Nike continues to play hardball over perceived infringements on its footwear patents. In early May, the Swoosh sued Puma for copying its patented Flyknit, Air and cleat technical assembly methods. Nike alleges that Puma was “forgoing independent innovation” and using Nike technology without permission. Nike owns over 300 utility patents relating to the Flyknit upper and four of those are at issue with Puma. Eighteen months ago, the German sports brand introduced knitted shoes based on another material, called EVOknit. Nike is seeking a permanent injunction against Puma and requesting damages. In 2012, shortly after the release of Flyknit, Nike sued Adidas for similar reasons. A German court initially ruled in favor of Nike, forcing Adidas to halt production of its Primeknit footwear. The decision was later reversed, and Adidas commenced production of Primeknit. Nike also sued Skechers in 2015, claiming that some of its footwear products appeared to be copies of its Flyknit. In a statement, Puma refuted the allegations and stated that it intends to continue to put out its own products.

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