Activewear and athleisure style clothing have recently become one of the hottest trends in fashion, and it is really no surprise. After all, who doesn’t want to feel comfortable, while looking cute and trendy? Hitting the gym is definitely more appealing when you have pretty workout clothes to wear, too. While there is a wide variety of options and styles when it comes to activewear, perhaps the most pertinent is the sports bra.
Sports bras are truly a necessity to any workout; they do double the work of a regular bra. They are specifically designed to keep your girls comfortable, in place, and in control for even the most strenuous of activities. Every sports bra has a different impact level. An impact level simply means the level of support the sports bra is providing you with. The greater the impact level, the greater the support.
Read this article to learn about the various levels of impact provided by sports bras, as well as our favorite brands and tips from the experts at Freshpair®!
Low Impact Level
Low impact level sports bras have a minimal level of support and control. This style will support your breasts perfectly for lighter activities, like yoga, hiking, or pilates. These bras are also a great option to wear as loungewear. If you’re workouts tend to be a bit more intense, or you’re looking to prevent bounce, it might be a good idea to choose a sports bra with a high level of impact.
Low impact level sports bras can be seamless or wireless, and can have traditional straps. Features to look for in a low impact level sports bra include, little to no padding, thin straps, or a plunge neckline.
(Low Impact sports bra)
Medium Impact Level
A medium impact level sports bra has average support and control. These sports bras are versatile because they cover a wide range of workouts, from yoga to strength training. Every active or athletic women should own at least one medium impact level sports bra.
Medium impact level sports bras typically have wider straps than a low impact level sports bra, to assist with movement and reduce shoulder strain. They may also have underwire for support. Popular features of medium impact level sports bras include supportive underbands, a racerback strap design, or light padding.
(Medium Impact sports bra)
High Impact Level
High impact level sports bras have the greatest level of support and control in the sports bra family. This style is ideal for strenuous activities, like running, cross-training, or kick-boxing. You can feel worry-free and confident while wearing a high impact level sports bra, because they are made to be incredibly secure.
When shopping for a high impact level sports bra, look for features that include underwire, a supportive underband, wide or cushioned straps, padding, a racerback design, or full coverage. If you like to go deep into intensive sweat sessions, then a high impact level sports bra is a must for you.
(High Impact sports bra)
Know Your Fabrics
If you’re working out and sweating, odds are you’re going to want a sports bra that is absorbent and moisture friendly. Any sports bra that has moisture-wicking properties is a great option. Any garment that is moisture-wicking is designed to pull moisture away from the body, and bring it to the surface of the fabric so it can evaporate. Look for sports bras made with performance fabrics, like spandex, nylon, polyester, and poly blends.
Another great fabric feature for sports bras is mesh. Mesh is typically lightweight, and has tiny perforations, creating breathability. Because of this, your skin is less likely to chafe, dry out, or become irritated. Mesh fabrics also allow for ventilation and air-flow, to keep you cool, dry, and comfortable, whether you’re in a yoga, zumba, or kick-boxing class.
Tips and Tricks
It’s important to remember that, on average, 85% of women are wearing the wrong bra size. Be sure to visit our bra fitting page to learn how to attain your perfect fit. Even when you’re simply working out, you will feel infinitely better once you’re in the right size. Here are some tips we recommend.
- Make sure you’re fitted in the right bra size. When trying on a sports bra in the fitting room, move around in it and make sure you’re getting the proper support. It should feel snug, and everything should stay in place.
- Even if you have a small bust, your breasts will still bounce while running. The right sports bra can prevent this and make your workouts more enjoyable.
- Always, always, always wear a sports bra while working out. Your average, everyday bra will not get the task accomplished. Remember, traditional bras are only designed to reduce downward movement. Sports bras are made to reduce movement in every direction.
Brands We Love
At Freshpair®, we carry sports bras from many different brands, and made for many different activities. Take a look at sports bras from some of our favorite and trusted brands, like Shock Absorber, Champion, Glamorise, and Panache!