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Nike strikes a lawsuit with Skechers and New Balance
Nike’s ongoing battle: Flyknit Technology Lawsuits
Nike, the sportswear giant, is once again making headlines for its legal pursuit against alleged infringement of its Flyknit technology. In recent court filings, Nike has taken legal action against Skechers and New Balance in separate cases, alleging the unauthorized use of its patented Flyknit technology.
Alleged Infringement
Nike’s legal filings point out numerous Skechers models that the brand claims infringe on its patented technology. The court documents highlight specific examples of Skechers shoes that allegedly incorporate Nike’s patented Flyknit technology.
Concerning New Balance, Nike has accused “at least” 21 of its current models of infringing upon Nike’s Flyknit trademark. The legal documents include images of the New Balance models that are purportedly infringing on Nike’s Flyknit patents.
Nike’s patent rights
Nike’s Flyknit material is protected by several patents, with the first patent being granted in September 2012. These patents safeguard the innovative Flyknit technology, emphasizing Nike's efforts to protect its proprietary material from unauthorized use.
Legal history and ongoing cases
Nike has previously filed lawsuits against Skechers for alleged Flyknit infringement and previous knockoff designs. However, this marks the first time Nike has taken legal action against New Balance. Despite Nike’s attempt to address the issue with New Balance earlier this year, the sportswear giant claims that New Balance has continued activities that allegedly violate its patents. Earlier in the year, Nike also filed a lawsuit against Lululemon for similar Flyknit patent infringement, with the case still pending.
Responses from New Balance and Skechers
New Balance has responded by stating its respect for competitors' intellectual property rights while asserting that traditional manufacturing methods, utilized for decades in the industry, are not solely Nike’s exclusive rights. New Balance affirms its intention to vigorously defend against Nike’s claims.
Skechers, when approached for comment, declined to comment on the ongoing legal dispute.
Legal outcomes sought
In both the lawsuits against New Balance and Skechers, Nike seeks damages and requests the prohibition of both brands from continuing the production of the alleged infringing products. The legal battle highlights Nike’s determination to protect its patented Flyknit technology and maintain its proprietary rights within the footwear industry.
