Italian shoemaker Geox SpA, which sprang to success with its breathable shoe technology, has been accused by Nike Inc. of copying a design in one of its 2007 spring/summer models.

Geox Chairman and founder Mario Moretti Polegato has expressed confidence that the matter would be resolved amicably, and analysts said Thursday that while companies like to keep such disputes quiet, they are increasingly common in an industry that seeks to grab consumers with cutting-edge technologies and styles.