Sports bras are targeted mainly for women who perform regular exercises and heavy workouts. Their main purpose is to minimise the pain caused by breast movement during exercise or any physical activity.
Nowadays, women prefer sports bras over regular bras for everyday comfort because sports bras provide various benefits over regular bras. A sports bra gives you confidence and prevents breasts from sagging and bouncing. It is also made with comfortable moisture-wicking fabrics.
Types of Sports Bra Based on Their Impact Levels
| Factors | Low-Impact | Medium-Impact | High-Impact |
| Purpose | Specifically made for minimal physical activities | Designed for activities that involve moderate movement | Designed for vigorous sports or physical activity that results in heavy breast bounce |
| Material | Made from lightweight and stretchy materials that offer comfort to your busts | Made of soft, lightweight and breathable materials | Made from materials that are quick-drying, breathable, and moisture-wicking |
| Preferences | Walking Weight-lifting Swimming Squats | Brisk walking Hiking Cycling Cross-training Dancing | Tennis Running Dancing Skipping |
| Cup Construction | Soft cups or no padding | Light padding or soft cups | Firm, moulded cups and extra padding |
| Strap Type | Adjustable, thin straps | Wider straps or cross-back ones | Wide, adjustable, cross-back straps – often racerback ones for stability |
| Compression/Encapsulation | Light compression, no encapsulation | Moderate compression, some encapsulation | High compression and strong encapsulation |
| Comfort | High comfort, soft, minimal support | Moderate comfort, slightly more structured | Maximum support may feel restrictive but is designed for performance |
Types of Sports Bras
1. Compression Bras
Compression sports bras, as its name suggests, force the breasts against the chest to keep them in place. It is ideal for smaller busts because it is made of elastic fabrics like spandex. These bras are ideal for low to medium-impact exercises.
Compression bras are excellent for minimising movement and pain during physical exercise, but they don’t contour the breasts as much as other bras.
2. Encapsulation Bras
Encapsulation sports bras come with in-built, separate cups that support each breast separately, providing more shape and support than compression bras.
It’s ideal for larger busts, preventing bounce during moderate to high-impact activities. These bras are made from breathable materials like spandex, nylon and polyester, making them comfortable for long wear. Encapsulation bras provide good support and separation, but they may not compress enough for very high-impact exercises.
3. Combination Bras
A combination bra blends the benefits of both compression and encapsulation bras. It compresses the breasts, at the same time, it also has individual cups for reduced movement.
It is highly suitable for high-impact activities like running or jumping. This type of bra gives both support and comfort.
4. Racerback Bras
A racerback bra is a style of bra in which the shoulder straps are crisscrossed instead of straight as is customary. The straps of racerback bras come together to produce a Y or T shape in the middle of the back.
Full shoulder movement is made possible by this design, which makes it perfect for weightlifting, yoga, and running.
By distributing weight equally, racerbacks offer additional support and aid in keeping straps in place. They are secure and comfy because they are composed of fabrics that are elastic and breathable. They combine beauty and functionality, fitting great under tank tops and being ideal for mild exercises.
5. Adjustable Sports Bras
An adjustable sports bra allows you to customize the fit with features like adjustable straps and bands. It provides a personalised and secure fit for different body shapes.
Adjustable bras provide a comfortable, snug fit for all types of activities, whether they are high or low-impact. They come in two main styles: compression and encapsulation. Both styles offer good support and are easy to adjust as your body changes.
6. Front-Closure Bras
A front-closure sports bra is simple to put on and take off due to its clasp or zipper in the front. For comfort and breathability, front-closure bras are typically composed of elastic, moisture-wicking materials.
They are suitable for low to medium-impact exercises and are available in both compression and encapsulation forms. They are an excellent option for light exercise or daily usage because of their easy closure.
7. Seamless Sports Bra
A seamless sports bra is made without visible seams, offering a smooth and comfortable fit that reduces chafing. They are specially made from stretchy and moisture-wicking fabrics, ensuring the necessary comfort during workouts.
8. Padded Sports Bra
A padded sports bra has soft padding in the cups for added support, shape and coverage. It reduces nipple visibility and provides a smoother look under the attires.
Padded sports bras add volume and shape for smaller busts and offer comfort during exercise. They come with removable or fixed padding and are made from soft, moisture-wicking materials. They are also suitable for low to moderate-impact activities.
9. Underwired
An underwired sports bra has a wire in the cups that provides extra lift and comfort, especially for larger busts. The underwire helps separate the breasts and keeps them in place, preventing bounce during any sort of physical activity.
They are highly suited for high-impact activities such as tennis or running. It is important to choose the right fit for enhanced comfort.
10. Pull-over Sports Bra
Pull-over bras are similar to tank tops. They provide ultra comfort and are suitable for smaller cup sizes and lower-impact activities.
Pull-over bras are ideal for low to medium-impact activities like yoga, walking or light workouts. They are simple and comfortable, often made of moisture-wicking fabrics to keep you dry. Pull-over sports bras don’t have cups or underwires, so they are best for activities that don’t require heavy support.
11. Criss-Cross Sports Bras
A criss-cross sports bra features straps that cross at the back, forming an “X” shape. This design offers extra support by distributing weight across the back and provides more shoulder mobility for activities like weightlifting or running.
These bras are ideal for moderate to high-impact exercises.
12. Maternity/Nursing Sports Bras
A maternity/nursing sports bra is designed for pregnant or breastfeeding women. It offers gentle support with adjustable straps and a wide band, accommodating body changes during pregnancy.
They help provide support while making nursing easier. Maternity sports bras are also comfortable enough for all-day wear.