Are you wearing the right sports bra for your workouts? The right sports bra can make all the difference — giving you the support, comfort, and confidence you need to perform at your best. A well-fitted sports bra minimizes breast movement, reduces discomfort, and even helps prevent long-term issues like ligament strain or sagging.
Whether you’re running, lifting, cycling, or doing yoga, learning how to choose a sports bra that matches your activity level and body type is essential. Let’s chime in with Olaben and explore how to choose the perfect sports bra for your fitness routine — so you can move with confidence, style, and all-day comfort.
Types of Sports Bras
Understanding the different types of sports bras is the first step to choosing the right one.
1. Compression Bras
These bras press the breasts against the chest wall to minimize movement.
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Best for low- to medium-impact activities like yoga, cycling, or strength training
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Often pullover style with no individual cups
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Lightweight and simple, ideal for A–B cup sizes
2. Encapsulation Bras
These bras have individual cups for each breast, offering structured support.
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Best for medium- to high-impact workouts such as running or HIIT
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Provides a more natural shape while reducing bounce
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Great for those seeking defined fit and maximum stability
3. Combination (Compression + Encapsulation)
These bras combine both methods for superior support.
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Perfect for high-impact activities like running, jumping, or dancing
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Offers reduced bounce plus individual cup support
- Highly versatile — a great choice if you cross-train
How to Choose the Right Sports Bra (Key Factors)
When shopping, keep these factors in mind:
1. Match Support Level to Activity
- High-impact (running, HIIT, aerobics): Choose a combination bra with wide straps and a snug band.
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Medium-impact (cycling, skiing, boxing): Encapsulation or supportive compression works well.
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Low-impact (yoga, walking): Lightweight compression bras are ideal for all-day comfort.
2. Get the Right Size
Proper sizing is everything.
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Band: It should feel snug but not restrict breathing. You should be able to fit two fingers under it.
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Straps: They shouldn’t slip off your shoulders or dig into your skin.
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Cups: Breasts should be fully enclosed with no spillage or gaping.
Tip: Measure yourself regularly — your size can change due to weight fluctuations, hormones, or aging.
3. Choose the Right Fabric
Look for moisture-wicking, breathable materials such as polyester or nylon blends. These keep sweat off your skin and reduce irritation. Avoid rough seams that might chafe during long sessions.
4. Prioritize Comfort & Adjustability
- Wide, padded straps help distribute pressure evenly.
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Adjustable straps and hook-and-eye closures allow a custom fit.
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Seamless cups and soft underbands prevent friction.
How to Find Your Perfect Sports Bra Size
Finding the right sports bra size is just as important as choosing the right style — and it’s easier than you think. A sports bra should fit slightly snugger than your everyday bra, but your size will typically be the same. Avoid sizing down, as this can restrict breathing and cause discomfort.
Because your body changes over time — due to weight fluctuations, hormones, pregnancy, or aging — it’s a good idea to measure yourself every time you shop for a new sports bra. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to get your most accurate fit:
Step 1: Measure Your Rib Cage
Use a soft measuring tape and measure around your rib cage, just under your bust. Round down to the nearest centimeter or inch. This measurement will determine your band size.
Step 2: Find Your Band Size
Match your rib cage measurement to the size chart below to find your band size.
Sports Bra Band Size Chart
|
Rib Cage Measurement |
Band Size |
|
25" – 27" |
30 |
|
27" – 29" |
32 |
|
29" – 31" |
34 |
|
31" – 33" |
36 |
|
33" – 35" |
38 |
|
35" – 37" |
40 |
|
37" – 39" |
42 |
|
39" – 41" |
44 |
Step 3: Find Your Cup Size
Now, measure around the fullest part of your bust, keeping the tape straight across your back. Round up to the nearest whole number.
Subtract your rib cage measurement from your bust measurement — the difference tells you your cup size.
Sports Bra Cup Size Chart
|
Difference (inches) |
Cup Size |
|
3" |
AA |
|
4" |
A |
|
5" |
B |
|
6" |
C |
|
7" |
D |
|
8" |
DD |
|
9" |
E |
|
10" |
F |
Example: Bust 43" – Rib Cage 36" = 7" difference → D Cup
Step 4: Convert to Olaben Sizing
Olaben uses an Asian fit, which runs slightly smaller than US/EU sizing. If you’re between sizes or used to Western sizing, we recommend sizing up for the most comfortable fit.
Olaben International Size Conversion
|
Olaben (Asian Fit) |
US Size |
EU Size |
|
XS |
XXS |
32 |
|
S |
XS |
34 |
|
M |
S |
36 |
|
L |
M |
38 |
|
XL |
L |
40 |
Women's Tops Size Guide
|
Measurement |
XS |
S |
M |
L |
XL |
|
Bust (cm) |
74–85 |
86–91 |
92–97 |
98–103 |
104–109 |
|
Under Bust (cm) |
61–69 |
70–75 |
76–81 |
82–87 |
88–93 |
|
Waist (cm) |
57–66 |
67–71 |
72–77 |
78–85 |
86–91 |
Finding a Good Sports Bra: Olaben’s Top Picks
Finding the right sports bra doesn’t just come down to size — it’s also about style, support, and comfort that match your favorite activities. Olaben designs sports bras with premium fabrics, flattering cuts, and functional details to keep you supported through every movement. Here are some of our favorites:
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Classic Serein 3D Single Strap Shoulder Bra – Mint Cream: one-shoulder statement piece that’s equal parts chic and supportive. Perfect for low- to medium-impact workouts like yoga or Pilates, this bra adds a stylish twist to your activewear collection.
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Evo Sculpt Bra – Off White: Designed for high-impact support with sculpting panels and a sleek silhouette. Ideal for running, HIIT, or strength training while still looking effortlessly polished.
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Life Contrast Racer Back Bra – Black: A classic racerback cut that offers excellent freedom of movement and breathability. A versatile option that transitions seamlessly from gym workouts to everyday wear.
- Everyday Sweet Bra – White Cherry: Soft, lightweight, and designed for all-day comfort, this is your go-to for light workouts, lounging, or layering under casual outfits.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to choose a sports bra is about finding the perfect balance of support, comfort, and style. Take the time to measure yourself, try on different types, and match the bra to your activity level.
A great sports bra doesn’t just enhance your workout — it protects your body and helps you feel confident with every move.
