GUIDE TO THE BEST SPORTS BRAS FOR RUNNING



All runners need two things: a good pair of shoes and a really good bra. It’s essential that running bras minimize bounce, fit snugly, wick away moisture and provide enough comfort to wear for a 20-minute jog or a multi-hour marathon.


So how do you find the right one?


This guide walks you through the most important shopping considerations, and our Bra Fit Experts also list the best sports bras for running.



HOW TO SHOP FOR A RUNNING SPORTS BRA

Running-bra perfection comes down to knowing how to choose a sports bra that fits your body type and making sure it’s comfortable.


HOW TO FIND THE BEST RUNNING BRAS FOR DD+ AND PLUS SIZE


The name of the game is support. For women with large chests, it’s especially important to find a bra that minimizes bounce. Here are our best shopping tips for finding highly supportive sports bras:



HOW TO FIND THE BEST RUNNING BRAS FOR A-C CUPS


Women with smaller chests can focus more on the comfort features in sports bras. Since running is a high-impact activity, support should still be a factor.


  • A to C cups can wear wire-free sports bras, so ample coverage and compression are even more important for minimizing bounce. Instead of an underwire, runners might look for inner slings, linings and padding for a little extra support.
  • Read our Sports Bra Style & Fit Guide for tips on finding the perfect fit, or shop all sports bras.

FINDING COMFORT IN YOUR RUNNING BRA


There are two rules to finding a comfortable sports bra:


  1. Go for breathable materials
  2. Fit is always important—especially with more structured bras.

  • Breathable features include vents, mesh, moisture-wicking materials and lightweight fabrics like microfiber and polyester.
  • Avoid foam if you can—overly thick padding and linings can decrease breathability.
  • Many features that are used for support, such as underwire and rigid straps, can be uncomfortable if they don’t fit perfectly. Try a wire-free running sports bra and see if it provides enough support. If you’d like an underwire, then call our Bra Fit Experts to find the perfect fit.

RUNNING IN STYLE


There are a few style factors to consider when you’re browsing through sports bras:


  • Designs with bright colors and reflective strips make it easier to be seen if you’re running without a shirt at night.
  • Many popular workout shirts feature racerbacks or cutout designs. For a sports bra that’s more likely to stay hidden under any workout top, consider a racerback or crisscross-back style sports bra.
  • If you’re running without a shirt, don’t be afraid to mix up your style. Try to pair patterned bras with solid bottoms, or vice versa, for a less matchy look. If you have mostly solid-colored workout bottoms, then a patterned or boldly colored sports bra could be a nice addition to your running wardrobe.
  • For more detailed advice on choosing the perfect front and back sports bra style configuration, check out our Sports Bra Style & Fit Guide.

BEST SPORTS BRAS FOR RUNNING


When you find a bra that delivers on support, comfort and style, running will be even more enjoyable. Check out our Bra Fit Experts’ top picks:


Running Sports Bra: Panache Ultimate Maximum Control

Panache Ultimate Maximum Control Sports Bra (encapsulation style) **Best Seller**:

Separate cups make this bra optimal for high-impact activities and large breasts, reducing bounce by a whopping 83 percent. The breathable mesh inserts and moisture-wicking stretch microfiber also keep you cool.


Rave Review: "So supportive, so comfy and doesn’t look like I’ve gone back in time to the days of binding."



Running Sports Bra: Wacoal Maximum Control

Wacoal Maximum Control Sports Bra (encapsulation-compression style):

This is an extremely comfortable encapsulation sports bra, as the underwire is positioned on the outside to avoid contact with skin. The breathable mesh back and moisture-wicking microfiber keep the skin dry, and the hook closure makes this bra very easy to put on and take off.


Rave Review: "The hook closure means I don’t have to panic trying to take the thing off, thinking I’m going to get stuck in it and call for help. It doesn’t ride up, and the wide non-elastic straps don’t dig in."



Running Sports Bra: Anita Maximum Control

Anita Maximum Control Wire-Free Sports Bra (encapsulation-compression style):

This bra has maximum impact support with a wire-free design. The encapsulated cups offer support while the compression holds breasts in place. The moisture-wicking microfiber terry-lined cups and stretch poly-blend are ultralight and keep sweat away from the body.


Rave Review: "This is my go-to bra. It’s very comfortable—no underwire—yet still supportive and provides nice shaping."



Running Sports Bra: Freya Sonic

Freya Sonic Sports Bra (encapsulation style):

It’s great for support while running because of the encapsulated cups, plus adjustable straps provide a more precise fit. Breathable, moisture-wicking, seam-free spacer fabric means amped-up comfort.


Rave Review: "The Freya sports bra is simply amazing: no bounce, no slip, breathable, and moisture-wicking with convertible straps, which accommodate different tops. The construction and materials are top-notch, no fraying or stretching even after a year of use."



Running Sports Bra: Glamorise Custom Control

Glamorise Custom Control Wire-Free Sports Bra (compression style):

The soft-cup inner bra provides extra lift to this wire-free number, and the adjustable stretch straps never slip. Four hook-level options mean the fit can be customized.


Rave Review: "I am a 36FF and it is hard to find a good supportive sports bra and this one does the job! It is super comfortable and great during workouts!"



Running Sports Bra: Brooks Fiona

Brooks Moving Comfort Fiona Wire Free Sports Bra (compression style):

The vertical front seams reduce breast movement, and lightweight molded cups maintain the natural shape of your chest. The brushed underband and DRILAYER® moisture-wicking stretch microfiber are designed to eliminate chafing.


Rave Review: "I love it and now have 5 of them. A bonus is they hold up very well and wash easily. From a girl of 40D, you won't regret this purchase."


IN BRIEF


Whether you’re going for a morning jog or running a marathon, a running sports bra is key for both comfort and support. A good bra will hold your breasts to your body and eliminate chafing. With our help, you can find the right style for your body here at Bare Necessities.


Shop all sports bras.


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