We Found the 16 Best Zip Front Sports Bras for Support and Comfort

Cordaw’s Zipper in Front Sports Bra is a top pick for its support and comfort

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more.

Comfort, support, and ease are essential when it comes to wearing a sports bra during any kind of movement. The task of stretching a sports bra over your head to get it on and off, especially after a sweaty workout, can be tiring and uncomfortable. Zip-front sports bras eliminate this hassle—which can be a deterrent to exercise for some. “Plus, they look great, and I am a huge believer in putting your best foot forward. It can give you that extra boost of motivation, says Andrea Marcellus, fitness expert and founder/CEO of And/Life.

When searching for the perfect zip-front sports bra, it's important to keep support, comfort, and design in mind. Pay attention to different fabrics, strap styles, and adjustability. It’s a good idea to look for a bra that is made of moisture-wicking material and one that won’t move around during your workouts. Your ideal front zip sports bra will depend on breast size, type of movement, and preferred style. 

To determine the best zip-front sports bras, we researched dozens of top-rated products across the most trusted activewear brands and assessed them for support level, materials, comfort, and design. 

Editor’s Note About BPA in Activewear

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical found in some types of plastic. Research has shown that exposure to high levels of BPA can lead to obesity, hormonal imbalances, and uterine cancer, among other health complications. 

On May 18, 2023, building on its findings from last fall, the Center for Environmental Health (CEH) announced that, after testing, it found high levels of BPA in certain activewear pieces containing blends of polyester and spandex. California law states that your skin can safely absorb up to 3 micrograms of BPA daily. CEH found that some leggings, sports bras, shorts, and athletic shirts may expose wearers to over 120 micrograms in a day, according to CNN. 

CEH found high levels of BPA in sports bras from Sweaty Betty, leggings from Nike, Athleta, Champion, Patagonia, and Kohl’s, shorts from Champion, Nike, and Adidas, and athletic shirts from Fabletics. We may recommend some of these products or similar items from these brands in this list, as these products have not been recalled and the science on transdermal absorption of BPA is still not settled. As a precaution, it is best to limit the amount of time you spend in activewear by changing out of it when you are finished working out.

Best Overall

Cordaw Zipper in Front Sports Bra

4.7
Front Zip Bra

Amazon

Pros
  • Auto-lock zipper

  • Removable pads

  • Budget-friendly

Cons
  • Not adjustable

  • Potential zipper bulge

Thanks to its solid support and consistent comfort, Cordaw’s Zipper in Front Sports Bra is our top pick. It’s made for medium- to high-impact workouts, making it suitable for a wide range of movements, whether you're joining a yoga class or hitting the track. 

This compression bra is made of moisture-wicking materials that will keep you dry, stain-free, and cool throughout your workout. Its wide straps are comfortable and won’t slip or dig into your skin. The front zipper locks in place when you lay it flat, and two additional hooks are added for extra security. 

With a wireless design, double-layer coverage, and removable pads, this versatile bra is great for small or large chests. Cordaw’s Zipper in Front Sports Bra comes in a variety of colors and patterns and a wide range of sizes (from small to 5XL). 

When it comes to an affordable yet functional zip-front sports bra with a great design and added comfort, Cordaw’s Zipper in Front Sports Bra is our favorite. 

Price at time of publication: $30

Key Specs:
Support Level: Medium-high | Support Type: Compression | Materials: Nylon and spandex | Strap Style: Criss-cross, strappy back | Care: Machine wash, line dry

Best Adjustable

SheFit Ultimate Sports Bra

4.8
SheFit Ultimate Sports Bra

SheFit

Pros
  • Comfortable, thick lower band

  • Zipper garage to prevent chafing

  • Wide size range

Cons
  • Expensive

  • May run small

We recommend Shefit’s Ultimate Sports Bra for its unique and advanced adjustability. A patented "Zip. Cinch. Lift." adjustability allows for 15 inches of lift in the shoulder straps and 8 inches of cinch in the lower band. It also features wide and padded convertible straps that can be worn in X- or H-back designs. If you’re looking for a customizable bra, this one’s for you.

Made of two-way stretch fabric and the highest level of support, this sports bra will reduce bounce and keep you secure—making it a great option for high-impact workouts. The bra is equipped with removable, wire-free, seamed cups for natural definition and coverage customized to your liking. 

Additional features we like include a hidden hook-and-eye closure that will keep your breasts secured, and a zipper garage—fabric that covers the zipper to prevent unwanted chafing. This bra comes in a wide range of cup sizes (from A-I) and is great for all shapes and sizes.

Price at time of publication: $75

Key Specs:
Support Level: High | Support Type: Compression | Materials: Polyester | Strap Style: Convertible X- or H-back | Care: Hand-wash recommended, lay flat to dry

Best Splurge

Lululemon Enlite Zip Front Bra

4.3
Lululemon Enlite Zip Front Bra

Lululemon

Pros
  • Smooth and supportive fabric

  • Hidden bra hook

  • Excellent support

Cons
  • Not adjustable

  • Some say it’s hard to zip

Looking to invest in a high-quality, high-support zip-front sports bra? We recommend Lululemon’s Enlite Front-Zip Bra. Made of Lululemon’s proprietary fabric, the bra molds to your shape while offering smooth support and optimal comfort. 

Four-way stretching, sweat-wicking, and quick-drying material make for a breathable and soft feel that’ll keep you focused throughout your workout. It’s designed for running and other high-impact sports but can be worn for all types of activities, especially when paired with a set of the brand's high-quality leggings.

Its main drawbacks are a lack of adjustability and a high price tag. But if you’re looking to treat yourself, we like this Lululemon bra.

Price at time of publication: $108

Key Specs:
Support Level: High | Support Type: Compression | Materials: Nylon, elastane, polyester | Strap Style: Dual X and H-back design | Care: Machine wash cold, line dry

Best Lightweight

Nike Dri-FIT Indy Zip-Front Sports Bra

Nike Front Zip Bra

Dick's Sporting Goods

Pros
  • Wide lower band

  • Front-adjusting straps

  • Semi-auto-lock zipper 

Cons
  • Limited colors

  • Thin straps may dig into skin

Nike is known for its Dri-FIT technology that helps you stay dry and comfortable by wicking away sweat and supporting your body’s natural cooling system. This bra features Nike’s patented technology and is made with featherweight fabric, making it the best lightweight option on our list. 

With low-level support, Nike’s Indy Zip-Front Sports Bra is optimal for lighter activities, like stretching and everyday wear. According to Jilliann Schembri, CPT, founder of Wear One's At, it’s really important to wear a sports bra even when participating in these types of low-impact movements.

We like the bra's racerback straps and mesh backing to add to its already lightweight design. The adjustable straps, which are located in the front for easier reach, are a huge plus.

Price at time of publication: $50

Key Specs:
Support Level: Low | Support Type: Compression | Materials: Polyester, spandex | Strap Style: Adjustable racerback | Care: Machine wash, line dry

Best Budget

YEYELE Women Medium Support Sports Bra

Medium Support Sports Bra

Amazon

Pros
  • Available in packs

  • Removable pads

  • Wide mesh shoulder straps

Cons
  • Some complain of light support

  • Not designed for large chests

If you’re searching for a comfortable zip-front sports bra for low-impact activities that won’t break the bank, we recommend this YEYELE sports bra. It’s better for smaller chests, as it offers a weaker structure and does not support cup sizes over DD. 

Its racerback design, wide shoulder straps, wireless pads, and skin-friendly materials make this bra a great option for yoga, walking, and lounging. YEYELE’s zip front sports bra also features removable pads so you can customize your coverage. 

While it’s definitely a more basic design, we like this YEYELE sports bra for a comfortable, budget-friendly pick.

Price at time of publication: $11

Key Specs:
Support Level: Low-medium | Support Type: Compression | Materials: Polyamide, polyester, spandex | Strap Style: Racerback | Care: Machine wash cold, line dry

Best for Running

Yvette Enfold Zip Front Padded Running Bra

Yvette Sports Bra

Amazon

Pros
  • Wide size range

  • Breathable mesh straps

  • Good for large chests

Cons
  • Nonremovable cups

  • Limited colors

The Yvette Enfold Bra is specifically designed for high-impact sports, making it ideal for both short- and long-distance running. Its thick, padded, and mesh straps relieve added shoulder pressure and help to avoid any slipping—which is vital during a running session. You don’t want to have to stop mid-run and lose your rhythm, so we’ve chosen this bra for its dependable support. 

The cups are sewn in and molded to provide full coverage—keeping your breasts secure and limiting bounce. This bra is made with antibacterial, sweat-wicking fabric, so sweating during a long run won’t be a problem. 

Although the straps aren’t adjustable, the bra’s racerback design and wide lower band are great for comfort and support.

Price at time of publication: $46

Key Specs:
Support Level: High | Support Type: Compression and encapsulation | Materials: Polyester, spandex | Strap Style: Racerback | Care: Machine wash cold, line dry

Best for Large Breasts

Adidas Women's Ultimate Sports Bra

Adidas Women's Ultimate Sports Bra

Courtesy of Dick's Sporting Goods

Pros
  • Hidden bra hook

  • Wide and padded straps

  • Brushed elastic hem keeps bra comfortably in place

Cons
  • Hard to strap into

  • Limited colors

With molded cups, adjustable straps, and a high neckline, the Adidas Women’s Ultimate Sports bra is our top choice for anyone with large breasts. Its cups provide soft comfort, and straps allow for a secure fit—which we like for added comfort for larger-sized chests. The high neckline is perfect for additional coverage. 

It’s a sports bra designed for high-impact training that will keep you concentrated and confident throughout your workout. For even more comfort, the sports bra features a special fabric technology, keeping you cool and dry. 

Price at time of publication: $50

Key Specs:
Support Level: High | Support Type: Compression | Materials: Polyester, elastane | Strap Style: Adjustable X-back | Care: Machine wash, line dry

Best for Small Breasts

Athleta Ultimate Sports Bra A-C

Athleta Ultimate Sports Bra A-C

Athleta

Pros
  • Made from recycled material

  • Removable pads

  • Lightweight racerback

Cons
  • Expensive

Available in a wide range of band sizes (XXS-XL) but only for cups A-C, this sports bra was made for those with small breasts. We like that the Athleta Ultimate Zip Front Bra is medium coverage, with a mid-rise neckline and scoop neck design that will keep you secure and can still offer a flattering look with a little less coverage. 

It’s a medium-impact compression bra made of quick-drying performance materials, so it’s great for anything from an intense cardio session to a slow-moving barre class.

A huge perk: Its SuperSonic fabric is made with 25 plastic water bottles, helping you make impactful and sustainable clothing choices. 

It’s important to note that this bra is not for those over a C cup. But if it sounds great to you, don't be disappointed, because the same bra is made for cups D-DD

Price at time of publication: $49

Key Specs:
Support Level: Medium | Support Type: Compression | Materials: Recycled nylon, lycra | Strap Style: Racerback | Care: Machine wash, line dry

Best Plus Size

Knix Catalyst Front Zip Sports Bra

Knix Catalyst Front Zip Sports Bra

Knix

Pros
  • Customizable fit

  • Wireless support

  • Soft fabric

Cons
  • Expensive

  • Back clasps may be uncomfortable during mat workouts

The Knix Catalyst Front Zip Sports Bra comes in sizes 28DD-42H—what we found to be one of the best size ranges available on the market. The back is equipped with adjustable straps and a three-hook clasp with four levels of adjustability.

The bra is designed to conform to your body, so it might feel tight at first, but it will mold to your shape as you continue to wash and wear it. It’s a maximum-support zip-front sports bra made for high-impact workouts, and it has a wireless design, which we like for optimal comfort. 

While a pricey option, we think you’ll find this Knix bra to be worth it. The bra continues to receive amazing buzz, and we can definitely see why.

Price at time of publication: $89


Key Specs:
Support Level: High | Support Type: Compression and encapsulation | Materials: Nylon, spandex | Strap Style: Adjustable criss-cross | Care: Machine wash cold, lay flat to dry

Best High Impact

Champion Motion Control Zip Front Sports Bra

Champion sports bra

Champion

Pros
  • Great coverage

  • Breathable mesh neckline

  • Wide band

Cons
  • Limited sizes

  • May run small

Wire-free support, reinforced laminate side panels, and a wide band make this the best high-impact zip-front sports bra on our list. High-impact workouts mean you’re likely to work up a sweat, so the bra’s moisture-wicking technology and lightweight fabrics come in handy for keeping you fresh and comfortable.

This bra excels in support and adjustability. It offers both a racerback and H-back design that has adjustable straps. Plus, we like the bra for its tall, mesh neckline and breathable racerback design that will keep you cool during the most intense workouts.

Price at time of publication: $45

Key Specs:
Support Level: High | Support Type: Compression and encapsulation | Materials: Polyester, spandex, powermesh, nylon | Strap Style: Racerback and adjustable H-back | Care: Machine wash cold, line dry

Best Low Impact

Jockey Zip Front Seam Free Sports Bra

Jockey Bra

Amazon

Pros
  • Auto-lock zipper

  • Hook-and-eye interior closure

  • Seamless

Cons
  • Not adjustable

  • Limited sizes

We recommend Jockey’s soft and comfortable zip-front sports bra for low-impact workouts, like stretching or yoga, and everyday activities. It’s a seamless bra with removable padding and a wireless design. The zipper is lined with fabric, so it won’t cause any uncomfortable chafing. 

Despite its basic design, customers love this bra for everything from light movement to post-op support. It’s a comfortable and affordable option, making it our favorite for low-impact activities.

Price at time of publication: $26

Key Specs:
Support Level: Low-medium | Support Type: Compression and encapsulation | Materials: Nylon, spandex | Strap Style: Racerback | Care: Machine wash, machine dry

Most Breathable

Under Armour Under Armour Women's Eclipse High Impact Front Zip Sports Bra

Under Armour Sports Bra

Amazon

Pros
  • Breathable mesh lining

  • Wide, adjustable straps

  • Good coverage

Cons
  • Nonremovable pads

  • Cotton material may hold moisture

This zip-front sports bra has a lightweight mesh lining and is made with soft, supportive fabric, making it top of the charts on breathability. It’s made primarily of cotton for a light and airy feel. The only downside is that the cotton fabric may hold moisture, so this bra, while super breathable, won’t necessarily keep you the driest. 

The good news is that it’s also made from polyester and elastane—both moisture-wicking materials—so your sweaty sessions won’t be ruined. We love that the bra also has a zipper lock feature that prevents the zipper from sliding down and is suitable for high- and low-impact activities.

Price at time of publication: $60

Key Specs:
Support Level: High | Support Type: Compression and encapsulation | Materials: Cotton, polyester, elastane | Strap Style: X-back | Care: Machine wash cold with like colors, line dry

Best for Yoga

Ohlyah Women’s Zipper Front Closure Sports Bra

Front Zip Sports Bra

Amazon

Pros
  • Sizing up to 3XL

  • Budget-friendly

  • Available in packs

Cons
  • Not adjustable

  • Not for high-impact training

Whether you're twisting into crow pose or finishing in savasana, you’ll want a sports bra that moves with you and feels like a second skin. Ohlya’s zip-front sports bra is our top pick for yoga because it's lightly padded but has supportive cups for those fast-paced sequences. 

The bra comes with hidden safety hooks, removable pads, and a breathable racerback design. Its soft and wide lower band will prevent chafing and feels lightweight. 

Made of moisture-wicking materials, this sports bra can survive even the most intense hot yoga sessions. 

Price at time of publication: $13

Key Specs:
Support Level: Low-medium | Support Type: Compression and encapsulation | Materials: Nylon, spandex | Strap Style: Racerback | Care: Machine wash, line dry

Best Underwire

VICTORIA'S SECRET Knockout Maximum Impact Front-Close Sports Bra

Victoria's Secret Zip Front Bra

Victoria's Secret

Pros
  • Good for large chests

  • Stylish

  • Excellent support

Cons
  • Neckline may be too deep for some

  • May run slightly small

If you want the added support and security of underwire without sacrificing comfort, we recommend this Victoria's Secret sports bra. This bra-within-a-bra technology allows maximum support with lightly padded, hidden underwire cups. The cups are secured with a front closure, and the zipper holds it all together. 

We like the seamless racerback along with cushioned straps, four-way stretch, and quick-drying material that make this an extremely wearable underwire option. It's perfect for high-impact activities like running, HIIT, or boxing.

Price at time of publication: $55

Key Specs:
Support Level: High | Support Type: Compression and encapsulation | Materials: Polyamide, elastane, polyester | Strap Style: Racerback | Care: Machine wash, line dry

Best Push-Up

Shefit Shefit Exhilarate Sports Bra

Shefit Sports Bra

Shefit

Pros
  • Adjustable straps and band

  • Stylish design

  • Comfortable support


Cons
  • Only available in two colors

  • Thin straps may dig into skin

Its plunge neckline, extra padding, and extremely adjustable straps make the Shefit Exhilarate Sports Bra the best option for a good lift. Let’s face it—push-up bras are notorious for being uncomfortable. But they don't have to be, and this highly rated zip-front bra proves it. 

The V-shaped plunge neckline gives modest cleavage, while the perforated push-up padding provides you an extra lift. Made with performance materials, like nylon and spandex, we love that this bra wicks away moisture while helping you stay super comfortable and feel super cute.

Price at time of publication: $75

Key Specs:
Support Level: High | Support Type: Compression and encapsulation | Materials: Nylon, spandex, mesh | Strap Style: Racerback | Care: Hand wash cold, lay flat to dry

Best Design

Gymshark Gym Shark Zip Up Sports Bra

Gymshark Sports Bra

Gymshark

Pros
  • Budget-friendly

  • Auto-lock zipper

  • Removable pads

Cons
  • Potential zipper bulge

Gymshark is known for its high-quality activewear, and this zip-front sports bra lives up to the name. The bra features thick, adjustable straps and a wide lower band for optimal support. We love its moisture-wicking materials, and the mesh panel racerback design provides a cool feel. 

It may not be the best option for higher-impact activities, but it’s definitely our top pick for design—with all of the necessary features plus some extras (like internal swan hooks and an open mesh back).

Key Specs:
Support Level: Medium | Support Type: Compression | Materials: Polyester, elastane | Strap Style: Racerback | Care: Machine wash cold, line dry

Final Verdict

Cordaw’s Zipper in Front Sports Bra is our top overall pick for a high-impact and comfortable zip-front sports bra. It’s a compression sports bra featuring a front zipper that locks in place when it lies flat, keeping you completely supported throughout your workout. The sports bra is made primarily of nylon, a moisture-wicking performance fabric that will leave you feeling dry and stain-free. 

For those with larger chests or anyone looking for a more adjustable fit, we like the Shefit Ultimate Sports Bra, which is designed to fit cups A-I and has convertible back straps.

How We Selected the Best Zip-Front Sports Bras

In order to find the best zip-front sports bras, we researched dozens of options from the most trusted and top-ranking activewear brands. We spoke with two fitness experts—Andrea Marcellus, founder and CEO of And/Life, and Jilliann Schembri, CPT, founder of Wear One's At—for their advice on zip-front sports bra functionality. We also consulted apparel expert Camila Velandia, founder and co-designer of Miel, for her guidance on zip-front sports bra design. 

With the information gathered from our interviews, we assessed each zip-front sports bra for its support, comfort, and design. We also looked at each sports bra's fabric and adjustability to provide the best recommendations for varying breast sizes and types of workouts.

What to Look For in Zip Front Sports Bras

Support Level

Choosing a sports bra with the proper support level is vital for not only comfort and focus but to avoid any potential injuries during your workout. “Without the proper support, you're just asking for your breast tissue to break down,” says Marcellus, “The Cooper's ligaments in your breast will stretch, and then they’ll start to hang and sag. You definitely want as much support as you possibly can.” 

If you plan on participating in high-impact workouts, like running or plyometrics, opt for a high-support zip-front sports bra. And for low-impact workouts, like yoga or walking, choose a medium- or light-support bra. 

Support Type

Encapsulation sports bras hold each breast in a separate cup, while compression bras secure both breasts against your chest, restricting movement. Some sports bras offer a combination of the two. According to a study published by the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, women prefer compression bras—and second to this preference was a combination of both, leaving encapsulation as the least popular option for support type. 

Material

There are several factors to look for regarding the material of zip-front sports bras. Choosing a four-way stretch garment that will hug your curves and move with you comfortably is important, says Velandia. She also recommends a featherweight material that feels like a second skin and antimicrobial fabric that will keep you odor- and stain-free. 

While 100-percent cotton may feel breathable, it holds in moisture for a very long time—which is not ideal for post-workout sweat, Velandia says. So it’s best to avoid cotton when you can and look for zip-front sports bras made of moisture-wicking performance fabrics like polyester and nylon. 

Fit

Finding the perfect fit is essential to keep you comfortable, committed, and confident during a workout. A sports bra should be snug but not constricting. You shouldn't really notice it, but the bra should hold you nicely, Marcellus says.

Straps

Zip-front sports bras come in many different strap designs, and choosing which one is right for you depends on your own personal preferences. Some may prefer a racerback style for a more supportive fit, while others prefer a strappy style for a trendier look. 

Whichever design you choose, it's important to ensure that the straps don’t distract from your workout. You want to avoid any fidgeting or messing with straps that are digging into your back or falling off your shoulders. You want the bra to feel like a part of you, says Schembri.

Adjustability

Some zip-front sports bras are made with adjustable straps and back closures. This is a great feature for customizing fit, support, and coverage during your workouts.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • When should I wear a sports bra?

    It's a good idea to always wear a sports bra when exercising, says Marcellus, because the support is different from a regular bra and essential for that kind of movement. To avoid straining, hanging, sagging, and even pain, opt for a sports bra during all types of workouts—from low to high impact.

  • How should a sports bra fit?

    A well-fitting sports bra should be snug, but not too constricting. It will fit tighter than a regular bra and shouldn’t have any gaps or extra room. Most of the support comes from the band, which should be wide enough to avoid uncomfortable compression. To prevent distraction during your workouts, your sports bra should feel like a second skin, and you should rarely even notice it's there. 

    “It's like when you wear an outfit that's fussy—you spend all your time at the party adjusting your belt or pulling your skirt down—it's really distracting from your ability to focus on what you’re doing. It's the same concept with a sports bra,” Marcellus says. 

  • How do I measure myself for a sports bra?

    First, measure your band size. Using a measuring tape, measure your rib cage right where the band of a bra would sit. 

    Then, measure your bust size. Measure around the fullest part of your breasts with the measuring tape.

    Finally, calculate your bra size. Subtract your band size from your bust size—the difference tells you your cup size (0=AA, 1=A, 2=B, 3=C, and so on).

    For example, if your band size is 36 inches and your cup size is 38 inches, your bra size is 36B.

  • Why should I choose a zip-front sports bra?

    If you’re looking for a supportive and comfortable sports bra that still looks great, a zip-front sports bra may be right for you. Marcellus thinks zip-front sports bras are the superior choice because you avoid distracting clasps and are fully supported while wearing one. Plus, their stylish look delivers a little boost of confidence during your workouts.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Michelle Parente is an experienced fitness writer passionate about making great product recommendations. As a fitness enthusiast with her own sizable sports bra collection, Michelle knows that a supportive and stylish zip-front sports bra can level up any workout, providing an extra boost of comfort and confidence.

4 Sources
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.
  1. Nutrition C for FS and A. Questions & answers on bisphenol a (Bpa) use in food contact applications. FDA. Published online March 27, 2023.

  2. Ohore O., Zhang S. Endocrine disrupting effects of bisphenol A exposure and recent advances on its removal by water treatment systems. A review. Scientific African. 2019;5:e00135.

  3. Kavilanz P. A growing number of sports bras, shirts and leggings brands found with high levels of toxic chemical, watchdog warns | CNN Business. CNN.

  4. Rizzone KH, Edison B, Coleman N, et al. Sports bra preferences by age and impact of breast size on physical activity among american females. IJERPH. 2021;18(23):12732. doi: 10.3390/ijerph182312732