What’s the Best Sports Bra For Triathlon in 2024?
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Are you tired of sports bras that chafe during your third lap and sag by the time you hit the bike?
You’re not alone!
Every triathlete dreams of a sports bra that can keep up with them – literally…
Say goodbye to the awkward undergarment adjustments at every transition area.
Embrace the ideal blend of comfort, support, and style tailored specifically for the demands of triathlon!
Stick with me to find out which contender takes the crown for the best sports bra for triathlon in 2024.
Get ready to gear up with confidence and focus on breaking your PR, not your straps!
What Are the Best Sports Bras for Triathlon?
The right bra choice depends heavily on the breast support you need. But for the triathlon, I’d also say that you want to look for bras with quick-drying materials!
Of course, everyone will be sweaty and gross during a triathlon, but feeling like you are carrying unnecessary extra weight at your chest can be very annoying…
So, I like to opt for a supportive sports bra that is rather seamless with thin padding (or in my case even none at all).
I tried to review options suitable for every bra size.
Here they are:
1. Under Armour® Mid Crossback Sports Bra
The Under Armour® Mid Crossback Sports Bra offers mid-level support and comfort, making it suitable for a wide range of activities including triathlon training and racing.
Key Benefits
- Mid-level support is ideal for moderate-impact activities
- HeatGear fabric wicks away sweat and dries quickly for all-day comfort
- Crossback straps allow for a full range of motion
- Very good support for all cup sizes
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Mid-level support suitable for a variety of activities
- Moisture-wicking fabric keeps you dry and comfortable
- Crossback straps allow for freedom of movement
Cons:
- Some users may find the sizing runs small because of the compression
2. Nike Swoosh Light Support Sports Bra
The Nike Swoosh Light Support Sports Bra is designed for low-impact activities and offers a blend of comfort and support for triathletes.
Key Benefits
- Light support is ideal for low-impact activities like yoga and Pilates
- Dri-FIT technology wicks away sweat to keep you dry and comfortable
- Non-padded, thus holds less water from the swim
- Iconic Nike Swoosh logo
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Lightweight and comfortable for low-impact activities
- Flattering fit
- Available in many different colors
Cons:
- Might not offer proper support for bigger sizes
- May not provide enough coverage for larger cup sizes
3. Tres Pinas Women’s Endurance Sports Bra
The Tres Pinas Sports Bra offers a balance of support and comfort for triathletes, making it suitable for various activities during training and racing.
Key Benefits
- Medium support is ideal for moderate-impact activities like cycling and running
- Moisture-wicking fabric keeps you dry and comfortable
- Available in SO many pretty colors
- Stylish design with Tres Pinas branding
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Wide variety of colors
- High support
Cons:
- High shipping costs when ordering outside of the US
4. Brooks Racerback 2.0 Sports Bra
The Brooks Racerback 2.0 Sports Bra is designed specifically for runners and offers high-level support and comfort during intense workouts and races.
Key Benefits
- High-level support is ideal for high-impact activities like running
- DriLayer fabric wicks away sweat to keep you dry and comfortable
- Racerback design allows for freedom of movement
- Adjustable straps and back closure ensure a personalized fit
- Soft elastic underband provides a secure and comfortable fit
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- High-level support suitable for intense workouts and races
- Moisture-wicking fabric keeps you dry and comfortable
- Adjustable straps for a customized fit
Cons:
- May have limited availability compared to larger brands
- Higher price point compared to some other options
5. Ryzon Ritual Series Sports Bra
The Ryzon Sports Bra offers a combination of performance features and style, making it a versatile option for triathlon training and racing.
Key Benefits
- Extra soft fabrics
- Quick-drying fabrics
- Functional and very comfortable
- Chlorine and oil-resistant
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Matte fabric look with Ryzon branding
- Suitable for all sports
- Very comfortable bra
Cons:
- Higher price point
6. 2XU Aero Medium Impact Bra
The 2XU Aero Medium Impact Bra offers a balance of support and breathability, making it suitable for triathletes who require moderate support.
Key Benefits
- Medium-impact sports bra
- Breathable fabric
- Adjustable straps for a personalized fit
- Soft elastic underband for a full range of motion
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Secure fit
- Adjustable Racerback straps
- Can be worn for many different sports
Cons:
- Limited color options compared to other brands
7. Kiwami Sports Bra
The Kiwami Sports Bra fits very nice and offers a blend of performance and style. It provides support and comfort for triathlon training and racing.
Key Benefits
- Same patterns as the tri suits for a full matching fit
- Two layers of elastic supportive fabric
- Fast drying
- Ergonomic support with flat seaming
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Very colorful and wide variety of designs
- Extremely comfortable
Cons:
- Not everyone might like the funky designs
8. CW-X Xtra Support High Impact Sports Bra
The CW-X Sports Bra offers high-level support and stability, making it suitable for triathletes who require maximum support during intense workouts and races.
Key Benefits
- High-level support is ideal for larger breasts
- Moisture-wicking fabric keeps you dry and comfortable
- Multi-directional EXO-stretch body fabric
- High compression
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Encapsulates the breast very well
- High support for large breasts
- With support-web technology
Cons:
- Compressive fit might restrict your breathing
9. Craft Training Bra Classic
The Craft Sports Bra offers a combination of support, comfort, and breathability, making it suitable for triathletes who require versatile performance during their activities.
Key Benefits
- Tight fit for low-to mid-intensity training
- Moisture-wicking fabric for the best comfort
- Elastic underband for an optimal fit
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Very functional and basic
- Tight fit
Cons:
- Maybe not enough support for bigger sizes
10. Sweaty Betty Power Icon Running Bra
The Sweaty Betty Sports Bra offers a combination of style and performance, providing support and comfort for triathletes during their training and races.
Key Benefits
- Designed for high-impact workouts
- Mesh panels for ventilation
- Firm hold and a secure, high-support feel
- For sizes A to F
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Mesh panels are very well placed (ventilation and optical)
- Multi-way back straps offer a great fit
- Very stretchy materials
Cons:
- High price point
11. Zoot Women’s Ltd Tri Bra
The Zoot Women’s Ltd Tri Bra is specifically designed for triathletes, offering support and comfort during all three disciplines of swimming, cycling, and running.
Key Benefits
- Made for races for maximum performance and aerodynamics
- Racerback design allows for freedom of movement
- Seamlink stitch construction ensures next-to-skin comfort
- Vento 4-way stretch mesh for very good ventilation
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Quick-drying fabric for comfort during transitions
- Perfect for training and racing
- Stylish fancy designs
Cons:
- Compressive race garment, size up if you don’t want it to be too tight!
12. TYR Women’s Thin Strap TRI-BRA
The TYR Women’s Thin Strap TRI-BRA is specifically engineered for triathletes, offering a balance of support and comfort across all three disciplines.
Key Benefits
- The thin strap design reduces bulk and maximizes freedom of movement during swimming
- Medium support level ideal for moderate-impact activities like cycling and running
- Quick-drying fabric for comfort during racing
- Compression webbing for increased blood flow
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- The thin strap design enhances freedom of movement during swimming
- Medium support suitable for a range of activities
- Has many positive reviews
Cons:
- Some women may prefer more coverage or support
The History of The Sports Bra
Ever wondered how the sports bra evolved from a makeshift arrangement of jockstraps to an indispensable piece in every active woman’s wardrobe?
The journey of the sports bra began in the 1970s when Lisa Lindahl, Hinda Miller, and Polly Smith designed the first prototype using two jockstraps sewn together, creating what they humorously dubbed the “Jogbra.” (Source)
This rudimentary design was a response to the increasing participation of women in sports and the strong need for good breast support!
Over the decades, the sports bra has undergone significant advancements, driven by scientific research and innovation in materials and design. Which has been a game changer for ALL female athletes and active women!
Today, modern sports bras feature state-of-the-art technology, such as moisture-wicking fabrics, adjustable straps, and shock-absorbing materials, ensuring maximum support and comfort.
This evolution highlights the intersection of sports, science, and the changing landscape of women’s athletics.
Some More Sports Bra Science
Why does a triathlon bra feel like a second skin while your old regular bra could double as a medieval torture device during long runs?
The answer lies in the advanced technical features of modern sports bra design.
Contemporary sports bras incorporate encapsulation cups that individually support each breast, reducing movement and providing better control.
Wide elastic support bands distribute pressure evenly, preventing discomfort and chafing.
Very flat seaming minimizes irritation, ensuring a smooth fit.
This scientific approach to women’s athletic apparel aims to minimize breast pain, reduce movement-induced damage, and optimize performance, particularly under high physical strain and temperatures.
Additionally, modern sports bras often utilize breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics that help regulate body temperature and keep the skin dry, enhancing overall comfort and endurance during intense physical activities.
What makes the Best Sports Bra for Triathlon?
Choosing the right sports bra for triathlon isn’t just about comfort; it’s about strategy.
The best triathlon sports bra combines quick-drying properties, optimal support thanks to additional support features and a snug fit that reduces breast movement without constricting your breath.
Compression gear is often used in triathlon. I think it’s good for socks, pants, etc. but not for sports bras.
Yes, compressive fit can enhance blood flow and increase muscle performance…but I don’t see why this would boost our triathlon performance.
Because there’s a very interesting study that states, that a too-tight fitting underband of a sports bra impedes breathing and thus impairs running economy!
When you decrease the underband pressure, it’s easier to breathe, thus improving your running economy!
So keep this in mind when you are trying on sports bras!
(Also, try to breathe more heavily to simulate the conditions during your run. This makes it easier to see if the band is too tight or not.)
Buyers Guide: How We Conducted Our Research
When doing our research to find the best sports bra for triathlon, we determined using these factors:
- Pricing: How much did each product cost
- Features: What were the best features of each product?
- Negatives: What was missing from each product
Wrapping Up
Finding the best sports bra for triathlon is very important as it can make or break your race!
From running around with a wet chest to not having enough support and having boob pain all day long, all that can be solved by “simply” finding the right sports bra. It’s actually really not simple, but I hope this list could help you out!
Especially for all women I’ve compelled a list of must-have essential triathlon gear for women definitely check it out!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a sports bra be used for swimming?
Yes, a sports bra can be used for swimming, but it’s important to choose the right type. Look for sports bras made from quick-drying, chlorine-resistant fabrics that offer good support and minimal absorption of water.
Triathlon-specific sports bras are designed to be versatile enough for swimming, providing the necessary support and quick-drying properties to transition comfortably into the next stages of a triathlon.
How do I know what sports bra to wear?
Choosing the right sports bra depends on several factors, including breast size, the level of impact of your activity, and personal comfort preferences.
For high-impact activities like running or triathlon, look for a sports bra that offers firm support and features like encapsulation cups, wide straps, and a band that fits snugly around your rib cage. A compression bra or a combination of compression and encapsulation are often best for larger chest sizes.
Always try on sports bras to ensure a proper fit, checking that the bra provides enough support without restricting movement or breathability!
What do female triathletes wear?
Female triathletes typically wear a tri suit, which is a one-piece or two-piece outfit specifically designed for the swim, bike, and run segments of a triathlon.
Tri suits are made from breathable, quick drying fabrics that offer compression to aid in muscle recovery. They include a built-in or separate sports bra for support and sometimes have additional features like pockets for nutrition and padded cycling shorts built into the design for extra comfort during the bike ride.
A well-fitting tri suit is crucial for optimal performance and comfort throughout the race.
