Nike Countersues Avia: Nike Inc. has countersued...

Nike Countersues Avia: Nike Inc. has countersued rival shoemaker Avia Group International Inc., contending that the firm is making shoes that use Nike technology. Avia President Bill Dragon denied the allegation, accusing Nike of “typical arrogance.” Avia sued Nike last month on grounds that Nike infringed on patents for its Cantilever sole--a system in the concave sole that directs the shock of impact away from ankles and knees. Nike, No. 1 in the athletic footwear industry, alleges in its counterclaim that Avia abandoned its original Cantilever outsole, rendering the patent invalid. It further maintains that Avia products infringe on two Nike patents. Avia wants to block sales of Nike Air 180 running shoes and is asking for unspecified damages.