All cyclists have questions about cycling clothes and accessories, whatever their level. We've covered a few, such as whether or not you should wear underwear under your cycling shorts . Today we are going to answer the most common questions about sports bras on the bike. Do you have to wear one under the shirt? What kinds of bras are there on the market? Which are the best for cycling? What are the alternatives to sports bras? We'll also look at the most important things to consider when buying a sports bra for cycling and other sports . Let's start:
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DO I REALLY NEED A SPORTS BRA WHEN I'M CYCLING?
It is not mandatory, but it is recommended. The decision will mainly depend on your breast size. Riders with small chests can wear a tight-fitting base layer that provides enough compression and comfort. Many professionals use them to prevent chafing against the nipples, absorb perspiration and regulate body temperature by wicking away moisture.
But the more the chest circumference increases, the more it is advisable to wear a sports bra , for better support than with a simple undershirt. You have to get used to wearing it, but the effect is beneficial in the long term Read More For branded Bras
WHY WEAR A BRA WHEN I RIDE?
The main reason is the support of the chest, but the bra offers other advantages:
Prevention of pain . Cycling is a low- to medium-impact sport, but many women, especially larger-busted women, report that boob bouncing causes pain and discomfort during exercise.
Reduced fatigue and improved performance . We don't have data in female cyclists, but a University of Portsmouth study of female runners found a 55% reduction in pectoral muscle activity when wearing a good bra. This results in less fatigue and reduced energy consumption.
Sagging prevention . We spend a lot of time leaning forward on the bike, and the chest has no muscle to prevent sagging. Only skin and Cooper's ligaments support fat, tissue and other elements. These ligaments are not very strong. The support provided by a bra is therefore precious.
Better self-confidence and peace of mind . It's perhaps surprising by contemporary society's standards of beauty, but big breasts aren't always a good thing. Many women hold back from exercising because of breast movement. A bra provides the support necessary for freedom of movement without discomfort.
And other reasons include:
Sweat absorption . Women have to deal with sweat between and under the breasts. Places that an undershirt doesn't reach, especially with bigger breasts. The support band of a sports bra traps perspiration and wicks it away with its breathable fabric, to keep the skin dry and allow the body to regulate its temperature.
Prevention of chafing . Especially at the level of the nipples, which are very sensitive and delicate.
Freedom of movement and greater comfort . Wide, elastic straps prevent shoulder and back discomfort. Most Siroko bras are designed with a racer back design with a wide opening around the arms to prevent chafing in the armpits and shoulders. This design also allows excellent freedom of movement when you reach for the handlebars or when riding like a dancer.
Open the shirt . Here, and as often in life, the situation of women is more complicated than that of men. Men can open their jerseys during a climb and no one reacts. But for a woman, it is better to have a bra underneath. For your safety and that of other vehicles.
CAN I WEAR A CLASSIC BRA INSTEAD OF A SPORTS BRA?
Yes, but it's not recommended, let alone if you cycle regularly. A classic bra is not designed for sports. It doesn't provide enough support, the straps are narrow, the fabric less breathable (especially if it's made of cotton), and the metal/plastic parts can be uncomfortable. A sports bra specifically designed for cycling is a much better choice for comfort and performance.
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF SPORTS BRAS, AND WHICH ARE BEST FOR CYCLING?
First of all, there is no absolutely perfect cycling bra for everyone. There is a wide variety of models, and every woman should be able to find the one that suits her. The same woman can wear different models during the month (due to breast swelling and tenderness before menstruation) or during her life. The breasts generally enlarge over the years, due to the accumulation of fat. But in the case of cyclists, especially professionals or those who cycle a lot, it is possible to lose fat in the area and reduce the size of the bra.
That said, the three most common types of sports bras are:
The compression bra . It compresses the chest against the thorax to limit movement. They are not equipped with a cap to separate the breasts.
The sports bra or encapsulated bra, with cups that cover each breast separately.
The hybrid or combined bra : it has two cups to separate the breasts, covered with a compression band.
You will find among each type different models with various characteristics. The most important to consider are:
Sustain level. The higher the support, the stronger the compression and the less the chest bounces. There are bras for low, medium and high impact sports. Road cycling is considered a low-medium impact activity. Mountain biking is medium-high, depending on the discipline. In general, the larger the chest, the more support you need, and vice versa. But as we have already said, there is no ideal bra for everyone: it is above all a personal question.
Size . Sports bras generally come in sizes XS to XL. Remember to always take your measurements before buying online . To find out if the bra fits you and holds your breasts properly, do a few jumps in front of the mirror to see if it reduces breast movement or not. Another way is to insert two fingers between the support band and your skin. If you feel pressure, the bra is too small. If you can put them in very easily, the bra may be too big and won't support the breasts properly. The same rule applies to suspenders in the shoulder area. Make sure your breasts don't overflow. If they overflow, you need a larger size.
Frame . Underwires are not common, but some sports models use them for better support. These models are not recommended for cycling.
Padding and removable pads . They are mainly used for aesthetic reasons, as well as to provide more support. However, they generate more heat and perspiration, and are not recommended for cycling.
Braces . To avoid chafing and leave no trace on the skin when riding, the shoulder straps should be wide and adjusted correctly before each ride. Traditional and racerback designs are the most common options, with endless variations.
Fabric . Synthetic fibers (nylon, elastane, polyester) are commonly used thanks to their elasticity, high breathability and quick drying. Some models also contain merino wool. Cotton is not a fabric suitable for sports.
Seams. The less the better, especially in the areas that move the most and where there is the most pressure.
ALTERNATIVES TO CYCLING BRAS
If you don't want to or can't use a sports bra for any reason (respiratory issues, allergies, using a heart rate belt), here are some options that can give you the support you need:
Undershirts . We've already said it above: many cyclists can get enough support with a well-fitting base layer .
High cut shorts . The models are rare on the market, but represent an interesting option that can be worn with or without a jersey.
Aero suits . It is a one-piece suit that is a shorts and a jersey. Wearing an undershirt under the jumpsuit is recommended, because if it is cold or wet, the nipples will be visible.
Tank tops and crop tops . As long as they are close fitting and made of absorbent and breathable materials, they are a good alternative to sportswear. The ideal being that they have at least some of the characteristics mentioned in the article.
Sports bras are therefore not compulsory for riding. There are alternatives. But it's always a good idea to wear one! There are many models on the market to allow all women, whatever their chest size, to find the one they need to protect them and hold their chest firmly. We hope that this guide has been useful to you, and if you still have questions, do not hesitate to leave us a comment, we will answer you with pleasure.
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