阅读说明：本技术 支持自然步态的高跟鞋 (High-heeled shoes supporting natural gait ) 是由 T·H·L·范 于 2020-04-08 设计创作，主要内容包括：本发明涉及一种高跟鞋(1),该高跟鞋具有前脚掌段(5)、足弓段(7)和脚后跟段(6),所述高跟鞋(1)包括：构造性鞋底(2)；鞋跟(8),其直接或间接地附接到所述构造性鞋底(2)的脚后跟段(6)的下表面(3)；鞋面(9),其附接到所述构造性鞋底(2),使得所述鞋面(9)和所述构造性鞋底(2)一起形成外壳,所述外壳被配置为接纳脚并以特定配置保持脚；以及内底(10),其包含拉胀材料。(The invention relates to a high-heeled shoe (1) having a forefoot section (5), an arch section (7) and a heel section (6), the high-heeled shoe (1) comprising: a structural sole (2); a heel (8) attached directly or indirectly to a lower surface (3) of a heel section (6) of the constructive sole (2); an upper (9) attached to the constructive sole (2) such that the upper (9) and the constructive sole (2) together form an enclosure configured to receive a foot and to hold the foot in a particular configuration; and an insole (10) comprising an auxetic material.)

1. A high-heeled shoe (1) having a forefoot section (5), an arch section (7) and a heel section (6), the high-heeled shoe (1) comprising

-a constructive sole (2);

-an upper (9) attached to the constructive sole (2) such that the upper (9) and the constructive sole (2) together form a shell configured to receive a foot and to hold the foot in a specific configuration;

-a heel (8) attached directly or indirectly to the lower surface (3) of the heel section (6) of the constructive sole (2); and

-an insole (10) comprising an auxetic material.

2. High-heeled shoe (1) according to claim 1, wherein said insole (10) comprises a pillow-like region (23, 24) protruding from said insole (2), said pillow-like region (23, 24) comprising:

-a first pillow-like area (23) arranged on the upper surface (4) of the forefoot section (5) of the insole (10), shaped such that it is configured to support the area between the metatarsals and the phalanges of the foot; and/or

-a second pillow-like area (24), arranged on the upper surface (4) of the arch section (7) of the insole (10), shaped so that it is configured to support and lift slightly the metatarsal pads of the foot in this area, so as to guide the weight of the user from the forefoot section (5) to the heel section (7);

wherein the maximum height of each pillow-like area (23, 24) from the upper surface (4) of the insole (10) is at most 1.0cm, such as 0.5cm, such as 0.3 cm.

3. High-heeled shoe (1) according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the insole (10) comprises a plurality of layers including at least a first layer (14) and a second layer (15), wherein,

-a first layer (14) of the insole (10) is configured to cover the entire upper surface (4) of the constructive sole (2), while only comprising an auxetic material at one or more auxetic regions (11, 12, 13), and the rest of the first layer (14) comprises or consists of another material;

-said second layer (15) is arranged on top of said first layer (14) and is made of a material such as leather having a thickness of less than 0.2cm, such as 0.1 cm.

4. The high-heeled shoe (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein said insole (10) contains an auxetic material at one or more specific areas, wherein said one or more specific areas comprise:

-a first auxetic region (11) arranged at the upper surface (4) of the forefoot segment (5) of the constructive sole (2) such that it is configured to support the area between the metatarsals and the phalanges of the foot; and/or

-a second auxetic region (12) arranged at the upper surface (4) of the arch segment (7) of the constructive sole (2) such that it is configured as a metatarsal pad supporting a foot; and/or

-a third auxetic region (13), arranged at the upper surface (4) of the heel section (6) of the constructive sole (2), having a circular or elliptical shape and configured to support the heel of the user.

5. A high-heeled shoe (1) according to claim 4,

-the first auxetic region (11) comprises the first pillow-like region (23); and/or

-the second auxetic area (12) comprises the second pillow-like area (24).

6. A high-heeled shoe (1) according to any one of claims 4 or 5,

the first and second auxetic regions (11, 12) being joined to form a joined auxetic region (28/11+ 12); or

The first, second and third auxetic regions (11, 12, 13) are joined to form a joined auxetic region (28/11+12+ 13).

7. The high-heeled shoe (1) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein said insole (10) further comprises an auxetic cut (18) in a toe section (19) of said forefoot section (5), said auxetic cut (18) extending through all layers (14, 15) of said insole (10) and being configured to allow the toe section (5) of said insole to expand in at least one direction, such as in two directions, when pressure is applied to said toe section.

8. The high-heeled shoe (1) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the heel section (6) of the insole (10) has a recess (21) with a circular or oval cross-section, wherein the maximum depth of the recess (21) is 0.2-0.8cm, the minimum diameter is 3-5cm and the maximum diameter is 4-7 cm.

9. A high-heeled shoe (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said high-heeled shoe (1) further comprises an outsole (17), said outsole (17) being arranged on the lower surface (3) of said structural sole (2) so as to partially or completely cover the lower surface (3) of said structural sole (2), and wherein the ball of the foot section (5) of said outsole (17) comprises an auxetic cut (18), which auxetic cut (18) is identical to the auxetic cut (18) of said insole (10) and is configured to allow the toe section (19) of said outsole (17) to expand in at least one direction, such as in two directions, when pressure is applied to said toe section (19).

10. A high-heeled shoe (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a longitudinal axis (20) extends through the structural sole (2) such that the heel section (6) and the arch section (7) of the structural sole (2) are divided by the longitudinal axis (20) into two substantially symmetrical parts,

wherein at least a portion of a first outer edge (25) of a toe section (19) of the constructive sole (2) extends in a direction extending parallel to the longitudinal axis (20) or away from the longitudinal axis (20), and at least a portion of a second outer edge (26) extends towards the longitudinal axis (20) and across the longitudinal axis (20) intersecting the first outer edge (25) to form a pointed tip (27), wherein the first outer edge (25) is the outer edge configured to be closest to the big toe.

Technical Field

The present invention relates to high-heeled shoes, and more particularly, to high-heeled shoes with increased comfort and support as compared to conventional high-heeled shoes. In addition, the high-heeled shoe of the present invention supports a natural gait and increases balance. These effects are achieved by the particular configuration and material usage of the high-heeled shoe of the present invention.

Background

In modern society, wearing high-heeled shoes is related to fashion and professionalism. From small cat-heel shoes (kitten heel) and thin high-heeled shoes (staletto) with a high-rise in the morning to toe-heel shoes (pump) and open-heel shoes (sling back), high-heeled shoes are one of the main contents of any female wardrobe. However, wearing high-heeled shoes has a number of negative effects on the wearer, especially when worn regularly over the years.

The problems associated with high-heeled shoes are mostly caused by the transfer of pressure from the heel to the forefoot, in particular by the increase in pressure on the toes and metatarsals. In addition, high-heeled shoes often have small and/or triangular toe-boxes (toe-boxes) that squeeze the toes together and prevent them from performing their natural function. When the big toe abducts from the second toe, it is in a powerful mechanical position. However, prolonged use of high-heeled shoes can cause misalignment of the big toe, which is known as hallux valgus. In the case of an improperly functioning big toe, the center of gravity shifts and static balance is not achieved, resulting in the body automatically compensating for balance and dampening shocks. In addition, if the big toe is dislocated, the foot can shift the direction of body weight from the sagittal plane to the frontal or transverse plane, causing much damage.

Although it is well known that high-heeled shoes cause permanent foot problems, this does not prevent women from wearing them. Over time, cartilage and tissue surrounding the joints at the hip, knee and big toe will be damaged, which is also known as osteoarthritis. When the big toe is destroyed (also known as bunion), women experience difficulty walking and once injury occurs, foot injuries occur in succession. Other symptoms include hammer toe, flat foot, embedded nails, shortening of calf muscles, morton's nerve and metatarsalgia.

High-heeled shoes with increased comfort and support would be advantageous because social constraints often necessitate the wearing of high-heeled shoes. In addition, a high-heeled shoe that reduces negative effects would be advantageous.

Object of the Invention

It is an object of the present invention to provide an alternative to the prior art. In particular, it may be found that a further object of the invention is to provide a high-heeled shoe which wholly or partly overcomes the above disadvantages and drawbacks of the prior art.

Disclosure of Invention

Accordingly, the above object and several other objects are intended to be obtained in a first aspect of the invention by providing a high-heeled shoe comprising a constructive sole, a heel, an upper and an insole, wherein the insole comprises an auxetic material.

The auxetic material of the insole should be designed to have a negative poisson's ratio. The auxetic material of the insole is configured such that when pressure is applied to the auxetic region of the insole, it does not thin in this region, but thickens or at least maintains the same thickness. In other words, auxetic members are structures or materials having a negative poisson's ratio such that when stretched, they thicken in a direction perpendicular to the applied force. This behavior is due to their specific internal structure and the way the structure deforms when the sample is uniaxially loaded. The auxetic member may be a single molecule, a crystal, or a particular structure of a macroscopic substance. For example, auxetic structures can be obtained by a special cutting pattern, hereinafter referred to as "auxetic cut", providing the characteristics resulting from a negative poisson's ratio.

The high-heeled shoe of the present invention is defined by a forefoot segment, a heel segment, and an arch segment between the forefoot segment and the heel segment. Furthermore, the forefoot segment comprises a toe segment. A structural sole, an upper, an insole, and an outsole are each also defined by such segments. Each of these elements has an upper surface and a lower surface. The upper surface is a surface configured to face upward when the shoe is placed in a natural position (ready to walk) on a level ground, and the lower surface is opposite the upper surface.

The structural sole is the backbone of the high-heeled shoe. The upper surface of the structural sole is configured to be in indirect contact with the surface under the user's foot through the insole.

The shape of the constructive sole depends on the desired shoe design, but for the purpose of high-heeled shoes, as the name implies, is used to elevate the heel of the foot, the constructive sole having a forefoot section configured to indirectly contact the ground and support the user's forefoot in use, and a heel section elevated to a desired height above the ground configured to support the heel of the user's foot. More specifically, the lower surface of the forefoot segment of the constructive sole is configured to be in indirect contact with the ground in use. In addition, the upper surface of the forefoot segment is configured to support the forefoot of the user. The upper surface of the heel section of the structural sole is configured to support the heel of a user and is configured to be lifted off the ground in use. In addition, the constructive sole has an arch segment connecting the forefoot segment and the raised heel segment.

Typically, the structural sole is made of a hard and/or rigid and/or non-resilient material, such as cardboard or wood, which is sufficient to withstand the pressure applied to it in use. The structural sole preferably also includes a shank, such as a metal shank at the upper surface of the structural sole. The handle may be part of a supportive structure.

In some embodiments, the structural sole is cut at least once in a substantially longitudinal direction at the forefoot segment, wherein at least one cut is configured to allow the structural sole to expand around the cut when pressure is applied to the forefoot segment. Alternatively or in combination therewith, the constructive sole may be provided with auxetic incisions to ensure the possibility of unfolding in response to the applied pressure.

// vamp// or

High-heeled shoes according to the invention may be closed, open in the toe section, or have multiple uppers covering only a small area of the foot, such as high-heeled sandals. Accordingly, the upper of a high-heeled shoe may be one piece or multiple pieces that together form the upper.

The upper is attached to the structural sole such that the upper and the structural sole together form an enclosure configured to receive a foot and retain the foot in a particular configuration.

// heel/base/status

The heel is attached directly or indirectly to a lower surface of the heel section of the structural sole. In some embodiments, the high-heeled shoe of the present invention comprises an outsole, and a heel is attached to a heel section of the outsole.

Many shoes have heel heights between 0.5 and 2 centimeters. High-heeled shoes are defined herein as shoes having a heel of at least 3 cm.

The height, thickness and form of the heel may vary from design to design.

// inner bottom/base

An insole is provided on top of the structural sole to provide a softer contact area between the high-heeled shoe and the foot. In some embodiments of the invention, an insole is disposed on the upper surface of the structural sole and is configured to directly or indirectly (via the user's sock) contact the user's foot.

In some embodiments, the insole is an integral part of the high-heeled shoe and cannot be removed. In other embodiments, the insole may be removed from the high-heeled shoe and replaced with another insole. The insole may cover the entire structural sole, or be disposed only at specific areas where additional support or cushioning is needed.

In some embodiments of the invention, the insole comprises a plurality of layers including at least a first layer and a second layer.

In some embodiments of the invention, the first layer of the insole is configured to cover the entire upper surface of the structural sole.

In some embodiments of the invention, the first layer of the insole comprises an auxetic material only at one or more auxetic regions, and the remainder of the first layer comprises a material such asSuch another material or consist of another material.Is a microcellular polyurethane foam having extremely low compression set.

In some embodiments of the invention, the second layer of the insole is arranged on top of the first layer and is made of a material, such as leather, having a thickness of less than 0.2cm, such as 0.1 cm. The second layer is configured to contact a foot of a user.

In some embodiments of the invention, the one or more specific regions comprising auxetic material comprise:

-a first auxetic region arranged at an upper surface of a forefoot segment of the structural sole such that it is configured to support a region between metatarsals and phalanges of a foot; and/or

-a second auxetic region arranged at an upper surface of the arch segment of the structural sole such that it is configured as a metatarsal pad supporting a foot; and/or

-a third auxetic region arranged at an upper surface of the heel section of the constructive sole, having a circular or elliptical shape, and configured to support the heel of the user.

These areas are where the most pressure will be applied when using the high-heeled shoe of the invention. A high-heeled shoe having an insole containing an auxetic material in the auxetic region is advantageous because it provides both comfort and support to the user. Due to the special nature of the auxetic material, the insole provides cushioning without thinning when pressure is applied to it.

Preferably, the third auxetic region has a minimum diameter of between 3-5cm and a maximum diameter of between 4-7 cm. The auxetic region may be, for example, circular or elliptical.

In some embodiments of the invention, the insole has a thickness of between 0.3cm and 1cm and comprises a pillow-like region protruding from the first layer of the insole.

In some embodiments of the invention, the pillow-like region comprises a first pillow-like region disposed on an upper surface of the ball of foot section of the first layer of the insole shaped such that it is configured to support an area between the metatarsals and the phalanges of the foot

When a person walks with high-heeled shoes, the first pillow-like region of the insole is arranged in the forefoot section, since a great deal of force is placed on the forefoot, in particular in the region between the metatarsals and the phalanges, so that when the weight is placed on the forefoot, this region is supported by the first pillow-like region.

In some embodiments of the invention, the first auxetic region comprises a first pillow-like region. Due to the nature of the auxetic material, the second auxetic region "absorbs", i.e. receives the force applied to it, without thinning/sinking as other materials do, thus maintaining the supporting effect.

In some embodiments of the invention, the pillow-like region comprises a second pillow-like region, arranged on the upper surface of the arch section of the insole, shaped such that it is configured to support and lift slightly the metatarsal pad of the foot in this region, such that the weight of the user is directed from the forefoot section to the heel section.

The second pillow-like region is configured to redistribute some of the pressure from the forefoot/middle section to the heel section. The second pillow-like area is preferably arranged to support a lower part of the arch of the foot, such as the metatarsal pads.

In some embodiments, the second auxetic region comprises a second pillow-like region. In such embodiments, due to the nature of the auxetic material, the second pillow-like region "absorbs" the forces applied to it, rather than thinning/sagging as other materials, thus maintaining the supporting effect. Since the second pillow-like region is configured to guide the weight of the user from the ball of the foot section to the heel section of the high-heeled shoe, it is particularly advantageous that this region contains an auxetic material.

Preferably, the maximum height of each pillow-like region from the upper surface of the insole is at most 1.0cm, such as 0.5cm, such as 0.3 cm.

Preferably, the second layer of the insole fits over the first layer when the first layer has been formed with protrusions, recesses, etc. as desired. Preferably, the second layer covers the entire first layer, which includes areas containing auxetic material and areas containing other materials.

In some embodiments, the first and/or second auxetic regions extend through the entire thickness of the first layer of the insole and further protrude from the first layer of the insole as first and second pillow-like regions. In other embodiments, the first and/or second auxetic area is arranged in the first layer and is covered by another material being part of the first layer, wherein the other material also forms the first and second pillow-like areas.

In some embodiments of the invention, the first auxetic region and the second auxetic region are joined by a joining auxetic region to form a joined region comprising auxetic material. In other embodiments, the first auxetic region, the second auxetic region, and the third auxetic region are joined by two joining auxetic regions to form a joined region comprising auxetic material.

Typically, the toes spread when the user's weight shifts from the heel to the forefoot. However, since most high-heeled shoes contain a small toe box, the toes are not allowed to spread out, but are squeezed together in an unnatural configuration. As a result, the balance of the user is impaired.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the insole further comprises an auxetic cut in the toe section of the forefoot section. Preferably, the auxetic incision extends through all layers of the insole and is configured to allow the toe section of the insole to extend in at least one direction (such as two directions) when pressure is applied to the forefoot section.

This configuration is advantageous because the auxetic incision allows the toes to spread when body weight is transferred to the forefoot and force is applied to the toe section of the insole that includes the auxetic incision. Thus, the high-heeled shoe of the present invention has increased flexibility in the toe section as compared to other high-heeled shoes.

Preferably, the auxetic incision is configured such that the insole is expandable by at least 0.2cm or more, such as 0.5cm or more, but not more than 1.5cm, preferably not more than 1 cm.

It is important that the auxetic material of the insole should not be present in the toe section of the forefoot section in which the auxetic cut is arranged, as this would violate the technical effect of the auxetic cut (i.e., the material stretches when pressure is applied into the toe section).

// a recess in the heel section of the insole/5

In some embodiments of the invention, the heel section of the insole has a recess that is circular or elliptical in cross-section. In some embodiments, the maximum depth of the recess is 0.2-0.8cm, the minimum diameter is 3-5cm and the maximum diameter is 4-7 cm.

The recess is configured to lower the heel of the user to a more natural position. Furthermore, the notch has a supporting effect, since it is configured to support the bulbous part of the heel and to distribute forces in this area.

// outsole/Take

In some embodiments of the invention, the high-heeled shoe further comprises an outsole disposed on the lower surface of the structural sole so as to partially or fully cover the lower surface of the structural sole, and wherein the ball of foot section of the outsole comprises an auxetic cut that is identical to the auxetic cut of the insole and is configured to allow the ball of foot section of the outsole to expand in at least one direction (such as two directions) when pressure is applied to the ball of foot section.

The outsole preferably has a thickness of between 2mm-5mm, such as 3 mm. The outsole may be made of materials such as thermoplastic elastomer/rubber (TPR), Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU), Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA), also known as poly (ethylene vinyl acetate) (PEVA).

Importantly, the auxetic cut should be arranged so that it is similar or identical for both the insole and the outsole so that they both expand to the same extent. In the following, further information about auxetic incisions is given.

In some embodiments, the outsole is disposed only at the forefoot segment of the structural sole, and includes an auxetic cut in a particular region at the forefoot segment that is configured to allow the region of the outsole to expand in at least one direction (such as in both directions) when pressure is applied to the forefoot segment.

In some embodiments, the auxetic cut extends through the entire thickness of the outsole. However, in some embodiments, the auxetic notch does not extend through the entire thickness of the outsole, but only l-4mm, such that 1mm or 0.5mm of the upper surface closest to the outsole is free of auxetic notches. In this way, the outsole is waterproof.

// waterproof stand/Take

In some embodiments of the invention, the high-heeled shoe further comprises a waterproof platform disposed at the forefoot segment at the lower surface of the outsole, the waterproof platform including an auxetic cut through both the waterproof platform and the outsole.

// shape/Take

The high-heeled shoe according to the invention is preferably a closed cusped high-heeled shoe.

The forefoot section of the constructive sole defines, together with an upper of the high-heeled shoe attached to the forefoot section, a toe box, wherein the high-heeled shoe has a specially shaped toe box configured to allow toe extension when pressure is applied to the forefoot.

In some embodiments of the invention, the longitudinal axis extends through the high-heeled shoe such that the heel section and the arch section of the high-heeled shoe are divided by the longitudinal axis into two substantially symmetrical portions, wherein at least a portion of a first outer edge of the toe section of the structural sole/insole/outsole extends in a direction parallel to or away from the longitudinal axis and at least a portion of a second outer edge of the toe section of the structural sole/insole/outsole extends toward and across the longitudinal axis, intersecting the first outer edge to form a pointed tip, wherein the first outer edge is the outer edge configured to be closest to the big toe.

In some embodiments, the first outer edge is substantially straight in at least 2/3 of the length of the first outer edge of the forefoot segment at a location closest to the toe end.

The shape of the high-heeled shoe of the invention is advantageous because it does not force the big toe to move towards the other toes as is the case with most existing pointed high-heeled shoes. In addition, this shape allows the toes to stretch as weight is directed onto the ball and toes. This is important to the user's balance, not damaging the toes to the same extent as typical pointed high-heeled shoes.

// definition// or

Auxetic material

The term "auxetic material" as used herein generally refers to a material or structure having a negative poisson's ratio.

Auxetic materials exhibit unexpected behavior when subjected to mechanical stress and/or strain. The insole of the present invention comprises an auxetic material configured such that when pressure is applied to the area containing the auxetic material, it thickens rather than thins, or at least maintains the same thickness on the axis of applied pressure.

The auxetic material of the insole is preferably auxetic foam. The auxetic material may be made of a different material, such as a polymeric material that exhibits sufficient flexibility and elastomeric properties. Auxetic properties can be induced in a particular material by changing its internal (micro) structure and appropriately matching it with the way the material deforms when loaded. This is done by modifying and geometrically fine tuning it. The skilled person will be able to produce an auxetic material with the desired properties, i.e. it does not thin out significantly when pressure is applied.

An auxetic cut herein refers to a specific cutting pattern in the element that allows the element to expand in size when pressure is applied to the auxetic cut region. Thus, the high-heeled shoe of the present invention has increased flexibility in the toe section as compared to other high-heeled shoes. This is done by modifying and geometrically fine tuning it. The skilled person will be able to make an auxetic incision with the desired properties, i.e. the area comprising the auxetic incision expands when pressure is applied to this area.

Each section of high-heeled shoes

The high-heeled shoe of the present invention is defined by the various segments to describe the location and manner in which the various elements are arranged relative to one another. These segments are defined by a vertical plane dividing the shoe into at least three segments: a forefoot section, an arch section, and a heel section.

Accordingly, the structural sole, insole, outsole and upper each include a forefoot segment, an arch segment and a heel segment. The various sections of the high-heeled shoe are defined herein with respect to the structural sole.

The forefoot segment of the constructive sole of the present invention is a segment configured to be in indirect contact with the ground in use, which is separated from the ground by the outsole and optionally also the waterproof platform.

The heel section is the section of the high-heeled shoe configured to support the heel. The size of the heel section varies with the size of the shoe, but is defined herein as at least 5cm of the structural sole, as measured along the longitudinal axis from an outer edge of the structural sole, which is configured to be elevated from the ground in use.

The arch segment is defined as the area between the forefoot segment and the heel segment.

The toe section is a portion of the forefoot section and may cover a majority of the forefoot section. Preferably, however, the toe section is at least 2cm from the arch section.

Direct and indirect

By "indirect contact" is meant that the contact areas may be separated by another layer or sole, such as an insole, a protective layer, an outsole, etc. By "direct contact" is meant direct contact with the user's foot or at least the sock on the user's foot.

The different embodiments of the invention can each be combined with any of the embodiments. These and other aspects of the invention are apparent from and will be elucidated with reference to the embodiments described hereinafter.

Drawings

A high-heeled shoe according to the invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The drawings illustrate one way of carrying out the invention and should not be construed as limiting other possible embodiments falling within the scope of the appended set of claims.

FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of an exploded view of a high-heeled shoe according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a schematic view of a high-heeled shoe according to an embodiment of the present invention, shown from a different view;

FIG. 3 is a schematic view of an insole according to various embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a schematic view of an insole according to an embodiment of the invention, shown from a different view;

FIG. 5 is a schematic view of an outsole according to an embodiment of the invention, with and without a waterproof station.

Figure 6 is a schematic view of a preferred embodiment of the high-heeled shoe shape of the present invention.

Detailed Description

Referring to fig. 1 and 2, an embodiment of a high-heeled shoe 1 according to the invention is shown. Fig. 1 shows an exploded view of a high-heeled shoe 1, while fig. 2 shows a three-dimensional view of the high-heeled shoe from a different angle.

Fig. 2 a shows the high-heeled shoe 1 from a top view, fig. 2B shows the high-heeled shoe 1 from a front view, fig. 2C shows the high-heeled shoe 1 from a rear view and fig. 2D shows the high-heeled shoe 1 from a side view.

As shown in fig. 2 a and 2D, the high-heeled shoe 1 according to the present invention has a ball 5 including a toe segment 19, an arch segment 7 and a heel segment 6. These sections are used in this application to describe the various sections of the different elements of the invention.

The high-heeled shoe 1 of figures 1 and 2 comprises a structural sole 2, an insole 10, an outsole 17, a waterproof platform 22, a heel 8 and an upper 9.

The constructive sole 2 is the backbone of the high-heeled shoe, determining the height and ground shape of the final shoe. As shown in fig. 1, the structural sole may be provided with a longitudinal cut along a portion of the length. It has been found that such longitudinal cuts improve the advantageous load distributing properties of at least some embodiments of high-heeled shoes according to the invention. Providing a structural sole with more such longitudinal cuts (e.g., two parallel longitudinal cuts at a distance from the edge of the structural sole) may also affect the load distribution properties. As mentioned above, the constructive sole may also be provided with auxetic incisions. The auxetic cut is omitted from fig. 1 to more clearly show the longitudinal cut in the constructive sole. However, it may look the same as shown for the other parts in fig. 1.

The upper 9 is attached to the constructive sole 2 such that the upper 9 and the constructive sole 2 together form an enclosure configured to receive and hold the foot in a specific configuration. Preferably, as illustrated in fig. 1 and 2, the high-heeled shoe 1 of the present invention is closed, having a pointed tip.

The heel 8 of the high-heeled shoe 1 is attached to the lower surface of the heel section 6 of the outsole 17 provided on the lower surface of the structural sole 2.

Importantly, the high-heeled shoe 1 of the present invention includes an insole 10 comprising an auxetic material. The insole 10 is configured to be arranged on the upper surface of the constructive sole 2.

Reference is made to figures 3 and 4 illustrating various embodiments of an insole according to the present invention.

Fig. 3C shows a three-dimensional view of the insole 10 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention without showing which elements the insole 10 is made of.

Fig. 3 a, 3B and 3D show exploded views of different embodiments of the insole 10 according to the invention, which when assembled will all look like the insole 10 shown in fig. 3C from that perspective, but will be different from the bottom view.

The insoles 10 illustrated in figures 3 and 4 all include a first layer 14 and a second layer 15. The first layer 14 of the insole 10 is configured to cover the entire upper surface 4 of the structural sole 2 and contains auxetic material only at one or more auxetic regions 11, 12, 13. The second layer 15 is arranged on top of the first layer 14 and is made of a thin sheet of strong and durable material, such as leather.

In some embodiments, as illustrated in B of fig. 3, the insole comprises three auxetic areas 11, 12, 13.

The first auxetic region 11 is disposed at an upper surface of the forefoot segment 5 of the structural sole 2 and is configured to support an area between the metatarsals and the phalanges of the foot.

The second auxetic region 12 is arranged at an upper surface of the arch segment 7 of the structural sole 2 and is configured as a metatarsal pad supporting a foot.

A third auxetic region 13 is arranged at an upper surface of the heel section 6 of the structural sole 2. The third auxetic region preferably has a circular or elliptical shape and is configured to support a heel of the user.

In other embodiments, as illustrated in fig. 3 a, 3D, and 4, first auxetic region 11 and second auxetic region 12 join to form joined auxetic region 28/11+ 12. In some embodiments, first auxetic region 11, second auxetic region 12, and third auxetic region 13 may join to form larger joined auxetic regions 28/11+12+ 13.

The insole 10 illustrated in figures 3 and 4 also comprises pillow-like areas 23, 24 protruding from the first layer 14 of the insole 2. A first pillow-like area 23 is arranged on the upper surface 4 of the forefoot section 5 of the insole 10, shaped such that it is configured to support the area between the metatarsals and the phalanges of the foot. A second pillow-like area 24 is arranged on the upper surface 4 of the arch section 7 of the insole 10, shaped such that it is configured to support the metatarsal pad of the foot and lift it slightly in this area, so that the weight of the user is directed from the forefoot section 5 to the heel section 7.

In some embodiments, as illustrated in a of fig. 3 and B of fig. 3, the first auxetic region 11 comprises a first pillow-shaped region 23 and the second auxetic region 12 comprises a second pillow-shaped region 24. In such embodiments, the other material of the first layer does not extend to the first and second auxetic regions 12, 13, but only surrounds the first and second auxetic regions 12, 13. The second layer is a thin leather layer glued on top of the first layer. Thus, the second layer will just fit the shape of the first layer.

In some embodiments, as illustrated in D of fig. 3, the pillow-like region is not made of an auxetic material, but rather is made of the other material of the first layer. In such embodiments, the additional material extends over the area containing the auxetic material, as shown in D of fig. 3.

Fig. 4 shows an insole 10 similar to the insole shown in a of fig. 3 or D of fig. 3 where the first and second auxetic regions 11, 12 join to form a joined auxetic region 28. Fig. 4 a shows a bottom view of the insole 10, fig. 4B shows a front view of the insole 10, fig. 4C shows a rear view of the insole 10, fig. 4D shows a side view of the insole and fig. 4E shows a three-dimensional view.

The insole 10 shown in fig. 3 and 4 also includes an auxetic cut 18 in the toe section 19 of the forefoot section 5. The auxetic cut 18 extends through all of the layers 14, 15 of the insole 10 and is configured to allow the toe section 19 of the insole 10 to extend in at least one direction (such as in two directions) when pressure is applied to the toe section. How much it can extend and in which direction it extends depends on the auxetic cut pattern.

Furthermore, the heel section 6 of the insole 10 has a recess 21 which is circular or oval in cross-section.

Reference is made to fig. 5 which illustrates the outsole 17 of the present invention. Fig. 5 a illustrates a bottom view of the outsole 17, while fig. 5B and fig. 5C show side views of two different embodiments according to the invention without or with a waterproof stand 22, respectively.

The outsole 17 is configured to be arranged on the lower surface 3 of the constructive sole 2, so as to completely cover it. The forefoot segment 5 of outsole 17 includes an auxetic cut 18. Importantly, such an auxetic notch should be identical or at least nearly identical to the auxetic cut 18 in the insole 10 of the high-heeled shoe 1. The auxetic cut 18 in the outsole 17 allows the toe section 19 of the outsole 17 to extend in at least one direction (such as in two directions) when pressure is applied to the toe section 19. How much it can extend and in which direction it extends depends on the auxetic cut pattern.

Fig. 5C illustrates a side view of the outsole 17, the outsole 17 further comprising a waterproof platform 22 disposed on the lower surface of the forefoot segment 5, wherein both the waterproof platform 22 and the outsole 17 include auxetic incisions.

Most high-heeled shoes have a pointed or at least rounded forefoot segment, making the shoe look smaller and giving it a feminine taste. Referring to fig. 6 a, there is illustrated a top view of the shape profile of the pointed high-heeled shoe 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention. B of fig. 6 illustrates a top view of a standard shape of a pointed high-heeled shoe.

A longitudinal axis 20 extends through high-heeled shoe 1 such that heel section 6 and arch section 7 of high-heeled shoe 1 are divided into two substantially symmetrical portions by longitudinal axis 20. The three transverse lines intersect the longitudinal axis and divide the high-heeled shoe into four sections: a heel segment 6, an arch segment 7 and a ball segment 5 including a toe segment 19. The toe section 19 comprises two outer edges 25, 26.

In B of fig. 6, both outer edges 25, 26 of the toe section 19 extend towards the longitudinal axis 20. One outer edge 26 intersects the longitudinal axis 20 and intersects the other outer edge in a pointed tip 27. In a typical high-heeled shoe, such as the high-heeled shoe illustrated in B of fig. 6, the outer edge of the forefoot segment is always curved to some extent towards the longitudinal axis to intersect with another outer edge of the forefoot segment that also extends towards the longitudinal axis. Typically, at least one of the wires extends across the longitudinal axis such that they intersect at a tip that is not on the longitudinal axis.

In a of fig. 6, the first outer edge 25 of the toe section 19 extends in a direction away from the longitudinal axis 20 and the second outer edge 26 extends towards the longitudinal axis 20. The second outer edge 26 also extends across the longitudinal axis 20 to intersect the first outer edge 25 and form a pointed tip 27. In some embodiments, the first outer edge 25 does not extend away from the longitudinal axis 20, but is parallel to the longitudinal axis 20.

Fig. 6 shows the contour of left high-heeled shoe 1, so that first outer edge 25 is to the right. However, in right high-heeled shoe 1, first outer edge 25 would be to the left. As a general rule, the first outer edge 25 is the edge that is configured to be closest to the big toe of the user.

The shape illustrated in a of figure 6 is repeated for almost all elements of the high-heeled shoe of the invention, including the constructive sole 2, the insole 10, the outsole 17, the upper 9 and the waterproof platform 22.

While the invention has been described in connection with specific embodiments, it should not be construed as being limited in any way to the examples presented. The scope of the invention is set forth by the appended set of claims. In the context of the claims, the term "comprising" or "comprises" does not exclude other possible elements or steps. In addition, references to such references as "a" or "an" should not be construed as excluding a plurality. The use of reference signs in the claims with respect to elements indicated in the figures shall not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention either. Furthermore, it is possible that individual features mentioned in different claims may possibly be advantageously combined, and that mentioning of these features in different claims does not exclude that a combination of features is not possible and advantageous.

List of reference symbols used

1 high-heeled shoes

2 structural sole

3 lower surface of a constructive sole, insole, outsole or waterproof platform

4 upper surface of a constructive sole, insole, outsole or waterproof platform

5 front sole segment

6 heel section

7 arch segment

8 heel

9 shoe upper

10 inner bottom

11 first auxetic region

12 second auxetic region

13 third auxetic region

14 first layer of insole

15 second layer of insole

Third layer of the 16 insole

17 outer sole

18 auxetic incision

19 toe segment

20 longitudinal axis

21 concave part

22 waterproof table

23 first pillow-like region

24 second pillow-like region

25 first outer edge

26 second outer edge

27 pointed tip

28 joined auxetic region