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We Found the Best Sports Bras for Running After Wear-Testing 61 Options
Our top picks are from brands including lululemon, Alo Yoga, Knix, and more
Whether you’re hitting the pavement or choosing a treadmill, wearing the right sports bra for running is essential for comfort and performance. Inadequate bra support can lead to breast pain and actually be a deterrent to exercise for some women. The best sports bras for runners offer a snug and secure fit (without being too tight), provide support and compression to reduce movement and boast breathable, moisture-wicking materials that keep you cool and comfortable throughout your run.
To find the best sports bras for runners, we first spoke with experts—three sports bra specialists, one certified personal trainer, and a professor of dermatology—to get their advice on which key features to look for. Then, we researched dozens of options from top, trusted brands. Finally, we tested 61 expert-approved sports bras at home in our daily running routines. The options on this list earned high scores for fit, support, comfort, adjustability, durability, and value. Another reason to trust us? A certified personal trainer from our Review Board reviewed this article for accuracy and how to find a comfortable, supportive sports bra for running.
Support Type: Compression vs. Encapsulation
Sports bras offer support through two different methods: compression and encapsulation. Compression sports bras secure both breasts together against your chest, restricting movement and bounce. Encapsulation sports bras hold each breast in a separate cup, providing a more natural shape. Most of the sports bras on our list offer a combination of the two, which is ideal for running and other high-impact activities.
Best Overall
lululemon Run Times Bra High Support
- Fit5/5
- Support5/5
- Comfort5/5
- Adjustability5/5
- Durability5/5
Adjustable band and straps
Smooth, soft material
Maximum support
No A-cup sizes
Key Specs:
Sizes: Band 32-42 inches, cups B-G | Materials: Nylon, elastane, Lycra | Strap Style: H-back | Support: Compression and encapsulation | Care: Machine wash cold, hang dry | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who It's For
Best for runners who want reliable support without sacrificing comfort.
Why We Love It
Runners need a sports bra with exceptional comfort and maximum support—lululemon’s Run Times Bra High Support Bra checks those boxes and more. It features three rows of hook-and-eye closures on the ribcage band, as well as adjustable, crossable shoulder straps that helped us find a snug, secure fit. And despite the supreme support, the band and straps don’t dig into your skin.
The cups—a combination of compression and encapsulation—deliver a flattering lift and help control movement. A breathable blend of nylon, elastane, and Lycra feels sweat-wicking and buttery soft against the skin to add even more comfort. We also appreciate that the bra held up beautifully after repeated wear and washing—with no stretching out, fading, or pilling.
Potential Flaws
- You may need a different option if you have smaller breasts, since this bra doesn’t come in A-cup sizes.
Verywell Fit
Verywell Fit
Good coverage and support
Very comfortable
Soft and stretchy material
Not adjustable
Not for C cups or higher
Key Specs
Sizes: Band 30-40 inches, cups A-C | Materials: Nylon, spandex | Strap Style: Camisole | Support: Compression | Care: Machine wash cold, hang dry | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who It's For
Best if you prefer a longline cami-style sports bra that’s great for lounging and running—especially if you’re below a C-cup.
Why We Love It
Comfy enough for lounging yet supportive enough for running, Lemedy’s Padded Sports Bra is the budget-friendly solution to your sports bra needs. The thin, cami-style straps add a sleek look while still controlling movement and bounce during runs. We also like the removable pads, which are the ideal thickness for comfort and coverage.
The material, a breathable combination of nylon and spandex, feels soft, stretchy, and sweat-wicking. During test runs, we never noticed any discomfort or chafing. In fact, this pullover bra is so comfortable that we found ourselves reaching for it even when we weren’t working out.
Potential Flaws
- The band and straps aren’t adjustable, but we found the sizing to be accurate and the overall fit to be secure and comfortable.
- This bra doesn’t have adequate support for C cups or higher.
Most Valuable Insight
“I loved this bra and that it was supportive for high-impact exercise without being too tight for wearing for lounging.” —Holly Klamer, MS, RDN, associate commerce editor and Verywell Fit product tester
Verywell Fit
Verywell Fit
Comfortable support
Budget-friendly
Soft and stretchy material
Not adjustable
Removable pads may come out in the wash
Key Specs
Sizes: Band 32-42 inches, cups A-DD | Materials: Nylon, spandex | Strap Style: Crisscross racerback | Support: Compression and encapsulation | Care: Machine wash, hang dry | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who It's For
Best for runners who want a simple, supportive pullover bra with removable pads.
Why We Love It
Looking for a comfy, supportive sports bra at a budget-friendly price? Running Girl’s Sports Bra held us up while running, lifting weights, jumping, and more. It’s a simple pullover bra that combines compression and encapsulation to minimize movement and prevent spillage.
During intense runs, it held everything in place, while remaining comfortable the entire time. The fabric, a sweat-wicking combination of nylon and spandex, feels soft and stretchy. We love that it comes in a wide range of neutral and fun colors, and at such a reasonable price, we definitely recommend grabbing more than one.
Potential Flaws
- The removable pads came out in the washing machine, but it was easy enough to put them back in.
- The band and straps aren’t adjustable, but we still found a supportive fit.
Most Valuable Insight
“I highly recommend this bra—It's comfy, cute, stylish, and gets the job done. I can work out without breast pain, discomfort, or excessive bouncing. I look forward to putting this bra on.” —Jessica Fleming, Verywell Fit product tester
Verywell Fit
Verywell Fit
Most Supportive
Alo Yoga Power Play High Impact Bra
- Fit5/5
- Support5/5
- Comfort4.8/5
- Adjustability5/5
- Durability5/5
Comfortable support
Attractive style
Adjustable band and straps
No A- or B-cup sizes
Key Specs
Sizes: Band 32-38 inches, cups C-DD | Materials: Not listed | Strap Style: Crisscross racerback | Support: Compression and encapsulation | Care: Machine wash cold, hang dry | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who It's For
Best if you want maximum support without sacrificing comfort—especially for medium to large breasts.
Why We Love It
Good support is non-negotiable in any sports bra for running, especially for medium- and large-chested runners. We love Alo’s Power Play High Impact Bra because it combines compression and encapsulation, as well as an easily adjustable band and shoulder straps, to deliver maximum support and a customizable fit. Plus, it has an attractive style, combining fashion and function.
The compression helps reduce movement and bounce, while the molded encapsulation cups enhance overall comfort and prevent spillage. We were genuinely amazed that, despite the substantial support, the bra never felt constricting and the straps never dug into our skin. Plus, the soft, breathable fabric never caused irritation or chafing.
Potential Flaws
- The bra's cup sizes start at C, so this isn’t a good option for runners with smaller breasts.
- The crisscross straps made it somewhat difficult to take off, but it was just a minor inconvenience and did not take away from our experience with this bra.
Most Valuable Insight
“Ultra-supportive! Seriously, this is so impressively high-impact. I can literally do anything in this bra—it's not restrictive, but I feel completely secure.” —Sarah Felbin, commerce editor and Verywell Fit product tester
Verywell Fit
Verywell Fit
Best Zip Front
lululemon Enlite Zip Front Bra
- Fit4/5
- Support4.8/5
- Comfort5/5
- Adjustability3/5
- Durability4.9/5
Maximum support
Zipper front for easy on and off
Breathable, sweat-wicking material
Not adjustable
Key Specs
Sizes: Band 30-40 inches, cups A-E | Materials: Nylon, Lycra | Strap Style: Crisscross racerback | Support: Compression | Care: Machine wash cold, hang dry | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who It's For
Best for super sweaty runs, since the zip-front style makes it easy to take on and off.
Why We Love It
One of our favorite zip-front sports bras, lululemon’s Enlite Front-Zip Bra saves you from the struggle of trying to remove a sweat-drenched sports bra post-run. During testing, we found the front zipper easy to use and love that it locks in place to avoid slipping. The bra's wide straps are both comfortable and supportive, ensuring no digging, pinching, or irritation.
Designed with a breathable and sweat-wicking combination of nylon and Lycra, the bra feels smooth, soft, and stretchy. The lightly padded built-in cups offer additional bounce protection and coverage while helping to center and contain our breasts. We also love that this stylish, strappy bra is available in several colors and patterns.
Potential Flaws
- The straps aren’t adjustable, but we found the sizing to be accurate and the overall fit to be secure and comfortable.
Most Valuable Insight
“The zip front made it super easy to remove and put on—this is my first time trying this model and will be my go-to in the future.” —Connie Kelehan, Verywell Fit product tester
Verywell Fit
Verywell Fit
Best With Storage
Senita Athletics Sarah Sports Bra
- Fit4.8/5
- Support5/5
- Comfort5/5
- Durability5/5
- Value5/5
Maximum support
Very comfortable
Great overall value
Not adjustable
Key Specs
Sizes: Band 24-40 inches, cups A-DD | Materials: Polyester, spandex | Strap Style: Racerback | Support: Compression | Care: Machine wash cold, hang dry | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who It's For
Best if you want to store your phone, earbuds, and more.
Why We Love It
Whether it's your phone, workout headphones, or a mid-run snack, the roomy back pocket on Senita’s Sarah Sports Bra offers a convenient solution for storing essentials on your run. And we found that you can load it up without any extra bounce. The bra’s compression feels snug and supportive, while still offering chafe-free comfort.
What’s more, the ultra-soft, sweat-wicking fabric kept us dry and comfortable on sweaty runs. We were also impressed with the bra’s durability; there were no signs of pilling, fading, or stretching throughout testing. Given this pullover bra’s storage and support, exceptional comfort, and budget-friendly price, we think it’s a truly high-value purchase for runners.
Potential Flaws
- This bra isn’t adjustable, but it does come in a wide range of sizes and we still found the right fit during testing.
Verywell Fit
Verywell Fit
Verywell Fit
Best for Larger Breasts
Champion Motion Control Zip Front Sports Bra
- Fit5/5
- Support5/5
- Comfort4.5/5
- Adjustability5/5
- Durability5/5
Exceptional support and comfort
Adjustable straps
Zipper front for easy on and off
No A-cup sizes
Tag on the inside may irritate
Key Specs
Sizes: Band 34-42 inches, cups B-DD | Materials: Polyester, nylon, spandex | Strap Style: Strappy raceback | Support: Encapsulation | Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5
Who It's For
Best for runners with medium to large breasts who need maximum support—especially if you prefer a convenient zip-front style.
Why We Love It
Need a sports bra with maximum support for medium to large breasts? Champion’s Motion Control Zip Sports Bra combines encapsulation and a zip-front design, featuring a racerback and adjustable shoulder straps. These features work together to prevent spillage, limit movement, and offer a customizable fit.
The bra is so comfortable that, after wearing it all day, we practically forgot we were even wearing a sports bra. Plus, the performance fabric is breathable and moisture-wicking, keeping us cool and dry during intense workouts. We also found that the bra is flattering and even promotes good posture when running.
Potential Flaws
- The bra cup sizes start at B, so this isn’t a good option for runners with smaller breasts.
- After several wears during testing, we found that the tag on the inside of the bra was irritating, so we had to cut it out.
Verywell Fit
Verywell Fit
Verywell Fit
Most Versatile
All In Motion High Support Racerback Bra
- Fit4.8/5
- Support5/5
- Comfort4.5/5
- Adjustability5/5
- Durability5/5
Breathable, sweat-wicking material
Flattering fit
Budget-friendly
May be too much coverage for some
Key Specs
Sizes: Band 32-48 inches, cups A-E | Materials: Polyester, spandex | Strap Style: Racerback | Support: Compression and encapsulation | Care: Machine wash, tumble dry low | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5
Who It's For
Best for runners who want a budget-friendly sports bra that provides enough support and comfort for a variety of workouts.
Why We Love It
For a well-fitting, durable sports bra at a budget-friendly price, it’s tough to beat All in Motion’s High Support Sports Bra. We wore this bra for running, cycling, tennis, weight lifting, and more—feeling equally supported and comfortable during every activity. Plus, the lightweight and soft fabric allows us to move sweat- and chafe-free.
The bra combines compression and encapsulation to reduce bounce and spillage while offering some shape. And the adjustable ribcage band and racerback straps help us find a customizable fit for every workout. Plus, after tons of wears and washes, the bra hasn’t shown any signs of stretching, fading, or pilling—making it even more worth the already low price.
Potential Flaws
- We found that the neckline of this bra comes up quite high, offering too much coverage for some.
Most Valuable Insight
“A steal! I would (and probably will) buy this sports bra again. I think it stands up there with any of my other sports bras from brand names.” —Kristen Geil, Verywell Fit product tester
Verywell Fit
Verywell Fit
Verywell Fit
Best for Long Distance Runs
Tracksmith Allston Bra
- Fit5/5
- Support5/5
- Comfort5/5
- Durability5/5
- Value4/5
Very breathable
Attractive style
Pocket for storage
Not ideal for large chests
Key Specs
Sizes: Band 28-36 inches, cups A-D | Materials: Nylon, elastane | Strap Style: Racerback | Support: Compression | Care: Machine wash cold, hang dry | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5
Who It's For
Best for distance runners with small- to medium-sized breasts.
Why We Love It
Comfort, support, and storage are key features to look for in a sports bra for distance running. Tracksmith’s Allston Bra feels buttery-soft, reduces bounce, and has an internal pocket to stash your phone, keys, or mid-run energy fuel. During testing, the compression style helped us feel fully supported without any pinching or constriction.
The classic racerback features a mesh panel that adds breathability, making this a solid choice for sweaty workouts. Plus, we found that this attractive bra offers enough coverage to be confidently worn alone or under clothes. It’s also comfortable enough for casual wear and even quick post-run naps on the couch.
Potential Flaws
- Since it doesn’t have adjustable straps or molded cups, this bra isn’t the best option for larger breasts.
Most Valuable Insight
“This bra makes me excited to go for a run!” —Claire Bugos, Verywell Fit product tester
Most Stylish
Oiselle Queen Bra
- Fit4.8/5
- Support5/5
- Comfort4.8/5
- Adjustability4.8/5
- Durability4.5/5
Adjustable band and straps
Maximum support
Straps can switch from H-back to crisscross racerback
Band may roll when seated
No A- or B-cup sizes
Key Specs
Sizes: Band 32-40 inches, cups C-DD | Materials: Polyester, spandex | Strap Style: H-back or crisscross racerback | Support: Compression and encapsulation | Care: Machine wash, hang dry | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5
Who It's For
Best for runners with medium to large breasts who want support and style.
Why We Love It
Oiselle’s Queen Bra proves it’s possible to excel in both support and style. With its smooth, soft fabric and eye-catching colors, it helps us run in confidence—in more than one way. We love that the bra combines compression and encapsulation to hold your breasts in place and deliver a flattering shape. And we also appreciate the wide ribcage band that adds support and lift.
With adjustability in the band and shoulder straps, this bra offers customizable support and fit. It also lets you switch between an H-back or a crisscross racerback depending on your preferred style. The molded, sewn-in cups are perforated for heat release, which helps keep us cool and comfortable on long-distance runs.
Potential Flaws
- While we like the extra-wide band for added support, it tends to roll down when we’re sitting, so it’s not the best option for all-day wear.
- The bra cup sizes start at C, so this isn’t a good option for runners with smaller breasts.
Verywell Fit
Verywell Fit
Verywell Fit
Most Breathable
Brooks Crossback Run Bra 2.0
- Fit4.5/5
- Support5/5
- Comfort5/5
- Durability5/5
- Value4/5
Smooth, soft material
Sweat-wicking
Good coverage and support
Not adjustable
Key Specs
Sizes: Band 30-40 inches, cups A-E | Materials: Nylon, polyester, spandex | Strap Style: Crisscross | Support: Compression and encapsulation | Care: Machine wash cold, hang dry | Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5
Who It's For
Best for sweaty runners who run outside in warm to hot weather.
Why We Love It
Made with a sweat-wicking, breathable blend of performance fabrics, Brooks’ Dare Crossback Run Bra 2.0 is ideal for cool, chafe-free running. It has perforated ventilation on the front and back of the bra which we found helps mitigate excess heat. It’s also super supportive, thanks to the combination of compression and encapsulation that controls bounce and minimizes spillage.
We wore this bra for low-impact yoga and high-intensity interval training, feeling supported during each activity. The bra's minimal seams and soft, stretchy fabric not only provide a comfortable feel against the skin but also contribute to the bra's streamlined and sleek appearance. Plus, after dozens of wears and washes, there are no signs of wear and tear.
Potential Flaws
- We wish the straps were adjustable, as they sat slightly higher than where we would have liked.
Most Valuable Insight
“The bra is super comfortable. It's exceptionally great in hot and humid weather due to how breathable it is.” —Kimberly Souza, Verywell Fit product tester
Verywell Fit
Verywell Fit
Verywell Fit
Verywell Fit
Verywell Fit
Verywell Fit
Best Crossback
Brooks Drive Plunge Run Bra 2.0
- Fit4.3/5
- Support4.3/5
- Comfort4/5
- Durability5/5
- Value5/5
Allows for good range of motion
Breathable mesh panels
Attractive style
Not adjustable
Runs small
Key Specs
Sizes: Band 30-40 inches, cups A-D | Materials: Nylon, spandex | Strap Style: Crossback | Support: Compression and encapsulation | Care: Hand wash or machine wash in lingerie bag, hang dry | Our Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Who It's For
Best for optimal range of motion, especially for running in warm to hot climates.
Why We Love It
Crossback bras like Brooks’ Plunge 2.0 Sports Bra allow for optimal range of motion in the upper body, making them a good option for running. During test runs, we were immediately impressed with how easy it was to move in this bra—it offered better side-to-side mobility than any other bra we tested. It also delivers maximum support, lift, and bounce control.
The smooth, sweat-wicking material feels stretchy and prevents chafing. Meanwhile, the back mesh panels add even more airflow and a stylish flare. We also love that this bra feels high-quality, without a high price tag—showing no signs of wear and tear throughout testing.
Potential Flaws
- The band and straps are not adjustable, so it may be hard to find a customized fit.
Best Sweat-Wicking
Wacoal Sport Underwire Bra
- Fit5/5
- Comfort3.8/5
- Adjustability4.7/5
- Durability4/5
- Value5/5
Comfortable support
Easy to adjust
Flattering style
No A- or B-cup sizes
The underwire may feel uncomfortable
Key Specs
Sizes: Band 32-42 inches, cups C-I | Materials: Nylon, spandex, elastane | Strap Style: Adjustable ladder straps | Support: Encapsulation and compression | Care: Hand wash, hang dry | Our Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Who It's For
Best for sweaty runners with large chests who need maximum support for running in warm to hot weather.
Why We Love It
Running in the heat calls for a sweat-wicking sports bra, like Wacoal’s Simone Sport Underwire Bra. With soft, breathable fabric, it provides excellent coverage while effectively managing sweat during runs. During test runs, we found that the bra offers outstanding support and motion reduction, thanks to the compression and underwire. The molded cups also help maintain a natural shape without flattening your chest.
The adjustable band and straps ensure a customized fit, and the two layers of fabric between the skin and underwire enhance overall comfort and minimize the risk of irritation or chafing. We also love that you won’t have to worry about sweating in this bra since the durable fabric holds up over time.
Potential Flaws
- The bra doesn’t come in cup sizes smaller than C, so this may not be the best choice if you have smaller breasts.
- We noticed that the underwire may cause some discomfort during distance runs, but it is cushioned, which we found helps.
Best Investment
Knix Catalyst Sports Bra
- Fit4/5
- Support5/5
- Comfort4/5
- Adjustability5/5
- Durability5/5
Excellent high-impact support
Flattering silhouette
Very lightweight
May feel too compressive at first
Key Specs
Sizes: Band 28-42 inches, cups A-F | Materials: Nylon, spandex | Strap Style: H-back | Support: Compression and encapsulation | Care: Machine wash cold, hang dry | Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5
Who It's For
Best for runners who want to invest in a supportive sports bra that can also be used for daily wear.
Why We Love It
While Knix’s Catalyst Sports Bra costs more than most, we found it to be well worth the investment after vigorous testing. It’s the ideal combination of performance, quality, and style. The compression, along with adjustable band and shoulder straps, provide exceptional support for runs. Meanwhile, the molded, encapsulated cups offer a natural, flattering shape.
The fabric, a blend of nylon and spandex, feels stretchy, soft, and sweat-wicking—adding to the bra's overall comfort for running or lounging. We also love how lightweight it feels, making it effortless to wear or pack in a gym bag or suitcase for workouts on the go. And throughout testing, we noticed that the fabric and structure hold up well after many wears and washes.
Potential Flaws
- The bra feels extremely compressive at first, but it does loosen up a bit over time.
Best Adjustable
SheFit Ultimate Sports Bra
- Fit4.5/5
- Support4.8/5
- Comfort4.8/5
- Adjustability5/5
- Durability4.8/5
Adjustable straps and band
Zipper front for easy on and off
Very durable
May feel too compressive at first
Key Specs
Sizes: Band 28-50 inches, cups A-I | Materials: Nylon, spandex, polyester | Strap Style: Crossback | Support: Compression | Care: Machine wash cold in lingerie bag, hang dry | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5
Who It's For
Best for runners who like a sports bra with a lot of adjustability for a custom-like fit.
Why We Love It
If your bra size tends to fluctuate or you have trouble finding the right fit, you may want to consider a highly adjustable sports bra. SheFit’s Ultimate Sports Bra easily adjusts and the ribcage band and shoulder straps via a simple Velcro closure. You can also remove the pads and switch between crossed or uncrossed back straps for even more customization.
During testing, we found that the soft, stretchy, sweat-wicking fabric does a great job of providing support, bounce protection, and coverage. We also love the front zipper closure for easy on and off, especially when things get sweaty. Plus, we didn’t notice any piling, discoloration, or wear and tear, after repeated wears and washes.
Potential Flaws
- While it’s a great option for high-impact workouts like running, the bra may be too compressive for everyday wear.
Best for Small Frames With Larger Chests
Syrokan Underwire Molded Cup High Impact Sports Bra
- Fit4/5
- Support4/5
- Comfort5/5
- Adjustability4/5
- Durability4/5
Adjustable straps and band
Comfortable support
Soft, stretchy material
May be difficult to reach strap adjustability
Key Specs
Sizes: Band 32-40 inches, cups B-G | Materials: Polyester, spandex | Strap Style: H-back | Support: Encapsulation and compression | Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low | Our Overall Rating: 4.2/5
Who It's For
Best for runners with small frames and large chests who need maximum support.
Why We Love It
If you have a small frame but large breasts, consider Syrokan’s Underwire Molded Cup High Impact Sports Bra. It provided optimal support, particularly for one tester who often has trouble finding the right fit for her narrow ribcage yet bigger bust. The combination of compression and encapsulation limits bounce and offers a natural, flattering shape.
Adjustable, padded shoulder straps and a hook-and-eye ribcage band with four rows allow for great customization. Plus, the straps can be turned from H-back to racerback with an included J-hook, if you prefer that style for running. We also love that you can get this bra on and off over your shoulders, like a traditional bra—especially after sweaty runs.
Potential Flaws
- We love the adjustable straps, but wish there was an easier way to access them from the front.
We Also Tested
- We like the quality and durability of Adidas’ Medium-Support Running Pocket Bra, but we found the fit to be fairly uncomfortable. During testing, the band did not lay flat or stay in place, which was very distracting during workouts.
- On’s Running Performance Bra is well-made and attractive, but the fit felt too compressive and constrictive. It would have been better if the band had some adjustability to allow for a more precise and comfortable fit.
- While we appreciate the support provided by Under Armour’s Infinity High Crossover Sports Bra, we found it to be uncomfortably constricting, stiff, and bulky. The side of the bra also dug into our armpits, impacting overall comfort.
- lululemon’s Energy Bra is extremely supportive for running, but we found that it runs very small. The straps felt too tight and uncomfortable during regular wear and test runs.
Where We Stand
After testing 61 sports bras, lululemon’s Run Times Bra was our top pick for its exceptional support, soft and breathable fabric, and adjustable fit. As we continue to wear-test these sports bras, as well as new styles that come out, we will update this list with the most relevant recommendations.
What to Look for When Shopping for Sports Bras
- Support Type: There are two main types of sports bras: Compression and encapsulation. Compression bras hold both breasts firmly against your body, while encapsulation bras support each breast in a separate cup. If you have a smaller cup size, we recommend a compression bra, and for larger cup sizes, we like an encapsulation bra. You can also find sports bras that offer a combination of the two support types.
- Fit: Your sports bra should be snug from the first wear and there shouldn’t be any gaps or extra room. It should comfortably and adequately contain your breasts, so make sure you don’t have any spillage on the top, side, or underneath your bra, says LaJean Lawson, PhD, sports bra researcher and movement expert. However, a recent study showed that a sports bra that's too tight around the ribcage can negatively impact running performance. When buying a sports bra, make sure the band doesn't feel too tight or restrictive, and that you can easily take full, deep breaths when wearing it.
- Closure: Sports bras are available in various closure styles, including pullover, front zipper, and back clasp options. While zippers and clasps make it easier to take the bra on and off, some wearers prefer a seamless design with no added closure mechanisms. If you have a smaller chest, a pullover bra may be sufficient. But those with larger chests may need a zip-front or back-clasp closure for added support.
- Materials: Look for a sports bra crafted from breathable, stretchy, and soft performance materials, such as polyester and nylon. These materials effectively wick away sweat from your skin, ensuring comfort and unrestricted movement. When shopping, steer clear of cotton, as it tends to absorb moisture, leaving you feeling sweaty.
- Pad Options: Certain sports bras feature built-in padding or removable cups that provide a smooth, rounded shape and envelop each breast. Smaller-chested women may opt for padding to achieve a more flattering look, while larger-chested runners appreciate that padding offers enhanced support and coverage. If you’re unsure, it’s always a good idea to select a bra with removable padding.
- Straps: Your choice between crisscross, H-strap, or racerback styles depends on personal preference. But for the most support, comfort, and even weight distribution, opt for a sports bra with wide straps. Runners, especially those with large breasts, should avoid bras with very thin straps as they don’t offer enough support. Cushioned straps not only enhance the overall comfort but also help prevent chafing.
- Adjustability: Sports bras with adjustable straps and closures make it easier to get a snug, custom-like fit for optimal support and coverage.
- Sizing: To determine the correct sports bra size, consider both band and cup measurements. The band should fit snugly around your ribcage, providing a secure foundation without causing discomfort or digging into the skin. The cup should encapsulate and support your breasts without causing spillage or gaps.
How We Tested the Sports Bras
To find the best sports bras for running, we tested 61 options from top, trusted activewear brands. When wear-testing, we evaluate each sports bra based on the following key criteria:
- Fit: First, we try on each sports bra to assess for fit in the shoulder straps, ribcage band, and cups. We test to see if we can fit two fingers between the straps and our shoulders and if the straps are too tight or loose. Then, we note if the band feels snug and secure around our ribcage and if it moves around during runs. We also pay attention to the cup size: Is there any spilling or gaping in the breast area? Sports bras receive high scores for this category if the shoulder straps evenly distribute weight and the ribcage band provides support without any digging or pinching.
- Support: To evaluate each bra’s support level, we complete low- to high-impact exercises to see if it’s compressive enough to hold our breasts in place without feeling restrictive. We account for several things: Are our breasts centered and fully contained in the cups? Is the weight of our breasts evenly distributed? Do our breasts feel secure and supported? We prioritize sports bras that provide the support level as advertised.
- Comfort: If a sports bra isn’t comfortable, you won’t wear it—so we assess for comfort next. During regular wear and test runs, we take note of how comfortable we feel in the bra: How does the fabric feel? Is it breathable and sweat-wicking? Does the bra dig into our skin? We only recommend bras that offer proper support without any discomfort.
- Adjustability: For sports bras with adjustable straps and bands, we assess their ease of use and determine if they help us achieve a personalized fit. If the bra has a rear hook closure, we take note of the number of row and hook options. Sports bras that have easy-to-use adjustability features receive high scores in this category.
- Durability: Throughout testing—several weeks of wears and washes—we take note of how well the bra maintained its initial structure and overall quality. We pay attention to any signs of pilling, fading, or stretching. If the bra is padded, we also assess how the pads hold up after each wash. We prioritize sports bras that show little signs of wear and tear throughout the testing period.
- Value: To fairly rate each bra's value, we don't look at its price until the testing process is completed. Once the testing is complete, we consider whether the price seems reasonable, if we’d be willing to pay that amount (or possibly more), or if we'd prefer to wait for a potential sale. Bras that receive a high value score are typically priced below our threshold based on our evaluations.
Our Experts
For advice on which key features runners should look for in a quality sports bra, we spoke to five experts, including apparel experts and personal trainers. More on each expert we interviewed for this piece:
- LaJean Lawson, PhD, sports bra researcher and movement expert
- Marissa Renelt, assistant merchant and bra fit expert at Bare Necessities
- Laura Burke, intimate apparel stylist and bra fit expert at Fit x Burke
- Steve Stonehouse, NASM-CPT, certified personal trainer, USATF certified run coach, and director of education for STRIDE Fitness
- Joshua Zeichner, MD, associate professor of dermatology and director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital
Frequently Asked Questions
How are sports bras for running supposed to fit?
For the best fit, ensure your sports bra is snug but comfy. You don't want the band to feel too tight around the ribcage, though, as a recent study showed that wearing a sports bra with a band that's too tight can negatively impact running performance. You should also ensure all breast tissue is in the cup, avoid tight straps for lift, and check straps or clasps aren't digging in.
What happens if you don’t wear a sports bra when exercising?
Not wearing a sports bra during exercise can result in breast tenderness and tightness due to the stress on chest muscles and ligaments, says Burke. It can also affect posture, leading to hunching, neck pain, and headaches, as sports bras play a crucial role in supporting the Cooper ligaments responsible for structural integrity.
What kind of sports bra is best for running?
The best sports bra for running is one that offers enough compression and support to contain your breasts and reduce bounce. All of the sports bras on this list have been wear-tested and are great options for running and other high-impact exercise.
What sports bras do elite runners wear?
Professional runners look for the same qualities in a sports bra as the average runner would: a snug and comfortable fit; compression and support to limit bounce; and breathability and moisture-wicking capabilities.
Should I get a sports bra with a phone pocket?
It’s completely up to your own personal preferences. Even if you don’t want to store your phone, a pocket can be useful for stashing other small essentials on the go.
Do sports bras contain BPA?
In May 2023, the Center for Environmental Health (CEH) announced that, after testing, it had found high levels of BPA in certain activewear pieces containing blends of polyester and spandex, including some sports bras. We stand by our recommendations on 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.
Why Trust Verywell Fit
Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, is a certified personal trainer, running coach, and avid runner herself. She has researched and tested countless sports bras for running in her professional and personal life. She loves the fit, coverage, and support of Brooks’ Dare Crossback Run Bra 2.0 so much that she has it in several different colors.
Additional reporting by Michelle Parente, CYT
Michelle Parente, CYT, is a New York City-based yoga sculpt instructor and lifestyle journalist specializing in health, wellness, and fitness content. As a commerce writer, she makes it her mission to provide thoroughly researched and reliable product recommendations. Michelle has tested dozens of sports bras and swears by Alo Yoga’s Power Play High Impact Bra for its support and style.
McGhee DE, Steele JR. Biomechanics of breast support for active women. Exerc Sport Sci Rev. 2020;48(3):99-109. doi:10.1249/jes.0000000000000221
Kipp S, Leahy MG, Sheel AW. Sports bra restriction on respiratory mechanics during exercise. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise. Published online February 5, 2024.
Center for Environmental Health. New testing shows high levels of BPA in sports bras and athletic shirts.