Some of my sport bras need to be retired, and I started doing some internet shopping. I talked to my girl runner gang about my dismay over how challenging it was. In an informal poll, I asked “I want a simple racerback style sport bra with no metal or adjustable anything or rough fabric that could possibly chafe. What do you recommend?” The answer I got was “Same. Let me know if you find it.” I love a shopping challenge.
I run about six times a week, I currently have six bras in rotation. I purchased them two or three years ago from Oiselle (so they have been washed 100-150 times, way more than the recommended 45 times). They are thee different styles, all pull on style and made of incredibly soft fabric that has good compression and compression. I like that the fabric covers the elastic in the bottom band. When I purchased these bras Oiselle was carried at REI and some local running stores. At this point, my only option is to order directly from them. I’m not excited about ordering because they charge for shipping and returns, and in my experience their sizing is not consistent. So I want a new company, but I want a lot of the same features. Also, I want to find a brand and style available from multiple retailers so I’ll have options.
Oiselle Kara Bra
I believe in investing in my running clothing (I ask a lot of these pieces). The bras that have lasted two to three years cost about $50. That is pretty much the top of my budget. My running friends are either on the same budget or would like to spend less.
Ideally, I want to find a sport bra that will still be available next year. I was really disappointed that the bras that have to be retired are no longer available. I even contacted Oiselle and was not excited that they have bras similar or based on similar models, but they might fit differently or have a lower neckline.
To sum up, my criteria are comfort, easy on/off, compression, no risk of chafing, availability (no shipping or return cost, multiple stores), budget, and potential to buy the same thing next year.
Since in person shopping is impossible/infuriating/a waste of time, I ordered several options. A few even made it to a run test. Here are the winners:
The Rabbit brand UtiliBRA-vo pocket bra. They also have a version with thinner shoulder straps. This is my suggestion if you need to carry a phone. This bra has an amazing pocket on the back. My phone fits in easily and I honestly forget it’s there. I usually run with a hydration vest that has a pocket for my phone. On a short run or in a race this bra makes it so easy to have my phone. The material is great. The compression feels like a little bit of a hug. I tested all bras by jumping up and down in front of my husband. He said this one is low on the bounce scale. I like Rabbit and have other pieces from them. They are carried by REI so you can get your member discount, their guarantee, and free shipping. $50 price from Rabbit, and the gray/yellow version is currently on sale at REI for $37. You can also get this item from Fleet Feet. They have a discount program but there is a shipping charge if you don’t hit the minimum. I do find that on long runs or in really humid weather I need to use runners glide where the band hits me on the front. The band is elastic. It’s a very soft and nice elastic, but it’s elastic.
Rabbit UtiliBRAvo
The Brooks Crossback 2.0 is the big overall winner. This bra is so magical it confused me. It was so comfortable that I ordered a smaller size to make sure it wasn’t too roomy (I was right the first time). This bra is in actual bra sizes (band plus A/B or C/D cup size). They have a great explanation of how to measure. The material is some kind of space age material that could be inspired by wetsuits. It’s mostly laser cut and the only stitches seams are on the side. Since the whole thing is this stretchy, soft, comfy material. There is no elastic band, and no seam along the bottom. After a couple runs in summer weather I’m sure it won’t chafe. This bra goes on easy and doesn’t feel constrictive (at all), but still rated low on the bounce test. I have tried this under a tank top, short sleeve shirt, and with my hydration vest and it felt great. Full price, this bra is $60, which is high for my scale. I was able to get two colors from Brooks for $40 each. They don’t charge for shipping and they allow up to 90 days to decide if your gear is really working for you. This item is also available at big stores like REI, Running Warehouse, and Fleet Feet. I’m hoping that there will be more sale options on Cyber Monday so that I can add to my collection.
Brooks Crossback 2.0 in Ukraine blue and yellow
For this experiment I also tried bras by Smartwool, Lululemon, and New Balance. If you would like the details on how that went, just let me know.