FASTENINGS OR ATTACHMENTS FOR FOOTWEAR; LACES IN GENERAL

Description

A43C covers mechanical and structural devices that secure footwear to the foot or join footwear components together. This includes lacing systems (eyelets, hooks, and lace materials), buckles, straps, clasps, and adhesive fastening methods applied to shoes, boots, and similar articles. The classification encompasses both traditional lace-based closure mechanisms and alternative fastening technologies designed to achieve secure, adjustable fit in footwear. It excludes the general construction and shaping of shoe uppers and soles, which fall under broader footwear design classes.

Filing statistics

IPC subclass A43C recorded 12,307 patent applications worldwide between 2013 and 2023. Annual filings grew from 908 in 2013 to 986 in 2023 (+9%), peaking at 1,368 applications in 2017. The most active applicants in class A43 are NIKE (3,884 applications), NIKE INNOVATE (3,037 applications) and NIKE INNOVATE (1,179 applications).

Source: EPO PATSTAT, worldwide filings