05/14/2014    

INTERNATIONAL PODIATRISTS AND SPORTS MEDICINE

New Zealand Podiatrist Not Surprised by Vibram Settlement

 

Kiwi experts are not surprised that a manufacturer of toe-sock running shoes has revealed that there is no scientific proof that wearing its product has added health benefits. Vibram, the makers of FiveFingers running shoes which are designed to mimic the effect of running barefoot, settled a $4.35 million class action lawsuit in the U.S. over the false claims. As part of the settlement, customers who purchased pairs of the shoes may be eligible for a partial refund, and the firm has promised it will not make any more claims without scientific evidence to back them.

 

Simon Speight

 

Auckland podiatrist Simon Speight said the legal action did not come as a surprise, as popular theories promoted structured shoes that cushioned the feet for protection. "They are consistent with harm-causing features of footwear," he said. "Running shoes, by their very nature of design, are there to prevent injuries from happening and to improve performance. All of our theories, for the most part, restrict movement in the foot; that's what tends to help."

 

Source: Morgan Tait, New Zealand Herald [5/12/14]