Reebok to pay $25 million for deceptive advertising of ‘toning’ shoes

Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has banned Reebok International from claiming that its “toning” footwear can strengthen muscles effectively. Reebok agreed to pay $25 million in customer refunds as part of an FTC settlement.

In 2009, Reebok began to make unsupported advertising claims for its EasyTone walking shoes, EasyTone flip-flops and RunTone running shoes, according to FTC. Reebok, whose parent company is Adidas, claimed that its toning footwear could strengthen leg muscles more effectively than regular shoes can.

FTC also barred Reebok from making additional claims that are related to the health efficacy of its toning footwear unless the company proves the claims through scientific evidence, and from misrepresenting the results of its testing and research studies about its toning footwear.

Reebok’s settlement funds will be made available for refunds either through FTC or through a court-approved class-action lawsuit. Consumers who purchased Reebok’s toning footwear or apparel can submit a claim through reeboksettlement.com/ftc.