A good-quality exercise or sports bra is essential for a comfortable workout, especially if you are generously endowed. The best sports bras are both supportive and breathable, whether you choose an underwire bra or a compression-style sports bra. Support levels vary depending on the bra, ranging from light support appropriate for yoga or a gentle walk to full support ideal for runners or high-impact aerobics.
Styles
Sports bras are available in styles that compress the breasts against the chest or that encapsulate each breast; some bras combine the two styles. Compression-style bras work quite well for A-cup and B-cup sizes and can even be integrated into yoga or workout tanks and tops. Combination bras that contain and compress the breasts support C-cups and D-cups. If you're a DD-cup or larger, choose an encapsulation-style bra, like the maximum-support Enell bra, recommended by the Today Show.
Impact Level
Sports bras are rated by impact level. Low-impact activities include yoga, Pilates, walking and biking. Try the Women's Health-recommended Patagonia Active Mesh bra as a stylish sports bra option for low-impact activities and smaller bustlines. Moderate-impact workouts include hiking, skiing and roller skating. Aerobics classes, jogging, running and mountain biking require high-impact support, like the highly adjustable Nike Revolutionary Bra, suggested by Lucy Danziger of "Self" magazine.
Fit and Features
Sports bras should fit snugly around the band, limit or eliminate up-and-down or side-to-side movement, and fully contain the breasts. While a sports bra, particularly in a compression style, may be somewhat tighter than your usual bra, it shouldn't be uncomfortable. Wicking and breathable fabrics, like those in the Lily of France in Action sport underwire bra recommended by Women's Health, can keep you feeling dry throughout your workout. Underwire styles may provide additional lift and support, especially if you have a large bust.
All In Ones
If you're a C-cup or smaller, you can skip the layers by opting for a tank with built-in support. The Lululemon Power Y tank provides light support along with style, according to the Today Show, making it ideal for yoga classes. If you're looking for a tank with more control, try the figure-flattering Champion Powerlite Empire Tech tank -- but skip this one if you're doing yoga inversions, suggests Women's Health. Tanks don't provide enough support for busty girls and may fit poorly, even for low-impact activity.
Member Comments