5 Tips For A Better Fitting Bra: From an Equestrian and Bra Fitter

5 Tips For A Better Fitting Bra – from an Equestrian and Bra Fitter (and how the Enell SPORT can help improve your position)

by: Alison O’Neill & SportsBra

We’ve all heard it in the arena: Sit back. Stay tall. Lift your chest. Every rider knows posture and balance are the foundation of good riding.

But here’s the reality: if your bust is pulling you forward, bouncing you off-balance, or leaving your shoulders sore, you’re riding at a disadvantage before you even pick up the reins.

As both an equestrian and a professional bra fitter, I’ve seen how the wrong bra can undo hours of training in the saddle.

Years ago, before I found the right fit, my neck ached before I even arrived at the barn. My horse would stop at fences because my rounded shoulders tipped me forward. The day I rode in a properly fitted sports bra, everything changed—I could sit the trot, hold my shoulders back and my show coat buttoned without straining.

That’s when I realised: the right bra is as essential to riding as a well-fitted saddle.

Five Fitting Tips Every Equestrian Should Know

Here are five fitting tips every rider should know—plus how the Enell SPORT, designed for high-impact support, can help you stay tall, centred, and confident in the saddle.

1. Choose a Firm Band (It’s Your “Girth Strap”): Think of your bra band like your saddle’s girth—it’s what keeps everything secure. Most women wear bands that are too loose, which means the bust bounces, shifts, and drags you forward. Your band should feel firm on the loosest hook at first (just like breaking in new boots).
   
   The Enell SPORT uses a wide, non-stretch band that anchors firmly around your ribcage, keeping you stable through every stride.
   

   "No bounce! Love these bras, was obviously time for a new one as the old ones had stretched and wow what a difference. My go to for horse riding, especially if your on a bouncy one that won't walk out hunting." ~ Alicia H.
   
   

2. Don’t Downsize the Cup: Too-small cups don’t give compression, they just displace breast tissue, creating bulges and discomfort. Riders often size down, thinking it will reduce bounce, but it usually makes things worse. Correct cup sizing gives lift without spill. 
   
   The Enell SPORT is designed with full-coverage cups that cover your whole breast area so you’re not fighting against gravity.
   
   
   
3. One Good Bra Beats Two Bad Ones: Doubling up bras for “extra support” is a common trick, but it rarely works well and it usually just restricts your breathing. Instead, invest in one bra engineered for high impact. 
   
   The Enell SPORT was built for extreme bounce control. Its compression-plus-design means you’ll feel secure even when posting a big trot or galloping cross-country.
   
   
   

   "I am a horse rider and trainer and for me this is the best sports bra I have come across and certainly way superior to any run of the mill sports bras. I jokingly call it my 'strap em in and lock em down' bra but seriously ladies it's no bounce at the trot but I can still breathe- awesome!" ~ Adrienne S.
   
   

4. Skip the Wire (Your Horse Doesn’t Need One Either)" Underwires aren’t required for serious support. In fact, wire-free designs can often move more comfortably with your body.
   
   The Enell SPORT is completely wire-free but still shapes the bust so your show coat lies flat—no awkward gaps or digging. That means freedom of movement without sacrificing a polished look in the ring.
   
   
   

   "I honestly can not rate this bra high enough!! It’s is a feat of some supreme fabric engineering! I’m a J cup and ride horses. This is the ONLY bra I ever ride in. And even attempt a sitting trot without fearing two black eyes and whip lash! Ha ha! You will never regret buying this bra. A+++++" ~ Naomi Hall
   
   

5. Find Your Fit at Home: No complicated fittings needed. Enell’s sizing system uses just two simple measurements—bust and ribcage—to match you to the right size.
   
   The detailed chart is straightforward and accurate, so you can order online with confidence and know your bra will support you in the saddle.
   

If you need help finding your perfect bra for riding, just fill out my Online Fitting Form and I'll come back with some personalised styles, just for you.