Nike is suing Lululemon over shoe designs

Nike complains Lululemon for patent infringement related to at least four of the clothing company’s shoes, extending a contentious legal history between the two companies.

In the lawsuit, filed Monday in Manhattan federal court, Nike alleges that it suffered economic damage and irreparable injuries as a result of Lululemon’s sale of the Chargefeel Mid, Chargefeel Low, Blissfeel and Strongfeel shoes.

Nike said its three patent claims focus on textile elements, including knit elements, woven areas and tubular structures on the shoes. A patent claim also relates to the performance of the shoes.

Oregon-based Nike is seeking unspecified damages.

“Nike’s claims are unfounded and we look forward to proving our case in court,” a Lululemon spokesman said in a statement Tuesday.

Vancouver-based company Lululemon released Blissfeel, its first-ever women’s running shoe, in March, marking the company’s official foray into the sneaker market. The second shoe in his series, the Chargefeel, started in July for running and exercising.

In January 2022, Nike sued Lululemon, accusing the Canadian apparel maker of infringing on six patents for its Mirror home fitness device and related mobile applications. In this case, Nike demands triple damages.

Nike claimed it invented a device – and filed for a patent back in 1983 – that tracked a runner’s speed, calories burned, distance traveled and elapsed time. The Mirror interactive workout platform guides users through cardio classes and other exercises. The complaint found similarities between the technology that allows users to compete with other users, record their performance, and target specific levels of exertion.

Lululemon said in a statement at the time: “The patents in question are too broad and invalid. We are confident in our position and look forward to defending it in court.”