20 Sports Bras Runners Swear By (2024)

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As female runners, we’ve known for a long while that strapping in breasts can be tricky business. We’re lucky to live in a time of renaissance for sports bra design, where brands like Reebok, Lululemon, and Nike are developing new adaptive fabrics that respond to force and movement. We definitely have it better than the days where a sports bra was simply two jock-straps sewn together, as the first jog-bra in 1977 was, but even with all the advances, styles, shapes, and sizes, it’s estimated that 70 to 100 percent of women are wearing the wrong size bra. And sports science research being performed all over continue to reveal that different sized breasts are going to require different features.

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To help you navigate it all, we’ve compiled the best sports bras on the market for all-sized breasts. Here are our top 20 favorite run-approved styles.

Oiselle Pockito Sports Bra | $58

20 Sports Bras Runners Swear By (1)

Wait, a super stylish, supportive, AND functional sports bra? With a large center pocket smack in front and two side mesh options under the arms, you’ll want all your sports bras to have such hidden gems of storage.

Champion Racerback Compression Bra | $30

20 Sports Bras Runners Swear By (2)

The classic shape with a trendy tie-dye twist. Moderate sleek support with a super-soft band is soft (read: it won’t cause digging or irritation to the skin).

Rabbit Utilibra-vo | $50

20 Sports Bras Runners Swear By (3)

Alright, we’re not done just yet with the clever storage. Another great option for those runners who refuse to go without their phone but never have a clever place to put it, this bra has a pocket on the back just for your device. Provides moderate support for runners with A/B or B/C cups with a higher neckline and thicker straps for comfort.

Kari Traa Ness Sports Bra | $40

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A seamless, longer line bra means a smooth and chafe-free feel no matter how many miles you rack up. The minimal construction, with mapped-out ventilation, keeps you cool while supporting you and your natural shape.

Nike Fe/Nom Flyknit | $80

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Nike used their Flyknit technology to combine encapsulation and compression for a high-support bra sans bulk, stitching, and bonding; it’s actually 30 percent lighter than any other bra in Nike’s line.

Puma Forever Luxe Training Sports Bra | $60

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Premium fabrics combine with high-tech features to create a stand-out pull-over sports bra. The wide ribbed band below the breast offers support and flexibility.

New Balance Power X Bra | $60

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Over the head design with a hook and eye closure in the back for a secure fit during max-intensity workouts like running. Soft jersey fabric with NB DRY technology and breathable cups will keep your top half dry. Padded straps are fully adjustable for a customized fit. The soft V-neck line gives it a feminine and flattering look.

Sweaty Betty Ultra Run Sports Bra | $68

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The over the head compression and encapsulation design will support sizes up to an F cup. Seaming and mesh panels are strategically placed for a pleasant feel and superior ventilation. Made for runs and other intense cardio sweat moments.

Under Armour UA Vanish High Bra | $60

20 Sports Bras Runners Swear By (9)

The racerback straps attach closer to the center of your back, which won’t bug your shoulders but can still support sizes all the way up to 44 DDD.

All In Motion High Support Zip-front Bra | $24

20 Sports Bras Runners Swear By (10)

Nothing like the sweet relief of a zip front closure bra after a super sweat-filled run. Another convenience, the price. All the support and wicking capabilities are wrapped up in a high-impact bra with an affordable price tag.

Lululemon Run Times Bra | $68

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Built for women with B through E cups that don’t want underwire, Lycra adds extra stretch and shape retention to the brand’s standard four-way stretch fabric with less pointiness than you’ll find in some encapsulation bras.

Champion Spot Comfort Sports Bra | $48

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Adjustable, gel-cushioned straps reduce pressure and irritation, minimizing molded cups provide a more natural shape, and strategic ventilation keeps heat from getting trapped in your cleavage.

Handful Y Back Bra | $56

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C and D cups note, reviewers share this will hold all of you in, which means no spillage, full support with a sexy look. Smooth, silky fabric and no clasps will prevent rubbing and chafing from occurring.

Brooks Running Dare Zip | $70

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Forget sweaty post-run sports bra struggles with this front-zip; with smooth, free-cut edges and minimal seams, chafing will be a thing of the past.

Lululemon Enlite Bra | $98

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This bra is pretty revolutionary. Rarely do you get to keep your natural shape and get the support you need for a rigorous run, but you can count on both with this bra. Great for A-E with a bond-ed underwire that won’t dig or ride up. (Moms-to-be also names this as one of their favs.)

Reebok Pure Move Bra | $60

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A sports bra shouldn’t have a mind of its own, but many, unfortunately, do. The Pure Move reacts to your body with personalized and technical support, no matter if you are sprinting or stretching.

Wacoal Sports Underwire Bra | $68

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Ladies who are larger up top run in something that might surprise ladies who are under a C-cup: an underwire bra. This high-impact bra will last for miles. Movement is at a minimum, and the smooth fabric will make it hard for you not to keep it on all day.

Brooks Drive Convertible Sports Bra | $55

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A new style from one of the best sports bra makers absorbs shock without a built-in cup. So you get the help with a minimal shape. With adjustable straps that go from scoop to racer, this is certainly worth adding to your rotation.

Panache Ultimate High Impact Underwire Sports Bra | $50

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Looking to eliminate some bounce while you jog? This bra reduces the discomfort by over 80 percent. Smooth seams and cushion straps on the shoulder and back eliminate chafing and irritation. Cups have individual support for a perfect fit. If you want to match the line of your racerback tank, no problem, this quickly converts with an easy-to-use J-hook.

Cadenshae Fit2feed Maternity Bra | $55

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New mothers will quickly find that their breasts might need different support post-baby. This bra doesn’t only offer you a discrete way to feed your baby, but it’s comfortable and can withstand intense runs.

20 Sports Bras Runners Swear By (2024)

FAQs

How many sports bras should a runner have? ›

Depending on the type of exercise, how often you work out, and how often you do your laundry, the number of sports bras you should own can vary. If you want to put a solid number on it, try to have at least three sports bras in your wardrobe, with one option to handle high-impact workouts.

What is the most supportive sports bra for running? ›

The Best Sports Bras for Runners
  • Best for Large Breasts: Lululemon Energy Bra.
  • Best Compression: Knix Catalyst Sports Bra.
  • Most Breathable: Champion The Spot Comfort Sports Bra.
  • Fastest Drying: Alta Medium Impact Sports Bra.
  • Best Support for High Impact: Reebok Running Essentials High-Impact Sports Bra.
Mar 20, 2024

What happens if I only wear sports bras all the time? ›

Sports bras are often made from moisture-wicking materials to keep you dry during workouts. However, wearing them all day, especially in hot or humid conditions, could create an environment conducive to bacterial growth and skin irritation.

Is it inappropriate to run in a sports bra? ›

Whether you are ripped, don't give a rip, or feel ripped up about it, you CAN run in just a sports bra. I know this because *I* have run in just a sports bra, and I was the last person on earth I could imagine doing so.

Is it OK to wear 3 sports bras? ›

Sports bra

Avoid layering multiple sports bras. Safety must be your top priority if you choose to bind your chest.

What is the best bra to wear for running? ›

Champion The Spot Comfort Sports Bra

Gel-cushioned straps ensure you won't experience any raw or rubbed skin during long and intense activities. The Spot Comfort is also extremely breathable and moisture-wicking; mesh on the adjustable straps and front panel promotes ventilation.

Which brand has the best sports bra? ›

Nike Pro Swish Sports Bra

Basic and no-frills, this sports bra earns our top spot because it was rated the most comfortable sports bra by our testers and has medium impact support for a wide range of workouts. Its compressive fit prevents bounce, while the racerback allows for a good range of motion.

Can I run a half marathon in a sports bra? ›

Gabrielle Obermeier, a children's book author and illustrator and a regular runner, recently completed her first half marathon wearing this Nike sports bra. “It was great as my base layer—warm, not sweaty, and very supported,” she says.

How do I secure my breasts when running? ›

Three Tips for Protecting Your Breasts During Exercise
  1. Wear a Properly Fitted Sports Bra. Always look for a sports bra that fits you correctly without uncomfortable compression of the breasts or a lot of strain on the shoulders. ...
  2. Practice Good Posture. ...
  3. Shield the Nipples.

How many sports bras is too many? ›

Having more than one sports bra makes it easier to rotate between activities and workouts. If you are active three days a week or more, for example, it's ideal to have three sports bras: one that you use, one in the laundry and one in the drawer ready to go for the next workout.

Why should you take your bra off at night? ›

There are high chances that if you wear bra while sleeping, the hooks and straps may protrude into the skin. This may cause skin irritation. There are high chances that if you wear bra for a longer duration, it may cause lesions and even cysts. Immediately remove your bra if you feel any discomfort.

Can sports bras cause sagging? ›

A too-tight band can cause the breast tissue to stretch out over time, while a too-loose band will provide little support and allow the breasts to sag. In contrast, a well-fitting bra can help to lift and support the breasts, preventing them from sagging.

Is it illegal to walk around in a sports bra? ›

So can you wear a sports bra in public? Yes, you can absolutely wear a sports bra in public.

Why would a guy wear a sports bra? ›

Additionally, some male athletes – more specifically runners – may choose to wear a sports bra under their shirts in order to prevent a common medical condition called jogger's nipple, also known as nipple chafing. This condition is caused by excessive rubbing of wet sweat-soaked material over one's nipples.

Can you wear 2 sports bras at once? ›

Avoid wearing two binders or doubling up with sports bras, as this can cause serious health issues.

How many sports bras can you wear at once? ›

Most binders are too restrictive for exercise, but it's okay to wear a sports bra. It's best to just wear 1 sports bra while you're exercising. If you're worried your chest will show, try wearing a baggy shirt over your sports bra.

How many sports bras should a woman own? ›

As a general rule, it's recommended to have at least three sports bras in your wardrobe. This way, you can rotate them and allow them to rest between workouts, which can help prolong their lifespan. However, the number of sports bras you need may also depend on your workout routine and frequency.

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