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The best sports bras for women will give you the most bang for your buck when working out. Whether you’re at Downward Dog or about to finish a 5K, you don’t want any distractions, especially if you’re lacking support. The bottom line is that you don’t want to wear an uncomfortable or poorly designed sports bra.
That’s why so much effort goes into the best women’s sports bras. They are designed for a wide range of activities, from high-intensity to low-intensity (that is, the most comfortable moments of relaxation), allowing you to focus on your favorite workout or leisure activity. Most share three key details: “A great sports bra needs support, comfortable straps, and high-quality fabric.” .css-1gunp80{-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline ;text-decoration-thickness: 0.0625 rem; text-decoration-color: inherited; text-underline-offset: 0.25rem; color: inherited; -webkit-transition: background in-out speed 0.4 seconds, color in-out speed 0.4 seconds; transition: background ease 0.4 seconds in, color increases with ease 0.4 seconds; word-break: break-word; background: linear-gradient(down, #F5F5F5 0, #F5F5F5 100%); -webkit-background -size:0 0;background-size:0 0 ;background-repeat:repeat-x;-webkit-background-position:0 100%;background-position:0 100%;}.css-1gunp80: hover{color: #000000;text -decoration-color:border-link -body-hover;-webkit-background-size:0.625rem 3.125rem;background-size:0.625rem 3.125rem;} Abby Gordon, VP of design and marketing at Alo Yoga, tells BAZAAR.
However, while the sport is timeless, sports bras are meant for so much more than just epic, sweaty workouts. “Sports bras are no longer just for working out; they have become a fashion necessity,” the expert continues. “The trend of wearing sportswear as casual wear is driving demand for comfortable and stylish sports bras. This evolution allows our customers to confidently transition from workouts to casual wear, making bold statements in the gym and in everyday life.”
So how do you determine the best sports bra for both intense and casual sports? “Impact-resistant sports bras typically have more support, favor moisture-wicking materials, and often have wide or adjustable straps,” explains Gordon. “In contrast, other products are made from expanded, breathable and lightweight materials suitable for low-impact activities such as yoga or Pilates.”
It’s best to have both types of sports bras so you can tailor the support and comfort you need for different activities. “While high-impact bras provide the support you need during strenuous workouts, comfortable low-impact bras provide comfort and versatility for everyday activities,” adds Gordon. She recommends wear-testing a few different styles to find the one that suits your personal preferences.
Now that you’re ready to shop, check out the 15 best sports bras for women that will help you sweat and stay stylish.
Vuori produces modern yet timeless sportswear that is quickly becoming a cult favorite. These fabrics are the secret sauce: they make you feel great, whether you’re sweating after work or not. This stylish scoop neckline and back silhouette is a fan favorite and has received over 600 positive reviews. If that doesn’t convince you, how about a refreshing green? joy.
What the reviewer says: “Admittedly, I have an aversion to sports bras and have always felt like they either sacrifice support or comfort. You don’t usually get both. Here’s to prove me wrong about the bra. It’s supportive , but still allows you to breathe normally (sounds terrible, but this is true of many other bras I’ve tried) The fabric is as good as I’ve come to expect from all of Vuori’s other clothes – soft, comfortable and washes like a dream I told a colleague , who also likes Vuori, that I will probably never buy another brand of sports bra again.”
While many sports bras only come in band sizes, this Lululemon style is designed for high-intensity activities, available in a variety of cup sizes, and features hook-and-eye closures for more customization and a better fit.
Materials: Bra: 59% nylon, 41% Lycra Xtra life®; Bra lining: 71% nylon, 29% elastane; Side panels: 73% nylon, 27% Xtra life® lycra.
What reviewers say: “This bra is stylish, supports girls’ height, and doesn’t pinch my shoulders like other sports bras. It’s great for those with large breasts like me. Plus, it’s the only one I can wear during running. The sports bra I wear. It has greatly improved my workouts and makes me feel comfortable and supported, just like I wear this bra!”
The Alo Wild Things bra is a best-seller that comes in new colors each season, as well as versatile neutrals like black, white and grey. “It is made from our proprietary airbrush compression fabric that is ideal for engraving and performance support,” says Gordon. “It combines the best elements of a bralette and crop top, allowing me to wear it with a tennis skirt or pants to work.”
What reviewers say: “Love it! Great fit, comfortable, durable, stays in place and lasts forever!”
You love On Running’s trendy sneakers, but don’t get caught up in the brand’s growing selection of activewear. Try this lightweight bra with a lace-up back and light padding around the chest, perfect for activities like yoga or strength training.
The Nike Classic Racerback Sports Bra offers medium support, which means you can wear it for a variety of activities, from spin classes to dance aerobics. Sweat-wicking, adaptable material quickly returns to shape for comfort throughout your workout.
Material: 72% polyester/28% spandex. Mesh: 81% polyester/19% spandex. Lining: 72% polyester/28% spandex. Lining fabric: 100% polyester. Cushion: 100% polyurethane.
What reviewers are saying: “I needed something a little more sophisticated than department store sports bras and was excited to try this. I mostly wear my sports bra for strength training at the gym. This is the best I have so far.” ! It’s a thick fabric, but not heavy, so I don’t have to worry about it ripping or falling apart. The fabric is also very wicking, so I don’t feel wet. It’s very supportive and comfortable. I like that the cups are “. They are sewn in so I don’t have to worry about it. It also washes well. Great bra.”
For some women, adjustable, convertible straps are ideal, providing versatility and support depending on your workout needs. Easily change straps from straight to racer (or combination) shoulder straps. Oh how gorgeous are the mesh details?
What reviewers are saying: “This is my favorite sports bra. I currently have 5 of them! You need to go up a size on both the straps and cups. But the fit, style and versatility are great. If you need a little extra support, simply cinch the back for a racer back. And you can do it while it’s already open!”
Available in sizes XS to 6XL, Girlfriend’s Racerback Sports Bra is a comfortable and modern choice. It’s made from a soft, compressed material using recycled plastic bottles, which the brand can recycle again when you’re ready to try a new style.
What reviewers say: “The Paloma offers great support while running and is one of my girlfriend’s favorite bras. I try not to wear it to yoga because it’s low-cut and puts pressure on me, but I like to use it for any high-intensity exercise. I wear bras large size in all my friends’ bras, and the Paloma is definitely the tightest.”
This V-neck style is a more fashionable take on the sports bra and is easy to wear alone with high-waisted leggings or under a shirt. If you enjoy sexy walks or yoga and opt for a bra with less structure, this is the option for you.
Reviewers say: “The most comfortable and soft sports bar I’ve ever owned. Size 36D and medium fit perfectly. I often forget I’m even wearing a bra, it’s so comfortable. From running to yoga to lounging around the house. This very comfortably”. has become my favorite weekend bra.”
For high-intensity training, a snug fit is critical. It’s even better if the wicking fabric is crafted as carefully as this lightweight, padded model made from yarn containing 50% Parley Ocean plastic.
Materials: Main: 79% recycled polyester, 21% double-sided elastane; Mesh: 82% recycled polyester, 18% elastane mesh.
What reviewers say: “I’m a 30-year-old woman who had never found a sports bra that fit me until I bought this one. Besides the great fit, it is extremely supportive and comfortable.”
Hiking does not require rigid support like high-intensity exercise. This stylish cropped style features a V-back neckline and pairs well with matching leggings or hiking gear.
What reviewers say: “I’m crazy about this top. The low cut back makes it cute and fitted. I usually wear a size between a small and a medium, but I’m sizing down to a small to give this top more support. … It’s comfortable enough for activities like tennis, pickleball, hiking, etc. I love it!”
If you’re a fan of Bandier’s popular Center Stage sports bra, you’ll love this ribbed style. It has slightly less compression than the iconic version, making it ideal for moderate activity or even leisure time if that’s your thing.
Whenever I wear the Nylora Marta Top sports bra, I get tons of compliments. However, it’s not just praise that’s become my favorite (although it’s certainly a confidence booster!). It is very gentle on my sensitive skin and is very supportive without feeling restrictive. (It’s made from 4-way stretch fabric with a removable lining, and as a small-busted girl, I really appreciate the added shaping effect.)
I also love the square neckline, angular straps and slightly longer silhouette – it pairs perfectly with high-waisted leggings so I never feel too revealing in public.
Those with larger breasts may prefer an underwire sports bra for added support and structure, like this super secure style made from soft, moisture-wicking fabric. With over 2,000 reviews, this Wacoal design features thick support straps so you don’t have to do anything untested.
What reviewers say: “I wear a 42DDD and love this bra as both a casual and sports bra. I wear it in two styles depending on whether I’m going to the gym or running errands, and honestly, this Very comfortable on both sides. Great support. I have no regrets. I plan to buy a few more.”
This fashionable bra from Live the Process is perfect for low-impact workouts or a sporty look. It turns sportswear into fun. Cute cap sleeves and a long, cropped silhouette provide coverage, while a twist and flare at the back add some flair. Wear it with matching leggings for a customized workout look, or pair it with wide-leg pants and sneakers.
Sometimes you just want things to be simple. Sleek and streamlined, the District Vision Racerback Sports Bra is ideal for those who prefer to run in a supportive mid-layer bra. A clever design addition: a hidden pocket lets you store your keys while you’re running.
If you’re looking for a sports bra that can withstand the heat of an intense workout, check out this racer back bra. Its matte material provides compression while being stylish and ultra-soft. It also dries quickly and wicks away sweat so you don’t have to break a sweat.Sizes: XS-XL. Material: 72% recycled nylon, 28% spandex.
Color: Black Our editor says: “I’ve been having trouble wearing a sports bra since I recently started doing high-intensity workouts again (like Barrie Bootcamp). I needed something that actually stayed in place and allowed me to I want to feel secure, and this one from Barry stays in place no matter how fast I run or squat,” Tara Gonzalez, senior fashion editor.
“The first rule of thumb when choosing a sports bra is that it should be tighter than your everyday bra,” says Gordon. “A comfortable fit across the chest is the key to a good, supportive sports bra.”
Choosing a sports bra made from high-quality fabrics ensures durability and long-lasting comfort, she says. “At Alo, we combine style and technology to create sports bras that enhance your appearance.”
“Sports bras for people with large breasts often have special features to provide the support, comfort and functionality they need,” Gordon explains. “These features include wider and adjustable straps, moisture-wicking fabrics, and racerback or wide-back styles.”
For more than 150 years, Harper’s BAZAAR has been the preeminent fashion, beauty and lifestyle resource for women of all ages. We work with the world’s leading authorities on ready-to-wear, footwear, accessories and more to report on the latest happenings and future fashion trends. Every story we publish is carefully researched and reviewed by our team of editors and industry experts.
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Post time: Jan-17-2024