11 best sports bras for every type of workout & cup size

A sports bra is probably your most trusted piece of clothing, whether you’re on the run or just running errands.

A wardrobe essential, it anchors your look and provides support during your more active moments as well. In any modern wardrobe, finding the right pair (or two, or three) is essential because, like any other item in the wardrobe, certain styles are suitable for different needs.

It is best to choose sports bras with full coverage and adjustable straps for high-intensity sweating and especially for women with larger chests. Rather than feeling restrictively tight, don’t forget that a comfortable and flexible fit is key when it comes to doing low-impact workouts like Pilates or yoga. Sizing fits should be seamless so they do not get in your way during exercises that require focus on stability as well breathing techniques.

In addition to function-first sports bras, sports bras in trendier silhouettes work harder, too, like long-line silhouettes and cropped tanks. They can be worn as tops with matching bottoms, or mixed with jeans and skirts for everyday wear.

There are times when a sporty bra can feel essential even to those less intrigued by a fitness regimen. For instance, a classic racerback made with moisture-wicking fabric adds athletic nonchalance to high-rise trousers and a blazer (not to mention its incredible breathability).

Similarly, a minimally cut crop or bustier-style bra—both are undeniably chic with matching leggings in the studio but transform into something more polished with pleated pants, layered under a button-down, or styled with a slip skirt.

Whether you choose to wear a sports bra for everyday wear or an athletic event, check out Wearavo’s edit of the top sports bras for every activity and desire.

Best Sports Bra That Lifts and Separates

Wacoal Underwire Sports Bra:

Wacoal Underwire Sports Bra

This Wacoal Underwire Sports Bra resembles a classic T-shirt bra but delivers maximum support thanks to the external floating underwire that lifts, separates, shapes, as well as stabilizes your breasts.

With no padding, this easy-to-wear, lightweight sports bra provides support and compression to keep your breasts upright.

Featuring soft, moisture-wicking fabric and a breathable mesh back, this bra helps keep the body cool and dry during intense workouts, and wide, adjustable straps evenly distribute weight. It’s available in band sizes 32-42, cup sizes C-H, and many different colors such as black, lilac grey, nude, and more.

THE BEST SPORTS BRA FOR BIGGER BUSTS

FREYA DYNAMIC SPORTS BRA:

FREYA DYNAMIC SPORTS BRA

Among the best sports bras for large breasts, this hardworking number goes up to a size 38J. It minimizes jiggle for even the largest breast sizes without sacrificing comfort.

The simple details, such as a wide under band (that won’t cut into your skin), padded straps, and soft-backed fastenings, make all the difference. Having no underwriting is also a plus.

If you normally wear a size up in the cup, you may want to size down on the back because it does come up on the back. For those who are unsure about their bra size in general, Bravissimo offers free, online bra fittings with one of their helpful customer service advisors.

 

Best for Small Cup Sizes

Champion Women’s Show-Off Sports Bra:

Champion Women’s Show-Off Sports Bra

Make your workout more colorful with this vibrant, minimalist sports bra that keeps you dry with moisture-wicking Double Dry technology. The soft and cushioned band keeps the bra in place and prevents chafing, while mesh panels provide additional ventilation.

This pullover-style sports bra offers high-impact support for cup sizes A to C, as well as medium support for cup sizes D and DD. Various colors and sizes are available.

BEST PLUS SIZE SPORTS BRA  

Glamorise Women’s Full Figure No Bounce Sports Bra:  

Glamorise Women's Full Figure No Bounce Sports Bra

This sports bra from Glamorise hasn’t been tested yet, but it is one of Amazon’s top sellers in the plus-size sports bra category, and it has a 4.1 out of 5-star rating and more than 12,000 reviews. A wide variety of band and cup sizes are available from 34C-50J on this wire-free bra. Additionally, the straps are adjustable and cushioned to ensure dig-free comfort.

Besides the “no-bounce” promise, this bra also comes with a mesh insert in front to help support and contain the chest.

 

THE BEST SPORTS BRA FOR SMALLER BUSTS

FALKE SHAPE MELANGE LOW SUPPORT WOMEN SPORT-BRA:

FALKE SHAPE MELANGE LOW SUPPORT WOMEN SPORT-BRA

For the yoga enthusiast, this fuss-free bra will comfortably support your bust as you flow through your sun salutations. It is easily concealed beneath your gym top thanks to the narrow and adjustable back strap, which guarantees a perfect fit. Hot yoga enthusiasts will appreciate how fast this sports bra dries thanks to the double-layer fabric. 

Due to its design, it isn’t suitable for larger boobs, so it is recommended for low-impact exercise. However, if you’re looking for a cozy sleep bra or something to wear at home, then this might be right for you.

 

BEST MATERNITY SPORTS BRA

Panache Ultimate High Impact Underwire Sports Bra:

FALKE SHAPE MELANGE LOW SUPPORT WOMEN SPORT-BRA

Our team asked our editors to weigh in on maternity sports bras because neither of us has tried one yet. Here’s what Nora says: “I almost exclusively use Panache underwire sports bras, which come in cup sizes B-J. I’ve worn them running, hiking, on trampolines, etc. I’ve used them for a variety of activities.

They aren’t cheap (they cost anywhere from $50 to $80), but they work great if you need a larger bra size. If you don’t happen to be going to a bra/lingerie store, you can find them online — I frequently visit Amazon or Bare Necessities”.

 

BEST HIGH-IMPACT SPORTS BRA

SYROKAN Women’s High Impact Sports Bra:

SYROKAN Women's High Impact Sports Bra

Sports bras like this SYROKAN sports bra are a good choice for full-figured women as they feature independent straps that can be adjusted discreetly without taking the bra off.

You can find the perfect fit with the front-adjustable straps and the hidden hook-and-loop closure, which is a game-changer. Featuring a wide underband for stability and a full-coverage fit, this bra promotes motion reduction and shock absorption.

The bra’s molded, padded cups provide excellent support even after strenuous exercise. This racerback bra keeps you cool and dry while exercising thanks to its mesh inserts.

 

BEST MEDIUM-IMPACT SPORTS BRAS

Sweaty Betty Stamina Workout Bra:

Sweaty Betty Stamina Workout Bra

With Sweaty Betty’s Stamina Workout Bra, you’ll enjoy hiking, going for a spin class, and even HIIT workouts that don’t involve too much jumping. With its pull-over design, this bra is easy to put on and take off, and its non-padded design is just what we needed. If you’re someone who wears sports bras with padding, you might miss the extra coverage.

In addition to the cup’s wide chest band and racerback design, the bra also has a higher neckline for extra coverage, which we liked. Unlike the other bras mentioned above, this bra isn’t as compressive as the others.

It’s also available in several colors to suit your style. The bra comes in sizes XS to XXXL, so you’ll need to consult the size guide to calculate the right size. It may not give adequate support to women with bra sizes above a C cup, even though it’s only a medium-impact bra. For women with a bra size of A-C cups, though, this is a good choice.

BEST LOW-IMPACT SPORTS BRAS

Nike Dri-FIT Indy:

Nike Dri-FIT Indy

Since its debut, the Nike Dri-FIT Indy bra has been one of the most popular yoga bras on the market. It provides excellent comfort – the straps can be adjusted from the front of the bra rather than having to struggle awkwardly to tighten them on the back.

Nike has added plenty of ventilation panels to keep you cool during a workout, while flat seams prevent chafing or pinching. Although it offers minimal support, the fit is tighter than a typical bra. This bra has a body-hugging fit that feels reassuring when you are working out for extended periods, including yoga and Pilates. One downside of this bra is the inserts.

If you want to keep the inserts in the bra, you will have to move them back into place after washing the bra. It is worth investing in this bra if you are prone to pulling out the padding the minute you cut the tags off the bra.

BEST AFFORDABLE SPORTS BRA

ADIDAS DON’T REST ALPHASKIN PADDED BRA:

ADIDAS DON'T REST ALPHASKIN PADDED BRA

This ultra-stretchy elastane blend bra is more like a crop top than a bra. The majority of the support comes from the racerback, which helps distribute your breast load while allowing you to move freely. With a power-mesh lining and moisture-absorbing properties, this sports bra keeps you cool and comfortable during your workout no matter how sweaty it gets.

This particular feature makes this sports bra one of the best for summer. The removable padding is cleverly tucked into the side of the bra, so you can boost your bust as needed. Perfect if you have different-sized boobs, as you can leave one in and take one out to even things out.

 

BEST SPORTS BRA FOR YOGA

Mindful Seamless Bamboo Yoga Bra:

Mindful Seamless Bamboo Yoga Bra

Tamara Hill-Norton, the founder of Sweaty Betty, created the brand because she was uninspired by traditional sportswear offerings and wanted to make sweating cool. With both a strappy back and ribbed finish, this bra takes all we love about the brand and makes it even better.

Besides looking smart, it’s also sweat-wicking and has a supportive underband that makes it ideal for light workouts in yoga, barre, and Pilates studios. While Sweaty Betty is on the pricier end of the spectrum, you’ll never go back once you’ve tried its designs.

best sports bra for wide back

Lululemon Enlite Bra:

Lululemon Enlite Bra

Lululemon’s Enlite bra has the highest level of support among all the bras we tested. It proved to be incredibly supportive for everything from a HIIT class to a marathon. You can order your normal bra size with this bra, unlike other bras on this list, rather than converting your size into S, M, or L.

When tested with the regular Enlite, we found no chafing or rubbing. However, we did experience rubbing when wearing the Enlite with the zip-front, which rubbed when wet.

In addition to being machine-washable (on a gentle cycle), the hook-and-eye closure and wide back closure make getting on and off the bra easy, even after a particularly strenuous run. There is one downside to the Enlite bra, and that is the price.

It’s recommended that you replace your sports bra every six to twelve months to make sure it provides the right amount of support (obviously, the more you wear the bra, the quicker it will wear out). If you can afford it, a bra that costs about $100 every six months is an excellent investment.

 

Here’s how to choose a sports bra that fits your shape (and your workout)

To find the best sports bra for you, you’ll want to find a style that fits your size and activity level.

Here’s what to keep in mind as you shop:

  • Sizing: Check each brand’s size chart carefully; – each one varies a bit. Don’t worry if your sports bra size differs from your usual bra or T-shirt size: If you wear a sports bra, it should feel more compressed than a regular bra, but it shouldn’t feel constricting or uncomfortable.
  • Compression vs. encapsulation: The terms compression and encapsulation bras may appear in the description. Compression bras hug against your body and are best for smaller cup sizes, whereas encapsulation bras separate breasts for individual support (and frequently look like a regular T-shirt bra underneath clothes). The best bras for larger cups are those that offer encapsulation, or a combination of compression and encapsulation, to prevent movement in all
  • Moisture management: It’s important to wear a bra that wicks sweat away from the skin and dries quickly so you won’t stay soaked with moisture. The easiest way to find out whether a bra can wick moisture away from your body is to put a drop of water on the inside, anywhere it touches your skin. Water should spread quickly; if it beads up, it isn’t a wicking material.
  • Chafing and irritation: The common complaint with sports bras is a combination of sweat and rubbing. You’ll also want a bra that has minimal seams and stitching during exercise to help reduce friction, especially during activities such as running when there’s a lot of motion. Make sure your bra isn’t too big or too small, too.
  • Style: You can choose from many different types of bras, but the best one for you will depend on your preferences and your level of activity. For a wider range of motion, opt for racerback designs. For extra support, choose bras with wires and built-in or removable cups. Try styles with adjustable straps and hook-eye closures if you’re having trouble finding a good fit.
 

What happens if you don’t wear a sports bra?

It is important to wear the right bra at the right time, especially if you work out regularly. Avoiding breast bounce can prevent back pain and irreversible sagging; nobody wants that.

 Is a sports bra suitable for large breasts?

With a wide range of options for women of all shapes and sizes, sports bras are designed to provide special support while exercising. In order to choose one that prevents back pain and sagging, you’ll need to decide whether you want a compression bra or one with an integrated cup. If you’re smaller busted from A-C, you’ll be fine with a compression bra. If you’re big up top, you’ll need an inbuilt cup, which will be more supportive and comfortable, as well as less likely to cause chafing – especially if you run long distances. Whether you’re after a bra for a particular sport or an all-rounder, we have reviewed our expert opinions and user reviews to bring you the best sports bra offers below.

Can a sports bra be worn all the time?

Sports bras are perfectly safe to wear for prolonged periods. Although they sit tighter than regular bras, they shouldn’t feel too tight or painful. The marks your bra leaves on your shoulders or your bust indicate that it is too small for you.

How much support do I need in my sports bra?

Women should choose a sports bra that feels comfortable and supportive of their body type. If you’ve never worn a sports bra before, it should fit more snugly than normal underwear but not be uncomfortable. Ensure that the bottom band of the brad supports the bulk of the weight. It should be snug, but it shouldn’t restrict your movements or feel painful. Last but not least, make sure the straps do not cut into your skin or fall off. Select a bra with wide straps if you have a large bust to distribute weight evenly without digging into your shoulders.

How should I choose the right size sports bra?

Sports bras are usually the same size as your regular bra. However, there is no magic formula, and the best way to determine what size fits you are to try on several sizes. There is a good chance that every brand is different, so even if the sports bras are the same size, they may fit differently.

 
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