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.
Underwired for those who prefer lift and separation
Panache Sports Bra (B – H cup) pictured above
Offers the ultimate in support, reported to reduce bounce by up to 83%. With adjustable straps and underwire for supreme support. Lightweight microfibre wicks away the moisture.
Elomi Energize Sports Bra (D - J cup, up to 22 back) pictured above
Perfect for bust separation, minimising bounce - all the way to J cup. It boasts moisture-wicking fabric, excellent coverage, a higher neckline and restricted-stretch straps for comfortable support.
Wire-free option if you prefer compression style and no wire
Moving Comfort Juno Sports Bra (B – DD cup) pictured above
Gravity-defying, super supportive technical features combine innovation and moderate contouring in a powerhouse racer-back bra. Advanced, functional features in a flattering style.
Comfort in the saddle
Saddle pants with innovative fit
The cunning tailoring of the saddle pants means that they "sit" particularly well. The gusset area is seam-free and nothing rubs or presses. The extra width at the centre rear stops the pants from slipping, while the special cut in the groin area prevents creasing when seated.
Special features
- Thigh length riding underwear
- Developed specifically for good saddle posture
- Ergonomically designed for perfect comfort and a great riding experience in the saddle
- Seamfree crotch area
- Non-restrictive chafe free design
- Pants do not ride up
- Near elimination of wrinkles
- Back remains covered
