U.S. patent application number 14/284349 was filed with the patent office on 2015-11-26 for boots with spur stability system.
This patent application is currently assigned to Ariat International, Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is Ariat International, Inc.. Invention is credited to Calvin Myron Buck, IV, Austin C.F. Condit, Marco Aurelio Grott, Jose Rafael Monroy.
Application Number | 20150335101 14/284349 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 54555116 |
Filed Date | 2015-11-26 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150335101 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Monroy; Jose Rafael ; et
al. |
November 26, 2015 |
BOOTS WITH SPUR STABILITY SYSTEM
Abstract
Boots with spur stability systems are disclosed herein. A spur
stability system can be configured to couple with a boot having an
upper and an outsole, where the spur stability system includes at
least one strap stability structure that is configured to resist
motion of a spur strap relative to the boot when a spur is
operatively attached to the boot with the spur strap. The spur
stability system can have an upper strap coupled to the spur, in
contact with at least one stability structure on the external
surface of the upper. The spur stability system can additionally
have a lower strap coupled to the spur, in contact with at least
one stability structure on the external surface of the outsole.
Inventors: |
Monroy; Jose Rafael; (Union
City, CA) ; Grott; Marco Aurelio; (Pleasanton,
CA) ; Condit; Austin C.F.; (Solvang, CA) ;
Buck, IV; Calvin Myron; (Vancouver, WA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Ariat International, Inc. |
Union City |
CA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Ariat International, Inc.
Union City
CA
|
Family ID: |
54555116 |
Appl. No.: |
14/284349 |
Filed: |
May 21, 2014 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
36/131 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A43C 17/02 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A43C 17/02 20060101
A43C017/02; A43B 5/00 20060101 A43B005/00 |
Claims
1. A boot, comprising: an upper that defines a shaft and a shell
and is configured to receive a wearer's foot; an outsole that is
operatively attached to the upper and configured to contact a
ground surface when the wearer wears the boot; and a spur stability
system that includes at least one strap stability structure that is
configured to resist motion of a spur strap relative to the boot
when a spur is operatively attached to the boot with the spur
strap.
2. The boot of claim 1, wherein the strap stability structure
includes an upper strap stability structure that forms a portion of
the upper.
3. The boot of claim 2, wherein the upper strap stability structure
is configured to resist motion of an upper spur strap that, when
present, extends across the upper in contact with the upper strap
stability structure.
4. The boot of claim 2, wherein the upper strap stability structure
extends from a surface of the upper to contact the upper spur
strap.
5. The boot of claim 1, wherein the strap stability structure
includes an upper strap stability structure that is operatively
attached to the upper.
6. The boot of claim 1, wherein the strap stability structure
includes a lower strap stability structure that forms a portion of
the outsole.
7. The boot of claim 5, wherein the lower strap stability structure
is configured to resist motion of a lower spur strap that, when
present, extends across the outsole in contact with the lower strap
stability structure.
8. The boot of claim 5, wherein the lower strap stability structure
extends from a surface of the outsole to contact the lower spur
strap.
9. The boot of claim 1, wherein the strap stability structure
includes a lower strap stability structure that is operatively
attached to the outsole.
10. The boot of claim 1, wherein the spur stability system further
includes a spur rest that is configured to support a yoke of the
spur.
11. The boot of claim 10, wherein the spur rest is located at least
partially between the yoke and the outsole when the spur is
operatively attached to the boot.
12. The boot of claim 10, wherein the spur rest is sized to resist
motion toward the outsole by a portion of the yoke that is in
contact with the spur seat.
13. The boot of claim 10, wherein the spur rest is defined by a
protrusion that extends from a surface of the boot.
14. The boot of claim 1, wherein the boot further includes an
abrasion-resistant toe region that is selected to resist damage to
a toe region of the boot.
15. The boot of claim 14, wherein the abrasion-resistant toe region
is formed from an abrasion-resistant material that is operatively
attached to the upper.
16. The boot of claim 14, wherein the abrasion-resistant toe region
is formed from a different material than at least a portion of a
remainder of the upper.
17. The boot of claim 1, wherein the strap stability structure is
defined by a stability structure material that is selected to have
a high coefficient of static friction with the spur strap.
18. The boot of claim 17, wherein a coefficient of static friction
between the stability structure material and the spur strap is at
least a threshold multiple larger than a coefficient of static
friction between a remainder of the upper and the spur strap,
wherein the threshold multiple is at least 2 times larger than the
coefficient of static friction between the remainder of the upper
and the spur strap.
19. The boot of claim 17, wherein a coefficient of static friction
between the stability structure material and the spur strap is at
least a threshold multiple larger than a coefficient of static
friction between a remainder of the upper and the spur strap,
wherein the threshold multiple is at least 3 times larger than the
coefficient of static friction between the remainder of the upper
and the spur strap.
20. The boot of claim 17, wherein a coefficient of static friction
between the stability structure material and the spur strap is at
least a threshold multiple larger than a coefficient of static
friction between a remainder of the upper and the spur strap,
wherein the threshold multiple is at least 5 times larger than the
coefficient of static friction between the remainder of the upper
and the spur strap.
21. The boot of claim 17, wherein a coefficient of static friction
between the stability structure material and the spur strap is at
least a threshold multiple larger than a coefficient of static
friction between a remainder of the upper and the spur strap,
wherein the threshold multiple is at least 10 times larger than the
coefficient of static friction between the remainder of the upper
and the spur strap.
22. The boot of claim 1, wherein the strap stability structure is
formed from at least one of a resilient material, a flexible
material, an abrasion-resistant material, and a high-friction
material.
23. The boot of claim 1, wherein the strap stability structure is
formed from a material that grips the spur strap.
24. The boot of claim 1, wherein the strap stability structure is
formed from a material that conforms to a surface of the spur
strap.
25. The boot of claim 1, wherein the strap stability structure is
formed from at least one of a polymeric material and an elastomeric
material.
26. The boot of claim 1, wherein the strap stability structure
defines a plurality of raised projections.
27. The boot of claim 1, wherein the strap stability structure
defines a plurality of raised ribs.
28. The boot of claim 1, wherein the strap stability structure
defines a plurality of raised ridges.
29. The boot of claim 1, wherein the strap stability structure is
configured to be compressed between the spur strap and the boot.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application claims priority to U.S. provisional
patent application 61/825,873 and U.S. provisional patent
application No. 61/825,864, both filed on May 21, 2013, which are
hereby incorporated by reference.
FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0002] The present disclosure is directed to footwear, and more
particularly to boots that include a spur stability system.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Wearers of western and/or equestrian boots often may utilize
spurs, which are tools that may be operatively attached, or
coupled, to the wearer's boot and positioned for engaging and/or
directing a horse. Spurs typically have a yoke that wraps partially
around a rear portion of the boot and that is attached to the boot
by one or more straps. This yoke additionally or alternatively may
be referred to as a band or a heel band. While a wearer is riding a
horse, the spurs may move and/or translate relative to the wearer's
boot, thereby decreasing their effectiveness. Thus, there exists a
need for boots with a spur stability system.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0004] A spur stability system as disclosed herein can be
configured to couple with a boot having an upper and an outsole,
where the spur stability system includes at least one strap
stability structure that is configured to resist motion of a spur
strap relative to the boot when a spur is operatively attached to
the boot with the spur strap. The spur stability system can have an
upper strap coupled to the spur or spur yoke, in contact with at
least one stability structure on the external surface of the upper.
The spur stability system can additionally have a lower strap
coupled to the spur or spur yoke, in contact with at least one
stability structure on the external surface of the outsole.
[0005] Illustrative, non-exclusive examples of systems and methods
according to the present disclosure are presented below. In some
embodiments, a boot can include an upper that defines a shaft and a
shell which is configured to receive a wearer's foot, an outsole
that is operatively attached to the upper and configured to contact
a ground surface when the wearer wears the boot, and a spur
stability system that includes at least one strap stability
structure that is configured to resist motion of a spur strap
relative to the boot when a spur is operatively attached to the
boot with the spur strap. In some aspects, the boot strap stability
structure can include an upper strap stability structure that is
either or both (i) operatively attached to the upper and (ii) forms
a portion of the upper. In other aspects, the upper strap stability
structure is configured to resist motion of an upper spur strap
that, when present, extends across the upper in contact with the
upper strap stability structure. In further aspects, the upper
strap stability structure can extend from a surface of the upper to
contact one or more upper spur straps. In some aspects, the strap
stability structure can include a lower strap stability structure
that is either or both (i) operatively attached to the outsole and
(ii) forms a portion of the outsole.
[0006] In some aspects a boot having a lower strap stability
structure can be configured to resist motion of a lower spur strap
that, when present, extends across the outsole in contact with the
lower strap stability structure. In other aspects, the lower strap
stability structure can extend from a surface of the outsole to
contact a/the lower spur strap. In further aspects, the spur
stability system can include a spur rest that is configured to
support a yoke of the spur. In some aspects, a boot having a spur
rest can be located at least partially between the yoke and the
outsole when the spur is operatively attached to the boot. In other
aspects, the spur rest is sized to resist motion toward the outsole
by a portion of the yoke that is in contact with the spur seat. In
further aspects, the spur rest can be defined by a protrusion that
extends from a surface of the boot. In some aspects, the boot can
further include an abrasion-resistant toe region that is selected
to resist damage to a toe region of the boot. In such aspects, the
abrasion-resistant toe region can be formed from an
abrasion-resistant material that is operatively attached to the
upper. In further aspects, the abrasion-resistant toe region can be
formed from a different material than (at least a portion of) a
remainder of the upper.
[0007] In some aspects, a boot having a strap stability structure
can be defined by a stability structure material that is selected
to have a high coefficient of static friction with the spur strap.
In such aspects, a coefficient of static friction between the
stability structure material and the spur strap is at least a
threshold multiple larger than a coefficient of static friction
between a remainder of the upper and the spur strap, where the
threshold multiple can be at least 2, at least 3, at least 4, at
least 5, at least 6, at least 8, or at least 10 times larger than
the coefficient of static friction between the remainder of the
upper and the spur strap. In some aspects, the strap stability
structure is formed from at least one of a resilient material, a
flexible material, an abrasion-resistant material, and a
high-friction material. In other aspects, the strap stability
structure is formed from a material that is either or both (i)
grips the spur strap, and (ii) conforms to a surface of the spur
strap. In further aspects, the strap stability structure can be
formed from at least one of a polymeric material and an elastomeric
material. In some aspects, the strap stability structure defines
any one or a combination of (i) a plurality of raised projections,
(ii) a plurality of raised ribs, and (iii) a plurality of raised
ridges. In some aspects, the strap stability structure can be
configured to be compressed between the spur strap and the
boot.
[0008] These and other features, aspects, and advantages are
described below with reference to the following drawings, and will
become better understood when the following detailed description is
read with reference to the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of illustrative,
non-exclusive examples of a boot that includes a spur stability
system according to the present disclosure.
[0010] FIG. 2 is a schematic representation of illustrative,
non-exclusive examples of the boot of FIG. 1 with an attached
spur.
[0011] FIG. 3 is a schematic illustration of non-exclusive examples
of a side view of a boot that includes a spur stability system
according to the present disclosure.
[0012] FIG. 4 is a schematic illustration of a non-exclusive
example of an opposed side view of the boot of FIG. 3.
[0013] FIG. 5 is a schematic illustration of a non-exclusive
example of a top view of a toe region of the boot of FIGS. 3-4.
[0014] FIG. 6 is a schematic illustration of a non-exclusive
example of an upper strap stability structure according to the
present disclosure.
[0015] FIG. 7 is a schematic illustration of non-exclusive examples
of an outer surface of an outsole that includes a lower strap
stability structure according to the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0016] Throughout this description for the purposes of explanation,
numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a
thorough understanding of the many embodiments disclosed herein. It
will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art that the many
embodiments may be practiced without some of these specific
details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are
shown in diagram or schematic form to avoid obscuring the
underlying principles of the described embodiments.
[0017] Western-style and equestrian boots often use spurs, which
are tools that can be mechanically attached or coupled to a boot,
and positioned for engaging and/or directing a horse. Spurs
generally have a yoke that wraps partially around a rear portion of
the boot and that is attached to the boot by one or more straps.
The yoke, or yoke straps, can be further secured to the boot
through the use of a spur stability system, constructed into the
exterior structure of the boot. In various embodiments, a spur
stability system can include, independently or in combination:
strap stability structures on the upper portion of the boot (e.g.
on the vamp or shell) that have a coefficient of friction greater
than that of the remainder of the upper that engages with parts of
the yoke or straps and generally prevents unwanted movement of the
yoke or straps; strap stability structures on the outsole of the
boot that have a coefficient of friction greater than that of the
remainder of the outsole that engages with parts of the yoke or
straps and generally prevents unwanted movement of the yoke or
straps; and ridges, ribs, or protrusions along the upper of the
boot, which can provide for spaces in which the yoke or straps can
rest and be secured, or can act as a biasing member against forces
that may otherwise cause the spur or yoke to move in an unwanted
direction while coupled to the boot.
[0018] FIGS. 1-7 provide illustrative, non-exclusive examples of a
boot 10, or portions thereof, that include a spur stability system
150 according to the present disclosure. Elements that serve a
similar, or at least substantially similar, purpose are labeled
with like numbers in each of FIGS. 1-7, and these elements may not
be discussed in detail herein with reference to each of FIGS. 1-7.
Similarly, all elements may not be labeled in each of FIGS. 1-7,
but reference numerals associated therewith may be utilized herein
for consistency. Elements, components, and/or features that are
discussed herein with reference to one or more of FIGS. 1-7 may be
included in and/or utilized with any of FIGS. 1-7 without departing
from the scope of the present disclosure.
[0019] In general, elements that are likely to be included in a
given (i.e., a particular) embodiment are illustrated in solid
lines, while elements that are optional to a given embodiment are
illustrated in dashed lines. However, elements that are shown in
solid lines are not essential to all embodiments, and an element
shown in solid lines may be omitted from a particular embodiment
without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
[0020] FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of illustrative,
non-exclusive examples of a boot 10 that includes a spur stability
system 150 according to the present disclosure, while FIG. 2 is a
schematic representation of the boot of FIG. 1 with an attached
spur 90. In FIGS. 1-2, boot 10 includes an upper 20, an outsole 50,
and spur stability system 150. Spur stability system 150 includes
at least one strap stability structure 160, which is configured to
resist motion of a spur strap 94 relative to the boot when spur 90
is operatively attached to the boot with the spur strap (as
illustrated in FIG. 2). Spur stability system 150 optionally may
include a spur rest 120 (which can alternatively be referred to as
a spur ledge or a spur seat). In aspects, the spur stability
structure 160 can include more than one spur strap 94, which in
further aspects can include an upper spur strap 96 and a lower spur
strap 98.
[0021] Strap stability structure 160 may include an upper strap
stability structure 162 that may be operatively attached to, formed
by, and/or form a portion of upper 20. Upper strap stability
structure 162 may be selected, sized, designed, constructed, and/or
configured to resist a motion of an upper spur strap 96 that may
extend across and/or around upper 20 and in contact with the upper
strap stability structure when spur 90 is operatively attached to
boot 10 (as illustrated in FIG. 2). As an illustrative,
non-exclusive example, upper strap stability structure 162 may
project or otherwise extend from an external surface 14 of boot 10
(or upper 20 thereof) to contact, interface with, and/or decrease a
motion of upper spur strap 96. As discussed herein, the upper strap
stability structure 162 may frictionally engage and limit relative
sliding movement of the upper spur strap 96 relative to the
external surface of the boot. Moreover, the upper strap stability
structure 162 may frictionally engage and limit relative sliding
movement to a greater extent than the portions of the external
surface of the boot that are adjacent, and optionally immediately
adjacent, to the upper strap stability structure 162.
[0022] Additionally or alternatively, strap stability structure 160
also may include a lower strap stability structure 164 that may be
operatively attached to, formed by, and/or form a portion of
outsole 50. Lower strap stability structure 164 may be selected,
sized, designed, constructed, and/or configured to resist a motion
of a lower spur strap 98 that may extend across and/or around
outsole 50 (or an arch region 65 thereof) and in contact with the
lower strap stability structure when spur 90 is operatively
attached to boot 10 (as illustrated in FIG. 2). As an illustrative,
non-exclusive example, lower strap stability structure 164 may
project or otherwise extend from external surface 14 of boot 10 (or
an outer surface 68 of outsole 50) to contact, interface with,
and/or decrease a motion of lower spur strap 98. As discussed
herein, the lower strap stability structure 164 may frictionally
engage and limit relative sliding movement of the lower spur strap
98 relative to the external surface of the boot. Moreover, the
lower strap stability structure 164 may frictionally engage and
limit relative sliding movement to a greater extent than the
portions of the external surface of the boot that are adjacent, and
optionally immediately adjacent, to the lower strap stability
structure 164.
[0023] Regardless of the location of strap stability structure 160
on and/or within boot 10, the strap stability structure 160 may
include and/or be defined by a stability structure material that is
adapted, configured, formulated, synthesized, and/or selected to
have a high coefficient of static friction with spur strap(s) 94.
As an illustrative, non-exclusive example, the coefficient of
static friction between strap stability structure 160 and strap(s)
94 may be greater than a coefficient of static friction between
strap(s) 94 and a remainder of boot 10, upper 20, and/or outsole 50
at least a threshold multiple. As used herein, this "remainder"
additionally or alternatively may be referred to as a conventional
portion, an adjacent portion, an immediately adjacent portion,
and/or a leather portion of the boot, upper, and/or outsole against
which a spur strap is in engagement during use of a boot with the
corresponding spur and/or against which the spur strap would be in
engagement but for the presence of the strap stability structure
160. As illustrative, non-exclusive examples, the coefficient of
static friction between strap stability structure 160 and strap(s)
94 may be at least 2, at least 3, at least 4, at least 5, at least
6, at least 8, or at least 10 times larger than the coefficient of
static friction between strap(s) 94 and the remainder of boot 10,
upper 20, and/or outsole 50.
[0024] As additional illustrative, non-exclusive examples, strap
stability structure 160 may include and/or be formed from a
resilient material, a flexible material, an abrasion-resistant
material, and/or a high-friction material. Additionally or
alternatively, strap stability structure 160 also may be formed
from a material that grips spur strap(s) 94 and/or conforms to a
surface, or surface profile, of spur strap(s) 94. As more specific
but still illustrative, non-exclusive examples, strap stability
structure 160 may include and/or be a polymeric material and/or an
elastomeric material.
[0025] It is within the scope of the present disclosure that strap
stability structure 160 may include and/or define any suitable
shape and/or conformation. For example, the strap stability
structure 160 may include at least one (and optionally a plurality
of spaced-apart) strap-stabilizing and/or strap-retaining region,
or surface, such as on the top, side, and/or opposed sides of the
upper's shell or vamp, and/or on the outsole, such as on the bottom
surface, one side, and/or opposed sides of the outsole. As
illustrative, non-exclusive examples (and as illustrated in FIG. 6
at 166), the strap stability structure 160 may include and/or be a
plurality of raised projections, a plurality of raised ribs, a
plurality of raised ridges, a plurality of spaced-apart
projections, a plurality of spaced-apart ribs, and/or a plurality
of spaced-apart ridges. As another illustrative, non-exclusive
example, strap stability structure 160 also may be selected, sized,
and/or configured to be compressed between spur strap(s) 94 and a
remainder of boot 10, such as to increase a friction between the
strap stability structure and the strap(s) and/or to decrease a
potential for relative motion between boot 10 and strap(s) 94.
[0026] As discussed, spur stability system 150 also may include
spur rest 120, which also may be referred to herein as a spur rest
120. Spur rest 120 may be selected, sized, and/or configured to
support a yoke 92 of spur 90 (as illustrated in FIG. 2). As an
illustrative, non-exclusive example, spur rest 120 may be located
at least partially between yoke 92 and outsole 50, and spur rest
120 may be configured to resist motion of a portion of the yoke 92
that is in contact with the spur rest toward outsole 50. As another
illustrative, non-exclusive example, spur rest 120 may include
and/or be a stop, rib, and/or other protrusion 122 that extends
from external surface 14 of boot 10.
[0027] As illustrated in FIGS. 1-2, boot 10 further may include an
abrasion-resistant toe region 180 that is adapted, configured,
and/or selected to resist damage to a toe region 182 of boot 10. As
an illustrative, non-exclusive example, abrasion-resistant toe
region 180 may be formed from an abrasion-resistant material 184.
As another illustrative, non-exclusive example, abrasion-resistant
toe region 180 may be formed from a different material than at
least a portion of a remainder of upper 20 and/or may extend over
and/or across the portion of the remainder of upper 20.
[0028] Upper 20 may include any suitable structure that is sized,
designed, constructed, and/or configured to receive a wearer's foot
and may be constructed from any suitable material. This may include
any suitable conventional upper that may be utilized in
conventional boots. As illustrative, non-exclusive examples, upper
20 may include a shaft 22 and a shell (or vamp) 24, with shaft 22
permitting entry of the wearer's foot into shell 24 and encircling
a lower portion of a wearer's leg when the wearer is wearing the
boot, and with shell 24 housing the wearer's foot while the wearer
is wearing boot 10. Typically, shaft 22 (which additionally or
alternatively may be referred to as a chimney) will extend around
at least an ankle and an Achilles portion of the wearer's lower
leg, with some shafts extending to the wearer's mid-calf and/or to
or toward the wearer's knee. As additional illustrative,
non-exclusive examples, upper 20 may be constructed from naturally
occurring materials, leather, cloth, synthetic materials, and/or
polymers. Additional illustrative, non-exclusive examples of uppers
20 that may be utilized with and/or included in boots 10 according
to the present disclosure are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,980,010,
the complete disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by
reference.
[0029] Outsole 50 may include any suitable structure that is sized,
designed, constructed, and/or configured to contact the ground
surface when the wearer wears boots 10. This may include any
suitable conventional outsole that may be utilized in conventional
boots. As illustrated in FIGS. 1-2, outsole 50 may include and/or
have attached thereto a heel, or heel cap, 52. Heel 52 may be
described as a projecting heel, or projecting heel cap, because it
extends away from the shaft and defines an engagement surface 63,
such as may be used to engage and position the boot within a
stirrup. It is within the scope of the present disclosure that
outsole 50 may be formed and/or constructed from any suitable
material, or combinations of materials, including naturally
occurring materials, leather, rubber, synthetic materials, and/or
polymers. Further, in some aspects, the structure of the heel 52
can include an extension that is functional as a spur rest 120. As
indicated in FIG. 1, outsole 50 may include a shank 64, which
supports an arch region 65 of the outsole, and may include and/or
be used in combination with a midsole 66 and/or footbed 67, which
(when present) are located closer to the wearer's foot when the
boot is worn than the remainder of the outsole. The outer (i.e.,
ground contacting or bottom) surface 68 of outsole 50 and/or heel
52 may optionally include a tread structure. Illustrative,
non-exclusive examples of outsoles 50 that may be included in
and/or utilized with boots 10 according to the present disclosure
are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos.
2010/0126044 and 2011/0271553, the complete disclosures of which
are hereby incorporated by reference.
[0030] FIGS. 3-7 are schematic illustrations of non-exclusive
examples of boots 10 and/or spur stability systems 150 according to
the present disclosure that may include and/or be boots 10 and/or
spur stability systems 150 of FIGS. 1-2. In FIGS. 3-7 locations,
orientations, and/or dimensions of boots 10 and/or components
thereof may be described in specific detail. These locations,
orientations, and/or dimensions represent illustrative,
non-exclusive examples of locations, orientations, and/or
dimensions according to the present disclosure, and boots 10 and/or
components thereof according to the present disclosure are not
limited to the illustrated locations, orientations, and/or
dimensions (including relative dimensions).
[0031] FIG. 3 is a schematic illustration of a non-exclusive
example of a side view of boot 10, while FIG. 4 is an opposed side
view of the boot of FIG. 3. As illustrated in FIGS. 3-4 and
discussed herein, boots 10 include an upper 20, an outsole 50, and
spur stability system 150. Spur stability system 150 includes a
spur rest 120 and strap stability structure 160. Strap stability
structure 160 includes upper strap stability structure 162 and
lower strap stability structure 164. In aspects, the strap
stability structure 160 is made of a rubberized and abrasive
material that can grip to spur straps and yoke structures.
[0032] In some aspects as shown, the upper strap stability
structure 162 includes a plurality of ridges (alternatively
referred to as raised ribs, ridges, and/or projections) extending
from the surface of the shell 24. The plurality of ridges defining
the upper strap stability structure 162 in such aspects can be of
varying length and/or parallel relative to each other. In other
aspects, a plurality of ridges defining the upper strap stability
structure 162 can be of equal length and/or non-parallel relative
to each other. In some aspects, a plurality of ridges defining an
upper strap stability structure 162 can include two ridges, three
ridges, four ridges, five ridges, or more than five ridges. In some
embodiments, an upper strap stability structure 162 can have
portions on both the medial side of a boot 10 or shell 24 and on
the lateral side of a boot 10 or shell 24. In some aspects, the
configuration of an upper strap stability structure 162 on the
medial side of a shell 24 can be symmetrical to the configuration
of the upper strap stability structure 162 on the lateral side of a
shell 24. In other aspects, the configuration of an upper strap
stability structure 162 on the medial side of a shell 24 can be
asymmetrical to the configuration of the upper strap stability
structure 162 on the lateral side of a shell 24.
[0033] FIG. 5 is a schematic illustration of a non-exclusive
example of a top view of a toe region 182 of boot 10 of FIGS. 3-4.
Toe region 182 is an abrasion-resistant toe region 180 and includes
a plurality of regions that are formed from an abrasion-resistant
material 184. One or more of these abrasion-resistant regions, such
as the illustrated region or regions distal from the toe region
182, may additionally or alternatively be or form a portion of a
strap stability structure 160 of a spur stability system 150.
[0034] In some embodiments, the abrasion-resistant material 184 can
be attached to the exterior of a portion of the shell 24 in the toe
region 182, thereby forming an abrasion-resistant toe region 180.
In some aspects, the abrasion-resistant material 184 can be sewn or
welted to the shell. In other aspects, additionally or
alternatively, an adhesive can be used to attach the
abrasion-resistant material 184 to the shell 24. In other
embodiments, the abrasion-resistant material 184 can be
manufactured as part of the shell 24. In embodiments as
illustrated, the abrasion-resistant toe region 180 can include
three distinct sections of abrasion-resistant material 184. In
other embodiments, the abrasion-resistant toe region 180 can be
configured to have on section of abrasion-resistant material 184,
two distinct sections of abrasion-resistant material 184, or more
than three distinct sections of abrasion-resistant material 184. In
embodiments as illustrated, the abrasion-resistant material 184 can
span the full width of the shell 24 across the toe region 182. In
other embodiments, abrasion-resistant material 184 can span a
portion of the width of the shell 24 across the toe region 182. For
example, in some aspects, abrasion-resistant material 184 can be
present any one or a combination of on the medial side of a shell
24 in the toe region 182, on the lateral side of a shell 24 in the
toe region 182, and on the top surface of a shell 24 in the toe
region 182. The abrasion-resistant material 184 can be angled
upward along the shape of the shell 24, and futher each section of
the abrasion-resistant material 184 can have a particular length,
as measured between the toe and the heel of the boot, where each
element individually and in combination contributes to the ability
of the abrasion-resistant material 184 to grip and secure spur
straps and yoke structures.
[0035] FIG. 6 is a schematic illustration of a non-exclusive
example of an upper strap stability structure 162 according to the
present disclosure that may be operatively attached to boot 10
and/or to upper 20 thereof. As illustrated in FIG. 6, upper strap
stability structure 162 includes and/or defines a plurality of
spaced-apart raised ribs, ridges, and/or projections 166 that may
be sized to extend from a surface of upper 20 and/or to contact
upper spur strap 96 (as illustrated in FIG. 2).
[0036] In some aspects, as seen along the cross-sectional view 163
of the upper strap stability structure 162 taken along the line
A-A, where the upper strap stability structure 162 is defined by a
plurality of spaced-apart ridges 166, the individual ridges can
each extend about 0.5 mm to about 3.5 mm from the surface of an
upper. In other aspects, the individual ridges can each be about
2.5 mm to about 3.5 mm in thickness (where the thickness of the
ridge is measured along a primarily vertical axis of a boot 10). In
further aspects, the individual ridges can have a width that is
about the length of a section of strap stability structure 160 that
is attached or adhered to a shell 24 (where the thickness of the
ridge is measured along a primarily longitudinal axis of a boot
10). In some aspects, an individual ridge of a plurality of
spaced-apart ridges 166 can be about 0.5 cm to about 1.5 cm distant
from an adjacent individual ridge.
[0037] FIG. 7 is a schematic illustration of non-exclusive examples
of an outer surface 68 of an outsole 50 that includes a lower strap
stability structure 164 according to the present disclosure. As
illustrated in FIG. 7, lower strap stability structure 164 may be
associated with, defined by, defined on, and/or operatively
attached to any suitable portion of outer surface 68, such as a
portion of outer surface 68 that is within arch region 65.
[0038] In some aspects, the lower strap stability structure 164 can
include a projection that projects about 0.5 to 1.5 mm outward from
the outer surface 68 of an outsole 50. In other aspects, a
projection of the lower strap stability structure 164 can have a
width (as measured between the medial and lateral sides of a boot
10) of from about 1 cm to about 4 cm. In further aspects, the lower
strap stability structure 164 can include sections on either or
both of the lateral and medial sides of the outsole 50 that project
inward toward the centerline of a boot 10, providing for spaces in
which a lower spur strap 98 can secure or rest when a spur 90 is
attached to the boot 10.
[0039] As used herein, the term "and/or" placed between a first
entity and a second entity means one of (1) the first entity, (2)
the second entity, and (3) the first entity and the second entity.
Multiple entities listed with "and/or" should be construed in the
same manner, i.e., "one or more" of the entities so conjoined.
Other entities may optionally be present other than the entities
specifically identified by the "and/or" clause, whether related or
unrelated to those entities specifically identified. Thus, as a
non-limiting example, a reference to "A and/or B," when used in
conjunction with open-ended language such as "comprising" may
refer, in one embodiment, to A only (optionally including entities
other than B); in another embodiment, to B only (optionally
including entities other than A); in yet another embodiment, to
both A and B (optionally including other entities). These entities
may refer to elements, actions, structures, steps, operations,
values, and the like.
[0040] As used herein, the phrase "at least one," in reference to a
list of one or more entities should be understood to mean at least
one entity selected from any one or more of the entity in the list
of entities, but not necessarily including at least one of each and
every entity specifically listed within the list of entities and
not excluding any combinations of entities in the list of entities.
This definition also allows that entities may optionally be present
other than the entities specifically identified within the list of
entities to which the phrase "at least one" refers, whether related
or unrelated to those entities specifically identified. Thus, as a
non-limiting example, "at least one of A and B" (or, equivalently,
"at least one of A or B," or, equivalently "at least one of A
and/or B") may refer, in one embodiment, to at least one,
optionally including more than one, A, with no B present (and
optionally including entities other than B); in another embodiment,
to at least one, optionally including more than one, B, with no A
present (and optionally including entities other than A); in yet
another embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than
one, A, and at least one, optionally including more than one, B
(and optionally including other entities). In other words, the
phrases "at least one," "one or more," and "and/or" are open-ended
expressions that are both conjunctive and disjunctive in operation.
For example, each of the expressions "at least one of A, B and C,"
"at least one of A, B, or C," "one or more of A, B, and C," "one or
more of A, B, or C" and "A, B, and/or C" may mean A alone, B alone,
C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, A, B
and C together, and optionally any of the above in combination with
at least one other entity.
[0041] In the event that any patents, patent applications, or other
references are incorporated by reference herein and (1) define a
term in a manner that is inconsistent with and/or (2) are otherwise
inconsistent with, either the non-incorporated portion of the
present disclosure or any of the other incorporated references, the
non-incorporated portion of the present disclosure shall control,
and the term or incorporated disclosure therein shall only control
with respect to the reference in which the term is defined and/or
the incorporated disclosure was present originally.
[0042] As used herein the terms "adapted" and "configured" mean
that the element, component, or other subject matter is designed
and/or intended to perform a given function. Thus, the use of the
terms "adapted" and "configured" should not be construed to mean
that a given element, component, or other subject matter is simply
"capable of" performing a given function but that the element,
component, and/or other subject matter is specifically selected,
created, implemented, utilized, programmed, and/or designed for the
purpose of performing the function. It is also within the scope of
the present disclosure that elements, components, and/or other
recited subject matter that is recited as being adapted to perform
a particular function may additionally or alternatively be
described as being configured to perform that function, and vice
versa. Similarly, subject matter that is recited as being
configured to perform a particular function may additionally or
alternatively be described as being operative to perform that
function.
[0043] As used herein, the terms "medial" and "medial side" refer
to the inner side of a foot extending from the large toe to the
heel, and the terms "lateral" and "lateral side" refer to the outer
side of the foot extending from the small toe to the heel.
Similarly, articles of footwear include medial and lateral sides
that conform to the medial and lateral sides, respectively, of the
foot. The term "centerline" refers to the major longitudinal axis
along the length of an article of footwear, centered between the
medial and lateral sides of the footwear article.
[0044] It is believed that the disclosure set forth above
encompasses multiple distinct inventions with independent utility
having applicability to the footwear industry. While each of these
inventions has been disclosed in its preferred form, the specific
embodiments thereof as disclosed and illustrated herein are not to
be considered in a limiting sense as numerous variations are
possible. The subject matter of the inventions includes all novel
and non-obvious combinations and subcombinations of the various
elements, features, functions and/or properties disclosed herein.
Similarly, when the disclosure, the preceding numbered paragraphs,
or subsequently filed claims recite "a" or "a first" element or the
equivalent thereof, such claims should be understood to include
incorporation of one or more such elements, neither requiring nor
excluding two or more such elements.
[0045] Applicant reserves the right to submit claims directed to
certain combinations and subcombinations that are directed to one
of the disclosed inventions and are believed to be novel and
non-obvious. Inventions embodied in other combinations and
subcombinations of features, functions, elements and/or properties
may be claimed through amendment of those claims or presentation of
new claims in that or a related application. Such amended or new
claims, whether they are directed to a different invention or
directed to the same invention, whether different, broader,
narrower or equal in scope to the original claims, are also
regarded as included within the subject matter of the inventions of
the present disclosure.
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