From tennis to running to circuit training women with bigger (and for that matter any size) boobs need support to prevent sagging and back injuries whilst exercising.

So in light of the numbers of us now engaging in a myriad of physical endeavours, sports bra manufactures are showcasing performance materials that exhibit support and versatility without skimping on all important style and design. 

Bras generally come as two standard types, under wired and non wired. The vast majority of sports bras on the UK market are non wired mostly due to concerns about comfort and possible injury from wires protruding through the garment whilst exercising.

We gave our tester, a woman with an eye-popping 36G cleavage three bras to test ‘on the road’ and after much running, bending and stretching she gave us her verdict. All the bras tested are washable at 40 degrees and suitable for sports activities up to high impact level.

Freya Active 4002 Underwired in charcoal with lime green trim

Interestingly enough this bra looks very much like any regular underwired bra selling on the high street. Its sports features include a double layered ‘Coolmax’ fabric which wicks away moisture from the body and four hooks to help keep the bra firmly in place. So did the Freya Active pass the bounce test? Our tester thought so. She also thought the underwire gave a great natural shape and assisted with support especially during the more rigorous sports. However due to the cup cut, our tester preferred the fuller coverage given by a GG cup for fit and comfort during exercising. This bra comes in a range of colours and also in a Soft Cup (non underwired) design.

Available up to H cup. RRP £27.00   

Pure Lime 098 Compression Sports Bra 36G (high impact)

This bra utilises de rigeur Coolmax breathable fabric for more comfort during activity. It sports wide adjustable comfort straps which can also be altered for a cross back option The moulded cups which are lightly padded around the edges provide support and separation and feature anti stretch technology. The bra also has a built in feature in the straps which prevents wobble. Our tester experienced slightly more bounce with this bra than with the other two and felt it less supportive at the front.

Available up to G cup. RRP £35.00  

Shock Absorber N109 support level 4

‘No bounce’ heaven! Where oh where to begin on this bra which is surely the elite of all sports bras? This bra seems to tick all the boxes demanded by today’s sporting woman. With four hooks at the back and a very deep profile at the front and sides your boobs are guaranteed to stay in place during even the most strenuous activity. The Shock Absorber N109 also features moisture wicking fabric as well as a generous breathable panel which sits between the cleavage. The straps are wide and padded. The cups are sculpted and multi panelled for style. Extra support is provided by a double layer of fabric under-bust and around the sides.

Our tester found this bra gave fantastic coverage and hold without making her front look ‘compressed’ or flat. The fit allowed her to breathe very easily whilst out jogging and the bra felt comfortable throughout. Stretching and bending in all directions, she experienced no problems with chafing or pinching.

Of the three bras tested the Shock Absorber N109 wins hands down. Available in D to H cup. RRP £28.00  

All the above bras can be purchased from stockists and mail order throughout the UK.

Also see www.lessbounce.com for a comprehensive range of sports lingerie to suit activities at all levels.