The invention is an article of footwear having a sole comprised of one or more
support elements formed of a resilient, compressible material. The support elements
are designed such that the positions of one or more bands that encircle the exterior
surface of the support elements may be altered such that the deflection characteristics
of the support elements are changed. In order to facilitate the repositioning of
the bands, the support element includes an access indentation defined by the exterior
surface or flanges that are secured to each band.