Skechers Shape-Ups Marketing Claims. Hundreds of thousands of consumers were enticed into purchasing Skechers Shape-Ups Toning Shoes – spending as much as $100 a pair – based on marketing claims that wearing the shoes would result in a more toned and fit physique.
Backed by celebrity endorsements by the likes of Kim Kardashian, many consumers were easily led to believe that the unusual Skechers Toning Shoes round sole offered fitness benefits not found in ordinary athletic shoes.
Unfortunately, it has since become clear that not only do Skechers Shape-Ups fail to deliver on the physical fitness promises made by the manufacturer, but wearing the toning shoes can also lead to serious injuries, including:
Foot Injuries:
Stress Fractures, Fallen Arches, Hammer Toe, Turf Toe, Inflammation of the Forefoot, Plantar Fasciitis, and Joint Displacement.
Leg Injuries:
Strains and Sprains, Fractures, Dislocation, Joint Injuries, Shin Splints, Tendonitis, and Nerve Damage.
Head Injuries:
Coma, Concussion, Hematomas, Brain Damage, Hemorrhage, Skull Fracture, Contusions and Blood Clots.
Other potential Skechers Toning Shoe injuries include:
- Broken Hip
- Broken Ankle
- Broken Leg
- Knee Injury
- Trimalleolar Ankle Fracture (this toning shoe injury involves fractures in all three malleoli of the ankle)
- Muscle Strains
- Torn Ligaments
- Dislocated Hip
- Ruptured Achilles Tendon
Tests performed by the American Council on Exercise in 2011 to evaluate the effectiveness of toning shoes found that none of them showed statistically significant increases in either exercise response or muscle activation. The review also raised concerns that “extended use of these toning shoes may alter the walking gait mechanics of wearers.”
The Skechers’ Shape-Ups rounded sole design creates an unstable gait, which can increase the likelihood that a wearer will fall. These shoes may be especially dangerous for people with vertigo, poor balance or an abnormal gait. However, the instability created by Skechers’ Toning Shoes can cause any wearer to sustain an injury in a fall, or experience posture and gait problems.
Need Legal Help Regarding Skechers Shape-Ups Injuries?
The personal injury attorneys at Parker Waichman LLP offer free, no-obligation case evaluations. For more information, fill out our online contact form or call 1-800-YOURLAWYER (1-800-968-7529).
