No one likes dealing with the painful, unsightly red marks from bra straps, right? Is it just a necessary evil? What if we told you that the solution may be a bra with wide straps?
What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think of a bra with wide straps? Does it conjure images of plain white “granny” bras? What’s the purpose of wide straps anyway?
Are they really better than narrow straps? Do they prevent red marks? We’ll take a look at the benefits of bras with wide straps and if they’re the solution to those pesky red marks.
Why do red marks happen?
Have you ever taken your bra off after a long day only to be left with painful red marks on your shoulders? If so, you’re not alone.
Red marks happen when your straps are doing more work than they're supposed to. Contrary to popular belief, your straps should only give about 20% of the total support of your bra.
Your bra band is responsible for 80% of the lifting. If your bra band is too loose it isn’t able to provide the support that it should, leaving too much weight on your straps.
Red marks are a sign that you’re either wearing the wrong size band or that your band has stretched. If you’re not able to adjust your band any tighter, then it’s time for a new bra. The key to minimizing red marks is to find a bra that fits you well and is suited to your individual shape and size.
Are red marks normal?
To a point, yes, they can be normal. After all, we’re not made of stone. Bra straps press against your skin and this can leave some redness, even when the fit is absolutely perfect.
No matter what the strap is made of, it will probably leave a bit of an indent or mark especially in women with heavy breasts. Normal red marks or indentations will disappear within a few minutes to an hour and should not be painful.
If they are deep, cause bruising, or last longer than an hour you should probably double-check your size and/or look for another bra.
If you have heavy breasts it’s a good idea to rotate between bras so that you’re not putting pressure on the same spots every day.
Choose bras with straps in different places, like a racerback one day and a t-shirt bra the next. This will help make things a bit more comfortable and will give your body a bit of a break.
How do wide straps help with red marks?
Even if your band is doing its fair share of the work, women with heavy breasts may still find themselves dealing with red marks caused by narrow straps.
This is because the weight is still too heavy for the thin straps to properly hold. Wide straps help by distributing the weight over a wider area. Wide straps also have more padding, creating a bit of a cushion for the shoulders. They are less likely to slip off of the shoulders as well.
What are the best wide strap bras for heavy breasts?
First of all, even the best bra is not going to eliminate or reduce red marks if it doesn’t fit you well! Bra fit cannot be overlooked.
Here are our top picks for bras with wide straps.
- Wide, padded straps that won’t slip
- Secure front closure
- Cushioned underwire for support
- Beautiful lace detail
Easy On/Off Front-Close Underwire Bra
- Moisture-wicking fabric to keep you cool and dry
- Cushioned underwire for support
- Wide, adjustable straps for a perfect fit
- Side bust enhancers for shape and support
Feel the Magic Wire-Free Support Bra
- 2-piece curve contouring cups
- Lace coverage that adds beautiful, breathable coverage
- Wire-free with the support of an underwire
- Adjustable cushioned straps
360 Support Front-Close Posture-Back Bra
- Adjustable front hook-and-eye closure
- Back smoothing Lycra panels
- Wide, padded straps
- Contoured cups
So, are wide straps really the solution for eliminating red marks?
As we’ve seen, wide straps can work wonders when it comes to helping with red marks, but they're not the solution.
You can have straps made of the softest, most plush material in the world but if your bra doesn’t fit properly, they’re not going to help.
The real solution to red marks is a bra that fits! Take the time to find your size and then find a bra that fits you like it was made just for you. Proper fit really can’t be understated, it’s that important! Your shoulders will thank you!
Lift, Shape, and Support With Comfort and Style
