Sports Bra Fitting Tips
Good breast health requires proper support for your unique size and shape—especially when you're running, training, or being active.
Tips for fitting sports bras:
- A proper-fitting sports bra should fit more snug than a regular lingerie bra.
- You should be able to slip two fingers snugly between the band and the skin, as well as under the strap on top of the shoulder.
- You should feel like you’re getting a tight hug—but not so tight you may lose your breath.
- Breasts should be kept contained within the cup without overflowing.
- Underwire bras should sit next to the rib cage, directly below the breast tissue.
- Wider straps help distribute weight more evenly, preventing back or shoulder discomfort.
- Try on different cup sizes for the perfect fit.
- Mimic the activity you plan on doing while you're in the change room.
- Ask a sales associate for help. They will be more familiar with the products and make your fitting process more efficient.
Types of sports bras:
Low Impact: Bra Tops & Bralettes
- Both bra tops and bralettes are designed for low-impact activity. Although sizing varies from extra small to extra large, they will generally not provide maximum support for a cup size larger than B.
Medium Impact: Support & Shape Bras
- Support and shape bras are designed for medium- to high-impact activities. A wide range of supportive features include thicker straps, underwire, adjustable clasps, and racer back design. These types of bras range from A to DD and sometimes E cups.
- The Juno by Brooks (formerly Moving Comfort) offers shape, support and goes up to an E cup.
High Impact: Compression & Full Motion Control Bras
- Compression bras are designed to firmly hold the breasts against the body and are ideal for high-impact activities.
- The Fiona bra by Brooks (Moving Comfort) has adjustable front-closure Velcro straps, interior molded cups, and sizes ranging from 30B to 44DD. This versatile bra is also a hit with nursing mothers, thanks to the front-accessible straps!
- Some bras with full encapsulation (cups for your breasts) and compression have underwire and are higher cut in the neckline to provide maximum support. These types of bras are best suited for women with cup sizes larger than a B.
- The Brooks Maia Bra features a seam-free cup, thick adjustable straps, and a seamless look under T-shirts.