I definitely have some recommendations for so-called “disability bras” if you’re feeling stuck, which actually feels a bit weird to say if I’m honest. It wasn’t that long ago that I used to spend hours on Reddit myself, asking people in my MS group for their top tips.

Just for a bit of context, I’m Sally, 52, and I have Multiple Sclerosis and arthritis. Not a great combination, believe me, particularly if you’re looking for bras. Like most of you, I’ve probably tried dozens of adaptive bras in the last few years, and only a handful have ever made my life a little easier.

Since I’m not sure what your situation is, I’m going to share a few suggestions here, and hopefully save you a little time searching through other reviews.

My recommendations when shopping for disability bras

Before I get into discussing some of the best disability bras I’ve tried, I thought I’d share a few shopping tips, just in case you don’t even know where to start. I didn’t a few years ago. The first thing I definitely want to emphasize is that you should be looking for front closure bras.

I know most of us get by with the traditional back closures, but if you have just about any kind of disability or just limited mobility, front closures are much easier.

Beyond that:

• Check your size first. A lot of us go years without a proper fitting. Bodies change with age, with weight shifts, and with disability. Plus, a lot of the adaptive bras you’ll see online follow different size guidelines, so it’s easier to make a choice if you know your measurements.
• Try something other than hook-eye clips: They’re reliable most of the time, but often difficult to manage if your fingers struggle. Magnetic bras, Velcro bras, and even options with snaps and zips can save you a lot of hassle.
• Comfort comes first: Soft, breathable fabric is everything. If something is made with cotton or microfiber, you’re usually in the right place. Just try to avoid any material that’s too bulky.
• Leave wires out of it: Even if you have a larger bust, there are disability bras out there that can lift and shape without wires. I’ll tell you about my favorite in just a minute.
• Think about adjustability: Some days you swell up, some days you don’t. A bra with a back extender, adjustable straps, or the ability to switch into racerback mode gives you flexibility without you having to buy dozens of options.

Some of the first disability bras I tried

These are the comfort bras and front-closure bras I usually see recommended on forums and subreddits, and I know for a fact they work for some women. For me, they weren’t perfect, but I wanted to give you my genuine opinion, just in case you’re considering them.

Silverts Adaptive Snap-Front Bra

If you hang out on disability subreddits, you’ve probably seen Silverts mentioned in discussions about adaptive apparel. They do sell a lot of it, and most of it is very good for those of us with disabilities. I just don’t think the bras are ideal.

The Snap-Front Bra is fine if you’re looking for something basic, although it does look a bit too clinical for my tastes. It closes at the front, with buttons instead of clips, has wide shoulders, and lots of coverage. The material’s pretty breathable too.

Nothing is adjustable, though (not even the shoulder straps), so getting the perfect fit is tricky. I’ve also seen a few women talking about the buttons popping open at random. That didn’t happen for me, but if you have a larger bust, I’d say be cautious.

Harper Wilde Bliss Bra

There was about a month at one point where I couldn’t scroll for two seconds on my arthritis forum without seeing someone raving about the Harper Wilde Bliss bra. Everyone seems to love the fact that it comes with no clips or closure whatsoever, which is great if you only have problems with your fingers. But for me, pulling the bra on and off over my head was way too difficult.

There’s also the fact that nothing is adjustable again (not the shoulders or the back), which is an issue for me. Beyond that, Harper Wilde is pretty great. It’s comfortable, gives you a lot of coverage, and the shoulder straps are very wide. I just can’t handle it on bad days.

Springrose Easy-On Bra

I really liked this one because it was one of the first “disability bras” I tried that was clearly designed for someone like me, but didn’t look like a medical garment. You can fasten it with one hand because it uses a strap-and-Velcro system at the front. The fabric is cushioned, and the straps adjust from the front, which I love.

I have to admit, I would have liked a little more coverage, but that wasn’t the biggest issue for me. Really, it was just the fact that the Velcro got gummed up with fluff in my washing machine after a few cleans, and I didn’t feel as “secure” in the bra anymore. That’s the main reason I ended up switching from Velcro bras to magnetic bras instead.

My favorite disability bras (that I actually recommend)

I don’t think the bras I mentioned above are bad; I just think they only fit a certain number of people. It wasn’t until I found Liberare that I felt like I’d discovered an option that really could work for everyone. That’s actually what convinced me to write this “mega” response to that “any suggestions?” question. So, here are my top picks.

Best Everyday: Liberare Everyday Easy-On Bra

If you need a bra that works for any occasion, gardening, shopping, or sleeping, Liberare’s Easy-On is my favorite option. It was the first bra from this company I tried, and it introduced me to the brand’s magnetic front closure, which is more clever than you’d think.

The magnets in the bra aren’t responsible for keeping it closed on their own; they just guide the large latch hooks into place so that you can fasten or unfasten your bra with just one hand. There are also finger straps if you’re having any trouble.

On top of that, this bra is wireless, soft, and supportive enough that I still feel like I have some shape. The shoulder straps are adjustable, and there’s a back extender, which is helpful on days when I feel like I’m swelling everywhere.

Best for Comfort: Liberare Comfort Sculpt Bra

I thought the Everyday Easy On was the most comfortable bra a woman could get until I tried the Comfort Sculpt. It’s another magnetic front-closure bra from Liberare, specially designed for anyone who needs something a little more gentle.

Again, I can get this on and off with just one hand, which is good because sometimes one cramps up for no reason. The straps on the shoulders are even wider, and the material is so soft I feel like I’m not wearing anything at all.

You don’t get as much lift with this one, but for me, that’s a small price to pay for something you can easily wear all day and night without any discomfort. Probably the best adaptive bra for disabilities I’ve ever tried for comfort alone.

Best for Larger Busts: Liberare Smooth-On T-Shirt Bra

I don’t wear this one as often, because it’s a bit more structured than I like my “everyday” bras to be, but that’s probably the biggest selling point for some people. If you have a larger bust and you need more support without underwires, the Smooth-On T-shirt bra is a great pick.

It has lightly padded cups that give lift and shape, and the smooth fabric means no bulges under clothing. You still get the Magnetic front closure bra design, so it’s easy to put on. What I love most is the little J-hook at the back that lets you convert it into a racerback when you need extra support.

Budget-Friendly Bonus: Liberare Wrap Bralette

One final suggestion, if you’re looking for something simple and cozy, and you don’t want to deal with magnets just yet (or you can’t). The Liberare Wrap Bralette is a fantastic little bra with no wires, no padding, and no complicated closures.

I use it for lounging or sleeping. It’s not built for major support, but it feels light and breathable. If you’re just looking for a budget-friendly adaptive bra that still gives you some dignity and ease, this one is a good choice.

It’s also really pretty. I know that’s not really a big deal for most of us, but if you’re a bit of a fashionista, the style factor helps.

Good luck finding your bra!

So, those are all my suggestions, and my real world opinions about most of the disability bras you see people raving about online these days. Although some of those popular options might work for you, I honestly think Liberare has everything ladies like us need.

Whether you’re looking for comfort, support, or a really balanced combination of the two, it’s easy to find something that actually fits with Liberare. If you haven’t checked them out already, I’d definitely suggest giving them a try.

Hope I’ve been helpful!