Converse x JW Anderson Sneaker

OK, if you are a sneaker fanatic, you most likely already know about this shoe.  However, for those of you that have not yet seen this gem, here it is for your viewing pleasure.

Converse x JW Anderson Collection

Wholesale Shoe Company Lawsuit Against Retailers

Should manufacturers or wholesalers sue potential channels of distribution?

Converse is suing 31 companies, arguing they are copying the design of its trademark shoe.  The company filed lawsuits against big retailers such as Wal-Mart and H&M, just to name a few, for allegedly selling imitations of its famous Chuck Taylor sneaker.  Other defendants named by Converse include Kmart, Skechers (SKX), Aldo Group and Ralph Lauren.  The Nike subsidiary also wants the International Trade Commission to ban imports and sales of the shoes.

Converse chief executive Jim Calhoun said the company welcomed fair competition, but "we do not believe companies have a right to copy the Chuck's trademarked look".  The shoe company also stated that they have served about 180 cease and desist letters to retailers selling look-a-like Chuck Taylor sneakers in the past six years to protect its brand.

For those of you that think Converse is crazy, keep in mind that approximately two years ago the luxury shoemaker Louboutin successfully trademarked its distinctive red soles.  Yes, this is an entirely different case, but who knows…  Trademark law is for a large part about whether the ordinary consumer would be confused as to the source of the good when they look at it.

Do you think that Converse will win this case?

Do you think that Converse should win this case?

In my opinion this is an uphill battle, but anything is possible.

Is it a good idea for wholesalers such as Nike to issue lawsuits against retail companies such as Walmart?  Keep in mind that Nike owns more brands than only Nike & Converse.  Should the retailers being sued ban all of the Nike owned brands from their stores both now and in the future?

By the way, we do love Chuck Taylor sneakers.  They really are iconic.

Learn more about Nike and the brands that they own here on the Apparel Search fashion guide.  You should also visit their site to find more information and buy yourself a new pair of Chuck Taylor’s.

Check out these super cool Chuck Taylor's with the Simpsons designs (these are from a legal collaboration).

Read about Chuck Taylor sneakers on our blog.

Gym Bags That Are Budget Friendly

Looking to give your usual gym outfit a bit of a makeover? Whether you’re looking for a backpack, a duffle, or a new bag to tote around your yoga mat, Converse Accessories has just what you’re looking for. No matter your budget, none of these styles will break the bank–they’re all under $100!

The Simpsons Chuck Taylor All Star Collection

Converse announces a new collaboration with the longest running scripted show in television history, The Simpsons. Marking the show’s first ever footwear collaboration, The Simpsons Chuck Taylor All Star collection will feature custom graphics specially chosen for the collection in styles available for the entire family.

Currently in production on its record-annihilating 25th season, The Simpsons has remained one of the most groundbreaking and innovative entertainment franchises, recognizable throughout the world. The show’s characters Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa and Maggie will be featured on the iconic Converse Chuck Taylor All Star in graphics reflective of the show’s wit and humor.

The Simpsons Chuck Taylor All Star collection features colorful screen printed graphics on styles available for fans of all ages. Available for men, the Homer sneaker includes a blue and black background, accented with Homer exclaiming “D’oh!” on one side of the shoe, and “Woo Hoo!” on the other. Available in children and adult sizes, the Bart sneaker features Bart writing, “I will not waste chalk,” on a black background resembling the notorious Springfield Elementary School chalkboard, accented with a bright yellow inside lining. The Family sneaker showcases all members of The Simpsons household depicted in their iconic likeness the world has grown to love.

The Simpsons Chuck Taylor All Star collection will be available at Journeys (Journeys.com) and Converse retail stores (Converse.com) beginning June 15, 2013 for $37 - $65.

About Converse

Converse Inc., based in N. Andover, Massachusetts, is a wholly owned subsidiary of NIKE, Inc. Established in 1908, the Converse brand has built a reputation as “America’s Original Sports Company”™ and has been associated with a rich heritage of legendary shoes such as the Chuck Taylor® All Star® shoe, the Jack Purcell® shoe and the One Star® shoe. Today, Converse offers a diverse portfolio including lifestyle men's, women's and children’s footwear, apparel and accessories. Converse product is sold globally by retailers in over 160 countries and through 78 company-owned retail locations in the U.S. For more information, visit Media.Converse.com.

See more shoe photos below...

About THE SIMPSONS:

The longest running scripted show in television history, THE SIMPSONS exploded into a cultural phenomenon in 1990 and has remained one of the most groundbreaking and innovative entertainment franchises, recognizable throughout the world. Currently in production on its record-annihilating 25th season, THE SIMPSONS celebrated their historic 500th episode in February 2012. The series has won 27 Emmy Awards, been the subject of a hit feature film, and was named the “Best Show of the 20th Century” by Time Magazine. THE SIMPSONS is a Gracie Films Production in association with 20th Century Fox Television. James L. Brooks, Matt Groening, and Al Jean are the Executive Producers. The Gracie Films Worldwide Brand Division develops and produces the licensed content for the series. Film Roman is the animation house.

Learn more about The Simpsons Shoes at Google+.

About Twentieth Century Fox Consumer Products:

A recognized industry leader, Twentieth Century Fox Consumer Products licenses and markets properties worldwide on behalf of Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation, Twentieth Television and Fox Broadcasting Company, as well as third party lines. The division is aligned with Twentieth Century Fox Television, one of the top suppliers of primetime entertainment programming to the broadcast networks.

You can click the images to enlarge:

Learn more about sneakers from our Chuck Taylor blog posts.