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The Ultimate Sports Bra Guide

The right sports bra can make or break your workout, but it can be a real struggle to find. A low-quality sports bra can result in discomfort, chafing, and painful movements. Even a high-quality one that isn’t the right fit for you can make your routine difficult.


On top of that, there are several options. There are sports bras for every body type, activity level, and price range, as well as numerous styles and shapes. With so many choices, choosing the right bra for you can be overwhelming. That's why we've created this helpful guide. We’ll help you narrow it down so you can find the perfect sports bra for your active lifestyle.

SS23_WMN_SmartFormEvo_Skintone_Site_2_1
SS23_WMN_SmartFormEvo_Skintone_Site_2_1

The Science Behind the Need for a Sports Bra

Breasts are made up of soft tissue, and they move and shift during exercise. Your body supports them with delicate bands of connective tissue called Cooper’s ligaments.

A lack of support can make vigorous movements uncomfortable. Sports bras are built to make up for the lack of natural support.


Why Should I Wear a Sports Bra?

During physical activity, your breasts can move in multiple directions, which can cause discomfort. A well-fitting sports bra can help minimize breast movement. It can also improve your performance by allowing you to move more freely and easily.

You should use a sports bra if you engage in any sort of regular physical activity. Not only do sports bras provide the support you need, but they also help keep your breasts in place during workouts. They’re especially important for high-impact sports that involve running, jumping, or aerobics. They’re also helpful if you have large breasts, which can make even non-athletic activities uncomfortable without support.


The Benefits of Wearing a Sports Bra

Sports bras have several benefits over traditional bras for working out. Here are just a few.


Support

Sports bras are designed to provide more support than traditional bras, which is essential when engaging in physical activities. They help to minimize breast movement, which can reduce discomfort, particularly for women with larger breasts.

Comfort & Better Fit

Sports bras are typically made from breathable, moisture-wicking materials that help to keep you cool and dry during physical activity. They usually have wider straps and more comfortable bands than traditional bras to distribute weight to reduce discomfort and irritation. Sports bras are designed to fit more snugly than traditional bras, reducing painful breast movement and the need for constant readjustment. This can help you stay focused on your workout and avoid distractions.

Improved Performance

By shifting around unpredictably as you move, your breasts can throw off your balance and impede your performance. When your breasts are supported and held in place, you’ll be able to move much more easily, which improves your performance and comfort.

Reduced Breast Pain & Long-Term Health

A well-fitted sports bra can reduce breast pain during and after exercise. Wearing a sports bra can reduce long-term sagging and protect the delicate Cooper’s ligaments in your breasts.

Better Posture

The weight of your breasts can seriously damage your posture, especially if they’re large. Sports bras with supportive straps and bands can help improve your posture during exercise and daily life.

Types of Sports Bras 

Compression Sports Bras

Compression bras are a popular kind of sports bras. They’re designed to compress your breasts against your chest wall, reducing movement. These bras are ideal for low-impact activities like yoga, Pilates, and walking, but they can also be worn for medium- and high-impact sports or exercises. Compression bras are usually made from soft, stretchy fabric. They have a range of fabric and padding thicknesses. Their appearances can also vary greatly.

Encapsulation Sports Bras

Encapsulation sports bras have individual cups surrounding each breast, providing support and separation. They’re ideal for high-impact activities like running, jumping, and cardio workouts. Encapsulation bras typically have wider straps and thicker bands for support. Many also have a front zipper for a snug fit on the chest.

Compression-Encapsulation Sports Bras

Compression-encapsulation sports bras, also known as combination sports bras, combine the benefits of both compression and encapsulation. These bras are ideal for women with larger breasts who need extra support during high-impact activities.


SmartForm Evolution Mid
SmartForm Evolution Mid

High-Impact, Medium-Impact & Low-Impact Sports Bras


Sports bras can be built for high-, mid-, or low-impact activities. Each type has its own unique set of pros and cons, so it's important to understand the differences to determine which one is best suited for your needs. High-impact sports bras are ideal for high-impact activities and larger cup sizes, while low-impact sports bras are better suited for low-impact activities and smaller breasts. Here are some of the benefits and drawbacks of each.

High-Impact Sports Bras

High-impact sports bras are designed for activities that involve a lot of sharp or fast movement, such as running, jumping, or high-intensity interval training (HIIT). Here are some of the pros and cons of high-impact sports bras.

Pros:

  • Maximum Support: High-impact sports bras are designed to reduce bounce and provide maximum support to the breasts during high-impact activities. They often have wide straps, a high neckline, and a compression fit to keep everything in place.
  • Reduced Discomfort: High-impact sports bras are often made from moisture-wicking materials that keep you cool and dry during intense workouts. They also reduce discomfort by limiting movement and chafing.
  • Supports Larger Cup Sizes: If you have a larger cup size, a high-impact sports bra is a must-have for high-impact activities. They offer the extra support you need during intense workouts.

Cons:

  • Can be Restrictive: High-impact sports bras are designed to compress breasts, which can feel restrictive and uncomfortable for some people.
  • Difficult to Put On and Take Off: Some high-impact sports bras can be difficult to put on and take off due to their tight fit and multiple straps.


Medium-Impact Sports Bras

These bras are built to support activities like cycling, weight training, and boxing. This fit is a good middle ground on days when you’ll engage in several types of activities.

Pros:

  • Comfortable Fit: Mid-impact bras offer support, but with less compression than high-impact bras.
  • Freedom of Movement: These bras are less restrictive than high-impact bras, but they still provide enough support and coverage for mid-impact activities.

Cons:

  • Less Support than High-Impact Bras: While they’re a great choice for many common activities, medium-impact sports bras may not be supportive enough for high-intensity activities like running.

Low-Impact Sports Bras

These bras are designed for activities that involve more gentle movements, like yoga or walking. Here are some pros and cons of low-impact sports bras:

Pros:

  • Comfortable Fit: Low-impact sports bras are often made with soft materials. They have a more relaxed fit than other sports bras, making them more comfortable for some people.
  • Easier to Put On and Take Off: Low-impact sports bras are often simpler in design and easier to put on and take off than higher-impact ones.

Cons:

  • Less Support: Low-impact sports bras don't provide as much support as high-impact sports bras, which can be problematic for vigorous activities or women with larger cup sizes.
  • Less Coverage: Low-impact sports bras often have a lower neckline and less coverage, which can be uncomfortable or unconducive for some activities.

Regardless of which type you choose, make sure to find a sports bra that fits well and provides the support you need for a comfortable and confident workout.


How to Choose the Right Sports Bra

Consider Your Activity Level

The most important factor is the impact level of your activity. It will determine the type of sports bra you need. Low-impact activities like yoga or Pilates require less support than high-impact activities like basketball or sprinting.

Know Your Size

Getting the right size is crucial for the perfect fit. Many women wear the wrong bra size, which can lead to discomfort and even injury. Measure yourself to find the right size and consult the brand's size chart before buying.

Look For the Right Features

Consider the features you need, such as adjustable straps, moisture-wicking fabrics, and padding. These features can enhance your comfort and support during exercise.

How to Measure Yourself For a Sports Bra

Measuring yourself for a sports bra is an important step in finding the right fit and support. There are three important measurements to keep in mind: band size, bust size, and cup size. Here’s how to find them.

Band Size

Standing straight up with an unpadded bra on, measure closely around your chest just under your arms, right above your bust. If your result is a fraction, round to the nearest whole number. (For example, if the result is 33.7”, your band measurement is 34”.)

Bust Size

While wearing an unpadded bra, loosely measure around the fullest part of your bust. Again, round to the nearest whole number.

Cup Size

Subtract your band size from your bust size to find your cup size. The bigger the difference, the larger the cup.


Difference


Size


1 inch

A


2 inches

B


3 inches

C


4 inches

D


5 inches

DD


6 inches

DDD


SIZE CHART

Cup

Band(in)

30

32

34

36

38

40

42

44

AA

XXS

XS

S

A

XS

XS

S

M

B

XS

XS

S

M

L

C

S

M

L

L

XL

XXL

D

S

M

L

XL

XXL

1X

DD

M

L

XL

XXL

1X

2X

3X

DDD

L

XL

XXL

1X

2X

3X

Sports Bra FAQs

Q: How often should I replace my sports bra?

A: It’s best to replace a sports bra every six to twelve months, depending on how often you wear it, how vigorously you move, and how well you care for it. If its straps or bands seem stretched out or if it’s not as supportive as it used to be, it’s time to get a new one. It’s also important to replace a sports bra if your body size significantly changes (for example, due to pregnancy).

Q: Can I wear a regular bra instead of a sports bra to work out?

A: Regular bras are not designed for the movement that occurs during exercise. Their stiffer design and underwire can lead to discomfort and potentially cause injuries.

Q: How do I choose the right sports bra?

A: To choose the right sports bra, consider the level of impact of your chosen activity, your bra size, and your personal preferences.

Q: How do I know if my sports bra fits correctly?

A: A properly fitting sports bra should be snug but not tight, with no bulging, spillage, or sagging. The band should sit firmly on your ribcage, and you should adjust the straps to ensure that they provide support without digging into your shoulders.

Q: Does a sports bra flatten breasts?

A: No. A properly-fitted sports bra should keep your breasts in place without flattening them. While some sports bras may compress the breasts slightly, they still allow for a natural and comfortable shape. Overall, a well-fitting sports bra should provide support and comfort without flattening your breasts.

Q: Can I machine-wash my sports bra?

A: Yes, you can wash your sports bra in the washing machine, but it's best to use a lingerie bag or wash it on a delicate cycle to protect the fabric and extend the life of the bra. Use cold water, and avoid fabric softeners or bleach, as they can damage the fabric and reduce its moisture-wicking properties. Above all, make sure to read and follow the care instructions.


Picking the perfect sports bra for you

The right sports bra is essential for every woman who leads an active life. A well-fitted sports bra enhances your performance and provides the necessary support and protection to your breasts.