What To Look For
Finding the right sports bra for large breasts means looking for a bra that is both comfortable and supportive. Look for sports bras made specifically for larger-busted women in order to get the best fit and level of support.
The Women's Sports Foundation suggests that when trying on sports bras you "perform whatever activity you'll be doing," there in the dressing room. "The bottom line for a sports bra is that you should feel secure, with minimal breast movement. This requires more support and durability than your everyday bra."
Common Pitfalls
The most common pitfalls when shopping for a sports bra apply to women of all sizes--buying the wrong size bra and choosing a bra that does not have adequate support. To ensure that you buy the right size, have a lingerie professional measure you for a bra at least once a year.
Sports bras come in many styles, some of which are not supportive enough for large-breasted women. The Women's Sports Foundation recommends encapsulation sports bras for large-breasted women. These bras, which are made like traditional bras, are more supportive.
"Properly fitting underwires or a firm chest band assist with support. Large-breasted women will find good support with this style," the Women's Sports Foundation says.
Where To Buy
Large-breasted women shopping for sports bras will find a better selection of sizes through online retailers and catalog companies. Since you need to try on sports bras, read the return policy and understand it before placing an order.
Online retailers such as Moving Comfort, Title Nine and Champion USA specialize in sports bras and feature a wide range of styles and sizes.
If you need to be measured to ensure you are buying the right size, try a department store or lingerie store with a bra fitting specialist who can help you find your correct bra size.
Cost
A high-quality sports bra is comparable in cost to a similar quality traditional bra; however, bras in extended cup or band sizes are often more expensive. Most of the sports bras designed for larger busts and available in extended sizes that are featured on Moving Comfort, Champion USA and Title Nine's websites retail for $25 to $60 in 2010.
Insider Tips
Don't be shy--ask sales associates at department stores or online sellers for recommendations for sports bras that are designed for larger busts. Since sizes and fits in sports bras often vary more than those of traditional bras, ask if the bras you are interested in run true to size.
Member Comments