How are sports bras supposed to fit?

Most of the support for sports bras comes from the band, so a snug band that anchors to the body and doesn’t ride up is the key to support, according to Laura Burke , Intimate Apparel Stylist at Fit X Burke. “If you reach around your back and can pull out the band more than an inch, then you need a firmer band,” she says. “Also, make sure all the breast tissue is in the cup, and you are not relying on super tightened straps for lift.” Look for sports bras in traditional bra sizing (not small, medium, or large) for a more custom fit. The right sports bra should feel supportive and compressive, but you should still be able to breathe and move around comfortably. Your breasts shouldn’t spill out over the cups or the top of the band, and the band shouldn’t ride up in the back.

Can sports bras flatten your breasts?

A tight-fitting sports bra may flatten or compress your breasts temporarily, but that also helps keep them out of the way and restrict movement. However, some sports bras are not designed to flatten, but are shaped more like regular bras and actually encase and support each individual breast. “The secret to a good sports bra is compression and encapsulation,” says Burke. “Encapsulated cups offer support and separation, one boob per cup, and will help each breast stay where it’s supposed to be.”

Is it okay to wear a sports bra as an everyday bra?

Yes, you can wear a sports bra as an everyday bra. Look for one that’s medium- to low-impact, so it will be comfortable to wear all day long. We recommend Playtex’s Fits 18 Hour Cooling Comfort Wire-Free Sports Bra for everyday wear because it’s durable, low-profile, and made with fabric that actively cools you down while you wear it. It also comes in a range of neutral colors.

How much does a quality sports bra for large breasts cost?

A high-quality sports bra for large breasts will cost anywhere from $20 to $100. Cheaper options likely won't last as long, and they may be made with materials that offer less support. More expensive bras may be more adjustable, but it might not be worth paying the higher price unless you're splurging for a specific style or brand name. The least expensive sports bra on our list, Syrokan’s Underwire Molded Cup High Impact Sports Bra , is $28, while our top recommendation, Champion’s Spot Comfort Sports Bra , was $48 when we published this list.

The Best Sports Bras for Large Breasts, Tested and Reviewed

The right activewear should be stylish and comfortable, no matter what kind of workout you’re taking on. But if you have a larger chest, finding a sports bra that’s supportive, easy to wear, and still stylish can feel almost impossible. Thankfully, the best sports bras on the market are designed with large breasts in mind.

Reviewed & Approved

Champion’s Spot Comfort Sports Bra is our top overall pick because its wirefree design includes breathable mesh and adjustable straps. Our tester also loved the supportive fit, which is ideal for high-impact activities. For a budget-friendly bra, we recommend Glamorise’s No-Bounce Cami Wire-Free Sports Bra—our tester liked its full coverage neckline and comfortable, spandex-free material.

Generally speaking, “large breasts” refers to anyone with a cup size of D or greater (although many picks on our list are available in A through C cups, too). If you have large breasts, look for an adjustable sports bra with thick straps and a wide, soft band. "Things like the width of the strap and the adjustability factor are really important for getting through your workout," Lauren Leavell, certified personal trainer and group fitness instructor, says. Certain styles of encapsulated cups can also help lift and separate your breasts to provide a more flattering silhouette.

Also, aim for a sports bra that’s available in traditional bra sizing for a better fit. Bras that are sized S, M, L, and so on often don’t provide the best fit. Since bra sizing relies on both your band and cup sizes, it’s easier to find a style that suits your shape, so you can feel confident while working out.

We researched dozens of bras before testing 19 different options at home to find the top sports bras for large breasts on the market. Testers wore each bra for multiple workouts over several weeks and noted how they held up after repeated washes and wears. Here are the supportive, comfortable sports bras that made the cut:

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Champion Spot Comfort Sports Bra at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Budget:

Glamorise Wire-Free Sports Bra at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Sweat-Wicking:

Wacoal High Impact Underwire Sports Bra at Amazon

Jump to Review

Most Supportive:

Panache Underwired Sports Bra at Amazon

Jump to Review

Most Comfortable:

Syrokan Underwire Molded Cup High Impact Sports Bra at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Adjustable:

SheFit Ultimate Sports Bra at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Investment:

Lululemon All Powered Up Bra at Lululemon

Jump to Review

Best Low-Impact:

Natori Gravity Contour Underwire Sports Bra at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best High-Impact:

Knix Catalyst Sports Bra at Knix

Jump to Review

Best Size Range:

Girlfriend Collective Paloma Bra at Girlfriend.com

Jump to Review

In This Article

Our Picks
We Also Tested
How We Tested
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Us

Our Ratings

Fit

5/5
Support

5/5
Comfort

5/5
Adjustability

5/5
Quality

5/5

Pros

Padded straps
Breathable mesh
Wirefree cups

Cons

Straps may show underneath tank tops

Champion’s Spot Comfort bra is our top overall pick because it has plenty of support and adjustability in a simple design that’s easy to wear. It’s also the only sports bra on our list that earned a perfect 5 out of 5 score in every category.

Our tester loved how comfortable this high-impact bra was, both to put on and to wear all day long. The smooth band was supportive and sturdy, while molded cups kept her breasts lifted and separated. Our tester, a runner, noted that the bra successfully held everything in place for multiple 5-mile runs. And breathable mesh layered with sweat-wicking material boosts airflow, even during the sweatiest workouts.

Testing Notes: “You're getting great quality, support, fit, and comfort at half the price of other top sports bras—and these are meant to last.”

We like the hooks on both the gel-padded straps and band, which make adjusting the Spot Comfort bra simple. Our tester also appreciated the bra’s durability—even after five washes, she noticed it still looked brand new. However, she did realize that the straps have a tendency to show underneath tank tops, since they curve inward.

Price at time of publication: $48

^{Key Specs:
Fabric: Nylon, spandex, polyester | Cups: Molded, wirefree | Straps: Adjustable, gel-cushioned | Sizing: 34 to 42 band, C to DDD cups | Support Type: High | Closure: Triple hook-and-eye}

Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Ivy Ford

4.9

Amazon

Our Ratings

Fit

5/5
Support

5/5
Comfort

4.5/5
Adjustability

5/5
Quality

4.5/5

Pros

No spandex
Full coverage neckline
Wide, adjustable straps

Cons

Material may feel itchy

We recommend this wire-free option from Glamorise if you’re searching for a supportive sports bra on a budget. Our tester appreciated that, unlike many other bras on our list, this one has no spandex. This means the bra will hold your chest in place throughout your entire workout, without stretching or losing its shape over time.

Our tester loved the comfort this bra offered whether she was running or lifting weights, earning it a 5 out of 5 for both fit and support. She also liked the wide hook-and-eye closure at the back of the band, which provided a locked-in feel. And after multiple wears and washes, the bra’s fabric and hardware still held up, earning a 5 out of 5 for durability.

Testing Notes: “I have never gotten this much support from any sports bra in my life, and I used to wear two bras at once. If you're looking for the ultimate supportive sports bra, this is the one!”

The full coverage neckline and wide straps create a flattering silhouette—our tester also found that the bra’s design prevented any gapping or spillage. But she did note that a lack of spandex made the material and seams feel itchy after long periods of time.

Price at time of publication: $44

^{Key Specs:
Fabric: Polyester, polyamide, elastane | Cups: Full coverage, non-stretch | Straps: Wide, adjustable | Sizing: 34C to 50J | Support Type: Medium | Closure: Hook-and-eye (3 columns, 3 rows)}

Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Amanda Stanfield

4.8

Our Ratings

Fit

4/5
Support

5/5
Comfort

3.8/5
Adjustability

4.7/5
Quality

4/5

Pros

Sleek design
Combines soft cups with underwire
Lifts, separates, and supports

Cons

Band may run small

Made from thick, opaque fabric, Wacoal’s Simone Sport Underwire Bra is built to comfortably wick away sweat. Sleek but functional, it combines three performance fabrics and a hidden, exterior underwire for extra shaping and support.

While the bra didn’t dig into her shoulders, our tester noticed that the band did feel tight, with some gapping in the center. Scoring the Simone a 4 out of 5 for fit, she thought the band ran about one size too small. But with plenty of ways to customize the fit, this bra is easy to adjust.

Testing Notes: “The support was excellent, and I love the way it made my chest look. Most sports bras tend to overly flatten or minimize, but this didn't. And the details are different from any other sports bra I've seen or worn.”

The design of this bra is what sets it apart—the cups are soft and unstructured, with an underwire hidden in the band underneath. This earned the Simone a 5 out of 5 for support. And if you’re concerned about comfort, there are two thick layers of soft fabric between your ribcage and the underwire.

Price at time of publication: $72

^{Key Specs:
Fabric: Nylon, spandex, elastane | Cups: Two-ply with exterior underwire frame | Straps: Close-set with slide-and-hook adjustment | Sizing: 32 to 42 band, C to I cups | Support Type: High | Closure: Hook-and-eye}

Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Sarah Felbin

4.2

Bare Necessities

Our Ratings

Fit

4/5
Support

5/5
Comfort

3/5
Adjustability

3/5
Quality

5/5

Pros

Lifts, separates, and supports
Straps won’t dig in
Durable

Cons

Not comfortable to wear for long periods

Panache’s Ultimate Underwire Sports Bra combines high-impact support with sturdy materials to create a secure fit. Our tester liked that the cups lifted and separated her breasts, while the wide straps distributed the weight of her chest evenly. Earning a 5 out of 5 for support, this bra cut down on excess movement and didn’t ride up in the back.

A hook-and-eye closure with three columns and three rows makes it easy to tighten or loosen the band as needed. And we like that the size range extends up to a J cup, unlike many other picks on our list.

Testing Notes: “The quality and support this bra gives makes it a good value. You can buy a few cheap ones that don't do what you need them to, or invest in this one and only need to buy one.”

While this bra is durable, even after repeated washes, our tester noted that it’s not comfortable enough to wear for long periods of time. But she appreciated that the straps were adjustable for a customizable fit, and that it ran true to size.

Price at time of publication: $70

^{Key Specs:
Fabric: Polyamide, polyester, elastane | Cups: Encapsulated with silicone-encased underwires | Straps: Wide, cushioned, adjustable, stretchy | Sizing: 28 to 40 band, B to J cups | Support Type: High | Closure: Cushioned hook-and-eye (3 columns, 3 rows)}

Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Tara Cox

4.2

Syrokan

Our Ratings

Fit

4/5
Support

4/5
Comfort

5/5
Adjustability

4/5
Quality

4/5

Pros

Budget-friendly
Lightweight
Low-profile

Cons

May be difficult to adjust while wearing

For a comfortable sports bra at a budget-friendly price point, we recommend this molded cup bra from Syrokan. Our tester scored it a 5 out of 5 for comfort because it had enough support, but was also so lightweight that she could wear it for ten hours straight without any discomfort.

While it fit correctly, she did note that the padded straps are only adjustable in the back, which means the bra can be difficult to adjust while you’re wearing it. But she loved the front clasp, which makes slipping it on and off simple. And we like that the straps can be converted into a racerback, for wearing underneath tank tops.

Testing Notes: “This bra felt good. It was snug, but not restrictive. I like that this went on like a traditional bra—no more neck or back injuries from trying to wiggle into one that goes on over your head!”

Our tester also appreciated that this bra has a low profile, meaning it won’t overwhelm smaller frames. Since it doesn’t take up a lot of extra space on your ribcage, it feels lighter to wear.

Price at time of publication: $28

^{Key Specs:
Fabric: Polyester, spandex | Cups: Molded and encapsulated with curved wire | Straps: Adjustable, padded | Sizing: 32 to 40 band, D to H cups | Support Type: High | Closure: Hook-and-eye}

Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Tara Cox

4.8

SheFit

Our Ratings

Fit

4.5/5
Support

4.8/5
Comfort

4.8/5
Adjustability

5/5
Quality

4.9/5

Pros

Convertible straps
Wirefree
Wide range of colors and sizes

Cons

Not available in traditional bra sizing

SheFit’s Ultimate Sports Bra earned a 5 out of 5 for adjustability, for good reason. The convertible straps are easy to shorten and lengthen—plus, we like that you can change up their look almost instantly. Leavell loves how customizable SheFit bras are: "They have straps, they have Velcro, they have hooks—you're not falling out of them," she says. "There's a lot of security in those."

Our tester also noticed that, unlike most other bras on our list, this one has an adjustable band for a completely customizable fit. This design also means you can adjust how compressive the bra is, a feature that others on our list don’t offer.

Testing Notes: “I did multiple cross-functional training sessions, including running, weight lifting, agility drills, and more in this bra without having to make any adjustments. It stays in place and does its job supporting you.”

SheFit’s Ultimate Sports Bra earned a 4.8 out of 5 for comfort because, while our tester said she wouldn’t recommend wearing it all day long, the wireless design is supportive and breathable. Available in a wide range of colors and sizes, it’s a stylish option for people who like a bra that can be tailored to their figure. Just note that it doesn’t come in traditional bra sizing, so you’ll have to use the brand’s size chart to get the right fit.

Price at time of publication: $62

^{Key Specs:
Fabric: Nylon, spandex, polyester | Cups: Padded, removable | Straps: 1.25 inches wide, padded, adjustable hook-and-loop | Sizing: X-Small to 6X-Large (A to I cups) | Support Type: High | Closure: Hook-and-eye}

Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Abigail Wetzler

4.7

Lululemon

Our Ratings

Fit

5/5
Support

4.5/5
Comfort

3.9/5
Adjustability

5/5
Quality

4.5/5

Pros

No spillage or gapping
Soft, silky material
Lifts, separates, and supports

Cons

Straps may dig in
Not comfortable to wear for long periods

While it’s one of the most expensive options on our list, we think lululemon’s All Powered Up Bra is worth the cost. Our tester gave it a 5 out of 5 for fit, explaining that both the band and straps were adjustable. Plus, she didn’t notice any spillage or gapping, noting that she’d be comfortable wearing this sports bra to work out in by itself.

It’s also supportive, with good compression and cups that gently lift and separate. Made from soft, sweat-wicking fabric, the All Powered Up Bra kept our tester feeling cool and dry from one workout to the next. She also found that, even after repeated washes and wears, the bra still looked brand new—much like lululemon's high-quality leggings—earning a 5 out of 5 for durability.

Testing Notes: “This sports bra fits perfectly! It's actually the best-fitting sports bra I've ever owned and the only one I want to work out in now.”

However, the straps may dig into your shoulders when placed on the tightest setting. And while it’s comfortable, our tester noted that she wouldn’t want to wear it for more than six hours.

Price at time of publication: $88

^{Key Specs:
Fabric: Nylon, elastane, Lycra elastane, polyester | Cups: Spacer construction | Straps: Adjustable | Sizing: 32 to 40 band, A to G cups | Support Type: Medium | Closure: Hook-and-eye}

Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Abigail Moore

4.3

Nordstrom

Our Ratings

Fit

4/5
Support

3/5
Comfort

4/5
Adjustability

4/5
Quality

5/5

Pros

Stylish design
Hidden underwire
Wide range of sizes and colors

Cons

Band may run small
Thin straps may need to be adjusted

For low-impact activities like walking or Pilates, we recommend Natori’s Gravity Contour Underwire Sports Bra. Our tester loved how supportive it was, although she noted that the band felt one size too small. The modern, dual-layer design is a great way to add some color into your workout wardrobe.

Made from breathable mesh, this bra is durable, with a thick hook-and-eye closure that’s easy to adjust. A hidden underwire offers extra support. While our tester liked the look of the thin straps, she did notice that they started to dig into her shoulders after three hours and didn’t stay adjusted over time.

Testing Notes: “I love the double layer and the mesh—it makes it a little sexy while still doing what it needs to do, support-wise.”

Choose from over 20 different color combinations (or stock up on a few) in sizes ranging from 30 to 40 for the band and B to H for the cups.

Price at time of publication: $74

^{Key Specs:
Fabric: Polyester, Lycra spandex, nylon | Cups: Light foam with hidden underwire | Straps: Thin, adjustable | Sizing: 30 to 40 band, B to H cups | Support Type: Medium | Closure: Padded hook-and-eye}

Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Alessandro Amodio

4.7

Knix

Our Ratings

Fit

4/5
Support

5/5
Comfort

4/5
Adjustability

5/5
Quality

5/5

Pros

Thick, opaque material
Flattering silhouette
Wide hook-and-eye closure

Cons

May feel too compressive at first
Non-standard sizing

Many sports bras can’t stand up to the demands of high-impact exercise. But our tester found Knix’ Catalyst Sports Bra to be the ideal combination of fashion and function. This bra is ultra-supportive—our tester noted that the packaging says the bra will feel tight at first, then loosen over time. However, she felt the bra was almost too tight on the first wear, so you may need to order one band size up to get used to the close fit.

Made from soft, opaque fabric, the Catalyst has a flattering silhouette that lifts, separates, and creates modern lines. Our tester also appreciated the hook-and-eye, which has five columns of hooks, unlike most other bras we tested.

Testing Notes: “This bra is thick and soft. I love the fabric, and the molded cups offer structure (no ‘uni-boob’ here). And it weighs nothing—it would be so easy to pack in a suitcase or gym bag.”

It’s easy to shorten or lengthen the straps using the bra’s buckles, earning the Catalyst a 5 out of 5 for adjustability. But you’ll have to use Knix’s conversion tool on their website to find your size.

Price at time of publication: $89

^{Key Specs:
Fabric: Nylon, spandex | Cups: Molded | Straps: Adjustable | Sizing: 0 to 8+ (28 to 42 band, A to F cups) | Support Type: High | Closure: Hook-and-eye}

Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Sarah Felbin

4.2

Girlfriend Collective

Our Ratings

Fit

3.5/5
Support

4/5
Comfort

4.5/5
Adjustability

1/5
Quality

5/5

Pros

Comfortable
Made from recycled materials
Won’t show sweat or deodorant marks

Con

Not adjustable
May run large

Available from XXS to 6XL, Girlfriend Collective’s Paloma Bra is our top pick for the sports bra with the widest size range. Our tester loved the comfortable, supportive material, which wicked away the sweat she worked up throughout the day.

While she liked the amount of compression this bra offered, she noticed that it ran at least one size large. She also found that, since the bra doesn’t have an adjustable band or straps, it didn’t fit her small band, large cup body type very well, earning the Paloma a 3.5 out of 5 for fit.

Testing Notes: “I would recommend this bra. It's high-quality and comfortable, with just the right level of compression. If I could adjust it, I'd buy it in three more colors (at least!).”

However, the black option won’t show sweat or deodorant marks—a huge plus for our tester, who scored the bra a 5 out of 5 for durability. We also like that each one is made from recycled plastic bottles.

Price at time of publication: $46

^{Key Specs:
Fabric: Recycled plastic bottles, spandex | Cups: None | Straps: Wide, not adjustable | Sizing: XXS to 6XL | Support Type: Medium | Closure: None}

Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Sarah Felbin

4.2

Walmart

Our Ratings

Fit

4/5
Support

4/5
Comfort

4/5
Adjustability

3/5
Quality

5/5

Pros

Cools you down while you wear it
Reinforced hooks
Budget-friendly

Cons

Not as breathable
Small size range

For everyday wear, we recommend this cooling, wirefree bra from Playtex. Our tester liked how supportive and low-profile it was, noting that it was virtually undetectable underneath her shirt. But the cooling elements are what set this bra apart. Made with sweat-wicking fabric in the cups and the band, our tester said she could feel a difference.

She also added that, since this bra isn’t as stretchy as other sports bras, it feels more like a T-shirt bra. This means it isn’t as breathable as others on our list. However, we like that the hooks in the back are reinforced to prevent them from poking through to your skin.

Playtex’s Fits bra also earned a 5 out of 5 for durability, since our tester saw no difference in the quality after multiple washes. Plus, it comes in at a budget-friendly price point. But the size range is much smaller than our other top picks, as it’s only available in B to DDD cup sizes.

Price at time of publication: $39

^{Key Specs:
Fabric: Polyester, cotton, spandex | Cups: Lightly lined | Straps: Adjustable, close-set | Sizing: 36 to 46 band, B to DDD cups | Support Type: Low | Closure: Hook-and-eye (3 columns, 3 rows)}

Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Rebecca Potters

4.2

Our Ratings

Fit

4/5
Support

5/5
Comfort

4/5
Adjustability

3/5
Quality

4.5/5

Pros

Durable
Runs true to size
Good compression

Cons

Not comfortable for long periods
Straps may be difficult to adjust

Runners with large chests need a sports bra with compression to prevent painful bouncing, like Natori’s Yogi Sports Bra. Our tester noted that it ran true to size, and that the soft, silky material felt breathable.

But support is where this bra shines: Earning a 5 out of 5, it didn’t chafe, rub, or constrict her movement. Since it’s so compressive, she did find that the bra wasn’t the most comfortable to wear after around nine hours, scoring the Yogi a 4 out of 5 for comfort.

Testing Notes: “The fabric is super comfortable, the gunmetal gray color is beautiful, and this held up well during washings. This is a very solid bra that will last.”

Our tester didn’t love the way the straps adjusted, using a hook and loop system that’s not as customizable as a traditional buckle. She also noticed that, on tighter settings, the excess strap material tended to move around while she exercised. However, the bra as a whole is built to last.

Price at time of publication: $68

^{Key Specs:
Fabric: Polyester, Lycra spandex | Cups: Lined, underwire, stretch foam | Straps: Adjustable, convertible | Sizing: 32 to 40 band, B to I cups | Support Type: High | Closure: Hook-and-eye}

Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Tara Cox

4.4

Athleta

Our Ratings

Fit

4/5
Support

5/5
Comfort

4/5
Adjustability

3/5
Quality

4.5/5

Pros

Lifts, separates, and supports
Wide range of sizes and colors

Cons

May be difficult to adjust while wearing

Athleta’s Advance Bra is our pick for a sports bra for large breasts that’s supportive and stylish. Sculpted foam cups lift and separate, earning this bra a 5 out of 5 for support. Our tester noted that she felt comfortable in the Advance even during high-impact activities, like running.

Although the straps are adjustable, the buckles are in the back, so our tester found they were tough to adjust while she was wearing the bra. The V-shaped design of the straps can also make slipping the bra on and off a little tricky. But once on, our tester liked the performance material and durability.

Testing Notes: “The value is spot on for a durable, high-quality bra from Athleta. The support is worth the price tag.”

Available in a wide range of neutral colors, the Advance has a modern silhouette that makes it stand out from others on our list.

Price at time of publication: $69

^{Key Specs:
Fabric: Not listed | Cups: Molded | Straps: Adjustable | Sizing: 32 to 44 band, B to G cups | Support Type: High | Closure: Hook-and-eye}

Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Ivy Ford

How We Rated Sports Bras For Large Breasts

4.8 to 5 stars: These are the best sports bras for large breasts we tested. We recommend them without reservation.

4.5 to 4.7 stars: These sports bras for large breasts are excellent—they might have minor flaws, but we still recommend them.

4.0 to 4.5 stars: We think these are great sports bras for large breasts, but others are better.

3.5 to 3.9 stars: These sports bras for large breasts are just average.

3.4 and below: We don't recommend sports bras for large breasts with this rating; you won't find any on our list.

Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Alessandro Amodio

We Also Tested

lululemon’s Enlite Weave-Back Bra was comfortable, but our tester found that it didn’t fit well enough to provide enough support. The cup area gapped, and the straps weren’t adjustable. At $98, it was also one of the most expensive bras we tested.

Although our tester wore lululemon’s Energy Bra in her usual size, she noticed that it ran very small. The straps were too tight, and her chest spilled out of the cups. While it was supportive, it was too uncomfortable for her to wear more than twice.

Anita’s High Impact Wire-Free Sports Bra was adjustable, lightweight, and breathable. It also supported our tester’s chest well, and we like that it comes in a wide range of sizes. But our tester found that it ran small, especially in the band, which caused her chest to spill out of the cups.

How We Tested the Best Sports Bras For Large Breasts

To select the best sports bras for large breasts, we first researched popular styles from top, trusted brands, like lululemon, Champion, Athleta, Playtex, and more. After consulting with experts, we prioritized bras that were available in traditional bra sizing and offered adjustable straps and bands. We also spoke with Laura Burke, intimate apparel stylist at Fit X Burke, Jenette Goldstein, founder and CEO of Jenette Bras, and Lauren Leavell, certified personal trainer and group fitness instructor, to get their expert opinion on which features every high-quality sports bra for large breasts should have.

Then, testers tried each sports bra on at home. First, they tested the impact level by doing jumping jacks for two minutes or by jogging for ten minutes. After that, they went for a brisk, 15- to 20-minute walk to see how supportive and breathable the bra was. Each tester wore the bra to work or around the house for at least three hours and noted if it felt comfortable or if it dug into their back and shoulders. The bras were also washed after every wear to test their durability.

Testers rated their bras from 1 (would not recommend) to 5 (excellent) based on fit, support, comfort, adjustability, quality, durability, and overall value.

What to Look For in Sports Bras For Large Breasts

Activity

Sports bras are designed to support your chest based on how intensely you’ll be exercising. High-impact bras offer the most support and compression, so you can run, jump, and tackle cardio workouts. Medium-impact bras (like lululemon’s All Powered Up Bra) are still supportive, but may not have as much lift or compression. They’re better suited for hiking or cycling. Low-impact sports bras aren’t recommended for most people with large breasts because they have the least support. But you may find that they work well for walking or everyday wear.

Bailey Mariner / Verywell

Design

Consider the shape of the bra: Is the neckline high enough to provide coverage, so you can easily bend over or squat down? Are the sides wide enough to support you from all angles? "We all love something cute, but it really just has to be functional, for me," Leavell says. "A lack of coverage could lead to spillage and rubbing that could be uncomfortable. Sometimes those minimal-looking sports bras are very aesthetically pleasing, but they're not super functional."

Cup Style

Look for bras with molded, encapsulated, contoured, or underwire cups for the highest degree of support. Similar to a classic bra, some sports bras use flexible underwires to help lift and shape the breasts, like Wacoal’s Simone Sport Underwire Bra. An underwire bra will support each breast individually and help limit movement during high-impact exercise.

Closure

Sports bras can come with multiple closure styles, including pull-on, front-closure, and back hook closure. “Anything you pull on over your head is going to give you compression only and is not going to do the job for full-bust gals,” says Goldstein. She says that while the pull-on bras might be comfortable, front-closure and back-closure sports bras will offer maximum hold and stress distribution.

Padding

Most sports bras provide support through compression. However, if you have larger breasts, Goldstein says you need full encasement of each breast to control movement from all angles. Bras that include built-in padding or removable cups not only create a smooth and rounded shape (which helps avoid a “uni-boob”), but they also provide additional coverage.

Straps

For larger breasts, it's best to avoid bras with narrow, fixed straps. Goldstein recommends finding ergonomic straps that offer a high level of support—typically thicker straps that you can adjust to fit your build and evenly distribute your weight. Straps with cushioning, like those on our top overall pick, Champion’s Spot Comfort Sports Bra, also help prevent chafing.

Material

Sports bras that aren’t breathable will trap sweat and moisture during a workout, which can lead to skin irritation. Bras made with sweat-wicking fabric will pull moisture away from the skin while keeping you comfortable. Goldstein recommends looking into performance textiles that will resist odor and repel moisture. Fabrics like mesh, polyester, and nylon provide ultimate breathability and airflow.

Also, make sure whichever bra you choose feels good to wear. "It's important to feel like you have clothes that make you feel confident and comfortable," Leavell says. "All different bodies go to the gym, all different bodies go for runs and workouts—and to have a piece of your attire fit you and fit you well is good for your confidence."

Care

Each sports bra comes with a different set of care instructions. Some are machine washable, while others are hand wash only—and not all of them can go in the dryer. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to prolong the life of your sports bra.

Frequently Asked Questions

How are sports bras supposed to fit?

Most of the support for sports bras comes from the band, so a snug band that anchors to the body and doesn’t ride up is the key to support, according to Laura Burke, Intimate Apparel Stylist at Fit X Burke. “If you reach around your back and can pull out the band more than an inch, then you need a firmer band,” she says. “Also, make sure all the breast tissue is in the cup, and you are not relying on super tightened straps for lift.”
Look for sports bras in traditional bra sizing (not small, medium, or large) for a more custom fit. The right sports bra should feel supportive and compressive, but you should still be able to breathe and move around comfortably. Your breasts shouldn’t spill out over the cups or the top of the band, and the band shouldn’t ride up in the back.
Can sports bras flatten your breasts?

A tight-fitting sports bra may flatten or compress your breasts temporarily, but that also helps keep them out of the way and restrict movement. However, some sports bras are not designed to flatten, but are shaped more like regular bras and actually encase and support each individual breast. “The secret to a good sports bra is compression and encapsulation,” says Burke. “Encapsulated cups offer support and separation, one boob per cup, and will help each breast stay where it’s supposed to be.”
Is it okay to wear a sports bra as an everyday bra?

Yes, you can wear a sports bra as an everyday bra. Look for one that’s medium- to low-impact, so it will be comfortable to wear all day long. We recommend Playtex’s Fits 18 Hour Cooling Comfort Wire-Free Sports Bra for everyday wear because it’s durable, low-profile, and made with fabric that actively cools you down while you wear it. It also comes in a range of neutral colors.
How much does a quality sports bra for large breasts cost?

A high-quality sports bra for large breasts will cost anywhere from $20 to $100. Cheaper options likely won't last as long, and they may be made with materials that offer less support. More expensive bras may be more adjustable, but it might not be worth paying the higher price unless you're splurging for a specific style or brand name. The least expensive sports bra on our list, Syrokan’s Underwire Molded Cup High Impact Sports Bra, is $28, while our top recommendation, Champion’s Spot Comfort Sports Bra, was $48 when we published this list.

Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Alessandra Amodio

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Emily Stone is a sports bra fanatic. She especially loves lululemon’s Free To Be Elevated Bra. It provides support and coverage, and it’s trendy and looks great with workout tanks. She also loves the fit and feel of lululemon’s super soft and sweat-wicking Luxtreme fabric. It fits like a second skin, eliminating any unwanted gapping.

Additional reporting by Sarah Felbin

With over two decades of dance experience, Sarah Felbin loves diving into the latest wellness research. As a health and fitness writer, she's passionate about finding products that are a great value and make life easier. Of the three sports bras she tested for this story, she liked Knix’s Catalyst Sports Bra the best because it was supportive, with a stylish, flattering design—her favorite combination.

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