Foam and fabric layers are used to create the model M-2010 from Zhongshan Sevis. Cutouts produce a two-tone effect.

Spacer fabric, foam and silicone are being molded into designs suitable for plunging, convertible and sports bras.

Suppliers of breathable bra cups in China are implementing material and structural upgrades to improve the functionality of their products.

Moisture management used to be a key property reserved for sports bras. But as the country's underwear manufacturers move upmarket, they are incorporating this function in regular models and swimsuits. The popularity of seamless intimate apparel has also spurred the exploration of breathable materials suitable for molding and heat forming.

Traditional PU foam is being enhanced by creating versions with a mesh structure. This is fused with moisture-wicking varieties of polyester or nylon, or even branded textiles such as Coolmax and Tactel. A few companies are utilizing spacer fabric, which is also known as air mesh. The knitted material has a double-layer structure with a stratum of air in between. It eliminates multiple components such as face, fiberfill and lining, which can interfere with the performance of functional yarn.

Other suppliers are introducing silicone cups. When molded, the surface repels water while allowing vapor to permeate. Moreover, the substance requires less energy to process compared with other elastomers.

Breathable grades of TPU film also serve as cookies that are filled with oil, gel or even air.

To fit different types of brassieres, suppliers are launching cups in straight-sided, circular, triangular,

balconette and plunging contours. Designs with strap tabs and underwire allowance are also offered.

Moreover, makers can provide buyers with molds for exclusive shapes and sizes. The cost, about $300 to $800 for foam and $1,000 for silicone, is charged to clients.

	Guangzhou Ealajane offers model EL-04, silicone cups for a balconette bra.

Among the suppliers featured in this report, Guangzhou Ealajane Silicone Tech. Co. Ltd offers silicone bra cups. Versions for sports, balconette and push-up bras are available.

Shenzhen Yingzhijian Technology Mfy Ltd also focuses on silicone cups. The material is either molded or poured in gel form into TPU bags.

Oval, circular and triangular shapes are available. Transparent, skin tone and fabric-covered finishes are offered.

Five silicone vacuum-processing and 22 high-frequency seaming machines are located in Shenzhen Yingzhijian's factory.

Products from Zhongshan Hengtai Bra Cup Fty are made of fused foam and fabric. The selection consists of models for push-up and sports bras, and bikinis.

Styles with a curved underbust can be cut with allowance for wires.

Zhongshan Hengtai's factory is equipped with ultrasonic seaming and heat-forming machines.

Foam and fabric cups are produced in Zhongshan Sevis Dress Co. Ltd's 9,000sqm factory. The company complies with the Oeko-Tex Standard 100.

Releases have straight sides, strap tabs and cookies. Laser cutouts, scalloped edges and contrasting inner and outer fabric add visual appeal.