FLEXIBLE SOLE SUPPORTS FOR ARTICLES OF FOOTWEAR

摘要

Flexible foot support members may include: (a) a first plantar support member; (b) a second plantar support member; and (c) a flex joint connecting the first and second plantar support members. The flex joint (e.g., one or more hinge structures) allows movement of the first plantar support surface with respect to the second plantar support surface in at least one direction, and optionally stops or limits this relative movement in the opposite direction. Footwear and sole structures including such flexible foot support members may allow more natural motion and flexion of a wearer's foot during a variety of motions, such as various phases of a walking or running step cycle, during turn or cutting events, when jumping, etc.

主权项

1. A flexible foot support member, comprising:
a first plantar support member including a first upper surface and a first lower surface; a second plantar support member including a second upper surface and a second lower surface; and a flex joint connecting the first plantar support member with the second plantar support member, wherein the flex joint includes a hinge structure joining the first plantar support member with the second plantar support member, and wherein the hinge structure is located below the first and second lower surfaces.