Bra Strap Pads
From LoveToKnow Lingerie
Whether you need extra cushioning on a site that’s just had surgery or just require comfort from a tight bra, there are a number of bra strap pads to choose from. They are also a simple item to make yourself, even if you are not much of a seamstress.
The Need for Bra Strap Pads
Some women have particularly sensitive shoulders or pressure points around the bra strap area. Other women find that if they have been wearing bras with clear straps, which can chafe, they need some extra padding for a day or two. Many plus-size women have a difficult time finding a bra that fits well in both the bust and the shoulders and need the comfort of a pad. Silicone bra strap pads are an answer to the problem of bra slippage. And quality pads are needed most by women who have undergone a medical procedure anywhere a strap might make contact with the skin.
The idea of bra strap pads is nothing new; corsets from the Elizabethan to Victorian era were often padded at the shoulder to provide comfort, especially for large-breasted women. In the modern era, even expensive, high-quality bras don’t necessarily have straps that won’t make their presence known at the end of a long day. That’s when a bit of padding helps immeasurably.
Post-Surgery Pads
Whether you’ve had a device implanted or some other procedure done around the bra strap line, you need a bra strap pad specifically designed to provide comfort while healing. The highest rated product seems to be the one made by ComfortHer, available online from Pressure Products. The pad is made of tricot nylon, both soft and washable, and is triple-padded. It has internal stiffeners and fastens around the strap via Velcro. It’s thin enough to be worn under most of your clothes without being noticeable.
Silicone Pads
Silicone is very popular as of late because it is so strong, flexible, temperature resistant and, especially, hypoallergenic. That’s not to say that it works well for everyone. Some users of silicone pads report that the pad can irritate the skin and so they have to use baby powder to prevent chafing.
Overall, however, silicone pads are excellent at preventing slippage while also alleviating any pressure. Most of them are so thin and clear, they can be worn under anything. And they are easy to care for--most can be washed by hand in the sink with a bit of vinegar or castile soap.
You can buy silicone pads at any number of sources online. Lane Bryant sells some well-received pads, and you don’t have to be plus size to use them. They have a groove that you just slip the strap into and then digging, slipping and uneven weight is no longer a problem.
You can also find the pads at most lingerie shops and on Amazon.
Combination Pads
One way to get the benefits of both silicone and fabric is to opt for the Cush-eez pads available at Her Room. You can insert either silicone or lace pads inside the vinyl straps. Some customers comment, however, that they do not stay in place as well as desired and are too visible under clothing. Others complain that the gel in the insert dissipates quickly. But most comment that they are great for big-breasted women and those with severe shoulder problems.
What Bra Makers Should Know
Most users of pads agree on one thing--it would be great if major bra designers simply padded the straps on bras for big-breasted women, without women having to fuss with an extra item that doesn’t work or look as well as it might. If there is a bra you wear regularly, you should contact the maker and let them know; the more women who agitate for this sort of design, the more likely it is to come into fruition.
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This page has been accessed 2,014 times. This page was last modified 18:08, 29 November 2008.
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