The Best Sports Bras

Finding a sports bra that’s comfortable, supportive, and genuinely works for your training can be harder than it should be. From easy runs to high-impact workouts - whether you’re running a 5K or training for a marathon - the right fit can make all the difference.

To help you find a sports bra that truly works, we’ve rounded up our top picks across a range of activities and body types. This guide breaks down the best sports bras into 5 different categories: running, high-impact, low-impact and large breasts, so you can choose with confidence and focus on your training.
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Why trust us?

Runna exists to help people train better. We know how much the right kit can impact comfort, confidence, and performance.

Our team lives and breathes running, and we apply that same performance-first mindset to the gear we recommend. Every sports bra in this guide has earned its place by being reliable, comfortable, and well-regarded by runners and fitness communities alike.
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How to choose the right sports bra

The best sports bra for you depends on how you train, how much support you need, and what feels comfortable on your body. With so many styles available, breaking it down into a few key factors can make choosing the right one much easier.

1. Match the support level to your activity

Different workouts call for different levels of support.

- High-impact activities like running and HIIT usually need maximum support.
- Medium-impact training such as gym workouts or easy runs benefits from a balance of support and comfort.
- Low-impact movement like yoga or Pilates typically works best with lighter support and more flexibility.

2. Decide between compression and encapsulation

- Compression bras press the chest against the body and are often simpler in design. They tend to work well for smaller chests and lower- to medium-impact workouts.
- Encapsulation bras support each breast individually and usually offer more structure. These are often preferred for higher-impact activities and larger busts.

Some high-support bras combine both for added stability.

3. Get the fit right

Fit is just as important as support. A sports bra should feel secure without being restrictive.

- The band should sit firmly around your ribcage without riding up - this is where most of the support comes from.
- Straps should feel supportive but not dig in or slip. Adjustable straps can help fine-tune the fit.
- There shouldn’t be gaping, rubbing, or pinching, and you should be able to breathe comfortably.

4. Consider fabric and breathability

Sweat-wicking, breathable fabrics can make a big difference, especially during longer or warmer workouts. Look for materials that dry quickly and feel soft against the skin to help reduce irritation.

Seam placement also matters - flat seams or seamless designs tend to be more comfortable during repetitive movement.

5. Think about practical features

Depending on how you train, small details can make a big difference:

- Adjustable straps or bands for a more personalised fit
- Front-zip or hook-and-eye closures for easier on and off
- Pockets if you like to carry essentials hands-free
- Wired vs non-wired depending on your preference for structure and separation
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Best sports bras for running 

Running places repeated impact on the body, which means a good running sports bra needs to do more than just feel comfortable at first try-on. The best options stay secure through constant movement, manage sweat effectively, and remain comfortable over time - whether you’re heading out for a short easy run or spending hours on your feet. These picks stand out for how consistently they perform while running.
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Best overall running bra: Brooks Racerback 2.0 Sports Bra

The Brooks Dare Racerback Run Bra is designed specifically for running and uses moulded, seam-free cups to provide support without excessive compression. This construction helps reduce bounce while maintaining a smooth, streamlined feel against the skin.

The racerback design keeps the bra stable during movement, and the pullover style eliminates hardware that could cause irritation on longer runs. It’s a strong all-round option for runners looking for a running-specific bra that works comfortably across different distances and paces.

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Best sports bra for running with pockets: rabbit UtiliBra-vo

The rabbit UtiliBra-vo is built with integrated storage, including a secure back pocket designed to hold small essentials like a phone, keys, or fuel. The pockets are positioned close to the body to minimise movement while running.

Despite the added functionality, the bra maintains a supportive, close-to-body fit. It’s designed so that carrying items doesn’t compromise comfort or stability, making it a practical choice for runners who prefer hands-free storage without wearing a belt or vest.

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Best for easy runs and everyday miles: Sweaty Betty Power Icon Bra

The Sweaty Betty Power Icon Bra is a medium-support, compression-style bra that works well for lower-intensity running and everyday training. It offers enough support for steady miles without the firm feel associated with high-impact bras.

The pull-on design and comfortable fabric make it easy to wear for shorter runs, recovery days, or mixed workout sessions. It’s a dependable option when comfort and simplicity are more important than maximum support.

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Best for high-impact running: Shock Absorber Ultimate Run Bra

The Shock Absorber Ultimate Run Bra is designed specifically for high-impact activity and focuses on firm compression to limit movement. It uses a structured, non-padded design and a secure fit to reduce bounce during faster running or interval sessions.

It’s less flexible than lighter options, but that’s the trade-off for the level of stability it provides. For high-impact running where bounce control is the main concern, it delivers consistent, reliable support.

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Best for running in hot weather: Oiselle Hi Twenty Bra

The Oiselle Hi Twenty Bra is a lightweight, pullover bra with a minimal design aimed at improving comfort in warm conditions. Its reduced bulk and breathable construction help heat escape more easily during runs.

Because it doesn’t feel heavy as you sweat, it works well for summer running or warmer climates. It’s best suited to runners who want a simpler, more breathable option for shorter to mid-length runs.

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Most comfortable for long runs: Janji Infinity Sports Bra

The Janji Infinity Sports Bra is a medium-support, unpadded pull-over bra made with Janji’s smooth Groundwork knit fabric and a powermesh lining for breathable, lightly compressive support. This layered construction helps provide steady support while remaining comfortable over extended periods.

The smooth fabric and stable fit reduce the likelihood of irritation building up over long distances, making it well suited to longer runs. Many versions also feature reversible styling! For runners prioritising comfort and consistency over time, this is a strong long-run option.

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Best high-impact sports bras

High-impact workouts create repeated, forceful movement, which means a sports bra needs to prioritise stability, structure, and a secure fit. The best high-impact bras focus on minimising movement while remaining comfortable enough to train in regularly. Here are our top picks.
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Best overall high-impact: lululemon Run Times Bra

The lululemon Run Times Bra is a high-support bra designed specifically for running and other high-impact activities. It features encapsulation-style cups that support each breast individually, helping to limit movement without relying solely on compression.

Adjustable straps and a hook-and-eye back closure allow for a more customised fit, which can be especially helpful during high-impact workouts. The overall construction provides a secure, structured feel while remaining comfortable enough for longer or more demanding sessions, making it a strong all-round high-impact option.

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Best for large breasts & best for adjustability: SHEFIT Ultimate Sports Bra

The SHEFIT Ultimate Sports Bra is built around customisable support, which makes it particularly effective for larger busts and high-impact training. Its fully adjustable shoulder straps and underband allow the fit to be tightened or loosened as needed, helping to reduce movement during intense workouts.

This adjustability makes it easier to achieve a secure, supportive fit than with fixed-size bras, especially for those who struggle to find enough support in standard sizing. The high-coverage, structured design provides a very secure feel, making it a reliable option for high-impact activity where stability is the priority.

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Best encapsulation: Wacoal Sport Underwire Bra

The Wacoal Sport Underwire Bra uses a true encapsulation design, supporting each breast separately rather than compressing the chest as a whole. This structure is combined with an underwire to provide added stability and shape during high-impact movement.

Encapsulation bras like this are often preferred by those who want strong support with separation, particularly during running or other high-impact training. The result is a secure, supportive fit that feels structured rather than restrictive.

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Best versatile option: Oiselle Queen Bra

The Oiselle Queen Bra is designed to adapt across different types of training, thanks to its convertible strap configuration. This allows the fit and feel to be adjusted depending on the activity, while still offering the level of support needed for high-impact movement.

The bra provides a structured, supportive fit suitable for running and other intense workouts, while the convertible design adds versatility for those who want one bra that works across multiple training styles.

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Best low-impact sports bras

Low-impact activities like yoga, Pilates and barre don’t require the same level of support as running or high-impact training. Instead, the focus shifts to comfort, freedom of movement, and a fit that feels easy to wear for longer periods. Here are our favs:
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Best sports bras for yoga: lululemon Like a Cloud Bra

The lululemon Like a Cloud Bra is a light-support bra designed for low-impact movement such as yoga and Pilates. It’s made from a soft, sweat-wicking fabric with moulded foam cups that provide gentle shaping while allowing full freedom of movement.

The four-way stretch construction helps the bra move with you through poses, and the pullover design keeps it smooth and comfortable against the skin. Available in a wider range of sizes than many minimal yoga bras, including options for larger cups, it’s a versatile and inclusive choice for studio-based workouts.

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Best ultra-light studio bra: lululemon Flow Y Bra

The lululemon Flow Y Bra is designed for studio-based movement where lightness and flexibility take priority over cushioning or structure. Compared to the Like a Cloud Bra, it has a more minimal, low-profile design, with no moulded cups and less built-up support, resulting in a noticeably lighter feel on the body.

Slim straps and a soft, stretchy fabric allow the bra to move easily with you without adding extra padding or compression. It’s best suited to sessions where you want your sports bra to stay out of the way and feel unobtrusive, rather than offering the cushioned, cloud-like support found in more structured studio bras.

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Best everyday life & lounge: REI Co-op Active Bralette 2.0

The REI Co-op Active Bralette 2.0 is built for all-day comfort rather than structured support. Its bralette-style design provides light support in a relaxed fit that works well for rest days, low-intensity movement, or everyday wear.

The straightforward construction and soft fabric make it easy to wear for extended periods, whether you’re at home or out and about.

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Best for athleisure and comfort: Vuori AllTheFeels Bra

The Vuori AllTheFeels Bra sits at the crossover between activewear and everyday wear. It offers light support in a streamlined design that works for gentle workouts and casual use.

Its smooth, flexible construction makes it comfortable enough to wear beyond training, which is why it’s often chosen as an athleisure option rather than a purely performance-focused bra.

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Best sports bras for large breasts

For larger busts, support and structure are essential. Finding a sports bra that truly does its job in this department can be difficult. The bras below are chosen for how well they combine stability, comfort, and thoughtful design, whether you’re running, training hard, or wearing them for everyday workouts.

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Best overall for large breasts: SHEFIT Ultimate Sports Bra

The SHEFIT Ultimate Sports Bra stands out for larger busts thanks to its exceptional adjustability and high-impact support. With adjustable shoulder straps and a fully adjustable underband, it allows you to fine-tune the fit in a way fixed-size bras can’t, helping reduce movement during intense workouts.

This customisable fit makes it effective across a range of activities, from running to gym training, while the structured design provides a secure, locked-in feel. For those who need maximum support and control - and want a bra that adapts to their body - this level of adjustability is what sets it apart as the top overall option.

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Best for breathability: Brooks Crossback 2.0 Sports Bra

The Brooks Crossback 2.0 Sports Bra pairs supportive structure with enhanced breathability, which can be a big comfort factor during sweaty workouts or longer sessions. It uses moisture-managing fabrics and mesh details that help air circulate, reducing heat and improving comfort without sacrificing support.

For larger chests, this means a sports bra that feels more forgiving in warm conditions or high-effort training, while still maintaining a secure, stable fit.

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Best front-closure sports bra: lululemon Energy Bra High Support Zip-Front

The lululemon Energy Bra High Support Zip-Front takes a supportive high-impact design and adds a front closure for easier on and off. This is especially useful for larger busts, where pulling a tight sports bra over the head can feel restrictive post-workout.

The zip-front closure stays secure in motion, and the design is built to accommodate cup sizes up to a G, giving it broader sizing than many equivalent high-support bras. For larger busts that want both strong support and practical ease of use, this bra strikes a great balance.

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Best plus-size sports bra: Glamorise No-Bounce Camisole Elite Sports Bra

The Glamorise No-Bounce Camisole Elite Sports Bra is an incredible option. Its breathable camisole design uses a mesh insert and high-tech, moisture-wicking fabric to help manage sweat and heat during workouts, while full-coverage, reinforced non-stretch cups provide smooth support that minimises bounce during walking, gym sessions, or higher-impact movement.

Wide, adjustable straps and a stay-in-place back with a multi-column hook-and-eye closure help keep the fit secure through motion, and the high neckline delivers extra coverage. Designed in sizes up to 50” bust and cup sizes into the G/H range, it accommodates a broad range of plus-size bodies while combining support and coverage in a single, structured bra. 

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Best wired option: Elomi Energise Sports Bra

The Elomi Energise Sports Bra uses a structured wired design to deliver enhanced support and separation for larger busts during high-impact activity. The underwire frame helps anchor the fit and channel movement away from the chest, giving a feeling of extra stability compared to non-wired alternatives.

It still incorporates moisture-managing performance fabrics and a supportive band, but the wired construction distinguishes it for those who prefer that additional structure under load.


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How to measure for a sports bra?

Getting the right size is key to comfort and support. Here’s how to measure yourself at home.

1. Measure your underbust

Using a soft measuring tape, measure around your ribcage directly under your bust. Keep the tape snug and level, but not tight. This measurement helps determine your band size.

2. Measure your bust

Next, measure around the fullest part of your bust. The tape should sit comfortably and not compress your chest. Make sure it’s level all the way around.

3. Work out your size

For sports bras that use bra sizing (for example, 32C, 34D), the difference between your bust and underbust measurements helps determine your cup size. For bras sized as XS-XL, use your measurements alongside the brand’s size guide, as sizing can vary.

4. Use fit as the final check

Measurements are a starting point. Once the bra is on, how it feels matters just as much (see below).

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How should a sports bra fit?

Once you’ve found the right size, how a sports bra actually feels when you wear it is just as important. A well-fitting sports bra should feel supportive and secure, without being uncomfortable or restrictive.

It should feel snug, not tight

A sports bra needs to fit more firmly than an everyday bra, but you should still be able to breathe comfortably. You shouldn’t feel pressure on your chest or ribs, and nothing should feel painfully tight.

The band should stay in place

The band provides most of the support, so it should sit flat around your ribcage and stay put when you move. If it rides up your back or shifts during exercise, it’s likely too loose.

Straps should support without digging in

Straps should feel secure but not cut into your shoulders or slip off. Adjustable straps can help fine-tune the fit, especially if you have a longer or shorter torso.

There shouldn’t be any rubbing or gaping

You shouldn’t notice any pinching, chafing, or gaping around the cups, underarms, or neckline. If you feel rubbing when standing still, it’s likely to get worse once you start moving.

Test it with movement

Before committing, try a few movements - jumping, jogging on the spot, or reaching overhead. A good sports bra should stay put without needing adjustment.

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How do I wash and care for my sports bra?

Taking proper care of your sports bras helps them last longer and ensures the fabric and support continue to perform as they should. Because sports bras absorb a lot of sweat, washing them soon after hard or sweaty workouts is important to prevent odour build-up and protect the elasticity of the fabric.

When washing, use a cold, gentle cycle with mild detergent and avoid fabric softener, which can coat the fibres and reduce breathability and moisture-wicking performance. If possible, placing bras in a mesh laundry bag can help protect straps, seams, and closures during the wash.

Heat can damage elastic and reduce support over time, so it’s best to avoid the tumble dryer. Instead, air dry sports bras by laying them flat or hanging them up to help them maintain their shape and fit. Rotating between a few bras rather than wearing the same one repeatedly also gives the fabric time to recover, helping each bra last longer. If a sports bra starts to feel loose, the band stretches out, or support noticeably drops, it’s likely time to replace it - even if it still looks fine.

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How do I prevent my sports bra from chafing?

Chafing is most common during longer or sweatier workouts, when repeated movement and moisture combine. It often shows up in the same areas each time, which can be a useful clue when figuring out what to change.

Seam placement is a key factor. If irritation keeps appearing in one spot, it’s often down to where seams or edges sit against areas that move repeatedly. Trying a different cut, strap layout, or neckline can make a noticeable difference, particularly around the underarms or centre chest.

For sessions where friction is hard to avoid, applying a small amount of anti-chafe balm or petroleum jelly to high-contact areas can help reduce irritation. Washing sports bras regularly also matters, as sweat and salt build-up can make fabric feel rougher over time, increasing the likelihood of rubbing.

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