Article of footwear, method of making the same, and method of conducting retail and internet business

[0001] The present disclosure teaches customized articles of footwear including removable and replaceable components, methods of making the same, and methods of conducting retail and Internet business.

[0002] Conventional articles of footwear cannot be substantially customized for use by an individual wearer. In this regard, the structure, and both the physical and mechanical properties, and performance characteristics of men's shoes in the running category are often fixed and selected to well serve the average 160 pound individual. However, the body weight or mass, walking or running speed, and characteristic running technique of different individuals having the same footwear size can vary greatly. As a result, the stiffness in compression of the foam material or other means for cushioning which is used in the soles of athletic shoes can be too soft for individuals who employ more forceful movements or have greater body mass than an average wearer. Alternatively, the stiffness provided by the soles of conventional athletic shoes can be too great for individuals who weigh significantly less than an average wearer. As a result, persons having characteristics deviating significantly from the norm or average individual can possibly experience less than ideal cushioning and/or stability. Accordingly, conventional articles of athletic footwear cannot provide optimal performance characteristics for many individual wearers.

[0003] Further, conventional athletic footwear often include an outsole made of a thermoset rubber material that is cemented by an adhesive to a midsole made of an ethylene vinyl acetate or polyurethane foam material which in turn is also cemented with an adhesive to a textile upper constructed using over two dozen parts which are held together by stitching. Because of the time, expense and difficulty associated with renewing any portion of conventional articles of footwear most of them are simply discarded at the end of their service life. The service life of an article of footwear can be relatively short when a wearer frequently engages in an athletic activity such as distance running, or tennis. In tennis, portions of a sole can be substantially abraded within a few hours, and when running a conventional foam midsole can take a compression set within one hundred miles of use. The resulting deformation of the midsole can degrade both cushioning and stability, and then possibly contribute to the origin of athletic injuries. Accordingly, many competitive distance runners who routinely cover over 50 miles in a week's time will discard their athletic footwear after logging three hundred miles in order to avoid possible injury.

[0004] While the service life of conventional athletic footwear is relatively short, the price of athletic footwear has steadily increased over the last three decades, and some current models have retail prices over one hundred and fifty dollars. Nevertheless, most athletic footwear and other casual shoes continue to be disposable commodities and relatively few are being recycled. Accordingly, both the manufacture and disposal of conventional athletic footwear is relatively inefficient and environmentally unfriendly. In contrast, the present disclosure teaches a customizable article of footwear, a method of making the same which enables recycling, and also a method of conducting retail and Internet business.

[0005] An aspect of the present disclosure is an article of footwear including an upper having an anterior side, a posterior side, a length between the anterior side and the posterior side, a medial side, a lateral side, a superior side, an inferior side, an exterior side, an interior side, a lasting margin, and a plurality of openings on the inferior side of the upper. The article of footwear further includes a lasting plate having a top side, a bottom side, a front side, a back side, an edge disposed near the lasting margin within the interior side and extending substantially between the anterior side and the posterior side of the upper. The lasting plate further includes a plurality of hooks extending from the bottom side. In this regard, the plurality of hooks include at least three hooks each having a free end which extend towards the front side of the lasting plate, and at least one hook having a free end which extends towards the back side of the lasting plate. The lasting plate has a shape in a relaxed state and is configured to flex under force and subsequently recover its shape when the force is removed. The article of footwear further includes a sole including a plurality of receptacles, and a portion of the plurality of hooks extend through the plurality openings on the inferior side of the upper, and the plurality of hooks are mechanically coupled with the sole with the plurality of receptacles thereby removably securing the upper, the lasting plate, and the sole.

[0006] The lasting plate can include an anterior portion, a posterior portion, and a flexible elastomeric portion disposed between and connecting the anterior portion with the posterior portion. The elastomeric portion can also extend on a portion of at least the top side of the lasting plate. The elastomeric portion can also extend on at least a portion of the bottom side of the lasting plate. The elastomeric portion can include a resilient joint disposed across the width of the lasting plate. The anterior portion and posterior portion of the lasting plate can each include a recess on the top side near the elastomeric portion. The anterior portion and posterior portion of the lasting plate can each also include a recess on the bottom side near the elastomeric portion. Alternatively, the lasting plate can include an anterior portion, a posterior portion, and a flexible thermoplastic middle portion which can be made with a different thermoplastic material having a lower flexural modulus than the material used to make the anterior portion and posterior portion of the lasting plate. Alternatively, the thickness of a thermoplastic material which is used to make the lasting plate can be reduced in the middle portion to provide greater flexibility.

[0007] Alternatively, the lasting plate can be configured to serve as a superior spring element and exhibit a high flexural modulus and a spring to dampening ratio of over 90 percent. The lasting plate can include a plurality of flex notches including at least a first flex notch configured to be disposed beneath and below between 60-65 percent of the length of the insole on the lateral side and a second transverse flex notch configured to be disposed between 80-85 percent of the length of the insole on the medial side.

[0008] The lasting plate can include an integral insole which extends substantially between the front side and back side of the lasting plate. Alternatively, an insole can be made and provided as a separate component and be disposed on the top side and surface of the lasting plate. Alternatively, an insole can be made and provided as a separate component and extend on the interior side of the upper substantially between its anterior side and posterior side.

[0009] Further, the at least three hooks each having a free end which extend towards the front side of the lasting plate can include a first hook disposed near the front side of the lasting plate in a location configured to be disposed anterior of the metatarsal-phalangeal joints of the second and a third toes and posterior of the distal phalanges of the second and third toes of a wearer's foot, and include a second hook configured to be disposed posterior of the metatarsal-phalangeal joint of the big or first toe of the wearer's foot, and include a third hook configured to be disposed posterior of the metatarsal-phalangeal joint of the fifth or little toe of the wearer's foot, and the at least one hook comprising a free end which extends towards the back side of the lasting plate is configured to be disposed posterior of the weight bearing center of the wearer's heel. The free ends of the hooks can have a rounded, squared, or semi-octagonal configuration.

[0010] The lasting plate can further include a plurality of projections which extend downwards from the bottom side and near the edge for manipulating the configuration and width of the upper. The plurality of projections can each include a head portion which can include an annular, conical, or pointed configuration. The plurality of projections can include a short stem portion and a head portion, or alternatively only a head portion. In this regard, the upper can include a second plurality of openings on its inferior side, and the plurality of projections can be configured to be removably secured to the upper by engagement with the second plurality of openings. The second plurality of openings can include a plurality of sets of openings, and each set can include at least two openings proximate to one another, and the plurality of projections are configured to be engaged with at least one opening of each set of the plurality of sets. The plurality of sets can be disposed on each of the medial side and the lateral side of the upper on its inferior side near the lasting margin, and the plurality of sets can be spaced along the length of said upper.

[0011] The upper can be made of a knitted textile material. The upper can include a tongue. The tongue can be knitted or otherwise formed as an integral part of the upper. Alternatively, the upper can be without a tongue. At least some of the openings in the upper can include a reinforcement structure near the edge of the openings. The upper can include a channel which extends about a portion of the medial side, lateral side, and posterior side for being coupled with a portion of the sole. Alternatively, the upper can include a channel that extends about the medial side, lateral side, posterior side, and anterior side which for being coupled with a portion of the sole. The channel can be configured to be disposed near the lasting margin of the upper. Alternatively, a channel can be configured to couple with a portion of an external heel counter, and also a portion of the sole.

[0012] The sole can include a fluid-filled bladder. The sole can include an integral heel counter. The sole can include at least one longitudinal groove extending beneath and substantially between the anterior side and the posterior side of the upper of the article of footwear, and also at least two transverse grooves in a portion of the sole configured to support the forefoot area of a wearer's foot. The sole can include a sidewall frame extending about at least a portion of the edge on its top side. The sole can include a plurality of individual female receptacles which are coupled to the sole. The sole can include a plurality of female receptacles which are joined together by strips. The sole can include an integral toe cap. The toe cap can have a straight, curved, or reverse wingtip configuration. At least a portion of the sole can be removably secured in a channel disposed on the exterior side of the upper.

[0013] The article of footwear can include a heel counter. In this regard, the upper can include a heel counter. The heel counter can be disposed on the interior side of the shoe upper, or alternatively on the exterior side of the shoe upper. Alternatively, the lasting plate can include a heel counter.

[0014] The upper can include a closure mechanism selected from the group of closure mechanisms consisting of: laces, straps, openings, eyelets, and lace loops. A closure mechanism including a strap can be configured to be removably secured to the lasting plate. In this regard, a strap can be disposed on the interior side of the upper and a portion of the strap can extend through at least one slit in the upper. Alternatively, a strap can be removably secured on the exterior side of the upper between the upper and the sole. Alternatively, the article of footwear can include a strap which is an integral part of the upper. Alternatively, a closure mechanism can include a draw cord which repeatedly crosses over the superior side and between the medial and lateral sides of the upper. Alternatively, another means for closure is a resilient textile material configured to impart compression in the shoe upper and help to secure a wearer's foot.

[0015] Another aspect of the present disclosure is a method of making a custom article of footwear. In this regard, the method includes: selecting an upper from a plurality of alternative uppers each having a plurality of openings on an inferior side; selecting a lasting plate including an integral insole from a plurality of alternative lasting plates including integral insoles each including at least three fasteners including a hook having a free end facing the front side of the lasting plate and at least one fastener including a hook having a free end facing the back side of the lasting plate; selecting a sole from a plurality of alternative soles each including a plurality of receptacles; inserting the selected lasting plate including an integral insole into the selected upper and causing the at least three fasteners each including a hook having a free end facing the front side of the lasting plate to pass through some of the plurality of openings in the upper; inserting the at least three fasteners each including a free end facing the front side of the lasting plate into three of the plurality of receptacles of the selected sole; and, flexing the lasting plate and inserting the at least one fastener including a hook having a free end facing the back side of the lasting plate through one of the plurality of openings in the upper and into one of the plurality of receptacles in the sole; whereby the plurality of hooks are mechanically coupled with the sole with the plurality of receptacles thereby removably securing the selected upper, the selected lasting plate including an integral insole, and the selected sole.

[0016] Another aspect of the present disclosure is an alternative method of making a custom article of footwear. In this regard, the method includes: selecting an upper from a plurality of alternative uppers each having a plurality of openings on an inferior side; selecting a lasting plate from a plurality of alternative lasting plates each including at least three fasteners including a hook having a free end facing the front side of the lasting plate and at least one fastener including a hook having a free end facing the back side of the lasting plate; selecting a sole from a plurality of alternative soles each including a plurality of receptacles; selecting an insole from a plurality of alternative insoles; inserting the selected lasting plate into the selected upper and causing the at least three fasteners each including a hook having a free end facing the front side of the lasting plate to pass through some of the plurality of openings in the upper and into three of the plurality of receptacles of the selected sole; flexing the lasting plate and inserting the at least one fastener including a hook having a free end facing the back side of the lasting plate through one of the plurality of openings in the upper and into one of the plurality of receptacles in the sole; whereby the plurality of hooks are mechanically coupled with the sole with the plurality of receptacles thereby removably securing the selected upper, the selected lasting plate, and the selected sole; and, inserting the selected insole into the upper.

[0017] The present disclosure teaches a method of making an article of footwear. The method can include the steps of selecting a first footwear component from a plurality of uppers, selecting a second footwear component from a plurality of lasting plates including an insole, and selecting a third footwear component from a plurality of soles, and removably securing the first, second and third footwear components to make an article of footwear.

[0018] The present disclosure teaches a method of making an article of footwear. The method can include the steps of providing a plurality of footwear components and a plurality of variations of a plurality of the footwear components, a plurality of the footwear components including means for fastening, selecting from the plurality of footwear components sufficient footwear components for making the article of footwear including at least an upper, a lasting plate, and a sole which can be removably secured together in functional relation by the means for fastening, providing the selected sufficient footwear components to a physical location at which the article of footwear can be made, and removably securing a plurality of the selected sufficient footwear components in functional relation with the means for fastening and completing the assembly for making the article of footwear.

[0019] The means for fastening can include mating male and female parts which can be coupled, whereby a plurality of selected footwear components are removable and replaceable.

[0020] The means for cushioning can include an elastomeric material such as a foam material and/or a fluid-filled bladder.

[0021] The step of securing a plurality of the selected sufficient footwear components in functional relation with means for fastening can be completed in less than five minutes, and sometimes even less than one minute.

[0022] The step of providing a plurality of footwear components and a plurality of variations of a plurality of the footwear components can include providing alternative footwear product categories, alternative footwear models, alternative footwear skus, alternative footwear colors, alternative footwear materials, alternative footwear components, alternative footwear options using images generated using a computer database, alternative footwear options using at least one actual footwear component, and alternative footwear options using an adaptable article of footwear.

[0023] The step of selecting from the plurality of footwear components sufficient footwear components for making the article of footwear can include providing a capability to a customer or individual wearer selected from the group including providing a data input capability, providing a search capability, providing a selection capability, providing a purchase capability.

[0024] The step of providing the selected sufficient footwear components to a physical location at which the article of footwear can be made can include providing means for delivery of the selected sufficient footwear components to a company headquarters, a retail store, a sales office, a service center, a medical office, a factory, a vending machine, a warehouse and distribution center, or a private residence. The means for delivery can include U.S. Mail, or courier services including but not limited to FEDEX®, UPS®, Amazon Prime®, and the like.

[0025] The present disclosure teaches a method of making an article of footwear having an upper, a lasting plate, and a sole which can be removably secured together. The method can include the steps of providing a plurality of footwear components, and a plurality of variations of a plurality of the footwear components, a plurality of the footwear components including means for fastening, selecting from the plurality of footwear components at least one footwear component for use in making the article of footwear, and providing the at least one footwear component to an address selected by an individual, whereby a plurality of footwear components comprising sufficient footwear components for making the article of footwear including the selected at least one footwear component are secured in functional relation with the means for fastening and the assembly for making the article of footwear is completed.

[0026] The present disclosure teaches a method of conducting business including making and selling an article of footwear. The method can include the steps of providing a plurality of footwear components, and a plurality of variations of a plurality of the footwear components, a plurality of the footwear components including means for fastening, selecting from the plurality of footwear components sufficient footwear components for making the article of footwear including an upper, a lasting plate, and a sole, providing the sufficient footwear components to a physical location at which the article of footwear can be made, securing a plurality of the sufficient footwear components in functional relation with the means for fastening and completing the assembly for making the article of footwear, and providing the article of footwear to a customer.

[0027] The present disclosure teaches a method of conducting business with the use of a vending device or machine and making and selling an article of footwear including at least an upper, a lasting plate, and a sole which can be removably secured together. The method includes the steps of providing a plurality of footwear components for making an article of footwear, and a plurality of variations of a plurality of the footwear components in a vending device or machine, a plurality of the footwear components including means for fastening, and selecting from the plurality of footwear components using the vending device or machine at least one footwear component for use in making the article of footwear and providing the at least one footwear component from the vending device or machine to a physical location, whereby a plurality of footwear components comprising sufficient footwear components for making the article of footwear including the at least one footwear component are removably secured with the means for fastening and the assembly for making the article of footwear is completed.

[0028] In the present disclosure, the words, terms, or phrases anterior side, medial side, lateral side and posterior side will be used to indicate or make reference to portions of a footwear last, upper, insole, sole, and an article of footwear. The anterior side corresponds to what is sometimes called the front side, and the posterior side corresponds to what is sometimes called the back side.

[0029] When making reference to sides on an article of footwear or a sub-component thereof which has a curved surface, it can be readily understood and is hereby defined that a side can possibly refer to a single point, or alternatively to a curve or plane formed by three or more points, that is, a side does not have to be flat or planar. Further, the words front, back, top, and bottom will be used describe different sides, surfaces, or portions of various other footwear components such as a lasting plate and/or superior spring element. In this regard, it can be readily understood that different footwear components can each have their own front, back, top, and bottom sides and associated surfaces or portions, and the meaning of these descriptive words and phrases can be understood in view of their context.

[0030] The word or term longitudinal will be used to describe an orientation generally consistent with the length of an upper, lasting plate, insole, or sole of an article of footwear, and in particular, with respect to the orientation of flex grooves, openings, or other footwear structures disclosed herein.

[0031] The term transverse will be used to describe an orientation generally consistent with the width of an upper, lasting plate, insole or sole of an article of footwear, and in particular, with respect to the orientation of flex grooves, openings, or other footwear structures.

[0032] In this disclosure, the term or phrase rearfoot area will be used to refer to a portion of a wearer's foot, an article of footwear or sub-component thereof which is configured to underlie or be disposed about a portion of the calcaneus bone and/or heel, and the term or phrase midfoot area will be used to refer to a portion of a wearer's foot, an article of footwear, or subcomponent thereof which is configured to underlie or be disposed about a portion of the navicular, cuboid, outer, middle, and inner cuneiform, and the proximal end and shafts of the metatarsal bones.

[0033] The term or phrase ball of a wearer's foot will refer to a portion of a wearer's foot, an article of footwear, or subcomponent thereof which is configured to underlie or be disposed about a portion of the distal heads of the five metatarsal bones, and also the proximal ends of the proximal phalanges.

[0034] In this disclosure, the term or phrase forefoot area will be used to refer to a portion of a wearer's foot, an article of footwear or sub-component thereof which is configured to underlie or be disposed about a portion of the phalanges and toes. In this regard, the position of the medial metatarsal-phalangeal joint is normally approximately located at about 69% of foot length, and the lateral metatarsal-phalangeal joint is normally approximately found at about 63% of foot length, that is, when measured from the back of a last for a typical size 9 men's article of footwear. Given a last length of 283 mm, the medial metatarsal-phalangeal joint is then located at about 195 mm, and the lateral metatarsal phalangeal joint at about 178 mm from the back or posterior side of the last. Accordingly, in this disclosure it can be readily understood that the term or phrase forefoot area can be used to indicate a portion of a wearer's foot, article of footwear, or sub-component thereof which is configured to be disposed anterior of a line drawn between 69% of foot length on the medial side which is approximately 195 mm, and 63% of foot length on the lateral side which is approximately 178 mm from the back or posterior side of a last for a typical size 9 men's article of footwear. Further, in this disclosure the term or phrase forefoot area will also be used to indicate a portion of an article of footwear or a sub-component thereof which is configured to underlie or be disposed about the metatarsal heads of a wearer's foot and/or the ball of the foot as defined herein.

[0165] The present disclosure teaches an article of footwear 22 which can include an upper 23, a lasting plate 79, an insole 31, and a sole 32, and each of these components can be selected from a range of alternative options and be easily removed and replaced as desired. Alternatively, the insole 31 and lasting plate 79 can be made or provided as a single component, and it is then possible to make a custom article of footwear 22 by selecting and assembling only three footwear sub-component parts. Further, the configuration and width of the upper 23 of the article of footwear 22 can be manipulated and adjusted in order to provide a custom fit for an individual wearer. Accordingly, the article of footwear 22 can be customized in order to provide a desired fit and structure, but also physical and mechanical properties, and related performance characteristics. Moreover, the present disclosure teaches a method of making an article of footwear, and also a method of doing both retail and Internet business including making and selling a custom article of footwear.

[0166] For example, the product category and style of a footwear upper 23, and also its color, material composition, physical and mechanical properties, configuration and fit can be selected by a customer and/or individual wearer. In this regard, a shoe or boot upper 23 can be made in whole or part of a woven material, a non-woven material, a knitted material such as a two or three-dimensional knit material, a textile material made of natural fibers such as cotton or hemp, wool, leather, suede leather, synthetic leather, a thermoplastic material, a thermoplastic elastomer, and/or rubber.

[0167] A potential customer or individual wearer can be provided with many different alternative uppers to choose from at a point of purchase in a retail store, and/or when using a vending device which includes inventory, and/or by using a cell phone, tablet, or computer in order to communicate with an online web site on the Internet to select a desired footwear upper 23 component, and any other needed or desired footwear components for making an article of footwear 22. In this regard, a plurality of different options and alternate embodiments of various footwear components can be provided for possible selection by a customer or individual wearer. For example, different alternative embodiments of an upper 23, a lasting plate 79, an insole 31, a draw cord 106, a strap 18, a heel counter 24, a fastener 29 including a male portion 85 and female portion 86, laces 21, an inferior spring element 50, a fluid-filled bladder 115, a retaining pin 63, a sole 32, and also other footwear components can be provided for possible selection to make an article of footwear 22.

[0168] The anatomical features, configuration, and dimensions of a given individual's foot and any other special needs, requirements, or preferences can be communicated and/or recorded by observation and measurement in a retail setting, or alternately be communicated by an individual or wearer in their own home or when at different remote site, and the provided data can be used to generate information and intelligence relating to various possible options and making selections for a making a custom article of footwear. In this regard, measuring devices or other means for determining, rendering, recording, or reproducing an individual's foot length size, foot width size, foot shape, arch characteristics, conformation and other information could include rulers, measuring tapes, Brannock devices, two or three dimensional scanners, three dimensional printers, pressure sensors, infrared thermography, stereolithography, cameras, photographs, video, television, photocopies, FAX, e-mail, impressions, tracings, phones, tablets, texts, computers and computer screens, software, data storage and retrieval systems, templates, molds, models, and patterns, and one or more of these devices and related methods can be used to help make selections relating to an individual's needs and desires when making an article of footwear 22.

[0169] The lasting plate 79 can be made of a thermoplastic material such as nylon, ethylene, propylene, or a thermoplastic elastomer such as Santoprene®. Alternatively, when a high mechanical efficiency and spring to dampening ratio greater than 90 percent is desired, the lasting plate 79 can be made of a fiber composite material such as thermoplastic or thermoset carbon fiber composite, carbon nanofiber compositive, a hemp fiber composite, fiberglass, or a metal such as a spring grade titanium. In this regard, the material composition, thickness, and stiffness of the lasting plate can be selected to provide desired performance characteristics. For example, the spring to dampening ratio of the elastomeric foam materials used in conventional articles of footwear is commonly in the range between 40-60 percent, whereas an article of footwear 22 including a lasting plate 79 made of carbon fiber compositive or spring grade titanium can provide a higher spring to dampening ratio exceeding 90 percent and this can possibly contribute to mechanical efficiency and running economy. In this regard, a lasting plate 79 that underlies the forefoot area which can store energy during the latter portion of the stance phase and early portion of the propulsive phase of the running cycle and then release this energy during the latter portion of the propulsive phase can provide improved running economy. It is believed that the improvement in running performance can approximate one second over four hundred meters when running at four minutes/mile pace. When an efficient lasting plate 79 is used in a hiking or military boot the amount of effort and energy expended when carrying a 100 pound backpack can also be reduced. The lasting plate 79 can be made in different configurations to provide different options and possible selections for wearers having flat feet, normal arches, or high arches so as to provide individuals with comfort, conformance, support, and stability. Moreover, the lasting plate 79 can also include an integral heel counter 24, and/or 74, and/or toe counter 100.

[0170] An insole 31 can be made as a separate component and include a bottom portion including a thermoplastic or thermoset material for providing a conforming structure and support for individuals having low arches or flat feet, medium arches, or high arches. An insole 31 can also have a middle portion or cushioning layer including a foam material such as ethylene vinyl acetate or polyurethane, memory foam, neoprene, thermoplastic elastomer, rubber, or cork, and also a top portion or cover layer including a textile having natural fibers such as cotton, hemp, wool, or leather, suede, and/or other natural or synthetic leathers and textiles for providing a comfortable surface for contact with a wearer's foot. Alternatively, an insole 31 can be made to include only a cushioning layer including a foam material and cover layer for making contact with a wearer's foot. Alternatively, an insole 31 can be made as a single cover layer for making contact with a wearer's foot. Alternatively, at least a portion of a lasting plate 79 and/or insole 31 can be molded to a desired shape and conformance with the use of heat, or by using a chemical reaction with the use of a curable polymer, and/or a light cure polymer, e.g., as disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,939,502, 5,632,057, 5,203,793, 5,101,580, 4,674,206, all of these patents hereby being incorporated by reference herein. Alternatively, an insole 31 can be made as an integral part of a lasting plate 79. Alternatively, an insole 31 can be made as a component which can mechanically mate and be easily removably coupled with a lasting plate 79. The following U.S. Patents are assigned to Superfeet Worldwide, Inc. which is a manufacturer of high quality insoles for use in footwear include U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,869,001, 6,233,847, 6,618,960, 6,976,322, 8,341,856, 9,259,050, 9,635,904, 9,655,404, 10,013,711, 10,136,703, 10,172,414, 10,463,103, and all of these patents are hereby incorporated by reference herein.

[0171] Further, an article of footwear can include an insole which can be removed and replaced by a different footwear component selected from the group of footwear components including an inner liner, an inner liner adapted for use in cold weather, an inner liner adapted for use in hot and humid weather, a slipper, a different shoe or boot such as an aquatic boot or a rock climbing shoe which can be inserted and fit within the article of footwear, whereby the effective size and function provided by the article of footwear can be varied and customized as desired.

[0172] The article of footwear can include means for closure including a closure mechanism, e.g., laces, draw cords, straps, buckles, hook and pile 121, and/or an upper 23 providing a compression fit, and in various combinations and permutations. In this regard, the laces 21, or draw cords 106, and/or straps 18 can be removably secured to a portion of the upper 23. Straps 18 can be disposed on the interior side 39 of the upper 23 and be removably secured to the lasting plate 79. Alternatively, straps 18 can be disposed on the exterior side 40 of the upper 23 and be removably secured to the lasting plate 79. Alternatively, straps 18 can be made or configured as an integral portion of the upper 32.

[0173] The article of footwear 22 can also include a removable and replaceable heel counter 24. For example, the lasting plate 79 can include an integral heel counter 24, and/or side counter 74, and/or toe counter 100. Alternatively, a heel counter 24 can be made and provided as a separate footwear component and be configured to be disposed on the interior side 39 of the upper 23. Alternatively, a heel counter 24 can be configured to be disposed on the exterior side 40 of the upper 23.

[0174] The sole 32 can be also be selected and replaced as desired in order to optimize desired performance characteristics for a specific activity and given different environmental conditions. In this regard, the ability to easily remove, renew, and recycle the sole 32 portion of an article of footwear 22 can render the use of softer materials having enhanced shock and vibration dampening characteristics, but perhaps less robust wear properties viable from a practical standpoint. Further, the sole portion of a custom article of footwear can be selected from a variety of options with regards to configuration, materials, and function. For example, a wide variety of different soles can be made available for selection and use in articles of footwear configured for many different product categories and having different material compositions and tread patterns, including but not limited to casual and dress shoes, walking, running, aerobics, basketball, tennis, volleyball, cross-training, baseball, football, golf, soccer, cycling, sandals, hiking and military boots. In this regard, many different sole options can be provided within a single product category, e.g., a sole that is suitable for running on streets, another sole that is suitable for running on trails, and yet another sole that provides maximum cushioning can be made and provided for selection and use by an individual wearer for a running shoes. A sole can be compression or injection molded using thermoplastic foam materials such as ethylene vinyl acetate, thermoplastic elastomers such Kraton®, thermoplastic rubber, natural or synthetic rubber, and/or polyurethane materials. Other soles 32 which are resistant to slipping in wet conditions and/or extreme temperatures including ice and snow, or exposure to oil, or resistant to fire, or are otherwise specially designed and which include chemical formulations and materials that are advantageous for specialized use can be made available for selection and use by customers and individual wearers.

[0175] A footwear manufacturer can prepare an adequate and ready supply of various footwear components for use in making custom articles of footwear which can then be made on demand or alternatively be pre-stocked. Given the information and selections made by a customer and/or individual wearer, an employee, automated robotic system of a footwear manufacturer, or an individual wearer can assemble and make a customized article of footwear within five minutes. In fact, it is possible to assemble a custom article of footwear in less than one minute using a lasting plate 79 including means for fastening such as a plurality of male hooks 27 and a flexible middle portion 60 between its front side 77 and back side 78 which can be flexed, but then return to its original shape. This operation can be accomplished at the point of purchase or service center which can be located in a retail store, medical facility, or a remote manufacturing environment. Accordingly, a customer or individual wearer can be provided with a custom article of footwear within a few minutes. Alternatively, if and when an individual wearer's data is communicated from a remote location to the website or business address of a footwear company which makes the article of footwear and practices the method of making an article of footwear disclosed herein and/or is transmitted to a manufacturing or assembly center, a custom article of footwear can be made and possibly delivered to an individual's home or other designated address by same day or overnight service, as desired. Alternatively, a vending machine device can be used by a customer to select and obtain various footwear components for making, renewing, or customizing an article of footwear. Moreover, an individual wearer can select and purchase individual components for making, changing, or renewing parts of a customizable article of footwear, and then assemble and complete the manufacturing process by themselves.

[0176] FIG. 1 is a bottom view showing the inferior side 38 of an illustrative men's size 9 footwear last 80 which is generally similar to those used by many companies in the athletic footwear industry. As shown, the last measures approximately 283 mm from the front or anterior side 33 to the back or posterior side 34. However, note that the bottom net 51 of this particular last 80 is about 2 mm posterior of the anterior side 33 of the last 80, and also about 7 mm anterior of the posterior side 34 of the last 80. The position of the weight bearing center of the heel 57 is indicated as being approximately 45 mm anterior of the posterior side 34 of the last 80. The foregoing example and other drawings of a footwear last are merely illustrative and not intended to limit the last configuration to any particular type and shape.

[0177] FIG. 2 is a lateral side 36 and partial cross-sectional view showing a shoe upper 23 including a non-integral tongue 12, lace loops 26 for retaining laces 21, a plurality of registered openings 72 on the inferior side 38 which can enable means for fastening, e.g., a plurality of male hooks 27 having free ends 28, a plurality of projections 70, and/or a post 16 shown in other provided drawing figures and discussed herein to extend through the upper 23 which is mounted on a last 80 similar to the one shown in FIG. 1 and for illustrative purposes here is transparent. An insole 31 is also shown disposed within the interior side 39 the shoe upper 23. Many running and walking footwear lasts are configured so as to elevate a wearer's heel relative to the tread point 44 when properly treaded. The tread point 44 in the forefoot area 58 is often disposed near and approximately between the position of the medial metatarsal-phalangeal joint 88 associated with the first or big toe, and the lateral metatarsal-phalangeal joint 89 associated with the fifth or small toe. The position of the medial metatarsal-phalangeal joint 88 is normally approximately located at about 69% of foot length, and the lateral metatarsal-phalangeal joint 89 is normally approximately found at about 63% of foot length, that is, when measured from the back of the last 80. Given a last length of 283 mm, the medial metatarsal-phalangeal joint is then located at about 195 mm, and the lateral metatarsal phalangeal joint at about 178 mm from the back or posterior side 34 of the last 80.

[0178] In this regard, FIG. 30 is a bottom or inferior side view illustration showing the bones of a wearer's foot which includes the calcaneus 1, that is, the heel bone, and the talus 2 which are connected to the tarsus portion of the foot which includes the navicular 3, cuboid 7, and the outer, middle and inner cuneiform bones 4, respectively, which are in turn connected to five metatarsal bones 8 which each have a proximal end, a shaft portion and distal heads 10. The five metatarsal bones 8 are connected to the phalange bones 9 of the foot which are associated with the toes. In this regard, the first or big toe has a proximal and a distal phalange, and all of the other toes have proximal, middle, and distal phalanges. In this disclosure, the term or phrase rearfoot area will be used to refer to a portion of a wearer's foot, an article of footwear or sub-component thereof which is configured to underlie or be disposed about a portion of the calcaneus bone and/or heel, and the term or phrase midfoot area will be used to indicate a portion of a wearer's foot, an article of footwear, or subcomponent thereof which is configured to underlie or be disposed about a portion of the navicular, cuboid, outer, middle, and inner cuneiform, and the proximal end and shafts of the metatarsal bones. The term or phrase ball of a wearer's foot will refer to a portion of a wearer's foot, an article of footwear or subcomponent thereof which is configured to underlie or be disposed about a portion of the distal heads of the five metatarsal bones, and also the proximal ends of the proximal phalanges. In this disclosure, the term or phrase forefoot area will be used to refer to a portion of a wearer's foot, an article of footwear, or sub-component thereof which is configured to underlie or be disposed about a portion of the phalanges and toes. In this regard, the position of the medial metatarsal-phalangeal joint 88 is normally approximately located at about 69% of foot length, and the lateral metatarsal-phalangeal joint 89 is normally approximately found at about 63% of foot length, that is, when measured from the back of the last 80 for a typical size 9 men's article of footwear. Given a last length of 283 mm, the medial metatarsal-phalangeal joint is then located at about 195 mm, and the lateral metatarsal phalangeal joint at about 178 mm from the back or posterior side 34 of the last 80. Accordingly, in this disclosure the term or phrase forefoot area will be used to indicate a portion of a wearer's foot, article of footwear, or sub-component thereof which is configured to be underlie or be disposed anterior of a line drawn between 69% of foot length on the medial side which is approximately 195 mm, and 63% of foot length on the lateral side which is approximately 178 mm from the back or posterior side 34 of a last 80 for a typical size 9 men's article of footwear. Furthermore, in this disclosure the term or phrase forefoot also indicates a portion of a wearer's foot, article of footwear, or sub-component thereof which is configured to underlie or be disposed about the metatarsal heads of a wearer's foot and/or ball of the foot.

[0179] The insole 31 can be approximately 3.5-5 mm thick and can be made of EVA, or polyurethane material such as PORON®. The insole 31 can provide conformance and support for the arches in the midfoot area 67 of the shoe 23 beneath the approximate location of the longitudinal and transverse arches of a wearer's foot, but also extend behind and provide a cupped shape about a portion of the wearer's heel in the rearfoot area 68. This can serve to protect the wearer's heel from impact with the heel counter 24. In this regard, the anterior-posterior load or impact to an individual's heel during running can be in the range of 1.25-1.75 body weights and this can contribute to injury, and so cushioning of the wearer's heel can be beneficial. The provided example and drawings of an insole are illustrative and not intended to limit the insole to any particular configuration or dimensions.

[0180] FIG. 3 is a lateral side and partial cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of a shoe upper 23 including an integral tongue 12, a plurality of openings and eyelets 14 for retaining laces 21, and an insole 31 disposed within the interior side 39 of the shoe upper 31. Also shown is a portion of a footwear last 80 generally similar to the one shown in FIG. 1.

[0181] FIG. 4 is a lateral side cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of a shoe upper 23 including an insole 31 disposed within the interior side 39 of the shoe upper 23. Also shown is a portion of a footwear last 80 generally similar to the one shown in FIG. 1. The shoe upper 23 can be made of a knitted textile material which can be flat knit or three-dimensional knit, and possibly also provide a stretch and/or compression fit and then serve to help retain a wearer's foot and provide both comfort and stability.

[0182] FIG. 5 is a lateral side view showing the exterior side 40 of the embodiment of a shoe upper 23 shown in FIG. 4.

[0183] FIG. 6 is a lateral side view of an embodiment of a lasting plate 79 and including on the bottom side 76 a plurality of male hooks 27 having free ends 28 in the forefoot area 58 and the midfoot area 67, and also a post 16 in the rearfoot area 68 having a transverse post passage 48 for use in removably securing the lasting plate 79 and a shoe upper 23 to a sole 32.

[0184] FIG. 7 is a lateral side view of an embodiment of a lasting plate 79 including an integral heel counter 24 on the top side 75, and including on the bottom side 76 a plurality of hooks 27 having free ends 28 in the forefoot area 58 and midfoot area 67, and also a post 16 in the rearfoot area 68 having a longitudinal post passage 49 for use with a retaining pin 63 for use in removably securing the lasting plate 79 and shoe upper 23 to a sole 32.

[0185] FIG. 8 is a lateral side cross-sectional view of a shoe upper 23 generally similar to that shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 including a plurality of registered openings 72 for receiving the lasting plate 79 shown in FIG. 6. As shown, the lasting plate 79 can extend substantially between the anterior side 33 and posterior side 34 of the shoe upper 23 and be disposed near, at, or proximate the bottom net 51 and corresponding lasting margin 95 of the shoe upper 23. When made from an injection molded thermoplastic material the thickness of the lasting plate 79 can be in the range between 1-3 mm. When made from a unidirectional carbon fiber composite material or other fiber composite material made of hemp fiber or nanocarbon fiber the thickness of the lasting plate 79 can be in the range between 1.0-1.25 mm. However, it is also possible to make the lasting plate 79 of a less expensive unidirectional fiberglass material such as E or S glass having a thickness between 1.25-2.0 mm. Further, many individuals who only intend to use an article of footwear for easy walking or running at a pace over 7:30 minutes/mile and without carrying a heavy load could possibly not wish or need to use a lasting plate 79 having a high modulus of elasticity and a spring to dampening ratio of over 90 percent. Instead, these individuals could wish to select a lasting plate 79 made of a softer and more flexible thermoplastic material. A lasting plate 79 can spread the loads being placed upon the sole 32 over a greater area which can positively affect the cushioning characteristics, and also serve to increase the exhibited stiffness found at the perimeter of the sole 32 and improve stability. In this regard, there is a discussion of a soft edge phenomenon associated with some athletic footwear provided within U.S. Pat. No. 5,921,004.

[0186] FIG. 9 is a bottom view of the shoe upper 23 shown in FIG. 4 including the lasting plate 79 shown in FIG. 6. Also indicated on the medial side 35 are positions associated with approximately 50%/142 mm, 55%/155 mm, 57.5%/162.5 mm, and 60%/169 mm of foot length/283 mm. Indicated on the medial side 35 is the position of the metatarsal-phalangeal joint of the big or first toe which normally corresponds with approximately 69% of foot length or 195 mm, and also indicated on the lateral side 36 is the position of the metatarsal-phalangeal joint of the little or fifth toe which normally corresponds with approximately 63% of foot length or 178 mm for a male wearer having a size 9 foot and corresponding shoe last 80 having an overall length of 283 mm. As shown, three male hooks 27 having free ends 28 extend through registered openings 72 in the inferior side 38 of the upper 23. A first male hook 27.1 is disposed near the anterior side 33 of the upper 23. It can be advantageous for the first male hook 27.1 to be located anterior of the metatarsal-phalangeal joints and also posterior of the distal phalanges of the second and third toes because this region of the sole 32 is not normally subject to high pressure and loading. It can also be advantageous for the second male hook 27.2 near the medial side 35 to be disposed posterior of the metatarsal-phalangeal joints of the big or first toe and/or second toe, and for the third male hook 27.3 to be disposed posterior of the metatarsal-phalangeal joints of the little or fifth toe and/or the fourth toe in order to avoid a portion of the sole 32 which is heavily loaded by the ball area of a wearer's foot. In this regard, it can be beneficial for the position of the second male hook 27.2 and third male hook 27.3 to located at least 10 mm behind a line drawn between the position of the first metatarsal-phalangeal joint on the medial side 35 of the shoe upper 23 which approximately corresponds to 69% and 195 mm of foot length, and the fifth metatarsal-phalangeal joint on the lateral side 36 of the shoe upper 23 which approximately corresponds to 63% and 178 mm of foot length for a male wearing having size 9 and a corresponding shoe last 80 having a length of 283 mm. Also shown is a post 16 extending through an opening 72 near the posterior side 34 of the shoe upper 23 and a longitudinal post passage 49 in the post 16 for receiving a retaining pin 63. The openings 72 in the shoe upper 23 for receiving the hooks 27 and/or post 16 can include an edge reinforcement 81. In this regard, the openings 72 in the upper 23 can be configured and made as part of the original design, pattern, and structure of the upper 23, or later be formed or made in the upper 23. For example, when the upper 23 is made using a weaving and/or knitting process, the configuration and location of the openings 72 can be designed and engineered as part of making the upper 23. The edges of the openings can possibly include a reinforcement 81 made by additional weaving, knitting, or stitching. Alternatively, the openings 72 can be cut, or die-punched into a textile material, natural or synthetic leather, or other material used to make the upper 23. In this regard, a combination of cutting or die-punching with the use of heat and pressure can be used to form the openings 72 and simultaneously fuse and make a reinforcement 81 about the edges of the openings 72. Further, some of the footwear components disclosed in the present application could alternatively be at least partially secured in functional relation to one another with the use of stitching, adhesives, the application of heat and/or sonic welding, chemical bonding, fusing, the use of hook and pile, or other mechanical means.

[0187] FIG. 10 is a lateral side cross-sectional view of the shoe upper 23 shown in FIG. 4 including the lasting plate 79 shown in FIG. 7.

[0188] FIG. 11 is a bottom view of the shoe upper 23 shown in FIG. 4 including the lasting plate 79 shown in FIG. 7.

[0189] FIG. 12 is a lateral side view of an embodiment of a lasting plate 79 including on its bottom side 76 a plurality of hooks 27 having free ends 28 in the forefoot area 58 and midfoot area 67, a post 16 in the rearfoot area 68 having a longitudinal passage 49, and a plurality of projections 70 including a stem 64 and a head 65, and as shown a conical head 91, for removably securing the lasting plate 79 to a shoe upper 23, and/or a sole 32.

[0190] FIG. 13 is a lateral side cross-sectional view of the shoe upper 23 shown in FIG. 4 including the lasting plate 79 shown in FIG. 12.

[0191] FIG. 14 is a lateral side view of an embodiment of a lasting plate 79 including on its bottom side 76 a plurality of hooks 27 having free ends 28 in the forefoot area 58 and midfoot area 67, and a post 16 in the rearfoot area 68 having a transverse passage 48, and a plurality of projections 70 including a stem 64 and head 65, and as shown an annular head 90 for removably securing the lasting plate 79 to the shoe upper 23, and/or a sole 32.

[0192] FIG. 15 is a lateral side cross-sectional view of the shoe upper 23 shown in FIG. 4 including the lasting plate 79 shown in FIG. 14.

[0193] FIG. 16 is a lateral side view of a lasting plate 79 generally similar to that shown in FIG. 14, but further including an integral heel counter 24.

[0194] FIG. 17 is a lateral side cross-sectional view of the shoe upper 23 shown in FIG. 4 including the lasting plate 79 including an integral heel counter 24 shown in FIG. 16.

[0195] FIG. 18 is a lateral side view of a lasting plate 79 generally similar to that shown in FIG. 12, but further including an integral heel counter 24.

[0196] FIG. 19 is a lateral side cross-sectional view of the shoe upper 23 shown in FIG. 4 including the lasting plate 79 including an integral heel counter 24 shown in FIG. 18.

[0197] FIG. 20 is a top view of a sole 32 including a plurality of small void spaces 102 for receiving a plurality of projections 70 and also a plurality of female receptacles 103 for receiving and coupling with a plurality of male hooks 27 on a lasting plate 79. In this embodiment, the small void spaces 102 for receiving a plurality of projections 70 only provide space in the sole 32 for the projections 70. As shown is a recess 84 in a portion of the superior side 37 of the sole 32 for accommodating the thickness of a strap 18. In this regard, depth of the recess 84 can be in the range between 1-4 mm. The female receptacles 103 can be made as void spaces in the sole 32, and/or alternatively and as shown as female receptacle inserts 107 made of an elastomeric or thermoplastic material.

[0198] FIG. 21 is a top view of a sole 32 including a plurality of keyed void spaces 102 for receiving a plurality of projections 70 and also a plurality of female receptacles 103 for receiving and coupling with a plurality of male hooks 27 on a lasting plate 79. In this embodiment, the small keyed void spaces 102 for receiving a plurality of projections 70 not only provide space in the sole 32 for the projections 70, but the annular 90, conical 92, or other shaped head 65 portion of the projections 70 can be coupled to the narrow portion of the keyed void spaces 102 and thereby be removably secured to the sole 32. Further, this alternative embodiment of a sole 32 also shows an additional female receptacle 103 for use with a lasting plate 79 having a complementary design, and a recess 84 for accommodating the inclusion of a strap 18.

[0199] FIG. 22 is a bottom view of a shoe upper 23 including a t-sock 56 and a plurality of openings 72 including an edge having a reinforcement 81 for receiving a plurality of male hooks 27.1, 27.2 and 27.3 in the forefoot area 58 and midfoot area 67, and a post 16 in the rearfoot area 68. Further, also shown are multiple sets of paired alternative openings 55 on the medial side 35 and also the lateral side 36 of the shoe upper 23 for receiving a plurality of projections 70 for adjusting the conformance and width of the upper 23. The projections 70 can have annular heads 90 or conical heads 91, or other geometrically shaped projections can be used for removably securing the shoe upper 23 to a lasting plate 79 and adjusting the conformance and width of the upper 23. In this regard, the openings 72 in the upper 23 for the hooks 27.1, 27.2, 27.3, post 16, sets of paired alternative openings 55, eyelets 14, and other openings 72 possibly associated with means for closure and a closure mechanism such as laces 21 and straps 18 can be configured and made as part of the design, pattern, and structure of the upper 23, or later be formed or made in the upper 23. For example, when the upper 23 is made using a weaving and/or knitting process, the configuration and location of the openings 72 can be designed and engineered to make the upper 23. The edges of the openings 72 can possibly include a reinforcement 81 made by additional weaving, knitting, or stitching. Alternatively, the openings 72 can be cut, or die-punched into a textile material, natural or synthetic leather, or other material used to make the upper 23. In this regard, a combination of cutting or die-punching with the use of heat and pressure can be used to form the openings 72 and simultaneously fuse and make a reinforcement 81 about the edges of the openings 72.

[0200] FIG. 23 is bottom view of a shoe upper 23 including a t-sock 56 and a plurality of openings 72 for receiving a plurality of hooks 27.1, 27.2, 27.3 in the forefoot area 58 and midfoot area 67 and a post 16 in the rearfoot area 68. Further, also shown are multiple sets of three alternative openings 55 on the medial side 35 and also the lateral side 36 of the shoe upper 23 in the forefoot area 58 and multiple sets of either two or three alternative openings 55 in the midfoot area 67 and rearfoot area 68 for selectively adjusting and customizing the configuration and width of the upper 23. The projections 70 can have annular heads 90 or conical heads 91, or other geometrically shaped projections can be used for removably securing the shoe upper 23 to a lasting plate 79 and adjusting the conformance and width of the upper 23.

[0201] FIG. 24 is a bottom view of a shoe upper 23 including a plurality of openings 72 for receiving a plurality of hooks 27.1, 27.2, 27.3 in the forefoot area 58 and midfoot area 67 and a post 16 in the rearfoot area 68. Further, also show are multiple sets of paired alternative openings 55 on the medial side 35 and lateral side 36 of the shoe upper 23 for selectively adjusting and customizing the configuration and width of the upper 23. The projections 70 can have annular heads 90 or conical heads 91, or other geometrically shaped projections can be used for removably securing the shoe upper 23 to a lasting plate 79 and adjusting the conformance and width of the upper 23.

[0202] FIG. 25 is a lateral side view of a lasting plate 79 generally similar to those shown in FIGS. 16, which includes on the bottom side 76 a plurality of projections 70 having annular heads 90 and a post 16 having a transverse post passage 48, but which does not include a plurality of projections 70 having annular heads 90 in the rearfoot area.

[0203] FIG. 26 is a medial side cross-sectional view of an embodiment of shoe upper 23 generally similar to that shown in FIG. 4 including a lasting plate 79 generally similar to that shown in FIG. 25, but which instead includes a longitudinal post passage 49.

[0204] FIG. 27 is a bottom view of the shoe upper 23 shown in FIG. 26.

[0205] FIG. 28 is a lateral side view of a shoe upper 23 generally similar to that shown in FIG. 4 which includes a lasting plate 79 on the interior side 39 including a post 16 having a longitudinal post passage 49, and an external heel counter 24 on the exterior side 40 of the shoe upper 23.

[0206] FIG. 29 is a lateral side view of a shoe upper 23 generally similar to that shown in FIG. 4 which includes a lasting plate 79 on the interior side 39 shown with a single dashed phantom line which includes a post 16 having a longitudinal post passage 49 which projects downwards from the inferior side 38 of the shoe upper 23. The lasting plate 79 overlaps an internal heel counter 24 shown with dashed lines which includes a registered opening 72 for mechanically mating with the post 16.

[0207] FIG. 30 is a bottom x-ray view of a lasting plate 79 including an insole 31 showing the bones of a normal individual's foot which include the calcaneus 1, talus 2, navicular 3, three cuneiforms 4, cuboid 7, five metatarsals 8, and a plurality of phalanges 9. In this regard, the big or first toe has a proximal and a distal phalange, and the second, third, fourth, and fifth toes have proximal, middle, and distal phalanges. As shown, male hooks 27.2 and 27.3 are disposed rearward or posterior of the position of the metatarsal phalangeal joints. The male hook 27.1 is shown disposed in a position under and between the middle phalange of the second toe, thus between the metatarsal phalangeal joint of the second toe, and the distal phalange of the second toe. In an alternative embodiment of a lasting plate 79, and as shown with dashed phantom lines in FIG. 30, a male hook 27.1 can alternatively be substantially or entirely disposed in front or anterior of the distal phalange of the second toe. This configuration of the location of the hooks 27.1, 27.2, and 27.3 on a lasting plate 79 can permit the area beneath the ball of the foot and also under the distal phalange of the big or first toe which are subjected to high loads to have unimpeded deflection and thereby enhance cushioning.

[0208] FIG. 31 is a bottom view of a lasting plate 79 including an anterior portion 59, a flexible middle portion 60, a posterior portion 61, and an insole 31. In this embodiment, the male hook 27.1 is disposed to a position near the front side 77 of the lasting plate 79, like the one indicated with dashed phantom lines in FIG. 30. As shown in FIG. 31, the insole 31 has three circular protrusions 11 which project downwards from the insole 31 and can mechanically mate and serve to removably couple the insole 31 with three corresponding registered openings 72 in the lasting plate 79. Moreover, the inclusion of one or more openings 72 in the middle portion 59 of a lasting plate 79 can also serve to reduce its exhibited stiffness and resistance to flexion or bending and make it easier to manipulate the lasting plate 79 and insert male hook 27.4 into a mating female receptacle 103 in a sole 32, thus removably secure an upper 23, a lasting plate 79 which can include an insole 31, and a sole 32 to make an article of footwear 22.

[0209] FIG. 32 is a lateral side view of a shoe upper 23 generally similar to that shown in FIG. 4 which includes a lasting plate 79 on the interior side 39 including a post 16 having a longitudinal post passage 49, and an external heel counter 24 including a relatively low vertical profile on the exterior side 40 as also shown in FIG. 44. The heel counter 24 includes a registered opening 72 for mechanically mating with the post 16.

[0210] FIG. 33 is a lateral side view of a shoe upper 23 generally similar to that shown in FIG. 4 which includes a lasting plate 79 including a post 16 having a longitudinal post passage 49, and an external heel counter 24 in the rearfoot area 68. The heel counter 24 can include a registered opening 72 for mechanically mating with a post 16 of the lasting plate 79. Alternatively, the heel counter 24 can also include a post 16 having a registered opening 72 which aligns with that of the lasting plate 79.

[0211] FIG. 34 is a lateral cross-sectional side view an insole 31 generally similar to that shown in FIG. 31 which includes a plurality of protrusions 11 on its inferior side 38 for mechanically mating and removably coupling with a plurality of registered openings 72 in a lasting plate 79.

[0212] FIG. 35 is a lateral cross-sectional side view an insole 31 generally similar to that shown in FIG. 31 which includes a plurality of protrusions 11 on its inferior side 38 for mechanically mating and removably coupling with a plurality of registered openings 72 in a lasting plate 79, and also a raised sidewall portion 113 that extends completely around the anterior side 33, posterior side 34, medial side 35, and lateral side 36 of the insole 32. In this regard, the thickness of the raised sidewall portion 113 can be varied in order to provide a plurality of different insoles 31 which when inserted into an upper 23 can then effectively provide different length and/or width sizes.

[0213] FIG. 36 is a lateral side view of a lasting plate 79 which include an integral heel counter 24 in the rearfoot area 68 and on its bottom side 76 a post 16 which has a longitudinal post passage 49, a plurality of projections 70 which do not have an enlarged head portion.

[0214] FIG. 37 is a lateral side view of a lasting plate 79 generally similar to FIG. 25, but having an integral heel counter 24 with a lower vertical profile in the rearfoot area 68, and which includes a post 16 that has a transverse post passage 48.

[0215] FIG. 38 is a lateral side view of a lasting plate 79 generally similar to FIG. 20, which includes a post 16 that has a transverse post passage 48, but having an integral heel counter 24 with a lower vertical profile in the rearfoot area 68 and a plurality of projections 70 which have an inverted conical shape.

[0216] FIG. 39 is a lateral side view of a lasting plate 79 which includes an integral heel counter 24 in the rearfoot area 68 and a plurality of projections 70 which do not have a stem portion, but only an annular head 90. In this regard, the annular head 90 can have a circular or oval shape and be connected to the lasting plate 79 in a configuration which locates the diameter of the annular head 90 at a relatively short distance from the bottom side 76 of the lasting plate 79.

[0217] FIG. 40 is a lateral side view of a lasting plate 79 generally similar to FIG. 18, which includes a post 16 that has a longitudinal passage 69 and projections 70 having conical heads 91, but which also includes additional male hooks 27 in the midfoot area 67 and/or rearfoot area 68.

[0218] FIG. 41 is a lateral side view of a lasting plate 79 generally similar to FIG. 40, but which includes a post 16 that has a transverse post passage 48 and projections 70 having annular heads 90, and includes additional male hooks 27 in the midfoot area 67 and/or rearfoot area 68.

[0219] FIG. 42 is a bottom view of a shoe upper 23 generally similar to that shown in FIG. 24 which includes a lasting plate 79 including a plurality of male hooks 27 having rounded tips 25 in the forefoot area 58 and midfoot area 67, but also at least one male hook 27 and a post 16 in the rearfoot area 68.

[0220] FIG. 43 is a bottom view of a shoe upper 23 generally similar to that shown in FIG. 24 which includes an lasting plate 79 including a plurality of male hooks 27 having semi-octagonal tips 25 in the forefoot area 58 and midfoot area 67, but also at least one male hook 27 and a post 16 in the rearfoot area 68.

[0221] FIG. 44 is a posterior and partial x-ray view of an embodiment of an article of footwear 22 including a shoe upper 23 including a lasting plate 79 including a plurality of male hooks 27 and a post 16 having a circular longitudinal post passage 49, and a sole 32. Also shown is a support surface 117, a collar portion 122 of the upper 23, a trademark indicia 171, a sidewall portion 184, and a bevel 197 in the sole 32.

[0222] FIG. 45 is a posterior view of the article of footwear 22 shown in FIG. 44, and showing a removable retaining pin 63 located in a recess 84 and secured within a sole passage 92 in the sole 32.

[0223] FIG. 46 is a posterior and partial x-ray view of an embodiment of an article of footwear 22 similar to that shown in FIG. 44 including a lasting plate 79 including a plurality of male hooks 27, a post 16 having a longitudinal post passage 49 having a keyed configuration 87, and a sole 32.

[0224] FIG. 47 is a posterior view of the article of footwear 22 shown in FIG. 46, and showing a removable retaining pin 63 located in a recess 84 and secured in a sole passage 92 of the sole 32.

[0225] FIG. 48 is a posterior and partial x-ray view of an embodiment of an article of footwear 22 including a lasting plate 79 including a plurality of male hooks 27, a post 16 having an annular transverse post passage 48, and a sole 32 including a transverse sole passage 92 for removably securing a retaining pin 63 which includes a bump 66 for mating with a corresponding void space 102 in the sole 32.

[0226] FIG. 49 is a posterior and partial x-ray view of an embodiment of an article of footwear 22 including a lasting plate 79 including a plurality of male hooks 27 and a post 16 having a transverse post passage 48 having a keyed configuration 87, and a sole 32 including a transverse sole passage 92 for removably securing a retaining pin 63 which has a keyed configuration 87 and also includes a bump 66 for mating with a corresponding void space 102 in the sole 32.

[0227] FIG. 50 is a posterior cross-sectional view of an article of footwear 22 similar to that shown in FIG. 47 showing a lasting plate 79 with a post 16 having a longitudinal post passage 49 having a keyed configuration 87 for receiving a retaining pin 63, and which projects through a corresponding registered opening 72 in the shoe upper 23 and an external heel counter 24.

[0228] FIG. 51 is a posterior cross-sectional view of an article of footwear 22 including a shoe upper 23 showing a lasting plate 79 with a post 16 having a longitudinal post passage 49 with a keyed configuration 87 for receiving a retaining pin 63, and which projects through a corresponding registered opening 72 in the shoe upper 23 and an internal heel counter 24.

[0229] FIG. 52 is a posterior cross-sectional view of an article of footwear 22 including a shoe upper 23 showing a lasting plate 79 with a post 16 having a transverse post passage 48 having a keyed 87 configuration for receiving a retaining pin 63, and which projects through a corresponding registered opening 72 in the shoe upper 23 and an external heel counter 24. The retaining pin 63 includes a bump 66 for mechanically mating and being removably secured in functional relation with a corresponding void space 102 in the sole 32. As shown, the retaining pin 63 can be in direct contact with the external heel counter 23 and removably secure the post 16 of the lasting plate 79 and shoe upper 23 to the sole 32.

[0230] FIG. 53 is a posterior cross-sectional view of an article of footwear 22 including a shoe upper 23 showing a lasting plate 79 which includes an integral heel counter 24 and a post 16 having a transverse post passage 48 including a keyed configuration 87, and which extends downwards from a corresponding registered opening 72 in the shoe upper 23 and an internal heel counter 24. Also shown is a retaining pin 63 which includes a bump 66 for mating with a corresponding void space 102 in the sole 32.

[0231] Figure is a posterior cross-sectional view of an article of footwear 22 including a shoe upper 23 including two V or U shaped channels 94 for removably securing a portion of an external heel counter 24 and a sole 32, showing a lasting plate 79 with a post 16 having a longitudinal post passage 49 including a keyed configuration 87 for receiving a retaining pin 63, and which extends downwards through a corresponding registered opening 72 in the shoe upper 23 and the external heel counter 24. As shown in FIG. 54, the top edge 110 of the sole 32 mechanically mates and is removably coupled with the V or U shaped channel 94 which is disposed on the upper 23. In this regard, the U or V shaped channel 94 can be made of an elastomer or thermoplastic material that is injection molded, bonded, fused, or otherwise secured to the upper 23.

[0232] FIG. 55 is a posterior cross-sectional view of an article of footwear 22 including a shoe upper 23 including a V or U shaped channel 94 for removably securing a portion of a sole 32, showing a lasting plate 79 including a heel counter 24 and a post 16 having longitudinal post passage 49 including a keyed configuration 87 for receiving a retaining pin 63 extends downwards through a corresponding registered opening 72 in the shoe upper 23.

[0233] FIG. 56 is a posterior cross-sectional view of an article of footwear 22 including a shoe upper 23 including a V or U shaped channel 94 for removably securing a portion of an external heel counter 24. A lasting plate 79 including a post 16 including a longitudinal post passage 49 having a keyed configuration 87 for receiving a retaining pin 63 extends downwards through a corresponding registered opening 72 in the shoe upper 23, and also an external heel counter 24. The shoe upper 23 also includes a V or U shaped channel 94 for removably securing a top edge portion 110 of a sole 32.

[0234] FIG. 57 is a posterior cross-sectional view of an article of footwear 22 including a shoe upper 32 including a V or U shaped channel 94 for mechanically mating with and removably securing a top edge portion 110 of a sole 32, and showing a lasting plate 79 with an integral heel counter 24 and a post 16 having a longitudinal post passage 49 having a keyed configuration 87 for receiving a retaining pin 63 and which extends downwards through a corresponding registered opening 72 in the shoe upper 23. The shoe upper 23 also includes a V or U shaped channel 94 for mechanically mating with and removably securing a top edge portion 110 of a sole 32.

[0235] FIG. 58 is a lateral cross-sectional view of an article of footwear 22 including a shoe upper 23 similar to that shown in FIG. 51 showing a lasting plate 79 with a post 16 having a longitudinal post passage 49 including a keyed configuration 87 which extends downwards through a corresponding registered opening 72 in the shoe upper 23, and a retaining pin 63 including a bump 66 which is disposed in a void space 102 and longitudinal sole passage 92 in the sole 32, and which removably secures together the upper 23, lasting plate 79, and sole 32.

[0236] FIG. 59 is a bottom partial x-ray view of the article of footwear 22 shown in FIG. 58 showing a retaining pin 63 that is removably secured to the post 16 and sole 32, and thereby removably secures together the upper 23, lasting plate 79, and sole 32.

[0237] FIG. 60 is a bottom view of one embodiment of a sole 32 for use with the article of footwear 22 shown in FIG. 58.

[0238] FIG. 61 is a lateral cross-sectional view of an article of footwear 22 including a shoe upper 23 similar to that shown in FIG. 51 showing a lasting plate 79 with a post 16 having transverse post passage 48 including a keyed configuration and which extends downwards through a corresponding registered opening 72 in the shoe upper 23. The sole 32 also includes an integral toe cap 93 having a reverse wingtip shape which can help to provide some protection for a wearer's toes and provide stability in the forefoot area 58 of the article of footwear 22.

[0239] FIG. 62 is top view of an article of footwear 22 having a shoe upper 23 including lace loops 26 for retaining laces 121 generally similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, and a sole 32 including an integral toe cap 93 having a reverse wingtip shape generally similar to FIGS. 58 and 61. Also shown in FIG. 62, are flex grooves 99 in the sole 32, and the vamp 52 and quarter 19 portions of the upper 23.

[0240] FIG. 63 is a lateral side view of an article of footwear 22 having a shoe upper 23 similar to FIG. 4, and a sole 32 including an integral toe cap 93 having a relatively straight configuration or shape which is shown in a top view in FIG. 64.

[0241] FIG. 64 is a top view of the article of footwear 22 having a shoe upper 23 similar to FIG. 3, and a sole 32 including an integral toe cap 93 having relatively straight configuration or shape as shown in FIG. 63.

[0242] FIG. 65 is a lateral view of the article of footwear 22 having a shoe upper 23 similar to FIG. 4, and a sole 32 including an integral toe cap 93 having relatively curved configuration or shape as shown in a top view in FIG. 66.

[0243] FIG. 66 is a top view of the article of footwear 22 having a shoe upper 23 similar to FIG. 4, and a sole 32 including an integral toe cap 93 having relatively curved configuration or shape as shown in FIG. 65.

[0244] FIG. 67 is a bottom view of a shoe upper 23 including an exoskeleton 117 including a slot 119 which is generally horizontally disposed on the anterior side 33, medial side 35, lateral side 36, and posterior side 34 near the lasting margin 95 of the upper 23 for receiving and removably securing a sole 32 including a backing 30 having a lip 120 as shown in FIGS. 68-69. The position of the weight bearing center of the heel 57 is indicated as being approximately 45 mm anterior of the posterior side 34 of the corresponding footwear last 80.

[0245] FIG. 68 is a bottom view of an upper 23 including a sole 32 and shows in phantom lines the inside edge of the slot 119 which is a portion of the exoskeleton 117 disposed on the upper as shown in FIG. 67. Shown is a first transverse flex groove 99 which can facilitate bending of the sole 32 which is configured to be disposed beneath and extend between the approximate position of a wearer's 1^st and 5^th metatarsal-phalangeal joints which are located at about 69% of foot length, and at about 63% of foot length with reference to a men's size 9, or other footwear last, pattern, or 3D digital modeling size, respectively. Accordingly, the shoe upper 23 and sole 32 can be folded near and/or along the transverse flex groove 99 associated with the metatarsal-phalangeal joints, and the upper 23 and sole 32 can be aligned and the lip 120 of the backing 30 portion of the sole 32 shown in FIG. 69 can be inserted into the slot 119 portion of the exoskeleton 117 which is disposed on the anterior side 33, medial side 35, lateral side 36, and posterior side 34 near the lasting margin 95 of the upper 23 for receiving and removably securing the sole 32. As shown in FIG. 67, a plurality of hooks 27 are disposed in the forefoot area 58 each having a free end 28 facing the posterior side 34 of the shoe upper 23, and a plurality of hooks 27 are also disposed in the midfoot 67 and/or rearfoot area 68 each having a plurality of free ends 28 facing the anterior side 33 of the shoe upper 23. As also shown in FIG. 68, at least one longitudinal flex groove 98 extends substantially between the anterior side 33 and posterior side 34 of the sole 32 and article of footwear 22, and a second transverse flex groove 99 is disposed closer to the anterior side 33 of the sole 32 and is configured to be approximately disposed beneath a plurality of a wearer's phalangeal-phalangeal joints.

[0246] FIG. 69 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 69-69 in drawing FIG. 68 showing an article of footwear 22 including a sole 32 have a backing plate 30 including a lip 120 which can be removably secured in the slot 119 disposed on a shoe upper 23 generally similar to that shown in drawing FIG. 67. The backing plate 30 can be made of a thermoplastic material such as nylon, ethylene, or polypropylene and have a thickness approximately between 0.75-1.5 mm.

[0247] FIG. 70 is a bottom view of an embodiment a shoe upper 23 and of a lasting plate 79 which includes a plurality of flex notches 71 in the forefoot area 58 and a post 16 in the rearfoot area 68, and which is resting upon the inferior side 38 of a shoe upper 23 similar to that shown in FIG. 4.

[0248] FIG. 71 is a bottom view of an embodiment a shoe upper 23 and of a lasting plate 79 which is resting upon the inferior side 38 of a shoe upper 23 and which includes a plurality of flex notches 71 in the forefoot area 58 and an opening 72 in the midfoot area 67 including a female fastener portion 86 for receiving and coupling with a male fastener portion 85 of a fastener 29.

[0249] FIG. 72 is a lateral side view of an article of footwear 22 including a shoe upper 23, and a lasting plate 79 generally similar to the one shown in FIG. 71, and a fastener 29 including a male fastener portion 85 and a female fastener portion 86 which are coupled together, thus removably securing the upper, lasting plate 79, and sole 32.

[0250] FIG. 73 is a medial side view of an article of footwear 22 including an upper 23 including a V or U shaped channel 94 which is disposed near the lasting margin 95 about most of the medial side 35, lateral side 36, and posterior side 34 for receiving a portion of the sole 32. The article of footwear 22 includes a sole 32 having an integral toe cap 93 on the anterior side 33 resembling the one shown in FIG. 62.

[0251] FIG. 74 is a medial side view of an article of footwear 22 including an upper 23 including a V or U shaped channel 94 about at least a portion of the medial side 35, lateral side 36, and posterior side 34 for receiving a portion of the sole 32. The V or U shaped channel 94 for receiving a portion of a sole 32 is more elevated in the midfoot area 67 and rearfoot area 68 relative to the embodiment shown in FIG. 73. The article of footwear 22 includes a sole 32 having a toe cap 93 on its anterior side 33 resembling the one shown in FIG. 62.

[0252] FIG. 75 is a medial side view of an article of footwear 22 including an upper 23 including a V or U shaped channel 94 disposed about at least a portion of the medial side 35, lateral side 36, and posterior side 34 of the shoe upper 23 for receiving a portion of sole 32. The V or U shaped channel 94 is more elevated in the midfoot area 67 and rearfoot area 68 relative to the embodiment shown in FIG. 74. The article of footwear 22 includes a sole 32 having a toe cap 93 on its anterior side 33 resembling that shown in FIG. 62.

[0253] FIG. 76 is a medial side view of an article of footwear 22 including an upper 23 including a V or U shaped channel 94 which is disposed about at least a portion of the medial side 35, lateral side 36, and posterior side 34 of the shoe upper 23 for receiving a portion of a sole 32. The V or U shaped channel 94 is more elevated in the midfoot area 67 and rearfoot area 68 relative to the embodiment shown in FIG. 73. The article of footwear 22 includes a sole 32 having a toe cap 93 resembling that shown in FIG. 66.

[0254] FIG. 77 is medial side view of an article of footwear 22 including an upper 23 including a V or U shaped channel 94 which is disposed about at least a portion of the medial side 35, lateral side 36, posterior side 34 of the shoe upper 23. The V or U shaped channel 94 is more elevated in the midfoot area 67 and rearfoot area 68 relative to the embodiment shown in FIG. 73. However, the article of footwear 22 shown in FIG. 77 includes a sole 32 which does not include an integral toe cap 93.

[0255] FIG. 78 is medial side view of an article of footwear 22 including an upper 23 including a V or U shaped channel 94 which is disposed near the lasting margin 95 about most of the anterior side 33, medial side 35, lateral side 36, and posterior side 34 of the shoe upper 23 for receiving a portion of a sole 32. The article of footwear 22 shown in FIG. 78 includes a sole 32 which does not include an integral toe cap 93.

[0256] FIG. 79 is top view of a lasting plate 79 including an anterior portion 59, a posterior portion 61, and a flexible middle portion 60 therebetween. The flexible middle portion 60 can be made of a resilient elastomeric material such as a thermoplastic, a thermoplastic elastomer, a thermoplastic rubber, or a thermoset rubber. A thermoplastic elastomer such as Santoprene® can be injection molded or co-injection molded and be bonded to the anterior portion 59 and posterior portion 61 to create the flexible middle portion 60. The thermoplastic elastomer or other resilient elastomeric material can also extend and overlap a portion of the top side 75 of the anterior portion 59 and posterior portion 61 of the lasting plate 79. As a result, the lasting plate 79 will be elongated and provide some resistance to flexion or bending when the posterior side 61 is pushed downwards, but will then recover its normal shape when the force causing the flexion or bending is released. Accordingly, the lasting plate 79 can be inserted into the upper 23 and the male hooks 27 each having a free end 28 which face the front or anterior side 33 of the article of footwear 22 which are present on the anterior portion 59 of the lasting plate 79 can be positioned and inserted through registered openings 72 in the inferior side 38 of the upper 23 and into some of the female receptacles 103 which are disposed in the sole 32, and the lasting plate 79 can be momentarily flexed or bent in the flexible middle portion 60, and the posterior portion 61 including a post 16 and/or at least one male hook 27 having a free end 28 which faces the back or posterior side 34 of the article of footwear 22 can then be inserted through at least one corresponding registered opening 72 in the shoe upper 23 and into at least one mating female receptacle 103 in the sole 32. An insole 31 can then be selected and placed in the interior side 39 of the shoe upper 23. As a result, it can be readily understood that the shoe upper 23, lasting plate 79, and sole 32 can be quickly and easily removably secured together. Alternatively, the lasting plate 79 can include an integral insole 31 or one that can be mechanically coupled thereto, and the footwear component parts to be assembled can then possibly be reduced to only three in number.

[0257] FIG. 80 is a lateral side view of an article of footwear 22 generally similar to that shown in FIG. 61, but instead including a lasting plate 79 similar to that shown in FIG. 79.

[0258] FIG. 81 is a bottom view of a shoe upper 23 and a lasting plate 79 similar to that shown in FIG. 79 which is resting upon the inferior side 38 of a shoe upper 23.

[0259] FIG. 82 is top view of an alternative lasting plate 79 including an anterior portion 59, a posterior portion 61, and a flexible middle portion 60 therebetween, and which indicates a cross-sectional taken at line 90-90.

[0260] FIG. 83 is a lateral side view of an article of footwear 22 generally similar to FIG. 61, but including an alternative lasting plate 79 including an anterior portion 59 including a plurality of male hooks 27.1, 27.2, and 27.3 each having free ends 28 facing towards the front or anterior side 33 of the article of footwear 22, and a posterior portion 61 including at least one male hook 27.4 with a free end 28 facing the back or posterior side 34 of the article of footwear 22, and a flexible middle portion 60 disposed therebetween which is generally similar to that shown in FIG. 79.

[0261] FIG. 84 is a bottom view of a shoe upper 23 and an alternative embodiment of a lasting plate 79 which is also shown in a top view in FIG. 122. The lasting plate 79 is resting upon the inferior side 38 of the shoe upper 23. The shoe upper 23 includes registered openings 72 for the three male hooks 27.1, 27.2, and 27.3 each having free ends 28 which face towards the front or anterior side 33 of the shoe upper 23, and a male hook 27 having a free end 28 which faces the back or posterior side 34 of the shoe upper 23.

[0262] FIG. 85 is a lateral view of an article of footwear 22 generally similar to that shown in FIG. 83 but which also shows in phantom lines a longitudinal post passage 49 in the hook 27.4 located in the rearfoot area 68 for possibly receiving a retaining pin 63.

[0263] FIG. 86 is a bottom view of a shoe upper 23 and the lasting plate 79 shown in FIG. 85 which is resting upon the bottom or inferior side 38 of the shoe upper 23.

[0264] FIG. 87 is a bottom view of a shoe upper 23 and an alternative lasting plate 79 which is also shown in FIG. 89 which includes an anterior portion 59 including a plurality of male hooks 27.1, 27.2, and 27.3 and one additional hook located in the forefoot area 58 and midfoot area 67 each having free ends 28 facing towards the front or anterior side 33 of the upper 23, and a posterior portion 61 including a male hook 27.4 and also two additional hooks having free ends 28 facing towards the back or posterior side 34 of the upper 32 and a flexible middle portion 60 disposed therebetween. The lasting plate 79 rests upon the bottom or inferior side 38 of a shoe upper 23 including a plurality of registered openings 72 for permitting the plurality of male hooks 27 to extend downwards therethrough.

[0265] FIG. 88 is a top view of an alternative lasting plate 79 showing a cross-section along line 91-91 including a flexible middle portion 60 generally similar to the embodiments shown in the cross-sectional views shown in FIGS. 91 and 93.

[0266] FIG. 89 is a lateral side view of a shoe upper 23 generally similar to that shown in FIG. 87 and a lasting plate 79 including a plurality of male hooks 27 disposed in the anterior portion 59 and also in the posterior portion 61.

[0267] FIG. 90 is a lateral side cross section view taken along a portion of the length of a lasting plate 79 generally similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 82 showing a flexible middle portion 60 disposed between the anterior portion 59 and posterior portion 61, and also the presence of a flexible elastomeric material 97 on the top side 75 and overlapping a portion of the anterior portion 59 and posterior portion 61. When the posterior portion 61 is momentarily flexed and bent downwards the resilient flexible elastomeric material 97 on the top side 75 will be stretched and elongated, but then cause the lasting plate 79 to substantially return to its original configuration when the force application causing the bending and elongation is released.

[0268] FIG. 91 is a lateral cross section view taken along a portion of the length of a lasting plate 79 generally similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 88 showing the presence of an elastomer 97 in the flexible middle portion 60, but also on a portion of both the top side 75 and bottom side 76 of the anterior portion 59 and posterior portion 61. As shown, the flexible middle portion 60 is disposed between the anterior portion 59 and posterior portion 61, and the elastomeric material 97 in the flexible middle portion 60 is present therebetween and also overlaps a portion of the anterior portion 59 and posterior portion 61 on both the top side 75 and bottom side 76. When the posterior portion 61 is flexed and bent downwards the resilient flexible elastomer 97 on the top side 75 will be stretched and elongated, and the resilient flexible elastomer 97 on the bottom side 76 will also then be caused to compress, and then cause the lasting plate 79 to return to its original configuration when the force application causing the flexing or bending is released.

[0269] FIG. 92 is a lateral cross section view of the lasting plate 79 generally similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 82 showing an elastomeric material 97 located the flexible middle portion 60 and in recesses 84 on the top sides 75 of the anterior portion 59 and posterior portion 61 of the lasting plate 79.

[0270] FIG. 93 is a lateral cross section view of a lasting plate 79 generally similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 88 showing the presence of an elastomeric material 97 located in the flexible middle portion 60 and in recesses 84 which are present on both the top sides 75 and the bottom sides 76 of the anterior portion 59 and the posterior portion 61 of the lasting plate 79.

[0271] FIG. 94 is a lateral cross section view of a shoe upper 23 including a lasting plate 79 generally similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 82, but further including at least one locking tab 101 near the back side 78 which is removably secured in a corresponding registered opening 72 in the back or posterior side 34 of the upper 23, and also a void space 102 and/or female receptacle 103 in the sole 32. Alternatively, the locking tab 101 could extend through the upper 23, but not into a void space 102 and/or female receptacle 103 in the sole 32.

[0272] FIG. 95 is a top view of a lasting plate 79 generally similar to that shown in FIG. 90, but also showing the overlapping relationship of a flange 104 having a crescent shape which can be included or alternatively be inserted and secured within the interior side 39 of the shoe upper 23.

[0273] FIG. 96 is a lateral side cross sectional view of a shoe upper 23 including a lasting plate 79 generally similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 95, and also showing the overlapping relationship of a flange 104 having a crescent shape similar to that shown in FIG. 95 disposed in the interior side 39 of the shoe upper 23.

[0274] FIG. 97 is a lateral side cross-sectional view showing an article of footwear 22 generally similar to the one shown in FIG. 89, but further including a strap 18 including a plurality of openings 72 for laces, and which can be removably secured between the upper 23 and the sole 32. In this regard, the strap 18 includes registered openings 72 for permitting the strap 18 to be removably secured to at least two of the male hooks 27 which extend downwards from the bottom side 76 of the lasting plate 79. In FIG. 97, the strap 18 is shown as being transparent in order to better illustrate the structure and functional relationship of the strap 18 with the shoe upper 23, lasting plate 79, and sole 32 of the article of footwear 22.

[0275] FIG. 98 is a top view of the article of footwear 22 shown in FIG. 97.

[0276] FIG. 99 is a lateral side cross-sectional view showing an article of footwear 22 generally similar to the one shown in FIG. 97, but further including a strap 18 including a plurality of openings 72 for laces which is an integral part of the upper 23. In this regard, the portions of the strap 18 on both the medial side 35 and lateral side 36 can be made part of the pattern of at least a portion of the upper 23, or alternatively, the strap 18 portion can be knitted as an integral part of the upper 23, or otherwise be made, formed, or joined to made a unitary component with the upper 23. In FIG. 99, the strap 18 is shown as being transparent in order to better illustrate the structure and functional relationship of the strap 18 with the shoe upper 23, lasting plate 79, and sole 32 of the article of footwear 22.

[0277] FIG. 100 is a top view of an article of footwear 22 generally similar to the one shown in FIG. 99, but including an alternative embodiment of a strap 18 which has two strap portions which are removably secured with hook and pile 121.

[0278] FIG. 101 is a lateral side cross-sectional view showing an article of footwear 22 generally similar to the one shown in FIG. 97, but further including a strap 18 including a plurality of openings 72 for laces which can be removably secured on the interior side 39 of the upper 23. The strap 18 can be removably secured to at least two hooks 27 on the bottom side 76 of the lasting plate 79 and a top portion of the strap 18 on the medial side 35 and lateral side 36 can pass through slits 82 in the upper 23. In FIG. 101, the strap 18 is shown as being transparent in order to better illustrate the structure and functional relationship of the strap 18 with the shoe upper 23, lasting plate 79, and sole 32 of the article of footwear 22.

[0279] FIG. 102 is a top view of the article of footwear 22 shown in FIG. 101.

[0280] FIG. 103 is a lateral side cross-sectional view showing an article of footwear 22 generally similar to the one shown in FIG. 97, but further including a strap 18 including a plurality of elongated fingers 105 having openings 72 which are configured as eyelets 14 for laces 121, and which can be removably secured between the upper 23 and sole 32. In this regard, the strap 18 can include registered openings 72 for permitting the strap 18 to be removably secured in functional relation to at least two of the male hooks 27 which extend downwards from the bottom side 76 of the lasting plate 79. In FIG. 103, the strap 18 is shown as being transparent in order to better illustrate the structure and functional relationship of the strap 18 with the shoe upper 23, lasting plate 79, and sole 32 of the article of footwear 22.

[0281] FIG. 104 is a top view of the article of footwear 22 shown in FIG. 103.

[0282] FIG. 105 is a lateral side cross-sectional view showing an article of footwear 22 generally similar to the one shown in FIG. 97, but further including a strap 18 including a plurality of elongated fingers 105 having openings 72 which are configured as eyelets 14 for laces 121 which is an integral part of the upper 23. In this regard, the portions of the strap 18 on both the medial side 35 and lateral side 36 can be made part of the pattern of at least a portion of the upper 23, or alternatively, the strap 18 portion can be knitted as an integral part of the upper 23, or otherwise be made, formed, or joined to made a unitary component with the upper 23. In FIG. 105, the strap 18 is shown as being transparent in order to better illustrate the structure and functional relationship of the strap 18 with the shoe upper 23, lasting plate 79, and sole 32 of the article of footwear 22.

[0283] FIG. 106 is a top view of the article of footwear 22 generally similar to the one shown in FIG. 105, but including an alternative embodiment of a strap 18 which has a more rounded configuration between the individual fingers 105 and larger eyelets 14.

[0284] FIG. 107 is a lateral side cross-sectional view showing an article of footwear 22 generally similar to the one shown in FIG. 97, but further including a strap 18 including a plurality of elongated fingers 105 having openings 72 which are configures as eyelets 14 for laces 121, and which can be removably secured on the interior side 39 of the upper 23. The strap 18 can be removably secured to at least two hooks 27 on the bottom side 76 of the lasting plate 79, and top portion of the strap 18 on the medial side 35 and lateral side 36 can pass through slits 82 in the upper 23. In FIG. 107, the strap 18 is shown as being transparent in order to better illustrate the structure and functional relationship of the strap 18 with the shoe upper 23, lasting plate 79, and sole 32 of the article of footwear 22.

[0285] FIG. 108 is a top view of the article of footwear 22 shown in FIG. 107.

[0286] FIG. 109 is a lateral side cross-sectional view showing an article of footwear 22 generally similar to the one shown in FIG. 97, but further including a strap 18 including a plurality of V shapes having openings 72 which are figured as eyelets 14 for laces 121, and which can be removably secured between the upper 23 and sole 32. In this regard, the strap 18 can include registered openings 72 for permitting the strap 18 to be removably secured to at least two of the male hooks 27 which extend downwards from the bottom side 76 of the lasting plate 79. In FIG. 109, the strap 18 is shown as being transparent in order to better illustrate the structure and functional relationship of the strap 18 with the shoe upper 23, lasting plate 79, and sole 32 of the article of footwear 22.

[0287] FIG. 110 is a top view of the article of footwear 22 shown in FIG. 109.

[0288] FIG. 111 is a lateral side cross-sectional view showing an article of footwear 22 generally similar to the one shown in FIG. 97, but further including a strap 18 including a plurality of V shapes having openings 72 which are configured as eyelets 14 for laces 121 which is an integral part of the upper 23. In this regard, the portions of the strap 18 on both the medial side 35 and lateral side 36 can be made part of the pattern for a portion of the upper 23, or alternatively, can be knitted as an integral part of the upper 23, or otherwise be made, formed, or joined to made a unitary component with the upper 23. In FIG. 97, the strap 18 is shown as being transparent in order to better illustrate the structure and functional relationship of the strap 18 with the shoe upper 23, lasting plate 79, and sole 32 of the article of footwear 22.

[0289] FIG. 112 is a top view of the article of footwear 22 generally similar to the one shown in FIG. 111, but including an alternative embodiment of a strap 18 having a single portion removably secured with hook and pile 121.

[0290] FIG. 113 is a lateral side cross-sectional view showing an article of footwear 22 generally similar to the one shown in FIG. 97, but further including a strap 18 including a plurality of V shapes having openings 72 which are configured as eyelets 14 for laces, and which can be removably secured on the interior side 39 of the upper 18. The strap 18 can be removably secured to at least two hooks 40 on the bottom side 76 of the lasting plate 79 and a top portion of the strap 18 on the medial side 35 and the lateral side 36 can pass through slits 82 in the upper 23. In FIG. 113, the strap 18 is shown as being transparent in order to better illustrate the structure and functional relationship of the strap 18 with the shoe upper 23, lasting plate 79, and sole 32 of the article of footwear 22.

[0291] FIG. 114 is a top view of the article of footwear 22 shown in FIG. 113.

[0292] FIG. 115 is a top view of an article of footwear 22 including a lasting plate 79, upper 23, and sole 32 which can be removably secured together as disclosed herein, which includes a draw cord 106 which repeatedly crosses over the upper 23 in the forefoot area 58 and midfoot area 67 and is secured in the rearfoot area 68 with hook and pile 121. U.S. Pat. Nos. 9,364,046, 9,565,899, and 10,149,514 by Adams et al. disclose means for closure and closure mechanisms for use in articles of footwear, and all of these patents are hereby incorporated by reference herein.

[0293] FIG. 116 is a medial side view of an article of footwear 22 generally similar to the one shown in FIG. 115, but in this embodiment the draw cord 106 repeatedly crosses both over and under the shoe upper 23 in the forefoot area 58 and midfoot area 67 before extending towards the rearfoot area 68 and posterior side 34 of the upper 23 and being secured with hook and pile 121, or other mechanical means.

[0294] FIG. 117 is a bottom view of a shoe upper 23 and an alternative embodiment of a lasting plate 79 which includes three additional male hooks 27 relative to the embodiment shown in FIG. 87, and is shown resting upon the inferior side 38 of a shoe upper 23. This embodiment of a lasting plate 79 includes a plurality of hooks 27, but they are disposed to substantially avoid the area underlying the weight bearing center of the heel 57, and also of the ball 111 of a wearer's foot 112.

[0295] FIG. 118 is a top view of an embodiment of a sole 32 including a plurality of female receptacles 103 which are shown in part by dashed phantom lines and configured as mating void spaces 102 in the elastomeric material of the sole 32.

[0296] FIG. 119 is a top view of an alternative embodiment of a sole 32 including a plurality of female receptacles 103 which are configured as female receptacle inserts 107 which are coupled, bonded, or otherwise secured to the sole 32. For example, the female receptacle inserts 107 can be made of an injected molded thermoplastic and be inserted or co-injected in a mold, and the foam material or other elastomeric material which is used to make most of the sole 32 can also be injected or otherwise placed into the mold which results in the components being chemically bonded, and/or mechanically or adhesively secured together.

[0297] FIG. 120 is a top view of an alternative embodiment of a sole 32 including a plastic or elastomeric female fastener insert 108 which includes a plurality of female receptacles 103 which are configured as female receptacle inserts 107. The female fastener insert 108 can maintain the plurality of female receptacle inserts 107 in the correct spatial relationship so that they can be disposed in a mold correctly before the foam material or other elastomer which is used to make part of the sole 32 is injected or otherwise placed in the mold.

[0298] FIG. 121 is a top view of an alternative embodiment of a sole 32 including a frame 109 which extends upwards near, at or proximate to the top edge 110 of the sole 32. The frame 109 can be made of a foam material or other elastomer having a higher density and greater stiffness in compression than a different foam material or elastomer which is used for providing cushioning in the middle portion of the sole 32. Alternatively, the frame 109 can be made at least in part of polyurethane material which can be used to make a fluid-filled bladder, or a thermoplastic material such as nylon, ethylene, or propylene which has a higher density and greater stiffness in compression and/or modulus of elasticity than the foam materials which are used to provide cushioning in those areas of the sole 32 which are configured to support, e.g., the middle of the ball of the foot 111 and weight bearing center of the heel 57 of a wearer's foot 112.

[0299] FIG. 122 is a top view of an alternative embodiment of a lasting plate 79 having a flexible middle portion 60 made of a flexible and resilient thermoplastic material which can be flexed or bent with an application of force, and then substantially recover its original configuration when the force causing the flexion or bending is removed. The thermoplastic or other material which is used to make the anterior portion 59 and posterior portion 61 can possibly exhibit less flexibility and have a lower modulus of elasticity relative to the middle portion 60. A lasting plate 79 has a length dimension which can be measured between a single point on its front side 77 and a single point on its back side 78, and also a width dimension which can be measured as between a single point on its inner edge 42 which is disposed on the medial side 35 and a single point on its outer edge 43 which is disposed on the lateral side 36 of a shoe upper 23 when the lasting plate 79 is removably secured thereto. For the purpose of disclosing a range of flexion which can be advantageous to provide with the use of a flexible middle portion 60 of a lasting plate 79, it can be readily understood that a longitudinal line 124 can be drawn between a single point on the front side 77 and a single point on the back side 78 which can be used measure the overall length of the lasting plate 79. The middle portion 60 will then also have a measurable length along this same longitudinal line 124, and the middle point 126 of the length of the middle portion 60 can then also be derived and located. A transverse line 125 can be drawn perpendicular to this longitudinal line 124 at the middle point 126 of the length of the middle portion 60, and when the lasting plate 79 is to evaluated and tested for its exhibited range of flexibility and modulus of elasticity the anterior portion 59 and/or posterior portion 61 can be secured, e.g., in functional relation to an Instron® lab instrument and measuring device, and the transverse line 125 can be so positioned as to provide a transverse axis about which the anterior portion 59 and/or posterior portion 61 can be rotated and placed in flexion relative to one another.

[0300] In order to provide a simple illustrative example, a lasting plate 79 for use in a men's size 9 article of footwear made on a footwear last 80 having an overall length of about 283 mm could be made to have a length corresponding to the bottom net of the last 80 which when measured in a linear manner could be around 274 mm which about 10.78 inches in length. The middle point 126 of a flexible middle portion 60 could then possibly be located about 4 inches from the back side 78 of the lasting plate 79, and this point could be used to establish a transverse axis about which the anterior portion 59 and/or posterior portion 61 could be flexed and rotated. In order to make a very simple illustrative model, an individual can take a piece of paper which measures about 11 inches in length, and then draw a line at 4 inches and make a fold straight across the width of the paper at that location in order to create a simulated transverse axis. The top edge of the longer portion of this piece of paper can fixed in place with tape to a desktop, and the rest of the piece of paper can be laid flat, but with its bottom edge then extending over a ruler. The bottom edge of the paper which corresponds to shorter portion can then be moved closer to the fixed top edge which will cause the position of the fold and transverse axis to rise vertically and then simultaneously create various angles of flexion as between the longer portion and shorter portion of the sheet of paper which can then be seen and measured using a protractor. It can then be observed that flexing or bending about 10 degrees can cause the bottom edge of the piece of paper to move about ¼ inch, and that about 20 degrees can cause the bottom edge to move about ½ inch and that about 30 degrees can cause the bottom edge of the paper to move about ¾ inches. Accordingly, it can be readily understood that flexing or bending a lasting plate 79 and then using a more substantial portion of the length of its flexible middle portion 60 to cause the anterior portion 59 and posterior portion 61 to be displaced between 5-35 degrees from their original configuration and orientation can provide sufficient movement to enable a lasting plate 79 including mechanical mating and coupling means, and in particular, a hook 27 which extends downwards from the bottom side 76 of the lasting plate 79, to be inserted through an opening 72 in the inferior side 38 of the shoe upper 23 and into a female receptacle 103 disposed in a sole 32, thereby removably securing the shoe upper 23, lasting plate 79, and sole 32.

[0301] In the embodiment of a lasting plate 79 shown in FIG. 122, the flexible middle portion 60 extends for a more substantial portion of the length of the lasting plate 79 as compared to some of the other alternate embodiments, e.g., as shown in FIGS. 79-80. In this embodiment, the flexible middle portion 60 can be made of a thermoplastic material having a lower modulus of elasticity and which exhibits less stiffness when it is being flexed or bent relative to the same or other thermoplastic material which used to make the anterior portion 59 and posterior portion 61. For example, a relatively flexible and resilient thermoplastic elastomer such as Santoprene® could be used to make the flexible middle portion 60, and then a less flexible thermoplastic formulation of Santoprene®, or alternatively, a less flexible formulation of a different thermoplastic material such as nylon, ethylene, or polyethylene can be used to make the anterior portion 59 and posterior portion 61. In this regard, the materials which are used to make the middle portion 60, and also the anterior portion 59 and posterior portion 61 can be co-injection molded, or one or more of these components can be formed or placed in a mold and then over-molded with one or more other materials which are suitable for use in making the lasting plate 79. Alternatively, the thickness of a thermoplastic material or other material which is used to make the lasting plate 79 can be reduced in the middle portion 60, and/or the width of the lasting plate 79 can be reduced in the middle portion 60, thus making the middle portion 60 exhibit less stiffness when being flexed or bent while retaining the ability to substantially recover its original shape when the force causing the flexion or bending is removed. Alternatively, the middle portion 60 of the lasting plate 79 can include a plurality of openings 72 which can serve to reduce its stiffness when being flexed or bent, as shown in FIG. 31. It can be advantageous for a lasting plate 79 to be capable of flexing or bending such that the top surfaces of the anterior portion 59 near the front side 77 and posterior portion 61 near the back side 78 can be displaced at least in the range between 10-30 degrees from their original configuration and orientation, and even in the range between 20-45 degrees when the lasting plate 79 is flexed or bent in response to a force application, and then substantially recover its original configuration. In this regard, the lasting plate 79 when installed in functional relation to the shoe upper 23 and sole 32 does not necessarily have to completely recover to its original configuration, but rather it can sometimes be advantageous that the lasting plate 79 maintain some amount flexion and spring tension when removably securing the shoe upper 23, lasting plate 79 and sole 32 together.

[0302] The lasting plate 79 can be inserted into the upper 23 and the male hooks 27 each having a free end 28 which face the front side 77 of the lasting plate 79 which are present on the bottom side 76 of the anterior portion 59 of the lasting plate 79 can be positioned and inserted through registered openings 72 in the inferior side 38 of the upper 23 and into some of the female receptacles 103 which are disposed in the sole 32, and the lasting plate 79 can then be momentarily flexed or bent in the flexible middle portion 60, and the posterior portion 61 including a post 16 and/or at least one male hook 27 having a free end 28 which faces the back side 78 of the lasting plate 79 can then be inserted through at least one corresponding registered opening 72 in the shoe upper 23 and into at least one mating female receptacle 103 in the sole 32. An insole 31 can then be selected and also placed in the interior side 39 of the shoe upper 23. As a result, the shoe upper 23, lasting plate 79, and sole 32 can be quickly and easily removably secured together. Alternatively, a lasting plate 79 can include an integral insole 31 or one which mechanically mates and couples with a lasting plate, e.g., as shown in FIGS. 31, 34 and 35, and so the sub-component parts to be assembled can possibly be reduced to only three in number.

[0303] FIG. 123 is a medial side view of an embodiment of an article of footwear having a sole 32 including a fluid-filled bladder 115 disposed about a portion of the medial side 35, lateral side 36, posterior side 34, and a generally transverse flex groove 99 extending from the medial side 35 to the lateral side 36 of the sole 32. The shoe upper 23 includes a mating U or V shaped channel 94 disposed about a portion of the medial side 35, lateral side 36, and back or posterior side 34. An extended top edge 110 and/or a frame 109 disposed near, at, or proximate the top edge 110 of a sole 32 which includes a fluid-filled bladder 115 is coupled with and removably secured in the mating U or V shaped channel 94. As shown in FIG. 123, the sole 32 also includes an integral toe cap 93 having a reverse wingtip configuration, but other alternative toe cap configurations can be used.

[0304] FIG. 124 is a medial side view of an embodiment of an article of footwear 22 having a sole 32 including at least one fluid-filled bladder 115. The fluid can be a gas, or a liquid. The gas can be ambient air, nitrogen or a so-called “supergas” as disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,183,156, and 4,340,626 by Marion F. Rudy, and all of these patents are hereby incorporated by reference herein. The sole 32 can include an extended top edge 110 and/or a frame 109 extending upwards about the front or anterior side 33, medial side 35, lateral side 36 and back or posterior side 34, thus substantially about the entire top edge 110 perimeter of the sole 32, and the top edge 110 and/or frame 109 is inserted, coupled, and removably secured in the mating U or V shaped channel 94 of the shoe upper 23. This will effectively create a seal as between the top edge of the sole 32 and the upper 23 and serve to reduce or prevent foreign matter from becoming lodged between the sole 32 and the upper 23. Further, it can also help to prevent the top edge 110 of the sole 32 from possibly becoming snagged during use of the article of footwear 22. The article of footwear 22 can include a lasting plate 79 generally similar to those shown in the other drawing figures, and so the upper 23, lasting plate 79 and sole 32 can be quickly and easily removably secured in order to make an article of footwear 22 as desired, but also permit its sub-component parts to be customized and later recycled.

[0305] FIG. 125 is a medial side view of an embodiment of an article of footwear 22 including a lasting plate 79 which can be configured to provide a high flexural modulus and spring to dampening ratio of over 90 percent, and be made, e.g., of a carbon fiber composite, or spring grade titanium. The lasting plate and/or superior spring element 79 can include a locking tab 101 near its back side 78 which can be removably secured and extend through a corresponding mating opening 72 disposed near the posterior side 34 of the shoe upper 23. The article of footwear 22 includes a first sole portion 32.1 which includes means for cushioning such as an elastomeric foam material and/or a fluid-filled bladder 115, but also a removeable inferior spring element 50 and a replaceable second sole portion 32.2. The length of the inferior spring element 50 can be in the range between 100-150 mm, and the width can be in the range of 65-85 mm for a men's size 9 article of footwear 22. In particular, the length of the inferior spring element 50 may be in the range between 120-135 mm, and the width may be in the range of 70-80 mm for a men's size 9 article of footwear 22. The inferior spring element 50 may be made of carbon fiber composite materials, carbon nanofiber materials, fiberglass, hemp fiber composite materials, and/or metal materials such as spring grade titanium. In this regard, the inferior spring element 50 can include a top and bottom cover layer of woven carbon fiber material each having a thickness of about 0.23 mm, and also 33 internal layers of unidirectional carbon fiber composite material each having a thickness of about 0.15 mm. Tapering can be introduced in the inferior spring element 50 by shortening the length of about eighteen layers of the unidirectional carbon fiber material at approximately 3-4 mm intervals. Accordingly, the thickness of the inferior spring element 50 can be in the range between approximately 4-5.5 mm at its front side, and in the range between 2-3.5 mm at its back side. In particular, the thickness of the inferior spring element 50 can be in the range between approximately 4.8-5.25 mm at the front side, but then in the range between 2.6-3.25 mm at the back side. This particular example and configuration may be suitable for an individual having a body weight of approximately 160 pounds. In this regard, for an average runner having a body weight of approximately 160 pounds, it can be advantageous that an article of footwear 22 including an insole 31, inferior spring element 50, and sole 32 be capable of providing deflection in the range between 10-20 mm, and that the inferior spring element 50 be capable of providing at least 10 mm of deflection. The inferior spring element 50 can provide a runner or other individual with possible improved cushioning, stability, running economy, and a relatively long service life.

[0306] The inferior spring element 50 can be removably secured with the use of a male fastener 29 including a male portion 85 and a female portion 86. The head 65 of the male portion 85 can include a receptacle including an aperture for receiving a screwdriver or other configuration for receiving an alternative tool such as a star drive or Allen wrench. The aperture can also be made wide enough to receive a penny having a thickness of about 1.5 mm; a quarter having a thickness of about 1.76 mm; a nickel having a thickness of about 1.93 mm; or a Euro having a thickness about 2.4 mm. The head 65 of the male portion 85 can have a thickness in the range between 2-2.25 mm and for the sake of robustness it can be advantageous for it to include a tapered and reinforced shoulder where it merges with the shaft. The length of the shaft can be less than or equal to approximately 10 mm, and the width of the shaft can be approximately 5/16 inch or the metric equivalent. The threads can be coated with a material which serves to prevent the male portion 85 of the fastener 29 from becoming loose during use. Accordingly, the length of the threaded opening 72 in the female portion 86 of the fastener 29 can be less than or equal to approximately 10 mm. A product trademark indicia can be included and visible on the head 65 of the male portion 85 of the fastener 29. The male portion 85 and female portion 86 of the fastener 29 can be made of a non-ferrous metal such as titanium for the sake of preventing rust, and avoiding the possibly of tripping airport or other security devices.

[0307] The fluid-filled bladder 115 is located in the sole 32.1 between the inferior spring element 50 and shoe upper 23. The fluid-filled bladder 115 can be permanently secured to the sole 32.1, or alternatively be selectively removable and replaceable. The fluid-filled bladder 115 can be made of a blow molded thermoplastic polyurethane material and have a thickness in the range between 10-30 mils. The sole portion 32.2 which is disposed on the inferior spring element 50 can be 5-6 mm in thickness, and it can be alternatively configured to also include a relatively thin plastic backing 30 having a thickness which can be between 0.75-1.5 mm. The backing 30 can extend to the front side of the inferior spring element 50 and also include a registered opening 72 and so can then be removably secured along with the inferior spring element 50 to the lasting plate/superior spring element 79 with a fastener 29. As shown in FIG. 125, the backing 30 and/or sole 32.2 can be configured to extend over the bottom side and at least a portion of the top side of the inferior spring element 50.

[0308] FIG. 126 is a medial side view of an embodiment of an article of footwear 22 including a first sole potion 32.1, and an inferior spring element 50 including a removable and replaceable fluid-filled bladder 115 and second sole 32.2 portion. The fluid-filled bladder 115 is disposed between the inferior spring element 50 and the upper 23. The bladder 115 can be secured to the inferior spring element 50 and/or sole 32.2 by chemical bonding and/or being at least partially encapsulated, or being mechanically mated and coupled thereto. For example, the bladder 115 and/or sole 32.2 can slip over the back side of the inferior spring element 50 and include a registered opening 72 for being removably secured with a fastener 29 including a male portion 85 and female portion 86.

[0309] FIG. 127 is a medial side view of an alternate embodiment of a sole 32 including and anterior sole portion 32.3 and a posterior sole portion 32.4 which can be secured by chemical bonding, mechanical means, or adhesives on their top sides and associated surfaces to a bridging arch plate 116. Also shown in phantom lines are a plurality of female receptacles 103 for receiving and mechanically coupling with a plurality of hooks 27 which extend from the bottom side 76 of a lasting plate 79.

[0310] FIG. 128 is a lateral side partial cross-sectional view of an article of footwear 22 which is a boot 118 including an upper 23, a lasting plate 79 which is illustrated and highlighted in solid black for contrast which includes an integral toe cap 93 for protecting the toes of a wearer, and sole 32.

[0311] FIG. 129 is an exploded lateral side view of an embodiment of an article of footwear 22 including an upper 23, a lasting plate 79, an insole 31, and a sole 32.

[0312] FIG. 130 is a lateral side view of two embodiments of casual articles of footwear 22 each including an upper 23, a lasting plate 79, and a sole 32. In this regard, the two embodiments have uppers 23 and soles 32 having different configurations, but can be assembled using lasting plates 79 having the same configuration. Alternatively, a plurality of the lasting plates 79 can be made in different configurations for selection and use by wearers having high, low, or medium arches for use in the same size article of footwear 22.

[0313] The present disclosure teaches a method of making an article of footwear. The method can include the steps of selecting a first footwear component from a plurality of uppers, selecting a second footwear component from a plurality of lasting plates including an insole, and selecting a third footwear component from a plurality of soles, and removably securing the first, second and third footwear components to make an article of footwear.

[0314] The present disclosure teaches a method of making an article of footwear. The method can include the steps of providing a plurality of footwear components and a plurality of variations of a plurality of the footwear components, a plurality of the footwear components including means for fastening, selecting from the plurality of footwear components sufficient footwear components for making the article of footwear including at least an upper, a lasting plate, and a sole which can be removably secured together in functional relation by the means for fastening, providing the selected sufficient footwear components to a physical location at which the article of footwear can be made, and removably securing a plurality of the selected sufficient footwear components in functional relation with the means for fastening and completing the assembly for making the article of footwear.

[0315] The means for fastening can include mating male and female parts which can be coupled, whereby a plurality of selected footwear components are removable and replaceable.

[0316] The means for cushioning can include an elastomeric material such as a foam material and/or a fluid-filled bladder.

[0317] The step of securing a plurality of the selected sufficient footwear components in functional relation with means for fastening can be completed in less than five minutes, and sometimes even less than one minute.

[0318] The step of providing a plurality of footwear components and a plurality of variations of a plurality of the footwear components can include providing alternative footwear product categories, alternative footwear models, alternative footwear skus, alternative footwear colors, alternative footwear materials, alternative footwear components, alternative footwear options using images generated using a computer database, alternative footwear options using at least one actual footwear component, and alternative footwear options using an adaptable article of footwear.

[0319] The step of selecting from the plurality of footwear components sufficient footwear components for making the article of footwear can include providing a capability to a customer or individual wearer selected from the group including providing a data input capability, providing a search capability, providing a selection capability, providing a purchase capability.

[0320] The step of providing the selected sufficient footwear components to a physical location at which the article of footwear can be made can include providing means for delivery of the selected sufficient footwear components to a company headquarters, a retail store, a sales office, a service center, a medical office, a factory, a vending machine, a warehouse and distribution center, or a private residence. The means for delivery can include U.S. Mail, or courier services including but not limited to FEDEX®, UPS®, Amazon Prime®, and the like.

[0321] The present disclosure teaches a method of making an article of footwear having an upper, a lasting plate, and a sole which can be removably secured together. The method can include the steps of providing a plurality of footwear components, and a plurality of variations of a plurality of the footwear components, a plurality of the footwear components including means for fastening, selecting from the plurality of footwear components at least one footwear component for use in making the article of footwear, and providing the at least one footwear component to an address selected by an individual, whereby a plurality of footwear components comprising sufficient footwear components for making the article of footwear including the selected at least one footwear component are secured in functional relation with the means for fastening and the assembly for making the article of footwear is completed.

[0322] The present disclosure teaches a method of conducting business including making and selling an article of footwear. The method can include the steps of providing a plurality of footwear components, and a plurality of variations of a plurality of the footwear components, a plurality of the footwear components including means for fastening, selecting from the plurality of footwear components sufficient footwear components for making the article of footwear including an upper, a lasting plate, and a sole, providing the sufficient footwear components to a physical location at which the article of footwear can be made, securing a plurality of the sufficient footwear components in functional relation with the means for fastening and completing the assembly for making the article of footwear, and providing the article of footwear to a customer.

[0323] The present disclosure teaches a method of conducting business with the use of a vending device or machine and making and selling an article of footwear including at least an upper, a lasting plate, and a sole which can be removably secured together. The method includes the steps of providing a plurality of footwear components for making an article of footwear, and a plurality of variations of a plurality of the footwear components in a vending device or machine, a plurality of the footwear components including means for fastening, and selecting from the plurality of footwear components using the vending device or machine at least one footwear component for use in making the article of footwear and providing the at least one footwear component from the vending device or machine to a physical location, whereby a plurality of footwear components comprising sufficient footwear components for making the article of footwear including the at least one footwear component are removably secured with the means for fastening and the assembly for making the article of footwear is completed.

[0324] The Applicant is a named inventor on the following patents relating to footwear and/or wheeled skates, U.S. Pat. Nos. 9,775,404, 9,357,813, 8,959,797, 8,209,883, 7,770,306, 7,752,775, 7,464,944, 7,175,187, 7,107,235, 7,016,867, 6,948,264, 6,939,502, D507,094, U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,601,042, 6,449,878, 6,055,746, 5,987,780, 5,921,004, 5,906,872, 5,843,268, 5,832,636, 5,813,146, 5,786,057, 5,729,912, 5,709,954, 5,632,057, 5,625,964, 5,595,004, D374,341, D370,116, U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,425,184, 5,384,973, D347,315, D347,106, U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,203,793, 5,101,580, 4,674,206, and all of these patents are hereby incorporated by reference herein.

[0325] Published patents and patent applications regarding various structures, devices and means for securing various components of an article of footwear in functional relation include, e.g., U.S. 997,657, U.S. Pat. Nos. 1,219,507, 2,183,277, 2,200,080, 2,220,534, 2,552,943, 2,588,061, 2,640,283, 2,873,540, 3,012,340, 3,373,510, 3,538,628, 3,818,617, 3,846,919, 3,878,626, 3,906,646, 3,982,336, 4,103,440, 4,107,857, 4,132,016, 4,262,434, 4,267,650, 4,279,083, 4,300,294, 4,317,294, 4,351,120, 4,377,042, 4,420,894, 4,535,554, 4,538,368, 4,606,139, 4,747,220, 4,807,372, 4,825,563, 4,850,122, 4,887,369, 5,042,175, 5,083,385, 5,317,822, 5,339,544, 5,367,791, 5,381,610, 5,410,821, 5,533,280, 5,542,198, 5,615,497, 5,628,129, 5,661,915, 5,644,857, 5,657,558, 5,661,915, 5,678,327, 5,692,319, 5,729,916, 5,799,417, 5,822,888, 5,826,352, 5,896,608, 5,991,950, 6,023,857, 6,023,859, 6,145,221, 6,151,805, 6,247,249 B1, 6,282,814 B1, 6,324,772 B1, 6,332,281 B1, 6,349,486 B1, 6,684,532, 6,915,596, 6,931,766, 7,013,583, 7,076,890, 7,114,269, 7,140,129, U.S. 2005/0268491, U.S. 2006/0101671, U.S. 2006/0213088, U.S. 2006/0283050, and patent applications WO 97/46127, WO 02/13641 A1, U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,406,781, 7,730,637, 8,544,189, 8,567,096, 9,955,748, 10,092,063, 10,531,700, and all of these patents and patent applications are hereby incorporated by reference herein.

[0326] Published patents and patent applications regarding the possible use of spring devices in articles of footwear, include e.g., U.S. 357,062, U.S. 968,020, U.S. Pat. Nos. 1,088,328, 1,107,894, 1,113,266, 1,127,456, 1,352,865, 1,370,212, 1,625,048, 2,444,865, 2,447,603, 2,456,102, 2,508,318, 3,333,353, 4,429,474, 4,492,046, 4,314,413, 4,486,964, 4,492,046, 4,506,460, 4,566,206, 4,638,575, 4,771,554, 4,854,057, 4,878,300, 4,942,677, 5,042,175, 5,052,130, 5,060,401, 5,138,776, 5,159,767, 5,187,883, 5,203,095, 5,224,278, 5,279,051, 5,337,492, 5,343,637, 5,343,639, 5,353,523, 5,367,790, 5,381,608, 5,396,718, 5,437,110, 5,461,800, 5,469,638, 5,511,324, 5,517,769, 5,528,842, 5,544,431, 5,596,819, 5,636,456, 5,647,145, 5,649,374, 5,678,327, 5,701,686, 5,706,589, 5,729,916, 5,761,831, 5,822,886, 5,826,350, 5,832,629, 5,860,226, 5,875,567, 5,896,679, 5,937,544, 5,974,695, 5,940,994, 6,006,449, 6,029,374, 6,195,915, 6,195,916, 6,216,365, 6,247,249 B1, 6,282,814 B1, 6,327,795, 6,330,757, 6,324,772 B1, 6,341,432, 6,393,731 B1, 6,416,610, 6,487,796, 6,457,261, 6,546,648, 6,557,271, 6,568,102, 6,598,320, 6,622,401, 6,665,957, 6,694,642, 6,711,834, 6,722,058, 6,749,187, 6,751,891, 6,763,611, 6,807,753, 6,829,848, 6,842,999, 6,851,204, 6,860,034, 6,865,824, 6,880,267, 6,886,274, 6,898,870, 6,920,705, 6,925,732, 6,928,756, 6,944,972, 6,948,262, 6,964,119, 6,964,120, 6,968,636, 6,983,553, 7,013,581, 7,082,698, 7,100,308, 7,100,309, U.S. D434,548, U.S. D450,437, U.S. D462,830, U.S. D472,696, U.S. D483,936, U.S. D474,332, U.S. 2004/0040180, U.S. 2005/0166422, U.S. 2006/0010715, U.S. 2006/0059713, U.S. 2006/0112592, U.S. 22006/0130365, U.S. 2006/0213082, U.S. 2007/00119209, U.S. 10,143,265, French Patent 472,735, Italian Patent 633,409, European Patent Applications EP 0 890 321 A2, EP 1 048 233 A2, EP 1 033 087 A1, EP 1 025 770 A2, EP 1 240 838 A1, and PCT Patent Application WO 98/07341, and all of these patents and patent applications are hereby incorporated by reference herein.

[0327] Published patents and patent applications regarding the conduct of Internet or retail business and/or footwear manufacturing include U.S. Pat. No. 5,897,622 granted to Blinn et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,930,769 granted to Rose, U.S. Pat. No. 5,983,200 granted to Slotznick, U.S. Pat. No. 5,983,201 granted to Fay, U.S. Pat. No. 6,206,750 B1granted to Barad et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,206,804 granted to Theis et al., PCT patent application WO 98/18386 by Rami, U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,123,169, 5,128,880, 5,195,030, 5,216,594, 5,231,723, 5,237,520 and 5,339,252 by White or White et al., U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,267,728, 4,598,376, 4,604,807, 4,736,203, 4,800,657, 4,813,436, 5,063,603, 5,164,793, 5,311,357, 5,351,303, 5,483,601, 5,500,802, 6,879,945, 7,089,152, U.S. 2006/0129416, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/716,321 by Christopher Cook entitled “System and Method for Sizing Footwear over a Computer Network,” assigned to Nike, Inc. which was made of public record in connection with U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/675,237 that was published as US 2005/0071242 and entitled “Method and System for Custom-Manufacturing Footwear,” by Mark Allen and John Tawney assigned to Nike, Inc., U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/099,685 published as US 2004/0024645 entitled “Custom Fit Sale of Footwear” by Daniel Potter and Allan Schrock, WO 90/05345, WO 94/20020, U.S. Pat. Nos. 9,939,803, 10,028,552, and all of these patents and patent applications are hereby incorporated by reference herein.

[0328] Published patents and patent applications regarding the making of uppers for articles of footwear include U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,595,005, 5,604,997, 5,724,753, 5,729,918, 5,785,909, 5,881,413, 5,885,500, 5,909,719, 6,024,712, 6,154,983, 6,237,251, 6,256,824, 6,295,679, 6,299,962, 6,308,438, 6,533,885, 6,986,269, U.S. D374,553, WO 02/13641 A1, WO 02/23641 A1, U.S. 2005/0193592, U.S. 2006/0048413, U.S. 2006/0059715, U.S. 2006/0130359, U.S. 2006/0276095, U.S. 2007/0022627, U.S. Pat. No. 9,545,132, and all of these patents and patent applications are hereby incorporated by reference herein.

[0329] Further, patent applications and issued patents regarding three dimensional and/or circular knitting which could possibly be used for making knitted uppers include U.S. Pat. Nos. 1,741,340, 1,889,716, 2,102,368, 2,144,563, 2,333,373, 2,391,064, 2,687,528, 2,771,691, 2,790,975, 3,085,410, 3,102,271, 3,274,709, 3,796,067, 4,253,317, 4,263,793, 4,341,096, 4,520,635, 4,615,188, 4,651,354, 4,732,015, 4,898,007, 5,230,333, 5,771,495, 5,784,721, 5,829,057, 5,946,731, 6,021,527, 6,122,937, 6,154,983, 6,138,281, 6,139,929, 6,230,525, 6,247,182, 6,256,824, 6,286,151, 6,292,951, 6,306,483, 6,314,584, 6,324,874, 6,334,222, 6,336,227, 6,354,114, 6,393,620, 6,446,267, 6,451,144, 6,457,332, EP 0 593 394 A1, D401,758, D403,149, D461,045, U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,194,249, 4,255,949, 4,277,959, 4,373,361, 5,307,522, 5,335,517, 5,560,226, 5,595,005, 5,603,232, 5,724,753, 5,791,163, 5,881,413, 5,909,719, 6,308,438, WO 96/21366, D374,553, U.S. Pat. Nos. 9,681,704, 9,968,156, 9,986,781, 10,130,142, 10,182,617, 10,231,503, 10, 294,592, 10,351,979, 10,364,517, 10,378,130, 10,383,388, 10,435,825, 10,458,052, 10,512,296, 10,512,296, 10,548,364, U.S. 2014257719, U.S. 20140310984, U.S. 20140310986, and all of these patents and patents applications are hereby incorporated by reference herein.

[0330] Patents relating to fluid-filled bladders which can contain a gas such as ambient air, nitrogen or a so-called “supergas” are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,183,156, and 4,340,626 by Marion F. Rudy, and these patents are hereby being incorporated by reference herein.

[0331] Patents relating to closure systems for use in articles of footwear include U.S. Pat. Nos. 9,364,046, 9,565,899, and 10,149,514 by Adams et al., and all of these patents are hereby incorporated by reference herein.

[0332] Patents relating to insoles for use in articles of footwear include U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,869,001, 6,233,847, 6,618,960, 6,976,322, 8,341,856, 9,259,050, 9,635,904, 9,655,404, 10,013,711, 10,136,703, 10,172,414, and 10,463,103 which are assigned to Superfeet Worldwide, Inc., and all of these patents are hereby incorporated by reference herein.

[0333] While the above disclosure of an article of footwear, a method of making the same, and a method of doing business contains many specificities, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the disclosure, but rather as exemplifications of several embodiments thereof. It can be readily understood that the various teachings, alternate embodiments, methods and processes disclosed herein can be used in various combinations and permutations. Accordingly, the scope of the invention should be determined not by the embodiments discussed or illustrated, but by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.