Knitted component with an inner layer having a thermoplastic material and related method

An article of footwear, comprising:

• an upper having a first knit layer located on a first side of the upper;
• a second knit layer located on a second side of the upper that is opposite the first side;
• a third layer formed between the first knit layer and the second knit layer, wherein the third layer includes one or more thermoplastic strands inlaid between the first knit layer and the second knit layer,
• wherein a first region of the upper includes a first ratio of the one or more thermoplastic strands to high-melting point yarn by volume, and wherein a second region of the upper includes a second ratio of the one or more thermoplastic strands to high-melting point yarn by volume, wherein the first ratio is greater than the second ratio;
• and
• a sole structure secured to the upper.

An article of footwear, comprising:

• an upper, comprising:
• a knitted component, comprising:
• a first knit layer,
• a second knit layer, and
• a thermoplastic material incorporated between the first knit layer and the second knit layer,
• wherein the thermoplastic material has been melted and re-solidified such that it penetrates through at least one of the first knit layer and the second knit layer and is exposed on an outer-facing surface of the upper.