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TEST LAB >> Shock Absorber Active Multi Sports This U.K.-based company has taken its product development very seriously, commissioning pio- neering research on breast health during exercise, and it claims its bras can reduce breast movement by up to 78 percent compared to a normal bra. While I can't scientifically calculate that it works that well for me, the Shock Absorber Active Multi Sports Bra does check off a few of my priorities. Made from a moisture-wicking, breathable fabric, the bra kept me cool during my rides on the hot, humid summer days in Virginia. The straps are a little thin, but they don't cut into my shoulders because of the padding. The bra features a racerback design, which I like, since straps slipping off my shoulders are a big pet peeve. What makes this different from most racerback models is that there are two hook enclosures on the back, which create more support across a bigger area. I also like the soft cups, which help out those of us in the C-and-up category; it cre- ates a smooth illusion in the front without the uniboob effect. But if you're looking for a smoothing bra, this might not be it, as the two clasps create a keyhole opening, and the band cuts relatively low under your shoulder blades in the back, which could emphasize lumps and bumps under a tight-fitting shirt. But with the adjustable straps and a correct size, it should work for most body types. The Bottom Line: This bra ranks high in the support category, but it's really the best fit for women blessed with little back fat. The Details: Retails for $69. Available in white, black and black with white trim, in cup sizes A-HH. Visit TitleNine.com or other online retailers to order. 30 FA L L 2 014 U N TAC K E D Sports Bra Showdown If you're perpetually underwhelmed by your athletic undergarments, we hear you. So three support-challenged Chronicle staffers set out in search of the perfect sports bra for riders. >> TESTER #1 Size: 38C Needs: Since I compete at the preliminary level in eventing and have recent- ly started dabbling in second level dressage with my hard-to-sit Thorough- bred, my main priority in a sports bra is firm support, especially for the sitting trot. I also tend to sweat a lot, so a comfortable, wicking fabric is essential. Pet Peeve: The dreaded back fat. In my search for the perfect bra, many I've come across have cut in across my back, creating lumps. Whether you're showing in a coat or just a white show shirt when jackets have been waived, this never creates a flattering picture. Enell Sport Shock Absorber Active Multi Sports Bra >> Glamorise Double Layer Custom Control There are professionals who spend their days in sitting trot on 10 different horses before heading off to CrossFit at night, and there are amateurs who work all day, jump one horse, muck a stall and then head home to play with the kids. The perfect fit for both? The Glamorise Double Layer Custom Control, a bra designed to adjust for every varying level of activity the busy equestrienne faces in any given day. This model features an "under-bra" and an innovative outer mesh layer that functions—for lack of a better word—as a hammock. This sling layer can be adjusted to different levels depending on your activity and your size (smaller sizes have three notches, and the largest sizes have five). When rid- ing, I use the highest notch, which sits on the front of the shoulder straps, and I experienced significantly less bounce than with my normal sports bras. Then I let the straps down to their lowest notch when it's time for barn chores, which lets me move around in comfort without being lifted up quite so firmly. The Glamorise is extremely flat- tering under my shirt because of the inner bra, which looks more like a normal bra with full cups, so there's no risk of uniboob. The band is also wide enough so that it doesn't cut into my back, and the straps don't slip off my shoulders. Fair warning: Just like adjusting your stirrups when mounted, adjusting this bra can be tricky. I found that I wasn't quite nimble enough to change its level while on my horse because the notches are small, so I'd advise doing it while on the ground for safety and ease. The Bottom Line: This bra has something for everyone, no matter your size or activity level. The Details:Retails for $39.99-$52. Available in white, black or gray and in band sizes 34-46 and cup sizes A-H. Visit Glamorise.com to order. >> Enell Sport "Well, this kind of looks like a corset," I thought to myself as I pulled the Enell Sport bra out of its packaging. With multiple hook and eye closures up the front, it definitely felt like I was donning a Victorian-era costume for the first time, but once I was securely strapped in, I didn't move an inch! Enell's high-impact sports bra is made of a Lycra-Spandex blend that feels a bit less stretchy than other athletic fabrics, but I found it pretty impressive when it came to providing full support, and it's moisture-wicking and cool as well. This is definitely a no-holds-barred, full-coverage bra—almost more like a tank top than what we traditionally think of as an undergarment. It has extra- wide non-stretch straps that aid in support by distributing weight and reducing shoulder fatigue, plus a motion-control neckline. This comes up a bit high on me, so I make sure to button up my polo shirts so it doesn't peek out. The back of the bra, which features a cross-strap design built in to provide back support, also provides maximum coverage and creates a completely smooth silhouette, so I think it would be a great choice under a show shirt or jacket. The Bottom Line: When all else fails, this baby is your answer; she's the ultimate last resort for larger-busted women. And, like Spanx, this shapewear may not be sexy on its own, but it sure does the trick in providing that perfect silhouette we all aim for. The Details: Retails for $64. Available in black, pink, ecru and white. Find your corresponding size for C-cup and above at Enell.com. Equestrian retailers like SmartPak.com and EquestrianCollections.com carry Enell products as well. Glamorise Double Layer Custom Control

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