Sports bras have come a long way since inventors, Lisa Lindahl and Polly Smith came out with the first “jogbra” in the 1970’s, made out of a jock strap.

Since then, we have many options to choose from and personal factors to consider before purchasing a sports bra. 

For full-bust women, one important factor is the closure type. There are three main types of sports bras: pullover, front-closure, and back-closure. Each type has its own pros and cons, so it's important to choose the one that's right for you.

Pullover Sports Bras

Pullover sports bras have historically been the dominant style. They are easy to produce and widely preferred by many young girls and women. Pullover sports bras are likely to be seen as fashionable, particularly in the athleisure world. 

Depending on who you ask, they can be easy to put on and take off. Also depending on who you aske, they provide good support for low- to medium-impact activities. Pullover sports bras can be difficult to get on and off, if you have a large bust. No matter your bust size, a pullover sports bra can become a workout of its own when it is time to take it off a sweaty body. 

Pullover sports bras do not offer adjustability. The life of a pullover sports bra can be short due to the stretching of getting in and out of it. 

Pros:

• Can be easy to put on and take off.
• Support for low- to medium-impact activities
• Wide range of styles and colors available

Cons:

• Can be difficult to get on and off if you have a large bust.
• No adjustability. 
• Will not provide enough support for high-impact activities.

Closure Sports Bras

Closure sports bras are becoming increasingly popular due their convenience of

getting in and out, particularly amongst the full bust community. If you are searching for a high-impact sports bra, you will likely find it in one that offers closure. 

Sports bras with closures tend to be less fashionable than pullovers. While fashion may be a consideration, these sports bras are easier to get on and off than a pullover bra. Closures for sports bras can be in the front or back. Most closure bras offer some form of adjustability, whether that be with the straps or the band. 

Depending on your preference for front or back closure (future blog post ahead), support will vary. 

Pros:

• Easier to put on and take off than pullover bras
• Provides more support for high-impact activities
• Typically provides some adjustability. 

Cons:

• May not be as stylish as pullovers. 
• May not be as comfortable as pullover bras.
• Depending on front or back closure, support will vary. 

Which Type of Sports Bra Is Right for You?

The best type of sports bra for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you have a large bust or broad shoulders, you may want to choose a front- or back-closure sports bra. If you're looking for a sports bra that's easy to put on and take off, you may want to choose a pullover sports bra. And if you're looking for a sports bra that provides the most support for high-impact activities, you may want to choose a front or back-closure sports bra.