Skechers to Pay $40 Million over Sketchy Fitness Shoe Claims


Chalk this one up to not-too-shocking news. The US government reminded the public and shoe makers that it takes more than a pair of shoes and a celebrity endorsement to have at tight booty. Skechers USA Inc. will pay $40 million to settle charges brought against them by the Federal Trade Commission. You might recall the California based shoe company used Kim Kardashian in a Super Bowl commercial promoting Shape-Ups. Skechers encouraged people to ditch their trainer and went to so far to say, “Get in Shape without Setting Foot in a Gym”. The FTC found that Skechers made unsupported claims that the shoes would provide more weight loss and toning than regular shoes

 

According to a story from the Associated Press, the settlement announced today also involves the company’s Resistance Runner, Toner and Tone-Up shoes. If you were a consumer who purchased the shoes, you could be eligible for a refund. This settlement trumps the one slapped against Reebook last year, when they were forced to pay $25 million for their EasyTone and RunTone shoes.

“Skechers’ unfounded claims went beyond stronger and more toned muscles. The company even made claims about weight loss and cardiovascular health,” said David Vladeck, Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. “The FTC’s message, for Skechers and other national advertisers, is to shape up your substantiation or tone down your claims.”

Read more on the story here.

**UPDATE**
Did you buy Skechers Shape-ups, Resistance Runner, Toners, or Tone-ups shoes? You may be eligible for a refund.
The Federal Trade Commission, the nation’s consumer protection agency, charged Skechers with making unfounded claims that its Shape-ups and other “toning shoes” would help people lose weight and tone their buttocks, legs, and abdominal muscles. To settle the case, Skechers USA has agreed to pay $40 million to provide refunds to people who bought Skechers toning shoes. More information is available on the FTC’s Skechers Hotline at 866-325-4186. Visit: http://www.skecherssettlement.com to apply for a refund.


A  SKECHERS ad with celebrity Brooke Burke

 






Disclaimer: Reader discretion advised, please consult your physician before beginning any exercise or diet program.