Bras-- Wirefree VS Underwire

When bras were first designed, their main function was to provide support to prevent backaches and reduce breast sagging. Today, there are many different types, designs, and styles of bras. While their main function is still to provide support, the different types also have secondary functions, such as enhancing the appearance of the breasts or an outfit. One of the biggest debates over bras is determining if underwire or wirefree bras are a better choice. Both types have their advantages and limitations, and many women own both types of bra. To determine whether underwire or wirefree bras are a better choice when bra shopping, women first need to determine which type of bra they need. Then they can examine the benefits and drawbacks of underwire versus wirefree bras. 

Accroding to bra type ,we have discussed in an other article: Different Types Of Bra 

Then come to advantages and limitations of wirefree and underwire bra .

Underwire Bras

An underwire bra is a type of bra that has a thin rigid material sewn into the underside of the cup of the bra. In the past, this rigid material was a wire, but now it can be made of metal, plastic, or resin. The purpose of the wire is to provide additional support for the breasts. Underwire bras are by far the most popular and best-selling type of bra on the market. This is because in addition to the support they provide, underwire bras have a number of other desirable qualities. In contrast, these bras also have several disadvantages and some consumers have concerns about their safety.

Benefits

Underwire bras have many benefits which is why they are the most popular bras on the market. The main benefits of underwire bras are that they provide superior support to the breasts and also enhance the appearance of the breasts under clothing.

Support

Larger breasts are heavier and require additional support. The underwire of the bra is very rigid and is able to provide this support. This can help to eliminate fatigue over the course of the day. Typically, breasts that are a cup size B or larger benefit from the support provided by an underwire. A-cup bras and training bras do not need underwire because the additional support is not needed.

Appearance

The wire in an underwire bra also functions to lift, separate, and shape the breasts. The underwire of the bra helps to maintain the shape of the bra and give the breasts a round appearance. This is often more beneficial for larger breasts, but also desirable when worn with shirts and tops that reveal cleavage.

Disadvantages and Concerns

One of the main disadvantages to underwire bras relates to comfort. The rigidity of the underwire can become extremely uncomfortable over the course of the day. Additionally, the wire can tear through the fabric of the bra or become bent out of shape and poke the skin of the wearer. Once this happens, the bra will need to be replaced.

Health Concerns

Underwire bras have also been linked to several health issues, with some being more common than others. The most common concern would be in the impact on lactation and breastfeeding. If a bra with an underwire is worn while a woman is lactating, then the added pressure on the breasts can cause clogged milk ducts. Breast pain, mastitis, and some allergies have also been reported from wearing underwire bras.

Wirefree Bras

Wirefree bras are also known as softcup bras and they do not have the rigid underwire sewn in. These bras are made entirely of fabric to provide support for the breasts. Though they are not as popular as underwire bras, many women prefer wirefree bras. They come in a wide variety of colors and styles to suit any occasion or outfit. Like underwire bras, softcup bras do have their benefits and disadvantages.

Benefits

Comfort is by far the greatest benefit of a wirefree bra, and it is the most common reason women choose these bras over their underwire counterparts. They provide an average amount of support for all types of breasts. Because there is no underwire to bend or break, wirefree bras can also last longer and are easier to care for. Wirefree bras are also more flexible which makes them more comfortable for pregnant and breastfeeding women who tend to have sensitive and sore breasts.

Disadvantages

The main disadvantage to wirefree bras is that they do not provide the same lifting and shaping effects that underwire bras do. When women are trying to enhance the appearance of their breasts or cleavage, it can be harder to do this with a wirefree bra. Though wirefree bras do provide a good amount of support, they cannot support larger breasts as well as underwire bras can.

Both bras have their benefits and drawbacks, and the choice really comes down to personal preference.