New Balance NB RC Bra review

Image: New Balance/Canva

Don’t be fooled by its outward appearance because under this bras crop-top style design is a well engineered and supportive bra built for running. The NB RC Bra has a solid structure to keep you supported on the run.

NB RC Bra technical details

• Convertible straps (straight or cross over)

• Hook-and-eye back closure

• 71% recycled materials

• Built-in encapsulated padding

• Sizes XS to XL with cups A-C or D-DD

• Price: £75

NB RC Bra pros and cons

Pros

Cons

How does this bra fit?

New Balance’s NB RC Bra uses standard clothing sizes (XS to XL), along with cup sizes A-C or D-DD. It’s worth checking New Balance’s size chart carefully for a good fit. Although New Balance’s ‘Fit Promise’ for sports bras means that they will exchange or refund it even after you’ve worn it if it isn’t a good fit.

I usually wear a 32D and found the Small fit well once I’d adjusted everything properly. The adjustable straps and hook-and-eye back closure meant I could fine-tune the fit, which is a big plus when you want a balance between comfort and support. My only quibble is that the material around the hook and eyes feels a bit stiff, which made it tricky to do up the first time.

Read: The best running bras for bigger boobs.

Is the NB RC Bra comfortable?

Yes – this is a bra that manages to deliver full support as well as comfort. The NB Sleek fabric feels soft and smooth against the skin, with just the right amount of stretch. The bonded seams prevent any chafing, and the bottom band gives support without digging in.

It has a pretty solid structure which some runners might not like, but I found it comfortable to run in. The moisture-wicking fabric and channeled cup design help keep you cool and dry, even on sweaty runs.

NB RC Bra run test

This is a really substantial bra that, as soon as you pick it up, feels like it’s going to lock things down and minimise movement. And it does. It’s fully supportive and clearly built for running and other high-impact activities.

I tested it on both short, sharp intervals and a longer steady run. The built-in encapsulation gives individual support for each boob, keeping everything in place without the usual compression squash.

The straps can be worn straight or crossed at the back, and while both options are comfortable, I found it wasn’t quite supportive enough unless I wore it as a cross back. Once set up that way, it held everything securely and felt like it wasn’t going anywhere. The outside looks deceptively like a crop top, hiding the solid construction underneath – which makes it one of those bras you’d feel comfortable wearing solo in warm weather.

Where can I buy this bra?

The New Balance NB RC Bra is available from newbalance.co.uk and selected running retailers.

Still looking for the perfect sports bra? Check out our pick of the best sports bras for running.