Sports bras have become a wardrobe must-have, for athletes and non-athletes alike. Regardless of your workout routine, having a good sports bra to minimize breast movement during exercise is key. Women wear sports bras for exercise and everyday wear alike.
Having a good sports bra made of quality fabrics makes all the difference, and certain sports bras are better than others. Keep reading below where we go through the best materials to look for in a sports bra and how to determine the best sports bra for you.
Which Material Works Best In Sports Bras?
Wearing a good sports bra during your workouts is key to limiting breast movement and in turn preventing chafing, discomfort, and pain. The best materials to opt for in a sports bra are synthetic materials, as they offer breathability, moisture management, and elasticity. These are some of the best materials to look for in a sports bra.
Nylon
Nylon, a type of polyamide, is a synthetic fabric known for its durability, softness, and stretchiness. Nylon is also has moisture-wicking properties that help to keep you cool by pulling sweat up and away from your body.
Polyester
Polyester is another synthetic fabric that provides moisture management and durability. Polyester is a great material for sports bras as it is water-resistant and great for moisture-wicking.
Spandex
Also known as Elastane Spandex is a material known for its stretchiness and elastic properties. A sports bra made of Spandex offers a flexible fit that moves with you.
Blends
Many sports bras are commonly made with fabric blends, combining nylon, polyester, and spandex fabrics for optimal performance. Nylon and spandex is a popular blend, though the particular fabric blend used can vary depending on the sports bra. Higher impact sports bras tend to use less spandex, as they offer less stretch and more firm support. Low and medium impact sports bras can also sometimes include a cotton blend to add softness and comfort to the fabric.
Sports Bra Materials to Avoid (and why):
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100% Cotton: While soft for everyday wear, cotton absorbs and holds onto sweat, which can become heavy and uncomfortable during sweaty workouts. For this reason, we recommend avoiding sports bras made of 100% cotton.
How to Prevent Chafing While Wearing a Sports Bra?
Dealing with sports bra chafing is uncomfortable, but is also quite a common experience for many women. Here are some of the best steps you can take to prevent sports bra chafing:
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Sports Bra Fit: Having a sports bra that fits properly is key to having comfortable, chafe-free support. A proper-fitting sports bra that prevents excess breast movement and friction will help alleviate chafing.
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Fabric Choice: Choosing synthetic, moisture-wicking fabrics is paramount to preventing uncomfortable chafing or rubbing. Opting for a sports bra made of nylon or polyester blends help with moisture management and prevent irritation.
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High Quality Sports Bra: Wearing a high quality sports bra made of durable, moisture-wicking fabrics is key to preventing chafing.
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Anti-Chafe Products: Preventing chafing is not one-size-fits-all. If you are particularly prone to chafing or have sensitive skin, opting for an anti-chafe product can help soothe chafed skin and prevent further irritation.
The best sports bras. are those made of quality materials that offer durability, support, and moisture management. Fabric blends of nylon, polyester, and spandex are a great option for keep you supported, cool, and dry during your workouts.
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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