Consumerism: Trainers link to foot injuries

Wearers of expensive trainers may be injuring their feet because of manufacturers' misleading advertising, it was claimed yesterday.

Studies have shown that top-of-the-range shoes with hi-tech, shock-absorbing soles account for 123 per cent more foot injuries than the cheapest brands. Research at McGill University in Montreal, Canada, indicates a link between the injuries and "deceptive" advertising messages. People become reckless after falling for safety claims which emphasise advanced new features and the latest technology, the findings suggest.

In fact, no athletic footwear, regardless of brand or price, has ever been shown to protect well against injuries, say the researchers.