Definition of "Sports Bra"

SPORTS BRA: noun; a garment made specifically by design and fabric type to support a bustline for activity of any kind

Notice how the definition does not include words like "pull over" or "compression". That's because sports bras have come a long way since two jock straps were sewn together to form the first sports bra.

As a bra fit X-pert, I review catalogs and samples of sports bras all the time. There are literally hundreds of options. As examples, sports bras can ...

1)pull over the head
2)adjust in the back
3)adjust in the straps
4)have an underwire
5)have seamless cups for everyday activities

Sports bras aren't just for sport. Talk to the Mom of three under the age of 10 about her day. She may not be "competing" in a sport, but she could probably use the support and comfort of a good sports bra given her active days.

If sports bras can offer all of the features I look for in an everyday bra, then why wear a sports bra?

What makes a sports bra different than a regular bra is the fabric content and design. A sports bra is designed to handle women in motion where a regular bra is designed with more a fashion focus. The fabric content of a sports bra also emphasizes its functionality. The majority of sports bras are made to manage moisture and breathe more than a regular bra.

This is not to say a sports bra is not a fashionable garment. These days there are lovely prints and colors to choose from for average sizes. But, even larger cups like C, D and DD are getting some color options now.

Maybe the term "sports bra" should be renamed to "active bra". You might find a sports bra or active bra more comfortable and functional for your busy everyday lifestyle, your workouts or both.