Fabric: Ripstop, water-resistant, abrasion-resistant, weatherproof – you’ll see a host of these terms bandied around when it comes to duffel material. For travel, you need something that stands up to heavy handling, so look for durable fabric. Water resistance is good, but will add weight. Remember, anything with a zip – even if it is a coated zip – is never fully watertight. Icebreaker is all about using natural materials, so it’s no wonder its sports bras are made from a durable merino-nylon blend called Corespun. Merino’s magical properties include thermoregulation in all weather conditions, as well as being naturally antimicrobial. This means less odour build-up so you can wear it for longer between washes. Combination sports bras provide a bit of both. These will have separate moulded cups as well as providing compression to keep everything in place while you move. These are suitable for a wide range of cup sizes, and can provide sufficient support for medium-to-high impact cycling. These also tend to be the most comfortable for all-day wear and long-distance riding. How much support do I need? We can’t advise you on what size you need, but it’s well worth getting your measurements taken when it’s possible. Encapsulation bras are constructed with two individually moulded cups to hold each breast separately, rather than squashing them together. This can help to keep everything in place while providing a high level of support for those with a larger cup size. Keeping the breasts parted can be more comfortable, particularly with a fuller bust, as well as allowing air to circulate. Their high-impact support makes them suitable for sprinting, HIIT workouts, and off-road riding.

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The Luxe bra, being specifically designed for cycling, provides light- to medium- compression support, which is more than adequate for most cyclists. If you’re a multi-sport enthusiast it may not be the one for you, but if all your exercise happens on the bike, then this is an excellent option for many. Pacsafe’s safety concerns extend to the environment, too. We love that the bag’s ‘Econyl’ nylon outer shell is made from recycled plastic like discarded fishing nets. It’s water-resistant and easy to clean, too, so should last years.Shoulder straps will vary in width, orientation, and adjustability. Some will be padded to provide more comfort. Meanwhile, a wide underband can help with weight distribution.

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Flyknit makes it possible to vary the density, shape and properties of knits across one piece of fabric, meaning the Fe/Nom Flyknit bra is sculpted to provide a combination of compression and encapsulation support with minimal seams, while the fabric is allowed to stretch and breathe where it’s needed most. Gone are the days of lung-restricting sports bras. Just like saddles, shorts, shoes and even bikes, what makes the best cycling sports bra comes mainly down to personal preference. Not all bodies are created equal, and therefore what works for one person may not work for you. Depending on your bust size, you want to prioritise encapsulation over compression support, or need a bit of both. Another variable to consider is your chosen cycling discipline, and the support you need for that.

While gear hanging from them can be a nuisance since it can swing into your legs while you walk, they provide a convenient place to attach very lightweight items like pads or wet tents. Rear loading straps make a convenient place to carry a wet tent. Conclusion When choosing the best sports bras for cycling, there may be other factors in the mix: endurance riders will need something that stays comfortable all day and night, while something more rigid might work better for HIIT workouts on the turbo trainer. It also depends largely on your individual shape and bust size; some will need more - and a different type of - support than others. It can be a bit hit and miss, but if it fits you, you’ll love it. How to choose the best cycling sports bra for you What type of support do I need?