Or perhaps you’re not planning on changing your lounge lizard ways but you want to buy a nice gift for the gym bunny in your life. 

Either way, these fitness trackers can be safely removed from your shortlist. They’re the lowest scorers in our test of 38 models on the market.

“Ease of use, comfort and distance accuracy are key components of our test and some of these devices stumbled when it comes to comfort, while others have some annoying quirks that turned our testers off” says ÌÇÐÄVlog tech expert Peter Zaluzny. 

“Some otherwise decent fitness bands or smartwatches have been let down by poor performance in some important areas.”

The lowest scoring fitness trackers in our tests

If you want to track your progress or you’re planning to buy a fitness band as a gift, step away from these four products. The ÌÇÐÄVlog Expert Ratings for these models aren’t bad, but they’re not exactly great either when you consider that a number of the top performers cost the same or even less than these.

Apple Watch Ultra 2 GPS + Cellular, 49mm Black Titanium Case with Dark Green Alpine Loop – Medium

• ÌÇÐÄVlog Expert Rating: 77%
• Distance accuracy score: 99%
• Price: $1399

This Apple watch is a serious piece of kit, but it scored the lowest of any product we tested.

Why?

Because our ÌÇÐÄVlog testing focuses on its use for the average fitness freak, not a serious diver or triathlete. While it boasts some fancy features that might be handy for serious enthusiasts or semi professionals (like the ability to function a whopping 100 metres underwater), it really isn’t a good option for the average person looking to stay fit with an easy-to-use, comfortable device.It achieved impressive results in our technical tests, with near-perfect results for distance accuracy and pace count, and it has features like fall detection, built-in GPS and the ability to receive phone notifications, reply to texts and receive or reject calls.

Ultimately, this watch just isn’t worth the price tag if you don’t need the high-tech specialist features it boasts. The most popular features are available in other models that are both cheaper and more comfortable.

Read the full Apple Watch Ultra 2 GPS + Cellular, 49mm Black Titanium Case with Dark Green Alpine Loop – Medium review.

Google Fitbit Charge 6

• ÌÇÐÄVlog Expert Rating: 78%
• Distance accuracy score: 97%
• Price: $260

Yes, Fitbit is now owned by Google. While “Google Fitbit” is a bit more of a mouthful than the original, the new ownership could mean new and improved features for Fitbits, but the jury is still out on this for now.

Unfortunately, the Charge 6 didn’t impress our experts: it’s one of the lowest scoring fitness bands in our review. The ÌÇÐÄVlog Expert Rating of 78% isn’t bad, but it’s not exactly great either when you consider that a number of the top performers cost the same or even less than this one.

It did perform quite well in terms of accuracy and our experts liked its apps and website, but they had a few quibbles. 

The band struggled to sync with the phone during setup, and the date resets when you’re browsing old data or drilling down into details which is frustrating when you’re trying to track your progress over time. (One or both of these problems occurred with all three Google bands we tested.) And while the band is comfortable to wear, some testers found it a bit awkward to fasten.

The features on offer with the Charge 6 also require an ongoing subscription, which may not be appealing for people who just want to count their steps and do some sleep tracking. You don’t need a subscription for many features of the Charge 6’s predecessor – the Charge 5 – so it might be better value for money depending on what you want from a fitness tracker.

Read the full Google Fitbit Charge 6 review.

Garmin Vivosmart 5 Small/Medium

• ÌÇÐÄVlog Expert Rating: 78%
• Distance accuracy score: 97%
• Price: $249

This is one to avoid if you’re planning to track your steps or distance while walking or running with a pram. While it’s very accurate when your arm is swinging free, it doesn’t accurately record your distance or step count when your arm is relatively still – so you won’t get the credit for all those steps you did while pushing the baby in a pram, or any other activity where you’re not moving your arms much. 

On the plus side, it has very good Android and iOS apps for monitoring data, and our testers found it very easy to set up. 

Like the Charge 6 above, there are better fitness trackers to buy if you have a budget of around $250. 

Read the full Garmin Vivosmart 5 review.

Apple Watch Ultra 2 GPS + Cellular, 49mm Black Titanium Case with Black Titanium Ocean Band

• ÌÇÐÄVlog Expert Rating: 79%
• Distance accuracy score: 99%
• Price: $1399

This is the same watch as the Ultra 2 we’ve mentioned earlier, just with a different band. We’ve tested this separately because comfort is a significant factor when using a fitness tracker.

Though it still only scores 58% for comfort, our trialists did find this band slightly more comfortable (highlighting the importance of getting a band that feels perfect for you), but its other scores are identical to the watch with the Alpine Loop band.

Unless you are training for the next Olympic game triathlon, you can get better performance for less money by choosing a better scoring product.

Read the full Apple Watch Ultra 2 GPS + Cellular, 49mm Black Titanium Case with Black Titanium Ocean Band review.

Apple Watch SE 3 GPS + Cellular, 44mm Midnight Aluminium Case with Midnight Sport Band – M/L

• ÌÇÐÄVlog Expert Rating: 79%
• Distance accuracy score: 97%
• Price: $539

This Apple watch has a high-contrast screen that’s easy to see in bright daylight as well as other features like fall detection and a built-in GPS. It has excellent accuracy for pace count and distance, however, it’s only OK for ease of use. In particular adjusting the fit isn’t simple. 

You’ll need to supply your own USB-C charger. If tracking your steps is important to you, the supplied watch faces don’t show your steps, so you’ll need to use a third-party app to track your steps.

Read the full Apple Watch SE 3 GPS + Cellular, 44mm Midnight Aluminium Case with Midnight Sport Band – M/L review.

CMF by Nothing Watch 3 Pro with Liquid Silicon Strap

• ÌÇÐÄVlog Expert Rating: 79%
• Distance accuracy score: 99%
• Price: $179

This watch has excellent accuracy for pace count and distance, but our trialists only rated it as ‘OK’ for comfort. You’ll need to have your own USB-A charger and the raised watch edge can be an impedance when swiping. Another annoyance is that you won’t be able to view the polarised screen if you’re wearing polarised sunglasses.

This is one of the cheapest fitness watches in our test, however, we’ve tested other sub-$200 models that score ‘very good’ overall, making them a better option to consider. 

Read the full CMF by Nothing Watch 3 Pro with Liquid Silicon Strap.

The post The lowest scoring fitness trackers in our testingÌý appeared first on ÌÇÐÄVlog.

On this page:

• How we choose what we test
• How often we test
• How we test
• Test criteria explained

How we choose what we test

Why do we choose one fitness tracker over another? There are a number of reasons, but our priority is to test what you’ll see in the shops. That means sometimes we might not cover the one brand that has one model that’s only sold 100 samples in Australia, and instead focus on the big brand models that you’ll most likely see in the shops.

How do we know what’s in shops? We ask manufacturers and check current market figures to see what’s selling well. We’ll also include models that you’ve requested; if a lot of members want it, we’re going to test it.

When we know what you want, our buyers go out and buy the fitness trackers from a variety of retailers, then bring them in as-is. This means we get what you’d get, so we can be sure the results are what you’ll find. They’re not ‘tweaked’ any way.

How often we test

We test fitness trackers in batches of up to 12, usually once a year. New models are released frequently as manufacturers keep trying to outdo one another. Usually we see a few market leaders keep their products in the market for at least year with a crossover period of a few months as new models are released. Major brands typically release new models once a year.

How we test

Ease of use: We test each fitness tracker on Android and iOS. While we look at Windows mobile where available this option is becoming less relevant. We than score how easy it is to set up and wear, and to track on-the-go information via the band and its interfaces.

Performance: We measure paces and distance with a calibrated tracking tool, and then measure this against what the fitness tracker displays.

Comfort: A panel of 10, split between five men and five women, try on each fitness tracker and assign them scores based on how easy they are to put on, adjust and wear. The trackers in the test are medium-sized, where applicable.

Kids bands: These are tested under the same conditions as adult bands, using pre-teen and teenage triallists.

Heart rate monitors

We no longer test heart rate monitors in fitness trackers as of 2022, but results from previous tests are still available. There were two components:

Resting heart rate: Prior to 2021, we measure the resting heart rate of six people using each of the fitness trackers and a medical grade heart monitor, the GE Healthcare Carescape V100, Dinamap V100 orÌýDinamap V150 (these record data using the same hardware and software. Newer models have a touch screen and data export). Models tested during and after 2021 are assessed against a chest-strap heart rate monitor, calibrated against the ECG used for the active heart rate test. A score is then calculated based on the fitness tracker’s accuracy.

Active heart rate: Athletes at the Sports Chamber at the University of Sydney exercise on a treadmill, or exercise bike, wearing one of the fitness trackers. A 12-lead ECG provides a real time reading of their heart rate, which is then compared to the readings of the fitness tracker. Readings of both are taken at 10-second intervals in the first minute, one-minute intervals for five minutes, and then at 10-second intervals during the last minute of cooling down.

Pedometer and distance accuracy

We assess these features for their effectiveness and accuracy:

Step count accuracy:The pedometer will measure your steps, though accuracy will vary depending on what you put in as your height, weight and, in some cases, pace length, and the technology used in the development of the device.

Distance accuracy:The pedometer and GPS/GLONASS (if available) will measure your distance traveled though accuracy will vary depending on what you put in as your height, weight and, in some cases, pace length, and the technology used in the development of the device. Devices that support GPS and GLONASS should deliver the fastest position identification.

Test criteria explained

The overall score is a combination of the comfort, ease of use and accuracy scores:

• Comfort score (35%)
• Ease of use score (30%)
• Pedometer accuracy score (17.5%)
• Distance accuracy score (17.5%)

Resting and active heart rate accuracy do not contribute to the overall score, as these features are not standard in all models and are considered optional extras.

The post How we test fitness trackers appeared first on ÌÇÐÄVlog.

In 2020, 7.6 million Aussies were wearing some kind of wearable smart device with a fitness tracking component on their wrist, according to Australian telecommunications consultancy Telsyte.Ìý

From basic plastic models to high-end smartwatch devices, more and more Australians are strapping some kind of fitness tracker to their wrist as part of their daily routine. And where adults tread, children are often keen to follow, with many kids now using fitness trackers designed exclusively for them.

From the popular Fitbit Ace 2 and Garmin Vivofit Jr. 3 to the lesser known Leapfrog Leapband Activity Tracker, Vtech Kidizoom Smartwatch DX2, there’s seemingly a fitness wearable for all childhood ages and stages on the market.

But do children really need fitness trackers in the first place? And can they cause more harm than good?

Concerns around keeping track

You only have to walk past your local primary school or preschool at playtime to see the hive of activity children create. From skipping, cartwheels, running and climbing, many playgrounds give the impression that if the energy created by little kids could be harnessed, it could power a small city.

But at the same time the statistics are alarming when it comes to Australian children’s health, with one in four kids now classified as overweight or obese, and an increasingly sedentary population spending more and more time indoors or on devices.

It’s no wonder, then, that plenty of parents are attracted to the idea of technology that helps to get kids up and moving. But the jury is still out on whether wearable tech is really the answer when it comes to kids and their health.

While some experts say the gamification of exercise is a good fit for modern children who are already using technology and devices in most other areas of their life, others have concerns about online privacy and the danger of applying a simple approach to the complex issue of children’s health and fitness.

Age appropriate?

Brodie Cambourne, an accredited exercise physiologist, says while fitness trackers can be suitable for some children, age does matter.

She says children under five are too young to be tracking their activity, and fitness and activity should be fun and play-based for little ones.

She says that some primary-age children may like to use fitness trackers as they can view their progress online and share it with peers and family members. However, any use of these devices should be monitored by parents and carers, who can help interpret results and offer positive feedback.

Cambourne says when it comes to exercise overall, the key to getting kids to enjoy being active is to keep them engaged, whether that’s using technology or any other approach that suits the individual: “When a child is engaged in an activity it means that they feel that the activity is achievable, has benefit to them and is something that they can feel confident to talk about.”

For some kids that may mean using technology like a fitness tracker, says Cambourne: “They allow children to view their progress, which in turn encourages them to talk about their progress or show others what they have been completing each week.”

Evidence lacking for kids

Tracking your fitness with wearable technology is not new for adults, but is the same approach right for children?

Jill Hnatiuk, senior lecturer in in physical activity and health at Deakin University, says that while there’s evidence that fitness trackers can be effective for adults, there just isn’t yet enough information on whether they’re effective with children.

“We certainly know that the physical activity children engage in is very different to adults – both in the nature of the activity, as well as the factors that influence their physical activity participation. Thus, it usually isn’t suitable to apply adult physical activity promotion strategies to children.”

Hnatiuk says that if a parent or carer’s goal is to increase physical activity in their children, there are many other established, evidence-based strategies that can be used to do this instead of looking to a fitness tracker for a solution.

“I also find it interesting that trackers largely put the onus on the individual, while we know that there are many factors within our social and physical environment that influence the physical activity that a person – adult or child – engages in.”

Anxiety and eating disorder risks

Despite the rise in popularity in wearable technology, there are concerns that tracking movement could trigger obsessive behaviour and even eating disorders in children and young people, particularly when many apps encourage users to share their results with peers.

In 2016, a New Zealand high school counsellor voiced concern that tracking steps and kilojoules could become a fixation with some students, especially girls trying to lose weight.Ìý

These concerns were also reflected by students themselves in a 2017 study of 100 13–14-year-old UK school children who wore a fitness tracker for eight weeks. Researchers discovered the experiment made some students lose confidence in their physical ability and that others reported that wearing the device made them feel fat and uncomfortable.

Kevin Barrow, CEO of , which represents people affected by negative body image and eating disorders, says that using fitness trackers can be problematic for some as they encourage the idea that health is based on a numerical value. “We know this is not a sufficient enough way of understanding health, and can be dangerous for some young people.”

Barrow says fitness trackers can promote behaviours that are often associated with eating disorders such as counting of steps and kilojoules.Ìý

“Fitness trackers can impact a young person’s relationship with exercise in a negative way. Movement, exercise and physical activity can become competitive, a chore, excessive and obsessive. Children should be encouraged to move their bodies for enjoyment, their health and wellbeing. All children should be encouraged to move in this way, not just those living in larger bodies,” he says.

“If you are concerned about your child’s health, development or body size, seeking advice from a health professional is key, preferably one who will focus on the overall health of a young people and not just weight.”

Brodie Cambourne says that a child using a fitness tracker to set goals that may not be achievable for their age group or ability could definitely cause anxiety, as can using an app that shares results with family or peers.Ìý

“If fitness trackers are being used in a group or family situation where there may be siblings who often perform the same activity,” says Cambourne, “then it is worth checking with each child if they would like to publish their progress or keep it personal, much like a diary.”

How much activity do kids need to do?

From birth to pre-school

From 0 to 1 year, even very little babies should be encouraged to move, including tummy time and other floor-based play. From one to age five they should be physically active for at least three hours through the day.

For school kids

School-aged children need at least an hour of moderate to vigorous activity every day, including activities that strengthen muscles and bones, such as skipping, climbing, dancing or gymnastics three times a week.

Keeping safe online

Using a fitness tracker generally means capturing your data via a smartphone app, which often offers options for sharing information with friends, family or via other social media platforms. Some of the more sophisticated wearables also include GPS. As a result, there are concerns children’s privacy and safety.

eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant says parents need to be aware what’s involved with any wearable devices they buy for their children. Wearables often link to apps which collect information, and many have sensors to collect physical and biological information, as well as location tracking.

“Be mindful about oversharing. Most fitness trackers and smartwatches allow users to link with friends, giving them access to sleep patterns, exercise times, locations and other health information,” says Ms Inman Grant.Ìý

“It’s really important to take the time to read the terms of use of the associated app carefully and assess whether you’re comfortable with what data is being collected and how it’s being used. Some apps collect information for marketing purposes and you may agree to this when you agree to the app’s terms and conditions.”

Check your privacy settings

Security and privacy settings should also be top of mind if you do decide to buy a fitness tracker or wearable. Checking privacy settings are set correctly can prevent uninvited persons from knowing where and when your children exercise or meet up with friends for activities.

“Make sure the device you choose allows you to make good, informed choices about what personal information you want collected, and how this will be shared,” says Ms Inman Grant.

How to stay safe online

• Keep track of your devices and associated accounts. Losing a device can allow third-party-access to the information stored on it.
• Secure your device, accounts and apps with strong passcodes and passwords.
• Use bluetooth when pairing with other devices, and only pair with devices you are aware of and can control.
• Manage your device even when it is not in use – when not in use, store it in a safe place where no one else can access it.
• Limit the amount of information shared with software and third parties.

The post Do kids really need fitness trackers? appeared first on ÌÇÐÄVlog.

On this page:

• What to look for when buying a sports bra
• Sports bra struggles
• Our test of sports bras

Many women, especially younger women and adolescents, are self-conscious about their breasts attracting unwanted attention and remarks from others, which can turn them off exercise, often for good.

A well-fitting, supportive sports bra can go a long way to reducing physical and psychological discomfort. Reducing bounce, and for larger breasts reducing the apparent size, without feeling over-constrictive, may be the booster needed to get busty women exercising.

But with so many sports bras on the market, how do you choose a good one? We look at some of the features worth considering.

What to look for when buying a sports bra

Materials and design

Sports bras are typically more rigid than other bras with stiffer, less yielding materials and higher strength elasticity, though there are some softer styles. Good sports bras cover the top of the breast tissue and sometimes higher to prevent tissue from bouncing up. The underband is also wider on sports bras than regular bras, providing a stronger base for support.

Shoulder straps

The shoulder straps tend to be wider, and may be padded or have non-slip features. Conventional bras have shoulder straps that go vertically over the shoulder from the cup to the back. Sports bras may come like this, with the option to swap the straps over to make a cross-back, or clip them together to make a racer back. A fixed racer back is another option, although more difficult to get into.

Support level

The level of support provided varies among sports bras, and they’re usually tailored to different types of sport. A bra designed for running will give more support than one for cycling, which in turn gives more support than one for yoga.

Compression vs encapsulation

Compressive sports bras and crop tops provide support by squashing the breasts close to the chest wall, reducing projection and movement. Bras with cups that encapsulate each breast give support of each breast independently. Studies suggest encapsulation bras give better support, and may be more comfortable, with better separation.

Some sports bras (for example, the Freya Active Crop Top Sports Bra and Berlei Ultimate) comprise cups that encapsulate with an additional crop-top-like cover, so you get the best of both worlds. One DIY option, which many women choose, is an encapsulation sports bra with a crop top over it.

Wireless or underwire?

As long as they’re well designed, wireless bras can be just as supportive as underwire bras, and may be more comfortable for some activities. Underwire bras provide better separation and shape than wireless bras, especially for larger sizes.

Fit and support

Fit is everything – if you can’t get professionally fitted, there are things you can do to check the fit yourself.ÌýJump up and down, wave your arms around, run on the spot in front of the change-room mirror – front on and side on. Check for bounce, including movement of flesh above and at the sides of the bra. Movement should at least be minimised, and breasts should move with your torso, not by themselves.

Sports bra struggles

For people with shoulder pain, rotator cuff issues, limited range of arm movement and/or reduced strength, sports bras can pose a challenge. If this is you, it’s important to try putting the bra on and taking it off without the help of a shop assistant when you buy it – realising you can’t do it after you’ve taken it home may be too late (for hygiene reasons, many stores don’t accept returns).

Shoulder strapsÌý

Getting a fixed racer back bra on can involve contortions beyond many people, and getting it off would have even the great Houdini struggling. So conventional (vertical) straps may be your best bet.

Strong elasticityÌý

Also an issue is the high elasticity of sports bras used to get a good firm fit – it can be difficult to pull against the stretch to do the bra up.

Our test of sports bras

In 2016, we had four volunteers and a ÌÇÐÄVlog staffer, all of whom generally wear D cup or bigger, put a variety of sports bras to the test. We deliberately targeted the larger cup sizes, not only because they’re increasingly common, but because they’re more difficult to fit and support – so it was a tough test.

All bras except the Target bra were fitted professionally instore, and included sizes ranging from 10DD to 16F and ranging in price from $30 to $120. The bras were rated ‘high’ or ‘maximum’ intensity, and considered suitable for at least jogging.

The triallists and bras were put through their paces on treadmills in a purpose-designed setup at Melbourne specialist sports-bra shop, . The women were videoed while jogging, with markers in place to allow breast movement to be assessed.Ìý

The assessors then used motion analysis software as well as a visual examination to determine the amount and direction of breast movement. Bras were also rated for comfort, ease of putting on and taking off, coverage and shape. Models of bras that weren’t suitable for a particular woman due to poor fit weren’t tested.

The results

While the sports bras we chose are no longer the latest models available in stores, the results are a useful guide of what to look for.Ìý

Recommended

Berlei Ultimate Performance Crop

$99.95

Underwire, encapsulating and compressive, straps can be conventional, crossed over or hooked together on the back.

Sizes available: 10C-16E, 18DD

Sizes tested: 12D, 12DD, 14E

With top marks for support, this bra also rated well for comfort and coverage. The versatile straps offer different arrangements to suit different activities (or the top you’re wearing over it). It was easy to put on and take off. The construction provides some degree of separation, though one triallist noted “uniboob”.

Freya Active Epic Moulded Sports Bra Crop Top

$95

Underwire, encapsulation, conventional straps convert to racer with hook.

Sizes available: 6D-GG to 18D-G

Sizes tested: 10DD, 12DD, 14E, 16F

Scoring very well for support on most triallists, there was good separation with underwire and moulded cups, and reduced projection with a light compression outer layer. It scored well for comfort and coverage, and was easy to get on and off. The sliding clip for converting the shoulder straps to racer back lets you change the angles to suit.

Worth trying

Moving Comfort Juno

$100

Wireless soft cup, compressive and encapsulating, fixed racer-back.

Sizes available*: 12C-16E, 18DD

Sizes tested: 12DD x 2

This bra scored full marks for support, and rated well for comfort and coverage, and there was some breast separation. It wasn’t easy to put on or take off, although compared with other fixed racer backs, the lack of wire helped. Shoulder straps can be attached or released (and adjusted for length) from the front, which may help with getting it on and off. This feature also makes it maternity friendly.

Moving Comfort Jubralee

$100

Wireless soft cup, compressive, conventional strap alignment.

Sizes available: 8B-22DD, up to F cup in some band sizes.

Sizes tested: 14E, 16F

Although it rated well for support with both our larger ladies, this compressive bra didn’t rate so well for comfort and shape: “uniboob”. It was relatively easy to get and off, and has front adjusting straps like the Juno, and is maternity-friendly.

Panache Sports Bra

$100

Underwire, encapsulation, conventional straps convert to racer back with clip.

Sizes available: 6DD-18GG

Sizes tested: 10E, 14E, 16FF

With less coverage at the sides and under arms than other bras, the shape of this bra makes its performance highly variable and dependent on the shape of the wearer – better for breasts with fullness at the front rather than sides, according to the assessors. The support was very good for our largest triallist (16F), who chose to buy it, and good or OK for the others. It was rated good for comfort and separation.Ìý

Shock Absorber Ultimate Run Bra

$110

Wireless soft cup, compression, racer back (with top buckle).

Sizes available*: 8A-16F

Sizes tested*: 12D, 14C, 14B

This bra scored quite well for support, comfort, coverage and separation, though one triallist noted “uniboob”. Thanks to a buckle placed high at the top of the racer back, it’s easier to get on and off than the usual fixed racer back. The shoulder straps are attached with hook and loop rather than slide buckle, meaning they can’t slip. It’s sized small, and you may need to go up a band size from your usual size, although with a smaller cup size.

Triumph Triaction Endurance

$60

Underwire, encapsulating, straps conventional or crossed over.

Sizes available: 10B-18E

Sizes tested: 10DD, 12D x 2, 14DD, 16E

Despite being classed as a ‘high impact’ bra, this was one of the least supportive bras we tested, with little containment at the top. It was considered suitable for low-to-medium impact activity, such as walking. It rated highly for comfort, shape and separation, and was easy to get on and off. Two of our larger triallists have reported back that they love this model as an ‘everyday’ bra and wore it often after testing.

Anita Momentum

$120

Wireless soft cup, encapsulation, conventional straps.

Sizes available: 8D-24E (up to H cup in smaller band sizes)

Sizes tested*: 12D, 12DD, 14F, 16F

The support from this bra was very variable, depending on the individual triallist. It scored higher (good to very good) on the smaller breasts and firmer bust tissue. Despite being rated ‘high impact’, it’s better for medium impact activity, and two of our triallists bought it for everyday wear. It was very comfortable and had good coverage, although separation was only OK. It’s easy to get on and off, and shoulder straps have a non-slip adjustment buckle.

Target High Impact Sports Bra

$30

Underwire, encapsulating with fixed racer-back.

Sizes available: 10B-16DD

Sizes tested: 12DD x 2, 14D

This bra rated very well for support on one of our triallists, and OK for the others – there was some movement of breast tissue around the top of the bra for both. But it was difficult to get on and off, and there was no way to adjust shoulder straps – when they start to stretch through use, they can’t be tightened.

Enell Sports Bra

$110

Soft cup, compression, fixed shoulder straps.

Sizes available*: approximately 10C-30F

Sizes tested: 4 (equivalent to 18E-22D)

This high-coverage, front-fastening sports bra achieved fame as Oprah’s favourite sports bra. Its unusual design and non-adjustable shoulder straps mean it won’t suit everyone – only one of our trialists was able to be fitted for one and even then, the assessor from She Science said she wouldn’t sell it to her because it wasn’t quite right. It scored OK to good for support when running, separation wasn’t great, but it was rated good for comfort, despite being firm and compressive. Its high elasticity means it can withstand size fluctuations better than most bras, reflected in its sizing regime.

* Australian equivalent sizes.

Bottom line? There’s no ‘best’ sports bra for everyone

Although some of the sports bras we tested performed well on more triallists than others, there’s no such thing as the ‘best’ sports bra. It all comes down to how well it fits you.

Another complicating factor is shape: the shape of your breasts and where they sit can affect whether a particular style of bra will suit. You may find none in a particular model will fit you, no matter what size you try. And your age and weight also come into it – younger skin and a lean body are a lot more forgiving than older skin or looser flesh.

Because fit is so important, we recommend you go into a store to try the bra on – preferably a shop with a qualified fitter.

If shopping online is your only realistic option, look for a good returns policy. Staff at specialist lingerie and sportswear shops can discuss your needs and your measurements over the phone, and suggest a good size to start with.

Thank you to She Science, Melbourne

ÌÇÐÄVlog would like to thank Tish and Angela from She Science in Melbourne for their expertise and use of equipment in carrying out this test.

The post How to buy the best sports bra appeared first on ÌÇÐÄVlog.

On this page:

• Behind factory doors
• Who earns what from a sports shoe?
• Brand profiles: Adidas, Reebok and more
• How was the study conducted?

Our German consumer organisation counterpart, , has taken a look into the world of running shoe suppliers and factories. Their study focused on the corporate social responsibility (CSR) of manufacturers, including wages, working hours and conditions, and environmental protection measures. Manufacturers of nine models of running shoes were included in the study; four of the products are available in Australia.

Behind factory doors

Five manufacturers (Adidas, Brooks, Reebok, Salomon and Asics) agreed to take part in the study, while Mizuno, New Balance, Nike and Saucony refused to participate in any part of the research. While Asics did participate, they didn’t allow a factory visit and prohibited the publication of any information they provided.

Of the four companies (Adidas, Brooks, Reebok and Salomon) that opened their factory doors in Asia to scrutiny, working conditions were positive, as was the commitment to employees and the environment. All factories had well ventilated halls, proper contracts and insurance for workers, and wages paid on time. The inspectors were particularly impressed with the working conditions in the factories in Vietnam and India, where Reebok and Salomon shoes are made.

The biggest problem was low wages. Two of the factories visited in the study pay only the statutory minimum wage; two pay slightly more. Still, it’s hardly enough for workers to live on, which in turn forces many into massive amounts of overtime, especially in China.

Who earns what from a sports shoe?

In Indonesia, workers earn around $3.70 for a pair of running shoes that later sells in store for about $180.

Here’s what goes into the selling price of a running shoe (prices listed are approximate and are dependent on the conversion rate), based on a shoe sold in Germany.

Brand profiles: Adidas, Reebok and more

The following brands provided information in the survey.

Adidas

Shoes produced in 2014: 258 million pairs worldwideÌý

Revenue turnover: $9.84 billionÌý

Factories located in: 96% are located in Asia (tested shoe comes from China) Employees receive a basic salary – about 18% higher than the minimum wage, with bonuses for reliable workers. Employees receive safety training as well as social and accident insurance. There’s an environmental management system in place and materials are tested for harmful substances. Unfortunately, working hours are longer than allowed – sometimes up to 80 hours overtime a month for some employees.

Brooks

Shoes produced in 2014: Figures not revealedÌý

Revenue turnover: Figures not revealedÌý

Factories located in: Vietnam and China (tested shoe comes from China) The basic salary is equal to the minimum wage; however, skilled workers are eligible for added bonuses. Employees receive safety training as well as social and accident insurance. There’s an environmental management system in place and materials are tested for harmful substances. Working hours are longer than allowed – sometimes up to 100 hours overtime a month for some employees.

Reebok

Shoes produced in 2014: See figures for Adidas (Reebok was acquired by the Adidas Group in 2006)Ìý

Revenue turnover: See figures for AdidasÌý

Factories located in: Tested shoe comes from Vietnam Overtime is within the legal framework and 95% of the workforce is part of a union. The basic salary is around 12% higher than the minimum wage and workers receive social and accident insurance as well as safety training and health checks. An environmental management system is in place and materials are tested for harmful substances.

Salomon

Shoes produced in 2014: Figures not revealedÌý

Revenue turnover: Figures not revealedÌý

Factories located in: India, Vietnam, China and Cambodia (tested shoe comes from India) Pay is at least equal to the minimum wage, but there’s not much opportunity for overtime and only men work the night shifts. Employees receive social and accident insurance as well as safety training and free access to the canteen facility. An environmental management system is in place and there’s employee representation and regular contact with NGOs (non-governmental organisations).

Using the table

Ratings

The overall rating is made up of company policy (15%), manufacture of running shoes (25%), sole production (25%), components (upper and inner shoe) (25%) and transparency (10%).

Table notes

* Whether the brand allowed the workers to be interviewed for the report. Some shoes score zero for certain aspects of the study, because the manufacturers didn’t participate in that part of the survey and/or didn’t open up their factory doors to inspection.

How was the study conducted?

The study was conducted by Stiftung Warentest, the German consumer organisation, as part of an international joint project from January to June 2015. It consisted of the following parts:

Company policy: The company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategy was scrutinised. This included assessing the corporate guidelines for social and environmental actions, treatment of employees, training, environmental protection, ecological procurement guidelines, production and pollutant content requirements of running shoes, exchange with NGOs and consumer service.

Manufacture of running shoes, sole production and components (upper and inner shoe): In each of these areas working conditions (minimum social standards, health promotion, occupational safety, social services, avoiding excessive working hours and protection of the statutory minimum wage) and the environmental impact (ecological requirements for the production of running shoes) were assessed.

Transparency: Each company was assessed by their willingness to participate in interviews, and if they allowed visits to providers and production facilities and interviews with workers.

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On this page:

• Better performance?
• Preventing and managing injury
• Enhanced recovery
• ÌÇÐÄVlog verdict

But is there any evidence to prove these fitness benefits, or is it all just marketing spin?

Better performance?

The science of compression has long been used to improve blood circulation through use of compression stockings. The improved blood flow – which, in turn, increases oxygen to the muscles – will theoretically result in increased performance.Ìý

Compression clothing is also said to potentially enhance sporting performance by:

• reducing muscle oscillation (vibration),
• increasing proprioception (the awareness of position of joints in space), and
• they may also make you more aerodynamic.

All these effects could result in faster times, increased strength, greater endurance and/or more skilful play – results which are a playground for sportswear marketers. Unfortunately, while the theoretical effects have been shown in trials, this doesn’t necessarily translate to better performance, with research to date being somewhat inconclusive.

The best outcomes appear to be for jumping. Positive effects on sprint speed and cycling performance have also been reported. But then other studies have found no difference in performance or speed with regards to ball-throwing, sprinting, cycling or long-distance running.

Preventing and managing injury

Injury prevention hasn’t specifically been studied in trials, but there are several theoretical mechanisms for prevention through compression technology. By reducing muscle oscillation, it’s thought that compression tights may reduce stress injuries.Ìý

Better proprioception (one example is the ability to walk without having to constantly look at your feet to confirm they’re position in relation to the rest of your body, or the ability to eat without feeling your way from the hand holding your food to your mouth) could also theoretically reduce risk of injury by letting you know when your body is at its limits – so you don’t over-extend joints, for example.

Compression tights may be useful for people with certain existing injuries, by providing support to minimise undesired movement of underlying tissues – much like support straps and bandaging does. A physiotherapist is best-placed to determine whether it will help in a particular situation.

Compression increases skin temperature, but doesn’t increase core body temperature. While this suggests you won’t overheat, it doesn’t mean that wearing compression sports clothing can replace warming up before exercise.

Enhanced recovery

Faster recovery means getting back to training faster, and basically doing more of it. But to get the full benefits for recovery associated with compression tights, they must be worn during and after exercise for up to 24 hours – some studies test them for up to 72 hours. If they’re worn only during exercise they won’t have much effect on recovery.

A few studies show improvement in recovery to pre-exercise levels, but others don’t. More studies show improvements in perceptual recovery – that is, people feel better having worn them, reporting less muscle soreness and fatigue. However, the most important factors in recovery are sleep, nutrition and hydration.

ÌÇÐÄVlog verdict

The rationale for wearing compression sportswear is solid, but the evidence is weak. There are many studies that have been done on compression wear, many linked to from places like the website, but the findings are mixed. While some studies find physiological benefits, such as increased blood flow, increased muscle oxygenation, decreased lactic acid build-up and decreased muscle movement, the theoretical benefits from don’t translate to noticeable performance benefits.

For the average fun-runner and keen amateur sportsperson, there are probably more effective ways of improving performance, preventing injury and enhancing recovery than wearing compression tights.

However, many people love the feel of them – the feel of the material and the pressure on the skin, as well as the feeling of support and reduced ‘wobble’. Anecdotally, many people who try them find they provide a performance boost and that they feel better afterwards. So if you think it works, it does!

Given that there’s no evidence of any negative effects, if they feel good and put you in a sporting frame of mind – why not?

There is no particular “best” compression garment brand that stands out as being better than another in studies, which was confirmed by exercise physiologist Dr Rob Duffield who’s tested a range of different brands, from cheapies to top-of-the-range.

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On this page:

• Value for money
• Tights on test
• Care instructions: wash by hand?
• Why so expensive?
• Finding good quality gym clothes
• The ethics of what you wear
• Plus-size clothing

While Nike and Adidas have a stronghold on first and second place in terms of market share at around five to six per cent, luxe sports brands such as Lululemon and Lorna Jane are catching up – and fast.

Gym clothes to stretch the budget

Depending on where you look, a pair of gym pants alone may set you back more than $100. And if that doesn’t make you gasp, try this on for size. The luxury fashion site Net-a-Porter’s latest venture, is selling $454 neoprene leggings and $380 stretch jersey leggings, neither of which are even machine washable.

Staying on trend with the latest sportswear fashion may be a joyous exercise for some people, but there are others who simply want good quality, well-fitted garments to sweat in.

Given you can get a pair of tights for under $10 at discount department stores, do you actually get a better product if you’re forking out $100? Or are you simply paying a premium for the brand?

Value for money

To get to the bottom of the price vs quality question, we put some gym pants to the test. We chose seven gym pants from different brands, ranging in price from $7.50 to $109. We aimed for the plainest grey or black gym tights we could find in the range, and made sure the fabric had a mixture of polyester or nylon and elastane, also known as spandex or (brand name). The Kmart leggings were more of a fashion tight which we included as a comparison.

The quality of a sportswear garment can be determined by a number of factors, says Paula Rogers, a partner at the Apparel and Textile Industries Group (ATI) and fellow at the in the UK. The critical factors are fabric, stitching and fit. You’d also expect it to be colourfast so that colours don’t run when you wash them, she says.

Fit is an important consideration, but it’s also tricky to measure and probably best left for you to test in the change room. But to assess functional quality, we assessed the fabric, colourfastness to washing and stitches per inch. Rogers also gave us her thoughts on the garments’ construction.

Tights on test

We put our seven pairs of tights through the wringer at the NATA-accreditedÌýTextile Testing Services laboratoryÌýat . We tested fabric quality using a stretch and recovery test, and tested the tights for colourfastness to washing.Ìý

• ³¢³Ü±ô³Ü±ô±ð³¾´Ç²Ô’²õÌýÌýFullux*
• Ìý All day CorestabilityÌýLJ Excel Classic*
• NikeÌýÌý Dri-fit*
• Adidas’ÌýÌý Climalite
• Big W’sÌý
• Cotton On’sÌý
• ÌýLDS full length legging (fashion tight)*

Fabric quality

Once a brand selects their sportswear fabric, they don’t change it for a long time, says Meriel Chamberlin, another partner at the ATI Group.

Stretch and recovery is one of the best tests to assess the quality of stretch fabrics, according to the experts. Five fabric samples are stretched out with 2kg of force applied, each five times. The test is designed to mimic how the fabric will behave over time.

Ideally, the fabric should stretch sufficiently (which makes the tights easy to put on) and then stretch back, or recover, well so you have a firm fit. How well the fabric recovers is indicative of how loose the pants will get over time.

Stretch and recovery

From best to worst, the pants with the best width recovery:

1. Adidas
2. Nike
3. Michelle Bridges
4. Lululemon
5. Lorna Jane
6. Cotton On
7. Kmart

Kmart’s fabric showed the biggest jump downward in quality, twice as bad as Cotton On’s score, which came sixth. However, it’s important to note Kmart’s tights weren’t marketed as a sportswear product. For the six sportswear products there wasn’t a whole lot in it and all were in the acceptable realm.

Colourfastness to washing

One of the care requirements on Lorna Jane’s tights is to wash the pants with a tablespoon of salt before use. On its website it explains this is necessary as some colours aren’t colourfast. An interesting requirement on a $99 pair of pants.

Chamberlin, who’s also a chartered colourist and associate of the in the UK, says there’s sufficient science in the dye industry these days that “no garment that’s black should have to have that written on it”.Ìý

“Neon and very bright colours can be harder for good colourfastness, so labelling to wash separately can be wise,” she says. “However, when designers develop their colour palettes with their dyers, a few tweaks can make all the difference for great shades and great quality”.

Sometimes cautious care instructions are given if products haven’t been tested. But when we asked Lorna Jane, she told us that extensive testing (including colourfastness) is conducted on every new style.

So does it mean the pants aren’t colourfast?

To find out, we put all seven pairs of pants under the microscope in the RMIT laboratory for colourfastness to washing. They were assessed for colour change (indicative of how much they’ll fade) and for staining (how much they’ll stain your other cotton and nylon clothes when washed together).

In terms of colour change all seven pants performed well and fared exactly the same. But when it came to staining there were some differences. Funnily enough, the Lorna Jane tights performed well with no staining of either cotton or nylon, even with no salt added. The Lululemon, Nike and Adidas tights also fared well. Cotton On’s tights performed satisfactorily but not quite as well when it came to nylon. However, the Kmart leggings only met the minimum requirement of the Australian Garment Mark for staining cotton and the One Active Michelle Bridges only met the minimum requirement for staining nylon.

Pilling

Certain fibre combinations are more likely to pill than others. “Nylon and polyester combined with elastane doesn’t tend to be a pilling combination,” says Rogers. But add a bit of viscose or cotton to the polyester and it’ll be more likely to pill.

Moisture-wicking

Most sportswear will advertise a garment’s special sweat-wicking properties, but is it just marketing hype? Chamberlin says there’s definitely something in moisture-wicking fabrics but it doesn’t mean you have to pay through the nose for it. “A decent sports fabric isn’t prohibitively expensive,” says Chamberlin.

It’s also important to remember that the efficacy of moisture-wicking fabrics does depend on how well the garment fits – if it’s not in contact with the body it won’t wick away moisture.Ìý

One way to test if the garment has moisture-wicking properties is to flick water onto the fabric. The quicker it sinks in, the better it will wick away moisture. If it beads on the surface, it’s a bad sign.

Seam strength and stitching

In addition to the fabric quality, the stitching and seam strength is also important. The strength of the seams is dependant on a range of factors, however as a general rule, the more stitches per inch, the greater the seam strength. The industry standard is at least 10–12 stitches per inch, but when it comes to sportswear, it should be more like 12–14, says Rogers.Ìý

Stitch type

Another consideration is the stitch type used. For a stretch fabric, a flat or overlocked seam is ideal rather than a lock/straight stitch. To test the stitching integrity pull the seam longways and ensure there are no cracking sounds.

A flat seam is likely to be more comfortable for the wearer than a plain overlock stitch as it’s less bulky. It may also be slightly stronger, but the difference is probably marginal.Ìý

While the Adidas pants had the highest number of stitches per inch and had a flat seam on the back rise, it used an overlock stitch on the inseam of the leg. With the exception of Kmart and Cotton On, the other pants had flat seams.

Rogers says the choice of stitch type can be a cost-saving exercise for the manufacturer. For example, an overlocked seam will use less thread than a flat seam. “It will also be quicker in manufacturing,” says Rogers.

Care instructions: wash by hand?

The care instructions for the Lorna Jane and Cotton On Body pants both specify washing by hand. In fact, when we bought the pants at Lorna Jane, the sales assistant used the opportunity to sell us one of their branded washing bags. Hand washing is generally included on a care label for one of two reasons, says Rogers: either there’s concern around the fabric quality, or the garment hasn’t been tested. Sportswear fabrics should be machine washable, says Rogers. “I wouldn’t consider these to be delicates”.

Cotton On told ÌÇÐÄVlog that it’ll be changing its care labels next year on its Core Tight range to allow cold, gentle machine washing. And despite what it says on the care instructions, Lorna Jane told us that unless they have reflective or delicate prints, garments can be washed in a delicates bag on a cold wash in the machine.

It’s worth noting that elastane does degrade over time and at a higher rate than the fibres that house it such as polyester or nylon, so it does pay to look after it. Don’t leave your gym wear wet for long, don’t soak them in Napisan and avoid tumble drying.

Why so expensive?

So where, exactly, are the costs in making sportswear? “The fabric is generally the most expensive part,” says Rogers. The cost of manufacturing is low in comparison to the fabric cost, she says, particularly true given all the gym wear we looked at was made overseas in south-east Asia.

Dr Sean Sands, research director in the department of marketing at , says brands would also argue a significant cost is the investment in product development and marketing.

Despite such costs, for big global companies like Nike and Adidas the sheer number of garments sold means they reap the rewards of more cost-effective testing as well as having more leverage over their supply chain to ensure that quality is maintained.

The verdict?

Ultimately there’s no definitive formula to find the perfect pair of pants for every individual. No matter the fabric quality, if they don’t fit properly or feel good they won’t encourage you to get out there and exercise. And great fabric won’t make up for shoddy workmanship.

But the test results do suggest that quality doesn’t necessarily increase with price.

Of the two tests we conducted in the labs, the Adidas tights with ‘Climalite’ fabric ($60) fared best, followed by the Nike tights with ‘Dri-fit’ fabric ($69.95). These two also came up trumps in the stitch per inch count and colourfastness test. While the Michelle Bridges ($35) tights came in third in the stretch and recovery test, there’s room for improvement when it comes to colourfastness.

The two most expensive pairs of tights – Lorna Jane ($99) and Lululemon ($109) – certainly didn’t fare badly in the fabric tests, but they didn’t come out on top either, suggesting you don’t necessarily have to fork out big dollars to get quality sportswear.

In terms of value for money, Rogers thought the Michelle Bridges tights were the best at $35, with good construction and nice detailing. However, she thought the Lorna Jane and Lululemon tights were the best in terms of construction. She also thought both the Adidas and Nike pants were well made, but rated them just after the Lorna Jane and Lululemon tights, mostly because the waistband didn’t feel as firm.

Overall, given the trend towards sportswear as fashion, it’s likely that the extra dollars you fork out may well be for style or brand rather than quality.

Finding good quality gym clothes

Look at the stitching

• Sportswear should have around 12–14 stitches per inch.
• A flat or overlocked seam is ideal for stretch fabrics – make sure it’s not just straight stitch. Pull the seam longways and make sure there are no cracking sounds.
• The stitch tension should be just right – does the thread look loose and bubbly or too tight?
• Make sure there’s adequate seam allowance.

Look at the fabric

• Stretch some of the fabric out over your fingertips sideways. How well does it go back to its natural state? If it bubbles up it’s not a good sign.
• Find out if it has sweat-wicking properties by discreetly flicking a droplet of water onto the pants. The quicker it soaks in the better. If it beads up, look elsewhere.

Look at the fit and style

• Try them on. Move around and stretch. Make sure they feel comfortable, that they’ll stay up and that the seams won’t chafe.

The ethics of what you wear

If it’s important to you that your gym wear is ethically made, you may find it difficult to trace its journey from crop to closet. We made this point in our story on ethical clothing. Price isn’t necessarily an indicator of ethics so if it’s your top priority, you’re better off choosing one of the sportswear brands that have been accredited by . This ensures that for a brand’s Australian-made clothing, supply chains have been monitored and workers have been paid award wages. For example, Puma has been accredited, but only for its clothes made in Australia. Another source to help you buy ethical clothing is , a shopping site which rates brands.

Plus-size clothing

When we asked people on Facebook what was important when looking for sportswear, many pointed out the lack of sportswear in larger sizes. Plenty of brands don’t go past a size 16. The general brand response to this complaint was they chose their sizing range based on customer demand. Kmart said that although its current range only goes to size 18, it’ll be launching styles in sizes 18–26 early this year.ÌýÌý

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