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| Finding the Best Sports Bra For You |
Sports bras provide comfort and support during physical activity. With various styles and features to consider, finding one that fits your needs takes some effort. This guide covers key factors when selecting a sports bra and reviews top picks across categories based on expert advice and hands-on testing.
Why Wear a Sports Bra?
Sports bras minimize breast movement during exercise. Research shows inadequate support causes many people, especially those with large busts, to avoid working out. A properly fitted sports bra provides:
- Comfort - prevents bounce and rubbing discomfort
- Confidence - allows you to focus on your activity vs wardrobe malfunctions
- Safety - reduces strain on neck, shoulders, and back
Sports Bra Types and Features
There are 3 main sports bra categories:
Encapsulation
- Resembles everyday bra with defined, separated cups
- Offers individualized support by cup size
- Best for large busts
Compression
- Minimizes motion by pressing breasts close to chest
- Provides a very snug fit
- Ideal for high impact exercise
Combination
- Mix of encapsulation and compression
- Versatile support making it the most popular style
Other key features that provide customization:
- Adjustable straps - enable you to modify fit
- Padding - offers coverage and structure
- Moisture-wicking fabric - keeps you cool and dry
Support and Impact Levels
Sports bras are designed for different intensities of movement:
- High support - running, HIIT
- Medium support - spinning, elliptical
- Low support - yoga, pilates
Make sure to choose a bra with adequate support for your chosen activities. Wearing a low support bra for running can lead to discomfort.
How to Find the Right Fit
Getting accurate sizing is crucial when bra shopping. Consider these factors:
- Band should fit snugly under bust without pinching
- Straps shouldn't dig into shoulders - test various configurations
- Cups should fully encase breasts without spillage
Try bras on with similar tops you plan to wear for workouts to test comfort and coverage. Move around to ensure it stays in place during motion.
Our Testing Process
We consulted bra experts and tested over 100 sports bras across brands like Nike, Lululemon, and Champion based on:
- Fit and sizing - on diverse body types and ages
- Comfort - wore for extended time periods
- Quality and durability - after repeated use and washing
- Performance - during cardio, strength training, etc
We provide continual updates as we gather new data. See our current top picks across categories below.
Top 10 Sports Bras
Best Overall: Lululemon Run Times
Highlights
- Great style and support
- Wide size range
- Breathable, sweat-wicking fabric
- Contoured, separated cups
- Adjustable straps and back closure
Kept us stabilized during intense workouts making this our top overall pick.
Best High Impact: Alo Yoga Power Play
Highlights
- Encapsulated cup design
- Cross-back strap configuration
- Mesh panel detailing
- Moisture-wicking fabric
Exceptional control and containment during demanding activities like HIIT and running.
Best Medium Impact: Senita Athletics Sarah
Highlights
- Lightly lined cups add coverage
- Smooth band stays put
- Bonus pocket for phone
- Tagless design prevents skin irritation
High compression sports bra ideal for moderate sweat sessions like cycling and elliptical.
Best Everyday: Vuori Daily
Highlights
- Super soft fabric
- Classic style with pullover design
- Medium support best for casual wear
- Durable even after repeated washing
All day comfort making it our top pick for lounging and relaxed activities like walking.
Best for Small Busts: Niki Indy Racerback
Highlights
- Lightweight with breathable mesh
- Gentle compression without constriction
- Adjustable straps
- Padding for coverage and structure
Perfect choice for smaller cup sizes seeking freedom of movement during exercise.
Best Supportive: Champion Spot Comfort
Highlights
- Mesh panels add ventilation
- Padded cups prevent show-through
- Wide band stays parallel to floor
- Adjustable straps and back closure
Exceptional support and adjustability make this our top choice for larger busts.
Best for Teens: Nike Swoosh Girls'
Highlights
- Pullover style without closures
- Modest coverage with dual layer
- Stays securely in place
- Fun color options
Easy on-and-off design perfect for busy young athletes.
Most Size Inclusive: Girlfriend Paloma
Highlights
- Sizes from XXS-6XL
- Made from recycled plastic
- Medium support best for low impact
- Tagless design
Offering hard-to-find larger cup and band sizes makes this our top pick for size inclusivity.
Best for Running: Reebok High Impact
Highlights
- Moisture-wicking fabric
- High neckline prevents bounce
- Snug fit with ample compression
- Reflective accents
Specifically engineered to minimize motion during high intensity running and cardio.
Best for Yoga: Alo Yoga Airlift
Highlights
- Smoothing fabric with stretch
- Feminine crisscross styling
- Lightly lined cups add coverage
- Pops of color
All day comfort with the look and feel of lingerie making it our favorite yoga bra.
We hope these recommendations help you find your perfect sports bra match! Let us know if you have any other questions.
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