Global sports giant Nike has indicated it’s taking first metaverse entry steps as indicated by several trademarks it filed this week, which lay the ground work for branded virtual sneakers and apparel. In an October 27, 2021 filing, the trademark application reads, “Downloadable virtual goods, namely, computer programs featuring footwear, clothing, headwear, eyewear, bags, sports bags, backpacks, sports equipment, art, toys and accessories for use online and in online virtual worlds.”
The news was first reported on by trademark attorney Josh Gerben, who viewed the filing as “an intent to make and sell Nike-branded virtual shoes and clothing.”
According to recently-listed job posting, the brand has stated plans to enter the metaverse. Ads for a virtual footwear and material designer reads in part, “You will play a key role in redefining our digital landscape, ushering us into the metaverse, and growing our team’s capabilities.
The brand is not brand new to the metaverse. In May 2019, it partnered with Fortnite, whose characters wore Nike-branded sneakers. It’s also collaborated with Roblox, an online gaming platform.
According to reporting by CNBC, Nike has filed a patent for Crytokicks, which it plans to use for NFTs.
Nike is heading to the metaverse.
— Josh Gerben (@JoshGerben) November 1, 2021
On October 27th the company filed new trademark applications for NIKE, JUST DO IT and the swoosh logo.
The filings indicate an intent to make and sell NIKE-branded VIRTUAL shoes and clothing.#Nike #Metaverse pic.twitter.com/nisKVm2CTq
