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Future of Skecher’s Shape-Ups Uncertain

The future of Skecher's Shape-Ups appears to be uncertain, especially in light of recent implications that the toning shoes could lead to a serious injury. Skechers USA, which has utilized endorsements by Kim Kardashian and Wayne Gretzky, is feeling the impact of the market flooding of cheaper toning shoes substitutes.

Shape-Ups offer unique benefits
Skechers claim that the unique kinetic wedge and rocker bottom design of their Shape-Up shoes imitate the sensations and benefits of walking on soft sand. They also claim that their product helps:

• The body burn more calories
• Tone muscles
• Improve posture

Skecher's 2010 fourth quarter not impressive
Market conditions have forced Skechers to aggressively discount their products while increasing spending on promotional activities. Their 2010 fourth quarter numbers reveal why:

• Net earnings declined 89 percent to $3.2 million
• Gross margin fell 820 basis points to 40.5 percent

Reasons for the decline in earnings
Some experts attribute these declining numbers in part to order cancellations. It's possible that the order cancellations are a result of the lack of evidence to support the benefits toning shoes supposedly offer wearers and the potential dangers that many medical experts attribute to the unique design of the toning shoes.

If you or someone you know has been injured by wearing toning shoes, contact one of our experienced Northern Kentucky personal injury attorneys at the law office of Schachter, Hendy & Johnson at (859) 578-4444 or (888) 606-5297.