Sketchers pays up for Shape-ups

If you bought a pair of Shape-ups, the Sketchers shoes that claimed to tone your legs, abs and backside as you walk, you could be getting a check in the mail soon.

Sketchers USA agreed to pay out a $40 million settlement, reached with the Federal Trade Commission last year, after they were found to have used deceptive adverting to shell Shape-ups, Resistance Runner, Toners and Tone-up shoes.

The FTC accused Sketchers of claiming the shoes would not just improve muscle tone, but help wearers lose weight and improve heart health, all claims the commission said the shoe company was unable to back up.

“Skechers’ unfounded claims went beyond stronger and more toned muscles. The company even made claims about weight loss and cardiovascular health,” said David Vladeck, Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. “The FTC’s message, for Skechers and other national advertisers, is to shape up your substantiation or tone down your claims.”

The shoes, which sold for $60 to $100 pair, were most popular in 2010. More than half a million people -- 509,175 -- submitted valid claims for a refund, and the checks must be cashed before October 10.

In addition to the refund, Sketchers is prohibited from making claims about strengthening, weight loss, or any health and fitness-related benefits without scientific evidence backing it up.

Sketchers FTC settlement