Nike Sues Shoe Surgeon, Alleging Trademark-Theft, Counterfeiting

Nike Inc. accused a well-known Los Angeles-based sneaker customizer of operating widespread trademark infringement scheme, selling counterfeits, and offering kits and classes to make fake Nike shoes.

S2 Inc., which does business as The Shoe Surgeon, also signed digital agreements using Nike marks and operates brick-and-mortar stores selling fake Nike shoes, according to the complaint filed Monday in the US District Court for the Southern District of New York.

The Shoe Surgeon, founded by Dominic Chambrone—who also spells his last name Ciambrone—and managed with Dallas Imbimbo, also uses the marks of luxury brands without permission, along with Nike’s, to sell ...