Wal-Mart Stores Inc., the world’s largest retailer, has been sued by wheeled-footwear maker Heelys Inc. for making knockoff skates that Heelys claims violate a patent.
Heelys’ shoes, which cost about $60 a pair, come with a removable wheel in the sole, allowing wearers to move from walking or running to skating by shifting weight to their heels.
Wal-Mart sells a knockoff model called Spinners that violate Heelys patent on a “multi-wheel heeling apparatus,” Heelys said in a complaint filed Saturday in Dallas federal court. “Wal-Mart’s infringing acts are causing irreparable harm” without “adequate remedy,” Heelys said in the complaint.
The company, based in Carrollton, Texas, is seeking a court order blocking Wal-Mart from selling products found to violate the patent, and cash compensation.
