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Brooks Dare Crossback 2.0 Bra Review

The Crossback 2.0 Bra from Brooks delivers support in a lightweight, breathable construction
Published: June 22, 2022

Overall Score: 4/5

Brooks Dare Crossback 2.0 Bra

Overall Impressions

Likes:
  • Easy pullover design
  • Supportive fit
  • Stylish and functional perforations
  • Lightweight
Dislikes:
  • Crossback straps move a bit
  • Material not as soft and fully seamless
  • Delicate composition may not be as durable

The Brooks Dare Crossback 2.0 Bra offers support with a new smooth cross-back style and a longer integrated bottom band. The built-in molded cups support each breast and reduce any bounce or motion, and the pullover design allows for easy on and off wear. The strategically placed perforations provide airflow and ventilation, and Brooks' DriLayer HorsePower fabric delivers sweat-wicking properties to help keep you dry and comfortable on your run. We recommend the Dare Crossback 2.0 Bra for the ladies who enjoy an effortless pullover style with a minimalist design.


Brooks Dare Crossback 2.0 Bra

Features & Style

Score: 7/10

Caroline: "This bra features a scoop neck design and cross-back straps with an opening on the back, reminiscent of a safety pin appearance. I liked the lightweight, breathable construction with the perforations on the front and back that provide added style and functionality, allowing for airflow. The built-in molded cups are thankfully not heavily padded, so this bra has an overall lightweight feel for a natural silhouette design, encapsulating each breast instead of flattening the chest (like standard compression bras). I loved not having a rear clasp hook/eye closure or zip fronts, so the pullover style made for quick, easy wear. Overall, it has a simple design with a touch of feminine flair."

Kaitlin: "The design feels simple, but the construction was well thought out. While there is a lack of adjustment options, this is a feature I appreciate the most. There aren’t a lot of straps or clasps that can cause issues after long mileage. The bra is very breathable and airy, with a cross-back design, perforations, and moderate front coverage. It has a sleek, not overly technical look that will fit seamlessly under your running tops."

Brooks Dare Crossback 2.0 Bra

Fit & Support

Score: 8.5/10

Caroline: "The pullover construction of this bra was easy to get in and out of without any struggle or fuss. I felt supported during my runs, even though it doesn't have that compressive feel due to the individual cup design. I liked that the fit wasn’t confining or constrictive and was breathable. I just would have preferred a more snug, stay-put fit. With this 2.0 version, the cross-back straps tended to move a bit with the natural arm movement of running, and there was some minor gaping under the arms. The new longer band construction did cause some chafing, and a softer elastic fabric would have been more comfortable to avoid any harsh rubbing on my sensitive skin."

Kaitlin: "The fit is very supportive around the band, with little pressure on the straps. The cross-back design evenly distributes the support, and I felt completely contained with little bounce. The bra was lightweight and effortless on my body compared to other bras at a D cup, where it feels like being strapped into a harness. Overall, it is a great update to the line."

Brooks Dare Crossback 2.0 Bra

Quality & Value

Score: 7/10

Caroline: "I tend to hand wash my bras (or wash them on the delicate cycle with a garment bag) and air dry them afterward to help extend their lifespan. So far, this bra has held up well under multiple washes, and I see it lasting your typical average time frame for sports bras (depending on the frequency of use)."

Kaitlin: "From my experience with this line, the lifespan of this bra is average to short, which is good considering how lightweight and simple it is. I would say 3-5 months, depending on how much it's in your rotation and how you are washing it. I am curious if it lasts a little longer than its predecessor as it appears to be better reinforced through the band."



Our Reviewers

Caroline

Overall Score: 8/10

The Dare Crossback 2.0 offers support without the snug, compressive feel of traditional sports bras that flatten the chest. I didn’t experience any bounce during my runs and felt secure throughout my workouts. In terms of fit, this was the first cross-back bra that I’ve run in, and I noticed that the straps did move a bit from the natural arm movements of running, which wasn’t ideal, and there was some minor gaping under the arms. I tend to wear only racerback style bras, which have a more stay-put feel for optimal range of movement. I liked that this Brooks bra didn’t have any rear hook/eye closure or adjustable hardware, so it wasn’t confining or restrictive, and the pullover design is something I always enjoy for easy on/off wear. As someone who favors compression-led support without padding, I liked that the built-in cups were light and minimal. The bra’s moisture-wicking properties did not leave me saturated with sweat, which was a plus! The overall design of the Dare Crossback 2.0 bra, with its functional perforations on the front and back, was also aesthetically pleasing. Although I felt supported in this bra, I did not enjoy the new band design and its material, which caused some chafing during my longer mileage runs. I would have preferred shorter and softer elastic fabric to avoid any irritation or harsh rubbing on the skin.

KaitlinKaitlin

Overall Score: 9/10

The Crossback 2.0 was a great update from the previous version, which I also loved. The construction felt more supportive across the chest, and I noticed the band a lot more (which I liked). This bra provides solid support while the design feels simple and effortless. Compared to other overhead bras, it’s so easy to get on/off and far more supportive. The lack of adjustments and straps also reduces the opportunities for irritation.


Written by Caroline

Caroline is a lifelong, avid runner who enjoys the outdoors. Whether on the road or on the trail, running or hiking, being surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature is her ultimate happy place.