Reebok Sneakers

          I found an article on The New York Times website about how Reebok needs to pay $25 million dollars over health claims, because they falsely advertised their toning shoes.  The argument is that even though Reebok guaranteed "sneakers that promise better legs and a better behind with every step", the shoes are practically like every other sneaker, with not enough evidence to suggest muscle toning or calorie burning. Reebok has decided to avoid a legal battle as well, setting with the F.T.C. “In order to avoid a protracted legal battle, Reebok has chosen to settle with the F.T.C.,” said Daniel Sarro, a company spokesman, in an e-mail.  Still, Reebok is standing by its EasyTone technology, and they claim to have gained tons of positive feedback from buyers.  However, there have also been reports of injuries, such as snapped ankles.  

            These reebok shoes were developed based on an idea that came from Bill McInnis, a former Nasa engineer, who thought of implementing the same technology that balance-balls use.  It seems like a good idea to me, and apparently to the people who purchased these shoes in stores.  Yet,  regardless of all of these claims that the shoes don't actually tone your legs, the customers still enjoy wearing them.  If they're comfy, why not buy them?  Just don't expect to have an advantage whenever you're going to the gym. 

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/09/29/business/reebok-to-pay-in-settlement-over-health-claims.html?pagewanted=1&_r=1&ref=health