The Complete Guide To Toning Shoes

Athletic Shoes, Comfort Shoes, dynamic, Rocker Bottom Shoes, Toning Shoes, Walking Shoes - By Ed Forteau on Monday, August 29, 2011 - 18:30

Looking to purchase a pair of toning shoes, but not sure which ones to buy?  This complete report gives you a breakdown of the top toning shoes currently on the market.  Compare one toning shoe against another, and decide which one is right for you.

What Are Toning Shoes?

Toning shoes are fitness shoes that are designed to improve your health and body with regular daily wear.  The hope is that you can see health benefits typically from just walking in them.  Most have a thicker than usual sole.  This sole is also often curved.  The insoles are additionally designed to mold to your individual foot and provide extra cushion.  The range in claims about the health benefits is wide, but there is actually a lot of research that supports the toning shoes listed in this report.

In the summer of 2009, Toning Shoes officially become an International Phenomenon with the introduction of Skechers Shape Ups.  Now toning shoes have become the fastest growing segment of the footwear market.  Skechers Shape Ups were not the first Toning Shoes on the market, but they have become the most popular with an expanding line of walking, hiking, and running toning shoes.  Since then, practically every athletic shoe manufacturer has come out with their version of Toning Shoes.

The History of Toning Shoes

Arguably the first toning shoe was Earth Shoes.  Earth Shoes were introduced back in the ‘70s.  Earth Shoes were the first to incorporate the negative heel, which they called Negative Heel Technology.  The idea behind this was to create the sensation of walking in sand.  The negative heel improved posture, and activated different muscle groups than standard shoes.  The advances made with Earth Shoes lead to the next generation of modern toning shoes some 20+ years later.

The mechanics of Modern Toning Shoes start with the soles of the shoes.  There are three types of soles on Toning Shoes: the rocker bottom sole (designed to promote a more natural walking gait, reduce pressure, and improve the alignment of the spine), the curved sole (designed to create lateral instability), and the collapsible heel (designed to simulate walking in sand).  Rocker bottom shoes come in ridged, semi-ridged, and flexible soles. 

The ridged rocker toning shoes limit you to using them for just walking.  The ridged rocker sole naturally improves posture.  Semi-ridged rocker toning shoes are best for walking, but can be used for jogging.  Flexible rocker toning shoes are the most flexible, and can be used for walking, jogging, running, and cross-training.

Curved Sole Toning Shoes can be used for walking and jogging, but because of the instability of the shoes, activities that require lateral movement should be avoided.

Collapsible Heel Toning Shoes should be limited to just walking.

All Toning Shoes incorporate one, or more, of these types of soles on their shoes.  These soles cause you to use additional muscles when walking, and/or use the muscles you normally use for walking in a different way.  Some shoes correct your gait, and improve your posture – which affects your legs, glutes, hips, back, stomach, neck, and shoulder muscles.

There have been numerous debates on the effectiveness of Toning Shoes, so let’s answer the question…

Do Toning Shoes Work?

Toning Shoes cause you to use additional muscles when wearing them, or cause you to use the same muscles in a different way.  Creating a slight degree of instability activates additional muscles, and muscles you would normally use to correct the instability.  Shoes that incorporate a rocker bottom sole change your gait, causing you to work your muscles in a different way.  More of your muscles are use when you wear them, causing you to burn more calories – which in turn makes you more toned.

Many of the companies who manufacture toning shoes have done studies to show their efficacy.  And their marketing departments give the impression that putting them on and going about your normal daily routine is all that is necessary to accomplish your fitness goals.  Others have been more responsible, citing results from their studies.

Some of the over-the-top claims have caused people to question the efficacy of toning shoes, and recently the American Council on Exercise conducted their own study to validate the fitness claims that have been made.  Their study found no measurable difference when wearing toning shoes versus quality athletic shoes.

It is important to note that most of these studies were conducted in a clinical setting under a controlled environment (including the American Council on Exercise study).  MBT and Skechers have conducted broader studies where the participants wore their shoes during normal daily activities (including a regular walking regimen).  These studies concluded the shoes were effective for toning and calorie burning.  Some question these results, because the studies have not been conducted long-term.   A study that would measure the effects of toning shoes of people who wore them over an extended period of time, under normal circumstances (and including standard exercise periods), would produce a more reliable indication of the true efficacy of toning shoes.  For now, the vast majority of studies have proven toning shoes to be effective at improving overall health.

Until long-term studies are conducted, customer feedback may be the most accurate information we have on the effectiveness of toning shoes, and customer feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.  Most people feel varying degrees of muscle soreness shortly after wearing toning shoes.  People can feel their body getting more of a workout when they wear toning shoes.

But it is important to note that replacing your existing shoes with toning shoes is not a substitute for regular exercise.  To get the greatest benefits from toning shoes, wear them in conjunction with 20-60 minutes of walking, jogging, or any exercise which will raise your heart rate and increase your metabolism.  This may come as a surprise to some, and a bit of a disappointment, but one aspect of purchase toning shoes is overlooked, and that is how they motive you to do more exercise.  If they encourage you to walk 20-60 minutes three to five times a week, they are worth the investment.

Who Wears Toning Shoes and Why Should You?

Toning shoes are designed for just about everyone – from top performing athletes to people who are not able to do more than simple walking.  This is why they are perfect for everyone.  You can wear them any time, any place.  They are great for people who have no time for exercise or for people with a strong commitment to daily exercise.  Both men and women wear toning shoes, and everyone can benefit from the health and body changes that can come from regular use.

The Top Toning Shoes (in no particular order)

New Balance Rock & Tone

• Features – Very lightweight, comfortable, durable, and breathable shoes that incorporate the semi-stiff rocker bottom design.  Insoles have excellent cushion.  Outsoles are designed to maximize toning muscles and burning calories.
• The Technology – Rocker bottom and Acteva Ultra Lite midsole provides optimal resistance.
• Fitness Claims – Increase muscle use by 27%.  Up to 8% increase in calorie expenditure. 
• Styles – Athletic and casual shoes and sandals.
• Size & Fit – True to size, slightly narrow in width.  Moderate arch support.
• Price – A range from around $50.00 for Rock & Tone Flip-Flops to over $100.00 for the most recent sneakers.  Average is around $85.00 for sneakers.
• Company Details – This company makes exclusively fitness and performance shoes, making it an expert in the field.  New Balance is a major player in performance footwear with years of experience and expertise behind its products.
• Why People Like It – These shoes are sleek looking and designed for everyday wear and exercise.  Comfort and looks rate at the top for Rock & Tone shoes.  Plus they are very affordable.
• The New Balance Rock & Tone Shoes are currently only available for women.

>> You can read our review on the New Balance Rock and Tone Shoes here.

New Balance TrueBalance

• Features – Light weight, comfortable, and durable shoe with the sleek design and traditional athletic shoe look. They come in athletic and the all new Aravon Ria and Riley (both in black), which are dressy casual toning shoes.
• The Technology – “Balance Board Technology” creates instability. 
• Fitness Claims – burns 10% more calories than standard walking shoes.  Also, 29% increase in quad muscle activation, 16% increase in glute muscle activation, 16% increase hamstring muscle activation, and 14% increase in calf muscle activation.
• Styles – Athletic shoes.
• Size & Fit – True to size.  Slightly narrow in width.  Moderate arch support.
• Price – A range from between $89.99 to $120.95.
• Company Details – New Balance is one of the leaders in walking and running shoes.
• Why People Like It – Stylish looks, light weight, comfort, and price are what makes these shoes popular.
• The New Balance TrueBalance shoes are currently only available for women.

>> You can read our review on the New Balance TrueBalance Shoes here.

Sano by Mephisto

• Features – Sano shoes are deigned to promote an increase in burned calories, improved posture, increased circulation, and muscle toning.  Sano shoes are wonderfully comfortable and great for daily wear and performance activities.  The Sano incorporates a semi-stiff, wide stable sole, which makes these toning shoes versatile enough for walking, jogging, cross-training, and even hiking.
• The Technology – The Sano uses a Power Stimulator in the heel, which acts as shock absorber and helps propel you forward.  The Multi Vibration System in the forefoot ensures greater walking comfort.  They work together to make these very comfortable shoes.
• Fitness Claims – Improves posture.  Improves physical condition.  Relaxes tense muscles.  Soothes joints, vertebrae, and spinal cord.  Tones and tightens abdominal, leg, and buttock muscles.  Promotes a better body shape.  Burns excess calories.  Simulates long ignored muscles.  Activates blood circulations.
• Styles – Athletic and casual shoes.
• Size & Fit – True to size and width.  Moderate arch support.
• Price – A range from about $250.00 to $280.00
• Company Details – With a European tradition, Mephisto is a company that prides itself on quality, durable shoes that are made with only natural materials (soft leather, latex, cork and rubber), with each shoe made, in part, by hand.
• Why People Like It – There are sandals, casual shoes, and sneaker designs.  Fit and cushioned comfort.  Great eco-friendly shoe as well.
• Sano by Mephisto Shoes are available for men and women.

>> You can find our review on Sano by Mephisto Shoes here.

** MBT Shoes (Our Recommended Toning Shoes) **

• Features – Our Top Rated Toning Shoe is called the “anti-shoe,” and they combine all three types of the toning shoe designs (rocker bottom, curved sole, and collapsible heel).  These shoes are made to feel like walking in sand – disrupting your stability in a way that maximizes your muscles and body posture.  With a thick, curved sole, these shoes have a distinct look to go along with their benefits.  These are not made for high-endurance or impact activity.  The benefits come from regular, daily walking wear.
• The Technology – MBT Shoes incorporates a ridge rocker bottom sole, collapsible heel, and curved sole.  It invented the collapsible heel with the Masai Sensor.
• Fitness Claims – With 22 published medical/scientific studies, MBT is the most researched shoe in the Toning Shoe Class.  Just a few of the benefits of MBT Shoes include: Improves posture.  Improves gait.  Strengthens hip muscles.  Strengthens the muscles surrounding the knee.  Raises the metabolism while walking or standing.  Burns additional calories.  Strengthens the muscles of the lower back.  Reduces chronic neck pain.
• Styles – MBT Shoes come in athletic, casual, boots, and dress shoes. 
• Size & Fit – True to size and width.  Moderate arch support.
• Price – A wide range depending on style and retailer from $100.00 to over $260.00.
• Company Details – MBT stands for “Masai Barefoot Technology,” and the company is grounded in its philosophy of improving the overall health of a person with the aid of a shoe that can be worn all of the time – not just an exercise shoe.  Calling MBTs Toning Shoes really is doing a disservice to these shoes - they are Health & Wellness footwear.  There are a host of physical ailments these shoes address.  Toning as an added benefit of wearing them.
• Why People Like It – MBT Shoes offer real physical and health benefits including weight loss and muscle toning.  Many people wear them because they offer relief for lower back pain.  Reduces pain for people who have been on their feet all day.  These shoes live up to their expectations.
• MBT Shoes are available for men and women.

>> See our review on MBT Shoes here on their many health benefits.

Here is a video review on MBT Shoes...

Skechers Resistance Runners (SRR)

• Features – The Skechers SRR is a major advancement in the Skechers Shape Ups line.  It is the only shoe in the Toning Shoe class specifically developed for running, but because of the stability of the shoe, it is versatile enough for any activity, and also makes a great walking shoe.  The Skechers SRR has a semi-flexible rocker bottom sole, and incorporates the six parts of Shape Ups construction (Upper, Soft Fabric Lining, Removable Adaptive Insole, Midsole, Kinetic Wedge, and Outsole) all contribute to the shoe’s durability, comfort, shock absorption, and support.  High quality materials make these shoes breathable and moisture absorbing as well.
• The Technology – The kinetic wedge and leaf spring energy return system are what makes the Skechers Resistance Runners special.  The technology creates the feeling of walking, or running, on soft grassy ground.
• Fitness Claims – Burns 13.2% more calories per hour.  Increases calf muscle activity by 68%.  Increases back muscle activity by 85%.  Increases hip muscle activity by 71%.  Reaches fat burn zone 11% faster.  Strengthens the leg, back, and core muscles.  Note: these results are based on running.
• Styles – Athletic shoes.
• Size & Fit – True to size and width.  Moderate arch support.
• Price – A range from about $140.00 to $150.00 depending on retailer.
• Company Details – One of the top shoe manufactures, Skechers is known for combining the best in fashion trends with comfortable, practical footwear.
• Why People Like It – People love the versatility of the SRR.  It can be worn for walking, jogging, running, and cross-training.  Extremely comfortable.  Wearing them can result in stronger muscles in legs, buttocks, back, and abdomen, and improved posture.
• The Skechers Resistance Runner is available for men and women.

>> Read our full review on Skechers Resistance Runner Shoes here.

Cogent Shoes

• Features – Is a ridged rocker bottom sole shoe with orthotic or foam footbed, bacteria and odor control, a dual-arch support system, a non-slip, shock absorbing rubber sole, and a double-rocker outsole for maximum fitness benefits.  While other toning shoes create an unstable walking surface, Cogent shoes do not.
• The Technology – Double rocker sole design, which improves balance, posture, and gait.
• Fitness Claims – Strengthens the spine and improves posture.  Improves gait.  Increases muscle flexibility.  Improves circulation.  Decreases stress on joints, bones, and back.  Addresses leg and feet problems.  Tones muscles.
• Styles – Athletic, casual, and dress shoes.
• Size & Fit – True to size and width.  Moderate arch support.
• Price – Around $135.00 for sneakers, $155.00 for sandals, and over $200.00 for dressier shoes.
• Company Details – Cogent Footwear demonstrates a commitment to modern styles and fashion as well as comfort and health.  The company focuses on total body health and fitness as well as balance. Cogent is a much newer shoe manufacturer than some of the others.
• Why People Like It – People love the look of these shoes and the very high quality construction.  Comfortable to wear with real toning results.
• Cogent Shoes are available for men and women.

>> You can read our review on Cogent Shoes here.

RYN Shoes

• Features – Heavy ridge rocker bottom sole, cushioned insole, and breathable materials.  Modern look to the shoes.  These are walking shoes despite sneaker design.
• The Technology – Rocker bottom and slightly collapsible heel.
• Fitness Claims – Increases back muscle activity.  Strengthens and tones core muscles.  Reduces stress on back and hips.  Increase glute, thigh, and calf activity.  Reduces stress on knee joints.  Reduces stress on ankle joints.  Stimulates the arch, and promotes blood circulation.  Trims and tones the body.
• Styles – Athletic, casual, and dress shoes.
• Size & Fit – True to size and width.  High arch support.
• Price – Around $245.00 for sandals, around $265.00+ for sneakers, and around $300.00 for shoes (like their Mary Jane style).
• Company Details – With the slogan “We rock harder,” this company is contemporary and fresh and very new.  With little experience, the company depends on research and technology to generate a quality, comfortable product. 
• Why People Like It – Modern, colorful, urban look to the shoes make them very appealing to younger customers.  A fresher, more youthful look than other toning shoes.
• RYN Shoes are available for men and women.

>> Our review on RYN Shoes can be found here.

Chung Shi Shoes

• Features – Offers all of the benefits of other toning shoes (weight loss, toning, etc.), shoes also work to massage your feet while you wear them with acupressure points.  Focus is on health, fitness, beauty, and relaxation.
• The Technology – Unique rocker bottom design they call AuBioMo® which consists of a complex and multi-layered sole.  Creates a natural heel to toe walking or running motion, while stabilizing and activating your muscles.
• Fitness Claims – Tones legs, thighs, stomach, and buttocks.  Increase core stability.  Improves cardiac circulation.  Burns more calories.
• Styles – Athletic and casual shoes.
• Size & Fit – Run slightly small.  It is advised to have them professional fit at local Chung Shi retailer.
• Price – From $235.00 to $268.00 depending on style and retailer.
• Company Details – This relatively new company combines “ancient Asian wisdom and modern German design and technology” to create a shoe that is designed to maximize fitness results with daily wear.
• Why People Like It – Sharper look than other toning shoes, many wearers feel they do exactly what the company promises!
• Chung Shi Shoes are available for men and women.

>> See our full review of Chung Shi Shoes here.

Fit Flops

• Features – The main feature is the patent-pending “Microwobbleboard™ technology.”  The thick, firm heel, soft center-footbed, and mid-density toe offer 3 different densities for an instability that allows different muscles groups to be worked alternately with each step.
• The Technology – Microwobbleboard™ technology which increases the amount of time your muscles are engaged with each step.  The midsole is made up of a high density heel designed to absorb up to 22% more shock; low density center that activates leg muscles up to 16%; mid density at the front of the shoe to maintain speed, pace, and variation.
• Fitness Claims – Reduces back stress.  Increases glute muscle activation up to 30%.  Increases hamstring activation up to 16%.  Increases lower leg muscle activation up to 11%.  Reduces knee joint stress.  Reduces ankle joint stress.  Reduces foot pressure concentration.
• Styles – Casual sandals, shoes, and boots.
• Size & Fit – True to size and width.
• Price – Around $50.00 (for flip-flops) – $80.00 (for hiking sandals).
• Company Details – Founded by a former personal trainer and two biomechanists, this company, although new, is built on sound research, technology, and professional experience.
• Why People Like It – Comfort, style, and relief from foot pain and back pain top the list of customer raves.  They also offer styles for children, too.
• FitFlops are mainly available for women with two styles available for men.

>> You can read customer comments on Fit Flops here.

Reebok Easytone

• Features – Using “balance pods” instead of a rocker bottom, Easytones feature an outsole with a springboard step to it.  As you walk you can feel the air moving within the pads, cushioning each step.  The technology makes you expend more energy while walking.
• The Technology – Air pod technology create instability, and a more cushioned feel, which increases activation of muscles.
• Fitness Claims – 28% more glute muscle activation.  11% more quad muscle activation.  11% more calf muscle activation.
• Styles – Athletic shoes.  Recently added sandals.
• Size & Fit – True to size and slightly narrow in width.  Medium arch support.
• Price - $95.00 - $110.00 for sneakers.  Sandals are less, averaging $55.00.
• Company Details – A long-standing company, Reebok has been producing sneakers and fitness shoes for years.  This is a trusted company that has experience and expertise behind it.
• Why People Like It – Comfort, toning, and durability.  Ability to customize a pair to your own style and needs.
• Reebok Easytone shoes are available for both men and women.

Reebok RunTONE

• Features – Running shoe based on the EasyTone shoe design.  RunTONE offers more stability than the EasyTone shoes, so you can wear them for running, jogging, and other exercise activities.
• The Technology – Eight moving air pods in the soles of the shoes, which encourage more activation of leg muscles.
• Fitness Claims – Similar to EasyTone shoes: increases activation of the glute, quad, and calf muscles.
• Styles – Athletic shoes.
• Size & Fit – True to size.  Run slightly narrow.  Moderate arch support.
• Price – Average price of $100.
• Company Details – A leader in the athletic shoe market.
• Why People Like It – Doesn’t have a “toning shoe” look.  Lightweight and affordable.
• Reebok RunTONE shoes are available for both men and women.

Skechers Shape Ups

• Features – Debuting in August of 2009, Skechers Shape Ups offered a less expensive alternative to MBT Shoes. 
• The Technology – Ridge rocker bottom shoe with a collapsible heel and curved sole which creates instability.  Kinetic Wedge soft foam midsole designed to absorb shock and increase activation of muscles.
• Fitness Claims – Improves posture.  Improves blood circulation.  Strengthens back muscles.  Tightens abdominal muscles.  Tones and firms leg muscles.  Reduces knee joint stress.  Firms calf muscles.
• Styles – Athletic, casual shoes, and boots.  They come in three styles.  The original Shape Ups.  The Shape Ups XF – Extended Training lace-up toning shoe designed to be worn for walking or in the gym.  The Shape Ups AT – All terrain hiking fitness sneaker.
• Size & Fit – Run a half size small.  True to width.  Medium arch support.
• Price – $100 - $115.
• Company Details – One of the top footwear manufacturers that makes innovative and affordable shoes.
• Why People Like It – Very comfortable for all day wear.  Can tell the shoes give them a workout when they are worn.
• Skechers Shape Ups are available for both men and women.

>> Our review on Skechers Shape Up Shoes can be read here.

Some of the lesser known toning shoes include:

Avia Avi-Motion – Flexible double rocker bottom shoe.  iBurn and iQuest shoe styles.

Ryka Reform – Rocker bottom shoe.  Currently only available for women.

ToneWalker – Uniquely designed rocker bottom sandal.  Designed to create good posture by forcing you to stand back on your heels.

Dr. Scholls Fitness Walker – Inexpensive flexible rocker bottom shoe.  Available for men and women.

Avon Curves – Rocker bottom shoe designed for women.

LA Gear Walk ‘N Tone – Similar in design to the Easytone shoe.  Uses six air pods in the sole of the shoe to create instability.

Fila Sculpt ‘N Tone – Low priced rocker bottom shoe with a collapsible heel.

Champion Pace Fitness – Low priced rocker bottom shoe.

Crocs Tone - uses something similar to balance pods to create instability.

Toning Shoes come in all types of shapes, sizes, styles, and prices.  It is important you choose the appropriate toning shoe for activities you plan to wear them.  Keep in mind - toning shoes are considered fitness equipment.  Make sure to ease into wearing them.  Start out wearing them for 30-60 minutes the first couple of days, and gradually increase the amount of time you wear them each day, until you are wearing them all day.

Toning Shoes are here to stay.  They are comfortable, fun to wear, and when used properly will improve your fitness level.

Final Note: This report is a living, breathing, document.  It will change as the landscape of the toning shoe market changes.  Whenever you are in the market to purchase a pair of toning shoes, make sure you visit this page first to see how things have changed.