How to Measure Bra Cup Size for Athletic Wear (vs Fashion Bras)

How to Measure Bra Cup Size for Athletic Wear (vs Fashion Bras)

Summary

Not sure how your sports bra size compares to your regular bra? This guide breaks down the difference, explains how to measure properly, and helps you find the perfect fit for both comfort and performance.

How to Measure Bra Cup Size for Athletic Wear (vs Fashion Bras)
Introduction
Finding the right sports bra is about more than just comfort—it's essential for your performance, posture, and breast health. Unlike fashion bras, which focus on enhancing shape and appearance, sports bras are engineered for movement and high-impact support. Wearing the wrong size during workouts can lead to discomfort, chafing, and even long-term damage to breast ligaments. According to the Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport, up to 88% of women wear the wrong bra size, significantly affecting their workout experience (source).

This guide walks you through the differences in sizing between sports bras and regular bras, how to convert sizes, and tips for getting the best fit for your activity level.

1. Is There a Size Difference Between Sports Bras and Normal Bras?
Yes—and it matters. While both types of bras are designed to support the bust, their sizing systems and structures differ greatly.

Fashion Bras:
· Typically sized by band and cup (e.g., 34B, 36C).
· Designed to enhance shape, with underwire, padding, and delicate materials.

Sports Bras:
· Come in both dual sizing (e.g., 34C) and general sizes (S, M, L, XL).
· Engineered to minimize bounce using compression, encapsulation, or a combination.
· Made with technical fabrics to manage sweat and movement.

There are generally two types of sports bras:
· Compression bras: Flatten the chest to reduce movement—common in light-to-medium impact styles.
· Encapsulation bras: Hold each breast separately—better for high-impact activities like running.
Shevigor Sports Bra Comparison guide
2. What Size is 32 in Sports Bras?
A common question, especially as many sports bra brands don't follow the traditional 32A, 32B, etc. format. In general:

· 32A–32B: XS or Small
· 32C: Often a Small or Medium, depending on brand and compression level

The best fit depends on the intended activity. For yoga or pilates, you may prefer a light compression small; for HIIT or running, a medium might provide better support.

Conversion Table:
Traditional Bra Size
Shevigor Sports Bra Size
Suggested Use
30A–32B
XS
Light compression, yoga
32C–34B
S
Medium impact training
34C–36B
M
Running, cardio
36C–38C
L
High impact workouts
38D+
XL+
Maximum support needed

3. Is it OK to Wear a Sports Bra as a Regular Bra?
Yes—and more people are doing it than ever. With the rise of athleisure, many women choose to wear sports bras all day for their comfort and streamlined look.
Shevigor sports bra
Pros:

· Wire-free support

· Moisture-wicking fabric

· More durable under stress

Cons:

· May feel tighter over long periods

· Less shaping under fitted clothing

The sports bra market has evolved to meet this crossover need. Many modern styles are designed to look sleek under officewear or casual clothes (Harper's Bazaar).


4. How Do I Know What Size Sports Bra I Need?
Follow these steps to find the best fit:

1. Measure your underbust:
· Wrap a soft tape measure around your ribcage, just under your bust.
· Make sure it's snug but not tight.

2. Measure your bust:
· Measure at the fullest part of your bust while wearing a non-padded bra or no bra.
Shevigor sports bra measure size
3. Calculate the difference:

· Subtract underbust from bust measurement:

· 1" = A cup

· 2" = B cup

· 3" = C cup

· etc.

4. Match to size guide:

· Combine your band and cup measurements to see what size matches Shevigor's chart.

Fit Test Tips:

· Try jumping jacks and arm swings.

· Look for gapping or spillage.

· The band should stay level and not ride up.

For more tips on measurement and fit, check out Healthline's complete bra size guide.


5. Should You Size Up or Down in Sports Bras?
It depends on your experience when wearing one:

Size Up If:
· The band digs in painfully
· You feel restricted or can't breathe deeply

Size Down If:
· Your bust feels unsupported or jiggles during movement
· The band rides up your back
· There's visible gapping at the sides or top of the cup

Fabric Consideration: Bras made from high-compression fabrics may require sizing up; stretchier ones may run large.

According to Verywell Fit, a well-fitted sports bra should stay in place even while you're jumping or twisting.




Conclusion
Choosing the right sports bra isn't just about comfort—it's about performance and protection. Knowing your measurements and understanding sizing differences between athletic and fashion bras is key to avoiding discomfort and getting the best out of your workouts.

Whether you're lifting weights or walking the dog, Shevigor's performance sports bras offer the right combination of support and style.

Ready to find your fit? Check out our size guide and shop our latest collection designed for all-day wear and high-impact action.