Life is about overcoming challenges. Paying bills, staying in shape, and getting up for work after a Netflix binge are some of the harder ones that come to mind.
There is one challenge that strikes fear in the hearts of women everywhere, however: finding a sports bra that fits and won’t cause you to overdraft your bank account.
Spending a whole day going from store to store and trying on bras is a stressful and time-consuming endeavor.
For many, this task seems impossible. Fear not, dear reader. These four must-have tips will help you find the perfect sports bra for any body type or budget.
1.) Talk to a Bra Fitter
Having a properly fitting bra is more important than many women might realize. Wearing an improper size can cause back, shoulder, and neck pain, skin abrasions, and can even affect your lymph nodes!
Guessing isn’t an option when it could cause these types of problems. There are plenty of professionals, many working in department stores, that will ensure a proper fit.
These experts will be able to make recommendations based off of someone’s lifestyle and purpose for wearing the bra. Knowing whether a sports bra will be worn for leisure or used as part of workout outfits or bodybuilding clothes is important information when picking out the proper size.
Different companies have different fits as well. One company’s 38C will not be identical to another. A bra expert will save time and possibly money in the long run by letting customers know which brand is perfect for them.
Having a stranger helping with bra fitting might make some people uncomfortable, but there is no reason to be shy. They are there to make the bra shopping experience easier. Trust the specialist and know that they are not there to judge anyone.
2.) Stay Away From Small, Medium, and Large Sizes
For a majority of women, these sizes do not work. Buying a generically sized bra might save a little cash now, but in the long run, it’s not worth it.
Cup sizing is almost always the better option for a comfortable and customized fit. Generic sizes tend to be too small, which leads to the sports bra cutting into the breasts. They can also be too large, which won’t offer the level of support needed.
These bras also treat each breast the same. Half of all women have one breast that is bigger than the other. Getting a medium or any other generically sized bra will lead to one breast not getting the proper support.
Various activities require different fits. When working out, more coverage is needed than for everyday use. Cup sizing is the best way to meet individual needs.
Cups come in two different types: compression or encapsulation.
Compression
A compression sports bra creates a flat look by squishing breasts against the body. These bras are better for low impact activities or lounging around due to the lack of support they offer.
Encapsulation
These bras consist of individual cups that completely cover each breast and separates them. They provide far more support for workouts, and often come with hook and eye closures, making them easier to adjust.
3.) Focus On The Band
A properly fitting band makes all the difference in a sports bra. The finger test is the first thing that should be done to determine if a bra fits properly. Attempt to slide two fingers beneath the band. A bra that is too tight won’t allow this.
When trying on a bra, take some deep breaths to make sure that breathing isn’t restricted. If it’s too tight now, it will be too tight when exercising or stretching.
The bulk of support should be coming from the band. If a bra is holding the breasts down tightly against the body, this doesn’t mean they are offering good support. Support comes from the band and cups.
Make sure the band is parallel and not forming a U shape by riding up the back. More pressure will be put on the straps if the band is misshaped.
Don’t wear a bra with straps that dig into the shoulders. Straps that are too tight will restrict arm movement and lead to pain. When trying a sports bra on, go through a whole range of arm movements to make sure it properly fits.
4.) Know Which Features Are Best For Different Situations
For heavier breasts, look for a scoop back that will be more supportive. T-back bras are designed to allow more movement, particularly shoulder blades, but will not support larger breasts.
A sports bra with an underwire is a better option for augmented breasts. A wireless bra will be more comfortable for larger breasts. Whether it’s a wired or wireless bras an adjustable strap is important for comfort.
Don’t overlook the fabric either. Any bra that is moisture wicking is a great choice for working out or other physical activities. They will keep you cool and fight against chaffing when it’s hot outside.
When trying on a bra, make sure that it meets the practicality test. Don’t just look in the mirror and see how it looks. Jump up and down in it, run in place, and stretch to ensure comfort.
A Properly Fitting Sports Bra is About More Than Comfort
Having a sports bra that fits properly can dramatically improve women’s lives. Apart from pain relief, a sports bra that doesn’t suck improves confidence. It empowers women by making them more comfortable and encouraging them to work out and be healthier.
Empowering women has been the goal of this website since 2010. We started out as a personal fashion blog but now fight for pay equality and give young women the information and knowledge needed to become business owners.
Whether it’s how to thrive at work or maintain healthy relationships, we have the information you need to live a healthy, happy, and productive life.
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