U.S. patent application number 14/048126 was filed with the patent office on 2015-04-09 for golf shoes having outsoles with sections of differing hardness.
This patent application is currently assigned to Acushnet Company. The applicant listed for this patent is Acushnet Company. Invention is credited to Jonathan G. Bacon, Robert S. Bento, James M. Feeney, Douglas K. Robinson, Jr..
Application Number | 20150096195 14/048126 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 52775785 |
Filed Date | 2015-04-09 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150096195 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Bacon; Jonathan G. ; et
al. |
April 9, 2015 |
GOLF SHOES HAVING OUTSOLES WITH SECTIONS OF DIFFERING HARDNESS
Abstract
Golf shoes having improved outsole constructions are provided.
The golf shoes include upper, midsole, and outsole sections. The
outsole includes interior (central area) and exterior (perimeter
area) traction projections. Materials having different hardness
properties are used to construct different sections of the outsole.
For example, thermoplastic polyurethanes may be used in the
exterior region and rubber materials may be used in the interior
region. The outsole has improved stability and flexibility.
Inventors: |
Bacon; Jonathan G.; (East
Taunton, MA) ; Robinson, Jr.; Douglas K.; (Mansfield,
MA) ; Feeney; James M.; (Marion, MA) ; Bento;
Robert S.; (Raynham, MA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Acushnet Company |
Fairhaven |
MA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Acushnet Company
Fairhaven
MA
|
Family ID: |
52775785 |
Appl. No.: |
14/048126 |
Filed: |
October 8, 2013 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
36/87 ;
36/127 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A43B 13/141 20130101;
A43B 13/26 20130101; A43B 13/04 20130101; A43B 1/0072 20130101;
A43B 13/188 20130101; A43B 13/122 20130101; A43B 13/026 20130101;
A43B 5/001 20130101; A43B 13/223 20130101; A43B 3/0078
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
36/87 ;
36/127 |
International
Class: |
A43B 5/00 20060101
A43B005/00; A43B 13/04 20060101 A43B013/04 |
Claims
1. A golf shoe, comprising: an upper, a midsole, and an outsole,
the outsole having forward, mid-foot, and rearward portions,
wherein each portion of the outsole includes: i) an interior region
having first traction projections, the interior region and first
projections being made of a first material; and ii) an exterior
region having second traction projections, the exterior region and
second projections being made of a second material, wherein the
Shore A material hardness of the second material is greater than
the Shore A material hardness of the first material.
2. The golf shoe of claim 1, wherein the upper is made of
leather.
3. The golf shoe of claim 1, wherein the midsole is made of
ethylene vinyl acetate.
4. The golf shoe of claim 1, wherein the first material of the
outsole is a rubber material selected from the group consisting of
polybutadiene, polyisoprene, ethylene propylene rubber,
ethylene-propylene-diene rubber, styrene-butadiene rubber, styrenic
block copolymer rubbers, polyalkenamers, polychloroprene, alkyl
acrylate rubber, chlorinated isoprene rubber, acrylonitrile
chlorinated isoprene rubber, and blends thereof.
5. The golf shoe of claim 1, wherein the second material is a
thermoplastic compound selected from the group consisting of
polyurethanes, polyureas, ethylene acid copolymer ionomers,
polyamides, polyesters, polyolefins, polyamides, fluoropolymers,
polystyrenes, polyvinyl chlorides, polycarbonates, polyethers, and
polyimides and copolymers and blends thereof.
6. The golf shoe of claim 1, wherein the first material is a rubber
material and the second material is a thermoplastic
polyurethane.
7. The golf shoe of claim 6, wherein the rubber material has a
material hardness in the range of about 50 to about 70 Shore A
points; and the thermoplastic polyurethane has a material hardness
greater than about 70 Shore A points.
8. The golf shoe of claim 7, wherein the hardness of the
thermoplastic polyurethane is at least 25% greater than the
hardness of the rubber material.
9. The golf shoe of claim 7, wherein the traction projections in
the interior region have a first height and the traction elements
in the exterior region have a second height, the height of the
projection in in the interior region being greater than the height
of the projections in the exterior region.
10. The golf shoe of claim 7, wherein the outsole further comprises
multiple cleats, each cleat being positioned in a different area of
the outsole.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates generally to shoes and more
particularly to golf shoes having improved outsoles. Materials
having different hardness properties are used to construct
different sections of the outsole. For example, thermoplastic
polyurethanes may be used in the exterior region and rubber
materials may be used in the interior region. The outsole has
improved stability and flexibility.
[0003] 2. Brief Review of the Related Art
[0004] Both professional and amateur golfers use specially designed
golf shoes today. Typically, the golf shoe includes an upper
portion and outsole portion along with a mid-sole that connects the
upper to the outsole. The upper has a traditional shape and is made
from a standard upper material such as leather. The mid-sole is
relatively lightweight and provides cushioning to the shoe. The
mid-sole is made from a material such as ethylene vinyl acetate
copolymer (EVA). The outsole includes is molded and designed to
provide stability to the golfer's feet. The bottom of the outsole
includes traction elements to support the golfer's feet and provide
traction between the shoe and grass.
[0005] The golf shoe needs to provide sufficient stability and
support for the golfer. Thus, many golf shoes include a relatively
rigid material such as thermoplastic polyurethane. The plastic
material helps provide stiffness and rigidity to the shoe. At the
same time, the golf shoe needs to have sufficient flexibility. The
foot needs to bend during walking and when swinging the golf club.
The shoe should be constructed so that it is not overly rigid. The
golf shoe industry has looked at different ways for improving the
flexibility of the shoe, while maintaining high stability and
support.
[0006] For example, Robinson, Jr. et al., U.S. Pat. No. 7,895,773
discloses a golf shoe comprising an upper, a midsole, and an
outsole, wherein a collapsible support element is positioned in a
recess of the outsole and close to the first metatarsal bone of the
foot. The collapsible support element comprises a collapsible gel
pad encased in a thermoplastic urethane, or a single collapsible
element having a wave configuration, or a series of collapsible
wave elements. The collapsible element is stiffer in a longitudinal
direction and more collapsible in a transverse direction. This
helps minimize the impact of ground forces when the golfer is
walking, and it allows for more efficient transfer of energy during
a golf swing.
[0007] Brown et al., U.S. Pat. No. 7,673,400 discloses a golf shoe
having a generally soft and flexible base with raised portions on
the lower surface of the base, a pair of flexing supports that are
placed on the lower surface of the base in an abutting relationship
with the raised portions, and a pair of chassis that fit over the
base and a two-piece arch support that acts as a shank for the arch
section of the base. Stability pods integrally molded to the bottom
side of the forward and rear chassis. The shoe provides for
individual movement of the foot, particularly, the rotation between
the rear foot and the forefoot and flexibility longitudinally and
transversely along the metatarsal area of the foot.
[0008] Robinson, Jr. et al., U.S. Pat. No. 7,143,529 and Erickson
et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,708,426 discloses golf shoes having an
outsole including a forward portion and a rearward portion that are
connected by a ball-and-socket connection that allows the portions
to move freely. The outsole may include flexible members disposed
between discrete pieces of the forward portion to allow these
pieces to flex freely. The outsole also may include a pair of
stabilizer rods. The outsole allows for individual movement of the
foot, particularly, the rotation between the rearfoot and the
forefoot. This helps resist torsional instability during play,
provides independent traction suspension, and increases the
flexibility of the shoe.
[0009] Robinson, Jr. et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,979,083 discloses a
golf shoe having a two-layered outsole including an outer layer and
inner layer made from thermoplastic compositions. The layers outer
layer forms the bottom of the outsole and has a plurality of first
holes at spaced locations therethrough. The inner layer includes a
base adjacent one side of the outer layer and a plurality of
projections that extend from the base through the first holes in
the outer layer, and terminate in a pointed free end. The
projections protrude from the bottom of the outsole, and provide
traction when the outsole interacts with the ground. The shoe is
constructed such that it provides adequate traction during a golf
swing and minimizes damage to the turf of golf courses during
play.
[0010] Although some of the above-described shoes have been
somewhat effective in providing sufficient rigidity as well as
flexibility, there is a need for an improved outsole. The outsole
should provide sufficient rigidity without sacrificing flexibility.
A person wearing the shoe should be able to walk comfortably and
have sufficient support. The shoe should also hold and support the
medial and lateral sides of the golfer's foot as they shift their
weight when making a shot. The present invention provides new golf
shoe constructions that provide improved traction and support to
the golfer as well as other advantageous properties, features, and
benefits.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0011] The present invention provides a golf shoe comprising upper,
mid-sole, and outsole components. The upper may be made of a
natural or synthetic leather material; and the mid-sole may be made
of an ethylene vinyl acetate material. The outsole includes
forward, mid-foot, and rearward portions. Each portion of the
outsole includes: i) a central (interior) region having first
traction projections that protrude from the bottom surface of the
outsole, the central region and projections being made of a first
material, and ii) a perimeter (exterior) region having second
traction projections that protrude from the bottom surface of the
outsole, the central region and projections being made of a second
material. Preferably, the hardness of the second material is
greater than the hardness of the first material. More particularly,
the Shore A hardness of the second material is preferably greater
than the Shore A hardness of the first material. In one preferred
embodiment, the first material is a rubber material having a
material hardness in the range of about 50 to about 70 Shore A; and
the second material is thermoplastic polyurethane having a material
hardness greater than about 70 Shore A and preferably about 72 to
about 95 Shore A. More preferably, the hardness of the second
material is at least 20% greater than the hardness of the first
material.
[0012] The outsole may further include one or more flexing channels
that extend transversely or longitudinally through the outsole. In
addition to the traction projections, the shoe may include spikes
and/or cleats. In one embodiment, the projections located in the
central region of the outsole are longer than the projections
located in the perimeter region. Alternatively, in another
embodiment, the projections arranged in the central region of the
outsole are shorter than the projections arranged in the perimeter
region.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] The novel features that are characteristic of the present
invention are set forth in the appended claims. However, the
preferred embodiments of the invention, together with further
objects and attendant advantages, are best understood by reference
to the following detailed description in connection with the
accompanying drawings in which:
[0014] FIG. 1 is a bottom perspective view of a golf shoe of the
present invention;
[0015] FIG. 2 is a side perspective view of a golf shoe of the
present invention;
[0016] FIG. 3A is a close-up view of the forward portion of the
outsole of the golf shoe shown in FIGS. 1 and 2;
[0017] FIG. 3B is a close-up view of the mid-foot portion of the
outsole of the golf shoe shown in FIGS. 1 and 2;
[0018] FIG. 3C is a close-up view of the rearward portion of the
outsole of the golf shoe shown in FIGS. 1 and 2;
[0019] FIG. 4A-1 is a lateral view of a golf shoe of this invention
(right foot) showing the rearward portion of the outsole striking
the ground surface during a first stage of a person's walking
cycle;
[0020] FIG. 4A-2 is a front elevation view of the golf shoe shown
in FIG. 4A-1;
[0021] FIG. 4B-1 is a lateral view of a golf shoe of this invention
(right foot) showing the rearward and forward portion of the
outsole making contact with the ground surface during a second
stage of a person's walking cycle;
[0022] FIG. 4B-2 is a front elevation view of the golf shoe shown
in FIG. 4B-1;
[0023] FIG. 4C-1 is a lateral view of a golf shoe of this invention
(right foot) showing the forward portion of the outsole making
contact with the ground surface as a person pushes off on his/her
feet during a third stage of a person's walking cycle;
[0024] FIG. 4C-2 is a front elevation view of the golf shoe shown
in FIG. 4C-1;
[0025] FIG. 5A is a front elevation view of a golf shoe of this
invention (right foot) showing the shoe in a neutral position as a
golfer starts his/her golf shot cycle;
[0026] FIG. 5B is a front elevation view of the golf shoe shown in
FIG. 5A showing the shoe rolling outwardly (to the lateral side) as
the golfer engages in a golf shot cycle;
[0027] FIG. 5C is a front elevation view of the golf shoe shown in
FIG. 5B showing the shoe rolling inwardly to a neutral position as
the golfer engages continues the golf shot cycle; and
[0028] FIG. 5D is a front elevation view of the golf shoe shown in
FIG. 5C showing the shoe rolling inwardly (to the medial side) as
the golfer finishes his/her golf shot cycle.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0029] The present invention provides a golf shoe having an outsole
made of materials of differing hardness. Referring to FIG. 1, one
embodiment of the golf shoe of this invention is shown. The shoe
(10) includes an upper portion (12) and outsole portion (16) along
with a midsole (14) that connects the upper (12) to the outsole
(16).
[0030] The upper (12) has a traditional shape and is made from a
standard upper material such as leather. An opening (18) is formed
by the top portion of the upper (12) for receiving a user's foot
(FIG. 2). For example, the upper (12) may be formed primarily of a
substantially inelastic material including, but not limited to,
natural leather, synthetic leather, other non-woven materials,
natural fabric, and synthetic fabric. The leather materials help
provide the shoe with good wear-resistance and comfort.
[0031] The midsole (14) is relatively lightweight and provides
cushioning to the shoe. The midsole (14) may be made from a
material such as ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA). In one
manufacturing process, the midsole (14) is molded on and about the
outsole. Alternatively, the midsole (14) may be molded as a
separate piece and then joined to the outsole (16) by stitching,
adhesives, or other suitable means using standard techniques known
in the art. For example, the midsole (14) may be heat-pressed and
bonded to the top surface of the outsole. The outsole (16) is
molded from at least two materials having different hardness levels
as described further below.
[0032] Basically, the anatomy of the foot can be divided into three
bony regions. The rear-foot region generally includes the ankle
(talus) and heel (calcaneus) bones. The mid-foot region includes
the cuboid, cuneiform, and navicular bones that form the
longitudinal arch of the foot. The forefoot region includes the
metatarsals and the toes. Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3A-3C, different
sections of the outsole (16) of this invention are shown.
[0033] The outsole (16) includes a forward portion (20) for
supporting the forefoot region; a mid-foot portion (22) for
supporting the mid-foot region including the arch area; and
rearward portion (24) for supporting the rear-foot including heel
area. The outsole (16) has a top (upper) surface (not shown) and
bottom (lower) surface (26). The midsole (14) is joined to the top
surface of the outsole (16). The bottom surface (26) of the outsole
is configured to contact the ground during golf play and other
activities as discussed further below.
[0034] As shown in FIG. 2, the outsole portion (16) generally
includes two regions: a) a perimeter (exterior) region (28); and b)
a central (interior) region (30). The perimeter region (28)
generally extends along the periphery of the outsole (16) and
substantially surrounds the central region (30). In general,
measuring from the outer edge (29) of the outsole (16) in a linear
direction towards the center region (30) of the outsole, the
perimeter region (28) has a width of about 10 to about 50 mm,
preferably about 20 to about 30 mm. The width of the perimeter
region may vary along the contour of the shoe. In one preferred
embodiment, the perimeter region (28) is made of a relatively hard
material. For example, the perimeter region (28) may be made of a
thermoplastic polyurethane composition having a durometer of
greater than about 70 Shore A points, preferably about 72 to about
95 Shore A points, and more preferably about 75 to about 85 Shore A
points. Suitable commercially-available polyurethanes that may be
used to form the exterior region (28) include Sunko T-785 VM,
available from Sunko Ink Co., Ltd. (Tali City, Taiwan). Another
suitable material is thermoplastic polyurethane manufactured by
Taiwan Ure-Tech Co., Ltd under the tradename, Utechilan UTY-75A-85A
having about 75 to about 85 Shore A hardness. Meanwhile, the
central region (30) is preferably made of a relatively soft
material such as rubber. For example, the interior region (30) may
be made of a rubber composition having a durometer of about 50 to
about 70 Shore A points, preferably about 55 to about 65 Shore A
points, and more preferably about 58 to about 62 Shore A points. In
a particularly preferred embodiment, the exterior region (28) is
substantially harder than the interior region (30). For example,
the hardness of the exterior region (28) may be at least 20%
greater than the hardness of the interior region (30), preferably
at least 25% greater, and more preferably at least 30% greater.
[0035] As noted above, a thermoplastic polyurethane composition may
be used to form the relatively hard perimeter region of the shoe.
In general, such polyurethane compositions contain urethane
linkages formed by reacting an isocyanate group (--N.dbd.C.dbd.O)
with a hydroxyl group (OH). The polyurethanes are produced by the
reaction of a multi-functional isocyanate (NCO--R--NCO) with a
long-chain polyol having terminal hydroxyl groups (OH--OH) in the
presence of a catalyst and other additives. The chain length of the
polyurethane prepolymer is extended by reacting it with short-chain
diols (OH--R'--OH). The resulting polyurethane has elastomeric
properties because of its "hard" and "soft" segments, which are
covalently bonded together. Polyester, polyether, and
polycaprolactone-based polyurethanes may be used. The polyurethane
may be aromatic or aliphatic based on the diisocyanates used. For
example, aromatic diisocyanates include toluene 2,4-diisocyanate
(TDI), toluene 2,6-diisocyanate (TDI), 4,4'-methylene diphenyl
diisocyanate (MDI), 2,4'-methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI),
polymeric methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (PMDI), p-phenylene
diisocyanate (PPDI), m-phenylene diisocyanate (PDI), naphthalene
1,5-diisocyanate (NDI), naphthalene 2,4-diisocyanate (NDI),
p-xylene diisocyanate (XDI). The aromatic isocyanates are able to
react with the polyol and form a durable and tough polymer having a
high melting point. The resulting polyurethane generally has good
mechanical strength and wear-resistance. Aliphatic diisocyanates
include isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI), 1,6-hexamethylene
diisocyanate (HDI), 4,4'-dicyclohexylmethane diisocyanate
("H.sub.12 MDI"), meta-tetramethylxylyene diisocyanate (TMXDI),
trans-cyclohexane diisocyanate (CHDI),
1,3-bis(isocyanatomethyl)cyclohexane; and
1,4-bis(isocyanatomethyl)cyclohexane. The resulting polyurethane
formed from these compounds generally has good light and thermal
stability.
[0036] Polyurea compositions also can be used. In general, polyurea
compositions contain urea linkages formed by reacting an isocyanate
group (--N.dbd.C.dbd.O) with an amine group (NH or NH.sub.2). The
chain length of the polyurea prepolymer is extended by reacting the
prepolymer with an amine curing agent. Hybrid poly(urethane/urea)
compositions containing urethane and urea linkages also may be
used. Any suitable commercial polyurethane, polyurea, and hybrids,
copolymers, and blends thereof may be used in accordance with this
invention. The thermoplastic polyurethanes have good physical
properties such as tensile strength, toughness, flex modulus,
durability, wear and tear-resistance; as well as good
chemical-resistance.
[0037] Other thermoplastic elastomers that can be used in
accordance with this invention include polyester-polyether block
copolymers such as Hytrel.RTM. resins, available from DuPont. These
block copolymers are available in different grades and contain hard
(crystalline) segments of polybutylene terephthalate and soft
(amorphous) segments based on long-chain polyether glycols.
Polyether-amide block copolymers, which are commonly known as
Pebax.RTM. resins, and are available from Arkema, Inc. (Columbs,
France), also may be used. Other suitable thermoplastic polymers
include, but are not limited to, ethylene acid copolymer ionomers,
polyamides, polyesters, polyolefins, polyamides, polyamide-ethers,
polyamide-esters; fluoropolymers, polystyrenes, polyvinyl
chlorides, polycarbonates, polyethers, and polyimides including
homopolymers, copolymers, and modified polymers and blends
thereof.
[0038] As noted above, a rubber material may be used to form the
relatively soft central region of the shoe. Suitable rubber
materials that may be used include, but are not limited to,
polybutadiene, polyisoprene, ethylene propylene rubber ("EPR"),
ethylene-propylene-diene ("EPDM") rubber, styrene-butadiene rubber,
styrenic block copolymer rubbers (such as "SI", "SIS", "SB", "SBS",
"SIBS", "SEBS", "SEPS" and the like, where "S" is styrene, "I" is
isobutylene, "E" is ethylene, "P" is propylene, and "B" is
butadiene), polyalkenamers such as, for example, polyoctenamer,
butyl rubber, halobutyl rubber, polystyrene elastomers,
polyethylene elastomers, polyurethane elastomers, polyurea
elastomers, metallocene-catalyzed elastomers and plastomers,
copolymers of isobutylene and p-alkylstyrene, halogenated
copolymers of isobutylene and p-alkylstyrene, copolymers of
butadiene with acrylonitrile, polychloroprene, alkyl acrylate
rubber, chlorinated isoprene rubber, acrylonitrile chlorinated
isoprene rubber, and blends of two or more thereof.
[0039] The rubber composition may be cured using conventional
curing processes. Suitable curing processes include, for example,
peroxide-curing, sulfur-curing, high-energy radiation, and
combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the rubber composition
contains a free-radical initiator selected from organic peroxides,
high energy radiation sources capable of generating free-radicals,
and combinations thereof. The rubber compositions may further
include a reactive cross-linking co-agent such as zinc salts of
acrylates, diacrylates, methacrylates, and dimethacrylates. A wide
variety of fillers and additives may be added to the rubber
materials to impart specific properties to the material. For
example, relatively heavy-weight and light-weight metal fillers
such as, particulate; powders; flakes; and fibers of copper, steel,
brass, tungsten, titanium, aluminum, magnesium, molybdenum, cobalt,
nickel, iron, lead, tin, zinc, barium, bismuth, bronze, silver,
gold, and platinum, and alloys and combinations thereof may be used
to adjust the specific gravity of the composition. Other additives
and fillers include, but are not limited to, optical brighteners,
coloring agents, fluorescent agents, whitening agents, UV
absorbers, light stabilizers, surfactants, processing aids,
antioxidants, stabilizers, softening agents, fragrance components,
plasticizers, impact modifiers, titanium dioxide, clay, mica, talc,
glass flakes, milled glass, and mixtures thereof.
[0040] As discussed above, each of the forward (20), mid-foot (22),
and rearward (24) sections of the outsole include an interior
region (30) comprising a first material, preferably a rubber
material; and an exterior region (28) comprising a second material,
preferably a thermoplastic polyurethane. It also should be
understood that each portion may further comprise other materials.
That is, the different sections of the outsole (20, 22, and 24) may
be made from a variety of materials in addition to the
above-described first and second materials having different t
hardness levels.
[0041] For example, the mid-foot portion (22) of the outsole may
include a logo sub-assembly (25) in a designated area. A
transparent layer of plastic material (27) may be applied over the
logo sub-assembly (25) to protect the logo when the outsole
contacts the ground while still permitting visibility of the logo.
One preferred material for the transparent layer (27) is an
ester-based thermoplastic polyurethane manufactured by Taiwan
Ure-Tech Co., Ltd under the tradename UTY-90A, having a Shore A
hardness of about 90. Thus, in this example, the interior region
(30) of the mid-foot region (22) comprises a relatively soft
material such as rubber, and a relatively hard material such as the
thermoplastic polyurethane used in the transparent layer (27) and
logo sub-assembly (25). In another example, the forward (20),
mid-foot (22), and rearward (24) sections of the outsole may
include an interior region (30) comprising a relatively soft first
material (rubber) and relatively soft third material (ethylene
vinyl acetate); and an exterior region (28) comprising a relatively
hard second material (thermoplastic polyurethane).
[0042] In another embodiment, the midsole portion (14) includes two
regions: a) a perimeter (exterior) region; and b) a central
(interior) region. In a manner similar to the outsole construction
described above, the perimeter region is made of a relatively hard
material. For example, the perimeter region may be made of an
ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) composition having a durometer of
greater than about 65 Shore A, preferably about 68 to about 88
Shore A and more preferably about 70 to about 75 Shore A.
Meanwhile, the central region is made of a relatively soft material
such as rubber or a softer EVA composition. For example, the
interior region may be made of an EVA composition having a
durometer of less than about 65 Shore A, preferably about 50 to
about 63 Shore A, and more preferably about 55 to about 60 Shore A.
In yet another version, the midsole portion includes two layers.
The first midsole layer includes the exterior and interior regions
of varying hardness as described above. A second midsole layer
overlays the first midsole layer and may be made of a suitable
material such as a blend of EVA and Kraton.RTM. SEBS rubber. For
example, a blend comprising 70 to 90% by weight EVA and 10 to 30%
by weight Kraton.RTM. SEBS rubber could be used. In one preferred
example, the composition comprises about 85% EVA and about 15%
Kraton.RTM. SEBS rubber. Other Kraton.RTM. polymer products can be
used such as Kraton.RTM. SBS, SIS, and isoprene rubber
materials.
[0043] Many golf courses offer golfers the choice of driving an
electric-powered cart over or walking the course. Some golfers
prefer to walk the entire course. Even golfers, who prefer to drive
carts, will walk a considerable distance during their round of
play. Depending upon the length of the course, speed of play, and
other factors, a golfer may walk a few miles in a round. Thus, a
golf shoe needs to be comfortable to wear and allow a golfer to
walk naturally and freely. That is, the foot needs to be supported,
but the foot also must be allowed to move to some degree. Referring
to FIGS. 4A-1 to 4C-2, a normal walking cycle is schematically
diagramed. Typically, when a person starts naturally walking, the
outer part of his/her heel strikes the ground first with the foot
in a slightly supinated position. FIGS. 4A-1 and 4A-2 show
different views of one version of the golf shoe of this invention
(right foot) with the heel portion of the outsole striking the
ground surface first as the golfer starts his/her walking gait. As
the person transfers his/her weight to the inside portion of the
foot, the arch of the foot is flattened, and the foot is pressed
downwardly. The foot also starts to rolls slightly inwardly to a
pronated position. In some instances, the foot may roll inwardly to
an excessive degree and this is type of gait is referred to as
over-pronation. In other instances, the foot does not roll inwardly
to a sufficient degree and this is referred to as under-pronation.
FIGS. 4B-1 and 4B-2 show the rearward and forward portion of the
outsole making contact with the ground surface. Normal foot
pressure is applied downwardly and the foot starts to move to a
normal pronated position and this helps with shock absorption.
After the foot has reached this neutral position (FIGS. 4B-1 and
4B-2), the person pushes off on the ball of his/her foot and
continues walking (FIGS. 4C-1 and 4C-2). At this point, the foot
also rolls slightly outwardly again. In FIGS. 4C-1 and 4C-2, the
forward portion of the outsole is shown making contact with the
ground surface as the person pushes off his/her foot and begins
their next step. These continuous stresses on the outer and inner
portions of the foot can cause ligaments, tendons, and muscles in
the foot to feel sore and even sprain or tear. The golf shoes of
the present invention help address these injury risks with their
improved support around the exterior of the shoe. The shoe help
provide a stable platform without sacrificing flexibility. Thus,
the golfer can walk comfortably and easily with support. The golfer
can easily walk with his/her natural gait. The foot is allowed to
move, and yet at the same time, the motion of the foot is
controlled.
[0044] More particularly, the projections (35a) located in the
interior region (30) of the outsole (16) are more flexible than the
projections (35b-35d) located in the exterior region (28). As
discussed above, the interior region (30) contains first
projections (35a) made of a relatively soft and flexible material
such as rubber, while the exterior region (28) contains projections
made of a harder and stiffer material such as thermoplastic
polyurethane. In addition, the projections (35a) located in the
interior region (30) of the outsole preferably have greater lengths
than the projections (35b-35d) located in the exterior region (28).
In this manner, the softer inner projections (35a) are able to
contact the ground first in the walking cycle, compress more
easily, and help provide flexibility to the shoe. Thus, the person
can walk more comfortably. Meanwhile, in this one embodiment, the
exterior region (28) contains projections (35b-35d) having a
shorter length. These shorter projections (35b-35d) contact the
ground subsequently to the longer projections (35a) to help provide
balance and traction control.
[0045] During normal golf play, a golfer makes shots with a wide
variety of clubs. As the golfer swings a club when making a shot
and transfers their weight, the foot absorbs tremendous forces. For
example, in many cases, when a right-handed golfer is following
through on a shot, their left shoe rolls from the medial side
(inside) of their left foot toward the lateral side (outside) of
the left foot. Meanwhile, their right shoe rolls from the lateral
side of the right foot to the medial side of the right foot.
Referring to FIGS. 5A-5C, the movement of a shoe (right foot)
during a golf shot cycle is schematically diagrammed FIG. 5A shows
a golf shoe of this invention (right foot) in a neutral position as
a golfer starts their golf shot. In FIG. 5B, the shoe is shown
rolling outwardly (to the lateral side) as the golfer makes their
backswing. In FIG. 5C, the golf shoe is shown rolling inwardly to a
neutral position as the golfer makes their downswing. In FIG. 5D,
the golfer is following through on his/her swing and the shoe is
rolling inwardly (to the medial side).
[0046] As illustrated in FIGS. 5A-5D, significant pressure is
applied to the exterior of the foot at various stages in the golf
shot cycle. In the present invention, the exterior region (28) of
the outsole (16) is designed to provide support and stability to
the sides of the foot. That is, the exterior region (28) provides
support around the edges (29) of the outsole. This exterior region
(28) helps hold and support the medial and lateral sides of the
golfer's foot as he/she shifts their weight when making a shot. On
the other hand, the interior region (30) of the outsole is designed
to provide comfort and cushioning to the foot. The interior region
(28) is made of a relatively soft material and deforms more easily.
This outsole structure helps provide comfort and support across the
golfer's foot. Thus, the golfer has better stability and balance in
all phases of the game including walking. In addition, the golf
shoe (10) is lightweight and comfortable to wear.
[0047] The outsole also may include one or more flexing channels
that extend transversely or longitudinally through it. For example,
referring back to FIG. 2, in one version, the forward region (20)
of the outsole (16) includes a flexing channel (32) that extends
transversely along the outsole. Preferably, the flexing channel
(32) in the outsole (16) is positioned so that it falls below the
metatarsal area of the person wearing the shoe. The flexing channel
(32) is preferably positioned to provide bending regions in the
outsole (16) that correspond to the natural bending of the foot
during walking.
[0048] The flexing channels (32) may be formed of a thermoplastic
urethane that is substantially soft for providing additional
flexibility. Preferably, the material used to form the flexing
channel (32) has a hardness of less than about 85 Shore A. In one
version, the material has a hardness of about 70 Shore A. One
suitable polyurethane material that can be used to form the flexing
channels is manufactured by Taiwan Ure-Tech Co., Ltd. under the
tradename U-70AP and has a Shore A of about 70. Other suitable
thermoplastic urethanes include Desmopan.TM. from Bayer and
Pebax.TM. from Atofina. The outsole (16) (which contains or does
not contain the flexing channels) of the present invention may be
formed by various molding methods.
[0049] The golf shoe of this invention preferably includes traction
projections of various shapes that protrude from the bottom surface
of the outsole. The traction projections are designed to engage the
ground surface and provide an increased area of contact with the
ground. This helps provide the golfer with better foot traction on
the turf as he walks the course and plays the round.
[0050] In FIG. 2, the outsole is shown containing four sets of
traction projections (35a, 35b, 35c, and 35d). The traction
projections (35a-35d), which are shown in FIG. 2, are of various
shapes and sizes. The traction projections may be of any suitable
shape including, but not limited to, rectangular, triangular,
square, spherical, star, diamond, pyramid, arrow, rod, or
conical-shapes. Also, the height and area of the traction
projections may be the same or different. For example, in one
embodiment (FIG. 2), the projections (35a) located in the central
region (30) of the outsole are more flexible and longer than the
projections (35b-35d) located in the perimeter region (28).
Alternatively, in another embodiment, the projections (35a)
arranged in the central region (30) of the outsole are shorter than
the projections (35b-35d) arranged in the perimeter region
(28).
[0051] More particularly, each of the forward (20), mid-foot (22),
and rearward (24) sections of the outsole include traction
projections and close-up views of these different sections are
shown in FIGS. 3A-3C. The traction projections (35b, 35c, and 35d)
located in the perimeter region (28) may be referred to as inner
projections (35b); intermediate projections (35c); and outer
projections (35d), respectively. The inner projections (35b) are
disposed along the inner edge of the perimeter region (28). The
outer projections (35d) are disposed along the outer edge (29) of
the perimeter region (28), and the intermediate projections (35c)
are disposed between the inner and outer projections (35b, 35d). In
one embodiment, the inner and outer projections (35b, 35d) have
smaller dimensions than the intermediate projections (35c). In
another embodiment, the inner and outer projections (35b, 35d) have
larger dimensions than the intermediate projections (35c). In yet
another embodiment, the inner, intermediate, and outer projections
(35b, 35c, and 35d) each have the same dimensions. As shown in
FIGS. 3A-3C, the number and pattern of traction projections located
in the forward (20) section of the outsole (16) differs from the
number and pattern of the traction projections located in the
mid-foot (22) section, and these differ from the traction
projections in the rearward (24) section. In other embodiments, the
number and pattern of traction elements may be uniform across the
different section (20, 22, and 24) outsole (16). The traction
projections may be of any suitable shape including, but not limited
to, rectangular, triangular, square, spherical, star, diamond,
pyramid, arrow, rod, or conical-shapes. Also, the height and
surface area of the traction projections may be the same of
different.
[0052] As discussed above, in FIG. 2, the outsole (16) includes
discrete sets of projections (35a, 35b, 35c, and 35d) positioned in
different areas. There are no spikes or cleats shown in the outsole
(16) of FIG. 2; however, any number of spikes or cleats may be
included if such traction elements are needed. A wide variety of
constructions, patterns, and designs of traction elements may be
used in the outsoles of this invention. It should be understood
that the type, amount, dimensions, spacing, and pattern of traction
projections and elements shown in FIGS. 1 to 5D are for
illustrative purposes only and not meant to be restrictive. The
outsole may include a wide variety of traction projections and
elements in accordance with the present invention.
[0053] The bottom surface (26) of the outsole (16) may further
include traction elements such spikes or cleats. If such spikes or
cleats are present, they are preferably releasably fastened to
sockets (receptacles) in the outsole. The socket may be located in
a molded pod (not shown) attached to the outsole. The molded pod
helps provide further stability and balance to the shoe. The spike
may be inserted and removed easily from the receptacle. Normally,
the spike may be secured in the receptacle by inserting it and then
slightly twisting it in a clockwise direction. The spike may be
removed from the receptacle by slightly twisting it in a
counter-clockwise direction. The outsole may include any suitable
amount of cleats, and the cleats can be arranged in a wide variety
of patterns. Preferably, the outsole includes 5, 6, 7, 8, or 9
cleats that may be arranged in various patterns. Such releasable
cleats are commercially-available from manufacturers such as
Softspikes, LLC, a division of Pride Manufacturing LLC. (Brentwood,
Tenn.). The cleats are preferably made of a plastic material, since
most golf courses require that golfers use non-metal cleats.
[0054] In one embodiment, the interior region (30) comprising the
relatively soft material constitutes about 30 to about 70% of the
total surface area of the outsole (15). The exterior region (28)
comprising the relatively hard material constitutes about 70% to
about 30% of the total surface area of the outsole (16). More
particularly, in one embodiment, referring to the rearward (heel)
portion (24) of the shoe, the interior region (30) constitutes
about 10% or greater of the total surface area of the rearward
portion (24). Preferably, the interior region (30) constitutes
about 20% or greater of the surface area of the rearward portion
(24). For example, the lower limit of the interior region (surface
area in the rearward portion) comprising the relatively soft
material may be about 10% or 20% or 30% or 35% or 40% or 45% and
the upper limit may be about 55% or 60% or 70% or 80% or 90% based
on total surface area of the rearward portion (24). In one
preferred embodiment, the interior region (30) constitutes about
50% of the surface area of the rearward portion (24). In another
embodiment, referring to the forefoot portion (20) of the shoe, the
interior region (30) constitutes 15% or greater of the total
surface area of the forefoot portion, preferably 30% or greater. In
yet another embodiment, referring to the mid-foot portion (22) of
the shoe, the interior region (30) constitutes 20% or greater of
the total surface area of the mid-foot portion, preferably 60% or
greater.
[0055] Measurement of Hardness
[0056] There is a difference between "material hardness" and
"hardness as measured directly on the shoe." For purposes of the
present invention, material hardness is measured according to ASTM
D2240 and generally involves measuring the hardness of a flat
"slab" or "button" formed of the material. Surface hardness as
measured directly on a shoe (or other surface) typically results in
a different hardness value. The difference in "surface hardness"
and "material hardness" values is due to several factors including,
but not limited to, shoe construction (that is, shoe type, number
of mid-sole and outsole layers, and the like); thickness of midsole
and outsole layers; and the material composition of the midsole and
outsole. It also should be understood that the two measurement
techniques are not linearly related and, therefore, one hardness
value cannot easily be correlated to the other. Shore A material
hardness was measured according to the test method ASTM D2240
[0057] It is understood that the shoe materials and structures
described and illustrated herein represent only some embodiments of
the invention. It is appreciated by those skilled in the art that
various changes and additions can be made to materials and
structures without departing from the spirit and scope of this
invention. It is intended that all such embodiments be covered by
the appended claims.
[0058] When numerical lower limits and numerical upper limits are
set forth herein, it is contemplated that any combination of these
values may be used. Other than in the operating examples, or unless
otherwise expressly specified, all of the numerical ranges,
amounts, values and percentages such as those for amounts of
materials and others in the specification may be read as if
prefaced by the word "about" even though the term "about" may not
expressly appear with the value, amount or range. Accordingly,
unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set
forth in the specification and attached claims are approximations
that may vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be
obtained by the present invention.
* * * * *