Sports bras and tops

Tops are something I’m very particular about. In the summer, I want to run with a shorter length shirt; in the winter, something longer works better. For sports bras, I’ve always preferred maximum support as running is a high-impact sport. Here I give a breakdown of which sports bras I find best, and a breakdown of how I layer tops throughout the temperatures.

SPORTS BRAS

There are few things more uncomfortable than having zero breast support on a run. Finding the right bra will give you the freedom to concentrate on how the rest of your body is contributing to your pace. It just makes everything easier. I’ve linked some of my favourites here. I haven’t found anything quite as good as Lululemon, and I’ve tried lots of maximum support bras, but they’re really worth the investment. I prefer the less strappy models, and the thicker the straps, the better. For bustier humans, I highly recommend this chafe balm for a comfortable run. It works really well between your thighs as well!

RUNNING TOPS: SPRING/FALL (5-15 DEGREES CELCIUS)

These seasons are so in-between, and temperatures vary so much, that it’s difficult to decide what to wear best. I often refer to this clothing guide from Nike, which breaks down layers by temperature. When I say Spring, I mean 5-15 degrees Celsius. In my opinion, this is the best temperature range for running long distances! I can get away with a long sleeve and shorts, or a tank top if I’m running further. If it’s a little closer to the 7 degree range, I layer a tank top/long sleeve with a zip up hoodie (my favourite is the Alo Contour Jacket), and then above 10 degrees I wear just the long sleeve. Below I break down my top finds from my favourite brands:

Lululemon: the Swiftly Tech long sleeve and racerback tank tops are my favourites. With Lululemon, I prefer the race length pieces as I have a shorter torso and don’t like the feeling of anything rolling up while I run

Alo: the Contour Jacket is my favourite, as it’s easy to unzip while running and light enough to tie around your waist

Nike: Their Dri-Fit long sleeve shirt is great for those who want a little bit more breathing room. It’s not quite as fitted as the Lululemon Swiftly Tech long sleeve, and is great for transitional weather

RUNNING TOPS: WINTER RUNS (SUB ZERO)

By far the most difficult season to run, especially in Canada, winter provides a different sort of dopamine rush for anyone that braves the chill. The trick is to layer!

0-5 degrees: I love the Lululemon It’s Rulu Run Half Zip sweater. If I overheat, I can unzip. I also usually layer a tank top underneath

0 - -10 degrees: I add a vest to the previous ensemble, or add a jacket with a padded torso. This helps with the windchill, but gives my arms more mobility. See the page on Jackets for further links to pieces.

Sub -10: I personally don’t like to run when it’s this cold, but I switch jackets to something even warmer, with the same layer of tops as above.

Another tip: Uniqlo Heattech is excellent for adding extra warmth!

RUNNING TOPS: SUMMER (15 DEGREES AND ABOVE)

BREATHABILITY IS KEY. Especially if you are somewhere humid, summer can be even more unpleasant than winter if you aren’t dressed properly. Go for lighter colours and looser fits - personally, I’ve found that if it’s really humid out, a t-shirt that covers my shoulders keeps me cooler than a tank top, but to each their own!