Skechers has initiated legal action against outdoor apparel retailer L.L.Bean, accusing them of unlawfully copying patented shoe designs. The lawsuit, filed in Manhattan federal court on Monday, alleges that L.L.Bean replicated Skechers’ patented “heel cup” designs, which are integral to the structure and appeal of their footwear.
Skechers says they spent a lot of money developing their unique shoe designs with smooth lines and slopes before L.L.Bean made similar shoes. L.L.Bean’s Freeport casual shoes, which cost US $ 99, also have these designs along with a cushioned sole and stretchy material near the heel for comfort.
Neither Skechers nor L.L.Bean commented on the lawsuit. Skechers is asking for money and wants L.L.Bean to stop selling the Freeport shoes. This legal issue comes at a tough time for shoppers, with prices going up, affecting how much people spend on non-essential items. Sneaker brands like Nike are also facing tough competition and changing trends in the market.
