For women who live active lifestyles, sports bras are an absolute necessity. They provide the support and comfort needed to perform physical activities without any discomfort or pain. Finding the ideal sports bra, however, can be difficult.
Women often encounter a variety of problems when wearing sports bras, including chafing, bouncing, and general discomfort. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best solutions for common sports bra-related problems so that you can find the perfect sports bra for your needs.
Problem: Chafing
Chafing occurs when the skin rubs against the fabric of the sports bra, causing irritation and discomfort. This is a common problem, especially for women who engage in high-intensity workouts. Fortunately, there are several solutions to this problem.Solution 1: Make sure your sports bra fits accurately
The number one reason for chafing is an inaccurate fit. If your sports bra is too loose, the fabric will move a lot on your body which can lead to chafing. Make sure you have the correct size and to adjust your sports bra to make it fit perfectly.
Solution 1: Look for a sports bra with flat seams and or a seamless cup design
Sports bras with flat seams are less likely to cause chafing. The smooth seams reduce friction, preventing irritation and discomfort. Sports bras that have seamless cups on the inside are even better to minimize chafing!
Solution 2: Use anti-chafing balm
Anti-chafing balm can be applied to the areas of the skin that are most prone to chafing, such as the underarms and around the bra line. The balm creates a protective barrier which reduces friction and helps prevent irritation. Anti-chafing balms can be found in many drugstores, or you can simply buy them online. However, anti-chafing balm should only be your last option if your skin is extremely sensitive! A well-fitting sports bra should not lead to any chafing no matter your activity!
Problem: Bouncing
Bouncing is another common problem that women often encounter when they work out. In addition to causing pain and discomfort, bouncing can also cause irreversible damage to the breasts. Women may also feel more self-conscious when their breasts bounce while they exercise, lessening their motivation to work out.
Solution 1: Invest in supportive sports bras
Wearing a sports bra that doesn’t offer adequate support is one of the biggest reasons why you may find your breasts bouncing excessively when you work out. Investing in supportive sports bras, such as the ones we offer can help with any unnecessary bouncing. Our supportive sports bras are available in a wide variety of styles and designs so that you can easily find the one that best fits your needs.
Solution 2: Match your sports bra to the activity
Sports bras are rated for impact, ranging from low to high impact. Women who engage in high-intensity workouts should look for sports bras with a high-impact rating. These bras provide maximum support, reducing bouncing and discomfort.
Problem: Straps digging in
Straps digging into your skin can be very uncomfortable and may cause bruising over time.
Solution 1: Look for a sports bra with wide and or padded straps
Sports bras with wide straps distribute weight more evenly, reducing the pressure on the shoulders and preventing digging. Many styles in our Anita Active collection, such as the PanAlp™️ Wool or the PERFORMANCE, feature straps that increase according to the size of the sports bra. Alternatively, you could go for our EXTREME CONTROL sports bra, which is one of many of our sports bras that features padded and ergonomically shaped support straps.
Solution 2: Go for sports bras with adjustable straps
Sports bras that have adjustable straps offer more flexibility and versatility than ones that don’t have them. Almost all of our sports bras have adjustable straps and our recommendations include the DYNAMIX STAR or the MOMENTUM.
Make sure the straps are tight enough to provide support but not so tight that they dig into your skin.
Problem: Difficulty putting on/taking off
Some sports bras can be difficult to put on and take off, especially if they have a lot of compression, if they are pull-over the head styles or if you don’t have a full range of motion.
Solution 1: Look for sports bras with front closures
Sports bras with front closures are easier to put on and take off than those with back closures. Look for sports bras with hook-and-eye or zipper closures for convenience. Our FRONTLINE OPEN sports bra combines hook-and-eye closures with Velcro-type fasteners over the front, making it easier to dress and undress. It also features fully adjustable straps for maximum comfort.
Solution 2: Choose a sports bra made from stretchy fabric
Sports bras made from stretchy fabric are easier to put on and take off than those made from a tight, compression fabric. Look for sports bras made from spandex or elastane for added stretchiness. Our Light & Firm sports bra is made out of 80% nylon and 20% elastane. It offers firm support for medium impact workouts, but is also suitable for day to day wear.
Problem: Not breathable
Sports bras that aren’t breathable can cause discomfort and even skin irritation as the air cannot permeate while you sweat.
Solution 1: Look for a sports bra made from breathable fabric
Sports bras made out of breathable fabrics allow air to circulate, keeping you cool and comfortable. Our #1 recommendation for this is the AIR CONTROL, our ultra-lightweight sports bra that features breathable and air-permeable net sections. Alternatively, you may want to consider the AIR CONTROL DELTAPAD, which features our exclusive Delta Pad design, combined with an ultra-light mesh fabric and air ventilation, making it the perfect padded sports bra.
Solution 2: Choose a sports bra with mesh panels
Sports bras made with mesh panels provide added ventilation, allowing air to flow through and keeping you cool and dry. Some of our selections from Anita Active that make use of mesh include the aforementioned AIR CONTROL DELTAPAD, the EXTREME CONTROL, and the EXTREME CONTROL PLUS.