Roll-up, compressible shoe

Abstract

The present invention involves a shoe having a flexible sole portion, a toe restraining portion, and a heel restraining portion. The sole portion preferably contains a top layer and a bottom layer secured thereto. A cushioning layer can be included between the top layer and the bottom layer. The toe restraining portion extends from one end of one side of the sole portion and can be a strap or other covering attached on each end to the sole portion. The heel restraining portion extends from the other end of one side of the sole portion and is preferably a strap attached on each end to the sole portion. The sole portion can be rolled up and secured by the heel or toe restraining portion or other strap attached to shoe. Alternatively, the sole portion includes an inflatable/deflatable airtight chamber to provide shoe support during use and allow rolling-up and storage of the shoe.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] None.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

[0002] This invention was not federally sponsored.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

[0003] 1. Field of the Invention

[0004] The invention generally relates to the field of footwear. More particularly, the present invention relates to a flexible shoe which can be rolled up or otherwise compressed for easy carrying. The preferred embodiment of this invention are dancing shoes and can, optionally, be made to resemble an expensive, formal shoe a woman might wear to a wedding or other event in which she might dance, but the invention is also applicable to men's dress shoes, and shoes worn by men, women and children in any activity in which the wearer of standard shoes could develop sore feet. While a particularly preferred embodiment of this invention used as an example of the invention throughout this patent is a women's high heeled shoe, as these are especially uncomfortable and potentially dangerous for dancing, the invention is intended to provide an aesthetically acceptable alternative to uncomfortable shoes in any place of work, living, or entertainment where flexible, comfortable shoes would be desirable.

[0005] 2. Description of the Related Art

[0006] Dancing is a popular activity at many celebrations, including birthdays, charity events, school functions, formal parties, nightclubs, and weddings. For women in particular, dressing up for such events typically includes wearing fancy and expensive shoes with heels ranging anywhere from one to four inches. While these shoes are very fashionable, high-heeled shoes can be very uncomfortable to wear for extended periods of time and are not well suited for activities requiring fast-paced movement of the feet, such as dancing. Generally, when a woman wearing high-heeled shoes desires to dance at an event, she must either attempt to dance in the shoes, which can be very uncomfortable and increase risk of foot and ankle injury, or go barefoot or in her stockings, neither of which is usually a pleasant or socially desirable option. Since dance floor surfaces are frequently scuffed and dirty, sometimes even with glass and other debris, or wet from drinks being spilled or in the case of an outside setting, recently watered grass, the removal of one's high heels to dance often leads to dirty feet or dirty and torn stockings.

[0007] Some women try to avoid the problem of dancing in high heels by bringing other shoes, such as tennis shoes or slippers, to dance in. While tennis shoes adequately solve the comfort problem, they rarely match the woman's dress/outfit as well as the high-heeled shoes she wore into the event. Further, slippers often have similar fashion issues, while not providing the comfort and cushioning like tennis shoes. Also, bringing other shoes presents the additional problem of having to cart around an extra pair of bulky shoes to an event, which can be very inconvenient, especially if a person must leave the event to retrieve the shoes from a hotel room or car. Because the additional shoes are bulky and cannot be easily stored in a small bag or purse, if they are not placed in a readily observable location, they can be left at the event, causing added inconvenience and possibly a loss of the shoes themselves. It is also undesirable in some settings for a woman to remove her expensive, prestigious dress shoes and dance either barefoot, in tennis shoes, or in stockings.

[0008] Previous inventions have attempted to create dance shoes that are comfortable for the wearer. However, the majority of these inventions have not offered the capabilities of being stored in a small bag or purse. The few shoes that are flexible enough to fold up for storage in a small bag or purse, however, do not offer the ability to secure the shoe in the folded position. This creates a problem of the shoes unraveling or unfolding within the bag or purse, which creates more inconvenience, takes up valuable purse space, and may result in damage to the shoes.

[0009] Therefore, there is a present need for a comfortable shoe that can be worn during various activities, such as dancing, that can be easily and securely rolled-up and stored within a purse or small bag when not in use.

[0010] In this respect, before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and to the arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced and carried out in various ways. In addition, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0011] It is therefore an object of this invention to provide a shoe that can be comfortably worn for various activities, such as dancing.

[0012] It is a further object of this invention to provide a shoe that can be comfortably worn for various activities, such as dancing, that can be easily rolled-up or otherwise compressed and stored within a small bag or purse.

[0013] It is yet a further object of this invention to provide a shoe that can be comfortably worn for various activities, such as dancing, that can be secured by a heel, toe, or other strap contained within the shoe and rolled-up and stored within a small bag or purse.

[0014] Another object of this invention to provide a shoe that can be comfortably worn for various activities, such as dancing, that can be secured by an accessory strap attached to the shoe but not serving a functional role by attaching the shoe to the foot of the wearer, and allowing a user to roll-up the shoe and store it within a small bag or purse.

[0015] It is still a further object of this invention to provide a shoe that can be comfortably worn for various activities, such as dancing, that can be economically and efficiently manufactured.

[0016] It is a further object of this invention to provide a fashionable shoe that can be comfortably worn with various formal wear during various activities, such as dancing, that can be secured, rolled-up and stored within a small bag or purse.

[0017] Further objects of the invention include providing a shoe which "mimics" a fashionable, expensive and classy woman's shoe such that a woman can enter an event that has dancing, discretely slip off her high heels (or other uncomfortable shoes) and put on the roll-up version which mimics the look of the high heels and go dancing with the hope that no one will notice that she has taken off her high heels. It is envisioned that this same approach can be used with men's shoes as well.

[0018] Additional objects of this invention include providing a roll-up shoe which self-inflates through having a sole portion comprised of two mating sides, a top and bottom, which are attached at their perimeters such that they form an airtight hollow bladder section with a valve which can adjustably let air in and out, which can optionally contain an inner section of compressible foam which springs into its uncompressed shape upon having air let into bladder.

[0019] A further object of the invention is to provide a roll-up shoe which has flexible wires, strips, or springs embedded in the sole portion or attached to the top or bottom portion of the sole such that the shoe automatically unrolls and springs into its uncompressed shape upon a user releasing the heel strap or other means by which the rolled-up shape is maintained.

[0020] It is still yet a further object of this invention to provide a new and unique shoe to the field of footwear that can be worn for various activities and for various purposes such as exercise classes (i.e. yoga, pilates), hospital shoes for medical staff and patients alike, weight loss clinics, etc.

[0021] A final object of the invention is to provide a roll-up shoe which can be manufactured in a variety of qualities, ranging from 1-use disposable shoes to multiple-use, washable shoes.

[0022] These objects and further objects and features of the invention will be apparent to one skilled in the art from the disclosure of the present invention as set forth herein.

[0023] The present invention involves a shoe having a flexible sole portion, a toe restraining portion, and a heel restraining portion. The sole portion preferably contains a top layer and a bottom layer secured thereto. A cushioning layer can be included between the top layer and the bottom layer. The toe restraining portion extends from one end of one side of the sole portion and can be a strap or other covering attached on each end to the sole portion. The heel restraining portion extends from the other end of one side of the sole portion and is preferably a strap attached on each end to the sole portion. The sole portion can be rolled up and secured by the heel or toe restraining portion or any strap attached to the shoe. Also, the toe and heel restraining portions can be joined by material that covers the side(s) of the feet to make a ballerina style type shoe. Alternatively, the sole portion includes an inflatable/deflatable airtight chamber to provide shoe support during use and allow rolling-up and storage of the shoe, where the airtight chamber or bladder may enclose a preformed, compressible sole comprised of foam, plastic, or another suitable compound such that the compressible sole can be rolled up into a compact carrying size, and yet easily self-inflates to its intended size and shape upon releasing the strap holding the shoe in its rolled-up position and allowing air into the bladder, preferably through an adjustable valve and/or pump.

[0024] There has thus been outlined, rather broadly, the more important features of the invention in order that the detailed description thereof may be better understood, and in order that the present contribution to the art may be better appreciated. There are additional features of the invention that will be described hereinafter and which will form the subject matter of the claims appended hereto.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and together with the description, serve to explain the principals of this invention.

[0026] FIG. 1 shows a side perspective view of the preferred embodiment of the roll-up shoe.

[0027] FIG. 2 shows a front perspective view of the preferred embodiment of the roll-up shoe, rolled up and secured by the heel restraining strap.

[0028] FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the roll-up shoe including the inflatable/deflatable airtight chamber.

[0029] FIG. 4 shows the shoe of FIG. 3 in a rolled up configuration.

[0030] FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the roll-up shoe including the inflatable/deflatable airtight chamber and an alternate embodiment of the roll-up shoe including flexible wires positioned within the sole portion.

[0031] FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the roll-up shoe having a closed toe restraining portion and a closed heel restraining portion.

[0032] FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the roll-up shoe having a closed toe restraining portion and a closed heel restraining portion and side of foot covering(s) for a ballerina style.

[0033] FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of an iteration of the invention in which the roll-up shoe is designed to approximate the look of a dress shoe, such that a woman using this shoe can wear her dress shoes to an event likely to have dancing, then replace her dress shoes with the roll-up shoes and, to the casual observer, it will not appear as though she has had to change her shoes to dance.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0034] Referring now to the drawings, wherein similar parts are identified by like reference numerals, FIG. 1 shows a side perspective view of the preferred embodiment of the roll-up shoe 10. While the preferred embodiment of this shoe is a dancing shoe, it is also envisioned that the comfort afforded by the roll-up shoe would also be applicable to men's dress shoes, as well as for professions, such as emergency rooms, in which a clean, disposable shoe is desired.

[0035] Shoe 10 includes a sole portion 20, a toe restraining portion 30, and a heel restraining portion 40. Sole portion 20 preferably contains a top layer 22 and a bottom layer 24. While the sole portion 20 preferably contains at least two layers, it is envisioned that the sole portion 20 can also be made of one material with two sides to it, both where the two sides are the same and where the two sides are different, such as if one side in velvet-like to provide comfort to the soles of the feet and the other side tough and leather-like to provide durability and traction. Top layer 22 and bottom layer 24 are preferably sewn together, but can be attached various ways as would be recognized by one with ordinary skill in the art. Top layer 22 and bottom layer 24 can be comprised of similar material or can be comprised of different materials. Top layer 22 and bottom layer 24 can be comprised of a variety of flexible and lightweight materials including cotton, leather, cloth, nylon, rubber, vinyl, paper, polyester, velvet, felt, plastic, lycra, foam, satin, other cloth-like materials, or other similar materials which would perform the desired function(s). Sole portion 20 can be designed in a variety of shapes and sizes depending on the intended use of shoe 10.

[0036] A cushioning layer 26 can be included, optionally, between top layer 22 and bottom layer 24. Cushioning layer 26 helps to provide support to sole portion 20. Cushioning layer 26 is preferably sewn to encompass the entire interior region formed between top layer 22 and bottom layer 24 and can be comprised of a lightweight and flexible material including cloth, rubber, sponge, foam or similar materials. Cushioning layer 26 can also be comprised, optionally and illustrated in FIG. 3, of a compressible foam material and include a valve and/or pump, such that when the valve is opened, the compressible foam material expands and provides a comfortable cushion for the wearer. When a user is finished using shoe 10 and desires to roll it up, the user opens the valve and rolls up shoe 10 while simultaneously compressing the air out of the compressible foam material. The user can then close the valve and store shoe 10 for future use in its compacted, rolled-up form.

[0037] Toe restraining portion 30 extends from one end 28 of sole portion 20. Toe restraining portion 30 is preferably attached to sole portion 20 via top layer 22, but can alternatively be attached to bottom layer 24. Toe restraining portion 30 is preferably comprised of a thin and flexible material such as cloth, nylon, rubber, vinyl, paper, polyester, elastic, velvet, felt, plastic, lycra, foam, leather, satin, other cloth-like materials, other elastic-like materials or other similar materials which would perform the desired function(s), to allow toe restraining portion 30 to be easily rolled up into and along with sole portion 20. Toe restraining portion 30 preferably comprises a strap attached on each end to sole portion 20. When shoe 10 is rolled up for storage, toe restraining portion 30 can be used to secure shoe 10 into a rolled position. However, toe restraining portion 30 can comprise a variety of designs such as a closed toe design (see FIG. 6), a ballerina style design (see FIG. 7), or other designs intended to restrain the toe portion of a wearer's foot to sole portion 20.

[0038] Heel restraining portion 40 extends from the other end 29 of sole portion 20. Heel restraining portion 40 is preferably attached to sole portion 20 via top layer 22, but can alternatively be attached to bottom layer 24. Heel restraining portion 40 is preferably comprised of a thin and flexible material such as cloth, nylon, rubber, vinyl, paper, polyester, elastic, velvet, felt, plastic, lycra, foam, leather, satin, other cloth-like materials, other elastic-like materials or other similar materials which would perform the desired function(s). Heel restraining portion 40 is preferably comprised of a strap attached on each end to sole portion 20. When shoe 10 is rolled up for storage heel restraining portion 40 can be used to secure shoe 10 into a rolled position. Heel restraining portion 40 can comprise a variety of designs such as a closed heel design (see FIG. 6), a ballerina style design (see FIG. 7), or other designs intended to restrain the heel portion of a wearer's foot to sole portion 20.

[0039] In an alternate embodiment, shoe 10 can be designed to be disposed of after one use or a few uses. In this embodiment, shoe 10 can be comprised of a plastic coated paper material or other short-lived material. To prevent slippage of shoe 10 during use, a non-slip surface can be added to the bottom surface of bottom layer 24. In a further embodiment, shoe 10 can also be machine-washable for either several or multiple uses.

[0040] There are many possible applications for shoe 10. Shoe 10 can be used at doctor's offices, gymnasiums, offices where professional shoes are required for men and/or women, weight loss clinics, changing rooms in commercial and medical locations, hospitals, clinics, or other places where a person may have to remove shoes for sanitary purposes. Also, shoe 10 can be used at hotels, on airplanes, at spas, and other places where shoes are handed out that may not be the right size or be aesthetically pleasing, and can be made either durable or "single use throw-away". Shoe 10 can also be used as boot liners for ski and snowboard boots to allow a user to remove bulky ski and snowboard boots and comfortably walk to a hotel or restaurant. Shoe 10 can additionally contain printed matter and be used as souvenirs at hotels or as party favors at weddings. Further, if made from waterproof material, shoe 10 can be used as a shower shoe or beach shoe, offering sun protection, or in cold weather offering another layer of insulation to the cold weather. In summary, shoe 10 can be used anywhere someone wishes to remove his/her shoes and still remain presentable, professional, and/or fashionable.

[0041] FIG. 2 shows a front perspective view of the preferred embodiment of roll-up shoe 10, rolled up and secured by a heel restraining portion 40. To secure shoe 10 in a rolled-up position, a user can roll one end 28 of sole portion 20 towards other end 29 of sole portion 20 and then wrap heel restraining portion 40 around rolled up portion of shoe 10. Although heel restraining portion 40 is preferably comprised of one strap, heel restraining portion 40 can also be comprised of two sections that can be connected via a snap, button, hook and loop fasteners, or other connection means as would be recognized by one with skill in the art. Alternatively, the toe-restraining portion 30 can be used to wrap up the shoe, or, one could use any strap or a separate strap that has no functional purpose on the shoe other than to secure it into a rolled-up, compact size when not in use.

[0042] FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the roll-up shoe 100. Shoe 100 includes a sole portion 110, a toe restraining portion 120, and a heel restraining portion 130. Sole portion 110 preferably contains a top layer 112 and a bottom layer 114. While the sole portion 110 preferably contains at least two layers, it is envisioned that the sole portion 1 10 can also be made of one material with two sides to it, both where the two sides are the same and where the two sides are different, such as if one side is velvet-like to provide comfort to the soles of the feet and the other side is tough and leather-like to provide durability and traction. Top layer 112 and bottom layer 114 are preferably sewn together, but can be attached various ways as would be recognized by one with ordinary skill in the art. Top layer 112 and bottom layer 114 can be comprised of similar material or can be comprised of different materials. Top layer 112 and bottom layer 114 can be comprised of a variety of flexible and lightweight materials including cotton, cloth, nylon, rubber, vinyl, paper, leather, polyester, velvet, felt, plastic, lycra, foam, satin, other cloth-like materials, or other similar materials which would perform the desired function(s). Sole portion 110 can be designed in a variety of shapes and sizes depending on the intended use of shoe 100.

[0043] An airtight pocket 116 can be included between top layer 112 and bottom layer 114. Airtight pocket 116 helps to provide support to sole portion 110. Airtight pocket 116 is preferably sized to encompass the entire interior or periphery with enclosed center or heel region formed between top layer 112 and bottom layer 114. Airtight pocket 116 is preferably inflated by a user blowing air through a valve 117 and deflated by releasing air from valve 117. When a user desires to roll up shoe 100, airtight pocket 116 can be deflated by opening valve 117 and squeezing the air out of airtight pocket 116 while rolling up sole portion 110. Alternatively, the air-tight pocket can merely be an empty cavity that can be filled with air, either blown up by the user's mouth via the valve 117 or pumped by way of a small hand pump (118), which can be used in conjunction with or without the valve 117, such that a user of the invention can adjust the pressure within the cavity.

[0044] Toe restraining portion 120 extends from one end 121 of sole portion 110. Toe restraining portion 120 is preferably attached to sole portion 110 via top layer 112, but can alternatively be attached to bottom layer 114. Toe restraining portion 120 is preferably comprised of a thin and flexible material such as cloth, nylon, rubber, vinyl, paper, polyester, elastic, velvet, felt, plastic, lycra, foam, leather, satin, other cloth-like materials, other elastic-like materials or other similar materials which would perform the desired function(s), to allow toe restraining portion 120 to be easily rolled up into and along with sole portion 110. Toe restraining portion 120 is preferably comprised of a strap attached on each end to sole portion 110. However, toe restraining portion 120 can comprise a variety of designs such as a closed toe design (see FIG. 6), a ballerina style design (see FIG. 7), or other designs intended to restrain the toe portion of a wearer's foot to sole portion 110.

[0045] Heel restraining portion 130 extends from the other end 123 of sole portion 110. Heel restraining portion 130 is preferably attached to sole portion 110 via top layer 112, but can alternatively be attached to bottom layer 114. Heel restraining portion 130 is preferably comprised of a thin and flexible material such as cloth, nylon, rubber, vinyl, paper, polyester, elastic, velvet, felt, plastic, lycra, foam, leather, satin, other cloth-like materials, other elastic-like materials or other similar materials which would perform the desired function(s). Heel restraining portion 130 is preferably comprised of a strap attached on each end to sole portion 110. When shoe 100 is rolled up for storage, heel restraining portion 130 can be used to secure shoe 100 into a rolled position. Heel restraining portion 130 can comprise a variety of designs such as a closed heel design (see FIG. 6), a ballerina style design (see FIG. 7), or other designs intended to restrain the heel portion of a wearer's foot to sole portion 110.

[0046] FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of the shoe of FIG. 3 in a rolled up configuration, including airtight pocket 116, rolled up and secured by heel restraining strap 130. To secure shoe 100 in a rolled-up position, a user can roll one end 121 of sole portion 110 towards other end 123 of sole portion 110 and then wrap heel restraining portion 130 around rolled up portion of shoe 100. Although heel restraining portion 130 is preferably comprised of one strap, heel restraining portion 130 can also be comprised of two sections that can be connected via a snap, button, Velcro, or other connection means as would be recognized by one with skill in the art. Again, the use of the heel restraining strap is not meant to be limiting, but it is envisioned that the toe strap, an ankle strap, an instep strap, or any other part of the shoe that is roughly circular in shape could be used to secure the shoe into a rolled-up position. It is also contemplated that a separate strap attached to the shoe but without a function in keeping the shoe on the foot of the user could be used for the purpose of securing the shoe in a rolled-up condition.

[0047] FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the roll-up shoe including the inflatable/deflatable airtight chamber and an alternate embodiment of the roll-up shoe including flexible wires positioned within the sole portion. It should be noted that in addition to the wires illustrated in this drawing, a similar effect could be accomplished by inserting flexible strips or springs into, or in contact with the sole of the shoe. Shoe 200 includes a sole portion 210, a toe restraining portion 220, and a heel restraining portion 230. Sole portion 210 preferably contains a top layer 212 and a bottom layer 214. While the sole portion 210 preferably contains at least two layers, it is envisioned that the sole portion 210 can also be made of one material with two sides to it, both where the two sides are the same and where the two sides are different, such as if one side in velvet-like to provide comfort to the soles of the feet and the other side tough and leather-like to provide durability and traction. Top layer 212 and bottom layer 214 are preferably sewn together, but can be attached various ways as would be recognized by one with ordinary skill in the art. Top layer 212 and bottom layer 214 can be comprised of similar material or can be comprised of different materials. Top layer 212 and bottom layer 214 can be comprised of a variety of flexible and lightweight materials including cotton, cloth, nylon, leather, rubber, vinyl, paper, polyester, velvet, felt, plastic, lycra, foam, satin, other cloth-like materials, or other similar materials which would perform the desired function(s). Sole portion 210 can be designed in a variety of shapes and sizes depending on the intended use of shoe 200.

[0048] A cushioning layer 216 can be included between top layer 212 and bottom layer 214. The cushioning layer can be merely an empty cavity that can be filled with air, either blown in by the user's mouth or pumped by way of small hand pump (250), which can be used in conjunction with or without the valve (251), such that a user of the invention can adjust the pressure within the cavity. Cushioning layer 216 helps to provide support to sole portion 210, and works similarly to how a backpacking sleeping Ensulite (also sometimes spelled Ensolite or referred to as a Thermarest) pad works, with a compressed foam interior portion cut to the desired end shape and a valve (251) which allows air in and out so the foam interior expands, thereby inflating the interior cavity when air is let in through the valve (251). The cavity can also be evacuated of air by pressing down on the sole or rolling it up when the valve (251) is opened, thereby deflating the interior portion. Then the Thermarest is compressed by rolling out all the air for easy carrying on the back of a backpack. Cushioning layer 216 is preferably sewn to encompass the entire interior region formed between top layer 212 and bottom layer 214. Cushioning layer 216 can be comprised of a lightweight and flexible material including cloth, rubber, sponge, foam or similar materials, or a closed section filled with gel.

[0049] Toe restraining portion 220 extends from one end 218 of sole portion 210. Toe restraining portion 220 is preferably attached to sole portion 210 via top layer 212, but can alternatively be attached to bottom layer 214. Toe restraining portion 220 is preferably comprised of a thin and flexible material such as cloth, nylon, rubber, vinyl, paper, polyester, elastic, velvet, felt, plastic, lycra, foam, leather, satin, other cloth-like materials, other elastic-like materials or other similar materials which would perform the desired function(s), to allow toe restraining portion 220 to be easily rolled up into and along with sole portion 210. Toe restraining portion 220 is preferably comprised of a strap attached on each end to sole portion 210. However, toe restraining portion 220 can comprise a variety of designs such as a closed toe design (see FIG. 6), a ballerina style design (see FIG. 7), or other designs intended to restrain the toe portion of a wearer's foot to sole portion 210.

[0050] Heel restraining portion 230 extends from the other end 219 of sole portion 210. Heel restraining portion 230 is preferably attached to sole portion 210 via top layer 212, but can alternatively be attached to bottom layer 214. Heel restraining portion 230 is preferably comprised of a thin and flexible material such as cloth, nylon, rubber, vinyl, paper, polyester, elastic, velvet, felt, plastic, lycra, foam, leather, satin, other cloth-like materials, other elastic-like materials or other similar materials which would perform the desired function(s). Heel restraining portion 230 is preferably comprised of a strap attached on each end to sole portion 210. When shoe 200 is rolled up for storage heel restraining portion 230 can be used to secure shoe 200 into a rolled position. Heel restraining portion 230 can comprise a variety of designs such as a closed heel design (see FIG. 6), a ballerina style design (see FIG. 7), or other designs intended to restrain the heel portion of a wearer's foot to sole portion 210.

[0051] Roll-up shoe 200 optionally further includes several flexible wires 240 positioned within sole portion 210. It is envisioned that the flexible wires 240 can be used alone or in conjunction with the cushioning layer concept. Wires 240 are preferably comprised of plastic, metal, composite, or springs, but can be comprised of other flexible and durable materials as would be recognized by one with ordinary skill in the art. Wires 240 are preferably positioned to run along the length of sole portion 210 to facilitate the unrolling of sole portion 210 when shoe 200 is unrestrained by heel restraining portion 230 or toe-restraining portion 220. It is envisioned, optionally, that the flexible wires 240 and/or cushioning layer 216 will maintain end 219 of sole portion 210 rigid that only a toe restraining portion or accessory strap or the shoe itself will be needed to restrain the shoe. Wires 240 can be stitched, glued, formed within, or otherwise attached within sole portion 210. The wires 240 (or in alterative iterations, the flexible strips or springs) serve to not only open up the shoe quickly and efficiently upon the release of the strap, but also to maintain a certain amount of rigidity in the shoe. These wires are important to the invention to retain some rigidity, as by making the invention out of sole materials that are flexible enough to allow the shoe to be rolled up for storage, the sole inherently lacks the structural rigidity found in regular shoes.

[0052] FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the roll-up shoe 300 having a sole portion 310, a toe restraining portion 320, and a heel restraining portion 331, and an instep strap 330. In this embodiment, toe restraining portion 320 and heel restraining portion 310 comprises a substantially closed region where in the toes of a wearer are covered by shoe 300. Toe restraining portion 320 and heel restraining portion 331 can be comprised of a soft and flexible material such as cotton, cloth, nylon, rubber, vinyl, paper, polyester, elastic, velvet, felt, plastic, lycra, foam, leather, satin, other cloth-like materials, other elastic-like materials or other similar materials which would perform the desired function(s). Instep strap 330 comprises a piece of material which attaches to the sole of the shoe and its beginning and end, and has sides which define its width. Instep strap can be comprised of the same types of materials which can be used to manufacture toe restraining portion 320 and heel restraining portion 331. It is envisioned that the invention can function properly with various combinations or eliminations of toe restraining portions, heel restraining portions, and instep straps, such that an iteration could exist with just a toe restraining portion and an instep strap, or just a toe restraining portion and a heel restraining portion.

[0053] FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the roll-up shoe 400 having a sole portion 410, a toe restraining portion 420, and a heel restraining portion 430. In this embodiment, toe restraining portion 420 and heel restraining portion 430 both comprise a substantially closed region wherein the toes, heel and side(s) of feet of wearer are covered by shoe 400. Side restraining portions 421 can extend in a variety of optional arrangements from the outer edges of toe restraining portion 420 to outer edges of heel restraining portion 430. Side restraining portions 421 can be constructed from similar or different materials found in toe restraining portion 420 and heel restraining portion 430. Toe restraining portion 420 and heel restraining portion 430 can both be comprised of a soft and flexible material such as cotton, cloth, nylon, rubber, vinyl, paper, polyester, elastic, velvet, felt, plastic, lycra, foam, leather, satin, other cloth-like materials, other elastic-like materials or other similar materials which would perform the desired function(s).

[0054] FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of an iteration of the invention in which the roll-up shoe is designed to approximate the look of a dress shoe, such that a woman using this shoe can wear her dress shoes to an event likely to have dancing, then replace her dress shoes with the roll-up shoes and, to the casual observer, it will not appear as though she has changed her shoes to dance. While a high-heeled women's dress shoe is used to illustrate this aspect of the invention, it is envisioned that other women's shoes, both dress shoes without high heels and casual shoes, as well as men's and children's shoes, could utilize this feature. This figure illustrates how a formal, high heeled dress shoe, generally indicated by 800, can be mimicked by a more comfortable, roll-up shoe, generally indicated by 810, which can be used for dancing and other activities for which a high-heeled shoe would not be conducive. The formal shoe 800 has a sole 801 which has a pronounced curve 809 from the relatively flat front portion 806 to the elevated back portion 807. Formal shoe 800 also has a high heel 805 which may be stylish and fashionable, but presents a major impediment to a user's safe enjoyment of dancing and other activities requiring substantial movement. Formal shoe 800 has a specific and distinctive set of toe restraining means 802, heel restraining means 803, and connections 804 between heel restraining means 803 and the shoe 800. The roll-up shoe 810 has a sole 811 which is relatively flat compared with the sole 801 of the formal shoe 800. The roll-up shoe provides for a more enjoyable (and safe) dancing experience as both the front portion 816 and back portion 817 are on the same plane, as compared with the elevated rear portion 807 caused by the high heel 805 of the formal shoe 800. The distinctive set of toe restraining means 812, heel restraining means 813, and connections 814 between heel restraining means 813 and the shoe 810 are virtually identical to their counterparts in the formal shoe 800, thereby allowing a user of the formal shoe 800 to substitute in the roll-up shoe 810 for dancing and other activities where high heeled shoes would present difficulties.

[0055] With respect to the above description it is to be realized that the optimum dimensional relationships for the parts of the invention, including variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly, and use, are deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art, and all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings and described in the specification are intended to be encompassed by the present invention. Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described. Accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents fall within the scope of the present invention.

[0056] The above description, together with the advantages of the invention and the various features of novelty which characterize the invention, are pointed out with particularity in the claims annexed to and forming a part of this disclosure. For a better understanding of the invention, its operating advantages and the specific advantages attained by its uses, reference should be made to the accompanying drawings and descriptive matter in which there are illustrated preferred embodiments of the invention.

[0057] Further, the purpose of the foregoing abstract is to enable the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally, and especially the scientists, engineers, and practitioners in the art who are not familiar with patent or legal terms or phraseology, to determine quickly from a cursory inspection the nature and essence of the technical disclosure of the application. The abstract is neither intended to define the invention of the application, which is measured by the claims, nor is it intended to be limiting, as to the scope of the invention in any way.

Claims

1. A flexible shoe comprising: a) a sole portion, the sole portion comprised of at least one layer of flexible material that allows for the sole to be rolled-up, the sole portion having a top surface and a bottom surface; b) a toe restraining portion attached to one end of the sole portion; and c) a heel restraining portion attached to the other end of the sole portion whereby, to use the shoe, a user places the toe portion of a foot within the toe restraining portion and the heel portion of the foot within the heel restraining portion.

2. The flexible shoe of claim 1, where, the shoe additionally comprises at least one strap, defined as a strip of material connected to the shoe at both ends but not contiguously connected to the shoe in between the two end portions, and to store the shoe, a user rolls up each end of the sole portion along with the toe restraining portion, then secures the rolled-up shoe by wrapping the strap around it, allowing a user to safely and securely place the rolled-up shoe in a small bag or purse for storage.

3. The flexible shoe of claim 2, where the strap is the toe restraining portion of the flexible shoe.

4. The flexible shoe of claim 2, where the strap is the heel restraining portion of the flexible shoe.

5. The flexible shoe of claim 2, additionally comprising an ankle restraining portion, comprising a band of material extending completely around the ankle of the wearer, where the strap is the ankle restraining portion.

6. The flexible shoe of claim 2, where the shoe additionally comprises at least one accessory strap where the accessory strap does not serve a function of attaching the flexible shoe to the foot of the user, where the strap is the accessory strap.

7. The flexible shoe of claim 1, where the shoe is a ballerina-type shoe where the toe restraining portion and the heel restraining portion are connected to one another by a side portion, and where the flexible shoe can be rolled up and secured by wrapping either the toe restraining portion or the heel restraining portion around the rolled-up shoe and thereby securing the shoe in a rolled-up configuration.

8. The flexible shoe of claim 1, wherein the toe restraining portion and the heel restraining portion are attached to the top surface.

9. The flexible shoe of claim 1, wherein the sole portion contains two layers of flexible material attached to one another along the periphery regions thereof, the two layers of flexible material forming an interior region.

10. The flexible shoe of claim 9, wherein the interior region contains one or more layers of flexible material for the purpose of providing padding to the sole portion and the flexible shoe additionally comprises a valve which can be open or closed to allow air into or out of the interior region.

11. The flexible shoe of claim 10, wherein the one or more layers of flexible fabric is comprised of compressible foam.

12. The flexible shoe of claim 10, wherein the interior region is filled with gel.

13. The flexible shoe of claim 10, wherein the interior region contains an airtight pocket for the purpose of providing padding for the sole portion and assisting in the unrolling of the flexible shoe once the heel or toe restraining portion has been unwrapped.

14. The flexible shoe of claim 13, further comprising an air valve coupled to the interior region for the purpose of inflating/deflating the airtight pocket.

15. The flexible shoe of claim 13, further comprising an air cartridge within the interior region for the purpose of inflating the airtight pocket.

16. The flexible shoe of claim 13, further comprising a pump and a valve, where the pump can add air pressure to the interior region through the valve, and the valve can be opened to deflate the airtight pocket, and thereby decrease the air pressure within the airtight pocket, whereby by adding air to the airtight pocket, a user can increase a cushioning effect caused by the airtight pocket upon the foot of the user, and assist in the unrolling of the flexible shoe once the heel or toe restraining portion has been unwrapped, and adjust the flexibility and rigidity of the sole of the shoe by adding air pressure through use of pump, and bleeding air pressure through opening of the valve.

17. The flexible shoe of claim 1, further comprise one or more flexible members, where the flexible members are selected from the group consisting of wires, strips, and springs, where the flexible members are attached to the sole of the shoe to facilitate the unrolling of the sole portion when the flexible shoe is unrestrained by any strap or other device used to maintain a shoe in a rolled-up configuration is released.

18. The flexible shoe of claim 1, wherein the toe restraining portion is a strap of flexible material attached across the width of a portion of the sole portion.

19. The flexible shoe of claim 1, wherein the heel restraining portion is a strap of flexible material attached across the width of a portion of the sole portion.

20. The flexible shoe of claim 19, wherein the heel restraining portion further includes a segment of flexible material attached around the periphery of one end of the sole portion and forming a substantially enclosed heel region whereby a user can place the heel portion of a foot into the heel region during use of the flexible shoe.

21. The flexible shoe of claim 1, wherein the toe restraining portion is a segment of flexible material attached around the periphery of one end of the sole portion and forming a substantially enclosed toe region whereby a user can place the toe portion of a foot into the toe region during use of the flexible shoe.

22. The flexible shoe of claim 1, wherein the flexible shoe is created in a shape and style which closely approximates the shape and style of a prestigious and/or popular and/or high priced dress shoe with or without high heels, such that a user of the invention can wear his or her dress shoes to an event where there is likely to be dancing or some other activity which may injure or inconvenience the user in the activity or damage the user's shoes, and remove his/her dress shoes and substitute the flexible shoe created in a shape and style which closely approximates the shape and style of the dress shoe for the activity, such that a casual observer may not realize that he/she has made the substitution.

23. The flexible shoe of claim 1, additionally comprising one or more skid-resistant patches applied to the sole of the shoe, where the one or more skid-resistant patches are comprised of an adhesive portion which adheres the one or more skid-resistant patches to the sole of the shoe, and a skid resistant layer which comprises a rough coating of material which will assist a person using the flexible shoe in avoiding slipping on a wet or slick floor.

24. A flexible shoe comprising: a) a sole portion, the sole portion comprising two layers of flexible material that can be rolled up attached to one another along the periphery regions thereof, the two layers of flexible material forming an interior region, the sole portion having a top surface and a bottom surface; b) a toe restraining portion attached to one end of the sole portion; c) a heel restraining portion attached to the other end of the sole portion, the heel restraining portion comprising a strap of flexible material attached across the width of a portion of the sole portion; and d) an airtight pocket positioned within the interior region for the purpose of providing padding for the sole portion whereby, to use the shoe, a user places the toe portion of a foot within the toe restraining portion and the heel portion of the foot within the heel restraining portion.

25. The flexible shoe of claim 24, additionally comprising at least one strap, defined as a strip of material connected to the shoe at both ends but not contiguously connected to the shoe in between the two end portions, and to store the shoe, a user rolls up each end of the sole portion along with the toe restraining portion, then secures the rolled-up shoe by wrapping the strap around it, allowing a user to safely and securely place the rolled-up shoe in a small bag or purse for storage.

26. The flexible shoe of claim 24, wherein the two layers of flexible material are comprised of compressible foam material.

27. The flexible shoe of claim 24 further comprising a carbon dioxide cartridge within the interior region for the purpose of inflating the airtight pocket.

28. The flexible shoe of claim 24 further comprising an air outlet valve within the interior region for the purpose of deflating the airtight pocket.

29. The flexible shoe of claim 24, wherein the heel restraining portion further includes a segment of flexible material attached around the periphery of one end of the sole portion and forming a substantially enclosed heel region whereby a user can place the heel portion of a foot into the heel region during use of the flexible shoe, and wherein the toe restraining portion is a segment of flexible material attached around the periphery of one end of the sole portion and forming a substantially enclosed toe region whereby a user can place the toe portion of a foot into the toe region during use of the flexible shoe.

30. The flexible shoe of claim 29, additionally comprising an ankle restraining portion, comprising a band of material extending completely around the ankle of the wearer, where the strap is the ankle restraining portion.

31. The flexible shoe of claim 24, where the shoe additionally comprises at least one accessory strap where the accessory strap does not serve a function of attaching the flexible shoe to the foot of the user, where the strap is the accessory strap.

32. The flexible shoe of claim 24, where the shoe is a ballerina-type shoe where the toe restraining portion and the heel restraining portion are connected to one another by a side portion, and where the flexible shoe can be rolled up and secured by wrapping either the toe restraining portion or the heel restraining portion around the rolled-up shoe and thereby securing the shoe in a rolled-up configuration.

33. A method for making a flexible shoe comprising the steps of: a) providing a sole portion, the sole portion comprising two layers of flexible material that can be rolled up attached to one another along the periphery regions thereof, the two layers of flexible material forming an interior region, the sole portion having a top surface and a bottom surface; b) providing a toe restraining portion for attachment to one end of the sole portion; c) attaching the toe restraining portion to one end of the sole portion; d) providing a heel restraining portion for attachment to the other end of the sole portion, the heel restraining portion comprising a strap of flexible material attached across the width of a portion of the sole portion; e) attaching the heel restraining portion to the other end of the sole portion; f) providing an airtight pocket positioned within the interior region for the purpose of providing padding for the sole portion; and g) positioning the airtight pocket within the interior region.

34. The method for making a flexible shoe of claim 33, wherein the toe restraining portion comprises a segment of flexible material attached around the periphery of one end of the sole portion and forming a substantially enclosed toe region, whereby a user can place the toe portion of a foot into the toe region during use of the flexible shoe.

35. A flexible shoe comprising: a) a sole portion, the sole portion comprised of at least one layer of flexible material that allows for the sole to be rolled-up, the sole portion having a top surface and a bottom surface; b) one or more restraining portions attached to one or more ends of the sole portion; whereby, to use the shoe, a user places the toe portion of a foot within the toe restraining portion and the heel portion of the foot within the heel restraining portion, and, c) at least one strap, defined as a strip of material connected to the shoe at both ends but not contiguously connected to the shoe in between the two end portions, and to store the shoe, a user rolls up each end of the sole portion along with the toe restraining portion, then secures the rolled-up shoe by wrapping the strap around it, allowing a user to safely and securely place the rolled-up shoe in a small bag or purse for storage.

36. The flexible shoe of claim 35, where there is only one restraining portion and the restraining portion is a toe restraining portion of the flexible shoe and the strap is also the toe restraining portion of the flexible shoe.

37. The flexible shoe of claim 35, additionally comprising an ankle restraining portion, comprising a band of material extending completely around the ankle of the wearer, where there are two straps, one being the toe restraining portion and the other is the ankle restraining portion.