Body Shop: OFFduty’s test of today’s top sports bras - Off Duty, Military Health and Fitness - Air Force Times

Body Shop: OFFduty’s test of today’s top sports bras

Anyone who’s done push-ups, pull-ups or sprints in an underwire knows the wrong bra will derail a workout in no time. Sports bras aren’t cheap, which makes trial-and-error testing expensive and ineffective — and in the meantime, your workout suffers.

Styling, construction and fit affect everything from how much you’ll chafe and bounce to whether you’ll end up with a sore back.

Thankfully, breathable fabrics, comfortable straps and fashionable styling are bringing form and function together in modern sports bras — some of which are fit for all-day wear.

Active women now can choose between compression bras, encapsulated compression bras and adjustable encapsulated compression bras.

Compression bras work by compressing the chest flat as one unit. This style works best for small to medium cup sizes or for low-impact activities.

Encapsulated compression means each breast is compressed separately, which is more effective for women with larger busts or for higher-impact activities — and means less “uniboob“ effect. These can look similar to fashion bras, and may have adjustable straps, zip or hook closures, or underwires.

Adjustable encapsulation bras add the benefit of an adjustable back strap, allowing the best possible fit.

When you try on a bra, mimic movements from your sport (jog in place, do jumping jacks, strike a yoga pose) while watching in a mirror to judge movement, spillage, riding up and rubbing. If you’re unsure of your size, go to a store to be measured or visit the virtual “fitting room” at www.movingcomfort.com.

Bras generally last for six to 12 months, depending on use. For best results, follow washing instructions on the tag or hand or machine wash in cold water and hang to dry (we were surprised to find that several bras we tested could be put in a dryer on low).

Our team tested a dozen highly rated brands and styles while running, riding, hiking, doing yoga and enduring long days at the office.

Moving Comfort Fiona

Price: $44

D-and-higher women know exercise can be a pain in the breasts and back, but not with the Fiona bra. Encapsulation compression styling with adjustable straps, adjustable back closure, seam-free interior, contouring and an interior front yoke to limit vertical movement make this Moving Comfort’s top-selling bra.

Tester’s remark: “I’m a 38D, and this is the first truly supportive sports bra I’ve ever tried.”

Bottom line: A must-have for full figures looking for high-impact support without having to wear two bras.

Buy it: www.movingcomfort.com

Moving Comfort Luna

Price: $52

We had a range of cup sizes test this bra, and the women raved about the support. Adjustable straps, an adjustable back closure, front mesh panel, wide stay-put straps and encapsulated compression ensure a comfortable and personalized fit that wicks moisture and provides nice shaping. One tester, who didn’t think it looked like a sports bra, was won over once she realized how well it performed.

Tester’s remark: “I would call this a must-have for ladies in uniform.”

Bottom line: Classic bra styling that performs well, fits well and looks good, making it ideal for all-day wear as well as a solid workout choice.

Buy it: www.movingcomfort.com

Isis Sports Bra

Price: $42

Seamless compression and racerback styling pleased our A- and B-cup testers in terms of comfort and support. It has a special weave to wick away perspiration and help it evaporate, even during hot, humid summer runs in Virginia.

Tester’s remark: “This bra provided the support I needed, but was so soft and comfortable that I could wear it all day.”

Bottom line: Great for A- and B-cup women who need a bra that can transition from workday to workout.

Buy it: www.isisforwomen.com

Sugoi RSR

Price: $50

One tester took this bra for a 20-mile run and loved it — no chafing, excellent fit, and good breathability — a definite long-run bra. Racerback compression construction with slight encapsulation, flat seams and mesh inserts add to the comfort for a supportive, nonrestrictive fit.

Tester’s remark: “This is the most supportive of all my athletic bras, yet I hardly notice I’m wearing it.”

Bottom line: For A- and B-cup ladies, this is the bra to grab for PT runs or as an all-purpose partner on your next deployment.

Buy it: www.sugoi.com

Champion C9 Duo Dry Seamless

Price: $16.99

Champion makes the C9 specially for Target, and at $16.99, A- and B-cup women can stock up for breathable, seamless comfort. Most testers didn’t find the C9 supportive enough for high-impact activities, but the racerback and slight compression offer enough support for yoga or strength training.

Tester’s remark: “I would rather buy three of these than one really expensive bra.”

Bottom line: Low-impact support at a great price made this a comfortable yoga piece for A and B cups and a soft sleeping bra for C and D cups.

Buy it: www.target.com