Home / Business and Economy / Judge Overturns Lululemon Patent Ruling
Judge Overturns Lululemon Patent Ruling
1 Apr
Summary
- Federal judge reversed a jury's verdict against Lululemon.
- Nike's patent for sneaker manufacturing techniques deemed invalid.
- Lululemon was initially ordered to pay $355,450 in damages.
A federal judge has overturned a jury's verdict that found athleticwear maker Lululemon infringed on a Nike patent related to sneaker manufacturing. U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian ruled that the patent in question was invalid, thereby reversing the jury's award of $355,450 against Lululemon.
Nike had filed the patent infringement lawsuit in 2023, contending that Lululemon's Chargefeel, Strongfeel, and Blissfeel shoes violated two of its patents concerning sneaker construction innovations. A jury had previously determined that Lululemon infringed one patent covering a method for knitting sneaker uppers. However, the judge stated on Tuesday that this patent was invalid due to obviousness.
Separately, Nike initiated another lawsuit in 2022 alleging that Lululemon's Mirror Home Gym infringed on other Nike patents. That case remains ongoing. Spokespeople for both companies did not immediately comment on the latest decision.
