Skechers and L.L. Bean Settle Patent Dispute Over Shoe Designs
Monday, Dec 30, 2024 3:25 am ET
2min read In a significant development for the footwear industry, iconic outdoor retailer L.L.Bean has agreed to discontinue a line of casual shoes following a design patent infringement lawsuit filed by Skechers USA. The settlement, approved by U.S. District Judge Margaret Garnett in Manhattan, marks an important precedent in fashion design patent protection.
Background of the Dispute
The controversy centered around L.L.Bean’s Freeport shoes, a $99 casual footwear line named after the company’s historic Maine hometown. Skechers, the world’s third-largest footwear company, alleged that the Freeport line infringed upon two of its design patents specifically relating to “heel cup” designs. The patents in question protect Skechers’ unique heel cup configuration, which features what the company describes as “graceful, sweeping, gently rolling lines and slopes” mimicking the natural shape of the human heel.
Settlement Terms
Under the settlement agreement, L.L. Bean is prohibited from manufacturing, importing, or selling any footwear that infringes upon the two Skechers design patents until their expiration in 2038. While the complete terms of the settlement remain confidential, it’s worth noting that Skechers had initially sought unspecified damages in addition to the injunctive relief.
Industry Implications
This case highlights several important aspects of intellectual property protection in the fashion industry:
1. The growing importance of design patents in protecting fashion innovations
2. The willingness of courts to enforce design patent rights in the footwear sector
3. The potential risks faced by established retailers when developing products that may inadvertently infringe on competitors’ protected designs
Company Profiles
L.L.Bean, founded in 1912, has built its reputation on quality outdoor gear and clothing over more than a century of operation. Skechers, though a relative newcomer having been founded in 1992, has rapidly grown to become one of the world’s largest footwear companies, with its headquarters in Manhattan Beach, California.
Legal Context
This case (Skechers USA Inc et al v LL Bean Inc, U.S. District Court, Southern District of New York, No. 24-05336) demonstrates the robust protection available for innovative design elements in footwear. Design patents, while sometimes overlooked in favor of utility patents or trademarks, can provide powerful protection for ornamental designs in fashion and accessories.
Looking Forward
This settlement serves as a reminder to fashion and retail companies of the importance of comprehensive design clearance procedures before launching new products. As design patent protection continues to play a crucial role in the fashion industry, companies must balance innovation with respect for competitors’ intellectual property rights.
In conclusion, the settlement between Skechers and L.L. Bean highlights the importance of design patent protection in the footwear industry and sends a strong message to other companies about the potential risks of infringing on competitors' protected designs. The willingness of courts to enforce design patent rights, as demonstrated in this case, may encourage other footwear companies to be more proactive in protecting their own innovative designs and to consider legal action when they believe their intellectual property has been infringed upon. Additionally, the settlement serves as a reminder for companies to conduct comprehensive design clearance procedures before launching new products to avoid potential infringement issues.
