But you’re not alone. You can call the STUDIO on (08) 9361 1300 to talk with a Fitter or organise a Virtual Bra Fitting.
If you’re in WA, you’re welcome to drop-in for a STUDIO Fitting.
Why Wear a Sports Bra?
University of Newcastle (AU) and University of Portsmouth (UK) research suggests that bra comfort improves when the support rating is matched to the likely amount and type of breast movement.
For sport and exercise, the sports bra with the right support rating can reduce up-and-down’ and ‘side-to-side’ (‘figure 8’) breast movement and the back-and-forward breast movement that occurs with more intense activities.
For larger breast sizes, a sports bra can be more comfortable for work or everyday because they tend to reduce breast projection and provide better support.
Choosing a Sports Bra that Looks & Feels Right
Anita product description …high function pique fabric for quick moisture management…three-section cups, supported at the sides with a clever side sling solution while providing excellent support…combination of tailored cups on the outside with a seamless inside..…’
What did we learnt from fitting sports bras for breast shape and wear comfort?
Measuring comes first because, sometimes, what we would like to be isn’t what we measure. Discussion then usually turns to bra style. Is high or medium support needed? Will the shape of the underarm band be comfortable over incisions. Does strap adjustment and the other parts of the bra suit the torso? And then, which colours?
Why can it be easier to select a sports bra with the right look and feel on our Australian ONLINE Fitting STUDIO?
We created separate medium and maximum support sports bra categories.
To make it easier to find a wireless sports bra with the shape and parts suited to your breast surgery, we put our sports bras on a mannequin, made side-by-side comparisons, then rated the outcomes. The shape and parts ratings for the Anita Extreme Control Sports Bra are described below.
Since our research suggests we make better choices when the eye is not distracted by the model, we cropped our sports bra images and put all the colours for each bra on the same page so you know what’s available, can see them side-by-side, and can choose one or more colours at the same time.
To help you get your sports bra size right, our Fitter’s Size Guide explains how we do it in the STUDIO.
And, if we fit a pocket(s) in your sports bra at the time of purchase, don’t forget to check if you can claim for a pocketed sports bra on Private Health Insurance.
How Does Sports Bra Shape Affect Fit?
This is how the shape of the Anita Extreme Control Sports Bra compares with our other bras. The Fitted Shape description at the top of the page gives you a quick guide when browsing.
Cleavage The medium/high height cleavage encloses the upper breast to reduce breast movement, cover chest scarring and, if a pocket(s) is fitted, ensures the breast form or partial form is fully concealed.
Cup Type & Shape The soft three section cup encapsulates, lifts and holds the breast more firmly against the chest and has a shaped side panel for added support. This reduces breast projection and creates the slightly flatter breast shape that reduces breast movement.
Underbust Band The wider underbust band reduces the risk of lymph flow restriction, supports the breast and stabilises the bra, improving wear comfort.
Underarm Band The medium height underarm band is likely to cover the tissue flap that can occur at the end of a mastectomy incision. Soft seams and no rigid side stays for better wear comfort over incisions. The medium height is usually sufficient to contain excess underarm tissue, but the upper edge of the band may sit near or over a lymph node removal or lumpectomy incision. NewGel scar management can be an option for reducing and fading new or older lymph node (axillary clearance) or lumpectomy scars that show above the underarm band.
Back Band The narrower back band allows for tops with a deeper back cut-out.
Straps Medium width and padded over the shoulder. The elasticised section in the back strap absorbs breast movement to improve shoulder comfort. The straps are medium spaced across the shoulder.
What Parts of a Sports Bra Affect Fit?
Non Underwire The wire free seam around the bottom of the cup reduces the risk of localised pressure on the chest, around the breast and over incisions. University of Newcastle research suggests underwires may not improve bra support, but after a mastectomy, lumpectomy, breast reconstruction or other breast surgery, localised pressure from underwires can aggravate the lymph system and trigger swelling.
Side Stays (or Bones) No stays. Beware, side stays in the underarm band can press on incisions.
Cup Non pocketed. A pocket(s) can be fitted for a breast form, partial form or shaper. Having a pocket(s) fitted at the time of purchase may allow you to claim for a pocketed sports bra on Private Health Insurance.
Fastening Rear clips.
Band Adjustment The rear fastener has 3 clip adjustment positions. The clip gauge matches standard bra extenders, allowing an extender to be fitted.
Strap Adjustment Sliding buckles on the back of the straps allow for strap adjustment. Beware of non-adjustable straps. For longer or shorter torsos, this can result in the bra band sitting up into the breast or too low below the breast.
Why Question Sports Bra Performance?
Material 76% Polyester, 19% Nylon, 5% Elastane.
Support Rating Claim: Maximum support (Anita code A4). Anita rates their bras as ‘maximum support’ when they have at least one of the following: robust supporting materials in the cup, supportive materials in the back and/or wider padded straps. When compared with our other fashion bras, our fitting experience suggests maximum support.
Free of Harmful Chemicals (Latex) OEKO-TEX Ready-to-Wear Product Certificate No 98.0.1439.
Life of the Bra Manufacturers don’t provide information. Our observations suggest appropriate care and adjustment may extend the life of a quality sport bra from 6-9 to 12-18 months.
Brand & Manufacture German brand. Made by Anita in Romania.
