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NikePatent applicationClothing & sportInterest 4/10

Nike patents shoe sole with flexible struts for better cushioning

Nike has filed a patent for a new shoe sole design that uses a frame of alternating support structures. These structures contain small struts that bend when you step on them, allowing the sole to compress and absorb impact.

Why it mattersThis is a standard improvement to shoe cushioning technology that could make running or walking more comfortable by better absorbing the shock of each step.

In the filing’s own words

A sole structure includes a support frame including (i) a first plurality of alternating support structures defining a first upper support structure and a first lower support structure adjacent to the first upper support structure and (ii) a second plurality of alternating support structures defining a second upper support structure disposed adjacent to the first lower support structure and a second lower support structure disposed adjacent to each of the first upper support structure and the second upper support structure, each of the support structures including one or more struts configured to flex when a compressive force is applied to the support frame.

What exactly they claim (claim 1)

1. A sole structure for an article of footwear, the sole structure comprising: a support frame including (i) a first plurality of alternating support structures defining a first upper support structure and a first lower support structure adjacent to the first upper support structure and (ii) a second plurality of alternating support structures defining a second upper support structure disposed adjacent to the first lower support structure and a second lower support structure disposed adjacent to each of the first upper support structure and the second upper support structure, each of the support structures including one or more struts configured to flex when a compressive force is applied to the support frame.

Facts

Company
Nike (NIKE, Inc.)
Official title
SOLE STRUCTURE FOR ARTICLE OF FOOTWEAR
Publication number
US20260283306A1
Application number
19568067
Filed
Mar 16, 2026
Published
Sep 24, 2026
Inventors
4
Claims
20

Classified under

A43B 13/141 Human necessitiesA43B 3/0036 Human necessitiesA43B 13/185 Human necessities
Read the full filing (official PDF) ↗ Open in the Patent Tracker

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Summaries are simplified from the filing’s own abstract and first claim. A patent filing is not a product announcement.
Patent data and drawings: U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Nebula is not affiliated with or endorsed by the USPTO.