Sports Bras!

[Becky]

Yes, that's exactly what I do. For me, this calculator was the most accurate: http://www.sophisticatedpair.com/bracalculator.htm. With an underbust measurement of 29", I usually end up in 30 bands. However, I can think of at least one brand where a 28 fits better and lasts longer because their bands are often stretchier than others.

It's possible that your issue is with both the cup and band sizing. You can isolate one from the other by putting the bra on backwards, with the cups in the back, and fastened on the last/loosest hooks. If you can pull the band more than 1/2" - 1" away from your body, the band size is probably too big. I say probably because some of this is personal preference. Yes, it looks a bit silly, but it rules out the possibility that any snugness you're feeling is from cups that are too small, rather than from a supportive, properly-sized band.

[Catrin]

Thanks Becky, I will check this out tonight. The Juno doesn't FEEL too snug when wearing it and it isn't difficult to get on, though getting it off is quite a challenge. Then again, it IS a substantial sports bra! The look on the sides tells me it isn't the perfect fit though, and I would like to address that the next time. My others are just too large now, apparently my 38D days are over and I am quite pleased with that! It makes sense that if the cups are too small that it would still make things feel comfortable even if the band isn't supporting properly.

[Catrin]

Yes, that's exactly what I do. For me, this calculator was the most accurate: http://www.sophisticatedpair.com/bracalculator.htm. With an underbust measurement of 29", I usually end up in 30 bands. However, I can think of at least one brand where a 28 fits better and lasts longer because their bands are often stretchier than others....

According to your calculator, I need a 30DDD/F which I've never heard of... So I plugged my numbers (31 ribcage, 36 cup) and got the same thing in other online calculators. So apparently I've an odd size as well....but using the usual calculation where you add to the band number, I would be a 36A which is just plain wrong.

To go further down this rabbit hole, I found THIS link that provides a chart of bra "sister sizes". According to this chart, 30F also = 36D (and a bunch of other sizes). So next time I go looking I've a few other options to check out. I've never heard of most of the bra sizes on this chart, interesting!

[goldfinch]

According to your calculator, I need a 30DDD/F which I've never heard of... So I plugged my numbers (31 ribcage, 36 cup) and got the same thing in other online calculators. So apparently I've an odd size as well....but using the usual calculation where you add to the band number, I would be a 36A which is just plain wrong.

To go further down this rabbit hole, I found THIS link that provides a chart of bra "sister sizes". According to this chart, 30F also = 36D (and a bunch of other sizes). So next time I go looking I've a few other options to check out. I've never heard of most of the bra sizes on this chart, interesting!

You are close to my size, as I am 30 on the rib cage and 35 around the bust. I find a 30 band works best in most bras. www.herroom.com has a lot of these smaller sizes with large cups. I bought a very large pile of bras from them, tried them out and sent back what I didn't favor.

[Catrin]

Very nice site, thank you! They have more sports bras there that I've ever seen, and the survey to help determine the type/shape of bra that might be needed is very interesting.

[SallyRides]

You might want to google Shock Absorber bras. They come in band/cup sizes, including smaller band/larger cups. They have different levels of support, so you can find ones for biking, running, etc. They tend to run a bit tight in the band. I normally wear a 30 band, but need a 32 in these bras. Cup sizes run pretty true. They aren't pretty, but if you are looking for support, they are awesome bras.

SR

[OakLeaf]

Anyone have a recommendation for an encapsulation bra for a small bust? I've been wearing compression all these years, but now with my ribcage/shoulder injury it isn't the best, plus Champion changed the weave of my favorite bra anyway so it's much less supportive and my b00bs sneak down under the band. I need longer straps - Moving Comfort seems to wind up with the band halfway up my b00bs - but really would prefer NON adjustable straps since the adjusters always chafe.

A lot to ask ...

[Catrin]

Anyone have a recommendation for an encapsulation bra for a small bust? I've been wearing compression all these years, but now with my ribcage/shoulder injury it isn't the best, plus Champion changed the weave of my favorite bra anyway so it's much less supportive and my b00bs sneak down under the band. I need longer straps - Moving Comfort seems to wind up with the band halfway up my b00bs - but really would prefer NON adjustable straps since the adjusters always chafe. A lot to ask ...

Oakleaf, I don't know how the Moving Comfort Juno does for smaller sizes, but I really like how the straps adjust. They adjust in the FRONT, where the strap meets the cups, it is a simple velcro-like attachment that goes through a loop and then attaches. Hard to describe, and it isn't sensitive to the skin at all. The Juno isn't a real encapsulation design but it isn't the real uniboob look that my other Moving Comfort is. I can provide a picture of what I am trying to describe if you are interested, I've not seen anything like it.

I've been looking at this Freya Active Molded Spacer Racerback bra. It comes in black, fully encapsulated, racerback (a requirement for me), and comes in every size imaginable. I will probably eventually pull the trigger.

[Catrin]

You might want to google Shock Absorber bras. They come in band/cup sizes, including smaller band/larger cups. They have different levels of support, so you can find ones for biking, running, etc. They tend to run a bit tight in the band. I normally wear a 30 band, but need a 32 in these bras. Cup sizes run pretty true. They aren't pretty, but if you are looking for support, they are awesome bras.

SR

Thanks for the suggestion. I've not heard of them before. They do look interesting, and it is quickly becoming apparent that whatever I try isn't going to be cheap...If the Freya doesn't work for me I will give this a shot - though I've not yet pulled the trigger on the Freya since I just got the Juno (even if it is too small).

[Becky]

I had reasonably good results with Shock Absorber, pre-correct sizing. Now, alas, they don't make their awesome run bra in a big enough cup size for me. I have high hopes that this will change! Based on that experience, I'd definitely recommend it if it comes in your size!

FWIW, the Panache sports bra that I wear has convertible racerback straps. The hook is very durable and easy to fasten, and the bra is supportive enough that I only need the racerback for some tops, not for extra support.