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The Best Sports Bras for Large Breasts Are Actually Comfortable and Supportive

We spent 113 days testing options from lululemon, Knix, and other top brands

Three people wearing sports bras we recommend for large breasts displayed on a yellow background

Verywell Fit / Joy Kim

If you have a larger chest, finding a sports bra that’s supportive, easy to wear, and stylish can feel almost impossible. Generally speaking, “large breasts” refers to anyone with a cup size of D or greater (although many picks on our list are available in A through C cups, too). The best sports bras for large breasts are comfortable and functional, with a thick, soft band. According to Lauren Leavell, certified personal trainer and group fitness instructor, it's also important to look for wide, adjustable straps.

To find the best sports bras for large breasts, we first consulted experts to learn which key features to look for. Then, we researched dozens of options before testing 19 expert-approved styles at home for 113 days. Our top picks received high scores for their fit, support, comfort, adjustability, quality, durability, and overall value. We also had a certified yoga, Pilates, personal training, and meditation teacher from our Review Board review this article for accuracy surrounding what to look for in sports bras and how they should fit.

What to Know Before You Get Started

Our experts share fit tips and other things to look for before you start shopping:

  • It's a good idea to measure yourself or get measured at a lingerie store before buying a new sports bra to make sure you're wearing the right size. Working out in a sports bra with a band that's too tight can prevent you from breathing properly, influencing your metabolic rate.
  • Look for a sports bra that comes in traditional bra sizing (meaning a cup size and a band size) for a better fit. Bras that are sized S, M, L, and so on can be difficult to gauge online.
  • Opt for sports bras with molded, encapsulated, or contoured cups. “Encapsulated cups offer support and separation—one boob per cup—and will help each breast stay where it’s supposed to be,” says Laura Burke, intimate apparel stylist at Fit X Burke. Some styles also have flexible underwires to lift each breast individually and help limit movement.
  • Most sports bras provide support through compression. But if you have larger breasts, Jenette Goldstein, founder and CEO of Jenette Bras, says each breast should be completely encased to control movement from all angles. Bras with built-in padding or removable cups have better coverage and create a smooth, rounded shape (to prevent a “uni-boob”).
  • Make sure the bra you choose feels good to wear. “All different bodies go to the gym, all different bodies go for runs and workouts—and to have a piece of your attire fit you and fit you well is good for your confidence," Leavell says.

Best Overall

Champion Spot Comfort Sports Bra

Our Ratings
  • Fit
    5/5
  • Support
    5/5
  • Comfort
    5/5
  • Adjustability
    5/5
  • Value
    5/5
Pros
  • Padded straps

  • Breathable mesh

  • Budget-friendly

Cons
  • Straps may show underneath tank tops

Key Specs

Fabric: Nylon, spandex, polyester | Cups: Molded, wire-free | Straps: Adjustable, gel-cushioned | Sizing: 34C to 42DDD | Support Type: High | Closure: Triple hook-and-eye

Why We Love It

Champion’s Spot Comfort Sports Bra is our top overall pick because it has plenty of support and adjustability in a simple design that’s easy to wear. It’s also the only sports bra on our list that earned a perfect score in every category. We love how comfortable is it, with a smooth band that's supportive and sturdy. Molded cups keep your breasts lifted and separated, while breathable mesh layered with sweat-wicking material boosts airflow (even during the sweatiest workouts).

This budget-friendly bra is also surprisingly durable: Three months after our initial test, it continues to hold up and hasn't shown any signs of wear or tear. We also like the hooks on both the gel-padded straps and band, which make adjusting the Spot Comfort bra simple. Wireless, highly adjustable, and a great value—this bra truly has it all.

Potential Flaws

  • We realized that the straps have a tendency to show underneath tank tops since they curve inward.
Champion Spot Comfort Sports Bra
This bra outperformed all others during our tests, thanks to its padded straps and smooth, secure band.

Verywell Fit / Ivy Ford

Best Budget

Glamorise Wire-Free Sports Bra

Glamorise No-Bounce Camisole Sports Bra

Glamorise

Our Ratings
  • Fit
    5/5
  • Support
    5/5
  • Comfort
    4.5/5
  • Adjustability
    5/5
  • Value
    5/5
Pros
  • No spandex

  • Full coverage neckline

  • Wide, adjustable straps

Cons
  • Material may feel itchy

  • Not as flattering

Key Specs

Fabric: Polyester, polyamide, elastane | Cups: Full coverage, non-stretch | Straps: Wide, adjustable | Sizing: 34C to 50J | Support Type: Medium | Closure: Triple hook-and-eye

Why We Love It

We recommend Glamorise's No-Bounce Cami Wire-Free Sports Bra if you’re searching for a supportive sports bra on a budget. Unlike many other bras on our list, this one has no spandex—this means it will hold your chest in place throughout your entire workout, without stretching or losing its shape over time. The wide hook-and-eye closure in the back provides a locked-in feel we loved during testing.

The full-coverage neckline and wide, adjustable straps make this bra just as comfortable as it is effective, and we like that it comes in a range of bright and neutral tones with contrast trim. And after four months of weekly use, Glamorise's No-Bounce Bra continues to be just as supportive as the first day of wear. Plus, it isn't showing any visible signs of wear or tear.

Potential Flaws

  • The lack of spandex made the material and seams feel itchy after long periods of time.
  • We also wish this sports bra looked a bit more flattering under workout tops—the seam down the middle tends to give it a slight resemblance to a cone bra, which isn't for everyone.
Glamorise No-Bounce Cami Wire-Free Sports Bra style 1066
Breathable mesh panels on the back of this bra help prevent sweat from building up while you work out.

Verywell Fit / Amanda Stanfield

Best Sweat-Wicking

Wacoal Underwire Sports Bra

Wacoal Underwire Sports Bra

Amazon

Pros
  • Sleek design

  • Combines soft cups with underwire

  • Lifts, separates, and supports

Cons
  • Band may run small

Key Specs

Fabric: Nylon, spandex, elastane | Cups: Two-ply with exterior underwire frame | Straps: Close-set with slide-and-hook adjustment | Sizing: 32C to 42I | Support Type: High | Closure: Quadruple hook-and-eye

Why We Love It

Made from thick, opaque fabric, Wacoal’s Underwire Sports Bra is built to quickly wick away sweat during high-impact workouts. Sleek but functional, it combines three performance fabrics and a hidden, exterior underwire for extra shaping and support. The design of this bra is what sets it apart—the cups are soft and unstructured, with two thick layers of soft fabric between your ribcage and the hidden underwire.

This Wacoal sports bra is super supportive, and we love the way it made our chests look. (Most sports bras tend to overly flatten or minimize, but this one doesn't.) With plenty of ways to customize the fit, it's also easy to adjust. Another bonus? The straps are convertible and can be crossed in the back for a seamless silhouette underneath racerback tops.

Potential Flaws

  • While the bra didn't dig into our shoulders, we did notice that it felt a little tight, with some gapping in the center. We think the band runs small, so consider sizing up.
Wacoal Simone Sport Underwire Bra
We love that this bra has convertible straps—you can cross them in the back for easy wearing. Plus, the band has four rows of hook-and-eye closures.

Verywell Fit / Sarah Felbin

Most Supportive

Panache Underwired Sports Bra

Panache Women's Underwire Sports Bra

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Fit
    4/5
  • Support
    5/5
  • Comfort
    3/5
  • Adjustability
    3/5
  • Value
    4/5
Pros
  • Lifts, separates, and supports

  • Band won't ride up

  • Durable

Cons
  • Not comfortable to wear for long periods

Key Specs

Fabric: Polyamide, polyester, elastane | Cups: Encapsulated with silicone-encased underwires | Straps: Wide, adjustable | Sizing: 28B to 40J | Support Type: High | Closure: Triple hook-and-eye

Why We Love It

Panache’s Underwired Sports Bra combines high-impact support with sturdy materials. We like that the cups lift and separate, while the wide straps distribute the weight of our chest evenly. During testing, we noticed that this bra effectively cut down on excess movement and didn’t ride up in the back.

A hook-and-eye closure with three columns and three rows makes it easy to tighten or loosen the band as needed. We also like that the straps are adjustable and that the size range extends up to a J cup, unlike many other picks on our list. Overall, we feel that this bra's quality, design, and performance during testing make it a great value for anyone who needs extra support.

Potential Flaws

  • While this bra is durable, even after repeated washes, its maximum support means it's not comfortable enough to wear for long periods of time.
Panache Ultimate High Impact Underwire Sports Bra
The cups provide plenty of coverage, and the wide straps won't dig into your shoulders.

Verywell Fit / Tara Cox

Most Comfortable

Syrokan Underwire Molded Cup High Impact Sports Bra

Syrokan Underwire Molded Cup High Impact Sports Bra

Syrokan 

Our Ratings
  • Fit
    4/5
  • Support
    4/5
  • Comfort
    5/5
  • Adjustability
    4/5
  • Value
    4/5
Pros
  • Budget-friendly

  • Lightweight

  • Convertible straps

Cons
  • May be difficult to adjust while wearing

Key Specs

Fabric: Polyester, spandex | Cups: Molded and encapsulated with curved wire | Straps: Adjustable, padded | Sizing: 32D to 40H | Support Type: High | Closure: Triple hook-and-eye

Why We Love It

For a comfortable sports bra at a budget-friendly price point, we recommend Syrokan's Underwire Molded Cup High Impact Sports Bra. We appreciate that this bra has a low profile, meaning it won’t take up a lot of space on your ribcage or overwhelm smaller frames. It's so lightweight that we easily wore it for ten hours straight during testing.

We love that it slips on and off like a traditional bra, for easy wearing. Another pro: The straps can be converted into a racerback, for layering underneath tank tops. Plus, it never gives the appearance of a "uni-boob." Choose from neutrals like Taupe and Brick, or branch out with Navy Cosmos and Hibiscus Purple.

Potential Flaws

  • The padded straps are only adjustable in the back, which means this bra can be difficult to adjust while you’re wearing it.
Syrokan Underwire Molded Cup High Impact Sports Bra
Lightweight and low-profile, this sports bra is easy to wear during long, tough workouts.

Verywell Fit / Tara Cox

Best Adjustable

SheFit Ultimate Sports Bra

SheFit Ultimate Sports Bra

SheFit

Our Ratings
  • Fit
    4.5/5
  • Support
    4.8/5
  • Comfort
    4.8/5
  • Adjustability
    5/5
  • Value
    4.8/5
Pros
  • Convertible straps

  • Wirefree

  • Wide range of colors and sizes

Cons
  • Not available in traditional bra sizing

  • Not comfortable to wear for long periods

Key Specs

Fabric: Nylon, spandex, polyester | Cups: Padded, removable | Straps: Wide, padded, adjustable hook-and-loop | Sizing: X-Small to 6X-Large, A to I cups | Support Type: High | Closure: Hook-and-loop band

Why We Love It

SheFit’s Ultimate Sports Bra is our favorite adjustable option because it's wirefree and ultra-customizable. We're not alone in our love for this bra—Leavell is also a fan: “They have straps, they have Velcro, they have hooks—you're not falling out of them,” she says. “There’s a lot of security.” The convertible straps are easy to shorten and lengthen, and we like that you can change up their look almost instantly. 

Instead of a traditional hook-and-loop closure system, this bra features one long strap that's used to tighten or loosen the band. This design also means you can adjust how compressive the bra is, a feature that others on our list don’t offer. We did multiple cross-training sessions in this bra, including running, weightlifting, agility drills, and more, without having to make any adjustments. Available in a wide range of colors and sizes, it’s a stylish option for people who like a supportive zip-front sports bra that can be tailored to their figure.

Potential Flaws

  • Note that this bra doesn’t come in traditional bra sizing, so you’ll have to use the brand’s size chart to get the right fit.
  • We found that the material can start to feel scratchy after hours of wear,
SheFit Ultimate Sports Bra
We like that this sports bra has convertible straps that are easy to adjust.

Verywell Fit / Abigail Wetzler

Best Low-Impact

Natori Gravity Contour Underwire Sports Bra

 Natori Gravity Contour Underwire Sports Bra

Nordstrom

Our Ratings
  • Fit
    4/5
  • Support
    3/5
  • Comfort
    4/5
  • Adjustability
    4/5
  • Value
    4/5
Pros
  • Stylish design

  • Hidden underwire

  • Wide range of sizes and colors

Cons
  • Band may run small

  • Thin straps may need to be adjusted

Key Specs

Fabric: Polyester, Lycra spandex, nylon | Cups: Light foam with hidden underwire | Straps: Thin, adjustable | Sizing: 30B to 40H | Support Type: Medium | Closure: Double hook-and-eye

Why We Love It

For low-impact activities like walking, stability training on balance boards, or Pilates, we recommend Natori’s Gravity Contour Underwire Sports Bra. Made from breathable mesh, this bra is durable, with a two-row hook-and-eye closure that’s easy to adjust. Lightweight foam cups with a hidden underwire offer extra support.

During testing, we loved how well-made this bra feels, with high-quality materials that won't wear out quickly. The modern, dual-layer design is a great way to add some color to your workout wardrobe, with shades like Tango/Onyx, Lake/Ash Navy, and Electric Pink/Crocus. It's also flattering, with a low back and mesh panels on either side.

Potential Flaws

  • In testing, we noticed that the band runs about one size too small—you may want to size up.
  • While we like the look of the thin straps, we found that they started to dig into our shoulders after three hours and didn’t stay adjusted over time.

Best High-Impact

Knix Catalyst Sports Bra

Knix Catalyst Sports Bra

Knix

Our Ratings
  • Fit
    4/5
  • Support
    5/5
  • Comfort
    4/5
  • Adjustability
    5/5
  • Value
    5/5
Pros
  • Thick, opaque material

  • Flattering silhouette

  • Wide hook-and-eye closure

Cons
  • May feel too compressive at first

  • Non-standard sizing

Key Specs

Fabric: Nylon, spandex | Cups: Molded | Straps: Adjustable | Sizing: 0 to 8+ (28A to 42F) | Support Type: High | Closure: Five-row hook-and-eye

Why We Love It

Many sports bras can’t stand up to the demands of high-impact exercise. But we found that Knix's Catalyst Sports Bra provides the ideal combination of fashion and function. This ultra-supportive bra is made from soft, opaque fabric, with a flattering silhouette that lifts, separates, and creates smooth lines. We also appreciate the wide hook-and-eye closure, which has five columns—unlike most other bras we tested.

We love that the Catalyst's molded cups offer structure without a painful underwire. And it weighs almost nothing, making it easy to pack in a suitcase or gym bag. Plus, it’s easy to adjust the straps using the bra’s buckles. We also like that the high V-neck design provides coverage without compromising on aesthetics.

Potential Flaws

  • Knix says the bra will feel tight at first, then loosen over time. However, we felt the bra was almost too tight on the first wear, so you may need to order one band size up to get used to the close fit.
  • You’ll have to use Knix’s conversion tool on their website to find your size.
Knix Catalyst Sports Bra
This lightweight sports bra has soft, molded cups and a high V-neck for the right amount of coverage.

Verywell Fit / Sarah Felbin

Best Size Range

Girlfriend Collective Paloma Bra

Girlfriend Collective Paloma Bra

Girlfriend Collective

Our Ratings
  • Fit
    3.5/5
  • Support
    4/5
  • Comfort
    4.5/5
  • Adjustability
    1/5
  • Value
    5/5
Pros
  • Comfortable

  • Made from recycled materials

  • Won’t show sweat or deodorant marks

Cons
  • May run large

  • Not adjustable

Key Specs

Fabric: Recycled plastic bottles, spandex | Cups: None | Straps: Wide, not adjustable | Sizing: XXS to 6XL | Support Type: Medium | Closure: None

Why We Love It

Available from XXS to 6XL, Girlfriend Collective’s Paloma Bra is our top pick for the sports bra with the widest size range. We love the comfortable, supportive material, which quickly wicked away the sweat we worked up during testing. Another surprising pro: The black doesn't show sweat or deodorant marks.

The Paloma Bra is available in a stunning range of jewel tones, plus bright seasonal colors that rotate regularly. We also like that each one is made from recycled plastic bottles. Even after many washes and four months of regular wear, the material still feels just as high quality as it did when we first tried it on.

Potential Flaws

  • While we like the amount of compression this bra offers, we noticed that it runs at least one size large.
  • We also found that, since this bra doesn’t have an adjustable band or straps, it didn’t fit one of our tester's small band, large cup body type very well.
Girlfriend Collective Paloma Bra
The Paloma Bra is easy to pull on and comfortable to wear, with wide straps and a racerback silhouette.

Verywell Fit / Sarah Felbin

Best Everyday

Playtex Fits 18 Hour Cooling Comfort Wire-Free Sports Bra

Amazon Playtex Fits 18 Hour Cooling Comfort Wire-Free Sports Bra

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Fit
    4/5
  • Support
    4/5
  • Comfort
    4/5
  • Adjustability
    3/5
  • Value
    4/5
Pros
  • Cools you down while you wear it

  • Reinforced hooks

  • Budget-friendly

Cons
  • Small size range

Key Specs

Fabric: Polyester, cotton, spandex | Cups: Lightly lined | Straps: Adjustable, close-set | Sizing: 36B to 46DDD | Support Type: Low | Closure: Triple hook-and-eye

Why We Love It

For everyday wear, we recommend Playtex's Fits 18 Hour Cooling Comfort Wire-Free Sports Bra. We like how supportive and low-profile it is—during testing, we realized it's virtually undetectable underneath most workout shirts.

But the cooling elements are what set this bra apart. Made with sweat-wicking fabric in the cups and the band, we could feel a difference in testing. We also like that the hooks in the back are reinforced to prevent them from poking through to your skin. Although it comes in at a budget-friendly price point, it doesn't skimp on quality—this bra showed no signs of wear or tear after weeks of washes.

Potential Flaws

  • But the size range is much smaller than our other top picks, as it’s only available in B to DDD cup sizes.

Best for Running

Natori Yogi Convertible Sports Bra

Our Ratings
  • Fit
    4/5
  • Support
    5/5
  • Comfort
    4/5
  • Adjustability
    3/5
  • Value
    4/5
Pros
  • Durable

  • Convertible straps

  • Good compression

Cons
  • Not comfortable for long periods

  • Straps may be difficult to adjust

Key Specs

Fabric: Polyester, Lycra spandex | Cups: Lined, underwire, stretch foam | Straps: Adjustable, convertible | Sizing: 32B to 40I band | Support Type: High | Closure: Triple hook-and-eye

Why We Love It

Whether you're running outdoors or on a folding treadmill, look for a sports bra with enough compression to prevent painful bouncing—like Natori's Yogi Sports Bra. The soft, silky material feels breathable, but support is where this bra really shines. During testing, this bra kept our chests lifted and in place without any chafing, rubbing.

It's also built to last, with blend of polyester and Lycra spandex that can handle repeated washes and wears. Convertible straps and a triple hook-and-loop closure add to the Yogi Sports Bra's functionality, while encapsulated cups work to lift and separate your breasts. Choose from solids like Black and Grey or try a pattern, like Tie Dye or Leopard Print.

Potential Flaws

  • Since it’s so compressive, we found that this bra isn't the most comfortable to wear after a full day.
  • We don't love the way the straps adjust—the hook-and-loop system isn't as customizable as a traditional buckle is. We also noticed that, on tighter settings, the excess strap material tends to move around while we exercised.

Compare

Fit Support Comfort Adjustability Value
Best Overall:
Champion Spot Comfort Sports Bra
5 5 5 5 5
Glamorise No-Bounce Camisole Sports Bra
Best Budget:
Glamorise Wire-Free Sports Bra
5 5 4.5 5 5
Wacoal Underwire Sports Bra
Best Sweat-Wicking:
Wacoal Underwire Sports Bra
Panache Women's Underwire Sports Bra
Most Supportive:
Panache Underwired Sports Bra
4 5 3 3 4
Syrokan Underwire Molded Cup High Impact Sports Bra
Most Comfortable:
Syrokan Underwire Molded Cup High Impact Sports Bra
4 4 5 4 4
SheFit Ultimate Sports Bra
Best Adjustable:
SheFit Ultimate Sports Bra
4.5 4.8 4.8 5 4.8
 Natori Gravity Contour Underwire Sports Bra
Best Low-Impact:
Natori Gravity Contour Underwire Sports Bra
4 3 4 4 4
Knix Catalyst Sports Bra
Best High-Impact:
Knix Catalyst Sports Bra
4 5 4 5 5
Girlfriend Collective Paloma Bra
Best Size Range:
Girlfriend Collective Paloma Bra
3.5 4 4.5 1 5
Amazon Playtex Fits 18 Hour Cooling Comfort Wire-Free Sports Bra
Best Everyday:
Playtex Fits 18 Hour Cooling Comfort Wire-Free Sports Bra
4 4 4 3 4
Best for Running:
Natori Yogi Convertible Sports Bra
4 5 4 3 4

Sports Bras We Also Tested

  • lululemon’s Enlite Weave-Back Bra is comfortable, but we noticed it didn't fit well enough to provide the right level of support. The cups gapped, and we wish the straps were adjustable.
  • Although we wore lululemon’s Energy Bra in our usual size, we noticed that it runs very small. The straps were too tight, and we spilled out of the cups.
  • Anita’s High Impact Wire-Free Sports Bra is adjustable, lightweight, and breathable. We like that it comes in a wide range of sizes—but we found that it runs small, especially in the band, causing some serious spillage.

What to Look for When Shopping for Sports Bras for Large Breasts

  • Activity: Sports bras are designed to support your chest based on how intensely you’ll be exercising. High-impact bras have the most support and compression, for cardio workouts. Medium-impact bras are best for hiking or cycling. Low-impact sports bras aren’t recommended for most people with large breasts, but they may work for walking or everyday wear.
  • Design: Consider the shape of the bra: Is the neckline high enough to provide coverage? Are the sides wide enough to support you from all angles? "A lack of coverage could lead to spillage and rubbing that could be uncomfortable," Leavell says. "Sometimes those minimal-looking sports bras are very aesthetically pleasing, but they’re not super functional."
  • Closure: Sports bras come in pull-on, front closure, and back closure styles. Goldstein recommends avoiding pull-on styles because they only provide compression. Instead, opt for front- or back-closure bras, which offer maximum hold and stress distribution, she says.
  • Straps: Avoid bras with narrow, fixed straps. Goldstein recommends thicker straps that you can adjust to fit your build and evenly distribute your weight. Straps with cushioning, like those on our top overall pick, also help prevent chafing.
  • Material: Sports bras that aren’t breathable will trap sweat and moisture, which can lead to irritation. Bras made with sweat-wicking fabric will pull moisture away from your skin while keeping you comfortable. Goldstein recommends looking into performance textiles that will resist odor and repel moisture—we suggest mesh, polyester, and nylon.
  • Care: Each sports bra comes with a different set of care instructions. Some are machine washable, while others are hand wash only—and not all of them can go in the dryer. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to prolong the life of your sports bra.
Best Sports Bras for Large Breasts

Verywell / Bailey Mariner

How We Tested the Best Sports Bras for Large Breasts

To find the best sports bras for large breasts, we've tested 19 expert-approved options from trusted, high-quality fitness brands. Our testers have a variety of body shapes with C to F cups and wore the bras for four months. During testing, we evaluate each sports bra based on these key criteria:

  • Fit: When we first try the bra on, we note whether the straps evenly distribute our weight without digging into our shoulders. We also check to see if there's any gapping or spillage.
  • Support: We test each bra's impact level by doing jumping jacks for two minutes or by jogging for ten minutes. Then, we go for a brisk, 15- to 20-minute walk. How much do our chests bounce? Is the bra comfortably compressive, or is it so tight we can't breathe?
  • Comfort: To test a bra's comfort, we wear it to the gym or around the house for at least three hours. Does the bra stay in place? Do the straps dig into our backs or shoulders? We also note whether the bra leaves any red marks, irritation, or sweat buildup behind after we take it off.
  • Adjustability: How easy is it to adjust the bra—can we tweak the fit while wearing it? We prioritize bras with easily adjustable bands and straps.
  • Quality: When we first receive the bra, we examine its construction. Does it seem well-made, or do we spot any fraying, loose threads, or other manufacturing defects? At the end of the testing period, does the bra still feel as high-quality as it did when we first tried it on?
  • Durability: We wash the bras after every wear to test their durability. If we notice any fading, pilling, loss of elasticity, or other signs of wear and tear, the bra receives a lower durability score.
  • Overall Value: To accurately assess each bra's value, we wait to check the price until the end of the testing period, after we've evaluated it in all other categories. Based on its performance, would we buy this bra at full price, or only if it went on sale? We also consider whether we'd recommend it to our family and friends.

Since a sports bra's performance can change over time, we continue to wear and evaluate these bras at home. We'll update our list as new testing insights become available.

Our Experts

We consulted experts at every stage of researching and reporting this story. Some, like Burke, Leavell, and Goldstein, explained how to make sure a sports bra fits and supports your chest correctly. Others, like Marissa Renelt and LaJean Lawson, helped us develop and refine our testing process. Although we choose products independently, expert input influences our decisions.

  • Laura Burke, intimate apparel stylist at Fit X Burke
  • Jenette Goldstein, founder and CEO of Jenette Bras
  • Lauren Leavell, certified personal trainer and group fitness instructor
  • Marissa Renelt, customer service team lead and bra fit expert at Bare Necessities
  • LaJean Lawson, Ph.D., sports bra researcher and movement expert (also known as the Boob Guru)
  • Joshua Zeichner, MD, associate professor of dermatology and director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital

Frequently Asked Questions

How are sports bras supposed to fit?

Most of the support for sports bras comes from the band, so a snug band that anchors to your body and doesn’t ride up is key, according to Burke. “If you reach around your back and can pull out the band more than an inch, then you need a firmer band,” she says. “Also, make sure all the breast tissue is in the cup, and you are not relying on super tightened straps for lift.”

Can sports bras flatten your breasts?

A tight-fitting sports bra may flatten or compress your breasts temporarily, but that also helps keep them out of the way and restrict movement. However, some sports bras aren't designed to flatten—they're shaped more like regular bras and actually encase and support each individual breast.

Is it okay to wear a sports bra as an everyday bra?

Yes: Look for one that’s medium- to low-impact, so it will be comfortable to wear all day long. We recommend Playtex’s Fits 18 Hour Cooling Comfort Wire-Free Sports Bra for everyday wear because it’s durable, low-profile, and made with fabric that actively cools you down while you wear it.

How much does a high-quality sports bra for large breasts cost?

A high-quality sports bra for large breasts may cost anywhere from $20 to $100 and up. Pricier bras may be more adjustable, but may not be worth investing in unless you’re splurging for a specific style or brand name.

Do sports bras contain BPA?

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical found in some types of plastic. Research has shown that exposure to high levels of BPA can lead to obesity, hormonal imbalances, and uterine cancer, among other health complications. 

In May 2023, the Center for Environmental Health (CEH) announced that, after testing, it found high levels of BPA in certain activewear pieces containing blends of polyester and spandex, including sports bras from Sweaty Betty, leggings from Nike, Athleta, Champion, Patagonia, and Kohl’s, shorts from Champion, Nike, and Adidas, and athletic shirts from Fabletics. We may recommend some of these products or similar items from these brands in this list, as these products have not been recalled and the science on transdermal absorption of BPA is still not settled. 

“The best way to prevent BPA exposure is to make educated decisions in choosing your personal care products,” explains Zeichner. As a precaution, it is best to limit the amount of time you spend in activewear by changing out of it when you are finished working out.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Emily Stone is a sports bra fanatic. She especially loves lululemon’s Free To Be Elevated Bra. It provides support and coverage, and it’s trendy and looks great with workout tanks. She also loves the fit and feel of lululemon’s super soft and sweat-wicking Luxtreme fabric. It fits like a second skin, eliminating any unwanted gapping.

Additional reporting by Sarah Felbin

With over two decades of dance experience, Sarah Felbin loves diving into the latest wellness research. As a health and fitness writer, she’s passionate about finding products that are a great value and make life easier. Of the three sports bras she tested for this story, she liked Knix’s Catalyst Sports Bra the best because it was supportive, with a stylish, flattering design—her favorite combination.

4 Sources
Verywell Fit uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
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  2. Kipp S, Leahy MG, Sheel AW. Sports bra restriction on respiratory mechanics during exercise. Med Sci Sports Exerc.

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