Nike Inc. and The Shoe Surgeon, a sneaker customization brand based in downtown Los Angeles, reached a settlement after a year over trademark infringement and misleading customization of Nike’s shoes.
The case, which began in 2024, centered around the practice of custom designer Dominic Ciambrone, AKA The Shoe Surgeon, deconstructing Nike shoes and rebuilding them as luxury customs. Nike charged The Shoe Surgeon was attempting “to build an entire multifaceted retail empire” using Nike’s trademark rights by creating and selling counterfeit Nike shoes, and selling classes that teach consumers how to make their own fake Nike shoes.
The settlement between the two companies was undisclosed. Nike had initially demanded $60 million in damages.
As part of the settlement, The Shoe Surgeon is prohibited from using any Nike branding that could mislead consumers, although he will be able to customize product under Nike-approved conditions.
The Shoe Surgeon stated via Sneaker Bar Detroit, “It’s a dream to collaborate with legendary brands. Especially with the brand who tells us to believe in something. Who tells us it’s only crazy until we do it. Tells us the best is yet to come. Tells us to be better. To just do it.
“We are confused Nike has chosen litigation over a discussion, but we are confident with proper dialogue and collaboration we can resolve this with the new management team and turn it into a win for the culture.
“Creating defines us. Our pursuit of greatness is the soul of every creation and authenticity is stitched into our DNA. Where there is unity, there is victory.”
