The Independent's journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commission. Why trust us?

12 best sports bras for a comfortable, supported workout

From light- to high-support sports bras, we’ve got you covered

Maisie Bovingdon
Thursday 26 September 2024 16:07 BST
From adjustable straps to sweat-wicking fabric, these sports bras have been designed with comfort in mind
From adjustable straps to sweat-wicking fabric, these sports bras have been designed with comfort in mind (The Independent )
Our Top Picks

Sports bras are crucial within many women’s workout wardrobes, providing necessary support and coverage, no matter the sport or activity. While some may question whether they need one for exercise, or if an everyday T-shirt bra will do, often, a sports bra is a must.

There is a wide range of styles available, varying in fabric and functionality. The perfect one for you will depend on your workouts, body shape, needs and budget. Some sports bras offer light or medium support, while others are designed for high-impact activities. Whichever style you choose, the best sports bras are expertly crafted to support your bust, back and shoulders, without digging in or causing discomfort.

For low-impact sports or comfortable loungewear, a light support bra is often preferred. It is also a more favourable style for petite frames and smaller busts. If you practise high-intensity workouts with a lot of movement, medium- to high-support bras are better suited. Those with fuller busts will benefit from a sports bra with thick straps to stop them from digging into the shoulders, as well as fitted cups and underwire for added support and lift, which high-support sports bras typically offer.

Minimising movement during exercise and preventing chafing or general discomfort, sports bras can utilise sweat-wicking or temperature-regulating fabrics to keep you cool and dry when exercising, too.

I have trialled a whole host of designs from multiple retailers, to help you find the best sports bras to fit your needs and budget.

How I tested

I tested low- to high-support sports bras, padded and non-padded, wired and non-wired
I tested low- to high-support sports bras, padded and non-padded, wired and non-wired (The Independent)

I have tried and tested a variety of sports bras over the years. For this review, I put bestselling and top-rated designs from numerous fitness brands to the test, in my pursuit to find a supportive and comfortable sports bra to see me through every workout. I trialled low- to high-support sports bras, padded and non-padded, wired and non-wired, as well as designs with thin, thick, and multiway straps, as well as pull-over designs. I put them to the test by alternating between each sports bra over the course of a few weeks, to see how well each one performed during different workouts, from lunchtime walks to pilates classes, HIIT training and occasional 5k runs.

Some brands require you to measure around your waist, and across your bust, to find the perfect size, others use UK dress sizes, or general sizing scales from small to large. As a general rule of thumb, when hunting for the best sports bra, if you see gaping, sagging, extra fabric, or wrinkling, the top is too big for you, but if your breasts are bulging out of the top or sides, the sports bra is too small. If you find your sports bras have started to dig in and leave you tight-chested during a workout, it’s a sign they need to be replaced. Here’s our pick of the ones to buy.

The best sports bras for 2024 are:

  • Best overall – Gymshark boost bra: £35, Gymshark.com
  • Best budget buy – Decathlon Kalenji women's high-support bra with crossed straps: £14.99, Decathlon.co.uk
  • Best for high-impact support – Tigers Eye jungle-print sports bra: £102, Tigerseyebra.com
  • Best for fuller busts – Pour Moi emerge power sports bra: £34, Pourmoi.co.uk
  • Best lightweight sports bra – Sweaty Betty zero gravity running bra: £45, Sweatybetty.com

Gymshark boost bra

Gymshark-Sports-bras-review-indybest
  • Best: Overall
  • Sizes: XXS to XXL
  • Colourways: Black, pink, teal
  • Material: 75% nylon, 18% polyester, 7% elastane
  • Care instructions: Machine wash on low temperature but do not tumble dry
  • Why we love it
    • Light to medium support
    • Seamless
    • Fitted padded cups
    • Non-wired
    • Adjustable straps
    • Thick waistband
    • Ruched front prevents gaping
  • Take note
    • Size up if between sizes
    • It feels tight to pull overhead but fits well when on

I often turn to Gymshark, as its activewear is high quality yet more affordable than some other athleisure retailers. This boost bra is one of numerous sports bras I’ve tried from the label, and it gets top marks, thanks to it being supportive and providing the necessary coverage, while also being lightweight and breathable. The removable padded cups add some lift, while the thick ribbed waistband prevents any gaping, stopping the bra from sliding up during exercise. The straps may be thin but they are adjustable in length and fasten together to form a racerback style, for even more support. The central front ruching is a lovely detail, preventing my bust from being compressed and flattened by the design.

The pull-over design made it a little tricky to wriggle into this sports bra at first but, once on, it stayed put throughout my workout. While it is listed as a light-support option, I would describe it as medium support, as there was minimal movement during my HIIT class.

Back to top

Decathlon Kalenji women's high support bra with crossed straps

Decathalon-Sports-bras-review-indybest
  • Best: Budget buy
  • Sizes: XS to 4XL
  • Colourways: Black, blue, white and pink
  • Material: Polyamide and elastane blend
  • Care instructions: Machine wash at 30C but do not tumble dry
  • Why we love it
    • Suitable for high-impact sports
    • Lightweight and breathable
    • Moisture wicking
    • Option of straight straps or racerback
    • Thick straps
    • Semi-fitted padded cups
  • Take note
    • The cups are partly sewn in, so can’t be adjusted or removed
    • Not available in cup sizes larger than a D

This sports bra is super lightweight and breathable, with numerous mesh panels to circulate the airflow. The cups are padded and partially sewn in but are covered by another mesh layer, for added comfort, which keeps the padding in place and provides extra coverage. The thick straps can be adjusted in length and you can either wear them over the shoulder or clip the separate straps together, with a discreet hook, for a racerback fit. 

The sizing spans from extra small to 4XL but the largest cup size available is a C/D, meaning fuller busts are not catered for.

Back to top

Vuori allthefeels tank

Vuori-Sports-bras-review-indybest
  • Best: For lightweight support
  • Sizes: XXS to XXL
  • Colourways: Black, blue, purple, pink and brown
  • Material: 75% recycled polyamide, 25% elastane
  • Care instructions: Machine wash low, and tumble dry on low temperature
  • Why we love it
    • Lightweight
    • Super stretchy
    • Comfortable
    • Buttery soft
    • Self-lining
    • Suited for low-impact activities
    • Sustainable
  • Take note
    • No padding
    • Straps are long and not adjustable

Vuori is an American athleisure brand loved by celebrities and content creators, and it has converted me, too.

This sports bra utilises Vuori’s signature BlissBlend fabric, which has been crafted from recycled materials, to create a stretchy knit finish. The bra is ultra-lightweight, breathable, and comfortable. Admittedly, it may not be the most supportive option out there, as it doesn’t feature padded cups, underwire or adjustable straps, but it is longline and provides extra coverage around the waist. I have worn this tank most days, especially when working from home, on gentle walks, and even on its own with jeans and layered under shirts because it is ultra-comfortable and versatile.

However, if you want a more supportive design, Vuori’s daily bra (£55, Vuoriclothing.co.uk), which features padded cups, equally impressed me.

Back to top

Alo wild things bra

Best sports bras Alo wild things bra
  • Best: For medium support
  • Sizes: Extra small to extra large
  • Colourways: Black, ivory, white, grey, botanical green and chestnut
  • Material: Nylon and elastane blend
  • Care instructions: Wash on 30C with similar colours, can iron and tumble dry
  • Why we love it
    • Soft texture
    • Easy to wash
    • Super comfortable
    • Flattering
    • Not-wired
    • Removable padding
    • Thick straps and waistband
    • Racerback
    • Lined
  • Take note
    • Pull-over design and no adjustable straps or waistband
    • Size up, if you’re in between sizes

This sports bra is one of my favourites from Alo, and I have tested many, including the airlift intrigue bra (£60, Aloyoga.com), a cropped bandeau design for light support, as well as the seamless delight high-neck bra (£64, Aloyoga.com), which is better suited for everyday wear. However, the wild things bra impressed me the most, as it offered the best support for my workouts.

The V-plunge neckline with a ruched centre supported my bust without compressing my chest or causing discomfort, this racerback bra has thick straps and removable padded cups, which lifted my small bust and provided extra support. The thick waistband ensured a secure fit and prevented the sports bra from riding up.

Made from nylon and elastane, this bra feels as soft as cotton, while providing four-way stretch – ideal for a pull-over design. Meanwhile, the compression fabric minimised movement, which I found surprisingly effective, considering the deep-cut neckline.

Back to top

Tigers Eye jungle-print sports bra

Tigers-eye-Sports-bras-review-indybest
  • Best: For high-impact support
  • Sizes: XS to XXXXL
  • Colourways: Black, white, pink and green
  • Material: Antibacterial recycled polyester, elastane and nylon blend
  • Care instructions: Machine wash on delicate 30C, do not dry clean
  • Why we love it
    • Sustainable fabric
    • Antibacterial properties
    • Sweat wicking
    • Hook-and-eye fastening
    • Thick straps and waistband
    • Provides ultimate coverage
    • Good size range
  • Take note
    • Expensive
    • Need to measure your bust and waist for the perfect fit

Tigers Eye is a fitness brand that needs to be on your radar, especially if you are searching for a highly supportive sports bra, as this design suits all shapes, sizes and activities.

There are plenty of standout qualities to rave about. The inner vault at the front of the bra is designed to reduce movement, while the padded compression supports and cushions your bust, without pesky cups shifting out of place.  The inner lining has rubber-like grips to keep the bra securely in place, while in-built nipple concealment provides maximum coverage.

The wide straps are fitted with a hook to adjust the length (instead of a pully feature, which can be cumbersome or slip after lots of wear), as well as a hook-and-eye back strap fastening. A unique feature I love is the antibacterial, silver-treated sections around the armpits, to combat odours. With the tagline “This is not a bra. This is essential equipment”, this sports bra lives up to the claim.

Back to top

John Lewis Anyday Anya padded seam-free bra

John-Lewis-Sports-bras-review-indybest
  • Best: Seamless sports bra
  • Sizes: Small to extra large
  • Colourways: Black, white, grey, almond and mink
  • Material: 93% polyamide and 7% elastane
  • Care instructions: Wash on low 30C but do not tumble dry
  • Why we love it
    • Featherweight and super soft
    • Breathable
    • Sculpts the bust
    • Wide underband and low back
    • Removable padded cups
  • Take note
    • May not be suitable for medium or high-impact activites
    • See-through without padded cups, and the padded cups move

Supportive, seam-free sports bras are like gold dust, however, this sports bra from John Lewis’s own brand, Anyday, has got you covered.

This was one of the best fits for my smaller bust. Initially, I was sceptical about the ruched front, but I swiftly realised how effective this feature is, as it supports the bust without compressing the chest, and prevents any gaping. I was also impressed by the thick straps, the ribbed underband that kept the sports bra in place, as well as the second-skin feel of this uber-soft sports bra.

However, without the removable padded cups this sports bra was very see-through, especially in white, so it is best worn under clothes, which aligns nicely with the seam-free design, as it won’t show through any fitted gym tops or running jackets.

If you are looking for a sports bra to lift or support fuller busts, this may not be the best solution.

Back to top

Tala formtech high-neck multiway sports bra

Tala-Sports-bras-review-indybest
  • Best: Sustainable sports bra
  • Sizes: XXS to XXL
  • Colourways: Khaki, navy
  • Material: 82% recycled polyester, 18% elastane
  • Care instructions: Machine wash on delicate 30C but do not dry clean
  • Why we love it
    • Multiway strap
    • Adjustable strap
    • More coverage
    • Open back
    • Removable padded cups
    • Sustainable fabric and eco-conscious tag
  • Take note
    • The body can be long so the cups may slip down
    • Size down if you’re in between sizes

Tala is a female-founded sustainable brand that has soared in popularity in recent years – and for good reason. I have tried various sports bras from the label, and I can attest that every item delivers on comfort, support, style and sustainability. 

This bra is my favourite from Tala, as it is a hybrid between a tank top and a sports bra. The high neck and longline length cover the chest, which is especially important when (attempting) a press-up, to prevent any gaping at the front. However, the added length in the body meant the cups dropped down on me, though, you can remove them if you prefer.

The thick multiway straps can be worn straight or hooked together to create a racerback style for extra lift and added security. This bra also provides medium to high support, though, I would place it within the former category. It is uber soft, too, thanks to the sweat-wicking recycled fabrics.

Back to top

Pour Moi emerge power sports bra

Pourmoi-Sports-bras-review-indybest
  • Best: For fuller busts
  • Sizes: 32B to 38G
  • Colourways: 11
  • Material: 68% polyester, 17% polyamide, 15% elastane
  • Care instructions: Hand wash, but do not tumble dry or dry clean
  • Why we love it
    • Underwired, padded foam cups
    • Super soft
    • Lifts and supports the bust
    • Thick waist band and adjustable straps
  • Take note
    • Not available in smaller sizes
    • Hand-wash only

Pour Moi is best known for its supportive and stylish underwear, and I often forget the brand has sportswear, but there are many styles to choose from. 

This offering is ideal for those with fuller busts or who undertake high-impact workouts, as there are numerous supportive elements to keep everything in place. 

The thick straps can be converted from straight shoulder straps to cross over at the back, as well as adjusted, which provides extra support and added lift. These features, combined with the thick waistband, three hook-and-eye fastenings, and underwire, minimised movement for ultimate support. 

I am usually in between bra sizes, and I found the cup had a bit of room, so, if you are unsure of your cup size, I would recommend sizing down. I also noted this sports bra is not available in A cup or small band sizes, so, it may not be the best option for petite frames.  

Back to top

Nike Alpha women’s high-support padded zip-front sports bra

Nike-Sports-bras-review-indybest
  • Best: For size variety
  • Sizes: 39 from extra small (A-C cup) to XXXL (F-G cup)
  • Colourways: Black or white
  • Material: Polyester and elastane blend
  • Care instructions: Wash on low temperature
  • Why we love it
    • Zip front and hook-and-eye fastening at the back
    • Wide adjustable straps
    • Racerback
    • Fitted cushion cups
    • Secure fit
    • Mesh sections for breathability
    • Vents for odour relief
  • Take note
    • Too many fastenings

This has all the elements you desire from a sports bra. Boasting cushion padding that is fitted to the sports bra instead of cups, the design also features breathable mesh accents, which, combined with Nike’s signature Dri-Fit technology, work to regulate the body temperature, and have odour and sweat-wicking benefits. The thick straps are adjustable in length and can gather into a racerback for an extra secure fit.

The sports bra also features a zip fastening and secret clasp hook at the front, as well as a hook-and-eye attachment at the back. I found the dual fastenings a bit excessive, but there is no denying this sports bra provided a snug fit and limited any movement. 

What impressed me even more was the variety of sizes available. While the sizes range from extra small to 3XL, each size is divided into cups. For example, there are four small sports bras, but they range from cups A-C, C-E, D-E and F-G.

  1.  £64 from Nike.com
Prices may vary
Back to top

Fabletics effortless low-impact sports bra

Fabletics-Sports-bras-review-indybest
  • Best: Convertible sports bra
  • Size: XXS to XXXXL
  • Colourways: Black, brown, green pattern, white, mauve and blue
  • Materials: Polyester and elastane blend
  • Care instructions: Machine wash on cold temperature with similar colours, tumble dry on low temperature
  • Why we love it
    • Adjustable straps
    • Hook fastening to wear multi-way
    • Removable padded cups
    • Thick waistband
    • Available in numerous sizes
    • Four-way stretch
    • Sweat wicking
    • Great for low-medium impact sports
  • Take note
    • The front gapes slightly

I expected nothing less than a stunning design from this brand, considering it is a hit with Kate Hudson and Khloe Kardashian, and I wasn’t disappointed. This bra is buttery soft and super comfortable to wear when practising low- to medium-impact sports. The material is not only gentle on the skin but is sweat-wicking and provides a four-way stretch. The straps, though thin, are adjustable, and can be worn in various ways – simply unlock the clasps to wear straight over the shoulder, cross-body, or even asymmetric.

The bra resembles a bandeau, because of the square neckline, but, with no middle ruching, I found the front gaped slightly, so, be careful when bending over. The bra is fitted with removable pads, however, they tended to drift to the sides and out of place during testing.

Back to top

Sweaty Betty zero gravity running bra

Sweaty-Betty-Sports-bras-review-indybest
  • Best: Lightweight sports bra
  • Size: 30A to 38F
  • Colourways: 13
  • Materials: Polyamide and elastane blend
  • Care instructions: Machine wash on delicate 30C but do not tumble dry or dry clean
  • Why we love it
    • Ultra-lightweight and comfortable
    • Breathable and sweat wicking
    • High support
    • Adjustable straps
    • Double back fastening
    • Suitable for all impact sports
  • Take note
    • No padded cups fitted
    • I needed extra length in the straps

Sweaty Betty has an impressive array of sports bras, including running bras. I was torn between this zero gravity design and the brand’s power icon running bra (£65, Sweatybetty.com) but, when I run I like the lightest clothing possible, so as not to restrict me, which the zero gravity design achieves.

This sports bra is ultra-lightweight, with a second-skin feel but provides high support and a snug fit, despite not featuring any padding – genius. Even better, the material is sweat-wicking, and the bra features an anti-bounce design, to support your bust and back when completing high-impact sports, though nothing is stopping you from wearing it for your next yoga class.

The texture is super soft, and, though the front has piping, the inner cups are made from gentle, breathable and sweat-wicking fabric that did not chafe or stick to my sweaty body. The sports bra features two fastenings at the back for a secure fit, which includes a hook-and-eye closure on the waistband, as well as a quick-release top clasp.

While there is stretch, I have a long body and need a few extra centimetres in the strap, for a perfect fit.

Back to top

Lululemon run times bra

Lululemon-Sports-bras-review-indybest
  • Best: Running sports bra
  • Size: 32B to 42H
  • Colourways: Pink, blue, black and grey
  • Materials: Nylon, elastane and lycra blend
  • Care instructions: Machine wash on delicate 30C, but do not tumble dry or dry clean
  • Why we love it
    • Snug fit and supportive
    • Minimal movement
    • Great for high impact sports
    • Padded wide straps
    • Cushion foam fitted cups
    • Adjustable multiway straps
    • Breathable fabric
    • Sweat wicking
  • Take note
    • No A cup available

This sports bra boasts foam cushioned fitted cups, which are super soft on the skin, and effectively minimised movement during workouts. The fabric is lightweight, sweat-wicking, and breathable, which is ideal when running, so as not to overheat. The all-important four-way stretch, coupled with the absence of an underwire, made for an incredibly comfortable and ultra-supportive sports bra. The thick under-band, combined with the adjustable padded straps, meant this bra did not dig in around my chest or shoulders when I exercised – a non-negotiable, in my books.

Back to top

Sports bras FAQs

How to choose a sports bra

Sports bra fitting is a minefield even after you have your measurements. Often, it is a trial and error process, sifting through different styles, cuts and support to find one that is just right. There are a few things to watch out for while choosing a bra, however:

The fit – a sports bra should be snug but not too uncomfortably tight, and it shouldn’t restrict your breathing. However, it should be tighter than your everyday bras. A good rule of thumb is that you should be able to fit two fingers between the straps and your shoulders. The cup should also be smooth – wrinkles usually mean it is too big. If you are spilling out, it may be too small. As with a regular bra, you should watch out for gaps. If you pick a style with an underwire, make sure it doesn’t pinch or dig in and lays flat against the rib cage.

High impact vs low impact – once you’ve got the fit right, it’s essential to consider what activities you’ve got planned. If you are a yoga or pilates enthusiast, you can probably get away with a lower-support bra. If you are an avid runner, however, you may need more support, so keep your eye out for thicker straps. Also, picking a bra with sweat-wicking, breathable material is always a good idea when doing high-impact activities.

What is the best sports bra for big busts?

Those with bigger busts may need a little bit of extra support during their workouts. Generally, there are two types of bras to choose from: encapsulation bras with individual cup support and compression bras that, well, compress everything all together to stop any jiggling and underwired styles, although this can be uncomfortable while exercising and cause chafing.

The verdict: Sports bras

I was pleasantly surprised with a whole host of sports bras during testing. Tigers Eye impressed me with its innovation, as there are features in the sports bra I have not seen from other brands, while Nike’s sports bra is a failsafe go-to. While I have alternated between Vuori’s tank and Alo’s wild things bra for lightweight exercise and everyday loungewear; and swapped between Sweaty Betty’s and Lululemon’s running bras for cardio, it is Gymshark’s boost bra that I keep coming back to for all activities, gaining it the top spot in this line-up.

Now you have your sports bra sorted, all you need is to update your other sports equipment and ensure you have a supportive pair of trainers

Voucher Codes

TUI Discount Code
TUI Discount Code
£100 off per couple on 7 & 10-night holidays - TUI voucher code
ASOS Discount Code
ASOS Discount Code
10% off first orders £20+ using this ASOS promo code
Travelodge Discount Code
Travelodge Discount Code
Save 5% on all bookings - Travelodge voucher code
Cult Beauty Discount Code
Cult Beauty Discount Code
Get 15% off + Extra 5% on select products with this Cult Beauty voucher code
The Body Shop Discount Code
The Body Shop Discount Code
Save 20% on orders with The Body Shop discount code
Currys Discount Codes
Currys Discount Codes
Over 30% off in the Currys tablet sale, includes iPads

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in