Heel Support Patents (Class 36/92)
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Publication number: 20110078923Abstract: The walking device has a shoe bottom with a midsole. A soft heel part is arranged in a recess of the midsole and the outsole has a form that is rounded convexly in the walking direction. The reinforcing element, forming an insole, is arranged on the upper surface of the midsole and fastened to it. In the production of the walking device, the upper is joined to the reinforcing element to form a structural unit, which is then mounted on the midsole, for example by adhesive bonding.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 22, 2008Publication date: April 7, 2011Applicant: MASAI MARKETING & TRADING AGInventors: Markus Bartholet, Claudio Franco
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Publication number: 20110067268Abstract: A shoe construction utilizing a fluid containing chamber as a cushion. The shoe includes a stabilizer positioned in the shoe and having a heel portion in overlying relation to the cushion and a forward portion in overlying relation to at least a midfoot portion of the shoe bottom. The forward portion extends across a substantial portion of the inside width of the shoe where it is located to resist deformation of the shoe bottom under load from a user both in lateral bending and longitudinal torsion.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 23, 2009Publication date: March 24, 2011Inventor: Randy Lubart
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Publication number: 20100319218Abstract: An article of footwear comprising: a sole assembly; an upper attached to the sole assembly; a heel counter on the upper, the heel counter having an upper edge and including a first connector portion that extends along the upper edge; and a heel insert removably attached to the heel counter along its upper edge, the heel insert having a corresponding second connector portion that mates with the first connector portion of the heel counter.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 22, 2009Publication date: December 23, 2010Applicant: Nike, Inc.Inventors: Perry W. Auger, Sergio Cavaliere, Paul Hooper
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Publication number: 20100299960Abstract: Disclosed herein is the FairyJanes invention which is footwear having heel and ankle support for shoes that have a tendency to slip off heel such as pumps, high-heels, mules, backless sandals, etc. The mechanism/strap is a unique invention that is transportable, removable and interchangeable to different shoes. Another highly desirable feature is the ability to rearrange the straps in a variety of configurations in different methods on the instep, arch and ankle of the foot to secure the heeled shoe or boot. FairyJanes are a functional and aesthetic apparatus/accessory for supporting heeled shoes and boots. The mechanism is a one piece strap that goes around the under part of the shoe [the instep and heel] around the heel, crosses over the back of the heel and is secured with a buckle around the ankle. It effectively supports the ankle, arch, instep and heel of the shoe to the foot therefore allowing smooth movement in walking, running with low, medium to high heels and boots during intense activity.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 31, 2009Publication date: December 2, 2010Inventor: Sarah Nyamuswa
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Publication number: 20100236099Abstract: Engaging elements may be included in foot-receiving devices, such as footwear, bindings, clips, or the like. Such elements may include a bimodal spring member movable between two independent stable positions and an arm that moves in response to the bimodal spring member changing between its stable positions. The engaging elements additionally may include a retaining element extending from the arm and/or an arm/bimodal spring interface that induces changes in position of the arm in response to the bimodal spring member changing its stable position. The bimodal spring member, the arm, the retaining element, and/or the arm/bimodal spring interface may form an integral unit. Additionally, methods of engaging a foot-receiving device with a user's foot are disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 7, 2010Publication date: September 23, 2010Applicant: NIKE, INC.Inventors: John Hurd, Thomas C. Foxen
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Publication number: 20100236098Abstract: A footwear construction including an upper, a midsole including a midsole flange, and an outsole shell including an outsole flange. The flanges can project outwardly, away from the upper in the forefoot portion. The flanges can be joined with a direct attach bond and a lock stitch. The flanges can each terminate short of the heel portion. The lock stitch can terminate short of the heel portion, and can be visible above and below the joined flanges. The midsole can include a fully exposed and viewable portion in the heel portion of the footwear. The midsole can include a heel cup integrally formed with the midsole flange. A method for constructing the footwear includes direct attaching a midsole to an upper and an outsole including an outsole flange. The midsole can form with a midsole flange, and the midsole flange and outsole flange can be stitched together with a lock stitch.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 18, 2009Publication date: September 23, 2010Applicant: WOLVERINE WORLD WIDE, INC.Inventor: Mark M. Morgan
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Patent number: 7793427Abstract: A footwear construction including an upper secured to a platform defining an aperture, a cushion at least partially in the aperture, a California construction joined with the upper that wraps the platform, and an outsole. The California construction can terminate short of the heel, and the upper can join the platform via another construction, for example, by adhering the upper to the platform, in the heel. The cushion insert can define one or more recesses, such as concave contours in which the toe(s) of a wearer can rest to reduce the profile of the toe(s) above the cushion insert. A method for making the footwear is provided, including: joining an upper with a platform defining an aperture on a last; placing a cushioned insert within the aperture; wrapping a California flange around a portion of the platform; and joining an outsole with the platform, the cushioned insert and/or the upper.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2006Date of Patent: September 14, 2010Assignee: Wolverine World Wide, Inc.Inventors: Raymond V. Sessa, Clement M. Caron, Sr.
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Publication number: 20100223811Abstract: A shoe includes a heel/rear sole support receiving a rotatable and replaceable rear sole to provide longer wear. A flexible region positioned between the heel and the rear sole reduces midsole compression and provides additional spring. The flexible region is preferably curved or convex in shape and may be adapted to different desired performance characteristics depending upon the intended activity and terrain or playing surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 3, 2010Publication date: September 9, 2010Inventor: David F. Meschan
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Publication number: 20100212189Abstract: A foot pad for relieving pain while engaging in weight bearing activity is provided. A pad can include an arch portion fitting under and adjacent to the medial longitudinal arch of the foot, offsetting the soft tissue of the medial longitudinal arch thereby supporting the calcaneo-navicular ligament structure, wherein the arch portion extends from front to rear, of the longitudinal medial arch, and the arch portion extends from the medial side towards the lateral side, of the longitudinal medial arch.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 26, 2009Publication date: August 26, 2010Inventor: Brian Ebel
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Publication number: 20100192413Abstract: A biomechanics medical corrective shoe pad with far infrared ray energy fibers includes a bacteriostasis surface cloth layer, an inner foamed layer, a far infrared ray energy emitting fiber layer, a polythene layer, and a bacteriostasis cloth layer, which are positioned one on another in sequence, and heat-pressed and joined together with a mold; the far infrared ray energy emitting fiber layer includes a fiber, and far infrared ray energy containing mineral granules joined on the fiber; the shoe pad includes a peripheral area, a supporting area, and a cambering area, which undergo different-temperature heat-pressing processes; the supporting area and the cambering area are shaped according to ergonomics and human dynamics and in such a manner as to match pressure-responsive points of a man's sole; therefore, the shoe pad can absorb shock, reduce pressure, provide sufficient protection and support, and massage the wearer's foot.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 5, 2009Publication date: August 5, 2010Inventor: Edmund Wang
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Patent number: 7730639Abstract: Engaging elements may be included in foot-receiving devices, such as footwear, bindings, clips, or the like. Such elements may include a bimodal spring member movable between two independent stable positions and an arm that moves in response to the bimodal spring member changing between its stable positions. The engaging elements additionally may include a retaining element extending from the arm and/or an arm/bimodal spring interface that induces changes in position of the arm in response to the bimodal spring member changing its stable position. The bimodal spring member, the arm, the retaining element, and/or the arm/bimodal spring interface may form an integral unit. Additionally, methods of engaging a foot-receiving device with a user's foot are disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2007Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: NIKE, Inc.Inventors: John Hurd, Thomas C. Foxen
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Publication number: 20100107445Abstract: An article of footwear includes an upper and a sole assembly secured to the upper. The sole assembly includes a top plate, a bottom plate positioned below the top plate, and a plurality of support assemblies extending between the upper plate and the midsole. Each support assembly includes a fluid-filled bladder and a retaining member surrounding the fluid-filled bladder.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 6, 2008Publication date: May 6, 2010Inventors: Michael A. Aveni, Thomas McGuirk, Danielle L. Taylor
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Publication number: 20100050472Abstract: A stabilizing insole has a base, a heel pad and a forefoot pad. The heel pad is formed on the base and has a heel supporting segment. The forefoot pad is formed on the base and has a forefoot supporting section. The heel and forefoot pads concentrates force applied by a person's foot at natural balance points so the user does not twist his or her ankle.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 3, 2008Publication date: March 4, 2010Inventors: Tzann-Yuh TZENG, Min-Te LIN
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Publication number: 20090313853Abstract: An insole for placement in or on an article of footwear to support all or a portion of a wearer's foot, comprising: a base shell support layer having an upper surface, wherein the base layer includes a heel support portion, a plurality of substantially rigid particles disposed on the heel support portion, and an upper layer, the upper layer overlying and being secured to the base layer, the upper layer overlying the particles and maintaining them in an area between the upper layer and the base layer.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 19, 2008Publication date: December 24, 2009Inventor: Tony G. Tadin
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Publication number: 20090288314Abstract: A cover for cleated shoes. The shoe cover has a ball area, a heel area, and a mid-foot area between the ball area and the heel area. At least the mid-foot area is formed of stretchable material and is thinner than the material forming the ball area and heel of the sole. An internal support member is located internally in the ball area and/or heel area of the sole. An upper portion extends upward from the sole portion and defines a toe cup and a heel cup, with the upper portion being formed of stretchable material in at least the mid-foot area, and which has an opening formed therein to allow shoe and/or foot access to the shoe cover.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 20, 2008Publication date: November 26, 2009Inventor: Richard Keith Kay
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Publication number: 20090282702Abstract: A slip-on, slip-off stabilizing support accessory for a stiletto heel. The device is a unitary molding of semi-rigid, resilient plastic material formed with a generally hourglass configuration, with outwardly concave, resiliently flexible side walls for frictionally engaging opposite sides of a stiletto heel. An outwardly flared top opening facilitates application of the device to the heel, while an outwardly flaring bottom configuration provides a greatly enlarged ground contact area. Front and back edges of the side walls are of outwardly concave shape. Front and back wall structures, formed by relatively narrow, spaced-apart elements, enable the side walls to be flexed for easy application to heels of various sizes, while firmly gripping heels of the smallest size.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 14, 2008Publication date: November 19, 2009Inventors: Rebecca P. Brown, Monica F. Murphy
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Publication number: 20090241375Abstract: A shoe including a heel support integrally formed of a material different from the midsole material of a rear sole for supporting the foot of a user. The heel support includes a wall along at least one of the medial side of the shoe, the lateral side of the shoe and the rear of the shoe that extends vertically at least in part and includes at least one window through which at least a portion of the midsole material of the rear sole is exposed to and visible from outside the shoe.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 1, 2009Publication date: October 1, 2009Inventors: David F. Meschan, Tuan N. Le
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Publication number: 20090241376Abstract: A shoe outsole has a heel post extending outwardly therefrom. An outer heel cover has a hole for receiving the heel post in an assembled position. The heel post thus acts as a convenient positioning guide for the heel cover. A plurality of fluid-filled heel cushioning members at least partly surrounds the heel post between the outsole and the cover in the assembled position, for cushioning heel impacts during use of the footwear. A plurality of dividers on the outsole extend radially of the heel post, and position each cushioning member between a pair of the dividers. The dividers thus act as convenient positioning guides for the cushioning members. The cushioning members have different resistances to compression for adjustably cushioning heel impacts during use of the footwear.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 1, 2008Publication date: October 1, 2009Inventors: Susan Robson, Paul Genberg
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Publication number: 20090205222Abstract: An absorbent footwear liner comprising an upper absorbent layer and a lower layer comprising an adhesive equal in size to the upper layer for adhering the liner to substantially the entire surface of a footbed for absorbing and dissipating moisture thereon and preventing foot slippage on a shoe footbed due to perspiration.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 29, 2009Publication date: August 20, 2009Inventor: Shannon Michelle McLinden
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Publication number: 20090183391Abstract: The specification and drawing figures disclose, describe and claim a rigid orthotic plate with a resilient member, the combination positionable into footwear. In at least one aspect, a resilient member is fixedly mounted on the rigid orthotic. In another aspect, the resilient member is removably mountable on the rigid orthotic plate. In yet another aspect, a plurality of resilient members is provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 26, 2008Publication date: July 23, 2009Inventor: Alvaro Z. Gallegos
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Publication number: 20090183390Abstract: A foot orthotic device is disclosed. More specifically described is an individualized foot orthotic device to correct and/or restore the ideal alignment and/or positioning of foot structures. The device is designed using a method and system that applies sequential pressure to regions on a plantar foot surface, and obtaining positional information about each region. Based on the positional information, an orthotic profile is determined, for design of one or more custom, individualized foot orthotic devices for a subject.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 16, 2009Publication date: July 23, 2009Applicant: Tensegrity Technologies, Inc.Inventors: J. Kevin Miller, Michael S. Latterman, Sue Ann Latterman
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Publication number: 20090139111Abstract: A shoe shock absorbing and support system that is able to cushion the impact of a heel striking a surface to reduce injury and fatigue and to compensate for uneven surfaces while minimizing injury to the wearer. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a cushion layer formed of a soft, shock-absorption material is incorporated into the heel. The present invention also provides a multiple layer contour system that provides stability and cushioning without greatly increasing the thickness of the inner sole of the shoe.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 13, 2007Publication date: June 4, 2009Applicant: COMFORT PRODUCTS, INC.Inventor: Mark Joseph
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Publication number: 20090133288Abstract: The present invention relates to footwear which has improved shock absorbency due to cushioning within a two-plate system. The orthotic or upper plate and bottom plate are separated by cushioning. The orthotic plate preferably provides rigid support between heel and metatarsal region. The bottom plate may utilize multiple rigid segments whereby the toe region is flexible. The bottom plate may also have gripping elements which are permanently or removeably attachable to the plate to compensate for wear, or for a change in activities. The cushioning between the upper and bottom plates distributes force produced at individual points on the bottom plate over the entire upper plate, thereby eliminating pressure points on the foot.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 25, 2009Publication date: May 28, 2009Inventor: Alvaro Z. Gallegos
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Publication number: 20090113759Abstract: The present invention generally relates to therapeutic footwear such as sandals, conventional shoes, and corrective inserts that may be inserted into conventional shoes. Specifically, the therapeutic footwear may be used for maintaining, correcting, or repositioning the great toe to decrease pressure on the first metatarsal-phalangeal joint or bunion. Additional therapeutic features may include spreading of the wearer's toes, supporting the wearer's arch to control excessive pronation, and providing sustained heel cord stretch at rest, during ambulation, pedicure, and before, during, or after medical treatment.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 5, 2007Publication date: May 7, 2009Inventor: Chele Suzanne Heid
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Publication number: 20090094860Abstract: A shoe including an upper; a bottom located below the upper and facing the ground; and a flexible plate having an upper surface, a lower surface, and an interior portion and peripheral portions is disclosed. The flexible plate is positioned between at least a portion of the bottom and at least a portion of the upper. The peripheral portions are restrained from movement in a substantially vertical direction relative to the interior portion, so that the interior portion is capable of being deflected relative to the peripheral portions in a substantially vertical direction. The flexible plate has a width that is greater than one-half the width of the upper. At least one opening is in the bottom of the shoe. The lower surface of the flexible plate is in air communication with the outside of the shoe through the at least one opening in the bottom of the shoe.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 12, 2008Publication date: April 16, 2009Inventors: David F. Meschan, Tuan N. Le
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Publication number: 20090094862Abstract: The present invention relates to heel stabilizing technology that can be used on many kinds of footwear. This heel stabilizing technology can be incorporated during manufacture of the footwear. This heel stabilizing technology can also be manufactured as a separate component, and then added to many kinds of footwear. The heel stabilizer of the present invention increases the stability of the wearer when walking by minimizing the side-to-side teetering a person experiences when wearing flat heels to any height heel shoe, sneakers, boot, overshoe, galoshes or any combination thereof. Implementation of the heel stabilizing technology results in the heel of the footwear being set to a raised position and then flexed downward at heel strike. The resulting vertical stretch at the heel helps lessen side-to-side teetering of the wearer and thereby increases stability. The disclosed heel stabilizer includes at least one anchoring means, at least one heel lift means, a stretch segment, and a sole.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 15, 2008Publication date: April 16, 2009Inventor: Betsy M. Krauss
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Publication number: 20090049712Abstract: An orthotic foot device for footwear may include a flexible insole chassis adapted to extend substantially between the heel and the toe of the footwear and at least one support component attached at a lower side of the chassis. The chassis may include a cushioned layer composed of conforming resilient material overlying the upper side of the chassis.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 21, 2008Publication date: February 26, 2009Inventors: Michael Steszyn, Simon Luthi, Joseph F. McMillan, Peter Valois, Martin Trautmann, Damian Donzis, Aimee Donzis, Ronald Charles Irani
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Publication number: 20090031583Abstract: A foot support is disclosed. The foot support may be a shoe insert including a depression underlying the first proximal phalange and/or the first metatarsal head, a raised medial arch support, and a medial heel post.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 3, 2007Publication date: February 5, 2009Inventors: Richard T. Avent, Charles E. Lundy, JR., Bernard F. Grisoni
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Publication number: 20090019730Abstract: A sole structure of a sports shoe includes an outsole and an intermediate sole having a number of portions that is flexible and supports the foot during running. The intermediate sole includes a flexible body element extending along the entire length of the shoe, and a flexible heel absorption element extending to the heel area, and a support element fitted between them extending from the heel area to the ball area which is of a less flexible material than the body element or the heel absorption element. The support element includes a substantially plate-like heel portion and a shaped front portion, which are separated from each other by a substantially cross-directional support ridge protruding from the lower surface of the support element. The intermediate sole also includes an hourglass-shaped ball absorption element, a carbon fibre plate increasing the torsional rigidity of the support element and an arch support.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 28, 2006Publication date: January 22, 2009Applicant: KARHU SPORTING GOODS OYInventors: Matti Salminen, Teuvo Niskanen
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Publication number: 20090019729Abstract: A sole construction having a heel carrier and an upwardly-arched heel pad. The heel pad is fitted into and supported by the heel carrier so that the heel pad provides a spring-like bending reaction to a load. The sole construction may further include a support element disposed above the heel pad and fitted into heel carrier. The support element may be upwardly-arching so that, like the heel pad, it provides spring-like bending reaction in response to a load. The support element and heel pad may be integrally formed, for example, by molding the heel pad directly onto the support element. The heel pad and/or support element may be fitted into slots in the lateral and medial sidewalls of the heel carrier to interconnect the heel pad, support element and heel carrier. The support element may have a forward extension to function as a shank.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 20, 2007Publication date: January 22, 2009Applicant: WOLVERINE WORLD WIDE, INC.Inventors: Kiyotaka Nakano, Karl A. Reed, John M. Slattery
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Publication number: 20090007455Abstract: In a high heel shoe the heel seat is angled upwards approximately 3-5 degrees. The insole follows the natural shape of the inside long arch of the foot so that the medial arch of the foot is raised higher than the lateral arch of the foot in order to support the natural angle of the calcaneus, the navicular, the medial cuneiform and the first metatarsal. The angle of the heel seat is more acute relative to the ground looking from the lateral side of the shoe. A triangular dome bump on the insole of the shoe has one corner behind the second metatarsal head, a second corner behind the fourth metatarsal head and the final corner near mid-foot. Material is added beneath the sole of the insole so that the greatest thickness is beneath the metatarsal heads and tapers to zero at the end of the insole toward the toes.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 18, 2008Publication date: January 8, 2009Inventor: Scott Montgomery
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Publication number: 20080307675Abstract: The present invention relates to heel stabilizing technology that can be used on many kinds of footwear. This heel stabilizing technology can be incorporated during manufacture of the footwear. This heel stabilizing technology can also be manufactured as a separate component, and then added to many kinds of footwear. The heel stabilizer of the present invention increases the stability of the wearer when walking by minimizing the side-to-side teetering a person experiences when wearing flat heels to any height heel shoe, sneakers, boot, overshoe, galoshes or any combination thereof. Implementation of the heel stabilizing technology results in the heel of the footwear being set to a raised position and then flexed downward at heel strike. The resulting vertical stretch at the heel helps lessen side-to-side teetering of the wearer and thereby increases stability. The disclosed heel stabilizer includes at least one anchoring means, at least one heel lift means, a stretch segment, and a sole.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 11, 2008Publication date: December 18, 2008Inventor: Betsy M. Krauss
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Patent number: 7426794Abstract: A foot support insole having four different versions, each providing differing degrees of arch support for use in any shoe or boot. The insole is biomechanically shaped to support the medial arch, the lateral arch, the metatarsal arch, and the heel. In each of these versions, the principal variable is the extent of support for the medial arch. Low, medium, high, and extreme foot support versions are disclosed. The insole design effectively distributes the weight-generated forces provided by the user into a neutral plantigrade position. Supporting the neutral position for the foot obtains optimum balance and weight distribution by dispersing the forces applied by the foot over the greatest area possible within the shoe. The insole allows the three foot arches to work together and function as a structural support tripod, alternatively absorbing compressive forces and recoiling into a stable support state.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2006Date of Patent: September 23, 2008Inventor: Robert John Swensen
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Publication number: 20080209765Abstract: The shoe, has a shoe upper part and a sole. The sole has a supporting part, which is designed for receiving the heel region of the wearer's foot and is connected to the shoe upper part, and a sole element, which is connected to the supporting part. In order to improve the damping behavior of the shoe, the supporting part and the sole element are spaced apart from each other, in the longitudinal direction of the shoe. The connection between the supporting part and the sole element is preformed at two spaced-apart points in such a way as to form, under the heel region of the wearer's foot, a gap. The gap extends at least in portions over the entire width of the sole. The sole element, in the rear end region of the shoe, is connected to the supporting part.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 23, 2006Publication date: September 4, 2008Applicant: Puma Aktiengesellschaft Rudolf Dassler SportInventor: Joerg Rohwer-Kahlmann
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Publication number: 20080155859Abstract: The present invention relates to a shoe sole including a cushioning element. The shoe sole can include a heel cup or heel rim having a shape that substantially corresponds to the shape of heel of a foot. Further, the heel part can include a plurality of side walls arranged below the heel cup or rim and at least one tension element that interconnects at least one side wall to another side wall or to the heel cup or rim. The heel cup or rim, the plurality of side walls, and the at least one tension element can be integrally formed as a single piece.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 25, 2008Publication date: July 3, 2008Applicant: adidas International Marketing B.V.Inventors: Matthew Daniel Chandler, Jan Hill, Robert Leimer, Timothy David Lucas, Gerd Rainer Manz, Angus Wardlaw, Charles Griffin Wilson, Mark Andrew Henderson
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Publication number: 20080155858Abstract: An insole is described that can be placed with an insole receiving area of a slipper. The insole can be prepared by compression molding a structure comprising a foam layer having a first foam side and a second foam side. The insole includes a heel region, an arch region, and a toe region. The heel region includes a heel cushioning portion and a heel perimeter portion. The heel perimeter portion includes a retaining wall that extends above the top surface of the heel cushioning portion. The arch region includes an arch cushioning portion and an arch perimeter portion. The arch perimeter portion includes an arch support that extends above the top surface of the arch cushioning portion. The toe region includes a toe cushioning portion and a toe perimeter portion. A slipper and a method for manufacturing a slipper are described.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 4, 2008Publication date: July 3, 2008Applicant: R.G. Barry CorporationInventors: Walter Thomas Bray, Theresa Stewart
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Publication number: 20080134543Abstract: A modular shoe is provided by a two part shoe design. A first part is an internal support structure that includes a midsole portion and a heel counter. A second part is a removable cover that is configured to accept a specific size internal support structure to provide internal support to the soft material and outsole which comprise the cover. Various cover designs are configured to accept a single size internal support structure thereby providing for interchangeable cover and a plurality of shoe designs all sharing a single internal support structure. The removable cover takes substantially less packing space that supported shoe, thereby requiring reduced storage for a traveler packing several shoe designs all sharing a single internal support.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 7, 2004Publication date: June 12, 2008Inventor: Mark Klein
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Publication number: 20080127516Abstract: A footwear construction including an upper secured to a platform defining an aperture, a cushion at least partially in the aperture, a California construction joined with the upper that wraps the platform, and an outsole. The California construction can terminate short of the heel, and the upper can join the platform via another construction, for example, by adhering the upper to the platform, in the heel. The cushion insert can define one or more recesses, such as concave contours in which the toe(s) of a wearer can rest to reduce the profile of the toe(s) above the cushion insert. A method for making the footwear is provided, including: joining an upper with a platform defining an aperture on a last; placing a cushioned insert within the aperture; wrapping a California flange around a portion of the platform; and joining an outsole with the platform, the cushioned insert and/or the upper.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 1, 2006Publication date: June 5, 2008Applicant: WOLVERINE WORLD WIDE, INC.Inventors: Raymond V. Sessa, Clement M. Caron
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Publication number: 20080110053Abstract: A novelty footwear item includes a mid-sole foot platform for supporting from below the foot of a user, an outer sole for providing the footwear item with turning traction and a stash assembly sandwiched between the mid-sole foot platform and the outer sole, wherein said stash assembly has disposed therein a slidably removable comb sufficient width, length and depth dimensions for storage therein of loose items.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 20, 2007Publication date: May 15, 2008Applicant: South Cone, Inc.Inventors: Bonnie Dominquez, James Darr Burress, Amy Lynn McMahan, Ryan William Quinn, Eric Simmons, Brett D. Ritter
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Publication number: 20080086912Abstract: A foot covering, including a thin, flexible compartment for receiving a foot, the compartment having a forefoot section, a mid-section, and a heel section. The compartment has a top surface for securing the foot and a ground-facing surface having at least a forefoot outsole portion in the forefoot section. The forefoot outsole portion is disposed mainly in the forefoot section, and has a shape that is wider than it is long; corresponding approximately to the width of a foot and covering approximately the first to the fifth metatarsal heads. The mid-section of the compartment is mainly free of outsole material. The inventive subject matter is further directed towards a method for manufacturing such a foot covering.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 16, 2007Publication date: April 17, 2008Applicant: POINTE NOIR PTY LTD.Inventor: David Wilkenfeld
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Publication number: 20080034616Abstract: A heel cup can be inserted into a shoe in order to define a posterior upward projection and lateral wings which surround the posterior and lateral faces of the calcaneum and which, through lateral notches, define a preferential deformation zone at, and in the direction of, the subtalar cone of the tibiotarsal joint. Moreover, a sufficiently-rigid connecting zone connects the posterior upward projection and the lateral wings, thus providing the shoe with good stability while enabling inversion and eversion foot movements. In this way, comfort is increased considerably, while the risk of articular injuries is reduced since the subtalar articulation is contained correctly upon reaching the limit thereof.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 31, 2005Publication date: February 14, 2008Inventor: Jean-Luc Rhenter
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Patent number: 7299567Abstract: An article of footwear includes a sole assembly and an upper secured to the sole assembly. A sole plate is positioned between the upper and the sole assembly. The sole plate includes a midfoot member comprising a medial member having a base plate and at least one medial pillar extending upwardly from a medial edge of the base plate; with the base plate having a substantially planar finger extending forwardly and configured to extend under a foot of a user; and a lateral member having at least one lateral pillar extending upwardly from a lateral edge thereof. A forefoot member has at least one finger extending upwardly along an exterior surface of the upper.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 2004Date of Patent: November 27, 2007Assignee: Nike, Inc.Inventors: Thomas Berend, Anthony P. Daversa
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Patent number: 7178270Abstract: Engaging elements may be included in foot-receiving devices, such as footwear, bindings, clips, or the like. Such elements may include a bimodal spring member movable between two independent stable positions and an arm that moves in response to the bimodal spring member changing between its stable positions. The engaging elements additionally may include a retaining element extending from the arm and/or an arm/bimodal spring interface that induces changes in position of the arm in response to the bimodal spring member changing its stable position. The bimodal spring member, the arm, the retaining element, and/or the arm/bimodal spring interface may form an integral unit. Additionally, methods of engaging a foot-receiving device with a user's foot are disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 2003Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: Nike, Inc.Inventors: John Hurd, Thomas C Foxen
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Patent number: 7168188Abstract: An article of footwear includes a sole assembly, an upper secured to the sole assembly, a heel counter secured to the upper, and a heel pad removably attached to an inner surface of the heel counter.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 2004Date of Patent: January 30, 2007Assignee: Nike, Inc.Inventors: Perry W. Auger, Neil Crumbleholme, Brian D. Baker, Peter A. Hudson
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Patent number: 7096602Abstract: An integrated article of footwear including a waterproofing membrane direct attached to an upper of the footwear. An outsole is further secured to the membrane and/or the upper. In one embodiment, the membrane includes a visible aesthetic bead in the footwear forefoot region, but not the heel region. The membrane may be of greater thickness in the forefoot region to provide added rigidity. A heel cradle is positioned in the footwear heel region between the upper and the outsole. The footwear provides the durability of a direct attach construction in the forefoot and the comfort and cushion of an athletic construction in the heel of the shoe. A method for constructing the footwear includes direct attaching the membrane to an upper of the shoe. Optionally, a heel cradle is disposed in the heel region of the shoe, and the outsole is secured to the heel cradle and/or upper there.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2004Date of Patent: August 29, 2006Assignee: Wolverine World Wide, Inc.Inventors: Stephen M. Palmer, Chao Ming Chin, Peter Ruston, Chen Ching Shan, William J. B. Brown
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Patent number: 7076889Abstract: An integrated article of footwear including a waterproofing membrane direct attached to an upper of the footwear. An outsole is further secured to the membrane and/or the upper. In one embodiment, the membrane includes a visible aesthetic bead in the footwear forefoot region, but not the heel region. The membrane may be of greater thickness in the forefoot region to provide added rigidity. A heel cradle is positioned in the footwear heel region between the upper and the outsole. The footwear provides the durability of a direct attach construction in the forefoot and the comfort and cushion of an athletic construction in the heel of the shoe. A method for constructing the footwear includes direct attaching the membrane to an upper of the shoe. Optionally, a heel cradle is disposed in the heel region of the shoe, and the outsole is secured to the heel cradle and/or upper there.Type: GrantFiled: November 23, 2004Date of Patent: July 18, 2006Assignee: Wolverine World Wide, Inc.Inventors: Stephen M. Palmer, Chao Ming Chin, Peter Ruston, Chen Ching Shan, William J. B. Brown
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Patent number: 7010867Abstract: A footwear construction including an articulated welt. The footwear includes an upper and an outsole secured together with a welt in the forward portion of the footwear. The welt terminates short of the heel region of the footwear. In one embodiment, the outsole in the heel region is secured to a heel cradle which is further secured the upper. The footwear provides the durability of a welt construction in the forward portion of the shoe and the comfort and cushion of an athletic construction in the heel region of the shoe. A method for constructing the footwear includes securing an outsole to an upper with a welt in a forefoot and/or arch region of the shoe but not the heel region of the shoe. Optionally, a heel cradle is disposed in the heel region of the shoe and the outsole is secured to the heel cradle and/or upper in the heel region.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 2003Date of Patent: March 14, 2006Assignee: Wolverine World Wide, Inc.Inventor: William J. B. Brown
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Patent number: 6782643Abstract: An orthotic insert having an angled lateral surface that engages the insole so as to pivot the insert in a lateral direction and invert the rearfoot at heel strike, and a medial bottom surface that freely interfits within the heel counter and insole of the shoe so as to avoid limiting pivoting motion in the medial direction as the weight on the foot shifts forwardly and medially. Pivoting motion in the medial direction is arrested by engagement between a distal medial portion of the rigid plate member and the insole along the transverse plane of the shoe. The distal medial portion of the plate member is located generally proximal and beneath the first metatarsal head of the foot. The upwardly angled medial surface of the post permits the post to fit optimally within the heel area of the shoe and also avoids interference between the heel counter/insole and the post that would impair proper operation of the insert.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2002Date of Patent: August 31, 2004Inventor: Dennis N Brown
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Patent number: 6772540Abstract: A boot that includes a sole and an outer upper having an impervious portion, with at least one outer reinforcing element assembled to the upper by cementing at least in the impervious portion thereof. Preferably, the reinforcing element includes a heel reinforcement and lateral tightening flaps.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2001Date of Patent: August 10, 2004Assignee: Salomon S.A.Inventors: Gerald Delgorgue, Catherine Fellouhe, Thierry Donnadieu
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Publication number: 20040103561Abstract: The invention provides an innersole system for an article of footwear, including an orthopedic intermediary support member and a user-selectable exchangeable innersole. The orthopedic intermediary support member includes a cupped heel portion having a concave upper bearing surface and a midfoot portion having a medial longitudinal arch support with a curvilinear upper bearing surface. The exchangeable innersole mates with the orthopedic intermediary support member to provide a user-selected orthopedic correction factor.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 24, 2003Publication date: June 3, 2004Inventors: Todd D. Campbell, Russell C. Davis, William Y. Guthrie