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USPTO Issues Initial Refusal on Caleb Williams 'Iceman' Trademark, Citing Existing Boot Registration
The United States Patent and Trademark Office denied the Chicago Bears quarterback's request for the word mark on June 24, 2026. The refusal cited similarity to a 1988 registration for insulated boots owned by LaCrosse Footwear.
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The United States Patent and Trademark Office initially refused Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams' application to trademark the word "Iceman" in a letter dated June 24, 2026. The agency cited a likelihood of confusion with a 1988 trademark registration held by Oregon-based LaCrosse Footwear for insulated boots and boot liners.
The USPTO stated that the marks are identical in appearance, sound and meaning, and that they would create the same commercial impression when used on the respective goods.
Williams had sought protection across multiple categories, including athletic bags, water bottles, sporting goods, a website, entertainment services and clothing. LaCrosse Footwear's registration covers only insulated boots. Trademark attorney Josh Gerben said an initial refusal occurs in 63.5 percent of recent applications and is not unusual.
He noted that Williams could appeal and might succeed on some items because the cited registration is limited to a narrow product line. Williams' separate application for an "Iceman" logo remains under initial review. Applications by former NBA player George Gervin for "Iceman" and "Iceman 44" are also still pending.
Messages left with the trademark attorneys for Williams and LaCrosse Footwear were not returned.
