With so many amazing sports bras out there in the athleticwear universe, one can easily become overwhelmed by all the choices. Simultaneously, you might feel a little frustrated — which one of these is going to be comfortable and supportive for my workout? Will it fit? Will it look nice? I have so many questions!
Bra shopping in general can be frustrating enough; compound that with your athletic endeavors and needs, and you may feel like you're on the brink of insanity. It's going to be OK! We have different (supercute) sports bras, broken down by impact level, high, medium, and low — and cup size from small to large, at a variety of price points. Check out these options and find the right fit.
- High-impact: Think running or jogging, contact sports, plyometrics (bootcamps, HIIT, Tabata, etc), and anything that causes a lot of bouncing (like gymnastics).
- Medium-impact: Dance cardio, hiking, Spin or cycling, and machines like the elliptical.
- Low-impact: Strength training, yoga, barre, Pilates, and walking.
High Impact: All Cup Sizes
This particular style is broken up by cup size (the link below is for C cup!); it ranges from A to DD and provides a ton of support.
UA Armour Bra Protegée [1] ($50)
High Impact: All Cup Sizes
While I've heard mixed reviews on this bra, I actually own it and love it. It's not often that you can find a high-impact, molded-cup bra for smaller cup sizes! Whether you're a 30C, a 34A, [2]or a 38DD, this smooth, pretty bra will give you support. Keep in mind: it runs a bit narrow and has a very tight band!
Nike Pro Rival Women's Sports Bra [3] ($50, originally $65)
High Impact: All Cup Sizes
This classic silhouette ranges in sizes from XS to XL, giving a bit of versatility without specific cup and band sizes, while still providing high support for intense exercies.
Old Navy High Support Racerback Sports Bra [4] ($17 to $25, depending on color)
High Impact: Medium to Large Cup Sizes
With pretty colors and molded cups, in sizes B to DD, you'll control bounce and stay comfortable without sacrificing style.
C9 Champion Power Shape High Support Sports Bra [5] ($23)
High Impact: Medium to Large Cup Sizes
Our editor Jenny swears by this bra for running [6]. If you're a C through E cup, you'll love this smoothing, shaping, supportive style that comes in a variety of colors.
Moving Comfort Juno Sports Bra [7] ($60)
High Impact: Medium to Large Cup Sizes
The Ta Ta Tamer is a beloved style by well-endowed athletes, cup sizes C through E. From a pickup soccer game to HIIT, this bra will keep you secure. [8]
Lululemon Ta Ta Tamer III [9] ($58)
High Impact: Large Cup Sizes
Freya bras have perhaps the most variety of sizes (where else can you get a 28GG?), and our senior editor Michele raves about them [10]. If you've got a hard-to-find size (read: small rib cage, larger cup), definitely check out this brand. And if you prefer a racerback style, try the Sonic silhouette [11].
Freya Active Underwire Sports Bra [12] ($62)
Medium Impact: All Cup Sizes
Fresh, bright colors, medium support, adjustable straps, and a sweat-wicking fabric: all at an under-$20 price point.
C9 Champion Power Core Compression Sports Bra [13] ($17)
Medium Impact: Small to Medium Cup Sizes
With removable padded cups, this bra provides compression and coverage when you need it most. It's a great option for a dance or cardio class. [14]
Nike Pro Classic Padded [15] ($35)
Medium Impact: Small to Medium Cup Sizes
This Old Navy bra has a bit of everything: extra coverage, a little padding, a longline silhouette, and a gorgeous take on a neutral color. [16]
Old Navy Mesh Active Sports Bra for Women [17] ($23)
Medium Impact: Medium Cup Sizes
From B to D, you'll have the molded cups and wire-free support of a reliable bra brand, in sweat-wicking material for a hot Spin class. [18]
Natori Yogi Wire-Free Convertible Sports Bra [19] ($58)
Medium Impact: Medium to Large Cup Sizes
This shaping racerback style comes in trendy colors, with a lot of extra coverage. In sizes XS through XL, this is ideal for larger-chested women performing a moderate-intensity workout.
C9 Champion Power Shape Mesh Sports Bra [20] ($23)
Low Impact: All Cup Sizes
With a unique, beautiful design, this style is deceivingly delicate. You'll still get a good amount of support and coverage for your LISS exercises [21], no matter your cup size.
C9 Champion Seamless Strappy Cami Sports Bra [22] ($20)
Low Impact: Small Cup Sizes
Strappy, smooth, soft, and comfortable. If you're on the smaller side, this'll be perfect for your next barre or yoga class.
Splits59 Loren Bra [23] ($39)
Low Impact: Small to Medium Cup Sizes
Low impact doesn't have to mean no support! Adjustable straps and a wider band come in handy for those who need a little extra oomph than what typically comes with a light bralette. [24]
Old Navy Ruched Cami Sports Bra [25] ($15)
Low Impact: Small to Medium Cup Sizes
With new colors every few weeks, this stylish silhouette from Lululemon is a favorite in yoga and barre classes. [26]
Lululemon Free To Be Bra (Wild) [27] ($48)
Low Impact: Small to Medium Cup Sizes
Combining the best of the strappy and classic racerback styles, this bra is supportive and comfortable, without giving that uni-boob effect. I love this bra for power yoga classes. [28]
Nike Pro Indy Dri-FIT Sports Bra [29] ($45)
Low Impact: Medium Cup Sizes
A higher neck and extra coverage (with sexy little cutouts) make this top just as functional as it is fashionable and perfect for medium-size chests.
Lorna Jane Nikki Sports Bra [30] ($67)
Low Impact: Large Cup Sizes
This thoughtful silhouette from Panache is lightweight and gentle while still providing the coverage you need for your less-aggressive exercises and days when you don't need as much support. In sizes 28DD through 40F and in more colors [31] in more colors [32].
Panache Convertible Wireless Sports Bra [33] ($68)