Introduction

It's wild! Around 1.3 million girls who identify as sporty in elementary school lose interest in physical activity during their teenage years. Why? Some are worried about being judged or simply don't have the confidence anymore as they become more self-aware. But don’t let this stop you. A decent bra can help build self-belief and encourage teen girls to stay active.

When you’re looking for the best activewear, you need to think about a lot of things, like size, fit, material, and level of activity. Our guide will help you figure out how your sports bra should fit, making sure you feel supported, comfortable, and confident while you do your favorite activities, whether that’s dance, gymnastics, or track and field.

Understanding Sports Bras

A sports bra is a supportive garment designed to keep you comfy and stable while you're being active. Unlike regular bras, they’ve been specially engineered to reduce movement and offer support, making them super useful. So, if you're an on-the-go teen or tween, you're gonna love these!

Doing sports or any physical activity can be more fun and less distracting when your bra has the right snugness. A decent bra provides reassurance, allowing you to focus on your active pursuits with more confidence. It can even help give you better posture and prevent strain, making sure you can do your favorite activities without worrying about how your chest is moving.

There are a few types of sports bras to choose from, depending on your activity level. Here's a quick rundown:

Type	Support Level	Best For
Light Support	Low	Activities like yoga, stretching, or walking
Medium Support	Moderate	Sports like cycling, hiking, or skateboarding
High Support	High	High-impact activities like running, basketball, or gymnastics

The Perfect Fit

Finding the right size starts with accurate measurements. Here’s a simple sports bra fitting guide to help get you started:

Step 1: Measure the Band Size

• Get yourself a flexible measuring tape (you can usually find one in a basic sewing kit 💁).
• Stand straight as you can and wrap the tape around your ribcage, just below your chest.
• Make sure the tape is level and firm but not too tight.
• Write down the measurement in inches. And there you have it – your band size! 

Step 2: Measure the Bust Size

• Now, measure around the fullest part of your chest.
• Keep the tape level and firm, but again, not too tight.
• Note down this measurement in inches.

Step 3: Determine the Cup Size

• Subtract the band size from the bust size.
• The difference in inches will determine the cup size (usually, each inch represents one cup size up).

Step 4: Understand Band and Cup Sizes

• Alright! Take the number from your band measurement and pair it with the letter of your cup size to get your bra size. So, if you measured a band size of 30 and your cup size is B, then your bra size is definitely 30B. It's like putting together your fave outfit – the perfect match makes all the difference! 

Step 5: Check the Fit

• When trying on a sports bra, it should feel snug but not constricting.
• The band should stay in place and not move when you lift your arms.
• Straps should be secure without causing discomfort on your shoulders.
• The fabric should sit smoothly against your skin without wrinkles or gaps.

Hey, no sweat if your first bra fit isn't spot on! 🎯 It's super common to need a few tries to find your perfect match. Check out this handy table we made that lists some typical fit troubles and quick fixes to help you out:

Common Fit Issues	How to Solve Them
Band Rides Up	Try a smaller size or adjust the hooks to a tighter setting.
Straps Digging In	Loosen the straps. If the issue continues, consider a design with wider straps or a different size.
Gapping Cups	Opt for a smaller cup size or try a style with a more supportive fit.
Underband Chafing	Ensure it is snug but not too tight. Look for bras with a soft, seamless band.
Restricted Movement	It might be too small! Try a larger size or a style with more stretch.
Insufficient Support	Consider a higher support level or a firmer band and cup fit.
Straps Slipping Off	Tighten the straps. If they still slip, the size may be too big, or the straps too wide-set for your frame.
Difficulty Breathing	It’s too tight! Try a larger one for more comfort.
Side Spillage	Choose a bra with fuller coverage or a larger cup size to help keep everything in place.
Underarm Discomfort	A larger size or a different style with better side coverage might be needed.

Bleuet is unique in that all our bras are designed with tweens and teens in mind. We have also created a simple size guide so you don’t have to worry about cup letters and just use the inch measurements to get the best fit. Returns and exchanges are also free 🎉, so go check out our active and dance range!

Comfort Is Key

The right materials can make a massive difference in how you feel when moving around. The key things to look for include:

• Breathability: You want a bra that's like your BFF during a heatwave, totally cool and chill. Look for lightweight, airy fabrics that let your skin breathe.

• Moisture-Wicking: Got a gym class or a dance-off? Grab a bra that wicks away sweat like a pro. It's like having your own personal AC system.

• Seamless Design: Don't let seams cramp your style (or your skin). A seamless bra is smooth, stealthy, and won’t rub you the wrong way. 

• Adjustable Straps: It’s like having a magic wand for the perfect fit! Adjustable straps let you tweak the fit as you grow or just get through a growth spurt. 

If you have sensitive skin or sensory needs, Bleuet has you covered 🫶. Our active bras are tagless and have non-irritating seams. We also use ultra-soft, itch-free fabrics to support those with sensory issues. Try a few different Bleuet styles to see what feels most wearable for you, and just send back the ones that aren’t right for you (remember, all our returns are free).

Care and Maintenance

Sadly, even your favorite sports bra won’t last forever. It's time for a new sports bra when:

• The band no longer fits snugly, even on the tightest hook.

• The fabric has stretched out and lost its shape.

• The straps slip off your shoulders or dig in, even after adjusting.

• You notice wear and tear, such as fraying or broken seams.

Additionally, taking care of our planet 🌍 is super important, and there are some cool, eco-friendly ways to make sure your sports bras have a long and green life. Consider the following:

• Proper Washing: Hand wash or use a gentle cycle with cold water. Stay away from harsh detergents and fabric softeners.

• Air Dry: Instead of using a dryer, lay your sports bra flat or hang it to air dry. This helps keep its shape and elasticity.

• Rotation: Having a few Bleuets in rotation can reduce wear and tear, extending their lifespan.

• Recycling: When it's time to say goodbye, consider recycling your sports bra. Some brands like ours offer eco-disposal programs, or you can look for a local fabric recycling facility.

At Bleuet, we really care about sustainability and ethical practices. Our eco-friendly methods can be seen in our use of sustainable and organic fabrics, initiatives like ‘Scrunchies for Good’ that use scrap fabric, and our careful selection of manufacturing partners who guarantee fair wages and safe working conditions. The ‘Returns for Good’ program also donates gently worn returns to good causes like Hailey's Haven, supporting foster teens and preventing waste. 

Conclusion

When wearing a sports bra, you should have one that you hardly notice when it’s on. It should give you enough support so you’re not distracted by your chest movement and be free to focus on your activities.

At Bleuet, we totally get that your teen years are all about finding your stride, and that's why we craft sports bras that blend style, comfort, and function, all tailored for young women. We've got you covered with a range that understands just how diverse and unique each of you is.

Check out our collection and discover the perfect blend of breathable fabrics, trendy designs, and the support you need to tackle anything your day throws at you. Whether you're after something that's seamless for a smooth look under tees or a bra with a bit of bold flair to match your personal style, Bleuet's got the fit for you.🌸