How to Buy Plus Size Sports Bras: 6 Things to Consider

If you are searching for plus size activewear or a new plus size sports bra, there are a few things to consider to find your perfect fit. You want a sports bra that offers maximum support but is still comfortable enough to wear throughout your workout, and perhaps even throughout the day. There are also many different plus size sports bra styles the choose from, so sports bra shopping can be a daunting task.

Read our guide below for six things to consider when shopping for plus size sports bras so you can find the right fit for you.

Support for Your Activity Level

The most crucial component to consider when finding the right sports bra for you is knowing how much support you need. All sports bras provide a higher degree of support than everyday bras, but the support level you need is also impacted by things like your bust size, breast shape, and activity level.

If your workouts consist of high-impact activities like jogging or Zumba, you will need a sports bra that provides ample compression and support. This includes supportive styles like underwire sports bras. Underwires help to lift and shape the bust and keep your beasts securely supported throughout your workout.

If your workouts generally consist of low-impact activities like yoga, pilates, or walking, a low impact sports bra with less compression will probably work for you. Low impact sports bras are usually wireless but still provide enough support.

The type of sports bras you need will vary based on many factors including bust size, body shape, and activity level. A good plus-size sports bra will provide the maximum support you need based on these factors.

Knowing Your Bra Size

Make sure you get a sports bra that fits you well. Like your everyday bra, wearing a sports bra that fits well is crucial. The band should be snug but not too tight, and the cups should comfortably contain your breasts without spilling over or gapping.

A good sports bra will come in band and cup sizes just like your everyday bra. This ensures that your sports bra fits well and in turn provides the support you need. A sports bra in the wrong size will not provide the right support for you.

How Plus Size Sports Bras Fit

Generally speaking, sports bras might feel a bit more snug than your everyday bras, even if they're the same size. This is because sports bras are designed to support you through medium impact and high impact activities and are usually made of non-stretch materials. Though your sports bra should fit snugly, you should still be able to move around comfortably without feeling restricted.

Compression sports bras press your breasts securely into your chest. This style prevents breasts from moving from side to side during medium impact activity, and also prevents bounce. Encapsulation sports bras are those that separate the breasts into two individual cups. For women with larger breasts, encapsulation sports bra prevents the dreaded uni-boob from forming as well as the uncomfortable chafing that can come along with it. A good plus size sports bra will provide both compression and encapsulation of the bust, to keep your breasts snug close your chest while also separated from each other to prevent uni-boob.

Fabrics and Materials

Most plus size sports bras are made of moisture-wicking fabrics that wick sweat away from the body to keep you cool and dry. This is a crucial component of a good sports bra as it keep you cool throughout your workout and prevents any skin irritation as well.

Many plus size sports bras also feature non-stretch fabrics to provide secure support. The last thing you want is a sports bra made of flimsy material that leaves you feeling less than supported in the gym.

Comfortable Sports Bras

Your sports bra should feel as comfortable as your everyday bra. The last thing you want when you hit the gym is an uncomfortable, ill-fitting sports bra that doesn't provide the support you need or one that irritates your skin.

A good sports bra will feel as comfortable in the gym as it does on the go. The best sports bras are those you can wear as a workout top and as an everyday bra. A seamless sports bra is the way to go if you want it to double as an everyday staple in your wardrobe.

Price Range

Having a good plus size sports bra is an investment every woman should consider making. Like everyday bras, if you go for the cheapest option when it comes to sports bras you might not get the support you need and your sports bra likely won't last you a long time.

Sports bras can range in price from affordable to expensive, but it's also important to make note of the features you want in a sports bra and invest in one accordingly. Think of a good sports bra as a piece of workout equipment - you need a good one that provides ample support to perform your best in the gym.

Here are some additional tips for finding the perfect plus-size sports bras:

Get a bra fitting or measure your bra size at home. A bra fitter can help you find the right size and style of sports bra for your body. If getting measured in a lingerie store isn't feasible for you, you can also easily take your measurements and calculate your bra size yourself.
Try on different brands and styles. Not all sports bras are created equal, so it's important to try on a few different brands and styles to find one that fits you well and is comfortable. Not every sports bra will work for every woman, so take your time browsing to find what works best for you.
Ask for help if you're unsure what you need. If you're not sure what to look for in a sports bra, ask a sales associate for help or contact customer support online. They can help you find the right sports bra that provides the support you need.

How to Find the Right Sports Bra for Maximum Comfort and Support

Choosing a sports bra is a lot like choosing an everyday bra. You want a bra that will provide comfortable support for any activities you're doing and will keep you completely covered throughout your workout. If you're exercising, you're going to need a supportive sports bra that inhibits breast movement to prevent chafing, soreness, or even breast pain. Here are three summarized tips to help you learn how to choose the right sports bra for you.

Match support level to activity:

Low impact: Smaller busts, low-intensity activities like walking and yoga.
Medium impact: Moderate-intensity activities like jogging and cycling.
High impact: High-intensity exercises like running and jumping.
Consider your bust size: Larger busts need more support regardless of activity.

Choose the right type of sports bra:

Compression: Hugs breasts firmly to the chest to limit movement.
Encapsulation: Separates breasts to prevent uni-boob and chafing.
Combination: Provides both compression and encapsulation of the bust for maximum support and comfort.

To get the perfect fit:

Use your regular bra size as a starting point.
Look for cup and band sizes just like a regular bra.
Try on the bra: it shouldn't be too tight but should provide comfortable support.
Check for adjustable straps and a secure closure.

How To Wash Sports Bras

You should take care of your sports bras to ensure that they last a long time. The fabrics in sports bras will wear down through ample wear and washing. You should hand wash your bras in warm water or machine wash them in a lingerie bag on a delicate cycle. You should not use bleach as this can break down the delicate fibers in the fabrics, and you should avoid fabric softener as well. You should always hang your sports bras or lie them flat to dry, and never put them in the dryer. Machine drying will damage the fabrics which can change the fit of your bra. Read our guide on how to wash your sports bra.

About the Author

Maeve Gesualdi is a Fordham University alumna where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communications and Fashion Studies. Based in New York City, Maeve is part of the marketing team at Glamorise. Maeve regularly interacts with customers via social media and product reviews, as well as with influencers and models. She is constantly getting feedback on our products as well as gaining a better understanding of what women in our category struggle with and/or look for when searching for a bra. Aside from writing, she is passionate about all things travel and fashion.

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