Nike

Nike, a global icon in sportswear and athletic footwear, was founded in 1964 as Blue Ribbon Sports by Bill Bowerman and Phil Knight, later officially becoming Nike, Inc., in 1971. The company's trajectory changed when it registered its first trademark in 1971 – the iconic Nike Swoosh. Designed by graphic design student Carolyn Davidson, the Swoosh has become one of the most recognizable logos globally, symbolizing Nike's commitment to innovation and performance in the athletic realm.

Nike is renowned for actively safeguarding its trademarks, demonstrating a vigilant stance against potential infringements. In 2021, Nike filed a lawsuit against MSCHF Product Studio, a Brooklyn-based art collective, over the release of "Satan Shoes." These shoes, which featured Nike's Air Max 97 design modified with religious symbols and alleged drops of human blood, were created in collaboration with rapper Lil Nas X. Nike argued that the shoes infringed on its trademarks and dilute the distinctiveness of its brand. The lawsuit resulted in a settlement in which MSCHF agreed to recall the Satan Shoes and offered full refunds to purchasers. In 2020, Nike filed a lawsuit against designer Warren Lotas over his "Dunk" sneaker, which bore a striking resemblance to Nike's Dunk shoe. Nike alleged trademark infringement, claiming that Lotas' design copied the iconic Swoosh logo and other elements associated with Nike's Dunk sneakers. The case was settled, with Lotas agreeing to stop selling the disputed sneakers and issuing a public apology.