If you’ve ever stood in front of the mirror holding two bras — one wired, one wirefree — and whispered, “Which one’s the winner today?”… you’re not alone.
Choosing between an underwire and a wirefree bra can feel like choosing between sneakers and heels. You love the support of one… and the comfort of the other.
So, what really is better? The truth: both have their perks, and both have a few little quirks. It all depends on you — your body, your day, and your comfort level.
Let’s break it down so you can finally pick your perfect match (or realise you might need both!).
Let’s start with the classic: the underwire bra.
Underwires are those thin, flexible wires that sit under your bust, giving shape, lift, and support. When fitted correctly, they’re magic. When fitted incorrectly… well, hello digging, poking and underarm pain.
Here’s why underwire bras get so much hype:
Amazing Lift and Shape
If you want that “up, supported and separated” feel, underwire wins every time. Many women call them their confidence boosters — especially under fitted tops. The best underwire bra lifts you, shapes you, and makes everything feel secure.
Great for Larger Busts
Fuller busts often love underwire because the wire helps spread weight evenly. No mono-boob. No “everything squishing together.” Just clean, comfortable shape.
Super Supportive
If you’ve ever done the “t-shirt test” and loved the silhouette, chances are you were wearing an underwire bra.
But (and it’s a big BUT):
The Downsides
One customer once told me, “I loved my underwire bras… until I wore one on an eight-hour road trip. Biggest mistake of my life.”
Lesson? Underwire can be heavenly — when the fit is right.
Use our Determine Your Size guide to avoid the dreaded wire poke.
Now let’s talk about the wirefree bra — the comfy best friend we all love.
Wirefree bras used to be seen as the “soft, comfy, but not supportive” option. But not anymore. These days, the best wirefree sports bra can support beautifully thanks to strong bands, clever fabrics, and structured stitching.
Here’s why women adore wirefree:
Pure Comfort
No wire. No digging. No poking.
Wirefree bras feel like soft, gentle hugs. Perfect for relaxed days, working from home, weekends, and lower-intensity workouts.
Natural Shape
They let your bust move more naturally and gently. You won’t get dramatic lift — but you’ll get easy, comfy shaping.
Brilliant for Sports
The best wirefree sports bras rely on compression, encapsulation and supportive fabrics to minimise movement. Many women prefer them for running, gym sessions, and fitness classes.
But wirefree bras also have their quirks:
The Downsides
One customer laughed and said, “I thought wirefree bras were for ‘lazy days’… then I met my first wirefree sports bra. Now I wear it everywhere.”
Moral: wirefree has come a LONG way.
Still unsure? The Bra Finder can match your size and needs in seconds.
So, which is better? Underwire or wirefree?
Let’s make it simple:
Choose Underwire If…
The best underwire bra should feel supportive, not painful.
Choose Wirefree If…
The best wirefree sports bra gives both comfort AND support — no sacrifice needed.
Or… Choose BOTH!
Most women keep both styles in rotation.
Either way, fit is everything.
Even the best bra will feel wrong if it’s the wrong size.
Visit the Fitting Room or use our Bra Finder to avoid the guessing game.
There’s no universal winner in the underwire vs wirefree battle.
Underwire gives lift, shape, and structure.
Wirefree gives comfort, softness, and natural feel.
The real winner? The bra that makes you feel comfortable, confident, and supported — no matter the style.
Try both. Rotate them. Choose what feels right on the day.
Your body will tell you exactly what it prefers.
Because whether it’s the best underwire bra or the best wirefree sports bra, the right bra should make you feel unstoppable.
Amy x
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