Need Support? These Are the Best Plus-Size Sports Bras for Comfort and Confidence (2024)

Table of Contents
Best Overall Glamorise Wire-Free Sports Bra Key Specs Who It’s For Why We Love It Potential Flaws Best Budget All In Motion High Support Racerback Bra Key Specs Who It’s For Why We Love It Potential Flaws Best for Running lululemon Run Times Bra High Support Key Specs Who It’s For Why We Love It Potential Flaws Best Adjustable SheFit Ultimate Sports Bra Key Specs Who It’s For Why We Love It Potential Flaws Best Long Line Girlfriend Collective Paloma Bra Key Specs Who It’s For Why We Love It Potential Flaws Best Zip Front SheFit Low Impact Sports Bra Key Specs Who It’s For Why We Love It Potential Flaws Bonus Favorites Most Supportive Anita Plus Size Extreme Control Sport Bra Key Specs Who It’s For Why We Love It Potential Flaws Best on Amazon Shapermint Seamless Racerback Sports Bra Key Specs Who It's For Why We Love It Potential Flaws Best Crop Athleta Conscious Crop Bra D-DD Key Specs Who It’s For Why We Love It Potential Flaws Best Sweat-Wicking Lane Bryant Sports Bra Key Specs Who It’s For Why We Love It Potential Flaws Best Full Coverage Old Navy Sports Bra Tank Key Specs Who It’s For Why We Love It Potential Flaws Most Comfortable Girlfriend Collective Simone Bra Key Specs Who It’s For Why We Love It Potential Flaws Plus-Size Sports Bras We Also Tested What to Look for When Shopping for a Plus-Size Sports Bra How We Tested and Selected the Plus-Size Sports Bras Our Experts Frequently Asked Questions Do sports bras work for large breasts? How do I choose a sports bra for sagging breasts? Can you wear a sports bra every day? How tight should a sports bra be? Can you wear a sports bra to bed? Do sports bras contain BPA? Why Trust Verywell Fit References

Need Support? These Are the Best Plus-Size Sports Bras for Comfort and Confidence (1)

Your fitness journey requires activewear that not only supports your goals but also celebrates your unique body type, ensuring comfort and confidence with every workout. Finding the right sports bra can be a game-changer, but it’s not always easy. Luckily, we found the best plus-size sports bras—with reliable coverage, moisture-wicking fabrics, and inclusive sizes—for optimal support during any activity. Tailor your choice to your specific workout needs, whether it be seeking light to mid-support for yoga or Pilates or a well-fitted, high-impact sports bra for jogging, says Suzanne Koval, MPT, a physical therapist and Pilates instructor.

To start our search, we first spoke with six fitness and activewear experts to learn more about which key features to look for when shopping. Then, we researched dozens of options from top, trusted activewear brands. After narrowing down our search, we also tested 10 plus-size sports bras at home in our regular fitness routines. In testing, we evaluate each option based on fit, support, comfort, adjustability, quality, durability, and overall value. We also had a certified personal trainer from our Review Board review this article for accuracy, including how to shop for a plus-size sports bra based on your needs and workout routine.

Our Top Picks

In This Article

  • Our Picks

  • We Also Tested

  • What to Look For

  • How We Tested

  • Our Experts

  • Frequently Asked Questions

  • Why Trust Verywell Fit

Need Support? These Are the Best Plus-Size Sports Bras for Comfort and Confidence (2)

Our Ratings

  • Fit

    5/5

  • Support

    5/5

  • Comfort

    4.5/5

  • Adjustability

    5/5

  • Durability

    5/5

Pros

  • Highly adjustable

  • Full coverage neckline

  • Wide straps

Cons

  • Material may feel itchy

Key Specs

Sizes: 34 to 50 band, C to J cup | Material: Polyester, polyamide, elastane | Closure: Hook-and-eye | Straps: H-style | Adjustable: Yes | Care: Machine wash, line dry | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5

Who It’s For

Best for support during high-impact workouts and comfort for casual wear.

Why We Love It

Glamorise No-Bounce Cami Wire-Free Sports Bra provides support for high-intensity circuit training and comfort during casual wear in between workouts. It’s a versatile, budget-friendly option that we favored most in testing. The triple hook-and-eye closure and wide H-style straps, adjustable at the shoulders and back, not only offer support but also let you customize the size for an optimal fit.

Constructed with a blend of performance materials, the fabric allows unrestricted movement and eliminates the need for mid-workout adjustments. The bra feels breathable and moisture-wicking, which we especially appreciated during sweaty workouts. Thanks to the high neckline, we also noticed a flattering lift that doesn’t reveal too much. During testing, we even found that the bra's reliable support helped us lift heavier and with better form.

Potential Flaws

  • The material feels somewhat scratchy, but this didn’t affect our overall comfort level and performance.

Need Support? These Are the Best Plus-Size Sports Bras for Comfort and Confidence (3)

Pros

  • Highly adjustable

  • Wireless design

  • Moisture-wicking fabric

Cons

  • Limited cup sizes

Key Specs

Sizes: 32 to 48 band, A to DDD cup | Material: Recycled polyester | Closure: Hook-and-eye | Straps: Racerback | Adjustable: Yes | Care: Machine wash, tumble dry | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5

Who It’s For

Best if you have a limited budget but don’t want to sacrifice support and quality.

Why We Love It

This plus-size sports bra delivers optimal support and coverage without a hefty price tag. All in Motion’s High Support Embossed Racerback Run Sports Bra helps you find the right fit, with adjustable straps at the shoulders and backband. It also helps eliminate any awkward bulging since the material lays flat against your body, especially around the straps, and provides full coverage with its high front panel.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the moisture-wicking features of this sports bra stand out, thanks to its breathable and lightweight polyester fabric. Whether running, cycling, or weight lifting, we finished our workouts sweaty but not with a completely soaked bra. Plus, the multiple color options add to its appeal, allowing you to choose one (or even a few) to match all your flared leggings for a stylish fit.

Potential Flaws

  • The bra only goes up to cup size DDD, which is lower than many other options on our list.
  • Need Support? These Are the Best Plus-Size Sports Bras for Comfort and Confidence (5)

  • Need Support? These Are the Best Plus-Size Sports Bras for Comfort and Confidence (6)

  • Need Support? These Are the Best Plus-Size Sports Bras for Comfort and Confidence (7)

Need Support? These Are the Best Plus-Size Sports Bras for Comfort and Confidence (8)

Our Ratings

  • Fit

    5/5

  • Support

    5/5

  • Comfort

    5/5

  • Adjustability

    5/5

  • Durability

    5/5

Pros

  • Convertible straps

  • Breathable perforated accents

  • Moisture-wicking fabric

Cons

  • Smaller band size range

Key Specs

Sizes: 32 to 42 band, B to G cup | Material: Nylon, Lycra elastane, polyester | Closure: Hook-and-eye | Straps: Convertible | Adjustable: Yes | Care: Machine wash like colors, line dry| Our Overall Rating: 5/5

Who It’s For

Best for high-impact endurance activities like running, jogging, and various sports.

Why We Love It

For cardio-centric workouts like running and sports, lululemon’s Run Times Bra stands out as a supportive yet comfortable choice. Engineered with perforated accents and quick-drying, sweat-wicking fabric, it keeps us cool and dry during sweaty sessions. We also like that the higher scoop neck adds coverage and prevents spillage during intense movements. Plus, the encapsulated cups help shape your chest and offer a flattering lift.

During testing, we found the wide, padded straps to be a standout feature. They are not only adjustable at the shoulders and backband but can also be swapped between an H-back and X-back style. The secure triple hook-and-eye closure is a game-changer, eliminating any unwanted bulging or chafing, making this bra a dependable choice for any gym enthusiast.

Potential Flaws

  • If your band size goes beyond 42, you might want to check out other choices because that's the largest band size this bra comes in.
  • Need Support? These Are the Best Plus-Size Sports Bras for Comfort and Confidence (9)

  • Need Support? These Are the Best Plus-Size Sports Bras for Comfort and Confidence (10)

Need Support? These Are the Best Plus-Size Sports Bras for Comfort and Confidence (11)

Our Ratings

  • Fit

    4.5/5

  • Support

    4.8/5

  • Comfort

    4.8/5

  • Adjustability

    5/5

  • Durability

    4.8/5

Pros

  • Removable cups

  • Convertible straps

  • Wide straps

Cons

  • Doesn’t have four-way stretch

Key Specs

Sizes: 22 to 49.5 band, A to I cup | Material: Nylon, spandex, polyester | Closure: Front zipper with hook-and-eye back | Straps: Convertible | Adjustable: Yes | Care: Machine wash cold, lay flat to dry| Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5

Who It’s For

Best for high-impact workouts, especially if you want maximum adjustability and a zip-front style.

Why We Love It

If you prefer a zip-front sports bra, we recommend Shefit’s Ultimate Sports Bra. We like that this high-impact bra is designed to be totally adjustable, from the stabilizing band to the cushioned convertible straps. We found it super seamless to adjust, even mid-set if needed. Using compression and encapsulation (with removable cups), the bra effectively isolates each breast to prevent movement—making it a reliable choice for high-impact workouts.

To ensure a proper fit without bulging or spillage, we recommend using the brand’s quiz, which aligns your traditional bra size with SheFit’s sizing. During testing, we noticed that the blend of performance fabrics feels breathable and moisture-wicking—which we particularly appreciated during hot, sweaty workouts. We also love that it's available in 10 stylish shades since you might want to grab a second one for your activewear rotation.

Potential Flaws

  • While most sports bras offer a four-way stretch, this one only provides a two-way stretch. We noticed that it feels a bit stiffer than the other options we tested.

Need Support? These Are the Best Plus-Size Sports Bras for Comfort and Confidence (12)

Our Ratings

  • Fit

    3.5/5

  • Support

    4/5

  • Comfort

    4.5/5

  • Adjustability

    1/5

  • Durability

    5/5

Pros

  • Full coverage neckline

  • Built-in support band

  • Four-way stretch

Cons

  • Straps aren’t adjustable

Key Specs

Sizes: 29 to 60.5 band, cups not listed | Material: Spandex, recycled plastic bottles | Closure: Pullover | Straps: Racerback | Adjustable: No | Care: Machine wash cold, line dry | Our Overall Rating: 4.2/5

Who It’s For

Best for people who want a bra with a longline fit that offers more coverage.

Why We Love It

Girlfriend Collective's Paloma Bra is a compressive and supportive choice if you want a thick and comfortable bra suitable for both intense workouts and everyday wear. While it offers substantial compression, effectively holding the chest, it leans more towards a tank-bra style than a traditional sports bra. We found that it delivers a fashion-forward feel, effortlessly transitioning us from the studio to the street.

This well-crafted bra features thick, soft, and opaque fabric, with no visible marks or loose threads upon opening. A best-selling item from the brand, it comes in various neutral colors and vibrant limited-edition hues—we secretly want more than one. And true to Girlfriend Collective's reputation for inclusive sizing, this bra is no exception, accommodating a diverse range of body types.

Potential Flaws

  • The band isn’t adjustable, so it can be hard to find the perfect fit. If customization is important to you, check out SheFit’s Ultimate Sports Bra.

Need Support? These Are the Best Plus-Size Sports Bras for Comfort and Confidence (14)

Need Support? These Are the Best Plus-Size Sports Bras for Comfort and Confidence (15)

Our Ratings

  • Fit

    4.8/5

  • Support

    4.5/5

  • Comfort

    5/5

  • Adjustability

    4.5/5

  • Durability

    5/5

Pros

  • Easily adjustable straps

  • Removable cups

  • Wireless

Cons

  • Band adjustability is limited

Key Specs

Sizes: 22 to 49.5 band, A to I cup | Material: Nylon, spandex, polyester | Closure: Hidden hook-and-eye | Straps: Double racerback | Adjustable: Yes | Care: Hand wash, lay flat to dry | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5

Who It’s For

Best for people who love adjustable straps to achieve maximum lift and support for a workout.

Why We Love It

SheFit’s Low Impact Sports Bra boasts wide shoulder straps, ensuring optimal comfort and bidding farewell to any unwanted skin digging. Despite being labeled as a low-impact bra, we find it sufficiently supportive for medium-impact exercises, thanks to its zip front and two center clips that keep it securely in place. While it may not be the best choice for endless jumping jacks, it suits activities like walking and biking.

In terms of material, this sports bra is soft to the touch, providing comfortable wear for extended periods—whether you're heading to the gym or spending a day at work. The straps are secured with Velcro, allowing for easy adjustments while wearing. Plus, we love that this bra comes in many fun colors.

Potential Flaws

  • The non-adjustable ribcage band can make it challenging to get the bra to fit properly and stay in place during a workout.
  • Need Support? These Are the Best Plus-Size Sports Bras for Comfort and Confidence (16)

  • Need Support? These Are the Best Plus-Size Sports Bras for Comfort and Confidence (17)

Bonus Favorites

While we haven’t tested these plus-size sports bras ourselves, we still think they’re worth considering. Many of these options have similar features and price points to our editor-tested favorites.

Pros

  • Highly adjustable

  • Padded straps

  • Flattering encapsulation cups

Cons

  • May run small

Key Specs

Sizes: 30 to 46 band, B to H cup | Material: Polyester, nylon, elastane | Closure: Hook-and-eye | Straps: H-style | Adjustable: Yes | Care: Hand or delicate wash cold, line dry

Who It’s For

Best for people who want an adjustable bra with lots of support for high-intensity exercise.

Why We Love It

Anita’s Women's Plus-Size Extreme Control Sport Bra keeps your chest bounce-free during even intense HIIT workouts. It features an adjustable, quadruple hook-and-eye band for a customizable fit and a locked-in feel. Plus, the unique tailored construction on the outside and a seamless interior keep this bra chafe-free.

We love the three-section cups that offer side support for full encapsulation, meaning you’ll have no spillage. There are also padded, adjustable straps that add comfort and help tailor this bra to your own personal body shape. And breathable netting inserts at the back help wick away sweat. We love that it’s available in various sizes and colors, so finding the right style is simple.

Potential Flaws

  • The bra tends to run smaller, so consider sizing up to ensure you achieve the ideal fit.

Pros

  • Removable cups

  • Medium to light impact

  • Wide straps

Cons

  • Shoulder straps aren’t adjustable

Key Specs

Sizes: 30 to 48 band, A to H cups | Material: Nylon, spandex | Closure: Pullover | Straps: Racerback | Adjustable: No | Care: Machine wash, air dry flat

Who It's For

Best if you want a bra for low- to medium-impact workouts, as well as lounging and daily wear.

Why We Love It

Shapermint’s Truekind Seamless Racerback Sports Bra combines breathability and lightweight comfort through its soft nylon and spandex construction. It delivers just the right support for low- to medium-impact activities like yoga and pilates. We appreciate how the classic racerback straps actively provide reliable comfort and lift your chest without causing discomfort or digging into your shoulders.

With removable cups and a scoop neck, the bra actively offers medium coverage, balancing modesty and flatter for confidence during gym sessions. We also love that it comes in neutral colors and boasts one of the most inclusive size ranges on our list.

Potential Flaws

  • Although this sports bra is comfortable, the straps aren’t adjustable, so it may be tricky to find the right fit.

Pros

  • Full coverage neckline

  • Classic racerback style

  • UPF 50+

Cons

  • Not adjustable

Key Specs

Sizes: 30 to 46 band, A to DDD cups | Material: Nylon, Lycra | Closure: Pullover | Straps: Racerback | Adjustable: No | Care: Machine wash and dry

Who It’s For

Best if you prefer a cropped silhouette and light support for low-impact exercise and daily wear.

Why We Love It

Athleta’s Conscious Crop Bra has a high neckline for coverage while bending over, as well as light support for low-impact exercise or everyday wear. It comes in over 15 shades, from bright and bold to neutral, so you can easily pair it with your go-to leggings. It also has removable pads for extra coverage and separation.

The crop’s buttery soft, quick-drying fabric is rated UPF 50+ to block UV radiation from the sun when exercising outside. We also love that this bra is sustainably made and that it has a sleek racerback shape to keep your chest lifted and supported.

Potential Flaws

  • While generally comfortable, this bra lacks the adjustability for a more personalized fit to meet your specific needs.

Pros

  • Wireless

  • Convertible straps

  • Breathable mesh

Cons

  • Limited color options

Key Specs

Sizes: 34 to 54 band, B to H cup | Material: Nylon, Lycra | Closure: Hook-and-eye | Straps: Convertible | Adjustable: Yes | Care: Machine wash

Who It’s For

Best if you want a bra that efficiently wicks away sweat, ensuring a post-workout experience free from that damp and stuffy feeling.

Why We Love It

Our top pick for combating sweat, Lane Bryant’s LIVI Sports Bra features moisture-wicking fabric and breathable mesh panels to keep you dry and cool. This wireless option is best for medium-impact workouts, like spin classes, jogging, and strength circuits.

A secure, quadruple hook-and-eye closure provides a locked-in feel. And we love the wide, convertible straps that can switch between H-back and X-back silhouettes. Plus, this bra has removable cups, so you can customize coverage. Although it’s one of the most expensive options on our list, we think the wide size range and comfortable construction make this bra well worth it.

Potential Flaws

  • We love this bra so much that we wish it came in more than two colors.

Pros

  • Budget-friendly

  • Lightweight

  • Moisture-wicking

Cons

  • Not adjustable

  • May run small

Key Specs

Sizes: 27 to 52 band, A to DDD cup | Material: Cotton, polyester, Tencel modal (recycled beech wood) fiber, spandex, mesh, nylon | Closure: Pullover | Straps: None | Adjustable: No | Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low

Who It’s For

Best for if you prefer a full-coverage bra that doubles as a workout tank, letting you transition from studio to street in style.

Why We Love It

When you need extra coverage, reach for Old Navy’s PowerChill Longline Sports Bra Tank. This hybrid design seamlessly combines the length of a tank top with the gentle support of a low-impact sports bra, creating versatile activewear suitable for any occasion. The built-in shelf bra features a front mesh lining for breathability and removable cups for added modesty if desired.

Flat, no-chafe seams and a blend of soft, moisture-wicking fabrics ensure comfort, coolness, and dryness. We appreciate the tank's budget-friendly price point. It's available in various colors, ranging from black to pink, so you can easily snag more than one to match your favorite workout leggings.

Potential Flaws

  • The tank may run small, and the straps aren’t adjustable, so it may be tricky to find the right fit.

Pros

  • Four-way stretch

  • Made with recycled materials

  • Super comfy

Cons

  • May be difficult to put on

Key Specs

Sizes: 29 to 60.5 band, cups not listed | Material: Recycled plastic bottles (RPET), spandex | Closure: Hook-and-eye | Straps: X-style | Adjustable: Yes | Care: Machine wash cold with like colors, dry flat

Who It’s For

Best for comfort and focus during high-impact workouts, especially if you want a customized fit.

Why We Love It

With a simple, supportive design and plenty of adjustability, Girlfriend Collective’s Simone Bra is our top choice for comfort. Sustainably made from recycled water bottles, the bra is moisture-wicking, with a four-way stretch that smooths, lifts, and moves with you.

Built for high-impact exercise, it has the right amount of compression and structured, sewn-in cups. We love the wide, X-style cross-back straps and triple hook-and-eye closure, which can be easily adjusted throughout the day as you move. Made from recycled water bottles and spandex, the fabric is durable and comes in a range of jewel tones. Plus, when this bra wears out, you can send it back for store credit using the company’s ReGirlfriend recycling program.

Potential Flaws

  • The X-style cross-back straps may make slipping into and out of this bra a bit tricky, but it's just a minor inconvenience.

Plus-Size Sports Bras We Also Tested

We’ve tested 10 plus-size sports bras so far, but only six scored high enough to earn a spot on our list. While these three have some noteworthy features, they ultimately didn’t impress us:

  • Knix’s LuxeLift Pullover Bra offers comfort with its soft and stretchy material that moves seamlessly during exercise. However, the non-adjustable straps and lack of support make it less suitable for high-impact workouts and larger breasts.
  • We appreciate the adjustable straps and moisture-wicking material of Glamorise’s High Impact Seamless Underwire Sports Bra, but it proved super uncomfortable to wear while working out. The rigid fabric and underwire consistently dug into our ribcage, leaving behind irritating red marks.
  • While Athleta’s Advance Sports Bra offers exceptional support for high-impact workouts, we found it quite uncomfortable to wear. We also had to do a lot of squeezing and shaking to get it on and off, which is particularly annoying after sweaty workouts.

What to Look for When Shopping for a Plus-Size Sports Bra

  • Support: Your activity level will determine how much compression and support you need in a plus-size sports bra.Low-impact sports bras have less compression and a minimal support structure, for activities like stretching, walking, or yoga. Medium-impact sports bras have more compression, an internal structure (like contouring or underwires), and wider straps. They’re best for activities like cycling, barre, and studio classes. High-impact sports bras have the strongest level of support, encapsulated cups, wide, adjustable straps or bands, and sometimes underwires. We recommend them for high-intensity workouts that have you jumping, bending, running, or moving quickly.
  • Fit: Your sports bra should allow you to breathe comfortably and lift your breasts without excessive compression, says Helena Kaylin, founder and CEO of MINDD, an online intimate apparel company. She recommends looking for a snug feel that isn't too tight. Look for a fit that covers both the front and sides and always pay attention to size charts for guidance.
  • Sizes: To find your traditional bra size, use a measuring tape to measure around your rib cage, right where a bra’s band would sit—this is your band, or underbust, size. Then, measure around the fullest part of your breasts—this is your bust size. Finally, subtract the band size from your bust size to find your cup size.
  • Cup Style: The cup style that will work best for you will vary based on your support needs and personal preference, Kaylin says. Compression cups hold your breast to your chest wall to limit movement, while encapsulated cups fully encase each breast to control movement from all angles. A sports bra with an underwire can offer even more support.
  • Padding: For extra coverage, you may want a bra made from a thicker material or one with padded cups. Padding helps shape your chest and can also provide modesty, Kaylin says. Ensure that built-in padding is securely stitched or fused in place to avoid shifting or creasing during washing. Sports bras with removable padding allow you to adjust shape and coverage based on your outfit and activity.
  • Adjustability: Adjustability is a key feature in many plus-size sports bras, offering customizable fit and support through mechanisms like buckles, hook-and-eye closures, zippers, or Velcro. Regardless of style, Kaylin and certified personal trainer Amanda Barton, CPT, recommend a sports bra with wide, padded straps that will comfortably distribute your weight.
  • Material: Choose breathable, moisture-wicking performance materials like nylon, polyester, and elastane. These fabrics (along with spandex and Lycra blends) are also soft, stretchy, and comfortable. Avoid bras made from cotton since it retains moisture. Additional features, like laser-cut ventilation or mesh panels, can also help promote airflow and prevent odors.
  • Care: Following the manufacturer's laundry instructions is crucial, as some bras require extra care beyond a regular wash. Consider machine-washable bras for a low-maintenance option, and always use a laundry bag to limit stretching. Though some bras can go in the dryer, hanging them to dry may prolong their life and support. Also, don’t forget to remove any cups or pads and secure all hooks before washing.

How We Tested and Selected the Plus-Size Sports Bras

To find the best plus-size sports bra, we’ve researched and tested dozens of pairs from top, trusted activewear brands. For options we select through research, we first speak to our experts and ask them which features to look for in quality sports bras. Then, we review key specs and customer feedback for dozens of bras from top-quality brands at all price points to find the best options on the market. When testing sports bras, we keep these key criteria in mind:

  • Fit: When we first try on the bra, we pay attention to how the fit feels—Is it too small? Too tight? Just right? We take note of the fabric's texture against the skin and assess the level of support the bra provides for various activity intensities, ranging from low to high impact. Additionally, we carefully observe the width, padding, and weight distribution capabilities of the straps.
  • Support: To determine the level of support, we engage in various exercises, from low- to high-impact. We perform everything from light yoga sequences to high-intensity interval training, paying attention to how well the bra limits bounce and keeps our breasts in place.
  • Comfort: Sports bras are notoriously uncomfortable, but that doesn't have to be true. We consider the fabric, compression level, and adjustability features of each bra. We prioritize sports bras that are comfortable to wear for quick workouts and longer periods of time.
  • Adjustability: Certain bras provide adjustability options at the shoulder straps and ribcage or backband, allowing for a personalized fit. In our testing process, we thoroughly examine each bra to determine the presence of adjustability features and assess their ease of use. This ensures not only a tailored fit but also a user-friendly experience for optimal comfort and support.
  • Quality: If your sports bra starts to fall apart over time, it's not worth your money. Throughout the testing period, we continuously evaluate the bra’s quality: Does the material feel strong? Does the support lessen over time? How does the construction feel against our body?
  • Durability: Upon opening each bra, we meticulously inspect it for any missing threads, marks, or signs of wear and tear. During testing, we put the bra through several wears and washes, paying attention to how it looks and feels over time. We only recommend sports bras that maintain their initial quality during testing.
  • Value: Finally, we asses each sports bra's value by waiting to look at its price until the end of the testing period. Then, we determine if it's worth the price (or maybe even more) considering each of the above testing categories. Sports bras earn high value scores if we would pay the price and personally recommend them to a friend.

Our Experts

We engaged with experts at every phase of our research, testing, and reporting for this story. Some guided us in identifying key features to look for in top-quality sports bras, while others contributed valuable insights to enhance our testing process.

  • Suzanne Koval, MPT, a physical therapist, Pilates instructor, and founder of Bao Bei, an online maternity and postnatal apparel company
  • Helena Kaylin, founder and CEO of MINDD, an online intimate apparel company
  • Amanda Barton, CPT, a NASM-certified personal trainer in Las Vegas, Nevada
  • Joshua Zeichner, MD, associate professor of dermatology and director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York, New York
  • Keri Harvey, CPT, a NASM-certified personal trainer in Brooklyn, New York
  • Morrit Summers, CPT, a NSCA-certified personal trainer and founder of Form Fitness in Brooklyn, New York

Frequently Asked Questions

Do sports bras work for large breasts?

Yes, if you have large breasts, wearing a sports bra while working out has many benefits. Not only does a sports bra hold your chest close to the body, making exercise easier, but the added support can reduce pain and strain on your breast tissue, helping to prevent stretch marks and sagging.

How do I choose a sports bra for sagging breasts?

When choosing a sports bra for sagging breasts, examine the straps and assess the fabric’s lift and hold, Koval says. She suggests selecting a bra with adjustable straps and a full cup style, as these features deliver adequate support for sagging breast tissue.

Can you wear a sports bra every day?

Wearing a sports bra daily may lead to back or shoulder pain, especially if you’re not wearing the right size. However, as long as you don’t experience discomfort, it boils down to personal preference.

How tight should a sports bra be?

Your sports bra should be comfortably snug, without any tightness, pinching, or chafing. It also shouldn’t limit your regular range of motion. You should be able to breathe in your sports bra, Kaylin says.

Can you wear a sports bra to bed?

While you can wear a sports bra to bed, it's not always advisable because it can negatively impact your neck, shoulders, and back over time. It can also disrupt your sleep due to the tight and compressive fit that's designed for working out.

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.

According to Joshua Zeichner, MD, associate professor of dermatology and director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital, the best way to prevent BPA exposure is to make educated decisions in choosing your personal care products. 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

As a plus-sized individual who works out multiple times a week, Casey Clark understands how having a supportive sports bra can impact performance and comfort. She engages in a lot of high-impact cardiovascular exercise, which means she’s always on the lookout for an extremely supportive bra to keep her breasts in place without unwanted movement. For this buying guide, Casey prioritized trustworthy brands that she and our team tried and tested to provide a list of the best plus-size sports bras available.

Need Support? These Are the Best Plus-Size Sports Bras for Comfort and Confidence (2024)

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Birthday: 1995-01-09

Address: Apt. 915 481 Sipes Cliff, New Gonzalobury, CO 80176

Phone: +6773780339780

Job: Sales Executive

Hobby: Gaming, Jogging, Rugby, Video gaming, Handball, Ice skating, Web surfing

Introduction: My name is Carmelo Roob, I am a modern, handsome, delightful, comfortable, attractive, vast, good person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.