Patents

Allbirds protects certain footwear designs, components, and technologies through intellectual property rights both in the United States and internationally. This notice serves as a virtual patent marking under the relevant legal provisions, including those outlined in Section 16 of the America Invents Act. Its purpose is to inform the public of the existence of potential patent protection for specific products and design features associated with Allbirds.

The products referenced here include various footwear styles and proprietary constructions that reflect Allbirds’ commitment to innovation, material science, and practical design. These items are covered by one or more U.S. patents, and similar rights may exist in other countries as well. It is important to note that the products listed here are not necessarily protected only by the patents mentioned in this disclosure, nor does the absence of a product from this notice suggest it is not protected by patents. In many cases, a product may be covered by multiple patents, including both design and utility patents, depending on the nature of the innovation.

This notice is not intended to be a comprehensive list. As new patents are issued, older patents expire, or new innovations are introduced, the disclosure may be updated accordingly. Pending patent applications, whether in the United States or abroad, may also lead to additional protections for current or future Allbirds products. Therefore, the omission of a product name or feature does not waive any intellectual property rights.

Allbirds’ footwear incorporates various unique features, such as specially designed soles, innovative knit upper technologies, elastic components, and continuous upper constructions. These elements are the result of extensive research, testing, and design efforts aimed at enhancing product performance, comfort, durability, and aesthetics. Design patents are used to protect the visual aspects of these shoes, while utility patents may cover the functional innovations related to construction, materials, or manufacturing processes. The combination of these protections helps safeguard the originality of Allbirds’ designs and prevent unauthorized copying.

The virtual patent marking approach allows Allbirds to communicate patent information efficiently, without the need to physically mark each individual product with patent numbers. This system provides flexibility, keeping pace with changes in the patent landscape and ensuring compliance with legal requirements aimed at informing the public about existing patent rights. It also represents a modern, efficient method of intellectual property disclosure, particularly for companies with a broad range of products and a global presence.

It is essential to understand that this notice does not grant any rights, licenses, or permissions to use, manufacture, sell, or distribute any patented technology or designs owned by Allbirds. All rights are reserved, and any unauthorized use of patented technologies or protected designs may result in legal consequences under applicable laws.

This notice is provided to enhance transparency regarding the intellectual property associated with Allbirds’ products. By regularly updating this disclosure, Allbirds reaffirms its dedication to innovation and the protection of the creative and technical work involved in developing its footwear.