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The Best Sports Bras of 2024

Whether you’re seeking adrenaline in the mountains, trail running through lush forests, or hitting the gym for a quick sweat, we put women’s sports bras to the test to filter out the best.
two women in yoga poses and sports bras outsideSports bras can be a comfortable choice for yoga indoors or outside; (photo/Branwyn)
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If you own a pair of boobs, you understand the struggle of finding the perfect sports bra. The unsung (often invisible) heroes of any outdoor activity, sports bras can make or break a day. When it’s right, we forget about it. When it’s wrong, it becomes the bane of our existence.

We won’t pretend that there’s a single sports bra that will work for everyone. But through research and testing, we’ve compiled a list that we truly believe has something for nearly everyone. Since style, fit, and application are so diverse, instead of ranking these sports bras outright, we sorted them into categories to help you find the best sports bra for you. Options like the Knix Catalyst Sports Bra are built for high-impact sports, while the Icebreaker Merino Sprite Racerback Bra is made for lower-impact activity, and others are decked out with extra details like the pockets in the Brooks 3 Pocket Sports Bra.

Learn about what differentiates sports bras by reading the Buyer’s Guide or jump to the Price & Value summary. Still weighing your options? Consult our Comparison Chart.

Editor’s Note: We updated our Sports Bras buyer’s guide on October 29, 2024, to include a Price & Value section.

The Best Sports Bras of 2024


Best Overall High-Impact Sports Bra

Knix Catalyst Sports Bra

Product Badge

Pros

  • Highly customizable
  • Really easy to get on and off
  • Versatile for a range of different high impact workouts

Cons

  • Can feel heavy or cumbersome if you don’t need the support
  • On the pricey side

Pros

  • Transitions from day wear to workouts
  • Simple design
  • Soft and stretchy fabric

Cons

  • Very little impact support
  • Not adjustable

Pros

  • Superhero support
  • Padded straps

Cons

  • Could be overbuilt for some folks
  • Pricier side

Pros

  • Merino wool is naturally odor-resistant
  • Excellent temperature regulation for winter sports

Cons

  • Not adjustable
  • Provides very little support

Pros

  • Extremely stretchy
  • Cute and stylish strap detail in the back
  • Medium support is ideal for most activities

Cons

  • Not adjustable
  • Straps poke out from a tank top if you’re looking for a streamlined fit

Pros

  • Lightweight and stretchy
  • Highly breathable during hot workouts

Cons

  • Minimalist design only works well for smaller chests
  • Low-impact design is not ideal for intense workouts

Pros

  • Creative pocket design features easy storage
  • Bonded seams disappear under a shirt

Cons

  • Fabric doesn’t have a ton of stretch
  • High coverage design impacts breathability

Best of the Rest

Pros

  • Cute strappy design looks great on its own
  • Incredibly soft material

Cons

  • Not adjustable
  • Might feel too light for high impact activities

Pros

  • Lightweight and stretchy
  • Incredibly soft fabric
  • Packs down small for an overnight trip

Cons

  • Minimalist design can’t handle high-impact activities
  • Not adjustable

Pros

  • Silky soft fabric
  • Highly breathable
  • Stylish strappy detail
  • A solid mix of supportive and comfortable

Cons

  • No adjustability
  • Not as stretchy

Pros

  • Seamless design disappears under a shirt
  • Highly secure feel once it’s on

Cons

  • Can feel overkill for small chests
  • Challenging to dial in the right fit

Pros

  • Medium support is highly versatile
  • Reasonable price point

Cons

  • Fabric can be a little itchy
  • Not as stretchy

Pros

  • Highly supportive and adjustable
  • Stays in place no matter what

Cons

  • Too much material for small chests
  • Fits on the snug side
back of sports bra
Sports bras feature different back designs for breathability, support, and style; (photo/Katie Eichelberger)

Sports Bras Comparison Chart

Scroll right to view all of the columns: Price, Impact Level, Size Range, Fabric, Straps.

Sports BraPriceImpact LevelSize RangeFabricStraps
Knix Catalyst Sports Bra
$75High32-42 in, A-F (Knix sizes 1-8+)Nylon, spandexOver the shoulder, hook-and-eye back clasps
SheFit Ultimate Sports Bra High Impact
$69High29-55 in, A-I (SheFit sizes XS-6Luxe)Nylon, spandex, polyesterAdjustable racerback or H-back
Harper Wilde Bliss Bralette
$45Low30-50 in, A-F (Harper Wilde sizes XS-6XL)Nylon, elastaneOver the shoulder
Icebreaker Merino Sprite Racerback Bra
$60Low30-42 in, no cups reference (Icebreaker sizes XS-XL)Merino wool, nylon, LycraRacerback
lululemon Energy Bra Medium Support, B–D Cups
$52Medium26-42 in, B-D (lululemon sizes 2-14)Nylon, elastaneRacerback
NOBULL Matte V-Neck Women’s Sports Bra
$48Low30-46 in, no cups reference (NOBULL sizes XS-XXL)Polyester, elastaneRacerback
Brooks 3 Pocket Sports Bra$55High30-40 in, AB-DDE (Brooks sizes XS-XXL)Polyester, spandexRacerback
Athleta Exhale Bra A-C
$49Low30-40 in, A-C (Athleta sizes XXS-XL)Nylon, LycraOver the shoulder
lululemon Flow Y Bra Nulu Light Support, A–C Cups
$48Low26-42 in, A-C (lululemon sizes 2-14)Nylon, Lycra, elastaneRacerback
Born Primitive Helix Sports Bra
$52Medium28-47 in, A-G (Born Primitive sizes XS-XXL)Nylon, spandexRacerback
Brooks Crossback 2.0 Sports Bra
$65High30-40 in, AB-DDE (Brooks sizes XS-XXL)Nylon, polyester, spandexCrossback
Under Armour Women’s Armour Mid Crossback Sports Bra$35Medium32-42 in, AA-DDD (Under Armour sizes XS-XXL)Polyester, elastaneCrossback
Adidas TLRD Impact Training High-Support Bra$55High32-44 in, A-DD (Adidas sizes XS-XL)Recycled polyester, elastaneCrossback, hook and eye closure
lululemon Brand Image Two Women Running in sports bras
Moderate- and high-support bras can be a good choice for impact activities like running; (photo/lululemon)

How We Tested Sports Bras

There are many factors that make up a great sports bra. In addition to extensive research, we tested each of these bras in the field, logging hours in the mountains and the gym to bring you the top sports bras on the market today.

Our Expert Testers

Lily Ritter is a lead GearJunkie tester, book author, and journalist. She writes about outdoor gear full-time.

Our Testing Grounds

A dedicated runner, Ritter has been officially and unofficially testing sports bras for at least 15 years on the trail and road, with marathons and half marathons under her belt. In the winter, she spends most days exploring the backcountry on skis. In the summer, you can find her pushing her mountain bike up way too steep hills.

Our Testing Process

For this test, we evaluated bras for comfort, breathability, and sweat retention, taking note of different fabrics and performance in different environments. We evaluated bras in sweltering summer heat waves and crisp fall freezes. Snow, smoke, rain, and the beating sun helped us tease out the highest-performing and most versatile bras.

A mix of running, gym workouts, yoga classes, pickleball sessions, horseback rides, air time on a mountain bike, and one really intense trampoline session helped us evaluate impact resistance and coverage.

Additionally, we consider price and material quality, ensuring that higher-investment bras are really worth the money.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose Sports Bras

Similar to owning a variety of socks for a range of conditions, footwear, and sports, you might find yourself needing a few different styles of sports bras. Next-to-skin layers are available in a range of materials, which excel in different climates and can provide different fits. The straps and entrances of sports bras can be more accessible to certain body shapes and mobility. Other sports bras offer additional functionality like pockets or removable cups.

Of course, the importance of choosing the correct size for a sports bra cannot be overlooked. Every single brand offers a specific size chart, which we try to break down in each product review for ease.

Read on to learn more about the variables that create unique sports bras for a range of activities and physiques.

Woman standing in sports bra with towel
The Lululemon Energy Bra is simple and well-constructed; (photo/Lily Ritter)

Level of Support

Most brands characterize sports bras by levels of support, helping differentiate what bras are best for certain activities. Essentially, the more bouncing involved (think running or horseback riding) the higher support you might want. Features like cups, compression, structure (underwire), and wide bands underneath breasts allow the bra to go up in the support category. Of course, this also depends on your own cup size and preference. Smaller chested folks can often get away with running in a low-support bra.

  • Low support: Minimal or no padding, compression, and structure. Ideal for low-impact activities such as yoga, hiking, or everyday wear.
  • Medium support: Moderate padding, compressive bands, and structure. Ideal for activities like jogging, mountain biking, or gym training.
  • High support: The most structure with features like thicker straps, integrated cups, compressive fabrics, and adjustability. Ideal for activities like HIIT workouts, dancing, horseback riding, or sprinting.
front of sports bra
The width of the band underneath the chest varies from bra to bra; (photo/Branwyn)

Fabric of Sports Bras

Sports bras are made of many different fabrics. Most synthetic bras utilize polyester or nylon as the primary fabric for softness, moisture-wicking, and breathability. Almost every bra integrates a small percentage of elastane or spandex to deliver stretch and mobility.

The Icebreaker Merino Sprite Racerback Bra is the only bra on this list built with merino wool (used in tandem with nylon and elastane for stretch), known for moisture-wicking and antimicrobial properties. Merino is a great low-maintenance material for summer activities, as well as being the top choice for winter base layers for temperature regulation. Your ski jacket will keep you warm from the outside, but merino will keep you warm from the inside.

sports bra on wood table
The NOBULL Matte V-Neck Sports Bra is minimalist and durable; (photo/Lily Ritter)

Breathability & Quick-Drying Material

Breathability is influenced by both fabric and design, creating airflow to stay cool during workouts. The weave of the fabric is important; the looser the weave, the more easily moisture can escape. Typically, breathable panels are integrated into the bra, since breathability can also come at the cost of durability if used across the entire piece. For instance, the Brooks Crossback 2.0 Sports Bra features a little bit of perforation in just the front and back, instead of compromising strength throughout the entire bra.

Sweat is inevitable if you’re having any fun at all, so fabrics like polyester and nylon wick moisture away from your body (thanks to hydrophobic properties), working to keep you dry throughout the activity. Merino wool feels more absorbent than nylon and polyester, however it can absorb up to 30% of its weight without feeling wet, so there’s a chance you actually won’t even notice the sweat.

pile of sports bras on table
A wide variety of fabric blends exist for sports bras and most include a synthetic material; (photo/Branwyn)

Rib Band

The rib band (which runs around the bottom of the bra) is a structural component, designed to provide support and stability. Generally, the thicker the rib band the more support you’ll find; the rib band width in this test ranged from 0.5 inch to 3 inches. Some rib bands, like the Knix Catalyst Sports Bra, are integrated into the rest of the bra since the entire bra is so supportive overall. There’s still a rib band tucked underneath the cups, but it’s sewn into the rest of the bra, instead of a uniform band that runs consistently around the front and back.

Many low-support bras, like the Harper Wilde Bliss Bralette (which has no cups and features a stretchy over-the-shoulder design) feature a wider, 3-inch rib band, to provide extra support to make up for the light duty.

Because it’s typically thicker than the straps and upper fabric, the rib band can also be the spot that absorbs the most sweat and is the slowest to dry. Some rib bands, like the 1.5-inch band on the lululemon Flow Y Bra Nulu Light Support, A–C Cups is made from the same material as the body of the bra, so it wicks moisture and dries pretty quickly (although it provides minimal support).

Underwire in Sports Bras

You’ll see underwire in some sports bras where extra support and shape is required. It’s usually made with either metal or rubber, the former sacrificing some mobility and comfort in the name of support.

Rubber underwire is a little more flexible, which might serve more active ladies better. That being said, underwire is not only for the larger-chested ladies. Some folks with smaller boobs prefer to wear a bra with underwire since it adds a little more shape and definition. That part is entirely personal preference.

Underwire isn’t as commonplace is sports bras as it is in everyday bras, although the Title Nine Cuz She Says So Underwire Sports Bra is a good example of rubber underwire you can still move in.

blissfeel 20 lululemon running shoes
In warmer temps, a sports bra can be a comfortable layer for activity but don’t forget sunscreen; (photo/lululemon)

Breast Cups & Pads

Cups can provide support and shape, while the pads are removable in many bras for a customizable fit and personal preference. Some brands use the terms ‘cups’ and ‘pads’ interchangeably, which can be confusing.

Some bras feature removable pads, while others feature an integrated cup that fits more like a traditional bra. You’ll typically see fixed cups in bras that offer a higher level of support, like the Adidas TLRD Impact Training High-Support Bra and the Knix Catalyst Sports Bra.

Removable cups in bras like the Under Armour Women’s Armour Mid Crossback Sports Bra and the lululemon Energy Bra Medium Support, B–D Cups can be taken out to decrease volume. A few low-support bras, like the Harper Wilde Bliss Bralette and the Icebreaker Merino Sprite Racerback Bra don’t have cups at all.

Contributor Mary Murphy testing sport bras; (photo/Lisa Jung)

Sports Bras Coverage

Coverage in general refers to how much fabric covers the breast area of a sports bra, and it often (but not always) aligns with support.

In general, higher-impact activities like running or horseback riding require more coverage than lower-impact activities like hiking and yoga. High-neck bras often feature more support, while v-neck and scoop-neck bras typically have a little less coverage and are less supportive overall. But that also depends on cup size.

For instance, someone with smaller breasts may be able to get away with the low-coverage NOBULL Matte V-Neck Sports Bra for a long road run, while someone with a larger chest may prefer a higher-coverage option like the SheFit Ultimate Sports Bra High Impact. Often, coverage directly relates to how much support you want, but in some cases modesty plays a role too; some folks might feel more comfortable in a high-neck bra versus a low-cut v-neck, so there’s plenty of personal preference.

lume six detail
On Lume Six bras, the seams are on the outside of the band; (photo/Mary Murphy)

Sports Bras Straps

Straps differ for many reasons including style, support, and ease of pulling the sports bra on and off. A lot can depend on the type of top you’re going to wear, too.

Racerbacks aren’t adjustable, but can provide a supportive and secure fit that disappears under racerback tank tops. Straight straps fit more like a traditional everyday bra, and are easier to get on and off, but might take a little more adjusting when you initially try it on to get the fit right since they typically feature more customization.

Some bras, like the SheFit Ultimate Sports Bra High Impact, feature a combo for ultimate customization since they utilize adjustable racerback straps. That bra adjusts with hook-and-loop straps on both the shoulders and around the rib band, which is why it’s been a favorite for so many ladies looking for a more precise fit.

Thin, criss-cross straps, like you’ll see with the lululemon Energy Bra Medium Support, B–D Cups are mostly aesthetic, and provide a little style if you plan on wearing it on its own during a pilates class. More skinny straps can be a small sacrifice in support since the thick straps tend to hold bras in place a little better, but the difference is pretty minimal and many testers felt the cute design was worth it.

Closure: Back or Front

Closure is often (but not always) related to the level of support a bra has. The high-support Knix Catalyst Sports Bra features three levels of clasps for easy on-and-off and support, while the SheFit Ultimate Sports Bra High Impact has a front zipper for extra security and adjustability.

Most of the rest of the low- and medium-impact sports bras pull overhead in a more simple design thanks to stretchy synthetic fabrics that let you wiggle through.

Amber K Chang putting ADAPT RUN Insoles in her shoes while sitting in the back of a car wearing an orange hat, red sports bra and blue shorts.
(Photo/Superfeet)

Sports Bras with Pockets

Some sports bras, like the Brooks 3 Pocket Sports Bra integrate pockets as a creative way to store essentials without having to carry a bag. The 3 Pocket is the only sports bra with pockets on this list (two lateral mesh drop pockets on either side under the armpits), but we’ve seen this trend increase overall in the past few years. Small zippered side pockets and center back pockets just under the neck have emerged a bit, with mixed results.

Ultimately, it can be useful for runners heading out for a quick jog without wanting to carry anything else. It definitely requires the proper fit; otherwise, it can pull the bra in weird directions or dig in if you try to stash your keys or something hard-sided. High-coverage and high-support bras can handle pockets better in general since they tend to have more structure.

woman running while the sun. sets wearing a blue sports bra and orange lululemon running shorts
Thicker straps can also provide additional support versus thinner straps; (photo/lululemon)

Sizing

Sports bra sizing varies by brand. Typically, bralettes and low-impact bras (like the Athleta Exhale Bra A-C and NOBULL Matte V-Neck Sports Bra) utilize XS-XL size labels, opting for sizing closer to a T-shirt since the cups are a minimal component and the bras mostly rely on consistent stretchy fabric. Other companies, like Brooks, let you select your band size as well as your cup size, while Lululemon uses numerical sizing (2-14) similar to its tights.

SheFit has a “Find My Fit” tool on its site that lets you input your height, weight, and age to help you calculate the right fit. Most brands have some sort of size guide available on the product page, which can help you translate your sizing into the company’s language.

Trail runner descending trail in sports bra
Running down a trail wearing the Lume Six Cirra High Impact bra; (photo/Lisa Jhung)

Chafing

Chafing. In a perfect world, we’d avoid it altogether. But even the most seasoned athletes end up experiencing it at some point or another. Chafing is often caused by excessive rubbing, which can be exacerbated by heat. Once you’ve rubbed your skin raw it’s hard to go back without just waiting for it to heal. We’re all about getting ahead of the problem.

A chafe injury isn’t necessarily caused by a specific type of textile, but some of our sweatier testers have noticed more chafing with certain synthetic blends versus a synthetic-wool hybrid fabric. Every person’s epidermis, size, shape, climate, and amount of perspiration differs—even day to day or activity to activity.

Anti-chafe products like Body Glide, applied before the activity can help prevent chafing from starting in the first place. Baby powder is another effective option that runners turn to, applied in areas like the rib band or shoulder straps which are the most common culprits.

Check your fit, too. A bra that’s too big or too small can cause excess rubbing, so that’s another important component to think about.

woman sitting on rock in sports bra
Consider the weather and potential bugs if you choose to venture without a shirt of your sports bra; (photo/lululemon)

Sustainability

A few sports bras we tested were touting sustainable fabrics, however, we didn’t find a ton of sustainable or recycled materials in the bras we tested. The Icebreaker Merino Sprite Racerback Bra, for example, utilizes merino wool, which is naturally renewable, recyclable, and biodegradable.

Tags

In general, most ladies prefer to remove the tags from their sports bras to prevent chafing. A long, scratchy tag (like the one lululemon has attached) can be a quick way to turn a perfectly good sports bra into a scratchy, chafy, jog.

Most sewn-in tags, like the Brooks tags, are easy to remove once you’re ready to wear the bra, but they can also contain useful information about washing instructions.

Almost all of these sports bras had a tag we pulled off inside (typically attached to the seam between the back and front on one side), as well as a hang tag with a little more info.

lume six straps
Founder Margaux Elliott unveils the flat interior seams; (photo/Mary Murphy)

Returns

Each sports bra and brand carries a unique return policy. If you’re ordering a top online, without trying one on in person first, be sure to read up on the return policy, so you have a chance to swap out sizes if you need or prefer to.

Here are the return policies for each of our favorite sports bras:

woman running in sports bra
The level of compression, material, sizing, and strap design can provide ample support in a sports bra; (photo/lululemon)

Price & Value

Budget

On the lower end of the price range, you’ll find sports bra designs that are still soft and breathable like the Harper Wilde Bliss Bralette ($45). What makes the construction cost less is little to no foam, cups, wires, or padding. The fabric blend is basic. There won’t be strongly reinforced support, pockets, or wide straps with these options, and they tend to be great for smaller-chested folks or more casual, lower-impact use.

is one of those bras that you put on and forget about. No foam, cups, wires, or padding keep the Bliss pretty minimalistic. We loved this design while hopping between yoga class, work, a light gym session, or an evening stroll through the woods. But if you’re looking for a low-support layer with a traditional cut, look at the Icebreaker Merino Sprite Racerback Bra.

If you’re shopping on a budget, you can find plenty of bras under $50. The Under Armour Women’s Armour Mid Crossback Sports Bra ($35) was the most affordable bra in this test, while the Athleta Exhale Bra A-C ($49), NOBULL Matte V-Neck Sports Bra ($48), Harper Wilde Bliss Bralette ($45), and lululemon Flow Y Bra Nulu Light Support, A–C Cups ($48) proved to be excellent everyday bras as well. These bras utilize similar materials as the rest of the bras on this list, but with more minimalist designs.

adjustable sports bra
Two women working out at the gym while wearing sports bras; (photo/SheFit)

Mid-Tier

The bulk of sports bras fall into the $50-$70 range. From these bras, you can expect thoughtful and strategic constructions, unique strap and zipper designs, and more durability than the sub-$50 bras. Moderate-to-large chested folks will lean more towards this amount of support.

This range includes favorites like the SheFit Ultimate Sports Bra High Impact ($69), which has velcro-adjustable shoulder strap plus a front-entry zipper for easier access versus pulling the bra over your head and hair, which can be hard with limited shoulder mobility or a big ponytail. The Icebreaker Merino Sprite Racerback Bra ($60) is unique as one of the only merino wool bras on our list. And the Brooks 3 Pocket Sports Bra ($55) gets a bump up for the integrated pocket design.

Other options include the lululemon Energy Bra Medium Support, B–D Cups ($52), Title Nine Cuz She Says So Underwire Sports Bra ($65), Born Primitive Helix Sports Bra ($52), Brooks Crossback 2.0 Sports Bra ($65), and Adidas TLRD Impact Training High-Support Bra ($55).

Premium

Above $70, you’ll see specialized designs and more customizable elements. The Knix Catalyst Sports Bra ($75) offers extra support, strap adjustability, and is a high-quality product that you’ll hold onto for a long time.

two women running in sports bras
Wearing a supportive sports bra can be a relief during hot activities; (photo/Brooks)

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I get a new sports bra?

Experts say regularly worn (sweated, swam, and adventured in) bras only last about a year. Hopefully, with proper care you can squeeze more life out of them. Most of our testers say they typically keep bras in rotation for one to three years.

How should I wash my sports bra?

Wash your bra in cold water with mild detergent. Avoid fabric softeners and bleach, as these speed up the fabric breakdown and can inhibit the wicking properties. If you have a wool bra, consider using a specialty soap like our favorite Granger’s Merino Wool Wash ($16 on Amazon).

Can I dry my sports bra?

Skip the dryer whenever possible to avoid overheating, stretching, and misshaping your favorite bra. These bras are all made of quick-drying materials — simply hang up or lay flat to dry.

Can I wash my sports bra with the pads?

Washing them once or twice isn’t a huge deal, but in general it’s better to hand wash the cups so they maintain an ideal shape.

What should I do with my sports bra immediately after a workout?

Remove it immediately after working out. It’s tempting to roll your sweaty bra into a ball and toss it in the bottom of your bag, but take a few extra seconds to treat it with care. At the very least, hang it out to dry while you get changed and then lie it flat in your bag. It’s even better to give it a rinse to remove sweat, bacteria, and body products that can break down the materials.

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