15 best sports bras for support while exercising in 2024
If comfort and support is what you’re after, we’ve rounded up 15 sports bras that tick all the boxes – including a popular option that’s perfect for runners.
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There’s truly nothing better than wearing a sports bra that fits the criteria of ‘perfect’ – supportive, comfortable, well-constructed and stylish. However, finding one that truly ticks all those boxes is a once in a blue moon occurrence … or so we thought.
If you’re sick of wearing an average sports bra that rides up, isn’t breathable or fails to hold the girls in place, then you’ve come to the right place – from low impact to high impact workouts, we’ve done the hard work for you and rounded up the best sports bra for every need and budget.
We’ve currently got our eye on the tried and tested, Berlei Electrify Non-Contour Bra – our Social Media Producer, Claudia, swears by this sports bra writing: “It’s comfy, supportive” and “supports you during high impact training”.
Interested in more? Scroll on to find your perfect sports bra.
OUR TOP PICKS
EDITOR’S PICK: BEST SPORTS BRA OVERALL
Berlei Electrify Non-Contour Bra, $64.95 at Myer
Why we love it: Encapsulation bra; mesh panels for breathability and cool comfort, high impact support; adjustable straps; great reviews.
What to consider: Limited size range; some reviewers say it has a small fit; no padding; underwire may be uncomfortable.
Great for: High impact activities; running; gym; tennis; intense workouts; pilates.
Material: Nylon; elastane.
Size: 8A to 40D
Colour: Black; blush; white and navy.
Tried and Tested by Claudia Coy, Social Media Producer
This is the sports bra you’ve been looking for. As someone with a bigger bust (10E) who’s just gotten into running for the first time, I can attest to the strength in which this bra supports you during high impact training.
Not only do I feel supported, but it doesn’t dig into my ribs and back like other sports bras I’ve tried on the market. It’s comfy, it’s supportive and holds a 4.6 rating out of over 500 reviews on the Myer site.
BEST HIGH IMPACT SPORTS BRA
Lorna Jane Amy Maximum Support Sports Bra, $70 (down from $85) at The Iconic
Why we love it: Encapsulation bra; mesh panels for breathability and cool comfort, high impact support; adjustable straps; great reviews.
What to consider: Limited size range; some reviewers say it has a small fit; no padding; underwire may be uncomfortable.
Great for: High impact activities; running; gym; tennis; intense workouts; pilates.
Material: 71 per cent polyester; 29 per cent elastane.
Size: XXS to XXL
Colour: Black; almond; biscuit; cream; titanium; white; ash rose; midnight blue and strawberry lemonade.
Tried and Tested by Jessica Smith, Body+Soul Health and Wellness eCommerce Writer
I’ve been using this bra for about a month now and my confidence has never wavered in its power to hold everything in nice and tight, so I can focus on whatever activity I’m doing. I’ve tried this sports bra speed walking, running, jogging down stairs and (of course) at reformer pilates- and the girls have never budged.
The stylish sports bra has adjustable straps and a clip so that you can go from racerback style, to a more classic straight look that fits seamlessly under a T-shirt or single. I own this sports bra in the white colourway, and have never worried about it being see-through, thanks to the high quality Lorna Jane materials that I’m sure will last for years to come.
Under Armour Women’s Infinity 2.0 High Support Sports Bra, $63.99 (down from $79.99) at Under Armour
Why we love it: Sleek design; full-coverage; high impact support; moulded cups; moisture-wicking; front mesh panel; sweat-wicking band; adjustable straps; easy to put on and take off.
What to consider: Runs a little large.
Great for: High impact activities; running; court sports; field sports; gym.
Material: 87 per cent polyester; 13 per cent elastane.
Size: XS to L
Colour: Black.
Tried and Tested by Jessica Smith, Body+Soul Health and Wellness eCommerce Writer
If you want a full coverage, high quality sports bra that doesn’t make your boobs feel like they’re strapped into a prison of compressive bra hell- this is it. Made with comfortable wide straps, this Under Armour sports bra doesn’t dig into your shoulders but sits seamlessly across them, with a wide open back ushering in plenty of airflow.
I am not a team sports girlie, but I can imagine that this full-coverage bra would be perfect for those who are. No push up or burpy will threaten a cleavage spill, and the hook-and-eye closure makes it super easy to take off after a sweaty workout. I did find that this ran a little large, so you may want to ensure you’re checking your measurements before purchasing this one.
BEST MEDIUM IMPACT SPORTS BRA
Nike Swoosh Medium Support Bra, $50 at Nike
Why we love it: Full-coverage; sewn-in pads; medium impact support; sweat-wicking; adaptive material; form-fitting.
What to consider: Fits large – recommended to size down; non-adjustable straps.
Great for: Medium impact activities; training; workouts; dance classes; running; gym.
Material: Recycled polyester.
Size: XXS to 2XL
Colour: Canyon pink; light violet ore; aster pink; denim turquoise; light British tan.
What You Need To Know
Crafted from recycled polyester, this comfortable sports bra from Nike offers medium support and features sewn-in pads so you won’t have to worry about the pads getting all messed up in the wash. It’s sweat-wicking and breathable, and ideal for medium impact activities like training workouts and dance classes.
“This is my go to sports bra! I am a 32C so relatively small chested. I can use this for everything from light exercise to running. The absolute best part is the sewn in cups. I have zero use for removable cups and this bra makes my life that much easier,” one five-star reviewer wrote.
“Extremely comfortable, good support. Nice colour and doesn’t hold moisture,” another wrote.
Premium Seamless Bralette, $49.95 at STAX.
Why we love it: Bralette design; light support; sweat wicking; adjustable straps; seamless; buttery soft.
What to consider: No padding; some reviewers recommend sizing up if you have a bigger bust.
Great for: Low impact activities; everyday wear; pilates; walking.
Material: 94 per cent nylon; 6 per cent spandex.
Size: XS to 3XL
Colour: Astro; dovetail; umber; cedar; porsche; vanilla essence.
Tried and Tested by Marina Tatas, Shopping Writer
The STAX Premium Seamless range is known for being so comfortable, supportive and flattering, and this bra is no exception. It feels like you’re wearing nothing! The bralette design moulds to the shape of your body, it comes in loads of different colours, and I love that the straps are adjustable too. Perfect to work out in, or to also lounge around in.
BEST LOW IMPACT SPORTS BRAS
Why we love it: Worn by Kendall Jenner; stylish; light support; smoothing fit; compressive; breathable.
What to consider: No removable cups in black colourway; white and ivory colourways have removable cups; some reviewers say it runs small.
Great for: Low to medium impact activities; training; yoga; pilates; runs; hikes; walks; everyday wear.
Material: 87 per cent nylon; 13 per cent elastane.
Size: XS to XL
Colour: Black; ivory; white.
What You Need To Know
As seen on Kendall Jenner, this sports bra from Alo features a flattering V-neckline with ruched detailing and comes down to a longer length compared to a regular bra. It’s made from Alo’s signature Airbrush performance fabric that’s soft and smooth, and offers light support and medium-compression. It’s perfect for low to medium intensity activities like yoga, hot-girl walks and everyday errands.
“Hands down my favourite sports bra that I’ve ever worn!
The cut and lines are beautiful! Supportive and feminine! I only wear alo workout gear now because of how incredible I feel in it,” one five-star reviewer wrote.
“This bra is insanely comfortable, looks adorable, and supports all of my activities (weightlifting, boxing, yoga, and intense work shifts on the loading docks). I want one for every day of the week …! I could live in this bra. 10 Stars!” another wrote.
Serenity Sierra Crop, $65.99 at Crop Shop Boutique
Why we love it: Flattering design; buttery soft; moderate compression; moderate support; thick straps; cross back detail.
What to consider: No padding – double lined; non-adjustable straps; some reviewers say to size up; may not be suitable for those with bigger busts.
Great for: Low impact activities; training; pilates; barre; yoga; walking; everyday wear.
Material: Polyester; spandex.
Size: XXS to XXL
Colour: White; black.
Tried and Tested by Marina Tatas, Shopping Writer
One of CSB’s most popular styles is the Sierra Crop, and it’s the one I reach for multiple times a week. I find it’s great for walks, pilates or weightlifting. The Sierra Crop offers moderate support, thanks to the super flattering twist design on the back keeping your girls strapped in. It’s also double lined, so there’s no need for padding.
BEST BUDGET SPORTS BRA
Cotton On Body Strappy Sports Crop, $20.99 (down from $29.99) at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Flattering design; removable foam cup inserts; strappy back; moisture-wicking; affordable.
What to consider: Non-adjustable straps; some reviewers say it runs small; may not be suitable for those with bigger busts.
Great for: Low to high impact activities; exercising; running; everyday wear
Material: 79 per cent polyester; 21 per cent elastane.
Size: 2XS to 5XL
Colour: Blue.
What You Need To Know
If you’re after a good sports bra that’s reliable and affordable, you can’t look past Cotton On Body. Crafted from a soft, moisture-wicking polyester-elastane blend, this style in particular features a strappy back design, flattering scoop neckline and removable cups. It’s works as a low to high impact bra, and even an everyday bra.
“It fits so nicely, I do the gym and touch football full time; this is an amazing and supportive sports crop. the colour as well stands out beautifully and goes with almost everything!” one wrote.
“Absolutely love this top! It’s soft and it fits really well. Perfect for running and high-impact exercises,” another wrote.
BEST SPORTS BRA FOR LARGER CHESTS
Rockwear Evolve Moulded High Impact Sports Bra, $55.99 (down from $79.99) at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Sleek and minimal design; full coverage; bounce reduction straps; moulded cups; adjustable straps; clasp fastening; high impact support; compressive.
What to consider: Some reviewers say the they have trouble doing the clasps at the back up.
Great for: High impact activities; boxing; training; cycling; running; gym.
Material: 83 per cent polyester; 17 per cent elastane.
Size: 10C to 18F
Colour: Black.
What You Need To Know
Available in sizes up to an 18F, this sports bra from Rockwear is an ideal pick for those with a bigger bust. Made from a polyester-elastane blend, this sports bra is suitable for high impact activities thanks to it’s bounce reduction straps and compressive fit. It has moulded straps, white panel detailing and a wide underbust band for extra support.
“This is the only sports bra I feel supports me. Usually I wear 2 bras for exercising but this one is comfy and supportive on its own,” one wrote.
“Nothing holds the girls better – supportive and super comfortable,” another wrote.
BEST SPORTS BRA FOR SMALLER CHESTS
Flow Y Bra Nulu Light Support, $69 at Lululemon
Why we love it: Simple design; removable cups; light support; buttery soft; breathable; moisture-wicking fabric.
What to consider: Non-adjustable straps; may not be suitable for those with bigger busts; some reviewers say it runs small.
Great for: Low impact activities; yoga; pilates; walking; everyday wear.
Material: 81 per cent nylon; 19 per cent lycra elastane.
Size: AU 6 to AU 18
Colour: Oasis blue; twilight rose; nomad; white; taupetastic; storm teal; black; true navy.
What You Need To Know
What’s a sports roundup without Lululemon? Ideal for lower impact activities, this classic sports bra is perfect for those with smaller busts and it offers great coverage in the front. Featuring a Y-back design, it has removable cups and a white underbust band, and it’s made from a nylon-lycra blend that’s breathable, sweat-wicking, buttery soft and stretchy.
Not to mention, one eagle-eyed content creator revealed that Kim Kardashian has been spotted wearing this bra in all her work out episodes in Keeping Up with the Kardashians – she says she “gets the hype” and now “feels like a Kardashian”.
“This is the perfect bra to wear under singlets! Doesn’t show straps or anything. Provides support and coverage. Highly recommend,” one wrote.
“I’m an A cup so it gives me perfect support for all types of activity. I wear it to yoga, spin, weights and running. It’s comfortable, really flattering and comes in a great range of colours. Doesn’t lose its shape and seems to last forever,” another wrote.
BEST SPORTS BRA FOR RUNNING
Accelerate Sports Bra, $90 at LSKD
Why we love it: Sleek design; great coverage; customisable fit; adjustable straps; hook bra clasp; compressive; medium support; breathable.
What to consider: No padding – double lined; non-adjustable straps; some reviewers say to size up; may not be suitable for those with bigger breasts.
Great for: Low impact activities; training; pilates; barre; yoga; walking; everyday wear.
Material: Signature Rep fabric – polyester; elastane.
Size: 2XS to 3XL
Colour: White; black
What You Need To Know
After a sports bra that will keep the girls in place while running? This one from LSKD is perfect. Crafted from the brand’s signature compressive Rep Fabric, this sports bra offers great coverage and support, while still being breathable and comfortable – not restrictive. It has adjustable straps and a three-hook bra clasp so that you can customise the bra for the perfect fit.
“Best sports bra ever! Very soft and breathable fabric. Really nice fit and is so comfortable when running.,” one five-star reviewer wrote.
“I use this bra for running and the support is great without being too restrictive. Highly recommend the small for those with a small bust (10C) who still want support for running or high impact sessions like Boxing,” another wrote.
BEST LONGLINE SPORTS BRA
Why we love it: Simple and stylish design; removable cups; light support; gentle compression; soft feel; ultra stretchy; longline length.
What to consider: Non-adjustable straps; may not be suitable for those with bigger busts; some reviewers say it runs small.
Great for: Low impact activities; yoga; pilates; walking; everyday wear.
Material: 81 per cent polyamide; 19 per cent lycra.
Size: XS to XL
Colour: Black; rose; white; grey sage; blue; taupe; magenta.
What You Need To Know
The perfect mix of a longline crop top and sports bra, this piece features a V-neckline, U-back design and removable pads. It’s available in a number of colourways and effortlessly versatile – you can wear it from the gym to a quick coffee catch up without any worries. It’s made from CRZ Yoga’s signature butterluxe fabric that is soft to the touch, comfortable and super stretchy.
“I love that this sports bra is longline, meaning it’s more of a tank but still leaves a sliver of tummy when wearing high-waisted shorts. This is supportive but still cuts down to give a sexy silhouette. It is also in a very soft fabric which is a dupe of the soft lulu fabric for a fraction of the price. I will be getting more in the future,” one five-star reviewer wrote.
“I absolutely love my CRZ YOGA Butterluxe Women’s V Neck Longline Sports Bra! The padded workout crop tank top with built-in bra is so comfortable and supportive during my workouts. The material is so soft and it feels like butter on my skin. The longline design is flattering and provides great coverage. I highly recommend this sports bra for anyone looking for both style and functionality in their activewear,” another wrote.
BEST ENCAPSULATION SPORTS BRA
Bendon Sport Motion Zip Front Sports Bra, $74.96 (down from $99.95) at Myer
Why we love it: Ecapsulation bra; easy zip-front design; foam cups; adjustable straps; moisture-wicking; clasp fastening; compressive; full coverage; high impact support.
What to consider: Some reviewers say it runs small; thick material – so you may get hot easily.
Great for: High impact activities; running; intense workouts; training; gym.
Material: 68 per cent recycled polyamide; 20 per cent polyamide; 12 per cent elastane.
Size: 10A/B to 18DD/E
Colour: Black.
What You Need To Know
If you’re after convenience and high impact support, this sports bra from Bendon is what you need. It has a front zip that makes it easy to put on and take off, adjustable straps, back clasp, and encapsulating foam cups for extra support. It’s also made from a moisture-wicking polyamide-elastane blend, so it’s great for those high intensity workouts that will make you work up a sweat.
“I wasn’t sure about the zip at the beginning but thought might as well, tried it on, wow, really good. Ran 24k and 10k, could say it is the best, no scratch, can’t feel the zip. Really happy with it. I need to go one size down. Unzip no struggle,” one wrote.
“This zip up sports bra is the best sports bra I have ever brought. It is so comfortable and when you are hot and sweaty you just unzip the front to get it off. I do have some that just pull over you head and so annoying to get off,” another wrote.
BEST NURSING SPORTS BRA
Emama Long Line Nursing Crop, $40 (down from $119) at Emamaco
Why we love it: Dual-layer design with clips for easy breastfeeding; subtle padding; maximum support; full coverage; moisture-wicking; breathable.
What to consider: Sells out frequently; non-adjustable straps; some reviewers say it stretches out and doesn’t go back to its original fit.
Great for: Low to medium impact activities; pilates; yoga; walking; breastfeeding on-the-go.
Material: Nylon; elastane.
Size: XS to XXL
Colour: Black; blush; white and navy.
Tried and Tested by Stephanie Yip, Travel Writer
This is one of those social-media-made-me-buy-it purchases that I still rave about. Being pregnant and on the hunt for maternity wear, I bought a pair of emamaco’s buttery soft maternity leggings and long line crop from a Facebook ad and instantly fell in love.
I wore the crop before and after pregnancy and liked how comfortable, stylish and supportive it was. There are two clips for breastfeeding and, unlike some other maternity bras I’ve worn, there’s two layers of fabric for increased boob coverage when feeding.
While I loved that this crop stretched with me as bub grew, I was a little disappointed that the underbust didn’t snap back to its original fit after my breastfeeding journey ended. It was probably the 18 months worth of stretching that did it, but it’s just something to keep in mind if you’re planning to wear this beyond breastfeeding.
MOST STYLISH SPORTS BRA
Serenity Lexi Crop, $65.99 at Crop Shop Boutique
Why we love it: Stylish design; strappy open back; light support; buttery soft; moderate compression; removable padding.
What to consider: Not much support; non-adjustable straps; some reviewers say the fit loosens overtime; recommended to size down; underbust band is loose.
Great for: Low impact activities; pilates; yoga; walking.
Material: Polyester; spandex.
Size: XXS to XXL
Colour: Lemon; brown; black; white.
Tried and Tested by Marina Tatas, Shopping Writer
If you’re the type who likes to show off their sports bra, this gorgeous open back design is a winner for me. As you can imagine, the support is light – which is ideal for my chest size – but it’s still really comfortable, sculpting your curves and feeling buttery soft. I probably wouldn’t recommend this if you’re someone who likes to run or do high intensity training.
WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A SPORTS BRA
When it comes to buying a sports bra, there are a few factors to consider to ensure you get the perfect sports bra.
Support: The most important thing to look out for in a sports bra is support. There are a few different levels of support that a sports bra can provide – low impact support, medium impact support and high impact support. So, depending on the types of activities you partake in, you should take these levels into account for the right support.
Type: As mentioned above, there are different levels of support for sports bras which means there are obviously different types of sports bras to choose from including low impact bras, medium impact, high impact.
– Low impact sports bras are generally light and easy for everyday, and offer light support for low impact sports like yoga and walking.
– Medium impact sports bras are a good middle-ground that provide a little more support compared to a low impact bra, but are still generally light. This type of bra is better suited for medium impact activities like pilates, light cardio, gym sessions or cycling.
– High impact sports bras are perfect for those who love to work up a sweat and partake in fast-paced activities like boxing, running and HIIT. These are typically compression bras that offer superior support and your breasts secure and in place – no bouncing here! You can also look to a high impact underwire bra for a lift as well as support.
Size: It’s important to choose a sports bra that is your correct size – not too loose and not too tight, just right. You should ensure that the cups fit well, so make sure there is no gap between your breast and the cup, the underbust band should be right under your breast, and fit snug but not tight or restricting.
Material: The best sports bras are made from breathable and moisture-wicking fabrics like nylon or polyester-blends – this means that the bra will wick away any sweat from your body to keep you dry, as well as cool. You should also make sure that the bra you choose has high stretch for comfort and easy movement.
Features: Some important features to consider include removable pads, mesh panels, adjustable straps and customisable multiway straps – being able to adjust your straps will allow you to tailor your sports bra easily for a perfect fit.
HOW WE CHOOSE PRODUCTS
With hundreds of sports bras in the market, it’s impossible to test every style out there. To help you find the right sports bra that will give you all the support you need, our team tested well-known brands at different price points and provided first-hand reviews. In addition, our shopping team read hundreds of customer reviews and looked at test results and ratings from product review sites to find the best sports bras from premium to budget to help you find the right one.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
HOW SHOULD A SPORTS BRA FIT?
A sports bra should be snug but not too tight – it shouldn’t restrict your breathing or movement, and should be able to fit at least two fingers between the straps and your shoulders. If you have gaps in your sports bra, it means it’s too loose and it you have any spillage from the top or side, it means it’s too tight. The underbust band should also sit fleshly under your breasts and not on top; the cups should also
HOW TO FIND MY CORRECT BRA SIZE
To help you confidently choose the right bra size, you can use a tape measure and follow the steps below:
(Make sure you’re measuring without a bra for accurate results).
- Measure your cup size by wrapping the measuring tape around your back and across the fullest part of your bust — this is usually right across the centre of the nipple. Ensure the measuring tape is levelled and snug enough that you’re still able to take a deep breath comfortably.
- Measure your band size by wrapping the measuring tape around your back and under your bust. The measuring tape should be levelled and flat against your body and not on your breast tissue. Again, it should be snug enough that you’re still able to take a deep breath comfortably.
- Lastly, check the two measurements you got against the size chart of the brand of your choice and you should be able to identify your correct size.
IS IT OKAY TO WEAR A SPORTS BRA ALL DAY?
Yes, as long as your sports bra isn’t too tight or constricting. Sports bras tend to be more comfortable compared to a regular bra, they’re also typically made from moisture-wicking fabrics so they’re more breathable too.
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