Skechers USA has obtained a European Union-wide preliminary injunction prohibiting Dockers by Gerli from selling a shoe style that infringes its patent.

The Dusseldorf Regional Court in Germany issued the decision after concluding that Dockers violated Skechers’ owner’s rights for its Hands Free Slip-ins’ heel pillow designs.

“While the ruling can be appealed, we are very pleased that the German court in the first instance acknowledged Skechers’ rights and immediately stopped the sale of the offending shoe style throughout the European Union,” said Michael Greenberg, president of Skechers.

“Skechers invests tremendous resources into product development to introduce fresh, unique and exciting footwear to its customers year in and year out.”

Greenberg added the company will continue to “aggressively police and enforce its proprietary rights” for the Hands Free Slip-ins.

The Southern California-based firm designs, develops and markets a diverse range of lifestyle and performance footwear, apparel and accessories, with collections available in more than 180 countries and territories.