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Skechers to pay $40 million for false claims about toning shoes

 |  May 17, 2012

Skechers has agreed to pay $40 million to settle the FTC’s charges of deceptive claims about its Resistance Runner, Toners, and Tone-ups shoes. Skechers claimed that their Shape-ups shoes would help people lose weight, tone muscles, and even improve cardiovascular health. Moreover, Skechers falsely represented that clinical studies supported their claims. The settlement also resolves a 44-state investigation led by the Attorneys General of Tennessee and Ohio.

Under the terms of the settlement, Skechers cannot make claims for its toning shoes about strengthening, weight loss, or other health benefits unless they are true and supported by scientific evidence.

Consumers who purchased Shape-ups are eligible for refunds, either directly from the FTC or through a court-approved class action lawsuit.

Full content: FTC Press Release

 

Related content: Brands, Consumer Protection, and Antitrust – Why China is Special (David Stallibrass, University of International Business and Economics & Jenny Huang Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS))

 

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