Signs You’re Wearing the Wrong Sports Bra 

The right sports bra can make all the difference in how you look and feel during workouts, or, for that matter, during everyday wear. A good-fitting sports bra will provide support, comfort, and give you confidence. On the other hand, the incorrect one can cause discomfort, distraction and even longer-term issues. If you’re constantly readjusting, scratching or feeling squeezed, you’re probably in the wrong sports bra. Here are a few of the most common culprits and what you can do to repair the damage.

You’re Breaking It All Day Long

If you’re having to pull it down or shift the straps, or adjust the band, these are among the earliest signs you’re wearing an incorrect sports bra. A great sports bra is one you don’t have to think about once you’re putting it on. If you find yourself wanting to expand on it more than once or twice during the day, it’s probably because the fit is wrong (either too loose, too tight or the wrong cut for your body shape).

Solution: Try to find a bra that sits comfortably but securely around your ribcage, no riding up, digging in, or twisting on your body (and never a loose elastic band). Adjustable straps and a wide underband will also help keep your bra from stretching out, moving around, or slipping down. Choose Venatrix Athletica.

Your Neck or Shoulders Hurt

The support should come from the band, and not just the straps.” If you have sore shoulders or a neck after wearing a sports bra, you probably aren’t getting enough support. The straps are thin, or they dig into your shoulders, which puts pressure on them, causing not just discomfort, but lingering discomfort, even after you take your bra off.

Solution: Opt for bras with wider, cushy straps and a stiff underband. Racerback designs may also help distribute weight more evenly and ease shoulder strain.

The Band Rides Up Your Back

A good-fitting band will rest flat across your back and will not slide down during your movement. If your bra’s band rides up, it means it’s too loose and isn’t providing you the support you are looking for. This frequently results in creating tons of tension in the straps by doing a ton of work in them, which is not what ya want.

Solution: Experiment with a smaller band size or a sports bra that has a hook-and-eye closure to ensure a snug fit. The band should be tight but not excessively so.

You Ache or Feel an Irritation on your Skin

Chafing on or around the underarms, at seams, or under the band: Scratching against your skin like this is another telltale sign that your sports bra is not the right fit. Scratchy fabrics, unfinished seams or an uncomfortable design that rubs can lead to irritation, especially when you’re slogging it out in a particularly intense (or long) workout.

Solution: Choose seamless styles that are made of soft, moisture-wicking fabric. Try on the bra, and move around to prevent any friction rubs before you commit to the bra.

There Is Too Much Bounce

The main task of a sports bra is to reduce breast movement. If you notice excessive bouncing, particularly during activities like running or jumping, your bra isn’t sufficiently supportive. This is not only uncomfortable, but can also cause long-term strain on the breast tissue.

Solution: High-support sports bras with moulded cups, compression, or encapsulation are the best option for your high-impact workout. Ensure that your breasts feel secure and contained, but not squashed.

The Cups Do Not Fit Properly

A red sports bra needs a proper cup fit as much as a regular bra does. If your breasts are spilling over the top, sides or bottom of the cups, they are too small. Conversely, if you see crinkling or gaping in the fabric, the cups are too large. And they can cause comfort and support problems.

Solution: Opt for a brand that makes suits with cup-specific sizing instead of small, medium or large. Notice how the fabric is resting on your skin and where your breasts are sitting in the cups.

You’re Gasping Or Feel Like You Can’t Breathe

“While [a sports bra]should be tight for support, there should be no restriction to breathing or movement,” adds Moyen. If you feel squeezed, confined or overly uncomfortable in the chest, your bra may be too small or simply not the right style for your level of activity.

Solution: Seek out designs with extra stretch, ventilation, and stretch fabrics for low to medium-impact workouts. The right level of structure and stretch will support you without squeezing.

Final Thoughts

A sports bra is one of the comfiest, most supportive articles of clothing you can ever wear. According to these warning signs, it’s probably time to evaluate your fit and see if another style might be the best for you. There’s no one-size-fits-all in the land of sports bras, so don’t hesitate to try on a couple of different styles until you find the one that feels just right. The best sports bra doesn’t just support you during your workout, but also features a perfect style and shape to support your comfort every day.