The Best Sports Bras for Every Type of Workout 2023

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Finding workout inspiration might be easy — look to the endless paparazzi photos of stars stepping out of their training sessions — but shopping for the best sports bras isn't always as effortless.

The difference between the right sports bra and the wrong one can make all the difference in your workout. Ideally, your sports bra is comfortable, supportive, and minimizes bounce, so you can put your all into that run, HIIT class, lifting session or yoga practice. Worst case scenario, you’re distracted from your activity because your sports bra is uncomfortable and the wrong level of support.

Finding the best sports bra for your body is, ultimately, very personal. But there are a few simple things to keep in mind while shopping that will help you find what you’re looking for. The first is support, which will be determined by your activity and the size of your chest. An F cup going for a run will need something very different than an A cup hitting the reformer. For more support, look for full coverage styles, sturdy straps, compressive fabrics, and molded cups, which help reduce bounce.

Related: The Best Fitness Mirrors for Upgrading Your Home Workouts

Sports bra sizing is not universal, with some brands choosing to size by letter (like S, M, L); by number (0, 2, 4); or by band and cup size (i.e. 34D). To get the right fit when online shopping for sports bras, you’ll want to check out the brand's size chart and grab a measuring tape to get your most updated measurements.

The type of workout is another factor to consider. Low-impact exercises require at least one foot off the ground: think yoga, Pilates, cycling, swimming, rowing and other activities that are gentle on your joints. High-impact workouts are running, HIIT (high-intensity interval training), CrossFit, tennis and others that burn more calories. Medium-impact activities are somewhere in between, such as more intense cycling, intermediate to expert hikes and elliptical training, to name a few.

Ahead, we’ve rounded up some of the best sports bras for running, large busts, low to high impact and more — see our top picks below from Nike, Lululemon, Athleta, Girlfriend and other top activewear brands.

BEST SUPPORTIVE SPORTS BRA OVERALL

One of the best sports bras for high-impact workouts, Nike's Alpha padded zip-front bra offers the brand's highest level of support. Wide, adjustable straps and a hook and eye closure at the back let you customize the fit so you feel held in, but still comfortable. The Dri-Fit technology keeps you comfortable and dry, while the perforations in the front and back make the design breathable.

Nike

BEST SUPPORTIVE BRA FOR RUNNERS

The Dare cross-back bra from running brand Brooks offers high-impact support with the ease of a pullover style — no zips, hooks or clasps required. Unlike most pullover styles, it features built-in cups to minimize bounce, and a hidden bottom band for extra support.

Amazon

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BEST FOR LARGE BUSTS

Designed for yoga and training, Lululemon's Energy Longline Bra offers medium support and is best suited for cup sizes B through D. It features removable cups and is made from a sweat-wicking fabric that's cool to the touch.

Lululemon

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BEST LIGHT SUPPORT SPORTS BRA UNDER $50

Made of at least 70 percent recycled materials, Adidas’ AeroReady sports bra is ideal for low-impact training. It features adjustable straps and removable pads, so you can easily customize the fit. Mesh ventilation details keep this sports bra breathable during workouts.

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BEST MEDIUM COVERAGE FOR LOW-IMPACT WORKOUTS

Designed for yoga, studio, and floor practice, this buttery soft Athleta sports bra offers just enough support for low-impact activities. The straps are designed for comfort on the shoulders and neck, best suited for cups A through C; D to DD+ sizing also available. (Plus, save 20 percent off your entire purchase through Jan. 23.)

Athleta

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BEST PADDED SPORTS BRA FOR HIGH-IMPACT WORKOUTS

This zip-front sports bra from Under Armour is ideal for activities that need a lot of support, like running and team sports. A full-coverage front with fixed foam pads ensures coverage and support, while a mesh lining and open cross-back provide ventilation.

Amazon

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BEST SUSTAINABLE SPORTS BRA OVERALL

Girlfriend Collective's best-selling Paloma bra — available in sizes XXS to 6XL — is a classic racerback style with a longline silhouette and built-in support band. The full coverage style is soft yet sturdy, best suited for medium-impact workouts. It also has a UPF 45+ rating, making it great for the outdoors.

Girlfriend Collective

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BEST ADJUSTABLE HIGH-IMPACT SPORTS BRA

Don't let the name fool you — Natori's Yogi Contour is no low-impact yoga bra. A convertible back with an impressive 16 slot adjustments not only gives a perfect fit, but also can be tailored for impact level. Hidden cups reduce bounce and provide moderate to high-impact support.

MORE BUYING OPTIONS: Natori | Amazon | Nordstrom

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BEST LIGHT SUPPORT SPORTS BRA

Sweaty Betty's strappy, asymmetric bralette is such a fun break from the typical sports bra silhouette, if you just need light support. It's made from a lightly compressive fabric with built-in bra padding for support, just enough to keep you supported through yoga, pilates, and other non-bounce activities.

Sweaty Betty

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