Skechers v LL Bean lawsuit: Who won the patent feud?

The Skechers v LL Bean lawsuit commenced in July 2024, with Skechers suing LL Bean for copyright infringement. In the complaint filed at the Manhattan Federal Court, the footwear company accused the clothing and outdoor gear enterprise of illegally copying the patented “Heel Cup” designs in their Freeport slip-on shoes.

On December 26, 2024, Reuters reported that Skechers, the California-based brand, won the lawsuit. LL Bean has agreed to stop production and distribution of the Freeport slip-on shoes. Margaret Garnett, US District Judge in Manhattan, upheld an injunction for the case and ruled that the defendants should stop producing the shoes in dispute until the expiration of the claimant's patents in 2038.

More details on the Skechers v LL Bean lawsuit

According to News Central Maine’s report of July 20, 2024, Skechers alleged in their suit that LL Bean began using the “Heel Cup” design due to its popularity and uniqueness.

A section of the court document reads:

"Only after Skechers incurred the substantial risk and monumental expense of developing and promoting its shoes with these Heel Cup designs, and established that they had broad appeal, did L.L.Bean enter the market with its infringing shoe,"

According to the brand description, the Freeport slip-on shoes are designed with its Easy On technology—an innovative slip-on construction that lets the wearer slide their feet in and out without bending or using their hands.

The shoes are constructed from lightweight and breathable polyester knit upper for comfort in the summer. The shoes also received anti-odor treatment to keep them smelling clean.

The midsole of the shoes also incorporates B-Bound technology for long-lasting cushioning and rebound. The shoes were sold for $119 on the brand’s website.

Reuters magazine reported that Skechers accused LL Bean of trying to benefit from its popular slip-on design. The sneaker company further described their sole design as "Graceful, sweeping, gently rolling lines and slopes" that resembled the shape of a heel. Per News Center Maine, the court documents also described the sneaker company’s patents and trademarks as its legal lifeblood.

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Although the specifics were not disclosed, it was also reported that the popular sneaker brand demanded compensation from LL Bean as well as an injunction against the sale of the Freeport slip-on shoes.

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