Nike has filed lawsuits against Skechers and New Balance, alleging that some of the rival brands’ sneakers violated its patent rights.

The lawsuits target New Balance’s Fresh Foam, FuelCell and other shoe models, as well as Skechers’ Ultra Flex and Glide Step among other models.

Nike claims these sneakers misuse its patented Flyknit technology for running, soccer and basketball shoes. The Oregon-based company said its Flyknit technology uses “high-strength fibres to create lightweight uppers with targeted areas of support, stretch and breathability”.

The brand asks the courts for unspecified monetary damages as well as orders to permanently block New Balance and Skechers from infringing on its patents.

According to Reuters, New Balance said in a statement that it “fully respects competitors’ intellectual property rights, but Nike does not own the exclusive right to design and produce footwear by traditional manufacturing methods that have been used in the industry for decades”.

Nike previously sued Adidas, Puma and Lululemon for similar infringements. While Adidas and Puma settled the lawsuits, the case against Lululemon has not concluded.

Further reading: Skechers wins first round patent dispute against Dockers