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The 16 best sports bras for 2024, tested by fitness experts

From comfortable yet supportive sports bras to high-impact options to styles designed for running, these are the best sports bras to shop.

Three models in sports bras.
We found the right sports bra for every body and every activity. (Yvette, Lululemon, Victoria's Secret)

It’s so much more motivating to get yourself to the gym or outside on a run when you’ve got a functional (and stylish) workout outfit. Sometimes a solid pair of leggings, tennis shoes and a cozy sports bra or top is the final push we need to get out the door. That’s why we looked into the best sports bras — because along with looking great, a good sports bra should be comfortable and supportive. We talked to fitness experts and trainers, plus tapped our own team of shopping experts to find the best sports bras for every build and budget.

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"The truth is, there is no one best sports bra for every woman,” Stephanie Holbrook, Level 1 USA Triathlon Coach, tells us. “You should consider several factors first (like fit, breathability and support) that will help narrow your search."

Our shopping experts used this intel to find the best sports bras for every body type and activity. No matter if you’re looking for full coverage or a little more lift, we’ve got some recommendations for the best sports bras below.

And make sure to also check out our favorite strapless bras, wireless bras and push-up bras that give you extra lift.

Size range: XXS-3XL | Support: Medium | Material: 88% polyester, 12% spandex

The pull-on bra offers medium support and light compression to get you through various activities, so it’s no wonder that thousands of Amazon shoppers and our own deals writer, Brit Ross, are fans. Featuring Nike’s signature Dri-Fit technology, which extracts sweat from your body, it comes in a range of colors. Even better, you can choose from three support types: high, medium and light. Says Brit: "I hate wearing sports bras. Nikes are the only ones that don't feel like they're digging into my skin. I appreciate that they come with different levels of support (I like light support, since I hate feeling too constricted, but even this one makes me feel like everything is held in place). I also like the clean design, and the fact that they come in some pretty colors and neutrals. I mainly wear them while riding my Peloton bike, and nothing's ever felt like it's popping out."

Pros
  • Affordable
  • Comfortable
  • Variety of colors
Cons
  • Straps aren’t adjustable
$36 at Amazon

Size range: 32D-46H | Support: High | Material: 47% nylon, 39% polyester, 14% spandex

"This is a serious bra for serious bosoms," said Yahoo Shopping Editor Anna Wahrman. "If your breasts are ample, as mine are, you'll appreciate the four-prong back, the wide and soft adjustable straps, and the breathable side panels. I understand women who hate underwires — I do too — but I've found that we bigger gals need the support that comes with a more structured fit. Remember the old Playtex ad that said its bra 'lifts and separates'? That's this bra all the way down." 

This bra has seamless cups to help prevent chafing and a padded underwire for comfort. With breathable mesh along the neckline, straps, sides and back to increase airflow, it's designed to help keep you cool while you work up a sweat. Plus, it comes in various colors.

Also check out our recommendations for the best bras for big busts and our top favorite minimizer bras.

Pros
  • Comfortable
  • Supportive
  • Thick adjustable straps
  • Breathable
Cons
  • Almost too structured
$69 at Herroom
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$69 at Bare Necessities

Size range: 2XS-2XL | Support: Medium | Material: 73% recycled polyester, 27% spandex

Laura Martin, a mountain biker based in the Scottish Highlands, is a big fan of this Adidas option. She calls it a "great medium-support sports bra, nice to wear when doing gym workouts. It's sweat-wicking and leaves clean lines under clothing." A sleek compression sports bra, it has adjustable straps to help you find a comfortable fit and power mesh in the back for breathability. It comes with removable pads and is made with a minimum of 70% recycled materials.

Pros
  • Lightweight
  • Adjustable straps
  • Removable pads
  • Comfortable
Cons
  • Only one color available
$47 at Amazon

Size range: S-5XL | Support: High | Material: 83% polyester, 17% spandex

This sports bra is so supportive that Level 1 USA Triathlon Coach Stephanie Holbrook wore it when she ran a half marathon and a half Ironman: “What I like about the bra is that it's made from stretch polyester; it has adjustable front straps and clips in the back, making it super comfortable for hours of training and racing." The crisscrossing straps lift as they support, while mesh panels and sweat-wicking material help keep you cool. 

Shoppers love its mix of fashion and function. Says one: "I don’t normally write reviews, but this bra warrants it. I've been looking for a sports bra that has a feminine/sexy fit and this is it. I can definitely work out in this — the girls won’t budge! But as an added bonus, I feel pretty rather than mushed in."

Pros
  • Very supportive
  • Affordable
  • Hook and eye closure
  • Sweat-wicking
  • Adjustable straps
Cons
  • Limited colors in all sizes
$40 at Yvette

Size range: XS-3XL | Support: Medium | Material: 75% nylon, 25% spandex

This strappy sports bra by Running Girl is one of the top sellers on Amazon. The four-way stretch material is both soft and moisture-wicking, it comes with removable cups, and there are 39 variations to choose from — so you're sure to find an option (or two or three) that matches your workout wardrobe. 

Shoppers love the stylish strappy design and how well this stretchy medium-support bra moves with them. “I have always been a fan of bralettes ... and not so much sports bras, but this one is amazing. It is comfortable and functional and without an underwire support," reports one fan. "Amazingly soft, doesn't dig into you, and comfortable beyond words."

Pros
  • Affordable
  • Comfortable
  • Multiple colors
  • Stretchy
  • Moisture-wicking
Cons
  • Not adjustable
$22 at Amazon

Size range: 34B-50J | Support: High | Material: 75% polyester, 20% polyamide, 5% spandex

Over 9,000 Amazon shoppers have given this Glamorise sports bra their seal of approval with 5-star ratings, and it's easy to see why. The size-inclusive bra has a wide, durable band that lifts and supports your bust with no underwire. And it's available up to size 50J! The seamless cups are comfortable against the skin, and the adjustable straps and hook-and-eye closure ensure the right fit.

"This is a fantastic bra," writes one five-star reviewer. “I normally put on a bra and immediately I want out of it. Not this one. It's comfortable and supports well-endowed women. It's a sports bra but doesn't fit like one. The typical sports bra I fall out of. If you are a plus-size woman and need the support but hate underwires, this bra is for you! I will be buying it for my mother and mother-in-law."

Pros
  • Breathable
  • Moisture-wicking
  • Seamless
  • Adjustable straps
  • Size-inclusive
Cons
  • Some customers said it looks matronly
$46 at Amazon

Size range: 32C-44F | Support: High | Material: DriLayer HorsePower fabric

This super-supportive sports bra is one of women's fitness expert Julie Lohre's top picks because it's "perfect for larger breasts and high-intensity activity. I like that this bra supports each breast individually and has adjustable straps that give you a 'locked-in' feel." The underwire and molded cups provide ample support, and the adjustable straps are convertible; you can wear it as a classic straight strap or in a crisscross. Bonus: Soft sweat-wicking fabric keeps you cool and dry, and strategically placed perforations add ventilation.

Pros
  • Supportive
  • Adjustable straps
  • Lightweight
  • Breathable
  • Encapsulated support
Cons
  • Expensive
$40 at Amazon

Size range: 32B-44G | Support: High | Material: 71% polyamide, 29% spandex

If you're in the market for a supportive high-impact bra, triathlon coach Stephanie Holbrook's top pick is this Victoria's Secret style. "I appreciate that it lays flat and looks good if you're wearing a sweater during the day or hitting the gym after work. Another plus is that the bra is easy to get on and off." 

She’s not the only fan: Hundreds of shoppers have given this bra their seal of approval, citing its lightweight, breathable design. With perforations for targeted air flow and the brand’s signature Turbo Dry liner, it keeps you nice and dry. One happy shopper called it the "best sports bra ever. ... Fits true to size. Great for high impact. Comfortable for hours. Washes well. The perforations really help with airflow. No need to wear two sports bras! This one is all you need. And you don’t have to be a contortionist to take it off after a workout!"

Pros
  • Supportive
  • Comfortable
  • Breathable
  • Bonded edges
  • Adjustable straps
  • Sweat-wicking
Cons
  • Pricey
$55 at Victoria's Secret

Size range: XS-L | Support: Medium | Material: 80% polyester, 20% spandex

Here's what Senior Commerce Writer Kristin Granero had to say about this medium-impact bra from Alo Yoga: "It's incredibly comfortable, offers ample support, and the straps are adjustable so you can customize your fit." But she also appreciated the bra's good looks. "The subtle rib detailing is just really chic — wear it under a top or by itself when you're in the yoga studio and need to let your body breathe,” she said. The soft, stretchy bra has a compressive fit and a snug underband for ample support. The only flaw Kristin could come up with is that this sports bra only comes in black — she wants to have more colors in rotation.

Pros
  • Comfortable
  • Supportive
  • Adjustable straps
  • Soft
Cons
  • Expensive
$68 at Alo Yoga

Size range: XS-4XL | Support: High | Material: 75% recycled polyester, 25% spandex

This cute option from Target may be triathlon runner Stephanie's fave: "This sports bra surpasses all others I've tried, and I've experimented with numerous options, ranging from exorbitantly expensive to dirt cheap." The high-support bra is also size-inclusive, going up to 4XL, so it should be easy to find your perfect fit. Unlike other racerback sports bras, this one allows you to adjust the straps — and the back strap has a hook and loop closure so you can customize it to your needs. 

Says a fan, "This bra is so comfy! I wear a 36F and normally have trouble finding comfortable supportive sports bras at places like Target. This bra is both. I purchased an XL and I'm buying all the colors! Seriously the best sports bra ever and affordable. It's cute too!"

Pros
  • Stretchy
  • Supportive
  • Moisture-wicking
  • Wireless
  • Adjustable straps
Cons
  • Limited colors
$30 at Target

Size range: S-XL | Support: Medium | Material: 93% nylon, 7% spandex

If you’re looking for a medium-impact bra, Stephanie recommends this Jockey option. "I like it for cycling as it is less confining than the high-impact bra and comfortable for 4-6 hour bike rides," she says. Wire-free, this bra has a zip closure that makes it super easy to put on and take off, and it comes with removable padding. 

Shoppers say it provides even compression across the chest without smashing things down. "This is the best sports bra I have ever had," raved one. "It’s a perfect fit. It’s easy to wear and it holds you in place. I like the zipper in the front. I bought it in white, beige and black. It washes well in the machine. I put it in a small net lingerie bag. ... It's a good quality bra and the price is reasonable."

Pros
  • Affordable
  • Zip front
  • Wire-free
  • Removable padding
Cons
  • Limited sizes
$31 at Amazon

Size range: XS-XL | Support: Light | Material: 80% polyester, 20% spandex

When style matters (but support is still important), fitness expert Kim Turner reaches for this sleek one-shouldered number by Heroine Sport. "This bra makes you feel like a badass," she says. "It's not just a bra; it's a statement piece that pairs flawlessly with your favorite leggings or even your chicest jeans. The light support is perfect for activities like yoga, Pilates and walking, but be aware that you have to hand-wash it."

Pros
  • Lightweight
  • Stylish
  • High coverage
Cons
  • Hand wash only
$78 at Heroine Sports

Size range: XS-3XL | Support: High | Material: tensile materials

If you’ve been struggling to improve your posture, consider this supportive sports bra from Forme that promises to "immediately improve your upper body alignment and body foundation." The posture-correcting bra is not only FDA-registered but celeb-approved. Taylor Swift was seen wearing it while rehearsing for the "Eras Tour." This bra is designed to activate key muscle groups and position your body into proper alignment naturally, with a mix of six varied tension fabrics and eight powerful double-fabric panels. 

Fans love them not just for exercise but for everyday life. "I wear these to work every day and it helps so much with my neck, back and shoulder pain/tension. I cannot live without the Power Bra," wrote one five-star reviewer.

Pros
  • Corrects posture
  • FDA-registered
  • Supportive
Cons
  • Expensive
$182 at Forme

Size range: S-3XL | Support: Medium | Material: 96% nylon, 4% spandex

New moms rave about how supportive and comfortable these nursing sports bras are. The wire-free bras have a zip-up closure, giving you easy access for nursing or pumping, plus adjustable straps to help you achieve a perfect fit. Made from a four-way stretch material that's moisture-wicking and super-soft, you can get these bras in packs of three or five, so you can rotate for daily wear.

"As a mom who is still nursing her youngest, this is exactly what I was going for," said one customer. "I always end up with sports bras that are either too thin and loose and provide no support, or very thick and restricting. I need something that will provide support but also that I can pull down to nurse. This has the perfect balance between comfort and support."

Pros
  • Front zip-up
  • Comfortable
  • Supportive
  • Lightweight
Cons
  • Not adjustable
$29 at Amazon

Size range: XS-XL | Support: High | Material: 80% nylon, 20% spandex

If you dread the "uniboob" many sports bras give you and are looking for a way to feel supported while still giving your bust a boost, check out this Grace Form option. This popular sports bra has pads that push things up when you want them to but are removable for when you're not feeling it. 

Shoppers love how soft, comfortable and breathable this pull-on bra is and the fact that it comes in a variety of colors. One said, "Love this sports bra! It was incredibly comfortable and stayed in place during my workout. It fit perfectly and was incredibly flattering. I don’t know how to explain how little I have in the chest area, yet this sports bra made me look incredibly feminine."

Pros
  • Affordable
  • Variety of colors
  • Padded
  • Sweat-wicking
  • Stretchy
Cons
  • Not adjustable
  • Hand wash only
$20 at Amazon

Whether you're wearing it to run errands or run a marathon, you want to find a sports bra that is both comfortable and supportive. To find the option that best suits your needs, there are several factors to consider:

  • Size: Your size may vary, depending on the brand (and sometimes the product), so be sure to check the size chart before adding it to the cart. Since sports bras are more compressive, don’t be surprised if your size differs from your normal bra size. Your cup size will affect the type of support you should shop for. "You need to understand the support you need for your breast size and for the activity,” said Julie Lohre, women’s fitness expert, IFBB Fitness Pro athlete and certified personal trainer. "A high level of support will be critical for a woman with a C and above cup who wants to include running or bounding plyometric exercises in their exercise routine."

  • Support range: Many people wear the wrong sports bra for the activity they're engaging in; if you like to partake in a range of fitness activities, it's smart to have a range of sports bras, said Laura Martin, renowned mountain biker based in the Scottish Highlands. "High-impact sports bras should be worn for high-impact sports like jumping or running. These bras tend to be more restrictive, due to compression-style support which basically eliminates bounce. They tend to have more coverage and wider straps to help with the even distribution of the weight of the breasts. Low-impact sports bras are better suited to sports like yoga or walking. They have lighter support and are more comfortable. They tend to be a more relaxed fit and are made of lighter material."

  • Compression vs. encapsulation: Another big decision is choosing between a compression bra and an encapsulation bra. Heather Wilson-Phillips, a fitness expert, nutritionist and owner of Fitness Empire, explained the difference: "Encapsulation sports bras are usually marketed toward women who have larger breasts. They usually feature a separate cup for each breast, and give a more natural look." Martin agreed, adding “These 'encapsulate' each breast to try to eliminate the bounce individually, instead of compressing the breasts against your body.” Compression sports bras are more typically what we think of when we think "sports bra." Said Martin, "These will have a snug fit and look more like a band than two cups. They tend to be more compressing on the body. This pressure on the breasts helps eliminate the bounce and makes you feel more secure."

  • Material: The fabric of a sports bra factors heavily into its comfort. Holbrook recommended "seeking out breathable polyester and nylon materials, as they effectively wick sweat away from the body." While you may think cotton would be a preferable material since it's soft and durable, that's not the best choice. Said Lohre, "I avoid cotton because it tends to hold moisture against the body. When you are pushing hard in a workout, the last thing you want is your bra feeling waterlogged and heavy."

In order to figure out which sports bras were the best of the best, we consulted a variety of fitness experts, trainers and our very own shopping editors. They weighed in on what to look for when picking the right sports bra for all different kinds of needs. We also polled this crew to find out which sports bras are their tried-and-true favorites — because there's nothing like a firsthand recommendation! After reviewing hundreds of sports bras, top brands and product descriptions, we came down to 16 final candidates.

A sports bra should fit snugly but not so tightly that it digs into the skin or restricts breathing: "The cups of a sports bra should fit securely, without being too tight that your breasts begin to come out the top or sides," said Wilson-Phillips.

"Chafing is a workout mood killer. Who wants to break a sweat while wrecking your skin?" said Kim Turner, founder and CEO of sock brand Fitness Snob. To avoid this, you first want to check the fit. "Too loose or too snug, and you're in for trouble. Second, cleanliness is next to, well ... no chafing. Get out of that bra promptly post-workout and keep it fresh by washing regularly to avoid lingering sweat or dirt residue. Third, start at the source: Be mindful when shopping for sports bras. And of course, moisture-wicking fabric and seamless designs are lifesavers too."

If you’re wearing a sports bra leisurely and don’t plan to break a sweat, it’s overall fine to wear it all day. However, as Turner mentioned above, you’ll want to change out of a sports bra immediately after a workout, since it has collected sweat or dirt residue.

Our experts say that your bra should always feel comfortable and supportive, so when that’s no longer the case, you should replace it. The general recommendation is to replace your sports bra every six to 12 months.