After Nike last sued Adidas in December 2021 over its Flyknit knitted upper technology, claiming that a total of 49 Adidas shoe models infringed its technology, the German sporting goods company is now accusing the American company in federal court in Texas of “knowingly and intentionally” infringing nine patents related to Adidas’ smart technology in apps, footwear, apparel and equipment.
The patents in question relate to self-lacing technology, location-based running tracking, performance feedback and training programs through a number of Nike running apps, and a system for reserving sneakers. According to the lawsuit, the Adidas 1, launched in 2004, recognized and adapted the shoe’s comfort when worn. The defendants launched their own version, the Nike Adapt, in 2019, infringing on Adidas’ technology. In addition, Nike’s SNKRS app, which allows individuals to reserve limited edition sneaker models, infringes a patent related to Adidas’ Confirmed app, confirming a potential buyer’s authenticity. The lawsuit seeks a declaration of patent infringement, an injunction, damages and attorneys’ fees.
