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Original poster

Running bras - cheap and big

33 replies

Zaphodsotherhead · 23/05/2018 14:31

I've recently got back into running again (very slow and steady). I needed some new gear so I went to Primark (I have very little spare cash) to buy some running bras. I'm around 38DD so I bought a couple of 14/16 running tops and the cup size is no way big enough. I shove my boobs in and yank it down under my boobs but it sort of rides up so my underboob is showing by the end of the run.

Being fairly large of boobage I need a tight fit so they don't bounce and swing around when I run, but I need a bigger cup size so they aren't squeezed out all around. Anyone got any good places I can get a running bra that will actually, you know, fit? Bearing I have only pence available to spend.

And if anyone sees an old lady flailing past with a kind of boob belt on - give me a wave.

OP posts:
FATEdestiny · 23/05/2018 19:19

I've been buying the Tesco mid-support range for running. I do a daily 5k run and those hold my boobs well.

I'm losing weight fairly rapidly so I am loathed to spend tons of money on sports bras that last 6 weeks at most due to my changing size.

I've bought the attached bra (or similar) in sizes XL, L and M so far. I was 44D as an XL. I would say you want a L for 38DD. I'm currently 36G/34F and fit a M.

Running bras - cheap and big
MoreProsecco · 23/05/2018 19:25

I wear a FF cup - the best sports bra I have had is a Freya Active Epic - it is underwired & keeps everything under control.

userofthiswebsite · 23/05/2018 19:32

I recommend Shock Absorber Level 4 bra or the Run bra - you can try them on in Debenhams.
Then you can buy the out of season designs / colours on ebay and Amazon.

gruber · 23/05/2018 19:33

If you don’t mind some weird colours, Wiggle often have Shock Absorber ones in the sale for about £12. It is a case of hunting through (preferably on big computer not phone as I find it easier to see stuff) but you should find something there if you keep looking. I am rapidly increasing and at 38F currently, hoping I can find a decent bra big enough.

dangermouseisace · 23/05/2018 21:59

Try Sportsshoes.com for shock absorber ones (preferably the run one), after trying on elsewhere. They often have odd sizes seriously reduced. I always get my trail shoes from there, and have picked up some absolute bargains. I’ve got a popular boob size so can never get cheap bras, sadly. Wiggle is good if you have a popular size as they’re cheaper than shops.

dangermouseisace · 23/05/2018 22:03

Just checked- sports shoes have a shock absorber multi sport one in your size for £14.99...

TeaandHobnobs · 23/05/2018 22:05

Decathlon sell running bras at quite cheap prices - most up to cup D, but some up to E or F.

RaymondHolt · 23/05/2018 22:08

Yes - it is definitely worth getting a shock absorber. Keeps my GGs under control! Worth it's weight in gold.

Tylerschair · 23/05/2018 22:09

I get mine from M&S whenever they do an end of season sale. They usually have a good range in a selection of sizes. I'm a 32E and need industrial support so I'm always on the lookout for the sales.

KirstenRaymonde · 23/05/2018 22:12

38DD? Are you sure? Worth doing this calculator before you buy any more bras booborbust.com

QueenOfMyWorld · 23/05/2018 22:15

What do class as cheap? Next do a high support one for 28 pounds it's brilliant

LastOneDancing · 23/05/2018 22:15

And if anyone sees an old lady flailing past with a kind of boob belt on - give me a wave Grin

I will only buy Shock Absorber run/multisport bras and I think I've tried every make & model of running bra out there!!

I buy mine from Amazon, half the price of Debenhams etc. Worth every penny and will last ages.

FrangipaniBlue · 23/05/2018 22:35

Another vote for shock absorber Run!

If you're not fussy about colour you can get some cracking deals on eBay Grin

randomsabreuse · 23/05/2018 22:42

Amazon has good deals on shock absorber - as does wiggle. Very effective sports bra. I tend to add a compression layer because I have to compromise a little on my bra size - can get cheap from Aldi or I assume decathlon etc. S M L sizes tend to be big in the back and small in the cup although I suspect you may be more of a 32H/34G...

AuntieStella · 24/05/2018 07:38

I think Shock Absorber is fantastic, but the sizing is weird (consistent within the brand, but different from other makes). So find somewhere to try one on, or use somewhere with a good returns policy.

Decathlon is a good place to try as well, but I've just looked at their website and they seem to have discontinued the style I liked.

The Panache (underwired) sports bra is fantastic as well, and you can often find previous season's colours quite the heavily discounted.

MoreProsecco · 24/05/2018 08:15

Agree with sizing on shock absorbers- I'm a standard 34ff & couldn't get it fastened. That's why being fitted is so important. then buy online cheaper

Original poster
Zaphodsotherhead · 24/05/2018 08:39

Sorry for the delay in replying - was on a late shift!

This is all very interesting and informative, thank you all so much! I'm getting bigger as I age and want to do some more (gentle) running with my dog to stop the spread - a lot of it seems to have gone to my boobs!

I ought to be measured again, my 36/38DD bras are starting to get a bit small in the cup. I honestly thought that 14/16 running bras would be a decent size - they fit me everywhere else and hold me together, but my boobs are climbing out underneath if I move my arms too vigorously. I have the feeling that if I put my hands up the damn thing would flip up under my chin!

Food for thought. I shall check the brands you've mentioned online. But, really, Primark, I'm pretty sure I'm not XL in the chestal region....

OP posts:
AuntieStella · 24/05/2018 08:52

Do measure yourself by this method!

thebetterbracampaign.blogspot.co.uk/p/fitting-advice.html

Support comes from underneath - ie the band needs to fit properly, especially when there's going to be repeated percussive movement, and you really, really do not want +4 inches when you're going to be active.

Original poster
Zaphodsotherhead · 24/05/2018 09:11

Thanks @AuntieStella. As soon as I find a tape measure in this wreck of a house, I shall give it a try. I agree, with bigger boobs support is so important. I've always been...errr..busty, and I used to ride a lot and NEVER found a bra that could properly support me during long sessions. I'd always end up hitching up the straps or with a kind of 'uni-tit' bolster frontage flopping up and down.

I'm sure it would encourage more people to exercise (particularly those, like me, of the larger persuasion) if kit was easier and cheaper to come by!

OP posts:
mumsnitter · 24/05/2018 18:22

These guys have good prices. Second Freya.
www.belle-lingerie.co.uk

KirstenRaymonde · 24/05/2018 18:30

This calculator is by far the best bra measurer, booborbust.com

I wouldn’t get a sports bra in a dress size over a proper cup size unless you’re really small and don’t need the support

AnguaResurgam · 24/05/2018 19:50

Kirsten that's the same method as the one already linked (the MN blog about bra intervention)

CalmConfident · 24/05/2018 19:53

Bravissimo are brilliant- I always have the panache sports bras

Invest in your boobs!

MoreProsecco · 24/05/2018 20:48

Agree Bravissimo are good, but very expensive & never seem to discount.

I personally feel, if you are busty, that you must get professionally fitted. I tried buying sports bras online & it really was a waste of time. Ended up returning them all, despite being a consistent size in a brand.

I bought my Freya active online (EBay) after being fitted in House of Fraser. A bit cheeky but hey-ho.

Boobydoo are also good, as well as Wiggle & Belle Lingerie (as mentioned upthread).

KirstenRaymonde · 24/05/2018 23:54

@AnguaResurgam no it’s not, the boob or bust one has a calculator that pints out an answer for you

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