A variety of shape up shoes are available from a number of different companies in stores and online. The claim is that by wearing these shoes you can get fit, lose weight and improve your posture. The ads in magazines and on TV show models with shapely legs, supposedly due to the Shape-Ups Metabolize Shoes. Is it truth or hype?
Design
The design of the Skechers Shape-Ups Metabolize shoes includes a mid-sole kinetic wedge made of a very soft foam midsole that absorbs shock and causes an intentional imbalance. With each step, the muscles tighten to counter the imbalance. This is what makes the shoes work for fitness. It imitates walking barefoot on sand. The abdomen, buttocks, thighs and calves are supposed to become strong and improve in appearance. The shoes are also supposed to ease strain on the joints from long term standing. Putting on the Skechers Shape-Ups Metabolize shoes for the first time, you'll feel wobbly and off-balance, due to the rocker bottom and the mid-sole wedge.
Construction
The Skechers Shape-Ups Metabolize shoes are made from smooth leather or nubuck uppers ventilated with mesh fabric side panels. They have a padded collar and tongue for comfort. The shoe is lined and laces up, while a polyurethane frame supports the foot. A rocker bottom made of sculpted rubber composes the outsole. Each shoe weighs approximately 14 to 17 oz per shoe and they cost around $100 a pair. Each pair comes with a pamphlet and DVD to show you the proper way to walk in the shoes, as well as some exercises you can do to enhance the fitness factor of the shoe.
History
Skechers started in 1992 featuring utility boots and skate shoes. Now in 2010, the firm has more than 3,000 styles for men, women and children. The company is worth over $1 billion. Skechers claim to manufacture high-quality, fashionable, comfortable, fun and affordable shoes. Shape Ups come in athletic styles, winter boots, work boots, Mary Janes, sandals, flip flops, and dress shoes. Skechers has a diversified marketing plan, domestic and international; they are sold in over 100 countries.
Conclusions
There have not been any legitimate studies proving the benefits of these types of shoes, although there are plenty of testimonials raving about how wonderful they are. The American Council on Exercise says the instability claims are marketing hype. Dr. Bruce Williams, a podiatrist and member of the American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine said that even though there may be an increase in muscular activity, it may not be beneficial. Dr. Fabian Pollo from the Baylor University Medical Center in Dallas, Texas, said they're not a "magic bullet of weight loss or toning your body". Does that mean you shouldn't wear them? Not necessarily. Many people find them very comfortable, whether they work for fitness or not. Just take the advertising claims with a grain of salt.
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