Footwear Insight

26 • Footwear Insight | Sports Edition ~ May 2021 footwearinsight.com SPORTS BRAS A Show of Support The 2021 crop of sports bras showcases the best and brightest in compression, encapsulation, comfort, and performance. By Mackenzie Havey Handful Handful's new Gametime bra ($58) is designed to provide superior support for running and other high impact activities for women of all shapes and sizes via an extra-wide band and adjustable straps. It's not just good for the wearer, but also the environment — the soft, stretchy fabric is derived from recycled water bottles. Under Armour Under Armour mixes fashion and function in the Infinity Mid Bra ($45). Taking a fresh approach when it comes to construction, the padding is injected in a figure-8 pattern for an aerodynamic fit that moves with a body in motion. It also has adjustable straps, a sweat- wicking band and HeatGear fabric. Available in XS-XXL. Janji Built for medium-impact, Janji's Groundwork Pace Sports Bra's ($48) streamlined, lightweight design allows for running without chaffing or other pesky distractions. Removable padded inserts and a comfortable cross-back design offer evenly- distributed support and compression for XS through XL sizes. Asics The Sakura Asics Spiral Bra ($35), available in XS-XL, employs a bounce-limiting technology woven to provide both compression and support. Working in conjunction with the thicker, fortified straps the band is comprised of a soft, lightly, brushed elastic for comfort. Rabbit For A/B and B/C- cup runners, the utiliBRA-vo bra ($50) from Rabbit does double duty as a moderate support bra and phone carrier. Simply pop your phone in the back pocket of the bra between the shoulder blades, and run unhindered. In the same way that the right (or wrong) shoes can make or break a run, so can a sports bra. That's why brands have thrown a significant amount of effort into research and development in the category. From ingenious strap designs, to high tech approaches to compression and encapsulation, there's something for every shape and size. Serious innovation in sports bras insures not only greater comfort for high- impact activities like running, but also better performance. Breathable, supportive, and stylish, these bras are leading the way in 2021. RUN

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