United States: 7-Eleven Sues Nike Over Air Max 95 Sneaker Design

Convenience store chain 7-Eleven has filed a trademark infringement lawsuit against Nike, alleging that the sportswear company’s upcoming Air Max 95 “Sport Green and Safety Orange” sneakers unlawfully imitate its distinctive orange, green, and red branding.

The lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas and seeks to block the release of the sneakers, which are scheduled to launch on July 11—the same date as the retailer’s annual 7-Eleven Day and Free Slurpee Day promotions.

Case Details

• Case Title: 7-Eleven Inc. v. Nike Inc.
• Case Number: 3:26-cv-02201-X
• Court: U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas
• Date Filed: July 2026
• Nature of Suit: Trademark Infringement

Trademark Allegations

According to the complaint, Nike’s Air Max 95 features a red, green, and orange stripe design that closely resembles 7-Eleven’s long-established tri-color trademark used on its stores, advertising, merchandise, and other branded products.

The retailer alleges that consumers are likely to believe the shoes are affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by 7-Eleven, despite no collaboration existing between the companies.

The lawsuit also points to the planned July 11 release date, arguing that launching the sneakers on 7-Eleven Day further reinforces the association with the retailer.

In addition to the color scheme, 7-Eleven claims Nike incorporated references to convenience stores into the product, including an insole graphic depicting store shelves and product descriptions referring to “strolling down to the corner store.”

Attempts to Resolve the Dispute

According to the complaint, 7-Eleven repeatedly attempted to resolve the dispute before filing suit. However, the retailer alleges that Nike indicated it intended to proceed with marketing and launching the sneakers as planned.

In a statement, 7-Eleven said it acted to protect its intellectual property because of the “unauthorized use” of its branding in connection with the impending product launch.

Relief Sought

The retailer is asking the court to:

• Prevent Nike from manufacturing, marketing, distributing, or selling the Air Max 95 sneakers;
• Order the recall and destruction of the allegedly infringing footwear and related promotional materials;
• Award monetary damages and Nike’s profits from the sale of the shoes; and
• Reimburse 7-Eleven for its legal fees and litigation costs.

The lawsuit comes despite the companies having previously explored an official collaboration. In 2020, Nike and 7-Eleven had planned to release a co-branded Nike SB Dunk Low sneaker, but the project was ultimately canceled following the postponement of the Tokyo Olympics due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Nike has not yet filed a response in the case.