Skechers, Adidas and other “toning shoe” makers to target athletes, kids and boomers- Toning shoe makers seek to broaden Appeal, Wall Street Journal, 9/8/10
Shoes with unstable soles are being promoted to improve balance and tone legs, in a niche projected to be $1.5 billion in 2010, up from $300 million in 2009. This is despite a recent American Council on Exercise study which found minimal benefit from “rocker bottom shoes” the Wall Street Journal acknowledged the manufacturers argue for the validity of unstable shoes. Another potential issue: ankle/knee injury.
From a postural point of view, challenging the kinetic chain makes sense…but the ACE study is compelling. My personal verdict is not in- would like to hear others opinions- email me if you’d like to share- DrSteven@ bodyzone. com
DATA POINT TAKEAWAY: Even though the science is uncertain, there will be significant revenue realized by companies selling improved balance and motion.
