We’ve already discussed what to look out for when purchasing a sports bra specifically for cycling, now it’s time to review some models.
Did the Pro Cool sports bra from Swedish brand Craft, offer enough support while being comfortable enough to cycle in? Janet Birkmyre, editor of Bike Envy finds out.
Craft Pro Cool sports bra is, as the name suggests a high performance, crop top style, compression sports bra, offering support and comfort with all of Craft’s usual attention to detail. We found it to be a great choice for cycling, because it is cut to allow for complete freedom of movement around the arm holes, using fabric that offers four way stretch to ensure it gives support and the perfect fit, whatever you get up to.
There are two versions of the Craft Pro Cool Sports Bra – the Sports Bra and the Super Sports Bra – which means it can accommodate all sizes from a super aerodynamic AA cup, to a more curvy C and D cup sizes. Our researcher commented that smaller ladies may find it provides enough coverage to be worn alone, with no base layer or T shirt over the top, without feeling like you are walking around in your underwear.
Craft have developed what they call “body control fabric” which is used to support your breasts and minimise movement and the bra is lined with COOLMAX Extreme lining to keep you as cool and fresh as possible. To further that aim, there are mesh panels under the bust line and in the back of the bra, between the shoulder blades, which further aid ventilation. The highly technical fabrics actively pulls sweat away from the body, reducing nasty smells and feel great next to the skin.
The shoulder straps are shaped and padded – more important for running than cycling – but cyclists will appreciate the added comfort on the bike and the mesh edging gives them width and stability, without making you feel over-dressed.
This sports bra is kept in place with a broad elasticated band at the bottom. Often this is the part where there is a big compromise with this type of bra – it needs to be firm enough to hold everything in place, but at the same time not restrict breathing in any way. We loved the fit and feel of the Craft Pro Cool Sports Bra, we felt supported in all the right places, but our breathing was not limited.
It washes easily, dries quickly and overall we thought it was a great choice of sports bra for any activity, but particularly comfortable for cycling.
Verdict
If you’re sized below a DD, then this bra is a great option for cycling in. It offers the right amount of support combined with material that works. Wicking sweat away from the body so you can stay comfortable in the saddle without rubbing!
Pros
– Padded straps that aid comfort
– Keeps you as sweat free as possible
– Washes well
Cons
– Not suitable for DD+ bra sizes
Are you DD+? Why not click through to read these articles:
– Sports bras for DD+ cyclists
– Impact Free Sports Bra by Royce review for cyclists
Website: www.craft.se
Sizes: Sports Bra A/B cup, Super Sports Bra C/D cup
Colours: black or white
Price: Sports Bra £31, Super Sports Bra £36
What Craft says about the Pro Cool sports bra
The CRAFT Pro Cool sports bra with 4-way stretch (Pro Cool 4D technology is perfect for all sports.
- Sport specific fit for total freedom of movement
- Body control fabric to keep breasts in place
- Body Mapped Cool Mesh Superlight fabric for ventilation
- Ergonomic mesh edging for comfortable fit
- Run specific padded, preshaped shoulder straps
Composition: 80% polyamide, 2% elastane.
