Everyday wear on the run: Shock Absorber Active Shaped

I have been doing a lot of afternoon runs recently and over the Summer that meant it was quite warm whilst I was running. So I asked She Science for a bra that is supportive but looks good enough to be worn on its own like a crop top.

I decided on the Shock Absorber Active Shaped. I really like the look of this bra – it’s a bit different from your standard sports bra. It is essentially two layers. The inner layer is a lightly moulded band that has minimal seams – so it is comfortable whilst also giving a nice shape. The outer layer is the main body of the bra and at the front this consists of two triangular shaped pieces of mesh. At the back it is your traditional hook and eye fastening and straight shoulder straps.

Due to the traditional style back it was nice and airy so my back stayed cool whilst running, but unfortunately it does look like a bra from the back. This has the upside of being very easy to get and off, but the downside is that the straight shoulder straps show if you wear a racer back top.

The whole construction of the bra is of very high quality and there are minimal seams in contact with your skin. The fabric is smooth too so there is minimal chance of chafing- as yet I haven’t experienced any chafing despite wearing it for some very hot and sweaty runs!

The main chest strap is wide as are the shoulder straps so the forces are evenly distributed and there is less chance of straps digging in. The shoulder and chest straps also have a lot of adjustment room, which is great if your size fluctuates slightly as the bra will still fit and support you well.

To break it down:

Pros:

• Comfortable
• Lightweight and breathable
• Great shape
• Stylish
• Can be worn as an everyday bra
• Easy to get on and off
• Lots of adjustment room
• Supportive
• Smooth fabric with minimal seams
• Very open at the back for good airflow

Cons:

• Looks like a bra from the back
• Straight back straps- can’t be worn with a racerback top

For me this bra is great as I can wear it under my t-shirt at work and it still gives me good shape. Then I can quickly discard my tee at the beginning of lunch and be out of the door and running in a blink of an eye! When I get back from my run the bra is quick and easy to remove, even when sweaty. So overall this means more time running and less time changing – good when you want to have a decent run and still have time to eat your lunch!

By Lauren Starr, Physiotherapist

Lauren Starr is a physiotherapist and also takes clinical pilates, hydrotherapy and yoga classes. Outside of work she spends her spare time running. She has competed in trail and road events but has currently shifted her focus to athletics.