Wearing a supportive, well-fitting sports bra can make all the difference in your running performance and overall comfort. Lack of support can lead to breast pain and can be a deterrent to running for some women. High-impact sports bras offer compression that will hold your breasts in place and will also provide bounce reduction.
When searching, look for bras designed for high-impact activities that provide support and reduce movement. Wide straps, cups, and supportive bottom bands are especially important features for large-chested runners. Any runner who has experienced chafing knows that a running bra should be made of fabric that’s moisture-wicking and quick-drying. Make sure that it’s also stretchy, flexible, and breathable to help keep you comfortable and cool.
With all those needs in mind, here we have some of the best sports bras for running. We considered features such as support, adjustability, comfort, design, and price, and also asked runners for recommendations of their favorite bras.
Importance of a Supportive Sports Bra
By providing the right level of support and minimizing bouncing, a well-fitted sports bra can help prevent injuries such as chafing, soreness, and even long-term damage to the delicate ligaments of the breasts.
In addition, proper support can also help prevent discomfort, improve your posture, and reduce strain on your back and shoulders, leading to a more comfortable and efficient running experience.
Not only does proper support enhance comfort, but it also plays a crucial role in improving your performance. When you feel secure and supported, you can focus on your stride and breathing, leading to greater endurance and speed on your runs.
Features to Look for in a Sports Bra for Running
When searching for the ideal running sports bra, here are several key features to keep in mind:
Support: Look for a bra that provides excellent support, especially for high-impact activities like running. Adjustable straps and a secure band under the bust are crucial for a customized fit that minimizes bounce and discomfort.
Materials: Additionally, moisture-wicking and breathable materials are essential to help keep you dry and cool during intense workouts and hot runs. Consider bras with strategic ventilation panels or mesh inserts to enhance airflow.
Compression: Compression bras can help reduce movement and provide additional support for your chest muscles. However, be sure to choose a compression level that feels comfortable for you, as too much compression can restrict your breathing and movement. Look for bras with a blend of compression and flexibility to strike the right balance between support and comfort.
Closure: Sports bras offer several different closure styles, such as pullover, front-closure, and back hook closure. A clasp or zipper closure makes it a lot easier to take the bra on and off, but some runners opt for a smooth, seamless bra with no hooks or other closures. Runners with smaller chests may be fine with pullover bras, but those with larger chests may opt for front or back closures.
Design/Construction: Flat seams and tagless designs can help prevent chafing and irritation, ensuring a more comfortable running experience.
Best Sports Bras for Runners
Best Wireless: Champion Spot Comfort Bra
Pros
- Sweat-wicking
- Adjustable straps
- Very breathable
Cons
- No A cup sizes
With gel-infused straps and a tag-free design, this sports bra from Champion provides ultimate comfort and maximum support. It’s wire-free and has molded cups that provide natural shaping and superb support for high-impact activities. The adjustable closure allows for a custom fit, while the smooth lining and bottom band feel great against your skin. The bra’s mesh panels enhance breathability during your runs and the sweat-wicking material keeps you dry and comfortable. Buy on Amazon
Best Sweat-Wicking: Running Girl High Impact Sports Bra
Pros
- Comfy
- Stylish and flattering
- Breathable and sweat-wicking
Cons
- No adjustable straps
Whether you’re doing a long run or an intense speed workout, you’ll get the right amount of coverage and support with Running Girl High Impact Sports Bra. The bra’s smooth and soft fabric feels buttery soft against the skin, and the seamless design helps keep you chafe-free. It’s also very breathable and quickly wicks away sweat so you stay dry and fresh.
Stylish and attractive, this bra looks great worn alone or under running clothes. It’s so comfy that it’s also perfect for casual wear and post-run naps on the couch. Choose from a range of neutral and bright colors in sizes small to 3X-large. Buy on Amazon
Best for Large Breasts: Panache High Impact Sports Bra
Pros
- Good support and coverage for big chests
- Very breathable
- Molded cups
- Adjustable fit
Cons
- Pricey
- No A cup sizes
If you’re looking for the perfect sports bra to support large breasts during intense running workouts, check out Panache’s High Impact Sports Bra. Designed with sweat-resistant, lightweight material, it stretches and sculpts without losing shape. Adjustable straps and back clasp allow for a custom-like fit that feels snug without smashing your girls. The wide padded straps disperse pressure on the shoulders for extra comfort, while the wide chest band and smooth inner molded cups reduce friction and improve comfort, and reduce bounce. Additionally, the smooth construction provides a flattering, streamlined look underneath your shirt. Buy on Amazon
Best Front Closure: SHEFIT Ultimate Sports Bra
Pros
- Easy to get on and off
- Excellent support and coverage
- Controls bounce
- Moisture-wicking
Cons
- Pricey
- Hand wash recommended
Nothing kills a post-run endorphin surge quite like having a wrestling match with your sweaty sports bra as you struggle to get it off. The SHEFIT Ultimate sports bra saves you from all that frustration, with a front closure that allows you to easily slip it on and off. With adjustable straps, it offers a snug, custom-like fit that controls all movement.
The moisture-wicking bra is made with two-way stretch fabric that offers the highest level of support and keeps bounce under control. Its wide straps and band are supportive without digging in or pinching, and the seamed cups provide natural definition, shape, and comfort. The bra can fit women with bust measurements from 32 to 55 inches, but the maximum support and coverage make it best-suited for women who are a C-cup or above. Buy on Amazon
Best for Support: Lululemon Run Times Bra
Pros
- Excellent support
- Four-way stretch
- Stylish
Cons
- Pricey
- Not for plus size
Designed specifically for runners, the Lululemon Air Support Bra is lightweight, but still provides plenty of support and movement control for high-impact workouts. Removable cups provide additional support and coverage, while the design allows for full range of motion.
Padded, adjustable straps along with a ribbed underband and hook-and-eye closure reduce bounce and offer a snug, comfortable fit. The bra’s breathable design and four-way stretch, sweat-wicking fabric keeps you chafe-free.
Best Budget: FITTIN Racerback Sports Bras
Pros
- Very soft
- Four-way stretch
- Seamless
Cons
- Some don’t like the removable pads
- Low impact for DD+
A high-performance sports bra that’s comfy and inexpensive? That’s what you get with the Fittin sports bra, a simple pullover bra that’s a favorite among runners. Made of buttery-soft material, the sleek bra provides the right amount of support without feeling constricting.
The seamless fabric, moisture-wicking technology and four-way stretch means you can run in comfort and stay chafe-free. With a flattering fit, the bra has a racerback style and wide straps that provide comfortable support. And the reasonable price means that you can stock up and grab a few in different colors. Although it fits chest sizes 30A through 44D, it’s best-suited to provide high impact support for women with A to C cups. Buy on Amazon
Best Compression: Under Armour High Impact Crossback Sports Bra
Pros
- Sweat-wicking and breathable
- Adjustable straps
- Soft, molded cups
Cons
- Not best for DD+
- Pricey
This versatile sports bra from Under Armour provides the support, coverage, and comfort that runners need for high-impact, high-intensity workouts. It features a compression fit for maximum support, as well as a sweat-wicking fabric to keep you dry and cool. The crossback design allows for a secure fit, while the soft elastic band offers added comfort. With a hook and eye closure and adjustable straps, the bra is easy to get on, make adjustments, and take off. Buy on Amazon
Tips for Proper Care and Maintenance of Sports Bras for Running
First, always follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer on the tag of your sports bra. Most sports bras can be machine washed, but it’s important to use a gentle cycle and avoid using fabric softener, as it can break down the fabric and reduce its effectiveness over time.
After washing, always air dry your sports bras instead of putting them in the dryer. The heat from the dryer can damage the elasticity of the fabric, causing it to lose its shape and support. By air drying your sports bras, you can help them maintain their quality and longevity.
Additionally, be mindful of how you store your sports bras. Avoid folding them in half or storing them in tight spaces, as this can cause them to lose their shape. Instead, lay them flat or hang them up in a well-ventilated area to help them maintain their form.
By following these simple care and maintenance tips, you can ensure that your sports bras remain in top condition and provide you with the support and comfort you need.
Also see: Best Running Headbands
Why Trust Us
Running coach, avid runner, and fitness writer Christine Luff is an RRCA-certified running coach and ACE-certified personal trainer. Founder of the website Run for Good and author of the book Run for Good: How to Create a Lifelong Running Habit, she coaches runners, from beginners to advanced, who are training for races, from 5Ks to marathons.
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