If your bra is sized wrong, nothing else fits right. I fit bras almost every day. Here's the condensed version.
The band is everything
80 percent of support comes from the band, not the cup or straps. If the band rides up on your back, it's too loose. If you can only get one finger under it, it's too tight. Two fingers, snug, should be the rule.
Most women are wearing bands 1 to 2 sizes too big. When they size down and up in the cup simultaneously (sister sizing), they're shocked at the difference.
The cup
A cup that pinches at the top means go up a cup size. A cup that wrinkles or gaps means go down. For running bras specifically, you want the cup to be firm enough to compress but not so firm it's painful.
Encapsulation vs compression: encapsulation has separate cups (more comfortable for most mid-to-larger chests). Compression flattens everything into one piece (fine for smaller chests, can be uncomfortable for larger).
Straps
Adjustable. Period. Non-adjustable straps work for 20 percent of bodies and fail for the other 80.
Racerback styles lift the straps away from the shoulders and improve support. Cross-back also works. Straight-back straps can dig in during long runs.
Five-minute fit test
- Jog in place for 30 seconds in the fitting room. Check bounce.
- Stretch arms overhead. Band should stay put, not ride up.
- Bend forward. Bra should stay in place, not cup-fall.
- Take 5 deep breaths. Should feel secure, not restrictive.
- Press your elbows to your sides. Should feel supportive, not painful.
What I stock
Brooks Dare. Lululemon Energy Bra. Janji Splits Bra. Patagonia Tsali. All in rotation depending on impact level and chest size. Come by and we'll figure out which works for you.
