Nike

Nike Responds To Kool KIY’s Counterclaim, Labels Designer A ‘Serial Copyist’

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The Air Jordan 1 Receives Federal Trademark Protection The Source

Last month, designer Kool KIY filed a counterclaim against Nike after the sneaker and apparel giant sued the designer for ripping off multiple shoe designs. The designer claimed that Nike’s Air Jordan 1 and Dunk trademarks were “invalid and unenforceable” and that his sneakers had been altered enough so that they did not infringe.

Nike lawyers filed a formal response to the counterclaim earlier this week in a New York court where the discredited the originality of Kool KIY’s designs and labeled him a “serial copyist.”

“Kiy is not a ‘cutting-edge design house,’” reads Nike’s response. “There is nothing creative or ‘cutting-edge’ about stealing Nike’s designs and replacing the Swoosh with Kiy’s logo. Rather, Kiy is a serial copyist who has profited from its intentional theft of some of Nike’s most iconic silhouettes. Kiy’s counterclaim, littered with incorrect and irrelevant allegations, is nothing more than an attempt to distract from Kiy’s own willful infringement.”

Kool KIY responded to Nike’s response on IG, saying that Nike is now stealing colorways from him before announcing that a new sneaker is dropping this weekend.

“This The Response I Get From A Multi Billion Dollar Giant … “Serial Copyist” But They Stealing My Ideas & Colorways Now 😂 , More Like Serial Sold Out Tour Dates , Serial Lines In Every City lol… This Black Excellence Man .. Y’all Will Never Discredit This Shit I Built .. Showing Everybody Like Me That We Don’t Need The Man To Make It .. FUCK THAT ! New KIY DROP THIS FRIDAY .. Download Kiy Studios In App Store !”

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Carmelo Anthony Shows Off New Colorway For Tiffany & Co. Air Force 1s

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Carmelo Anthony just showed off a new colorway for the Tiffany & Co. Air Force 1 collab. Moreover, the NBA star gave fans a whole unboxing video and everything, revealing some of the shoe’s packaging details. In fact, a lot of people were gassing up the orange box and turquoise bag and interior color more than the sneaker itself. For those curious, the shoe has a white midsole, paired well with the teal body, and black laces and eyestays. However, some fans likely remember the shoe’s previous iteration, whose original design left fans disappointed.

What’s more is that many picked up on the redesign on social media, such as Instagram posts covering Anthony’s video. “It look like they be on ig doing their research cuz they was gone release them black ones. Til we flamed them sh*ts,” one commenter wrote on Instagram. Furthermore, the original design went for more of a classic all-black design with a Tiffany Blue swoosh. Moreover, this newest edition that the Lakers player showed off is the “Family and Friends” edition. Overall, many believe that this rendition of the Tiffany & Co. Air Force 1s takes a bolder approach than its original.

Carmelo Anthony Flexes New Colorway For Tiffany Air Force 1s

For those interested in copping a pair, unfortunately these won’t go on sale for the public. The original design will go on sale March 7th on the SNKRS app and select Tiffany locations. Also, they’ll cost you $400 USD. Of course, Melo doesn’t have to worry about price points or missing out on exclusive drops. Still, most conversation around him in the headlines these days surrounds his divorce from La La Anthony. While both seem to be in good spirits and moving on with their lives, reflections on the media scandal that surrounded them still resonate. For example, La La recently told Jason Lee about handling coverage of Carmelo’s alleged twins out of wedlock.

“I know I’ve said ‘thank you’ before but I want to thank you again,” she told Lee about when he fixed mistakes or misleading angles in his coverage. “Anyone in this room will say I’ve told that story to everyone that works with me. What stood out about you to me is that that was a very traumatic experience in my life, a very traumatic experience to my son. Hearing things, whether true or not true. And to be able to have made that call, and you respected what I said and understood that. I’m a mom to a teenager that has to see those things. I always appreciated and respected that.” Regardless of these developments, let us know what you think of the new Tiffany Air Force 1 colorway down below. Also, as always, come back to HNHH for the latest hot sneakers and news on Carmelo Anthony.

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Nike Is Commemorating The 50th Anniversary Of Hip-Hop With Special Editions Of Two Of Their Shoes

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nike air force 1 hip-hop
Nike

Nike is commemorating 50 years of hip-hop in a very special way: Sneaker News has revealed that Nike is dropping a special set of Air Force 1 Lows, in honor of the beloved genre’s 50th anniversary.

These special Air Force 1s will come with white shoes bedecked with a silver logo. On the bottom will be a gray heel and sole, with a small, off-white layer between the bottom and the shoe. On the tongue is a small label reading “Nike: 50 Years Of Hip-Hop,” and inside the shoe will be gray, with the Nike Classics Air Force 1 logo.

nike air force 1
Nike

Additionally, Nike will also release a special black and gray hip-hop edition of their Dunk Highs.

nike dunk highs 2
Nike

This year is gearing up to be a special one in the realm of hip-hop.

Earlier this month, the Grammys commemorated 50 years of hip-hop with an all-encompassing performance featuring artists from various eras, including Queen Latifah, Too Short, and GloRilla. Black Thought also released a “Love Letter To Hip-Hop” in the form of a song and mini-documentary. Last year, DJ Premier spoke with us about how he views the past, present and future of hip-hop.

As of now, there is no drop date for the shoes.

You can see the designs above.

Nike Air Humara Returns In OG Colorway

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Initially hitting the shelves in 1997, the Nike Air Humara has continued to remain a pertinent staple dad shoe. For decades following its debut after a brief hiatus, the Air Humara is set to make yet another iconic return later this month. Several collaborations were released featuring the Air Humara prior to the announcement of this newest sneaker release.

Supreme released a Supreme X Air Humara collab back in 2017. The collab offered four different colorways including black, pink, blue, and green. Last December, Nike and French label Jacquemus collaborated on an Air Humara. Made out of sustainable materials, the sneaker debuted in two colorways including Light Bone and Gold and Pink Flash/Pink Prime/Gold. This original colorway of the Air Humara is from 1996. Now classic colorway is back in a modern light.

The Air Humara OG 1996 vs. 2023

A navy blue and silver hue is across the overall presentation of the shoe. The hues are seen decorating the smooth leather overlays as well as the midsoles. The latter is complemented by solid black checkered pattern designs. Navy blue mesh makes up the tongues, toe boxes, heels, and quarter panels. Additionally, notes of bronze are sprinkled across the Swooshes on the lateral and medial panels. The bronze hue is dripped on the “Air” lettering on the heels and the tiny Nike checks on the oval badges.

This was one of the earliest colorways of the shoe from when it first dropped in the ’90s. Equipped with mesh basing on the upper and a midsole with Zoom cushioning, this shoe is made for comfort and stability ideal for a hike, or even a casual shopping trip. The chunky dad shape makes it perfectly easy to style with either baggy or skinny-fit pant silhouettes. A complimentary basic sweatshirt or t-shirt in either a similar Midnight Navy, Black, or Desert Bronze hue would complete the look. Sneakerheads everywhere will be able to cop this Nike Air Humara on February 28, on the SNKRS app for $160. Let us know what you think of these, down in the comments below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for the latest news and updates from the sneaker world.

NIKE Announces 2023 Black Community Commitment Grantees and Nearly $9 in New Investments Across National and Local Nonprofits

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NIKE Announces 2023 Black Community Commitment Grantees and Nearly $9 in New Investments

NIKE, Inc. has announced the recipients of its 2023 Black Community Commitment Grants.

Following George Floyd’s murder in June 2020, Nike’s Black Community Commitment got underway. In order to address racial inequality for the Black community in the U.S., NIKE, Inc. committed $40 million over four years, and Jordan Brand and Michael Jordan committed $100 million over ten years. Together, they invested in, and supported organizations focused on economic empowerment, educational innovation, and social justice.

Through this exceptional commitment, three iconic brands from the NIKE, Inc. portfolio—Nike, Converse, and Jordan—are used to confront systemic racism in different ways that are intended to have a greater overall impact.

“Every day I am inspired by my teammates here at Nike who recognize the importance of the work we are doing. I’m also inspired by the various organizations we partner with who are on the ground, in our communities, committed to creating change and combatting the inequities we all face daily,” says Karol Collymore, Nike Senior Director of Inclusive Community for Social & Community Impact. 

This year, the company will contribute $8.9 million in 53 local and national nonprofit organizations that support social justice, economic empowerment, and innovation in education. The National Coalition on Black Civic Participation, Fearless Foundation, and BUILD are three additional new national grantees that Nike has added.

“As a proud recipient of Nike’s Black Community Commitment grant, we are dedicated to empowering Black communities and advancing our shared goals of equity and justice,” says Melanie Campbell, President & CEO of the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation and Convener of the Black Women’s Roundtable. “Our organization’s mission to promote Black civic engagement and racial, economic, and social justice is anchored in building values-driven coalitions centered on women and youth empowerment, leadership development, health & wellness, education and global empowerment. When our community has a seat at the table, it benefits everyone in the nation.”

For a combined $5.75 million among new and renewed national organizations, Nike is renewing seven national grantees as well. To promote equality locally, 43 organizations in New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, Portland (Ore.), Memphis, St. Louis, and Boston are among the recipients of new and renewed city grants totaling $2.4 million.

NIKE, Inc. has contributed $28.9 million through the Black Community Commitment with partners from throughout the country and specific cities since the program’s start in June 2020.

You can learn more about the 2023 grantees here and the Black Community Commitment here.

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Jacquemus & Nike Are Creating An Air Force 1: First Look

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French label Jacquemus is teaming up with Nike to create a new version of the iconic Air Force 1. The duo has previously collaborated on two colorways of the Nike Air Humara in 2022. The shoe was included as part of their 15-piece Summer 2022 collection. Now, Jacquemus and Nike will once again design a new sneaker that will surely sell out among both brands’ fan bases.

The Jacquemus brand teased minor details of the shoe via social media yesterday. Revealed thus far are white leather uppers, a mesh tongue, and “JF1” branding on the metallic lace lock. Swoosh-branded leather aglets are also shown. Although there is a minimalistic spin on the classic white Air Force 1, similar elevated materials may or not be used as the Air Humara. These materials include ballistic mesh, premium leather, and buttery suede. Other textiles that can be used to create the sneaker include organic cotton, hemp, and recycled polyester, as befitting to the Jacquemus brand.

The Jacquemus X Nike Air Force 1

The simplistic aesthetic of the shoe allows room for experimentation when styling. It has not been disclosed whether or not the shoe will be released in both men’s and women’s sizes. For those who are thinking about copping regardless, the shoe is perfectly made for both menswear, and womenswear looks. The shoe is primarily white, so a bright contrasting color scheme would go flawlessly with the “JF1”. This announcement comes after the release date of Nike’s high-profile luxury Air Force 1 collaboration with Tiffany & Co. The shoe is set to arrive on March 7th. This collaboration did not sit well with fans of the beloved shoe and left many dissatisfied.

In terms of price point, the Jacquemus X Nike Air Humara retailed for $170. It is possible that the shoe can be around or right at that number. Although we do not have a release date for the sneaker yet, we can assume that the shoe will be a part of a Spring/Summer collection. The shoe may also be presented during an upcoming fashion week showcase. The question is, what is next for the duo? Perhaps a line of accessories and clothing adorned with signature Jacquemus touches a Nike swoosh to seal the deal.

Jacquemas x Nike Air Humara

Nike Warehouse Robbed In Memphis: Watch Viral Footage

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If you work in a Nike warehouse, then you are surrounded by some very expensive sneakers. Overall, Nike is the biggest sportswear brand in the entire world. They have dozens upon dozens of different silhouettes to choose from. Additionally, they have a whole plethora of colorways for those silhouettes. Needless to say, a single warehouse can be filled with thousands of dollars of merchandise, and that would be an underestimate. Regardless, Nike understands this and tries its best to protect its warehouses.

Unfortunately, there are lots of people out there who have some nefarious motivations. These motivations could lead them to lie, cheat, and in the case of our next story, steal. According to numerous viral videos on Twitter, a Nike warehouse in Memphis was robbed in broad daylight. Moreover, a video of the entire ordeal was posted to social media and is now drawing a ton of attention. Overall, it is a bad look for everyone involved. Furthermore, people are looking for answers that simply are not readily available right now.

Nike Warehouse Robbery

In the video clip above, you can see the warehouse being ransacked by a few individuals. There are all sorts of boxes being moved around, however, it is hard to track who has what. Meanwhile, a plethora of employees attempted to thwart the robbery as they got in harm’s way. Some employees even found themselves in physical altercations with those who were attempting to rob the warehouse. At this point, there is no information as to how many perpetrators were involved. Additionally, the amount of goods stolen is also unknown. No matter what, it is an unfortunate situation that Nike will certainly be investigating soon.

As for law enforcement, there doesn’t seem to be much in the way of information from them either. Overall, this is a story that is only in the midst of developing. Either way, we hope all of the employees are doing okay as this could have been exceptionally dangerous for all involved. Stay tuned to HNHH as we will deliver the latest news and updates from around the sneaker world.

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Nike Sues Lululemon For Patent Infringement Over 4 Shoe Designs

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A legal team that isn’t getting any rest these days is the one working for Nike. The famed brand has taken several companies to court over the years, and according to CNBC, Lululemon is the latest to face a lawsuit. We recently reported that Nike was gearing up to face off against BAPE after it was alleged the latter company copied designs.

In its most recent lawsuit, the company claimed Lululemon is guilty of patent infringement in relation to its “Chargefeel Mid, Chargefeel Low, Blissfeel and Strongfeel shoes.”

Read More: Nike Sues Bape After Years Of Selling Bape Stas

Nike further alleged it has “suffered economic harm and irreparable injury” due to Lululemon selling similar styles of shoes. They detailed the alleged copied elements, including “knitted elements, webbed areas and tubular structures on the footwear.”

Meanwhile, Lululemon has issued a statement denying any wrongdoing.

“Nike’s claims are unjustified, and we look forward to proving our case in court,” a Lululemon spokesperson said.

Nike, Lululemon
HONG KONG, CHINA – 2021/08/18: The Canadian sportswear clothing band, Lululemon store in Hong Kong. (Photo by Budrul Chukrut/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)
Read More: Kyrie Irving Continues To Wear Nike, But With A Twist

This isn’t the first time Nike and Lululemon have been at odds. The swoosh company previously filed a lawsuit this time last year. They accused Lululemon of “infringing on six patents” related to its “at-home Mirror fitness device” along with apps.

That case is ongoing. Nike is seeking unspecified damages in this most recent case. Lululemon has faced a slew of backlash over the years related to its practices, controversial prints on shirts, or statement made by high-level executives.

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Nike Sues Bape After Years Of Selling Bape Stas

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Nike is one of the most litigious sneaker brands out there. If you come through with a pair of sneakers that resembles something they already made, then you can expect some sort of lawsuit. Overall, the brand has a ton of resources, and they don’t like it when other entities infringe on its IP.

Having said that, fans have been surprised that they never sued Bape. After all, Bape has numerous silhouettes that look like Nike’s classic shoes. A perfect example is the Bape Sta which resembles the Nike Air Force 1 Low.

Image via Bape

Nike Files Suit

However, it seems like Nike is now taking action against the brand. According to Complex, Nike had tried to reason with Bape in 2009. Subsequently, Bape redesigned the Bape Sta and even shut down some American stores. Although, they eventually brought back the original Bape Sta shape in 2021.

As a result, Nike is launching a lawsuit in Manhattan. In the graphic below, you can see the five silhouettes that Nike is going after. These include the Bape Sta, Bape Sta Mid, Sk8 Sta, Court Sta High, and Court Sta. Overall, Nike believes its copyright is being infringed upon, and they will not be standing for it.

Image via U.S. District Court

At this time, Bape has yet to comment on the lawsuit. However, Complex noted in its report that the company did not respond to Nike’s request to stop selling Bape Stas this past year. Needless to say, one of Bape’s flagship shoes is now at risk of never being sold again. For streetwear enthusiasts, this is a dark day.

As for the extent of the lawsuit, Nike is looking to receive unspecified damages. Additionally, they want Bape to stop selling these sneakers entirely.

This is a developing story so stay tuned to HNHH for the latest news and updates. Moreover, let us know who you think is in the wrong, in the comments below.

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Nike Files Lawsuit Against BAPE For Copying Sneaker Designs

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john elliott nike air force low

Nike has taken the next move in coming after companies who they claim have copied their shoe designs. Last year they filed lawsuits against Kool Kiy and Omi for copying the design of the Jordan 1 and Dunk, and now, they are taking aim at BAPE for stealing multiple shoe designs.

Many have wondered since BAPE started selling the Bapesta sneaker, a clear derivative of the Air Force 1, why Nike never took legal action against them. A little over 20 years after the Bapesta was first released, on Wednesday, Nike filed a formal lawsuit against BAPE for copying many of their designs.

In a graphic chart, Nike showed the blazing similarities between their trademarked silhouettes and the different sneakers produced by BAPE. The graphic shows the comparisons between Bape’s Bape Sta and the Air Force 1, the Bape Sta Mid and the Air Force 1 Mid, the Sk8 Sta and the Dunk, Court Sta High and the Air Jordan 1, and Court Sta and the Air Jordan 1 Low.

As for why it took 20+ years to file a lawsuit against BAPE, Nike said that they met with BAPE in 2009 to discuss the designs which resulted in BAPE closing most of its U.S. stores and diminishing its presence in the U.S. market. The Bapesta was redesigned in 2016 to less resemble the Air Force 1, but was re-released in 2021 as the original version. That’s when Nike decided to formally take legal action against BAPE.

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