Why do bras dig into shoulders?

Bras dig into shoulders primarily because of fit issues rather than body-related concerns, with the most common culprit being a band that fails to provide adequate support. In a properly engineered bra, the band carries 80-90% of the support load, but when the band becomes too loose or stretched out over time, the straps compensate by bearing extra weight, which concentrates pressure into the shoulders and creates uncomfortable digging.

Cups that are too small also contribute to this issue by pushing tissue upward and outward, forcing straps to work harder than they were designed to handle. Additionally, narrow straps concentrate pressure over a smaller surface area compared to wider, well-designed straps that distribute weight more effectively across the shoulders.

The solution lies in finding the correct band and cup combination where the torso provides the foundation of support, allowing straps to guide rather than carry, and choosing bras with thoughtfully engineered strap designs that prioritize comfort without compromising coverage or stability.