Skechers USA Inc is reportedly suing High street brand Steve Madden Ltd for infringing one of its patents.
Skechers which sells casual and fitness shoes and have reported strong sales in recent quarters. Much of the companyÂs growth is attributed to their Go walk line of footwear. It is this line of footwear that has led Sketchers to filing a lawsuit against Steve Madden.
The setta shoes at the centre of controversy have a woven elastic upper and moulded rubber bottom.
According to the lawsuit filed in the U.S District Court for the Central District of California, Skechers argues that Steven MaddenÂs Setta style infringes on seven patents owned by Skechers that are used in their Go Walk collection.
In the lawsuit Sketchers states ÂThe innovative design of the Sketchers Go series and other such styles have significantly contributed to the companyÂs recent successes. The fame and popularity of the various styles of shoes both within and beyond the Sketchers Go series is evident in the fact that millions of pairs of Sketchers Go series shoes have been sold since their introductionÂ.
In a release David Weinberg, chief operating officer of the company stated: Âwhile we prefer to compete in the marketplace, Steven Madden is selling its infringing footwear to Sketchers wholesale customers and in other sales channels where the Sketchers products are sold, and we believe this is causing us enormous damage. He added ÂWe plan on taking similar action against any company that develops and products that infringe on the patents of the Sketchers Go Walk or any of our other popular product lines, and any retailer that sells the Steven by Steve Madden Setta style.Â
Skechers are seeking an injunction against the Setta line of footwear sold under the Steven by Steve Madden line. According to the lawsuit Sketchers are also seeking compensation and punitive damages.
