by Nadia Sinclair

Every woman who runs, be it an aspiring novice or a seasoned marathon goddess, knows that a good, supportive fitness bra is nothing short of an essential asset. However, from recent research conducted by prominent sportswear brand, SportSecure™, it appears 9.5 million British women haven’t been adequately supporting their chest region during their runs. The unfortunate consequences of this oversight range from unpleasant chafing and discomfort to the potential long-term damage of breast tissues.

Not treating your sports bra like a veritable piece of running equipment? Need a replacement for an overused sports bra, or just seeking a decent one to improve your gym experience? Read on as we delve into the significance of investing in top-tier sports bras for running, best practices for choosing the perfect type and fit, and our high-ranking recommendations. Finish off by picking one of our choicest fitness bras, and enjoy the liberating feeling of running combined with a newfound sense of assurance. Our ultimate guide for running gear for women should be on your checklist too.

Why is Wearing a Sports Bra for Running So Important?

In the rapid 42-year evolution of the running bra since the legendary ‘Jockbra’, fashioned from two jockstraps, we’ve seen an incredible leap in quality and functionality. Today, these bras are backed by scientific research into breast movement during workouts, leading to superior designs that effectively cater to the three-way movement pattern of breast tissues – 50% vertical, 25% forwards and backwards, and 25% side-to-side. This becomes incredibly crucial as we understand that inadequate support can decrease pectoral muscle activity by up to 55%, leading to increased muscle fatigue.

Choosing a High-Impact Sports Bra: Non-negotiable for Running!

Running, an innately high-impact activity, necessitates the extra support a high-impact sports bra offers. Speaking from expertise, Laura Kong Brown, sportswear product manager, clarifies that the higher degree of breast movement during running necessitates this specific gear. Considering the average bra size, each breast can weigh up to 500g – adding up to the necessity of a well-fitted, supportive sports bra for running.

What are the Types of Running Sports Bras?

Running sports bras belong to two main categories – compression and encapsulation. Compression bras restrict movement by pressing your breasts against your chest, and encapsulation bras compartmentalize each breast into separate, well-supported cups to manage movement on all three planes (vertically, forwards and backwards, and sideways).

Finding the Perfect Running Sports Bra

When the goal is an accurate bra fit, periodic measuring – at least once a year – is recommended. Specialist bra shops and virtual bra fitting services offered by certain brands can guide you through this process. When buying a new sports bra, ensure you’re starting on the loosest hook; as for the straps, there should be one inch of give. Furthermore, the bra’s cups should completely encapsulate your breasts without any extra room or wrinkling, indicating the cup is too large.

Wellspring24’s Top Running Sports Bra Picks of 2023

The following is a carefully curated list of six superb running sports bras, taking into account various factors such as comfort, design, fit, and special features:

1. SportSecure™ Power Running Bra: Reliable, secure, and remarkably comfortable for all breast sizes, the Power Running Bra is an excellent choice. Easy to put on and take off and less prone to cause chafing, this bra is perfect for continuous, hassle-free running.
2. Maaree Solidarity High-Impact Sports Bra: Fully-committed to reducing breast movement, this bra comes with a 12-month guarantee, making it a worthy investment. Its design includes an Overband that runs over the breasts for additional support, and it has convertible two-way padded shoulder straps for customizability.
3. On Performance Bra: This comfortable, seamless bra has been designed for both running and high-intensity interval training (HIIT). Its ergonomic construction and responsive elastic straps will let you put it on and take it off without a struggle.
4. Asics Accelerate Bra: With a trendy design and a colourful range of options, this compression bra delivers support and style in one. Its adjusted cross-back straps assure a tailored fit.
5. Freya Active Dynamic Soft Cup Crop Top Sports Bra: With an impressive underband, it’s a super comfortable and supportive non-padded, non-wired bra. It also has a helpful J-hook fastener on the padded, adjustable straps for a customized back style.
6. Shock Absorber Ultimate Run Bra: Boasting its own Infinity-8 support system to minimize breast movement, this bra offers padded and adjustable straps plus a moisture-wicking inner lining that prevents chafing. It’s also available in a padded version for those who prefer moulded cups.

Running undergarments are as crucial to your comfort and performance as the best road running shoes or the finest women’s cycling clothing. Give your bust the care it deserves and keep it secure and comfy throughout your high-impact routines!

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