In April 2021, Nike filed suit against MSCHF over the Satan Shoes, alleging trademark infringement and dilution, and unfair competition. In support of its claims, Nike alleged that "since the announcement of the Satan Shoes, Nike…suffered significant harm to its goodwill, including among consumers who believe that Nike is endorsing Satanism." Nike also pointed to online consumer commentary making calls to boycott Nike, or otherwise disparaging the brand, made under the supposedly mistaken belief that the Satan Shoes were authorized or approved by Nike. In defense, MSCHF relied on the First Amendment, stating that the Satan Shoes were "individually-numbered works of art" that "push the boundaries of today's culture through story-telling and performance art," and are therefore protected by the freedom of expression. MSCHF also relied, in part, on the fairly limited first-sale doctrine, which allows for the resale of branded goods.