CN105361347A - Traction Elements - Google Patents

Abstract

Traction elements for an article of footwear can include stabilizer elements. An extendable traction element for an article of footwear can include an elongatable extender attached to another portion of a sole structure. An actuator can rest within the extender and cause elongation of the extender in response to a force from the foot of a wearer.

Description

Adhesion elements

This application is a divisional application of an invention application with a filing date of April 1, 2010, an application number of 201080019481.0, and an invention title of "adhesion element".

Cross References to Related Applications

This application claims priority to US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61/166,191, filed April 2, 2009, entitled "TractionElements," which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. With regard to certain subject matter that is common to the provisional application and the present application, various changes have been made to the written specification and drawings herein merely to enhance readability, eliminate repetition, correct obvious errors, and/or to clearly delineate the present application. A person skilled in the art tacitly understands the features to be presented based on reading said provisional application.

technical field

Aspects of the various embodiments relate generally to traction elements for use in articles of manufacture and articles of wear, such as shoes, clothing, and athletic or protective equipment. In more particular instances, aspects of some embodiments relate to stabilizers for traction elements for articles of footwear. In other examples, aspects of some embodiments relate to retractable and extendable traction elements for articles of footwear.

Background technique

Many crafted items and wearable items benefit from adhesion elements. Such items are often in contact with a surface, such as the ground, and can be prone to slipping, instability, and other unsafe contact with the surface. The traction elements provide increased friction and grip between the item and the surface the item contacts. Traction elements are typically attached to the ground-contacting surface of an article. Such traction elements are generally designed to provide additional traction in conjunction with the type of motion that occurs when the article contacts a surface or ground. For example, an athletic shoe may have studs of a specific size and shape designed to provide traction to the wearer during specific movements. These studs are generally designed to provide additional traction for a single type of action or movement or to prevent slipping or gripping issues. Such cleats may provide traction for many types of action and movement. Also, they may not accommodate the various actions and movements of the wearer during dynamic use of the article of footwear.

Some articles may have interchangeable traction elements that accommodate various types of motion and movement. Replacing traction elements can be inefficient and time consuming. For example, an athlete may desire an article of footwear that provides traction for both running and pivoting. Typically, traction elements are designed for only one of these actions. The athlete must choose which traction is most important and may have prior traction elements that provide traction during another type of movement. Many users will recognize if a single traction element can provide traction in more than one type of action or sport and/or be suitable for the dynamic conditions of various sports.

Also, most studs are not suitable for all situations. Studs are generally designed to come into contact with either hard or soft surfaces, but not both types of surfaces. Studs designed for soft surfaces tend to have a greater height than those designed for hard surfaces. Studs for soft surfaces must extend a greater distance into the ground to ensure a stable and firm contact with the surface. Some surfaces have uneven hardness. A user may wish to quickly transition from a soft surface to a hard surface. Users will benefit from studs that can quickly switch their grip to suit various types of surfaces.

Thus, while some traction elements are currently available, there is still room for improvement in the art. For example, an article of wear having traction elements with optional additional stability would be a desirable advancement in the art. Additionally, traction elements that provide traction under a variety of conditions and in a variety of types of sports would be welcome in the art. Additionally, articles having traction elements that can be selectively retracted and adapted to various types of surfaces would be a desirable advancement in the art.

Contents of the invention

A general summary of some embodiments is given below. This summary is not an extensive overview of the invention. It is not intended to identify key or critical elements of the invention and/or to delineate the scope of the invention. The following summary merely presents some concepts of specific embodiments in a general form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented below.

Aspects of some embodiments relate to traction elements for articles of manufacture and articles of wear. In at least some embodiments, the traction element can include: (1) a body having an attached surface and an opposing free end surface, wherein the attached surface and the free end surface can be joined by a sidewall; and ( 2) A stabilizing element having an attached end, a free end opposite the attached end, and a central portion between the attached end and the free end. The attached end of the stabilizing element may be attached to the main body such that the stabilizing element may be configured to extend in a direction away from a side wall of the main body. The stabilizing element 215 may be a cantilever beam structure. In yet other embodiments, a sole structure may include a base member and a plurality of said traction elements attached to and extending from the base member. In other embodiments, an article of footwear may include an upper and the sole structure engaged with the upper.

Additional embodiments include methods of making an traction element, which may include the steps of: (1) providing a base member; (2) attaching an traction element to the base member, the traction element defining a surface configured to be attached to the base member. an attached surface, a free end surface opposite the attached surface, and a side wall connecting the attached surface and the free end surface; and (3) attaching a cantilever beam structure to the adhesion member such that the free end is positioned to extend away from the sidewall of the traction element.

Still other embodiments relate to an extensible traction element that includes an actuator and an extender. The extender is engageable with the actuator and is extendable from a first length to a second length in response to a force on the actuator, thereby increasing the axial direction of the extender and the traction element of which the extender is a part. length. In still other embodiments, an article of footwear may include an upper, a sole structure attached to the upper, and at least one extensible traction element secured to the sole structure.

Additional embodiments include methods of making an traction element, which may include the steps of: (1) injecting a first shot into a first mold, wherein the first shot includes a first material for forming an extender; (2) Injecting a second shot into the first mold, wherein the second shot includes a second material for forming the base and tip of the cleat, wherein the first shot and the second shot form the first mold element (3) removing the first mold element from the first mold; (4) positioning the first mold element in the second mold; and (5) injecting a third shot into the second mold, wherein the first mold element The triple shot includes a third material used to form the board insert. In other embodiments, the cleat ends are first formed in a separate mold. The molded cleat end is then placed into a second mold. The cleat base is then molded into a second mold. After forming the cleat base, the extender is molded into a second mold to connect the cleat end to the cleat base.

In still other embodiments, a sole structure for an article of footwear may include: (1) an insole; and (2) a first actuator attached to the insole. The insole may be a sole liner. The insole may be selectively removed from the sole structure or may be permanently attached to the sole structure. The first actuator is selectively removable from the insole. Multiple actuators may be engaged with the insole and positioned in any desired configuration.

In still other embodiments, a sole structure may include a base member and an extensible traction element extending from the base member.

Description of drawings

A more complete understanding of the various embodiments and certain advantages thereof may be obtained by referring to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals represent like features, and in which:

1 is a bottom plan view of a portion of a sole structure for an article of footwear having a plurality of traction elements each having a stabilizing element;

Figure 2 is a perspective view of an adhesion element with stabilizing elements;

Figure 3 is a side view of an traction element with stabilizing elements;

Figure 4 is a bottom plan view of the traction element with stabilizing elements;

5 illustrates a sole structure for an article of footwear with exemplary retractable and extendable traction elements according to some aspects of this invention;

Figure 6 is an exploded view of an exemplary traction element;

7 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary traction element in a retracted and/or non-actuated position;

8 is a cross-sectional view of an example traction element in a partially extended position, according to at least some embodiments;

9 illustrates an example sole structure having an insole with actuators, according to at least some embodiments;

Figures 10A and 10B illustrate exemplary traction elements having extenders at first and second lengths, respectively;

Figure 11 is an exploded view of another exemplary traction element;

12 is a cross-sectional view of another example traction element in a retracted and/or non-actuated position, according to at least some embodiments;

13 is a cross-sectional view of another exemplary traction element in a partially extended position, according to at least some embodiments;

14 illustrates a portion of a shoe with two extensible traction elements, according to at least some additional embodiments;

Figure 15 is a perspective view of the underside of the shoe portion from Figure 14;

16A-16C are enlarged partial cross-sectional views corresponding to the positions marked in FIG. 14;

Figure 17 is an enlarged fragmentary exploded view showing selected components from the shoe of Figure 14;

Figures 18A and 18B are cross-sectional views from the locations marked in Figure 15;

FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view from the location marked in FIG. 18. FIG.

Readers are reminded that the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale.

detailed description

In the following description of the exemplary embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which are shown by way of illustration various exemplary devices, systems, and aspects of the invention that may the environment in which it is practiced. It is to be understood that other specific configurations of components, exemplary devices, systems and environments may be used and structural and functional modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.

In general, as described above, some embodiments relate to traction elements for use in articles of manufacture and articles of wear, as well as articles of footwear. Generally, an article of footwear includes an upper attached to a sole structure. The sole structure may extend along the length of the article of footwear and may include an outsole that may form a ground-contacting surface for the article of footwear. The outsole may include a bottom plate. Traction elements may be attached to and form portions of the outsole. The traction elements may be of integral construction with the sole structure or may be attached to the sole structure in any suitable manner. The traction elements may be permanently attached to the sole structure or selectively detachable from the sole structure.

The article of footwear may include a forefoot portion, a midfoot portion, and a heel portion. These descriptions of shoe regions are for exemplary purposes only and are not intended to describe exact portions of the article of footwear. One or more traction elements may be positioned in any region or combination of regions of the sole structure of the article of footwear. For example, traction elements may be positioned in the heel region and the forefoot region of the sole structure of an article of footwear.

Traction elements may induce friction between the sole structure and the ground or surface it contacts to provide support and stability to the wearer of the article of footwear during various movements. For example, traction elements may be positioned in the forefoot region of the sole structure of an article of footwear to provide support and stability when the wearer lands his forefoot on the ground or turns. In some examples, these traction elements may be positioned along the medial and lateral edges of the forefoot region. The traction element may be positioned to extend under the fifth metatarsal of the wearer's foot or under the first and/or fifth metatarsophalangeal joints of the wearer's foot. The traction elements may be positioned on and in any area of the sole structure in any suitable configuration.

Adhesion elements can be of various sizes and shapes. For example, the adhesion elements may be conical, rectangular, pyramidal, polygonal, or other suitable shape. In one example, an article of footwear may have multiple traction elements and the traction elements may all have a uniform shape. In another example, the plurality of traction elements can have different shapes. The traction elements may be solid or may have a hollow interior and may be of any size. In one exemplary configuration, where multiple traction elements are attached to the sole structure, each traction element may be of the same size or they may be of varying sizes. Some example traction elements taper as they extend away from the sole structure. The ends of the traction elements may be pointed, flat surfaces, or any other suitable configuration. The tip can be beveled, curved, or any other suitable shape.

The surface of the traction element may be textured or patterned. In some embodiments, the surface of the traction element is smooth. In other embodiments, the surface of the traction element may be textured to create friction with the surface in contact with the traction element. For example, the traction element may have a surface with various ribs or cut-outs. In other examples, pins, spines, or other protrusions may extend from the surface of the traction element to create additional friction when the traction element comes into contact with the surface. force. Any friction generating element may be attached to the traction element in any suitable manner.

The traction elements may be attached to the midsole or other portion of the sole structure, or any other portion of the article of footwear. The traction element is detachable from the article of footwear. Some exemplary articles of footwear have traction elements that are replaceable via mechanical connectors (eg, screw holes and screw combinations). The traction elements and the sole structure, or a portion thereof, may be integrally formed. Traction elements may be attached to the article of footwear in any suitable manner or may be formed as any part of the article of footwear. Traction elements may be positioned within the sole structure in any suitable configuration and may be configured to engage the ground in any desired manner.

The traction element may include a body having an attached surface and an opposite free end surface. The attached surface may be attached to a sole structure of the article of footwear. The free end may form part of the ground-contacting surface of the traction element. A side wall may connect the attached surface and the free end. The body can be of any shape or size. In instances where there are multiple traction elements, each body may be of a different shape and/or size, or of the same shape and/or size. The body may taper as it extends from the surface of the sole structure, ie the body tapers from the attached surface towards the free end surface. The sidewalls of the body may have any suitable shape or texture. For example, the sidewalls may be curved surfaces or may have one or more flat surfaces or a combination thereof.

The traction element may have a stabilizing element having an attached end, a free end opposite the attached end, and a central portion between the attached end and the free end. The temperature element and body may be integrally formed. The stabilizing element may be attached to the body such that the stabilizing element may be configured to extend in a direction away from a side wall of the body. The stabilizing elements may extend in any direction away from the side walls. The surface of the stabilizing element may be curved or flat in any part of the stabilizing element. For example, a stabilizing element may have a curved surface, one or more flat surfaces, or a combination thereof.

As noted above, the traction elements may be of any desired size; any suitable size body and stabilizing elements may be used.

In some exemplary configurations, the traction element may have multiple stabilizing elements. For example, an traction element may have a main body and two stabilizing elements attached to the main body. The first stabilizing element may be attached at a first attachment point and the second stabilizing element may be attached at a second attachment point. In some exemplary configurations, the first attachment point and the second attachment point may be the same location on the body. In other exemplary configurations, the first attachment point and the second attachment point may be different locations on the body. The attachment points may position the stabilizing elements to extend in opposite directions, in directions forming an angle between the stabilizing elements (eg, obtuse, acute, or right angles), or in parallel directions.

In the exemplary traction elements described above, the stabilizing elements may have a cantilever beam structure. The cantilever beam structure may have an attached end, a free end and a central portion connecting them. The cantilever beam structure can extend beyond the main body in any direction to provide additional stability, support and adhesion to the main body. The cantilever beam structure may extend away from the main body at any angle (ie acute, obtuse or right).

The traction elements described above may be incorporated into the sole structure of an article of footwear. The sole structure includes a base member and a plurality of traction elements attached to the base member. , wherein each traction element may include a body and a cantilever beam structure attached to the body. The sole structure may extend through any portion of the article of footwear. For example, the sole structure may extend through the forefoot region of the article of footwear. In such a configuration, traction elements may be positioned in the forefoot region, and the cantilever beam structure may be positioned to extend toward the center of the forefoot region of the sole structure. The traction elements may be configured such that the cantilever beam structures may be positioned to extend in any suitable direction.

The plurality of traction elements on the sole structure described above may be positioned in any suitable configuration. For example, a first traction element of the plurality of traction elements may be positioned along a medial edge of the forefoot region of the sole structure such that it extends generally under the wearer's first metatarsal and/or first metatarsophalangeal joint. The second traction element may be positioned along a lateral edge of the forefoot region of the sole structure such that it extends generally under the wearer's fifth metatarsal and/or fifth metatarsophalangeal joint. In this configuration, the cantilever beam structures of the first traction element and the second traction element may be configured such that the two cantilever beam structures are positioned to extend towards the center of the forefoot area of the sole structure.

An article of footwear including the traction elements described above may include an upper, a sole member engaged with the upper, and a traction element attached to the sole structure. The traction element may comprise a body having an attachment surface connected by a side wall and a free end surface, and a stabilizer attached to the body and extending from the side wall of the body. Attachment of the body Surfaces may be attached to the sole member in any suitable manner. For example, an attachment surface of the body may be attached to the outsole and/or midsole of the sole member.

In one exemplary embodiment, an traction element has a body and a fixed stabilization element. The main body and the fixed stabilizing element can touch the ground as a single unit. The stabilizing elements provide support for the main body during contact between the traction elements and the ground. For example, during torsional loading when shear forces are applied to the traction element when the traction element is in contact with the ground, such as when the wearer lands his or her front foot on the ground and when pivoting or turning, the stabilizing element Lateral support available. This configuration may prevent or help reduce buckling and failure of the traction element's body during use.

In another exemplary embodiment, the traction element has a main body and a stabilizing element rotatable about an axis, such as an axis defined at an attachment point between the stabilizing element and the main body. Any suitable trigger can cause the stabilizing element to flex in response to the force. For example, stabilizing elements may bend in response to certain types of forces, such as torsional loads. In another example, a mechanical trigger can cause the stabilizing element to bend in various directions. Such mechanical triggers can be configured to cause the stabilization element to flex in response to specific movements of the wearer, such as pivoting and torsional loads that occur during quick stops and turns.

In any of the foregoing examples, the stabilizing element provides additional stability and support to the body during use. This reduces the amount of wear on the body and thus increases the durability of the traction element. Furthermore, the stabilizing element may increase the reliability of the traction element by supporting the body when additional support is required, such as during twisting or failure of the body. Stabilizing elements may also be able to provide additional support and traction during targeted movements, such as when the wearer may apply force in a particular direction or from a particular angle. In fixed or flexible instances of the stabilizing element as described above, force from the movement of the object may trigger engagement of the stabilizing element with the ground or surface.

In another embodiment, at least one traction element provided to an article of footwear may include: (1) an actuator having a first portion and a second portion; and (2) an extender having a first side and a second portion. second side. The first side of the extender is engageable with the second portion of the actuator. The tip can be attached to the second side of the extender. The extender may be extended from a first length to a second length when the actuator is activated.

The traction element's actuator may be any mechanism that receives a force and causes the extender to extend in response to that force. In some examples, the actuator may be a leaf spring. The first part of the actuator can receive the force and transmit the force to the second part of the actuator. The second portion of the actuator can cause the extender to extend.

An actuator can be "triggered" when it receives a force. An actuator may be positioned to receive a force applied during a particular motion. For example, a wearer may land and pivot their foot on the first metatarsophalangeal joint (the joint between the greater metatarsal and the metatarsal of the foot). This portion of the foot may receive large forces during movements such as pivoting, turning, jumping off to run, changing direction in motion, and the like. An extensible traction element according to the present invention can be positioned to receive force from the movement to extend the extender and thereby provide the traction element with a slightly elongated length, thereby providing comfort to the wearer during these targeted movements. Gives you additional or enhanced adhesion. Actuators can be comprised of a variety of materials that have properties of elasticity and high durability. For example, the actuator may comprise a nylon material, such as nylon 6,6, nylon 6, and/or thermoplastic polyurethane ("TPU") material.

The actuator and extender may be engaged with each other in any suitable manner. In instances where they are in direct contact with each other, they may be removably or permanently attached to each other. Any suitable method for attachment may be used to permanently attach the actuator to the extender, such as glue, cement, molding, bonding, and the like.

The traction element extender may be a resilient material capable of receiving force from the actuator and extending from the first position to the second position as a result of the force. This extending action will have the effect of lengthening the traction element (eg moving the free end of the traction element further away from the base surface of the sole). The extender can comprise various materials. In one example, the extender comprises a soft TPU material, such as TPU with a durometer rating of 60-70A. The extender can be extended and retracted in any suitable manner. For example, extenders can extend and contract in a linear fashion. For example, the extender can be extended and retracted in a folded manner. In yet another example, when the extender is in its retracted position, a portion of the extender may be received within the interior space of the traction element. When the extender is in the extended position, it may be linearly aligned with the remainder of the sidewall of the traction element. In embodiments where the spring is received into the interior space of the traction element, the spring may bias the extender back to its extended position when triggered. Any combination of the foregoing extension configurations may be used.

The extender can have a first side and a second side. The first side may engage the second portion of the actuator in any suitable manner. For example, the second portion of the actuator may have a protrusion and the first side of the extender may define a recess. The protrusion of the second part of the actuator may suitably engage in a recess defined in the first side of the extender. In another configuration, another element may be located between the actuator and the extender and prevent direct contact between the actuator and the extender. The term "engaged" is intended to include both direct and indirect contact between the actuator and extender, and it includes both permanent coupling and releasable engagement or mere contact. A lubricant material may be included or the materials of the engaging surfaces of the extender and actuator may be selected to have a low coefficient of friction relative to each other.

The traction element can also have an end that can be attached to the second side of the extender. In some examples, the second side of the extender is a solid layer of material to which the tip can be attached. The tip may be attached to the extender in any suitable manner, including but not limited to cement, glue, bonding, molding, and the like. In other examples, the second side of the extender includes an opening that allows the actuator and the tip to directly contact each other. For configurations in which the actuator and the tip contact each other, the second portion of the actuator may define a recess and the portion of the tip that contacts the extender may have a protrusion that abuts against the extension at a location in the opening of the extender. Fittingly engages in the recess of the second part of the actuator.

The traction element ends may comprise a relatively stiff elastic material that is capable of withstanding forces from the wearer's foot and that is also capable of penetrating or puncturing the ground to provide a stable contact between the traction element and the ground. The tip comprises the ground-contacting surface of the traction element and must be able to serve as a contact surface between the traction element and the ground. In some examples, additional friction-inducing properties can be included in the tip. For example, the tips may have grooved surfaces or protrusions to provide additional traction to the wearer. In other examples, friction-inducing material can be attached to the end to provide additional traction capabilities.

The tip may comprise materials such as TPU, polyurethane nylon material, and rubber. TPU is usually measured in hardness specifications. For the tips, a harder TPU can be used, for example a TPU with a 95A/50D durometer. In this case the tip may need to withstand a relatively strong force. In instances where traction elements are positioned in the sole structure of an article of footwear, then the TPU-made end should have a ground surface that can withstand the forces exerted by the wearer on the traction elements and also be contacted by the traction elements. Or the hardness rating of the force applied by the surface. The tip may comprise other materials such as metal, rubber, etc. that can withstand these forces.

In some embodiments, a separate end member can be eliminated and the free end of the extender can be used to directly contact the ground or other surface. In this case, the bottom surface of the extender may be considered (or may be used as) this "tip". If desired, the bottom surface of the extender may be formed of a suitable material and/or treated to provide sufficient strength, hardness, durability, abrasion resistance, and/or other properties making it suitable for contacting the ground.

The extender may be extended from a first length to a second length when the actuator is activated. The actuators may be triggered in various ways, such as by applying force from the wearer's foot and various conditions of the surface that the traction element is contacting. For example, the wearer may apply force to the actuators by performing various motions, such as landing and turning, pivoting, quick changes of direction, and the like. The force applied to the traction element by the wearer's foot may be a shear force, a normal force, or a combination thereof. The force may also be a torsional force, such as when the wearer's foot is dropped on the ground and the wearer turns, pivots, or changes direction. The actuators may be configured to be triggered by one or more actions performed by the wearer. The actuators may be positioned to be triggered by the force of the wearer's foot during targeted or specific types of activity. In this manner, the traction elements may be able to provide additional traction to the wearer in specific situations where it is most needed.

The actuator may be configured to extend in softer ground and retractable in harder ground. The extender can be caused to retract when the traction element contacts a harder ground. When the traction element contacts a softer ground, the extender can be caused to elongate because the force applied to the actuator by the wearer's foot exceeds the force required for the traction element to penetrate the soft ground. In essence, the traction elements function in hard ground like conventional traction elements (in the retracted position), but are extended in soft ground. The conditions under which the traction elements will stretch can be controlled by varying the stretch level of the extender and the configuration of the actuator.

When the actuator is activated, the tip (ie the end of the extender or the tip piece alone) can be moved from the first position to the second position. The first position of the tip may correspond to a first length of the extender (and a first overall length of the traction element), and the second position of the tip may correspond to a second length of the extender (and a second overall length of the traction element). ). The first length of the extender may be greater than the second length of the extender. The first length may correspond to a "retracted" position of the traction element and the second length may correspond to an "extended" position of the traction element. The retracted position of the traction element may be the position when the traction element is in contact with a harder ground and the force from the wearer's foot cannot cause the extender to extend because the ground is too hard. In this case, the extender must also be formed of a material that can withstand the forces exerted by the wearer's foot and harder ground so that it does not buckle or fail during use. Alternatively, the extender may be fully retracted into the interior space of the traction element when the traction element is in the retracted (or non-extended) position. The retracted position of the traction element occurs when the traction element is in contact with a softer ground and force from the wearer's foot can cause the extender to extend into the soft ground.

The extender is extendable over a range of lengths. In some examples, the material used for the extender can withstand the force exerted by the wearer's foot when the end of the traction element contacts a hard surface to prevent the extender from falling, buckling, or breaking. Thus, a material that can be used for the extender is able to withstand forces from the wearer's foot while being elastic enough to extend in soft ground. This material may be soft TPU. The extent of the extender may increase the overall axial or longitudinal length of the traction element from 0.5 mm to 10 mm, and in some examples from about 0.75 mm to 8 mm, or even from 1 mm to 6 mm. In some exemplary constructions, the extender itself can extend up to 3 mm between its first length (in the retracted position) and its second length (in the extended position). The extender can be extended to any desired length range.

In some embodiments, the traction element may be attached to a base plate assembly having a hole and may include: (1) an actuator having a first portion and a second portion; (2) an extender, which cooperates with the actuator and (3) the end, which is attached to the extender. The first portion of the actuator can be engaged with the bedplate assembly. The extender can have a first side and a second side. A first side of the extender is attached to the base plate assembly at or near the hole and a second side of the extender is attached to the tip. The ends may form the ground-contacting surface of the traction element. When the actuator is activated, the extender may be caused to extend from the first length to the second length to thereby increase the axial or longitudinal length of the traction element. The chassis assembly may be attached to an article, the sole structure of an article of scorching footwear. A chassis assembly may comprise one or more elements. The sole plate assembly may facilitate the securing of the traction elements to the sole structure. For example, a lastboard may be secured to or within the midsole of the sole structure such that the traction elements form at least a portion of the outsole.

In another embodiment, an traction element may be attached to a cleat base having an opening and may include: (1) an extender having a first end and a second end; (2) an end having a first a surface and a second surface; (3) an actuator having a first portion and a second portion; and (4) a base engaging the first portion of the actuator. The first end of the actuator is attached to the cleat base in the opening of the cleat base such that the second end of the extender is positioned to extend through the opening of the cleat base. A portion of the first surface of the tip is attached to the second end of the extender, the second surface of the tip forming the ground-contacting surface of the traction element. The first portion of the actuator engages the second end of the extender. The base can freely rotate corresponding to the first part of the actuator. In some examples, the base is in direct contact with the second portion of the actuator. The base may be secured to the actuator in any suitable manner.

The traction elements described above may be incorporated into the sole structure of an article of footwear. An article of footwear may include an upper, a sole structure attached to the upper, and at least one traction element secured to the sole structure. Any of the exemplary traction elements of the embodiments described above may be secured to the sole structure. Any number of traction elements having the type of extensibility described above may be secured to any region or regions of the sole structure.

The sole structure may extend through any portion of the article of footwear. For example, the sole structure may extend through the forefoot region of the article of footwear. In this configuration, the traction element may be positioned at a location below the first metatarsophalangeal joint in the forefoot region. The first metatarsophalangeal joint is the location on the foot that is rested on a surface during an action such as pivoting or turning. The joint could benefit from having additional adhesion in the target process, at least in some surface conditions.

The plurality of traction elements on the sole structure described above may be positioned in any suitable configuration. For example, a first traction element is positioned along a medial edge of a forefoot region of the sole structure and a second traction element is positioned along a lateral edge of a forefoot region of the sole structure. In this configuration, the first and second traction elements provide additional support and stability as the wearer's foot moves through the supination and pronation phases of the normal gait cycle. During the supination phase of normal gait, the wearer exerts considerable force on the first metatarsophalangeal joint. When the supination phase is over, the wearer pushoffs the first metatarsophalangeal joint to continue the normal gait cycle. During rotation, the wearer pushes away from the first metatarsophalangeal joint, such as when the wearer drops their foot down and pivots the ball of the big toe, or "metatarsal" area of the foot. A substantial portion of this force is absorbed by the first metatarsophalangeal joint (the joint between the metatarsal and the phalange of the big toe).

In another example, a traction element may be positioned on the sole structure below the first phalange (big toe). As noted above, during a normal gait cycle, the wearer applies considerable force to the metatarsophalangeal joints. At the end of this motion, the wearer will push off the first phalanx. As shown in FIG. 5 , an example traction element 500 according to some embodiments may be positioned on a sole structure 502 of an article of footwear such that it is positioned under the first phalange of a wearer's foot. As the wearer completes a normal gait cycle and pushes off the first phalanx, the traction elements are positioned to extend and provide additional traction. In the example shown in FIG. 5 , one traction element is positioned in the forefoot of the sole structure approximately under the wearer's big toe or first phalange. Any number of traction elements may be attached in any region of the sole structure (ie, the forefoot region, midfoot region, and/or heel region).

FIG. 5 also shows an exemplary sole structure having a plurality of traction elements with stabilizers and retractable and expandable traction elements. The sole structure may have any suitable number of each traction element. The traction elements may be positioned in any suitable configuration.

Each portion of the above-described adhesion elements may be molded, cemented, glued, bonded, or otherwise attached to each other. Each element may be permanently or removably attached to another element.

Specific embodiments are described in more detail below. The reader should understand that these specific embodiments are set forth merely as illustrative examples of the invention and that they should not be construed as limiting the invention.

1-5 illustrate stabilizers for traction elements according to at least some embodiments. When the same reference numeral appears in multiple drawings, the reference numeral is used to denote the same or similar part consistently in this specification and in the drawings.

1 illustrates an example portion of an article of footwear having traction elements 102 , 104 , and 106 with stabilizers positioned in a forefoot region of the article of footwear 100 . Traction elements 102 , 104 , and 106 are attached to sole structure 108 of article of footwear 100 . At least a portion of traction elements 102 , 104 , and 106 may be positioned in recesses 110 defined in sole structure 108 . Recess 100 may be formed in a shape that is complementary to the shape of traction elements 102, 104, and 106, although recess 100 may have other suitable shapes, depths, designs, or configurations. In the example shown in FIG. 1 , recess 110 is configured as a crescent, complementary to but slightly larger than the crescent of traction elements 102 , 104 and 106 . In some examples, traction elements 102 , 104 , and 106 may not be positioned in recesses and may be attached to a flat portion of sole structure 108 . Any suitable configuration may be used to attach traction elements 102 , 104 , and 106 to article of footwear 100 .

In FIG. 1 , the first traction element 102 and the second traction element 104 may be positioned along the lateral edge 112 of the forefoot region of the sole structure 108 and along the longitudinal length of the fifth metatarsal and/or the fifth metatarsophalangeal joint. location. The third traction element 106 may be positioned along the medial edge 114 of the forefoot region of the sole structure 108 at a location generally corresponding to the first metatarsal and/or the first metatarsophalangeal joint.

First traction element 102 , second traction element 104 , and third traction element 106 may be configured to engage the ground in any desired manner. First traction element 102 , second traction element 104 , and third traction element 106 may each have a stabilizing element 116 extending generally toward a center 117 of a forefoot region of sole structure 108 .

Each of traction elements 102 , 104 , and 106 shown in FIG. 1 includes a body 118 and a stabilizing element 116 . Body 118 may include a first portion 120 and a second portion 122 . The stabilizing element 116 has an attached end 124, a free end 126 and a central portion 128 connecting them. The attached end 124 of the stabilizing element 116 is attached to the main body 118 . Central portion 128 extends away from attached end 124 of stabilization element 116 and free end 126 is positioned a distance from body 118 of traction elements 102 , 104 , and 106 . The exemplary traction elements in FIG. 1 may have fixed stabilizing elements relative to the body or flexible stabilizing elements relative to the body.

The traction elements 102, 104, and 106 may be solid and may have a hollow interior. One portion of traction elements 102, 104, and 106 may be solid and another portion may have a hollow interior. In the example shown in FIG. 1 , a first chamber 132 is defined in the first portion 120 and a second chamber 134 is defined in the second portion 122 of the body 118 . The first chamber 132 and the second chamber 134 may extend along a portion of the length of the first portion 120 and the second portion 122 of the body 118 , respectively. The first and second chambers 134 may be of any shape or size. A plurality of chambers may be defined in the first portion 120 and/or the second portion 122 of the body 118 .

The first chamber 132 and the second chamber 134 may allow the first portion 120 and the second portion 122 of the body 118, respectively, to receive forces applied in various ways. Any number of chambers may be included in any portion of traction elements 102 , 104 , and 106 . In some examples, traction elements 102, 104, and 106 may not include chambers.

Stabilizing element 116 may be attached to any portion of traction elements 102 , 104 , and 106 . In the example shown in FIG. 1 , stabilizing element 116 is attached to the center of body 118 of traction elements 102 , 104 , and 106 midway between first portion 120 and second portion 122 of body 118 . ). The first portion 120, the second portion 122, and the stabilizing element 116 may be discrete components or they may be molded as a unitary structure.

Traction elements 102, 104, and 106 may be attached to sole structure 108 in any desired manner. For example, traction elements may be attached to a base plate, which is then attached to the remainder of the sole structure. The soleplate may be attached to the midsole of the sole structure such that the traction elements form at least part of the outsole of the sole structure. The base plate can be of any desired material that is strong and lightweight. For example, the base plate may be a carbon fiber reinforced polymer. Traction elements 102, 104, and 106 may also be attached to the outsole or any other portion of the sole structure.

Sole structure 108 may have various flex regions that facilitate flexing of sole structure 108 . The flex zone may facilitate this flex by including softer or more elastic material than the rest of the sole structure. In other examples, flex regions may facilitate flexing of sole structure 108 by having a different shape than other regions of sole structure 108 . These flex areas may have cavities or may form concave shapes that facilitate flexing of sole structure 108 . As shown in FIG. 1 , first flexure region 136 may be positioned between first traction element 102 and second traction element 104 . Second flex region 138 may be positioned adjacent to third traction element 106 . When the forefoot region of sole structure 108 is caused to flex by a force, such as by motion of the wearer, the sole structure flexes at first flex zone 136 and second flex zone 138 . First flex zone 136 and second flex zone 138 are positioned to cause sole structure 108 to flex along the natural flex line of the wearer's foot when performing a movement, such as during a normal walking cycle, running, jumping, pivoting, and the like.

Adhesion elements 102, 104, and 106 may be fabricated in any desired manner. The traction elements 102, 104, and 106 may be molded as a single piece or may be molded as separate pieces and subsequently assembled (e.g., the first portion 120, the second portion 122, and the stabilizing element 116 may each be molded separately , and then assembled after fabrication).

The traction elements 102, 104, and 106 may be fabricated from any desired material or combination of materials, including, but not limited to, rubber, metal, and plastic. Plastics may include thermoplastic polyurethane ("TPU"), polyurethane nylon ("PU nylon"), and the like. This material can have any desired hardness. For example, the traction element may comprise a TPU material with a grade ranging from 70A-75D. Some exemplary traction elements can include multiple materials. For example, the body may comprise a first material and the stabilizing element may comprise a second material different from the first material. Any combination of materials may be used for any portion of the traction element.

FIG. 2 shows traction element 201 , which may be used in place of one or more of traction elements 102 , 104 , and 106 of FIG. 1 . The ground-contacting surface of traction element 201 may be defined by any portion of body 203 . For example, first portion 205 of body 203 and second portion 207 of body 203 may have a free end surface 209 that defines a portion of the ground-contacting surface of traction element 201 . The body 203 can define a channel 211 between the first portion 205 and the second portion 207 of the body 203 . Attached end 213 of stabilizing element 215 may be positioned within channel 211 and attached to body 203 at channel 211 . In this exemplary configuration, central portion 217 of stabilization element 215 is caused to extend away from body 203 and free end 219 of stabilization element 215 is positioned a distance 221 from body 203 .

As noted above, an exemplary embodiment of an traction element may include a body and a stabilizing element that remains fixed relative to the body. In the example of FIG. 2 , traction element 201 may include a main body 203 and a stabilizing element 215 that is capable of bending relative to main body 203 as indicated by the arrows in FIG. 2 . In this exemplary configuration, central portion 217 and free end 219 are capable of bending in various directions.

Traction element 201 may be located in recess 223 defined by a treading surface of a sole structure of article of footwear 225 . In some examples, recess 223 may have a height that is less than the height of traction element 201 and thus traction element 201 extends beyond the surface of sole structure 225 . Recess 223 may have any suitable shape. The shape of the concave portion 223 shown in FIG. 2 is set to a crescent shape. Body 203 may also have any suitable shape. The exemplary body 203 of the traction element 201 shown in FIG. 2 is also crescent-shaped. The shape of recess 223 and the shape of traction element 201 may be complementary crescent shapes, as shown in the example generally shown in FIG. 2 . Any suitable combination of shapes may be used for recess 223 and/or body 203 of traction element 201 . In some example configurations, recess 223 and traction element 201 may have different shapes, such as an example embodiment where recess 223 may be oval and traction element 201 may be crescent-shaped. In other exemplary configurations, recess 223 and traction element 201 may have the same or similar shape, such as an exemplary embodiment where recess 223 is oval and traction element 201 is oval.

Stabilizing element 215 may extend away from body 203 of traction element 201 at any location. In the example shown in FIG. 2 , stabilizing element 215 extends away from sidewall 227 of body 203 . The attached end 213 of the stabilizing element 215 is attached to the body 203 at a location in the channel 211 defined between the first portion 205 and the second portion 207 of the body 203 . In the exemplary embodiment, attached end 213 may be substantially flush with sidewall 227 of body 203 of traction element 201 . Tail 228 of stabilizing element 215 may extend away from attached end 213 of stabilizing element 215 . Tail 229 may extend away from sidewall 227 of body 203 opposite free end 219 of stabilizing element 215 , as shown in FIG. 2 . In essence, stabilizing element 215 may intersect body 203 of traction element 201 . In embodiments in which stabilizing element 215 is flexible and in embodiments in which stabilizing element 215 is fixed relative to body 203 , tail 229 may contact the ground-contacting surface of sole structure 225 . This configuration counteracts bending of the free end 219 and central portion 217 of the stabilizing element 215 .

Stabilizing element 215 may have any suitable shape. In the example shown in FIG. 2 , the stabilizing element 215 is circular, tapering from the attached end 213 to the free end 219 . In another example, the stabilizing element 215 may be a polygon with multiple sides. The stabilizing element 215 may also have a tip 231 at the free end 219 . In the example shown in FIG. 2 , the end 231 is rounded and forms a hooked end which can engage the ground when the stabilizing element 215 contacts the ground. The configuration including the tip 231 will provide additional traction capabilities and Support and stability are provided between the stabilizing element 215 and the ground. Tip 231 can be a hard or soft material.

The stabilizing elements in some embodiments can bend in any direction. 3 and 4 illustrate additional examples of stabilization element bending in some embodiments. The stabilizing elements can be flexed in response to various forces. For example, traction elements may be attached to the flexible chassis. The base plate may be sufficiently flexible to allow the free ends of the stabilizing elements to engage the ground. When the wearer's foot applies force to the sole structure, the soleplate flexes and may cause the stabilizing elements to extend away from the sole structure. Stabilizing elements may be positioned at various places on the sole structure so that when the wearer engages in certain activities, such as running, pivoting, turning, etc., the stabilizing elements extend away from the sole structure and engage the ground.

In alternative embodiments, the stabilizing element may remain fixed relative to the main body of the traction element. The traction elements of this exemplary embodiment may also be attached to a flexible chassis. When the wearer's foot applies force to the sole structure, the soleplate may flex and cause the body of the traction element and the stabilizing element to extend away from the sole structure and engage the ground or surface as a single unit.

In an example with a flexible stabilizing element, the trigger may be positioned within the sole structure such that when the trigger is triggered by a force, such as a force exerted by the wearer's foot, the trigger engages the stabilizing element to cause it to release from the sole. The surface of the structure is extended. The trigger may be attached to any portion of the article of footwear. For example, the trigger may form part of the midsole at a location extending between the portion of the wearer's foot that forms the applied force and the stabilizing element of the traction element. The trigger could also be attached to the insole and/or the sole liner at a similar location. The trigger may be an actuator such as a leaf spring or any other type of spring. The trigger may also be a simple button-like device such that when the wearer applies force to a specific portion of the sole structure, the button engages the stabilizing element causing it to extend. Any flip-flop element can be used in this design.

In FIG. 3 , an exemplary traction element is shown having a flexible stabilizing element 301 . The stabilizing element 301 is bendable away from the surface of the sole structure 303 about an axis 304 defined by an attachment point 305 between an attached end 305 of the stabilizing element 301 and a body 309 as shown in dashed lines in FIG. 3 . FIG. 3 shows how the stabilizing element 301 engages the ground in a bent position 315 . If the sole structure 303 of the article of footwear is rotated from the medial edge to the lateral edge (for example, when the wearer can cause the article of footwear and thus the sole structure to roll on the medial or lateral edge of the foot), the free end of the stabilizing element 301 311 may also engage the ground when stabilizing element 301 is in an initial (or neutral) position. The stabilizing element 301 is bendable to a bent position 315 .

FIG. 4 shows an exemplary traction element having a flexible stabilizing element 401 . Stabilizing element 401 may be flexed from a first position to a second position in a plane generally parallel to a plane defined by the ground-contacting surface of the sole structure. The first position 403 and the second position 405 may represent “side-to-side” movement about an axis 407 defined by the attached end 409 of the stabilizing element 401 . The stabilizing element 401 may bend in any direction about the axis 407 of the attached end 409 of the stabilizing element 401 .

Additional embodiments of stabilizer elements are described in conjunction with FIGS. 15 and 18A-19.

6-8 illustrate a first exemplary embodiment of retractable and extendable traction elements in a shoe. The traction element in these figures includes a cleat assembly having an extender 608 , a plate insert 610 and a tip 612 . The traction element also includes a leaf spring actuator 602, the operation of which is described below. The traction elements are secured to the base plate 606 . Although shown as a disc for convenience, the bottom plate 606 may be a plastic outsole element extending over a majority of the outsole length and it may also have non-extensible traction elements formed thereon. Lasting board 604 is included in (or otherwise attached to) an upper (not shown). Although FIG. 6 shows a circular shape, the lasting board 604 may have a shape that extends over a non-circular area of the interior of the shoe.

As shown in FIG. 7 (a cross-sectional view of a portion of a shoe including the traction elements of FIG. 6 ), a sole liner 614 is positioned over lasting board 604 . Insole 614 is designed to provide comfort to the wearer and to prevent chafing, chafing, or other discomfort due to contact between the wearer's foot and the upper and sole structure of the shoe. Insole 614 may comprise any suitable material and may be removable from the article of footwear. In some examples, the article of footwear does not have an insole. In other examples, soleliner 614 is an insole.

The leaf spring actuator 602 may be any mechanism that receives a force and causes the extender 608 to extend in response to the force. In the embodiment of FIGS. 6-8 , leaf spring actuator 602 includes a disc-shaped leaf spring as first portion 616 . The second or central portion 618 forms a protrusion 620 extending away from the sole structure of the shoe. The central portion 618 is positioned approximately in the center of the first portion 616 and has a hollow interior 622 . In response to forces from the wearer's foot, and as shown in FIG. 8 (similar to the cross-sectional view of FIG. 7 ), sole liner 614 may extend partially into hollow interior 622 .

In an alternate embodiment, and as shown in FIG. 9 , the actuator 602 ′ may be coupled or attached to the sole liner 614 ′ or the insole. The actuator 602' may also be selectively removed from the sole liner 614' or insole. The actuator 602' and insole 614' or insole combination can also be selectively removed from the rest of the traction element and from the shoe. The replaceability of the insole 614' or other insole in this exemplary configuration will facilitate replacement of worn components and enable easy cleaning or repair of the insole and/or actuator(s). In another embodiment, a sole structure may include an insole or insole and a plurality of actuators that may be coupled to the sole or insole. The actuator can be removed from the soleliner or insole and replaced at the same (or different) attachment point. Attachment points may include a first location positioned along the lateral edge of the insole or insole and a location below the wearer's first phalange ("big toe") at a location along the medial edge of the insole or insole. second position. In some such embodiments, the sole structure may have multiple actuators, while in other embodiments a single actuator may alternatively be attached to the attachment point at the first or second location. In other configurations, the attachment points may also be located on the soleliner or insole. The attachment between the insole or insole and the actuator(s) may be by any suitable means of attachment including, but not limited to, bonding, gluing, cement, molding, and mechanical connections.

The sole structure may include a base member and traction elements extending from the base member. The traction element is attached to or integrally formed with a first end of the base member, a free end opposite the first end, and at least one wall member extending between the first end and the free end. At least a portion of the at least one wall member is constructed of an extensible material such that the traction element can change from a first axial length to a second axial length that is longer than the first axial length. This configuration can be shaped to match the insole and actuator combination described above.

In some embodiments, the actuator may be positioned in the interior space of the traction element described above. The insole and actuator portions of the sole structure are selectively removable from the traction element portions and base member of the sole structure. These parts may be manufactured separately or may be manufactured together. The insole and actuator portions of the sole structure may be interchanged with multiple configurations of the traction element portion and base member of the sole structure.

Returning to FIG. 6 , the edge 624 of the disc spring actuator 602 may contact the lasting board 604 through which the central portion 618 of the actuator 602 may extend with a hole 626 therein. Lasting board 604 may be attached to the sole structure of the article of footwear in any suitable manner. In some embodiments, for example, lasting board 604 may be glued to the upper, and the upper and lasting board combination then secured to the sole structure. The edge of the lasting board 604 along the hole 626 defines a shoulder 628 on which the edge 624 of the disc spring actuator 602 rests. Edge 624 may be fixed to edge 628 , or actuator 602 may rotate within bore 626 .

As shown in FIG. 7 , a bottom plate 606 may be secured to the lasting board 604 on the side of the lasting board 604 opposite the leaf spring actuator 602 . In other embodiments, upper material may be interposed between lasting board 604 and sole plate 606 . Bottom plate 606 includes a hole 630 through which central portion 618 extends. Aperture 630 in base plate 606 aligns with aperture 626 in lasting board 604 to allow central portion 618 of actuator 602 to easily extend therethrough. The hole 630 in the base plate 606 may have a radius slightly smaller than the radius of the hole 626 in the lasting board 604 . Bottom plate 606 may be attached to lasting board 604 (or to an upper attached to lasting board 604) in any suitable manner, including but not limited to bonding, cement, glue, Molding, etc.

A plate inlay 610 helps secure extender 608 (via end 612 ) to base plate 606 . Specifically, the board insert 610 surrounds the disc-shaped portion of the extender 608 and is secured to the bottom plate 606 . The first side 632 of the extender 608 includes a recess 634 that is shaped to receive the central portion 618 of the actuator 602 . Central portion 618 of actuator 602 is snugly engaged in recess 634 . The first side 632 of the extender 608 is secured to the base plate 606 . The portion of extender 608 may also be disc-shaped. The radius of the recess 634 of the extender 608 may be smaller than the radius of both the hole 626 of the last board and the hole 630 of the bottom plate. The recess 634 defines a blind hole, ie a hole with a closed end. In this example, the actuator 602 does not extend through the extender 608 (ie, the bottom of the protrusion 620 contacts the bottom end surface 640 of the extender 608 ), although it could extend through the extender 608 in other embodiments.

End 612 is attached to second side 636 of extender 608 and forms the ground-contacting surface of the traction element. Tip 612 has a cavity 638 into which end 640 of extender 608 is fitted. As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 , the sidewall of the traction element includes portions of both extender 608 and tip 612 (and optionally, portion of plate insert 610 ). Extender 608 facilitates extension of the axial or longitudinal length of the traction element. In Fig. 7 the traction element is shown in its retracted position.

Figure 8 shows the traction element in a partially extended position. A downward force from the wearer's foot in the direction of the arrow is transmitted through the sole liner 614 and compresses the section 616 of the leaf spring element 602 . This downward force is transmitted through central section 618 and end 620 to the bottom of blind hole 634 in extender 608 . This causes extender 608 to elongate, thereby extending the traction element (of which extender 608 is a part). The difference between the length of the extender 608 in its retracted state and the length of the extender 608 in its fully extended state may be, for example, about 3 millimeters. As shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B , extender 1000 (similar to extender 608 ) may have a first length 1002 in its retracted position and a second length 1004 in its extended position. Extender 1000 is not fully extended in Figure 10B. In some embodiments, the length 1003 is 0.5 mm and the fully extended length 1004 is 10 mm. In still other embodiments, the length 1002 is 0.75 mm and the fully extended length 1004 is 8 mm. In still other embodiments, the length 1002 is 1 mm and the fully extended length 1004 is 6 mm. In other embodiments, the fully retracted length 1002 and the fully extended length 1004 may have other values.

11-13 show another example of an traction element according to the invention. The traction element structure of FIGS. 11-13 includes an actuator subassembly 1100a and a cleat nail assembly 1100b. Actuator subassembly 1100a includes button 1124 , stop mechanism (collar) 1134 and actuator 1118 . Cleat assembly 1100b includes extender 1106 and tip 1112 . The extender 1106 rests in the cleat base 1102 . Although shown as a circular structure for convenience, cleat base 1102 may be a plastic outsole element extending over a substantial portion of the outsole and it may also include fixed traction elements formed thereon. Although not shown in FIG. 11 , toe lasting board 1147 , similar to plate 604 ( FIGS. 6-8 ), is located on sole liner 1115 (shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 ) and cleat base 1102 and may have actuating An opening on the device subassembly 1100a (similar to opening 626 of plate 606). Some material from the upper may also be located between toe lasting board 1147 and cleat base 1102 .

The studbase 1102 has a first shoulder 1126 and a second shoulder 1128 . The radius of the interior of the cleat base 1102 at the first shoulder 1126 is greater than the radius of the interior of the cleat base 1102 at the second shoulder 1128 . The extender 1106 includes a body 1130 (which is shaped like a tube) and a ferrule 1132 attached to the end of the body 1130 . Tubular body 1130 is positioned to extend through opening 1104 of cleat base 1102 with collar 1132 of extender 1106 resting on second shoulder 1128 . A portion of first surface 1114 of tip 1112 is in contact with second end 1110 of extender 1106 . Second surface 1116 of end 1112 forms the ground-contacting surface of the traction element. A stop mechanism 1134 having an annular shape is positioned in the interior space of the cleat base 1102 such that it rests on the first shoulder 1126 . Positioned between stop mechanism 1134 and extender 1106 is actuator 1118 .

The stop mechanism may be glued or otherwise secured in the cleat base 1102 to rest on the shoulder 1126 . In other embodiments, the stop mechanism may be configured to freely rotate relative to the extender and the cleat base. In such an embodiment, the stop mechanism is free to rotate so that it can receive torsional loads to further reduce the amount of torsional and/or shear forces being transmitted to the traction elements, but still allow normalization of the applied torsional loads. A force component is transferred to the traction element and causes the extender to extend. This configuration can reduce the amount of unnecessary wear on the traction elements and can increase their durability. In such embodiments, a lubricant material may be included or the material of the engagement surface may be selected to provide a low coefficient of friction between the stop mechanism and the cleat base and extender.

The opening 1136 of the ring of the stop mechanism 1134 holds the seat 1138 on its underside (see FIGS. 12 and 13 ). Second portion 1122 of actuator 1118 is positioned to extend into tubular body 1130 of extender 1106 . First portion 1120 of actuator 1118 is positioned between seat 1138 of stop mechanism 1134 and an upper surface of collar 1132 of extender 1106 . In this manner, seat 1138 of stop mechanism 1134 provides an upward stop for actuator 1118 .

The actuator 1118 has an opening 1140 that extends from the first portion of the actuator 1118 through the second portion 1122 . Button 1124 snugly engages first portion 1120 of actuator 1118 . The buttons may be formed from any material, such as high density polyethylene ("HDPE") or other plastics. Button 1124 is freely rotatable within first portion 1120 of actuator 1118 to help facilitate torsional loading and reduce the amount of shear and torsional forces applied to the traction elements. A lubricant material may be included or the material of the engaging surfaces of the first portion 1120 of the actuator 1118 and the button 1124 may be selected to have a low coefficient of friction relative to each other.

As shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 , portion 1146 of button 1124 extends into opening 1140 of actuator 1118 . Surface 1114 of tip 1112 is contacted by a lower surface of second portion 1122 of actuator 1118 . Protrusion 1142 extends upwardly from surface 1114 through the interior of body 1130 (of extender 1106 ) and into opening 1140 of actuator 1118 . In response to the downward force on actuator 1118, second portion 1122 contacts surface 1114 and causes extender 1106 to extend and the length of the traction element to increase.

Engagement between button 1124 and actuator 1118 may help to distribute force from the wearer's foot evenly across the surface of first portion 1120 of actuator 1118 . As noted above, the button 1124 is rotatable within the hollow tube 1140 of the actuator 1118 . In another embodiment, button 1124 may be snugly engaged within hollow tube 1140 . Additionally, button 1124 may have a smooth surface that is more comfortable to contact with the wearer's foot.

The actuator assembly includes a button and the actuator can snugly engage the stop mechanism. The term "fittingly engaged" means having closely complementary surfaces to fit snugly and/or prevent rotation relative to each other. A lubricant material may be included or the materials of the engaging surfaces may be selected to have a low coefficient of friction relative to each other.

The actuator assembly is free to rotate when a torsional load is applied by the wearer's foot. The device configuration allows the actuator assembly to rotate with the wearer's foot and the upper portion of the article of footwear during activities that induce torsional loads, such as pivoting, changing direction, and turning. This configuration will also reduce the torsional loads applied to the traction elements during such movements and increase the durability of the traction elements. Alternatively, the stop mechanism may snugly engage the actuator via one or more grooves defined in the stop mechanism that engage corresponding projections (one or more) defined in the first portion of the actuator. multiple) matches. In one example, there are two opposing protrusions defined along an edge of the first portion of the actuator and two corresponding grooves in the stop mechanism shaped to receive the protrusions. In another example, a series of six evenly spaced protrusions are defined along the edge of the first portion of the actuator and six evenly spaced corresponding grooves are defined in the stop mechanism, the grooves receiving the raised. Any suitable means of coupling the stop mechanism and actuator may be used.

Any edge or surface in the aforementioned elements may be beveled, straight, rounded, or any other desired configuration. Furthermore, these elements may be joined to each other by planar surfaces or by mechanical connectors such as male or female connections, grooves or other complements.

The retractable and extendable traction elements may be manufactured in any desired manner. For example, the traction elements may be molded. In an exemplary manufacturing process, a first mold may be formed from an extender, a cleat base (or shoe assembly), and a tip. The first mold is formed by a shot sequence including a first shot (including forming the extender) and a second shot (including forming the cleat base/chassis assembly and tip). As the plastic cools in the mold, the extender, cleat base/sole assembly and tip chemically bond to each other. In other embodiments, the cleat ends are first formed in a separate mold. The molded cleat end is then placed into a second mold. The cleat base is then molded into a second mold. After forming the cleat base, the extender is molded into a second mold to connect the cleat end to the cleat base.

Once cooled, the first mold can then be inserted into the second mold. A third shot may be injected into the second mold. The third shot may include forming a plate insert. In the second mold, a third shot of the panel insert may be wrapped around at least a portion of the extender. Alternatively, all shots in the shot sequence can be formed in the same mold. Additional steps may be included in the injection sequence. The elements of the adhesion element can be chemically bonded by varying the pressure, time, and temperature at which the injection sequence is performed.

FIG. 14 shows a portion of a shoe 1400 with two extensible traction elements according to another embodiment. The shoe 1400 has a sole structure that includes a bottom plate 1401 . As explained in detail below, base plate 1401 also includes holes through which actuators move to extend extenders 1501 and 1502 of two extensible traction elements 1503 and 1504 (FIG. 15).

As shown in FIG. 14 , and in greater detail in FIG. 15 , the base plate 1401 also includes a plurality of fixed (non-elongated) traction elements 1402 . Base plate 1401 also includes a first stabilizer 1508 associated with traction elements 1402a and 1402b, and a second stabilizer 1509 associated with traction elements 1402c and 1402d. Stabilizers 1508 and 1509 are discussed below in connection with Figures 18a-19. The respective ground-contacting surfaces 1431a and 1431b of elements 1402a and 1402b are discussed in conjunction with FIG. 18B.

Returning to FIG. 14 , the shoe 1400 includes a toe lasting board 1403 and a sole liner 1404 . A portion of the sole liner 1404 is removed in FIG. 14 to expose the toe lasting board 1403 . An upper (not shown) is wrapped around the underside of toe lasting board 1403 . The upper is bonded to sole plate 1401 and thus is located between plate 1403 and sole plate 1401 in the forefoot region of shoe 1400 . A carbon fiber reinforced polymer support plate, not shown in FIG. 14 , may also be interposed between the upper and sole plate 1401 . Insole 1404 is held inside the upper and rests on actuator buttons 1408 and 1409 of extensible traction elements 1503 and 1504 . Also shown in Figure 14 are annular stop collars 1401 and 1411, the purpose of which is discussed below.

16A-16C are enlarged partial cross-sectional views of a portion of shoe 1400 taken from the location indicated in FIG. 14 . In FIGS. 16A-16C , certain features have been omitted to avoid obscuring FIGS. 16A-16C in unnecessary detail. For example, internal features of ferrule 1410 (groove 1701, inner edge of rim 1612) that are visible in Figure 17 are not shown in Figures 16A-16C.

16A-16C show additional details of the extensible traction element 1504 . Adhesion element 1503 is of similar construction and operates in a similar manner. Turning first to FIG. 16A , traction element 1504 includes elastic extender 1502 and attached end element 1601 . Similar to the previous embodiments, end element 1602 may be formed from a harder material than that used for extender 1502 . The extender 1502 includes a rim 1602 the underside of which is bonded to a shelf 1603 formed in the base plate 1401 . Extender 1502 also includes a cylindrical portion 1604 that extends through an opening in bottom plate 1401 centered within shelf 1603 .

Also shown in FIG. 16A is an actuator element 1606 . The actuator 1606 includes an outwardly extending flange 1607 and a downward protrusion 1608 . Element 1606 also includes via 1609 . The raised portion 1605 of the end element 1601 fits within the hole 1609 at the lower end. The stud 1610 of the button 1408 fits within the hole 1609 at the upper end. Similar to button 1124 and actuation member 1106 in the embodiment in FIGS. 11-13 , button 1408 is free to rotate about axis Z relative to element 1606 but is held against translation relative to element 1606 . Circular area 1613 on the upper surface of button 1408 is roughened or otherwise textured to reduce sliding relative to the underside of sole liner 1404 .

As also shown in FIG. 16A , the stop collar 1410 rests in a cavity 1615 formed in the base plate 1401 and is bonded to the side walls thereof. Additional details of the placement of ferrule 1410 into chamber 1615 are discussed below in conjunction with FIG. 17 . The stop collar 1410 includes a rim 1612 that surrounds the opening through which the button 1408 extends. The underside of the rim 1612 forms a seat that acts as a stop to limit the upward movement of the actuator element 1608 . As also discussed below in connection with FIG. 17 , flange 1607 includes lugs that fit into corresponding grooves in ferrule 1410 . This lug and groove configuration allows the actuator 1608 to move up and down within the collar 1410 while preventing the element 1608 from rotating relative to the collar 1410 .

FIG. 16A also shows a portion of a carbon fiber reinforced support plate 1614 that is bonded to the bottom plate 1401 . In the embodiment of shoe 1400 , a portion of support plate 1614 is exposed on the underside of shoe 1400 . Also visible in FIG. 16A are portions of toe lasting board 1403 . Material from the upper (not shown) will be located in the space 1618 between the toe lasting board 1403 and the support plate 1614 . Opening 1617 in plate 1403 exposes collar 1410 and button 1408 . Insole 1404 , which is omitted from FIG. 16A for convenience, rests on plate 1403 and covers collar 1410 and button 1408 . In some embodiments, and as also shown in FIG. 16A , the top surfaces of button 1408 and collar 1410 are substantially flush with the top surface of toe lasting board 1403 in a region adjacent collar 1410 . The top surfaces of button 1409 and collar 1411 are similarly flush with the top surface of lasting board 1403 in the area adjacent collar 1411 . This helps to provide a smooth surface facing the underside of sole liner 1404 .

In a particular embodiment, and as shown in Figure 16A, the bottom plate 1401 is formed from two different materials. Lower portion 1636 is the cleat base that includes the area to which fixed traction element 1402, stabilizers 1508 and 1509, and extensible traction elements 1503 and 1504 are attached. The upper portion 1636 is the connector, which forms the rest of the base plate 1401 .

Exemplary dimensions for the various features, as indicated in Figure 16B, are provided in Table 1 below. Exemplary materials for components from FIG. 16A are provided in Table 2 below. Both tables merely provide examples according to some embodiments. Other embodiments include components made of other materials and/or having different dimensions.

Table 1

Table 2

Extensible traction elements 1503 and 1504 operate in a manner similar to the embodiment of Figures 11-13. As shown in Figure 16C, downward force from the wearer's foot pushes the button 1408 in an outward direction. This causes extender 1502 to elongate, thereby increasing the length of traction element 1504 . In at least some embodiments, distance e ( FIG. 16B ) is about 3 mm, thereby allowing for a maximum extension of extender 1502 (and thus element 1504 ) of 3 mm. In at least some such embodiments, the extender 1502 is sized and formed of a material that allows a maximum of 3 mm of elongation in response to a net downward force of about 400 Newtons.

17 is a partially enlarged exploded view showing stop collar 1410 and actuator subassembly (actuator element 1606 and button 1408 ) removed from shoe 1400 . The inner wall of ferrule 1410 includes a plurality of grooves 1701 . Flange 1607 of actuator element 1606 includes a plurality of lugs 1702 . Each lug 1702 corresponds to (and moves vertically within) a slot 1701 . In some embodiments, the top and sides of flange 1607 are polished for easy movement up and down in ferrule 1410 . Similarly, the outer surface of stud 1610 ( FIG. 16A ), the inner wall of hole 1609 contacted by stud 1610 , the underside of button 1408 that contacts the upper surface of flange 1607 , and the corresponding upper surface of flange 1607 that contacts button 1408 also May be polished to facilitate free rotation of button 1408 relative to actuator element 1606 .

In some embodiments, the outsole of shoe 1400 is manufactured by first molding a cleat assembly, which includes extensible traction elements 1503 and 1504, inextensible traction element 1402, for one or more inextensible Izod stabilizer(s) for long traction elements, and cleat base. As a first step in forming the cleat assembly, the extender is molded. After the extender is formed, the cleat base 1636, the extensible traction element ends (end 1601 and the end of element 1503), and the non-extensible traction elements are molded into place around the extender. The formed cleat assembly is then placed in a mold with the carbon fiber reinforced plate 1614 and the remainder of the base 1401 is molded with the plate insert connector 1635 .

In another embodiment, the cleat assembly is formed by first forming the extensible traction element end elements in a separate mold. The molded end element is then arranged in a second mold and the cleat base 1636 is molded in the second mold. After the cleat base is formed, the extenders 1501 and 1502 are molded into place to connect the end elements to the cleat base 1636 . After the cleat assembly is formed in this way, it is placed in a mold with the carbon fiber reinforced plate 1614 and the remainder of the base 1401 is molded with the plate insert connector 1635 .

The upper of shoe 1400 is assembled separately with toe lasting board 1403 . The upper assembly is then bonded to the outsole with openings in toe lasting board 1403 aligned with openings in bottom plate 1401 (which correspond to extensible traction elements 1503 and 1504). The button 1408 is placed on top of the actuator and the actuator 1606 is placed in the collar 1410 from the underside of the collar 1410 (see FIG. 17 ). The collar/actuator assembly is then placed in opening 1615 from the inside of the upper with adhesive placed on the surface of collar 1410 that contacts sole plate 1401 . Button 1409, collar 1411 and actuator for traction element 1503 are assembled and mounted in a similar manner.

In some embodiments, the extension of tip 1601 (see FIG. 16A ) and the corresponding surface of bore 1609 have mating threads. In such an embodiment, the ends for the extensible traction elements may be attached by screwing the ends into place. Alternatively, threaded extension 1605 of tip 1601 may engage threads formed in extender 1502 . In another embodiment, a threaded extension of tip 1601 may engage threads formed in extender 1502 and engage threads formed in bore 1609 . In yet another embodiment, extension 1605 is metallic and only the exposed bottom of the end is formed of polymer. In some embodiments having threaded posts as part of the extendable traction element, the cleats are molded with the integrated threaded posts. This threaded post is used as an attachment point for the actuator. The actuator may have internal threads molded into the actuator post. The actuator may be threaded onto the stud end during assembly, and the actuator housing may then be securely fitted (cemented in place) on the actuator flange.

FIG. 18A is a cross-sectional view taken at the location identified in FIG. 15 , showing a portion of base plate 1401 including stabilizers 1508 . The cross-sectional view of FIG. 16A is taken from a plane bisecting the stabilizer 1508 along its length. Stabilizer 1509 is similar in structure to stabilizer 1508 and operates in a similar manner. In FIG. 18A , shoe 1400 is resting on ground G and is currently experiencing a significant dynamic load. For example, a wearer of shoe 1400 may stand still with feet flat on ground G.

In some embodiments, all of stabilizers 1508 and 1509 and all of traction elements 1402 (including elements 1402a-1402d) are formed from one material (e.g., DESMOPANDP 3660D shown in Table 2), which is formed using a different material (e.g., Table 2). The connectors of DESMOPAND DP3695A) shown in 2 are coupled to the rest of the base plate 1401. In other embodiments, the lower (ground-engaging) portion of the fixed traction element and stabilizer is formed from a first material and the upper portion of the fixed traction element and stabilizer is formed from a different material (e.g., the same material used for the connector. ). For simplicity, Figures 18A-19 do not attempt to show the presence of multiple materials. Similarly omitted from FIGS. 18A-19 are the upper, reinforcing plate 1614 , toe lasting board 1403 , sole liner 1404 , and other interior elements of the shoe 1400 .

Stabilizer 1508 includes a bottom end 1801 , a central portion 1802 and a distal end 1803 having a ground contact area 1804 . Unlike some of the embodiments described above in connection with FIGS. 1-5 , stabilizers 1508 and 1509 are integrated into (and not separate from) chassis 1401 . For example, central portion 1802 is coupled to an upper portion of base plate 1401 along the entire length of portion 1802 . However, stabilizers 1508 and 1509 deflect with soleplate 1401 and help provide stability to the foot during various dynamic loading activities performed by shoe 1400 .

An example of such dynamic loading and resulting deformation is shown in Figure 18A. Figure 18B is a cross-sectional view taken from the same location as Figure 18A, but during use of shoe 1400 during athletic activity. In the example of FIG. 18B , the wearer of shoe 1400 pushes outward to the outside of shoe 1400 . This may occur, for example, if the wearer moves quickly in a direction away from the outside of the shoe 1400 (eg, a cutting motion to the left of the wearer). In response to these forces caused by the wearer's movement, fixed traction elements 1402 on the lateral edge of shoe 1400 deform slightly inwardly toward the medial side of shoe 1400 . Adjacent portions of stabilizer 1508 and base plate 1401 may also deform slightly. For example, the central portion 1802 is slightly curved with the rest of the bottom panel 1401 located under the wearer's foot. Regions 1804, 1431a and 1431b (see FIG. 15) are in contact with ground G due to deformation of stabilizer 1508 and or elements 1402a and 1402b. This provides multiple points of support which can help stabilize the wearer's foot during athletic activities.

Figure 19 is a partial cross-sectional view taken from the location shown in Figure 18A, with traction elements 1402a and 1402b omitted. Stabilizer 1508 may also deform slightly in a direction transverse to the length of central portion 1802 as indicated by the dashed lines.

The foregoing description of the embodiments has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. The foregoing description is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise forms described or referred to herein. Modifications and variations are possible or may be acquired from practice of various embodiments in light of the above teachings. The embodiments discussed herein were chosen and described in order to explain the principles and characteristics of the various embodiments and their practical application, to enable those skilled in the art to make and use these with various modifications as are suited to the particular intended use. and other examples. Any and all permutations of features from the above-described embodiments fall within the scope of the invention. Reference in a claim to a feature of a physical element of an article of protection relative to the wearer or relative to the performance of the protected article when worn does not require actual wear or actual performance of the relevant movement to satisfy the claim.

Claims (46)

1. An article of footwear comprising: outsole base; an elastic member having a first end fixed relative to the outsole base and a second end protruding away from the outsole base, the elastic member forming part of a traction element positioned so that when the article is held Pierces the ground when used by the wearer of the item; an actuation member within the elastic member positioned to transmit force from the wearer's foot to the elastic member second end, the actuation member including a flange; and a stop collar fixed relative to the outsole base and having a rim, wherein the actuation member flange is configured to move away from the stop collar rim in response to a downward force on the actuation member to lengthen the elastic member, and The stop collar rim is positioned to contact the actuation member flange and limit movement of the actuation member toward an interior region within the upper of the article when the downward force on the actuation member is reduced. 2. The article of footwear according to claim 1, wherein the stop collar includes a groove that cooperates with the protrusion of the actuation member to resist rotation of the actuation member relative to the stop collar. 3. The article of footwear according to claim 2, wherein the groove cooperates with the protrusion to further prevent rotation of the actuation member relative to the elastic member. 4. The article of footwear according to claim 1, wherein the elastic member is configured to elongate by about 3 mm in response to a force of about 400 Newtons. 5. The article of footwear according to claim 1 , further comprising an end element attached to the elastic member, wherein the terminal element is positioned to be the farthest portion of the traction element relative to said outsole base, and The terminal element is formed of a material having a hardness greater than that of the elastic member. 6. The article of footwear according to claim 5, wherein the terminal element includes a first threaded portion, and at least one of the elastic member and the actuation member includes a second threaded portion, the second threaded portion corresponds to and engages the first threaded portion. 7. The article of footwear according to claim 5, wherein the end element includes a metal core within the elastic member. 8. The article of footwear according to claim 1, further comprising: A second elastic member having a first end fixed relative to the outsole base and a second end protruding away from the outsole base, the second elastic member forms part of a second traction element, the second traction the element is configured to pierce the ground when the article is used by a wearer of the article; and A second actuation member is located within the second elastic member and is positioned to transmit force from the wearer's foot to the second elastic member second end. 9. The article of footwear according to claim 1, further comprising: a second traction element attached to the outsole base, the second traction element extending outwardly from the outsole base and having a first portion positioned to contact the ground; and a stabilizer having a bottom end connected to the second traction element, a central portion extending from the second traction element across the outsole base, and having a distal end displaced from the bottom end, the distal end having a configuration is a second portion that contacts the ground, and wherein the stabilizer is configured to deflect with the outsole base in response to forces caused by movement of a wearer of the article to arrange the first and second portions to contact the ground. 10. The article of footwear according to claim 9, wherein the stabilizer includes a protrusion on the distal end. 11. The article of footwear recited in claim 9, wherein the second traction element is located near an edge of the outsole substrate and the stabilizer extends toward an interior portion of the outsole substrate. 12. The article of footwear according to claim 11, wherein the second traction element is near a lateral edge in a forefoot region of the outsole base. 13. An article of footwear comprising: outsole base; an elastic member having a first end fixed relative to the outsole base and a second end protruding away from the outsole base, the elastic member forming part of a traction element positioned so that when the article is held Pierces the ground when used by the wearer of the item; an actuation member located within the elastic member and positioned to transmit force from the wearer's foot to the elastic member second end; the interior area within the upper of the article and above the outsole base; and A button is positioned on the actuation member between the actuation member and the interior region, wherein the button is constrained in translation relative to the actuation member but is rotatable relative to the actuation member. 14. The article of footwear of claim 13, further comprising a stop collar fixed relative to the outsole base and having a rim, wherein the actuation member flange includes a flange that moves away from the stop collar rim in response to a downward force on the actuation member to extend the elastic member, and the stop collar rim is positioned to contact the actuation member flange and limit movement of the actuation member towards the inner region when the downward force on the actuation member is reduced, and The groove cooperates with the protrusion to also prevent rotation of the actuation member relative to the resilient member. 15. The article of footwear of claim 13, further comprising a stop collar fixed relative to the outsole base and having a rim, wherein the actuation member flange includes a flange that moves away from the stop collar rim in response to a downward force on the actuation member to extend the elastic member, and The stop collar rim is positioned to contact the actuation member flange and limit movement of the actuation member toward the inner region when the downward force on the actuation member is reduced. 16. An article of footwear comprising: a sole structure comprising an exposed bottom side and a stabilizer extending from the exposed bottom side in a first direction, and wherein the first direction generally away from the exposed bottom side, The stabilizer includes a bottom end, a central portion and a distal end, The central part is adjacent to the base and the distal end, The stabilizer also extends in a second direction, the second direction is substantially parallel to the exposed bottom side, the bottom end, the central portion and the distal end are aligned along the second direction, the distal end has a maximum height along a first direction that is greater than the maximum height of the central portion, the distal end has a flat surface positioned to touch the ground when the article is worn, the central portion has an exposed surface generally parallel to the planar surface, and The height of the exposed surface along the first direction is smaller than the height of the flat surface. 17. The article of footwear according to claim 16, wherein the sole structure includes associated traction elements positioned adjacent the bottom end, the traction element extends from the exposed bottom side in a first direction, the traction element has a maximum height along a first direction that is greater than the maximum height of the central portion, and The wall surface of the traction element is connected to the wall surface of the stabilizer. 18. The article of footwear according to claim 17, wherein the sole structure includes an associated second traction element positioned adjacent the bottom end, the second traction element extends from the exposed bottom side in the first direction, the second traction element has a maximum height along the first direction that is greater than the maximum height of the central portion, and A wall surface of the second traction element is connected to another wall surface of the stabilizer. 19. The article of footwear according to claim 16, wherein the distal end is a terminal end of the stabilizer. 20. The article of footwear according to claim 19, wherein the length of the stabilizer in the second direction is greater than the maximum height of the distal end. 21. The article of footwear according to claim 16, wherein the length of the exposed surface is greater than the length of the planar surface. 22. The article of footwear according to claim 21, wherein the stabilizer has a substantially trapezoidal cross-section in a plane parallel to the first direction and perpendicular to the second direction. 23. The article of footwear according to claim 21, wherein the stabilizer is located in a forefoot region of the sole structure. 24. The article of footwear according to claim 21, wherein the second direction extends from an outer periphery of the sole structure toward a central region of the sole structure. 25. The article of footwear according to claim 21, further comprising a second stabilizer having a shape similar to the stabilizer. 26. The article of footwear according to claim 21, wherein the sole structure includes a base plate and the stabilizer is integral with the base plate. 27. An article of footwear comprising: a sole structure comprising an exposed bottom side and a stabilizer extending from the exposed bottom side in a first direction, and wherein The first direction generally departs from an interior region of an upper of an article positioned above the sole structure, The stabilizer includes a bottom end, a central portion and a distal end, The central part is adjacent to the base and the distal end, The stabilizer also extends in a second direction, the second direction is substantially parallel to the exposed bottom side, the bottom end, the central portion and the distal end are aligned along the second direction, the distal end has a maximum height along a first direction that is greater than the maximum height of the central portion, the stabilizer has a cross-section substantially consisting of a first trapezoid and a shorter second trapezoid in a plane parallel to the second and first directions, the first trapezoid extends the length of the stabilizer in the second direction and includes a partially exposed side extending in the second direction and coincident with an exposed edge of the central portion, The second trapezoid corresponds to a portion of the distal end, includes an unexposed side extending in a second direction, is connected to an unexposed portion of the exposed side of the first trapezoidal portion, and includes an exposed side, at least partially extending in a second direction, and Positioned to touch the ground when the item is worn. 28. The article of footwear according to claim 27, wherein the sole structure includes associated traction elements positioned adjacent the bottom end, the traction element extends from the exposed bottom side in a first direction, the traction element has a maximum height along a first direction that is greater than the maximum height of the central portion, and The wall surface of the traction element is connected to the wall surface of the stabilizer. 29. The article of footwear according to claim 27, wherein the sole structure includes an associated second traction element positioned adjacent the bottom end, the second traction element extends from the exposed bottom side in the first direction, the second traction element has a maximum height along the first direction that is greater than the maximum height of the central portion, and A wall surface of the second traction element is connected to another wall surface of the stabilizer. 30. The article of footwear according to claim 27, wherein both the first and second trapezoids include additional exposed sides forming a portion of the exposed end surface of the distal end. 31. The article of footwear according to claim 27, wherein the length of the exposed edge of the central portion is greater than the length of the exposed side of the second trapezoid. 32. The article of footwear according to claim 27, wherein the stabilizer has a substantially trapezoidal cross-section in a plane parallel to the first direction and perpendicular to the second direction. 33. The article of footwear according to claim 27, wherein the stabilizer is located in a forefoot region of the sole structure. 34. The article of footwear according to claim 27, wherein the second direction extends from an outer periphery of the bottom side toward a central region of the bottom side. 35. The article of footwear according to claim 27, further comprising a second stabilizer having a shape similar to the first stabilizer. 36. The article of footwear according to claim 27, wherein the sole structure includes a base plate and the stabilizer is integral with the base plate. 37. An article of footwear comprising: outsole base; a first traction element attached to the outsole base and comprising: an elastic member having a first end fixed relative to the outsole base and a second end protruding away from the outsole base, the elastic member forming part of a first traction element positioned to pierces the ground when the item is used by the item's wearer; an actuation member located within the elastic member and positioned to transmit force from the wearer's foot to the elastic member second end; a second traction element attached to a second traction element of the outsole base, the second traction element extending outwardly from the outsole base and having a first portion positioned to contact the ground; and a stabilizer having a bottom end connected to the second traction element, a central portion extending from the second traction element across the outsole base, and having a distal end displaced from the bottom end, the distal end having a configuration is a second portion that contacts the ground, and wherein the stabilizer is configured to deflect with the outsole base in response to forces caused by movement of a wearer of the article to arrange the first and second portions to contact the ground. 38. The article of footwear of claim 37, further comprising an interior region within an upper of the article configured to retain a wearer's foot, and wherein the article is configured to restrict the actuation member toward movement of the inner region. 39. The article of footwear according to claim 38, further comprising a stop collar, wherein the stop collar is fixed relative to the outsole base and positioned to restrict the actuation member toward the interior region exercise. 40. The article of footwear according to claim 37, wherein the article is configured to prevent rotation of the actuation member relative to the elastic member. 41. The article of footwear according to claim 37, further comprising: the interior area within the upper of the article; and A button is positioned on the actuation member between the actuation member and the interior region, wherein the button is constrained in translation relative to the actuation member but is rotatable relative to the actuation member. 42. The article of footwear according to claim 37, wherein the elastic member is configured to elongate by about 3 mm in response to a force of about 400 Newtons. 43. The article of footwear according to claim 37, further comprising an end element attached to the elastic member, wherein the terminal element is positioned to be the furthest portion of the first traction element with respect to said outsole base, and The terminal element is formed of a material having a hardness greater than that of the elastic member. 44. The article of footwear according to claim 37, wherein the stabilizer includes a protrusion on the distal end, the second portion on a face of the protrusion. 45. The article of footwear recited in claim 37, wherein the second traction element is positioned adjacent an edge of the outer sole and the stabilizer extends toward an interior portion of the outer sole. 46. The article of footwear recited in claim 37, wherein the second traction element is located in a forefoot region of the outer ground base adjacent a lateral edge of the outer ground base, and wherein the stabilizer extends toward an interior portion of the outer ground base.