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.