Converse Sues 31 Companies Over Trademark Infringement

Racked is no longer publishing. Thank you to everyone who read our work over the years. The archives will remain available here; for new stories, head over to Vox.com, where our staff is covering consumer culture for The Goods by Vox. You can also see what we’re up to by signing up here.

Converse is going to bat for its iconic Chuck Taylor sneakers. The New York Times reports that Converse is filing lawsuits against 31 retailers and manufacturers who Converse claims have knocked off elements of its classic shoes. The Chuck Taylor toe cap, dark stripe, toe bumper, and top stripe are among the trademark designs that Converse claims have been copied by companies including Walmart, Kmart and Skechers.

"We continue to see sort of an explosion, if you will, an increase in knockoff activity. Cease-and-desist letters aren't enough," Converse chief executive Jim Calhoun told the Times. Converse estimated it has sent 160 cease-and-desist letters to companies who they think have copied its trademark designs. According to the Times, Converse will have to prove in court that consumers associate this particular design with the manufacturer, instead of just acknowledging that the design is popular.
· Converse Sues to Protect Its Chuck Taylor All Stars [NYT]
· How Can I Get My Boyfriend To Ditch His Chucks and Grow Up? [Racked]
· Adidas x Pharrell Drops This Weekend, Includes a Stan Smith [Racked]
· Meet the Next Fashion Sneaker: Vans Skater High Tops [Racked]