Choosing the right sports bra is one of the most important things you can do for your comfort, support, and confidence during exercise. Whether you're heading out for a walk, lifting weights at the gym, or training for a marathon, the right sports bra can make a significant difference to how you feel and perform.
For over 25 years, DeBra's has helped women find sports bras that allow them to move comfortably and confidently. This guide will help you avoid common mistakes and understand what to look for when choosing a sports bra.
Biggest Mistakes When Choosing a Sports Bra
Choosing the wrong sports bra can lead to discomfort, inadequate support, and an overall poor exercise experience. Here are some of the most common mistakes we see in the fitting room.
Not Getting Fitted
Many women wear a different size in a sports bra than they do in their everyday bra, particularly if they haven't been fitted recently. A sports bra should feel firmer and more secure than an everyday bra, but it should never feel restrictive or uncomfortable.
If you're unsure of your size, a professional fitting is the best place to start. DeBra's offers complimentary in-store and virtual fittings to help you find the right fit.
Ignoring Impact Levels
Different activities require different levels of support.
Low-impact activities such as yoga, Pilates, and walking generally require less support, while running, HIIT, and court sports place much greater demands on your sports bra. Choosing the appropriate support level can dramatically improve comfort and reduce breast movement during exercise.
Choosing Style Over Function
While it can be tempting to choose a sports bra based on appearance alone, support and functionality should always come first.
Look for features such as supportive bands, adjustable straps, encapsulated cups, moisture-wicking fabrics, and secure closures. A sports bra that fits well and supports properly will always outperform one chosen solely for its appearance.
Overlooking Strap Adjustability
Straps play an important role in achieving a secure fit. Adjustable straps allow you to customise the fit to your body and help ensure the bra remains supportive over time.
The straps should sit comfortably on the shoulders without digging in or slipping off during movement.
Overlooking Strap Adjustability
One of the biggest differences between sports bra styles is how they control movement.
Compression sports bras work by pressing the breasts closer to the chest wall. These styles are often popular for lower-impact activities and smaller bust sizes.
Encapsulation sports bras support each breast individually using separate cups. For fuller busts, this is often the preferred option as it provides better shape, comfort, and support while significantly reducing movement during exercise.
Many of today's best sports bras combine elements of both compression and encapsulation to maximise support.
Do You Need a High Impact Sports Bra for Running?
In most cases, yes.
Running is a high-impact activity that creates significant breast movement. A high-impact sports bra helps minimise bounce, improve comfort, and reduce strain during exercise.
When shopping for a running bra, look for:
- A firm, supportive band
- Wide, comfortable straps
- Encapsulation or combination support
- Secure cup coverage
- Moisture-wicking fabrics
The Panache Endurance Non-Padded Wired Sports Bra is one of our most recommended styles for running and other high-impact activities thanks to its exceptional support and comfort.
Should a Sports Bra Be Tight or Loose?
A sports bra should feel firmer than your everyday bra, but it should never feel restrictive.
Many women are surprised by how secure a properly fitted sports bra feels. That extra firmness is what allows the bra to minimise movement during exercise.
A few fit checks:
- The band should sit firmly and level around the ribcage.
- You should be able to fit two fingers comfortably beneath the straps.
- The cups should fully contain the breast tissue without gaps or overspill.
- The bra should feel secure without restricting breathing or movement.
If the band rides up, the bra is likely too loose. If you're spilling from the cups, you may need a larger cup size or a different style.
DeBra's Fitting Consultants Sports Bra Favourites
Choosing the right sports bra is essential for comfort and support during workouts. Avoid common mistakes, understand your support needs, and ensure a proper fit to get the most out of your sports bra. DeBra's offer a wide range of sports bras designed to meet the needs of every woman.
Here are some of DeBra's top recommendations.
For High-Impact Activities
Panache Power Moulded Sports Bra offers excellent support and comfort with moulded cups and breathable fabric.
Sculptresse Activate Non-Padded Underwired Sports Bra is ideal for high-impact activities, with maximum support for reduced breast movement.
For Medium-Impact Activities
Triumph Triaction Ultra W Sports Bra is perfect for medium-impact workouts and features moisture-wicking fabric with a comfortable fit.
Glamorise Magic Lift Full Figure Sports Bra features a seamless design, perfect for walking, cycling, yoga or weight training. This style also offers an impressive size range, 12-28, up to a H cup.
For Low-Impact Activities
Panache Boundless Moulded Non-Wired Sports Bra With Band is suitable for low-impact activities. This bra provides light support and is incredibly comfortable.
Glamorise Magic Lift Active Support Bra is designed to move where ever the day takes you. With added back support, this is your go-to for all-day comfort and posture support.
The right sports bra can transform your workout experience. Whether you're looking for maximum support for running, a comfortable gym bra, or a wire-free option for everyday activity, finding the right fit is key.
DeBra's proudly stocks sports bras in sizes 6–36 and cup sizes A–LL, helping women of all shapes and sizes find the support they need to move comfortably and confidently.
Explore our range of sports bras and discover the difference a properly fitted sports bra can make.
Need Help?
For over 25 years, professional bra fitting has been at the heart of what we do. Our experienced fitters can help you find the right sports bra for your size, activity level, and support needs.
DeBra's offers complimentary In-Store Fittings, Virtual (Zoom) Fittings, phone consultations, and support via Live Chat, so expert advice is always within reach.
Book your complimentary In-Store Fitting Appointment or a Virtual Fitting Appointment, or if you have a question, you can contact our customer service team during business hours through Live Chat, which can be found in the bottom right hand corner of the website.