Australian Hiker

Rating

Icebreaker Women's Merino Queens Clasp Bra Review

Icebreaker has been producing outdoor adventure clothing from natural fibres since 1995 and at that time, all outdoor performance clothing was made of synthetic fabrics made from petrochemical plastics. The fibres used by Icebreaker are 100% merino. That’s why Icebreaker gear works equally well through freezing winters and scorching summers.

It would be fair to say I’m a huge fan of merino hiking gear – I pile on the layers to keep me warm and peel them off during the day. I’m also a fan of Icebreaker so when I’m hiking I even wear Icebreaker underwear! And not just Icebreaker for outdoor activities – you’ll find me in Icebreaker gear when relaxing at home, on my morning run or having lunch out. I did say I am a BIG fan!

What’s the attraction? Well, it’s a long list…. the fine merino wool is soft on my skin…the great fit…the durability….the versatility…the smart styling…..

Even my underwear is Icebreaker! I usually wear the Sprite Racerback Bra but I recently had the opportunity to test out Icebreaker’s Merino Queens Clasp Bra.

As the name suggests this bra is a traditional hook and bar closure style that comes in two colours — Algae/Purple Haze (which is mostly lilac in colour) and Black. There are five sizes — XS, S, M, L and XL.

I have the black colour and I wear size S with my usual bra size being 12B.

This is a very comfortable bra to wear for a range of activities – more so than a traditional bra or sports bra. I really liked the way the fit hugs the underarm area which means you don’t have that feeling that anything is escaping from the bra – you know what I mean! Likewise, the three hook and bar closure means that it’s extra wide across the back.

The Queens Clasp Bra maintained its freshness over several days of hard hiking. It’s easy to wash and quick to dry on the trail. When traditional bras and sports bras get wet through sweat or washing they take a long time to dry – wearing a damp bra is not fun! Many sports bras also have underwire which I find doesn’t work well with a pack harness.

This bra is made from 100% merino wool and features great cup shaping for comfort and a close fit. There is lots of adjustment in the shoulder straps but when adjusted to fit me, the straps have already taken up half the adjustment. This may be a problem as the bra ages and the adjustment has been exhausted but I guess it would be time for a new bra by then!

I won’t be wearing this bra for high impact activities such as running but it will accomodate a higher level of activity than the Sprite Racerback Bra.

Given the thick chest band and the clasp closure, I also won’t be wearing this bra when I’m sleeping on the trail. It’s comfortable to wear but you do feel you’re still wearing a bra!

I purchased my first Icebreaker bra more than 15 years ago and it lasted until last year. I’m expecting this bra will go the distance too. The main reason I buy more is because I can’t resist the new season colours but with two colours in the range that may be problematic.

One of the criticisms I often hear about Icebreaker generally and about the underwear, is the cost. At AUD $89.99 RRP, the Queens Clasp Bra is at the top end for a quality sports bra. Having said that I’ve never worn a more comfortable sports bra.

I didn’t expect to like the Merino Queens Clasp Bra as much as I do. It has become a great addition to my hiking under-clothing. I also wear it during a range of activities including hiking and working through to lounging around during very cool and very warm weather.

We Like

• Slim fit which means there are no bulky layers to make you uncomfortable
• The traditional cut ensures comfort and support throughout the day which is really important on the long hikes
• The 100% merino fabric ensures this bra breathes, resists odours and is durable for years to come
• Fits close to the underarm which eliminates hang over
• The cup construction of the bra ensures enhanced fit and support, and no side seams will prevent underarm chaffing

We Don't Like

• The price is at the top end of that for sports bras

Best Uses

• Low to mid impact activities including hiking

Buy One

You can purchase the Icebreaker Women’s Queens Clasp Bra from Icebreaker Australia or Icebreaker New Zealand

We may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Please note that our affiliations do not influence, in any way, the independence of our reviews. If we don’t like a product, you’ll hear about it from us!

If you have used the Icebreaker Women’s Queens Clasp Bra or if you have questions, we’d like to hear from you. Post your comment or question below

Investment

AUD $89.99 RRP

Other Versions

Other styles available from Icebreaker:

• Women’s Merino Sprite Racerback Bra
• Women’s ZoneKnit Merino Sports Bra
• Women’s Merino Siren Bra

Icebreaker Merino Queens Clasp Bra – Black colour

Women’s Merino Queens Clasp Bra – Algae/Purple Haze colour

Women’s Merino Queens Clasp Bra – rear view

Disclaimer

This review was done with product provided by Icebreaker Australia

Shares