Portland, OR: Reebok has agreed to pay $25M to settle charges brought by the Federal Trade Commission alleging that the athletic shoe manufacturer falsely advertised its "toning" shoes, making claims that the shoes could measurably strengthen the muscles in the legs, thighs and buttocks.
The FTC settlement is the first, and results from its investigation into the advertising claims made by Reebok. However, other companies such as New Balance and Sketchers have also faced lawsuits over their advertising claims.
Among the claims that raised concern at the FTC were that EasyTone footwear had been proven to lead to 28 percent more strength and tone in the buttock muscles and 11 percent more strength and tone in hamstring and calf muscles than regular walking shoes. (businessweek.com)
