5 Tips and Tricks For Choosing That Perfect Sports Bra

Since the creation of the first athletic bra in 1977, the sports bra market has exploded. Women now have a seemingly limitless selection and variety to choose the best bra for them. However, not all sports bras are created equal.

Picking the perfect sports bra can be an overwhelming task with so many options to choose from. But don’t sweat it; we’ve got your back.

Here is an ultimate guide for what you should consider when selecting the right sports bra for you. With this guidance, you will find the ultimate workout partner that speaks to your needs and empowers your unique aesthetic.

Determine Workout Intensity:  Low, Medium, High Impact

The first thing to consider is the purpose of your sports bra. What type of physical activity are you doing? Do you casually work out once a week or do intense workouts every day?

Often, brands categorize sports bras based on the impact the workout has on the body. Determining the support you need will help you decide whether you need a low, medium, or high-impact sports bra.

Low-Impact Sports Bra 

Low impact sports bras are made for sports with minimal bouncing, movement, or just for casual wear. For women with smaller breasts or workouts like yoga, these sports bras are a perfect option. 

Medium-Impact Sports Bra 

Medium impact sports bras are designed for extra security for a wide range of cup sizes and body types. Combining the best in comfort and support, this sports bra type can accommodate the everyday woman.

High-Impact Sports Bras 

High-impact sports bras are constructed for maximum support and maximum performance. For women with bigger breasts or more high-intensity workouts like sprinting, gymnastics, and field sports, these sports bras handle it all.

Choose the Right Fit

Just like our bodies come in all shapes and sizes, so do sports bras. Finding the right fit depends on what works with your body to give you the comfort and support you need and the empowerment you want.

Support comes from three points on a sports bra: the straps, the cups, and the band, including the side panels. The most accurate way of determining your perfect fit involves a tape measure and a little bit of math to find your band, bust, and cup size.

However, when you don’t have those tools available, here are a few tips you can use when trying on a new sports bra to determine if it’s truly the right fit.

• Straps: Grab the top of one strap and the center of the corresponding cup, then pull. Whether they're adjustable or not, less stretchy straps mean more motion control they'll provide.
• Cups: Repeat a similar stretch test by tugging the top and bottom of each cup; the less give, the more motion control. There should be no spillage when you put on the bra. Consider a bigger size if the cup doesn’t provide complete coverage of your breasts.
• Band and side panels: Slide a finger under the band between your breasts; you should not be able to pull it more than an inch from your chest. Also, if you reach your arms overhead and the band creeps up, it's too big.

Additionally, you can always use online bra fitting tools.

For professional fitting, try our  e-Bra Fitting Quiz and receive three top personalized sports bra picks that are best suited for you. Sports bra fitting has never been so easy.

Customize Your Perfect Sports Bra

Now you know your perfect fit and the use of your sports bra, you can have fun choosing unique features that will make you feel and look great while you work out.

Pullover or Front Closure? 

Choose from the all-over stretch for a full-body hug or fantastic on-and-off latch that breathes convenience when you’re finished working out for the day.

Racerback or Wider Straps? 

Choose from the classic T-style look or a more modern wide strap version for complete comfort and control.

Compression or Moulded Cups? 

Choose from the all-in-one sports bra for lower-impact workouts or the bra that encapsulates your breast for strategic support when you need it.

Specialty Sports Bras: Catered to Your Needs

Specialty sports bras work with total accessibility in mind. These specialty sports bras work to relieve any unique issues or support particular body types while providing outstanding comfort, poise, and relief. These bras can appeal to seniors, post-op or cancer patients, and those with maternity or additional protection needs.

There’s a place in sport for everyone. Your perfect sports bra should help you achieve your fullest potential so you can perform to the max on the field, at the gym, or whenever you put one on.

Bonus: Making Your Sports Bra Last

Our sports bras work hard so we can push harder. That means we expect more of them than our regular bras, especially while we’re moving, stretching, and sweating.

However, even the best fighters need a break. Maintaining good care of your trusty workout partners means they’ll last longer without letting you down. To maximize the life of your sports bra, you should:

• Choose high-quality materials. Better materials will naturally last longer. Having the proper foundation means it’ll outperform cheaper fabrics time and time again.
• Rotate your sports bras. Having at least three options will extend the life of each and give you a variety of styles tailored to your workout or aesthetic.
• Coldwater for cleaning. Washing your sports bras with cold water and mild detergent can extend its life as sweat can be corrosive on your clothes. 
• The 6-to-12 rule. It’s recommended to change out your sports bras between 6-12 months, depending on the intensity, frequency of use, or if you see early signs of wear-and-tear.

The Perfect Sports Bra Is Waiting for You. Order Yours Now!

When it comes to choosing the perfect sports bra, you can have it all. Now that you have the simple tips and tricks, shopping for the right sports bra will be a breeze. 

Since 2003, we’ve been offering the best collection of sports bras across Canada. Check out our outstanding online selection of sports bras catered to different types of fits, workout intensities and aesthetics, and specialized needs to find the perfect one for you. No matter your body shape, size, or unique style, we’ve got you covered.