my first bra-org...

nik and i went to “bralapalooza” last month at fleet feet in altamonte. i had always just bought the racer back basic bra they sell at target, i am a 34D and so i thought it needed to be tighter to support me better.  well i was wrong, not to mention that i was probably restricting oxygen flow!  sometimes i would double them up for a really snug fit, i know crazy right?

Stacy from fleet feet properly fitted me into a moving comfort brand bra, there were several styles to choose from in my size with really pretty colors.  Im not going to lie, this bra is substantial, i now say that this bra works harder than my husband at supporting me.  it is well constructed with a smooth band and soft straps, it distributes the weight so that i don’t feel tugging from any one particular area.  i usually feel like my breasts are in my way when i run, but no more.  oh and i do not miss the uni-boob i use to have, this is called incapsulating the breasts, which fleet feet says is needed for better support on larger sizes, whatever, it works!  oh and because they are separated they are dryer, hallelujah!  those things could get so drenched and they were right there under my nose, eeewww.  Stacy also said that your bra should be replaced after about 52 washes, so it should never see a birthday is how she put it.

the cost of the bra is more expensive than my old ones, about $44 for mine,  during the fitting event they offered a  20% so it was well worth the trip.  once you find a brand and style that you like shop around on line for deals and bargains on  discontinued colors.

Excerpt below taken from www.fleetfeetorlando.com

“Not all sports bras are created equal…

A good sports bra helps to eliminate breast movement and must have:

  • The ability to wick moisture, particularly between the breasts
  • Breathe ability for a cooling flow of air.
  • Ability to dry quickly
  • Correct proportions and contours to minimize chafing
  • Straps that do not dig into the shoulders
  • A band that does not shift or bind
  • Soft thread to minimize skin irritation
  • At least 25% Lycra to compress the breasts sufficiently.

There are three main types of sports bras:

  • Compression (Least support)
    • Most common
    • Designed to press breasts flat, as a single unit, to minimize movement
    • Best for A and B cup women
  • Compression/Encapsulation
    • Designed to encapsulate each breast and press them to the chest
    • Best for C, D and some DD women
  • Encapsulation (Most Support)
    • Looks more like regular bra
    • May have an underwire
    • Offers the most support by harnessing each breast individually

A sports bra’s fit is an integral part of its support:

  • The band of the bra should be offering the most support
  • The cups of the bra keep the breast in place and provide additional support
  • The straps are designed to do the least amount of work.
  • A good sports bra will fit more snugly than a regular bra.
  • Test for control with jogging in place or jumping jacks
  • The band should not ride up with activity

Remember that the life of a sports bra is approximately 6-12 months or 52 washings.”

Sincerely,

Zak

bodyNikki Blantonrunning