Reebok maintains EasyTone's fitness claims despite the $25 million settlement case, according to a statement released by the company in response to the settlement with the Federal Trade Commission.

"We stand by our EasyTone technology-- the first shoe in the toning category inspired by balance ball training," Daniel Sarro, Reebok's spokesman was quoted as saying in the statement.

"We have received overwhelmingly enthusiastic feedback from thousands of EasyTone customers, and we remain committed to the further development of our EasyTone line of products."

"Our Customers are our number one priority, and we will continue to deliver products that they trust and love," Sarro continued.

In 2009, Reebok introduced its EasyTone sneakers with claims that the shoes can strengthen legs 11 per cent better and sculpt buttocks 28 percent better than ordinary walking sneakers. Its attractive marketing campaign featured well-toned derriere of women clad in "barely there" outfits.

No doubt, EasyTone became an instant success and Reebok recorded sales close to $1.1 billion in 2010 from $50 million in 2008.

However, after the Federal Trade Commission filed charges over health claims, Mr. Sarro said Reebok has stopped using the advertising. Mr. David Vladeck, Director of Federal Trade Commission's Bureau of Consumer Protection said Reebok cannot use the same marketing ad again unless the shoe company submits stronger scientific proof.

Reeboks' EasyTone uses "balance ball-inspired" technology that will supposedly help produce toned legs and buffed buttocks with every step. It has submitted to FTC the study Reebok commissioned at the University of Delaware in 2008 involving five women walking on a treadmill for five minutes. These women wore EasyTone shoes or regular sneakers, and a few were barefooted while working on the treadmill. During the workout, the electrodes recorded their muscle activities.

Matt Powell, an analyst of online portal for sporting goods and professionals, thinks the settlement issue, though a bad publicity will not have much impact on Reebok's integrity.

"While the market is now warmer rather than red hot, customers who buy toning shoes like them because they are comfortable, not because they will make them more buff," Powell told the New York Times.

"All the brands invited more scrutiny because the claims were relatively outrageous. Regardless, customers really like these shoes."

In 2010, a pair of EasyTone varieties can be purchased in as low as $100.