John 8:32 "Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." NIV

Wednesday, March 3, 2010

Supporting my "girls"

KALYX Review and Giveaway:

In February, one of my favorite blog reads, caution: redhead running did an awesome review of KALYX (http://www.gokalyx.com/) sport's bras and deemed them: I.B.T.C. Approved! in her title. It got me hooked, but I had to read further to understand what I.B.T.C. Approved meant: Itty Bitty Titty Committee. I was slightly disappointed because I am not a card holding member of this committee - actually I was not even allowed in the door due to... um... my "girls". If you are a card holding member or your application is pending approval, check out her review here.

So, I decided to check out KALYX to see if they had sports bras for women who were not allowed admittance in the I.B.T.C. I was really impressed. Here are my thoughts and my thoughts alone:

First things first - I loved their website. It is obvious that it was designed by women for women. They believe: "... that when a woman exercises, balls are the only thing that should bounce..." What a great line and exactly how I feel!!!!!

On their About Us page, I got to learn a little more about the company. Key points that stuck out for me were:

  1. "A former NCAA-ALL American and All-ACC Team Member at Duke University, KALYX founder Kimberly Cayce competed on tours around the world as a professional golfer for 5 years. Throughout her athletic career, Cayce became increasingly frustrated by the lack of attractive, comfortable and supportive sports bras in the marketplace." This was cool because this was a true female athlete - not just a celebrity who attached their name to a product.

  2. "Cayce spent 3+ years researching breast bio-mechanics, studying the latest innovations in intimate apparel manufacturing, and, working closely with a team of textile developers in order to better understand emerging trends in nanotechnology and environmentally-friendly fabrics, all with with intention of developing a better sports bra." Over 3 years doing research - wow... that is dedication.

  3. "...Cayce worked hand-in-hand with a cross-functional team of experts to develop the innovative activity-specific, environmentally-friendly KALYX sports bra line of sports bras make from our signature K-Force Eco-Loving Fabric. Every KALYX sports bra incorporates our revolutionary ultra-lightweight technical f-FORCE fabric which offers incredible stretch, extraordinary durability, superior softness and unparalleled wicking capability." I LOVE that they used environmentally-friendly material.

  4. And their name KALYX "is derived from the Latin word Calyx, the part of a flower that protects the petals during the bud stage, and, the Greek word Kalos meaning beautiful. Indeed, the name KALYX captures the essence of our mission: to celebrate the strength and beauty of the female athlete." HOW COOL IS THAT?!?!

After reviewing their bra types on their website, I decided to try the "Extremist" and and I was thrilled it came in Hibiscus not just white or black.

Here are some pics that my daughter took (please ignore my body rolls):


Before deciding to take this bra for a running spin, I wore it doing my P90X workout. My first thought was: "I do not feel like I am wearing a bra." And I meant that as a compliment. It did not tug at me the way my other bras did. It was light and airy and extremely comfortable - and this is not even why it was named the "Extremist". After the workout, no chafing, and better yet, I did not have deep marks in my skin from where the bra was - BONUS #2.

Also, according to the website, the "Extremist" is "designed for women who love to feel comforted and supported, Rebecca loves the extra layer of foam padding in this encapsulated bra.. This is a serious sports bra created for "Extreme Athletes."If you are a woman who likes to go fast and isn't afraid to fall down, this is the bra for you! Don't worry about the wipe-outs, KALYX is here to protect your precious assets!" Protect my assets indeed!

So, yesterday, I decided to take her for a spin. (I also wanted to watch my time, so I ran 3.1 miles in 29.52 pushing the jogging stroller and the baby!!! - yay, me). It felt great. My first thought was that it wasn't giving me enough support, but I think it is because I was so used to my other bras squeezing the life out of me. I kept running fast and I was pleased with its performance.

I would definitely recommend this bra - from a girl with considerable assets!!

And because the ladies at KALYX are Super awesome, I am giving one away to a lucky FOLLOWER! Here is what you need to do (besides being a follower of mine) - each comment equals an additional entry into the giveaway (and you do not have to do all 5 - at least let me know you are interested in the giveaway):

  1. Go to KALYX's website and tell me what you think and leave a comment.
  2. While on their website, tell me which bra you would like to try and why - leave comment
  3. Leave a comment and tell me what you are looking for in a sports bra (Support, color, etc)
  4. Bonus: tell me I don't really have body rolls!!!!! LOL!
  5. Bonus #2: Link this giveaway from your blog (or twitter, or FB) -Leave separate comment for each.

The giveaway ends on Sunday, March 7th at 11:59pm. The winner will be announced Monday.

Also, if you are super excited and cannot wait for the giveaway to end before getting your bra: enter Free20 at check out to receive a 20% discount (good up to 30 days).

And before you gasp at the price tag - I usually pay between $45 - $65 for my sports bra and I wasn't as happy as I was with KALYX!!! When you have considerable assets, those C9 bras at Target are better used as sling shots.

162 comments:

Ex Yo-Yo Dieter Debbie said...

Even after a breast reduction, I'm still not in the IBTC! I wear 2 bras when I work out.

I wish I could enter your contest but something tells me you don't ship to Russia, where I currently live!

I agree, those C9 bras at Target are pretty to look at, but I've never bothered to buy one because my "girls" would be all over the place.

I will look for Kalyx when I go back to the US, that's for sure! Where are they sold?

Jocelyn said...

Hey if they keep my gals from not moving I am sold! I want! :)

Jocelyn said...

I'd probably want the extreme sport ones. Really something to keep them locked and ready to go! "Extremist"looks great and I like the name! Will make me feel BA!

Jocelyn said...

In all my sports bra hunt I have found that they are hard to find. I wear a 38 large C or a D. Pain in the booty to find one! I like the Frog Bra. Never moves. But I am also poor so I can't buy 4 or 5 of these :(

Jocelyn said...

You really don't have rolls!! Thats the first thing I thought of when you wrote that! Silly lady

Allie said...

I love the website and I love that they use eco friendly fabric.

Allie said...

I like the Embrace Marathon Runner's bra, it looks super comfy.

Allie said...

I look for support in a bra, the worst thing about running is feeling your girls bouncing all over the place. I usually get a bra in a size smaller so they strapped down good and tight. Of course, my girls aren't very big so this isn't too difficult. :)

Allie said...

As for rolls, I didn't see a single roll, I would love to look like you, you're smokin'!

Allie said...

I linked on my blog.

J said...

I have heard about these bras because of the redhead and they seem really good but they just have so many different kinds! Its hard to choose!

J said...

I would like to try the stay put sports bra! I like my girls locked and loaded I guess, basically strapped in and not moving!

J said...

I am looking for a sports bra that is secure and has good support so I dont bounce around!

J said...

You look great in the photos! I would be scared to post a picture of myself in my sports bra!

Marlene said...

Hey Jen! I received my core ball + DVD yesterday. So excited to try them out! Thanks again!!!

These bras look great. I scoped out the website originally when Morgan reviewed these bras and I liked what I saw. Many styles, colors, levels of support.

Marlene said...

I really like the look of the "Embrace" Marathon Runner's Bra .. and not just because of the name. I do need a little more support (though not a ton) so I think it would be a good fit.

Marlene said...

Support and comfort are key for me when shopping for a sports bra. I chafe easily in that area so seamless is nice too!

Marlene said...

WHAT ROLLS?????

April said...

Hi Jen! Super brave woman of God! Rolls? What are you talking about?! Seriously, don't make me show you my muffing tops!

April said...

I posted a link on my blog!

April said...

I would love to try out the Kalyx "Uplift MAX" in Wisteria. My girls can use all the "Uplift" possible!!!

April said...

Kalyx website is very easy to navigate and they don't leave anything out, great descriptions of each product!

Erica said...

see I was once a gymnast...and was in the I.B.T.C. .....then when I stopped doing competitive gymnastics....the booted me faster than I could blink from the I.b.t.c.! after two babies and 4 years of nursing!!! ummm I.B.T.C isn't even in my vocab! I owuld love tot ry one of these!

Erica said...

I did not see a single roll on your body!

Erica said...

I love there website! Easy to use..

Erica said...

I think I would try the extremist!

Janet said...

Their website is cool. very user friendly

Janet said...

Not sure which one to try as I were a 36 Double H or 38G, maybe they can help recommend the best fit.

Janet said...

I am looking for support since I have large "girls"

Janet said...

I dont see your body rolls, if you want to see some I can send you a pic.

Janet said...

I facebooked about this giveaway

Catey said...

I have to say that the best thing about their site is the reviews! So impressed with such stellar reviews from women, b/c you know-especially when it comes to bras-women will be brutally honest!

Catey said...

I would choose the Stayput or the Extremist. Nice to see some cute sports bras out there!

Catey said...

Honestly, I've always thought I'm looking for too much in a sports bra! lol I'm still in the having babies and nursing part of life, so the girls get big, need more support, then get bigger and need even more support, then I wean and they shrivel up and die for a while until I go through the whole cycle again. Obviously I have a couple of different sizes on hand! :) Seriously though-I need all the support I can get after all of my babies-even when the girls are on the small side. Saggy boobs=not cool!
And as always, cute is always a bonus!

Ewa said...

First thing's first: THERE ARE NO ROLLS on any pictures. Honest!

Ewa said...

Their website is easy to navigate and informative

Ewa said...

Extreme Sports Stayput looks like something I would love to have. :)

Ewa said...

Linking giveaway to my blog right now.

Teamarcia said...

Great giveaway! I think I'd go with the kickstart bra for my jekyll and hydes (DD when preggo, A- now).

Teamarcia said...

I linked ya!

Teamarcia said...

I'm looking for something that holds the girls in place, doesn't bind of chafe and I'd love if my nips didn't show through, tall order I know.

Teamarcia said...

Rolls? What rolls? No rolls!

MCM Mama said...

I like their centered Yoga bra. I *ahem* don't have much to control as it were, but it'd be cool to check out their bras.

Unknown said...

They have a really great website. I like that when you look at a bra you can look at different angles and cute styles to choose from!

Unknown said...

I am already a follower of your blog and thanks for the chance to win this giveaway!

Unknown said...

I really like the Extreme sports bra Kickstart in Pacific blue. Its stylish and I like that it addresses the typical Uniboob syndrome!!

Unknown said...

I linked this awesome giveaway to my blog!
http://barefoot-angieb.blogspot.com/

Unknown said...

I want great color in a sports bra as well as some style. I want one that does not look like I have a uniboob and has a sexy back! I also want it to reduce bounce and be flattering. I have gone down in size in my chest lately after my youngest son stopped nursing and want to not look so tiny! So a great fit addresses this.

Unknown said...

You do not have rolls!!! You look great and the back on that bra is super sexy and the color goes well with your complexion!

Hannah said...

My first thought at their website - holy sexy and functional workout bras! I mean, seriously! I love the look! Pretty easy to navigate around the site, too.

Hannah said...

I would love to try the KALYX Uplift Max. (In Purple! Like my Team in Training color!) :) Also, I am trainging for my first marathon, and while I have small tata's...I still need great support over a long distance.

Hannah said...

In a sports bra I look for comfort/non chaffing (my arms apparently rub funny on my sides when I run - thank goodness for winter and long sleeves now!). I also love to feel like I look sexy in one. (Even though I NEVER take my shirt of. Post-three baby belly skin. Bad!)

Hannah said...

Rolls, schmolls! You're golden! I think you look fabulous.

H Love said...

you look amazing...super cute back on the bra. I have small girls but of course they need protection and lift as well right???
I will be back to try to WIN! Thanks for sharing.

Felice Devine said...

The bra looks great! I want in! (I'm a follower)

Felice Devine said...

I would probably go for the embrace bra.

Felice Devine said...

If you have rolls, then I have a whole loaf! ;-)

KK @ Running Through Life said...

You do not have rolls! I have rolls. You? Nada!!! You look great!

KK @ Running Through Life said...

I look for major support and also bras in fun colors! I love the color of your bra!

KK @ Running Through Life said...

Like you, I love their website, especially the quotes like "... that when a woman exercises, balls are the only thing that should bounce..." So true!!!!!!!!

KK @ Running Through Life said...

I think I would like to try the KALYX Extreme Sports Bra - "Stayput." The name alone tells it like it should be....things must stay put while running!

Mrs. Mom said...

If I won, Kalyx Embrace Marathoners Sports Bra is what I would choose.

Mrs. Mom said...

Kalyx has a great site, it looks like they've put a lot of research into perfecting the sports bra. I've been used to wearing two bras just for support for so long that one bra sounds crazy or maybe just awesome!!!

Mrs. Mom said...

I definitely look for support in a sports bra!

Mrs. Mom said...

You definitely don't have body rolls!!! You look amazing, I can't wait to look like you.

Diz said...

Thank you for this amazing post. #1) You seriously don't have rolls. Stop it. #2) Looks like I have some serious competition, so I think I'm just going to check out the site and buy a bra myself, using the code. Plus, I'm anxious to get one NOW. I've been wearing the same sports bra for 5 years now because I just can't find a good one to replace it. So thank you for this post!!!!

Diz said...

PS- I love your blog too. :)

Paige (The Last Doughnut) said...

I just surfed around the Kalyx site, and I am amazed at all of the colors and styles! I usually wear black sports bras, but the bras from Kalyx make me want to branch out and get colorful!

Paige (The Last Doughnut) said...

I think I would like the Embrace Marathoner's Bra. It looks really comfortable...and comfort is one of the main things that I am looking for in a running bra!

Paige (The Last Doughnut) said...

In a running bra, I am looking for comfort. The second thing that I am looking for is a bra that gives a shape (and not uniboob)!!! LOL!

Paige (The Last Doughnut) said...

You do not have rolls!!! I see strength and muscle!

Paige (The Last Doughnut) said...

I linked this giveaway in my blog's sidebar. It's a great giveaway! Thanks for giving us so many opportunities to win!

Anonymous said...

I went to their website and I love how they carry my size - 32c!!!

Anonymous said...

I'd like to try the Embrace sports bra, because it looks like my other sports bras that "work."

Anonymous said...

I'm looking for one that fits - not a lot of manufacturers carry a 32 C! Seriously, it's difficult! And I need one with support, I hate feeling like I'm bouncing around! ha!

Anonymous said...

And of course, you don't have rolls! Rolls are something you put butter on! :)

RW said...

i just went to the kalyx website. everything looks gorgeous. i particularly like the stayput bra (what's written about it). i find that the main thing i am looking for in a bra is straps that are not too constricting. when straps are short or tight i tend to get headaches. so these double straps look great to me. hope i win one! :-)

Meg said...

1. I love that they say that balls are the only thing that should bounce during a workout. I can't lie. I laughed really hard.

Meg said...

I think I'd go with the Stayput. I'm a member of the IBTC but I like to feel like I have good coverage. I tend to use my shirt as a towel (as in shirt is on, but pull it up to my face to wipe if I need to) and I like knowing I'm decent.

I also like the scoop neck. No "girls" means I don't need something that covers too much. I'm pretty little in general so sometimes the straight-across ones choke me a bit.

So yes, the StayPut it is!

Meg said...

3. I like coverage that is sporty. Great colour is just a bonus. And I'm really sick of my ancient 100% cotton sports bras. I need to move into the 20th century.

Meg said...

4. I see no rolls at all in that picture. I'm assuming you're talking about dinner rolls on the table? I know you said body rolls, but that was just a typo :)

Meg said...

5. Linked ya! :) :)

Great giveaway!!!

Marlene said...

Linked in today's post!

H Love said...

I like them all...but I think I would like to try to kick start in black.

H Love said...

I see no NO ROLLS...you are brave and beautiful!

H Love said...

I really need a sports bra that is comfortable and doesn't make me feel like a man. So I need a lift and holding things in place...even if they are small things!

H Love said...

I just posted your giveaway on my blog!

~Melanie said...

Cool website! Fancy bras! Not too badly priced either. I'd love to try the "Embrace" as it looks like a good running bra and I'm just getting ready to start that venture!

~Melanie said...

Oh by the way, you REALLY don't have body rolls! What are you talking about?! (And I'm pretty sure I would have said that regardless of you asking me to or not) :)

~Melanie said...

I also linked your contest on my (not so developed) blog.

Karen said...

I am thinking the "stayput". Who couldn't use a little outer beauty for their inner fierceness? :)

For me, I am all about supporting the girls. Color is not really a biggie but I don't like a lot of show through if you know what I mean...

Consider yourself linked and followed! (Oh - and I didn't see any rolls... funny you said that because that was the first thing I said to myself when I saw your pic - "what rolls?"

Pursuit of Healthfulness said...

I NEED a bra to keep in place... two layers just doesn't cut it!

Anonymous said...

Eco friendly fabric??? That's awesome - I'm sold!!! errr, you know what I mean ;)

Judi said...

I had never heard of KALYX before . . . I guess I am the runner gal who has just always worn the Target sports bras! :) Thanks for the link to their site.

Judi said...

Linked your giveaway on my blog!

Judi said...

I liked the KALYX Extreme "Stayput" Sports Bra in white.

Personally anything that would not cause chafing under my arms would be great!

Anonymous said...

What a great giveaway! I think I would like the embrace though they all look great!

Suzy said...

I love that you can search by activity! It makes it so much easier to find the correct type of bra.

Suzy said...

would try the Embrace runner's bra.

Suzy said...

#1 thing I look for: support!! ITA with you about Target's C9 bras.

Suzy said...

You look awesome and I didn't see any body rolls!

Suzy said...

I put your giveaway on my blog.

Tricia said...

No rolls :)

Tricia said...

support is the number one thing I look for in a sports bra

Sarah said...

Oh fun! Yes, I've been buying my running bras at Target and Costco....these look great!

Sarah said...

I think I would go with Embrace.

Tricia said...

I'd want the elite embrace marathon bra

Tricia said...

I like that they have several ways to find the right bra fit/style

Anonymous said...

I think I qualify as a member of the IBTC. I'm a 32-A.

I love the bras on the website! I like how they have sports bras made just for runners, that's definitely a big plus. They're also cute and fashionable, not just plain jane :). The bra I'd want to try would be the Embrace Marathon Runner's bra.

Amy Lauren
proudpatriot2007@yahoo.com

Amy Lauren said...

As far as a sports bra goes... I'm looking for something that's a good value for the price and doesn't feel like I'm wearing a bra. I hate how so many sports bras are extremely tight, hurt, or even make marks and redness from being tight.

Amy Lauren
proudpatriot2007@yahoo.com

Amy Lauren said...

You do NOT have body rolls! Seriously- you even have kids, you have a pretty awesome bod :).

Amy Lauren
proudpatriot2007@yahoo.com

Felice Devine said...

I blogged: http://thehappyrunner.blogspot.com/2010/03/five-things-friday-ep-15.html

MJ said...

You def don't have rolls! I thought you looked great in that photo!!!!

MJ said...

I love Kalyxs's site. I have them bookmarked, one day I'll be able to afford a bra from them. (or maybe win one!!) I love the detailed descriptions for the bras...especially the one for us 'bigger up-top' girls.

MJ said...

I want to try to DD Diva bra...it just looks comfy :) And supportive!

gba_gf said...

You're linked to my blog, of course.

gba_gf said...

ROLLS? What are you talking about? I'm so beyond impressed that you posted that photo... I mean it, really, really.

gba_gf said...

My browser and the KAYLX site had an argument, and, I think we all lost. Might be on my end though, gremlins in the machine this week. I liked (before things went south) some of the xtreme bras "good for the D" set, because, I'm NOT a member of the IBTC either. The prices didn't bother me, I spend at least $40 on every good running bra I own. *see above note on IBTC

gba_gf said...

I like a sports bra that is comfortable, with straps that don't "fight" with my tank tops. My best bra cannot be worn with my favorite shirt because the straps show in a way that I don't like. Also, speaking of straps, thick straps that adjust are a nice feature too.

MJ said...

Linked back to my blog :)

mj-girlrunning.blogspot.com

Sherri said...

I need "embrace " bra!

Sherri said...

I thought the website was just an article at first...shopping options need to be more visible!

Sherri said...

I need support....I wear 2 or 3 bras at once!!
help???

Sherri said...

what rolls????

Sherri said...

I'm posting it on my blog!

Laura said...

I think I'd choose Embrace. Like their site!

Laura said...

I need support and comfort! Love black! :-)

Laura said...

No rolls! If you want to see rolls, I'll send you a photo. Okay, no I won't but you seriously don't have rolls and don't want to see mine! :-)

Sara Cox Landolt said...

I think the KALYX web site is easy to understand and navigate.

Sara Cox Landolt said...

I'd get the embrace marathon running bra. It intrigues me.

Sara Cox Landolt said...

I like bras that are easy to get in and out of, especially when changing from swim to cardio.

Sara Cox Landolt said...

You look amazing, no rolls, really.

Sara Cox Landolt said...

I added a link to your giveaway on my facebook page /ironmakeover. :-)

Unknown said...

I would absolutely love the DD Diva bra. Finding a sports bra for the well-endowed is not easy. I do triathlons, and I wear a sports bra under my tri top because the little "shelf" bra is not an option if I don't want to flop all over the place.

Unknown said...

The Kalyx web site is good and well designed. The sizing information is helpful because a new "source" can be a bit tricky when you are ordering online. I wonder if they should not also have a section where you could see who was a reseller of their product by state?

Unknown said...

BTW, if you think you have rolls, you have another think coming. Your body looks like I believe a normal body would look. Rolls are something quite different!

Unknown said...

I prefer pretty, colorful bras. I understand why Kalyx may not be able to make the more extreme bras in a variety of pretty colors. I would take the DD Diva in black because it would not be obvious with my black triathlon top.

Unknown said...

I have no blog, but if I did, I would post this for you :-) Do good intentions count? I know I probably should have a blog, lots of folks keep up with my triathlon activities via facebook posts. I lost 230 pounds and then began celebrating by doing triathlons.

Syl said...

don't see the rolls but would love to have a new sports bra :-)

TMB @ RACING WITH BABES said...

Look at what I miss when I'm gone. Great giveaway! I would totally want to try the kickstart!

TMB @ RACING WITH BABES said...

Maybe I should have read that better - I would love the kickstart, because it is super cute and like Morgan I am a member of the IBTC!

TMB @ RACING WITH BABES said...

The website is super easy to navigate. I love the sizing chart. Really easy to use!

TMB @ RACING WITH BABES said...

I am looking for a bra that has good support but isn't so tight that it cuts into me!

TMB @ RACING WITH BABES said...

what body rolls? you look awesome!

Unknown said...

They have some super cute styles. I like the

The KALYX Comfort Bra - "Extremist"

kissyjensen at gmail dot com

Unknown said...

OK, I think I didnt' do that right, I forgot to say why, so first off, I like teh Extremist because it looks cute and is lightly padded!

Now for this entry, I appreciate that they focus on comfortable, soft and moisture wicking fabrics!

kissyjensen at gmail dot com

Unknown said...

In a sports bra I am looking for both style and support. I don't want an ugly sports bra, I know I may be vain, but in the heat of the summer, I usually run in just the sports bra top, and I wanna look cute when I look like I am dying...LOL!

kissyjensen at gmail dot com

Unknown said...

I didn't see any body rolls!!! You look great :)

kissyjensen at gmail dot com

Brandi said...

I'd have to say that the only one that truly interests me is the DD bra. If I could actually get away using only one bra, I would be amazed and worship at the foot of Kalyx!

Brandi said...

WHAT fat rolls?!? That's a body to be proud of! Great job

Unknown said...

Loved the website!!! Hope I get to try on soon!

Unknown said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Unknown said...

I would like to try the one you modeled- it is pretty, and I trust you if you liked it! (In my size, of course!)

Unknown said...

I am looking for a bra that is COMFORTABLE and supportive!

Unknown said...

You look great! No rolls!

Unknown said...

I can't link this to my blog- it took me weeks just to figure out how to comment on yours!!!!

Momma Twitch said...

It looks like a great site. Thanks for the link!

Momma Twitch said...

I would like to try any of their bras that will hold the ladies in place while I run!

Momma Twitch said...

I'm looking for a bra to keep the girls from bouncing, one that won't cut off circulation, and one that won't give me too much of a uniboob. LOL!

Momma Twitch said...

Rolls? What rolls?! LOL!

Momma Twitch said...

I know it's last minute, but I linked ya on my blog! :)

Unknown said...

posted to twitter one last time for good measure! I could really use a new house for the girls!!!! Come on random number!