A quick guide to choosing the perfect sports bra

Women who spend any time at all involved in fitness pursuits must wear a suitable sports bra; it really is as simple as that.

Given how much breasts can move during exercise – not just up and down, but also side to side and in and out – it is essential that a good sports bra is worn to significantly reduce such movement, not least given the permanent damage that could otherwise be caused to soft tissue in the breasts.

But it’s one thing to know you need to shop for sport bras, and quite another thing to know how to select a bra that provides the comfort and support you require for your active lifestyle. So, what are some of the tips that we would give you here at Hybryd?

Which type of sports bra best suits your needs?

While all sports bras are designed to minimise breast movement, there are two distinct types that are based on different approaches. In short, they are the encapsulation bra and the compression bra, although some sports bras combine elements of both.

An encapsulation bra consists of individual cups that surround and support each breast separately, and tends to be best suited to low-impact activities.

Compression bras, meanwhile, are typically pulled over the head, and work on the basis of restricting breast movement by compressing the breasts against the chest wall. These bras don’t have cups incorporated into their design.

You might choose this type of bra for higher-impact activities – although for the very highest-impact pursuits, it may well be a combined encapsulation and compression bra that is the best choice.

What about bra size?

If this is the first time you’re looking to shop for sport bras, a good rule of thumb is to start with your usual bra size and be open to trying different sizes and styles before settling on a particular bra.

Each body differs from the next in its proportions, so there’s unfortunately no exact science when it comes to finding the perfectly fitting sports bra.

How will you know you have found the right sports bra?

The best sports bra for you should fit slightly tighter than a regular bra, while still enabling you to breathe deeply and comfortably. There should be no chafing around the armholes, shoulder straps or seams, and you should be able to fit two fingers between the straps and your shoulders.

The band of your sports bra also shouldn’t ride up your back when you raise your arms above your head – if it does, it might be too big.

In addition, your breasts should be centred and fully contained in the cups, feeling secure and supported when you jump or run in place. Too much movement in any direction is a sure sign that you haven’t yet found the most suitable sports bra.

Do you have any other questions to which you require informed answers before you shop for sport bras in the Hybryd online store? If so, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly and professional customer service team first, via phone or email.