Reebok has agreed to pay $25 million to settle unsupported claims their "toning shoes" could make fat asses less so.
Reebok's advertisements said the shoes strengthened hamstrings and calves by up to 11% more than regular sneakers, and toned the buttocks up to 28% more. That was based on clever salesmen, and not any real studies.
The ads were pulled once an investigation was launched into the claims, though Adidas, who owns Reebok, disagreed with the FTC and stood behind the shoes. The toning shoes were designed to be slightly unstable, and the instability requires the wearer to work harder, thus strengthening muscles. But 11 to 28 percent more?
Since 2009, they've sold millions of pairs in the United States alone, which likely covers the consumer refunds. Competitors like New Balance, Skechers, Ryka and Avia sell similar types of footwear that can fetch up to $300...and lawsuits are forthcoming regarding their products.
Reebok's advertisements said the shoes strengthened hamstrings and calves by up to 11% more than regular sneakers, and toned the buttocks up to 28% more. That was based on clever salesmen, and not any real studies.
The ads were pulled once an investigation was launched into the claims, though Adidas, who owns Reebok, disagreed with the FTC and stood behind the shoes. The toning shoes were designed to be slightly unstable, and the instability requires the wearer to work harder, thus strengthening muscles. But 11 to 28 percent more?
Since 2009, they've sold millions of pairs in the United States alone, which likely covers the consumer refunds. Competitors like New Balance, Skechers, Ryka and Avia sell similar types of footwear that can fetch up to $300...and lawsuits are forthcoming regarding their products.
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