Types of sports bras

Every woman, regardless of bust size, should use a sports bra for any type of exercise, including low-impact activities like walking or yoga. Sports bras provide more support than regular bras, and they can help prevent breast pain and premature sagging. Experts recommend that girls start wearing a sports bra whenever their breasts develop and they begin wearing a regular bra.

There are two types of sports bras, which come in a wide variety of styles and materials. Compression bras, which use tight fabric to compress the breasts against the body, are recommended for smaller-breasted women with A and B cups. These bras are pulled over the head and don't include separate clasps. Encapsulation bras are recommended for women with C/D cups and larger, but even B-cup women who engage in high-impact sports can benefit from the interior support structure these bras provide. Encapsulation sports bras support each breast in its own individual cup, in addition to compressing the breasts against the chest. They use zippers or clasps so they can sometimes look like regular lingerie. Some encapsulation bras include underwires, but experts say that's not necessary to have a supportive bra.

Most of the top-rated sports bras use regular bra sizing that expresses band and cup size. For example, a 32B bra size means the band size (measured around the ribcage just below the breasts) is 32 inches and the cup size is a B. Some sports bras come in small, medium and large sizes, so check the size chart on the manufacturer's site (or on the tag) for more information on sizing for these bras. 

  • Get a bra fitting. Experts recommend getting a professional fitting at a bra shop. With professional measurements, you will be far more likely to find the best-fitting sports bra.
  • Look for moisture-wicking fabrics. Most of the top-rated sports bras are made of polyester, nylon or spandex, and include a moisture-wicking treatment that keeps sweat away from the skin. All-cotton bras should be avoided, as they can become heavy and wet when you sweat.
  • Check the seams. If you are a heavy sweater or plan to use your sports bra for vigorous sports, experts recommend a seamless sports bra to prevent chafing. Not all sports bras with seams chafe, and you're not completely protected from chafing even with a seamless sports bra. Even so, seamless sports bras have less of a tendency to cause chafing.
  • Don't go too tight. If you have problems with bouncing, you may be tempted to squeeze yourself into a too-tight sports bra. However, an overly tight sports bra can be constricting and restrict your breathing. Experts say you should be able to slip two fingers under the straps.
  • Cups should be smooth. A sports bra that fits well should not pucker or wrinkle on the front, which indicates the bra is too big. Breasts should be fully contained within the bra, without poking out from the top or sides, which is a sign the bra is too small.
  • Replace your sports bras every six to 12 months. Experts say the typical sports bra will last between six and 12 months with regular use before it starts stretching out and becomes less supportive. You can prolong the life of your sports bra by washing it in cold water and letting it air-dry.
  • Get a new bra if you lose or gain weight. Breast size can change dramatically if you lose or gain weight, so purchase new sports bras if your body weight changes. Likewise, if you are nursing or pregnant, you may need to purchase a larger, more supportive sports bra.
  • Mastectomy patients have special needs. Several manufacturers, including Amoena and Anita Medical, make sports bras specifically for mastectomy patients. These bras include pockets for prosthetics or padding to disguise breast irregularities.

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