Vibram, the makers of the FiveFingers shoes that are known for simulating barefoot running while providing protection for the skin, settled a class-action lawsuit for $3.75 million. The class-action lawsuit was brought against the company because the company claimed that the shoes provided several health benefits that had not been thoroughly medically researched. The company also claimed that the shoes generally improved foot health, which was also not medically verified.
What the Company Claimed
Advertisements for the shoes claimed five main things that FiveFingers shoes did better than traditional running shoes:
- Helped to build and increase muscles in the feet and legs
- Increased mobility in the toes, ankles, and feet
- Improved balance and dexterity
- Improved posture by keeping the heel in a more natural position
- Allowed more natural motion of the feet with the body
A statement from the American Podiatric Medicine Association refutes these claims, stating that barefoot running can increase stress on the lower extremities.
Settlement Results
Customers that purchased the running shoes will be entitled to a partial refund of up to $94 for the shoes, which typically cost about $100, although most will receive between $20 and $50. Approximately 70 million pairs of the shoes were sold, so it is yet unclear exactly what criteria consumers must meet to be entitled to money from the settlement. The company has promised not to make any more medical claims about the shoes unless those claims are backed by scientific or medical research. However, some customers have come forward and stood up for the company. These customers say that the shoes took some getting used to, but have actually helped dramatically to decrease foot problems. Would you wear a pair?