Searching
for Support in Sport Bras
By Dana
Boyle
Most of us realize that having the right shoe is essential for running
and walking. This becomes most apparent after we’ve spent time
in the wrong ones. Having to deal with nagging injuries or lingering
aches and pains can take us out of our routines, making the process
of staying fit even harder. We spend good time and money making sure
our feet are properly attired, but we often neglect to put the effort
into finding a bra that actually does what it’s supposed to do.
Beyond continued discomfort, long-term bouncing will cause the ligaments
that hold up the breast to stretch. The sagging that results is irreversible.
Finding
the right bra can be a frustrating and discouraging ordeal, especially
if you have a large cup size. Luckily, sportswear companies have recognized
the demand and many have been pouring resources into developing their
own products. New technologies, fabrics, and designs have recently made
the search for the perfect bra much more fruitful. Some key features
to keep in mind when looking for a sport bra are proper breast support,
general comfort, and fabric breathability.
Sport bras
use two techniques to minimize breast movement. Compression works by
holding the breasts against the chest wall to limit motion. These bras
are often more effective and comfortable for small-breasted women. Encapsulation,
a newer method, works by engineering the bra to surround and support
each breast separately. Some of the most supportive and flattering bras
are now using a combination of these techniques to divide and conquer.
The best way to find the right support level is to try on different
styles and sizes. Don’t assume that you are the same size in every
bra from every manufacturer. Make an effort to move about inside the
dressing room, run in place, and wave your arms to test out the support.
The bra should fit more snuggly than a lingerie model, but it should
not be uncomfortable or so restrictive that your motion or breathing
is limited.
Below
are a few styles for a variety of body types:
Mizuno
Colt
III Sport Bra works best for (A-C)
The Colt III from Mizuno is a medium-support compression bra. Wide bands
at the ribcage and shoulders reduce chafing, as does the soft moisture-wicking
liner. Its front stitching flatters even the barely breasted among us.
I was handed this bra the day before I ran a hot and sticky marathon
and was incredibly impressed with the result. I finished soaking wet,
without mark or rub of any kind. A C-cupped woman in my yoga class swears
this is her favorite bra for running and tennis.
Moving
Comfort
Maia Bra works best for (D/DD)
Moving Comfort has been a leader in sport bra manufacturing since it
was founded in the 1970s. The Maia bra is engineered to hold even the
largest breasts still. This is a great solution for women who have been
forced to wear two sport bras at once. The inner structure is a non-stretchy
material designed to encapsulate with soft cups and underwire for shaping.
An outer layer of moisture wicking fabric creates a clean line and smooth
profile. All the edges are brushed and threads are densely packed to
prevent chafing.
New
Balance
Tonic Crop works best for (C-DD)
New Balance performance apparel has made leaps and bounds in the past
couple seasons. Their new women’s designers have been on a mission
to overhaul the line and create beautifully functional pieces that they
know we want to own. This is apparent in their new bra collection. The
Tonic Crop is the most supportive option offered. One look and you can
tell we’ve come a long way from sewing jock straps together. The
technology here is immediately apparent with strategically placed non-stretch
stability panels. Instead of seams many of the panels are welded together.
Other features include two-ply preformed seamless cups, and reinforced
adjustable shoulder straps and back closure to help customize fit.
Brooks
Pro-Fit Bra works best for (B/C)
Brooks, best known for its supportive running shoes, has recently launched
a bra program of its own. The Pro-Fit is the middleweight of its three
options and is designed to meet the support needs of the B/C cup. Removable
inserts fit into the lining to provide shape and modesty, especially
for those looking to wear the bra as a standalone piece. A mesh panel
between the breasts enhances breathability. The fabric is also brushed
to prevent chafing.
Dana
Boyle is a runner and the apparel buyer for Fit Right NW. In March,
she helped organize “Diva Night,” which was a women’s-only
sports bra fitting and health fair event held at the Portland store. Fit Right NW has two locations:
1207 NW 23 Ave in Portland; 503-525-2122, and 700 SE 160 Ave in Vancouver;
360-885-4556. |
