Best posture correctors to help you stop the slouch

In a typical day, you may spend hours commuting to work or sitting hunched over your desk at home. If you have little ones, you’ll more than likely spend a good chunk of time carrying them on one hip, lifting them in and out of the car seat or buggy, as well as carting around heavy groceries.

Then, it’s time to lean over the tub during bath time, sit and breastfeed or feed the kids at the table, and look down at a book during story time. Finally, you get to slump on the sofa and binge-watch your favourite TV series or slouch over your smartphone or tablet while scrolling through social media. You may repeat these daily activities again and again without paying much attention to your posture. But the truth is, your posture matters more than you may realise.

Why is your posture important?

There’s no doubt that good posture is key to long-term back health. Experts at Harvard Health also explain that a poor posture is linked to all sorts of alignment issues from neck, shoulder and back pain to incontinence, heartburn, poor balance, muscle strain, tension headaches and even breathing difficulties.

There’s also such a thing as ‘mum posture’ (yes, really), which, according to Medical News Today, is a painful chronic condition resulting in rounded shoulders, a forward head position and frontward pelvic tilt, often caused by changes in your centre of mass and lax ligaments during pregnancy.

Well, you don’t need to stand for posture problems a minute longer. Studies show that simply being aware of how you stand, sit and move can go a long way towards reducing pain and re-training your muscles, joints and ligaments to support your spine in a ‘stacked’ upright position.

This is where posture correctors come in. These wearable devices all differ slightly in design, but their common goal is to help you strengthen your core and maintain a healthy posture as naturally as possible.

Not sure which style is right for you? Don’t sweat as we’ve trawled the Mumsnet forums, read expert reviews and consulted countless studies to determine which posture correctors live up to their claims and really do stop the slouch. However, it’s always a good idea to consult a medical professional before trying any new device.

Here are the best posture correctors for 2021.

1. Best overall posture corrector: ActivePosture Posture Corrector Shirt For Women

Price: £79.95 | Buy now from Amazon

“I got the ActivePosture Shirt two months ago. I didn't have high hopes initially, but I gave it a go anyway as I was desperate for trying anything that could help my never-ending back pain. I must say I’m impressed by the effect. My back pain has reduced and I don't slouch as much as I used to.” Luella5

If you’re looking for a sturdy, yet discreet posture corrector that not only prevents slouching but reduces back pain too, then the ActivePosture Shirt for Women is a good choice. It’s designed with unique Neuroband technology, which works much the same way as kinesio tape that physiotherapists use to activate, support and realign muscles, reduce inflammation and encourage mobility.

Rather than simply holding you up, this posture corrector uses tension panel bands to offer gentle resistance, causing the right muscles to contract. This helps to increase strength and keep you in a naturally upright position.

Manufacturer’s claim that this shirt improves shoulder mechanics and core activation too. We also like that it’s lightweight, non-restrictive and virtually unnoticeable. However, it takes time for your muscles to get used to it and can be a little uncomfortable to wear at first.

Pros

• Lightweight and breathable

• Doesn’t restrict movement

• Helps to relieve pain

• Versatile – can be used at work, home or in the gym

• Broad size range

• Available with a zip for easy on and off

Cons

• Quite pricey

• The wrong size might make it ineffective

• You need time to get used to the feel

• For maximum benefit, you need to be physically active

Key specs

• Type: Shirt

• Material: 80% polyester and 20% spandex

• Sizes: Small to XXL

2. Best budget posture corrector: FMI Posture Corrector for Men and Women

Price: £9.97 | Buy now from Amazon

Keen to test out a more affordable posture corrector to see if it works for you? This budget-friendly option slides on like a backpack and is made with fully adjustable Velcro straps that gently pull your shoulders back in place for better alignment. It’s also comfortable and versatile enough to wear while reading, watching TV or breastfeeding as it doesn’t restrict movement. Plus, it can gradually be loosened should you need less support down the line.

Even though this posture corrector’s main job is to pull the shoulders back, some users mention additional benefits such as reduced neck and back tension. We think it works well to stop slouching too.

Pros

• Comes with free e-book that includes daily stretches

• Easy to put on and take off

• Made from a durable material

• Helps to improve neck and back tension

Cons

• Not comfortable on bare skin

• Doesn’t prevent lower back slouching

• Not very discreet

Key specs

• Type: Back and shoulder brace

• Material: Neoprene

• Sizes: Adjustable - fits chest sizes 39 to 45 inches

3. Best posture corrector for women: MARAKYM Posture Corrector

Price: £21.95 | Buy now from Amazon

“I have very bad posture although I've recently found out that it's partially caused by another issue. I've bought a posture corrector, which is helping.” Alphabet Dinosaur

If nursing in the wrong position, pushing the buggy or carrying your baby on your hip has wrecked your spine, the MARAKYM Posture Corrector may help. Made with lightweight, breathable neoprene, it’s worn like a backpack and gradually trains your shoulder and back muscles to hold proper form, helping to gently realign your spine and pelvis. While it’s also suitable for men, we like how the brace fits comfortably around women’s shoulders without being too loose or tight.

Once you’ve figured out how to loosen the main straps on this posture corrector, it fits snugly and can be pulled tighter with two back straps which are then secured with Velcro. Bear in mind that it can start to feel uncomfortable the minute you hunch over or round your shoulders and you shouldn’t over-tighten it as it’ll cause excessive tension. Only wear it for 15 to 20 minutes at first.

Pros

• Lightweight and breathable

• Comes with extra pads for the armpit area

• Easy to carry

• Kinesio tape and carry bag included

Cons

• Can be tricky to put on

• Not ideal to wear during exercise

• Velcro feels scratchy on the skin

Key specs 

• Type: Clavicle brace

• Material: Neoprene

• Sizes: Adjustable - fits chest sizes 39 to 45 inches

4. Best posture corrector bra support: Joyshaper Back Support Vest Top

Price: From £15.99 | Buy now from Amazon

“I’m looking at getting a strap/brace type thing - it’s like a sports bra but slightly firmer. It pulls your shoulders back slightly but is more there as a reminder rather than to do it for you.” Lackingimagination

If the idea of a bulky posture corrector puts you off, then the Joyshaper Back Support Vest Top is a great alternative. Designed with comfort in mind, this model has a sturdy criss-cross shape at the back and closes at the front with adjustable hooks and eye closures that resemble a bra. No help is needed when putting it on or taking it off, and it’s safe and easy to use while nursing.

We like the design because it offers extra support for a range of bust sizes and gently takes pressure off your back and shoulders throughout the day. Plus, it can be worn for longer than some of our other posture corrector recommendations, as it acts more as a reminder to stand tall with your shoulders back.

Pros

• Comfortable, seamless design

• Lightweight, stretchy fabric

• Offers an extra boob lift

• Easy to wear

• Won’t irritate the skin

Cons

• Only offers gentle support

• Temporary relief from back pain

• Handwash only

Key specs  

• Type: Vest top

• Material: Nylon

• Sizes: Small to 3XL - under bust from 26 to 37 inches

5. Best posture corrector for rounded shoulders: Vokka Posture Corrector

Price: From £19.99 | Buy now from Amazon

“I was sceptical, but after a few days of using a posture corrector I found myself self-correcting when I wasn't wearing it. It's meant to retrain your muscles. I've been wearing it for 20 minutes to an hour a day while pottering around the house.” Breakfastpizza

As a mum, there’s a good chance you often feel the weight of the world resting on your shoulders, perhaps quite literally. According to an article by Medical News Today, rounded shoulders, also referred to as ‘mum posture’ is when your shoulders move forward from their ideal alignment. This is often caused by slumping or hunching over, carrying heavy objects (hello, stage five clingers!) and repeatedly bending over.

The good news is that the Vokka Posture Corrector ticks all the boxes when it comes to correcting poor posture. It’s made with double shoulder straps, plus an extra strap for lumbar support, and dual-support plates which sit along the spine to offer gentle alignment correction.

Although it may sound complicated, this posture corrector is simple to put on and adjust over the shoulders, then around the waist. It also comes with extra padded meshing near the armpits for added comfort and can be used while sitting at a desk or on the sofa, as well as out on park walks or shopping trips.

Pros

• Relieves neck, shoulder and back pain

• Offers shoulder and back support

• Made with soft cushioned pads

• Durable with strong support plates

Cons

• Not recommended to wear on bare skin

• Handwash only – back plates need to be removed first

Key specs

• Type: Back brace

• Material: Foam with mesh padding

• Sizes: M to XL

6. Best posture corrector for neck and shoulder pain: AVIDDA Posture Corrector

Price: From £16.99 | Buy now from Amazon

There’s no doubt that lifting your child in and out of the cot or pram causes tension in the neck, shoulders and back. But this is where a sturdy posture corrector can help. The AVIDDA Posture Corrector is made with a wider criss-cross design for stable support while moving in different directions, as well as a third strap which fastens around the top of the waist and over your ribcage to keep your spine correctly aligned.

It also comes with interchangeable steel plates which slot into a mesh pouch along the spine. Your choice of plate will depend on the level of stability you need. For instance, the stronger steel plate is best for sitting for longer periods of time especially when working, while the softer plate is ideal for movement-related activities such as cooking, cleaning, walking, jogging or lifting heavy objects.

Pros

• Offers sturdy support for the entire back area

• Reviewers say it helps to reduce overall upper body pain and tension

• Adjustable straps and versatile elastic design

• Breathable and sweat-resistant

• Extra shoulder pads for comfort

Cons

• Can feel a little restrictive

• Sizing can be tricky to get right

Key specs

• Type: Back brace

• Material: Elastic with mesh padding

• Sizes: M to XL

7. Best posture corrector for slouching: PostureFIX Slouch Support

Price: £10.99 | Buy now from Amazon

“I find that I do have better posture after wearing a posture corrector. I stand straighter and then I'm aware of my slouching. It's more of a reminder of how I should stand instead of holding me in the [right] position all day.” Meepmoop

Slouching not only puts pressure on your spine, it’s also a major contributor to back, neck and shoulder pain. If you tend to slouch over your computer or lean too far forward when breastfeeding, changing or bathing your child, the PostureFIX Slouch Support may offer the extra support you need to improve your posture.

It’s cheaper and less chunky than some of the other posture correctors we recommend, but still offers the same level of stability as it conforms to your body as you move and offers a good amount of overall support.

Developed by a biomechanics expert, it’s unique yellow coloured ‘Y’ design mimics your spine and shoulder blades to stabilise your back muscles so that you learn to use them correctly. Rather than pulling your shoulders back (as most posture correctors do), this model supports your shoulders from the front, while taking pressure off your neck and upper back.

Pros

• Lightweight

• Soft padding

• Discreet

• Can be worn for longer than other posture correctors

• Relieves back pain

Cons

• Velcro straps may loosen after adjusting

• Some say it’s tight around the armpits

Key specs

• Type: Back brace with buckles

• Material: Polyester, nylon and cotton

• Sizes: Adjustable - fits chest sizes 28 to 47 inches

8. Best posture corrector for back pain: Posture Hero

Price: £35.99 | Buy now from Amazon

If you have upper or middle back pain or your posture is seriously out of alignment, you may benefit from a posture corrector that specifically targets back pain. The award-winning Posture Hero has been designed in conjunction with the London Spine Clinic to relieve upper, middle and lower back pain, while subtly improving your posture.

The innovative Flexicore panel sits along the spine and acts as an anchor for the soft, flexible elastic straps which slip seamlessly over the shoulders like a backpack. These gently pull your shoulders into the correct position while ensuring your spine is nicely aligned.

The fact that this posture corrector is so easy to put on and off is a big plus as it won’t aggravate existing conditions. But its biggest benefit is that it encourages your body to stand tall and engage your core, which is ideal for long term pain relief.

The Posture Hero is best suited to low impact activities such as sitting and working in front of a computer. If you’re looking for a model that offers more support while exercising, gardening or pushing a buggy, then the Posture Hero Sports may be a better fit.

Pros

• Medically proven to better posture

• Can be worn directly on the skin

• Easy to adjust

• Anti-microbial and hypoallergenic straps

• Encourages long-term pain relief

Cons

• Offers less support than a full back brace

• Some say it’s uncomfortable under the armpits

• Elastic straps may need adjusting

Key specs

• Type: Lightweight back brace

• Material: Anti-microbial elastic

• Sizes: Adjustable - fits chest sizes 28 to 48 inches

9. Best posture corrector for lumbar support: Flexguard Support Back Brace

Price: £21.99 | Buy now from Amazon

“I found my posture has got so much worse since working from home, so I ordered a back brace from Amazon. It seems to be helping. I'm more aware of how I'm standing and sitting now.” Doingitaloneandproud

If nothing else, a posture corrector can make you more aware of how you’re standing and sitting as well as any bad posture habits you may have picked up by working from home throughout the pandemic.

Made from a sturdy fabric with a thick waistband that partially resembles a corset, this back brace from Flexguard is designed to support your middle and lower back while relieving any pain or discomfort by keeping you upright and shifting weight off your spinal column.

Not the best choice if you’re looking for something a little more discreet, but it certainly does the job of pulling your shoulders back while improving your posture.

Pros

• Posture corrector and back brace combined

• Feels strong and secure

• Fully adjustable straps

• Comfortable fit

• Comes with free posture booklet

Cons

• Not discreet

• May be too hot to wear in summer

• May feel a little restrictive

• Sizing is based on weight which can be confusing

Key specs

• Type: Full back brace

• Material: Neoprene

• Sizes: XS to XL

10. Best electronic posture corrector: Upright GO Posture Corrector

Price: £89.99 | Buy now from Amazon

When it comes to mastering the correct posture, sometimes all you need is a gentle reminder to stand up straight and pull your shoulders back. The Upright GO Posture Corrector does just that and more. Ideal for tech enthusiasts, this small wearable device sits at the centre of your upper back via a special adhesive hypoallergenic sticker and gently vibrates if you start to slouch or hunch over.

It works with an app to track and monitor how often you slouch versus sitting or standing upright, plus you’ll also get a daily upright score which is a great incentive to keep working on your posture. Offering plenty of versatility, the device can also be switched to a silent ‘no vibration’ mode, which is recommended after completing your daily training session. If you feel restricted with any kind of back brace or bulky posture corrector, the Upright Go may be a good choice.

Pros

• Lightweight and unobtrusive

• Can be worn anytime, anywhere

• Offers immediate posture feedback

• Portable and rechargeable - comes with a travel case and charging cable

• Free app on Android or iPhone

• Suitable for any age or body size

Cons

• Not ideal to wear while running or performing vigorous exercise

• Some reviewers feel there aren’t enough adhesive stickers

• May fall off

• Battery may not last

Key specs

• Type: Wearable device

• Material: Glossy plastic shell

• Sizes: One size

Do posture correctors really work?

The short answer is: yes. But posture correctors shouldn’t be overused. According to the Ergonomics Health Association, self-awareness is important for correcting your spinal alignment and a good posture corrector should work as a reminder to help you straighten up, rather than force your muscles to adopt a new posture. As such, posture correctors aren’t designed to fix your posture permanently - they’re meant to be a supportive aid. So, you still need to put in the work to correct your alignment issues or imbalances.

Because there’s such a wide variety of posture correctors on the market, the key is to find one that best suits your needs and lifestyle. If you’re unsure which style or model will work for you, speak to your doctor or health professional before you buy one.

Are posture correctors safe?

Generally yes, but experts agree that posture correctors shouldn’t be worn for long periods of time as your muscles can become overly dependent on them, causing possible muscle atrophy (a gradual loss of muscle). It’s also important to use them in the correct setting, for instance while sitting at your desk, reading a book or sitting on the train. There’s also limited scientific evidence to support the long-term benefits of wearing posture correctors but they can help temporarily.

Should I wear a posture corrector all day?

Because you’re using a posture corrector to retrain your muscles to work for themselves and position yourself correctly, experts recommend wearing the device for no more than 15 to 20 minutes per day to start with, gradually building up to a few hours per day after a few weeks. The ultimate goal is to only use a posture corrector when you need additional support rather than relying on it to hold you up throughout the day.

What should I look for in a posture corrector?

When deciding which posture corrector is right for you, there are a few things to consider:

Your overall needs and lifestyle

Firstly, ask yourself what you want to achieve most from wearing a posture corrector. Is it to prevent you from slouching or hunching over? Is it for extra support while you go about your day, or is it primarily for pain relief? Your answers will determine which style is best suited for you. Also, if you’re particularly active, you may need to consider a lightweight posture corrector that can be worn during more strenuous activities such as the Joyshaper Back Support Vest Top.

Usability

This may seem obvious, but it’s important to buy a posture corrector you find straightforward enough to use. When considering your options, ask yourself a few key questions such as:

1. How bulky or heavy do I want it to be?

2. Would I prefer a lighter or looser fit?

3. Will it be discreet enough under clothing?

4. Does the model come with adjustable straps?

5. Am I looking for a sweat-proof fabric?

6. Will it support my body where I need it most?

7. Is it simple to take on or off? This is important if you’re currently in pain and struggle to lift your arms over your head. In this instance, a good option would be a zip-style posture corrector shirt such as the ActivePosture Corrector Shirt for Women (which has a zip option).

Area of concern

While most posture correctors have the common goal of helping you to stand up straighter, they also come in a variety of different styles to address a range of concerns from slouching to neck, shoulder and back pain as well as a weak core or rounded shoulders.

To determine where you need the most support, stand in front of the mirror and look at your posture, noting any areas of tension or pain. Can you spot where your alignment is out or where your posture is declining the most? This will help you to narrow down your search as you’ll have a better understanding of where to focus your attention.

Of course, no posture corrector will act like a magic pill and fix your posture instantly, but some may offer more relief than others. For a longer-term solution, consider working with a physiotherapist who will help you build strength, while improving your flexibility and range of motion.

What is the best posture corrector?

Based on our extensive research, the best overall posture corrector is the ActivePosture Posture Corrector Shirt For Women. Mumsnetters agree that it does the job of helping you stand up straight and pull your shoulders back but doesn’t weaken your muscles by doing all the hard work for you.

The fabric is lightweight and breathable for all seasons, and the corrector is so unobtrusive that you may even forget you’re wearing it. We also like that it’s versatile, doesn’t restrict movement and helps to ease overall back pain.

What posture corrector do doctors recommend?

Experts generally recommend posture correctors in milder cases that don’t require major treatment. Those that offer some gentle support while re-training your muscles to do their part and align correctly are always the preferred choice.

However, it’s always best to discuss your concerns with a doctor or physiotherapist before buying a posture corrector as you may need a sturdier device if you’re suffering from more severe issues linked to a previous accident such as a car crash or bad fall.

How we chose our recommendations

Our posture corrector suggestions have come from recommendations on the Mumsnet forums, and from consumer reviews on the web, after noting what customers said about the posture correctors featured.

We also consulted independent review sites and took all medical advice on the safety of posture correctors into account. Having collated all that information, we picked the best posture correctors that we thought were worthy of taking the titles in the array of categories listed.

Why you should trust us

We work hard to provide unbiased, independent advice you can trust. We do sometimes earn revenue through affiliate (click-to-buy) links in our articles. This helps us fund more helpful review articles like this one.