RunningWarehouse.com Sports Bras
Why is fit so important?
Figuring out your correct sports
bra size can be as difficult as finding a shoe that fits properly.
However, it is important to spend time identifying your correct bra
size so that you do not risk damaging your breast tissue during
workouts. Impact activities jolt the skin on your chest, which can in
turn cause tissue breakdown, sagging, and stretched ligaments. Sports
bras are the best way to prevent these uncomfortable and damaging
injuries.
What are the benefits of a good-fitting sports bra?
A good-fitting sports bra minimizes the movement of your chest. It has
the ability to wick moisture away from the skin and allows for a
cooling flow of air between the breasts. A properly proportioned and
contoured sports bra also minimizes chafing and doesn't have straps
that dig into the shoulders. The band around the lower chest isn't too
loose or too tight, and the garment's thread is soft enough to minimize
skin irritation.
What are the most important things to consider when buying a sports bra?
The first two things to consider when purchasing a sports bra are (1)
your body type, and (2) the activities you will be doing while wearing
the bra. Different body types have different bust movements that will
effect the type of bra you will need. How much perspiration an activity
generates determines the amount of moisture management you will need in
your bra. In fact, you might even need several different sports bras if
you are involved in a wide range of athletic activities.
Are there different types of sports bras, or are they all the same?
There are three types of sports bras: compression bras, encapsulated
compression bras, and adjustable encapsulated compression bras. The
compression bra is the most common sports bra and is designed to
minimize movement by pressing the chest flat as a single unit. The
compression bra works well for small- to medium-chested women.
Encapsulated bras are best for larger-chested women. Encapsulated bras
resemble regular bras-some even have underwires-but they offer even
more support by compressing each breast individually rather than
compressing them as a single unit. Adjustable encapsulation bras
provide maximum support for the larger-breasted runner. This bra type
incorporates encapsulation, a wide adjustable band, and wide/rigid
adjustable straps to create a custom fit and full support.
What is the correct way measure my chest?
To increase your chances of buying a properly fitting sports bra, follow these general measurement instructions:
- 1.
Band Measurement: While standing straight take a snug measurement
around your rib cage, BELOW the bust. Pull the tape until it is taught,
but not restrictive or pinching, and round to the nearest whole number.
Add 5" to this measurement. If you get an odd number, round up to the
nearest even number. Example: 30" + 5" = 35". 35" is odd, so + 1" =
36".
- 2. Bust Measurement: Take a loose measurement around the
fullest part of your bust while wearing a bra but with your clothes
off. Round to the nearest whole number. Example: 38".
- 3. Determine Cup Size: Subtract your even-numbered band
size (step #1) from your bust measurement (step #2) to find your cup
size according to the chart below. Example: 3" = C Cup.
How does band/cup sizing compare to small/medium/large sizing?
See the Women's Apparel Sizing Charts in our learning center for
information about how your regular bra size (e.g. 34B) compares to your
apparel size (e.g. medium).
How do you know if a bra fits?
First of all, keep
in mind that a good sports bra will fit more snugly than a regular bra.
Test for motion control by doing a few of jumping jacks or running in
place with the bra on. Does the bra minimize your chest
movement
comfortably? Next, clasp your hands above your head. If the elastic
band around your chest moves up, the bra doesn't fit properly. Finally,
check to see if the seams are smooth and soft so that your skin will
not become irritated during movement.
How do I care for my sports bra?
How do I know
when I need a new bra? The functional life of your sports bra can be
lengthened by several months or even years just by caring for it
properly. The best way to extend the life of your bra is to wash it by
hand and have it air-dry. Washing machine cycles are usually too rough,
and dryers can destroy the elasticity and support of the fabric. Some
signs that your sports bra is at or near the end of its functional life
are: (1) restriction against vertical movement decreases considerably,
(2) the fabric begins to pill, or (3) the fit seems to be too loose or
too big but your measurements have not changed.
