Girlfriend Collective Topanga Review

The Topanga is a slightly adjustable compression support sports bra available in a wide range of sizes from XXS to 6XL and three inseam lengths, giving it a versatile fit. Girlfriend Collective made the material from post-consumer water bottles and recycled old bras into new ones with their ReGirlfriend Program.

Performance Comparison

Comfort and Fit

During our comfort and fit testing, we consider things like pinching, spilling, chafing, the softness of the fabric, whether or not it is true to size, and the versatility of the fit. The Topanga is ultra soft and provides full coverage with a high neckline. It features an elegant low scoop back with adjustable straps to tailor the fit.

Like all Girlfriend Collective bras, the Topanga is made of 79% recycled polyethylene tetraphyte (recycled plastic bottles) and 21% spandex. You wouldn't think a sports bra made primarily of plastic bottles could be very soft, but the combination of spandex and RPET is comfortable and breathable. The lovely high neck and adjustable straps only add to the comfort.

While the Topanga is true to size, it is worth considering how you like your bras to fit when settling on a size. To achieve a snug fit, or if you have a smaller bust, consider ordering a size down, or you may find that the armpit area is a little loose. It is best to size up if you have larger breasts, as you may experience some side spillage if you don't. The fabric is thin, and there is no option for pad inserts, so be aware that some women experience nipping. The Topanga is offered in very inclusive sizing, from XXS to 6XL, and fits very well on the range of bodies we tested it on. The adjustable straps help tailor the fit to different shoulder widths. The straps also help women tailor the lift of the bra up or down for a better fit.

Support

We consider the encapsulation or compression, stretch, and coverage in assessing a bra's support level. The Topanga excels due to a combination of compression, a thick rib band, adjustable straps, and high-neck coverage, providing exceptional support.

The recycled polyethylene tetraphyte and spandex combination that comprises the Topanga offers 4-way stretch and decent compression. Size down if you want a more compressive fit. The rib band is about an inch and a half thick and ribbed. The soft rib band keeps the girls from slipping out of the bottom without pinching too much. This rib band is one of our favorites in the bunch.

The Topanga is advertised as a low-impact bra but can be used for high-intensity training or running if sized and adjusted correctly. The high neck and adjustable criss-cross back keep your chest strapped down nicely without worrying about wardrobe malfunctions, although there is a slight bouncing for people with larger chests. While the adjustable straps are thin, the part that goes over the collar bones and shoulders tapers from thick to thin, offering support for chests of all sizes.

Style

We understand that style is personal, so taking a comprehensive poll was essential when scoring for this metric. We also considered versatility and available color options when assessing this category. The Topanga is incredibly versatile, one of the only bras that can look athletic but double as a chic top to wear to dinner.

The Topanga is nothing if not a crowdpleaser. The vote was unanimous, making it a top-tier option in the fashion department. Like all the Girlfriend Collective bras, the stitching is clean and hugs the body just right. The high neck nicely frames both broad and narrow shoulders, and the thin, adjustable criss-cross straps are sexy and minimal.

The Topanga looks great on many body types, from curvy with an ample bosom to thin with a smaller chest, and can complete any gym outfit. It even doubles nicely as a small tight crop top for casual out-of-the-gym outfits if you're into that look. The color options are beautiful and change seasonally.

Quality

While caring for your clothes is essential to ensure longevity, only some people want bras with complex cleaning rituals. In this metric, we considered how labor-intensive the care and maintenance are and the fabric's durability and stitching.

You may not think that clothing made of recycled plastic bottles would hold up to rigorous workouts followed by harsh washing cycles, but the Topanga doesn't pop a stitch under stress. In our experience, the ribbed rib band also didn't stretch out over time. This item should be machine-washed in cold water and air-dried. Following these instructions will ensure your bra lasts longer, but if you need to run it through the dryer in a pinch, it'll be fine. The only part of the bra that showed us the tiniest bit of wear was the thin shoulder straps, which looked slightly twisted after several wash-and-dry cycles. If you love this bra so much that you wear it out, then the ReGirlfriend program has you covered because you can mail the company your well-worn Girlfriend bras and get $15 toward your next purchase. Girlfriend Collective will recycle your worn-out bra into the fabric of new Girlfriend pieces. However, as durable as this bra has withstood the test of time in the wash, enjoy the “reduce” and “reuse” because it's still years before you recycle such a cute top.

Should You Buy the Girlfriend Collective Topanga?

This model is one of our favorite sports bras for low impact, comfort, and inclusive sizing. Through ample stretch, adjustable criss-cross shoulder straps, and inclusive sizing, the Girlfriend Collective Topanga is a lovely option for most bodies. While Girlfriend Collective advertises it as a low-impact sports bra meant for yoga or pilates, the supportive rib band, high neck, and decent compression (which increases if you size down) work great for higher-intensity training like running (depending on your chest size). The soft material doesn't rub or chafe and is made mainly of recycled bottles, making this bra great for you and the environment. We can only think of people who would benefit from adding the Topanga to the workout section of their closet.

What Other Sports Bras Should You Consider?

If you're looking for high-neck specific models, the Brooks 3 Pocket is an excellent option with a back phone pocket and two side “key and card” pockets. If you're after structure, the Lululemon Run Times High Support is very comfortable, form-fitting, and our top pick for running. Suppose you love soft materials but want a look that accentuates your curves. In that case, the Beyond Yoga Spacedye Lift Your Spirits and Patagonia Maipo Low Impact Adjustable are two of our most stylish options.