Updated: Reebok hit with $25M bill for false claims

Reebok has agreed to pay a $25 million settlement as a result of a court case regarding its toning shoes.

The U.S. Federal Trade Commission brought a complaint forward against the athletic company, claiming that its EasyTone and RunTone shoes don’t strengthen legs and glutes as promised. Reebok’s advertising campaign suggested that the toning shoes help firm those vital muscles better than regular running shoes.

The FTC questioned the validity of Reebok’s statistics in its advertisements for the products.

“The FTC wants national advertisers to understand that they must exercise some responsibility and ensure that their claims for fitness gear are supported by sound science,” said David Vladeck, director of the FTC’s bureau of consumer protection in this release.

Reebok’s $25 million penalty will go to customer refunds. You can file a claim here.

In a statement, Reebok said it stands by its toning shoes, and while it agreed to pay a settlement, it doesn’t agree with the FTC’s findings.

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