It has been noted occasionally on reviews for sports bras that the appearance of a woman's breasts should not be a factor in choosing a sports (or any) bra and the desire to do so is based solely on negative societal pressure.  My response to that is: "Whatever."

This is a very flattering bra for those of us who tend to look like boys in a regular compression sports bra. It also works amazingly well. I wouldn't consider myself an athlete - I just cycle on urban trails and this bra is definitely overkill for that.  I don't know about chafing or anything for long distances or running etc, but my breasts don't move in this bra and I find it very comfortable.

I am a small 34B, (5'6" 130lb).  I went to REI first, but they were out of mediums; I tried the small and I had a hard time deciding if I needed the medium or not - the small wasn't uncomfortable at all.  In the end, I went home and ordered a medium and I'm glad I went with the larger size - the small didn't seem to hold my breasts any differently than the medium and I'd rather not be wearing something tighter than I need be when I'm sweating and moving around.

Per other reviews - it *is* hard to get off. I like it so well in all other respects it doesn't bother me - nothing is perfect and if that`s the only flaw I can find it ranks as one of my better purchases in life. (A little baby powder can help that, too.)

Also, a few other reviews have noted the mesh panel across the front kind of gaps or bulges out in a way that bothers people. It does a little, but it doesn't really look or feel strange to me and adjusting the straps makes a big difference, too. I didn't even notice until I read a review about it, so I don't think it will be a big deal for most people - having a child with OCD does give me a healthy respect for how the strangest things can be intolerable to some people so I thought I'd mention it, though.

It works well and it's flattering - I highly recommend it.