12 Best Sports Bras for Women in 2023, Tested & Reviewed
Every product on this page was chosen by a Harper's BAZAAR editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.
Working out requires a sports bra that's both comfortable and supportive. These are the best out there.
In the middle of your downward dog or a 5K race, you don't want any distractions. Most of all, you don't want to be fidgeting with a sports bra that's unsupportive, uncomfortable, or badly designed. The best sports bras for women are engineered to fit a range of activities from high intensity to no impact at all—allowing you to focus on your workout.
Finding the top sports bra for your favorite activity will involve breaking a sweat. "The best way to test a bra for comfort and support is wear-testing different styles and finding the one that suits your personal preference and takes into account your workout," Abby Gordon, VP of design and merchandising for Alo Yoga, says. "I test the level of support in my sports bras through my workouts and rank them based on the level of impact."
But if you want a little extra information before you buy a style that you think may be right for you, ahead we’re rounding up the best sports bras for women that come in a breadth of sizes and functions. For those who want something slick and simple to go with their running shoes and shorts, check out the minimal options from District Vision or Nike. If you’re one to hit the yoga mat, Alo and Beyond Yoga fit the bill. Or if you’re mostly looking for an activewear brand that will look great in your post-gym selfies, try Live the Process, a brand that's leaning into the balletcore aesthetic, which Gordon notes is especially popular for spring.
Here, the 12 best sports bras for women that will let you sweat in style.
Nike's racer-back sports bra offers medium-to-heavy support, meaning that you can wear it during tough workouts without fear of bouncing or discomfort.
Shopper review: "This bra is great. Get it in every color. No seams or tags digging in anywhere. No padding and no cups. I love this for running, and I don't have a small chest."
Gordon calls this seamless crop top her favorite at Alo Yoga right now. "The style offers a breathable cotton fabric with an amazing level of support that we really love." For days when you want a bra that doubles as a comfortable top, try this one.
Shopper review: "Love this halter top for my Pilates practice. It's great quality and fits perfectly."
For some women, convertible straps will be a welcome option allowing for versatility and support depending on your workout needs. Swap the straps from straight-over-the-shoulder to racer-back (and back), easily.
Shopper review: "Fantastic fit and feel. Really comfortable. I especially appreciate that the band is lightweight and smooth so it stays comfortable and doesn't chafe during a longer run."
While many sports bras come in only band sizing, this Lululemon style also allows you to pick a cup size—allowing for more personalization and a better fit.
Shopper review: "I have always had trouble finding supportive bras for my larger chest, and this is actually the best thing I’ve ever bought. Running or high-intensity exercise has always been uncomfortable for me, but not with this bra. It keeps everything where it needs to be. Worth every penny."
With sizing that ranges from XS to 6XL, Girlfriend Collective's racer-back sports bra is a comfortable option for many people. It's made from a soft, compressive material that uses recycled plastic bottles, and can be re-recycled again through Girlfriend Collective when you’re ready to try a new style.
Shopper review: "Girlfriend Collective is my new go-to for activewear. I’m a 32F, so I have a hard time finding sports bras that fit me well. I ordered the medium, and it works great to hold everything in. I now have three Paloma bras, and they are my go-to for the gym and other activities!"
For activities like yoga or weight training, try this lightweight bra with strappy back details and slight padding around the bust.
A more fashion-forward take on the sports bra, this V-neck style can easily be worn with high-waisted leggings or layered under a shirt. If you enjoy walks or yoga with a less-structured bra option, this one fits the bill.
Shopper review: "I love the softness of all the Spacedye products and the bra is the same. I like that it matches the tank tops, and it doesn't stand out noticeably as a bra. I don't do high-impact workouts any longer, so the support is adequate. It is easy to get on and off overhead."
Wearers with large breasts may prefer an underwire sports bra for additional support and structure. Wacoal's design, with thick, supportive shoulder straps, will hold you in.
Shopper review: "I wear 36D. This bra is comfortable and lightweight, yet it is very supportive during workouts. I started wearing it for support while running."
For some women, light padding around the bust offers additional comfort and support for workouts. This bra, with non-removable padding and clasp closure in the back, is a supportive style that has a tight fit.
Shopper review: "38DD here ... I ordered size: XL D-DD. I think I found my perfect bra!!! The straps are sufficiently wide so as to distribute the pressure evenly, but not too wide. Most importantly for me, the under-arms area is well cut so as not to dig into the armpits."
Sometimes you just want to keep things simple. District Vision's sports bra is sleek and streamlined, a pull-on style that's ideal for those who like to run in a bra with midlevel support. A smart design addition: the hidden pocket that allows you to stow your keys while you run.
Hiking doesn't require the same level of tight support as more high-intensity workouts. This stylish bra-top hybrid can be worn with matching leggings or styled with your go-to hiking gear.
Shopper review: "I own this in three colors. Sized down and it feels more like medium support—can wear for functional strength training, Pilates, walking, yoga, etc.!"
For low-impact workouts or just styling a sporty look, this fashion-forward bra from Live the Process makes workout wear feel fun.
14 Houseware Pieces for an Instant Home Refresh
13 Designer Backpacks That Are Fully Grown Up
13 Sneakers BAZAAR Editors Wear 24/7
Summer's 25 Best One-Piece Swimsuits
Fashion's Collective Crush on the Alaïa Heart Bag
14 Wedding Guest Dresses for Last Minute RSVPs
19 Fashion-Forward Rehearsal Dinner Dresses
26 Chunky Rings to Elevate Your Jewelry Game
Nice Saves: 11 Must-Have Items on Sale This Week
15 Best Summer Sneakers for Women
Shop 22 Chic Swimsuits for Big Busts
15 Fresh Ways to Wear a Designer Fanny Pack
The best sports bras for women are engineered to fit a range of activities from high intensity to no impact at all—allowing you to focus on your workout. Shopper review: Shopper review: Shopper review: Shopper review: Shopper review: Shopper review: Shopper review: Shopper review: Shopper review: