Abstract: Embodiments are provided to reduce a foot drop condition. In an embodiment, an adjustable apparatus includes a lower leg member that can be secured to a lower leg portion of a user. The lower leg member can be adjustably and releasably coupled to a user's footwear to assist in orienting the user's foot at a desired orientation. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a molded brace member that can be secured to a user's lower leg below the calf. The molded brace member can be sized and dimensioned to correspond to the associated measurements of the lower leg of a user afflicted with a foot drop condition. A lacing member can be coupled to the user's footwear and coupled to the molded brace member to orient the user's foot at a desired orientation.

Abstract: Articles of footwear and other devices include modules, e.g., for sensing physical and/or physiological characteristics associated with use of the footwear or other devices. Such devices include: (a) a housing, optionally an asymmetrical housing, for receiving an electronic module; (b) release mechanisms for removably mounting the module in the housing; and/or (c) activation/authentication systems for selectively activating the module. Additionally, methods of making articles of footwear or other structures that include such housings, electronic modules, release systems, activation systems, authentication systems, etc. are described. Performance sensing systems and methods of using the above devices for sensing performance characteristics also are described.

Abstract: The multipoint decorative shoe system is a closed type of footwear. The entire exterior upper is made from the looped side of hook and loop fasteners. Decorative accessories are provided. An accessory has a top and a bottom surface. The top surface of the accessory consists of a decoration. The decoration is composed of a woven fabric, molded plastic or casted metal. The accessory will have an upper decoration with a lower plane having the hook side of the hook and loop fastener being adapted to releasably couple with the upper side of the loop fasteners on the shoe. A multitude of accessories can be coupled, removed and relocated any point on the exterior upper of the shoe in an unlimited number of combinations.

Abstract: A shoe is provided with a writing surface so that temporary expressive indicia can be applied to the shoe. The writing surface is preferably in the form of a side surface of the shoe extending between a tread and a foot contacting surface of the shoe. The side surface is preferably formed of patent leather compatible with a dry erase marker provided as a writing implement. In a most preferred form of the invention, the shoe includes a bore which acts as a housing for the marker or other writing implement to conveniently store the writing implement when not in use. The bore or other housing also keeps the writing implement fresh by sealing the writing implement within the bore when not in use, especially when the writing implement is a dry erase marker.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a shoe with a piece of removable chalk embedded into the front toe portion of a shoe's sole. The forefront sole of the shoe includes an opening sized for receiving a piece of chalk, intended for the wear to go from walking to drawing with a tilt of the foot. The wearer can cause the chalk to make contact with a surface by applying light pressure and tilting the toe of the shoe slightly toward the ground.

Abstract: An eyestay ornament for a laced shoe provides a subtle but impressive way to add an aesthetic accent to the appearance of the shoe. A central marquee with multiple display faces is rotatably mounted to a pin captured in collars integrated to buckles on each end of the central marquee. The buckles are sized and designed to receive a shoe lace woven therethrough to install the ornament on the instep area. Rotating the central marquee provides a quick and easy way to change the appearance of the ornament.

Abstract: A sizing system for an article of footwear includes an insert attachable to the upper of the article of footwear. The insert is positioned within a pocket formed between the lining of the upper and the exterior shell of the upper. When attached to the upper, the insert forms a part of the exterior surface of the article of footwear. When the insert is removed, part of the pocket forms a portion of the exterior surface of the article of footwear or a flap is extended over the pocket to form a portion of the exterior surface of the article of footwear. The insert may be secured within the pocket using a mechanical fastener.

Abstract: A protective appliance for the space between the toes of a wearer of flip-flop sandals or other such footwear. The appliance has a generally hollow, generally elongated cylindrical shape and is fabricated from a relatively light weight, soft and compressible material. It includes a longitudinal cut through one of its sides that allows the appliance to be opened and engaged about the thong segment of the flip-flop that normally extends between the large toe and adjacent toe of the wearer, and that resiliently closes after the appliance is so engaged. When applied, the appliance cushions the space between the toes and the thong segment and allows at least a limited degree of both longitudinal and radial movement of the appliance relative to the thong segment thus increasing comfort of the flip-flops and minimizing friction and chafing of the toes on the thong segment during walking and other activities in the flip-flops.

Abstract: A stabilizing device for V-strap sandals wherein the device is engageable with the thong and strap for impeding movement between a wearer's foot and the sandal, and connection means for releasably connecting the stabilizing device to a V-strap sandal.

Abstract: A heel accessory for a footwear article is adapted to engage a foot support, such that the wearer's legs can be stretched and the back of the wearer's heels can be comfortably rested on the foot support of a motorcycle. The heel accessory includes a base portion connected to the footwear article and a block portion extending from the base portion. The block portion includes an interface that is shaped to correspond to the foot support, such that the wearer's legs can be stretched and rested while riding.

Abstract: The invention concerns a securing device in the form of a strip (1) in open position, arranged to cover exclusively a shoe (4) lace (3) and comprising means to be fixed to said shoe (4) and a series of holes (2) for passing through the lace (3). The device is adapted to be folded down such that the left side is fixed to the right side. Moreover, the length of said securing device (1) is substantially perpendicular to the axial direction of the shoe (4).

Abstract: A flip-flop or other article of apparel includes a fastening member at least a substantial portion of which is embedded into article of apparel and releaseably receives mating fastening member that is attached to an ornament.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to interchangeable personalized attachment devices that can be affixed to accessories worn by a person, and more particularly to decorative devices that attach to shoes, sunglasses, and other accessories. The device includes a material having two ends and is configured to wrap and fasten around the accessory at the two ends by a removable fastener.

Abstract: This invention relates, for example, to interchangeable items of design on footwear, and particularly sneakers, which are securely fastened to the sneaker with interlocking tongue-and-groove mechanisms or other fasteners, utilizing a positive snap-on placement or similar fixation. The present invention further comprises, for example, an online availability of selection and ordering of selectable ornamentation from a menu of colors, configurations and the like.

Abstract: Footwear includes a sole with a forefoot region, a heel region, and a mid-sole region positioned between the forefoot region and the heel region. A support structure is positioned within the mid-sole region. The support structure is configured to engage an object to facilitate resistance to gravitational pull.

Abstract: The invention relates to a shoe with a sole unit, where the sole unit includes a recess for removably receiving a housing of an electronic assembly, for example, an electronic pedometer, an accelerometer, or a speed sensor. Further, the invention relates to a housing for receiving an electronic assembly, for example, a pedometer, an accelerometer, or a speed sensor, where the housing has an outer shape corresponding to the shape of a recess formed in a shoe sole.

Abstract: An adornment for an article of footwear having a forefoot portion that includes a thong portion adapted to be positioned between a wearer's toes, and a forefoot cover connected to the thong portion. The adornment includes a clip that has a legged structure having a pair of spaced apart legs, or elongate extensions, adapted to straddle a portion of the footwear and a mount supported relative to the elongate extensions. The adornment also includes a decorative accessory disposed on the mount and may be adapted to releasably engage the mount.

Abstract: An article of footwear with a marking system is disclosed. The marking system is configured to help locate one or more portions of a foot during training of an athlete. The marking system includes markings that extend from a lower surface of a sole system to an outer peripheral portion of a sole system.

Abstract: An article of footwear with a marking system is disclosed. The marking system is configured to help locate one or more portions of a foot during training of an athlete. The marking system includes markings disposed on an upper of an article of footwear.

Abstract: A footwear unit having a pre-programmable, self-programmable and re-programmable display inorganic and organic LED with a panel that is operably aligned with a window located on the outside surface of the footwear unit and a sensor on said programmable display for receiving a program signal. The programmable display has two or more modes of operation for displaying information on the panel. Inside of the programmable display unit is a controller that controls the display of information on the panel as well as for wirelessly transmitting said program signal to said sensor wherein said program signal provides data that determines what information is displayed on said panel. The controller also stores information or data that later can be viewed on the panel.

Abstract: A footwear (e.g., bike shoe, snow ski boot, snowboard boot, wakeboard boot, water ski boot, work boot) is described herein that incorporates correlated magnets which enable a person who has their foot placed within the footwear to attach or remove the footwear to or from a corresponding device (e.g., bike pedal, snow ski, snowboard, wakeboard, water ski, or work platform) which also incorporates correlated magnets.

Abstract: An article of footwear is provided having a decorative lighting arrangement wherein one or more LEDs are mounted within the interior of one or more sleeves, having the appearance of a shoelace, which are located in the toe portion of the shoe.

Abstract: One embodiment of a body material designated as a stripe or design (4) which contiguously mates couples and attaches to FIGS. 1 and 2 respectively. In addition 5 and 6 may also attach to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 in areas 1, 2 and 3 by means of Velcro. Other embodiments are described and shown.

Abstract: An improved exercise apparatus including a resistance training assembly coupled within an exercising shoe. The exercise shoe has a durable heel portion including a hollow placement slot having a contoured interior cavity for accepting the resistance training assembly. The interior cavity includes an upper and lower surface each having a pin hole. The assembly includes a detachable handle, a retractable wheel coil having a durable locking center pin, a retractable mechanism, and a locking mechanism. A segment of strap material, namely a resistance band, has a first end removably coupled to the locking center pin, and a second end removably coupled to a detachable handle. The detachable handle has a hollow interior grip portion. A cover removably fastens over the detachable handle and the hollow placement slot.

Abstract: A strap for a shoe has a first resilient and flexible fabric element extending from a first end to a second end and a clear flexible element substantially fixed at respective ends of the clear flexible element to corresponding ends of the first fabric element. Methods of assembly and of use are described.

Abstract: A shoe with a leveling instrument for detecting a relative height and a gradient of a ground to step thereon with the shoe, includes an outsole disposed at a lower portion of the shoe, an upper disposed at an upper portion of the outsole, an x-direction leveling instrument formed or affixed at the girth (i.e., an upper strip portion or welt) of a front end portion of the outsole or the upper, a top surface thereof being externally exposed, and a y-direction leveling instrument formed or affixed at the girth of a side portion of the outsole or the upper thereof, a top surface thereof being externally exposed. Accordingly, the shoes having the leveling instrument can detect the relative height and the gradient around the ground stepped by a user, whereby helping to correct a swing posture of a golfer, conduct a measurement operation of various engineers in architectural and civil engineering etc., and correct a walking posture of a walker.

Abstract: A protective cover device for a skate boot comprises a panel member including a central portion spanning part of the skate tongue and two side portions extending outwardly and downwardly from the central portion to span towards respective inner and outer sides of the skate. Anchor members at the outer side anchor the panel member to the skate boot using apertures which receive portions of the skate laces therethrough. The anchor members at the outer side also form hinges onto which the panel member is pivotally coupled for selectively providing access to the laces for fastening. An anchor member at the inner side comprises a strap which is selectively fastened to a mating fastener on a bottom side of the skate boot.

Abstract: Articles of footwear and other devices include modules, e.g., for sensing physical and/or physiological characteristics associated with use of the footwear or other devices. Such devices include: (a) a housing, optionally an asymmetrical housing, for receiving an electronic module; (b) release mechanisms for removably mounting the module in the housing; and/or (c) activation/authentication systems for selectively activating the module. Additionally, methods of making articles of footwear or other structures that include such housings, electronic modules, release systems, activation systems, authentication systems, etc. are described. Performance sensing systems and methods of using the above devices for sensing performance characteristics also are described.

Abstract: A changeable stripe for footwear, that can be applied to any segment of the shoe, or other clothing, or even a purse or backpack, and includes a changeable stripe that is held by means of a base, or through slots provided within the shoe, so that a pull tab connecting to the ends of the stripe can be shifted in one direction or the other to disclose different surface features of the stripe, to change or vary the coloration or design of the shown stripe. The changeable stripe may be applied directly and integrally into the structure of the shoe component, or it may be held by an independent base structure and applied by stitching or adhesive to the shoe. Each stripe may have pivotal segments that allows for turning of a portion of a stripe, so as to display other coloration. Such changeable stripes can be applied to the surface of the shoe, can be applied over the vamp of a sandal, the vamp of a beach shoe, or to other clothing or items, as desired.

Abstract: Clock sandal with a flexible sole plate, a pair of flexible foot retaining straps, a time keeping device and a time keeping device retaining loop. The sole plate includes a thin flexible top layer of material. The sole heal portion includes a hollow cavity which is covered by a hinged top plate. The foot retaining straps are each attached to the left and right heal portion of the sole plate. The straps join to form a single strap that is fixedly connected to the portion of the sole plate that corresponds to the space between the wearer's big toe and second toe. The time keeping device retaining loop is fixedly attached to the single strap at the strap joining location and the time keeping device is frictionally retained within the time keeping device retaining loop.

Abstract: The invention relates to a shoe with a sole unit, where the sole unit includes a recess for removably receiving a housing of an electronic assembly, for example, an electronic pedometer, an accelerometer, or a speed sensor. Further, the invention relates to a housing for receiving an electronic assembly, for example, a pedometer, an accelerometer, or a speed sensor, where the housing has an outer shape corresponding to the shape of a recess formed in a shoe sole.

Abstract: The shoe accessory includes a platform for supporting a conventional shoe. The shoe accessory's base has a convex or other non-planar surface that causes the shoe accessory to be stable in a longitudinal (heel-toe) direction, and unstable in a lateral (medial/lateral) direction. The non-planar surface may be defined by a ridge segment on the platform's bottom side. One or more straps are provided to temporarily secure the wearer's conventional shoe to the platform in a non-destructive manner. A generally U-shaped heel retainer may be provided adjacent a rear portion of the platform for receiving the heel of the shoe. The shoe accessory makes a flat-soled shoe laterally unstable while allowing for longitudinal stability and a naturalistic gait, and thus facilitates exercise of leg and foot muscles during normal walking, etc.

Abstract: A boot glove for embellishing all the footwear healthy, economically and safely is disclosed. The boot glove comprises of a boot glove body and a boot glove sock. The boot glove body is worn over the boot for covering and enhancing the boot with at least one embellishment. The boot glove sock encloses the human foot and is incorporated with the boot glove body in order to avoid slipping down of boot glove in the event of a malfunction. A cuff that can be attached to the sock provides additional comfort and grip while on a walk. The boot glove sock is made from a material that absorbs perspiration, prevents bad odor building up in the boot glove sock and avoids irritation and itching caused by bacteria.

Abstract: The present invention relates to articles with cavities capable of receiving objects as a result of extending an opening into a cavity capable of receiving the objects. For example, the opening in an article of footwear can be extended into the toe box to allow for the easier insertion and removal of a foot. The present invention also relates to systems that permit the article to be secured to the object after it has been inserted.

Abstract: A boot mounted breaking and shifting device for motorcycles. An embodiment of the present invention includes: three V-shaped members, six arm members; two support members; a U-shaped member; a flexible chevron plug removably inserted into a chevron hole formed between the U-shaped member and one of the V-shaped members; and a flexible strap removably coupleable to four of the six arm members via a plurality of buttons.

Abstract: An athletic shoe and a method of attaching ornamental pieces thereto by covering a shoe upper with hook or loop material and a reverse side of the ornamental piece with mateable hook or loop material.

Abstract: A device (100) for minimizing damage caused to at least a portion of footwear, the device (100) having a protecting surface (110), and an attaching surface (115) formed between the footwear and the protecting surface (110), the attaching surface being removably attachable to the portion of footwear.

Abstract: A shoe clip (100) includes two members (10, 12) that attach together in positions above and beneath shoe laces (20), to grip the shoe laces (20) between them and position the clip (100) on the shoe (22). A first member (10) is shaped and sized to slide under one or more laces (10) of the shoe, without requiring unlacing thereof. A second member (12) rotatably attaches at one end to the first member and, after insertion of the first member (10) beneath the laces (10), rotates to overlie the first member (10). The members then fasten to one another at their free ends (15, 17), such that the members grip the laces (20) between them. The second member supports or is integral with a component that is to be attached to the shoe.

Abstract: An adjustable golf spike assembly for a golf shoe includes a receptacle fixedly attached to the sole of the golf shoe. The receptacle defines an octagonal recess and an octagonal, externally threaded post disposed within the recess. A cleat includes an oversized gripping portion for providing traction and an attachment portion extending from the gripping portion. The attachment portion has an octagonal outer surface to match and engage with the octagonal recess and an octagonal threaded recess for engaging with the threads of the receptacle. Rotation of the cleat relative to the receptacle longitudinally moves the gripping portion relative to the receptacle. Engagement between the upper portion of the cleat and the receptacle provides for discrete rotational positioning of the cleat relative to the receptacle to position and hold the cleat a desired distance from the receptacle.

Abstract: A device that is a shoe heel attachment is provided, the device functioning to increase the surface area of the distal end of the heel portion of a high-heeled shoe, the device including an anchor portion and a planar portion. The device protects the heel of a high value shoe from abrasion and moisture that results from walking on permeable ground surfaces such as grass, mud, and snow, and improves the safety of the wearer from falls that would otherwise result from insertion of the heel into catching spaces such as sidewalk cracks and subway grate coverings.

Abstract: Footwear having components attached via magnetic fasteners. The components may be decorative or functional. A first footwear fastener part is permanently attached to the footwear. A second complimentary footwear fastener part is attached to a footwear component. The two fastener parts when put together secure the component to the footwear via a magnetic force.

Abstract: A method of customizing an article of footwear that is configured for self assembly is disclosed. The method includes steps of applying customized designs to pre-cut portions, and packaging the pre-cut portions with a lace and a set of instructions into a kit of parts. The kit of parts can be taken home and assembled by the customer.

Abstract: A device for attachment to the strap of a shoe to provide personalization and ornamental features to the shoe. The device includes a band or cover that includes the ornamental features or to which an ornamental device can be attached. The band or cover is attached to the strap of the shoe in a variety of manners including expandable loops attached to each end of the strap, being constructed in a tubular manner and slid over the strap, or being attached to the strap with loops and being expandable to create tension.

Abstract: Insole constructions for shoes including articulated components that allow for the connection of attachments having various devices are described. The insole constructions provide a supported attachment point for various components while not compromising the flexibility of the shoe. The insole constructions allow for attachment of devices at the heel, toe or sides of the shoe. Devices for attaching to shoes having the insole construction are also described, along with apparatuses for use with shoes having the insole construction.

Abstract: In a first broad form, the present invention provides an apparatus for use with a shoe having a sole, the apparatus including: at least one display adapted for mounting on a surface of the shoe; and a means of adjusting the at least one display between at least a first and a second colour state.

Abstract: A footwear accessory system is presented. The system includes a shoe including an exterior surface upon which an individual may desire to customize. An interchangeable article is provided having an appearance that the individual desires to place on the exterior surface of the shoe. The article further includes a contour to match a contour of the exterior surface of the shoe. A means for attaching the interchangeable article to the shoe is provided. When attached to the shoe, the article remains in place during normal use of the shoe by the individual. The individual, for replacement by another interchangeable article, can easily remove the article.

Abstract: The invention is a therapeutic device, manifest as an improvement to footwear generally. The improvement is the inclusion/affixing of a visual reference, for the purpose of suppressing the energy of that to which is referred.

Abstract: A leg lift device is provided for attachment to a shoe. The leg lift device includes a sole, an optional lift insert and a shoe receiver attached to the sole. The shoe receiver includes a first section to engage a toe of a shoe and a second section to engage a heel of a shoe. The device also includes an attachment strap. A selected method is also provided.

Abstract: The present invention is a sleeve to be worn over a soccer shoe, with indicia in two distinct regions of an instep, indicia on an outstep, and indicia on a top region constructed and arranged for teaching soccer skills and a method of using the sleeve to teach soccer.

Abstract: This embodiment is named THE ADAPTABLE PERFORMANCE SOLE APPARATUS. Its purpose is to be adapted to the choice of footwear/bare feet thus enhancing the shock action and comfort regardless of the footwear it's being attached to. This adaptable performance sole apparatus gets its attach ability from straps and/or attaching mechanisms and can be attached to shoes, sneakers as well as bare feet. The shock producing element shown in FIG.