Gear

GEAR: Sports Bras Reviewed

June 15, 2009
By Christine Triggs

While many women understand the benefits of using sports bras, some still run in ill-fitting bras with the wrong level of support. The result is unwanted movement, chafing and pain during longer runs. Eliminating this discomfort is relatively easy - get a properly fitted sports bra with the right level of support.

When buying a new sports bra consider the following:

Activity level and cup size

These two factors have the largest influence on the type of sports bra women should buy. The high impact of running demands greater stability. Women with larger breasts require bras that provide more support.

Compression

Compression minimizes movement by pressing the breast tissue close to the chest. The technique is effective but sometimes results in the dreaded and unflattering uni-boob look. A better approach involves using compression with encapsulation.

Encapsulation

Most runners assume breast movement during running consists of a simple up-and-down movement but recent research suggests it’s actually a combination of vertical and lateral motion. Encapsulation controls this movement by surrounding each breast and preventing unnecessary motion.

Fit

The proper fit makes a significant difference in comfort and support. Seek professional fitting advice from trained sales staff and make sure the bra is correct for your chest and cup size.

Comfort

Soft, wicking fabrics, padded closures and comfortable shoulder straps are critical for running comfort. Any rough or unfinished edges will develop into painful hotspots during a long run, so choose a bra with carefully finished seams and detailing.



  • Adistar Sleeveless Shimmel - $65

    Adistar Sleeveless Shimmel - $65

    adidas


    This attractive and form-fitting top provides plenty of coverage, while the built-in shelf bra controls movement. A full mesh back panel works with the short front zipper for excellent venting and extends the top's temperature range into warmer conditions. With its athletic patterning, this fast-looking top is ideal for serious runners with smaller chests.

  • ARD Shimmel - $60

    ARD Shimmel - $60

    Asics


    Women wanting mid-level support and excellent coverage will love the ARD Shimmel. The singlet-like cut offers sun protection and modesty while the built-in shelf controls unwanted movement. Ventilated panels in the back and sides ensure excellent breathability, and a short front zipper simplifies dressing. Asics includes two small zippered pockets for energy gels and adds a splash of reflective trim for nighttime safety.

  • Bonita Run Crop - $50

    Bonita Run Crop - $50

    New Balance


    This supportive bra is exceptionally adept at controlling unwanted movement, thanks to a combination of compression and encapsulation. Adjustable non-stretch shoulder straps contribute to the locked-in feel, and a mesh back panel and fast-wicking fabric ensure breathability and comfort in warm weather. An innovative front closure provides plenty of adjustment but requires greater dexterity to operate than conventional clasps.

  • Elite Crop - $45

    Elite Crop - $45

    Pearl Izumi


    Sleek and well ventilated the Elite Crop delivers adequate support for women with smaller breasts and is ideal for hot-weather training. A large reflective logo on the back improves low-light visibility and the multiple semi-perforated panels effectively vent excess heat and sweat.

  • Fiona Bra - $55

    Fiona Bra - $55

    Moving Comfort


    This wonderfully supportive bra provides exceptional comfort and control for women with larger breasts. Innovative features include softly padded trim, adjustable shoulder straps and non-stretch strap construction for stability during high-impact running. An excellent choice for active, large-chested women.

  • Jinx Sport Top - $65

    Jinx Sport Top - $65

    Mizuno


    This very attractive sport top provides a medium level of support and excellent coverage. For hot-weather comfort, Mizuno uses a fast wicking Drylite liner fabric and highly breathable mesh back panels. A small, hidden rear pocket caries a gel pack or a credit card and discreet reflective trim ensures nighttime safety.

  • PR Bra - $45

    PR Bra - $45

    Brooks


    This stylish sports bra offers solid support and coverage. The Equilibrium fabric technology pulls moisture from the skin ensuring comfort in warm conditions. Highly breathable panels under the arms improve ventilation and comfort without compromising modesty.

  • Short Bra Top - $40

    Short Bra Top - $40

    Reebok


    With almost as much mesh as solid fabric, the Short Bra Top is ideal for hot weather. The highly breathable back and shoulder straps keep runners comfortable during difficult workouts while the silky front fabric provides support and moisture management. An attractive bra perfectly suited for lower-impact training.

  • Ultra Bra Top - $75

    Ultra Bra Top - $75

    Zoot


    The Ultra Bra Top's strategically placed lightweight breathable panels ensure comfort during difficult training. The flat-locked stitching and smoothly finished armholes prevent chafing, while specially constructed modesty panels remain opaque even when wet.

  • Ventilator Support Bra - $73

    Ventilator Support Bra - $73

    CW-X


    The Ventilator's unique construction isolates each breast in a complex fabric web that minimizes movement and distributes impact loads to the shoulder straps. A moderate level of compression further reduces movement and the highly breathable mesh panels vent heat and perspiration. Flat chafe-free seams and excellent finishing enhance comfort during warmer running conditions.

  • Womens Strength - $60

    Womens Strength - $60

    Under Armour


    This racer-back bra blends superb support for high-impact training with sporty aesthetics. Softly finished edges prevent chafing while carefully positioned mesh panels improve comfort in warm conditions. Under Armour uses its Heat Gear fabric for exceptional moisture management.

  • Sport Bra Tank - $50

    Sport Bra Tank - $50

    Running Room


    This form-flattering tank top provides modest support and excellent coverage. The soft built-in shelf bra wicks moisture while the attractive T-back adds support and without restricting movement. A small back pocket is perfect for gel packs, ID or article-run coffee money.

  • Strength Bra - $60

    Strength Bra - $60

    Nike


    The multi-panel construction on Nike's new Strength Bra provides control and support without the bulk of heavy fabrics. Smoothly finished adjustable shoulder straps minimize movement without chafing, while the simple single-hook closure simplifies donning and removal.