The 3 Types of Sports Bra

Women's Rugby Kit
Written By boobydoo

Sports bras are engineered with different support systems to manage movement and keep you comfortable during exercise. Each offers a unique feel, shape, and level of support. The three most common types are Compression, Encapsulation, and Hybrid.

Watch this short video to learn the difference between Hybrid, Compression, and Encapsulation sports bras - to find out which style might suit you best.

If you’re wondering which type of sports bra is best for you, and what the key benefits are of each style - this guide is for you!

COMPRESSION SPORTS BRAS

Compressing the breast tissue close to the body, this classic support method provides maximum support and minimises unwanted movement. Ideal for A-C cups.

Best For:

  • A–C cups or those who prefer a classic, secure, “locked in” feeling.

Key Benefits of Compression Sports Bras: 

  • Maximum Bounce Reduction

  • Simple, streamlined design

  • Great for high-impact activity in A-C cup sizes

ENCAPSULATION SPORTS BRAS

Using a defined cup structure to encapsulate each breast, these sports bras give you maximum support with a feminine bust shape. No monoboobs here! Ideal for D+ Cups.

Best for: 

  • D+ cups or anyone wanting a defined, natural bust shape.

Key Benefits of Encapsulation Sports Bras: 

  • Maximum support with a feminine shape

  • Reduced strain on shoulders 

HYBRID SPORTS BRAS

Combines separate cups with a layer of compression fabric over the top to create what some might describe as 'best of both'. Choose this for support and comfort. Ideal for all sizes.

Best for: 

  • All sizes, offering a blend of support, comfort and shape.

Key Benefits of Encapsulation Sports Bras: 

  • Gives you the ‘best of both’ support

  • Comfortable yet highly stabilising

  • Reliable for all impact levels

boobydoo

We are boobydoo, the sports bra experts. 

We are the world’s leading authority on sports bras, providing fitting advice, education, and support to all. We will break down barriers to exercise that are associated with breast movement and health.

Our mission is to find the perfect fitting sports bra for every active woman, no matter her size or the activity she is taking part in. Over the last sixteen years, we have been on a mission to curate the world’s best range of sports bras and sizes available, and now carry hundreds of styles and cover sizes 24-54 band, A-K cup.

Find out more

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