New Balance Sues Decathlon Over Kiprun Shoe Logo

New Balance Athletics Inc. sued Decathlon America LLC and related entities in the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts, claiming the Kiprun shoes feature a design that is virtually identical to its long-used 'N' trademark. The complaint alleges that one version of the logo resembles a stylized 'K' while a mirror image is unmistakably an 'N,' creating a likelihood of confusion among consumers.

New Balance states it has used the letter 'N' on footwear for approximately 50 years and has invested hundreds of millions of dollars promoting the marks worldwide. It seeks injunctive relief, destruction of infringing products, and monetary damages. The company alleges Decathlon continued sales despite prior communications dating back to January 2026.

Decathlon has maintained that the design is a 'K' and not an 'N.' The suit includes claims for trademark infringement, false designation of origin, dilution, and related state-law causes of action. The filing highlights potential post-sale confusion in the athletic footwear market.

Sources: https://news.bloomberglaw.com/ip-law/new-balance-accuses-decathlon-of-copying-n-trademark-on-shoes https://www.thefashionlaw.com/new-balances-decathlon-lawsuit-puts-post-sale-confusion-in-focus/