Nike has taken Puma to court over alleged patent infringement relating to footwear technology in its Flyknit range.
In its complaint filed at the US District Court for the District of Massachusetts on 3 May, Nike accused Puma of using the Flyknit, Air and cleat technologies without Nike’s permission.
According to Nike, Puma’s Ignite Proknit footwear infringes at least one of over 300 Nike patents for the Flyknit technology.
Nike said it’s mission is to “bring inspiration and innovation to every athlete in the world”, which it achieves by “investing heavily in research, design, and development; creating game-changing technologies and products that enhance athletic performance, reduce injury and maximise comfort while reducing waste”.
Conversely, Nike argued that Puma has “foregone independent innovation” and is “instead using Nike’s technologies without permission”.
Nike is seeking a permanent injunction against Puma and damages.