13 Best Plus Size Sports Bras Of 2023

The right sports bra does more than increase your confidence in the gym. With so many options available, it’s important to find a sports bra that comfortably fits your curves without pinching or gaping, yet offers enough bust coverage and support to help prevent back strain, pain, and tissue damage. Luckily, many activewear companies have now expanded their lines to include sports bras that are specifically designed to support plus-size wearers.

When shopping for a plus-size sports bra, consider when you’ll be wearing it, Suzanne Koval, MPT, a physical therapist, pilates instructor, and founder of the supportive maternity garment line Bao Bei, says. “The level of support in a bra should be an intentional feature,” she explains. “If you are going to be doing yoga or Pilates, you are going to seek out light to mid-support level. If you are going to be adding jogging to your routine, you need to find a well-fitting, high-impact support bra.”

Reviewed & Approved

Superfit Hero’s SuperHold Sports Bra is our top overall pick because it offers medium compression in a comfortable, full-coverage silhouette. It’s also available in a wide range of sizes, so finding the right fit is easy. If you’re on a budget, we recommend Under Armour’s Women’s Armour Mid Crossback Sports Bra, which has a cross-back design and removable cups.

To help you find the right plus-size sports bra, we researched dozens of options and evaluated them based on support, straps, fit, comfort, material, price, and more.

With a full-coverage neckline and medium-impact support, Superfit Hero’s SuperHold Sports Bra is our top overall pick. Designed by a woman-owned company that specializes in plus-size apparel, this bra features soft, brushed fabric that offers comfortable compression.

Best Overall

SuperFit Hero Sports Bra

Wide range of sizes
Medium compression
Full-coverage neckline
Not adjustable

The breathable polyester and spandex blend quickly wicks away sweat, keeping you cool and dry. And the tricot knit lining doesn’t have any inserts or padding, so you don’t have to worry about lumps, bumps, or shifting. We love the wide band (which won’t roll) and the gentle racerback straps, which provide strategic support without chafing.

The SuperHold bra comes in a wide range of sizes and rich colors, making it a versatile top that pairs well with any of Superfit’s matching bottoms or your favorite leggings. Even though it can’t be adjusted, we think this bra is a worthy investment for its durability, versatility, and ultra-comfortable fit.

Price at time of publication: $69

If you’re on a budget, we recommend this medium-support sports bra from Under Armour. With a raised neckline for better coverage and wide, crossover straps, it’s both comfortable and easy to wear. We like the removable, molded cups, which help create a natural silhouette while lifting and separating each breast.

Best Budget

Under Armour Women’s Crossback Mid Impact Sports Bra

Removable, molded cups
Keyhole detail
Full-coverage neckline

Snug, but flexible compression makes this bra a solid choice for medium-impact activities, like cycling, Zumba, or light jogging. Although the straps aren’t adjustable, we like that the design helps distribute weight evenly, to take the burden off of your neck and shoulders.

Machine washable and sweat-wicking, the Mid Crossback Sports Bra is sleek and durable. A smooth, stay-put elastic underbust band and a wide range of colors make this bra a gym wardrobe go-to.

Price at time of publication: $34

With three-section cups that offer side support for full encapsulation, Anita’s Extreme Control Sports 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.

Most Supportive

Anita Women’s Plus Size Extreme Control Sport Bra

Encapsulated cups
Adjustable, padded straps
Adjustable band
May run small

Adjustable, padded straps help tailor this bra to your neck and shoulders, while breathable netting inserts at the back help wick away sweat. It’s also available in a wide variety of sizes and colors, finding the right style is simple.

Wearers note that this bra tends to run one size small, so you may want to order up. Luckily, the brand also offers the Extreme Control bra up to cup size I in a similar design with extra-wide straps, for even more support.

Price at time of publication: $45-$70

Our top pick for high-impact activities is this Max Support Sports Bra from Lane Bryant. Whether you’re crushing box jumps or lifting weights, this contoured bra provides coverage and encapsulated cups for extra support. Above-bust mesh inserts combined with quick-drying, flexible fabric keep this bra breathable—and stylish, too.

Best High Impact

Lane Bryant LIVI Active High-Impact Wicking Max Support Sports Bra

Wide range of sizes
Adjustable, convertible straps
Breathable mesh
Expensive
May show through light-colored tops

The adjustable, convertible straps are slide and pinch-free. Combined with a double hook-and-eye closure, they create a flattering, tailored fit that works on its own or under a workout top.

While we like the design of this bra, it’s only available in two dark colors. Wearers note that this makes it difficult to wear underneath light- or white-colored tops, since the color and seams may show through. It’s also more expensive than most other bras on our list.

Price at time of publication: $77

For low-impact activities, we recommend this lightweight, scoop-neck bra from Nike. Perfect for yoga, Pilates, or walking, this unlined bra features light compression in a soft, silky fabric. The longline band won’t roll and offers increased coverage, so you can wear it alone or as a base layer.

Best Low-Impact

Nike Alate Solo Women’s Longline Sports Bra

Lightweight
Comfortable
Made with recycled materials

We also love that this bra is made with recycled nylon. This sweat-wicking fabric, along with the top’s wide straps and scoop back silhouette, helps keep you comfortably dry during hot studio sessions.

But while wearers note that this sports bra is very comfortable, it can’t be adjusted.

Price at time of publication: $55

Glamorise Women’s Full Figure No Bounce Plus Size Camisole Wirefree Back Close Sports Bra

Budget-friendly
Full-coverage neckline
Wide, adjustable straps
Material may feel itchy

It also features a wireless, contoured underbust for comfort and control, and encapsulated cups to limit movement during jumps or sprints. We love the wide, adjustable straps and triple hook-and-eye closure, which are both padded to prevent chafing.

This bra doesn’t contain spandex, meaning it holds everything in place without stretching out over time. This also means it may feel itchy for some, especially wearers with sensitive skin. We love the wide size range and impressive color selection.

Price at time of publication: $44

If you’re looking for a crop silhouette, we recommend this streamlined option from Athleta.

Best Crop

Athleta Conscious Crop Bra D-DD

Full-coverage neckline
Racerback design
UPF 50+

It has a high neckline for coverage while bending over, and light support for low-impact exercise or everyday wear.

The Conscious Crop bra 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 modesty and separation.

The crop’s buttery, quick-drying fabric is rated UPF 50+, to block UV radiation from the sun when practicing outside. We love that this bra is sustainably made, and that it has a sleek racerback shape. However, it can’t be adjusted for a better fit.

Price at time of publication: $15-$59

Our top pick for combating sweat is this plus-size sports bra with moisture-wicking fabric, and breathable mesh panels. This wireless option from Lane Bryant is best for medium-impact workouts, like spin classes, jogging, and strength circuits.

Best Sweat-Wicking

Lane Bryant LIVI Wireless Medium-Impact Wicking Sports Bra

Wireless
Convertible straps
Breathable mesh
Only comes in two colors
Expensive

A secure, quadruple hook-and-eye closure provides a locked-in feel. And we love the wide, convertible straps that can switch between a traditional, H-style and a cross-back silhouette. Plus, this bra has removable cups, so you can adjust the shape.

Although it’s one of the most expensive options on our list, and it only comes in two colors, we think the wide size range and comfortable construction make this bra well worth it.

Price at time of publication: $70

Lightweight and airy, lululemon’s Run Times Bra is our recommendation for a breathable plus-size sports bra. With perforated accents and quick-drying, sweat-wicking fabric, it’s designed with airflow in mind.

Most Breathable

Lululemon Run Times Bra, High Support

Convertible, padded straps
Breathable, perforated accents
Smaller size range

The Run Times is where cooling meets maximum support, making it ideal for high-impact, endurance activities like running, cardio, and field sports. We like that its higher scoop neck offers ample coverage and prevents spillage while you’re on the move. And encapsulated cups help shape your chest, offering the right amount of lift and separation.

Like both of our LIVI picks, this bra’s adjustable straps are also convertible—and they’re padded, to prevent sore shoulders. We love the secure, triple hook-and-eye closure. However, this bra is available in a smaller size range than most others on our list.

Price at time of publication: $68

Runners will appreciate the combination of storage and high-impact support that Fabletics’ Trinity Bra has to offer. The racerback strap has an impressive three pockets to hold your phone, keys, hair ties, and more.

Best for Running

Fabletics Trinity High-Impact Sports Bra

Three pockets
Chafe-free seams
Wide range of colors
Expensive if not a member
Not adjustable

The moisture-wicking, four-way stretch fabric moves with you, even as you sweat. And the high neckline provides coverage while preventing spillage. We love the minimalist, flat seams that keep this bra lightweight and chafe-free, along with the wide band that won’t move with each stride.

Note that, like others on our list, this bra isn’t adjustable, and it’s on the expensive side if you’re not a Fabletics member. Choose from over 15 colors in sizes up to 4X—and while you’re at it, grab a pair of the just-as-compressive matching Trinity leggings to match.

Price at time of publication: $74 or $22 for new members

If you prefer a zip-front 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.

Best Front Zip

SheFit Ultimate Sports Bra

Removable cups
Convertible straps
Adjustable band
Expensive
Two-way stretch

Using compression and removable, encapsulated cups, the bra’s structure isolates each breast to prevent movement, making it a solid choice for high-impact workouts. This bra is also breathable, moisture-wicking, and available in ten modern shades. But instead of four-way stretch, which others on our list have, this bra only has two-way, so it may feel stiffer.

Find the right fit using the brand’s quiz, which matches your traditional bra size to Shefit’s own sizes. While it’s more expensive than most other bras on our list, we think the bra’s high level of adjustability is worth the investment.

Price at time of publication: $75

When you need extra coverage, reach for Old Navy’s PowerChill Longline Sports Bra Tank. The hybrid design combines the length of a tank top with the light support of a low-impact sports bra, for a comfortable activewear staple you can wear anywhere. Its built-in shelf bra has a front mesh lining and removable cups, for extra modesty (if needed).

Best Full-Coverage

Old Navy PowerChill Longline Sports Bra Tank

Budget-friendly
Lightweight
Moisture-wicking
May not be supportive enough for some
May run small

Flat, no-chafe seams and a blend of soft, moisture-wicking fabrics keep you cool and dry. And we like this tank’s budget-friendly price point.

But, while this tank is more lightweight than other bras on our list, it may not be supportive enough for those with a large cup size. This tank may also run small, to smooth and support without gaping or pinching.

Price at time of publication: $25

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

Most Comfortable

Girlfriend Collective Simone Bra

Wide range of sizes and colors
Four-way stretch
Made with recycled materials
May be difficult to put on

Built for high-impact exercise, it has the right amount of compression and structured, sewn-in cups. We love the wide, crossback straps and triple hook-and-eye closure, which can be 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. But some wearers have found that the crossed straps makes this bra more difficult to put on.

Price at time of publication: $52

How We Selected the Best Plus-Size Sports Bras

To choose the best plus-size sports bras, we first spoke with Helena Kaylin, founder and CEO of MINDD, an intimate apparel company, for her guidance on sports bra design, fit, and functionality. We also consulted Amanda Barton, CPT, a personal trainer, and Suzanne Koval, MPT, a physical therapist, Pilates instructor, and founder of Bao Bei maternity and postnatal apparel, to get their expert advice on which features every plus-size sports bra should have.

Then, we researched dozens of plus-size sports bras from the top, trusted brands. To choose the best sports bras, we considered support level, sizing, material, price, and functional, comfortable design.

What to Look For in a Plus-Size Sports Bra

Support

A comfortable, supportive sports bra helps protect both your posture and the health of your breasts. The right sports bra can reduce pain, even during intensive activities like running, and can also improve your range of motion.

“The primary support system in the breasts is something called Cooper’s ligaments, the tissue under the breasts that attach to the pectoral muscle,” Helena Kaylin, founder and CEO of MINDD, an intimate apparel company, says. “Because they are so thin, any type of activity that is like running or jumping can cause the breasts to pull and create tension of the skin and these ligaments, which can create a lot of pain and discomfort,” she adds.

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. They’re best for activities like stretching, walking, yoga, or everyday wear.
Medium-impact sports bras usually have more compression, some kind of 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 and use high compression, encapsulation, wide, usually adjustable straps or bands, and sometimes underwire support. They’re best for high-intensity workouts that have you jumping, bending, running, or moving at a fast pace.

Specifically, research has shown that sports bras with encapsulated, padded cups, nylon material, an adjustable band, and a high neckline are the most supportive because they help reduce breast movement the best. Three bras on our list check most of these boxes: Anita’s Active Extreme Control Sports Bra, lululemon’s Run Times Bra High Support, and Shefit’s Ultimate Sports Bra.

Fit

A sports bra won’t have the right support if it doesn’t fit you well. Don’t know where to begin? Start with comfort and coverage, both of which are key. “Fit and feel need to go hand in hand,” Kaylin says. “You should be able to breathe, and your breasts should feel lifted and not too tightly compressed. A sports bra will always feel a little more snug than an everyday bra,” she explains.

Most importantly, you should be able to move in your sports bra without it feeling too tight, personal trainer Amanda Barton, CPT, says. You shouldn’t notice any spillage, slipping, or gaping. “I would look for a bra that fits both the front and the sides but isn’t too tight,” Barton says. “The key would be to try it on and be sure the coverage needed on both the sides and front of your chest is ample and not pinching or squeezing.”

Many brands have a size chart you can reference to find the closest fit. A sports bra with many points of adjustability, like Glamorise’s No Bounce Camisole Sports Bra, will allow you to customize the straps and band to your exact measurements.

Sizes

When looking for your size in a sports bra, you’ll need two measurements: the band and the cup. Many plus-size bras are available in more band and cup sizes than other bras. It’s important to reference each brand’s size chart before buying, since they vary widely. “In many cases, a 4X sports bra will fit a range of cup sizes from an A to D,” Kaylin says. If you need a more customized fit, opt for a sports bra with more traditional sizing, like Lane Bryant’s LIVI Wireless Medium-Impact Wicking Sports Bra.

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. Glamorise has a bra size calculator you can use to do this math for you.

Cup Style

The cup style that will work best for you will vary based on your support needs and personal preference, says Kaylin. Options range from compression fabric, which holds your breast to your chest wall to limit movement, to encapsulated cups, like those in Glamorise’s No Bounce Camisole Sports Bra. Encapsulated cups fully encase each breast to control movement from all angles. For even more support, you may want to look for a sports bra with an underwire. Choose the most comfortable type, based on your activity level and support needs.

Padding

For extra coverage, you may want a plus-size sports bra made from thick material or one with padded cups. Padding helps shape your chest and can also provide modesty, Kaylin says. (Padding can also prevent a “uni-boob” from forming.) For sports bras with built-in padding, make sure it is stitched or fused into place to avoid the cups shifting in the wash, which can make for annoying reshaping and create awkward creases in the bust line over time. Some bras have removable padding, so you can adjust the shape and coverage depending on what you’re wearing and doing.

Adjustability

Many plus-size sports bras have adjustable straps and bands. Using buckles, hook-and-eye closures, zippers, or Velcro, you can customize the bra’s fit and level of support. Regardless of style, Kalyin and Barton both recommend a plus-size sports bra with wider, evenly padded straps that will comfortably distribute your weight.

Material

In your sports bra, “material matters,” Barton says. “Usually, seamless bras offer less support, as opposed to bras made with more seams or even a front zipper, which often indicates higher support.” However, if you’re concerned about chafing, Kaylin recommends wearing a seamless bra, which won’t feel as irritating against your skin.

Look for a bra that’s lightweight and moisture-wicking. “Nylon and elastane or polyester and elastane blends have the best performance when it comes to fast wicking and breathability,” Kaylin says. These fabrics (along with spandex and Lycra blends) are also soft, stretchy, and comfortable. Avoid bras with a lot of cotton, which retains moisture. Additional features, like laser-cut ventilation or mesh panels, can also help promote airflow and prevent odors.

Although you want your sports bra to be flexible and move with you, “four-way stretch can sometimes have too much stretch,” Kaylin warns. Shefit’s Ultimate Sports Bra has two-way stretch, so it may be a better option for those who need extra support.

Care

Every sports bra’s supportive features will break down with each wash over time, so it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions on laundry day. While it can be tempting to throw your bra in with the rest of your wash, some bras require extra care. “It is always best to hand wash your bras, including your sports bra—and let’s get real, most of us don’t,” Kaylin says.

If you want a low-maintenance sports bra, look for one that can be machine washed, like our best overall pick, Superfit Hero’s SuperHold Sports Bra. “Best practice is to always use a laundry bag to limit the stretching out of the bra and having the straps get pulled on by other clothing getting washed at the same time,” Kaylin adds. While some bras can also go in the dryer, it’s best to hang dry them to preserve the elastic, prolonging their life and support. Also, be sure to remove any cups or pads that could get bunched up and secure any hooks that might snag other items before tossing your bra in.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

A certified personal trainer who works out daily, Jessica Murtaugh, NASM-CPT and CNC, understands how a properly-fitting sports bra can help you perform and feel your best. For this guide, she prioritized trustworthy brands that aim to accommodate a variety of support needs, body types, style preferences, and budgets. Jessica favors eco-conscious brands that promote size, gender, and race inclusivity in their products and is dedicated to reporting authentic content to her readers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do sports bras work for large breasts?
Yes: If you have large breasts (a cup size larger than a D), 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.Choose an adjustable sports bra with thick straps and a wide, soft band that fits comfortably. You shouldn’t notice any pinching, gaping, or pulling on your back or shoulders. Consider supportive styles with compression and encapsulated cups or molding to help lift and separate your breasts, which will provide a more flattering silhouette, reduce excessive motion, and prevent tissue damage.
How do I choose a sports bra for sagging breasts?
“To support sagging breast tissue, the straps, and the lift and hold of the fabric are important,” Suzanne Koval, MPT, physical therapist, Pilates instructor, and founder of Bao Bei maternity and postnatal apparel, says. “Select a bra that has adjustability in the straps and a ‘full cup’ style that offers an adequate hold to the breast,” she explains. “Today’s technical performance fabrics offer the benefits of holding the breast tissue comfortably, like a hammock.” Opt for a sports bra that’s available in traditional bra sizing for the best, supportive fit. Koval recommends getting a professional bra fitting to help you find your band and bust size.
Can sports bras flatten breasts?
Compressive sports bras pull your breast tissue to your chest cavity, reducing motion by design. While high-compression sports bras may flatten your breasts, it’s important to choose the right size. Your sports bra should not feel too tight or painful, and it shouldn’t irritate your skin or make it difficult for you to breathe. This flattening effect is temporary, and our experts note that your breasts will still retain their usual shape once you take your sports bra off.
Can you wear a sports bra every day?
If you wear a sports bra every day, all day long, you could experience some back or shoulder pain, especially if you choose the wrong size. You may also develop skin irritation issues from bacteria if your bra isn’t washed properly or often enough. But ultimately, as long as you care for your bra correctly and aren’t experiencing any pain, our experts say it comes down to personal preference. For a plus-size sports bra that’s comfortable enough to wear every day, look for a low- or medium-impact bra, like Nike Alate Solo Women’s Longline Sports Bra. Just ensure that both breasts fit and feel comfortable in your bra and that you are wearing enough support for your activity level.
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,” says Kaylin. “Wear what feels most comfortable for you! If you like more compression go for it.” But most importantly, “you want to protect your Cooper’s ligaments, so you don’t experience unnecessary breast and body pain.”
Can you wear a sports bra to bed?
While you can wear a sports bra to bed, it isn’t always recommended because it can negatively affect your back over time, which could affect your quality of sleep. “I recommend a lighter, more breathable bralette for a sleep bra,” Koval says. “The elastics used in traditional sports bras are usually too restrictive for a full night of sleep. Your activity level during sleep differs drastically from your activity level during a workout. Therefore, choose a lighter bralette for sleep.”

Yes: If you have large breasts (a cup size larger than a D), 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.

“To support sagging breast tissue, the straps, and the lift and hold of the fabric are important,” Suzanne Koval, MPT, physical therapist, Pilates instructor, and founder of Bao Bei maternity and postnatal apparel, says. “Select a bra that has adjustability in the straps and a ‘full cup’ style that offers an adequate hold to the breast,” she explains. “Today’s technical performance fabrics offer the benefits of holding the breast tissue comfortably, like a hammock.”

Compressive sports bras pull your breast tissue to your chest cavity, reducing motion by design. While high-compression sports bras may flatten your breasts, it’s important to choose the right size. Your sports bra should not feel too tight or painful, and it shouldn’t irritate your skin or make it difficult for you to breathe. This flattening effect is temporary, and our experts note that your breasts will still retain their usual shape once you take your sports bra off.

If you wear a sports bra every day, all day long, you could experience some back or shoulder pain, especially if you choose the wrong size. You may also develop skin irritation issues from bacteria if your bra isn’t washed properly or often enough. But ultimately, as long as you care for your bra correctly and aren’t experiencing any pain, our experts say it comes down to personal preference.

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,” says Kaylin. “Wear what feels most comfortable for you! If you like more compression go for it.” But most importantly, “you want to protect your Cooper’s ligaments, so you don’t experience unnecessary breast and body pain.”

While you can wear a sports bra to bed, it isn’t always recommended because it can negatively affect your back over time, which could affect your quality of sleep. “I recommend a lighter, more breathable bralette for a sleep bra,” Koval says. “The elastics used in traditional sports bras are usually too restrictive for a full night of sleep. Your activity level during sleep differs drastically from your activity level during a workout. Therefore, choose a lighter bralette for sleep.”

How We Selected the Best Plus-Size Sports Bras#

What to Look For in a Plus-Size Sports Bra#

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Why Trust Verywell Fit#