Throughout the 2010s, Skechers Shape Ups shoes were among footwear’s most popular trends–touted by celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Joe Montana to name a few. The sneakers’ popularity wasn’t just due to their fashionable look: Skechers claimed that its “toning shoes” could help people lose weight, achieve more toned legs and abs, and more.
But in 2012, the Federal Trade Commission alleged that Skechers had deceptively advertised several of their most popular shoes. I’ll provide an update on the case below, and tell you want to do if you believe you have been misled by a product, especially if it has caused you harm. Remember that if you find yourself in this situation, a Northern New Jersey product liability attorney at Buttafuoco & Associates may be able to help. Get in touch at 1-800-NOW-HURT for a free consultation.
Skechers Settlement Background
In 2013, the Skechers corporation agreed to settle a $40 million class action lawsuit that alleged the company violated both state laws and consumer protection statutes by falsely representing the many benefits of their Skechers toning shoes. Although Skechers denied the claims, they established a settlement to resolve the cases. Part of the settlement also required the company to discontinue making unfounded claims that its shoes could result in strength, or weight loss. They were also barred from sharing any misleading tests, studies, or research about the shoes’ health benefits with consumers.
Anyone who bought Skechers shoes between August 2008 and the claim deadline of April 18, 2013, could receive a cash refund. Even consumers who did not have proof of purchase were eligible to receive cash refunds between $20 and $80 depending on which product they purchased. The Federal Trade Commission mailed over 500,000 checks from Skechers USA to consumers who bought the shoes and filled out a quick website form.
Can I Still Get a Skechers Settlement?
If you purchased Skechers between 2008 and 2013, the settlement window has closed. However, if you feel that you have been injured by Skechers footwear, you may be able to file a lawsuit.
This case also teaches us an important lesson about products that claim they provide big benefits to our health or appearance: advertisements are not always what they seem, and we must be vigilant as consumers. When a product claims to have benefits that seem too good to be true, this may very well be the case. Unfortunately, advertisers mislead consumers each and every day–selling everyday products like talcum powder or weed killer that may cause cancer, dangerous toys or playground equipment that can harm our children, and more.
If you are concerned that you have been harmed by a product you thought was safe, get in touch with our Northern New Jersey product liability attorneys today. We offer free case reviews to help you understand your rights. Unless we stand up to big corporations, we all put ourselves at risk, so don’t hesitate to reach out.
