Although it may seem that you can run in almost anything, thus, the three key pieces of gear are to avoid saving money on a good pair of running shoes, padded running socks, and a well-fitting, comfortable sports bra.
Good sports bras really matter when it comes to running or workout in the gym. In the fitting room, it may seem too much, but the snugness and hardness of a proper sports bra keep your chest in place, relieving back and chest pain.
In addition, a good sports bra protects your Cooper’s ligaments, which are connective tissues vital in holding the breast tissues together and preventing sagging.
So, how should a sports bra fit and what can you do to ensure you select the right product for you? Keep reading for the top picks and everything you should know about sports bras.
5 Best Sports Bras for Workouts
High-impact workouts are the sweatiest ones, and that’s why we appreciate the moisture-wicking fabric of Brooks’ Dare Crossback 2.0.
The material is designed to reduce chafing and feels very comfortable to wear if you’re breaking a sweat.
We also love the stylish laser-cut ventilation around the straps and band, which allow for excellent airflow when you’re working out, preferably when running or exercising with HIIT.
This bra has a compressive fit and encapsulated cups that offer great support. It’s stabilized by a wide band that doesn’t roll over, either.
Moreover, there are no removable pads that can create unflattering creases in your shirts or simply roll up in the wash.
✯ Pros:
Stylish straps
Wideband
Laser-cut ventilation
✯ Cons:
Not adjustable
Odor retention
If compression just doesn’t cut it on its own, consider the Simone Sport Underwire Bra from Wacoal instead.
The exterior underwire lifts as well as supports without any chafing or rubbing.
Our soft cups lift, separate, and support your chest in a fuller circle than many sports bras (which can flatten your breasts) and with an evenly supportive system that sculpts the figure.
An adjustable band and straps offer a customizable option to make you feel more comfortable.
It also is crafted in a thick, opaque fabric that provides full coverage and quite literally whisks any sweat away.
But what’s more, this bra (also available in colors) comes in sizes 32C to 42I — meaning it has you covered, regardless of size and intensity.
✯ Pros:
The underwire band helps with lift and support.
Lift and separate with soft cups
Adjustable bands and straps
Thick opaque fabric that absorbs perspiration
Available in a wide assortment of colors and fit
✯ Cons:
Not for women who like their bras compression-only
A significant number of our recommendations are customizable; however, SheFit’s Ultimate Sports Bra provides an unprecedented level of customization, offering its users a chance to ensure a perfect fit.
Noteworthy, it is designed for both instant and full customization throughout one’s workout thanks to its strong yet convertible straps, band, and front zip closure safely protected by fabric tabs.
Compression, of course, is the highlight of this bra’s design. Specifically, its cups and straps provide an initial level of support, but the ultimate compression level can be adjusted as needed.
Testing shows that this bra can support its wearer through multiple runs, as well as through several rounds of weightlifting and complex drills.
The bra’s moisture-wicking materials and mesh panels ensure comfort by reducing sweat.
✯ Pros:
Zip front
Convertible straps
Customizable compression
✯ Cons:
Two-way stretch
Featuring a zip front and dual-strap design, the Motion Control Zip Sports Bra by Champion is the most supportive high-impact bra we tried.
It’s highly compressive with molded cups that keep our chests comfortably corralled; meanwhile, the combination of standard and crisscrossing straps evenly distributes the weight across our shoulders and back.
This bra is exceptionally breathable and moisture-wicking, so it’s great for more intense activities.
Whether we’re on the bike, doing weightlifting, or physical therapy, we found that it fit perfectly and kept its shape while doing so.
It was also very easy to throw under a top. We’d snatch this bra up in a few colors.
✯ Pros:
Hybrid strap design
Lays perfectly flat under clothes
Zip-front closure
✯ Cons:
The band cannot be adjusted
The hook-and-eye clasp can be challenging to snap into place
One of the most stylish options we tested, Brooks’ Plunge 2.0 Sports Bra, is also a terrific selection for hugging the treadmill or trails.
Whether we were running, taking Spin classes, lifting weights, or just hanging out at home, it offered exceptional support, thanks in part to a nice level of compression and a secure band.
We can’t understate the benefits of the front mesh panel, as it both looks good and keeps the zone where brassieres often get very hot nice, and breezy.
Plus, it still airs out if you sweat through your back. Should you want an extra level of padding, you can add optional inserts.
Like the other top bras we’ve recommended, it will also look good under your chosen athletic jersey or alone. Colors include a variety of monochromes and color-blocked pleas.
✯ Pros:
Highly compressive
Breathable mesh panel
Removable padding
✯ Cons:
Not adjustable
What to Look for When Buying for a High-Impact Sports Bra?
✯Fit: The band should feel snug, with the cups lying flush against your chest so that there are no gaps. You should not be spilling out of it at the sides or top.
The band shouldn’t be too tight either, as overly tight bras have been shown to negatively affect running performance.
A bra with an adjustable band and straps is ideal in terms of achieving a good match for your proportions.
It can be helpful to use the brand’s size chart and to base your decision on sports bras sold in traditional bra sizes.
✯ Support: Opt for bras with high compression that will keep your breasts close to your chest wall.
Encapsulated cups are also beneficial since they isolate, lift, and stabilize each breast. Moreover, underwired and high-neck bras will offer extra support for large chests.
If you have an ample bust, consider buying a plus-size sports bra.
✯ Straps: Choose bras with wide, padded straps that will help divide your breasts’ weight equally across your shoulders and back. This will help prevent strain and enhance comfort.
✯ Adjustability: Pick bras with adjustable straps and bands. If you have a big bust, adjustability will ensure a perfectly tailored fit.
Additionally, ensure that the straps are not supporting the entire weight of your breasts. The band should also offer significant support.
✯ Materials: From a large number of materials that can be used for making sports bras, it is advisable to choose only soft, airy, and moisture-wicking ones, such as nylon, elastane, spandex, and polyester.
It is also advisable to avoid scratchy hardware, seams that may itch, and cotton bras since they are capable of preserving moisture, which can contribute to the development of bacteria and give rise to unpleasant smells.
✯ Care: In order to make a sports bra last longer, it is important to use only those care operations that the manufacturers recommend.
In particular, one must make sure to attach all fasteners and place the bra in a mesh laundry bag. It is advisable to wash the bra in a mild detergent and use a delicate cycle.
One must avoid using fabric softeners, and it is always necessary to hang a sports bra to dry since it cannot be placed in the dryer.
Disclaimer: At Thriven Authority, we strive to provide clear and helpful information for our readers. All products listed are carefully curated by our editorial team, but we recommend using your discretion and seeking an expert’s opinion before using them. Prices and availability may change after publication. If you buy something via the links in this article, we may earn a commission
