The Nike swoosh logo is seen outside the store on 5th Ave in New York, New York, U.S., March 19, 2019. REUTERS/Carlo Allegri/File Photothat several New Balance athletic shoes and Skechers sneakers misuse Nike's patented "Flyknit" technology for running, soccer and basketball shoes.Representatives for Nike, New Balance 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 fibers 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.
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. Blake Brittain reports on intellectual property law, including patents, trademarks, copyrights and trade secrets, for Reuters Legal. He has previously written for Bloomberg Law and Thomson Reuters Practical Law and practiced as an attorney. Contact: +12029385713