Sports Apparel Dispute: Under Armour Sues Salt Armour for Trademark Violations

How can you stop a business competitor from infringing your trademark rights

In a recently filed lawsuit, sports apparel maker Under Armour says that fishing apparel maker Salt Armour has violated its trademark rights. The similarity between the two names, says Under Armour, is creating brand confusion among consumers.

Baltimore, Maryland-based Under Armour has $3 billion in annual sales. Its products include a wide range of sports attire, including clothing and accessories used in fishing.

Based in Florida, Salt Armour offers saltwater fishing apparel, accessories and gear. The company also has products under the name Defense Armour.

In court filings, Under Armour says consumers will mistakenly think that Under Armour is involved in the manufacturing or licensing of Salt Armour and Defense Armour merchandise. Under Armour asserts that it has repeatedly asked Salt Armour to stop its infringement, but Salt Armour has not done so. Under Armour has also opposed trademark applications made by Salt Armour.

Commenced in a federal district court in Maryland, Under Armour’s lawsuit seeks to block Salt Armour and Defense Armour from continuing to use those brand names and obtain the profits gained from that use. Under Armour also demands damages, including $200,000 for the operation of websites at saltarmour.com and defensearmour.com.

Protecting your company’s brand is vitally important. The experienced commercial litigation attorneys at Longman & Van Grack can assist you with all types of business disputes. To schedule a consultation, call our Bethesda and Rockville, Maryland offices today at (301)291-5027.