Collapsible Controversy
Canton, Mass.–based Reebok International Ltd. filed a lawsuit against Beaverton, Ore.–based Nike Inc., charging that Nike infringed on Reebok’s patent for its collapsible-shoe technology, which allows the shoes to be collapsed for easy traveling or packing. Nike’s shoes are marketed under several names, including “Free,” “Free Flex,” “Free Zen & Now,” “Free Trainer” and “Free Trail.” Reebok argues that its patent, which was received in January, covers certain technological design features, including flexible materials in the shoes’ soles.
