Wireless vs Underwire Bra

To wear a wire or not to wear a wire, that is the question. As a woman with ample breasts, I thought this wasn’t a choice available to me. The prevailing message for a long time was that if you wanted a supportive and shapely bra, you needed to go for a wired bra.

But design technology has taken leaps and bounds, and now women of all bust sizes have an array of choices. At the end of the day, this is a personal choice. And you don’t need to be all-in on one side or the other. Perhaps some days you want a wired bra, and other times you don’t.

But let’s look at the differences and pros and cons of each style.

What Is a Wireless Bra vs. Underwire Bra

Underwire bras (or wired bras) have sturdy metal or plastic wire beneath the cup of each breast. This wire is usually sewn into the bra with extra fabric around it so that it feels more comfortable. The goal of underwire bras is to lift your breasts away from the wall of your chest and give each breast a defined shape.

On the flip side, wireless bras (which can also be known as soft cup bras) feature no wire but rely on the cut of the fabric and stitching to create shape and provide support. This may take the form of a larger band (longline bra) or an inner sling to support the bra. 

Wireless bras provide support and shape but think of them as enhancing rather than dramatically changing your natural silhouette.

Features Options for Both Styles of Bra

Whether you prefer wireless or underwire bras, you have additional options for both styles, including:

• Straps and construction: Push-up, strapless and more styles are available for both underwire bras and wireless bras.
• Cup shape: Full cup, demi-cup, or half-cup styles are available in both bra styles.
• Padding: Both wired bras and wireless bras are available either with or without padding.
• Design variety: Whether you like your bra frilly, sexy, practical, basic, or luxurious, you’ll be able to satisfy your style with either design.

Pros & Cons of Wireless Bras

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

Pro: Wireless Bras Are Just More Comfortable than Underwire Bras

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: Wireless Bras Make Better 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: Wireless Bras Are 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: Wireless Bras Are Better for Circulation Than Underwire Bras

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 more flexible and allows you both to move, expand and contract without causing constriction. This way, they won’t impede lymph drainage or circulation.

Con: Some Find the Silhouette Less Defined Than With Underwire Bras

The one con of wearing a wireless bra is that it rarely gives you the shape and silhouette that an underwire bra provides. For many of us, this is a non-issue: We prefer a more natural silhouette. But if you want to greatly alter the appearance of your breasts, an underwire bra is more likely to achieve that. 

It’s also important to look at other elements of the bra construction because two different wire-free bras can give you dramatically different results in terms of shape and support. Again, this always comes down to personal choice.

Pro-tip: It's always worth looking at different bra styles of wire-free bras before making a conclusive decision.

Pros & Cons of Underwire Bras

While wireless bras have a lot going for them, there are some reasons to consider keeping an underwire bra in your arsenal (and some disadvantages too). 

Pro: They May Give You a Better for Shape / Silhouette

As mentioned, an underwire gives a bra extra oomph when it comes to lifting and separating your breasts. To be clear: This doesn’t mean that every wireless bra will result in a uni-boob look, but an underwire bra is probably always going to give you next-level lift and separation. There may be times you want this look and other times when you prefer a more natural look.

Pro: You May Get More Support from an Underwire Bra

Underwire bras do also offer additional support. If you have a larger cup size and want support from a wireless bra, you’ll need to pay extra attention to the fabric and 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.

Con: Underwire Bras Are 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: Some May Have Allergies or Reactions to Underwire Bras

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

No Matter Whether Your Choose a Wireless or Underwire Bra, Find Your Right Size

Many 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 correct size.

While you can measure your bra size yourself, we 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.

Knix Wireless Bras: Discover the Best Bra for You...

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

Best Wireless Bra for High Support: Catalyst 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.

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 everyday 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

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 mean this bra will adapt to your unique shape.

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 WFH /  Loungewear: Longevity Bra

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

What reviewers say:

“This is the real deal. From yoga to lounge to every day 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!

Written by Jane Flanagan — Updated on March 1, 2022.

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.