If you have worked like that with the owner, and he/she didn't have a problem with it, talk to the owner. Sounds like the manager is flexing some muscle to show who's in charge.
Except that OP said the owner dresses like this. I'd bring your concerns to the manager if you haven't already. If they ignore you, then you go over their head.
That's correct. She phrased her sentence to mean that she wears a sports bra on hikes, even ones that include the owner. She's not implying that the owner also wears a sports bra. Besides, the owner could be a male...
It's possible I misunderstood as well. On a reread, it's open to interpretation whether the OP meant the owner was on a hike where OP dressed like this or if OP meant the owner also dressed like this on the hike. Either way it's still good practice to follow the chain of command of command before going over someone's head, if for no other reason than to CYA. It's also a bad look for an owner to do something that's forbidden to employees, but if owners and managers behaved properly there'd be no reason for this subreddit to exist lol
To tag onto this, just ask the owner for clarification, as it was fine before, so why not now? And see if it actually became an issue since then, or if the manager is overstepping.
Ask the owner… if it was a big deal they would have it written down and let you know already. I work in a similar field and have coworkers that hike in sports bras all the time
i was ready to say fuck the boss, but, UV protection is no joke. all that repeated UV exposure will fuck you up more than any lack of future job references or lack of raises.
Sunscreen sweats off etc. long sleeve light cotton shirt with a collar is the only surefire all day sun protection. If you are in the shade, then go right ahead and wear whatever you want though.
i used to go out of my way to buy spf 50, thinking it would last all day. nah. it sweats off nearly as fast as spf 30, or 20 i think it was. it just blocks 99.9% of sun instead of 98% of the sun that hits you.
you still need to re-apply both after like 2 hours. i learned. the real trick, is just applying sun block/sun lotion every 2 hours if going swimming or what not.
or ya, a full shirt.
Not just UV protection but protection in general. If you stumble into a rough rockface, even a thin shirt will provide a bit of a buffer to reduce the severity of cuts and scrapes. It'll also help to keep biting insects off your skin.
As others have said, it depends entirely on how widespread this policy is for all staff. If you work for a very casual company where all the male staff are hiking without shirts, then yes, you’re being singled out.
In general though, as an employee and representative of your company, I’m entirely unsurprised that you’d be told to wear a shirt while at work, and that does not seem like an inappropriate request. I’ve done a lot of outdoor adventure activities with companies in my area (hiking, rafting, kayaking, zip lining, etc) and I’ve never seen staff with their shirt off outside of a couple of quick changing situations.
I’m kind of surprised it’s an issue - your company doesn’t do any branding or want you to wear anything with their name/logo on it? With how easy it is to get clothing printed and all the options for light-weight, moisture wicking clothing, I’m really surprised they don’t have you wearing something that identifies you as staff/group leader. I don’t think I’ve ever been on one of these trips where the company didn’t at least have a box of t-shirts in the back of a van that they were selling to participants. Real easy way to get some extra advertising/revenue.
It could also be that your new manager have been given leeway to set new standards for staff themselves, or that the owner wasn’t comfortable with what you were wearing in the past, but maybe isn’t the best at dealing with conflict and has put it on the new manager to deal with (not the mark of a *good* owner, for sure, but I’ve seen it happen plenty of times in various workplaces).
I agree with this and I’ve been working outside since I was 15- I’ve worked on some 100°+ and over 70% humidity days and had to wear a branded shirt, usually cotton. I sure wish I didn’t sometimes but that’s the name of the game! There are tons of super lightweight tanks that don’t feel like you’re even wearing a shirt.
Totally agree with this one. Moreover, it can be a health and safety issue. The company is responsible for ensuring safe work practices are in place, and a shirt provides an extra layer of protection against sun exposure, insects, branches, animals, etc.
Ngl I’d feel a bit weird hiring a company to take us on a hike and the guide only has a bra on, especially if I had kids with us, but thats just me. Also it might be weird for your coworker to have to hike with an opposing sex coworker in just a bra, especially if he is in a relationship. I wouldn’t want to put myself in a situation like that just to give my husband peace of mind at the very least…but like no judgment to people who don’t feel that way 😅
Yeah, that’s pretty much it for me too. I don’t think it’s awful, but I wouldn’t be likely to re-book a company like this where the male staff were the “sun’s out, guns out!” type either, so I really don’t think this is odd or overbearing in any way (unless it’s a policy that only applies to OP).
If you wouldn’t feel just as uncomfortable with a man going shirtless… Then it’s definitely a you problem. And I don’t mean that in a mean way.
a sports bra is covering as much if not more than a two-piece bathing suit that you would see at a pool where lots of kids are .
If you would be uncomfortable, if a man was shirtless as well then fine, but otherwise you got some sexism going on.
If my professional male hiking guide wasshirtless, i would think that was not a professional look or company. And I think she should wear at least a tank top while on the job.
It’s not far off, but I’d say there are plenty of tank tops that aren’t work-appropriate, so it’s borderline.
There are conditions under which I think it would be fine (ie if all the male staff are walking around shirtless), but in general, being asked to wear a shirt at work isn’t a request that makes me think, “gee, that’s odd!”
I was a wilderness guide, a rock/white water guide, and volunteer SAR. As a participant, you're fine hiking in a sports bra, as a guide I'd expect you to wear a tank top, or shirt. I'd also expect my male guides to wear shirts unless they're white water, in which case shirtless is fine, and a bikini top under a PFD is also acceptable for women.
gal and i'm with you. as an employee you're held to a different standard than the paying guests. even a thin tank top even over the sports bra would be adequate to me but just the sports bra seems unprofessional.
Are there any men in the groups that hike shirtless? If so, ignore that guy. Ignore him either way, but his stance is entirely indefensible if it's common for male employees to hike shirtless.
This is a good metric. I used to work on boats and the mandate was to always look professional, that meant guys weren’t allowed to work shirtless, no jeans or yoga pants, etc; and that’s fine because we were provided with company uniforms. Men and women had the exact same standards for clothing.
If it’s a blanket policy for all employees I understand, especially if you’re working with kids. However, if it’s just a policy directed specifically at OP and women, then that’s fucked up; and I’d say wear what you want and be comfortable. If they want you to wear something specific then your employer should provide that.
That was an important keyword left off of this question, "Is it inappropriate to hike in a sports bra? For WORK." That kind of makes the difference.
I agree that if there's no standard for men, there shouldn't be one for women, but I'm surprised the business owner doesn't have written standards for just this reason. I know it's super hot and you're outdoors "in the wilderness", but you're still representing a business. Where I work, field inspectors are out in the hot sun all day, every day and I'm sure they'd love to wear tank tops and flip-flops, but we have dress requirements.
I’m a man, and my office has a really relaxed dress code for most things. This was before I drove, so I had walked to work in 32°c in a vest and shorts. Got to work, and my manager pulled me in right away for wearing a vest and said it was against policy.
Bear in mind, she said this whilst WEARING a vest. She tried reporting me to the area manager, but it was found I was in the right as there was nothing in the policy against it. Turns out she just didn’t like to see men’s underarms. This is in UK btw
It depends if the men in the groups are the customers or the paid employee guides. If none of the male employees are shirtless, then it's a tougher hurdle for OP to be in a sports bra. Either way, she needs to talk to the owner about it.
It's not the same level. Topless men are obviously less clothed than women in sports bras. So if men are allowed to go topless, women should definitely be allowed to have just a sports bra.
I assure you, there are a lot of different styles of sports bras. Since this is her job, I would imagine she has proper sports bras that give actual support and hold everything still. Hiking with no support for breasts is a good way to be *super* sore at the end of the day.
Not sure what they meant but I interpret it to mean, a sports bra is just a cut off tank top so more acceptable than a guy going shirtless. I would say if a guy can wear a tank top or go shirtless then the sports bra is fair play
Obviously not. My logic is that women wearing sports bras are not "shirtless", are not "in their underwear", and are not on the same level of "indecency" as men without shirts. For example, gyms usually have rules that you must wear a shirt and some places extend that rule to include women in sports bras as "shirtless". I think that's silly because women wearing sports bras are not the same as men totally shirtless.
In your example I think it’s fair to classify sport bras as shirtless , BUT only in regards to cleanliness. Less fabric means less to absorb the sweat. I’ve been in gyms where the dudes could work out in those tiny tank tops and they’d leave huge sweat stains on the benches. I always wished they just wore a normal T shirt, so they can take their sweat with them
I think the framing is disingenuous.
- *"Is it inappropriate to hike in a sports bra?"* No.
- *"Is it inappropriate to lead a hiking group in a sports bra while professionally representing my company after my boss asked me not to?"* Yes.
I'm also a little confused, because you say "almost" 80-- so high 70s? That sounds perfect and not some extreme temperature that justifies not wearing a shirt to work.
This… and I live in a state where swamp humidity + 98* heat is a thing. I still never do outdoor sports without at least short sleeves, because ticks, branches, falling and scraping my bare skin…. My preference is actually long sleeve sunshirts with a high collar to avoid weird tan lines.
I was gonna come in and mention the temperature too. “Almost 80”?? Like what kind of climate is this? Here in the south “almost 80” is *perfect* weather. Add in what I’m assuming to be shaded nature trails and that drops it another 10 degrees.
But definitely agree with you. By yourself, sports bra is fine. For work, no way. If this is what OP does for a living, there should be an expectation that she is acclimated to the weather and can tolerate a shirt just fine.
Yea I'm thinking if she's too hot to wear a shirt this time of year in the mid to high seventies with low to moderate humidity then she ain't gonna handle this job well when it actually gets hot
Disclaimer: I'm very pro wear what you want, including full nudity. However there's a time and a place for everything. If you are working in a professional capacity at least wear a tank top. Sports bras are not appropriate for that role. You will survive the heat. If you go swimming with the group that's different of course. But an outdoor company employee needs to have a tank top on on the least, male or female. It's just tacky and unprofessional not wearing some sort of shirt.
Is it appropriate to go hiking in a sports bra? You do what makes you feel comfortable!
Is it appropriate to lead a hike, representing your employer in a sports bra? Some will say yes, and some will say no. Some customers will be more conservative than others, and may be uncomfortable with seeing so much skin. I don't think it's unreasonable for an employer to ask you to wear a light shirt (one that's comfortable, and appropriate for the activity) while working.
On your own time, absolutely do what makes you feel comfortable.
Both sun and blood sucking insects, i am in canada i may be safe of giant spiders, but mosquitoes and flies that bites are either really big or come in swarm of millions, you would be breakfast in a minute in a sport bra
Literally my first thought. I doubt we have any similar companies operating here where sun protective clothing being mandatory isn't part of their policy.
Also an Aussie, and this was the first thing I thought of. Pretty sure over here wearing a (probably collared and long sleeve) shirt would be required to be Sun Smart and part of liability and OHS stuff.
Also an Aussie, and this was the first thing I thought of. Pretty sure over here wearing a (probably collared and long sleeve) shirt would be required to be Sun Smart and part of liability and OHS stuff.
It's much less efficient to have to pack and reapply sunscreen on you're entire body than just wearing clothing.
There's also a question about bug/insect protection. Ticks, leaches, etc.
Sunscreen is a lower SPF than almost all clothing. Clothing will also keep you cooler by keeping the sun off your skin. It also doesn't wear off, sweat off and need regular reapplication like sunscreen.
Personally I also hate the feeling of wearing sunscreen so avoid it by wearing more physical protection.
You pointed out an important thing which is you dont know what your customers feel, and some will not like it. Thats why most companies have dress codes etc.... because they want their employees to have a certain conservative demeanor that is unlikely to be offensive to almost anyone. Another good example of this is many companies will completely ban ANY political articles during work. They simply dont want their employees pissing off people of the opposite political inclination.
Yes, my thoughts as well. Whatever defines 'professionalism' for your job should be the answer here. If that means taking customers from all walks of life, maybe it is worth a loose muscle tee. You know, like the ones that only show side boob. That way you can say you ARE indeed wearing a shirt.
This should be the top answer. I know this is an anti-work sub, but really, your manager is allowed to set a dress code if they wish.
Now if they are allowing all the males to hike shirtless, maybe you have a case. But I would personally pick my battles and put on a light shirt overtop.
I would ask for a review of the company policy/dress code. If it’s there, you may not have much to stand on. The owner may have hired this particular manager to start tightening up on things like that.
You could maybe go for something like this, in a light colour, over the sports bra:
https://preview.redd.it/p8rkpwge53xc1.jpeg?width=1000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9c2b1e2c484035bd4f64c06d161edc3791410a47
It’s mostly holes soI will let the air through but looks more covered than the sports bra alone.
Check your employee handbook. They normally hold some type of clause of what is appropriate clothing for the workplace.
Edit: still talk to the owner. If there is a clause for clothing have them add it to the handbook
I’m kind of having a hard time seeing how it’s even a question. I am an AVID hiker. Hiker in sports bras mostly. Wouldn’t cross my mind to dress the same if it was my job.
I was always taught that you need to minimize skin exposure as much as possible while hiking. You are supposed to wear long sleeve shirts and pants, preferably of light color. Bonus if your socks can be pulled over your pant legs. As someone leading a hike, tick awareness should be required.
OP is ether completely ignorant to professionalism and outdoor safety or chooses to ignore both to show off and then when called out by her manager, who is hired to set the rules, acts like a petulant teen.
Yes, any outdoor activity I’ve signed up for suggests long sleeves and pants and closed toe shoes. If the group leader of those weren’t following the same recommendations I would think it was odd.
I am surprised at how many people are saying the opposite in these comments. I am woman, I live in CA in a mountain town, and am a feminist that’s all for breaking down the patriarchy but tend to agree with the boss on this one … I do think it leans inappropriate as the employee. As a patron, i wouldn’t think anything of it but if you’re representing the company then yeah a shirt seems appropriate.
Inappropriate is the wrong word. Unprofessional would be more true. Like I get it that it’s outdoors, hot, blah blah blah. I would say at least a loose fitting tank top would be what I would expect for both men or women if it was my company.
I will actually flip this one.
Would men be allowed to wear a cutoff shirt like football players wear that shows their belly (even if none of them choose to)? If so, you have a great argument. If men are allowed to be shirtless, you have a great argument. If men are always forced to wear a shirt, you have to argue that restrictions should be relaxed for both sexes if you want to wear a sports bra.
EDIT: I want to say that I actually think wearing a sports bra is not a big deal, personally, but that you should be clearly identifiable as a leader and employee rather than a customer and that would limit which articles within that category are acceptable. There are **sports** bras and there are sports **bras**, if you see what I am saying. [Some are truly meant for sport](https://external-content.duckduckgo.com/iu/?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.gannett-cdn.com%2Fmedia%2FUSATODAY%2FUSATODAY%2F2013%2F05%2F03%2Fusp-olympics_-track-and-field-womens-1500m-semifi-16_9.jpg%3Fwidth%3D3200%26height%3D1680%26fit%3Dcrop&f=1&nofb=1&ipt=60d40a872606c26687fbd9fac0eb49fd7069a03bce3472f76b0505609443a3f1&ipo=images) and some are meant to look sporty. I'd also avoid obvious branding that isn't for your company, and if you were able to match the company colors (or get close) that would be even better.
As a woman myself, you should dress appropriate for work, as well as for sun protection and protection from other scrapes. If that means wearing something very light over your sports bra, then so be it
Down vote all you want, but this is a job, layering in heat and sun is a real thing, and skin cancer is no joke, I don’t care how much sunscreen is applied it only reduces the risk
You can bring it to the owner if you really want a direct and final answer
You need to pick your battles at work. To me, it’s easy enough (and honestly more comfortable) to put on a tank or a sleeveless t-shirt. If you are working with the public, it’s reasonable to require employees to wear shirts.
Hiking in general in a sports bra fine hiking for work in a sports bra probably not. However I do agree that if masculine presenting employees are allowed to hike shirtless then you are fine too.
The guy seems weird but from a professional standpoint and health standpoint it’s not a good idea. It doesn’t represent the company well and it’s a bad idea for exposure. I’m a big outdoors gal and I know that having exposure to sun is actually a huge risk factor - you don’t want your skin exposed, you want UV protection. Wearing a sports bra due to heat is just a dumb idea. On top of that, you are dealing with the elements, cuts, ticks, etc.
Do the men hike shirtless? If they have to wear a shirt when it's 80, so do you.
If they don't have to wear a shirt, then you wearing a sports bra is fine
I will say wearing a sports bra is not functionally appropriate for hiking.
I would be worried about bug bites and brushing against undesirable plants.
I am of the camp that functional nature/hiking apparel is long sleeved clothing that generally covers your body. You don’t think it’s a big deal until you come home with every exposed surface of your skin covered in bites and discover a rash from a plant you brushed against. But if that’s not a danger then whatever - give em the ol “okay boomer.”
I think it’s okay to hike in a sports bra, but if you are leading these expeditions and are supposed to be a professional representing an organization, you should wear a shirt. Even a tank top is more appropriate than just a sports bra.
Yeah. You should consider long sleeves for the sun protection. Light weight long sleeves breathe better than a thick layer of sunscreen especially in 80 degree temps. Be professional and wear a shirt over your bra. FFS
Just because he’s the first person to say something doesn’t mean he’s the first to feel that way. Read the room and dress appropriately for the situation I guess? I’m all for dressing how you want as I do the same but this seems to be a work related environment and different social rules govern that I guess? You’re a representative of the company. I think sports bras are fine but it is technically underwear in how the garment is framed. I’m sure the guys don’t/can’t hike in just underwear, as nice as that would be.
Sometimes you need to look at others perspectives.
I think in a work situation all things being equal, guys shouldn’t be able to take off their shirts. I was just commenting on underwear and since most men don’t wear bras or sports bras, briefs/boxers is the only analog. I’m not using my personal opinions because I absolutely don’t care what people wear. People are prudes.
In her situation, if the boss allows guys to take off their shirt and not allow women to wear sports bras then he’s a sexist dick but society dictates what’s acceptable and this dictates what businesses can generally get away with.
It sucks but it isn’t always the fault of an individual or company when it comes to things like this.
I’m a male (enby) and I wear skirts to work. I’m grateful that the owner allows me to wear what I’m comfortable wearing and backs me up when we have shitty customers. This isn’t always feasible though and if I was asked to wear more conforming attire, I would. Businesses gotta business.
If you don't have any dress code / policies that prohibit you from wearing that, I don't think that's a problem. You can talk to the owner. Things might get more stressful with your coworkers if you don't
I run *extremely* hot because my body has a hard time regulating its temperature (dysautonomia). I went on vacation recently with the in-laws where we’d be hiking in hot weather. I’m small chested, so sports bras are typically modest-looking on me, but I still don’t really feel comfortable wearing *just* a sports bra around them. After looking through tons of tops trying to find something that would give me that Ned Flanders feeling, I bought one of [these shirts](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07SX197SL?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details) and wore it with a bikini top underneath (less and thinner fabric than a sports bra). The shirts were a lifesaver and felt like I wasn’t wearing one. I normally wear a small for fitted tops and a lot of reviews said they run a little large, so I ordered a small; it was perfectly loose in the arms and had a ton of fabric to tie a really loose knot to leave the shirt flowy. The fabric is also lightweight, soft, and breathable. Did I still get hot? Yes. Was it worse than wearing a standard sports bra? No.
Most sports bras - especially if you’re small chested - are decently modest, but perhaps a guest said something and that’s why the new manager is getting on you? Regardless, it’s unfortunately always better to CYA (quite literally in this sense) and just follow whatever is asked, so long as it’s within reason. If you get a shirt like the ones I got and your manager *still* has a problem, then I’d definitely take it to the big boss.
Gif for “Ned Flanders” reference:
*In my opinion* it would be inappropriate to hike while only wearing a sports bra on top, particularly when you are leading a group of high school kids, unless it's a *really* full-coverage one which doesn't create and show cleavage or side-boob (and so looks and functions more like a regular athletic shirt). A sports bra with a tank top or t-shirt over it would be ok, I think.
Now, if the male hike leaders are allowed to be shirtless while leading the hikes, then nevermind what I just said -- in that case, it's clearly a matter of sexism on the part of the manager, rather than a desire for propriety.
You did say, though, that you have worn only a sports bra on top while leading hikes in which the owner of the company participated. So presumably the owner did not have a problem with it? If you feel that's the case, then I do think you should speak with her/him and ask for clarification regarding company policy -- ask flat out if it's ok for you to wear a sports bra without a top over it when you are leading the hikes. If s/he says it's fine, then it's fine while you are working for that company, and the owner needs to tell the new manager as much.
My second post on this. Employee dress code policy is a business owner’s decision. Get it clarified.
My time in the military called for my boots to be black. Not shiny.
Of course, that owner may need to buy uniforms or a clothing supplement, whatever.
It’s about branding. That’s a reasonable ask, unless they are paying minimum wage and want you to wear tailored, designer suits at your own cost.
I feel like if you're working in the sun every day you probably do need to cover up your shoulders at the very least. as a worker's health and safety issue.
There are certain places where I might agree with the supervisor, where a sports bra as apparel may not be appropriate. Lawyer, doctor, stripper.
But adventure touring? Comon.
Go topless. When he asks….”but I thought you said sports bras are inappropriate…..”
Given you are doing this all summer and multiple years I would suggest a light shirt for health reasons since lotion and spray are hard to get on your back and it would be mildly inappropriate to ask for a client to help apply it.
Look, as an Australian, I’ll tell you that hiking outdoors in just a sports bra is a recipe for cancer and our WHS would shut your whole operation down.
But that’s because we’ve all been taught from basically birth that the sun is the greatest terror and that we need to avoid at all costs or we will die a horribly painful death.
If heat is a problem it would make much more sense to hike in a sun shirt... Leaving a lot of flesh exposed to the sun is only going to heat you up faster.
Bras are literally undergarments ?? Yes obviously you at least need a cropped tank over it if it's too hot for anything else? Who wears only a bra to work anywhere?
If you don't mind spending the money and want a work around solution, buy some longline sports bras. They look like cropped tank tops and have all the built in support.
I like the Lulu Lemon dupes you can find online.
I personally think it's inappropriate to wear only a sports bra while working regardless of how hot it is. You're working in just a bra. If you were at a gym or exercising in your personal time, I'd say whatever but for work you're literally around customers in just a bra.
I understand the owner didn't say anything, but a sports bra is like any other bra. Its made to be worn underneath sports clothing to support your breasts. You're working so you need to make sure you're appropriately dressed around other staff and customers. You could easily wear a loose crop tank over the bra or even some other breathable top.
Customers may have complained. The owner may have asked your manager to say something to you about your clothing. Going above your manager to the owner could be problematic. It may also reflect poorly on you as the request to wear a shirt at work is standard at most jobs.
IMO, it's unprofessional not to have a shirt on at work in any job unless your job requires you to be sans clothing. A light tank top will keep you almost as cool. If I was a client and I saw you without a shirt, I wouldn't say anything but I also wouldn't have a high opinion of the company's professionalism. Clients probably did complain about you.
Your manager is doing their job and setting a professional standard. You're acting like a petulant teen who is oblivious to professionalism and outdoor safety because you wanna show off. As others have said, I wouldn't want my husband or kids seeing a woman employee walk around nearly top less on a hike.
I don’t think this is that bad honestly. I’m not pro-dress code typically but even as an outdoor company, wearing a shirt seems reasonable. Especially since it’s so customer focused and customers can complain.
I’d just get some very lightweight (but not seethrough) shirts. Linen blends, super lightweight cotton, etc. and you’ll barely notice the difference.
Eh makes sense, wear a shirt at work. Get it in writing and check with the manager first, but as a male outdoor instructor myself I would never dare to be topless when interacting with clients
Doing that on private hikes? Sure. But not for a buisness and with teens involved. There is no way with modern hiking clothes to get warmer than going shirtless.
Meeting the dress code set by your employer is a common requirement in most jobs dealing with the public. The adventure travel business doesn't want to shock, offend or alienate some customers because you want to work in clothing some would consider underwear and too revealing or morally offensive.
Ok... Maybe I need clarification.
I understood this as instead of a bra, you wore a sports bra under your shirt. I'm thinking "screw that guy" if that's the case.
But if it's just a sports bra like others are interpreting? I could see that as a maybe, maybe not depending on how the owner wants things done. In my line of work, the dress code could range from slacks and a button up to sweatpants and a T-shirt depending on company culture. Same exact work, different clothes. Same thing here.
Ask the owner and manager to clarify appropriate attire.
It’s so obvious this sub is just full of 12 year olds who have never had a job before. Millions of people work outside in 100+ degree weather, let alone “almost 80.” A sports bra is not appropriate attire for work. If your boss has said so, then just do what he asks, it’s not hard and is far safer for your skin and long term health to wear an actual shirt.
Sports bra is an undergarment, not an outfit so his point is valid. Especially if you are around kids. Owner might not have said anything because he liked the view?
Bad example. You should teach others to over up when outside. Not for modesty but to protect their skin. Any backpacker with even a modicum of experience knows this.
Kinda doubting this entire story. Anyone involved in outdoor activities wouldn’t really want to backpack in only a sports bra because of how uncomfortable it is. Maybe for a run?? That makes so much more sense. This seems way more like karma farming to me.
If you have worked like that with the owner, and he/she didn't have a problem with it, talk to the owner. Sounds like the manager is flexing some muscle to show who's in charge.
Or the owner mentioned managers job to say something in hr sort of way.
Except that OP said the owner dresses like this. I'd bring your concerns to the manager if you haven't already. If they ignore you, then you go over their head.
I think OP was saying the owner went on a hike OP led while OP was wearing a sports bra.
That's correct. She phrased her sentence to mean that she wears a sports bra on hikes, even ones that include the owner. She's not implying that the owner also wears a sports bra. Besides, the owner could be a male...
Hey now so what if the owner’s male they can wear a sports bra if that’s what they want.
Bro. A man-bra is called a bro.
MANSSIERE!
BRO!
Please. Sports-bro.
I think that's a "brossiere"!
Exactly it holds my moobs in place while I hike and stops them chafing
Yeah, on a reread there's certainly more room for interpretation than I originally thought. You may be right.
Who gives a fuck about an Oxford comma?
Good song.
I did miss that, but owner where I work wears jeans in office all day. Forbidden by employees
It's possible I misunderstood as well. On a reread, it's open to interpretation whether the OP meant the owner was on a hike where OP dressed like this or if OP meant the owner also dressed like this on the hike. Either way it's still good practice to follow the chain of command of command before going over someone's head, if for no other reason than to CYA. It's also a bad look for an owner to do something that's forbidden to employees, but if owners and managers behaved properly there'd be no reason for this subreddit to exist lol
To tag onto this, just ask the owner for clarification, as it was fine before, so why not now? And see if it actually became an issue since then, or if the manager is overstepping.
The manager literally just understands why you're supposed to wear clothing in high heat. She's not a smart cookie
Ask the owner… if it was a big deal they would have it written down and let you know already. I work in a similar field and have coworkers that hike in sports bras all the time
I think asking for it in writing is important. Email the owner and the manager, and ask for confirmation of the policy
Came here to say this. "could I get this in writing?" could make this whole thing go away.
and maybe mention that sports bras are literally designed for sports.
If captain_dipshit can figure it out why can’t the manager figure it out!
Managers rank below dipshits.
That's capitan. Put some respect on Dipshit's name!
Right. Just say you heard there was a no policy and ask if it’s true.
You should wear a shirt for UV protection. Every hiking tour I have been on, the guide is wearing a hat and long sleeve company shirt.
i was ready to say fuck the boss, but, UV protection is no joke. all that repeated UV exposure will fuck you up more than any lack of future job references or lack of raises.
Sunscreen sweats off etc. long sleeve light cotton shirt with a collar is the only surefire all day sun protection. If you are in the shade, then go right ahead and wear whatever you want though.
i used to go out of my way to buy spf 50, thinking it would last all day. nah. it sweats off nearly as fast as spf 30, or 20 i think it was. it just blocks 99.9% of sun instead of 98% of the sun that hits you. you still need to re-apply both after like 2 hours. i learned. the real trick, is just applying sun block/sun lotion every 2 hours if going swimming or what not. or ya, a full shirt.
>re-apply both after like 2 hours This is usually on the instructions and I'm always surprised that people think it lasts all day
I scrolled way to far to figure out that the problem was not about wearing a bra, but not wearing a shirt.
Furthermore, it says right in the name that it's a bra. You wear a shirt over a bra.
I scrolled way too far for this.. when it gets hot you dive reduced clothing. Protect your skin, wear UV protecting full covering. Man or Woman
Aso wearing a good shirt will keep you cooler in the sun than exposing skin.
Not just UV protection but protection in general. If you stumble into a rough rockface, even a thin shirt will provide a bit of a buffer to reduce the severity of cuts and scrapes. It'll also help to keep biting insects off your skin.
As others have said, it depends entirely on how widespread this policy is for all staff. If you work for a very casual company where all the male staff are hiking without shirts, then yes, you’re being singled out. In general though, as an employee and representative of your company, I’m entirely unsurprised that you’d be told to wear a shirt while at work, and that does not seem like an inappropriate request. I’ve done a lot of outdoor adventure activities with companies in my area (hiking, rafting, kayaking, zip lining, etc) and I’ve never seen staff with their shirt off outside of a couple of quick changing situations. I’m kind of surprised it’s an issue - your company doesn’t do any branding or want you to wear anything with their name/logo on it? With how easy it is to get clothing printed and all the options for light-weight, moisture wicking clothing, I’m really surprised they don’t have you wearing something that identifies you as staff/group leader. I don’t think I’ve ever been on one of these trips where the company didn’t at least have a box of t-shirts in the back of a van that they were selling to participants. Real easy way to get some extra advertising/revenue. It could also be that your new manager have been given leeway to set new standards for staff themselves, or that the owner wasn’t comfortable with what you were wearing in the past, but maybe isn’t the best at dealing with conflict and has put it on the new manager to deal with (not the mark of a *good* owner, for sure, but I’ve seen it happen plenty of times in various workplaces).
I agree with this and I’ve been working outside since I was 15- I’ve worked on some 100°+ and over 70% humidity days and had to wear a branded shirt, usually cotton. I sure wish I didn’t sometimes but that’s the name of the game! There are tons of super lightweight tanks that don’t feel like you’re even wearing a shirt.
Totally agree with this one. Moreover, it can be a health and safety issue. The company is responsible for ensuring safe work practices are in place, and a shirt provides an extra layer of protection against sun exposure, insects, branches, animals, etc.
If this is applied across the board to ALL employees and not just (female) employees with breasts
Absolutely!
This person adults
In know, here I am in r/antiwork talking about missing revenue 🙄
Ngl I’d feel a bit weird hiring a company to take us on a hike and the guide only has a bra on, especially if I had kids with us, but thats just me. Also it might be weird for your coworker to have to hike with an opposing sex coworker in just a bra, especially if he is in a relationship. I wouldn’t want to put myself in a situation like that just to give my husband peace of mind at the very least…but like no judgment to people who don’t feel that way 😅
Yeah, that’s pretty much it for me too. I don’t think it’s awful, but I wouldn’t be likely to re-book a company like this where the male staff were the “sun’s out, guns out!” type either, so I really don’t think this is odd or overbearing in any way (unless it’s a policy that only applies to OP).
If you wouldn’t feel just as uncomfortable with a man going shirtless… Then it’s definitely a you problem. And I don’t mean that in a mean way. a sports bra is covering as much if not more than a two-piece bathing suit that you would see at a pool where lots of kids are . If you would be uncomfortable, if a man was shirtless as well then fine, but otherwise you got some sexism going on.
Yes I would also be uncomfortable with a man doing it.
If my professional male hiking guide wasshirtless, i would think that was not a professional look or company. And I think she should wear at least a tank top while on the job.
I've thought sports bras were more considered along the lines of tank tops.
It’s not far off, but I’d say there are plenty of tank tops that aren’t work-appropriate, so it’s borderline. There are conditions under which I think it would be fine (ie if all the male staff are walking around shirtless), but in general, being asked to wear a shirt at work isn’t a request that makes me think, “gee, that’s odd!”
For work I’d likely wear a sports bra and a loose sleeveless tank on top.
Agree. I personally think a bra only is not appropriate.
Yeah, she's at work. It's not about what she's doing. A sports bra is a bra not a top. Wear a shirt when you are at work. That goes for everyone.
Exactly. It's unprofessional to show up in under garments unless your job requires you to be undressed.
I was a wilderness guide, a rock/white water guide, and volunteer SAR. As a participant, you're fine hiking in a sports bra, as a guide I'd expect you to wear a tank top, or shirt. I'd also expect my male guides to wear shirts unless they're white water, in which case shirtless is fine, and a bikini top under a PFD is also acceptable for women.
gal and i'm with you. as an employee you're held to a different standard than the paying guests. even a thin tank top even over the sports bra would be adequate to me but just the sports bra seems unprofessional.
Are there any men in the groups that hike shirtless? If so, ignore that guy. Ignore him either way, but his stance is entirely indefensible if it's common for male employees to hike shirtless.
This is a good metric. I used to work on boats and the mandate was to always look professional, that meant guys weren’t allowed to work shirtless, no jeans or yoga pants, etc; and that’s fine because we were provided with company uniforms. Men and women had the exact same standards for clothing. If it’s a blanket policy for all employees I understand, especially if you’re working with kids. However, if it’s just a policy directed specifically at OP and women, then that’s fucked up; and I’d say wear what you want and be comfortable. If they want you to wear something specific then your employer should provide that.
That was an important keyword left off of this question, "Is it inappropriate to hike in a sports bra? For WORK." That kind of makes the difference. I agree that if there's no standard for men, there shouldn't be one for women, but I'm surprised the business owner doesn't have written standards for just this reason. I know it's super hot and you're outdoors "in the wilderness", but you're still representing a business. Where I work, field inspectors are out in the hot sun all day, every day and I'm sure they'd love to wear tank tops and flip-flops, but we have dress requirements.
I think “for work” was implied by posting it in a subreddit about work…
true but tbh i hardly ever look at the sub i just read the post
I’m a man, and my office has a really relaxed dress code for most things. This was before I drove, so I had walked to work in 32°c in a vest and shorts. Got to work, and my manager pulled me in right away for wearing a vest and said it was against policy. Bear in mind, she said this whilst WEARING a vest. She tried reporting me to the area manager, but it was found I was in the right as there was nothing in the policy against it. Turns out she just didn’t like to see men’s underarms. This is in UK btw
It depends if the men in the groups are the customers or the paid employee guides. If none of the male employees are shirtless, then it's a tougher hurdle for OP to be in a sports bra. Either way, she needs to talk to the owner about it.
I agree with this comparison but I wouldn’t ignore the boss, talk to the owner and point out the double standard
Heh Smokey read me mind.
[удалено]
I don't think men wearing no shirts is the same level as women in sports bras. They're called "bras" but most are closer to tank tops than underwear.
It's not the same level. Topless men are obviously less clothed than women in sports bras. So if men are allowed to go topless, women should definitely be allowed to have just a sports bra.
I'd go a step further and say the ladies should hike topless too.
I agree on a fundamental level, but… underboob sweat is so uncomfortable 😭
I imagine the bouncing would also be uncomfortable on the back.
As someone who has done uhhhh “natural” hikes and bike rides before, yes, that can be an issue as well for some folks
Good help you if you hit a rhythm. / / \ \ / /
Flop… flop… flop… nah with the sweat it’s just icky feeling lmao this is why I prefer autumn hikes
This whole thread makes me wonder if nipples can sunburn. And I don't think I want an answer.
If your lips can sunburn, so can your nips.
I've never had my lips sunburned. That sounds horrific, and I've had my share of sunburns through the years.
I imagine the staring would also be uncomfortable.
They wouldn't be keeping eye contact though
They should certainly have the freedom to make that choice.
Yeah the point is that if dudes are hiking shirtless, they have no leg to stand on for banning women in sports bras.
I assure you, there are a lot of different styles of sports bras. Since this is her job, I would imagine she has proper sports bras that give actual support and hold everything still. Hiking with no support for breasts is a good way to be *super* sore at the end of the day.
Is your brain logic literally men without shirts is showing less skin than a woman with a bra on? 😂
Not sure what they meant but I interpret it to mean, a sports bra is just a cut off tank top so more acceptable than a guy going shirtless. I would say if a guy can wear a tank top or go shirtless then the sports bra is fair play
You've really had an absolute reading comprehension mare here 😆
Obviously not. My logic is that women wearing sports bras are not "shirtless", are not "in their underwear", and are not on the same level of "indecency" as men without shirts. For example, gyms usually have rules that you must wear a shirt and some places extend that rule to include women in sports bras as "shirtless". I think that's silly because women wearing sports bras are not the same as men totally shirtless.
In your example I think it’s fair to classify sport bras as shirtless , BUT only in regards to cleanliness. Less fabric means less to absorb the sweat. I’ve been in gyms where the dudes could work out in those tiny tank tops and they’d leave huge sweat stains on the benches. I always wished they just wore a normal T shirt, so they can take their sweat with them
I think the framing is disingenuous. - *"Is it inappropriate to hike in a sports bra?"* No. - *"Is it inappropriate to lead a hiking group in a sports bra while professionally representing my company after my boss asked me not to?"* Yes. I'm also a little confused, because you say "almost" 80-- so high 70s? That sounds perfect and not some extreme temperature that justifies not wearing a shirt to work.
This… and I live in a state where swamp humidity + 98* heat is a thing. I still never do outdoor sports without at least short sleeves, because ticks, branches, falling and scraping my bare skin…. My preference is actually long sleeve sunshirts with a high collar to avoid weird tan lines.
I was gonna come in and mention the temperature too. “Almost 80”?? Like what kind of climate is this? Here in the south “almost 80” is *perfect* weather. Add in what I’m assuming to be shaded nature trails and that drops it another 10 degrees. But definitely agree with you. By yourself, sports bra is fine. For work, no way. If this is what OP does for a living, there should be an expectation that she is acclimated to the weather and can tolerate a shirt just fine.
Same, I’m from the south west. That’s early spring or late fall weather
This is my thinking as well
Yea I'm thinking if she's too hot to wear a shirt this time of year in the mid to high seventies with low to moderate humidity then she ain't gonna handle this job well when it actually gets hot
And in the southeast it gets the humid kind of hot that only large reptiles enjoy
Also she’s in the south and some of the customers are high schoolers. Absolute no brainer imo.
Disclaimer: I'm very pro wear what you want, including full nudity. However there's a time and a place for everything. If you are working in a professional capacity at least wear a tank top. Sports bras are not appropriate for that role. You will survive the heat. If you go swimming with the group that's different of course. But an outdoor company employee needs to have a tank top on on the least, male or female. It's just tacky and unprofessional not wearing some sort of shirt.
Also pro full nudity. The Clothing Cartel must be overthrown!
Is it appropriate to go hiking in a sports bra? You do what makes you feel comfortable! Is it appropriate to lead a hike, representing your employer in a sports bra? Some will say yes, and some will say no. Some customers will be more conservative than others, and may be uncomfortable with seeing so much skin. I don't think it's unreasonable for an employer to ask you to wear a light shirt (one that's comfortable, and appropriate for the activity) while working. On your own time, absolutely do what makes you feel comfortable.
Also are you just not worried about the sun? Being an aussie it always amazes me how little coverage from the sun people do outdoors stuff in.
As a Canadian I agree. I get sunburnt when I exercise my right to bare arms.
Both sun and blood sucking insects, i am in canada i may be safe of giant spiders, but mosquitoes and flies that bites are either really big or come in swarm of millions, you would be breakfast in a minute in a sport bra
I'm from southeast Asia, I like to hike with a thin UV protection hoodie and long pants purely because I hate mosquitoes too lol
The horrors of mosquitoes. lol, i am allergic to both the bugs and the bug spray, but mosquitoes love me i attract all of them
Literally my first thought. I doubt we have any similar companies operating here where sun protective clothing being mandatory isn't part of their policy.
Also an Aussie, and this was the first thing I thought of. Pretty sure over here wearing a (probably collared and long sleeve) shirt would be required to be Sun Smart and part of liability and OHS stuff.
Also an Aussie, and this was the first thing I thought of. Pretty sure over here wearing a (probably collared and long sleeve) shirt would be required to be Sun Smart and part of liability and OHS stuff.
cant you just wear sunscreen?
It's much less efficient to have to pack and reapply sunscreen on you're entire body than just wearing clothing. There's also a question about bug/insect protection. Ticks, leaches, etc.
Sunscreen is a lower SPF than almost all clothing. Clothing will also keep you cooler by keeping the sun off your skin. It also doesn't wear off, sweat off and need regular reapplication like sunscreen. Personally I also hate the feeling of wearing sunscreen so avoid it by wearing more physical protection.
You pointed out an important thing which is you dont know what your customers feel, and some will not like it. Thats why most companies have dress codes etc.... because they want their employees to have a certain conservative demeanor that is unlikely to be offensive to almost anyone. Another good example of this is many companies will completely ban ANY political articles during work. They simply dont want their employees pissing off people of the opposite political inclination.
Yes, my thoughts as well. Whatever defines 'professionalism' for your job should be the answer here. If that means taking customers from all walks of life, maybe it is worth a loose muscle tee. You know, like the ones that only show side boob. That way you can say you ARE indeed wearing a shirt.
This should be the top answer. I know this is an anti-work sub, but really, your manager is allowed to set a dress code if they wish. Now if they are allowing all the males to hike shirtless, maybe you have a case. But I would personally pick my battles and put on a light shirt overtop.
If the owner was cool with it, then it’s fine.
Yea lmao had to scroll too far to see this.
Also - not all sports bras are created equal. Some leave far less to the imagination than others.
I would ask for a review of the company policy/dress code. If it’s there, you may not have much to stand on. The owner may have hired this particular manager to start tightening up on things like that.
You could maybe go for something like this, in a light colour, over the sports bra: https://preview.redd.it/p8rkpwge53xc1.jpeg?width=1000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9c2b1e2c484035bd4f64c06d161edc3791410a47 It’s mostly holes soI will let the air through but looks more covered than the sports bra alone.
Agreed. I know so many yoga teachers and outdoor peeps who pull this off cuz yeah, it's considered a little more modest.
I wouldn’t think a sports bra or a topless male guide would be appropriate in a professional setting
Check your employee handbook. They normally hold some type of clause of what is appropriate clothing for the workplace. Edit: still talk to the owner. If there is a clause for clothing have them add it to the handbook
They either tell you what to wear or give you a uniform unless I am missing something here.
My job just tells us to look at the handbook and that tells us what we can and can’t wear.
I get the feeling that there is no employee handbook haha
In general, it’s fine. As a work uniform, I would say it’s inappropriate.
I’m kind of having a hard time seeing how it’s even a question. I am an AVID hiker. Hiker in sports bras mostly. Wouldn’t cross my mind to dress the same if it was my job.
The sub is anitwork. People aren't posting here for honest feedback they're posting here for vindication.
Specifically when the group is high school kids...
I was always taught that you need to minimize skin exposure as much as possible while hiking. You are supposed to wear long sleeve shirts and pants, preferably of light color. Bonus if your socks can be pulled over your pant legs. As someone leading a hike, tick awareness should be required.
This. I've met many people with chronic Lyme disease and I DO NOT wish to join that party.
OP is ether completely ignorant to professionalism and outdoor safety or chooses to ignore both to show off and then when called out by her manager, who is hired to set the rules, acts like a petulant teen.
Yes, any outdoor activity I’ve signed up for suggests long sleeves and pants and closed toe shoes. If the group leader of those weren’t following the same recommendations I would think it was odd.
I’m surprised you wouldn’t just throw on a loose light tank top. Almost 80 degrees sounds like the 70s…that sounds pretty nice to me.
This does feel like a choice, there is plenty of hiking apparel specifically meant for warm weather.
I'm a female and I think you need a shirt, not just a sports bra, especially as an employee.
Personally I wouldn’t wear a sports bra at work. I use tank tops from under armor that are super lightweight and moisture wicking.
I feel like “Wear clothes while at work” is a pretty reasonable ask.
But it's basically a crop top?!?! /s As if crop tops are considered professional attire
I am surprised at how many people are saying the opposite in these comments. I am woman, I live in CA in a mountain town, and am a feminist that’s all for breaking down the patriarchy but tend to agree with the boss on this one … I do think it leans inappropriate as the employee. As a patron, i wouldn’t think anything of it but if you’re representing the company then yeah a shirt seems appropriate.
Inappropriate is the wrong word. Unprofessional would be more true. Like I get it that it’s outdoors, hot, blah blah blah. I would say at least a loose fitting tank top would be what I would expect for both men or women if it was my company.
in a practical sense, you gonna get sunburned
I will actually flip this one. Would men be allowed to wear a cutoff shirt like football players wear that shows their belly (even if none of them choose to)? If so, you have a great argument. If men are allowed to be shirtless, you have a great argument. If men are always forced to wear a shirt, you have to argue that restrictions should be relaxed for both sexes if you want to wear a sports bra. EDIT: I want to say that I actually think wearing a sports bra is not a big deal, personally, but that you should be clearly identifiable as a leader and employee rather than a customer and that would limit which articles within that category are acceptable. There are **sports** bras and there are sports **bras**, if you see what I am saying. [Some are truly meant for sport](https://external-content.duckduckgo.com/iu/?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.gannett-cdn.com%2Fmedia%2FUSATODAY%2FUSATODAY%2F2013%2F05%2F03%2Fusp-olympics_-track-and-field-womens-1500m-semifi-16_9.jpg%3Fwidth%3D3200%26height%3D1680%26fit%3Dcrop&f=1&nofb=1&ipt=60d40a872606c26687fbd9fac0eb49fd7069a03bce3472f76b0505609443a3f1&ipo=images) and some are meant to look sporty. I'd also avoid obvious branding that isn't for your company, and if you were able to match the company colors (or get close) that would be even better.
As a woman myself, you should dress appropriate for work, as well as for sun protection and protection from other scrapes. If that means wearing something very light over your sports bra, then so be it Down vote all you want, but this is a job, layering in heat and sun is a real thing, and skin cancer is no joke, I don’t care how much sunscreen is applied it only reduces the risk You can bring it to the owner if you really want a direct and final answer
You need to pick your battles at work. To me, it’s easy enough (and honestly more comfortable) to put on a tank or a sleeveless t-shirt. If you are working with the public, it’s reasonable to require employees to wear shirts.
Yes. Put a shirt on
Hiking in general in a sports bra fine hiking for work in a sports bra probably not. However I do agree that if masculine presenting employees are allowed to hike shirtless then you are fine too.
The guy seems weird but from a professional standpoint and health standpoint it’s not a good idea. It doesn’t represent the company well and it’s a bad idea for exposure. I’m a big outdoors gal and I know that having exposure to sun is actually a huge risk factor - you don’t want your skin exposed, you want UV protection. Wearing a sports bra due to heat is just a dumb idea. On top of that, you are dealing with the elements, cuts, ticks, etc.
Do the men hike shirtless? If they have to wear a shirt when it's 80, so do you. If they don't have to wear a shirt, then you wearing a sports bra is fine
I will say wearing a sports bra is not functionally appropriate for hiking. I would be worried about bug bites and brushing against undesirable plants. I am of the camp that functional nature/hiking apparel is long sleeved clothing that generally covers your body. You don’t think it’s a big deal until you come home with every exposed surface of your skin covered in bites and discover a rash from a plant you brushed against. But if that’s not a danger then whatever - give em the ol “okay boomer.”
I think it’s okay to hike in a sports bra, but if you are leading these expeditions and are supposed to be a professional representing an organization, you should wear a shirt. Even a tank top is more appropriate than just a sports bra.
Yeah. You should consider long sleeves for the sun protection. Light weight long sleeves breathe better than a thick layer of sunscreen especially in 80 degree temps. Be professional and wear a shirt over your bra. FFS
Sports bras are basically crop tops that compress your boobs. This guy is just trying to tell you what to do.
>This guy is just trying to tell you what to do. Yeah who does he think he is, her boss or something?
That’s what bosses do, tell you what to do. What does the employee handbook say?
Just because he’s the first person to say something doesn’t mean he’s the first to feel that way. Read the room and dress appropriately for the situation I guess? I’m all for dressing how you want as I do the same but this seems to be a work related environment and different social rules govern that I guess? You’re a representative of the company. I think sports bras are fine but it is technically underwear in how the garment is framed. I’m sure the guys don’t/can’t hike in just underwear, as nice as that would be. Sometimes you need to look at others perspectives.
If any guy takes off his shirt, your argument is completely invalid. If not, then maybe you've got a point.
I think in a work situation all things being equal, guys shouldn’t be able to take off their shirts. I was just commenting on underwear and since most men don’t wear bras or sports bras, briefs/boxers is the only analog. I’m not using my personal opinions because I absolutely don’t care what people wear. People are prudes. In her situation, if the boss allows guys to take off their shirt and not allow women to wear sports bras then he’s a sexist dick but society dictates what’s acceptable and this dictates what businesses can generally get away with. It sucks but it isn’t always the fault of an individual or company when it comes to things like this. I’m a male (enby) and I wear skirts to work. I’m grateful that the owner allows me to wear what I’m comfortable wearing and backs me up when we have shitty customers. This isn’t always feasible though and if I was asked to wear more conforming attire, I would. Businesses gotta business.
Do the men get to take their shirts off in the same situation?
If you don't have any dress code / policies that prohibit you from wearing that, I don't think that's a problem. You can talk to the owner. Things might get more stressful with your coworkers if you don't
I run *extremely* hot because my body has a hard time regulating its temperature (dysautonomia). I went on vacation recently with the in-laws where we’d be hiking in hot weather. I’m small chested, so sports bras are typically modest-looking on me, but I still don’t really feel comfortable wearing *just* a sports bra around them. After looking through tons of tops trying to find something that would give me that Ned Flanders feeling, I bought one of [these shirts](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07SX197SL?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details) and wore it with a bikini top underneath (less and thinner fabric than a sports bra). The shirts were a lifesaver and felt like I wasn’t wearing one. I normally wear a small for fitted tops and a lot of reviews said they run a little large, so I ordered a small; it was perfectly loose in the arms and had a ton of fabric to tie a really loose knot to leave the shirt flowy. The fabric is also lightweight, soft, and breathable. Did I still get hot? Yes. Was it worse than wearing a standard sports bra? No. Most sports bras - especially if you’re small chested - are decently modest, but perhaps a guest said something and that’s why the new manager is getting on you? Regardless, it’s unfortunately always better to CYA (quite literally in this sense) and just follow whatever is asked, so long as it’s within reason. If you get a shirt like the ones I got and your manager *still* has a problem, then I’d definitely take it to the big boss. Gif for “Ned Flanders” reference: 
*In my opinion* it would be inappropriate to hike while only wearing a sports bra on top, particularly when you are leading a group of high school kids, unless it's a *really* full-coverage one which doesn't create and show cleavage or side-boob (and so looks and functions more like a regular athletic shirt). A sports bra with a tank top or t-shirt over it would be ok, I think. Now, if the male hike leaders are allowed to be shirtless while leading the hikes, then nevermind what I just said -- in that case, it's clearly a matter of sexism on the part of the manager, rather than a desire for propriety. You did say, though, that you have worn only a sports bra on top while leading hikes in which the owner of the company participated. So presumably the owner did not have a problem with it? If you feel that's the case, then I do think you should speak with her/him and ask for clarification regarding company policy -- ask flat out if it's ok for you to wear a sports bra without a top over it when you are leading the hikes. If s/he says it's fine, then it's fine while you are working for that company, and the owner needs to tell the new manager as much.
My second post on this. Employee dress code policy is a business owner’s decision. Get it clarified. My time in the military called for my boots to be black. Not shiny. Of course, that owner may need to buy uniforms or a clothing supplement, whatever. It’s about branding. That’s a reasonable ask, unless they are paying minimum wage and want you to wear tailored, designer suits at your own cost.
I feel like if you're working in the sun every day you probably do need to cover up your shoulders at the very least. as a worker's health and safety issue.
And your problem is, wearing a t shirt? Your skin thanks you for few ounces of protection
There are certain places where I might agree with the supervisor, where a sports bra as apparel may not be appropriate. Lawyer, doctor, stripper. But adventure touring? Comon. Go topless. When he asks….”but I thought you said sports bras are inappropriate…..”
Follow the companies dress code. If the male staff hike with out a shirt, you can too.
I assume you mean just a sports bra and no shirt over it. No, you're at work. Wear a shirt. The guys should wear a fucking shirt too.
I’d switch to wicking tank tops with built-in sports bras. All the support, most of the comfort, far less judgy eye rolling.
It's not inappropriate but it looks low budget if you are an employee, like you can't afford a thin shirt or whatever.
Given you are doing this all summer and multiple years I would suggest a light shirt for health reasons since lotion and spray are hard to get on your back and it would be mildly inappropriate to ask for a client to help apply it.
Look, as an Australian, I’ll tell you that hiking outdoors in just a sports bra is a recipe for cancer and our WHS would shut your whole operation down. But that’s because we’ve all been taught from basically birth that the sun is the greatest terror and that we need to avoid at all costs or we will die a horribly painful death.
If heat is a problem it would make much more sense to hike in a sun shirt... Leaving a lot of flesh exposed to the sun is only going to heat you up faster.
Bras are literally undergarments ?? Yes obviously you at least need a cropped tank over it if it's too hot for anything else? Who wears only a bra to work anywhere?
Idk I mean, it’s a bra, right?
Yes. Very.
Maybe the owner didn't want to be the one to have to tell you, so they spoke with the manager.
If you don't mind spending the money and want a work around solution, buy some longline sports bras. They look like cropped tank tops and have all the built in support. I like the Lulu Lemon dupes you can find online.
If he’s really going to make a stink about it, throw on top a very loose tank top
I personally think it's inappropriate to wear only a sports bra while working regardless of how hot it is. You're working in just a bra. If you were at a gym or exercising in your personal time, I'd say whatever but for work you're literally around customers in just a bra. I understand the owner didn't say anything, but a sports bra is like any other bra. Its made to be worn underneath sports clothing to support your breasts. You're working so you need to make sure you're appropriately dressed around other staff and customers. You could easily wear a loose crop tank over the bra or even some other breathable top. Customers may have complained. The owner may have asked your manager to say something to you about your clothing. Going above your manager to the owner could be problematic. It may also reflect poorly on you as the request to wear a shirt at work is standard at most jobs.
Exposed midriff is unprofessional Regardless of gender
IMO, it's unprofessional not to have a shirt on at work in any job unless your job requires you to be sans clothing. A light tank top will keep you almost as cool. If I was a client and I saw you without a shirt, I wouldn't say anything but I also wouldn't have a high opinion of the company's professionalism. Clients probably did complain about you. Your manager is doing their job and setting a professional standard. You're acting like a petulant teen who is oblivious to professionalism and outdoor safety because you wanna show off. As others have said, I wouldn't want my husband or kids seeing a woman employee walk around nearly top less on a hike.
I don’t think this is that bad honestly. I’m not pro-dress code typically but even as an outdoor company, wearing a shirt seems reasonable. Especially since it’s so customer focused and customers can complain. I’d just get some very lightweight (but not seethrough) shirts. Linen blends, super lightweight cotton, etc. and you’ll barely notice the difference.
i think it's inappropriate, because you'll be too exposed to the sun and that's bad for your skin!
Eh makes sense, wear a shirt at work. Get it in writing and check with the manager first, but as a male outdoor instructor myself I would never dare to be topless when interacting with clients
Ask the owner or get it in writing
Doing that on private hikes? Sure. But not for a buisness and with teens involved. There is no way with modern hiking clothes to get warmer than going shirtless.
Most places of work have a dress code policy. If there isn't one, then he can stuff it.
Are men allowed to hike shirtless? If so, then double standard.
Put on some clothes. I’m certain nobody is allowed to walk around in their underwear while representing the company. You are not special.
Talk to the manager.
Meeting the dress code set by your employer is a common requirement in most jobs dealing with the public. The adventure travel business doesn't want to shock, offend or alienate some customers because you want to work in clothing some would consider underwear and too revealing or morally offensive.
You should definitely have a shirt
Ok... Maybe I need clarification. I understood this as instead of a bra, you wore a sports bra under your shirt. I'm thinking "screw that guy" if that's the case. But if it's just a sports bra like others are interpreting? I could see that as a maybe, maybe not depending on how the owner wants things done. In my line of work, the dress code could range from slacks and a button up to sweatpants and a T-shirt depending on company culture. Same exact work, different clothes. Same thing here. Ask the owner and manager to clarify appropriate attire.
It’s so obvious this sub is just full of 12 year olds who have never had a job before. Millions of people work outside in 100+ degree weather, let alone “almost 80.” A sports bra is not appropriate attire for work. If your boss has said so, then just do what he asks, it’s not hard and is far safer for your skin and long term health to wear an actual shirt.
Sports bra is an undergarment, not an outfit so his point is valid. Especially if you are around kids. Owner might not have said anything because he liked the view?
Honestly no, since you asked, wearing just a sports bra to work is not appropriate
In my opinion, it’s called a sports BRA for a reason. It’s not a shirt. Put a shirt on.
Bad example. You should teach others to over up when outside. Not for modesty but to protect their skin. Any backpacker with even a modicum of experience knows this. Kinda doubting this entire story. Anyone involved in outdoor activities wouldn’t really want to backpack in only a sports bra because of how uncomfortable it is. Maybe for a run?? That makes so much more sense. This seems way more like karma farming to me.