NIKE FILES $60M LAWSUIT AGAINST THE SHOE SURGEON OVER TRADEMARK INFRINGEMENT

The custom and bootleg sneaker market has been growing rapidly, and Nike has taken legal action to protect its brand and intellectual property. Following previous lawsuits against Warren Lotas, John Geiger, and BAPE, which have all been settled, Nike has now targeted The Shoe Surgeon with a $60 million lawsuit. The suit seeks damages including profits generated from alleged counterfeiting, tripled, along with attorney fees, related to over 30 Nike trademarks.

The Shoe Surgeon is renowned for selling bespoke creations often inspired by existing Nike designs, and has collaborated to create unique Nike-based designs without the brand’s approval. Despite having occasionally partnered with Nike to create exclusive pairs for athletes like LeBron James, the ongoing unauthorized use of Nike’s trademarks and designs has led to this legal action. According to Nike, after numerous attempts to resolve the matter privately, the company decided to escalate the issue to court, as reported by Sneaker Legal.

Nike’s concerns extend beyond the unauthorized use of their designs. They also object to The Shoe Surgeon conducting classes that teach people how to replicate their trademarks. This lawsuit comes shortly after Goyard also sued The Shoe Surgeon, alleging unauthorized use of its signature monogrammed fabric and leather, and questioning the authenticity of the Goyard materials used.