I remember seeing this type of shoes sold as walking shoes in an orthopedic shoe store in 2007 (I think they were MBTs?). At that time they were marketed to reduce joint pain rather than tone one's legs. Funny that the concept turned into this fad.

Regardless, I did buy a pair of Avia toning shoes last week for a specific purpose and I love them. I thought they might spice up my elliptical workout, and they do intensify the leg workout on the machine. I also wear them around the house because they are so comfortable.

I bought some and they seem to have helped my bum, but I dont know if thats just because Ive been walking more?

I bought 2 pairs of sketchers toning shoes on sale. One for work and the other for home. I've noticed NO difference in my body tone, BUT I no longer have lower back, knee and foot pain from standing on my feet at work constantly everyday. This makes them worth it to me

If you have arthritis beware!
 

toning shoes are horrible with arthritis. your balance is compromised completely