Shereen Lehman, MS, is a healthcare journalist and fact checker. She has co-authored two books for the popular Dummies Series (as Shereen Jegtvig).
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Our favorite pick for the ultimate support through runs, high-intensity training, and beyond is the Enell Maximum Control wire-free sports bra. This moisture-wicking bra has a front closure which ensures a snug fit and makes putting it on and taking it off a breeze.
The Enell bras have a different type of sizing system running from 00 to 8, so you'll have to look at the measurements to find the right pick for you, but in general, this bra is best suited for women 32DDD-40D.
If you want to feel supported while still getting separation and lift, try an underwire sports bra like this one from Berlei. Serena Williams swears by this brand's comfortable, breathable, and supportive designs, so you know it's a great sports bra to add to your workout wardrobe.
The underwire bra comes in a variety of solid colors and patterns and goes up to a size 40E. The cup-based sizing makes finding your fit easy, while adjustable and convertible straps make tailoring the fit for you a breeze.
Sports bras, especially for women with a larger chest come at a hefty price tag, and if you plan on working out a few times a week you are looking at spending a pretty penny. Thankfully, the Mirity Racerback sports bra doesn't cost a lot so you can buy a few to keep in your arsenal.
An affordable price tag doesn't mean less support—this bra will work for all your workouts like boot camp classes, HIIT circuits, and kickboxing, thanks to wider shoulder straps, an additional built-in bra (double the reassurance!) and moisture-wicking fabric to keep you dry, even if you’re actually dripping wet.
It also comes in lots of different colors to blend in with the rest of your fitness apparel and is available up to size 3XL.
As a runner, you need great support when you're hitting the open road. Thankfully Panache’s underwire sports bra has molded seamed cups that separate as they lift, AKA it won’t slow you down when you want to speed up.
It can be worn regularly, or as a racerback given its convertible J-hook clasp and the cushiony straps won’t dig into your shoulders. An added bonus: The breathable center mesh insert and quick-drying fabric. All in all, it’s a winner.
Anyone who has breasts larger than a DD knows that finding a sports bra that both works and feels great can be a real challenge. The Freya Women's Active underwire sports bra fits sizes 28D to 38JJ (with many choices in between) while effectively keeping you comfortable and supported. It has a back hook-eye closure with adjustable wide straps to get the perfect fit for you.
Reviewers love that it kept them supported on runs without creating spillage. They noted that the bra is hand wash only so be sure not to put in the washing machine.
You still want great support for low-impact sports like walking. The Anita Momentum sports bra fits like regular bras with a four hook back enclosure and adjustable wide straps in the back that provide comfort on your shoulders but give you that extra support you need for your daily walk.
The sizes range from 30B to 46E with some reviewers noting it can be a little tight on the ribs so you might want to go up a band size. This model is available in seven colors.
Considering it took Lululemon almost two years to perfect this bra, it better be good—and it is. The Elite was even tested by hundreds of women to make sure it lived up to all of its promises like comfort, movement management, and a natural shape, no matter what your fitness routine might be. Take it for a spin, dance your heart out in Zumba, or row the day away and it will stay right where you need it to.
In addition to being made in 20 sizes (32B-38DD), it also utilizes Ultralu patented seamless fabric, so there won’t be any dent marks on your skin like many bras leave.
Yogis need a bra that will let them flex, bend, and stretch—whether they're in class or working out at home. That's where the New Balance The Shockingly Unshocking sports bra steps in. Designed for C to DD cups (size range from 32C to 44DD) with stabilizing technology, the higher cut on the chest is ideal for full-coverage duty so you stayed covered in all poses and the adjustable velcro straps—on the front in lieu of the back—allow you to customize where you need to. They’re also removable, should you find yourself wanting to use this gem as a nursing bra at some point. Breathable mesh panels also keep you cool throughout.
When you're running, dancing, hiking, or biking, you don't want to deal with spillage over the top of your sports bra. An easy way to make your bust feel more secure is with a sports bra with a higher neckline, like this one from Glamorise. The cut keeps your chest covered without being too high, while thick straps and underwire cups keep you feeling supported.
The bra has a mesh overlay for added style, while individual cups keep your breasts separated and comfortable while you sweat it out. Many reviewers suggest sizing up in this bra, and also comment on how well it stays in place during even intense workouts.
Support: The number one thing you want in a sports bra is support. The level of support necessary will depend on your level of activity. The higher the impact, the higher the level of support you need. To gauge how much support a bra offers, look at the material it’s made of as well as the fit of the cups and the band.
Look: Just because your sports bra is doing some heavy lifting, doesn’t mean it can’t be cute. Whether or not you’re not prone to going shirtless, details like color, print, and the shape of the straps can go a long way in making you want to put on your workout clothes and actually work out.
Comfort: Straps that dig into your shoulders, bands that cut into your ribcage, material that leaves you chafed, and wires that poke and prod you with your every movement are all things on the what-not-to-wear list. Instead, look for a bra with straps that are cushioned and those that are made of moisture-wicking material. Above all, make sure you find one that fits you fabulously, which may mean choosing a brand that comes in actual bra cup sizes instead of just small, medium, large, etc.
“When dressing for activity, it's important to be mindful of choosing a sports bra that offers good support to reduce the strain on the surrounding soft tissue. More support means less risk of developing neck pain or upper, middle, or low back pain. When selecting a sports bra, look for wide straps, sufficient compression, and ample fabric to contain most of the breast tissue.”—Diana Gersuk, DPT, physical therapist for The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics
Looking to start walking off the weight? Our free guide offers tips, workouts, and a printable schedule to help you get on the right track.
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