Australian-made Power Balance Bracelets have become a big trend since making their way to the United States. Released in 2007, they sky-rocketed to popularity and people went crazy over the rubber band bracelets that claimed to “use holographic technology” to “work with your body’s natural energy field”. However, the bracelets are said to have no scientific evidence, as revealed by the company themselves.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) required Power Balance to release a statement regarding the failure of the bracelets, saying “in our advertising we stated that Power Balance wristbands improved your strength, balance and flexibility. We admit that there is no credible scientific evidence that supports our claims and therefore we engaged in misleading conduct in breach of s52 of the Trade Practices Act 1974. If you feel you have been misled by our promotions, we wish to unreservedly apologize and offer a full refund.”
Many who purchased the bracelet are very unhappy as a result of the news. “[Power Balance] should definitely refund. It’s very wrong what the company did. All the people who bought them shouldn’t have to suffer with a loss of money. It’s not right,” junior Jessica Bligh said.
The bracelets, which are simply rubber and embedded with two holograms, have been a favorite to many athletes. Sports stars such as Shaquille O’Neal, Lamar Odom, and David Beckham have all been spotted donning Power Balance bracelets, which retail for $29.95.
“I think it’s pathetic that so many people think they actually work,” senior Margaret Little said. “One simple bracelet can’t improve your balance just by wearing it.”
A similar bracelet is also on the market, known as the iRenew. The company’s website, irenewbracelet.org, says the new product “is an energy balancing bracelet that helps bring new, fresh energy into your life. The bracelet helps restore body balance by going above and beyond traditional ionic and magnetic jewelry”. iRenew bracelets have also been noted as being a scam, yet the company has not said anything. These bracelets can be purchased at irenewbracelet.com for $19.99 and are available in black and white.
Power Balance is now offering full refunds on bracelets. The company offers a money back guarantee and can be reached through their website, www.powerbalance.com.