Slouching may feel comfortable, but it can cause pain in the upper back and neck over time. Posture bras are designed to support the muscles in these areas and remind us what good posture feels like. However, using a posture bra for longer than necessary can cause discomfort and even more pain, so it’s important to get one that fits well. Here are a few options we like from top brands.
1. Forme’s Power Bra
Slouching can feel like a natural position for us, but it actually puts a lot of strain on the muscles in our back and neck. This can lead to chronic tension and pain, and Posture Bra help support and encourage proper alignment while transforming our muscle memory for the long haul.
Forme’s Power Bra is FDA-registered and designed to instantly improve your upper body alignment and body foundation. (You might have seen Taylor Swift wearing one of these while rehearsing for her Eras Tour!) It uses patented technology and includes tension fabrics and double-fabric panels that support key-muscle groups and encourage the body to stay upright while being comfortable enough to wear daily.
At $175, the Power Bra isn’t cheap, but it may be worth the investment if you have FSA or HSA funds and want to try a more preventive approach to improving your posture rather than treating existing issues with rehab and strength training under a doctor’s supervision. It’s available in US sizes XS-3XL.
2. MagicLift Front-Close Posture Back Bra
A posture bra decreases the strain on your back and neck muscles that can lead to a number of issues including bad posture. This is done by better distributing the weight of your breasts over a wider area. This is especially beneficial for women with large breasts as they tend to put more pressure on the front of their body.
This Glamorise bra features their Magic Lift technology which is a cushioned band that provides excellent bust support and shape without a wire. The crisscross posture back pulls your shoulders forward to improve your posture and has wide bottom bands for stability and comfort. The adjustable front closure and shoulder straps are wide and have extra padding which helps to reduce digging and provide a secure fit.
The only issue with this bra is that the material seems to stretch out quite a bit, and the back of the band can roll if you don’t choose your size carefully. However, overall this is a comfortable, well-fitting bra that can be worn all day long.
3. Bali Posture Bra
A bra version of a faja, this top from Bali uses soft fabric bottom and back panels to smooth out the slouch and provide all-day support. A criss-cross elastic band over the back promotes shoulder and spine alignment while front closure allows for easy on and off.
While both Mitro and Ippolito acknowledge the benefits of posture-enhancing bras, they caution that wearing one is no substitute for proper body mechanics and regular exercise. Additionally, a posture bra should not be tightened to the point of discomfort or numbness, which could indicate decreased circulation.
They suggest starting out with a few hours of wear per day and gradually increasing the amount over time. This will allow the body to become accustomed to the supportive effect without becoming overly reliant on it to correct bad habits. Besides reducing pain, posture bras can also foster enhanced respiration by promoting an open chest stance that leaves space for lungs to expand.
4. Leonisa Posture Bra
This posture bra for women offers a unique combination of style, comfort, and support. Its criss-cross PowerSlim bands improve posture and shape the silhouette, while double-layered DuraFit cups adapt to the breasts’ natural shape. The wireless design, wide underbust band, and front hook-and-eye closure offer a smooth fit under your clothes.
The bra is made of rPET, a fabric that recycles post-consumer plastic bottles and transforms them into high-quality yarn. It also provides a seamless appearance and feels soft against the skin. Its limited color selection may be an issue for some fashion-conscious women, but its posture-enhancing features and superior quality justify the investment.
Its back in X reinforcement and wide ergonomic straps are perfect for wearing during daily activities. It is also ideal for maternity and breastfeeding, as it provides adequate support without putting pressure on the bust. Its compression style is a great option for individuals recovering from breast surgery. However, it is important to consult a physical therapist before incorporating any posture-correcting bra into your daily routine.
Wrapping It Up
The criss-cross PowerSlim bands of this back-open, front-close bra help improve posture by shifting the weight of breasts off shoulders. It’s also comfortable, with wire-free support and a soft fabrication. Still, a posture bra isn’t a cure-all for serious back problems or ingrained slumping habits, both Dr. Mitro and Ippolito warn. It’s best to see a physical therapist for long-term help.
