Size Guide - Women - Bra
The 2XU Support Bra collection is designed to cater to light, medium or high impact activities - we have a solution for every kind of athlete.
1. Is it common for women to be wearing incorrectly fitted sports bras?
Yes! Incorrectly fitted sports bras is a common problem that leads to chafing and excess bounce. Many women often select sports bras based on comfort and softness, however this tends to lead toward styles which aren't supportive enough for them. Even A and B cup women require support and less bounce as bounce leads to strain on breasts which can cause permanent damage.
Because there are no muscles in the breast, once your Coopers Ligament is stretched causing breast sag, it's irreversible. A supportive and correctly fitted bra will hold you in place thereby eliminating bounce, rubbing and chafe.
2. What should women look for in a sports bra to ensure a good fit? Is it strap width, fabric, under band V wire etc.
The most important criteria to achieving optimal fit are the key fit areas; under-bust, upper breast, underarm, and straps. All areas should be securely supported, yet not constricted. The wearer must be able to breathe easily during all levels of activity. The under-bust should be tight and act as a support for your breast. You should only be able to fit two fingers underneath the under-band. If there's more space than this or if you can see the back of the bra rising up, it's too big. Your bra should lightly rest on your skin on your upper bust as this is a common place for chafing. If you can lean forward and everything stays in place then you've achieved a good upper breast fit.
All breast tissue should fit inside the bra - especially under the arm. When running, the underarm should touch fabric not skin to reduce chafe. Straps should be tightened to minimise bounce. For those of C cup sizing or above, padding is required in the straps to prevent from digging in.
3. How often should sports women check their bra size as this can be effected by many things like weight variations and contraceptive medication?
To ensure best fit, ladies should get fitted every six months or every time a new sports bra is purchased - whichever comes first. This will ensure the bra is working at its best and offering top level support.
