Skechers Shape-Ups walking shoes were once a prominent name in the toning shoe market, appealing to walkers with their promise of comfort. These shoes, similar in design to Swiss Masai Barefoot Technology (MBT) shoes, featured a rocker-sole design intended to engage and tone more muscles during everyday activities or fitness walks. But do these tennis shoes really work? This article delves into the features, purported benefits, potential drawbacks, and the ultimate fate of Skechers Shape-Ups.
The Rise of Toning Shoes
Skechers Shape-Ups gained popularity as comfort shoes, largely due to their unique design. Skechers emphasized the soft kinetic wedge sole, while the rocker sole encouraged a natural heel-to-toe walking stride, creating a rolling sensation with each step.
Comfort and Design
Many users found Skechers Shape-Ups exceptionally comfortable from the start. The toe box offered ample room, making them suitable for individuals with wide feet.
Divided Opinions on Foot Pain
Opinions on Skechers Shape-Ups were mixed among those with foot pain. While some swore by them as the only shoes they could wear without discomfort, others experienced the opposite effect.
The Weight Factor
One significant drawback of many Skechers Shape-Ups designs was their weight. For instance, Skechers Shape-Ups 2.0 weighed 13 ounces per shoe for a women's size 7, which is considered heavy. This extra weight could lead to strain, particularly during fitness walking. While individuals accustomed to heavier shoes might not notice the difference, those with knee, ankle, or hip issues could find it problematic.
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Claims and Reality
Skechers initially promoted Shape-Ups as toning shoes designed to stimulate more muscles and improve balance through their rocker sole. The three-layered sole aimed to activate muscles, enhance balance and posture, and tone leg and buttock muscles. According to Sketchers, on average women wearing Shape-ups for 6 weeks lost an average of 3.25 pounds while their body composition was reduced by an average of 1.125%. Meanwhile, back strength was increased by 37%.
However, a team of exercise scientists conducted two separate studies and found no evidence to support these claims. Their research indicated that toning shoes did not increase exercise intensity, boost calorie burn, or improve muscle strength.
The Downside: Injuries and Instability
Toning shoes like Skechers Shape-Ups are intentionally designed to create instability, which manufacturers claimed would result in greater muscle stimulation with each step. However, independent research has shown that the shoes are neither effective nor safe and have been the cause of hundreds of injuries across the nation.
Because Skechers Shape-Ups are designed to cause instability, toning shoe consumers are at greater risk of fall accidents. Consumer Reports advised those with balance issues to steer clear from the wobbly Shape-Ups and even recommended healthy individuals interested in improving fitness to invest in sturdy walking shoes over the Shape-Ups. Shoes that are unable to provide a solid walking experience may result in serious fall accident related injuries such as broken bones, lacerations, traumatic brain injury, neck and back injuries, joint dislocations, and fractures.
Skechers Shape-Ups injuries may also be sustained through prolonged use of the shoes. The lack of an arch support and a solid sole may cause some people to experience changes in gait, posture, or weight distribution that can develop into injuries over a period of time. The most serious cases of injuries that have been reported involved two broken femurs in a woman who had been lightly exercising with no prior incidents of injury or pre-existing condition. Unusual and excessive stress placed on the body can cause broken bones, strained ligaments, pulled muscles, and chronic pain.
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With an overly rounded rocker bottom sole that is soft and unstable, the shoes are inherently unsafe. In addition, university researchers, medical specialists, Consumer Reports, and the American Council on Exercise have all noted that the Shape-Ups’ sole design can increase the risk of fall accidents and injury. Although not all consumers experience injury or accidents as a result of the Skechers Shape-Ups, nearly 300 consumers have filed Skechers Shape-Ups injury reports and over 270 plaintiffs have come forward seeking damages from toning shoe manufacturer.
The End of the Line
Skechers Shape-Ups are no longer available, leaving fans in search of alternatives. There is no universally perfect shoe for all walkers. The best choice depends on individual needs and foot conditions.
Finding the Right Fit
For individuals with flat feet, shoes that correct overpronation may be beneficial. Choosing a walking shoe with the correct length and width is also crucial. Trying on shoes and performing a single-leg squat can help determine if they provide adequate comfort and support. Consulting with a professional at a specialty running store can also offer valuable advice.
Pricing and Availability
Skechers Shape-Ups were priced similarly to other athletic walking shoes and were less expensive than some other rocker-soled brands. They were available in both athletic and lifestyle styles, allowing walkers to use them for shorter daily walks or alternate them with athletic walking shoes.
The Verdict
Despite their initial popularity and claims of weight loss and muscle toning, Skechers Shape-Ups have been proven ineffective in these areas. The design also poses potential safety risks due to the instability it creates.
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While some studies suggested that rocker bottom shoes could help strengthen ankle and hip muscles, Skechers Shape-Ups tended to wear out quickly, reducing their shock absorption capabilities over time.