Adidas Backs Down from Trademark Dispute Against Black Lives Matter

ADIDAS

“Adidas will withdraw its opposition to the Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation’s (“BLMGNF”) trademark application as soon as possible,” the company said in a statement to Reuters.

Adidas recently filed a request to have the Black Lives Matter filing trademark a three-striped logo. However, the sneakers company has just rescinded their request. Adidas has been known for its three-striped logo for over 70 years. In their initial request to the United States Patent and Trademark Office, they claimed that the BLMGNF’s attempt to trademark a three-striped logo would cause customer confusion. They go on to say that BLMGNF’s application incorporates three stripes in a manner that is confusingly similar” to the company’s familiar three-stripe logo “in appearance and overall commercial impression.”

According to reports, the sneaker company’s decision to request the dismissal of the trademark was based on fear of public misinterpretation that the company’s opposition would be confused for not supporting BLMGNF’s mission.

 This came shortly after a failed attempt by Adidas to challenge fashion designer Thom Browne, who was accused of using stripes in his designs in a way that was “too similar “ to the Adidas stripes. A Manhattan Federal Jury ruled against the sneaker company.

The post Adidas Backs Down from Trademark Dispute Against Black Lives Matter appeared first on The Source.

Adidas Goes Back On Effort To Block Black Lives Matter Logo

Adidas is one of the biggest sportswear companies in the entire world. Overall, they have sold billions of dollars worth of sneakers over the years. Moreover, they have set various trends throughout each decade that they have been in existence. They are a brand with a very distinct look, which is certainly all thanks to its three-stripes logo. This is a staple of the Adidas aesthetic, and as you can imagine, they are very protective of their child. Sometimes to a detrimental degree.

According to Complex, earlier this week, Adidas tried to block the Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation from trademarking a logo with three stripes in it. After careful consideration, however, they decided to go back on their original decision. In a statement to the news outlet Reuters, Adidas said: “Adidas will withdraw its opposition to the Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation’s trademark application as soon as possible.” It seems as though the company was a bit worried about how this request would come across. As Complex reported, some within the brand thought that their effort could be misinterpreted as a critique of BLM as a whole.

Adidas Realizes Their Mistake

Image via Black Lives Matter

The Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation was simply trying to trademark the logo above. This logo would then appear on all sorts of apparel, as well as items such as mugs. Although the BLMGNF was almost subjected to sabotage from Adidas, it seems like they will be able to move forward with their original trademark request. Clearly, the three-stripes brand has come to the realization that BLM’s logo could not be mistaken for their own. After all, we don’t see Adidas when we see the shirt above.

The German sportswear brand is already having a bad year. They are expected to see record losses in the wake of their failed partnership with Kanye West. That said, they have to be careful about Public Relations disasters. Having said that, it is a good thing they rescinded Monday’s filing. Let us know what you think about all this, in the comments section below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for more news and updates from the sportswear world.

[Via]

Beyoncé & Adidas Reportedly End Ivy Park Partnership

Adidas suffers another heavy hit as they conclude their deal with Beyoncé and Ivy Park. The world watched as Kanye West unraveled online with Nazi propaganda, resulting in a dramatic end to his Yeezy partnership with the brand. As the company navigates how it will move products, The Hollywood Reporter offered a new update about their connection with Bey. According to the outlet, they’ve spoken with “a source close to the situation,” who revealed that the singer and Adidas have “mutually agreed to part ways.”

It was further alleged that Beyoncé was struggling to maintain the relationship with Adidas behind the scenes. “There has apparently been major creative differences between Ivy Park and Adidas,” reported THR. “And Beyoncé is excitedly looking to reclaim her brand, chart her own path and maintain creative freedom.” Also, murmurs about discontent have been ongoing in recent months regarding Ivy Park’s sales. Beyoncé and Adidas partnered in 2018, two years after Ivy Park’s arrival. The brand was further hyped with its elaborate unveilings by celebrities gifted with special apparel deliveries.

Beyoncé & Adidas Made Magic

When Bey & Co. ended their deal with Topshop in 2018, she retained full ownership. The most recent line of Adidas x Ivy Park apparel, Park Trail, came in January. It was bolstered by the music icon’s epic—and controversial—performance in Dubai. It was Beyoncé’s first live show in five years, and Ivy Park was expected to fly off the shelves, as usual. However, in early February, the Wall Street Journal reported Ivy Park “missed internal sales projection by over $200 million” in 2022. Further, Bey still made $20 million a year from her Ivy Park contract.

Additionally, WSJ broke down the numbers: in 2022, sales were “roughly” $40 million. It sounds like a good year, but it’s much less than the $93 million earned in 2021. Adidas projected $250 million in sales for 2022, and for 2023, they believed they would make $335 million. That projection has been changed to $63 million. It’s suggested that this is why Ivy Park x Adidas has come to an end. It’s unclear what the immediate future holds, but if there’s another final drop on the horizon, fans are sure to eat it up. Will you miss Ivy Park x Adidas?

More From Ivy Park

[via][via]

Beyoncé And Adidas Have Mutually Agreed To End Their Ivy Park Partnership

Beyoncé and Adidas have mutually agreed to end their partnership, according to The Hollywood Reporter. Beyoncé will retain ownership of her Ivy Park brand.

It was first reported in February that the partnership was troubled; according to internal earnings documents reviewed by The Wall Street Journal, the Ivy Park brand had underperformed under Adidas to the tune of a $200 million loss. When the partnership was first signed in 2019 after Ivy Park moved from TopShop, it was expected that Beyoncé’s name would bring in the sales — however, while Adidas expected $250 million in sales, it only brought in around $40 million.

The Journal‘s also reported creative differences between Adidas and Parkwood, the title under which Beyoncé operates her disparate business ventures, as fans expressed their disappointment in the Ivy Park offerings over the past year. According to THR, “Beyoncé is excitedly looking to reclaim her brand, chart her own path, and maintain creative freedom” of the brand going forward.

The end of the Ivy Park partnership is the latest in a string of rough patches for Adidas over the past year, as well. In October of 2022, Adidas also ended its partnership with Kanye West after the rapper made a series of antisemitic remarks in several interviews. The company’s CEO told the company early this year that Adidas is projected to lose nearly $1.3 billion in sales of Yeezy merchandise, although it also reached an agreement with him to sell remaining inventory without the Yeezy branding.

Best Sneakers For Women’s History Month

We currently nearing the end of Women’s History Month. Overall, this is a time to celebrate women and all of the things they do for us. Moreover, it is also a time to reflect on the amazing progress we have made when it comes to women’s empowerment. In more fields than ever before, there is an abundance of strong women who are taking on leadership roles. Additionally, in hobbies that have typically been dominated by men, we are seeing more women enter those spaces. This is especially true with sneakers. In fact, sneaker companies are creating more and more women’s exclusive colorways to keep up with the demand. Moreover, more and more women are being included in the sneaker industry as a whole. One can just look at the contributions made by designers like Aleali May and Melody Ehsani, to see what we mean. That said, we decided to showcase some of the best women’s shoes for Women’s History Month.

Wmns Air Jordan 4 Retro “Seafoam”

Women's History Month
Image via GOAT

Starting off our Women’s History Month list is this Air Jordan 4 “Seafoam.” This women’s Air Jordan was an incredibly strong release from Jordan Brand. Mostly, this was due to the nice mixture of colors here. From the white leather all over the upper to the black and seafoam green on the midsole, this was a great Spring sneaker. These days, the shoe is still available in a wide range of sizes, with most offerings going for $275 USD.

Wmns Nike Dunk Low “Rose Whisper”

Image via GOAT

Ah yes, the Nike Dunk Low. This is one of the most legendary silhouettes ever, and the women’s exclusive “Rose Whisper” model definitely elicits some amazing reactions. The name of this women’s dunk sounds like some sort of fragrance
from Tom Ford, although, it definitely contains that same level of elegance. The white leather and rosy overlays look amazing, and this is definitely worth adding to your collection. Sizes 5 through 12 are currently available online.

Wmns Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG “Denim”

Women's History Month
Image via GOAT

Subsequently, we now have an Air Jordan 1 on our Women’s History Month list. Overall, you can never go wrong with an AJ1, especially when it comes in an amazing “Denim” color scheme. This shoe has some blue denim overlays that have a ripped aesthetic to them. It is a fantastic look that fans have adored since they were released. A wide range of sizes are available for a price variation between $160 and $305 USD.

Wmns New Balance 550 “Blue Haze”

Image via GOAT

Next up on the list, we have this great New Balance 550 in a “Blue Haze” makeup. This is one of the best New Balance silhouettes on the market right now, and this colorway is simply gorgeous. The white leather mixed with the soft light blue makes for a colorway that works incredibly well in the Spring and Summer months. You can get yourself a pair online for an average price of $125 USD.

Wmns Air Jordan 3 Retro “Lucky Green”

Women's History Month
Image via GOAT

One of the greatest sneakers ever is the Air Jordan 3, so you know we had to include it on the list. Above, we have the “Lucky Green” color scheme which is set to be released soon. Overall, this combines white leather, grey elephant print, and some popping green on the midsole. Moreover, there is even a flash of red on the Jumpman logo, for good measure. This is an incredibly solid offering that is available in all women’s sizes for around $330 USD.

Wmns New Balance 574 “Moonbeam”

Image via GOAT

New Balance has proven to be quite a theme here on our Women’s History Month list. It is easy to see why given how great the brand is doing. This New Balance 574 “Moonbeam” is an example of how subtle neutrals can make for an amazing shoe. Additionally, the materials are of superior quality, which makes this a great offering for the Fall and Winter. Numerous sizes are currently available online, so be sure to scoop up a pair.

Wmns Nike Air Zoom Vomero 5 “Photon Dust Metallic Silver”

Women's History Month
Image via GOAT

Nike has been in the midst of going hard with some of its more peculiar offerings. The Nike Air Zoom Vomero 5 is an example of that. In terms of women’s color schemes, you also cannot go wrong with the “Photon Dust Metallic Silver” version. The shoe has some amazing silvers that contrast well with the “Photos Dust” overlays. It is an unconventional shoe, however, it just works. You can currently find these online for an average price of $245 USD.

Wmns Converse Chuck Taylor All Star High “Embroidered Hearts”

Image via GOAT

Lastly, we have this gorgeous Converse Chuck Taylor All-Star High in an “Embroidered Hearts” colorway. The shoe is covered in pink canvas with some red lips that go all the way down the side. Moreover, we get a white toe box and midsole that is bolstered by a bit of black for contrast. This is an amazing color scheme that can currently be had in a wide range of sizes for an average of $160 USD.

Let us know which of these sneakers are your favorite, in the comments down below.

StockX: The Top Trending Sneakers In 2023

Sneakers will continue to reign supreme in 2023, and StockX is the go-to online store for sneakerheads looking to stay on top of the latest trends.

With an extensive collection of rare and exclusive sneakers from top brands like Nike, Adidas, and Jordan, StockX has become a household name among sneaker enthusiasts.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the top trending sneakers of 2023 on StockX and why they’re a must-have for any sneakerhead’s collection.

So, if you’re looking to stay ahead of the game and rock the latest kicks, Let’s delve deeper into the sneakers that we should be watching out for in 2023 on StockX.

Salomon XT-6

StockX
via stockx.com

Salomon had a fantastic year in 2022 with well-executed collaborations and sneakers that helped lead the ongoing gorp-core trend.

The Salomon XT-6 was one of the top sneakers of last year due to its versatile utilitarian functionality and sleek shape. Its bungee-cord lacing system and range of bright and vibrant colorways add to its appeal.

We can expect other silhouettes like their XT-4, ACS-Pro, and XT-Wings 2 to become more prevalent too, keeping the hype for Salomon alive in the new year on StockX.

Reebok Club C

StockX
via stockx.com

In March of 2022, Authentic Brands Group acquired Reebok from Adidas, and since then, Reebok has started to make a name for itself within the streetwear fashion world.

Collaborative drops from Nicole McLaughlin, Tyrell Winston, JJJJound, and Maison Margiela helped revitalize the brand.

As silhouettes like the Club C and Workout Plus become more popular within current trends, we can expect Reebok to revive other older silhouettes in their catalog. Keep an eye out for these on StockX.

Air Jordan 3

via stockx.com

Pre-aged sneakers are nothing new, but Jordan Brand’s take on the trend is something special. In 2022 and 2021, people were DIY-ing their sneakers to give them a vintage look. Jordan Brand is following suit, bringing new life to some of its older and more notable colorways.

The Air Jordan 3 White Cement, which hasn’t had a true OG retro treatment since 2013’s AJ3 White Cement ’88, adds to the ongoing trend for the Jordan Brand with its yellowed accents on the heel and midsole of the sneaker. This sneaker is surely one of the top brands in 2023 on StockX.

With full Nike Air treatment on the heel tab and smooth tumbled leather uppers, it’s a reimagining of the classic sneaker and something to look forward to in the coming months.

New Balance 990v6

via stockx.com

New Balance is a brand that continues to produce high-quality products that are both innovative and attractive, and their latest 990v6 is no exception.

The 990v6 is the newest member of New Balance’s ongoing 990 series, delivering its signature mesh and suede concoction in a sleeker, more inlined package. Since its introduction in late 2022, we can expect to see more in store for it on StockX.

The collaboration with cook-turned-rapper-turned-gym aficionado Action Bronson on the 990v6, and with other musical talents like Aminé and Jack Harlow on NB’s roster, more love for the 990v6 will surely hit the market. Keep an eye out for this trending sneaker on StockX in 2023.

Karma After Kanye? Adidas Warns First Annual Loss In 3 Decades Due To Yeezy Fallout

Kanye Karma

Adidas has recently warned that the company could possibly suffer its first annual operating loss in 31 years since severing ties with Kanye West. According to the sportswear brand, it may have to write off the entire range of Yeezy-branded merchandise. Updated By: Nicole Bartley (3/8/23 at 1:45 pm) Since Ye’s business fallouts due to […]

The post Karma After Kanye? Adidas Warns First Annual Loss In 3 Decades Due To Yeezy Fallout appeared first on SOHH.com.

Kanye West Yeezy Fallout Leads To Catastrophe For Adidas

Kanye West and his Yeezy brand were a huge moneymaker for Adidas. Overall, Ye was able to turn Adidas into one of the most fashion-forward sportswear brands in the world. After years of stagnancy, Yeezy uplifted Adidas to the point where they were doing more sales than Jordan Brand. However, that has all changed now that Kanye is no longer with the brand. Of course, you can’t really fault Adidas for the decision when you consider how Ye was siding with the Nazis and professing his love for Hitler. At some point, you have no choice but to pull the plug.

That said, Adidas has taken a very large hit in terms of its financials. In numerous reports, it has been noted that the German brand is holding on to $530 million worth of Yeezys. Moreover, these Yeezys still have the Yeezy branding on them, which means they cannot sell the shoes without Ye’s consent. Just a few weeks ago, rumors circulated saying that both sides had reached an agreement on selling these kicks. However, nothing actually materialized from that.

Kanye West Has Adidas Scrambling

Kanye West onstage during the 2022 BET Awards at Microsoft Theater on June 26, 2022 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for BET)

Now, according to CNBC, Adidas is facing some catastrophic losses. Their fourth-quarter numbers show an operating loss of around $760 million. Additionally, this includes a net loss of about $500 million. Dividends for shareholders will likely go from $3.50 to about $0.80, which is certainly not a good sign. Lastly, Adidas is projecting its net operations losses for the year to be $700 million. The last time the brand operated at a loss was about 31 years ago.

Overall, this is a bad sign for Adidas, and they will have to figure out some sort of plan of attack. The sportswear and sneaker games can be difficult, and it is all about trends and image. If Adidas can’t show people that it is still a hip imprint, then it could be facing an extremely difficult road. However, it should be noted that these operations losses include the $500 million in Yeezys that cannot be sold. Either way, this is going to be a story to follow over the next few months.

[Via]

Charlamagne Tha God Jokes He Will Perform Fellatio If Kanye & Adidas Reunite

There are plenty of ways to make a bet, but Charlamagne Tha God takes the cake. The talk show host is known for making outrageous claims regarding staking chances. This time it centered on Kanye West and Adidas. This week, news muddled around the streetwear company was re-partnering with Ye to unload its stock of Yeezys. They split ties with West following his wild anti-Semitic scandal, but there have been reports about significant financial losses.

West’s supporters seem to have a ‘that’s what they get’ attitude, but the company may get itself out of a multi-million dollar hole if these new updates are believed. Charlamagne recently visited the Andrew Schulz’s Flagrant With Akaash Singh podcast, where he was questioned about the controversy. He was asked about placing a bet on West and Adidas reuniting, and The Breakfast Club host was willing to go the distance to say it will never happen.

Charlamagne Places His Bet

ATLANTA, GEORGIA – DECEMBER 13: Charlamagne tha God on stage during the 9th Annual HOPE Global Forums at the Hyatt Regency Atlanta on December 13, 2022 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Derek White/Getty Images for Operation HOPE, Inc.)

“I’ll suck some d*ck,” he said with a laugh. “That’s how sure I am. It’s not happening, yo. Neither one of those things are happening. So, I’m confident with that bet. It’s not happening.” He added that Ye and Adidas coming together to unload inventory isn’t the same as negotiating a new deal. This isn’t the first time Tha God has made a similar bet. While tracking Tekashi 6ix9ine’s case years ago, Charlamagne knew the rapper wouldn’t get off scot-free.

“If Tekashi 6ix9ine beats this case, I will suck his d*ck, and he doesn’t even have to ask me,” he said in 2018. After learning 6ix9ine received two years in prison and five years probation, Charlamagne returned to explain it was “all hyperbole.” He also added, “So that’s what I was using to let people know that there was no way in hell 6ix9ine was beating this case. You got these idiots on social media who will say things now like, ‘Oh, well, he only got 24 months. Technically that’s beating the case.’”

Hasn’t Lost A Bet Yet

“No, it’s f*cking not,” he further stated. “There’s no such thing as technically beating your case. I don’t care if it was 24 months or two days, you got sentenced.”

[via]