Beyond sports – the emergence of sports bra

That form-fitting undergarment designed to cover, support and elevate the breasts has several benefits but it entails choosing the right type and size. A bra that fits well and offers ample support contributes greatly not only to the general health of the breasts but as well as improving overall posture.

This has never been more true in this day and age when fitness and active lifestyle are increasingly becoming a priority. This shift in people's way of living has also led to the emergence of sports bras, which apart from providing comfort and support for the breasts during strenuous physical activities, have become a fashion statement.

Business intelligence firm WiseGuyReports predicts that the global market value of sports bras will reach $14.2 billion by the end of 2025, representing a 10.7 percent CAGR from $6.3 billion in 2018. North America and Europe are expected remain to be the top two markets during the period.

Recent innovations in textiles has also contributed to the popularity of sports bras. The development of functional properties in fabrics, including the ability to wick away sweat, dry quickly and improve stretch, has paved the way for the production pieces that are extremely comfortable to wear.

And because of the comfort sports bras provide, they are increasingly being worn outside gyms and sports arenas. A quick search in GlobalSources.com for sports bras, for example, yields eye-catching styles that are suitable to be worn in casual occasions.

Quanzhou, apparel sourcing hub

The port city of Quanzhou is Fujian's province largest metropolitan region and is home to a vibrant manufacturing industry. According to recent statistics, the city accounts for a tenth of China's overall apparel and textile production, which includes sportswear. Production is centered mainly in the districts of Jinjiang and Shishi.

The city leverages a strong manufacturing pool and solid peripheral industries, including material providers, and printing and packaging services.

Quanzhou's geographic location is an advantage as well. It is home to theQuanzhou port, facilitating transport of goods. The Quanzhou Jinjiang International Airport offers daily flights to different domestic and international locations while the high-speed Fuzhou–Xiamen Railway has been operational since 2010.

Sourcing for sports bras? Check out this selection from Quanzhou-based Global Sources Verified Suppliers.

3D print

Company: Quanzhou Swimwearmall Technology Co. Ltd

Jinjiang Changda Garments Co. Ltd's model CFB306 racerback sports bra features 3D prints. It uses 90:10 polyester-spandex and has removable cups. The activewear has a wide underband and suits low-impact exercises. It is quick-drying and moisture-wicking. OEM and ODM orders are accepted.

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Spliced mesh back

Company: Quanzhou Swimwearmall Technology Co. Ltd

Made of 87:13 chinlon-spandex, the model YYK-AL0346 racerback sports bra from Quanzhou Swimwearmall features a ventilated spliced mesh back. It is quick-drying and moisture-wicking, and has a good stretch. Sizes, designs and logos can be buyer-specified.

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Crisscross straps

Company: Quanzhou Swimwearmall Technology Co. Ltd

Also from Quanzhou Swimwearmall, the model YYK-AL0453 sports bra features crisscross front and back straps. Designed for yoga, the activewear adopts nylon-spandex, and is breathable, quick-drying, moisture-wicking and stretchable. Sizes, designs and logos are customizable.

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Absorbs impact

Company: Polywell Textile & Garments Co. Ltd

This V-neck yoga top, PWZ-332 model from Polywell adopts nylon and absorbs the impact of physical activities. It comes in S to XL or custom sizes ODM and OEM orders are accepted.

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Full coverage

Company: Sindy Garments Co. Ltd

The model XC19082202 sports bra from Sindy provides full coverage and has a 72:28 nylon-spandex shell. It has lace trimming made of 90:10 nylon-spandex. Size ranges from S to XXL. The activewear comes in various colors and prints, and custom designs. Each is piece is flat-packed with a hang tag.

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Off-shoulder design

Company: Sindy Garments Co. Ltd

In off-shoulder design, the model XC19081401 sports bra from Sindy has triple back straps. It is made of 72:28 nylon-spandex and has 90:10 nylon-spandex lace trim on front. Size options are S, M, L, XL and XXL. Various colors and custom designs are offered.

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