Nike's Converse brand is suing Skechers USA, Wal-Mart Stores Inc., FILA, Ed Hardy, K-Mart Corp. and even Ralph Lauren Corp. for selling knock off versions of its Chuck Taylor shoes. These brands are some of 31 companies being sued by Converse.
Converse says look-alike Chuck Taylor shoes have become more common in recent years. 180 cease and desist letters related to the issue have been served since 2008. Companies are said to be infringing on trademarks that cover the look of the shoe and the diamond pattern on the bottom of the sole.
Nike Inc. acquired Converse in 2003. The New York Times first reported on the suit.
