Let’s be honest. Sports bras are a major grudge purchase. So little fabric. So much cash to fork out. And unless you’re a body-confident woman who regularly rocks the crop (high-five if you are) no one even sees it. But you need a good sports bra. Even if you have tiny boobs, wearing a bra that doesn’t give them enough support can lead to serious injury. So when Cotton On Body launched their first high impact sports bra, we couldn’t wait to give it a try. Here’s how it stacks up.
1/ It’s pretty.
Even if you’re not working out topless, you want to look hot in your bedroom mirror. And with all the cute cut-outs, mesh and wide arm-hole details going on with workout tops these days, when you flash a glimpse of crop, you don’t want to be flashing Ouma’s sensible beige. This bra comes in a range of colours and prints with leggings and shorts to match.
Cotton On Body’s first high-impact sports bra comes in a range of colours and prints.
2/ It’s snug.
A good sports bra needs to have a snug fit without digging into your skin. Even though I have smaller breasts, this bra kept them in place with no jiggle room, but they also didn’t feel uncomfortably squashed. Adjustable cross straps help you customise the fit. The clasp eliminates the need for heavily elasticated fabric.
3/ It will work for most women.
While I have small breasts, the design is universally flattering. Higher sides and a moulded shaped encapsulate your breasts, while a slight nod to a sweetheart neckline creates a bit of cleavage.
The Verdict
I tested the bra in few callisthenics workouts and it survived going upside down. Encouraged, I decided to take it for a run. I’m no endurance athlete, but I took it on a quick five-kay and it was wonderfully comfy. The fabric felt soft against my skin and the broad, padded straps prevented any digging in. My breasts felt supported in the best way – I wasn’t aware of them as I ran. So I went big and wore it in a 10-kay race. Still totally comfy. I wasn’t aware of the bra at all. The fabric isn’t as breathable as some of my other (more expensive) sports bras and with the moulded, padded cups, I imagine it would get quite sweaty on a long run. I had to peel it off after my race. But for five or 10 kays, you’re not wearing it long enough for that to become a problem. There’s also the question of how long it will last – I’ve had mine for a couple months now, but I rotate it. For the price though, it’s a suprisingly good bra for a bargain.
The bra retails for R250 in sizes XS to XL.
