Shoe Review Guide for Runners

Finding the perfect sports bra is essential, especially for runners with a cup size C and above. The right sports bra provides the necessary support, minimizes discomfort, and helps you focus on your run. However, with so many styles and features to consider, it can be hard to know which one will give you the best support. Whether you prefer underwire or wire-free, more compression or adjustable straps, there’s a sports bra out there that can meet your needs. Here’s a breakdown of the best bras for high-impact support, along with a guide to the features you should consider when shopping.

Best for Comfort: Runderwear Original Support

Price: $98

Runderwear has earned a reputation for creating chafe-free running underwear, and the Original Support bra continues that tradition. During testing, our team wore the Runderbra during the RW Half Marathon Festival, and it was a hit. Whether tackling a 5K or 10K, testers experienced no bounce or discomfort. The seamless construction and soft fabric ensure a smooth, irritation-free run, making it the perfect option for long-distance runners.

Best for Seamless Support: Brooks Dare Crossback

Price: $89.95

The Brooks Dare Crossback stands out for its comfort and performance. The molded cups offer solid support for a range of cup sizes, from A to D. The seamless design means it fits smoothly under clothing without any bulging, while the breathable material keeps things comfortable throughout your run. The Dare Crossback is a great option for runners who prioritize both comfort and support.

Best for Easy, Pullover Support: Reebok PureMove

Price: $30

For runners who want a simple and effective sports bra, the Reebok PureMove is a great choice. With no complicated straps or hooks to adjust, this pullover design is easy to put on and provides a snug fit. The bra uses Motion Sense technology, a gel inside that stiffens with sudden movement to reduce bounce. The perforated ventilation holes in the front and back ensure breathability, while the padded bottom band keeps it soft against the skin.

Key Support Features to Look For

When choosing a sports bra, it’s important to understand the different types of support features available. Here’s a guide to help you find the right fit:

Underwire Cups

Sports bras with underwire cups are ideal for high-impact activities and offer superior support, especially for DD cup sizes and above. They help control bounce, but some runners may find them less flexible than wire-free options. Underwire bras are great for those who prefer extra structure and support.

Molded Cups

If you want a more flexible, wire-free option, consider a sports bra with molded cups. These bras provide support by forming to each breast’s individual shape, helping prevent the dreaded “uni-boob” effect. While not always as supportive as underwire options, molded cups are a great choice for runners who want comfort and structure without the extra hardware. Many of these bras also feature removable pads for added flexibility.

Compression

Compression bras provide a tight, secure fit that holds everything in place, minimizing bounce. Some runners love this locked-in feeling, while others might find it too constricting. Generally, more compression means better support, but it’s important to find the right balance between “bounce-free” and “too tight.” Compression bras are ideal for those who need extra control during intense activities.

How We Test

Selecting the best sports bras can feel overwhelming with so many features to consider. To simplify your search, we tested these bras in real-world conditions. Our team of runners, including one in her third trimester of pregnancy, put these bras to the test during various activities to evaluate their performance. We also considered factors like comfort, support, and durability, so you can feel confident in your choice.

Conclusion

Finding the right sports bra is crucial for any runner, especially for those with a larger cup size. Whether you prefer underwire, molded cups, or a more compression-focused design, there are plenty of options to suit your needs. The Runderwear Original Support, Brooks Dare Crossback, and Reebok PureMove are all great choices for runners seeking comfort and reliable support during their runs.

When it comes to tracking your runs and workouts, a good smartwatch is essential. These high-tech devices do more than just track your pace and distance—they offer customized workouts, music streaming, detailed maps, and advanced health metrics. Whether you’re an elite runner or just getting started, choosing the right smartwatch can be a game-changer. Here are our top picks for the best smartwatches for men, each offering unique features to elevate your training.

Best All-Rounder: Garmin Forerunner 945

For runners seeking a well-rounded smartwatch with almost every feature imaginable, the Garmin Forerunner 945 is the ideal choice. It’s lightweight but packed with features, including heart rate monitoring, GPS tracking, and storage for up to 1,000 songs. The watch also offers a virtual pay feature, barometric altimeter, and extended battery life (two weeks in smartwatch mode and up to 36 hours in GPS mode). Whether you’re training for a marathon or exploring new routes, this watch has it all.

Best for Long Battery Life: Suunto 9

The Suunto 9 is a favorite among ultrarunners thanks to its incredible battery life. With the “Ultra” battery mode, it can last up to 120 hours of active GPS tracking, making it perfect for long-distance races and multi-day adventures. It also provides essential data like weather forecasts and heart rate monitoring. If you’re looking for a smartwatch that will keep going for as long as you do, the Suunto 9 is a great option.

Best for Maps: Polar Grit X

If you need a smartwatch with robust navigation features, the Polar Grit X delivers. It offers intuitive map displays and the innovative Hill Splitter, which tracks your ascents and descents during runs. The watch has a 40-hour battery life in GPS mode and can be extended to 100 hours with reduced tracking frequency, making it a great companion for outdoor adventures and ultramarathons. While it doesn’t show street names, it’s perfect for runners tackling off-road or mountainous terrain.

Best Power Monitoring: Polar Vantage V

The Polar Vantage V is designed for serious runners who want to track every aspect of their training. It measures running power, an advanced metric that helps assess your effort during runs. In addition to power monitoring, it tracks heart rate, training load, and other key performance metrics. The Vantage V offers an impressive 40 hours of GPS tracking and is built for athletes who want to optimize their training and performance.

Best for Apple Users: Apple Watch Series 5

The Apple Watch Series 5 is a top choice for Apple enthusiasts. While it’s not specifically designed for runners, its GPS accuracy, heart rate monitoring, and ability to stream music or podcasts without needing an iPhone make it an excellent option for everyday fitness tracking. The Series 5 features an always-on display, which means you can glance at your metrics without having to raise your wrist. However, the battery life can be limited when using GPS and Bluetooth simultaneously, so it’s best for shorter runs or casual workouts.

Additional Noteworthy Options

• Coros Apex: With 35 hours of battery life and a clean, simple design, the Coros Apex is perfect for runners who value both performance and style. It includes essential metrics like GPS accuracy, heart rate, and altitude tracking, and its stamina feature estimates how much energy you have left during your run.
• Garmin Forerunner 245: This watch is ideal for runners who love to listen to music during their runs. It syncs with Spotify to play music directly from the watch, and its improved heart rate monitor and mapping features make it a great tool for training. While its battery life is shorter than some other models, it’s still a solid choice for runners who want essential features at a reasonable price.
• Garmin Forerunner 45: A great value for the money, the Forerunner 45 offers GPS tracking, heart rate monitoring, and smart notifications, all in a lightweight, user-friendly design. While it lacks music streaming and advanced mapping features, it provides all the basics for an affordable price.
• Amazfit Bip S: For runners on a budget, the Amazfit Bip S offers impressive performance, including heart rate and sleep tracking, plus a month-long battery life. While its touchscreen may be a bit tricky, it’s an excellent option for those who want a basic smartwatch with great value.

How We Tested

We put each of these smartwatches to the test by tracking runs of various distances, from short sprints to long-distance marathons. Our team of testers evaluated each watch for accuracy, durability, ease of use, and overall performance. We also took note of battery life, GPS accuracy, and additional features like music streaming and map navigation. Whether we were tackling trails or training on the road, these watches kept up with our needs.

Final Thoughts

The right smartwatch can be a game-changer for your running and overall fitness routine. From the all-around excellence of the Garmin Forerunner 945 to the unbeatable battery life of the Suunto 9, these models offer a wide range of features to suit different runners’ needs. Whether you prioritize advanced metrics, long battery life, or simple functionality, there’s a smartwatch out there for you.