The South Butt vs. The North Face

It's clear that Fall has arrived once everyone and their mother starts sporting The North Face gear. In fact, it's hard to walk down the street these days without seeing a handful of folks wearing the company's fleeces, t-shirts, jackets and other items. But despite its popularity, the clothing giant just may face a run for its money.

According to a story KPLR11.com, 18-year-old college freshman Jimmy Winkelman recently unveiled a competing clothing line, The South Butt. Meant to be a humorous take on the North Face, the new line features a similar logo and lettering and is already being sold in St. Louis-area stores.

But apparently, The North Face lawyers don't find The South Butt so funny. The company sent a letter to Winkelman's home requesting that he immediately stop production of The South Butt gear. The letter stated that The North Face trademarked half-dome logo and the The South Butt design were too similar.

A formal letter from a titan of industry would have most college freshman shaking in their boots -- but not Winkelman. The Mizzou student got a lawyer, who says that The South Butt logo differs from The North Face half-dome, and should be allowed to be sold.

Whether The North Face will continue to pursue legal action remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Winkelman's got gumption, no buts about it.

Photo courtesy of stock.xchng.