment, the lace tightening assembly (99) is located on the heel region of the upper (12). As shown in
In a tenth embodiment, as shown in
As shown in
In other versions, there are two lace strands. One lace extends along the lateral side (41) of the shoe upper (12) as described above. Another lace strand extends along the medial side (38) of the shoe upper (12); and the laces do not connect. Rather, the lace strands terminate at respective termination plates on the lateral and medial sides of the shoe.
Turning to
Referring back to
In this version, there are two lace strands (30a, 30b). The lace (30a) extends along the lateral side (41) of the shoe upper and the lace (30b) extends along the medial side (38) of the shoe upper (12); and the laces (30a, 30b) do not connect. However, the system still provides good closure around the foot and gives a comfortable and smooth fit. The pathway of lace strand (30a) along the lateral side (41) of the shoe is described above. In the pathway of lace strand (30b) along the medial side (38), the lace extends from the lace tightening assembly (119) in the heel region, is threaded through a medial lace channel (52b) and as it exits the channel through the eyelet (54), it enters the lower medial lace guide (113) (
In other versions, the lace (30) passes downwardly and then it can pass through a channel (not shown) running between the upper and midsole. The lace (30) passes through the channel and then up along the medial side (38) of the shoe upper (12). Thus, in this example, the lace (30) forms a continuous loop so that the lace extends both along the lateral and medial sides and around the heel region of the shoe upper. In this version, the same lace (30) extends along the medial side of the shoe upper. That is, the lace (30) passes upwardly and enters the medial upper connector thread guide (109) at an entrance point. The lace then travels through the medial connector thread guide (109) and then extends downwardly until it passes through a second lower lace guide (113) on the medial side (38). Then, the lace (30) is threaded through the medial lace channel (52b) and passes back to the lace tightening assembly (119). Thus, in this example, the lace (30) forms a continuous loop so that the lace extends along both the lateral and medial sides and heel region of the shoe upper (12).
As shown in
In still another embodiment, as shown in
In
After exiting the second lower lace guide (137), the lace (30) extends upwardly and is threaded through the forefoot connector thread guide (140) and over to the medial side (38) of the upper (12). As shown in
In this example, the first (lateral) and second (medial) upper connector thread guides (94, 107) are made of webbing and can be coupled to each other by a wide variety of fastening means including, but not limited to, molded plastics, metal wires (100, 101), carbon fiber, carbon fiber composites, fabrics, webbings, fibers and other lacing systems.
All of the different embodiments of the golf shoes (10) of this invention as described above have a lace tightening system helps control the motion of the foot by applying forces over the instep region and on the medial and lateral sides and heel regions. Referring to
As shown in
As shown in
In an alternate construction, the power shroud (24) may be made of two layers of material, an outer and inner layer. The outer layer of material may be provided with the window opening (154) with the fiber-reinforced composite strip (160) secured between the layers of the power shroud (24) and showing through the window opening (154). The fiber-reinforced composite strip may be provided as either a fiber-reinforced composite strip (160) for each window opening (154) or a single fiber-reinforced composite strip (160) may be provided to fill all the window openings (154).
The fiber-reinforced composite strip (160) comprises a binding matrix (resin) and reinforcing fiber. The binding polymer can be a thermoset material such as epoxy or rubber. Thermoplastic resins such as polyesters, polyolefins, nylons, and polyurethanes also can be used. Preferably, carbon fiber such as graphite is used as the reinforcing fibers. Other fibers such as aramids (for example, Kevlar™), aluminum, or glass fibers can be used in addition to or in place of the carbon fibers. The fiber-reinforced composite strip (160) can be manufactured using standard techniques, where the reinforcing fibers are impregnated with a resinous material, such as epoxy. This resin is used as a matrix to bind the reinforcement fibers. These impregnated materials may be laid-up to form a laminate structure such as a strip which is cured at high temperatures to solidify the composite material. The resulting fiber-reinforced composite strip is lightweight and has excellent mechanical properties such as high stiffness, high tensile strength, and a low weight-to-strength ratio. As discussed above, the power shroud (24) may have at least one window opening (154) with the fiber-reinforced composite strip (160) secured within the window opening. Alternatively, the power shroud (24) may have a sandwich-like or layered construction, wherein the fiber-reinforced composite strip (160) is disposed between the layers and fitted to be provided within the window opening (154) in the outer layer. It will be appreciated that the fiber-reinforced composite strip (160) may be secured to the power shroud (24) by any suitable method, including adhesives, stitching or any other suitable fastening means. The fiber-reinforced composite strip (160) provides a light-weight material that stiffens the power shroud (24) improving the stability and fit of the shoe. It will be appreciated that the power shroud (24) is pulled over the instep region (18) and towards the lateral side (41) when the lace (30) is tightened via the lace tightening system (60) as described previously. By providing the fiber-reinforced composite strip (160) extending longitudinally across the power shroud (24) from the instep region (18) towards the lateral side (41) in the mid-foot region (23), the golfer has better stability and balance when making a shot.
As shown in
In an alternate construction for
It will also be appreciated that the at least one window opening (154) and/or fiber-reinforced composite strip (160) of the embodiments of
Additionally, it will also be appreciated that the fiber-reinforced carbon strip (160) of the embodiments of
The golf shoes of this invention provide a secure and yet comfortable fit. In one embodiment, the tension in the lace(s) as it passes through the different lace guides is substantially the same. In other embodiments, the tension can vary. Adjusting the lace(s) provides a substantially uniform application of force against the shoe upper. The system of the present invention distributes the lateral, medial, and downward tightening forces uniformly along the length of the foot. The lace guides are evenly pulled across the instep region, thus closing the instep region and drawing the foot down. Thus, there is a uniform tightening of the shoe against a wearer's foot. This helps prevent pressure points on the wearer's foot. The foot is drawn into the heel region and along the lateral and medial regions to provide a secure and comfortable fit.
Furthermore, the lace tightening system of this invention can be incrementally adjusted to tighten or loosen the lace as desired by the wearer. The golf shoes of this invention provide a high level of comfort and stability and are custom-fitting. The lace tightening system can be micro-adjusted to provide an optimum fit for any golfer and any shoe fitting preference. The different embodiments of the golf shoes have both a high level of stability, power, and traction as well as a high level of flexibility. The shoes provide stability, power, and traction so there is no slipping and the golfer can stay balanced as he/she swings the club. At the same time, the shoes have good flexibility so the golfer is able to walk and play the course and engage in other golf activities comfortably.
The shoes of this invention also help provide power and stability to the golfer as they shift their weight during the golf swing. For example, when a golfer is first planting his/her feet before beginning any club swinging motion (that is, when addressing the ball), their weight is evenly distributed between their front and back feet. As the golfer begins their backswing, their weight shifts primarily to their back foot. Significant pressure is applied to the back foot at the beginning of the downswing. Thus, the back foot can be referred to as the driving foot and the front foot can be referred to as the stabilizing foot. As the golfer follows through with their swing and drives the ball, their weight is transferred from the driving foot to the front (stabilizing) foot. During the swinging motion, there is some pivoting at the back and front feet, but this pivoting motion must be controlled. It is important that both the front and back feet do not substantially move or slip when making the shot. The golf shoes of the present invention help prevent this movement and slippage. The golf shoes of this invention help provide stability and support by uniformly distributing the lateral, medial, and downward tightening forces along the length of the foot.
Additional EmbodimentsIn another aspect, the present disclosure provides various examples of a golf shoe comprising a sole assembly, an upper connected to the sole assembly, and one or more straps extending across or along the upper. In some embodiments, the golf shoe may comprise a lace assembly configured to operatively couple the one or more straps to one or more adjustment mechanisms disposed on the golf shoe. In some embodiments, the one or more adjustment mechanisms may be operated to secure the one or more straps around a foot of a subject wearing the golf shoe, in order to enhance the fit of the shoe around the subject's foot, and/or to lock or bias a position or an orientation of the subject's foot within the shoe.
In some embodiments, the golf shoe may comprise one or more adjustment mechanisms for engaging the one or more straps via the lace assembly. In some embodiments, the one or more adjustment mechanisms may be operatively coupled to the one or more straps via the lace assembly. In some embodiments, the one or more adjustment mechanisms may be manipulated to control or adjust an amount of tension in the lace assembly. The adjustment of the tension in the lace assembly may directly or indirectly influence how tightly the one or more straps are drawn towards or secured around the subject's foot.
Example #1Straps
In some embodiments, the first strap 5321 and/or the second strap 5331 may be configured to wrap around a portion of the instep region of the subject's foot or the vamp region of the shoe. In some embodiments, the first strap 5321 and/or the second strap 5331 may be configured to wrap around different portions or sections of the instep region or the vamp region. In some embodiments, the first strap 5321 may be secured around a first portion or section of the instep region or the vamp region with a first level of tension, and the second strap 5331 may be secured around a second portion or section of the instep region or the vamp region with a second level of tension. In some cases, the first level of tension may be the same as the second level of tension. In other cases, the first level of tension may be different than (e.g., greater than or less than) the second level of tension.
In some embodiments, the first strap and the second strap may be independently securable around different portions or regions of the subject's foot. In some embodiments, the first strap and the second strap may be concurrently or simultaneously securable around different portions or regions of the subject's foot.
In some embodiments, the first strap and the second strap may be configured to overlap on a medial side of the upper. In some embodiments, the first strap and the second strap may not or need not overlap on the lateral side of the upper. In some non-limiting embodiments, the distal ends of the first strap and the second strap may be spaced apart along the lateral side of the golf shoe to expose or reveal one or more components underlying the straps. In other non-limiting embodiments, the distal ends of the first strap and the second strap may not or need not be spaced apart along the lateral side of the golf shoe to expose or reveal any components underlying the straps.
Adjustment Mechanisms
In some embodiments, the plurality of adjustment mechanisms may comprise a first adjustment mechanism 5310 positioned in a heel region of the golf shoe. In some embodiments, the plurality of adjustment mechanisms may comprise one or more adjustment mechanisms disposed on a lateral side of the upper. In some embodiments, the one or more adjustment mechanisms may comprise a second adjustment mechanism 5320 positioned in or near a midfoot region of the shoe. In some optional or alternative embodiments, the one or more additional adjustment mechanisms may further comprise a third adjustment mechanism 5330 disposed between the first adjustment mechanism 5310 and the second adjustment mechanism 5320. In some non-limiting embodiments, the second adjustment mechanism 5320 and the third adjustment mechanism 5330 may each be configured to independently control or adjust an amount of tension drawing the first strap 5321 or the second strap 5331 toward or around the subject's foot.
In some embodiments, the golf shoe may comprise a plurality of adjustment mechanisms that can be used in combination with each other to provide a subject with multiple different options for adjustably securing the plurality of straps around the instep region, the vamp region, the midfoot region, and/or the forefoot region of the shoe or the subject's foot. In some embodiments, the multiple adjustment mechanisms may allow a subject to apply different tensions to different straps of the golf shoe (e.g., in or near the vamp region of the shoe and/or the instep region of the subject's foot) to accommodate the unique size, shape, profile, or contour of the subject's foot. In some embodiments, the multiple adjustment mechanisms may allow a subject to tailor or customize the fit of the shoe so that the straps of the shoe provide individualized and/or localized tension profiles over different portions or sections of the instep region and/or the vamp region. In some embodiments, the multiple adjustment mechanisms may allow the shoe to accommodate multiple different foot sizes, shapes, profiles, or contours for consumers in a wide variety of different demographic categories.
In some embodiments, the adjustment mechanisms disclosed herein may include one or more lace tightening or loosening systems. In some cases, the one or more lace tightening or loosening systems may comprise an adjustable component that is configured to increase or decrease an amount of tension in the lacing or cable system of the shoe, based on a user input. In some cases, the user input may include at least one rotational movement. In other cases, the user input may include a translational movement or a combination of a rotational movement and a translational movement. In some embodiments, the adjustment mechanisms disclosed herein may comprise a rotary adjustment mechanism. In some cases, the rotary adjustment mechanism may comprise a dial and/or a reel assembly for managing, controlling, and/or engaging a lacing or cable system of the shoe.
Lacing or Cable System
As shown in
In some embodiments, the first adjustment mechanism 5310 may be operated to tighten or loosen the lacing or cable system 5411 extending across the throat, vamp, or instep region of the shoe. In some embodiments, tightening the lacing or cable system 5411 may provide a locking effect that secures the subject's foot downwards and/or backwards in order to enhance the fit, control, support, and/or stability characteristics of the shoe. In some embodiments, loosening the lacing or cable system 5411 may release the downward and/or backwards locking effect, to allow the subject to reposition his or her foot within the shoe or to allow the subject to remove his or her foot from the interior volume of the shoe.
In some embodiments, the golf shoe may comprise a lace assembly operatively coupling one or more adjustment mechanisms of the shoe to one or more straps of the shoe. In some cases, the lace assembly may be separate and distinct from the lacing or cable system 5411 extending across the throat, vamp, or instep region of the shoe. In some cases, the lace assembly may not or need not be attached or coupled to any portion of the lacing or cable system 5411 extending across the throat, vamp, or instep region of the shoe.
In some embodiments, the lace assembly may comprise a first lace assembly 5422 extending between and operatively coupling the second adjustment mechanism 5320 and the first strap 5321. In some cases, the first lace assembly 5422 may comprise a first looped lace or cable coupling the second adjustment mechanism 5320 with a distal end of the first strap 5321. In some optional or alternative embodiments, the lace assembly may further comprise a second lace assembly 5433 extending between and operatively coupling a third adjustment mechanism 5330 and a second strap 5331. In some cases, the second lace assembly 5433 may comprise a second looped lace or cable coupling the third adjustment mechanism 5330 with a distal end of the second strap 5331.
In some embodiments, the second adjustment mechanism 5320 and the third adjustment mechanism 5330 may be independently operated to tighten or loosen the first strap 5321 and/or the second strap 5331. In some embodiments, tightening the first strap 5321 and/or the second strap 5331 may provide a locking effect that secures the strap(s) around or over the subject's foot. In some embodiments, loosening the first strap 5321 and/or the second strap 5331 may release the locking effect to allow the subject to reposition his or her foot within the shoe or to allow the subject to remove his or her foot from the interior volume of the shoe.
Example #2Referring to
Internal Support
In some embodiments, the golf shoe may comprise an internal support 5550. The internal support 5550 may be configured to support a lateral side of golf shoe and to limit or restrict a translational or rotational movement of a subject's foot (e.g., during various golf-related actions). In some embodiments, the internal support 5550 may be positionable or securable around or along the lateral side of the subject's foot and/or a top center portion of the subject's foot. In some embodiments, the internal support 5550 may be extendable and/or stretchable across or over the throat, vamp, or instep region of the golf shoe.
In some embodiments, the internal support 5550 may comprise a flexible or extensible material that is configured to conform to a shape or contour of the lateral side of the subject's foot. In some cases, the flexible material may comprise a textile material, a synthetic material, or an elastomeric material. In other embodiments, the internal support 5550 may comprise a rigid or semi-rigid material that is relatively inflexible and resistant to bending and/or deformation. In some cases, the rigid material may comprise a composite material or a carbon fiber material.
In some cases, the internal support 5550 may be positioned under or below an outermost surface of the upper. In some cases, the internal support 5550 may be positioned between an interior or inner layer of the upper and the outermost surface of the upper. In some embodiments, a lower portion of the internal support may be sleeved within the upper (e.g., between the interior or inner layer of the upper and the outermost surface of the upper).
In some embodiments, an upper portion of the internal support may be configured to extend outside of the sleeved portion of the upper that covers or houses the lower portion of the internal support. In some embodiments, the upper portion of the internal support may be configured to extend into or across a throat, vamp, or instep region of the shoe. In some embodiments, a portion of the internal support may be positionable and/or extendable across or over a width of the throat, vamp, or instep region of the shoe. In some embodiments, a portion of the internal support may be positionable and/or extendable across different areas, regions, or sections of the throat, vamp, or instep region. In some cases, the internal support may extend across or over an entire width of the throat, vamp, or instep region. In some cases, the internal support may extend across or over only a portion of the width of the throat, vamp, or instep region. In some cases, the internal support may extend across or over at least about 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or 100% of the width of the throat, vamp, or instep region. In some cases, the internal support may extend across or over at most about 95%, 90%, 85%, 80%, 75%, 70%, 65%, 60%, 55%, 50%, 45%, 40%, 35%, 30%, 25%, 20%, 15%, 10%, or 5% of the width of the throat, vamp, or instep region. In some cases, the internal support may preferably extend across or over about 20% to about 80% of the width of the throat, vamp, or instep region. In some cases, the internal support may preferably extend across or over about 30% to about 70% of the width of the throat, vamp, or instep region. In some cases, the internal support may preferably extend across or over about 40% to about 60% of the width of the throat, vamp, or instep region. In some cases, the positioning or placement of the internal support across or over the throat, vamp, or instep region may be adjusted using any of the adjustment mechanism and lacing or cable systems described herein. In some cases, the adjustment mechanisms and lacing or cable systems described herein may be used to control the stretching or the extension of the internal support across or over the width of the throat, vamp, or instep region.
In some embodiments, the first strap 5521 and the second strap 5531 may be configured to extend across and/or over the internal support of the golf shoe. In some embodiments, the first strap 5521 and the second strap 5531 may be configured to extend across and/or over one or more laces or cables for engaging the internal support. In some embodiments, the one or more laces or cables may include, for example, one or more lace segments or one or more looped lace structures extending across the throat, vamp, or instep region of the shoe between (i) a distal end of the internal support and (ii) the upper or lower throat, vamp, or instep regions of the shoe.
In some embodiments, the internal support may be automatically secured around or along the subject's foot when the medial and lateral sides of the upper are drawn towards the top center region of the golf shoe. In some embodiments, the internal support may be automatically secured around or along the subject's foot when there is an increase in tension in a lace or cable extending between and drawing together the medial and lateral sides of the upper. In some embodiments, the internal support may be automatically released from around the subject's foot when a tension drawing the medial and lateral sides of the upper towards the top center region of the golf shoe is released so that the medial and lateral sides of the upper can be drawn apart and separated. In some embodiments, the internal support may be automatically released from the subject's foot when there is a decrease in tension in a lace or cable extending between and coupling or connecting the medial and lateral sides of the upper.
In some embodiments, the internal support may be independently securable around the subject's foot without engaging the first strap. In some embodiments, the internal support may be independently securable around the subject's foot without engaging the second strap. In some embodiments, the internal support may be independently securable around the subject's foot without engaging the first strap and/or the second strap.
Adjustment Mechanisms
In some embodiments, the golf shoe may comprise a plurality of adjustment mechanisms. In some embodiments, the plurality of adjustment mechanisms may be configured to engage the one or more straps and/or the internal support via a lace assembly. In some embodiments, the plurality of adjustment mechanisms may include a first adjustment mechanism 5510 positioned in the heel region of the shoe and a second adjustment mechanism 5520 positioned in a midfoot region of the shoe (e.g., on a lateral side of the upper). In some embodiments, the plurality of adjustment mechanisms may optionally include a third adjustment mechanism 5530 positioned on the lateral side of the upper between the first adjustment mechanism 5510 and the second adjustment mechanism 5520.
In some embodiments, the first adjustment mechanism 5510 may be configured to engage the internal support via a first lace portion of the lace assembly. In some cases, the first lace portion may comprise a lace segment with a first end and a second end that is disconnected from and/or positioned remotely from the first end. In some cases, the first and second ends may be fixed or coupled to different portions, regions, or components of the shoe. In some cases, the first end may not or need not be connected to the second end (or to any component of the shoe that is directly connected to the second end) to form any kind of looped structure.
In some embodiments, the second adjustment mechanism 5520 and/or the third adjustment mechanism 5530 may be configured to engage the first strap and/or the second strap of the shoe via a second lace portion of the lace assembly. In some cases, the second lace portion may comprise a continuous looped lace structure. In some cases, the continuous looped lace structure may not or need not include discrete or disjointed ends that are disconnected from each other and/or fixed to different portions, regions, or components of the shoe.
In some cases, the second adjustment mechanism may be configured to engage one of the first strap or the second strap via the second lace portion. In other cases, the second adjustment mechanism may be configured to engage both the first strap and the second strap via the second lace portion. In some cases, the third adjustment mechanism may be configured to engage one of the first strap or the second strap via the second lace portion or another third lace portion that is distinct from the first and second lace portions. In other cases, the third adjustment mechanism may be configured to engage both the first strap and the second strap via the second lace portion or the third lace portion.
In some cases, the second adjustment mechanism may be configured to independently engage the first strap without engaging the second strap. In other cases, the second adjustment mechanism may be configured to simultaneously engage both the first strap and the second strap. In some cases, the third adjustment mechanism may be configured to independently engage the second strap without engaging the first strap. In other cases, the third adjustment mechanism may be configured to simultaneously engage both the first strap and the second strap.
Lace Assembly
As shown in
In some embodiments, the lace segment associated with the first lace portion 5611 may be configured to extend from the termination point to the first adjustment mechanism 5510 without forming any closed or continuous loop structures. In some cases, the lace segment may be configured to extend through at least one lace guide disposed on the first side of the throat, vamp, or instep region or on a second side of the throat, vamp, or instep region opposite the first side. In some cases, the lace segment may be configured to extend through a lace guide that is integrated with or provided on a distal end of the internal support 5550.
In some embodiments, the first lace portion 5611 may be configured to extend between and operatively couple the first adjustment mechanism 5510 and the internal support 5550. In some embodiments, the first adjustment mechanism 5510 may be operated to draw the internal support 5550 around the subject's foot or against a lateral side of the subject's in order to provide a tightening effect around the midfoot region. In some embodiments, the first lace portion 5611 may be configured to extend between and operatively couple the medial and lateral sides or edges of the throat, vamp, or instep region of the shoe. In some embodiments, the first adjustment mechanism 5510 may be operated to draw the medial and lateral sides or edges of the throat, vamp, or instep region together to tighten and secure the upper around a subject's foot. In some embodiments, the first adjustment mechanism may be configured to simultaneously (i) draw the medial and lateral sides of the upper towards a top center region of the golf shoe and (ii) engage the internal support via the first lace portion to secure the internal support along or around the subject's foot.
In some embodiments, the first adjustment mechanism 5510 may be operated to release the tension in the first lace portion 5611 so that the medial and lateral sides or edges of the throat, vamp, or instep region can be released from around the subject's foot. In some embodiments, the first adjustment mechanism 5510 may be operated to release the tension in the first lace portion 5611 so that the internal support 5550 can be released from around the subject's foot. In some cases, releasing the tension in the first lace portion 5611 may allow the subject to reposition his or her foot within the shoe or to remove his or her foot from the interior volume of the shoe.
In some embodiments, the golf shoe may comprise a lace assembly comprising a second lace portion 5622. In some embodiments, the second lace portion 5622 may comprise a looped lace structure extending between and operatively coupling a distal end of the first strap 5521 and the second adjustment mechanism 5520. In some optional or alternative embodiments, the lace assembly may further comprise a third lace portion 5633. In some embodiments, the third lace portion 5633 may comprise a looped lace structure extending between and operatively coupling a distal end of the second strap 5531 and the third adjustment mechanism 5530. In some non-limiting embodiments, the distal end(s) of the first strap 5521 and/or the second strap 5531 may include an integrated lace guide for receiving the second lace portion 5622 and/or the third lace portion 5633 of the lace assembly. In some embodiments, the looped lace structures associated with the second lace portion 5622 and/or the third lace portion 5633 may be positionally offset from the top center region of the upper to minimize interference with other lace or cable systems extending across the throat, vamp, or instep region of the shoe.
In some embodiments, the second adjustment mechanism 5520 and the third adjustment mechanism 5530 may be independently operated to separately secure the first strap 5521 and/or the second strap 5531 around a subject's foot. In some embodiments, securing the first strap 5521 and/or the second strap 5531 around the subject's foot may involve drawing the first and/or second straps around the subject's foot to lock or bias a position and/or an orientation of the subject's foot within the interior of the upper. In some embodiments, the second adjustment mechanism 5520 and the third adjustment mechanism 5530 may be independently operated to separately release the first strap 5521 and/or the second strap 5531 from around the subject's foot so that the subject can reposition his or her foot within the shoe or remove his or her foot from the interior volume of the shoe.
Example #3Referring to
Internal Support
In some embodiments, the golf shoe may comprise an internal support 5750 that can be adjustably secured around a lateral side and/or a top-center region of the subject's foot. In some embodiments, the internal support 5750 and the single strap 5721 may be secured around different portions or regions of the subject's foot. In some cases, the different portions or regions of the subject's foot may correspond to the instep region of the subject's foot or the vamp region of the shoe. In some embodiments, the single strap 5721 may be configured to extend across and over the internal support 5750 of the golf shoe. In other embodiments, the single strap 5721 may not or need not extend across or over the internal support 5750 of the golf shoe, and in some cases, the single strap may be positionally offset from the internal support so that the single strap does not overlap any portion of the internal support. In some cases, the single strap 5721 may at least partially overlap the internal support 5750. In other cases, the single strap 5721 may not or need not overlap any portion or section of the internal support 5750.
Adjustment Mechanism
In some embodiments, the golf shoe may comprise a first adjustment mechanism 5710 provided in a heel region of the golf shoe. In some embodiments, the first adjustment mechanism 5710 may be configured to tension a lace assembly extending across a throat, vamp, or instep region of the shoe. In some embodiments, the first adjustment mechanism 5710 may be configured to engage the internal support 5750 of the golf shoe via the lace assembly extending across the throat, vamp, or instep region of the shoe.
In some embodiments, the golf shoe may comprise a second adjustment mechanism 5720 provided on a lateral side of the upper. In some embodiments, the second adjustment mechanism 5720 may be configured to engage the single strap 5721 via a separate lace assembly comprising a looped lace structure. In some cases, the looped lace structure may be configured to extend between the second adjustment mechanism 5720 and a distal end of the single strap 5721.
Lace Assembly
In some embodiments, the first adjustment mechanism 5710 may be configured to tension the first lace portion 5811 of the lace assembly to draw the medial and lateral sides or edges of the throat, vamp, or instep region together. Drawing the medial and lateral sides or edges of the throat, vamp, or instep region together may help to secure the upper around the subject's foot so that the foot is restricted from moving around within the shoe (e.g., during golf-related actions or movements). In some embodiments, the first adjustment mechanism 5710 may be configured to tension the first lace portion 5811 to directly or indirectly engage the internal support 5750. Engaging the internal support 5750 may draw the internal support 5750 towards the lateral side of the subject's foot and/or around the lateral side of the subject's foot to secure or lock down the subject's foot within the interior volume of the shoe. In some embodiments, the first adjustment mechanism 5710 may be configured to tension the first lace portion 5811 to (i) draw the subject's foot down and back and (ii) secure the internal support 5750 around a midfoot region of the subject's foot. In some embodiments, the first adjustment mechanism may be configured to simultaneously (i) draw the medial and lateral sides of the upper towards a top center region of the golf shoe and (ii) engage the internal support via the first lace portion to secure the internal support along or around a foot of a subject wearing the golf shoe.
In some embodiments, the lace assembly may further comprise a second lace portion 5821 comprising a looped lace structure extending between a distal end of the single strap 5721 and the second adjustment mechanism 5720. In some embodiments, the looped lace structure may comprise a continuous loop structure as described elsewhere herein.
In some cases, the second adjustment mechanism 5720 may be configured to engage the single strap 5721 via the second lace portion 5821. In some cases, engaging the single strap 5721 may involve drawing the single strap 5721 over and/or around the top center region of the upper towards the lateral side of the shoe. In some cases, the second adjustment mechanism 5720 may be manipulated to release the single strap 5721 to allow a subject to either reposition his or her foot or to remove his or her foot from the shoe.
In some embodiments, the single strap 5721 may be configured to extend across or over the first lace portion 5811 or a portion thereof. In other embodiments, the single strap 5721 may not or need not extend across or over the first lace portion 5811, in order to minimize interactions or interferences between the strap and the lace assembly. In some embodiments, the second lace portion 5821 for engaging the single strap 5721 may be positionally offset from the first lace portion 5811 for engaging the internal support 5750, in order to minimize interactions or interferences between the first and second lace portions.
Example #4Referring now to
In some embodiments, the golf shoe may comprise an internal support 5950 as described elsewhere herein. In some embodiments, the internal support 5950 may be adjustably secured around a lateral side or a top-center region of the subject's foot using one or more of the plurality of adjustment mechanisms.
In some non-limiting embodiments, a first adjustment mechanism 5910 may be used to adjustably secure the first strap 5921 and/or the second strap 5931 around a portion of the subject's foot, and a second adjustment mechanism 5920 may be used to secure the internal support 5950 around a same or different portion of the subject's foot. In some non-limiting embodiments, the first adjustment mechanism 5910 may be configured to engage the internal support 5950 of the golf shoe, and the second adjustment mechanism 5920 may be configured to engage at least one or both of the first strap 5921 and the second strap 5931. In some non-limiting embodiments, the second adjustment mechanism 5920 may be configured to engage both the first strap 5921 and the second strap 5931 simultaneously.
In some embodiments, the first adjustment mechanism 5910 may be configured to tension the first lace portion 6011 of the lace assembly to draw the medial and lateral sides or edges of the throat, vamp, or instep region together. Drawing the medial and lateral sides or edges of the throat, vamp, or instep region together may help to secure or lock down a subject's foot within the shoe so that the subject's foot is restricted from moving or shifting around within the shoe during various golf-related actions or movements.
In some embodiments, the first adjustment mechanism 5910 may be configured to tension the first lace portion 6011 to engage the internal support 5950. Engaging the internal support 5950 may draw the internal support 5950 towards the lateral side of the subject's foot and/or around the lateral or top center region of the subject's foot to secure and lock down the subject's foot within the shoe. In some embodiments, the first adjustment mechanism 5910 may be configured to tension the first lace portion 6011 to (i) draw the subject's foot down and back and (ii) secure the internal support 5950 around a midfoot region of the subject's foot. In some embodiments, the first adjustment mechanism may be configured to simultaneously (i) draw the medial and lateral sides of the upper towards a top center region of the golf shoe and (ii) engage the internal support via the first lace portion to secure the internal support along or around the subject's foot.
In some embodiments, the lace assembly may further comprise a second lace portion 6022 comprising a looped lace structure extending between a distal end of the first strap 5921, a distal end of the second strap 5931, and the second adjustment mechanism 5920. In some embodiments, the looped lace structure may comprise a continuous loop structure as described elsewhere herein. In some non-limiting embodiments, the continuous loop structure may comprise two or more lace segments that cross over each other at a point located in between the first strap 5921 and the second strap 5931.
In some cases, the second adjustment mechanism 5920 may be configured to engage the first strap 5921 and/or the second strap 5931 via the second lace portion 6022. In some cases, engaging the first strap 5921 and/or the second strap 5931 may involve drawing the first strap 5921 and/or the second strap 5931 around and over the top center region of the upper towards the lateral side of the shoe. In some cases, the second adjustment mechanism 5920 may be manipulated to release the first strap 5921 and/or the second strap 5931 to allow a subject to either reposition his or her foot within the shoe or to remove his or her foot from the shoe.
In some non-limiting embodiments, the first strap 5921 and/or the second strap 5931 may be configured to extend across or over the first lace portion 6011 of the shoe. In some embodiments, the first strap 5921 and/or the second strap 5931 may not or need not extend across or over the first lace portion 6011, in order to minimize any interactions or interferences between the strap(s) and the lace assembly. In some embodiments, the second lace portion 6022 for engaging the first strap 5921 and/or the second strap 5931 may be positionally offset from the first lace portion 6011 for engaging the internal support 5950, in order to minimize interactions or interferences between the first and second lace portions.
Example #5In some embodiments, the first strap 6121 and/or the second strap 6131 may comprise a composite material. In some embodiments, the composite material may comprise a carbon fiber material. In some cases, the first strap 6121 and/or the second strap 6131 may comprise a composite layer or support that is attached to, integrated with, or sleeved within the first strap 6121 and/or the second strap 6131. The composite layer or support may comprise, for example, a composite material or a carbon fiber material.
In some embodiments, the first strap 6121 and/or the second strap 6131 may be configured to wrap around a portion of the instep region of the subject's foot or the vamp region of the shoe. In some embodiments, the first strap 6121 and/or the second strap 6131 may be configured to wrap around different portions or sections of the instep region or the vamp region. In some embodiments, the first strap 6121 may be secured around a first portion or section of the instep region or the vamp region with a first level of tension, and the second strap 6131 may be secured around a second portion or section of the instep region or the vamp region with a second level of tension. In some cases, the first level of tension may be the same as the second level of tension. In other cases, the first level of tension may be different than (e.g., greater than or less than) the second level of tension.
In some embodiments, the first strap and the second strap may be configured to overlap or partially overlap on a medial side of the upper. In some embodiments, the first strap and the second strap may not or need not overlap on the lateral side of the upper. In some non-limiting embodiments, the distal ends of the first strap and the second strap may be spaced apart along the lateral side of the golf shoe to expose or reveal one or more components underlying the straps. In other non-limiting embodiments, the distal ends of the first strap and the second strap may not or need not be spaced apart along the lateral side of the golf shoe to expose or reveal any components underlying the straps.
In some embodiments, the plurality of adjustment mechanisms may comprise a first adjustment mechanism 6110 positioned in a heel region of the golf shoe. In some embodiments, the plurality of adjustment mechanisms may comprise one or more adjustment mechanisms disposed on a lateral side of the upper. In some embodiments, the one or more adjustment mechanisms may comprise a second adjustment mechanism 6120 positioned in or near a midfoot region of the shoe. In some embodiments, the one or more additional adjustment mechanisms may further comprise a third adjustment mechanism 6130 disposed between the first adjustment mechanism 6110 and the second adjustment mechanism 6120. In some embodiments, the second adjustment mechanism 6120 and the third adjustment mechanism 6130 may each be configured to independently control or adjust an amount of tension drawing the first strap 6121 or the second strap 6131 toward or around the subject's foot.
In some embodiments, the golf shoe may comprise a plurality of adjustment mechanisms that can be used individually or in combination with each other to provide a subject with multiple different options for adjustably securing the plurality of straps around the instep region, the vamp region, the midfoot region, and/or the forefoot region of the shoe or the subject's foot. In some embodiments, the multiple adjustment mechanisms may allow a subject to apply different tensions to different straps of the golf shoe (e.g., in or near the vamp region of the shoe and/or the instep region of the subject's foot) to accommodate the unique size, shape, profile, or contour of the subject's foot. In some embodiments, the multiple adjustment mechanisms may allow a subject to tailor or customize the fit of the shoe so that the straps of the shoe provide individualized and/or localized tension profiles over different portions or sections of the instep region and/or the vamp region. In some embodiments, the multiple adjustment mechanisms may allow the shoe to accommodate multiple different foot sizes, shapes, profiles, or contours for consumers in a wide variety of different demographic categories.
In some embodiments, the adjustment mechanisms disclosed herein may include one or more lace tightening or loosening systems. In some cases, the one or more lace tightening or loosening systems may comprise an adjustable component (e.g., a dial, a reel, a spool, etc.) that is configured to increase or decrease an amount of tension in the lacing or cable system of the shoe, based on a user input. In some cases, the user input may include at least one rotational movement. In other cases, the user input may include a translational movement or a combination of a rotational movement and a translational movement. In some embodiments, the adjustment mechanisms disclosed herein may comprise a rotary adjustment mechanism. In some cases, the rotary adjustment mechanism may comprise a dial, a spool, and/or a reel assembly for managing, controlling, and/or engaging a lacing or cable system of the shoe.
In some embodiments, the golf shoe may comprise a lacing or cable system extending across a throat region, a vamp region, or an instep region of the shoe. In some cases, the lacing or cable system may be operatively coupled to the first adjustment mechanism 6110 disposed in the heel region of the shoe. In some cases, the lacing or cable system may comprise a lace or a cable with segments that extend along or across a top center region of the shoe. In some cases, the lacing or cable system may comprise a lace or a cable with segments extending along or between a medial side and/or a lateral side of the shoe. In some cases, the lacing or cable system may comprise a lace or a cable with segments that extend from the throat, vamp, or instep region of the shoe to the heel region of the shoe.
In some embodiments, the first adjustment mechanism 6110 may be operated to tighten or loosen the lacing or cable system extending across the throat, vamp, or instep region of the shoe. In some embodiments, tightening the lacing or cable system may provide a locking effect that secures the subject's foot downwards and/or backwards in order to enhance the fit, control, support, and/or stability characteristics of the shoe. In some embodiments, loosening the lacing or cable system may release the downward and/or backwards locking effect, to allow the subject to reposition his or her foot within the shoe or to allow the subject to remove his or her foot from the interior volume of the shoe.
In some embodiments, the golf shoe may comprise a lace assembly operatively coupling one or more adjustment mechanisms of the shoe to one or more straps of the shoe. In some cases, the lace assembly may be separate and distinct from the lacing or cable system extending across the throat, vamp, or instep region of the shoe. In some cases, the lace assembly may not or need not be attached or coupled to any portion of the lacing or cable system extending across the throat, vamp, or instep region of the shoe.
In some embodiments, the lace assembly may comprise a first lace assembly extending between and operatively coupling the second adjustment mechanism 6120 and the first strap 6121. In some cases, the first lace assembly may comprise a first looped lace or cable coupling the second adjustment mechanism 6120 with a distal end of the first strap 6121 (e.g., by way of a first cable guide disposed on the distal end of the first strap). In some embodiments, the lace assembly may further comprise a second lace assembly extending between and operatively coupling a third adjustment mechanism 6130 and the second strap 6131. In some cases, the second lace assembly may comprise a second looped lace or cable coupling the third adjustment mechanism 6130 with a distal end of the second strap 6131 (e.g., by way of a second cable guide disposed on the distal end of the second strap).
In some embodiments, the second adjustment mechanism 6120 and the third adjustment mechanism 6130 may be independently operated to tighten or loosen the first strap 6121 and/or the second strap 6131. In some embodiments, tightening the first strap 6121 and/or the second strap 6131 may provide a locking effect that secures the strap(s) around or over the subject's foot. In some embodiments, loosening the first strap 6121 and/or the second strap 6131 may release the locking effect to allow the subject to reposition his or her foot within the shoe or to allow the subject to remove his or her foot from the interior volume of the shoe.
Other EmbodimentsIn another aspect, the present disclosure provides various examples of a golf shoe comprising an upper with a medial side and a lateral side, a sole assembly connected to the upper, one or more straps extending across the upper, an internal support positioned under an outermost surface of the upper, and a lace assembly comprising a lace extending between the medial side and the lateral side of the upper. In some embodiments, the lace assembly may be configured to simultaneously (i) draw the medial and lateral sides of the upper towards a top center region of the golf shoe and (ii) secure the internal support along or around a foot of a subject wearing the golf shoe.
In some embodiments, the lace can be made of a yarn, a cord, a rope, a string, one or more fibers, filaments, or strands, a fabric, a webbing, or any other type of textile material. In some cases, the lace may comprise one or more polyamides (nylons), aramids such as Kevlar™ fibers, polyesters, polyurethanes, polypropylenes, or polyethylenes. In some cases, the lace can be made from a metallic material, a composite material, or carbon fiber. In some cases, the lace may comprise a cord, a wire, or a cable. In some cases, the lace may comprise one or more monofilaments, fibers, and/or films.
In some embodiments, the lace may be tightened or loosened by manipulating one or more segments, loops, or ends of the lace. In some cases, the lace may be tightened by pulling on or stretching the lace or any portion thereof. In some cases, the lace may be loosened by untying or undoing the lace to release the tension in the lace, or by releasing a locking mechanism used to keep the lace in a cinched or tensioned state. In some cases, the lace may be loosened or tightened by an individual without using or manipulating any adjustment mechanisms. In other cases, the lace may be loosened or tightened using one or more adjustment mechanisms. In some non-limiting embodiments, the one or more adjustment mechanisms may include, for example, a cinching system (e.g., to control a level of tension in a lace comprising an elastic cord segment or member), a rotary dial system (e.g., to control a level of tension in a lace comprising a cable or a wire), a lace organizer (e.g., a strap, a clip, or a fastener for holding a portion of the lace in a desired configuration or state of tension), or a motorized lacing system comprising a processor or a control unit configured to adjust the amount of tension in the lace based on (i) a physical input provided by an individual or (ii) a digital or electronic signal corresponding to one or more readings or measurements obtained using one or more sensors or detectors operatively coupled to the control unit.
Support/Stability
In some embodiments, the golf shoes disclosed herein may comprise a molded heel counter extending between a rearfoot region and a midfoot region of the golf shoes. In some embodiments, the molded heel counter may be configured to support and/or stabilize a heel portion of the golf shoes as a subject performs or executes one or more golf-related actions or movements. In some non-limiting embodiments, the molded heel counter may comprise a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material.
In some embodiments, the presently disclosed golf shoes may comprise a stability clip integrated with a midsole portion of the golf shoes. In some embodiments, the stability clip may be configured to control a movement or a deformation of the midsole portion of the golf shoes in response to one or more forces exerted on the golf shoe. In some embodiments, the stability clip may be configured as a support structure that extends between the midsole and an insole component of the golf shoes to prevent over-rotation of a subject's foot during golf-related actions or movements. In some embodiments, the stability clip may be provided on a medial side and/or a lateral side of the golf shoes. In some non-limiting embodiments, the stability clip may comprise a TPU material.
In some embodiments, the golf shoes of the present disclosure may comprise a support frame positioned in or near a heel region of the golf shoes. In some embodiments, the support frame may be configured as a rigid support structure that can stabilize and support the heel region as a subject executes various golf-related actions or movements. In some embodiments, the support frame may be integrated with or integrally formed with at least one of the upper, the midsole, and/or the outsole of the golf shoes. In some embodiments, the support frame may be configured to extend (i) upwards from an outsole portion of the golf shoes and (ii) over the midsole and/or upper portion(s) of the golf shoes. In some embodiments, the support frame may comprise one or more openings configured to expose the midsole and/or upper portion(s) of the golf shoes. In some non-limiting embodiments, the support frame may comprise a thermoplastic material or a polyurethane material. In some cases, the support frame may comprise a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material. In some non-limiting embodiments, the support frame may comprise a composite material or a carbon fiber material.
Midsole
In some embodiments, the presently disclosed golf shoes may comprise a midsole with a multi-durometer construction. In some embodiments, the multi-durometer construction may include a first region formed of a first midsole material having a first hardness and a second region formed of a second midsole material having a second hardness. In some embodiments, the first hardness may be greater than or equal to the second hardness. In some embodiments, the second hardness may be greater than or equal to the first hardness. In some embodiments, the first region may be located in a forefoot region and/or a midfoot region of the midsole. In some embodiments, the second region may be located in a midfoot region and/or a rearfoot region of the midsole. In some non-limiting embodiments, the first midsole material and/or the second midsole material may comprise a foam material (e.g., an ethylene-vinyl acetate material).
Outsole
In some embodiments, the golf shoes disclosed herein may comprise an outsole portion. In some embodiments, the outsole portion may include a support layer extending across a bottom surface of the golf shoes. In some embodiments, the support layer may comprise one or more windows or openings configured to expose the first midsole material and/or the second midsole material of the midsole. In some embodiments, a portion of the support layer may be configured to extend upwards from the outsole portion of the golf shoes towards the midsole and/or upper portion(s) of the golf shoes to form a rigid support structure that can stabilize and support the heel region (e.g., as a subject executes various golf-related actions or movements). In some non-limiting embodiments, the outsole portion may comprise a TPU material.
In some embodiments, the outsole portion may include one or more traction elements. In some cases, the one or more traction elements may include one or more traction elements that are integrally formed with the outsole. In some cases, the one or more traction elements may include one or more replaceable traction elements that can be releasably attached or detachably coupled to one or more receptacles provided on or within the outsole. In some non-limiting embodiments, the one or more traction elements may comprise an elastomeric or rubber material and/or a TPU material.
When numerical lower limits and numerical upper limits are set forth herein, it is contemplated that any combination of these values may be used. Other than in the operating examples, or unless otherwise expressly specified, all of the numerical ranges, amounts, values and percentages such as those for amounts of materials and others in the specification may be read as if prefaced by the word “about” even though the term “about” may not expressly appear with the value, amount or range. Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth in the specification and attached claims are approximations that may vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by the present invention.
It also should be understood the terms, “first”, “second”, “third”, “fourth”, “fifth”, “sixth”, “seventh”, “eight”, “ninth”, “tenth”, “eleventh”, “twelfth”, “top”, “bottom”, “upper”, “lower”, “upwardly”, “downwardly”, “right’, “left”, “center”, “middle”, “proximal”, “distal”, “lateral”, “medial”, “anterior”, “posterior”, “forefoot”, “mid-foot”, and “rear-foot”, and the like are arbitrary terms used to refer to one position of an element based on one perspective and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention.
All patents, publications, test procedures, and other references cited herein, including priority documents, are fully incorporated by reference to the extent such disclosure is not inconsistent with this invention and for all jurisdictions in which such incorporation is permitted. It is understood that the shoe materials, designs, constructions, and structures; shoe components; and shoe assemblies and sub-assemblies described and illustrated herein represent only some embodiments of the invention. It is appreciated by those skilled in the art that various changes and additions can be made to such products and materials without departing from the spirit and scope of this invention. It is intended that all such embodiments be covered by the appended claims.
Claims
1. A golf shoe, comprising:
- an upper with a medial side and a lateral side;
- a sole assembly connected to the upper, the sole assembly comprising at least a midsole and an outsole;
- one or more straps extending across the upper;
- an internal support positioned under an outermost surface of the upper; and
- a lace assembly extending between the medial side and the lateral side of the upper,
- wherein the lace assembly is configured to simultaneously (i) draw the medial and lateral sides of the upper towards a top center region of the golf shoe and (ii) secure the internal support along or around a foot of a subject wearing the golf shoe.
2. The golf shoe of claim 1, wherein the internal support is independently securable around the subject's foot without engaging the one or more straps.
3. The golf shoe of claim 1, wherein the medial side of the upper, the lateral side of the upper, and the internal support are independently securable around the subject's foot without engaging the one or more straps.
4. The golf shoe of claim 1, wherein the internal support is automatically secured around the subject's foot when the medial and lateral sides of the upper are drawn towards the top center region of the golf shoe.
5. The golf shoe of claim 1, wherein the internal support is automatically released from around the subject's foot when a tension in the lace assembly is released to allow the medial and lateral sides of the upper to be drawn apart and separated.
6. The golf shoe of claim 1, wherein a lower portion of the internal support is sleeved within the upper, and wherein an upper portion of the internal support extends outside of the upper.
7. The golf shoe of claim 6, wherein the upper portion of the internal support is configured to extend into or across a throat region of the golf shoe.
8. The golf shoe of claim 7, wherein the upper portion of the internal support is extendable across different regions or sections of the throat region.
9. The golf shoe of claim 1, wherein the one or more straps comprise a single strap that is adjustably securable around the subject's foot.
10. The golf shoe of claim 9, wherein the single strap is configured to extend across and over the internal support or a portion thereof.
11. The golf shoe of claim 9, wherein the single strap is positionally offset from the internal support so that the single strap does not overlap any portion of the internal support.
12. The golf shoe of claim 1, wherein the one or more straps comprise a plurality of straps that are adjustably securable around the subject's foot.
13. The golf shoe of claim 12, wherein the plurality of straps comprises a first strap and a second strap configured to extend across and over the upper.
14. The golf shoe of claim 13, wherein the first strap and the second strap are independently securable around different portions or regions of the subject's foot.
15. The golf shoe of claim 13, wherein the first strap and the second strap are concurrently or simultaneously securable around different portions or regions of the subject's foot.
16. The golf shoe of claim 13, wherein the first strap and the second strap are configured to overlap on the medial side of the upper.
17. The golf shoe of claim 13, wherein the first strap and the second strap do not overlap on the lateral side of the upper.
18. The golf shoe of claim 13, wherein the first strap and the second strap are spaced apart along the lateral side of the upper to expose or reveal a portion of the internal support.
19. The golf shoe of claim 13, wherein the first strap or the second strap comprises a rigid and stiff layer or a support structure that is integrated with the first strap or the second strap.
20. The golf shoe of claim 19, wherein the rigid and stiff layer or the support structure comprises a composite plate or a carbon fiber plate.
Type: Application
Filed: Dec 1, 2023
Publication Date: Mar 28, 2024
Applicant: Acushnet Company (Fairhaven, MA)
Inventors: Jean-Marie Bidal (Marlborough, MA), Cody Z. Caldon (Edgewood, KY)
Application Number: 18/526,080
