How to Find the Perfect Sports Bra?
time2022/05/30
- 80% of women wear the wrong bra size, but it doesn't have to be. From support, to fit and construction - here's what you need to know to pick the best sports bra for you.
80% of women wear the wrong bra size, but it doesn't have to be. From support, to fit and construction - here's what you need to know to pick the best sports bra for you.
Why is having a good sports bra important for running?
The unique motion of running moves your breasts in a figure-eight pattern, sometimes up and down as much as eight inches. This puts a lot of pressure on your Cooper's ligaments (thin collections of connective tissue that help support your breasts). Without the right support, you may experience soreness and possibly lasting damage.
Sports scientists at the University of Portsmouth have studied how the breast tissue is damaged during running, both in regular bras and in various sports bras. They found that low to moderate impact sports bras reduced bouncing, but was not effective at limiting the side-to-side motion that occurs when running.
What level of support do I need?
Sports bras offer three different levels of support: low-impact, medium-impact, and high-impact. The type you need depends on your cup size and the type of exercise you do.
Low to a medium impact sports bra
Low-impact activities: Walking, yoga, strength training.
Moderate impact activities: Dancing, skiing, biking.
Construction: Low to mid impact sports bras are typically cupless and restrict movement by compressing the breasts against the chest wall.
High impact sports bra
High-intensity activities: Running, cardio, mountain biking.
Construction: High-impact bras are made with a well-defined cup construction similar to regular bras to encapsulate and support each breast. Some high-strength bras will use a combination of encapsulation and compression methods to maximize support.
Tips for getting the perfect fit
Even if you have your size, finding the right sports bra can be tricky, often requiring you to try several different sizes and brands. Here are some tips for getting the perfect fit...
Comfortable, but not too tight: A sports bra should fit more tightly than a regular bra, but shouldn't restrict breathing; you should be able to put two fingers between the straps and shoulders.
Wrinkles are not good: The fabric of the cup should be smooth. Wrinkles in the fabric usually indicate that the cups are too large. Conversely, if you spill it from the cup, it's too small.
Watch out for gaps: Any underwire should lie flat on the rib cage, under the breast tissue, and should not be pinched or dug in.
To adjust the straps: Raise your hands above your head. If the strap is draped upwards, it's usually a sign that it's too big, although the straps or rear buckle may need to be adjusted.
Move around: Before buying a bra, jump around and swing your arms -- (best to do this in a locker room or where no one else can see you). If you experience pain or discomfort, try another sports bra.
How long can a sports bra be worn?
Sports bras can be washed about 30-40 times, but technical fabrics loosen with each cycle, reducing effectiveness.
To help your bra last longer in cold water, avoid fabric softeners and bleach, and don't tumble dry, as heat can accelerate elastic degradation. Instead, let it dry, and if your sports bra starts to rub or chafe, buy a new one.
The above content describes in detail how to choose the right sports bra, if you are still not sure about the sports bra that suits you or wants to buy a new sports bra, welcome to contact us.
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