Athletic Training Bras

Training bras are traditionally worn as a first bra for prepubescent girls and women with breasts that are not yet large enough to fit into a standard-sized bra. They’re also often worn as a leisure and sleep bra for when you’re looking for comfort, containment and modesty but don’t need the lift and shaping of a traditionally constructed bra.

Also often referred to as a trainer or starter bra, the training bra is known for its lightweight design that is made for bodies that have started developing breasts but don’t need a regular bra quite yet. Girls' training bras are popular because they breathe easier, have a relaxed fit, and aren’t as binding as bras that have a tight band and a hook and eye closure.

Most girls' training bras are designed to have a lightweight, wireless (soft-cup) construction, are unlined, and may resemble a crop top or a camisole bra. Most training bras are made with a mixed cotton spandex or cotton Lycra fabric, have thin straps, and feature an elastic band under the bust to hold them in place around the torso. 

Most beginner bras for tweens are sold in small, medium and large sizes. Others that are designed in a more traditional bra-like shape can be available in regular cup and band sizes, like 34AA, and so on. Keep in mind that training bras are mainly made for smaller cup sizes, so they won’t give you as much support if you have larger and heavier breasts. Starter bras are made in a variety of colors, prints and textures to choose from. Other styles are padded to provide extra modesty and conceal nipple show-through. If you’re shopping for your daughter’s first bra, a training bra is a great option to help young girls get more comfortable with the concept of wearing a bra under their clothes.