Nike sues New Balance, Skechers for patent infringement over sneaker technology

FOOTWEAR giant Nike filed federal lawsuits on Monday (Nov 6) against rivals New Balance and Skechers, accusing them of infringing patents related to Nike’s technology for making upper portions of sneakers.

The lawsuits said that several New Balance athletic shoes and Skechers sneakers misuse Nike’s patented “Flyknit” technology for running, soccer and basketball shoes.

Nike has previously sued Adidas, Puma and Lululemon for infringing Flyknit patents. Adidas and Puma have settled their lawsuits, while Nike’s case against Lululemon is still ongoing.

New Balance said it “fully respects competitors’ intellectual property rights, but Nike does not own the exclusive right to design and produce footwear by traditional manufacturing methods that have been used in the industry for decades”.

Representatives for Nike and Skechers did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the Monday lawsuits.

Beaverton, Oregon-based Nike’s website said that its Flyknit technology “uses high-strength fibres to create lightweight uppers with targeted areas of support, stretch and breathability”. The lawsuits said the patented technology allows it to make high-performance uppers with reduced materials and waste.

SEE ALSO

Nike beats profit estimates as higher pricing pays off

Nike faces risks from consumer squeeze, China: Jefferies

Nike faces calls to pay garment workers ahead of annual shareholder meeting

Vietnam's manufacturer for Nike, Adidas cuts 1,200 jobs

More

The Business Times turns 50

Five decades of milestones and moments that shaped Singapore’s success story - told through our headlines.

Explore BT50»

Nike’s complaint against Boston-based New Balance, filed in Massachusetts federal court, said shoes from New Balance’s Fresh Foam, FuelCell and other lines violate Nike’s patent rights. Nike sued Manhattan Beach, California-based Skechers in Los Angeles, claiming that shoes, including Skechers’ Ultra Flex and Glide Step brands, infringed on its patents.

Nike asked the courts for an unspecified amount of money damages and court orders permanently blocking New Balance and Skechers from infringing the patents. REUTERS