Best Wireless Bra: What to Look for…

JANE FLANAGAN / STYLE WELLNESS

Many women truly detest underwire bras… and for understandable reasons; cage-like constriction, pinching, chafing and red marks are just some of the common complaints.

More than that, an underwire is hard and inelastic, whereas women’s bodies change over the course of our monthly cycle. That means that an underwire bra that fits great on Day 1 of your cycle may become painfully uncomfortable by Day 14. 

So it seems a no-brainer: Forgo the wire and find a wireless bra without the constriction of the underwire! In this article, we’ll cover what to look for in a great wireless bra and make some recommendations from the Knix range for every need.

6 Things Look for in a Great Wireless Bra

Anybody who has shopped for bras (whether online or instore) will tell you how overwhelming it can be. So, let’s break down the top things to search for when you’re looking for a great wire-free bra.

1. Support for Every Bust Size

Contrary to popular opinion, choosing a wire-free bra does not mean forgoing support. Indeed, many of the most intensive and hard-working sports bras have always been wireless. 

The opinion that wireless bras are less supportive probably stems from delicate (often lacy) bralettes, which were never designed to offer support and definitely are not a viable option for those of us with larger busts. But a wireless bra is not the same as this kind of bralette. Indeed, fabric technology and bra engineering has come a long way. And you can now expect similar support from a wireless bra that you might from an underwire bra.

Indeed, the product ranges of both kinds of bras are so varied, that it’s a wild generalization to talk about support as simply defined by these two categories. Instead, look at the particular design you are considering. Most bras today will indicate suitability for certain cup sizes or amount of support.

You’ll also be able to tell from the construction; look for molded and separated cups and wide shoulder straps and the band to offer maximum support. Remember, wearing the right size is as key to support as design, so think about getting fitted (either in person or virtually).

Finally, don’t compromise on your right size. If a bra you like doesn’t come in your size, move along. Don’t be tempted to squeeze yourself into a too-small bra (or to size up thinking it will offer more comfort). You’ll only lose out on support. 

2. Comfort, All Damn Day 

Wire-free bras already hold the promise of greater comfort, but forgoing an underwire is not always alone a guarantee of comfort. We all have different bodies, sensitive to different things. 

For example, I have very soft, rounded shoulders, so bras with wide-set straps can annoy the you-know-what out of me, with straps constantly slipping. For others, it may be skin that’s sensitive to different fabrics. Some women find padded bras awkward, and some women detest unpadded bras and feel more exposed when wearing them.

Knowing your body and what you like (and don’t like) is important when you’re shopping for any style of bra. Again, the key is the confidence not to compromise. Don’t let yourself be influenced away from your own established preferences by reviews or influencers. At the end of the day, the goal is for you to be more comfortable! 

3. Natural Shape Without Bulge or Spillage

Wireless bras will always give you a silhouette that’s more ‘natural’ than underwire bras. But that doesn’t mean you need to forgo any shaping properties.

Again, your own personal preferences are key here (and those may depend on what you’re doing or wearing on any given day). Just like underwire bras, wireless bras can offer more or less coverage and support. 

But no matter what shape you prefer to achieve, do make sure your bra fits correctly. This means that your breasts should never “spill” out of the cups or the sides of the bra. It also means that you should not bulge at the front or back of the bra. These are all simply signs that you’re wearing the wrong size bra. 

4. The Size YOU Require

How many of us fall in love with clothes, shoes and lingerie that doesn’t come in our size? It can be such a disappointing shopping experience. Too often, we’re so invested in the idea of owning the coveted object that we’ll even buy the wrong size.

Obviously, we think you deserve a bra that’s the right size for you. Do not compromise. Whether you’re an A-cup or a G-cup, there are wireless bras out there for you! 

5. Style Options for Every Taste & Occasion

Wireless bras are often associated with weekends (and working from home). But this is another mis-categorization.

Wireless bras can actually come in loads of different styles that will serve you no matter what day of the week or occasion. Like any other clothing item, you might want a range of different styles to choose from. Or you may find “The One” and stick to it faithfully. 

Beyond styles, also think about the different colours you might want. Most of us want a “nude” bra in our inventory and black and white are failsafe additions too. But you can also find colors and patterns to express more personality. Again, it’s really about you! 

6. Easy to Care for

Another huge advantage of wireless bras is they’re much easier to care for than underwired bras. Without that metal wire to bend or bust out of the seams, laundering is MUCH easier.

This doesn’t mean zero precautions. Bras in general are still considered delicate… If they get knotted up and pulled in the washing machine, they can lose their elasticity much faster.

Always check the care instructions on any bra you’re considering purchasing. Be realistic about how you’ll care for them. If you’re never going to hand wash a bra, don’t buy something underwired and/or excessively delicate. Knix bras can all be machine-washed in cold water and air-dried, making them really easy to care for.

For a complete guide on how to care for bras, click here. 

Find The Best Wireless Bras for...

So with those tips in mind, here are our 5 top recommendations for different kinds of wearers and needs:

Best Wireless Bra for High Support: Catalyst Sports Bra

Woman in sports bra

The Catalyst Sports Bra is the most supportive high impact, wireless sports bra you’ll ever put on. Designed to drastically reduce breast movement, the Catalyst outperformed over 800 bras it was tested against. And taking it off after a long workout is a snap! With a wide range of size options, the Catalyst Sports Bra supports up to a G-cup.

BUY HERE 

How it Fits: 

Performance molded cups separate and encapsulate your breasts to reduce movement. It may feel a little snug when you first get it, that’s normal. It’s designed to relax and adapt to your shape as you wear it. It’s comfortable, supportive, and easy to take on and off.

What Reviewers Say:

“I have purchased many sports bras, but this one is the best I have ever worn. I love it so much that I am wearing it more on a daily basis too. It molds to your body, has a great innovative strap design , and is supportive while oh so comfortable. Well worth the money!”

“The best fitting bra I've ever had! So comfortable and supportive, great for every day use with a physically demanding job.”

Size Options:

From 32A to 42G - and everything in between!

Best Wireless Bra to Avoid Slipping Straps: Padded V-Neck Bra - Wide Strap

woman in bra

If (like me) your biggest peeve is falling shoulder straps, this might just be the perfect bra for you! With a neckline perfect for lower cut tops, the Padded V-Neck Bra - Wide Strap gives you a natural shape with strong support, and light, removable padding has you covered. Seamless construction and 4-way stretch fabric means this bra will adapt to your unique shape.

BUY HERE 

How it Fits: 

This bra has wider straps for more support. It may feel a little snug when you first get it, that’s normal. It’s designed to relax as you wear it.

What Reviewers Say:

“Molds to your body perfectly!”

The virtual fitting session was very helpful. The bra fits perfectly with straps that stay put. Love it!”

Size Options:

32A to 42G - and everything in between!

Best Wireless Bra for *Every* Shade of Nude: WingWoman Contour Bra

Woman in underwear

Available in 5 different nude shades, the wireless WingWoman Contour Bra features a plunging neckline and molded foam cups give you the most shape and definition of all our bras – without compromising on comfort. Plus, extra side coverage eliminates sideboob and overspill.

BUY HERE 

How it Fits: 

This bra gives you just the right low-cut lift and separation you're looking for, with extra side coverage and light padding.

What Reviewers Say:

“So comfortable with no underwire but has a great shape. Planning to order another one in another colour!”

“This bra is supportive and comfortable. I also feel secure knowing there are 3 hooks keeping it together. The smooth finish also means I can wear it without texture showing through my shirts.”

Size Options:

32A to 42G - and everything in between!

Best Wireless Bra for Smaller Sizes: Infinity Bra

Woman in bra

An amazing, do-anything everyday Infinity Bra - with new sizes for smaller breasts! With flattering wireless support, totally seamless design, and molded cups for a super smooth silhouette under tops and tees. Designed especially for those of us with smaller bands and cups

BUY HERE 

How it Fits: 

This bra is available in select cup sizes and bands 28” - 38”. The adjustable straps can be worn straight or cross-back to compliment any outfit.

What Reviewers Say:

“This is the most comfortable bra I have ever worn. I forget I'm wearing it at times. I'm quite small in the chest and it still gives me some shape. Would recommend.”

“Comfortable yet still fits in the category of "sexy bra." I won't be ordering anything for my lady parts aside from Knix. Thanks Knix!”

Size Options:

28A to 38B - and everything in between!

Best Wireless Bra for WFH /  Loungewear: Longevity Bra

Woman in bra

Flattering and functional, the medium-impact (high-enjoyment) Longevity Bra can be worn under any workout gear or on its own.

BUY HERE 

How it Fits: 

Designed to fit soft and snug, with reinforced underbust for lift and support. Adjustable straps for the perfect fit, this bra may feel a little snug when you first get it, that’s normal. It’s designed to relax and adapt to your shape as you wear it.

What Reviewers Say:

“This is the real deal. From yoga to lounge to everyday I love this bra. So comfortable and love the fabric. I should really buy another one.”

“I bought this bra on a whim because I liked the bright colours but I've been really impressed! It is really comfortable and great for wearing during this work from home times. I like that the straps are adjustable and there's no padding. I'll be looking to pick up some more since WFH seems like it'll never end!”

Size Options:

32A to 40DD - and everything in between!

Advantages of Wireless Bras

While the choice of underwire is ultimately a personal one, there are some objective pros and cons for each style. Let’s explore:

Pro: Just More Comfortable

Wireless bras simply win on comfort. Now, granted many women who find underwire bras uncomfortable are wearing the wrong size. But even when you’re wearing the right size, underwires are more prone to dig into your ribs and generally feel more constricting than wireless bras. Wireless is consistently considered the most comfortable choice.

Pro: Better for Sports Bras

Most sports bras are wireless. This is because when you need to move and perform physically you need maximum comfort and flexibility. This may be surprising to some, who think that an underwire is required for support (and you need a lot of support when running and jumping). But the construction of a sports bra is different from an everyday bra; the fabrics are often thicker and contain more elastic. So even without a wire, sports bras can give you that support. 

Pro: Better for Pregnancy

If you’re pregnant (especially if you’re carrying high), post-pregnancy or breastfeeding, you will likely find that a soft cup vs a wired bra is way more comfortable to wear.

Pro: Better for Sleeping or Post Surgery

If you’ve had surgery or sleep with a bra, a wireless bra should be your choice. These bras can still support you, without causing discomfort or restricting circulation. 

Pro: Better for Circulation

While the idea that wearing underwires causes breast cancer has been debunked, underwire bras can still be quite constrictive and cut off circulation, especially if you’re wearing the wrong size. A wireless bra is just more flexible and allows your both to move, expand and contract without causing constriction. This way, they won’t impede lymph drainage or circulation.

Disadvantages of Underwire Bras

Underwire bras have some things in their favor; that underwire does offer additional support. However, in addition to discomfort, there are some serious cons too:

Con: More High Maintenance to Care for

A huge con of underwire bras is that they can be finicky to care for. While a lot of wireless bras can be machine-washed (read the care labels and follow good washing instructions), underwire bras almost always need to be hand washed and dried. 

Over time, many women find that the wire pops out of its casing. It can also start to bend if you’re too vigorous with your washing, or mishandle them when storing. So overall, underwire bras are considered too high maintenance for some women vs wireless alternatives.

Con: Allergies / Reactions

Finally (this will be a non-issue for most women) underwires have been known to cause allergic reactions and rashes in some wearers. If metal is irritating or your skin is especially sensitive, you may find the delicate skin under your breasts is irritated by the underwire. 

Why Would Anybody Still Wear an Underwire?!

Underwire bras do also offer additional support. If you fall into larger cup sizes and want lift from a wireless bra, you’ll need to pay extra attention to the fabric and the cut of the bra to see where that support comes from. With underwire bras, you know you’ll be getting additional support from that wire.

That said, wireless bras really do have a lot going for them! The great news is you don’t have to choose one or the other all the time. Many women enjoy an assortment of bra styles, colors and shapes to shake up the mix and tailor their bra for their outfit, and even their mood! But, in our opinion, a wireless bra should definitely be part of your mix! 

No Matter What, Find Your Right Size

A lot of women have a dislike for certain bra styles or brands based on their comfort. But it often turns out that the issue isn’t the bra design, it’s the size. So, whatever style you decide is “for you” make sure you find your right size.

While you can measure your bra size yourself, we really recommend getting a professional fitting. Good news! You can schedule a virtual fitting with Knix from the comfort of your own home! 

What to Expect from a Knix Virtual Fitting:

  • Book your virtual fitting here
  • We’ll connect you with one of our expert Knix team members for a 1-on-1 fitting session over video chat. 
  • For your bra fitting, we recommend you wear a bra with little or no padding and a fitted t-shirt to make sure we get an accurate measurement. You’ll also need either a) a soft measuring tape or b) a piece of string or cord and a tape measure or ruler.
  • With different styles and sizes for 30A to 42G in the world’s most comfortable and supportive wireless bras, our fit experts can help you get into something that you will love to wear every single day.

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.