Looking for a sports bra that doesn’t feel like a medieval torture device when you’re plus size? Yeah, me too. For years I’d buy anything labeled “XL sports bra” online, only to end up with either muffin tops or straps digging trenches in my shoulders. Got so bad last summer I almost quit Zumba class cause I couldn’t breathe halfway through.
The Breaking Point Moment
Finally snapped after my “high impact” bra left angry red lines around my ribs during a 30-minute jog. Felt like I’d been sawed in half. That’s when I grabbed my measuring tape and went full detective mode. Measured my band size three times cause I didn’t believe the number at first – turns out I’d been wearing cups two sizes too small and bands four inches too tight for years. Oops.
The Fitting Room Marathon
Took my new measurements to three different stores last Tuesday. Tried on 26 different bras between Target, Lane Bryant, and this little boutique by the mall. Made sure to:
- Jump jacks in the dressing room (got weird looks but who cares)
- Reach overhead like grabbing stuff from top shelf
- Do that awkward torso twist like checking blind spots
Most failed the bounce test instantly. Either the band rode up or the girls tried to escape out the bottom. Felt like a human yoyo.
The Winner
Found this magic unicorn bra with:
- Thick doubled-up back hooks (finally no back fat bulges!)
- Racerback straps that don’t slip when sweaty
- Wireless but still locked everything down during jumping
Best part? The band stays put without strangling me. Wore it grocery shopping AND to my nephew’s soccer game without needing emergency bra removal in the parking lot. First time ever.
What Actually Matters
After wasting $300+ on wrong bras, here’s what I’ll always check now:
- Band does 90% of the work – if it moves when you lift arms, ditch it
- Thick padded straps = less shoulder spaghetti marks
- Four hook closures minimum for us curvy girls
Still not gonna win any fashion shows in it, but walking without back pain? Priceless. Already bought two more in different colors.