Sticky Feet has been at the center of multiple controversies, ranging from their business tactics and advertising methods to how they handle competitors and former employees. In this article, we will break down these issues and provide responses from Sticky Feet.
To note, it seems like they have started to address some of them, and we should always be respectful to people who can change. Float with respect.
However, the controversies surrounding the company offer valuable lessons for anyone planning to launch a product and a new company.
Innovation and Credit:
As an inventor with multiple patents, the idea of taking something from another field, like 3D printing, and introducing it to a new market is commendable. The 3D-printed footpad made from TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) represents an innovation in the griptape market. Sticky Feet deserves credit for this idea. Even if others claim that the idea was already taken.
Aggressive Marketing on Facebook:
At one point, the Onewheel Facebook group was inundated with posts and cross-posts from Sticky Feet, leading one user to comment, “The Onewheel group is now a Sticky Feet group.” While promoting new products in forums is acceptable, it should be done politely. Spamming is considered impolite by many and led to a backlash from part of the community. It seems Sticky Feet has learned from this experience, as the frequency of their postings and cross-postings has decreased recently, and some posts have even been removed.
Sticky feet is new on the scene and they kind of pulled a future motion by filing for a patent on a product they didn’t invent (3D printed grip tape), and then immediately began handing out cease and desist orders to people who had been 3D printing grip tape for a while. Even the idea of attaching grip modules with Velcro, or other temporary bond materials, has been done before, it just didn’t catch on. – Reddit poster
Making Fun of Other Businesses:
Sticky Feet’s aggressive marketing and disparaging comments about existing companies and products caused significant controversy. Many remarks and comments have since been edited out from Facebook feeds in an effort to handle the criticism.
Grip tape… Your days are numbered. Experience the evolution of grip coming July 2024 to the PEV universe. #pev #onewheel #eskate #escooter #euc
– Sticky Feet
Patent Application:
Sticky Feet has stated that something is patent-pending, but it remains unclear what exactly is being patented. The footpad is 3D-printed in TPU. As an inventor with multiple patents, it is known that securing a solid patent that holds up in court can be costly. While it is possible to file a patent without the help of patent lawyers at a lower cost, it is not recommended. According to a Facebook comment, the patent application number is #18/779,537. It will take a year before the patent becomes public, allowing others to file responses, so this claim remains unconfirmed.
Lack of Business Information:
At the time of writing and during the product launch, there was no business information available on the Sticky Feet website, only a generic Gmail address. This practice is not considered professional and paints an unflattering picture of the company. It has since been revealed that the people operating Sticky Feet are A and Y.
Trademark:
Sticky Feet has a trademark pending for “Stick Feet” as of August 10, 2024, but not for EvoGRIP™.
Community:
The launch of this 3D-printed footpad has led to attacks from the community. It is essential to remember that it is the combination of companies that took risks and the supporting community that has shaped what Onewheel is today. Mutual respect and acknowledgement of the contributions of all parties are crucial for the continued growth and innovation within the community. Without the collective efforts of the community, retailers, third-party businesses, and Future Motion Inc., Onewheel would not have reached its current status. The community’s strong support, investments, and enthusiasm drive the industry forward.
Response from Sticky Feet:
Understandable but it’s not meant as bashing anyone or anything really. It is more about trying to make people smile with far exaggerated sarcasm. But in all seriousness, it’s about trying to get people to take seriously the idea of the re-invention of something that has not seen innovation since the dawn of boardsports. It’s not easy to do.
The controversies surrounding Sticky Feet highlight the importance of respectful marketing and transparent business practices. As the community continues to evolve, it is crucial to foster a supportive and innovative environment for all members. By learning from these events, future innovators can better navigate the challenges of launching new products and companies.
Float with respect, float on, and see you out there!
