US20190133257A1

US20190133257A1 - Article of footwear with self-cleaning surface

Info

Publication number: US20190133257A1
Application number: US16/178,628
Authority: US
Inventors: Koosha Aslani; Matthew J. Holmes; Ruzica Krstic; Myron Maurer; Tetsuya T. Minami; Thomas J. RUSHBROOK; Denis Schiller; Timothy J. Smith
Original assignee: Nike Inc
Current assignee: Nike Inc
Priority date: 2013-11-15
Filing date: 2018-11-02
Publication date: 2019-05-09
Also published as: US20160278484A1; WO2015073645A1

Abstract

An article of footwear having a self-cleaning surface and a method of making an article of footwear are disclosed. The article of footwear may generally include a sole plate having cleats associated with resilient members. The resilient members may be disposed on a bottom surface of the sole plate in an area near the cleats. For example, a resilient member may be disposed in on the bottom surface of the sole plate in the peripheral area of a cleat. The resilient members may prevent mud from accumulating on the cleats and/or a bottom surface of the sole plate by compressing against a surface of the ground and then springing back, preventing mud from sticking to the resilient member.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/036,785, filed on May 13, 2016, which is the national phase of International Application No. PCT/US2014/065409, filed Nov. 13, 2014, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/904,689, filed Nov. 15, 2013, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

FIELD

The present invention relates generally to an article of footwear and, more particularly, to a sports shoe with cleats.

BACKGROUND

Articles of footwear having cleats have previously been proposed. While conventional cleats generally help give sports shoes more grip, the cleats often accumulate mud when the article of footwear is worn in muddy conditions. In some instances, the mud accumulates on a shaft of the cleats and in the spaces between the cleats. The accumulation of mud weighs down the article of footwear and interferes with the traction between the cleats and the ground. It would be advantageous for a sports shoe to have cleats that prevent mud from accumulating around the cleats.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention can be better understood with reference to the following drawings and description. The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the invention. Moreover, in the figures, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the different views.

FIG. 1 is an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of an article of footwear with a sole plate with cleats;

FIG. 2 is a plane view of the sole plate of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a side view of the sole plate of FIG. 1 from a lateral side;

FIG. 4 is a side view of the sole plate of FIG. 1 from a medial side;

FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the sole plate of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a rear view of cleats of the sole plate of FIG. 1 before being submerged in mud;

FIG. 7 is a rear view of cleats of the sole plate of FIG. 1 being submerged in mud;

FIG. 8 is a rear view of the first cleat of the sole plate of FIG. 1 after being submerged in mud;

FIG. 9 is a rear view of a prior art sole plate before being submerged in mud;

FIG. 10 is a rear view of the cleats of the prior art sole plate being submerged in mud;

FIG. 11 is a rear view of the prior art sole plate after the cleats are submerged in mud;

FIG. 12 is an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of an article of footwear with a sole plate with cleats;

FIG. 13 is a plane view of the sole plate of FIG. 12;

FIG. 14 is an exploded view of the sole plate of FIG. 12;

FIG. 15 is a plane view of an exemplary embodiment of a sole plate of an article of footwear;

FIG. 16 is a plane view of an exemplary embodiment of a sole plate of an article of footwear;

FIG. 17 is an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of an article of footwear with a sole plate with cleats;

FIG. 18 is a plane view of the sole plate of FIG. 17;

FIG. 19 is an exploded view of the sole plate of FIG. 17;

FIG. 20 is an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of an article of footwear with a sole plate with cleats;

FIG. 21 is a plane view of the sole plate of FIG. 20;

FIG. 22 is an exploded view of the sole plate of FIG. 20;

FIG. 23 is an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of an article of footwear with a sole plate with cleats;

FIG. 24 is a plane view of the sole plate of FIG. 23;

FIG. 25 is an exploded view of the sole plate of FIG. 23;

FIG. 26 is an exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of an article of footwear with a sole plate with cleats;

FIG. 27 is an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of an article of footwear with a sole plate with cleats;

FIG. 28 is a plane view of the sole plate of FIG. 27; and

FIG. 29 is an exploded view of the sole plate of FIG. 27.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

An article of footwear having a self-cleaning surface and a method of making an article of footwear are disclosed. The article of footwear may generally include a sole plate having cleats associated with resilient members. The resilient members may be disposed on a bottom surface of the sole plate in an area near the cleats. For example, a resilient member may be disposed in on the bottom surface of the sole plate in the peripheral area of a cleat. The resilient members may prevent mud from accumulating on the cleats and/or a bottom surface of the sole plate by compressing against a surface of the ground and then springing back, preventing mud from sticking to the resilient member.
In one aspect, the article of footwear may include a sole plate including a bottom surface having a forefoot region, a heel region, a longitudinal axis extending through the forefoot region and heel region, a forward edge, and a rearward edge. The article of footwear may include a first cleat disposed on the bottom surface of the sole plate. The first cleat may have a shaft extending away from the bottom surface of the sole plate and a terminal end disposed opposite the bottom surface of the sole plate. The article of footwear may include a second cleat disposed on the bottom surface of the sole plate and spaced from the second cleat. The second cleat may have a shaft extending away from the bottom surface of the sole plate and a terminal end disposed opposite the bottom surface of the sole plate. The article of footwear may include a first resilient member disposed on the bottom surface of the sole plate. The first resilient member may be disposed in a space defined between the first cleat and the second cleat.
In some embodiments, the first resilient member may have a first hole with a shape substantially corresponding to a shape of the shaft of the first cleat and a second hole with a shape substantially corresponding to a shape of the shaft of the second cleat.
In some embodiments, the first resilient member may be substantially flat.
In some embodiments, the first resilient member may be substantially flush with the bottom surface of the sole plate.
In some embodiments, the first resilient member may be made of a foam material.
In some embodiments, the first resilient member may be made from at least one of silicone and rubber.
In some embodiments, the article of footwear may include an upper attached to the sole plate.
In some embodiments, the article of footwear may have a first resilient member permanently affixed to the bottom surface of the sole plate in an area of the bottom surface of the sole plate that substantially surrounds the first cleat.
In some embodiments, the first resilient member may have a thickness that is less than a length of the first cleat.
In some embodiments, the first resilient member may contact the shaft of the first cleat.
In some embodiments, the article of footwear may include a third cleat disposed on the bottom surface of the sole plate and spaced from a second side of the first cleat that is opposite the first side of the first cleat. The third cleat may have a shaft extending away from the bottom surface of the sole plate and a terminal end disposed opposite the bottom surface of the sole plate. The first resilient member may have a first edge and a second opposite edge. The first edge may be disposed between the first cleat and the second cleat and the second edge may be disposed between the first cleat and the third cleat.
In some embodiments, the article of footwear may include a fourth cleat disposed on the bottom surface of the sole plate and spaced from a third side of the first cleat. The fourth cleat may have a shaft extending away from the bottom surface of the sole plate and a terminal end disposed opposite the bottom surface of the sole plate. The first resilient member may be disposed in a space defined between the first cleat and the fourth cleat.
In some embodiments, the article of footwear may include a fifth cleat disposed on the bottom surface of the sole plate and spaced from the first cleat and the fourth cleat. The article of footwear may further include a sixth cleat disposed on the bottom surface of the sole plate and spaced from the first cleat, the fourth cleat, and the fifth cleat. The article of footwear may include a second resilient member disposed on the bottom surface of the sole plate. The second resilient member may be disposed in a space disposed between the fourth cleat, the fifth cleat, and the sixth cleat.
In some embodiments, the first resilient member and the second resilient member may each have a substantially uniform thickness.
In some embodiments, the second resilient member may have a first edge and a second edge opposite the first edge. The first edge of the second resilient member may be disposed on a first side of the fourth cleat and the second edge may be disposed on a first side of fifth cleat.
In some embodiments, the second resilient member may have a hole disposed in the space disposed between the fourth cleat, the fifth cleat, and the sixth cleat.
In one aspect, the method of making an article of footwear may include a step of providing a sole plate including a bottom surface having a forefoot region, a heel region, a longitudinal axis extending through the forefoot region and heel region, a forward edge, and a rearward edge. The sole plate further may include a first cleat disposed on the bottom surface of the sole plate. The first cleat may have a shaft extending away from the bottom surface of the sole plate and a terminal end disposed opposite the bottom surface of the sole plate. The sole plate may also include a second cleat disposed on the bottom surface of the sole plate and spaced from the second cleat. The second cleat may have a shaft extending away from the bottom surface of the sole plate and a terminal end disposed opposite the bottom surface of the sole plate. The method may further include a step of placing a first resilient member on the bottom surface of the sole plate such that first resilient member is disposed in a space defined between the first cleat and the second cleat.
In some embodiments, the method may further include a step of placing a second resilient member on the bottom surface of the sole plate such that the second resilient member is disposed in a space defined between both a third cleat and a fourth cleat of the sole plate. The third cleat and the fourth cleat may both be spaced from the first cleat, the second cleat, and each other.
In some embodiments, the step of placing the second resilient member on the bottom surface of the sole plate may include permanently affixing the first resilient member to the bottom surface of the sole plate.
In some embodiments, the first resilient member may have a thickness that is less than a length of the first cleat.
Other systems, methods, features and advantages of the invention will be, or will become, apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description, it is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features and advantages be included within this description and this summary, be within the scope of the invention, and be protected by the following claims.
An article of footwear having a self-cleaning surface is disclosed. The article of footwear may include a sole plate having cleats associated with resilient members. For example, FIGS. 1-8 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a sole plate 102 may include a first cleat 110 having a first resilient member 174. The resilient members associated with the cleats may prevent mud from accumulating on the cleats and/or a bottom surface of the sole plate by compressing against a surface of the ground and then springing back, preventing mud from sticking to the resilient member. For example, FIGS. 6-8 (described in more detail below) show a resilient member before, during, and after cleats are submerged in mud. Preventing mud from accumulating in the area surrounding the cleats may also prevent mud from accumulating on the cleats and in the spaces between the cleats.
The following detailed description discusses an exemplary embodiment in the form of soccer boots, but it should be noted that the present concept may be associated with any article of footwear, including, but not limited to, baseball shoes, rugby shoes, and football shoes. The articles of footwear shown in the figures may be intended to be used with a left foot. However, it should be understood that the following discussion may apply to mirror images of the articles of footwear that may be intended to be used with a right foot.
In some embodiments, the sole plate may be associated with an upper. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, sole plate 102 may be associated with upper 104. The upper may be attached to the sole plate by any known mechanism or method. For example, upper 104 may be stitched to sole plate 102 or upper 104 may be glued to sole plate 102. The upper may be configured to receive a foot. The exemplary embodiment shows a generic design for the upper. In some embodiments, the upper may include another type of design.
The sole plate and upper may be made from materials known in the art for making articles of footwear. For example, the sole plate may be made from elastomers, siloxanes, natural rubber, synthetic rubbers, aluminum, steel, natural leather, synthetic leather, plastics, or thermoplastics. In another example, the upper may be made from nylon, natural leather, synthetic leather, natural rubber, or synthetic rubber.
The sole plate may have a top surface and a bottom surface. For example, referring to FIGS. 1-8, sole plate 102 may include a top surface 306 and a bottom surface 108. The sole plate may be configured to be attached to the upper. The sole plate may also be configured to be attached to a midsole or an insole of an article of footwear. The top surface may be configured to contact the midsole or the insole. The sole plate may include a forefoot region disposed proximate a wearer's forefoot. For example, sole plate 102 may include a forefoot region 140. The sole plate may include a heel region disposed proximate a wearer's heel and opposite the forefoot region. For example, sole plate 102 may include a heel region 142. The sole plate may include a midfoot region disposed between the forefoot region and the heel region. For example, sole plate 102 may include a midfoot region 144. The sole plate may include a medial side and a lateral side opposite medial side. For example, sole plate 102 may include a medial side 172 and a lateral side 170. The sole plate may include a medial edge on the medial side and a lateral edge on the lateral side. The sole plate may include a forward edge in the forefoot region and a rearward edge in the heel region and disposed opposite the forward edge.
The bottom surface of the sole plate may be configured to contact a playing surface. For example, the bottom surface may be configured to contact grass, synthetic turf, dirt, or sand. The bottom surface of the sole plate may include provisions for increasing traction with such a playing surface. For example, as shown in FIGS. 1-8, such provisions may include cleats. First cleat 110, a second cleat 112, a third cleat 114, a fourth cleat 1 18, a fifth cleat 1 18, a sixth cleat 120, a seventh cleat 122, and an eighth cleat 124 may be disposed on forefoot region 140 of sole plate 102. A ninth cleat 126, a tenth cleat 128, an eleventh cleat 130, and a twelfth cleat 132 may be disposed on heel region 142 of sole plate 102. A thirteenth cleat 134, a fourteenth cleat 136, and a fifteenth cleat 138 may be disposed on forefoot region 140 of sole plate 102.
In some embodiments, the sole plate may include cleats that extend from the bottom surface. For example, as shown in FIGS. 1-8, sole plate 102 may include cleats integrally formed with sole plate 102 through molding. In another example, the sole plate may be configured to receive cleats, in some embodiments, the sole plate may include cleat receiving members configured to receive removable cleats. For example, the cleat receiving members may include threaded holes and the cleats may screw into the threaded holes. In some embodiments, the cleat receiving members may be raised with respect to the sole plate. In other embodiments, the cleat receiving members may be flush with the bottom surface of the sole plate.
The cleats may be made from materials known in the art for making articles of footwear. For example, the cleats may be made from elastomers, siloxanes, natural rubber, synthetic rubbers, aluminum, steel, natural leather, synthetic leather, plastics, or thermoplastics. In some embodiments, the cleats may be made of the same materials. In other embodiments, the cleats may be made of various materials. For example, first cleat 110 may be made of aluminum while second cleat 112 is made of a thermoplastic material.
The cleats may have any type of shape. In some embodiments, the cleats may all have the same shape, in other embodiments, at least one of the cleats may have a different shape from another cleat. For example, in the exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-8, first cleat 110 may be shaped differently from ninth cleat 128. In some embodiments, the cleats may have a first set of identically shaped cleats, a second set of identically shaped cleats, and/or a third set of identically shaped cleats. For example, as shown in FIGS. 1-8, first cleat 110, second cleat 112, third cleat 114, fourth cleat 118, fifth cleat 118, sixth cleat 120, seventh cleat 122, and eighth cleat 124 may make up a first set of cleats having a first shape, while ninth cleat 126, tenth cleat 128, eleventh cleat 130, and twelfth cleat 132 may make up a second set of cleats having a second shape, and thirteenth cleat 134, fourteenth cleat 136, and fifteenth cleat 138 may make up a third set of cleats having a third shape.
The cleats may have a shaft extending away from the bottom surface of the sole plate. The shaft may have a surface. The cleats may have a terminal end that is disposed opposite the bottom surface of the sole plate. For example, as shown in the zoomed in rear view of tenth cleat 128 and twelfth cleat 132 in FIGS. 6-8, tenth cleat 128 may have a shaft 604 and a terminal end 602 and twelfth cleat 132 may have a shaft 610 and a terminal end 608. In some embodiments, the shaft of at least one cleat may be round. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the shaft of at least one cleat may form a circular shape (tenth cleat 128) or an oval shape (ninth cleat 126). A surface of the round shaft may formed by a single sidewall. In other embodiments, at least one of the cleats may be a shaft formed from a plurality of sidewalls. For example, a cleat may have three sidewalls forming a triangular shaped shaft. In another example, a cleat may have four sidewalls forming a square shaped shaft or a rectangular shaped shaft. The terminal end of at least one cleat may be a substantially flat surface. For example, as shown in FIGS. 6-8, terminal end 602 may be a substantially flat surface, in some embodiments, a substantially flat surface of the terminal end of at least one cleat may be substantially parallel with the bottom surface of the sole plate. In some embodiments, a substantially flat surface of the terminal end of the at least one cleat may be substantially angled with respect to the bottom surface of the sole plate, in other embodiments, the terminal end of at least one cleat may have other shapes that are not substantially flat. For example, the terminal end of the cleat may be a substantially rounded surface. In another example, the terminal end of the cleat may be a surface having ridges, in yet another example, the terminal end of the cleat may be substantially conical.
In some embodiments, the cleats may have the same height, width, and/or thickness as each other. In other embodiments, the cleats may have different heights, different widths, and/or different thicknesses from each other, in some embodiments, a first set of cleats may have the same height, width, and/or thickness as each other, while a second set of cleats may have a different height, width, and/or thickness from the first set of cleats. For example, as shown in FIGS. 1-8, first cleat 110, second cleat 112, third cleat 114, fourth cleat 118, fifth cleat 118, sixth cleat 120, seventh cleat 122, and eighth cleat 124 may make up a first set of cleats having a first width and/or thickness, while ninth cleat 128, tenth cleat 128, eleventh cleat 130, and twelfth cleat 132 may make up a second set of cleats having a second width and/or thickness.
The cleats may be arranged in any cleat pattern on the sole plate. For example, as shown in FIGS. 1-2, first cleat 110, second cleat 112, fifth cleat 118, and sixth cleat 120 may be substantially aligned with one another adjacent a lateral perimeter of bottom surface 108 of sole plate 102 in forefoot region 140. Similarly, in some embodiments, third cleat 114, fourth cleat 118, seventh cleat 122, and eighth cleat 124 may be substantially aligned with one another adjacent a medial perimeter of bottom surface 108 of sole plate 102 in heel region 142, In some embodiments, ninth cleat 126 and tenth cleat 128 may be substantially aligned with one another along the lateral perimeter of bottom surface 108 of sole plate 102 in heel region 142. In some embodiments, eleventh cleat 130 and twelfth cleat 132 may be substantially aligned with one another along the medial perimeter of bottom surface 108 of sole plate 102 in heel region 142. In some embodiments, thirteenth cleat 134 may be disposed on medial side 172 of bottom surface 108 of sole plate 102 in a position between first cleat 1 10 and the front edge of sole plate 102. In some embodiments, fourteenth cleat 138 and fifteenth cleat 138 may be disposed in a forefoot region 140 of sole plate 102 substantially along a centerline of bottom surface 108 of sole plate 102. While the embodiments of FIGS. 1-29 are all illustrated with the same cleat pattern (arrangement), it is understood that other cleat patterns may be used with the sole plate. The arrangement of the cleats may enhance traction for a wearer during cutting, turning, stopping, accelerating, and backward movement.
The sole plate may include components other than cleats that contact a playing surface and increase traction. In some embodiments, the sole plate may include traction elements that are smaller than cleats or studs. The traction elements on the sole plate may increase control for wearer when maneuvering forward on a surface by engaging surface. Additionally, traction elements may also increase the wearer's stability when making lateral movements by digging into playing surface, in some embodiments, the traction elements may be molded into the sole plate. In some embodiments, the sole plate may be configured to receive removable traction elements.
As previously stated, a resilient member may be disposed on the bottom surface of the sole plate. In some embodiments, a resilient member may have at least one hole through which the shaft of at least one cleat may extend. For example, as shown in FIGS. 1-8, first resilient member 174 may be disposed on bottom surface 108 and may have a first hole 184 through which first cleat 110 may extend and a second hole 188 through which thirteenth cleat 134 may extend.
In some embodiments, the article of footwear may include at least one resilient member disposed in the forefoot region of the sole plate. For example, as shown in FIGS. 1-5, first resilient member 174 is disposed in forefoot region 140. In some embodiments, the article of footwear may include a plurality of resilient members disposed in the forefoot region of the sole plate. For example, as shown in FIGS. 1-5, article of footwear 100 may include three resilient members: first resilient member 174, a second resilient member 178, and a third resilient member 180. In another example, as shown in FIGS. 12-14, an article of footwear 1200 may include four resilient members in a forefoot region 1240: first resilient member 1274, second resilient member 1276, third resilient member 1278, and fourth resilient member 1280. In another example, as shown in FIGS. 24-26, an article of footwear 2300 may include ten resilient members in a forefoot region 2340: first resilient member 2348, second resilient member 2348, third resilient member 2350, fourth resilient member 2352, fifth resilient member 2354, sixth resilient member 2358, seventh resilient member 2358, eighth resilient member 2360, tenth resilient member 2392, and eleventh resilient member 2394.
In some embodiments, the article of footwear may include at least one resilient member disposed in the heel region of the sole plate. For example, as shown in FIGS. 1-5, article of footwear 100 may include fourth resilient member 182. In another example, as shown in FIGS. 12-14, article of footwear 1200 may include fifth resilient member 1282. In another example, as shown in FIGS. 24-28, article of footwear 2300 may include eleventh resilient member 2382. In another example, as shown in FIG. 26, article of footwear 2600 may include eleventh resilient member 2882. In another example, as shown in FIGS. 27-29, article of footwear 2700 may include fifth resilient member 2782. It is understood that the different embodiments of resilient members may be combined. For example, the sole plate may include the resilient members in the forefoot region according to a first embodiment and the resilient members in the heel region according to a second embodiment.
In some embodiments, a single resilient member may be disposed along a majority of the bottom surface of the sole plate. For example, as shown in FIGS. 20-22, resilient member 2096 may be disposed along a majority of bottom surface 2008 of sole plate 2002. The number of resilient members included on the bottom surface of the sole plate may vary depending upon a variety of factors, e.g. the size, shape, and/or pattern of the cleats.
In some embodiments, a resilient member may contact the bottom surface of the sole plate. For example, as shown in FIGS. 3, 4, and 6-8, fourth resilient member 182 may contact bottom surface 108 of sole plate 102. In some embodiments, a resilient member may contact the shaft of the sole plate. For example, as shown in FIGS. 3, 4, and 8-8, fourth resilient member 182 may contact shaft 604 of sole plate 102. In some embodiments, at least one cleat may extend through an opening in at least one resilient member such that the terminal end of the cleat is exposed. For example, as shown in FIGS. 1-2 and 5, tenth cleat 128 may extend through an opening 129 in fourth resilient member 182 such that terminal end 802 of tenth cleat 128 is exposed.
In some embodiments, at least one resilient member may terminate at a point between the terminal end of the first cleat and a bottom surface of the sole plate. For example, as shown in FIGS. 3, 4, and 6-8, fourth resilient member 182 may terminate at a point between terminal end 802 of tenth cleat 128 and bottom surface 108 of sole plate 102.
The resilient members may have a variety of shapes. The shape and size of the resilient members may be selected based on a variety of factors. For example, the shape and size of the resilient members may be selected based on the shape and size of the cleats or the material used to make the resilient members. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1-8, the resilient member may be substantially flat. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1-8, the resilient member may have a substantially uniform thickness.
In some embodiments, at least two resilient members may have the same shape. For example, as shown in FIGS. 23-25 (described in more detail below), a second resilient member 2348 and a third resilient member 2350 may have the same shape, in some embodiments, at least a first resilient member may have a first shape and at least a second resilient member may have a second shape. For example, as shown in FIGS. 23-25, a first resilient member 2346 may have a first shape and second resilient member 2348 may have a second shape that is different from the first shape. In some embodiments, a first set of resilient members may have a first shape while the remaining resilient members have a second shape. For example, as shown in FIGS. 23-25, a first set of resilient members including second resilient member 2348, third resilient member 2350, a fourth resilient member 2352 may each have a first shape while a second set of resilient members including a fifth resilient member 2354, a sixth resilient member 2356, a seventh resilient member 2358, and an eighth resilient member 2360 may each have a second shape that is different from the first shape.
The resilient members may be made of a resilient material, in some embodiments, to prevent water and/or mud from penetrating the resilient members, the resilient members may be made of a hydrophobic and/or oleophobic material. For example, the resilient members may be made of rubber, silicone, and/or latex. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1-8, the resilient members may be formed from a foam material. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 27-29 (explained in detail below), the resilient members may include bladders filled with a liquid or gas. For example, the bladders may be filled with air. In some embodiments, the bladders may be made of a resilient material. In some embodiments, the bladders may be made of a material suitable for retaining a liquid or gas within the bladder. The material of the resilient members may be selected based on a variety of factors. For example, the material of the resilient members may be selected based on the material of the cleats or the shape of the resilient members.
The resilient member(s) may be permanently affixed to the bottom surface of the sole plate. For example, in some embodiments, the resilient member(s) may be affixed to the bottom surface of the sole plate by an adhesive. In some embodiments, the resilient member(s) may be affixed to the bottom surface of the sole plate by thermal bonding. For example, the resilient member and/or the bottom surface of the sole plate may be heated to slightly soften and then the resilient member and the bottom surface may be pressed together to fuse the two parts together. In some embodiments, the resilient member may be molded to the bottom surface of the sole plate. In some embodiments, the above methods of affixing the resilient members to the sole plate can be combined. For example, a first resilient member may be affixed to the bottom surface of the sole plate by both thermal bonding and adhesive. Permanently affixing resilient member(s) to the bottom surface of the sole plate may prevent resilient member(s) from becoming detached from the bottom surface and may prevent mud and other debris from coming between the resilient member(s) and the bottom surface, in some embodiments, for example as shown in FIG. 26, the cleats may include a groove around the sidewall of the cleats that corresponds in shape to the resilient members. Such a groove may receive and retain the resilient members.
The details of FIGS. 1-5 will now be discussed. First resilient member 174 may be disposed adjacent the forward edge of sole plate 102. Second resilient member 178 may disposed between first resilient member 174 and third resilient member 180. Third resilient member 180 may be disposed between second resilient member 178 and fourth resilient member 182. Fourth resilient member 182 may be disposed between third resilient member 180 and the rearward edge of sole plate 102.
First resilient member 174 may be disposed on bottom surface 108 in an area surrounding first cleat 110 and an area surrounding thirteenth cleat 134. It is understood that a peripheral area of a cleat is the area of the bottom surface that is surrounding a cleat. First resilient member 174 may have a first hole 184 through which first cleat 1 10 may extend. First resilient member 174 may have a second hole 188 through which thirteenth cleat 134 may extend. First resilient member 174 may have a first edge 188 and a second edge 190 opposite first edge 188. As shown in FIG. 2, first edge 188 may be rounded and may correspond with the front edge of sole plate 102. Second edge 190 may be rounded and may extend from the medial edge of sole plate 102 to the lateral edge of sole plate 102. Second edge 190 may be disposed between first cleat 110 and second cleat 112. Second edge 190 may be disposed between thirteenth cleat 134 and fourth cleat 114.
Second resilient member 178 may be disposed on bottom surface 108 in an area surrounding fourth cleat 116 and an area surrounding fifth cleat 118. Second resilient member 178 may have a first hole 113 through which fourth cleat 1 18 may extend. Second resilient member 178 may have a second hole 1 17 through which fifth cleat 1 18 may extend. Second resilient member 178 may have a first edge 158, a second edge 180 opposite first edge 158, a third edge 154, and a fourth edge 156 opposite third edge 154. As shown in FIG. 2, first edge 158 may extend from the medial edge of sole plate 102 to the lateral edge of sole plate 102. First edge 158 may be disposed between third cleat 114 and fourth cleat 118. First edge 158 may be disposed between second cleat 112 and fifth cleat 118. First edge 158 may be disposed between fourteenth cleat 136 and fifteenth cleat 138. Second edge 160 may extend from the medial edge of sole plate 102 to the lateral edge of sole plate 102. Second edge 160 may be disposed between fourth cleat 116 and seventh cleat 122. Second edge 160 may be disposed between fifth cleat 1 18 and sixth cleat 120. Second edge 160 may be disposed between fourteenth cleat 136 and fifteenth cleat 138. Second edge 160 may be curved to fit around fifteenth cleat 138. Third edge 154 may correspond with the lateral edge of sole plate 102. Fourth edge 156 may correspond with the medial edge of sole plate 102.
Third resilient member 180 may be disposed on bottom surface 108 in an area surrounding eighth cleat 124 and an area surrounding sixth cleat 120. Third resilient member 180 may have a first hole 121 through which sixth cleat 120 may extend. Third resilient member 180 may have a second hole 125 through which eighth cleat 124 may extend. Third resilient member 180 may have a first edge 166, a second edge 168 opposite first edge 166, a third edge 162, and a fourth edge 164 opposite third edge 162, As shown in FIG. 2, first edge 166 may extend from the medial edge of sole plate 102 to the lateral edge of sole plate 102. First edge 166 may be disposed between seventh cleat 122 and eighth cleat 124. First edge 166 may be disposed between fifth cleat 118 and sixth cleat 120. First edge 158 may be disposed between fifteenth cleat 138 and the rearward edge of sole plate 102. Second edge 168 may extend from the medial edge of sole plate 102 to the lateral edge of sole plate 102. Second edge 168 may be disposed between eighth cleat 124 and eleventh cleat 130. Second edge 168 may be disposed between sixth cleat 120 and ninth cleat 126. Third edge 162 may correspond with the lateral edge of sole plate 102. Fourth edge 164 may correspond with the medial edge of sole plate 102.
Fourth resilient member 182 may be disposed on bottom surface 108 in an area surrounding the cleats disposed in heel region 142. Fourth resilient member 182 may have a first hole 127 through which ninth cleat 126 may extend. Fourth resilient member 182 may have a second hole 129 through which tenth cleat 128 may extend. Fourth resilient member 182 may have a third hole 131 through which eleventh cleat 130 may extend. Fourth resilient member 182 may have a fourth hole 133 through which twelfth cleat 132 may extend. Fourth resilient member 182 may be disposed in an area defined between ninth cleat 126 and tenth cleat 128. Fourth resilient member 182 may be disposed in an area defined between eleventh cleat 130 and twelfth cleat 132. Fourth resilient member 182 may be disposed in an area defined between ninth cleat 126, tenth cleat 128, eleventh cleat 130, and twelfth cleat 132. Fourth resilient member 182 may be spaced from the rearward edge of sole plate 102.
The details of FIGS. 6-8 will now be discussed in comparison with FIGS. 9-11, which show a prior art sole plate 902. FIGS. 6-8 show how fourth resilient member 182 may prevent mud and/or other debris from accumulating on the area surrounding tenth cleat 128 and twelfth cleat 132. FIGS. 9-11 show how sole plate 902 packs mud 900 as sole plate 902 is pressed against mud 900. Sole plate 902 has a top surface 908 and a bottom surface 908 opposite top surface 906. Sole plate 902 includes a first cleat 928 having a shaft 904 and a terminal end 902 and a second cleat 932 having a shaft 910 and a terminal end 908. As sole plate 902 is moved in the direction of the arrows shown in FIG. 9 toward mud 900, sole plate 902 packs mud 900, as shown in FIG. 10. Packed mud 1000 is packed again bottom surface 908 of sole plate 902 and the shafts of the cleats when sole plate 902 moved away from mud 900 in the direction of the arrows shown in FIG. 11.
In comparison with FIGS. 9-11, FIGS. 6-8 show a sole plate according to an exemplary embodiment preventing mud from accumulating. FIG. 6 shows fourth resilient member 182 and the cleats before article of footwear 100 comes into contact with mud 800. FIG. 7 illustrates fourth resilient member 182 and the cleats contacting mud 600. Tenth cleat 128 and twelfth cleat 132 may penetrate mud 600 and fourth resilient member 182 may be made of a material that allows fourth resilient member 182 to compress between a bottom surface 108 of sole plate 102 and a top surface of mud 600. The compression of fourth resilient member 182 may reduce the amount of mud 600 being packed by sole plate 102. FIG. 8 shows tenth cleat 128 and twelfth cleat 132 after emerging from mud 600. Without being packed against resilient member 182, mud 800 may not stick to resilient member 182 after sole plate 102 is moved away from mud 600, as shown in FIG. 8. Fourth resilient member 182 may spring back to its former position after no longer being compressed between bottom surface 108 of sole plate and the top surface of mud 600. As fourth resilient member 182 springs back to its former position, fourth resilient member 182 may scrape mud and/or other debris away from the surface of the cleats. Accordingly, the resilient member may prevent mud from accumulating upon the cleat and/or the area surrounding the cleat.
The details of FIG. 12-16 will now be discussed. FIG. 12 illustrates an article of footwear 1200 having a sole plate 1202 and an upper 1204. Sole plate 1202 may have the same basic features described above with respect to sole plate 102. For example, sole plate 1202 may have a top surface and a bottom surface 1208. In another example, sole plate 1202 may have a forefoot region 1240, heel region 1242, midfoot region 1244, medial side 1272, lateral side 1270, forward edge, and rearward edge. Sole plate 1202 may have a first cleat 1210, a second cleat 1212, a third cleat 1214, a fourth cleat 1216, a fifth cleat 1218, a sixth cleat 1220, a seventh cleat 1222, and an eighth cleat 1224 may be disposed on forefoot region 1240 of sole plate 1202. A ninth cleat 1226, a tenth cleat 1228, an eleventh cleat 1230, and a twelfth cleat 1232 may be disposed on heel region 1242 of sole plate 1202. A thirteenth cleat 1234, a fourteenth cleat 1236, and a fifteenth cleat 1238 may be disposed on forefoot region 1240 of sole plate 1202.
Sole plate 1202 may include a first resilient member 1274, second resilient member 1276, third resilient member 1278, fourth resilient member 1280, and fifth resilient member 1282. First resilient member 1274, second resilient member 1276, third resilient member 1278, fourth resilient member 1280 may be disposed in forefoot region 1240. Fifth resilient member 1282 may be disposed in heel region 1242. First resilient member 1274 may be disposed adjacent the forward edge of sole plate 1202. Second resilient member 1276 may disposed between first resilient member 1274 and third resilient member 1278. Third resilient member 1278 may be disposed between second resilient member 1276 and fourth resilient member 1280. Fourth resilient member 1280 may be disposed between third resilient member 1278 and fifth resilient member 1282. Fifth resilient member 1282 may be disposed between fourth resilient member 1280 and the rearward edge of sole plate 1202.
First resilient member 1274 may be disposed on bottom surface 1208 in an area surrounding first cleat 1210 and an area surrounding thirteenth cleat 1234. First resilient member 1274 may have a first hole 1284 through which first cleat 1210 may extend. First resilient member 1274 may have a second hole 1288 through which thirteenth cleat 1234 may extend. First resilient member 1274 may have a first edge 1288 and a second edge 1290 opposite first edge 1288. As shown in FIG. 13, first edge 1288 may be rounded and may correspond with the front edge of sole plate 1202. Second edge 1290 may be rounded and may extend from the medial edge of sole plate 1202 to the lateral edge of sole plate 1202. Second edge 1290 may be disposed between first cleat 1210 and second cleat 1212. Second edge 1290 may be disposed between thirteenth cleat 1234 and fourth cleat 1214.
Second resilient member 1276 may be disposed on bottom surface 1208 in an area surrounding second cleat 1212, an area surrounding third cleat 1214, and an area surrounding fourteenth cleat 1236. Second resilient member 1276 may have a first hole 121 1 through which second cleat 1212 may extend. Second resilient member 1276 may have a second hole 1237 through which fourteenth cleat 1236 may extend. Second resilient member 1276 may have a third hole 1217 through which third cleat 1214 may extend. Second resilient member 1276 may have a first edge 1250, a second edge 1252 opposite first edge 1250, a third edge 1246, and a fourth edge 1248 opposite third edge 1246. As shown in FIG. 13, first edge 1250 may extend from the medial edge of sole plate 1202 to the lateral edge of sole plate 1202. First edge 1250 may be disposed between second cleat 1212 and the forward edge of sole plate 1202. First edge 1250 may be disposed between fourteenth cleat 1236 and the forward edge of sole plate 1202. First edge 1250 may be disposed between third cleat 1214 and the forward edge of sole plate 1202. Second edge 1252 may extend from the medial edge of sole plate 1202 to the lateral edge of sole plate 1202. Second edge 1252 may be disposed between second cleat 1212 and fifth cleat 1 18. Second edge 1252 may be disposed between third cleat 1214 and fourth cleat 1216. Second edge 1252 may be disposed between fourteenth cleat 1236 and fifteenth cleat 1238. Third edge 1248 may correspond with the lateral edge of sole plate 1202. Fourth edge 1248 may correspond with the medial edge of sole plate 1202.
Third resilient member 1278 may be disposed on bottom surface 1208 in an area surrounding fourth cleat 1216 and an area surrounding fifth cleat 1218. Third resilient member 1278 may have a first hole 1213 through which fourth cleat 1216 may extend. Third resilient member 1278 ma have a second hole 1217 through which fifth cleat 1218 may extend. Third resilient member 1278 may have a first edge 1258, a second edge 1280 opposite first edge 1258, a third edge 1254, and a fourth edge 1256 opposite third edge 1254. As shown in FIG. 13, first edge 1258 may extend from the medial edge of sole plate 1202 to the lateral edge of sole plate 1202. First edge 1258 may be disposed between third cleat 1214 and fourth cleat 1216. First edge 1258 may be disposed between second cleat 1212 and fifth cleat 1218. First edge 1258 may be disposed between fourteenth cleat 1236 and fifteenth cleat 1238. Second edge 1260 may extend from the medial edge of sole plate 1202 to the lateral edge of sole plate 1202. Second edge 1260 may be disposed between fourth cleat 1216 and seventh cleat 1222. Second edge 1280 may be disposed between fifth cleat 1218 and sixth cleat 1220. Second edge 1280 may be disposed between fourteenth cleat 1236 and fifteenth cleat 1238. Second edge 1280 may be curved to fit around fifteenth cleat 1238. Third edge 1254 may correspond with the lateral edge of sole plate 1202. Fourth edge 1256 may correspond with the medial edge of sole plate 1202.
Fourth resilient member 1280 may be disposed on bottom surface 1208 in an area surrounding eighth cleat 1224 and an area surrounding sixth cleat 1220. Fourth resilient member 1280 may have a first hole 1221 through which sixth cleat 1220 may extend. Fourth resilient member 1280 may have a second hole 1225 through which eighth cleat 1224 may extend. Fourth resilient member 1280 may have a first edge 1268, a second edge 1268 opposite first edge 1266, a third edge 1262, and a fourth edge 1264 opposite third edge 1262. As shown in FIG. 13, first edge 1266 may extend from the medial edge of sole plate 1202 to the lateral edge of sole plate 1202. First edge 1266 may be disposed between seventh cleat 1222 and eighth cleat 1224. First edge 1286 may be disposed between fifth cleat 1218 and sixth cleat 1220. First edge 1258 may be disposed between fifteenth cleat 1238 and the rearward edge of sole plate 1202. Second edge 1268 may extend from the medial edge of sole plate 1202 to the lateral edge of sole plate 1202. Second edge 1268 may be disposed between eighth cleat 1224 and eleventh cleat 1230. Second edge 1268 may be disposed between sixth cleat 1220 and ninth cleat 1226. Third edge 1262 may correspond with the lateral edge of sole plate 1202. Fourth edge 1264 may correspond with the medial edge of sole plate 1202.
Fifth resilient member 1282 may be disposed in on bottom surface 1208 in heel region 1242. Fifth resilient member 1282 may have a first indented edge shaped to correspond with at least a portion of ninth cleat 1226. Fifth resilient member 1282 may have a second indented edge shaped to correspond with at least a portion of tenth cleat 1228. Fifth resilient member 1282 may have a third indented edge shaped to correspond with at least a portion of eleventh cleat 1230. Fifth resilient member 1282 may have a fourth indented edge shaped to correspond with at least a portion of twelfth cleat 1232. Fifth resilient member 1282 may be disposed in an area defined between ninth cleat 1226 and tenth cleat 1228. Fifth resilient member 1282 may be disposed in an area defined between eleventh cleat 1230 and twelfth cleat 1232. Fifth resilient member 1282 may be disposed in an area defined between ninth cleat 1226, tenth cleat 1228, eleventh cleat 1230, and twelfth cleat 1232. Fifth resilient member 1282 may be spaced from the rearward edge of sole plate 1202.
As previously stated, the resilient members of a first embodiment may be combined with the resilient members of a second embodiment. For example, FIGS. 15 and 16 show embodiments in which fifth resilient member 1282 of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 12-14 is combined with other configurations of resilient members disposed in forefoot region 1240. FIG. 15 shows an embodiment in which sole plate 1202 does not include first resilient member 1274. FIG. 16 shows an embodiment in which sole plate does not include second resilient member 1276. The presence or absence of resilient members may be selected based on the type of cleats and/or the cleat pattern (arrangement).
The details of FIGS. 17-19 will now be discussed. FIG. 17 illustrates an article of footwear 1700 having a sole plate 1702 and an upper 1704. Sole plate 1702 may have the same basic features described above with respect to sole plate 102. For example, sole plate 1702 may have a top surface and a bottom surface 1708. In another example, sole plate 1702 may have a forefoot region 1740, heel region 1742, midfoot region 1744, medial side 1772, lateral side 1770, forward edge, and rearward edge. Sole plate 1702 may have a first cleat 1710, a second cleat 1712, a third cleat 1714, a fourth cleat 1716, a fifth cleat 1718, a sixth cleat 1720, a seventh cleat 1722, and an eighth cleat 1724 may be disposed on forefoot region 1740 of sole plate 1702. A ninth cleat 1726, a tenth cleat 1728, an eleventh cleat 1730, and a twelfth cleat 1732 may be disposed on heel region 1742 of sole plate 1702. A thirteenth cleat 1734, a fourteenth cleat 1736, and a fifteenth cleat 1738 may be disposed on forefoot region 1740 of sole plate 1702.
Sole plate 1702 may include a first resilient member 1774, second resilient member 1776, third resilient member 1778, fourth resilient member 1780, and fifth resilient member 1782. First resilient member 1774, second resilient member 1776, third resilient member 1778, fourth resilient member 1780 may be disposed in forefoot region 1740. Fifth resilient member 1782 may be disposed in heel region 1742. First resilient member 1774 may be disposed adjacent the forward edge of sole plate 1702. Second resilient member 1776 may disposed between first resilient member 1774 and third resilient member 1778. Third resilient member 1778 may be disposed between second resilient member 1776 and fourth resilient member 1780. Fourth resilient member 1780 may be disposed between third resilient member 1778 and fifth resilient member 1782. Fifth resilient member 1782 may be disposed between fourth resilient member 1780 and the rearward edge of sole plate 1702.
First resilient member 1774 may be disposed on bottom surface 1708 in an area surrounding first cleat 1710 and an area surrounding thirteenth cleat 1734. First resilient member 1774 ma have a first hole 1784 through which first cleat 1710 may extend. First resilient member 1774 may have a second hole 1788 through which thirteenth cleat 1734 may extend. First resilient member 1774 may have a first edge 1788 and a second edge 1790 opposite first edge 1788. As shown in FIG. 18, first edge 1788 may be rounded and may correspond with the front edge of sole plate 1702. Second edge 1790 may be rounded and may extend from the medial edge of sole plate 1702 to the lateral edge of sole plate 1702. Second edge 1790 may be disposed between first cleat 1710 and second cleat 1717. Second edge 1790 may be disposed between thirteenth cleat 1734 and fourth cleat 1714.
Second resilient member 1776 may be disposed on bottom surface 1708 in an area surrounding second cleat 1712, an area surrounding third cleat 1714, and an area surrounding fourteenth cleat 1736. Second resilient member 1776 may have a first hole 1711 through which second cleat 1712 may extend. Second resilient member 1776 may have a second hole 1737 through which fourteenth cleat 1738 may extend. Second resilient member 1776 may have a third hole 1717 through which third cleat 1714 may extend. Second resilient member 1776 may have a first edge 1750, a second edge 1752 opposite first edge 1750, a third edge 1746, and a fourth edge 1748 opposite third edge 1746. As shown in FIG. 18, first edge 1750 may extend from the medial edge of sole plate 1702 to the lateral edge of sole plate 1702. First edge 1750 may be disposed between second cleat 1712 and the forward edge of sole plate 1702. First edge 1750 may be disposed between fourteenth cleat 1736 and the forward edge of sole plate 1702. First edge 1750 may be disposed between third cleat 1714 and the forward edge of sole plate 1702. Second edge 1752 may extend from the medial edge of sole plate 1702 to the lateral edge of sole plate 1702. Second edge 1752 may be disposed between second cleat 1712 and fifth cleat 1 18. Second edge 1752 may be disposed between third cleat 1714 and fourth cleat 1716. Second edge 1752 may be disposed between fourteenth cleat 1736 and fifteenth cleat 1738. Third edge 1746 may correspond with the lateral edge of sole plate 1702. Fourth edge 1748 may correspond with the medial edge of sole plate 1702.
Third resilient member 1778 may be disposed on bottom surface 1708 in an area surrounding fourth cleat 1716 and an area surrounding fifth cleat 1718. Third resilient member 1778 may have a first hole 1713 through which fourth cleat 1716 may extend. Third resilient member 1778 may have a second hole 1717 through which fifth cleat 1718 may extend. Third resilient member 1778 may have a first edge 1758, a second edge 1760 opposite first edge 1758, a third edge 1754, and a fourth edge 1756 opposite third edge 1754. As shown in FIG. 18, first edge 1758 may extend from the medial edge of sole plate 1702 to the lateral edge of sole plate 1702. First edge 1758 may be disposed between third cleat 1714 and fourth cleat 1716. First edge 1758 may be disposed between second cleat 1712 and fifth cleat 1718. First edge 1758 may be disposed between fourteenth cleat 1736 and fifteenth cleat 1738. Second edge 1760 may extend from the medial edge of sole plate 1702 to the lateral edge of sole plate 1702. Second edge 1760 may be disposed between fourth cleat 1716 and seventh cleat 1722. Second edge 1760 may be disposed between fifth cleat 1718 and sixth cleat 1720. Second edge 1760 may be disposed between fourteenth cleat 1736 and fifteenth cleat 1738. Second edge 1760 may be curved to fit around fifteenth cleat 1738. Third edge 1754 may correspond with the lateral edge of sole plate 1702. Fourth edge 1756 may correspond with the medial edge of sole plate 1702.
Fourth resilient member 1780 may be disposed on bottom surface 1708 in an area surrounding eighth cleat 1724 and an area surrounding sixth cleat 1720. Fourth resilient member 1780 may have a first hole 1721 through which sixth cleat 1720 may extend. Fourth resilient member 1780 may have a second hole 1725 through which eighth cleat 1724 may extend. Fourth resilient member 1780 may have a first edge 1766, a second edge 1768 opposite first edge 1766, a third edge 1762, and a fourth edge 1764 opposite third edge 1762. As shown in FIG. 18, first edge 1768 may extend from the medial edge of sole plate 1702 to the lateral edge of sole plate 1702. First edge 1766 may be disposed between seventh cleat 1722 and eighth cleat 1724. First edge 1766 may be disposed between fifth cleat 1718 and sixth cleat 1720. First edge 1758 may be disposed between fifteenth cleat 1738 and the rearward edge of sole plate 1702. Second edge 1768 may extend from the medial edge of sole plate 1702 to the lateral edge of sole plate 1702. Second edge 1768 may be disposed between eighth cleat 1724 and eleventh cleat 1730. Second edge 1768 may be disposed between sixth cleat 1720 and ninth cleat 1726. Third edge 1762 may correspond with the lateral edge of sole plate 1702. Fourth edge 1764 may correspond with the medial edge of sole plate 1702.
Fifth resilient member 1782 may be disposed in on bottom surface 1708 in heel region 1742. Fifth resilient member 1782 may have a first indented edge shaped to correspond with at least a portion of tenth cleat 1728. Fifth resilient member 1782 may have a second indented edge shaped to correspond with at least a portion of twelfth cleat 1732. Fifth resilient member 1782 may be disposed in an area defined between ninth cleat 1726 and tenth cleat 1728. Fifth resilient member 1782 may be disposed in an area defined between eleventh cleat 1730 and twelfth cleat 1732. Fifth resilient member 1782 may be disposed in an area defined between ninth cleat 1726, tenth cleat 1728, eleventh cleat 1730, and twelfth cleat 1732. Fifth resilient member 1782 may be spaced from the rearward edge of sole plate 1702. Fifth resilient member 1782 may have a surface area that is smaller than a surface area of fifth resilient member 1282.
The details of FIGS. 20-22 will now be discussed. FIG. 20 illustrates an article of footwear 2000 having a sole plate 2002 and an upper 2004. Sole plate 2002 may have the same basic features described above with respect to sole plate 102. For example, sole plate 2002 may have a top surface and a bottom surface 2008. In another example, sole plate 2002 may have a forefoot region 2040, heel region 2042, midfoot region 2044, medial side 2072, lateral side 2070, forward edge, and rearward edge. Sole plate 2002 may have a first cleat 2010, a second cleat 2012, a third cleat 2014, a fourth cleat 2018, a fifth cleat 2018, a sixth cleat 2020, a seventh cleat 2022, and an eighth cleat 2024 may be disposed on forefoot region 2040 of sole plate 2002, A ninth cleat 2026, a tenth cleat 2028, an eleventh cleat 2030, and a twelfth cleat 2032 may be disposed on heel region 2042 of sole plate 2002. A thirteenth cleat 2034, a fourteenth cleat 2036, and a fifteenth cleat 2038 may be disposed on forefoot region 2040 of sole plate 2002.
Sole plate 2002 may include a single resilient member 2074 extending along a majority of the surface area of bottom surface 2008. In embodiments in which the sole plate includes a single resilient member, the resilient member may extend along substantially the entire perimeter of the bottom surface of the sole plate. For example, as shown in FIG. 21, resilient member 2074 may extend along substantially the entire perimeter of bottom surface 2008. Resilient member 2074 may have a lateral edge 2071 and a medial edge 2073 opposite lateral edge 2071. Lateral edge 2071 may correspond with the lateral edge of sole plate 2002. Medial edge 2073 may correspond with the medial edge of sole plate 2002. Resilient member 2074 may have a forward edge that corresponds with the forward edge of sole plate 2002. Resilient member 2074 may have a rearward edge that corresponds with the rearward edge of sole plate 2002.
Resilient member 2074 may have holes through which cleats may extend. First cleat 2010 may extend through a first hole 2084. Second cleat 2012 may extend through a second hole 2049. Third cleat 2014 may extend through a third hole 2051. Fourth cleat 2016 may extend through a fourth hole 2053. Fifth cleat 2018 may extend through a fifth hole 2055. Sixth cleat 2020 may extend through a sixth hole 2057. Seventh cleat 2022 may extend through a seventh hole 2059. Eighth cleat 2024 may extend through an eighth hole 2061. Ninth cleat 2028 may extend through a ninth hole 2062. Tenth cleat 2028 may extend through a tenth hole 2064. Eleventh cleat 2030 may extend through an eleventh hole 2086. Twelfth cleat 2032 may extend through a twelfth hole 2068.
The details of FIGS. 23-25 will now be discussed. FIG. 23 illustrates an article of footwear 2300 having a sole plate 2302 and an upper 2304. Sole plate 2302 may have the same basic features described above with respect to sole plate 102. For example, sole plate 2302 may have a top surface and a bottom surface 2308. In another example, sole plate 2302 may have a forefoot region 2340, heel region 2342, midfoot region 2344, medial side 2372, lateral side 2370, forward edge, and rearward edge. Sole plate 2302 may have a first cleat 2310, a second cleat 2312, a third cleat 2314, a fourth cleat 2316, a fifth cleat 2318, a sixth cleat 2320, a seventh cleat 2322, and an eighth cleat 2324 may be disposed on forefoot region 2340 of sole plate 2302. A ninth cleat 2326, a tenth cleat 2328, an eleventh cleat 2330, and a twelfth cleat 2332 may be disposed on heel region 2342 of sole plate 2302. A thirteenth cleat 2334, a fourteenth cleat 2336, and a fifteenth cleat 2338 may be disposed on forefoot region 2340 of sole plate 2302.
Article of footwear 2300 may include a first resilient member 2348, a second resilient member 2348, a third resilient member 2350, a fourth resilient member 2352, a fifth resilient member 2354, a sixth resilient member 2356, a seventh resilient member 2358, an eighth resilient member 2380, a ninth resilient member 2392, and a tenth resilient member 2394 disposed on forefoot region 2340 of sole plate 2302. First resilient member 2346 may have a first hole 2384 through which first cleat 2310 extends and a second hole 2388 through which thirteenth cleat 2334 extends. First resilient member 2346 may be disposed on bottom surface 2308 in an area surrounding first cleat 2310 and thirteenth cleat 2334.
Second resilient member 2348 may have a hole through which second cleat 2312 extends. Second resilient member 2348 may be disposed on bottom surface 2308 in an area surrounding second cleat 2312. Third resilient member 2350 may have a hole through which third cleat 2314 extends. Third resilient member 2350 may be disposed on bottom surface 2308 in an area surrounding third cleat 2314. Fourth resilient member 2352 may have a hole through which fourth cleat 2316 extends. Fourth resilient member 2352 may be disposed on bottom surface 2308 in an area surrounding fourth cleat 2316. Fifth resilient member 2354 may have a hole through which fifth cleat 2318 extends. Fifth resilient member 2354 may be disposed on bottom surface 2308 in an area surrounding fifth cleat 2318.
Sixth resilient member 2356 may have a hole through which sixth cleat 2320 extends. Sixth resilient member 2356 may be disposed on bottom surface 2308 in an area surrounding sixth cleat 2320. Seventh resilient member 2358 may have a hole through which seventh cleat 2322 extends. Seventh resilient member 2358 may be disposed on bottom surface 2308 in an area surrounding seventh cleat 2322. Eighth resilient member 2360 may have a hole through which eighth cleat 2324 extends. Eighth resilient member 2360 may be disposed on bottom surface 2308 in an area surrounding eighth cleat 2324.
Ninth resilient member 2392 may have a hole through which fourteenth cleat 2336 extends. Ninth resilient member 2392 may be disposed on bottom surface 2308 in an area surrounding fourteenth cleat 2336. Tenth resilient member 2394 may have a hole through which fifteenth cleat 2338 extends. Tenth resilient member 2394 may be disposed on bottom surface 2308 in an area surrounding a fifteenth cleat 2338.
Article of footwear 2300 may include an eleventh resilient member 2382 disposed on heel region 2342 of sole plate 2302. Fourth resilient member 2382 may be disposed in on bottom surface 2308 in an area surrounding the cleats disposed in heel region 2342. Eleventh resilient member 2382 may have a first hole 2362 through which ninth cleat 2326 may extend. Eleventh resilient member 2382 may have a second hole 2384 through which tenth cleat 2328 may extend. Eleventh resilient member 2382 ma have a third hole 2388 through which eleventh cleat 2330 may extend. Eleventh resilient member 2382 may have a fourth hole 2333 through which twelfth cleat 2332 may extend. Eleventh resilient member 2382 may be disposed in an area defined between ninth cleat 2328 and tenth cleat 2328. Eleventh resilient member 2382 may be disposed in an area defined between eleventh cleat 2330 and twelfth cleat 2332. Eleventh resilient member 2382 may be disposed in an area defined between ninth cleat 2328, tenth cleat 2328, eleventh cleat 2330, and twelfth cleat 2332. Eleventh resilient member 2382 may have a lateral edge that corresponds with the lateral edge of sole plate 2302. Eleventh resilient member 2382 may have a medial edge that corresponds with the medial edge of sole plate 2302. Eleventh resilient member 2382 may have a rearward edge that corresponds with the rearward edge of sole plate 2302.
As previously stated, in some embodiments, the resilient member may include holes through which no cleats extend. For example, eleventh resilient member 2374 may include a fifth hole 2378, sixth hole 2374, and seventh hole 2378. Such holes may reduce the weight of the article of footwear, may maintain a certain level of traction between the bottom surface and the ground, and/or may allow traction elements other than cleats to extend.
The details of FIG. 26 will now be discussed. FIG. 28 illustrates an article of footwear 2600 having a sole plate 2802 and an upper 2604. Sole plate 2602 may have the same basic features described above with respect to sole plate 2302. For example, sole plate 2802 may have a top surface and a bottom surface 2608. In another example, sole plate 2802 may have a forefoot region 2840, heel region 2842, midfoot region 2844, medial side 2672, lateral side 2670, forward edge, and rearward edge. Sole plate 2802 may have a first cleat 2610, a second cleat 2812, a third cleat 2814, a fourth cleat 2618, a fifth cleat 2818, a sixth cleat 2820, a seventh cleat 2822, and an eighth cleat 2624 may be disposed on forefoot region 2640 of sole plate 2602. A ninth cleat 2626, a tenth cleat 2628, an eleventh cleat 2630, and a twelfth cleat 2632 may be disposed on heel region 2842 of sole plate 2802, A thirteenth cleat 2634, a fourteenth cleat 2836, and a fifteenth cleat 2638 may be disposed on forefoot region 2640 of sole plate 2802. Unlike sole plate 2302, sole plate 2602 has indentations corresponding to resilient members disposed on sole plate 2602. Details about the indentations are described below.
Article of footwear 2800 may include a first resilient member 2648, a second resilient member 2648, a third resilient member 2850, a fourth resilient member 2652, a fifth resilient member 2654, a sixth resilient member 2658, a seventh resilient member 2858, an eighth resilient member 2880, a ninth resilient member 2692, and a tenth resilient member 2694 disposed on forefoot region 2640 of sole plate 2802. First resilient member 2648 may have a first hole 2684 through which first cleat 2610 extends and a second hole 2888 through which thirteenth cleat 2634 extends. First resilient member 2646 may be disposed on bottom surface 2608 in an area surrounding first cleat 2610 and thirteenth cleat 2834.
Second resilient member 2648 may have a hole through which second cleat 2812 extends. Second resilient member 2648 may be disposed on bottom surface 2608 in an area surrounding second cleat 2812. Third resilient member 2850 may have a hole through which third cleat 2814 extends. Third resilient member 2850 may be disposed on bottom surface 2608 in an area surrounding third cleat 2614. Fourth resilient member 2652 may have a hole through which fourth cleat 2616 extends. Fourth resilient member 2652 may be disposed on bottom surface 2608 in an area surrounding fourth cleat 2816. Fifth resilient member 2854 may have a hole through which fifth cleat 2818 extends. Fifth resilient member 2854 may be disposed on bottom surface 2808 in an area surrounding fifth cleat 2818.
Sixth resilient member 2658 may have a hole through which sixth cleat 2620 extends, Sixth resilient member 2658 may be disposed on bottom surface 2608 in an area surrounding sixth cleat 2620. Seventh resilient member 2658 may have a hole through which seventh cleat 2622 extends. Seventh resilient member 2858 may be disposed on bottom surface 2608 in an area surrounding seventh cleat 2622. Eighth resilient member 2880 may have a hole through which eighth cleat 2824 extends. Eighth resilient member 2880 may be disposed on bottom surface 2608 in an area surrounding eighth cleat 2824.
Ninth resilient member 2892 may have a hole through which fourteenth cleat 2638 extends. Ninth resilient member 2892 may be disposed on bottom surface 2608 in an area surrounding fourteenth cleat 2836. Tenth resilient member 2694 may have a hole through which fifteenth cleat 2838 extends. Tenth resilient member 2894 may be disposed on bottom surface 2608 in an area surrounding a fifteenth cleat 2838.
Article of footwear 2600 may include an eleventh resilient member 2882 disposed on heel region 2642 of sole plate 2602. Fourth resilient member 2682 may be disposed in on bottom surface 2608 in an area surrounding the cleats disposed in heel region 2842. Eleventh resilient member 2682 may have a first hole 2662 through which ninth cleat 2826 may extend. Eleventh resilient member 2882 may have a second hole 2684 through which tenth cleat 2628 may extend. Eleventh resilient member 2682 may have a third hole 2888 through which eleventh cleat 2830 may extend. Eleventh resilient member 2682 may have a fourth hole 2833 through which twelfth cleat 2632 may extend. Eleventh resilient member 2682 may be disposed in an area defined between ninth cleat 2826 and tenth cleat 2828. Eleventh resilient member 2682 may be disposed in an area defined between eleventh cleat 2630 and twelfth cleat 2632. Eleventh resilient member 2682 may be disposed in an area defined between ninth cleat 2628, tenth cleat 2628, eleventh cleat 2630, and twelfth cleat 2632. Eleventh resilient member 2682 may have a lateral edge that corresponds with the lateral edge of sole plate 2802. Eleventh resilient member 2682 may have a medial edge that corresponds with the medial edge of sole plate 2602. Eleventh resilient member 2682 may have a rearward edge that corresponds with the rearward edge of sole plate 2602.
As previously stated, in some embodiments, the resilient member may include holes through which no cleats extend. For example, eleventh resilient member 2674 may include a fifth hole 2678, sixth hole 2674, and seventh hole 2676. Such holes may reduce the weight of the article of footwear, may maintain a certain level of traction between the bottom surface and the ground, and/or may allow traction elements other than cleats to extend.
Article of footwear 2600 may include a first indentation 2611, a second indentation 2613, a third indentation 2615, a fourth indentation 2616, a fifth indentation 2619, a sixth indentation 2621, a seventh indentation 2623, an eighth indentation 2625, a ninth indentation 2637, and a tenth indentation 2639 disposed on forefoot region 2640 of sole plate 2602. Article of footwear 2600 may include an eleventh indentation 2643 disposed on heel region 2642. The indentations may be sized and shaped to receive the corresponding resilient members, in some embodiments, the indentations may be sized and shaped such that the resilient members are flush with bottom surface 2608 of sole plate 2602. In some embodiments, the indentations may be sized and shaped such that the resilient members are recessed below bottom surface 2603 of sole plate 2602. In some embodiments, the indentations may be sized and shaped such that the resilient members still slightly protrude from bottom surface 2608 of sole plate 2602. The indentations may facilitate holding the resilient members in place.
The details of FIGS. 27-29 will now be discussed. FIG. 27 illustrates an article of footwear 2700 having a sole plate 2702 and an upper 2704. As shown in FIGS. 27-29, sole plate 2702 may have resilient members that are bladders filled with a liquid or gas. For example, the bladders may be filled with air. Sole plate 2702 may have the same basic features described above with respect to sole plate 1202. For example, sole plate 2702 may have a top surface and a bottom surface 2708. In another example, sole plate 2702 may have a forefoot region 2740, heel region 2742, midfoot region 2744, medial side 2772, lateral side 2770, forward edge, and rearward edge. Sole plate 2702 may have a first cleat 2710, a second cleat 2712, a third cleat 2714, a fourth cleat 2718, a fifth cleat 2718, a sixth cleat 2720, a seventh cleat 2722, and an eighth cleat 2724 may be disposed on forefoot region 2740 of sole plate 2702. A ninth cleat 2726, a tenth cleat 2728, an eleventh cleat 2730, and a twelfth cleat 2732 may be disposed on heel region 2742 of sole plate 2702. A thirteenth cleat 2734, a fourteenth cleat 2736, and a fifteenth cleat 2738 may be disposed on forefoot region 2740 of sole plate 2702.
Sole plate 2702 may include a first resilient member 2774, second resilient member 2778, third resilient member 2778, fourth resilient member 2780, and fifth resilient member 2782. First resilient member 2774, second resilient member 2778, third resilient member 2778, fourth resilient member 2780 may be disposed in forefoot region 2740. Fifth resilient member 2782 may be disposed in heel region 2742. First resilient member 2774 may be disposed adjacent the forward edge of sole plate 2702. Second resilient member 2778 may disposed between first resilient member 2774 and third resilient member 2778. Third resilient member 2778 may be disposed between second resilient member 2778 and fourth resilient member 2780. Fourth resilient member 2780 may be disposed between third resilient member 2778 and fifth resilient member 2782. Fifth resilient member 2782 may be disposed between fourth resilient member 2780 and the rearward edge of sole plate 2702.
First resilient member 2774 may be disposed on bottom surface 2708 in an area surrounding first cleat 2710 and an area surrounding thirteenth cleat 2734. First resilient member 2774 may have a first hole 2784 through which first cleat 2710 may extend. First resilient member 2774 may have a second hole 2788 through which thirteenth cleat 2734 may extend. First resilient member 2774 may have a first edge 2788 and a second edge 2790 opposite first edge 2788. As shown in FIG. 28, first edge 2788 may be rounded and may correspond with the front edge of sole plate 2702. Second edge 2790 may be rounded and may extend from the medial edge of sole plate 2702 to the lateral edge of sole plate 2702. Second edge 2790 may be disposed between first cleat 2710 and second cleat 2712. Second edge 2790 may be disposed between thirteenth cleat 2734 and fourth cleat 2714.
Second resilient member 2778 may be disposed on bottom surface 2708 in an area surrounding second cleat 2712, an area surrounding third cleat 2714, and an area surrounding fourteenth cleat 2738. Second resilient member 2778 may have a first hole 2711 through which second cleat 2712 may extend. Second resilient member 2778 may have a second hole 2737 through which fourteenth cleat 2738 may extend. Second resilient member 2778 may have a third hole 2717 through which third cleat 2714 may extend. Second resilient member 2776 may have a first edge 2750, a second edge 2752 opposite first edge 2750, a third edge 2748, and a fourth edge 2748 opposite third edge 2748. As shown in FIG. 28, first edge 2750 may extend from the medial edge of sole plate 2702 to the lateral edge of sole plate 2702. First edge 2750 may be disposed between second cleat 2712 and the forward edge of sole plate 2702. First edge 2750 may be disposed between fourteenth cleat 2736 and the forward edge of sole plate 2702. First edge 2750 may be disposed between third cleat 2714 and the forward edge of sole plate 2702. Second edge 2752 may extend from the medial edge of sole plate 2702 to the lateral edge of sole plate 2702. Second edge 2752 may be disposed between second cleat 2712 and fifth cleat 1 18. Second edge 2752 may be disposed between third cleat 2714 and fourth cleat 2716. Second edge 2752 may be disposed between fourteenth cleat 2736 and fifteenth cleat 2738. Third edge 2748 may correspond with the lateral edge of sole plate 2702. Fourth edge 2748 may correspond with the medial edge of sole plate 2702.
Third resilient member 2778 may be disposed on bottom surface 2708 in an area surrounding fourth cleat 2718 and an area surrounding fifth cleat 2718. Third resilient member 2778 may have a first hole 2713 through which fourth cleat 2716 may extend. Third resilient member 2778 may have a second hole 2717 through which fifth cleat 2718 may extend. Third resilient member 2778 may have a first edge 2758, a second edge 2760 opposite first edge 2758, a third edge 2754, and a fourth edge 2756 opposite third edge 2754. As shown in FIG. 28, first edge 2758 may extend from the medial edge of sole plate 2702 to the lateral edge of sole plate 2702. First edge 2758 may be disposed between third cleat 2714 and fourth cleat 2716. First edge 2758 may be disposed between second cleat 2712 and fifth cleat 2718. First edge 2758 may be disposed between fourteenth cleat 2736 and fifteenth cleat 2738. Second edge 2760 may extend from the medial edge of sole plate 2702 to the lateral edge of sole plate 2702. Second edge 2760 may be disposed between fourth cleat 2716 and seventh cleat 2722. Second edge 2760 may be disposed between fifth cleat 2718 and sixth cleat 2720. Second edge 2760 may be disposed between fourteenth cleat 2736 and fifteenth cleat 2738. Second edge 2760 may be curved to fit around fifteenth cleat 2738. Third edge 2754 may correspond with the lateral edge of sole plate 2702. Fourth edge 2756 may correspond with the medial edge of sole plate 2702.
Fourth resilient member 2780 may be disposed on bottom surface 2703 in an area surrounding eighth cleat 2724 and an area surrounding sixth cleat 2720. Fourth resilient member 2780 may have a first hole 2721 through which sixth cleat 2720 may extend. Fourth resilient member 2780 may have a second hole 2725 through which eighth cleat 2724 may extend. Fourth resilient member 2780 may have a first edge 2766, a second edge 2768 opposite first edge 2766, a third edge 2762, and a fourth edge 2764 opposite third edge 2762. As shown in FIG. 28, first edge 2766 may extend from the medial edge of sole plate 2702 to the lateral edge of sole plate 2702. First edge 2766 may be disposed between seventh cleat 2722 and eighth cleat 2724. First edge 2766 may be disposed between fifth cleat 2718 and sixth cleat 2720. First edge 2758 may be disposed between fifteenth cleat 2738 and the rearward edge of sole plate 2702. Second edge 2768 may extend from the medial edge of sole plate 2702 to the lateral edge of sole plate 2702. Second edge 2768 may be disposed between eighth cleat 2724 and eleventh cleat 2730. Second edge 2768 may be disposed between sixth cleat 2720 and ninth cleat 2728. Third edge 2782 may correspond with the lateral edge of sole plate 2702. Fourth edge 2764 may correspond with the medial edge of sole plate 2702.
Fifth resilient member 2782 may be disposed in on bottom surface 2708 in heel region 2742. Fifth resilient member 2782 may have a first indented edge shaped to correspond with at least a portion of ninth cleat 2728. Fifth resilient member 2782 may have a second indented edge shaped to correspond with at least a portion of tenth cleat 2728. Fifth resilient member 2782 may have a third indented edge shaped to correspond with at least a portion of eleventh cleat 2730. Fifth resilient member 2782 may have a fourth indented edge shaped to correspond with at least a portion of twelfth cleat 2732. Fifth resilient member 2782 may be disposed in an area defined between ninth cleat 2728 and tenth cleat 2728. Fifth resilient member 2782 may be disposed in an area defined between eleventh cleat 2730 and twelfth cleat 2732. Fifth resilient member 2782 may be disposed in an area defined between ninth cleat 2726, tenth cleat 2728, eleventh cleat 2730, and twelfth cleat 2732. Fifth resilient member 2782 may be spaced from the rearward edge of sole plate 2702.
A method of making the described article of footwear may include a step of providing a sole plate including a bottom surface having a forefoot region, a heel region, a longitudinal axis extending through the forefoot region and heel region, a forward edge, and a rearward edge. The sole plate further may include a first cleat disposed on the bottom surface of the sole plate. The first cleat may have a shaft extending away from the bottom surface of the sole plate and a terminal end disposed opposite the bottom surface of the sole plate. The sole plate may also include a second cleat disposed on the bottom surface of the sole plate and spaced from the second cleat. The second cleat may have a shaft extending away from the bottom surface of the sole plate and a terminal end disposed opposite the bottom surface of the sole plate. The method may further include a step of placing a first resilient member on the bottom surface of the sole plate such that first resilient member is disposed in a space defined between the first cleat and the second cleat.
In some embodiments, the method may further include a step of placing a second resilient member on the bottom surface of the sole plate such that the second resilient member is disposed in a space defined between both a third cleat and a fourth cleat of the sole plate. The third cleat and the fourth cleat may both be spaced from the first cleat, the second cleat, and each other.
In some embodiments, the step of placing the second resilient member on the bottom surface of the sole plate may include permanently affixing the first resilient member to the bottom surface of the sole plate.
In some embodiments, the first resilient member may have a thickness that is less than a length of the first cleat.
While various embodiments of the invention have been described, the description is intended to be exemplary, rather than limiting and it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that many more embodiments and implementations are possible that are within the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the invention is not to be restricted except in light of the attached claims and their equivalents. Also, various modifications and changes may be made within the scope of the attached claims. The various embodiments of the invention described herein may be combined to form other embodiments. Features described with respect to one embodiment may be included in another embodiment.

Claims

1-21. (canceled)

22. A sole structure for an article of footwear, the sole structure comprising:

a. a sole plate including a bottom surface;

b. a first cleat having a shaft extending away from the bottom surface of the sole plate;

c. a second cleat having a shaft extending away from the bottom surface of the sole plate, the second cleat spaced apart from the first cleat; and

d. at least one resilient member embedded in the bottom surface and including a first portion at least partially surrounding the shaft of the first cleat, a second portion at least partially surrounding the shaft of the second cleat, and an intermediate portion disposed between and spaced apart from the first portion and the second portion, the at least one resilient member covering a first region of the bottom surface of the sole plate.

23. The sole structure of claim 22, wherein the at least one resilient member defines a ground-contacting surface that is substantially flush with the bottom surface of the sole plate.

24. The sole structure of claim 22, wherein the sole plate includes at least one indentation surrounding each of the first cleat and the second cleat, the at least one indentation configured to receive the at least one resilient member.

25. The sole structure of claim 22, wherein the at least one resilient member includes a first resilient member defining the first portion as a first hole surrounding the shaft of the first cleat, defining the second portion as a second hole surrounding the shaft of the second cleat, and the intermediate portion.

26. The sole structure of claim 22, wherein the at least one resilient member includes a first resilient member defining (i) the first portion as a first hole surrounding the shaft of the first cleat and (ii) the intermediate portion, and a second resilient member defining the second portion as a second hole surrounding the shaft of the second cleat.

27. The sole structure of claim 22, wherein the at least one resilient member is substantially flat.

28. The sole structure of claim 22, wherein the at least one resilient member is made of a foam material.

29. The sole structure of claim 22, wherein the at least one resilient member is made from at least one of silicone and rubber.

30. The sole structure of claim 22, further comprising an upper attached to the sole plate.

31. The sole structure of claim 22, wherein the at least one resilient member has a thickness that is less than a length of the shaft of the first cleat.

32. A method of making a sole structure for an article of footwear, the method comprising:

a. providing a sole plate including a bottom surface, a first cleat having a shaft extending away from the bottom surface of the sole plate, and a second cleat having a shaft extending away from the bottom surface of the sole plate, the second cleat spaced apart from the first cleat;

b. providing at least one resilient member including a first portion, a second portion, and an intermediate portion disposed between and spaced apart from the first portion and the second portion; and

c. embedding the at least one resilient member in the bottom surface of the sole plate, the first portion at least partially surrounding the shaft of the first cleat, the second portion at least partially surrounding the shaft of the second cleat, and the intermediate portion covering a first region of the bottom surface of the sole plate.

33. The method of claim 32, wherein embedding the at least one resilient member in the bottom surface of the sole plate includes positioning a ground-contacting surface of the at least one resilient member substantially flush with the bottom surface of the sole plate.

34. The method of claim 32, further comprising forming at least one indentation in the sole plate surrounding each of the first cleat and the second cleat, the at least one indentation recessed from the bottom surface of the sole plate.

35. The method of claim 34, wherein embedding the at least one resilient member in the bottom surface includes inserting the at least one resilient member into the at least one indentation.

36. The method of claim 34, wherein providing the at least one resilient member includes providing a unitary structure defining the first portion as a first hole surrounding the shaft of the first cleat, the second portion as a second hole surrounding the shaft of the second cleat, and the intermediate portion.

37. The method of claim 34, wherein providing the at least one resilient member includes providing a first resilient member defining (i) the first portion as a first hole surrounding the shaft of the first cleat and (ii) the intermediate portion, and providing a second resilient member defining the second portion as a second hole surrounding the shaft of the second cleat.

38. The method of claim 32, wherein providing the at least one resilient member includes providing a unitary structure defining the first portion, the second portion, and the intermediate portion.

39. The method of claim 32, wherein providing at least one resilient member includes providing at least one resilient member that is substantially flat.

40. The method of claim 32, wherein providing at least one resilient member includes providing at least one resilient member that is made of a foam material.

41. The method of claim 32, wherein providing at least one resilient member includes providing at least one resilient member that is made from at least one of silicone and rubber.