Nike Sues maker of ‘Satan shoes’ for Lil Nas X collab

Nike Sues

On Monday filed a federal lawsuit alleging trademark infringement against a Brooklyn, New York, company that made customized Nike Air Max 97s with “satanic-themed detailing.”

The shoes made headlines, throughout the weekend, leading up to Monday’s release. 

The company, MSCHF Product Studio Inc., released 666 pairs of the shoes on Monday. They quickly sold out, at the of cost $1,018 a pair.

The shoes are a collaboration with the musician Lil Nas X. The release of a devil-themed music video for his new single.

In its lawsuit filed in federal court in the Eastern District of New York. Nike claims the shoes were; “done without Nike’s approval or authorization, and Nike is in no way connected with this project.”

The lawsuit notes social media criticism of Nike as a result of the shoe. Including one social media post that noted, “Won’t buy Nike again.”

Nike Sues

Nike wants a federal judge to order destruction of the shoes. They are also seeking Nike be awarded any profits, that MSCHF earns from the sales of the shoes. The sportswear company also seeks punitive damages.

In a video interview with Complex,  Lil Nas X showed off some of his sneaker collection. Saying the collaboration is a “perfect match up.”

“It’s a very fun collaboration,” he said. “The shoe looks amazing. Some people are going to be mad or whatever.”

He said the theme is meant as a response to people who demonize him.

“I’ll be that and I’m going to make the best of it,” he said.

MSCHF did not immediately reply to an email seeking comment on the lawsuit.

Nike has taken increasingly aggressive legal action against companies that customize its shoes. In December, it  settled a similar trademark infringement lawsuit, It’s also increasingly going after companies that make fake Nikes. 

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