Choosing the right underwear is important for all horse riders and we’re keen to find out what underwear is worn by riders around the world! But before we get too ‘up close and personal’ we asked Maxine Windram to give us an overview on womens riding underwear ...
If horse riders don’t have the right gear it can make for an unpleasant ride, Jodhpurs may chafe and boots may rub but the wrong bra can cause pain and discomfort and impact on how well we ride. Horse riding is a high impact activity and women must wear a well-structured, supportive sports bra.
Why A Sports Bra?
-If breasts aren’t well supported it can lead to breast sag. The breasts are made up of tissue, fat and tendons - there is no muscle to rebuild. Trotting or galloping, if you are not supported with a good sports bra breasts will bounce, stretching the tendons. This is irreversible.
-50% of women report that not wearing the right sports bra has led to neck, shoulder and back pain; more prevalent in women with a fuller bust.
-Young women often don’t continue riding if they are not well supported. They don’t look or feel their best and this can lead to lack of confidence and decreased performance.
Brava's top 4 tips for each sports bra you try:
-The bounce test - jump up and down, swing your arms and move around. If a bra pokes, constricts your breathing, or bulges, it’s not right for you.
- Fit it on the first hook; as it loses elasticity over time, you'll need room to tighten it.
-Choose support over the look. The most supportive sports bras are fuller in the cup and not pretty, but they will reduce breast sag.
-Don't buy an uncomfortable bra, the comfort level will remain the same when you get home.
The exact science of bra fitting …. I don’t think so
Bra fitting is not an exact science. With many sports bras on the market, various body shapes and limitless physical pursuits, Brava Sport is yet to find a sports bra,which suits all women because women are made in delightfully different shapes and sizes. You will not necessarily be the same size every time you get fitted because of puberty, menopause, pregnancy, weight loss, weight gain... the changes to size and shape are many, but with a little help they can be managed.
A sports bra worn 3-4 times per week will need to be replaced in 6-12 months. As soon as the breasts start having a wider range of motion, or the bra has a noticeable looser fit, replace it. Wearing loose riding boots isn’t recommended either
