Most Comfortable Sports Bra Brands For Every Workout – 2024

Invest in a bra that not only offers comfort and support but also looks cute!

Reviewed by Keicia Shanta, Fashion Expert
Written by Pratima Ati, MSc
Edited by Shatabdi Bhattacharya, BSc
Fact-checked by Srijita De, MA (English & Literature), Certified Style & Image Consultant  • 

A sports bra is the most crucial part of a woman’s fitness regimen. A lot of us, in general, tend to focus on our outerwear for obvious reasons, but ignore our breasts. But wearing a bra that is not only comfortable but can also support the girls during the workout is as important. So even if you have been wearing a random sports bra, understand that there are many variants, and invest in something that is meant for you. An investment like this comes a long way and is much needed as well. Today, let’s clear this and discuss your options and how you can go about choosing the right bra. Keep reading.

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  • Affordability: While some popular sports bra brands come with a higher price tag, there are several affordable options available that offer excellent comfort and support. Choose brands that often prioritize functionality and affordability without compromising on quality.
  • Style Quotient: Not all comfortable sports bras are available in plain, basic designs. Many brands offer a wide range of trendy patterns, vibrant colors, and fashionable cuts. You can opt for a sports bra that not only feels comfy but also complements your personal style.
  • Size: Many brands have recognized the need for inclusivity and expanded their size ranges. Look for brands that cater to a diverse range of body types.
  • Levels Of Support: Sports bras come with a range of support options. Choose a sports bra that meets your specific support requirement.


How To Choose A Sports Bra?

  • The first rule of thumb is to know your size. Usually, you need to go one size up.
  • If you are an outlier and have breasts that are either too small or big, you should be more alert.
  • Do your research to understand what the market has to offer.
  • Encapsulation is the key. Choose bras that come with separate molds.
  • Prefer thick straps over racerback or anything else, because your body and breasts need that kind of support.
  • Go with adjustable straps because it helps when your size fluctuates. But either way, try it out first, and you will know what works.
  • Choose a low, medium or high impact bra depending on the kind of activity/ies you will be part of.
  • Having a few go-to brands might be a great way to go about sports bra shopping.
  • Mostly be open and on the lookout.

Imogen Lamport, a fashion blogger, shares her experience of how she found the perfect sports bra for herself in her personal blog. She mentions that breasts are one of the top 5 reasons women, including herself, are not exercising. She says, “After 30 years of searching, I finally found a sports bra that did give me enough support to start running (i).”

Types Of Sports Bras

A woman wearing a sports bra
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Image: Shutterstock

Sports bras are essential for providing support during physical activities. Here are some of the types of sports bras:

  • Compression Bras: These bras press the breasts against the chest to reduce movement, making it ideal for low to medium-impact activities.
  • Encapsulation Bras: They are designed for high-impact workouts and come with individual cups to support each breast, often with padding or underwires.
  • Racerback Bras: These straps come together between the shoulder blades, offering good support and a full range of motion.
  • Pullover Bras: They are best for low-impact activities and offer minimal support, suitable for small-chested individuals.
  • Criss-Cross Bras: They feature straps that cross in the back, providing firm support and a stylish look.
  • Back Clasp Bras: They resemble regular bras with adjustable straps and hooks, available with or without padding and underwires for various support levels.

Full Supportive Sports Bras And Top Brands

1. Under Armour Knit High Running Sports Bra

A bra should be like your second skin – it shouldn’t pinch, poke or chafe your skin – that’s when you know you have found your match. The bra should be fully encompassing without choking you, and of course, support those babies. Don’t think it’s too much to ask. Brands make them. We just need to know the names and give them a shot. Keicia Shanta, a fashion expert, says, “Support and style reign supreme with this bra. It is perfect for high-impact workouts and, of course, running.”

2. High Impact Sports Bra

High impact physical training and other activities like running, field sports, etc. need bras that can handle the pressure. You need bras that are slightly more sturdy than your regular sports bra. Brands like Under Armor are masters of their game and have tons of options, and one of them is this high impact sports bra.

3. Wire Free Maximum Control Sports Bra For Big Breasts

If you are looking for a sports bra and have bigger breasts, we understand that it’s twice as hard for you to find something that fits you and is comfortable as well. Look for wire-free options in breathable and stretchable materials. Some brands sell bras that are made to perfection, without compromising on the style. Just because you have bigger breasts does not mean you have to give up on looks!

4. Jockey Performance Pushup Seamless Sports Bra

When you start to lose inches and weight, you will notice that your breast size will begin to drop too. As much as we hate it, for some of us, especially those with smaller breasts, it’s more obvious. Which is why you need bras that give you a little push-up. Jockey, a leader in making women’s lingerie, has some very good sports bras that give you extra padding, support, and comfort. You can even wear these under your T-shirts and tops.

protip_icon Trivia
Jockey for Her was launched in 1982 and is the first brand to supply cotton innerwear for women after their success in men’s underwear.

5. Nike Motion Adapt Cardio Sports Bra

If you are headed to a workout you dread, worrying about your sports bra or underwear should be the last thing on your mind – and that means you need to take care of this business first. The bra gives you the under-breast comfort to keep it together during high impact movements. Shanta adds, “This Nike sports bra gives the maximum comfort and absorbs sweat effortlessly.” There is a soft mesh placed strategically that absorbs sweat. If you are into more than one kind of fitness activity, this bra might be a perfect fit for you.

6. Front Closure Sports Bra From Victoria’s Secret

The clip and zip technology from Victoria’s Secret is patented technology that keeps everything under control. The padding is breathable, the straps are adjustable, and the bra is extremely comfortable. This bra is everything a sports bra should be, and if you are a loyal customer of VS, you’re lucky.

protip_icon Did You Know?
There is no Victoria behind Victoria’s Secret. Founder Roy Raymond included the word to create a sophisticated and high-fashion image for his lingerie brand.

7. Adidas Molded Techfit Bra For Sagging Breasts

Ladies with sagging breasts, listen up. If you have decided to buy good sports bras, I’m sure you are doing that for a reason. So, let this be one place you wouldn’t compromise or prioritize money over fit. You need bras that fit you exceptionally well, and fit both your breasts entirely inside the cups. So, go with molded and separated sports bras. It needs to be sturdy from the outside but soft on the skin. Brands like Adidas, Nike, Under Armour, and other big athleisure companies already have enough variants from sizes ranging from AA to DD, so take some time and check them out.

8. New Balance Sports Bra For Gym

The gym is invariably about cardio, strength, and sometimes high impact exercises too. You need bras that have separate molds and are supported by two different cups, which can otherwise make your workouts very uncomfortable. Always choose bras with thicker but softer bra straps as opposed to the slender ones, because all the extra support comes from the straps and they need to be sturdy enough to hold the fort.

9. Athleta Empower Bra For Running/Jogging

While sports bras don’t come with a closure, there is an increasing demand for bras with a front closure. The Athleta Empower Bra for running and jogging is designed with a soft mesh and front closure, keeping in mind the needs of women who run. It does not chafe or rupture your breasts when you run, and that’s a critical aspect of a sports bra for running.

10. Cross Straps Bra For Kickboxing

Activities like kickboxing need bras that stay in place without creating spillage, but are also soft on the skin. Bras that come with thicker straps, preferably crossed and stretchable, give you extra support. You can go for high or medium impact sports bras.

11. High Impact Sports Bra For Plus Size Women

Plus size women find it a little harder to find a sports bra that fits them well, supports them, and is comfortable too. But, that’s changing rapidly, and they are brands that cater specifically to women who are plus size or with bigger breasts, or both. This High Impact Sports Bra from Bare Necessities makes bras that separate the breasts while keeping them intact. Shanta says, “This is one of the best sports bras for women who are a bit more top-heavy. The cut and fit make this one beyond stylish.”

12. Lululemon Yoga Sports Bra

Yoga bras need to be fully encompassing, and since yoga involves a lot of movement, it is important to wear the right bra. Choosing any racerback will do no good; you need something that is breathable, that takes the natural shape of your breasts, and keeps the girls intact. If yoga is your forte and is something that you practice on a daily basis, look at brands that specialize in making sports bras for yoga. Shanta adds, “Lululemon does a really great job of maximizing on style and functionality. Love the design of this racerback.”

protip_icon Fun Fact
The Lululemon studio in Vancouver was a design studio by day and a yoga studio at night in 1998.

Infographic: How To Maintain A Sports Bra

Since a sports bra provides you with the comfort you need during your workouts, it is important to take care of it the right way to make it last longer. You cannot treat it like a regular bra and expect it to work the same as it did the first day. Check out the infographic below to learn some quick tips on sports bra maintenance.

how to maintain a sports bra (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Get the high-quality PDF version of this infographic.

Download Infographic in PDF version

A good sports bra not only gives you the right well-fitted support but should also be made up of soft, flexible, stretchy, non-restrictive, moisture-wicking, breathable material for the ease and comfort of wear. Whether it’s running, cycling, yoga, or hitting the gym for an intense workout, a sports bra is always recommended. Pick one from the many styles and fits mentioned above, to suit the kind of physical activity and exercise you indulge in most often.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it OK to wear a sports bra every day?

Wearing a sports bra daily may not be healthy as it is compressive. Your bust needs to move around and breathe a bit.

Do sports bras flatten the chest?

A tight-fitting sports bra may keep your bust in place and make it appear flat. But it will not flatten it permanently.

Can wearing a sports bra every day cause breast pain?

If worn every day, the extreme compression caused by sports bras may be uncomfortable and cause breast pain.

Which fabric is best for a sports bra?

Nylon, polyester, and Lycra are excellent fabrics for sports bras as they are lightweight and breathable.

Key Takeaways

  • Sports bras are important in women’s fitness routine as a good bra provides great support during the workout.
  • While buying a sports bra, look for features like adjustable straps and padded cups that provide enhanced comfort.
  • Invest in a sports bra of a reputable brand made from moisture-wicking fabric like spandex to keep you cool and dry during intense workouts.


Are you tired of uncomfortable and unsupportive sports bras? Check out the best sports bras for maximum support in this video and say goodbye to discomfort during your workouts.

Personal Experience: Source

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