Fitness Gear Apparel The Best Sports Bras For Every Kind of Workout Stay supported while exercising with the Outdoor Voices Doing Things Sports Bra By Emily Stone Emily Stone LinkedIn Emily Stone is a writer specializing in health, wellness, and fitness. She writes about fitness and health products across all of the Verywell brands. Learn about our editorial process and Lindsey Lanquist Lindsey Lanquist LinkedIn Lindsey Lanquist is a writer and editor specializing in fashion, lifestyle, and health content. Her work has appeared in SELF, StyleCaster, SheKnows, MyDomaine, and more. Learn about our editorial process Updated on April 20, 2022 Reviewed Verywell Fit articles are reviewed by nutrition and exercise professionals. Reviewers confirm the content is thorough and accurate, reflecting the latest evidence-based research. Content is reviewed before publication and upon substantial updates. Learn more. by Kristin McGee, CPT Reviewed by Kristin McGee, CPT Kristin McGee is a certified personal trainer and currently teaches yoga and meditation for Peloton. She is also certified in Pilates and by the National Association of Sports Medicine. Learn about our Review Board Fact checked Verywell Fit content is rigorously reviewed by a team of qualified and experienced fact checkers. Fact checkers review articles for factual accuracy, relevance, and timeliness. We rely on the most current and reputable sources, which are cited in the text and listed at the bottom of each article. Content is fact checked after it has been edited and before publication. Learn more. by Marley Hall Fact checked by Marley Hall LinkedIn Marley Hall is a writer and fact checker who is certified in clinical and translational research. Her work has been published in medical journals in the field of surgery, and she has received numerous awards for publication in education. Learn about our editorial process Print We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best products—learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. A sports bra that fits well makes a big difference, whether you’re tackling a high-intensity workout or logging a quick stretching session. “For me, a truly great sports bra is the silent partner in your workout,” Ruth Kavanaugh, master instructor at SLT NYC, says. “You should feel secure, supported, and able to forget that it’s there, so you can focus on your workout knowing it will do its job.” Reviewed & Approved The Outdoor Voices Doing Things Sports Bra is our top overall pick for it's full coverage, medium support in sizes XXS-XXXL. The Fruit of the Loom Cotton Pullover Sports Bra pack is a good value with three low-profile, breathable bras in one package. The right sports bra should fit snugly with no pinching or bunching and should be both breathable and moisture-wicking. This will allow it to provide maximum support and comfort during your workout. We reviewed sports bras for our list based on the coverage they provide, padding, available size range, adjustability and cost. Here are the best sports bras on the market. Our Top Picks Best Overall: Outdoor Voices Doing Things Sports Bra at Nordstrom Best Budget: Fruit of the Loom Cotton Pullover Sports Bra at Amazon Best for Everyday Use: Lululemon Energy Bra at Amazon Best for Big Busts: Wacoal Underwire Sports Bra at Amazon Best for Small Busts: Brooks Dare Strappy Run Bra at Amazon Best Anti-Odor: Under Armour RUSH Sports Bra at Amazon Best for Running: Brooks Dare Crossback Run Bra at Amazon Best Front Closure: Under Armour Eclipse High-Impact Zip Sports Bra at Amazon Best Crop Style: Athleta Conscious Crop at Gap.com Best High-Impact: Champion Spot Comfort Sports Bra at Amazon In This Article Expand Our Picks What to Look For Why Trust Verywell Fit Best Overall: Outdoor Voices Doing Things Sports Bra 4.5 Outdoor Voices View On Nordstrom View On Outdoorvoices.com Pros Thick, supportive straps Silhouette offers full coverage Removable padding Large size range (XXS–XXXL) Cons May stretch out with use Not available in different cup sizes The Outdoor Voices Doing Things Bra provides medium support for an active lifestyle and is an easy choice for our best overall selection. This fan-favorite pullover-style sports bra features a classic mesh racerback design with a peeping keyhole in the back for ventilation and mobility. Designed using the brand’s signature TechSweat fabric, the Doing Things Bra keeps the girls cool and lifted. Padded cups provide the ideal balance of support, compression, and separation for busts ranging from AA to DD. This sports bra is available in sizes XXS–XXXL and comes in a variety of fun colors and prints, like evergreen, poppy, pomegranate plaid, and more. Sizes: XXS–XXXL | Color Options: Eight | Padding: Yes (removable) | Underwire: No | Support Level: Medium Best Budget: Fruit of the Loom Cotton Pullover Sports Bra Pack Courtesy of Walmart View On Amazon View On Walmart Pros Low-profile, spaghetti-strap design Silhouette offers full coverage Three bras for the price of one Cons May not be very supportive May run small Not available in different cup sizes Fruit of the Loom has made it easy to stock up on sports bras without breaking the bank. Snag the brand’s Cotton Pullover Sports Bra Set, and you’ll get three cozy sports bras for the price of one. Crafted from 100% cotton, the sports bras should feel both soft and breathable. And thanks to their spaghetti-strap, racerback design, they should be easy to sneak under your go-to workout tops. The pullover sports bras are designed to offer plenty of coverage—though since they’re padding- and underwire-free, they’re unlikely to offer a ton of support. Still, they should be compressive enough to get you through your favorite low-impact workouts and comfortable enough for day-to-day wear, too. This sports bra is available in sizes 32–44, and it comes in a range of different colors. The bra is also sold individually or in sets of two to six. Sizes: 32–44 | Color Options: 31 | Padding: No | Underwire: No | Support Level: Light Best for Everyday Use: Lululemon Energy Bra Courtesy of Lululemon. View On Amazon View On Lululemon Pros Removable cups Moisture-wicking Wide size range (2–14) Cons May not be very supportive Not available in different cup sizes Runs small Lululemon’s Energy Bra provides the ideal amount of support for virtually any workout—or self-care Sunday. Not to mention, we love the fun strappy back. The bra is designed for all-day comfort and features a buttery, silky cool material that looks and feels amazing. Lululemon’s signature Luxtreme fabric delivers a secure, compressed sensation, fitting almost like a second skin. The sports bra provides medium support for B and C cups and medium-to-light support for D cups. It also features a pocket for removable pads. It’s well-suited for a wide range of activities, from gym workouts and spinning classes to pilates and everyday wear. Best of all, the double criss-cross back adds some extra spice to low-back tees and tanks. The Energy Bra is available in sizes 2 through 14 in a variety of prints and colors, including Lemon Vibe, Incognito Camo Multi Grey, Serene Blue, Mod Stripe Black White, and more. Pro tip: If you’re on the cusp, size up. Given the higher compression of the fabric, some feel this style runs on the smaller side. Sizes: 2–14 | Color Options: 19 | Padding: Yes (removable) | Underwire: No | Support Level: Medium The 9 Best Sweatpants of 2022 Best for Big Busts: Wacoal Underwire Sports Bra View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Nordstrom Pros Supportive, adjustable straps Silhouette offers full coverage Supportive underwire frame Inclusive size range (32C–40I) Cons Some quality control issues (particularly with sizing) Colors may look different in-person than in photos Finding the right fit for bigger busts is always a struggle. Bra brand Wacoal is best known for fitting women of all shapes in sizes, from an A cup to an I. Wacoal's Underwire Sports Bra is the crème de la crème when it comes to heavy-duty, supportive sports bras. There is no bouncing around in this bra, no matter how much support you require. The high-impact design features an outside underwire frame that keeps the breasts in place during activity—including the most intense of workouts. Made with moisture-wicking fabric and a mesh back, this bra keeps things cool and dry, and it holds everything in place. This model features a classic bra fit. The two-ply fabric cups keep the girls tight and lifted with a hidden inner sling for added support in G and H cup sizes. Close-set straps deliver a slip-free fit with adjustable straps and a hook-and-eye back closure. For added versatility, the straps are convertible and can be crossed to cater to racerback tanks. The Underwire Sports Bra is available in sizes 32C to 40I in a variety of neutral and jewel tones. Sizes: 32C–40I | Color Options: 21 | Padding: No (but two-ply fabric cups) | Underwire: Yes | Support Level: High-impact Best for Small Busts: Brooks Dare Strappy Run Bra Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon View On Brooksrunning.com View On REI Pros Low-profile, free-cut design V-neck silhouette offers more discreet coverage Supportive, molded cups Designed with minimal seams Cons Limited size range May run big Not available in different cup sizes While small busts may not get all the press, they arguably have the most options when it comes to the style and cut of bras. Smaller frames lend themselves to both minimalist and strappy styles with the least infrastructure. Bare more skin and less fabric without compromising support with the Brooks Dare Strappy Run Bra. This slim halter, open racerback bra combines maximum performance with minimal coverage for a stylish and flattering fit. The high-impact V-neck running bra is ideal for A and B cup sizes, featuring built-in molded cups that lift and secure breasts for long runs and high-intensity workouts. Say goodbye to boob sweat with Brooks' DriLayer HorsePower fabric, which keeps athletes cool and dry. Strategically placed perforation enhances breathability and adds a tasteful design touch. This pullover style features a hidden bottom band to add extra support and eliminate any chafing. The Dare Strappy Run Bra is available in sizes 30AB to 40AB in hot pink, black, Lapis, navy, Arctic, and Ash. Sizes: 30AB–40AB | Color Options: Six | Padding: No (but molded cups) | Underwire: No | Support Level: Light The 12 Best Sports Bras for Small Chests of 2022 Best Anti-Odor: Under Armour RUSH Mid Sports Bra Courtesy of Under Armour View On Amazon View On Dick's View On Underarmour.com Pros Supportive, adjustable straps Silhouette offers full coverage Moisture-wicking and quick-drying Anti-odor Cons Limited size range Not as discreet as a racerback bra Not available in different cup sizes Hoping to cut down on post-workout stink? Under Armour makes it easy to do so. The brand’s RUSH Mid Sports Bra is made from a comfy polyester-elastane blend, which promises to wick moisture, dry quickly, and reduce odor. The pullover sports bra comes with thick, supportive straps, which you can adjust to get a custom fit. And its full-coverage design should give you plenty of support every time you wear it. Since the bra is moisture-wicking and quick-drying, it’s a great pick for high-energy workouts. And since it comes with removable padding, you can easily customize how supportive—or how low-profile—you want the bra to be. The Under Armour RUSH Mid Sports Bra is available in sizes XS–XXL. And it comes in three colors: black, burgundy, and pink. Sizes: XS–XXL | Color Options: Three | Padding: Yes (removable) | Underwire: No | Support Level: Medium Best for Running: Brooks Dare Crossback Run Bra 4.5 Courtesy: Amazon View On Amazon View On Dick's View On Brooksrunning.com Pros Sleek silhouette offers full coverage Supportive molded cups Designed with minimal seams Large size range (30AB–40DDE) Cons Hidden waistband may not be tight enough for some The Dare Crossback Run Bra—designed by running gear powerhouse, Brooks Running—is a high-impact, run-ready bra supporting a range of sizes. Technically designed for maximum comfort and motion reduction, this bra features built-in soft molded cups to lift and separate the breasts while securing everything in place when you run. This hardware-free sports bra has a crossback pullover fit for exceptional comfort and convenience. The smoothing, chafe-free fabric is soft to the touch and quick-drying for sweaty runs. This bra is available in sizes 30AB to 40DDE in beet red, black, navy, Sea, Glacier, Ash, Nightlife, and more. Sizes: 30AB–40DDE | Color Options: 11 | Padding: No (but molded cups) | Underwire: No | Support Level: High-impact Here Are the Best Sports Bras for Runners, According to a Running Coach Best Front Closure: Under Armour Eclipse High-Impact Zip Sports Bra Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon View On Dick's Pros Bandeau-like silhouette offers full coverage Supportive molded cups Large size range (32A–38DD) Cons Limited color range May not run true to size Some quality control issues (with fit, specifically) Peeling off a sports bra after a strenuous workout—especially an extra-sweaty one—is no one's idea of a fun time. But a front closure sports bra means you no longer have to struggle to pull off a tight bra overhead. The Eclipse High-Zip Sports Bra features a front full zip closure, which makes taking it on and off a breeze—but it'll still stay locked in place during wear for a secure fit. This style has a minimalist yet supportive design with a mostly open back and sturdy, adjustable criss-cross straps. The bandeau-inspired bodice features soft, molded, breathable cups with a sweat-wicking mesh lining. This bra is specifically tailored to provide strategic bust support for high-impact fitness, like running and court sports. Under Armour’s Eclipse High-Zip Sports Bra is available in black and Ballet Pink in sizes 32A through 38DD. Sizes: 32A–38DD | Color Options: Two | Padding: No (but molded cups) | Underwire: No | Support Level: High-impact The 9 Best Sports Bras for Large Breasts of 2022 Best Crop Style: Athleta Conscious Crop Courtesy of Athleta View On Gap.com Pros High-neck silhouette offers full coverage Sweat-wicking fabric Equipped with sun protection (UPF 50+) Removable padding Wide size range (XXS–XL) Cons May not be very supportive Not available in different cup sizes More of a crop top than a bra Crop-inspired sports bras are the secret weapon you need in your closet—they can double as going-out attire. This style is best suited for lower-impact activities like yoga and pilates but can also be used as a layering piece to add some additional flair or coverage to workout outfits. Athleta's Conscious Crop features a classic high-neck style, so there's no need to worry about your girls spilling out during Downward Dog. The buttery soft Powervita fabric feels amazing and is super sweat-wicking and breathable. It also delivers sun protection of UPF 50-plus for those seaside yoga sessions. This crop-inspired sports bra hits just above the belly button and features a racerback design. The built-in bra provides extra support with the addition of removable pads for a smoother fit. The Conscious Crop is available in sizes XXS through XL. It comes in black, white, navy, sage, Medieval Violet, Victorian Periwinkle, and Beach Peach, among others. Sizes: XXS–XL | Color Options: 12 | Padding: Yes (removable) | Underwire: No | Support Level: Light The 10 Best Yoga Pants Alternatives to Lululemon of 2020 Best High-Impact: Champion Spot Comfort Sports Bra Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon View On Dick's View On Champion.com Pros Adjustable, gel-infused straps Silhouette offers full coverage Supportive molded cups Sweat-wicking fabric Cons Limited size range (34C–42DDD) Seams may be uncomfortable May not be as supportive as some underwire bras The Spot Comfort Sports Bra—one of Champion's fan-favorite high-support bras—keeps the girls in check during hardcore aerobic exercise. Targeted mesh ventilation and sweat-wicking fabric keep things cool and dry. Gel-infused straps eliminate pressure and rubbing, delivering a barely-there sensation. This classically shaped bra features a U-back design with thick, adjustable close-set straps. Complete with a cushioned hook-and-eye back closure and adjustable straps, the bra ensures a custom fit. Wire-free molded cups deliver a natural, smooth shape so you look and feel like a million bucks. The Spot Comfort Sports Bra comes in sizes 34C through 42DDD in a wide range of bright and neutral colors. Sizes: 34C–42DDD | Color Options: 26 | Padding: No (but molded cups) | Underwire: No | Support Level: High-impact Expert-Tested: The 10 Best High-Impact Sports Bras of 2022 Best Low-Impact: CRZ YOGA Women's Low Impact Sports Bra Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart Pros Removable padding Moisture-wicking fabric Designed with flat seams Cons May not be very supportive May run small Not available in different cup sizes It's business in the front, party in the back with this cute and trendy sports bra. The CRZ YOGA Women's Low Impact Sports Bra provides light support, ideal for everyday use and activities like yoga and walking. The minimalist style features a lower cut neckline with a strappy criss-cross back. This bra is stretchy yet supportive and made from a silky, cool lightweight fabric. Customize the fit with built-in pockets for removable cups. This bra is available in sizes XS through XL in a variety of prints and colors. Sizes: XS–XL | Color Options: 21 | Padding: Yes (removable) | Underwire: No | Support Level: Light Best Plus Size: Girlfriend Collective Simone Bra View On Girlfriend.com Pros Silhouette offers full coverage Supportive molded cups Made primarily from recycled materials Inclusive size range (XXS–6XL) Cons May run small May not be very supportive There’s a lot to love about Girlfriend Collective’s Simone Bra. For starters, the pullover sports bra is made primarily from recycled materials. Soft RPET fabric (made from recycled plastic models) makes up 79% of the bra’s fabric blend, while stretchy spandex makes up the rest. So the bra isn’t just comfy and flexible—it’s also an eco-friendly buy. The bra is designed with molded cups, which should keep you feeling supported as you move around. And its thick, adjustable straps should make it easy to find a perfectly snug fit. What really sets the bra apart, though, is its inclusive size range. The bra is currently available in sizes XXS–6XL. And it comes in an array of different colors, including Moss Green, Midnight Blue, and Moon Gray. Sizes: XXS–6XL | Color Options: Seven | Padding: No (but molded cups) | Underwire: No | Support Level: Medium Best for Yoga: Athleta Exhale Bra 4.8 Courtesy of Athleta View On Gap.com Pros Silhouette offers full coverage Moisture-wicking and quick-drying Equipped with sun protection (UPF 50+) Wide size range (XXS–XL) Cons May not be very supportive Not as discreet as a racerback bra Not available in different cup sizes Named after its buttery soft fabric, the Exhale Bra in Powervita features a mid-rise neckline, balancing coverage and breathability for low-impact workouts. We love it for studio sessions—like yoga, barre, and pilates—with its leotard style straps and additional V-shaped detailing. Wear this style with an open or low back tank and show off the simple yet intricate straps. The Exhale Bra in Powervita is available in sizes XXS through XL and comes in black, white, navy, Dragonfruit Pink, Beach Peach, and Elfin Purple. Sizes: XXS–XL | Color Options: Nine | Padding: No | Underwire: No | Support Level: Low The 10 Best Sports Bras For Yoga For Yoga of 2022 Final Verdict If you’re in the market for a brand new sports bra, Outdoor Voices’ Doing Things Bra (view at Outdoor Voices) is a great go-to. With its thick straps and full-coverage design, the bra should give you plenty of support. And thanks to its stretchy-soft fabric blend, it should feel cozy enough to wear every day. When it comes to sports bras, this kind of versatility counts for a lot: You can wear the bra during medium-impact and low-impact workouts, and you can wear it when lounging around the house, too. What to Look for in a Sports Bra The most important thing to look for when shopping for a sports bra is bra type. The three most popular types of sports bras all have their own sets of benefits and drawbacks: Encapsulation Sports Bras Picture a typical bra with two individual cups and a hook-and-eye back closure. This style is considered an encapsulation bra. There is no compression in this style, yet each breast is individually supported with a light-to-medium padded cup. Sports bras designed using this method provide a more natural shape. Compression Sports Bras The classic stretchy racerback pullover style—without built-in cups or padding—is considered a compression-style sports bra. These bras are typically wire-free and tend to be comfortable. This method compresses the breasts against the chest wall in order to restrict motion. For larger cup sizes, it's best to opt for a compression model that includes an adjustable band and strap to ensure the proper fit and support. One downside to this method is that it can often cause the appearance of the dreaded “uni-boob.” Compression-Encapsulation Sports Bras Some sports bras will combine both encapsulation and compression for the perfect balance of shaping and support. Typically, each breast is individually supported in its own cup while also compressed against the chest wall. These styles often feature adjustable bands and straps and are ideal for high-impact activities for all cup sizes. Frequently Asked Questions Are sports bras supposed to feel tight? Sports bras are supposed to feel snug—but not uncomfortably tight. “Your sports bra should be snug, but if you feel it constricting your ribs or your breathing, it’s probably too small,” Kavanaugh says. “If you find your straps digging deep into your skin, that’s another sign that your bra may be too tight.” How to wash sports bras Most sports bras are convenient to clean: You can simply launder them in the washing machine and dry them in the dryer. Of course, it’s always a good idea to double-check the care instructions for a specific sports bra before throwing it in the laundry. But most of the time, you should be able to get away with machine-washing and -drying your sports bras. How often should you wash sports bras? “A sports bra should be washed after every use,” Kavanaugh says. “The fabrics endure a lot during a workout.” (Notably, they absorb a ton of sweat.) So to keep them in tip-top shape, you’ll want to wash them every time you wear them. How often should you replace your sports bras? A sports bra’s lifespan can vary a lot, depending on the material it’s made of and how often you’re wearing it. So instead of following a hard-and-fast rule, look for signs that your bras need replacing. “Feel how easily the material snaps back to the original shape after you wash it,” Moore says. If the bra snaps back quickly, it’s probably in good shape. If it doesn’t, it may need to be replaced.“It’s also a good idea to check for pilling and any stains that don’t come out in the wash,” she says. “If you wouldn’t buy it again in the same condition it’s in now, it’s time to get rid of it and treat yourself to a shopping spree!” Is it bad to wear sports bras all the time? Some people claim that wearing a sports bra all day is “bad for you.” But we’ve scoured the internet for evidence that supports this claim—and we couldn’t find any. To cut down on discomfort, experts recommend finding a bra that feels supportive and comfortable and wearing it when you see fit. Why Trust Verywell Fit Having worked for a women's sports bra company, Emily Stone has learned a thing or two about what makes or breaks a bra. A few of Emily’s favorites include the Athleta Conscious Crop—which she truthfully wears more for fashion than fitness since it’s so cute—and the Under Armour Eclipse High-Zip Sports Bra. Additional reporting by Lindsey Lanquist As a seasoned health and fitness writer, Lindsey Lanquist understands how vital quality product recommendations can be. She is careful to recommend products that are reliable, comfortable, and genuinely well-reviewed by those who’ve tried them. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Get one simple hack every day to make your life healthier. Sign Up You're in! Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up. There was an error. Please try again. What are your concerns? Other Inaccurate Hard to Understand Submit 1 Source Verywell Fit uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. Cleveland Clinic. Is It Bad to Not Wear a Bra?