Around forty-seven years ago, in 1977, Lisa Lindahl, an American runner, invented the sports bra, revolutionizing athletic wear for women. It resolved the problem of bouncy boobs, saving women from breast pain, ligament tears, stretch marks, back and neck discomfort, and public embarrassment. 

Once this breakthrough invention was a hit among women runners, there was no turning back! With multiple innovations over the years, today, women with breasts of all shapes and sizes can find appropriate sports bras for running. 

However, with so many options available, there’s much confusion about finding the perfect running bras. Today, we will guide you into selecting the best sports bra for running to help you enjoy comfortable athletic experiences!

Understanding the level of support you need during running

Women’s sports bras are designed to provide three levels of support, including low, medium, and high, considering different workout intensities and breast sizes. Running being a vigorous activity, it is best to wear a high-impact running bra to minimize excessive breast movement. If you have a smaller bust, a medium-support bra can be sufficient, too! However, low-support bras are a complete no-no for everyone because they are meant for mild physical activities such as yoga or walking. 

Figuring out sports bra fittings: band size, cup size, and all that jazz

Now that it’s clear that medium and high-impact running bras are best suited for running, let’s dive into finding the perfect fit! Remember that while every brand has its unique size charts, the fundamentals of bra measurements remain the same. Your bra size (say, 34D) comprises two components: an even number (34) representing the band size and a letter (D) indicating the cup size. Follow the steps given below to measure your bra size correctly:

  • Gather all tools: Grab a measuring tape, paper, and pencil and put on a non-padded bra, or skip it altogether for the most accurate figures. 
  • Measure your bust size: Wrap the tape around the fullest portion of your breasts and note the measurement in inches. If the numbers are in fractions, round up to the closest inch. For instance, if it’s 37.7”, consider it 38”. 
  • Figure out your band size: Measure around your rib cage right under your breasts, where the bottom band of the sports bra would sit. Then, use the brand’s size chart to determine your exact band size. 
  • Calculate your cup size: Subtract your band size from the bust size and compare the difference with the brand’s cup size chart. For example, if your bust size is 38” and your band size is 34”, the difference is 4”, meaning your cup size would most likely be D.

Okay, you followed all the rules and determined your bra size. Is that enough? Nope! Ultimately, you must wear the bra and check if it fits you snuggly around the bust and band area. It should neither be tight nor too loose—you should be able to breathe comfortably. The straps should stay in place, and the cups should fully cover your breasts. Lastly, try jumping or jogging on the spot. If there’s minimal bounce, you’ve found the best sports bra for running! 

Explore Plunge 2.0 Sports Bra by Brooks Running!

The Plunge 2.0 women’s sports bra by Brooks Running is a pullover medium-support running bra with ample compression to reduce breast motion and improve comfort. The design incorporates mesh in strategic places to improve airflow and tackle the problem of boob sweat, keeping you cool throughout the run. The broad racerback straps do not slip off the shoulders, while the bottom band provides a secure, supportive feel to the breasts. It’s a no-nonsense sports bra tried, tested, and loved by women runners. 

Use the Brooks Running bra size chart below and order your Plunge 2.0 sports bra for running today! 

Brooks Running bra size chart:

  • XS: 30 A-E
  • S: 32 A-E
  • M: 34 A-E
  • L: 36 A-E
  • XL: 38 A-E
  • XXL: 40 A-E