Need a Lift? Buying a Better Sports Bra

A proper sports bra may be the ticket if you think there's a little too much bounce to your workout. Because the breast's skin and ligaments don't provide ample support during activity, repeated vigorous motion increases the chance of overstretching and permanently sagging breasts. And if you think it's just the well-endowed among us that have to worry, think again. All women, regardless of cup size, can benefit from the support provided by a good quality, proper-fitting sports bra.

Thankfully, sports bras are no longer one-size-fits-all. They're made from high-tech materials and designed to be comfortable, functional and fashionable. Here are our recommendations for choosing the sports bra:

Type cast: Sports bras come in two basic styles: compression and encapsulation.

Compression designs do exactly what you think: bind and press your breasts against your body, like a giant, snugly fitting Ace bandage. They're made from strong, elastic-blend fabrics and work best for small-to-medium-breasted women.

Encapsulation designs separate breasts into individual cups much like a tougher version of a standard bra design. They work best for larger-breasted women.

Fit: A perfectly fitting sports bra is as important as a perfectly fitting shoe. Your bra should be snug but not constricting, slightly tighter than an everyday bra. Bigger-breasted women should look for extra material under the armpit to ensure ample coverage.

Support: To reduce irritation and chaffing, your bra should limit movement as much as possible. If you choose a compression style and do an activity such as running, look for a model that's at least 25 percent spandex; anything less binding-yet-stretchy will have too much give. For the most support, look for minimal vertical (neck to belly button) stretch in the fabric. However, horizontal stretch is necessary for unrestricted breathing as well as getting the bra on and off.

Fabric: Look for a model that's a blend of 50 percent cotton and "breathable" material such as CoolMax. These materials will keep your skin drier and cooler than cotton alone. They also absorb sweat and minimize odor.

Seams: Seams should be smooth and soft to prevent chafing. Snaps, hooks and zippers should also be well-covered. If the seams of your bra still irritate your skin, try wearing it inside out.

For pregnancy: If you think being pregnant means that you'll never find a good sports bra, you're in for a pleasant surprise. InSport makes a bra that grows as you and your baby grow.

Caring for your bra: To make them last a long time, treat your sports bras like fine lingerie. Wash them in a gentle cycle and in a garment bag so they don't get twisted and pulled in your washing machine. Never put them in the dryer, as that weakens elasticity. If odor is a problem, use an additive with your laundry detergent.

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