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Skechers settles design patent case against L.L. Bean

Jan 2, 2025 United States

Skechers and L.L. Bean have settled a lawsuit alleging the latter’s \"Freeport\" shoes infringed patented heel cup designs, with a court order barring further sales, imports and manufacturing

Skechers and L.L. Bean have reached a settlement in a legal dispute over patented shoe designs. On the 26^th of December 2024, US District Judge Margaret Garnett issued an injunction prohibiting L.L. Bean from manufacturing, importing or selling its "Freeport" shoe line.

The lawsuit, filed in July 2024, alleged that L.L. Bean’s shoes copied Skechers’ patented heel cap designs, described as featuring “graceful, sweeping, gently rolling lines and slopes.” Skechers claimed that L.L. Bean had sold millions of pairs of the "Freeport" line, retailing at 99 US dollars, in an attempt to capitalise on the success of its distinctive design.

The settlement terms remain confidential, and Skechers also sought unspecified damages in the lawsuit. Representatives from Skechers and L.L. Bean and their respective legal teams have yet to comment on the settlement.

This injunction marks the resolution of a case between two established American brands. Skechers, founded in 1992 and based in California, is one of the world’s largest footwear companies, while L.L. Bean, founded in 1912, is known for its clothing and outdoor gear.

Image Credits: global.llbean.com

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