Are Suspenders Bad for Your Back? – SuspenderStore

Fashion has a long history of pain. From corsets to high-heeled shoes, piercings to itchy wool suits, the idea that pretty must be painful has endured for generations. But that is changing in the 21st century, with the rise of “athleisure” clothes and a decline in super-strict office dress codes.

However, a few instruments of torture remain in most of our closets. While those platform heels or skinny jeans might be the first to leap to mind, the real culprit is often closer to your midsection.

The Midsection Will Not Hold

The debate between belts and suspenders may never be settled, but some myths about the pain either one may cause can certainly be debunked. If you experience lower back pain, you might wonder if your belt or a pair of suspenders might contribute to the problem or help it. While cinching your waist with a belt may seem like a good idea, it can actually cause problems, particularly if it’s not fitted correctly. An ill-fitting belt can make your back hurt but may also contribute to acid reflux and numbness or tingling in your legs.

Keep It Straight

The whole issue comes down to posture. If you can still hear your parents or teaches yelling at you to “stand up straight,” the topic of posture may not be something you wish to discuss. But admonishments aside, good posture is key in many components of good health. Neglecting your posture has a cumulative effect, meaning that over time, slouching and slumping our shoulders or sliding down in a chair will lead to pain in the neck, back and shoulders that will only get worse. The good news, though, is that you can take steps to improve your posture no matter how long you’ve ignored the problem.

Suspending Judgment

Simple changes in habit — like being mindful, wearing low-heeled shoes and not crossing your legs — can start you on the path toward better posture and health. Other changes can make an even greater impact, like ditching the belt in favor of suspenders. It may surprise you, but this simple change can really make a big difference in how you feel — and look. Because a belt acts like a tourniquet at your waist, it can restrict blood flow and cause abdominal discomfort. Cinching your waist also creates an instant bulge above and below it. Suspenders, on the other hand, encourage good posture by gently supporting the middle back while keeping your shirt and slacks lying flat so they look neater. They also create a vertical line that can add a bit of height to your frame.

The Right Fit

To reap all the benefits of wearing suspenders, it’s important to get the right fit. Many are surprised that suspenders come in different sizes. The experts at SuspenderStore know how to help you find the size that will work best for you in an extensive collection of styles, colors and accessories to accommodate your personal aesthetic.

Whether you’re looking for something sturdy and strong to support a work belt, something more sophisticated for formal attire or a fun novelty look, we’ve got it at SuspenderStore.

Good posture is important for everyone — men, women, kids — and everyone deserves clothes that help them not only look good but feel good, too. Make the switch to suspenders, and your back will thank you for it.