Running is one of the most economical sports in terms of equipment, with only two really important items for women runners (including recreational joggers): the right footwear and a high-performing sports bra. A high quality sports bra will provide maximum performance, support and comfort.

In this section we hope to provide a guide to purchasing a sports bra that's right for you!

What are the different types of sports bras? Please remember that (for now) the selection of sports bras is very limited in India.

Seamless sports bras are bras that take the "rub out of running" so to speak. Stitching across nipples may cause chafing and bleeding nipples making running very uncomfortable indeed.

Racerback sports bras have cross-over straps which remove the problem of your straps sliding off your shoulders while allowing for a full range of arm movement.  

Underwire sports bras include added underwire supports and are especially good for larger sizes.

Hooks-and-eyes sports bras come with the traditional adjustable bra back closure.

Tips for to choosing the right sports bra 

• Try on several different bra sizes. The right size for you may not actually be the cup size that you normally wear. The bra is too big if the material wrinkles or bunches. If the bra is cutting into your skin, then it's too small. It's a good fit if you can slide two fingers under the straps.
• Go for a bra with a snug fit for maximum support, however, it should not be so tight that it pinches your skin or you have trouble breathing!
• If you need a lot of support, select a bra with wide straps (at least one inch wide) that are adjustable to prevent painful digging in.
• Look for seamless styles that won't rub your skin raw.
• Check the hooks and eyes to ensure that they are covered with fabric or cushioning material.
• Select a sports bra that's made from synthetic fibers that breathe and wick moisture. Fabrics that absorb sweat, such as cotton, can feel uncomfortably wet, warm, and heavy.
• Go for seamless cups as seams over the nipple area may cause painful chafing or sore and bloody nipples.
• If you like underwire sports bras, make sure the underwire sits on your ribs and breastbone, not the breast tissue.
• Try on bras for fit and comfort, jog in place or do jumping jacks to test their support before you buy. While you're bouncing up and down, the bra should minimize breast movement.
• If you have found the perfect sports bra, don't wear it forever! Ideally, you should replace bras after about 72 washes, when the elasticity is lost, or if your weight changes significantly. You can air-dry bras to prolong the life of the moisture-wicking fabrics.

Extra Tip

If you have sensitive skin, applying some Vaseline (petroleum jelly) to skin irritated by sports bra wear can provide some relief.

Areas most prone to chafing include the ribcage (through contact with the chest elastic band), underarms (by the armholes), and shoulders (from the straps digging into the skin).