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Dr. Martens maker sues online retailer Yoox over lookalike boots

By Minjun Park
1 min read
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In this article (4)

Airwair International Ltd, the company that makes Dr. Martens, is suing Yoox-Net-A-Porter Group for selling shoes that, it claims, look too much like its iconic lace-up boots.

The lawsuit, filed in federal court in San Francisco, alleges trademark infringement, trademark dilution and unfair competition which first reported the story.

Dr. Martens is reportedly calling for a preliminary injunction against the online retailer.

This isn’t the first time the British brand has sued a competitor for ripping off its designs.

In 2017, Airwair International slapped US-based shoe brand Steve Madden with a lawsuit for trademark infringement, claiming that it unlawfully copied Dr. Martens’ two tone grooved sole edge, DMS undersole and heel loop.

In 2013, the company sued US-based shoe brand Chinese Laundry, citing similar trademark infringements.

Questions & Answers

Q.

Which specific design elements were cited in previous Dr. Martens lawsuits against other brands?

A.

In 2017, the lawsuit against Steve Madden cited unlawful copying of Dr. Martens’ two-tone grooved sole edge, DMS undersole, and heel loop. Similar trademark infringements were alleged in the 2013 suit against Chinese Laundry.

Q.

Where has Airwair International filed this lawsuit against Yoox-Net-A-Porter Group?

A.

Airwair International Ltd, the maker of Dr. Martens, filed the lawsuit in federal court in San Francisco. This is where the legal action against the online retailer is currently proceeding.

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