Nike Sues BAPE, Files Infringement Lawsuit

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On Wednesday, January 25th, global sneaker and apparel giant Nike filed a lawsuit against Japanese luxury streetwear brand Bape. The case was filed in a Manhattan federal court to formally challenge a years-old argument that Bape’s Bape Sta sneakers are blatant derivatives of Nike Air Force 1s and other known Nike designs. The Bape Sta sneaker is Bape’s signature sneaker that originated in 2000. Yet, Nike’s legal action is seeking financial compensation and for the court to order Bape to cease all sales of the sneaker.

The question at the center of this copyright infringement has been building for years: what does Nike think of Bape’s Bape Sta in comparison to their own designs? Nike has kept up with the uniqueness of Bape Sta designs and has a short legal history with the company over the evolving issue. The new lawsuit is part of a series of actions Nike has taken to come to an agreement with Bape. As mentioned in the details of the lawsuit, Nike contacted Bape officials and met in 2009 which ultimately led to Bape closing a number of its US stores. To jump forward, Nike states in the lawsuit that in 2021 “BAPE drastically increased the volume and scope of its infringement.”

Image via U.S. District Court

Bape was founded in 1993 by Japanesse designer and DJ, Nigo who’s also known as Pharrell’s partner in creating the Billionaire Boys Club and Ice Cream streetwear labels. In 2021, Nigo was appointed as Kenzo’s new artistic director. Affectionately known in streetwear and hip hop, Nigo’s impact in streetwear is in a lane of its own. 

The development of the case is still underway, yet many consumers are paying attention to the impact the lawsuit will have on both brands into the year. What’s your perspective on this long-time debate? Follow CNKDaily on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for more sneaker and style news.