NEW YORK, July 16 Reuters LL Bean has been sued by footwear maker Skechers USA, which accused the clothing and outdoor gear company of illegally copying its shoes, which have sold in the millions.

According to a complaint filed late Monday in Manhattan federal court, the world39;s thirdlargest footwear company believes LL Bean39;s Freeport casual shoes infringe two patented designs for heel cups that surround the back of the foot.

Skechers called its designs unique and eyecatching because they use graceful, sweeping, gently rolling lines and slopes resembling the shape of a heel.

Only after Skechers incurred the substantial risk and monumental expense of developing and promoting its shoes with these heel cup designs, and established that they had broad appeal, did LL Bean enter the market with its infringing shoe, Skechers said.

LL Bean did not immediately respond on Tuesday to requests for comment. Skechers39; lawyers did not immediately respond to similar requests.

The lawsuit seeks unspecified damages, including triple damages for any willful infringement, and to stop sales of infringing shoes.

Skechers sued at a time many Americans concerned about inflation keep a lid on discretionary spending.

The Freeport shoes, sharing the name of LL Bean39;s Maine hometown, retail for 99 on LL Bean39;s website.

LL Bean did not immediately respond on Tuesday to requests for comment. Skechers39; lawyers did not immediately respond to similar requests.

The lawsuit seeks…