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New Balance has launched a lawsuit against Golden Goose's U.S. subsidiary, accusing the Italian brand of mimicking its iconic 990 model with the high-priced "Dad-Star" sneaker, claiming design infringement and intentional brand confusion.
The lawsuit focuses on Golden Goose's "Dad-Star" sneaker, priced at a staggering $625 since its introduction in 2021. New Balance claims this design resembles their iconic 990 model, initially launched in 1982 and retailing for just $199.
The lawsuit, filed earlier this month in U.S. District Court in Massachusetts, alleges that Golden Goose intentionally capitalizes on New Balance's success and brand reputation by promoting a "confusingly similar design."
New Balance argues that the choice of name, "Dad-Star," deliberately creates a connection in the minds of consumers to their well-established reputation as a leading "dad shoe" brand. It asserts that the 990 model has become synonymous with this style, making Golden Goose's attempt to replicate it questionable.
Adding to the argument, New Balance highlights the use of the color grey as another contentious point in the case. The brand is famously associated with this color, with approximately one-third of all New Balance shoes featuring a grey colorway. It represents a significant portion of the company's revenue, accounting for millions of pairs of shoes.
New Balance stated in the lawsuit that Golden Goose's business strategy appears to involve copying popular and innovative shoe designs to capitalize on the creativity of other brands. Their alleged process involves taking vintage trainers, applying quality materials, and then purposefully distressing them for a stylish appearance.
Seeking legal recourse, New Balance calls for an injunction to prevent Golden Goose from selling the "Dad-Star" sneakers and requesting the recall and destruction of any remaining inventory. Additionally, they request the court to award them the profits resulting from the alleged infringing style, as well as damages and attorneys' fees.
Photo: Raul De Los Santos/Unsplash
