Sports Bras for triathlon… what are your priorities on race day?

When it comes to choosing a Sports Bra for your Triathlon race day there are quite a few things to consider. Before moving too far down the process I think it’s important to know where your priorities lie first.

 
Some women are most concerned about the way the Sports Bra looks under their tri suit. If this is you, then you should identify this as it will eliminate a few options early.
Bras that will hide nipple show under tri suits are often made up of thick moulded cups.

While these will be more flattering under a suit, they are likely to hold moisture for longer which will increase the chance of chafing. Chafing or ‘bra burn’ will strike when there is excess moisture or friction, and will be particularly nasty if both of these join forces. If nipple show or unsightly straps is what bothers you try the Brooks Juno or the Berlei Ultimate Performance, but be aware that these bras will hold moisture.

 
Other women are most concerned about the support factor. On race day there are plenty of spectators around, for those who are body conscious in a tri suit ‘strapping the girls down’ might be their main priority.

 
Lots of high impact Sports Bras use thick straps, underwire and or moulded cups. While these are great features for support the straps could compromise the look under the tri suit, underwire could irritate you when swimming and moulded cups will hold moisture.

So if support is your main priority look for a wire free high impact bra with thin yet firm materials, and a racer back design. Some great options include the  Rebound Racer, Enell Sports Bra and the Shock Absorber Ultimate Run Bra But remember, these may hold some moisture and could show under your tri suit.

 
For most, the possibility of chaffing is their biggest nightmare which will have them leaning towards bras made of quick dry fabrics. While you may expect me to launch in to the ’support should be number 1’ rant, when it comes to your race day bra I am most concerned about staying chafe free as this is the biggest sports bra issue women experience with triathlon.

 
To prevent chafing we focus on the bra fit and the materials used. The bra band must be perfectly firm to eliminate unnecessary band movement (FYI the bra band is the highest risk zone for bra burn). Materials need to be thin, quick dry fabrics. 

 
While we don’t often choose to compromise on support, because race day makes up such a small percentage of your overall training it’s unlikely you will have any adverse effect to choosing comfort over support for race day, and you won’t be left with the battle scars of bra burn.

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