We’ve been running in it to find out more.
- A high-support running bra, featuring the Flyknit technology Nike use in their running shoes.
- It’s got a great deal of compression, so seems like it would best suited for runners with smaller breasts.
- Compared to other high-support bras on the market it’s compressive yet comfortable – you won’t feel like you can’t breathe when running in this.
Price: $90
To me, the fact that I have been trying to write this review for a few weeks, but keep forgetting I’m wearing the bra as I run is a good sign. I’m a big fan of a compression fit when it comes to a running bra – I prefer to feel like I’m supported without worrying about straps or clasps rubbing. To me, Nike’s Flyknit bra ticks most of my boxes, and here’s why.
The Flyknit fabric
Nike have used the same Flyknit fabric as they do for their trainers in their FE/NOM Flyknit Sports Bra, writing in the release, “Flyknit technology integrates areas of support and stretch precisely where you need it, resulting in minimal bounce for maximum comfort and confidence”. On first feel, the bra seems pretty thick and doesn’t seem to stretch much. Putting aside my worries about how on earth I’d get it off after a sweaty sprint session, I put the bra on (which was remarkably easy, may I add) and got ready to run.
I’m currently in the middle of my marathon training plan and am clocking up around 30 miles per week. I’ve been to my GP in the past with breast pain from running, only to be told it’s ‘runner’s boob’ and that I should look to run in a more supportive sports bra. I learnt that discomfort or chafing while running is caused by strain on the breasts Cooper’s Ligaments – the supportive tissue.
With a 32C bra size, I often opt for a compression-style bra that pulls over the head and pushes the breasts against the body, minimising movement as I run. My other go-to running bra’s are the Nike Pro, which I’ve run in for years but found chafes a little on long or rainy runs, and the Triumph Triaction Extreme Lite, which I’ve worn for both my marathons.
On the run
When it comes to running in the FE/NOM Flyknit Sports Bra, I felt like I was able to move (and breathe) easily, despite the tight, supportive fit. The Flyknit fabric was extremely sweat-wicking, even on warm weather runs and the bra felt light and lay flat against my body. Nike have worked to make the Flyknit bra 30% lighter than their other high-support bras, and without being an elite-athlete, you can really feel this difference on the run.
Wearing a size small in the bra, the “barely-there” fit was impressive. The bra didn’t chafe, it minimised all movement and it worked so well I’ve struggled to write down my thoughts after a few test runs. Of course, I can’t say this fit and feel would be the same for every cup size, but I was seriously impressed.
The price tag
No matter how you look at it, spending £70 on a running bra is a lot, especially when, according to the experts, you need to replace your sports bra every few months. However, when you look at the facts that, once stretched, the Cooper’s Ligaments in the breasts cannot revert back to their original position, spending money on a well-made, supportive sports bra is important.
While I’d recommend trying on a few bras before investing, as like running shoes, it can be a matter of finding a brand and style that you love, if you’re looking for a bra that will keep you comfy over a marathon training cycle or a marathon itself, in my eyes it’s worth the price-tag.
