• How we selected products to test
• 1. Best compression sleeve: Bauerfeind
• 2. Best wraparound knee brace: Mueller
• 3. Best knee strap: McDavid
• Other knee braces we tested
• Who needs a knee brace?
• Important features to consider
• The bottom line

How we selected products to test

After interviewing an orthopedic surgeon and physical therapist and reading through running blogs and articles from trusted review sites like Wirecutter, we compiled a list of features that makes for a standout brace:

• Excellent support to effectively reduce pain or discomfort
• Comfortable fabric
• Relatively breathable materials
• Design that allows for a reasonable range of movement
• Uncomplicated and fairly easy to put on

With these requirements in mind, we selected seven highly rated compression sleeves, wraparound braces and knee straps—and then assigned each one to seven highly active testers to try them out during their regular workouts.

Note: For this review, we chose to test compression sleeves, wraparound knee braces and knee straps, all of which provide light to medium support. For more heavy-duty support, we strongly recommend consulting your doctor to determine the right one for you.

The knee braces covered in this article are meant to temporarily ease pain or provide light compression or support. Because there are many different kinds of knee injuries that each require a specific type of knee brace, sleeve or strap, it’s essential to talk to your doctor to determine the right one for you.

1. Best Compression Sleeve: Bauerfeind

Out of the compression sleeves we tested, the Bauerfeind – Sports Knee Support was the clear winner, and can be used to apply light to medium pressure to ease a variety of injuries and conditions. Though its price point is more than triple that of the other sleeves in our lineup, this is one case in which you get what you pay for.

Made of stretchy knit fabric, this sleeve has thinner, aerated sections over the legs and the back of the knee for breathability, as well as ribbing along the top and bottom edges to help keep it in place. The sleeve’s knee is heavily cushioned, which makes it a bit bulky. However, our tester raved that he felt no knee pain either during or after his very vigorous workout.

Best Compression Sleeve: Bauerfeind

The Bauerfeind - Sports Knee Support provides excellent nonslip, breathable support for running and action sports.

See Price at Amazon

The Bauerfeind brace is easy to put
on—our tester simply pulled it on inside out up to his ankle, and then rolled it onto his leg. Strategically placed silicone patches inside the brace hold it in place on the leg; our tester noted that it stayed firmly in place and didn’t slide. Though the brace is tight at first, it quickly warms to the body to provide firm yet comfortable compression and support. The only downside was a noticeable tightness behind the knee.

Key takeaways

• The Bauerfeind – Sports Knee Support brace is made of comfortable, stretchy knit fabric that’s well-aerated for breathability.
• This brace does not budge during activity, warming to the body and providing excellent knee support.
• Though higher priced, the Bauerfeind is superbly designed and well worth the price tag.

2. Best Wraparound Knee Brace: Mueller

The Mueller – Adjustable Knee Support wraps around the leg and then is held in place with several strong Velcro straps, allowing for plenty of adjustment and customization. Though braces with straps can be confusing, the Mueller brace includes clear instructions and even features a diagram printed on the interior of the brace that shows how to strap it into place. Our tester reported that the adjustability made a difference—the brace’s level of support was strong, and being able to tweak the angle of the compression noticeably alleviated impact on her joints.

Best Wraparound Knee Brace: Mueller

Fully adjustable and made of durable neoprene, the Mueller - Adjustable Knee Support brace provides customized, targeted support.

See Price at Amazon

This brace is made of soft neoprene, with a pleasant thickness that feels supportive and durable. Due to the brace’s thick material, multiple straps and firm support, our tester was definitely aware of it during wear; however, she could move well in the brace, and reported that the support it provided was well worth it and ideal for those who need more rigidity while recovering from an injury. Because of the customizable straps, this brace doesn’t slide; however, you may need to tighten the straps more if you tend to sweat a lot.

Key takeaways

• Made of soft, thick neoprene, the Mueller – Adjustable Knee Support wraparound brace delivers firm, customizable support for the knee.
• This brace features diagrams on its interior to simplify application.
• Though the Mueller brace is on the stiff side, the strong support it provides is worth the firm feel.

3. Best Knee Strap: McDavid

Our tester was pleasantly surprised by the McDavid – Knee Strap, which provided excellent support for such a thin, simple band. The inside of the strap has a soft yet firm roll of foam that lies comfortably against the patellar tendon to stabilize the patella, making it perfect for treating patellar tendonitis, runner’s knee and jumper’s knee. The McDavid’s adjustable Velcro straps allow you to tighten it to your liking. Our tester found it best to tighten the strap snugly, which also ensured that it didn’t fall down during exercise.

Best Knee Strap: McDavid

The slim, simple McDavid - Knee Strap provides firm yet comfortable support that’s easy to put on and take off.

See Price at Amazon

The McDavid strap is made of thin yet durable neoprene that breathes well and is very comfortable to wear overall; our tester felt that she could do anything while wearing this brace. Easy to put on and take off, the strap was only slightly irritating on bare legs when worn for an extended period of time.

Key takeaways

• The McDavid – Knee Strap features an interior roll of foam that puts gentle yet firm pressure on the patellar tendon, stabilizing the kneecap effectively.
• Except for the slight irritation we felt on our bare legs after wearing it for a while, the brace is extremely comfortable overall.
• The breathable Velcro-and-neoprene McDavid strap is easy to put on and take off.

Other knee braces we tested

Powerlix

Combining a healthy dose of firm compression and breathability, the Powerlix – Knee Compression Sleeve is a good budget alternative to the Bauerfeind brace. Though the Powerlix felt restrictive around our tester’s legs, he also noted that he forgot he was wearing it at one point, and his knees didn’t feel as tense as usual for a few days after wearing it. The Powerlix is stretchy and slim enough to wear under clothes, if a little on the warm side.

Rehband

With a cushy thickness that rivals the Mueller brace, the Rehband – Rx Knee Support compression sleeve is well-padded and very comfortable, but feels stuffy and sweaty after a while under clothes. On the plus side, the Rehband stayed firmly in place on our tester and never felt like it was slipping down during exercise.

Cambivo

The Cambivo – Patella Knee Strap is more complicated than the McDavid, with two plastic buckles on either side that our tester found a little confusing to adjust at first. The Cambivo has a soft, plush front cushion and provides a wide range of movement, but unfortunately grew itchy after a while and was not as supportive as the McDavid strap. The Cambivo may work for lighter activities like walking, but not for running or vigorous sports.

Techware

The wraparound Techware – Pro Knee Brace felt clunky to our tester, who reported that it felt less breathable than other braces he’d worn. Though he didn’t feel any pain in his knee after wearing this brace, it did slide during his run. Despite the brace’s interior silicone strips, we had to tighten it quite a bit to get it to stay in place. Because he needed to tighten it so much, it felt stiff and wasn’t comfortable to wear during exercise.

Who needs a knee brace?

“If you’re having a lot of knee pain that you didn’t have before, it’s like the check engine light has come on in your car,” says orthopedic surgeon and founder of Easy Orthopedics Daniel Paull. “It’s worth seeing your orthopedic doctor so you can get an accurate diagnosis—and if you need to wear a knee brace for temporary support until you see your doctor, there’s nothing wrong with that.”

Knee braces work by stabilizing the knee to restrict its range of motion, to prevent injury or stop a current injury from worsening. Some knee braces help keep your knee cap in alignment, while others can prevent you from bending your knee too much and risking further injury.

“A knee brace or sleeve also provides improved awareness and support of your knee while you remain active,” says Michael Hildebrand, physical therapist and owner of M3 Physio. “If there’s no improvement after two to three weeks, see your doctor or physical therapist for an evaluation to determine the best course of action for your knee pain.”

How can you prevent a knee injury in the first place? Both Daniel and Michael recommend strengthening the muscles around the knee to provide more stability and lower your chance of getting hurt. Runners should cross-train with exercises like squats, deadlifts and both seated and standing calf raises to build the hip, knee and ankle muscles. For runners, Daniel also recommends investing in a good pair of running shoes (and insoles, if you need them) and replacing them regularly—every 500 miles or so.

Important features to consider

Compression sleeves

Compression sleeves are stretchy cylinders of fabric that are pulled over the knee and surrounding leg area. Because they aren’t adjustable, it’s vital to measure your leg and knee to determine correct sizing (see the “fit” section below).

Used for a variety of injuries and conditions, sleeves apply light to medium compression throughout the knee area, which not only helps redistribute harmful pressure on the knee joint, but also eases pain and provides the wearer with extra support and stability. Compression sleeves also help keep the knee warm, which increases circulation to the area and relaxes the surrounding muscles and tendons.

Wraparound knee brace

Just as its name implies, wraparound knee braces wrap manually around the knee area, and then are secured in place with Velcro. More supportive than compression sleeves, wraparound knee braces are fully adjustable and can be tightened to the user’s exact preference. Wraparound braces are best for those recovering from injury, who need more rigid support to keep the kneecap firmly in place.

Knee strap

While compression sleeves and knee braces cover the entire knee and usually the area just above and below it, knee straps wrap tightly around the patellar tendon specifically, which is located just below the patella (kneecap). Applying pressure to the patellar tendon in this way stabilizes the kneecap, eases strain and reduces patella tracking (which is when the kneecap shifts too far out of place). Knee straps are especially good for treating patellar tendonitis, runner’s knee and jumper’s knee.

Open vs. closed patella

The difference between open and closed patella braces is straightforward: Open patella braces have a hole over the kneecap, which provides support while relieving pressure on the knee specifically.

Fit

After choosing which type of knee brace you need, the next most important factor is the fit. This will make all the difference in whether a brace stabilizes your knee effectively. If the brace is too loose, it won’t provide the compression you need; if it’s too tight, you won’t be able to wear it for long before you start losing blood flow below the knee.

Here’s the rule of thumb: If your brace or sleeve is moving around during activity, it’s too loose. If it feels painful or is cutting off your circulation, it’s too tight. The ideal balance is a snug fit that isn’t uncomfortable or so restrictive that you can’t move. If a knee sleeve is offered in different sizes, don’t guess at which size you need. Measure yourself so the brace fits you accurately under your running shorts or sweats, so it can stabilize your knee effectively.

Breathability

Knee braces come in a variety of fabrics, the most common being neoprene, knit, polyester and nylon-spandex. Neoprene tends to be the heaviest and least breathable of the three options; however, if you need a stiffer sleeve that will keep your knee warm and extra stable, it may be your best bet.

Nylon-spandex, polyester and knit are best for sweat-wicking, and choosing between the three will come down to personal preference; polyester and nylon-spandex have the feel of standard workout clothing fabric, while knit tends to be softer and slightly thicker. Knit braces may also feature aeration panels—a plus if breathability is a priority for you.

The bottom line

To determine the best knee braces, we took the recommendations of an orthopedic surgeon and physical therapist and put seven top-rated knee straps, wraparound knee braces and compression sleeves to the test.

The best-performing compression sleeve is the well-aerated, nonslip Bauerfeind – Sports Knee Support, which is admittedly more expensive than the other contenders but well worth the price. Our pick for best wraparound knee brace is the fully adjustable Mueller – Adjustable Knee Support brace, which provides strong, customizable knee support. Finally, the best knee strap is the superbly designed, easy-to-use McDavid – Knee Strap, which delivered excellent support for such a simple, streamlined strap.

Best Overall: Bauerfeind - Sports Knee Support

The Bauerfeind - Sports Knee Support brace conforms well to the knee area and doesn’t budge during activity, providing a great balance of cushioning and aeration for both support and breathability.

See Price at Amazon

The post The Best Knee Braces appeared first on Your Best Digs.

• Best for A/B cups: Lululemon – Energy
• Best for C/D cups: Outdoor Voices – Doing Things
• Best for D/DD cups: Brooks – Juno
• Best for DDD and up: Bravissimo – Inspire
• How we selected products to test
• Finding the right fit
• How we tested
• The bottom line

The 13 sports bras we tested

Sports Bra	Price	Type	Fabric	Band Sizes Available	Cup Sizes Available
Lululemon - Energy	$$	Combination	Luxtreme (Nylon/Polyester/Coolmax/Lycra/Elastane)	28–38	A–DD
Outdoor Voices - Doing Things	$$	Combination	TechSweat (Nylon/Lycra/Polyester)	30–40	AA-D
Brooks - Juno	$$	Combination	DriLayer/Polyester/Spandex	30–40	B–F (UK sizing)
Bravissimo - Inspire	$$$	Encapsulation	Polyamide/Polyester/Cotton/Elastane	30–40	E–L (UK)
Beyond Yoga - Spacedye Lift Your Spirits Bra	$$	Encapsulation	Polyester/Spandex	32-44	A-DD
Champion - Spot Comfort	$$	Combination	Polyester/Nylon/Spandex	34–42	C–DDD
Sweaty Betty - Stamina	$$	Compression	Polyamide/Elastane	30–38	A–DD
Glamorise - Elite Adjustable Underwire	$$	Combination	Polyester/Polyamide/Elastane	34–46	B–H (UK)
Victoria's Secret - Incredible Knockout	$$	Combination	Polyamide/Elastane	32–40	B–DDD
Patagonia - Women's Barely	$$	Combination	Nylon/Spandex	32–40	A–DD
Under Armour - Eclipse High Zip	$$	Combination	Cotton/Polyester/Elastane	32–38	B–DD
Champion - Absolute Workout	$	Compression	Polyester/Spandex	30–38	A–DD
Athleta - Ultimate Adjustable Bra	$$	Compression	Polyester/Lyrca	32-40	D-DD

1. Best for A/B cups: Lululemon – Energy

Our top pick for A and B cups is the Lululemon – Energy sports bra. Our petite-chested testers reported that its cups have the perfect medium amount of padding — and because the padding is removable, women who prefer no padding or don’t need it at all can simply take it out.

Though a tad tight under the arms (we recommend sizing up), the compression-style Energy bra received high marks for comfort and stayed in place well during our testers’ workouts, with minimal shifting. The neckline of the bra is high enough to control bounce with no chest spillage, and feels secure during exercise; there’s no need to pull on it or make adjustments.

Best for A/B cups: Lululemon - Energy

The attractive Lululemon - Energy bra features removable padding, chic criss-crossed straps, and light-to-medium compression support for smaller cup sizes.

See Price at Lululemon

The Energy bra is made of a blend of several different fabrics that breathed well and wicked sweat nicely: nylon, polyester, coolmax, lycra and elastane. Though the bra’s thin, criss-crossed racerback straps are undeniably cute, we were skeptical about whether they would provide much support and comfort. We were pleasantly surprised; the straps stayed in place well and were so comfortable that one of our testers completely forgot that the criss-cross design was there at all. Our testers also loved the broad range of chic color and pattern choices available: 17 total.

Key takeaways

• The Lululemon – Energy sports bra is a great choice for women who need a high-quality, attractive compression bra that delivers light support and comes in a variety of appealing colors and patterns.
• This bra includes medium-level padding that’s removable, depending on your needs.
• The Energy bra’s criss-crossed straps combine chic design with a surprisingly high level of support and comfort.

2. Best for C/D cups: Outdoor Voices

The Outdoor Voices – Doing Things sports bra was the favorite of the testers in this size range. A pullover-style combination bra that leans heavily on the compression side, the Doing Things bra includes distinct padded cups for effective separation and encapsulation. Our testers found this bra’s seamless, racerback straps particularly comfortable; even though they aren’t adjustable, they’re lightly padded and wide enough to lie flat on the shoulders without digging into the skin.

This bra is comfortable to run in and holds everything nicely in place during activity, with a wide elastic bottom band for extra support. We felt that the Doing Things bra had just the right amount of padding — enough for us to feel secure and supported (and to hide our “high beams,” as one tester said), but not so much padding that we felt bulky wearing it.

Best for C/D cups: Outdoor Voices - Doing Things

The Outdoor Voices - Doing Things br
a combines firm compression and secure encapsulation, with just the right amount of padding for support without the bulk.

See Price at The Outdoor Voices

Another big plus is the Doing Things’ super-breathable mesh back and keyhole opening for extra aeration. Our testers also loved this bra’s selection of fun colors and patterns, which range from cute solid colors (like mustard yellow) to polka dots and florals.

Key takeaways

• With its balance of firm compression and secure encapsulation, the Outdoor Voices – Doing Things bra provides solid support for C and D cups.
• This sports bra features a nicely aerated mesh back and lightly padded, seamless racerback straps that don’t dig into the skin.
• The Doing Things bra has just the right amount of padding to provide great support while remaining streamlined.

3. Best for D/DD cups: Brooks – Juno

The Brooks – Juno sports bra received the highest overall ratings of all the bras we tested. A combination compression/encapsulation bra with separate, moderately padded cups, the Juno provides excellent support and bounce control.

Our testers raved about the Juno’s ultra-comfortable racerback straps, which are lightly padded and can be tightened or loosened in the front of the bra, rather than the back. The straps have a soft, felt-like fabric sewn discreetly into their underside, for a velvety feel against the skin. It’s details like this that really set the Juno bra apart.

Best for D/DD cups: Brooks - Juno

The Brooks - Juno bra features ultra-comfortable, innovative front-adjusting straps, and is built for breathability with sweat-wicking fabric and a hidden mesh panel.

See Price at Amazon

The bra also includes a back closure with three tightnesses, for yet another way to adjust it to your perfect fit. Like the Outdoor Voices bra, the Juno features a center keyhole in the back for extra breathability; in front, a hidden mesh panel allows for more airflow in the “underboob” area. The bra is also made of a blend of sweat-wicking DriLayer polyester and spandex that keeps it dry and comfortable, and comes in both solid colors and a few sporty, if somewhat generic patterns.

Key takeaways

• With the highest overall ratings of all the bras in our lineup, the combination compression/encapsulation Brooks – Juno bra provides excellent support for D and DD cups and effectively minimizes bouncing.
• The Juno bra features innovative front-adjusting racerback straps that received rave reviews from testers for comfort.
• This bra is made for breathability, designed with sweat-wicking fabric, a hidden front mesh panel and open keyhole back.

4. Best for DDD and up: Bravissimo – Inspire

The Bravissimo – Inspire offers excellent support for cup sizes DDD-plus. The most bra-like of the sports bras in our lineup, the Inspire looks more like a traditional encapsulation bra, with a firm underwire and light padding in the cups. Our 34DDD tester was pleasantly surprised at how comfortable this bra was to run in and how well it controlled bouncing, with no chafing whatsoever.

Made mainly of nylon and polyester (with varying percentages of each, depending on the color and print you choose), the Inspire bra feels silky and smooth against the skin and breathed well during exercise. While sports bras made for larger cup sizes tend to look more “grandma” than sporty, the Bravissimo has a refreshingly younger vibe and comes in a few cute patterns beyond basic white and black.

Best for DDD+ cups: Bravissimo - Inspire

The Bravissimo - Inspire bra provides impressive support for larger cup sizes, with firm yet comfortable encapsulation and wide, padded straps for effective weight distribution.

See Price at The Bravissimo

The Inspire’s adjustable padded straps are comfortable, stay in place well and, thanks to their generous width, don’t dig into the shoulders. The bra is also cut high enough in front to fully contain the chest and control spillage.

Key takeaways

• Finding a highly supportive, well-made bra for larger cup sizes can be a tough task — which is why we were so impressed by the Bravissimo – Inspire, an encapsulation bra that made our 34F tester feel well-supported and comfortable during her workouts.
• The Inspire bra includes underwire for firm support and is cut high in the chest area for extra coverage and spillage control.
• This bra breathes well during exercise and features wide, padded straps that don’t dig into the shoulders.

5. Champion – Spot Comfort

Made of a soft polyester/nylon/spandex blend, the Champion – Spot Comfort bra received one of the highest ratings for comfort and breathability. A combination compression-encapsulation bra, the Spot Comfort clasps in the back and has adjustable, gel-cushioned straps that stay in place and are cut wide for better weight distribution.
The Spot Comfort comes up high enough on the chest to eliminate spillage, and offers good bounce control overall. One note: This bra’s cups have no padding whatsoever, so if you prefer thicker fabric or padding in the cups, this bra may not be for you.

6. Beyond Yoga – Spacedye Lift Your Spirits Bra (recommended for low-impact workouts & smaller cup sizes)

Beyond Yoga is best known for its super soft workout attire that is just as comfortable as cute at the gym or studio. We tested the Spacedye Lift Your Spirits Bra on the treadmill, pilates, and yoga classes to see if this encapsulated sports bra provided enough support. While it’s aesthetically pleasing to wear, the deep v design ranked low on the spillage control tests, and our testers were a little worried in some yoga positions.

The polyester and spandex material is one of Beyond Yoga’s most popular materials because it’s so soft it feels like you’re wearing pajamas–our testers ranked comfort and overall support 10/10. This is great for an everyday bra, even when not working out. This encapsulation bra also has removable pads if you prefer a seamless design. Since it’s on the more expensive side, we liked the versatility of this bra, but it may not be a perfect match if you want a bra for HiiT workouts because of potential spillage.

7. Sweaty Betty – Stamina

If you prefer a light-support compression bra with no padding, the Sweaty Betty – Stamina is an excellent, well-made choice for women who need just a little lift. Though the Stamina bra is cut a bit longer than most sports bras, with a wide underband for extra support and a chic cropped look, its perforated waffle detailing allows for increased airflow.

The Stamina also features wide, seamless racerback straps that don’t chafe. This bra received high marks for softness and breathability due to its nylon and elastane fabric.

8. Glamorise – Elite Adjustable Underwire

Although the Glamorize – Elite Adjustable Underwire bra is available in cup sizes B through H (UK sizing), it really shines as an extra-supportive bra for larger-chested women. Similar to the Victoria’s Secret bra, the Elite has two layers: an interior encapsulation bra with a firm underwire, and a front “hammock” made of aerated fabric that hooks over the front of the bra for extra support and compression. The hammock is adjustable to four different tightnesses, and the bra’s adjustable straps are well-padded for cushioning.

We were impressed by this bra’s level of support; all of its different elements kept the bounce factor very low. And despite its layers, the bra’s aerated panels kept it fairly well-ventilated. The layers did make the bra a bit complicated to get into, though it gets easier once you’ve nailed down the best adjustment settings for your body.

9. Victoria’s Secret – Incredible Knockout

The Victoria’s Secret – Incredible Knockout sports bra has two layers: an interior encapsulation bra with flexible underwire and an outer compression layer that zips up over the interior bra. Though the design of this bra is similar to the Under Armour bra we also tested (see below), the Incredible Knockout turned out to be the superior choice. While we had problems with the Under Armour bra coming unzipped during exercise, the Victoria’s Secret bra remained secure and closed. This bra really delivers in the support area — our tester’s chest literally did not move during exercise. Made of sweat-wicking fabric, it also features adjustable racerback straps that are nicely padded for comfort.

The bra’s zipper didn’t give us problems during testing until we started doing exercises lying down on our stomachs; this turned out to be uncomfortable. However, if you’re looking for a sports bra with strong support and like the look of a front zip, we recommend this one.

10. Patagonia – Barely

The Patagonia – Barely bra is a good basic, pullover sports bra for smaller-chested women looking for a comfortable, no-frills bra for light support. Though its racerback straps are not adjustable, they’re comfortably form-fitting and we didn’t feel a need to tighten them at any point during exercise.

This bra’s soft, nylon spandex fabric wicks sweat easily, though we felt it could have dried more quickly after our workouts. For those who prefer no padding, the Barely bra’s padding is removable (one tester felt that the padding was too thick and looked “pointy” under her workout tops).

11. Under Armour – Eclipse High Zip (not recommended)

The Under Armour – Eclipse High Zip bra has a similar combination design to the Victoria’s Secret Incredible Knockout , with an encapsulation bra base and a zip-up outer layer for compression. Like the Victoria’s Secret bra, the Eclipse provided strong support for high impact exercise, with barely any bounce. However, the Eclipse’s racerback straps dug into our shoulders, and its double layers and thick fabric grew hot and somewhat stifling during our workout. And although the bra includes hook-and-eye closures underneath its front zipper, the bra unzipped itself once we started moving more vigorously.

12. Champion – Absolute Workout (not recommended)

The lowest-priced bra in our lineup, the Champion – Absolute Workout turned out to also be the most basic of the bras we tested, from a design and aesthetics perspective. A pullover-style racerback compression bra with no padding, the Absolute Workout’s fabric is the same weight throughout, with zero bells or whistles, though its bottom band is thick for extra support. We found that its polyester spandex fabric’s breathability was okay, but not the best.

13. Athleta Ultimate Adjustable Bra (not recommended)

The Athleta – Ultimate Adjustable Bra is unique in its front-facing adjustable straps that make it easy to fit your body. This compression bra is best for cardio and medium-impact workouts for those who have D-DDD cups. We tested this bra on treadmill runs and HiiT workouts. 

Our testers didn’t really like the pads because they felt bulky when working out, so removing them was more comfortable. We like the added mesh accent and back opening design for more breathability. The compression is very useful and offers a lot of support during running, but our testers found removing the bra difficult after the workout difficult. The bra also seemed to cut into the underarms for our petite tester, making it uncomfortable to wear for long periods. 

How we selected products to test

There are many variables when it comes to choosing the right sports bra. If you generally wear yours for yoga and other low-impact activities, you may not need as much support as someone who runs regularly or plays vigorous sports. However, for this review, we selected bras we felt would provide excellent support during both low-impact and high-impact activities.

We started by interviewing top bra expert Laura Tempesta, founder of the sports bra education mecca Bravolution, to learn more about the design features that make a supportive, well-fitted, quality sports bra.

After our talk with Laura, we scoured trusted review sites like WireCutter and Business Insider to discover the top-rated, most recommended sports bras on the market — as well as cult favorites mentioned numerous times on subreddits like A Bra That Fits.

Finally, we narrowed the resulting list down to 11 models to test — the sports bras we felt were the absolute best choices on the market for our 4 cup size categories (A/B, C/D, D/DD and DDD-plus). All of the bras in our lineup are made of breathable, sweat-wicking fabrics (nylon, polyester and microfiber blends, as recommended by Laura), come in a variety of sizes and are priced below $75.

The complexity of the sports bra

The sports bra is a relatively new invention, first developed in 1977 as the female supportive equivalent of a jockstrap — literally. Made of two jockstraps sewn together, the “Jockbra” (later renamed the Jogbra) was designed to pull the breasts closer to the body for increased support.

Though we’ve come a long way from the Jockbra, the sports bra has yet to be perfected. Because breasts contain no muscle and are made up of glandular, connective and fatty tissue that varies from woman to woman, constructing an adequately supportive sports bra is no small feat. Breast movement, it turns out, is surprisingly complex — so much so that entire research labs are currently dedicated to breast biomechanics.

The University of Portsmouth’s Research Group in Breast Health discovered that a woman’s sports bra actually affects the way she runs — one of the many reasons why it’s so important for a woman to find the right fit for her body. Studies conducted by Breast Research Australia found that up to 70% of women suffer from breast discomfort during exercises that include running and jumping, which then leads to reduced participation.

In this research, a high percentage of women with large breasts not only chose less intense workouts than their smaller-breasted counterparts, they also felt that their breast size affected how much and how vigorously they exercised. So, depending on breast size, the support and fit of a woman’s sports bra can literally make or break her drive to exercise regularly.

Finding the right fit

When shopping for a sports bra, it’s important to try on your different options. Sizing inconsistency is very real in the bra industry, with measurements varying from brand to brand or even within one brand. This is due in part to variations in the stretch fabric used for a bra’s underband (the part of the bra that wraps around the torso). Inconsistent sizing is even more apparent in sports bras, which often have compressed cups and even tighter-fitting underbands. On top of all this, studies show that 85% of women are walking around wearing the wrong size bra.

The best place to start? With a professional bra fitting, which will save you from years of frustration and discomfort. For bra fitting services, our bra expert, Laura, recommends a visit to Nordstrom or Title Nine (which specializes in women’s athletic wear and sports bras).

If you aren’t able to get a bra fitting or are shopping for sports bras online, Laura recommends simply ordering multiple sizes and returning the ones that don’t fit.

Important features to consider

Compression vs. encapsulation

There are three general types of sports bras on the market: compression, encapsulation and a combination of the two.

Compression bras are made to simply flatten the breasts and press them closer against the body, distributing pressure evenly throughout the chest area. Encapsulation bras are designed more like everyday bras, with separate cups that provide individual support for each breast. Combination bras incorporate elements from each type, usually incorporating separate cups and compression.

While compression bras are usually thought to be better for smaller chest sizes, and encapsulation and combination bras tend to be recommended for C cups and larger, a study of D-cup women by the University of Portsmouth showed that there was actually no significant difference between the bra types when it comes to reducing breast movement. Ultimately, the right choice will depend on the wearer’s preferences.

“You could have five 34D testers,” says Laura, “and the same bra would fit them all quite differently due to breast shape, tissue composition, space between breasts and shoulder slope and width. It depends on the bra and wearer. If you feel good in it and it doesn’t distract you during exercise, that’s paramount.”

Fabric

To wick sweat away, maximize breathability and minimize discomfort, synthetic microfiber, polyester or nylon blends are your best bets. Avoid cotton, which will hold on to sweat, and look for bras with cooling mesh panels. Keep in mind that the more layers a bra has, the less air circulation it will allow.

“Unfortunately, there is no one fabric that’s better for chafing than another,” says Laura. “Chafing is related to things like how the bra is constructed, the wearer’s skin sensitivity, intensity of exercise and climate.”

While hand washing is the best choice to prolong the life of a sports bra, many women don’t have time for that after every workout. The next best thing? Laura recommends this method: Place your bra in a lingerie bag and knot the bag to reduce its capacity and minimize your bra’s movement within the bag. Wash on the delicate cycle — minus fabric softener, which can prevent fabrics from wicking sweat. Then hang your bra to dry (dryers make elastics wear out quickly).

Fitting room tips

Once you’ve chosen bras to try on based on the recommendations above, here are some vital features to pay attention to when you’re trying on your options.

Cups

With the sports bra on, if you see wrinkling on the outside of the bra or can feel space inside the cups, it’s probably too big. If, on the other hand, the bra gives you cleavage or your breasts are spilling out of the cups, it’s too small. Remember, any part of the breast that isn’t covered by your bra will move during exercise — which means less support for you.

Underband

If you’re trying on a sports bra that hooks in the back, notice whether you can comfortably hook it at the middle setting. If so, you’re wearing a well-fitted underband. But if you need to hook it on the tightest or loosest setting for a comfortable fit, the band is most likely too loose or too tight.

For both non-hook sports bras and bras hooked at the middle setting, if you can pull the band away from your body more than an inch, it’s probably too loose. The wider the underband, the more support it will provide.

Straps

Shoulder slope and width is one of the most overlooked areas when it comes to finding the right bra fit. If you have narrow or sloped shoulders, or if you find that your straps are constantly falling off your shoulders, try a racerback or X-back style to keep your straps in place.

If you have larger breasts that weigh heavy on your shoulders, look for wider straps to distribute the pressure over more surface area. Cushioning and gel inserts can also help pad shoulders against extra weight.

How we tested

To try out the bras in our lineup, we enlisted 12 testers ranging in sizes from A cups to DDD cups (also known as an F cup in UK sizing). Our testers then wore the bras during activities ranging from running and HIIT to yoga and weight lifting.

Post-testing, we asked our testers to rate the sports bras on a scale of 1 to 10 using the following metrics:

• Overall support
• Overall comfort
• Fabric comfort
• Breathability
• Cup support and comfort
• Front “spillage” control
• Bounce control
• Strap comfort and design
• Aesthetic design

We also surveyed our testers to find out what specific features each of them tend to look for when sports bra shopping, and how the bras they tested measured up to those standards:

• Our A and B-cup testers tend to prefer a cute, flattering design that’s comfortable and provides a bit of lift and support, with minimal padding.
• Our C and D-cup testers’ named non-bulky, streamlined design, durability, good support and light to medium padding as the top features they look for in a sports bra.
• Our DDD-plus testers reported that they mainly look for sports bras that will keep their breasts supported and in place while working out, and prevent pain during more vigorous exercise like running.
• Interestingly, twice as many testers said they tend to prefer compression over encapsulation bras, with the rest of the group favoring compression-encapsulation hybrids.

The bottom line

To find the best sports bra, we put 11 top-rated sports bras to the test with 12 testers ranging in bra size from A cups to DDD-plus cups. After wearing the bras out running and during weight lifting, HIIT and yoga sessions, we chose four winners.

For A and B cup sizes, our testers preferred the Lululemon – Energy bra, which offers light support with removable padding in a comfortable, high-quality design. We recommend the Outdoor Voices – Doing Things bra for C and D cup sizes; it breathes well and provides strong, secure support for the chest.

For D and DD cup sizes, we like the Brooks – Juno bra, which features an innovative strap design and provides unbeatable support. Last but not least, we’re especially impressed by the Bravissimo – Inspire bra for sizes DDD and up; its combination of comfort, solid construction and high-level support wowed our testers.

Top Pick: Brooks - Juno

With the top overall ratings of all the bras we tested, the Brooks – Juno bra provides excellent support in a highly breathable shell, with unique front-adjusting straps that received high marks for comfort.

See Price at Amazon

The post The 13 Best Sports Bras appeared first on Your Best Digs.

Who needs running socks?

Plenty of runners simply run in regular gym socks, but a sock designed specifically for running is more likely to stay dry and in place during your run.

“I used to buy cheap, thin socks for running, but paid the price in blisters and calluses,” says Whitney Heins, founder of TheMotherRunners.com, who is also training to qualify for the Olympic Trials.

With compression to support your arches and extra cushioning for the heel and ball of the foot, running socks can make all the difference. Those with sweat-wicking fabric and ventilated sections also help prevent excess moisture from building up in the sock — the number-one cause of blisters.

Running socks tend to last longer as well, with many brands offering year-long or even lifetime guarantees. If you’re updating your running wardrobe, take a look at top picks for the best running shorts in both dry and wet weather conditions. You might also want to incorporate a weighted vest into your running routine.

Important features to consider

Fabric: Whether you plan to wear your running socks in warm or cool conditions — or just on the gym treadmill — it’s important to choose sock materials that keep the foot cool and dry. “Sweat leads to blisters because it can cause your foot to swell, increasing friction,” says Whitney.

Polyester, acrylic, nylon and merino wool blends are all good choices for eliminating moisture. Look for socks advertised as seamless and “sweat-wicking” — which means they move moisture away from the foot to the surface of the sock, so it can evaporate. Avoid cotton socks, which are more likely to retain moisture. You may also consider investing in ultra-thin, well-aerated socks for warm weather, and thicker, better-insulated socks for cold weather.

Fit: Running socks should mold closely around the foot; if your sock is loose or there’s excess fabric, your foot will slide around inside the sock, creating friction that leads to blisters. Many socks feature varying levels of compression around the arch, which helps keep them in place on your foot and also boosts circulation to reduce inflammation.

“The right-size sock will be fitted and tight to your foot, gripping your arch and heel,” says Meghan Kennihan, a personal trainer and running coach. “That way, it won’t slide back and forth in your shoe as you run, or bunch up.”

Thickness: Running socks generally come in a variety of thicknesses, from ultra-light to ultra-cushioned. We recommend choosing a lighter sock to start, and then moving up a level or two in thickness if you find that you need extra cushioning or warmer socks. Lightweight socks will be more breathable in general, and the high-quality designs will feature cushioning where it counts: under the heel, toes and ball of the foot.

When choosing a pair of running socks, also consider the fit of your running shoe. Perhaps an insole will relieve discomfort, or maybe there’s too much extra space inside your shoe, and your foot will rub against the sides,  causing blisters. If you’re between shoe sizes or wear a running shoe that’s a little big on you, look for a thicker, more cushioned sock that will fill up that extra space. If your shoe fits your foot perfectly, try a thinner sock.

Men’s vs. women’s socks

While the majority of running socks are unisex, some brands offer socks marketed specifically to men or women. The main difference between the two? Unlike the many variations between men’s and women’s running shorts, women’s running socks simply tend to have a narrower fit than men’s, which are on the wider side. Therefore, let the width of your foot — not your gender — guide your decision. If you’re a man with a narrow foot, a women’s running sock might fit you better; if you’re a woman with wider feet, you may feel more comfortable in men’s socks.

After running in eight top-rated pairs of running socks, our testers ranked the best running socks below for blister prevention, weather conditions and extra cushioning.

The post The 9 Best Running Socks appeared first on Your Best Digs.

Important features to consider

When it comes to running shorts, tastes and preferences will vary from runner to runner. We picked the brains of four running coaches, personal trainers and marathoners to find out which factors you should consider when choosing the right pair for your body.

Fit

Running shorts come in three basic styles:

• Classic: Loose shorts that usually feature either a V-notch or split at the bottom outer edge of each leg, for increased range of motion. Many classic-fit shorts include an inner brief.
• Compression: Stretchy, close-fitting shorts (think bicycle shorts) worn for muscle support, chafe prevention and extra warmth in colder seasons.
• Combination: Classic shorts with an inner compression short built in, which sometimes extends past the bottom of the loose shorts leg. This 2-in-1 combo is great for those who need a compression short, but prefer the look of classic shorts.

To help our readers find their most comfortable fit, we consulted with four running experts: running coaches Meghan Kennihan and T.J. Garlatz, personal trainer Rafid Nassir and Whitney Heins, founder of TheMotherRunners.com.

All of our experts all had the same advice to give: Every runner’s preference will vary based on gait and body type, so it’s important to try out different kinds of shorts and see what works for you.

“There isn’t one magic option that will work for everyone,” says T.J.

Runners may want to invest in different types of shorts for warmer and colder seasons. An airy pair of classic shorts will keep you cool in the summer, while compression or combination shorts are a good choice for winter and colder climates. If you’re updating your running gear, you might also want to look at the best running socks for all-weather conditions.

Do compression shorts actually work?

Some runners swear by compression shorts to help with muscle fatigue; others say they’re glorified bike shorts and make no difference whatsoever.

“My husband and I have both run in compression shorts and didn’t notice a difference as far as muscle fatigue goes — the main purpose of compression shorts,” says Whitney, who is training to qualify for the Olympic Trials.

If you aren’t feeling any benefits from wearing compression shorts, they may not be true compression shorts. “Many running shorts marketed as compression shorts are just shorter tights that provide a bit of stability,” T.J. notes.

“I think compression shorts are great for going on longer training runs or running in colder weather,” says Meghan. “They provide extra muscle support for those long runs when your muscles will ultimately fatigue and affect your form. In cold weather, the compression helps retain body heat and keeps your muscles warm.”

Length

The “perfect” length of running shorts will vary from person to person. For some runners, the less fabric, the better.

“My personal preference is to have as little short as possible,” says Whitney. “Most of my shorts have an inseam of 2.5 inches, which gives them little opportunity to rub against my legs. Longer shorts seem to bunch on the inseam.”

Runners with thicker legs may find that a longer short will protect their legs from the dreaded “thigh rub.” If this is an issue for you, look for a pair long enough to cover the thickest part of your thigh. The key is to buy the right size for your body — too much loose fabric will lead to chafing and discomfort.

Fabric

To prevent chafing and discomfort, choose shorts made of quick-drying, sweat-wicking fabric (material that moves moisture from your foot to the exterior of the sock for evaporation). In this case, synthetic fibers win over natural materials.

“Polyester or a polyester/spandex mix provides the best comfort because it is moisture-wicking, durable and lightweight,” says Meghan.

“Synthetic material fiber is long-lasting and durable, which also helps in the midst of sweat and heat,” agrees Rafid.

Though cotton is the usual choice for breathability, it tends to absorb moisture and hold onto it — the kiss of death for running shorts.

“I haven’t run in a pair of cotton shorts in probably over 20 years!” says T.J. “All of my shorts are a mix of polyester and spandex. The fabric is great — very breathable and comfortable.”

Outdoor and night runners should also look for running shorts with reflective features to ensure that they stay highly visible on the road.

Pockets

Some runners like to carry their phone, energy gels and keys in a gear belt, armband or other running accessory. Others prefer to store their accessories in their shorts pockets.

Since carrying your running necessities in your shorts can either weigh them down or cause your pockets to bounce around while you run, pocket placement is key. Look for shorts with pouches and pockets built into the waistband, where the fabric lays close to the body. Some brands also feature moisture-repellent pockets, which are perfect for storing your phone.

Chafe prevention 101

Since chafing is one of the most common problems runners face, we focused on finding the best running shorts to prevent chafing. According to our experts, the anti-chafe formula is threefold:

1. Try compression shorts: “A good pair of compression shorts would likely work for most people,” says T.J. “Chafing usually occurs when there is rubbing — either fabric rubbing against the skin or skin rubbing against skin — and longer compression shorts can prevent that.”Rafid also recommends compression shorts for those battling the dreaded “thigh rub,” adding that synthetic compression shorts are even better. “If they’re made of synthetic material, that single-handedly prevents me from chafing,” he says.
2. Choose a built-in brief: For those who suffer from chafing in the groin area, Meghan recommends getting shorts with a breathable built-in brief. “If you chafe around your underwear,” she says, “wear shorts with a lining so you don’t need to wear any.”As shorts get older, their inner liners stretch out and become more prone to rubbing against the skin. To prolong the life of your shorts, keep a few different pairs in your rotation and recycle them once you start noticing increased friction.
3. Use a balm: Anti-chafe balm can be the difference between a great run and a painful one. “Use Vaseline, Body Glide or Squirrel’s Nut Butter all over your body before a long run and especially a marathon,” says Whitney. “If something is going to rub, lube it up!”

Our two testers wore the top-selling designs on daily runs, and these are their picks for the best running shorts.

The post The 10 Best Running Shorts appeared first on Your Best Digs.

Who needs a weighted vest?

As its name implies, a weighted vest is a wearable vest with added weight incorporated into its design. This is usually in the form of sand that’s been sewn permanently into the vest itself, or removable, individual iron bars, sandbags or bags of iron pellets that can be added in increments until you’ve reached your desired load.

When you wear a weighted vest, your body adapts to the increased load by building muscular strength and endurance. Wearing a weighted vest can also strengthen the lungs and increase bone mass.

Originally used in military training to simulate body armor, weighted vests rose to fame when they were adopted by Crossfit gyms around the world. They’re best suited to seasoned athletes, lifters and experienced fitness enthusiasts looking to push their workouts a little further. They also come in handy for those who want to add more weight to their routine but lack the grip strength to do so with a barbell or dumbbells.

For expert insight on the subject, we spoke to personal trainer, fitness instructor and run coach Meghan Kennihan, who uses weighted vests regularly in her workouts.

“Weighted vests are definitely for the intermediate to advanced fitness enthusiast or athlete,” says Meghan. “You need to be able to do multiple reps and sets of exercises on your own before adding a weighted vest. For example, if you can’t do five push-ups or ten squats with your own body weight, there is no reason to be adding a vest.”

The bottom line: If you’re interested in wearing a weighted vest during your workout, first take your fitness level into consideration and consult your physician.

Important features to consider

Strength training

To use your vest for bodyweight exercises and strength training (think push-ups, planks, squats, dips and lunges), it’s best to start with about 5-10% of your body weight loaded into your vest. Proceed with caution and take it slow. The rule of thumb for wearing the right weight? If you can do 3 sets of 8–12 reps of any exercise in your workout, you’re using the correct weight.

As you get used to your vest and grow stronger, feel free to add more weight as needed, but to a point. “For bodyweight workouts, I wouldn’t go much higher than 15 pounds,” says Meghan.

Running and plyometric exercises

When it comes to weighted vests, runners should proceed with caution. A heavy weighted vest can put too much strain on the body’s joints when running and can also shorten your stride, which changes your regular running pattern. However, wearing a lightweight vest while running does have certain benefits.

“Wearing a vest can help with your running posture because it forces you to stabilize your upper body and use your core,” Meghan explains. “It also trains your body to exert more force. Then, when you run without your vest, your body will keep exerting that force as if it was weighted, and you will move faster with less effort. Basically, any exercise you do with the vest will make doing the same ones unvested that much easier or faster.”

While a weighted vest can also be beneficial during explosive plyometric exercises, the same weight precautions apply. For both running and plyometric workouts, start out by carrying only about 5% of your body weight or less. For any high-impact exercise, you should also ensure that your running shoes are comfortable and fit well with the best insoles and running socks.

Design and fit

To minimize excessive shifting, look for a vest that straps close to the body and incorporates stretch fabrics that will fit snugly. Test out the vest first by jumping up and down while wearing it.

“You want the vest to be snug around your upper body, but not so tight that you don’t have the mobility to move your arms and rotate your torso,” says Meghan.

Pro tip: If you test out a weighted vest and find that it puts too much stress on your shoulders, try one that comes with shoulder pads.

Breathing

Another thing to keep in mind is that the weight of a weighted vest rests directly on the shoulders and upper body, which puts pressure on the diaphragm and makes breathing more difficult. You’re not only training your body with a weighted vest; you’re also training your mind and instincts not to panic when your breathing becomes shallower. Be sure to give yourself longer rest periods to compensate, especially when just starting out.

“Progress slowly,” Meghan advises. “Don’t pick the heaviest vest to start. Do one session a week with the vest, then increase to two sessions in two weeks, and so on.”

The post The Best Weighted Vests appeared first on Your Best Digs.

Our favorite vegan option is the Vega Sport – Premium Protein powder, which has a slightly salty vanilla-caramel flavor and a whopping 30 grams of protein. The best tasting sugar-free powder is the stevia-sweetened Muscle Feast – Grass Fed Whey Protein Isolate, which our testers compared to a vanilla chai milkshake. Last but not least, our choice for best tasting egg white powder is the MRM – Egg White Protein, which has plenty of vanilla flavor without any eggy aftertaste.

Important features to consider

Complete protein is the best protein

One term you may have heard around the gym or juice bar is “complete protein.” A complete protein is made up of the 9 essential amino acids — protein building blocks — that the body can’t produce on its own (though it is capable of producing 11 other amino acids that can form a protein). These are: histidine, leucine, isoleucine, tryptophan, lysine, phenylalanine, methionine, valine and threonine.

There are several ways you can add protein to your diet. The most popular is a protein shake, using our top pick for best-tasting protein powder or the best protein powder for women, blended together with fruit and/or ice in a blender or personal blender. Protein bars and beef jerky are also great for pumping up your protein intake.

When shopping for protein powder, look for those that contain at least these three essential amino acids: valine, leucine and isoleucine. Also known as BCAAs (branched-chain amino acids), these three are especially important for recovery and muscle protein synthesis. For the vegans out there, sunflower seed, pea and soy proteins are all good choices for getting your BCAAs.

Protein powder types

With a range of protein powder types available, choosing the best one for you is a matter of matching your health goals to your dietary preferences. Here’s an overview of the most common types.

Whey

One of the most popular protein supplements, whey is a complete protein that’s ideal for gaining muscle. Whey is also the most thermogenic of all the proteins, meaning it burns the most calories after consumption. Whey protein is extracted from milk, and although most of the lactose is removed in the process, it may still affect those who are lactose intolerant.

Whey isolate

Whey isolate is processed differently than whey concentrate, with a lengthier filtration process that removes more of its lactose and fat content, making it gentler on the lactose intolerant. It also has a higher concentration of protein and can be absorbed by the body faster than whey concentrate.

Casein

Casein is also a complete protein extracted from milk. Because it digests more slowly than whey protein, it keeps the body feeling full for longer and can therefore lead to weight loss. However, it also slows the absorption of amino acids into the body. According to one study, a blend of whey and casein powder could be beneficial, combining quick absorption with a longer-lasting feeling of fullness.

Egg

If whey digests quickly and casein digests slowly, egg protein falls somewhere in-between, digesting at a steady, moderate rate. Egg protein is a good, complete protein option for vegetarians and the lactose intolerant. For those looking to lose weight, egg white protein is particularly low in calories, carbs and fat.

Plant-based

Ideal for vegetarians and vegans, these protein powders come from plant sources like pea, hemp, soy, alfalfa and brown rice protein — and sometimes a blend of several. Keep in mind, however, that only some plant-based proteins (often soy and pea protein, for example) form a complete protein with all nine essential amino acids.

Collagen

Collagen protein promotes joint, skin and nail health. Since it only contains eight of the nine essential amino acids, collagen doesn’t comprise a complete protein. Think of collagen powder as a supplement; don’t replace your regular protein powder with it.

For diabetics and sensitive stomachs

If you’re diabetic, look for a sugar-free protein powder with a low carb count. Those who suffer from lactose intolerance or IBS should opt for egg and plant-based powders rather than whey and casein protein powders, and also skip powders that contain artificial sweeteners (which can cause digestive issues).

The post The Best-Tasting Protein Powders appeared first on Your Best Digs.

One common misconception among women is that taking a protein supplement will make them “bulk up,” which simply isn’t true. In fact, one study published in the journal Nutrition and Metabolism found that obese women between the ages of 25 and 50 who drank two whey protein shakes a day lost more body fat and maintained more muscle (without muscle gain) over a 12-week period than women who didn’t consume the additional protein.

For expert advice on the subject, we spoke to Jes Murphy, who is active duty military, competes annually in fitness competitions and designs macro-based nutrition programs tailored to her clients’ fitness goals.

“Protein powder isn’t going to make anyone bulk up,” Jes says. “It takes years of work to build heavy muscle the way most women are imagining, and it’s fine if that’s not their goal. Protein is an important macronutrient needed for the body, and it aids in reaching whichever fitness goal you may have.”

Protein powder is a good way for women to get enough protein in their diet without consuming too many calories or feeling sick from eating.

“Protein powder is light and gives me that quick 25 to 30 grams of protein without feeling stuffed,” says Jes. “If your goal is to lose weight, make sure you pick one with a low amount of carbs. If your goal is to build muscle, then choosing a protein with a higher amount of carbs is great.”

Of course, one of the most popular ways to enjoy the best-tasting protein is blending it together with fruit and/or ice in a blender or personal blender. Protein bars and beef jerky are also great for adding some tasty protein to your diet.

How we tested

To determine the best protein powders for women, we tested 10 top-rated whey, whey/casein, vegan and egg white powders made with high-quality ingredients and no artificial flavors, and sweetened with stevia, erythritol or monk fruit extract.

To gauge and rank the true taste and texture of the powders, we mixed each one with water in a blender bottle and then conducted a blind taste test. Our testers ranged from protein powder aficionados to complete novices, and they rated each powder for taste, texture and blendability — and also whether they would buy the protein powder for themselves.

The post The Best Protein Powders for Women appeared first on Your Best Digs.

Our testers selected the gluten-free KIND Bar as the best protein bar. It’s packed with whole nuts, drizzled with dark chocolate and tastes like real food. With a low calorie count and near-2:1 protein-to-carb ratio, the deliciously smoky Mighty Organic – Meat Bar is the best bar for weight loss. The RXBAR is the best muscle-building bar, pairing an authentic chocolate-coconut flavor with nutritious ingredients and a 1:2 protein-to-carb ratio. Our pick for the best clean bar is the vegan, four-ingredient Rise – Pea Protein Bar, which tastes like a slice of lemon meringue pie.

Important features to consider

Goals

Not all protein bars are created equal, and your ideal bar will ultimately come down to your lifestyle and/or fitness goals. Looking for a snack bar to tide you over between meals? Aim for a bar with a lower calorie count — around 150 to 200 calories for women and 170 to 300 for men. For a meal replacement bar, you’ll need a higher calorie count of around 300 to 400 calories.

If you want to lose weight, choose a protein bar with a 2:1 ratio of protein to carbs (like the Mighty – Bar). Conversely, a bar with a 1:2 ratio of protein to carbs (such as the RX – Bar) will help with muscle gain.

Nutrition

Protein bars are often packed with sugar, chemicals and additives, so it’s especially important to read the labels on these little nutrient powerhouses. Here are a few guidelines to help you choose the most nutritious bars:

• Avoid sugar. Since some protein bars contain enough sugar to rival a candy bar, keep an eye out for it in ingredients lists and opt for sweeteners like stevia, honey or monk fruit extract instead.
• Maximize whole foods. Egg whites, nuts and nut butters, flax seed and grass-fed meats are all excellent sources of quality protein.
• Minimize trans or saturated fats. Look for bars that contain healthy fats, like nuts and seeds.
• Fiber is your friend. A bar with a good amount of fiber — about 3 to 10 grams — will keep you feeling satisfied longer.

While protein bars are a great way to add extra protein or carbs to your diet and can make for a convenient snack on the go, it’s important to keep in mind that real food — such as low-calorie, high-protein snacks like hard-boiled eggs and Greek yogurt — is always the healthiest choice.

There are several other ways you can add protein to your diet. Not all beef jerky is bad for you, and we reviewed the best and healthiest. Of course, a protein shake is one of the most popular ways for pumping up your protein intake, using our top pick for best-tasting protein powder or the best protein powder for women, blended together with fruit and/or ice in a blender or personal blender.

The post The Best Protein Bars appeared first on Your Best Digs.

Table of contents

• Dermatologist recommendations
• How we selected products to test
• Compare the best soaps for sensitive skin
• How we tested
• Best body wash: CeraVe – Hydrating Body Wash
• Runner-up: Aveeno – Skin Relief
• Other finalists we recommend
• Other finalists we don’t recommend
• The bottom line

Dermatologist recommendations

This year, 60–70% of women and 50–60% of men reported having some degree of skin sensitivity. To understand exactly what kind of soap is most beneficial for sensitive skin, we first consulted Dr. Tiffany Jow Libby, a board-certified dermatologist who has sensitive skin herself.

Soap’s alkalinity, as Dr. Libby points out, plays a vital role in maintaining healthy skin. The pH scale, which measures how acidic or alkaline a solution is, ranges from 0 (acidic) to 14 (alkaline). Since the skin’s surface prefers to be acidic (to help it stay moisturized and fend off the effects of pollution, bacteria and allergens), soap makers sometimes try to match that acidity level, which usually ranges in pH from 4.5 to 5.5. Soap with a pH ranging from 4 to 7 is considered “pH-balanced” — meaning it falls within the pH range of normal, healthy skin.

“Ideally, we want to keep skin in this range to maintain a healthy barrier function,” says Dr. Libby. “Many bar soaps have a pH within the range of 9 to 10 and therefore tend to be more alkaline, which can disrupt the skin’s pH.”

Dr. Libby also recommends checking the ingredients list for added artificial dyes, synthetic fragrances, harsh exfoliants or other irritating ingredients. “Just because it says ‘made for sensitive skin’ doesn’t always mean it is,” she warns.

How we selected products to test

After speaking to Dr. Libby, reading through articles by trusted review sites like Business Insider and scouring Reddit and the MakeupAlley.com message boards for soap recommendations, we drew up this list of features to look for as well:

• Fragrance-free: While “unscented” often means an ingredient was added to mask the scent of a soap, “fragrance-free” means no extra fragrances were added to those that are naturally occurring.
• Paraben-free: These preservatives can irritate sensitive skin — especially conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
• Methylisothiazolinone-free: This mouthful of a preservative has a high incidence of allergic reactions in the skin.
• No denatured, isopropyl or SD alcohols: Unlike fatty alcohols, which are non-irritating and good for dry skin, denatured, isopropyl and SD alcohols can dry out and erode the skin’s surface.
• No harsh exfoliants: This includes physical exfoliants, such as nut shells.
• Beneficial ingredients: Chamomile, glycerin, coconut oil, colloidal oatmeal, comfrey, allantoin, calendula and aloe can have a soothing effect on sensitive skin.

We used this list to sort through the highest-rated soaps and body washes for sensitive skin and zero in on the most beneficial and non-irritating of the bunch. We also aimed for soaps that wouldn’t break the bank, with price points below $20.

Compare the best soaps for sensitive skin

How we tested

To test the pH level of each soap in our lineup, we used an Apera PH20 Waterproof pH Meter. Eight of our soaps fell within the “pH-balanced” range of 4–7, with four soaps in the ideal 4.5–5.5 range. The remaining two — both bar soaps, unsurprisingly — were 10 and 10.1, respectively.

Our tester then showered with each soap and rated them based on how they affected her sensitive skin, judging by soap texture, added fragrance (or lack thereof) and whether her skin felt soft and moisturized or irritated and dry afterward.

Best body wash: CeraVe

With a balanced pH of 6.4 and the creamiest formula in our lineup, the CeraVe – Hydrating Body Wash has a rich, lotion-like consistency that left our tester’s skin feeling smooth, clean and replenished. Truly fragrance-free, we couldn’t detect even a naturally occurring scent in this body wash.

The CeraVe body wash is a dermatologist favorite, and no wonder. It’s paraben- and sulfate-free and full of beneficial ingredients like glycerin, soybean oil, hyaluronic acid and ceramides — lipids that occur naturally in the skin and help keep it supple, but slowly deplete with age and sun damage. Using a product enriched with ceramides can help the skin restore moisture, soothe irritation and even reduce signs of aging.

“Think of the uppermost barrier of your skin as a brick wall, with each skin cell being one brick,” explains Dr. Libby. “The mortar holding the bricks together are the moisturizing factors and lipids, i.e. your ceramides, fatty acids and cholesterol. Any decrease or disruption in these lipids can compromise the skin’s barrier and lead to inflammation.”

Top Pick: CeraVe - Hydrating Body Wash

Packed with soothing and moisturizing ingredients, the creamy, lotion-like CeraVe - Hydrating Body Wash leaves skin feeling clean, calm and hydrated.

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The one downside of CeraVe is its rather stiff container, which makes it tough to get any product out when the bottle is less than full.

Key takeaways:

• The CeraVe – Hydrating Body Wash has the texture of a creamy lotion, gliding smoothly over the skin and leaving it feeling clean and moisturized.
• This 6.4-pH dermatologist favorite is free of fragrance, parabens and sulfates. It’s packed with moisturizing and soothing ingredients like glycerin, soybean oil, hyaluronic acid and ceramides.
• The CeraVe’s stiff container makes it hard to squeeze the product out.

Runner-up: Aveeno – Skin Relief

Our runner-up, the Aveeno – Skin Relief Body Wash is richly moisturizing and feels luxurious. The Aveeno has a perfect pH level of 5, so our tester experienced zero irritation, and post-shower, her skin felt soft even without lotion. Though technically fragrance-free, we should note that the Aveeno wash does have a naturally occurring mild, citrusy scent.

Runner-Up: Aveeno

The hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic Aveeno - Skin Relief Body Wash has a neutralized pH and contains colloidal oatmeal, known for its soothing, anti-inflammatory properties.

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Hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic (meaning it won’t clog pores), the Aveeno wash is dermatologist-recommended and has no added dyes. In addition to glycerin — a humectant that helps the skin retain water — Aveeno’s star ingredient is colloidal oatmeal (“avena sativa” in the ingredients list), a soothing prebiotic that helps replenish the skin’s barrier.

“Colloidal oatmeal is a favorite of mine,” Dr. Libby says. “It’s a natural anti-inflammatory agent that helps soothe and alleviate dryness and itching, which may be seen in inflammatory conditions like eczema.”

Key takeaways:

• With a pH level of 5, the mild Aveeno – Skin Relief Body Wash falls within the ideal pH range for sensitive skin.
• The Aveeno wash is hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic and contains colloidal oatmeal, a soothing natural anti-inflammatory.
• This body wash doesn’t contain added fragrance ingredients, but it does have a mild, natural citrus scent.

Other finalists we recommend

Eucerin – Skin Calming Body Wash

The Eucerin – Skin Calming Body Wash has a pH level of 6.1 and is one of the more moisturizing soaps we tried. Its first ingredient is soybean oil, which has been shown to help skin retain moisture when applied topically. Its second is castor oil, an anti-inflammatory that also promotes moisture.
Sure enough, after showering, our tester’s skin felt cleansed but also soft and supple, and she didn’t feel she needed to apply lotion. The downside of fragrance-free Eucerin is the natural odor from the vegetable oils, though it disappeared soon after our tester dried off.

Aquaphor – Baby Wash

The Aquaphor – Baby Wash, which has a pH level of 4.7 — the lowest of all the soaps we tested — is a clear gel that feels very mild on the skin. After showering, our tester’s skin felt cleansed but not particularly moisturized or dry.

Completely fragrance-free and paraben-free, the Aquaphor wash contains bisabolol, an anti-inflammatory alcohol extracted from chamomile.

Sukin Naturals – Sensitive Soap Free Body Wash

The Sukin Naturals – Sensitive Soap Free Body Wash is very similar to the Aquaphor body wash in texture and consistency. While this wash doesn’t contain added fragrance, it does have a somewhat acrid naturally occurring scent.

The Sukin wash has a 5.2 pH level and skin-soothing ingredients, such as aloe, chamomile, glycerin, cucumber, green tea and avocado oil.

Andalou Naturals – 1000 Roses Shower Gel

With its low pH level of 4.9, the Andalou Naturals – 1000 Roses Shower Gel felt great on our tester’s skin, leaving it both cleansed and hydrated. The Andalou wash has plenty of ingredients that are directly beneficial for sensitive skin: aloe, glycerin, allantoin, coconut extract and argan oil.

The downside of the Andalou wash is its combination of rose water and rosehip oil, which produces a natural rose scent (hence the “1000 Roses” name) that some people may find overwhelming.

Bioderma – Atoderm Shower Oil

The Bioderma – Atoderm Ultra-Nourishing Anti-Irritation Shower Oil feels luxe and nourishing on the skin; our tester loved how hydrated her skin felt afterward. We should note that the Bioderma oil has a potent added fragrance, though it didn’t irritate our tester’s sensitive skin.

The Bioderma wash contains skin-moisturizing glycerin and niacinamide, which helps stimulate the skin’s own production of ceramides. Though generally safe for sensitive skin, some people have experienced irritation after applying niacinamide to the skin; we recommend doing a patch test before using it in the bath.

Dove – Sensitive Skin Beauty Bar

Out of the bar soaps we tested, the Dove – Sensitive Skin Beauty Bar was the only contender that fell within the desired pH range. While the other soaps’ pH levels soared around 10 — which is normal for pure soap — the Dove bar tested at a 7.

The Dove soap is scentless and easy to rinse off, and it left our tester’s skin feeling clean but neither dry nor moisturized — just neutral. If you prefer your soap in bar form, we recommend this one as the best bar soap for sensitive skin.

Other finalists we don’t recommend

Booda Organics – Suds of Love All-In-One Soap

The Booda Organics – Suds of Love All-In-One Soap is truly fragrance-free and only contains five ingredients: olive oil, coconut oil, fair-trade shea butter, artesian spring water and sodium hydroxide. However pure this soap may be, we can’t ignore the resulting pH of 10. A pH level this high could cause dryness and irritation for some people.

Lush – Olive Tree Bar

Though the Lush – Olive Tree Bar contains a wealth of moisturizing ingredients — glycerin and olive, coconut, cypress, petitgrain and rose oils — it was the only soap in our lineup that left our tester feeling itchy. With the highest pH of all the soaps we tested (10.1), this bar soap also has a very prominent scent that may irritate sensitive skin.

The bottom line

After gathering dermatologist recommendations and testing our lineup of 10 highly rated formulas, we determined that the best soap overall is the CeraVe – Hydrating Body Wash, which impressed us with its extra mild, soothing formula and stellar ingredients list.

Our runner-up is the Aveeno – Skin Relief Body Wash, which is both hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic and features the powerful natural anti-inflammatory colloidal oatmeal.

Best Body Soap for Sensitive Skin: CeraVe

CeraVe - Hydrating Body Wash is a neutral-pH soap with soothing and moisturizing ingredients. It leaves you feeling clean, and it doesn't have any distinct odor.

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The post The Best Soaps for Sensitive Skin appeared first on Your Best Digs.

• Finding your “Goldilocks” cup
• How we selected products to test
• Compare the best menstrual cups
• Pros and cons of using a menstrual cup
• How we tested
• Best for beginners: MeLuna – Classic Cup
• Runner-up: Lena Cup
• The other finalists we tested
• The bottom line

Finding your “Goldilocks” cup

Selecting the right menstrual cup for your body is not quite as simple as choosing between light, super and super plus — the typical options for tampons and pads. When buying a menstrual cup, several other factors need to be taken into consideration to find the perfect fit.

To break down this process, we talked to Kim Rosas and Amanda Hearn of PutACupInIt.com, a menstrual mothership of a site packed with straightforward information, how-to videos and down-to-earth advice on all things period cups.

“One of the biggest mistakes women make when using a cup for the first time is choosing one randomly,” says Amanda. “Most often we hear that the cup someone has purchased is just too long. Another thing we see is people choosing what we consider to be a knock-off cup. These are usually priced very low on deal sites, and the materials used tend to be either extremely soft or extremely firm.”

To help women pinpoint the best cups for their unique anatomy, Kim and Amanda developed a quiz based on factors like cervix height (which determines the cup length you need), pregnancy history or virginity (cup width), menstrual flow (cup capacity) and vaginal sensitivity and pelvic floor strength (cup material and firmness). Never had a reason to determine your cervix height or pelvic floor strength? The site includes step-by-step instructions for determining these factors.

“In general, if you have heavy cramping, vaginal sensitivity or bladder issues of any kind, you’ll likely want a softer cup,” advise Kim and Amanda. “Those new to cups — without any sensitivities — are usually best off with a firmer cup because it will open easier. Also, those who are very active and have a strong pelvic floor typically benefit from a firmer cup.”

How we selected products to test

After speaking to Kim and Amanda and spending hours on their site to bulk up on our menstrual cup know-how, we sifted through Reddit, MenstrualCupReviews.net and YouTube to gather tips and recommendations from both beginners and seasoned cuppers. We also noted the fears and concerns women expressed about using a menstrual cup for the first time.

We then drew up a list of product features that would make menstrual cup use easier for beginners across the board (regardless of individual anatomy):

• Cups that come in a variety of lengths, widths and firmnesses
• Cups made of high-quality medical-grade silicone or TPE (which becomes more flexible as it warms up)
• Great customer service ratings and clear instructions available on the brand websites

Compare the best menstrual cups

Pros and cons of using a menstrual cup

Benefits

• Money-saving: Although a menstrual cup is initially more expensive than a box of tampons or pads, with proper care your cup will last a year at the very least.
• Good for the planet: Tampons, pads and panty liners create over 200,000 tons of waste per year (along with their packaging and individual wrapping).
• Longer-wearing: Menstrual cups can be safely worn for up to 12 hours. If you time things right, you will only need to remove and re-insert your cup from the comfort of your own home and not in a public restroom.
• Reduced risk of TSS: Today, it’s estimated that TSS affects one out of every 100,000 women aged 19 to 44, with most cases found in menstruating women using highly absorbent tampons. Only two cases total have been reported worldwide of TSS related to menstrual cup use, and that was caused by extremely prolonged use (those affected had left their cups in for 7 days). Cup users should boil their cups to fully remove bacteria, and consider keeping two or three cups on hand so each one can be sterilized before use.

Drawbacks

• Finding the right fit: It takes time, research and possibly some trial and error to figure out what cup size and firmness will work best for you.
• A bit of a mess: There’s a learning curve when it comes to removing and emptying your cup neatly.
• May not play well with IUDs: Many manufacturers don’t recommend using menstrual cups with an IUD inserted, in case the cup pulls on the IUD string (though a study conducted in 2012 found no evidence of this happening).

How we tested

As first-time menstrual cup users ourselves, we gave our honest impressions of our experience with each cup in our lineup, and rated the cups based on the following criteria:

• Ease of application
• Firmness (this factors into how easily a cup “pops open” and settles into place after insertion)
• Overall comfort during wear
• Leakage
• Ease of withdrawal
• Ease of cleaning
• Length, width and firmness variations available for different anatomies
• Instructions offered (on the website and included with the cup’s packaging)

A few key lessons we learned during testing

Cervix height matters: No one needs an excavation mission when removing their menstrual cup. Before investing in a cup, do yourself a favor and determine whether you have a high or low cervix. This will help you choose the cup length that will be most comfortable during wear, and the easiest to insert and remove.

Your cervix height will change depending on the time of the month: To get an accurate idea of how high or low your cervix will be during your period, we recommend measuring your cervix height at the start of your period and then again at the end of it, to determine how long of a cup you need. If your cervix height changes quite a bit over the course of your period, you may want to try using two different menstrual cups with varying lengths.

A soft cup isn’t necessarily easier for beginners: While it’s certainly possible that softer cups will work better for us once we’ve built up our cup skills, as beginners we found that soft cups were tough to get into the correct position once inserted. A medium-firm cup will pop open inside of you on its own, doing the hard work for you and saving a lot of time. Unless you have a very sensitive vagina, we recommend a medium-to-firm cup for beginners.

When removing a cup, don’t pull on the stem without “burping” the cup first: Pinching the base of the cup releases any suction between the cup and your cervix — very important before pulling the cup out.

If you aren’t okay with getting up close and personal with your own body fluids, menstrual cups probably aren’t for you: There’s no way around it — you will need to insert, extract, empty and clean your cup. While it isn’t exactly a Carrie-like situation, there will be blood.

For a successful first experience, we found it especially helpful to watch instructional videos on insertion and removal beforehand (there’s a wealth of them on PutACupInIt.com) and closely follow each cup’s usage instructions.

“Trust yourself, reach out for support and just try it!” says Amanda. “The thing we hear most from people is that they wish they had just tried it sooner.”

Best for beginners: MeLuna Classic Cup

During testing, we found that the firmer cups in our lineup (namely the Lunette Cup) were tougher to fold and keep folded during insertion; they tended to pop open too soon. On the other hand, we had a hard time getting the cups that were very soft (like the Intimina Lily Cup) to pop open once inserted.

Enter the MeLuna – Classic Cup, which is the perfect level of firmness — not too soft, and not too hard. Easy to fold, the cup’s TPE body is soft enough to hold its folded position during insertion without a struggle, and firm enough to pop open on its own once we had positioned it.

Once in place, we couldn’t feel the MeLuna and didn’t have any problems with leaks (perhaps it was beginner’s luck, but we didn’t experience leakage with any of the cups we tested). When it came time to take the cup out, removal was a cinch; the MeLuna was soft enough for us to pinch it easily at the base to release suction. While the other cups in our lineup have ribbed stems, the MeLuna stem features larger, more rounded striations that were easy to grip for removal. However, the stem is on the thick side, making it potentially more noticeable once inserted.

Best for Beginners: MeLuna - Classic

Comfortable and easy to use all around, the MeLuna Classic Cup comes in a wide variety of sizes, lengths and firmnesses for beginners to find their ideal fit.

See Price at AmazonSee Price at MeLuna

Out of all the brands we tested, the MeLuna offers the most cup variations. These are all available on the MeLuna website, only small and large are on Amazon right now: four sizes (small, medium, large and extra-large); three firmnesses (Soft, Classic and Sport); and three types of handles to choose from (ring, ball or the conventional ribbed stem). MeLuna even has a cup made especially for women with low cervixes, called the Shorty. All cups come with a carrying pouch and small cleaning brush.

Though the MeLuna website is not as user-friendly or attractive as some of the others, it does have a good illustrated how-to section and a cup size chart and calculator to simplify the selection process. It’s also one of the only sites in our lineup with a chat feature to help with immediate questions.

Key takeaways

• The MeLuna – Classic Cup strikes the perfect balance between soft and firm, folding easily for insertion and popping open on its own once in place.
• MeLuna offers the most variations out of all our contenders, for a cup that’s practically tailor-made for your body.
• Though easy to grip, the MeLuna’s stem is thick and more solid than the others, which may be uncomfortable for some women.

Runner-up: Lena Cup

Made of super smooth silicone, the Lena Cup is a hair firmer than the MeLuna, with a tulip-shaped body. Slightly broader than the MeLuna cup, the Lena may be a good choice for women with wider vaginas.

Like the MeLuna, the Lena has the perfect balance of softness and firmness that makes it easy to insert and position without any trouble. Once in place, we couldn’t feel the cup at all, and actually forgot all about it for a while. The cup is also simple to grip and remove, with pronounced striations at its base and a well-ribbed stem.

The Lena cup comes in small and large sizes, with a Lena Sensitive cup option for women who prefer a softer cup. For those who want to try out both sizes (or have a varying flow), there’s also a two-pack available with both a small and large cup for a reduced price.

Runner-Up: Lena Cup

The ideal balance of softness and firmness, the Lena Cup is simple to insert and remove and undetectable during wear.

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For first-time users, the Lena website does a good job of demystifying menstrual cups with how-to videos and illustrations and a quiz to help determine cup size. Though the Lena site offers customer service assistance via email, we wish it included a chat feature for newbies to get their questions answered in real time. The cup comes with an illustrated guide featuring insertion tips, folding techniques and troubleshooting, as well as a carrying pouch.

Key takeaways

• Like the MeLuna cup, the Lena Cup takes the work out of insertion and extraction; it’s just soft enough to fold easily, and just firm enough to pop open on its own once positioned.
• The Lena features pronounced ribbing on its stem and base, making it easy to grip during removal.
• Lena offers fewer options than MeLuna: small and large sizes, with a Lena Sensitive option.

The other finalists we tested

Saalt

One of the softest cups on our lineup, the Saalt – Soft Cup is pleasant to use and a good choice for those who experience heavy cramps or bladder sensitivity. The Saalt cup was easy to fold and keep folded during insertion, though it wasn’t immediately apparent whether it had opened inside of us; it took us a minute to make sure. The bottom of the Saalt is easy to grip for removal, but we felt that its stem was not textured enough to get a good grasp on it.

Saalt gets extra points for its chic carrying pouch and pretty packaging, as well as its gorgeous, information-packed website.

DivaCup

Menstrual cups are generally limited in drugstores, but the DivaCup is one reliable, high-quality brand that’s widely available. Firmness-wise, the DivaCup falls somewhere between the MeLuna Classic and the Saalt Soft; we found it easy to fold, insert and remove. Since its body is on the long side, it would work best for women with an average-to-high cervix. The DivaCup only comes in a clear color, which means discoloration is inevitable; it also has a hollow stem, which could be burdensome to clean.

The DivaCup comes with a storage pouch and an extensive illustrated guide with insertion advice, folding techniques and troubleshooting tips.

Lunette Cup

The firmest of our cup contenders, the Lunette Cup, was difficult to keep folded during insertion; it kept popping open before we had gotten it into place. However, once positioned, we couldn’t feel it at all. When it came time to take out the Lunette, the stiffness of the material made it tough to work the cup back out, even after pinching and folding.

On the plus side, Lunette has one of the most intuitively designed, informative websites of the bunch, with a fantastic how-to section, instructional videos, a “menstrual cupbot” to answer questions in real time and even blog posts and articles to raise disease awareness and help women understand their bodies better. The cup itself comes with a storage pouch and short instructional guide.

Intimina – Lily Cup

The longest cup in our lineup, the Intimina – Lily Cup is uniquely designed; while the other cups have a distinct body and stem, the Lily’s body tapers gently down to the end of its stem. This means the stem can’t be trimmed to shorten the overall length of the cup, making this cup best for women with high cervixes. Intimina also offers Lily Cup One and Lily Cup Compact options, both of which are also on the long side and not trimmable.

The Lily is also the softest cup in our lineup, making it very easy to fold and insert but difficult to pop open. In fact, we were never entirely sure that the Lily had opened correctly; the only indication was the fact that we didn’t experience any leaks. The Lily comes with a storage pouch and a very brief how-to guide.

The bottom line

With its broad range of cup choices and easy-to-use design, the medium-soft MeLuna – Classic Cup is our first choice for beginners wanting to give menstrual cups a try. We also loved the Lena Cup, a medium-soft cup that folded effortlessly for insertion, popped into place on its own and featured a well-ribbed stem for easy removal.

Best for Beginners: MeLuna - Classic

Comfortable and easy to use all around, the MeLuna Classic Cup comes in a wide variety of sizes, lengths and firmnesses for beginners to find their ideal fit.

See Price at AmazonSee Price at MeLuna

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