Sports Bras For Active Women – How To Choose A…

Updated : February 20, 2024

Sports Bra for Runners

A sports bra is an important piece of equipment and can make or break a woman’s active experience. There is no ‘one size fits all’ sports bra so it’s important to make sure you are getting the proper fit. Our Sports Bra Guide will go over how sports bras work and how to find the right one for you.

SPORTS BRA QUICK FACTS:

A good sports bra can reduce breast movement by up to 83%

64% of women report experiencing breast discomfort during a workout

A non-supportive bra places undue stress on the Cooper’s Ligaments – these ligaments help maintain structural integrity of the breasts (read: they keep you from sagging!)

Active women should be fit for a sports bra at least once a year

How does a sports bra work?

When looking at a sports bra, there are 3 key components you want to pay attention to:

BAND

The band around your ribcage is going to provide most of the support in the bra. It should fit snug and lie even against your back.

CUPS

The breast tissue should be fully contained within each cup. If you are spilling out the top or sides, the bra is too small.

STRAPS

The support should not feel like it’s coming entirely from the straps. They should not slip or dig.

Every woman’s support needs are different! Your needs will vary based on your build, cup size, breast shape, and the activities you’re doing.

HOW CAN I FIND THE RIGHT SPORTS BRA FOR ME?

Finding The Right Fit™ doesn’t have to be complicated! We are happy to help you find your bra at any Marathon Sports location. We will ask you a few questions, such as:

What size do you typically wear in an everyday bra?
What types of activities do you usually do?
Have you had discomfort during exercise in the past?

If you are open to it, we will measure your bra size. First, we’ll measure your ribcage directly under your bust. Then, we’ll measure around the bust. The difference between your ribcage measurement and your bust measurement determines your cup size.

However, if you’d rather not be measured, that’s fine too! We’ll select a few options for you based on your everyday bra size and let you go to town in the dressing room.

All the bras that we offer at Marathon Sports are made with a polyester/spandex blend which means they will wick moisture and keep your skin cool, dry, and chafe-free.

How much does a good sports bra cost?

A good sports bra will usually run you anywhere between $35 – $65 – a minor investment when you think about how important this piece of equipment is!

A full selection of Brooks Sports Bras are available at all Marathon Sports stores. [FIND A MARATHON SPORTS NEAR YOU OR ONLINE]