Sport bra alternative for winter hiking

[Peppersass]

It didn't take long to figure out how inappropriate my sport bra is for winter hiking. It doesn't matter how many extra shirts I have with me if my base layer remains cold and wet - inviting hypothermia. There must be something out there I can wear during the strenuous "up," but keep on comfortably for the rest of the hike. Any suggestions?

 

[KV]

Any suggestions?

I share your discomfort. I have tried all kinds of methods. Different layering, no layering (only 1 heavier shirt), all types of materials for the bras themselves, hiking slower to avoid sweating (that was a waste of time...literally).

What I usually do is pack a spare and change once I am either at my destination or the summit. A pain and inconvenient, but oh so wonderful to be dry. And warm. Curious if others have had success.

 

[carla]

I'd suggest a long (meaning long enough to hit your waist) yoga or exercise top. The kind with the built in shelf bra/light support, and lightweight criss-cross straps. These are lighter weight, in general, and thus seem to dry more easily as opposed to getting heavy and water logged. You can get this kind of stuff for cheap at Target, and see if you like it. Of course there's not much support, if that's an issue/desired.

 

[Peppersass]

Thanks, Carla. I just ordered an Ibex balance bra, which is mostly wool. Will see if that works. Just to be safe, I will pack an extra one for the summit.

 

[daxs]

I usually wear a silk cami or go braless

 

[cynthiajanuary]

This is a great thread to read, concerns that we women have. I'm very new here and have many questions. You just answered one!
Cynthia

 

[bignslow]

Nicole has the Ibex merino sports bra (which was recommended by another avid winter hiking friend) and she loves it.

 

[griffin]

I've had luck with a mesh-panel bra from title 9. I can't recall the name off the top of my head, but having the mesh instead of the traditional thick, lycra-based material keeps it from holding quite so much sweat. I find underwire support helps, too, as having the girls mashed against my chest seems to encourage more sweat while preventing wicking.

(and I will add my standard bra advice that once you find something you like, go back and buy several, because odds are they'll have discontinued it or "improved" away the features you like by the time you're ready to shop again)

 

[Shoe]

It's nearly 10 years later, has anyone found the perfect solution? I am still just changing into a dry one.

 

[wardsgirl]

Yes, Shoe, that's probably the most feasible solution. Griffin had some good advice above with "once you find something you like, go back and buy several." I have 4 of the same that I use for hiking/backpacking. They are so old that the brand information is long worn away or washed away.