Now that the sun is out and bathing suit season is in full effect, we are hitting the gym hard! Time to give athletic wear an update so start with essential sports bras. We found the best bras for our favorite exercise activities. Add one to your cart and hit the streets!
Sports Bras Need to Breathe
If you’re into court sports, look for plenty of ventilation. We love the breeziness of sports bras that contain mesh panels. The Anew Bra by Lululemon has mesh fabric venting in high-sweat areas to keep the air flowing. It provides light support (A/B cup) so check out their other mesh bras if you need more coverage. Your bra should feel like second skin and be super breathable if you’re going to be playing outside.
Shop Bras by Cup Size
For best fit (and for anyone above a B cup) look beyond the one-size-fits-all Small, Medium, and Large. Sports bras should hug your torso and provide the proper support of any other bra. Victoria’s Secret is always a safe bet, use their sizing guide to filter bras by hand and cup size. Their lightweight bras have an integrated flex wire support that is perfect for running, boxing, or any cardio activities.
Easy Access
Click and go! One of the downfalls of a super snug bra is pulling it over your head and through your arms. It’s a tight fit! Sports bras with front closures are perfect for girls on the move. Here again, we like Victoria’s Secret for their patented bra-within-a-bra technology that has a double-layer front closure to reduce the “bounce”. Your athletic wear should be utilitarian and work like you work.
Lift and Sculpt
Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or are new to Pilates (check out our article on Pilates reformer!), comfort and movement are key. Since you’re not doing high-impact sports, you can have fun with the details of sports bras. Cross-back styles with multiple straps and waistline details make working out fun! Take a look at this Alo Lush Sports Bra with it’s multi-strap back and mesh waistline details. Super sexy and super stretchy!
Wide Straps
For any intense cardio workouts, your main concerns should be support, support, and breathe-ability. Runners should look for sports bras that have wide racer straps and fabric that wicks away moisture. The Adidas Supernova Bra is currently on sale for 50% off. Rated as one of the top running bras by Shape Magazine, that’s a deal and a steal!
Low-impact
If you’re the type of girl who likes to participate in more meditative activities, a simple lift bra will suffice. Hikers and mind-body practitioners should shop for sports bras with foam cup inserts and a firm waistband. Albion Fit carries a nice line of lift bras that provide support and (of course) look great on. Lift, leap, and lunge to your heart’s content!
Start With the Basics
Regardless of what types of exercise you enjoy, it’s important to build a training base with athletic gear. Our favorite sports bras include combinations of support, stretch, and comfort. Remember, once you find a favorite style, buy it in several colors! It’s worth it to have the right combination of factors in this essential athletic item.
I love the back on that Alo Lush sports bra and I love the mesh waiste. I’m totally getting one of those. This article was so informative! I never knew sports bras could be so versatile.
Thanks Lucy! Let us know how u like it 🙂
It’s great being a guy!!! At almost 70 years of age, I may need a bra, but braless is still the best!