Design, support, comfort.
What comes to mind? Yes, a good sports bra that fits properly is a "must-have" for women runners; next to your running shoes, a running bra that fits is an essential piece of equipment. Not only can the proper running bra mean the difference between comfort and agony, your perfect, supportive bra also supports breast health and proper running form.
Finding a good bra that fits and is comfortable isn’t as easy as it sounds, especially for women with fuller figures. But the good news is that you don’t have to succumb to underwire or the “uni-boob” look since the explosion of women’s running has provided the incentive for manufacturers to explore fabric technologies previously unavailable.
Bra Styles
Basically, there are two types of running bra styles; the crop top style and the more traditional cup style.
The “crop top” is best for small-breasted runners. They typically have a firm elastic around the midriff base, which sites just below the breast line. The straps are usually 2-3” thick and sit flat for a secure, comfortable fit. They are usually double-lined, have minimal seams and can be worn without a running top in warmer weather.
The traditional cup style bras are usually made from thick, stretchy fabric, wide supportive cups and wide supportive straps. The cup style is best for larger-breasted women.
Fit
Properly fitted, your running bra should NOT restrict your breathing or feel tight around your midriff. Do your breasts look squashed in your bra? Then it’s too tight/small. When you are trying on bras, jump up and down. There should be little to no breast movement and the straps and midriff should absolutely stay in place. The last thing you want to worry about on your next 10-miler is pulling and tugging on your bra! Pay attention to comfort levels under your arms, scratchiness or irritation under the straps. Lastly, flattening of your breasts is NOT support of your breasts. Take a pass on any bras that don’t pass these tests.
Oh, and just like your running shoes – bras have a lifespan too. If you hand wash your running bras and hang them dry, you’ll get more life out of them. In general, a machine-washed running bra will last about 6 months.
Where to Buy
Just like with running shoes, a specialty running store is the best place to buy your perfect bra. Many privately owned running stores sponsor “bra-clinics” and have women staff members that can specifically assist you with finding a bra for your body type. In terms of catalogs, I have found that Title 9 has a terrific selection of running bras for women of all body types. Their “barbell” rating system and measurement calculator makes it easy to select the right bra for your figure and their no-hassle return policy allows you to try several styles and return those that just aren’t right.
Finally, when you find a style that’s perfect, buy a few of them if you can. As experience with running shoes shows, manufacturers discontinue favorite styles all the time. Avoid irritation (of the other kind) and outfit yourself for many months if you can afford it.
Brands
I’ve done a bit of research on running bras, and dug into quite a few women’s blogs and product review sites for the buzz on bras. Here’s what the consensus on brands seems to be:
Best for Large Breasts:
Enell
Under Armour
Title 9
Moving Comfort
Best For Medium Breasts:
Hind
Champion
Nike
Best for Small Breasts:
Lululemon
Champion
Nike
