6 Sports Bras We Love for Every Activity and Body Type
Exercise turbulence-free with these comfortable support systems
Get full access to Outside Learn, our online education hub featuring in-depth fitness, nutrition, and adventure courses and more than 2,000 instructional videos when you sign up for Outside+.
We’d all love a sports bra that’s perfect for everything. But until the day a brand figures out how to make one, most women will need two. More supportive, often tighter and higher-cut models are best for dynamic exercises—like running, HIIT, and tennis—while more relaxed-fitting, usually less constricting bras work for sports that don’t involve as much sudden movement (think climbing and hiking). Here are our favorites, arranged by which work best for certain bust sizes.
Best for A and B Cups
High Impact: Athleta Contender ($54)
Mesh straps and a large back cutout enhance breathability and add a bit of flair, elevating the Contender above the typical jogging bra. The polyester-spandex fabric provides compression without restricting movement.
Low Impact: Norrona Wool Crop ($59)
Sometimes simpler is better. This thin merino-polyester bra virtually disappears under your layers, thanks to the T-shirt softness, relaxed fit, and wide racerback straps that lie flat, so your backpack won’t cause chafing.
Best for C and D Cups
High Impact: Brooks Rebound Racer ($25)
Made with a stretchy blend of 80 percent polyester and 20 percent spandex, and featuring adjustable Velcro shoulder straps and compression in the cups, the Rebound Racer puts the girls on lockdown.
Low Impact: Janji W’s Sports Bra ($44)
Janji’s polyester-Lycra bra is deceptively supportive, with a wide elastic band and high-cut front and sides that minimize spillage. The spaghetti straps lift powerfully but don’t dig in, since they split over the shoulder to distribute weight.
Best for DD Plus
High Impact: Shefit Ultimate Sports ($65)
Maximum support requires a perfect fit. Dial yours in with Shefit’s nylon-Lycra compression model that comes in sizes up to I cup. The bottom band and shoulder straps adjust with Velcro.
Low Impact: Lululemon Enlite ($98)
With four heavy-lifting straps and full coverage around the sides, the Enlite doesn’t skimp on support. But its laser-cut edges, crossback straps, and stitch-free clasps lend it sleekness and comfort you’ll love during long, slow hikes or in the yoga studio.
