The Best Sports Bras for Women
Wearing the right clothes when you work out isn't just about sporting the look, it's also about giving your body the support it needs during periods of intense activity. And a woman's chest is one of the areas that often needs the most support. Here's where sports bras come in. Whether you're looking for a low-impact bra for yoga and weight training or a compression bandeau for an HIIT workout, a well-fitting sports bra can make all the difference. And to help you get started, we've rounded up our favorite options on the market today.
What to Look For
We took comfort, compression, and cost into consideration when vetting the top contenders on our list to help you get the bra you need for your workout style and budget. For example, if you’re looking for an affordable, everyday sports bra that you can wear for most types of activities without discomfort, then opt for the seamless sports bra by Puma. On the other hand, if you’re in need of a more secure, reliable fit for high-impact activities, consider spending a bit more on the Limitless bra by Under Armour for support at every speed. Check out the rest of our favorite bras below.
Puma Seamless Sports Bra
Soft and stretchy wins the race
First and foremost, a sports bra should be comfortable. That means support and maximum range of movement, both at the gym and on your way back. Enter the seamless sports bra by Puma. Made of stretchy fabric that won’t irritate your skin or dig into your chest, this bra features a thick elastic band that stays put as you move. Best of all, it looks just as smooth on your body as it does under a tight shirt.
Pros:
- Removable cups for flexibility of shape
- No unflattering “uni-boob” look
- Low cut is compatible with V-neck shirts
Cons:
- Not very supportive for women with larger busts
Under Armour Limitless Sports Bra
Work up a sweat
Even if you have a smaller chest, engaging in a high-impact activity like running or racket sports can cause breast pain and complications over time. So if you’re training for your next marathon, consider investing in the Limitless sports bra by Under Armour. With a molded, compression design that features injected padding, this bra offers serious strategic support. It’s even made with sweat-wicking material to help you dry off faster than other sports bras.
Pros:
- Adjustable criss-cross straps allow a custom fit
- Easy to open and close with hooks rather than pulling overhead
- Mesh panels give better breathability
Cons:
- Higher price point
Natural Feelings Tank Top Sports Bra
From activewear to athleisure
Ladies with a busy schedule know the hassle of fitting in gym time. In fact, that’s why we love versatile athleisure wear like this crop top sports bra by Natural Feelings. Available in a range of pastel hues to match your other outfits, this comfortable bra feels just as good on a treadmill as it does while running errands. But it doesn’t just feel good — it looks great, too, thanks to the high neck design, which offers not only sun protection but also a flattering fit for any body type.
Pros:
- Seamless design means no chafing
- Wide straps to reduce shoulder pressure
- Won’t shrink or fade in the wash
Cons:
- For low to medium-impact activities only
Fruit of the Loom Spaghetti Strap Sports Bra, 3-Pack
More support, more savings
A gym membership can set you back a pretty penny, so why spend just as much on your workout gear? Thankfully, there’s a sports bra out there designed specifically for cost-conscious shoppers. This triple pack of sports bras by Fruit of the Loom offers more coverage in a classic stretchy style. Each bra is slightly padded to help smooth out your shape, and each one is easy to put on in a pull-over manner. Most importantly, though, you get all three for one super low price.
Pros:
- Comes in a range of bust sizes
- Tag-free design for less irritation
- Band stays won’t roll up when you’re moving
Cons:
- Runs small, so sizing up is recommended
Glamorise Full Figure MagicLift Plus-Size Sports Bra
Built for the long run
Finding the right fit if you have bigger girls can be a nightmare, but the MagicLift sports bra by Glamorise can really help. This bra is designed specifically for women with full figures, offering an unbeatable range of bigger bust sizes. The cups won’t stretch out while you wear them, and the wide straps hold you up without pain or pressure. Plus, you won’t have to struggle with removing a sweaty bra again thanks to the easy-to-use hook-and-eye closure.
Pros:
- Seamless cups for a smoother silhouette without bumps and lumps
- Moisture-wicking fabric keeps you cool as you wear it
- Straps designed to stay put on your shoulders
Cons:
- Slightly rougher fabric than on other sports bras
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my new sports bra fits correctly?
While a tighter fit may seem like the best idea for workouts, feeling too restricted can actually impede your movements. That’s why we recommend finding a sports bra that is as supportive as it is compressive. Make sure to test the straps to ensure they don’t slide down your shoulders and check that the band stays in place without rolling up as you go through various motions.
How often should I wash my sports bra?
That depends on the type of activity you’re doing. If you’re wearing your bra for comfort as you do errands or a super low-impact yoga routine, then you can wash it after a few wears. But if you’re sweating profusely or doing a high-impact workout, then we recommend washing your bra after each wear. This will help stop the buildup of bacteria and odors that can then transfer onto your skin.
About the Author
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Since 2001, our experts at TheFashionSpot have been providing millions of people with our take on the latest trends. TheFashionSpot is constantly looking for the hottest styles in clothing and accessories for people of all body types. Our team knows that beauty starts well before the closet, so we are also dedicated to finding the best products for your skin and hair.