Milkcrate Athletics & Nike in Lawsuit Over Something Neither Own

Aaron LaCrate and his brand of Milkcrate Athletics is suing Nike for recent usage of milkcrates, related images and words on a series of recent LeBron James apparel and footwear. They claim that Nike is confusing the public and using their brand properties. I’ve been putting milkcrates on t-shirts since 1997 (see one below) so I don’t know how someone could own that idea, but Milkcrate Athletics is going for it with this lawsuit. I don’t see any confusion of brand infringement, but we’ll let the courts work it out.

It’s my opinion that no one owns the milkcrate image. It’s like saying you own the letter “F”. Milkcrates are in the public domain and no one can lay claim to it. I am a supporter of artist’s rights and I’m the first person to call foul when artists get ripped off (see You Though We Wouldn’t Notice) but this just seems a bit silly. If he wins, I’d like a cut please. –> Milkcrate Athletics Files Trademark Suit Against Nike Over LeBron James’s Milkcrate-Themed Shoes via 95years.com

Unis in NYC is Crate Savy

Unis in New York is a high end line and store. Their relaxed interior features a vintage metal milkcrate. –> Sit and Read x Unis Chairs via Cool Hunting

Crates + DJ + Poster

DJs and milkcrates go together like white on rice. A buddy just sent me this great RjD2 poster featuring the object of my affections. –> Waxin’ And Milkin’ via FFFound

“Authentic” Milk Crate For Sale

Duluth Trading Company is selling “authentic” milkcrates for $14.50 bones, or $12.50 if you order more than one. Add $10 for standard shipping and the cost goes up quickly. I know that there are those out there who balk at the legality of the home use milkcrate. For those squeamish types, Duluth comes to the rescue. Mike the Yak Fisherman says it best in the reviews, “Now you can get one… legally!” I love the fact that they include the above photo, in case you can’t figure out what to do with your new milk crate. –> The Real McCoy, Original Commercial Milkcrate via Duluth Trading Company

The features of a “real” milkcrate:

• Original classic commercial Milk Crate from USA supplier
• 1001 uses for storage, organization, transport
• Heavy-duty HDPE plastic
• Holds 35 lbs. or more
• Built in handles on all 4 sides
• Stackable
• Measures 12”W x 12″L x 11”H
• Made in USA

Milkcrate Matrimony Ride

Garrett Grove has a ton of great wedding photography on his site, but these are of particular interest on our fine site here.

Walmart Selling Fake Out Crates

I don’t know why Walmart is calling this a milk crate. It does not stack, it’s made of cardboard (not plastic) and worst of all they are charging $34.99. –> OIA Onyx Milk Crate via Walmart.com

Max Balances 15 crates, at Age 13

Young Max, age 13, is a balancing force. He is already doing 15 milk crates on his chin. I think Jon Evans record of 98 (on his head) is in jeopardy. –> Awesome! Watch Max Balancing 15 Milk Crates via YouTube

Souped up (with crates) Corolla

Anthony has pimped his Corolla with an innovative milk crate storage rack. It adds extra storage beyond the trunk. It is done with serious conviction and execution. I love it. Anthony and his buddy Gilbert clean up after tourists at the Mimosa Rocks National Park. –> deep roots technology via iconophila

Happy 2010!

Words About Milkcrates

Rarely, ok never, do I post without a pretty picture of a milkcrate. This will be the one exception. Instructables has a great coversation going about the pressure that a milkcrate can withstand. It’s pretty nerdy and totally awesome. Then I found some guy who loves milkcrates and relates the whole thing to marketing. Who would have thought you could write so much about the lowly milk crate?

How much pressure can the average milkcrate withstand? via Instructables

Milk Crate Marketing via Biznik