How to Find a Running Sports Bra
By Marnie Kunz, NASM-certified trainer, USATF- RRCA-certified running coach
Sponsored by adidas
If you’re wondering how to find a running sports bra, this article will explore the features to look for. Whether you’re a beginning runner training for your first 5K or a longtime marathon runner, a good sports bra can make a world of difference in your comfort during training and racing. A too-tight sports bra or one that doesn’t suit your training conditions can cause chafing, uncomfortable wetness, and even lasting pain. A poorly fitting sports bra or poorly made one can also hurt your running performance, slowing you down during races. As a longtime runner and coach, I often get asked about clothing, so I put together these tips to help you find the best running sports to suit your needs.
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Benefits of a Well-Fitting Running Sports Bra
As many women know, a good sports bra can make or break your workouts. As anyone who’s worn a cheap or poorly-fitting sports bra will tell you, a bad sports bra can be miserable when running. If your bra is too tight or constricting, you may experience chafing on the run and even have restricted upper body movement. A poorly constructed sports bra can come loose on the run or hold in moisture, making you wet and uncomfortable on the run.
Since running is a high-impact activity, a sports bra that offers support is especially important. The right synthetic, moisture-wicking materials are also crucial for comfort on the run. A high-quality running sports bra will stick with you for many runs, keeping you comfortable through slow and fast miles.
Some of the advantages of a great running sports bra include:
Staying comfortable on the run. No chafing.
Optimal range of motion and running performance.
Staying as dry as possible while running. Although sweat is inevitable while running, suitable materials can help wick sweat away from your skin.
Types of Running Sports Bras
When figuring out how to find a running sports bra, it helps to understand the different types of sports bras. Here are some of the common features you’ll find in sports bras:
Impact Level. Impact illustrates the amount of support a sports bra offers. The higher the impact level, the more supportive the bra is. Sports bras are designated as low-impact for activities such as walking, yoga, or pilates. Runners need medium or high-impact sports bras, which offer more support. Medium-impact sports bras are ideal for low-intensity runs or shorter runs. Long runs and speed workouts are best for high-impact sports bras, which offer the most motion control and support.
Compression sports bras are designed to press the breasts against the chest to reduce movement. Compression sports bras are best for smaller-busted women and those who want a snug fit.
Encapsulation sports bras are designed to mimic natural body shapes, offering individual support for each breast. Encapsulation sports bras more closely resemble regular bras. These sports bras are ideal for larger busted women and those who want a more natural feeling bra.
Combination bras offer a mix of compression and encapsulation. They work well for high-impact activities like running and are suitable for larger bust sizes but are also popular among all sizes of runners.
How to Find a Running Sports Bra: Materials and Features to Look For
If you’re searching for how to find a running sports bra, consider your training program and your individual body type and preferences. If you train on concrete or primarily hard surfaces and do high-intensity runs like speed workouts, you will need more support than someone who runs on dirt paths or treadmills. Also, consider your mileage. The longer or more intense your run, the more support you’ll need. Larger-busted women also need more support and motion control than smaller-busted women.
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Here are tips to help you find the best sports bra for running:
Look for moisture-wicking synthetic materials that are breathable and will keep you comfortable on the run.
Get measured. Go to a sports or bra store for a fitting or measure your chest and try online sizing features to help you pick the best size. If you don’t know your size, going to a store and trying on sports bras is the best way to find a comfortable fit.
Try different styles to see what is most comfortable for you. You may want a front closure, clasps in the back, a racerback bra, or other features. Padded or adjustable straps can also make a bra more comfortable.
When wearing a sports bra, you should be able to fit two fingers under the straps and the band, according to adidas. If the bra is too tight, it can restrict your breathing and circulation.
FAQs
How do I choose a sports bra for running?
Consider your training program and body type when shopping for sports bras. You will need a high-impact sports bra if you do long runs or speed workouts. Most runners get high-impact sports bras; some opt for medium-impact bras for lighter, shorter runs. Try on different styles to find one that feels most comfortable for you.
What is the best bra to wear for running?
Every runner is different, so no sports bra is best for everyone. However, you can look for some features that will make you comfortable on the run, including moisture-wicking, adequate support, a good fit, and features that enhance your comfort.
Now that you know how to find a running sports bra, you can focus on more important things, like your training! Head to the Runstreet Training Center for a customized training program to suit your fitness and race goals. Happy running to you!
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Marnie Kunz is a NASM-certified trainer and USATF- and RRCA-certified running coach based in Brooklyn, NY. Marnie likes helping people get and stay active to enjoy a better quality of life. When she’s not doing fitness things, Marnie enjoys exploring with her dog, a mischievous rescue Akita.
