US Patent 11006697 Tensile strand

An article of footwear includes a sole structure, an upper, and a tensile strand. The upper is coupled to the sole structure and has a medial portion, a lateral portion, an interior surface, and an exterior surface. The tensile strand has a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion disposed between the first and second portions. The first and second portions are disposed adjacent the interior surface of the upper and have a first cross-sectional profile that is flat. The third portion extends from the exterior surface of the upper and has a second cross-sectional profile that is rounded.