The 13 Best Running Sports Bras of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Even if you’re not chasing PRs or training for marathons, all runners need the right gear to move through their miles in comfort–and a supportive, comfortable, sweat-wicking sports bra ranks high on the list of essential equipment. But like hunting down the perfect pair of sneakers, finding the right sports bra for running can be quite a journey. "A sports bra’s job is to minimize the up-and-down, side-to-side, and forward-backward motion of soft tissue that results from the ground reaction forces and body movements during each running stride. The goal is a great running workout where you are hardly aware of your breasts (or bra) because your sports bra comfortably snugs your breasts close and minimizes breast motion,” explains LaJean Lawson, Ph.D.

To narrow the overcrowded sea of contenders, we tested a truly wild number of sports bras for more than 11,000 hours and consulted some of the top experts in the field. From bras for small chests to those that provide extra support exactly where you need it, these are the best running sports bras.

The TL;DR on the Best Running Sports Bras

The lululemon Run Times Bra High Support feels soft and comfortable while providing ample support for a wide range of cup sizes.
Gymshark's Sweat Seamless Sports Bra has a supportive and compressive feel for smaller busts.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall Running Sports Bra:

lululemon Run Times Bra High Support at Lululemon ($68)

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Best Runner-Up Running Sports Bra:

Gymshark Sweat Seamless Sports Bra at Gymshark.com ($28)

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Best Running Sports Bra Under $30:

RUNNING GIRL Sports Bra at Amazon ($22)

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Best Running Sports Bra with Compression:

Senita Athletics Sarah Sports Bra at Senitaathletics.com (See Price)

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Best Non-Adjustable Running Sports Bra:

Reebok High-Impact Sports Bra at Amazon ($13)

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Best Running Sports Bra for D+ Cups:

Champion Motion Control Zip Front Sports Bra at Amazon ($61)

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Best Zip-Front Running Sports Bra:

Athleta Ultimate Zip Front Bra at Gap.com (See Price)

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Most Versatile Running Sports Bra:

All In Motion High Support Racerback Bra at Amazon (See Price)

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Best Running Sports Bra with Pockets:

Tracksmith Allston Bra at Tracksmith.com (See Price)

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Best Running Sports Bra with Convertible Straps:

Oiselle Queen Bra at Oiselle.com (See Price)

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Best Overall Running Sports Bra

lululemon Run Times Bra High Support

lululemon

View On Lululemon $68

Why We Like It: Somehow this bra delivers a buttery soft feel yet steel-like support.

It's Worth Noting: This is designed for B cups and larger. Ladies with A and B cups may find the molded cups a little too built up for their chests.

Size: 32B-42DDD | Pads: Removable | Adjustable: Shoulder straps

The Lululemon Run Times Bra is a dream of a run bra come to life. Ladies with larger busts, you’ll feel super strapped in and supportive thanks to the excellent fit and molded cups in this Lululemon sports bra. The buttery-soft, moisture-wicking fabric has Lycra added for extra shape retention, and the adjustable shoulder straps give you the most dialed in fit (no riding up the back, ever!). This is one bra that’s best used how it's meant—high-impact activities. If you use it for a walk, fine, but that's like having a Rolls Royce and only driving it around the block.

Best Runner-Up Running Sports Bra

Gymshark Sweat Seamless Sports Bra

Gymshark

View On Gymshark.com $28

Why We Like It: High quality, high performing–this has become one of our basic staples that’s anything but.

It's Worth Noting: Be sure to check the sizing chart before ordering. The Gymshark website explicitly says the bra ran small, so you’ll likely want to size up.

Size: XS-XXL | Pads: Removable | Adjustable: No

Don’t let looks deceive you–there's more than meets the eye with the Gymshark Sweat Seamless Bra. Anything but basic, the sleek woven fabrics combine with resilient design to give you all the compression you need without any restriction when you’re on the move. Particularly perfect for smaller-chested wearers, the thin racerback straps and ribbed ribcage band locks you in while creating plenty of shape and support. It feels like a snug hug, which is basically exactly what we’re looking for in a sports bra, isn’t it?

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Best Running Sports Bra Under $30

RUNNING GIRL Sports Bra

Amazon

View On Amazon $22 View On Runninggirl.us

Why We Like It: The value and performance of a high-end sports bra at a fraction of the price.

It's Worth Noting: During our testing, sometimes the removable pads got twisted in the wash. (But they easily adjust back in place.)

Size: XS-3X | Pads: Removable | Adjustable: No

The sign of a really great running sports bra? You don’t even think about it when you’re wearing it. While some bras designed for smaller chests simply squeeze and compress your boobs to hold them in place, the Running Girl Sports Bra uses distinct cups to hold your breasts in place comfortably. The result? An extremely comfortable bra that delivers full support with minimal compression, barely any bouncing, and absolutely zero discomfort. Bonus? It’s often on sale — meaning this “best under $30” sports bra occasionally becomes a “best under $20” sports bra.

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Shape / Jessica Fleming

Best Running Sports Bra with Compression

Senita Athletics Sarah Sports Bra

Senita Athletics

View On Senitaathletics.com

Why We Like It: Balanced pressure and compression means no hot spots, rubbing, or chafing on the run.

It's Worth Noting: This is not a chill-mode bra–it’s going to be most comfortable during high-impact activities.

Size: XS-XXL | Pads: Removable | Adjustable: No

When you’re increasing the intensity–busting out sprints on the treadmill or tempos on the track–you need a sports bra that can keep up. The thick, rich fabric of the Senita Sarah Sports Bra evenly distributes its compressive support, so you won’t have any issue with it riding up, pinching, or getting tight in the straps. While we looked forward to taking it off after wearing it while lounging around, we loved it so much on the run we forgot we were wearing it. Oh, did we mention there’s a pocket in the back to store your phone? So clutch.

Best Non-Adjustable Running Sports Bra

Reebok High-Impact Sports Bra

Reebok

View On Amazon $13 View On Dick's $35

Why We Like It: Hands down, some of the best sweat-wicking fabric we have tested.

It's Worth Noting: This bra is not padded, but it has a thicker double layer of fabric that hides things fairly well.

Size: 2XS-2XL | Pads: No | Adjustable: No

Some non-adjustable sports bras can get loose and floppy over time. Not the Reebok Running Essentials High-Impact Sports Bra. The rib cage band is one of the most comfortable bands we have ever experienced on a sports bra, keeping you snug without any digging or discomfort. The brand’s Speedwick fabric wicks sweat away from your skin, keeping you cool and dry (and, friction-free!) no matter how drenched you get. What’s more, it holds what needs holding while still being soft and pliable enough to get on and off without an extra workout.

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Best Running Sports Bra for D+ Cups

Champion Motion Control Zip Front Sports Bra

Champion

View On Amazon $61 View On Zappos $45 View On Walmart $34

Why We Like It: This bra is truly (and intelligently) designed for larger busts, making running actually enjoyable.

It's Worth Noting: The small front zipper can be a bit tricky to attach given the awkward angle under your chin. We found we adjusted to it after a few attempts.

Size: 34B-42DD | Pads: Non-removable | Adjustable: Shoulder straps

Shoulder straps and a racer back strap? The unique design of the Champion Motion Control Zip Sports Bra Wirefree gives double the support for larger busts. Combined with a front zipper and innovative molded cups intended to prevent extra movement without a lot of extra pressure, this bra locks your girls in–no digging, jiggling, or spillage, ever.

Best Zip-Front Running Sports Bra

Athleta Ultimate Zip Front Bra

Athleta

View On Gap.com

Why We Like It: This might be the most comfortably-supportive sports bra we’ve ever tested.

It's Worth Noting: The same bra is also available for A-C cups.

Size: XXS-XL | Pads: Removable | Adjustable: No

It can be hard to find a running sports bra that is both comfortable and supportive. A lot of times, if a sports bra is supportive, it feels like it has too much compression to be comfortable. The satiny, quick-dry fabric of the Athleta Ultimate Zip Front Bra stays soft against your skin and the front zipper makes it a breeze to take off. But don’t be surprised if you’re not quick to unzip: This bra was so comfortable that we caught ourselves wearing it around the house–not just on the run.

Most Versatile Running Sports Bra

All In Motion High Support Racerback Bra

Target

View On Amazon View On Target $30

Why We Like It: Dreamy fabric, a dialed-in fit, and insanely reliable comfort run after run–all without breaking the bank.

It's Worth Noting: The hooks and clasp in the back make it seem like this would be a breeze to take off, but you still have to pull it over your head.

Size: XS-4X | Pads: Molded cups | Adjustable: Shoulder straps

We’ll admit, we can be something of running sports bra snobs around here, so this affordable pick surprised us. With adjustable shoulder straps and back band, it didn't take us long to find the best possible fit. Better yet, there was no gapping anywhere–the lightweight fabric laid flat against our skin (no weird bulging around the straps)–and we never experienced anything close to chafing. And while the All in Motion High Support Embossed Racerback Run Sports Bra shines during everyday runs, we found ourselves turning to it regularly for our non-running activities too.

Kristen Geil, Shape senior commerce editor

I tested this sports bra and yes, I wore it for several runs — but I also wore it for boxing, tennis, strength training, and yoga. To be honest, my expectations for a Target sports bra were pretty low, but I was blown away by this one’s versatility and how often I found myself reaching for it!”

— Kristen Geil, Shape senior commerce editor

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Best Running Sports Bra with Pockets

Tracksmith Allston Bra

Tracksmith

View On Tracksmith.com

Why We Like It: This sports bra made us genuinely excited to get out and run, thanks to its luxurious feel and smart stash pocket.

It's Worth Noting: Intentionally minimal, this bra can feel a bit on the thin side for runners used to removable pads.

Size: XS-XL | Pads: None | Adjustable: No

From the moment you put this baby on, you can tell the Tracksmith Allston Bra was made with runners in mind. Simple and streamlined yet designed with so many features distance-runners not only want but need. Two layers of performance Italian fabric deliver a luxuriously soft next-to-skin feel, while keeping you locked and bounce-free no matter how many miles you’re running. Best of all, a hidden pocket in the bra lining makes stashing your keys, card, phone, or fuel a breeze.

Best Running Sports Bra with Convertible Straps

Oiselle Queen Bra

Oiselle

View On Oiselle.com View On Titlenine.com

Why We Like It: Cozy comfort that’s not limited in its construction, this bra adjusts when you need even more support.

It's Worth Noting: Unlike many sports bras that have removable pads, these ones are sewn in.

Size: 32C-40DD | Pads: Sewn-in molded cups | Adjustable: Shoulder straps

Have you ever found yourself thinking mid-run, “Wow my boobs don't feel like they’re being thrown all over the place”? Well, you will in the Oiselle Queen Bra. Soft spandex stretches to gently hold your girls, while you decide the right level of support in the positioning of the straps: adjustable shoulder straps to give you a precise fit for casual jogs, while the cross-back design creates even less bounce during your highest-intensity efforts.

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Best Running Sports Bra with Underwire

Natori Dynamic Convertible Contour Sports Bra

Natori

View On Amazon $76

Why We Like It: Finally, a running sports bra that lifts, separates–and yes, supports!

It's Worth Noting: You will likely have some cleavage in this silhouette.

Size: 32-38 B-DDD, 32-36 G | Pads: Foam pads | Adjustable: Shoulder straps

A common complaint we hear about sports bras amongst busty runners? In an effort to be supportive, they just push your breasts down rather than lifting and separating them–translating into a suffocating fit and feel. The underwire in the Natori Dynamic Convertible Contour Sports Bra makes your breasts feel lifted, separated, and secure. There’s no popping out of the top, side, or bottom, and the underwire helps create an even distribution of weight, resulting in zero shoulder and back pain.

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Most Breathable Running Sports Bra

Brooks Crossback Run Bra 2.0

Brooks Running

View On Amazon $65 View On Zappos $65 View On Brooksrunning.com $65

Why We Like It: Butter-soft, moisture-wicking fabric make this a dream to run in even in the hottest and most humid conditions.

It's Worth Noting: We noticed the foam-like padding held onto odor a bit more than we’d like. (A simple vinegar soak fixed the issue, though.)

Size: 30-40 AB-DDE | Pads: Molded cups | Adjustable: No

The bra has molded cups for the breasts, and a thin layer of foam-like padding in the cups that is built into the fabric of the bra, which worked out great. Laser-cut construction and minimal seaming give the Brooks Dare Crossback Run Bra 2.0 the most comfortable fit, especially in hot and humid weather. In spite of there being no back closure, the soft fabric was still easy to remove even after our sweatiest runs. And while we were skeptical at first, the molded cups with their thin, foam-like padding have held their shape with no signs of wear after months of testing and washing.

Shape / Kimberly Souza
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Best Maternity Running Sports Bra

Ingrid + Isabel Seamless Nursing Sports Bra

Amazon

View On Amazon $46 View On Nordstrom $46 View On Target $46

Why We Like It: A low-maintenance, seamless padded bra that can keep ladies comfortable during later stages of pregnancy and postpartum.

It's Worth Noting: While we loved the fit, some may be looking for tighter support on the bottom band.

Size: XS-XL | Pads: Sewn in | Adjustable: Shoulder straps

A dream for active moms. The longline Ingrid and Isabel Seamless Nursing Sports Bra is made of a stretchy and pliable ribbed fabric that gives plenty of compression, yet not so much that it causes painful pressure. Adjustable shoulder straps help you dial in your fit, and front hooks make feeding a breeze. Oh and since you have enough to deal with that little baby of yours, don’t add “search for missing sports bra pads in the wash” to your list; these ones are sewn in so they stay perfectly in place.

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What to Know About Running Sports Bras

Fit: “The biggest mistake people make when purchasing a sports bra is not knowing their own body and their own fit,” says Lawson. “Buying a poor fitting sports bra can create so many problems, from chafing to lack of support.” Keep in mind that your running sports bra needs to feel secure, and be effective at holding your breasts in place. One method to use when picking out a sports bra is to make sure you can fit two fingers-width beneath the band, which ensures you have adequate room to move. “If you have the opportunity to shop in person, try on a range of different sizes,” suggests Lawson. “Forget about the number on the label and just keep trying on different brands and different sizes until you find something that is comfortable for you.” (Pro tip: Whether you're trying the sports bra on in a fitting room of a store or in the comfort of your home, test it out by jumping around to make sure the band doesn't ride up or you don't experience spillage over the top.)
Support: Considering the right amount of support for you starts with cup size (aka your breast volume). Sports bras made for larger breasts will have different features than bras for smaller breasts. “Larger breasts are heavier, move more, and are more acted upon by forces coming up through your body each time your foot hits the ground during your running stride. Larger cup sizes generally need sturdier materials, more coverage at front neckline, adjustability in straps and waistband to keep your bra more firmly in place during each running stride.”
Design: "Your choice of running bra design relative to your individual body/breast size has a significant effect on personal fit,” says Lawson. Most sports bra designs fall into two basic categories as well as a hybrid combo of the two:
Compression: “These styles are made of strong, spandex-rich stretch fabrics that restrict bounce by hugging your breasts close to your body,” says Lawson. “They’re generally best at busting bounce during high impact activities like running if you’re a small to medium cup size. It can be harder for fuller cup sizes (D and above) to get great fit, comfort, and support from a compression-style sports bra, which are constructed from elastic materials that simply smash breast tissue close to the body. The result can be abrasion from breasts rubbing together at center front, as well as trapping heat and sweat in between the breasts.”
Encapsulation: “This sports bra style has an individually formed cup for each breast and often provides better fit, comfort, and support for fuller breast volumes, especially when you’re doing a high impact activity like running,” says Lawson. “They often come in the same familiar cup/band sizing (such as 38D) as everyday bras. Features like molded cups and contouring help separate, ventilate, and support each of the girls individually. In addition to more individualized cup/band sizes, there’s often more adjustability in the straps and bottom band to let you customize fit for even greater comfort and support.”
Hybrid: “These styles can incorporate the best of both worlds, with ‘hybrid sizing’ that provides the ability to fit several conventional bra sizes with a single sports bra size, molded cups or cup panel in the bra front, and a front layer of strong compression fabric over the cups,” explains Lawson. “There may be some adjustability in the waistband or shoulder straps to fine-tune personal fit.”
Material: Fabrics, trims and fasteners are all extremely important to consider when shopping for a running sports bra. “Running is a high-impact activity, so the materials in a sports bra need a certain amount of strength and limited stretch throughout the bra to control breast motion while still letting the rest of your body move freely,” says Lawson. “Running is also a high-energy activity which generates body heat and boosts sweat rate. So sports bras for running also need to be made of fabrics that are breathable and assist your body heat and sweat in migrating from your skin surface through the bra fabric to the outside where they can be better dissipated.” Finally, sports bra materials, stitching, and hardware can also be major sources of chafing and pain. Lawson recommends checking all fabrics and stitching by running them across the back of your hand or cheek to identify any scratchy or pokey spots, as well as watching out that edge bindings are not overly tight or lie too close to underlying bones when you try on the bra.
Wiring and padding: You’ll definitely want to weigh what kind of cups work best for your breasts. While the idea of wires poking into your skin during a run sounds less than ideal, sports bras with underwires actually offer additional support—especially for those with larger boobs, says Renelt. And while foam-lined cups and padding can offer a touch of added support, these features are really more for modesty (read: you don't have to worry about visible nipples when it's cold) than about holding up your girls. So feel free to pass on the pads or opt for removable ones if you’re not too worried about nipping out.

Why Trust Shape

As a health and fitness editor who has been regularly testing all categories of activewear since 2009, Jen Ator has nearly 15 years of practically living in spandex and sports bras. A four-time marathoner and Ironman finisher, she personally knows what to look for in terms of comfort, support, and fit over the course of many miles, and has worked with women of all sizes to help them find the best sports bra for their needs. For this piece, Jen worked closely with the testing team to gain insights from our real-world test and spoke with Lawson to determine our winners for best running sports bras across various categories.

These Are the 13 Best Running Sports Bras (Proven by 11,000 Hours of Testing)

In This Article

Best Overall Running Sports Bra

lululemon Run Times Bra High Support

Best Runner-Up Running Sports Bra

Gymshark Sweat Seamless Sports Bra

Best Running Sports Bra Under $30

RUNNING GIRL Sports Bra

Best Running Sports Bra with Compression

Senita Athletics Sarah Sports Bra

Best Non-Adjustable Running Sports Bra

Reebok High-Impact Sports Bra

Best Running Sports Bra for D+ Cups

Champion Motion Control Zip Front Sports Bra

Best Zip-Front Running Sports Bra

Athleta Ultimate Zip Front Bra

Most Versatile Running Sports Bra

All In Motion High Support Racerback Bra

Best Running Sports Bra with Pockets

Tracksmith Allston Bra

Best Running Sports Bra with Convertible Straps

Oiselle Queen Bra

Best Running Sports Bra with Underwire

Natori Dynamic Convertible Contour Sports Bra

Most Breathable Running Sports Bra

Brooks Crossback Run Bra 2.0

Best Maternity Running Sports Bra

Ingrid + Isabel Seamless Nursing Sports Bra

What to Know About Running Sports Bras

Why Trust Shape