My chiropractor recommended a good back brace after a back injury. I had an old one that was just wide elastic and some Velcro, and it wasn’t very supportive. So I took a chance on this one, which looked — and I admit, kind of feels — somewhat like a corset.There are metal bars in the sides that can be removed, but if you need a lot of support, just leave them in. The purple straps cinch up as tight as you want, and as I mentioned, it does sort of resemble a corset and functions about the same way. The fabric is breathable and fairly lightweight, so it doesn’t get as hot as those made from all elastic.All in all, it appears to be well made, and you can’t beat the support it offers. Very happy with this one.