adidas CMMTTD Racer-Back Bra: R1 299
Testers enjoyed superior support, thanks to moulded cups that secure breasts close to the body but don’t flatten curves entirely – there’s enough separation to ensure a feminine silhouette. It also manages moisture better than most moulded designs, thanks to a fabric coating that cools the skin, and a ribbed band at the bottom that wicks sweat. A racer-back design gives your arms full range of motion.
GET IT NOW: adidas Concept Stores
Puma PWRShape Clash: R999
Larger-breasted testers were impressed: double straps, and a front zip with auto-lock, stabilise the breasts and minimise bounce. Testers reported neither pressure points nor any part of the bra digging into their skin; just soft support that allowed them to breathe fully and deeply. Moulded cups flatter fuller figures, and are thin enough to prevent clamminess.
GET IT NOW: Puma Stores
Anita Active Momentum Sport BH: R1 220
Bras that truly support D-cup+ runners rarely breathe well; but this marvel combats bounce and sweat. Wide, padded straps offer support and comfort, and an inner lining of hydrophilic towelling mops up moisture like a bath towel. Bonus: each individual cup encapsulates the breast, to control bounce and flatter the silhouette. One tester said she used to wear a similar style to nightclubs in the 90s!
GET IT NOW: Anita Active Stockists 011 616 5226
adidas Halter Bra: R799
A chic looker, with a striking high neckline, that ticks all the boxes: it’s comfortable, cute and supportive. It doesn’t create any hotspots, despite its elaborate crossover straps and soft bands. Breathable Climalite fabric kept testers reasonably cool during steamy runs.
GET IT NOW: adidas Concept Stores
Lorna Jane Fierce Sports Bra: R1 099
Comfort made cute. Four-way stretch fabric supports the weight of the breasts, and can be adjusted for a custom fit. A high neckline and a thick, oversized band around the bottom increase coverage and reduce hotspots.
GET IT NOW: lornajane.co.za
Nike Classic Swoosh: R500
A minimal V-back design allows a full range of movement, and feels like a second skin. Dri-FIT technology wicks sweat away from your skin, keeping you dry on short runs; on long runs, it doesn’t dry as quickly. “This is my go-to bra,” said one tester, who loved its simplicity.
GET IT NOW: Totalsports
Move Pretty Powerful Runner: R580
Designed and made in South Africa, this bra doesn’t look out of place among those offered by bigger brands; but on closer inspection, its stitching is a little crude. Soft, four-way stretch fabric is breathable and moisture-wicking. A great design, which can be layered with the rest of your running outfit.
GET IT NOW: movepretty.co.za
Von Scher Sports Bra: R580
“Zero bounce!” declared a D-cup runner, who praised the bra’s support. It’s made from relatively thin, breathable fabric, an open-back design offers good ventilation, and an X-shaped panel takes the pressure off areas where the straps are thinner. Want the best support? Testers advise adjusting the slider on the strap at the back between the shoulder blades, as opposed to on the shoulder.
GET IT NOW: zando.co.za
Falke Sports Bra: R160
Though not as good-looking as the other bras tested, this no-frills bra functions well during speed work and marathon training. Mesh panels – on the back and between the breasts – effectively ‘dump’ heat, and two-ply fabric facilitates extra-quick drying.
GET IT NOW: Sportsman’s Warehouse
Nike Pro Zip: R750 – Editor’s Choice
When it comes to sports bras, style often comes at the expense of function. Not with this one, testers raved. A double-strapping system joins a racer back with shoulder straps at the front, and there are built-in stabilisers. At the front, a convenient zipper locks when the zip is pointing downwards. Soft elastic – around the neck, arms and chest strap – makes this a firm favourite.
GET IT NOW: Sportsman’s Warehouse
New Balance Pace Bra PRT: R550 – RW Best Buy
Testers enjoyed this pullover-style bra, which features racer-back straps with vents, and a lightweight fabric that dries faster than any other bra tested. A wide band holds everything in place, and a keyhole cut-out in the middle of the back complements style and function.
GET IT NOW: New Balance Stores