Athletic shoe construction

US6557274B2 · kind B2 · utility

Inventors

• Paul E. Litchfield · Westborough, US
• Theresa S. Scalzi · Waltham, US
• Laura K. Mount · Hull, US
• Matthew Montross · Bridgewater, US
• Merrick Jones · Raleigh, US
• Craig Feller · Randolph, US
• William Marvin · Boston, US
• Robert D. Monahan · Norwell, US
• Peter M. Foley · Castle Rock, US
• Steven F. Smith · Taunton, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Apr 13, 2001
• Grant date: May 6, 2003
• Expiry date: Apr 13, 2021

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A43B23/0295
• WIPO field: Other consumer goods
• WIPO sector: Other fields

Abstract

A supportive, lightweight athletic shoe construction is described which includes an inflatable upper and a sole. The upper includes a foot conforming support member, an inflatable exoskeleton and an overlay which inhibits outward bulging of the exoskeleton. The sole includes a rigid carrier element, a forefoot unit and a heel unit. The forefoot unit includes a plurality of components which are arranged to work with the biomechanics of the foot. The athletic shoe is structurally minimalistic and functionally efficient.