Shock Absorber Women's Ultimate Run Bra

As a woman with a large cup size, but small band size, finding a sports bra that is worth a dam is like finding a unicorn. I've seen rave reviews across the web claiming that this bra is the answer. I'd say it was almost right. Firstly, I ordered my true size which is a 34G and there was definite spillage (through herroom.com's massive selection and fantastic return policy I now finally know the right size for me, but this bra was cheaper here on Amazon.com). They didn't offer a higher cup size so I went up another band size to the 36G. I don't quite have the same separation as the model shown (so a swipe of deodorant though the cleavage is helpful) but I definitely did NOT have uni-boob! I was so excited to show my sister who’s in a similar situation (thanks genes) and she couldn’t believe I was even wearing a sports bra. Secondly, I love the material as it's soft and smooth. Thirdly, there is no underwire in this model which seemed really counter-intuitive to me because in regular bras I need the wire. I found the Shock Absorber to have enough separation and lift despite not having the wire. Getting it on was a little challenging, but nothing a few practice tries won’t resolve. I've recently started rock climbing and it definitely helped keep the girls out of my way while I was going up the wall. I've also been able to do jumping jacks for the first time without injury. I used to subscribe to the class of large-chested women who wore a regular bra with 2 sports bras over it and that did not give me the same level of control as this bra did and this bra allowed me to breathe a little easier than that subpar solution. So in sum, it does run small, but it's worth going up in band or cup sizes to get the right fit. Also, at the time I ordered this one, I ordered the Glamorise Women's Adjustable Bounce Control Sports Bra which I think has more control, less comfort, but is cheaper. See my review there if interested. Finally, unfortunately because of the design of the "harness" as I like to refer to this one, it does create a noticeable amount of back bulge in the opening between the top and bottom clasps. Not noticeable with a t-shirt on but if you intended to wear it alone this is your heads up about that situation.

I am a bit conflicted as to how many stars to give this item. When the bra fits, it does an excellent job at minimizing movement while running or performing other high-impact activities. It has a normal bra closure in the back as well as a clasp where the straps come together to form a racerback. I thought that I would have trouble with the racerback clasp due to my marginal flexibility, but I was able to fasten and unfasten it easily. Having a sports bra that can come off without having to pull it over your head is also extremely convenient and makes for a more pleasant experience when you are sweaty. It also ensures that you don't stretch out the band before its time.The only issue with this bra is that the band size seems to run a lot smaller than similar bras. For my non-sports bras, I tend to choose the band size by not adding anything to my rib cage measurement or by adding two inches to the measurement (so a 30" ribcage measurement would equal a 30 or 32 band). I find that doing so ensures that the bra is much more supportive and it stays in place better. My bras also last longer because I do not have to worry about the band stretching out as much. My method does not work with this bra; if you buy the bra with a band measurement that matches that of your rib cage, you will not be able to close it. So I suggest that, if you prefer a firm-fitting band like I do (and you probably should get a tighter band for sports bras so that you minimize movement), you should add 4" to your ribcage measurement. The cup size should then be the difference between your bust measurement and the band measurement, not your ribcage measurement (A=1", B=2", etc.). If you prefer your bands looser, you will have to go even larger than that (and decrease the cup size accordingly). Unfortunately, this means that a lot of people will be sized out of these bras. Shock Absorber should therefore either change its sizing methods or expand its sizing options.

Comically sizedordered 30G, thin elastic band unstretched at widest (just above it is a little narrower)- 20" (19.5" hooks to hooks), full stretched to max possible 27"- however, this is just the bottom most part of the band, the rest of the band can't stretch that far, neither can the rest of the bra because of some solid stitching, so you probably can't actually stretch it in any meaningful way to 27 even, not that you'd want to wear something on maxed out elastic. Additionally, the hooks are set back from the edge so your maxed-out would be a few inches less. If you have a very small ribcage and have trouble finding something snug enough, this would be fantastic. If you're trying to order true to size, you'll be completely confused and be happy amazon has free returns on this item.The front was great, pretty good on size. It just feels like a defect, like they forgot to add the back portion of the bra, which is unfortunate since it might otherwise be nice. This was not the case with other shock absorbers I've ordered. I may try adding a few extenders to see what happens. I guess that's better than all the ones that are too big that you can't fix.The bottom elastic is very veryvery thin, like a floppy thing bare elastic not really a 'band' that would secure something. I could see it rolling up very easily. The stitching just above it is taught so it doesn't stretch much.Also, those back strap adjusters are the weirdest things I've seen. Forget adjusting them once on. The picture looks like they are different, but I thought regular adjuster with super strap and catches. It's not. The strap is rubbery and each of those ridges is a little tube/hole for you to hook the strap into. This hook is a lot like the ones on convertible bras, little plastic thing. I've had issues with those turning or popping out on convertibles so I'm a little concerned, but this set up looks far more secure.

So nice! Comfortable, light and cute. I would buy again but one band size up. For a person who has spent hundreds to find bras, this was amazing. I got a 30/F...I would get a 32/G

I bought this based on how good my old Shock Absorber bra is, with all the good reviews and awards it's won I was expecting it to be as supportive, if not better. When I first tried it on I LOVED it, so much more flattering than the other model I had, but with a few runs up and down the stairs (especially coming down!!) it became apparent that it just didn't match up to my older bra. It's all made from one piece of stretchy material meaning there's quite a lot of give in it, the other model is more structured. If you want to look fab and do low impact sport, it's perfect as it is really flattering and is supportive for low/medium impact sport... but for running/high impact support, go for the 'Shock Absorber D+ Classic Support Sports Bra' instead.

I've been buying Shock Absorber bras for many years and also measured myself before ordering but it is still too tight around the band. I've donated my bra to my teenage daughter. I also ordered one for her and again hers is too tight. Thankfully it will fit her younger sister! Still a good buy at the current price so I've ordered another for myself but have gone up a band size.

Best bra for running in a long shot

everything is great, but the color is more darker than this photo.