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We exercised in sports bras from Patagonia, Girlfriend Collective, Beyond Yoga, Lululemon, REI, and more to help you find the best match for your body and lifestyle
Wherever you roam, we are here to help you find the right sports bra for your body and your lifestyle.
We bought 23 sports bras and gave them to yoga instructors, CrossFitters, runners, alpinists, thru-hikers, rock climbers, and wilderness hiking guides. We tested each bra on various body types and through a range of low to high-impact exercises to thoroughly understand each one's strong points and weaknesses.
Our favorite overall bra for athletic endeavors is the On Performance. A blend of support, style, and all-day comfort helped the On Performance score high across every metric.
For the budget-conscious, the REI Co-op Active Bralette 2.0 is a great everyday option with comfort in mind. For activewear, the Nike Swoosh scored well in our tests while still offering a friendly price tag.
Editor's Note: We refreshed our sports bra review on November 18, 2024, with updated overviews and award selections.
Form-flattering fit, high support, moves with the skin, seamless design, svelte, ultra-soft, machine washable, sweat wicking
Form flattering fit, compression suitable for most activities, moves with skin, breathable built-in padding
Adjustable straps can switch between h-back or crossed, bounce-proof support, built-in cups for separation and compression, ventilation mesh, easy to take off
Soft, made from recycled material, high neck, adjustable straps, decent compression, versatile, comfortable rib band
Buttery soft, sexy, sculpting, breathable, unmatched comfort, adjustable straps can be worn as a cross-back or tank, odor control, quick drying
Classic athletic look, high support, no-roll chest band, pads are sewn in
Elegant strap details, stretchy compression good for most activities, versatile comfort for workouts to all day wear
Excellent support, three handy pockets, flattering high neckline, suitable for running, full coverage
Versatile, doubles as a crop top, flattering, stylish, breathable, comfortable, recycled material
Longline fit, soft, made from recycled material, decent compression, very size inclusive
Highly adjustable, encapsulation-compression support, sleek looking, good for large chests
Wool insulation, odor control, climate neutral, fun colors, outdoor stylish
Classic athletic fit, comfortable shoulder straps, excellent compression for high impact
Sculpting fit, weightless breathability, ultra-comfortable, stay-in-place crossback, moisture wicking, quick dry, easy to wash, excellent ventilation, double as sexy swim top, great for travel or hiking
Comfortable fit, inexpensive, fair support
Lightweight, odor resistant, pairs with merino base layers, soft
T-shirt soft fabric, trendy, elegant back strap pattern, lightweight
Cute colors, lightweight, breathable, comfortable
Luxurious and high-end style, racing stripe waistband, comfortable compression, breathable running for smaller chested athletes
Good support, budget pack, durable, easy care
Highly adjustable, encapsulation support, high impact, fun colors
Best for smaller bodies, doubles as a crop top, rainbow of color options
Soft, durable, beautiful color options
Cons
The front can crinkle if wadded up, limited colors, limited sizing
Fabric pills over time, not good for high impact or running, elastic may stretch after extensive use
Hook and eye closure takes work to put on, mediocre style without a shirt
In between sizes can be tricky, best to air dry, thin straps get twisted in the wash
Not suitable for high impact or running, low support for larger chests, neckline may be too low for some bodies in inversions
Loud branding, runs small
Not adjustable, back strap slightly lumpy under shirts, runs small
Hard on and off, runs small
Low-medium support, somewhat non-inclusive sizing
Not adjustable, tight on larger lats, best to air dry
Lots of moving parts, style not for everyone
Little support for high-impact activities, wool has a unique smell when wet, the fabric can stretch if wrung out, tedious to clean
Pads are gigantic, limited colors, runs small
Recommended for A-C cups, pads shift, little support for workouts, can be revealing during inversions
Scratchy material, a bit plain, not comfortable for yoga
Little support, better for smaller cup sizes
Inadequate support and coverage for workouts, cheap and wrinkly inserts, fabric wears more quickly than others, back straps offer little support
Very little support, almost no compression
Not ideal for bigger chests, nippily, running is not supported for larger breasts
Bulky profile with pads, shoulder straps can rub neck
Stiff and biting material takes time to break in, rigid support too aggressive for most people, hard to breathe freely, expensive, rigid against the skin
Loose and inconsistent fit, pads shift, not supportive for most activities, can reveal side boobs, not supportive for larger chests
Poor fit, loose fabric, pad inserts shift, low support, not good for running
Bottom Line
An all-around gold star performer that offers a form-flattering silhouette, hassle-free compression and encapsulation for any activity, and all-day comfort before an easy wash
A flattering and feminine fit with pajama soft fabric that holds your curves just right for most activities
Versatile, adjustable, and comfortable high-impact bra that moves and breathes with your skin in any activity, from running to yoga, without constricting your breath
This chic and ultra-soft high-neck bra is supportive and stylish for a wide array of body types and workouts
Elegant and bold style, this breathable sports bra has a buttery soft and next-to-naked feel on the skin while giving excellent support for low/medium impact activities
Traditional sports bra with comfortable built-in pads, high support compression, and comfortable rib band at an excellent price
With an elegant design and super-soft kiss on the skin, this bra is a tasteful choice for medium-impact movements like Pilates, yoga, or dance
Flattering high-neck sports bra with pockets excellent for running and your highest-intensity workouts
This stylish crop-top bra is perfect for yoga, climbing, and hiking, and can also be dressed up for a chic look in town
A stretchy longline sports bra with a comfortable ribbed band and moderate compression, offering a versatile fit for various activities at an affordable price
A sports bra with decent encapsulation-compression support and no limits to its adjustability
A colorful and mountain-chic wool sports bra that is thru-hiker and cold-weather adventurer-approved, offering soft support and odor control when you are exploring the outdoors
This bra has a classic athletic fit with comfortably thick shoulder straps and fun colors, although some women may want to switch out the thick pads for thinner inserts
Gorgeous and feminine styling that gives a feel-good and free fit for wandering on trails, traveling, yoga, or doubling as a swim top, but doesn't offer enough support for serious workouts
A cheap three pack of solid, durable, and supportive utilitarian bras
A weightless, easy-to-move-in, and shapely bra ideal for low-impact activities and with options to be paired with Merino base layers for outdoor adventures
Trendy and strappy bralette that is a crowd-pleaser for athleisure, swimming, or yoga
A cute breathable sports bra for smaller chests or very low impact exercises
Preppy running bra for women with smaller chests that is breathable and compressive for longer distances
Excellent beater pack of comfortable and durable bras that can be a workhorse but are nothing to write home about
One of the most supportive options for bustier chests, this bra holds everything stiff in place and offers aggressive support but doesn't move as freely or comfortably against the skin as we would like
Comfortable budget tank style bra available in a rainbow of colors best for low impact athletics
A comfortable and basic budget bra that doesn't fit different body types as well as we would like
Shaped built-in pads separate breasts for high support
Athletic compression
Seamless and comfortable fit
Beautiful colors and sporty style
Broad shoulder straps
Soft and comfortable stretch
Easy pullover
Sleek styling
REASONS TO AVOID
Limited sizing
Front pads can crinkle if squashed for long periods
SPECIFICATIONS
Support
Medium/high impact
Material
65% recycled polyamide, 35% elastane
Size Range
XS - XL
Support Type
Encapsulation and compression
Strap Style
Racerback
While On is famous for cloud shoes, the company's first high-impact On Performance takes the gold medal for the ideal balance of comfort, support, and breathability for athletics. It offers a weightless feel, incredible support, and good airflow for working up a sweat. The On Performance's sleek, minimalist, and seamless design offers a rare combination of a no-hassle pullover style with the lightweight encapsulation of integrated pads, offering a “spot on” balance of comfort and support. The single-piece construction supports the chest without pads that get lost in the wash or wires that poke your chest. The inner lining and rib band are incredibly soft, and the overall material is smooth, so it was easy to forget we were wearing it while doing a multi-pitch climb or long hike. This sports bra offers control & security while freeing you to find your flow state, connecting your mind and body as you move.
While we love how the On Performance balances support and mobility, we are disappointed with its limited size options. The bra only comes in sizes XS to XL, which translates to up to a C-cup in the company's online sizing charts. We also found that the padded part of the bra can crease if you don't store it gently. It is also one of the more expensive bras in our lineup. If you want some budget workhorse bras with decent support, the Fittin Padded or Mirity Racerback High Impact come in budget multi-color sets and offer decent medium support and comfort. If you have a larger chest and want a classy style with structured and adjustable support, you might be interested in the Knix Catalyst.
The On Performance impressed us with its athletic performance, offering second skin stretch, built-in cups, superior ventilation, and sweat-wicking material.
The Beyond Yoga Spacedye Lift Your Spirits strikes one of the best balances between everyday comfort and functional support for your favorite athletic challenges or movement practices. The Spacedye fabric feels pajama soft. Our testers loved pairing it with the Beyond Yoga Spacedye Out of Pocket High Waisted Midi leggings, creating a buttery smooth outfit that made our skin feel cozy for all-day wear. The Lift Your Spirits bra is also one of the most stylish in the lineup because it hugs your curves in all the right places. Forget the “uni-boob blues” because the bra accentuates natural chest curves with a supportive v-cut, broad and supportive waistband, and form-flattering trim. It is incredibly versatile and suitable for most activities. It exceeded expectations with a solid performance in high-impact activities like CrossFit and trail running, although women with larger chests may want more support.
While the Lift Your Spirits fit is attractive, some women had trouble balancing the fit between the cups and the waistband, so we recommend double-checking your size before you order. Some women find the low cut too revealing, especially when leaning over or going upside down for a headstand. If you want a supersoft bra that is great for the gym or everyday style but prefer a classy high neckline, the Girlfriend Collective Topanga has adjustable straps. If you like the sculpting but want zilch bounce, the Knix Catalyst also has a body-contouring fit but with the support level of Valkyrie armor and will keep your chest solid when you push your limits at the gym, martial arts, or tough mudders.
If you want a supportive and zero-fuss sports bra, the Nike Swoosh supports medium-impact athletics in the gym, racetrack, or dance floor. Two sewn-in pads and a secure, comfortable waistband supplement the compression. The medium-high neckline makes it an excellent choice for working out, and it is a good running bra for smaller chests because it keeps you secure as you blast through your racing soundtrack. The inside of the bra is lined with mesh while the external fabric wicks sweat, so the bra ventilates well in sweat fests. Throwing in with a regular wash and dry cycle at the end of a workout is easy. It is more affordable than most quality sports bras, especially considering it looks new after sustained wash cycles. The best part is you never have to have a scavenger hunt for lost pads in the wash.
The Nike Swoosh has a traditional and athletic sports bra style, although women tend to love or hate the logo branding. It tends to run small, so we recommend sizing it up for a more relaxed fit, although some women intentionally size down for more compression with this bra if they plan on using it for running. The high compression offers dependable and comfortable support, but it can have a flattening effect for smaller chests. If you like this style but want something without a logo, then we love the classy look of the Tracksmith Run. The Senita Sarah offers similar support and versatility at a bargain price but with an added posterior phone pocket. If you have a larger chest, an encapsulation bra like the SheFit Ultimate will give you more support for high-impact and running.
Matching REI Co-op Active underwear sold separately
REASONS TO AVOID
Uninclusive sizing
C cups or lower
Can be too revealing in some yoga poses
Not for highly athletic bouncing
SPECIFICATIONS
Support
Low impact
Material
86% polyester, 14% spandex mesh
Size Range
XS - 3XL
Support Type
Encapsulation
Strap Style
Racerback
We had a blast testing the REI Co-op Active Bralette 2.0. This bra is made of a super soft and breathable mesh that keeps you cool, doesn't wrinkle when traveling, and feels smooth and cozy for a relaxing all-day fit. The minimal seaming is rub and pinch-free, while the broad waistband and cross-back give a stable fit for low-impact all-day activities. We were impressed by how this bralette felt like next-to-nothing for all-day adventures: backpacking, skiing, hitting the summer swimming holes, or daily life. The traditional bra curve-accenting and activewear support strapping make it a top choice for travel and road-tripping. All of our testers felt the fit was feminizing and beautiful and agreed it was “first date” material.
While the REI Active is a stunning and comfortable fit for low impact, especially long-distance activities, the bralette won't support any “whip it into shape workouts.” REI designed it for more gentle movements, and many testers found it didn't have the compression they need for a running or gym bra. The open cut can be revealing in inversions like handstands, and some women with larger chests report issues with spilling out in bends and twists. The REI Active does not have a wide size range and is best for C cups and lower. If you like this style but want something a little more strappy, then the Vuori Yosemite is trendy and lightweight. If you want a bra with more support, the Lululemon Energy Longline is also super soft, comes in stunning colors, and offers medium support for various cup sizes.
The Lululemon Run Times High Support offers high-impact support and a breathable design, making it a comfortable choice for running and intense workouts. When you clock the miles, this bra keeps you secure with adjustable straps and high-impact encapsulation but stands out from other high-support bras in that the four-way stretch material moves with your skin and ventilates heat effectively. Unlike many sports bras, which require you to wrangle them over your head, the Run Times uses a hook and eye closure to avoid getting “trapped in the bra” when you are sticky after a race. Our testers found this the most comfortable high-support bra because the material has a surprisingly weightless feel for its support level. It moved with our chest and allowed us to breathe freely during cardio, sprints, and bench pressing.
The Run Times bra supports breast sizes ranging from B to G (note that our A testers found a comfortable fit in the smallest size) for high-impact sports and running. The Run Times is form-flattering and feminine, but because the style resembles a daily bra, some women felt Lulu could improve it to make it more appealing to wear without a top. If you want zero bounce, the SheFit Ultimate is one of the most supportive fits, although it is stiffer against the skin than the Run Times. If you have a smaller chest, the Brooks 3 Pocket has excellent compression, a high neckline, and three handy pockets for your card and keys. If you are jonesing to find your running flow, check out our recommendations for the best hydration packs for running and running shoes.
If you want the most comfortable high-support bra for running or HIIT, the Run Times feels like a supportive second skin with excellent four-way stretch, secure encapsulation, and waistband adjustability.
The Girlfriend Collective Topanga is a low-impact sports bra that's more supportive than advertised. It offers decent compression, high neck coverage, and adjustable straps. It is perfect for low-impact exercises like yoga and pilates, and when you tighten the straps efficiently, it even works for higher-impact exercises if you're okay with a little bounce. The bottom band is soft and ribbed, offering proper support without overly pinching the midsection. The fabric, made primarily from recycled plastic bottles, is silky-soft and does not cause chafing or discomfort, even during rapid movement exercises. Some women love doubling this bra as a minimal crop top. It has one of the most inclusive size offerings, from XXS to 6XL, and with two inseam lengths, and all of our testers liked how it was body-flattering. Girlfriend Collective emphasizes body positivity in their marketing and designed this bra to fit and flatter a wide range of body types, making every woman feel valued and considered.
While we find the Topanga more supportive than advertised, there is still some movement of the breasts during high-impact exercises. This bra's size can also be tricky based on your body proportions. Still, if you follow the measurement guidelines on the website, it is hard to find a bra that is better at complementing and supporting diverse body shapes. If you have huge breasts or a wide rib cage, sizing up can prevent side spillage. Sizing down will provide more compression and support if you are between sizes or have a smaller chest and frame. If you like the crop top style but want something sportier, The Gym People Longline Wirefree Medium Support is a comfortable budget tank with a low v-neck in over 20 colors. If you want a bra with a shorter profile, then the Patagonia Active Mesh is an excellent cute and soft option for low support.
Elegant and form-flattering style for diverse bodies
All-day comfort
Straps can be worn as cross-back or strait
Genious crescent moon ventilation cut out
REASONS TO AVOID
Low support for HIIT or running
Larger chests may find it revealing in inversions
SPECIFICATIONS
Support
Low impact
Material
81% nylon, 19% spandex knit with miDori bioSoft and HeiQ Pure odor control
Size Range
XXS - XXL
Support Type
Encapsulation
Strap Style
Adjustable cross-back or tank
Our testers loved the Patagonia Maipo Low Impact Adjustable bra. It's incredibly soft and comfortable. One yoga teacher said it's the best sports bra she's ever used for yoga or dancing because the fabric is flexible and expands with her breath and most flexible moves. The fabric is super soft and barely feels like anything on your skin, but it still supports low-impact activities. The bra offers excellent shaping without constricting the upper ribs, which is important for activities like yoga, dancing, and climbing, where breathwork is essential. With an elegant v-scoop, attractive and adjustable shoulder straps, and stylish ventilation detailing in the center rib band, it's one of the most flattering bras in our tests — one we doubled as a gorgeous swimsuit top after a full day testing this weightless bra.
While the Maipo will support you through your entire range of movement with peak comfort and breathability, it may not support the bounce in your step or pump in your power moves. This bra is not ideal for HIIT, CrossFit, or running, especially for women with larger chests. If you want a bra for running, consider two options with phone pockets: the Brooks 3 Pocket, which has a high neckline and three pockets, or the more budget-friendly and colorful Senita Sarah. The Maipo is a great bra for yoga and is excellent to pair with the best yoga pants for a complete second-skin feel on the yoga mat, pilates gym, or the dance floor.
The Prana Becksa Bralette is a style winner with its soft ribbed outer layer, classy high neckline, and trendy color palette. It's a unique blend of mountain woman-chic, svelte weekend crop top and low-impact yoga bra. Our testers agree it smashes all-day comfort for outdoor recreation. Its comfort on multi-pitch climbs and long days on the trail impresses us. The perforations on the inner layer make it breathable, and the rib band offers some support without causing discomfort. Consider sizing down for additional compression, but be aware that sizing down too much may cause some pinching in the armpits. The flattering neckline provides enough coverage so you don't have to worry about your chest popping out in downward dog. We give extra style points for the stitch edge detailing, which remains durable even after multiple wash and dry cycles. If you're searching for a casual workout tank top with enough support to get a sweat on, the Becksa is one of our top recommendations in the sports bra category that can double as a crop top.
Although you can size down for more compressive support, Prana designed the Becksa more for yoga, hiking, or climbing than high-impact sports or “tough mudder” intensity. If you have larger breasts and want a good running bra, this is not the right choice unless you don't mind excessive bouncing. It is also worth noting that this tank only comes in sizes XS to XL. The sizing is somewhat forgiving, meaning someone who usually wears a medium will fit into a small, but we would like to see Prana offer more inclusive sizing. If you want something low-impact to wear to yoga and then out to coffee afterward, the Becksa Bralette is the top for you. If you want more support, check out the SheFit Ultimate for zero bounce or the Brooks 3 Pocket for a high-neck running bra with handy pockets.
The Prana Becksa impressed all of our testers with its ability to “Superwoman” from a classy top for on-the-town casual wear to breaking a sweat in yoga or climbing.
The Ortovox 185 Rock'N'Wool Sports Bra uses fine 19-micron merino wool, a natural material that feels comfortable against the skin and possesses excellent temperature and moisture-regulating properties. Merino features breathability and odor control. The Rock n' Wool warded off the sticky and the stink for days in the wilderness with loaded backpacks. It is the top bra in our lineup for winter sports. Winter backpackers, skiers, alpinists, and snowshoers will love this medium-impact bra, ideal for managing temperature and moisture in cold and wet climates. A soft mesh band of perforated holes provides ventilation between the breasts and down the back, ensuring we never got too sweaty during a sunny, rattle-snake heat kind of day with a 3,000-foot climb out of Yosemite Valley.
If you sweat heavily or plan on swimming, the downside to wool is that it dries more slowly than synthetic material. Some women find the Rock n' Wool's 100% wool less soft than some wool blends. If you want a little more softness and quick dry capabilities, then the REI Co-op Merino Bralette is a wool blend with an attractive style that doubles as a cute swim top for swims in alpine lakes. Pair either of these options with the best base layers if you plan on adventuring in cold or wet climates.
On a chilly day, the soft 100% Merino wool helps you regulate your temperature and stave off the “happy hiker stink.”
Credit: Kate Pitts
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How We Test Sports Bras
We strive to test sports bras objectively. We begin the process through extensive research, reading user comments and reviews, and weeding through best sellers. We then narrow down our initial selection to the cream of the crop for some hands-on testing. Even the lower-scoring options in our test suite are high-performing garments. We order various sizes of each bra to ensure our hands-on testing is inclusive and to evaluate critical metrics in our tests. We recruit active women of varying body types and sizes to help us put each bra through a range of low to high-impact activities.
Our testing uses four key metrics:
Comfort and Fit (40% of overall score weighting)
Support (30% weighting)
Style (15% weighting)
Quality (15% weighting)
Multiple women test every bra through low to high-impact activities.
Credit: Kate Pitts
Why Trust GearLab
Kate Pitts leads this review. Kate was a backcountry ranger and worked for the National Park Service for a decade, giving naturalist programs and performing Search & Rescue. She is currently a hiking guide and yoga teacher in Yosemite. Kate is a long-distance thru-hiker and backpacker. She loves yoga, and even on the trail, she loves to start the morning with sun salutations. When Kate is not hiking or on the yoga mat, she climbs, canyoneers, or writes poems by the river. She hopes every woman embraces the place where awareness and motion merge, finding a flow state and natural freedom of movement in their beautiful body. Kate gathered a sizable crew of family and friends and ordered every sports bra in multiple sizes to help her test and offer advice to women of all kinds.
Hayley Thomas has been based out of Denver, Colorado, for the past 15 years but currently lives in her converted sprinter van, traveling North America to climb in places like the Red River Gorge in Kentucky and Saint George, Utah. When she's not climbing, Hayley hikes around with her dogs, practices acro yoga with friends, skis in the winter, and bikes in the summer. Leading such an active life, she lives in her sports bras. Her body type is curvy and athletic, and she has a larger chest, so support is key. She brings much experience to our testing and ensures an unbiased viewpoint.
The Fitten Padded is a comfortable and colorful workhorse bra for daily use.
We love sports bras that are comfortable and move with our skin into our full range of motion.
You were meant to be here. This movement, this moment is yours. We can help you find a sports bra to support you.
We pulled in as many women as possible to help us test and evaluate these high-performing sports bras.
How to Pick the Best Sports Bra for You
Here are four important considerations when looking for your next favorite sports bra.
What is the right sports bra? The one you forget about because you are in the place where action and awareness harmonize. You are immersed in your next move, in love with the flow state of movement and breath.
Credit: Kate Pitts
What Level of Support Do You Need?
Depending on your activities, your ideal sports bra will be best for low to high-level impact activities. Low-intensity activities such as yoga or stretching may have lower support levels but more four-way stretch for mobility. A higher-impact bra will provide better support and zero-bounce structure for running and HIIT workouts. Consider this when looking for a sports bra that will fit your needs best.
How Important is Breathability?
Different material construction and thickness will dictate how breathable your sports bra will be. A breathable bra is crucial for comfort when performing high-intensity activities or spending time outside during a hot day. Attributes such as air vents and seamless construction are ways in which bras can reduce moisture. When looking for something breathable, consider fabric choices that utilize moisture-wicking properties, like nylon and polyester, which are known for their breathability.
A crescent moon cut out in the Patagonia Maipo provides airflow under the chest and quickly dries perspiration between the breasts.
Credit: Kate Pitts
What Strap Style Works Best?
Sports bras come in various strap orientations. A crisscross-style strap will offer even support throughout and is often adjustable but may provide less support than broader straps. A racerback strap is oriented to fit between the shoulders, creating a Y-shaped pattern. Racerbacks support higher-impact activities and avoid strap slippage, but you can not adjust them to a tailored shoulder fit. Traditional H-shaped shoulder strap bras also offer high-impact capabilities while providing adjustability, but this style can also be more prone to slippage. Finding the right strap style depends on your body type, bust size, shoulder width, activity level, and comfort preferences.
How Many Sports Bras Do You Need?
A dedicated athlete might need multiple bras of the same style to rotate throughout the week. Someone starting their fitness journey may only need one or two bras to help them find what fits best as they progress. A few quality bras can go a long way towards providing comfort and performance.
A good sports bra should provide comfort while also offering adequate support and features that support your exercise. For instance, the Senita Sara has a phone and key pocket for runners.
Credit: Kate Pitts
Analysis and Test Results
We rigorously evaluate the performance of each sports bra in this review by thoroughly testing and rating their comfort and fit, support, style, and ease of care. Our assessments will reveal how each sports bra stacks up against its competitors in these crucial metrics.
What's the Best Value?
The pricing of sports bras varies from brand to brand, but that's not the only factor contributing to their value. Typically speaking, bras that offer some level of adjustability and support in encapsulation cost more, but the structured support level is worth it for many women. We assess the value of each sports bra by comparing its performance to its price.
The Nike Swoosh offers exceptional support for medium-impact athletics for most women and is relatively inexpensive for detailed features like soft mesh lining and built-in cups.
The Nike Swoosh is comfortable, supportive, and has a classic athlete vibe.
Credit: Val Pitts
For outdoor enthusiasts, the REI Co-op Active Bralette 2.0 is a bargain deal for an excellent hiking bra. Our testers would name this a top pick for wearing a month straight backpacking and love that it doubles as a swim top.
It will be hard to find a better deal on a breathable and stylish hiking bra than the REI Active.
Credit: Kate Pitts
If you want a pack of colorful workhorse bras, the Fittin Padded are comfortable and supportive enough and come in a set of three.
The Fitten Padded bras are hardy workhorse bras for tough n' dirty adventures.
Credit: Kate Pitts
The Girlfriend Collective Topanga and Paloma are high-performing bras that won't break the bank. Both have stretchy and ultra-soft materials made from recycled water bottles and keep you lifted and secure for most exercises.
Who knew that recycled water bottles could offer such soft support to our most challenging moves?
Credit: Kate Pitts
Comfort and Fit
Finding the right fit and ensuring comfort can be challenging because everyone's body is unique. What might be comfortable for one person may not be for another. We tested each bra with various body types and performed different impact-level exercises. During our testing, we specifically looked for signs of chafing, pinching, and spilling, assessed the softness of the fabric, and checked if each bra was true to size. Softer fabrics help reduce chafing, and the right fit can prevent pinching and spilling.
The Patagonia Maipo Low Impact Adjustable is buttery soft and moves with you like a second skin, like yoga leggings with nude tech. Adjustable straps help tailor the fit to your shoulders.
The Maipo is buttery soft, the material moves and breathes with your skin, giving a delicious, weightless feel during yoga.
Credit: Kate Pitts
If you love a fit that kisses your curves in all the right places, one of the most form-flattering fits is the Beyond Yoga Spacedye Lift Your Spirits with trim detailing to accentuate curves. A broad back panel, thick waistband, and broad shoulder straps make for a secure fit. The material is pajamas soft, making this the most comfortable option for all-day (or night) wear.
The Spacedye is very flattering, for chests of all sizes.
Credit: Hayley Thomas
If you want an athletic fit with high coverage, the On Performance is a single-piece construction, and the seamless design gives us no pinching or chafing. At the same time, the mesh racerback provides optimal ventilation on hot days.
The On Performance has lightweight, built-in sculpted pads that impressed us with their high support, comfort, and breathability.
Credit: Kate Pitts
If you are a runner, the Lululemon Run Times High Support is highly supportive, encapsulating built-in pads, adjustable straps, clasp closure, and a soft but supportive chest band. What makes the high-impact fit unique is the softness of the four-way stretch fabric, which gives ample support while still moving comfortably with your skin.
If you like a traditional athletic fit, the Nike Swoosh is your iconic sports bra and, at an affordable price, has nice touches like soft mesh lining and built-in pads.
The Nike Swoosh features a soft mesh lining and a sweat-wicking Dri-FIT outer fabric, providing quality details that give you a soft feel against the skin and speedy dry after a workout.
Credit: Kate Pitts
We love the minimal seams and strappy elegance of the Lululemon Energy Longline. It is comfortable and functional, and the intertwined racerback straps stay in place and do not pinch or chafe. It does run small, so consider sizing it up.
The silky material of the Energy Longline feels amazing, and we love the broad waistband, which supports without pinching or rolling.
Credit: Kate Pitts
The Girlfriend Collective bras, the Topanga and Paloma, have a stylish fit in common. The 79% RPET or recycled plastic bottle material is cotton t-shirt soft, and the unique rib band fits snugly without pinching. The sizing is very inclusive, but if you are in between sizes, we recommend sizing down if you prefer tight bras and sizing up if you prefer less constriction. The high-neck Topanga also offers adjustable shoulder straps, which gives it a leg up in the fit department.
The Girlfriend Collective bras are very comfortable, but sizing may require a little guess and checking.
The ribbed rib band found on the Girlfriend Collective bras is soft and stretchy.
Putting the same bras on women of different sizes and shapes.
Do you need a bra for winter sports or backpacking? The Ortovox 185 Rock n' Wool is made of 100% fine Merino wool, which helps you regulate your temperature and control odors. Comfort is “how your friends will thank you” for keeping the stink off the trail.
The Rock n' Wool is soft underneath a heavy pack and the chest bands offers support for a stretch break on the trail.
Credit: Kate Pitts
The REI Co-op Active and REI Merino Bralette are excellent options for outdoor activities. Their relaxed fit is exceptionally comfortable for hiking or climbing under a sunshirt. Plus, the fit doubles as a swim top.
The REI Active has a mesh material that dries quickly after a dip in the Wild and Scenic Merced River.
We love the cozy, mountain woman chic REI Merino Bralette and its softness under our sun hoodie.
REI's bralettes are a cozy and functional fit for long days with multiple activities outdoors.
The Prana Becksa Bralette doubles as a tank top if you want something casual. If you are running distances and need a functional fit, the high-necked Brooks 3 Pocket is true to its name and has three handy stash pockets when you are on the go.
We love how the Brooks 3 Pocket has two handy side pockets for cash and keys and a back pocket for our phone.
Credit: Kate Pitts
Support
Sports bras offer support via encapsulation, compression, or a combination. Encapsulation bras use individual cups and generally stiffer material to support each breast separately. Many encapsulation bras provide a higher level of adjustability, but not all. They work nicely for larger-breasted folk and give the chest a more natural shape than compression bras. Sports bras that rely on compression for support smoosh the breasts in a way that restricts them from moving during exercise. Beyond these two components, we focused on stretch and coverage during our support testing. We tested each bra out on various body types during multiple exercises. We put each bra to the bounce test by completing high-intensity interval training exercises like burpees and jumping jacks. We went on runs, hikes, inverted headstands, and handstands to ensure that each sports bra could properly support each chest.
If you want maximum support, the SheFit Ultimate gives no slippage and is so secure that one tester described it as feeling like a Valkyrie breastplate. One of the most adjustable bras, you can dial in the fit by configuring strait or crossed straps, adjusting the shoulder strap length, and velcroing the waistband to fit your dimensions.
The velcro waistband has around 8 inches of give to tailor support for your body.
The SheFit offers extensive adjustment options for B to J cups so you can create a snug fit.
This SheFit zips from the front, making it an excellent choice for women post-surgery or with limited shoulder mobility.
The Lululemon Run Times is the most comfortable high-impact bra and strikes a rare balance between being able to move with your skin and holding the girls in.
The Run Times has no underwire but sculpted cups provide excellent support while a perforated center adds airflow to the chest.
Credit: Kate Pitts
The high neckline of the Brooks 3 Pocket and stellar compression make it comfortable for long runs with significant elevation gains and drops. It is an excellent choice for trail and distance runners.
We love the handy back pocket for our phone, although larger phones may be a tight squeeze.
Credit: Kate Pitts
The Knix Catalyst is one of the most supportive bras in our test suite, providing security through compression and encapsulation. Many of our testers found the Catalyst stiff and too edgy for comfort, although others found it softened with a break-in period.
The Knix Catalyst offered some of the best support in our bounce test.
Credit: Matthew Blake
If you want a solid pullover compression bra, the Nike Swoosh has a firm waistband and excellent compression for almost any activity.
Beyond Yoga's Lift Your Spirits bra has surprisingly excellent compression for its extreme softness and comfort. The broad-back racerback helps maximize support. We found it comfortably supportive for medium-impact activities, and women with smaller chests enjoyed it for running. With the low neckline, some women expressed concerns about popping out in inversions.
The Lift Your Spirits gave comfortable support for a C-cup trail runner.
Credit: Kate Pitts
We were impressed by how the ultra-light sculpted pads in the On Performance encapsulated and separated our chest so that we felt supported but not weighed down by padding. This seamless bra has one of the most breathable and flexible support systems that feels good in various activities, from gentle yoga to sweaty gym sessions.
The broad straps of the On Performance racerback give excellent support, and the middle segment is a strong mesh that ventilates between the shoulders.
Credit: Kate Pitts
With thick shoulder straps and tight compression, the Senita Sarah can handle most workouts, although women with large chests will want a running bra.
The Senita Sara gave hardcore support in our most strenuous gym workouts.
Credit: Kate Pitts
The Girlfriend Collective bras, the Topanga and Paloma use compression and a unique ribbed rib band for support. The Topanga is slightly adjustable, and the high neck offers extra coverage, helping to keep everything in place, even in a handstand. The Paloma is a longline bra that works great for longer torsos or those that like a little more midsection coverage. You can size down if you are between sizes or want a tighter fit for added compression support.
The high neck Topanga offers extra coverage while remaining decently minimal in the back.
Credit: Matthew Blake
If you want a good workhorse, the Fittin Padded provides decent support for most medium-impact activities. The budget bra does the job, although some women find it tight on their shoulders.
The Fitten Padded comes in sets and is a bargain buy for a sporty bra that can handle most workouts.
Credit: Kate Pitts
Style
While comfort, fit, and support take priority over style, feeling confident in your attire can positively impact your unique sense of style and overall performance. Recognizing that personal style is unique to each individual; we gather feedback from a diverse pool of individuals who wear bras to identify widely appreciated styles. Our evaluation considers versatility, favoring bras that can accommodate various activities, and also considers the range of available color options for each bra.
Our testers' favorite was the elegant yet saucy Patagonia Maipo, which sculpts the chest with a seamless softness and scoop neck. The half-moon cut-out on the front band lets the chest breathe and adds flattering details to the front.
The Maipo has a sculpting fit, stunning colors, and we love the understated under-cleavage cut-out.
Credit: Kate Pitts
Beyond Yoga's Lift Your Spirits bra has body-contouring seams and a flattering v-neck if you want a look that hugs your curves in the right places. We love how it comes in a wide range of core neutrals and vibrant seasonal colors.
The Lift Your Spirits bra looks flattering on its own and feels super fem in the gym or mountaintop.
Credit: Kate Pitts
The Topanga is an absolute crowd-pleaser. The high neck gracefully frames your shoulders, and the thin adjustable crisscross straps elegantly cross the middle of the back. The Paloma's longline fit doubles nicely as a spicy crop top. Both Girlfriend Collective bras come in various colors, from neutrals to brights and limited-edition colors. One thing to note is that there is no option for pad inserts, and many women nipped on chilly days.
If you like a minimal crop top, the high neck Topanga is a fun option.
The longline Paloma looks great as a crop top.
A sports bra that doubles as a crop top? Yes, please! Pictured are the Topanga (left) and Paloma (right).
If you want a classic athletic look, we love the high neck and strappy back of the On Performance, which one tester dubbed “Olympian sleek.” One of the most stylish features is vogue lines that run on the side of the bra and accentuate the chest in sporty, bold lines.
Sculpted pads separate the chest and give a traditional pull-over sports bra a body-flattering silhouette.
Credit: Kate Pitts
Another classy athletic look is the Tracksmith Run, which looks preppy with the elegant red racing stripe and mid-century color palette.
A preppy racing stripe styles the band of the Tracksmith Run which comes in a range of preppy colors.
Credit: Kate Pitts
The Becksa is a stunning staple piece for a versatile crop top that looks great in the gym, outdoors, or city. This racerback bra top by Prana comes in a few neutral colors, and the breathable, supportive bra layer lays underneath a gorgeous ribbed outer layer. It's versatile and dresses you up for work or play.
The Prana Becksa goes from yoga to the corner cafe in style.
Credit: Kate Pitts
If you are looking for a colorful and bright wool bra that can supplement your base layers for skiing, alpineering, or backpacking. We love the creative color patterns of the Rock n Wool, and one tester put it -"Makes me look like the tough mountain woman I aspire to be." Our testers voted for one of the most flattering styles: the REI Active and REI Merino. The Vuori Yosemite is this year's hip and feels young and strappy.
The Rock n' wool is a 100 percent fine Merino wool and comes in stunning colorways.
The REI Merino gives an excellent look to your natural curves, and so we don't mind a little forest bathing in this top.
The Vuiro Yosemite has swanky open back strapping but lacks support.
We love a good bra we can go places in.
The Brooks 3 Pocket is a gorgeous high-neck compression sports bra with a subtle color-blocking look and fun and neutral colors. It looks great on many different body types. The Lululemon Longline features a low cut in the back and elegant cross straps to show off your strong shoulders and back muscles.
We love the elegant cross of the Energy Longline straps as we cool off from a climb near Yosemite Falls.
Credit: Kate Pitts
Quality
Different fabrics and types of bras require different levels of care. Proper care will help ensure that they last longer. The effort you put into washing your clothing is up to you, so take this category with a grain of salt. We use this measure to explore the level of care each bra requires and the general durability of its construction. We start by following the care instructions for each bra to see how complicated the process is. Then, we put every bra through a standard wash and dry cycle to see how they hold up.
The On Performance, Lululemon Energy Longline , Beyond Spacedye Lift Your Spirits, prAna Becksa Bralette,Nike Swoosh,REI Active,Vuori Yosemite,Patagonia Active Mesh, and Running Girl Crisscross Back are very easy to care for. Wash them in cold water with like colors, tumble dry, and you're good to go.
Bras with pad inserts may benefit from being placed in a delicate bag to avoid lost pads eloping with a sock to the land of lost pairs.
Do you hate looking for lost pads? Consider using a delicates bag to save you from the scavenger hunt.
Credit: Kate Pitts
As with most activewear, if you can lay these garments flat to dry, they may keep their elasticity a little longer. We especially recommend line drying the Beyond Spacedye Lift Your Spirits to prevent pilling on the soft fabric.
We have tested the ultra-solft Spacedye fabric with award-winning bras and yoga pants. The best way to protect the soft material is to air dry.
Credit: Kate Pitts
The Patagonia Active Mesh sports bra gets softer with every wash, and although it didn't offer the support we liked for sports, it is super comfortable for light daily wear or as a pajama top.
The Patagonia Active Mesh is a super soft bra for lounging and easy to wash.
Credit: Kate Pitts
The Fittin Padded,Mirity Racerback, and The Gym People Longline Wirefree Medium Support came with no washing instructions but held up well with a regular wash and dry cycle. All are budget bras. Since Fitten and Mirity come in cheap sets, they are excellent workhorse bras, although the fabric stretches over time.
The Mirirty comes in budget sets and is an excellent option for activities like climbing or canyoneering where you don't want a more expensive bra getting scuffed up.
Credit: Kate Pitts
The Topanga, Paloma, Knix Catalyst,Lululemon Run Times,Senita Sarah, and Tracksmith Run can also be washed on a regular cold spin cycle but should not be dried. Hang or lay them flat to dry.
Laying bras with sculpted cups like the Knix Catalyst flat to dry helps protect the molded shape, prevent the front from wrinkling, and prolong the life of the material.
Credit: Kate Pitts
Wool bras take extra care to preserve the Merino fiber, as in the Rock n' Wool and REI Merino. Given that wool usually does not necessitate frequent washing after a typical day's wear, feel free to air it out or spot-clean it before deciding to wash. Hand-washing protects the wool material. If using a washer, it is imperative to utilize a gentle spin and a laundry bag to prevent potential damage, such as holes. It is of utmost importance to use a wool-specific detergent to safeguard the wool's structure, as regular detergents can harm the fiber. Avoid using fabric softener, wringing out the fabric, or tumble drying, as they can potentially warp the bra's shape. Dry the bra flat.
Wool doesn't need to be washed as often, but it does require some TLC in the cleaning process.
Credit: Kate Pitts
It is important to note that it shouldn't be a dealbreaker if a bra requires more care. Many high-support bras recommend hand washing, which protects the encapsulation features and support system. The SheFit Ultimate, like most bras, will live its longest life hand-washed and placed flat to dry. However, if you are in a rush, the SheFit bra comes with a handy delicates wash bag.
Washing bras in a delicates bag will keep them in top-tier shape for repeat performance.
Credit: Kate Pitts
Conclusion
Going to the gym is hard enough. Why make it more difficult with ill-fitting or uncomfortable apparel? There is nothing quite like an attractive, form-fitting, and supportive sports bra to instill the confidence you need to get you through a challenging hike, HIIT cardio workout, or a restorative yoga session. We bought multiple sizes of each bra in our test suite and put them to the test on different body types through various exercises to ensure a well-rounded evaluation of each one. Our side-by-side comparisons help take the guessing out of your shopping experience. On a deeper level, your energy and awareness may harmonize and strengthen your intentions. Your movements are beautiful.
As Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, the “Father of Flow” says, “It is how we choose what we do, and how we approach it, that will determine whether the sum of our days adds up to a formless blur, or to something resembling a work of art.”
