US Patent 7281343 Footwear outsole

An outsole having a plurality of traction elements extending transversely across its lower surface and a plurality of support walls extending transversely across its upper surface. Each of the support walls is uniquely associated with and in substantial vertical alignment with one of the traction elements. In one embodiment, the traction elements include and angled lower wall and a substantially vertical rear wall. In this embodiment, the support walls may be in substantial vertical alignment with the rear wall. In another embodiment, the heel region includes an intersecting grid-like arrangement of support walls in its upper surface.